Kathy Collard Miller's Blog, page 10

I Said, “God Won’t Allow Christians to Disagree.” I Was Wrong!

Announcement: The following is an adapted excerpt from my new women’s Bible study, Heart of Courage which is 99cents in Kindle for a limited time. Check it out HERE

When I was a brand new Christian, my mother and I watched a movie that included the plot of Christians who disagreed and split a church.

I told my mom something like, “That can’t happen in real life. God won’t allow Christians to disagree.” She graciously replied, “I’m not so sure about that, honey.” But I was confident about my opinion. Little did I know…what I didn’t know.

I know you’re either laughing or smiling or grimacing because my comment revealed my naive perspective about Christians and the church. I guess I hadn’t yet read in the book of Acts about the conflict between Paul and Barnabas. God actually did allow conflict between them and then used it for good. Now, since I’ve walked the path of being a Christian for 55 years, I know the error of my idea.

Here’s the passage about the conflict between Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:36–41).

And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. (Acts 15:36-41, ESV).

Paul and Barnabas had already been ministering side by side and traveling together for years. Paul’s love of churches influenced him to conclude Mark’s abandonment put the ministry at risk. Of course, he loved individuals, but Barnabas’s love for the individual was greater. The fact Mark was Barnabas’s relative also must have contributed to Barnabas’s loyalty to Mark.

Barnabas’s name means “son of encouragement,” and he was known for encouraging everyone around him. He knew John Mark was overwhelmed by the demands of ministry and didn’t have the spiritual maturity to be steadfast. Barnabas’s people-loving nature wanted to build up the faint-hearted.

Both Paul and Barnabas were right … and wrong. They loved all aspects of ministry but in this situation, their commitment valued one aspect as more important than another. Paul saw the big picture of the church’s needs. Barnabas saw the little picture of the individual within the church. Knowing their bents, we can understand how each contributed an important part for a wholesome, effective ministry.

God wasn’t caught short when Paul and Barnabas separated. TWEET THAT!!!!!

Paul took Silas with him, and Barnabas took Mark. The outreach was doubled. Later, Mark became associated with Peter, and Mark ended up writing the Gospel account entitled “Mark,” based on the information Peter gave him.

Plus, Paul learned to value Mark so much that later he wrote of Mark’s “helpfulness” (2 Timothy 4:11).

Notice in 2 Timothy 4:10, Paul comments Demas “deserted” him. The Greek word is “forsaken,” meaning to “utterly abandon with the sense of leaving someone in a desperate situation.” Yet Paul persevered.

If anyone thinks they have reason to say, “Why should I go to church, everyone there is imperfect,” it was Paul. Only keeping his eyes on Jesus kept Paul faithfully serving imperfect people. Paul knew he wasn’t serving people; he was serving God who would never desert him. Such confidence can empower us to persevere in serving an imperfect group of people making up the church.

(I hope you’ll check out my new Bible study. Here’s the information on Amazon:  Heart of Courage which is 99cents in Kindle for a limited time. Check it out HERE

 

I Always Want to Have the Answer–The Correct One!

I Always Want to Have the Answer–The Correct One!

I don’t like to not know. I don’t like to not have an answer or an opinion. Not knowing or not being able to reply makes me feel tense. And dare I say it? I feel stupid.

What is even sillier, I will give an opinion even though I’m not sure I’m right—so that I can avoid saying, “I don’t know.” That’s pretty bad. My. My. I’m not like Zechariah.

In Zechariah 4, the prophet Zechariah has been shown a vision of a lamp stand and several other things. He asks what the items mean and here’s verse 5:

“So the angel who was speaking with me [Zechariah] answered and said to me, ‘Do you not know what these are?’ And I said, ‘No, my lord.’”

If I had been Zechariah, I wouldn’t have asked what the things are because then I would reveal my … there’s that word again … stupidity. And then when the angel asked, “Do you not know what these are?” I would have bluffed my way into some sort of answer (said as if I’m Rocky Balboa), “Well, sure, I know what it is. Whatcha think I’m stupid, or somepin’?” Or since the angel woke him up, he could have defended himself saying, “Hey, I just woke up. Let me sit up first and think.”

So I’m admiring Zechariah. He has the humility to admit he doesn’t know and he is willing to be instructed. I need to remember him as my inspiration for admitting when I don’t know. It’s OK to even appear to be stupid because it doesn’t matter what other people think of me. What matters is God’s view of me and he already knows when I don’t know. And he would much rather I admit my lack of knowledge and ask to be informed.

Because Zechariah is willing to say “I don’t know,” he heard God’s word of wisdom: “Then he said to me, ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts’” (4:6).

God’s wisdom is encouragement for the disheartened Israelites as they face obstacles reconstructing the temple. Just as God is supplying mysterious oil for the lamps in the vision, God promises to supply the strength to finish God’s assignment.

You and I will be more receptive to understand God’s truth when we understand the tone of the angel. And since Zechariah calls the angel “Lord,” most commentators believe this is a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus. And knowing Jesus, we can safely say the question is not a reproof of Zechariah’s ignorance but an invitation to reflect on the message of the mystery of the vision. 

When Zechariah admits his ignorance, God uses him as an encouragement for our growth in humility. If our motive is to protect ourselves from being seen as stupid, we won’t be able to humbly trust Jesus’s loving callings.

