Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: How Dare You, Satan!
Satan loves your grief. He wants to mess with your thinking, your relationships, and your view of the future. Most of all, he’s hoping that your circumstances will drive you away from God. Do you remember the story of Job? Here’s what happened:
“One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. The LORD said to Satan, ‘Where have you come from?’ Satan answered the LORD, ‘From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it.’ Then the LORD said to Satan, ‘Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.’ ‘Does Job fear God for nothing?’ Satan replied. ‘Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.’ The LORD said to Satan, ‘Very well, then, everything he has is in your hands, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.’ Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD” (Job 1:6-12).
So it began. Satan was thrilled that he had this opportunity to attack Job’s faith. He’s thrilled that he has this opportunity to attack yours. Be on the lookout for Satan. He prowls near, waiting to catch you in a moment of weakness. Doesn’t that make you angry? I remember yelling, “How dare you, Satan! How dare you think that this will turn me away from my God!”
When Satan does tempt us with adversity, let’s take our cue from Job’s reaction to losing his family members as part of Satan’s temptations:
“At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said:
‘Naked I came from my mother's womb,
and naked I will depart.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised.’
In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.” (Job 1:20-22)
May the name of the Lord be praised! Satan plugs his ears when you say or think those words, so scream them at the top of your lungs!
Prayer
Dear Lord, you are the one who gives and the one who takes away, all for a purpose that is far beyond my comprehension. May your name be praised! Amen.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Wandering Eyes
Training for Today: Run 2.5 Miles
Devotion: Wandering Eyes
After your loss, did you find yourself looking differently at moms who still had their children or moms who were still expecting? Did you look differently at a mom holding her infant or pushing the little one in a stroller? Did you look differently at your own children?
As your eyes wandered, did your thoughts wander as well? I know I’m guilty of this one. It upset me to listen to a pregnant woman complain about the size of her belly or how much the baby was kicking. At least that baby is healthy and growing, I would think. Be grateful for what you have. Does it frustrate you to hear a mom talk about her frustrations with her living children? Perhaps you think, Yes, but at least they’re still here with you. Oh, how Satan loves to play around in our minds!
Our theme verse for this week ends with this question, “How long will my enemy triumph over me?” (We’ll address this question on several levels, by the way.) How long will Satan play to our jealous, coveting, ungrateful sides? As long as he can. He wants your eyes to wander. He wants your eyes on the things you don’t have. He wants your eyes to search in discontentment. Just say no! Let’s read Hebrews 12:1-3 as we address the temptation of wandering eyes:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
It’s clear that these verses are meant to guide us through difficult times – when Satan believes he has the perfect opportunity to strike, when our defenses are down, when we grow weary and lose heart. Let’s run the race! Let’s fix our eyes on our awesome Savior!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, forgive me for my wandering eyes. In my sinfulness, I covet, judge, and lose sight of you. I deserve your punishment for these sins. Be merciful to me, and remind me that I am at peace with you through Jesus Christ! Amen.
Devotion: Wandering Eyes
After your loss, did you find yourself looking differently at moms who still had their children or moms who were still expecting? Did you look differently at a mom holding her infant or pushing the little one in a stroller? Did you look differently at your own children?
As your eyes wandered, did your thoughts wander as well? I know I’m guilty of this one. It upset me to listen to a pregnant woman complain about the size of her belly or how much the baby was kicking. At least that baby is healthy and growing, I would think. Be grateful for what you have. Does it frustrate you to hear a mom talk about her frustrations with her living children? Perhaps you think, Yes, but at least they’re still here with you. Oh, how Satan loves to play around in our minds!
Our theme verse for this week ends with this question, “How long will my enemy triumph over me?” (We’ll address this question on several levels, by the way.) How long will Satan play to our jealous, coveting, ungrateful sides? As long as he can. He wants your eyes to wander. He wants your eyes on the things you don’t have. He wants your eyes to search in discontentment. Just say no! Let’s read Hebrews 12:1-3 as we address the temptation of wandering eyes:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
It’s clear that these verses are meant to guide us through difficult times – when Satan believes he has the perfect opportunity to strike, when our defenses are down, when we grow weary and lose heart. Let’s run the race! Let’s fix our eyes on our awesome Savior!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, forgive me for my wandering eyes. In my sinfulness, I covet, judge, and lose sight of you. I deserve your punishment for these sins. Be merciful to me, and remind me that I am at peace with you through Jesus Christ! Amen.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Empty Hands
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: Empty Hands
Take a look at your hands. As parents, think of all of the activities that our hands help us perform. We wipe away tears. We brush hair. We apply bandages when necessary. We hug, squeeze, and comfort. We tickle. We clap them to cheer, and pat on the back to congratulate. In our roles as parents, our hands are an extension of our desire to nurture and care for our children.