Whether the “assignment” is a far-reaching project or a moment-by-moment abiding requiring our humility, we can be assured God is an encouraging God who wants to enlighten and empower us.

(This post is from my and my husband’s book God’s Intriguing Questions: 40 Old Testament Devotions Revealing God’s Nature.)

Book Drawing: “Through the Bible in 40 Riddles” by Rick Bassett

       Book Drawing: “Through the Bible in 40 Riddles” by Rick Bassett for the young person in your life!

And maybe you also!

Through the Bible in 40 Riddles is a new and exciting approach to helping kids get comfortable using the Bible. Written by Rick Bassett, a pastor with formal training in Christian Formation and Discipleship, in this devotional, you’ll find fun and light-hearted riddles that teach timeless lessons from Genesis to Revelation. Through the Bible in 40 Riddles” also encourages young readers to dive into the Bible to search for the answers. Written to help spark a hunger in kids to find answers, while also helping develop the skills to read and explore the Bible, this book is sure to be a hit with your children, whether they’re reading independently, or as a family Bible study, youth group, or class activity. For ages 6 – 10. 

To enter the drawing, keep reading!

There’s never a better time to stir your child’s interest in the Bible. 

Whether you are a mom, dad, grandparent, aunt, uncle, godparent, teacher, or just the favorite grown up in a kid’s life, there’s never a better time than the present to help a child learn to explore the Bible on their own, and there’s not a better or more fun way to do that than this resource!

Here’s an excerpt of one of the riddles.

Bible Riddle #8

Eating the forbidden fruit caused the whole world to spoil.

One had to crawl, one cried, and the third for food would toil.

We still struggle with the first couple’s rebellion–

Whether in child birth, work, or all things reptilian.

So remember where all the sad things started,

so that you can find out how not to be broken-hearted.

And when you think about the clues this story taught,

the key for us is to love the Lord with all we’ve got.

Your MIssion What happened to the serpent that tricked Adam and Eve?What happened to the woman because of her disobedience?What happened to Adam because of his disobedience? Clues:

For Question 1: Read Genesis 3:14-15

For Questions 2: Read Genesis 3:16

For Questions 3: Read Genesis 3:17-19

 

Click here to check out more details about Pastor Rick’s book (on amazon)

To enter the drawing, make a comment on this blog post. The drawing will end Monday, May 9th, 2022. Only US addresses can win.

Rick Bassett is a husband, father, pastor, and grandfather who first began writing for children as a way to disciple and stay engaged with his grandchildren who lived over 2,000 miles away. In ministry for 35 years and counting, he is the pastor of Santa Rosa Nazarene Church, where he has pastored for over 20 years. He is an alumnus of Fuller Theological Seminary, where he holds a Master of Divinity degree with an emphasis in Christian Formation and Discipleship, as well as Point Loma Nazarene University where he earned a B.A. in History/Political Science. Rick resides in Northern California with his wife, Donna.

 

 

 

Increase Your Courage about Your Spiritual Gifts

Increase Your Courage about Your Spiritual Gifts

When you think of your spiritual gift, do you have courage or feel hesitant? It’s easy to be intimidated when we think of discovering or using our spiritual gifts.

This is an area I made sure I included when I wrote my Bible study on courage. Whether we feel successful or hesitant about our spiritual gift, we can always grow in serving God with more courage.

Let’s look first at a list of spiritual gifts from I Corinthians 12:4-11:

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit:

the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit,to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues  All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.” (ESV)Romans 12:3-8 also names these gifts:prophecyserviceteachingexhortationcontributionleadingmercy. When you read through those two lists, what gift or gifts have you identified as God’s empowering for you? Regardless of your level of using your spiritual gift(s), I hope these four facts will give you even more courage. TWEET THAT!

First, God never assigns spiritual gifts based on our worthiness or human skill. His goal is to provide for the needs of his Body so that the church can operate in holiness to magnify God, not make someone look good.

Second, fight against fear of making a mistake. No one uses their spiritual gift perfectly. Even if we view someone as effective, it doesn’t mean they perfectly follow God’s leading. We all err in some way. Don’t compare yourself to others. TWEET THAT!!!!

Third, we shouldn’t conclude we’ve chosen the right gift based on results. Sometimes God allows obvious results. But a lack of “fruit” doesn’t mean we are misusing our gift, or we identified the wrong one.

Fourth, we must resist taking the opinions of others as the only guidance indicating our spiritual gift. Although we should consult with those who have wisdom, we can ask and trust God will direct us also. If we attempt to use a gift, and yet, it doesn’t seem to connect with us, we don’t need to be discouraged. Knowing how to use our calling requires growth.

I hope these four truths will give you more courage in seeking God for serving Him. I’d love to hear about your spiritual gift and how you’ve seen God use you.

(Excerpted and based on Heart of Courage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series)

 

 

Book Drawing: “Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith” by Kathy Howard

Book Drawing!!! “Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith” by Kathy Howard

I love everything Kathy Howard writes and so I’m excited about featuring Kathy’s latest book. I think we all want to leave a spiritual legacy for our families. And Kathy’s book will help and inspire you to do that regardless of your stage in life. Here’s an excerpt from her book to encourage you and then read below how to enter the drawing.

That’ll Leave a Markby Kathy Howard

Every family has those stories. The ones that begin with “remember when…” A couple of our family’s stories begin like this: “Remember when Sarah got stuck in a turnstile?” “Remember when we lost Sarah at Disney World?” Yes, many of our memorable family events feature our second daughter Sarah in a tight spot.

But we also have those family stories that feature God’s activity in our lives.

My favorite happened during the time we lived in Alberta, Canada. God began bringing adults to our church who had never attended a church and knew nothing about the Bible. With God’s leading, my husband and I started a Bible study for spiritual seekers. God used that group to bring dozens of adults to faith in Christ. Eventually, the ministry involved our whole church. For instance, members invited their neighbors who had spiritual questions, then joined them in the Bible study class.

As a permanent reminder of God’s work, we bought a print depicting Jesus as the Good Shepherd who sought and found the one lost sheep. Our children know this God story well. And every time someone else asks about the picture, we happily tell it again.

That picture of Jesus is an example of a spiritual marker. Spiritual markers commemorate a great activity of God. Not only do they help those who experienced it personally remember it, but they also provide a way for their descendants to participate in these mighty works of God through the story.

God Himself established this principle of spiritual markers. For instance, when His people crossed the Jordan River on dry ground at flood stage, God directed them to set up memorial stones as a way to preserve and pass down this event of God’s glorious intervention. TWEET THAT!!!! These solid, physical reminders also prompted questions from future generations who did not witness the miracle.

“When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordan on dry ground.’ For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan for you until you passed over…”[ Joshua 4:21-23a ESV

You can do the same in your family. Memorialize a mighty work of God by connecting the story to a unique physical object. Then use this “spiritual marker” as an opportunity to tell the story over and over to your family and friends.

Sadly, memories can be so short. Spiritual markers not only strengthen memory, they provide a great opportunity to pass down the family God stories to the next generation. If you don’t tell your children what God has done in your life, who will?

Thank you, Kathy, for that  beautiful and significant encouragement of how we can develop our own spiritual legacy.

More about Heirloom:

“ Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith ”  tells stories of the past that will impact our faith today. These 52 heart-felt reflections  reveal the seeds of our faith―seeds that sprouted and took root, growing through the centuries to today. Heirloom  weaves these stories of faith and family history with Scripture, beautiful artwork, and ancestry research tips and techniques. Through these stories of persevering faith you’ll discover the potential your story has to impact future generations. (See “ Heirloom” on Amazon .)

If you’d like to enter the drawing to win Kathy Howard’s book “Heirloom,” go to my blog and write a comment on my post. CLICK HERE. The drawing ends Thursday evening, April 7th, 2022. You must have a US address to win.

Kathy Howard is a treasure hunter. She hunts for the creamiest chocolate and richest coffee. She searches for cherished stories of faith that still impact hearts. And, she digs deep into God’s Word, mining His eternal truths for herself and to share with others. With more than 30 years of experience, Kathy has taught in dozens of states, internationally, and in a wide range of venues including multi-church conferences and large online events. She has a Masters of Christian Education from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary and is the author of 10 books, including the “ Deep Rooted ” devotional series and “ Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith ” .  Kathy and her husband live in the Dallas/Ft Worth area near family. They have three married children, six grandchildren, and two accidental dogs. Kathy provides free discipleship resources and blogs regularly at  www.KathyHoward.org .

 

Study the Bible Before You Need It

Study the Bible Before You Need It This post was originally seen on my “Kathy’s Cancer Journey” page but the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to share it with all those who follow my blog. So I do apologize if this is a repeat for you but I also pray my post speaks to you in new ways.

If we have the tendency to wait to study the Bible until we need help, we are facing difficulties without being prepared. I hope this post will strengthen your commitment to study the Bible all the time! TWEET THAT!!!!

So here is the post in full:

(By the way, Donna won the drawing offering a copy of my new Bible study book “Heart of Courage.” Thank you to everyone who entered the drawing.)

My newest book (my 59th!) was just released. It’s a women’s Bible study on courage:  “Heart of Courage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series”

“Heart of Courage” is a 10 lesson women’s Bible study examining God’s instruction and encouragement for trusting Him more and obeying Him regardless of the obvious or perceived danger. And in this crazy world today, we need greater courage. Each lesson has:

questions based on the Bible and space for writing in answerscommentary giving insights into the textpractical application and instruction“Letter from God.”

Many of the stories about biblical characters are focused on women, making it a unique study. It’s perfect for individual or group study. It is available both in print and Kindle.

Here’s the connection with my breast cancer journey.

I worked on that book for a year before my cancer diagnosis. Looking back I can see how studying biblical principles about growing in courage prepared me for boldly facing the diagnosis and surgery. Of course, I’m not saying I didn’t have struggles but I truly believe thinking about courage in different aspects of life did strengthen me when I needed it most!

That’s the power of studying God’s Word! Being prepared before you even know you need courage! TWEET THAT!!!!!

And guess what? My husband, Larry, has now been diagnosed with prostate cancer. The Lord is again being faithful and leading us to His method of healing and treatment. We say, “We love doing things together.” But as one of my friends said, “You might want to reconsider your definition of ‘togetherness.'” I thought that was cute. For sure we are together in being committed to believing God only has our good in mind.