One of the most difficult and painful thoughts I’ve had to face is the idea that my hands are now emptied of the other children I believed should be in their care. And somehow my empty hands lead to an empty feeling in my heart. Have you experienced that feeling of emptiness?
Let’s not be afraid to answer that question. But, let’s answer it in the presence of our loving God. Run to him. Tell him of your feelings of emptiness. Let your Savior be the one to fill you back up to the point of overflowing. God the Father emptied his hands of his one and only Son – willingly! He did that to make us all his own dear children. He wipes away our tears. He comforts us. And, he promises us that, through his Son, our hands will embrace our little ones again in heaven!
While we are still on this earth, let’s not forget the other blessings that God has put into our hands. Let’s not forget that God might empty our hands because he needs them to fulfill another task that serves his kingdom. Let’s also not forget that God often empties our hands only to fill them with an even greater gift – the knowledge that our children are now safely in his arms:
“They are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:15-17).
If my hands were not meant to wipe away the tears, surely my heart rejoices to know that God’s hands have already dried the very last one.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times when my feelings of emptiness cloud my ability to see the rich blessings you’ve given me. I praise you for emptying your hands to send me a Savior. Fill me with your love, your grace, and the knowledge that your almighty hands will wipe away my tears. Amen.
Devotion: Empty Hands
Take a look at your hands. As parents, think of all of the activities that our hands help us perform. We wipe away tears. We brush hair. We apply bandages when necessary. We hug, squeeze, and comfort. We tickle. We clap them to cheer, and pat on the back to congratulate. In our roles as parents, our hands are an extension of our desire to nurture and care for our children.
One of the most difficult and painful thoughts I’ve had to face is the idea that my hands are now emptied of the other children I believed should be in their care. And somehow my empty hands lead to an empty feeling in my heart. Have you experienced that feeling of emptiness?
Let’s not be afraid to answer that question. But, let’s answer it in the presence of our loving God. Run to him. Tell him of your feelings of emptiness. Let your Savior be the one to fill you back up to the point of overflowing. God the Father emptied his hands of his one and only Son – willingly! He did that to make us all his own dear children. He wipes away our tears. He comforts us. And, he promises us that, through his Son, our hands will embrace our little ones again in heaven!
While we are still on this earth, let’s not forget the other blessings that God has put into our hands. Let’s not forget that God might empty our hands because he needs them to fulfill another task that serves his kingdom. Let’s also not forget that God often empties our hands only to fill them with an even greater gift – the knowledge that our children are now safely in his arms:
“They are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:15-17).
If my hands were not meant to wipe away the tears, surely my heart rejoices to know that God’s hands have already dried the very last one.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times when my feelings of emptiness cloud my ability to see the rich blessings you’ve given me. I praise you for emptying your hands to send me a Savior. Fill me with your love, your grace, and the knowledge that your almighty hands will wipe away my tears. Amen.
Monday, September 27, 2010
The Child in Your Heart
Training for Today: Run 2.5 Miles
Devotion: The Child in Your Heart
Last time we talked about wrestling with grief and how natural it is for the grieving person to ask, “How long will I have sorrow in my heart?” Today’s devotion explores why a mother’s sorrow can be so enduring.
A woman never forgets the moment she finds out she’s pregnant. She starts to think differently, feel differently, and experience the world differently. Suddenly, her eyes are opened to a new dimension of her future, a future full of hope and possibilities. Perhaps she folds her hands in toward her stomach, respecting the miracle that occurs inside. Perhaps she envisions the process, imagining the first heartbeat. The switch has been flipped. That child has entered her heart.
A mother never forgets her child. All of her senses are caught up in that relationship. Her touch builds trust. Her eyes communicate love, approval, concern. Her ears listen. She knows the child’s scent. Memories are made, smiles are exchanged, laughs are shared, and tears are shed during their relationship – no matter the duration. Hopes are formed on behalf of the child. The child is in her heart.
To experience the loss of a pregnancy or a child is to experience heartbreak in the fullest sense of the word. The hopes are stopped short of reality. The senses are prematurely stripped of their responsibilities. The mother clings to the memories and searches them almost constantly.
Thus is the human response to grief, sorrow, and loss. In these trying moments, remember the words of Psalm 116:1-6:
“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me; I was overcome by trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the lord: ‘O Lord, save me!’ The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the simple-hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.”
Your loving Savior has every one of your tears in His hands, He holds your broken heart, and the child in your heart is now in His care. Most importantly, He met your greatest need as a sinful, human being – He died that you might live with Him in eternity!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, you know how my heart hurts. Comfort me in my sorrow, and lift my eyes to you. Shower me with your graciousness and compassion. Amen.
Devotion: The Child in Your Heart
Last time we talked about wrestling with grief and how natural it is for the grieving person to ask, “How long will I have sorrow in my heart?” Today’s devotion explores why a mother’s sorrow can be so enduring.
A woman never forgets the moment she finds out she’s pregnant. She starts to think differently, feel differently, and experience the world differently. Suddenly, her eyes are opened to a new dimension of her future, a future full of hope and possibilities. Perhaps she folds her hands in toward her stomach, respecting the miracle that occurs inside. Perhaps she envisions the process, imagining the first heartbeat. The switch has been flipped. That child has entered her heart.
A mother never forgets her child. All of her senses are caught up in that relationship. Her touch builds trust. Her eyes communicate love, approval, concern. Her ears listen. She knows the child’s scent. Memories are made, smiles are exchanged, laughs are shared, and tears are shed during their relationship – no matter the duration. Hopes are formed on behalf of the child. The child is in her heart.
To experience the loss of a pregnancy or a child is to experience heartbreak in the fullest sense of the word. The hopes are stopped short of reality. The senses are prematurely stripped of their responsibilities. The mother clings to the memories and searches them almost constantly.
Thus is the human response to grief, sorrow, and loss. In these trying moments, remember the words of Psalm 116:1-6:
“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me; I was overcome by trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the lord: ‘O Lord, save me!’ The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The Lord protects the simple-hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.”
Your loving Savior has every one of your tears in His hands, He holds your broken heart, and the child in your heart is now in His care. Most importantly, He met your greatest need as a sinful, human being – He died that you might live with Him in eternity!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, you know how my heart hurts. Comfort me in my sorrow, and lift my eyes to you. Shower me with your graciousness and compassion. Amen.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?
Training Day: Rest
Devotion: How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?
As we look at the theme verse for this week’s devotions, it’s clear that we’re going to wrestle for a few more days . . .
Grief is a wrestling match, as our theme verse suggests. It’s a wrestling match between acknowledging sadness and desiring joy, suppressing negativity and seeking positivity, reflecting as a human and rejoicing in the hope of heaven. Are you worn out from this wrestling match yet? The grieving person often wonders, “How long am I going to feel this way? How many days will go by before I can make it through the day without tears? When will I feel like myself again?”
To be honest, you won’t feel like “yourself” again. But that’s the point. God allows pain, suffering, and trials in order to change us, shape us, and equip us to be instruments of His kingdom. Meditate on the following prayer for a few moments:
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)
Yes, it stinks to feel sad and fight the tears. But praise the Lord that He loves you so much that He would put His hands right on your heart and mold you to His exact specifications! Check out Zechariah 13:9: “I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are my people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.’”
Relax yourself into the hands of the Lord. Let Him accomplish His good purpose in your life. It’s OK to wrestle during your time of grief, but let the Lord win!
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for my impatience with the grieving process. Calm my heart and help me to realize that my times are in your hands. In the name of Jesus, my Savior, Amen.
Devotion: How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?
As we look at the theme verse for this week’s devotions, it’s clear that we’re going to wrestle for a few more days . . .
Grief is a wrestling match, as our theme verse suggests. It’s a wrestling match between acknowledging sadness and desiring joy, suppressing negativity and seeking positivity, reflecting as a human and rejoicing in the hope of heaven. Are you worn out from this wrestling match yet? The grieving person often wonders, “How long am I going to feel this way? How many days will go by before I can make it through the day without tears? When will I feel like myself again?”
To be honest, you won’t feel like “yourself” again. But that’s the point. God allows pain, suffering, and trials in order to change us, shape us, and equip us to be instruments of His kingdom. Meditate on the following prayer for a few moments:
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)
Yes, it stinks to feel sad and fight the tears. But praise the Lord that He loves you so much that He would put His hands right on your heart and mold you to His exact specifications! Check out Zechariah 13:9: “I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are my people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is our God.’”
Relax yourself into the hands of the Lord. Let Him accomplish His good purpose in your life. It’s OK to wrestle during your time of grief, but let the Lord win!
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for my impatience with the grieving process. Calm my heart and help me to realize that my times are in your hands. In the name of Jesus, my Savior, Amen.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Week 1: Concluding Thoughts
Training for Today: Run 4 Miles (Oh yes you can!)
Devotion: Concluding Thoughts
Congratulations on surviving your first week of training! I’m praying that the Lord used our theme for the week to draw you closer to Him. “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” We’ve done quite a bit of wrestling with what it’s like at the beginning of the grief cycle: the numbness and shock, the isolation, the questioning, the kicking and screaming, and our perceived distance from God.