Although I’m considered cancer free (only God knows), the study of God’s ability to provide courage, boldness, and strength continues to give us confidence God knows exactly what He’s doing. And He never allows anything that you and I can’t handle in His power–even if imperfectly (I Corinthians 10:13).

So I’m rejoicing in reflecting on God’s wisdom in preparing us even though we had no clue what He was doing. Thank you for continuing to pray for my journey and now for Larry’s journey.

And as my gift, I’m including Lesson 1 below as my FREE GIFT.

Here are the topics of the 10 lessons: Lesson 1—Courage Representing GodLesson 2—Courageous in ServingLesson 3—Courageously Overcoming DiscouragementLesson 4—Courageous Within My FamilyLesson 5—Courageous in My ChurchLesson 6—Courageously Standing Against Popular OpinionLesson 7—Courageously Standing Against EvilLesson 8—Courageously Standing for God at WorkLesson 9—Courageously Facing TemptationLesson 10—Courageous Jesus, Our Inspiration Here’s Lesson 1 of “Heart of Courage.”

I hope it encourages you.

(PS If you buy a copy, please consider writing an honest review on Amazon. Thank you!)

Lesson 1—Courage Representing God

Copyrighted material.

Influencing our world means representing God in everything we do. We don’t have to be in full-time Christian service or in any leadership position to do that. We can courageously represent God in the simplest or most complex activity of each day.

Every one of those activities involves choices requiring courage to some degree. We might need God’s courage to discipline our child with patience. Or bring up a touchy topic with our husband. Or tell the difficult truth in the workplace. We fight fear and wonder about the consequences of following God, especially when the people hearing us are those who have no interest in God or his kingdom kind of living. Even those claiming to be Christians can react defensively.

The fabulous news is God wants to empower us with his courage. He will not leave us without his resources. He is the wisdom needed to fulfill his plan for our every choice no matter how difficult.

In this first lesson, let’s look at an overall view of being courageous for God and empowered by him for representing him. And then, in our other lessons, we will explore specific topics in more detail. In this study, we will look both at what courage is and how to view it with a godly perspective.

Can we have confidence living with courage is possible—and God’s will? Absolutely. By seeking him more and more through studying his Word, we will grow stronger in obeying and drawing closer to our loving God.

How do you define courage?Do you think it takes courage to serve God? Why or why not?What does it mean to you to represent GodIn what ways have you represented God?

At home:

At work:

At church:

In the community:

5. If you don’t think you represent God, why do you believe that?

Courage can be defined as the ability and persevering strength to act regardless of the obvious or perceived danger. As Christians, we would include taking the godly, correct action that represents God in truth.

Every person has a different level of ability to act courageously when faced with challenges and difficulties based upon temperament/personality, culture, childhood experiences, belief system, training, and physical health. Yet when God tells us in the Bible to take ahold of his courage like in Joshua 1:9, he never mentions any limitations or influences. His courage is strong enough to overcome anything hindering us. He tells us nothing is impossible with him (Luke 1:37).

6. Read 2 Corinthians 5:9–21.

What are at least five motivating factors for representing God (vs. 9–14a)?How do you think living courageously for God relates to no longer living for ourselves (2 Corinthians 5:14–15)?How do you think being a new person in Christ relates to no longer living for ourselves (vs. 17)?

As with all Bible passages, there is always context and background history occurring “behind the scenes.” Almost every epistle (a New Testament “letter” to a group of believers or an individual) is intended to address some issue. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses the problems the Corinthian believers are experiencing, one of which is not standing up courageously against false teachers. These false teachers have begun to influence the believers with lies about Paul’s methods and his message of salvation through Jesus’s death and resurrection (I Corinthians 15:3–4).

In this section, 2 Corinthians 5:9–2, Paul is trying to point out how he himself has the courage to stand up for God in the face of misunderstanding and opposition. The same reasons he gives are ones that can encourage us to stand strong for God.

These reasons are desire to please God (v. 9), God’s judgement (v. 10), fearing God (v. 11), having a conscience (v. 11), knowing how to stand against false teachers (v. 12), willingness to be called crazy (v. 13), and being empowered by God’s love for others (v. 14).

Paul risked everything in his ministry in many ways—often even facing endless difficulties and leadership challenges. Empowered by God’s courage, he was willing to serve at the cost of his own comfort. What a wonderful reminder of Jesus, who experienced the same things and gave his innocent blood for our salvation (vs. 14–15).

Often, we begin to be discouraged realizing our needs aren’t being met. Then we must remember Jesus, who sacrificed his own needs. Instead, his only desire was to selflessly and courageously please his Heavenly Father and fulfill his purpose of saving his chosen people. Such sacrificial obedience cost him leaving the joys of heaven, suffering as a human with human emotions and trials—being misunderstood, wrongly accused, and rejected by his disciples. And then, finally, dying on the behalf of sinners even though he had never sinned.

7. In the dictionary, look up “reconciliation” and “reconcile.” Write the definitions here.

How do those definitions relate to what Paul is talking about in 2 Corinthians 5:18–21?Based on the definition of the word “reconciliation” and the information given in verses 18–21, how would you explain the concept to an unbeliever who wants to know God yet feels she must earn reconciliation with God?