But, through it all, we have come to a place of hope (miles of hope!). Our numbness and shock are warmed and calmed by our loving Savior. Our isolation is overcome by a God who connects with us at every point of our suffering. Our questions will be answered in His timing. Our kicking and screaming are settled by a merciful, gracious, and understanding Father. And, through the whole process, God draws us ever closer to Him.
As you run today, meditate on the words of Psalm 119:49-50. I thought they were incredibly fitting for the conclusion to our first week:
49 Remember your word to your servant,
for you have given me hope.
50 My comfort in my suffering is this:
Your promise preserves my life.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for leading me through this first week of spiritual and physical training. Fill me with a spirit of power and perseverance as I continue down this path. I praise you for the hope you’ve given me through your Son, Jesus Christ! Amen.
Devotion: Concluding Thoughts
Congratulations on surviving your first week of training! I’m praying that the Lord used our theme for the week to draw you closer to Him. “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” We’ve done quite a bit of wrestling with what it’s like at the beginning of the grief cycle: the numbness and shock, the isolation, the questioning, the kicking and screaming, and our perceived distance from God.
But, through it all, we have come to a place of hope (miles of hope!). Our numbness and shock are warmed and calmed by our loving Savior. Our isolation is overcome by a God who connects with us at every point of our suffering. Our questions will be answered in His timing. Our kicking and screaming are settled by a merciful, gracious, and understanding Father. And, through the whole process, God draws us ever closer to Him.
As you run today, meditate on the words of Psalm 119:49-50. I thought they were incredibly fitting for the conclusion to our first week:
49 Remember your word to your servant,
for you have given me hope.
50 My comfort in my suffering is this:
Your promise preserves my life.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for leading me through this first week of spiritual and physical training. Fill me with a spirit of power and perseverance as I continue down this path. I praise you for the hope you’ve given me through your Son, Jesus Christ! Amen.
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Isolation of Pain
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: The Isolation of Pain
The place of suffering is a lonely one. In our grief, it’s hard to believe that anyone can really understand exactly what we’re going through. It’s hard to believe that anyone else has had a similar experience. It’s hard to believe that anyone wants to hear about our feelings, reactions, hopes, and fears. When a grieving person has these thoughts running through her mind, it’s easy to resort to interpersonal distancing and near silence; thus, the isolation of pain.
Though we may feel alone in our suffering from an earthly standpoint, look at what Scripture says in Hebrews 4:14-16:
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
God certainly gave us family and friends to comfort us during times of trouble and to carry our burdens. But, sinful people produce imperfect results and may fall short of our needs and expectations sometimes. That’s why the message in Hebrews 4 is so important for us to remember. Christ has been to our point of suffering and beyond. Christ felt the loneliness and rejection of being separated from the Father for our sins. Christ conquered pain, suffering, and death so that we might have the hope of heaven! So, rather than resorting to interpersonal distance and silence, approach the throne of grace with confidence! You will meet the perfect listener, the only one who can truly empathize, and the one who will bestow on you the mercy and grace you need!
Prayer
Dear Jesus, forgive me for becoming frustrated with people around me who don’t always understand my experiences. Thank you for the pain, suffering, and death that you endured for me. In you I have someone who understands my pain perfectly. And, in you I have the promise of heaven! Amen.
Devotion: The Isolation of Pain
The place of suffering is a lonely one. In our grief, it’s hard to believe that anyone can really understand exactly what we’re going through. It’s hard to believe that anyone else has had a similar experience. It’s hard to believe that anyone wants to hear about our feelings, reactions, hopes, and fears. When a grieving person has these thoughts running through her mind, it’s easy to resort to interpersonal distancing and near silence; thus, the isolation of pain.
Though we may feel alone in our suffering from an earthly standpoint, look at what Scripture says in Hebrews 4:14-16:
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
God certainly gave us family and friends to comfort us during times of trouble and to carry our burdens. But, sinful people produce imperfect results and may fall short of our needs and expectations sometimes. That’s why the message in Hebrews 4 is so important for us to remember. Christ has been to our point of suffering and beyond. Christ felt the loneliness and rejection of being separated from the Father for our sins. Christ conquered pain, suffering, and death so that we might have the hope of heaven! So, rather than resorting to interpersonal distance and silence, approach the throne of grace with confidence! You will meet the perfect listener, the only one who can truly empathize, and the one who will bestow on you the mercy and grace you need!
Prayer
Dear Jesus, forgive me for becoming frustrated with people around me who don’t always understand my experiences. Thank you for the pain, suffering, and death that you endured for me. In you I have someone who understands my pain perfectly. And, in you I have the promise of heaven! Amen.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Hide and Seek
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Hide and Seek
Today’s devotion addresses a very specific portion of our theme verse for the week: “How long will you hide your face from me?” Do you remember becoming exasperated during a game of hide and seek when it felt like you would never find the person who was hiding? I certainly do. At that point, the role of “seeker” suddenly became quite a frustrating and lonely place. The game wasn’t very fun. My eyes grew weary of the fruitless search. My imagination started running away from me . . . What if he/she just decided to quit the game and go inside?
During your own moments of asking God how long He will hide His face from you, have you become exasperated, frustrated, and lonely? It’s amazing how waiting for guidance, answers, and comfort can leave you feeling so small. After reading through the Psalms during my time of grief, my eyes have been opened to all of the language about hiding and seeking. The psalmists prayed that God would hide His face from their sins (Psalm 51:9), hide them from evil or wickedness (Psalm 64:2), or hide them in His protection (Psalm 17:8, 27:5, 31:20). These verses all reflect on the positive aspect of hiding in the Lord and trusting in His forgiveness and protection. But, there are many verses that discuss what it feels like when God seems to be hiding His face. Here are some examples, many of which I’m sure you can relate to:
• Why, O LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? (Psalm 10:1)
• Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior. (Psalm 27:9)
• Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? (Psalm 44:24)
• Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly, for I am in trouble. (Psalm 69:17)
• Why, O LORD, do you reject me and hide your face from me? (Psalm 88:14)
• Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly. (Psalm 102:2)
• Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. (Psalm 143:7)
Isn’t that remarkable? Look at all of the emotions that the psalmists experienced when they felt God was hiding from them! In our times of trouble, distress, misery, and failing spirits, we can feel as though God is hiding so far away. Just like children playing hide and seek, we might get frustrated and impatient with the process. The game isn’t over yet! Seek Him boldly! Take your inspiration from the psalmists once again:
• Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. (Psalm 9:10)
• He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. (Psalm 24:5-6)
• My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek. (Psalm 27:8)
• The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. (Psalm 34:10)
• But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" (Psalm 40:16)
• God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. (Psalm 63:1)
• Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. (Psalm 105:4)
God uses our life events to draw us ever closer to Him. “Come near to God and he will come near to you” (James 4:8). It may seem like a long wait, but God uses the waiting time as well to teach us patience, perseverance, and the like. We cannot know the mind of God, but we do know that he shapes each and every one of us for his greater purpose. In His timing, He orchestrated the world’s history. In His timing, He sent His only Son as the Savior of mankind. In His timing, He will answer your questions. In His timing, you will see His face in heaven!
Prayer
Just a closer walk with Thee,
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to Thee,
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
I am weak, but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I’ll be satisfied as long
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Through this world of toil and snares,
If I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares?
None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee.
When my feeble life is o’er,
Time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o’er
To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore. Amen.
Devotion: Hide and Seek
Today’s devotion addresses a very specific portion of our theme verse for the week: “How long will you hide your face from me?” Do you remember becoming exasperated during a game of hide and seek when it felt like you would never find the person who was hiding? I certainly do. At that point, the role of “seeker” suddenly became quite a frustrating and lonely place. The game wasn’t very fun. My eyes grew weary of the fruitless search. My imagination started running away from me . . . What if he/she just decided to quit the game and go inside?
During your own moments of asking God how long He will hide His face from you, have you become exasperated, frustrated, and lonely? It’s amazing how waiting for guidance, answers, and comfort can leave you feeling so small. After reading through the Psalms during my time of grief, my eyes have been opened to all of the language about hiding and seeking. The psalmists prayed that God would hide His face from their sins (Psalm 51:9), hide them from evil or wickedness (Psalm 64:2), or hide them in His protection (Psalm 17:8, 27:5, 31:20). These verses all reflect on the positive aspect of hiding in the Lord and trusting in His forgiveness and protection. But, there are many verses that discuss what it feels like when God seems to be hiding His face. Here are some examples, many of which I’m sure you can relate to:
• Why, O LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? (Psalm 10:1)
• Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior. (Psalm 27:9)
• Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? (Psalm 44:24)
• Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly, for I am in trouble. (Psalm 69:17)
• Why, O LORD, do you reject me and hide your face from me? (Psalm 88:14)
• Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly. (Psalm 102:2)
• Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. (Psalm 143:7)
Isn’t that remarkable? Look at all of the emotions that the psalmists experienced when they felt God was hiding from them! In our times of trouble, distress, misery, and failing spirits, we can feel as though God is hiding so far away. Just like children playing hide and seek, we might get frustrated and impatient with the process. The game isn’t over yet! Seek Him boldly! Take your inspiration from the psalmists once again:
• Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. (Psalm 9:10)
• He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. (Psalm 24:5-6)
• My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek. (Psalm 27:8)
• The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. (Psalm 34:10)
• But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" (Psalm 40:16)
• God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. (Psalm 63:1)
• Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. (Psalm 105:4)
God uses our life events to draw us ever closer to Him. “Come near to God and he will come near to you” (James 4:8). It may seem like a long wait, but God uses the waiting time as well to teach us patience, perseverance, and the like. We cannot know the mind of God, but we do know that he shapes each and every one of us for his greater purpose. In His timing, He orchestrated the world’s history. In His timing, He sent His only Son as the Savior of mankind. In His timing, He will answer your questions. In His timing, you will see His face in heaven!