One beautiful definition of reconciliation is restoring harmony. The need for reconciliation between God and humanity began in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Before they disobeyed, they were naked and experienced no shame. When they sinned, they knew they were guilty. Then they tried to cover their shame with fig leaves.

Of course, God knew everything occurring in his garden and reached out to this hurting couple—covered with ineffective leaves. They hid—he pursued them. He pursued them!

Because God always knew his created beings would sin, he planned the reconciliation. He killed an animal and clothed this man and woman with something more permanent. The animal’s spilled blood represented the coming Messiah who would shed his blood as the totally effective and permanent means of reconciliation.

Jesus’s sacrifice is the means of reconciliation Paul wants the Corinthians to remember. If they do, they can fight the lies from the false teachers who had devised their own self-righteous ways of gaining acceptance from God.

8. How did the following women represent God courageously?

Exodus 15:20–21; Micah 6:4

Judges 4:4–6

Judges 4:17–22

2 Kings 22:14–20

Esther 4:12–16

John 4:28–30

Acts 16:14–15

9. Do you relate to any of those women? In what way?

What is the most important encouragement or instruction you gain from these women?What foundations for courageous service for God are named in Colossians 3:17, 23–24?

We might tend to believe only certain responsibilities are valuable for serving God. We sometimes think being “in the ministry” is only what’s valuable. We conclude “just” being a mom, or having a job, or being available for the needs of grandchildren can’t count as God’s service. We also might value certain “spiritual gifts” as more important than others. We can think gifts like hospitality can’t offer much value. But everything God gives as opportunities to represent him are significant in his plan and require focusing on glorifying God and diminishing making it about “me.”

10. What wrong attitudes do these verses warn us about?

Numbers 12:1–2:

Proverbs 24:1–2, 19–20:

Mark 12:38–40:

Galatians 6:3:

Ephesians 4:31:

Philippians 2:3:

2 Timothy 2:16:

God is interested in the motives of our hearts. What energizes our service is as important as whether we are obeying. We should evaluate our hearts and be teachable. We should be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal any jealousy, pride, envy, insecurity, and self-protection. When we ask for his forgiveness, he forgives and cleanses us (1 John 1:9). Out of our renewed pure heart, we can rightly discern how he wants us to courageously proceed.

11. How do these verses indicate God wants to strengthen our courage to serve him from a purer heart? What does each passage mean to you in practical terms? The first one is completed for you.

I Corinthians 3:10

I Corinthians 9:22–23

I Corinthians 9:25

Ephesians 6:10–11

I Timothy 4:12

I Timothy 4:14–15

II Timothy 2:15

II Timothy 2:22–26

II Timothy 3:16–17

First Timothy 4:15 offers a unique perspective of the journey of learning courage. Verse 15 tells us, “Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.” The Greek word for progress, prokopē, is the idea of “cut forward” or “advance.” God is encouraging us to continue growing a little at a time. Often, we become discouraged (a lack of courage), because we experience failure or not having the results we think God expects from us. We haven’t arrived, and we think God is impatient.

Some of us believe God wants us to attain perfection on earth. But God didn’t cause Timothy to write, “so that all may see your perfection.” God inspired him to write, “so that all may see your progress.” Knowing God’s realistic expectations strengthens our courage to persevere and trust God for little-by-little growth.

12. Since we can’t perfectly live in God’s provision of courage, how do these verses encourage you to continue serving God?

Philippians 1:6:

Hebrews 4:15:

Hebrews 10:14:

I John 1:8, 10:

I John 1:9:

13. From the following verses in Romans, what attitudes and instructions help you influence your world more effectively as you courageously represent God?

1:16:

8:26–27, 31:

12:1–2:

12:9–10:

12:14–15:

12:16:

12:17–21:

14:10–13, 19:

15:1:

15:5–7:

How will these attitudes make you more courageous?Which one is most important to you for your current challenge?

Let’s focus on Romans 14 as an example of influencing others. All of Romans 14 is a guidebook for loving in wise ways as we courageously represent God. The apostle Paul is helping Jesus followers correct their wrong practices of passing judgment on those who believe differently about what kinds of food are allowed for believers. They aren’t being kind, patient, and loving.

God is not glorified by their impatience. They may think they are being courageous, but they aren’t representing God accurately. They are putting a “stumbling block” and “hindrance” (v. 13) in the way of some Christians. The Greek word for a stumbling block, proskomma, is the visual of something in the road. If a person’s foot hits it, she could stumble or fall. This visual describes what can happen in a person’s heart when she is feeling peace about something, but then she hears someone’s criticism, and her courage dissipates. She condemns herself and might even doubt her salvation or her commitment to Christ. Her faith falters, and she spends time worrying about her walk with Christ over something insignificant.

Silence is sometimes the wiser course (verse 22). If we truly are courageous, we will have enough trust in God to know God can create change in someone’s beliefs—even without our input. If we have confidence in God’s power, we will be able to hear more clearly how God wants us to interact with that person.

14. Is there any way God wants you to be courageous for him, yet you’ve hesitated?

What attitude(s) do you need to obey God?What will you do to demonstrate your courage for God in that area this week?

We have begun the journey of being more aware of the motives at the root of a courageous heart. The foundation is based on wanting “an audience” of one, our Lord God Almighty.