Prayer
Just a closer walk with Thee,
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,
Daily walking close to Thee,
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
I am weak, but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I’ll be satisfied as long
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Through this world of toil and snares,
If I falter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me my burden shares?
None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee.
When my feeble life is o’er,
Time for me will be no more;
Guide me gently, safely o’er
To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore. Amen.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Kicking and Screaming
Training for Today: Run 2 Miles
Devotion: Kicking and Screaming
What’s the worst tantrum you’ve ever witnessed? The grocery store check-out line? Your own living room? A playground somewhere? No matter the location, we’ve all seen some pretty dramatic tantrums. Arms flailing, legs kicking, fists pounding, feet stomping. Vocal sounds we never thought possible. As I’ve witnessed tantrums, I’ve found myself silently chiding the little one and thinking, “Give it up.”
Yes, most of the time, we assume the performer of a tantrum to be a child. But, if I’m honest with myself, I’ve been guilty of the kicking and screaming behaviors that accompany the worst of tantrums. Perhaps my tantrums haven’t been public outbursts or physical demonstrations, but that’s not the point. People have tantrums when they feel that their freedoms are violated, they can’t have something they deserve, or something isn’t fair. Yep, I’ve been there during this grieving process. Have you?
As I picture myself kicking and screaming at the will of God, I can also picture my Father in heaven looking at me and thinking, “Give it up.” Literally! God wants us to give up the fight against His will in our lives. He wants us to trust Him. He wants us to rest in the knowledge that His hands hold our lives firmly in their grasp. Read what God tells us in Matthew 11:28-30:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
What a pleasant way of saying it! Let’s repent of the sinful thoughts, words, and actions that we’ve performed in our tantrums. Jesus is right there with the promise of forgiveness and rest from our burdens. He’s there with the promise of His empty cross. And, He’s there with the promise of eternity. Man, I am in awe of His goodness. Remember those reasons for tantrums? They sure don’t apply when it comes to the hope of heaven. Through Christ, I’m given more freedom than ever. Through Christ, I get more than I deserve; it isn’t fair that Christ declared my victory over death! Through Christ, I can let go of the earthly pains that haunt me and truly give it up!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for my tantrums. Forgive me for resisting your will and thinking that I know better. Lead me to trust in your will and rest in your promises. Amen.
Devotion: Kicking and Screaming
What’s the worst tantrum you’ve ever witnessed? The grocery store check-out line? Your own living room? A playground somewhere? No matter the location, we’ve all seen some pretty dramatic tantrums. Arms flailing, legs kicking, fists pounding, feet stomping. Vocal sounds we never thought possible. As I’ve witnessed tantrums, I’ve found myself silently chiding the little one and thinking, “Give it up.”
Yes, most of the time, we assume the performer of a tantrum to be a child. But, if I’m honest with myself, I’ve been guilty of the kicking and screaming behaviors that accompany the worst of tantrums. Perhaps my tantrums haven’t been public outbursts or physical demonstrations, but that’s not the point. People have tantrums when they feel that their freedoms are violated, they can’t have something they deserve, or something isn’t fair. Yep, I’ve been there during this grieving process. Have you?
As I picture myself kicking and screaming at the will of God, I can also picture my Father in heaven looking at me and thinking, “Give it up.” Literally! God wants us to give up the fight against His will in our lives. He wants us to trust Him. He wants us to rest in the knowledge that His hands hold our lives firmly in their grasp. Read what God tells us in Matthew 11:28-30:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
What a pleasant way of saying it! Let’s repent of the sinful thoughts, words, and actions that we’ve performed in our tantrums. Jesus is right there with the promise of forgiveness and rest from our burdens. He’s there with the promise of His empty cross. And, He’s there with the promise of eternity. Man, I am in awe of His goodness. Remember those reasons for tantrums? They sure don’t apply when it comes to the hope of heaven. Through Christ, I’m given more freedom than ever. Through Christ, I get more than I deserve; it isn’t fair that Christ declared my victory over death! Through Christ, I can let go of the earthly pains that haunt me and truly give it up!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for my tantrums. Forgive me for resisting your will and thinking that I know better. Lead me to trust in your will and rest in your promises. Amen.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Numb
Training for Today: Cross-training (walking, biking, aerobics, etc.) for 30 minutes - NO running!
Devotion: Numb
Do you want to hear one of the silliest things I’ve ever done? OK, here it is. When I was preparing for the labor and delivery of my first child, my husband and I bought a DVD that was supposed to guide us through some relaxation techniques and coping strategies. It started out with some good suggestions . . . but then things got strange. The host of the show asked us to get a few ice cubes from the freezer. We were to hold the ice cubes in our hands for 3 minutes and use our newfound relaxation techniques to cope with the pain. Please tell me someone out there has tried something that silly (though it really was quite painful)!
In all seriousness, though, there are lessons that I’m still drawing from that experience today, and I’d like to share them with you. I remember that numb feeling in my hands incredibly well. It was a shock to my hands. It was hard to think about anything else. It left me longing for the moment of relief. As I deal with the grief surrounding my recurrent pregnancy loss, I often experience the same sensations. Perhaps you do, too. We won’t forget our experiences with grief; we remember them well. Loss is a shock to our systems. It’s hard for us to think about any thing else. And, loss leaves us longing for a moment of relief.
What is the purpose of those numb feelings after we experience loss? What good can come from them? What does God accomplish in us through these feelings? 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 gives us an answer: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
When we feel numb, God offers the warmth of His love. When grief shocks our systems, God offers us His consistency and security. And, when we realize that we experience grief as a result of sin, God offers us the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
So, don’t go looking in the freezer to prepare yourself for handling your grief, or any difficult situation, for that matter. God wants to draw you near by renewing you through your grief. God is there. He always will be. And, He will be waiting for you in eternal glory. Let’s fix our eyes heavenward!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, accomplish your will in me. Use this time grief to draw me closer to you. Thank you for the promise of your Son and the hope of heaven. Amen.
Devotion: Numb
Do you want to hear one of the silliest things I’ve ever done? OK, here it is. When I was preparing for the labor and delivery of my first child, my husband and I bought a DVD that was supposed to guide us through some relaxation techniques and coping strategies. It started out with some good suggestions . . . but then things got strange. The host of the show asked us to get a few ice cubes from the freezer. We were to hold the ice cubes in our hands for 3 minutes and use our newfound relaxation techniques to cope with the pain. Please tell me someone out there has tried something that silly (though it really was quite painful)!
In all seriousness, though, there are lessons that I’m still drawing from that experience today, and I’d like to share them with you. I remember that numb feeling in my hands incredibly well. It was a shock to my hands. It was hard to think about anything else. It left me longing for the moment of relief. As I deal with the grief surrounding my recurrent pregnancy loss, I often experience the same sensations. Perhaps you do, too. We won’t forget our experiences with grief; we remember them well. Loss is a shock to our systems. It’s hard for us to think about any thing else. And, loss leaves us longing for a moment of relief.
What is the purpose of those numb feelings after we experience loss? What good can come from them? What does God accomplish in us through these feelings? 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 gives us an answer: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
When we feel numb, God offers the warmth of His love. When grief shocks our systems, God offers us His consistency and security. And, when we realize that we experience grief as a result of sin, God offers us the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
So, don’t go looking in the freezer to prepare yourself for handling your grief, or any difficult situation, for that matter. God wants to draw you near by renewing you through your grief. God is there. He always will be. And, He will be waiting for you in eternal glory. Let’s fix our eyes heavenward!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, accomplish your will in me. Use this time grief to draw me closer to you. Thank you for the promise of your Son and the hope of heaven. Amen.
Monday, September 20, 2010
How Long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?
Training for Today: Run 2 Miles
Devotion: How Long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?
Were you one of those kids who called out, “Are we there yet?” from the backseat? Do you have one of those kids who call out, “Are we there yet?” from the backseat? This question is asked out of impatience, frustration, and anxiousness. I know I’ve asked this question before, and I can almost recreate the physical feeling of being trapped in the car, my legs screaming out for the ability to stretch and run around.
For our theme this week, we’ll be focusing on the earliest stage of grief – the shock, denial, anger, and questioning that occur in one’s immediate response to the loss. We’ll cry along with the psalmist, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1).
When people are first faced with loss and grief, these questions come to the forefront of the brain. How long will I feel like this? How long will I feel forsaken by God? Why does God feel so far away? In the earliest moments of grief, it is the most difficult to see God’s hand at work and understand His purpose.
Even Christ experienced the feeling of being forsaken by God. On the cross, our Savior cried, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” But, even during Christ’s moment of questioning, God’s hand was at work and His purpose was accomplished. Christ was forsaken so that our sins would be forgiven. Christ was rejected so that we would be redeemed.