We are not without help in this journey. God wants to strengthen our selflessness through the instruction and empowering of his indwelling Holy Spirit. The foundation begins by being assured we are reconciled with God because of the sacrificial death of Jesus, his Son, our Messiah.

Then we can courageously serve our God with joy and confidence knowing our reward is waiting for us in heaven, even if we aren’t applauded here on earth.

My Precious Princess and Daughter:

I see and know the courage laying within your heart, which I put there. It delights me to use you and your special gifts in unique ways I have planned uniquely for you. Don’t compare yourself to others. My plan for you gives you freedom in the way you will tell others about me. My greatness is not destroyed by any inadequacies of my children. I have given you abilities and talents, which I will use in the best possible way.

You represent me. I am pleased with you my daughter, my princess. I know you sometimes fail. But I also know the desire of your heart to show others my love for them. Do not doubt my desire to have you represent me.

I am working in your life as you grow ever wiser in being my ambassador. I give all my children courageous hearts. But some refuse to accept my courage as the foundation for all they do. Let me supply the courage you need to stand for me.

Lovingly,

Your Heavenly Father, the King

 

 

 

Discouraged? Here’s a Major Source for Courage

Discouraged? Here’s a Major Source for Courage

Knowing accurately God’s attributes can mean all the difference in fighting discouragement. TWEET THAT!!!

(By the way, don’t forget to go to my previous blog post to enter the drawing for my new book “Heart of Courage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series.” The drawing will end soon.)

If as believers in God and His Son we are basing our outlook with an accurate perspective of God, we have a solid foundation for faith. But if we believe in ideas about a god other than who the Almighty God of the universe really is, we have every reason to be discouraged.

Think of it this way. If we think God is weak, a liar, doesn’t keep his promises, is selfish, needy, stupid, confused, powerless, imperfect, and mean, is there any hope? No. Is there any solid foundation? No. Of course, all of us would say, “But I don’t think of Him that way.”

Whether or not we think of His qualities truthfully is revealed by the choices we make in each challenge or joy of life. TWEET THAT!!!!In many ways, we behave and make decisions as if His character is based on lies. Especially when we experience risk, the truths about His nature aren’t on our minds, and our heart responds like we believe the lies.

If we could be perfect on this earth everything would be different. We would instantly evaluate the beliefs of our inner heart and replace the lies with the truth of His character. Then we would never respond in any sinful way. We would always trust in a God who is completely good, kind, loving, wise, patient, and faithful, and who also hates and is wrathful against sin because of its damage to His creation and created ones.

Thank God, He doesn’t expect perfection of any of us. Instead, He longs for us to grow in our confidence in the truth of who He is and then act courageously because we trust in His holy characteristics.

What is your favorite characteristic of God?What characteristic of God do you have the hardest time believing?Study these verses which speak of God’s characteristics. Identify one or more qualities of God.

Numbers 23:19:

I Chronicles 29:11–12:

Psalm 18:30:

Psalm 99:1, 9:

Lamentations 3:22–23:

Isaiah 55:7–9:

Matthew 11:28–30:

Ephesians 1:18–20:

James 1:5:

Revelation 15:3–4:

(Excerpt from Heart of Courage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series” Available both print and Kindle)

Book Drawing for MY New Book: “Heart of Courage”

Announcement! My NEW Women’s Bible Study “Heart of Courage” is now available and you could win it!

I’m excited to announce and offer a book drawing for my new book, “Heart of Courage: Daughters of the King Bible Study Series”

“Heart of Courage” is a 10 lesson women’s Bible study examining God’s instruction and encouragement for trusting Him more and obeying Him regardless of the obvious or perceived danger. And in this crazy world today, we need greater courage.

Each lesson has:

questions based on the Bible and space for writing in answerscommentary giving insights into the textpractical application and instruction“Letter from God.”

Many of the stories about biblical characters are focused on women, making it a unique study, perfect for individual or group study.

I’m including Lesson 1 below as my FREE GIFT. And to enter the drawing to win a print or Kindle version of Heart of Courage, please make a comment on this BLOG POST. The drawing ends Sunday evening, March 27, 2022. Here are the topics of the 10 lessons: Lesson 1—Courage Representing GodLesson 2—Courageous in ServingLesson 3—Courageously Overcoming DiscouragementLesson 4—Courageous Within My FamilyLesson 5—Courageous in My ChurchLesson 6—Courageously Standing Against Popular OpinionLesson 7—Courageously Standing Against EvilLesson 8—Courageously Standing for God at WorkLesson 9—Courageously Facing TemptationLesson 10—Courageous Jesus, Our Inspiration Here’s Lesson 1 of “Heart of Courage.”

Copyrighted material.

Influencing our world means representing God in everything we do. We don’t have to be in full-time Christian service or in any leadership position to do that. We can courageously represent God in the simplest or most complex activity of each day. TWEET THAT!!!!!

Every one of those activities involves choices requiring courage to some degree. We might need God’s courage to discipline our child with patience. Or bring up a touchy topic with our husband. Or tell the difficult truth in the workplace. We fight fear and wonder about the consequences of following God, especially when the people hearing us are those who have no interest in God or his kingdom kind of living. Even those claiming to be Christians can react defensively.

The fabulous news is God wants to empower us with his courage. He will not leave us without his resources. He is the wisdom needed to fulfill his plan for our every choice no matter how difficult.

In this first lesson, let’s look at an overall view of being courageous for God and empowered by him for representing him. And then, in our other lessons, we will explore specific topics in more detail. In this study, we will look both at what courage is and how to view it with a godly perspective.

Can we have confidence living with courage is possible—and God’s will? Absolutely. By seeking him more and more through studying his Word, we will grow stronger in obeying and drawing closer to our loving God.

How do you define courage?Do you think it takes courage to serve God? Why or why not?What does it mean to you to represent God?In what ways have you represented God?

At home:

At work:

At church:

In the community:

5. If you don’t think you represent God, why do you believe that?

Courage can be defined as the ability and persevering strength to act regardless of the obvious or perceived danger. As Christians, we would include taking the godly, correct action that represents God in truth.

Every person has a different level of ability to act courageously when faced with challenges and difficulties based upon temperament/personality, culture, childhood experiences, belief system, training, and physical health. Yet when God tells us in the Bible to take ahold of his courage like in Joshua 1:9, he never mentions any limitations or influences. His courage is strong enough to overcome anything hindering us. He tells us nothing is impossible with him (Luke 1:37).

6. Read 2 Corinthians 5:9–21.

What are at least five motivating factors for representing God (vs. 9–14a)?How do you think living courageously for God relates to no longer living for ourselves (2 Corinthians 5:14–15)?How do you think being a new person in Christ relates to no longer living for ourselves (vs. 17)?

As with all Bible passages, there is always context and background history occurring “behind the scenes.” Almost every epistle (a New Testament “letter” to a group of believers or an individual) is intended to address some issue. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul addresses the problems the Corinthian believers are experiencing, one of which is not standing up courageously against false teachers. These false teachers have begun to influence the believers with lies about Paul’s methods and his message of salvation through Jesus’s death and resurrection (I Corinthians 15:3–4).

In this section, 2 Corinthians 5:9–2, Paul is trying to point out how he himself has the courage to stand up for God in the face of misunderstanding and opposition. The same reasons he gives are ones that can encourage us to stand strong for God.

These reasons are desire to please God (v. 9), God’s judgement (v. 10), fearing God (v. 11), having a conscience (v. 11), knowing how to stand against false teachers (v. 12), willingness to be called crazy (v. 13), and being empowered by God’s love for others (v. 14).

Paul risked everything in his ministry in many ways—often even facing endless difficulties and leadership challenges. Empowered by God’s courage, he was willing to serve at the cost of his own comfort. What a wonderful reminder of Jesus, who experienced the same things and gave his innocent blood for our salvation (vs. 14–15).

Often, we begin to be discouraged realizing our needs aren’t being met. Then we must remember Jesus, who sacrificed his own needs. Instead, his only desire was to selflessly and courageously please his Heavenly Father and fulfill his purpose of saving his chosen people. Such sacrificial obedience cost him leaving the joys of heaven, suffering as a human with human emotions and trials—being misunderstood, wrongly accused, and rejected by his disciples. And then, finally, dying on the behalf of sinners even though he had never sinned.

7. In the dictionary, look up “reconciliation” and “reconcile.” Write the definitions here.

How do those definitions relate to what Paul is talking about in 2 Corinthians 5:18–21?Based on the definition of the word “reconciliation” and the information given in verses 18–21, how would you explain the concept to an unbeliever who wants to know God yet feels she must earn reconciliation with God?

One beautiful definition of reconciliation is restoring harmony. The need for reconciliation between God and humanity began in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Before they disobeyed, they were naked and experienced no shame. When they sinned, they knew they were guilty. Then they tried to cover their shame with fig leaves.

Of course, God knew everything occurring in his garden and reached out to this hurting couple—covered with ineffective leaves. They hid—he pursued them. He pursued them!

Because God always knew his created beings would sin, he planned the reconciliation. He killed an animal and clothed this man and woman with something more permanent. The animal’s spilled blood represented the coming Messiah who would shed his blood as the totally effective and permanent means of reconciliation.

Jesus’s sacrifice is the means of reconciliation Paul wants the Corinthians to remember. If they do, they can fight the lies from the false teachers who had devised their own self-righteous ways of gaining acceptance from God.

8. How did the following women represent God courageously?

Exodus 15:20–21; Micah 6:4

Judges 4:4–6

Judges 4:17–22

2 Kings 22:14–20

Esther 4:12–16

John 4:28–30

Acts 16:14–15

9. Do you relate to any of those women? In what way?

What is the most important encouragement or instruction you gain from these women?What foundations for courageous service for God are named in Colossians 3:17, 23–24?

We might tend to believe only certain responsibilities are valuable for serving God. We sometimes think being “in the ministry” is only what’s valuable. We conclude “just” being a mom, or having a job, or being available for the needs of grandchildren can’t count as God’s service. We also might value certain “spiritual gifts” as more important than others. We can think gifts like hospitality can’t offer much value. But everything God gives as opportunities to represent him are significant in his plan and require focusing on glorifying God and diminishing making it about “me.”