In our moments of asking God, “Are we there yet?”, let us remember that God’s hand is at work and His purpose is being accomplished in us. Thy will be done.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for accomplishing your great purpose in my life. Fill me with a trusting spirit when I am tempted to doubt. Lead me, Lord; I will follow you. Amen.
Devotion: How Long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?
Were you one of those kids who called out, “Are we there yet?” from the backseat? Do you have one of those kids who call out, “Are we there yet?” from the backseat? This question is asked out of impatience, frustration, and anxiousness. I know I’ve asked this question before, and I can almost recreate the physical feeling of being trapped in the car, my legs screaming out for the ability to stretch and run around.
For our theme this week, we’ll be focusing on the earliest stage of grief – the shock, denial, anger, and questioning that occur in one’s immediate response to the loss. We’ll cry along with the psalmist, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1).
When people are first faced with loss and grief, these questions come to the forefront of the brain. How long will I feel like this? How long will I feel forsaken by God? Why does God feel so far away? In the earliest moments of grief, it is the most difficult to see God’s hand at work and understand His purpose.
Even Christ experienced the feeling of being forsaken by God. On the cross, our Savior cried, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” But, even during Christ’s moment of questioning, God’s hand was at work and His purpose was accomplished. Christ was forsaken so that our sins would be forgiven. Christ was rejected so that we would be redeemed.
In our moments of asking God, “Are we there yet?”, let us remember that God’s hand is at work and His purpose is being accomplished in us. Thy will be done.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for accomplishing your great purpose in my life. Fill me with a trusting spirit when I am tempted to doubt. Lead me, Lord; I will follow you. Amen.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Commitment
Training for Today: Rest! (I know that it's quite odd to rest on the first training day, but I thought it would work well for the long-haul to have a rest day on Sundays.)
Devotion: Commitment
Ha! Isn’t this a fitting title for our first day of training? As we embark on this journey together, I thought it appropriate to begin with an appeal to your sense of commitment. Are you with me?
I’ve structured our devotions according to a powerful psalm, Psalm 13. In my own experience with grief, I really feel that this psalm captures the stages of grief. Each week will focus on a short portion of Psalm 13 as the theme, with the devotions fitting the overall theme. Here’s Psalm 13:
1 How long, O LORD ? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and every day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?
3 Look on me and answer, O LORD my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death;
4 my enemy will say, "I have overcome him,"
and my foes will rejoice when I fall.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD,
for he has been good to me.
If you look closely at the transformation that takes place during this psalm, you’ll see a progression from wrestling with God to singing His name and recognizing the goodness of His hand in our lives.
Our first week of devotions will focus on verse 1 of the psalm. We’ll go back to those early moments of grief, when we were filled with shock, anger, and many questions for God. We’ll work through those feelings again, but with our eyes fixed on the empty cross of our risen Savior. It’s because of His commitment to us that we can now demonstrate our commitment to Him. So, let’s grow together spiritually, physically, and emotionally, that we might be better instruments to serve our Lord! Are you with me?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise and thank you for this opportunity to join with other women, friends, and family who support this cause. Fill me with a deep sense of commitment and perseverance not only for this race, but also in my relationship with you. Amen.
Devotion: Commitment
Ha! Isn’t this a fitting title for our first day of training? As we embark on this journey together, I thought it appropriate to begin with an appeal to your sense of commitment. Are you with me?
I’ve structured our devotions according to a powerful psalm, Psalm 13. In my own experience with grief, I really feel that this psalm captures the stages of grief. Each week will focus on a short portion of Psalm 13 as the theme, with the devotions fitting the overall theme. Here’s Psalm 13:
1 How long, O LORD ? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
2 How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and every day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?
3 Look on me and answer, O LORD my God.
Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death;
4 my enemy will say, "I have overcome him,"
and my foes will rejoice when I fall.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD,
for he has been good to me.
If you look closely at the transformation that takes place during this psalm, you’ll see a progression from wrestling with God to singing His name and recognizing the goodness of His hand in our lives.
Our first week of devotions will focus on verse 1 of the psalm. We’ll go back to those early moments of grief, when we were filled with shock, anger, and many questions for God. We’ll work through those feelings again, but with our eyes fixed on the empty cross of our risen Savior. It’s because of His commitment to us that we can now demonstrate our commitment to Him. So, let’s grow together spiritually, physically, and emotionally, that we might be better instruments to serve our Lord! Are you with me?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise and thank you for this opportunity to join with other women, friends, and family who support this cause. Fill me with a deep sense of commitment and perseverance not only for this race, but also in my relationship with you. Amen.
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