10. What wrong attitudes do these verses warn us about?

Numbers 12:1–2:

Proverbs 24:1–2, 19–20:

Mark 12:38–40:

Galatians 6:3:

Ephesians 4:31:

Philippians 2:3:

2 Timothy 2:16:

God is interested in the motives of our hearts. What energizes our service is as important as whether we are obeying. We should evaluate our hearts and be teachable. We should be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal any jealousy, pride, envy, insecurity, and self-protection. When we ask for his forgiveness, he forgives and cleanses us (1 John 1:9). Out of our renewed pure heart, we can rightly discern how he wants us to courageously proceed.

11. How do these verses indicate God wants to strengthen our courage to serve him from a purer heart? What does each passage mean to you in practical terms? The first one is completed for you.

I Corinthians 3:10

I Corinthians 9:22–23

I Corinthians 9:25

Ephesians 6:10–11

I Timothy 4:12

I Timothy 4:14–15

II Timothy 2:15

II Timothy 2:22–26

II Timothy 3:16–17

First Timothy 4:15 offers a unique perspective of the journey of learning courage. Verse 15 tells us, “Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.” The Greek word for progress, prokopē, is the idea of “cut forward” or “advance.” God is encouraging us to continue growing a little at a time. Often, we become discouraged (a lack of courage), because we experience failure or not having the results we think God expects from us. We haven’t arrived, and we think God is impatient.

Some of us believe God wants us to attain perfection on earth. But God didn’t cause Timothy to write, “so that all may see your perfection.” God inspired him to write, “so that all may see your progress.” Knowing God’s realistic expectations strengthens our courage to persevere and trust God for little-by-little growth.

12. Since we can’t perfectly live in God’s provision of courage, how do these verses encourage you to continue serving God?

Philippians 1:6:

Hebrews 4:15:

Hebrews 10:14:

I John 1:8, 10:

I John 1:9:

13. From the following verses in Romans, what attitudes and instructions help you influence your world more effectively as you courageously represent God?

1:16:

8:26–27, 31:

12:1–2:

12:9–10:

12:14–15:

12:16:

12:17–21:

14:10–13, 19:

15:1:

15:5–7:

How will these attitudes make you more courageous?Which one is most important to you for your current challenge?

Let’s focus on Romans 14 as an example of influencing others. All of Romans 14 is a guidebook for loving in wise ways as we courageously represent God. The apostle Paul is helping Jesus followers correct their wrong practices of passing judgment on those who believe differently about what kinds of food are allowed for believers. They aren’t being kind, patient, and loving.

God is not glorified by their impatience. They may think they are being courageous, but they aren’t representing God accurately. They are putting a “stumbling block” and “hindrance” (v. 13) in the way of some Christians. The Greek word for a stumbling block, proskomma, is the visual of something in the road. If a person’s foot hits it, she could stumble or fall. This visual describes what can happen in a person’s heart when she is feeling peace about something, but then she hears someone’s criticism, and her courage dissipates. She condemns herself and might even doubt her salvation or her commitment to Christ. Her faith falters, and she spends time worrying about her walk with Christ over something insignificant.

Silence is sometimes the wiser course (verse 22). If we truly are courageous, we will have enough trust in God to know God can create change in someone’s beliefs—even without our input. If we have confidence in God’s power, we will be able to hear more clearly how God wants us to interact with that person.

14. Is there any way God wants you to be courageous for him, yet you’ve hesitated?

What attitude(s) do you need to obey God?What will you do to demonstrate your courage for God in that area this week?

We have begun the journey of being more aware of the motives at the root of a courageous heart. The foundation is based on wanting “an audience” of one, our Lord God Almighty.

We are not without help in this journey. God wants to strengthen our selflessness through the instruction and empowering of his indwelling Holy Spirit. The foundation begins by being assured we are reconciled with God because of the sacrificial death of Jesus, his Son, our Messiah.

Then we can courageously serve our God with joy and confidence knowing our reward is waiting for us in heaven, even if we aren’t applauded here on earth.

My Precious Princess and Daughter:

I see and know the courage laying within your heart, which I put there. It delights me to use you and your special gifts in unique ways I have planned uniquely for you. Don’t compare yourself to others. My plan for you gives you freedom in the way you will tell others about me. My greatness is not destroyed by any inadequacies of my children. I have given you abilities and talents, which I will use in the best possible way.

You represent me. I am pleased with you my daughter, my princess. I know you sometimes fail. But I also know the desire of your heart to show others my love for them. Do not doubt my desire to have you represent me.

I am working in your life as you grow ever wiser in being my ambassador. I give all my children courageous hearts. But some refuse to accept my courage as the foundation for all they do. Let me supply the courage you need to stand for me.

Lovingly,

Your Heavenly Father, the King

 

 

 

 

Time Pressures? God Will Give You Enough Time to Do What He Wants You To Do

Time Pressures? God will Give You Enough Time to Do What He Wants You to Do 

We’ve heard it a lot. Timing is everything. And everything to worry about! We hear and experience so much pressure about time:

Don’t waste it;Use every moment wisely;You’ll only go by this way once.And then we start worrying when God doesn’t keep His end of the bargain about time.He delays.He’s on His own time schedule. 

Time! What a worrisome gift from God. We need to learn to trust God about our own management of time, and then we must also trust God for His timing in our lives.  

When I think about managing my own time with God’s help I can look back and remember the exact principle that helped me release and worry less about my time pressures.

God will give me enough time to do what He wants me to do. TWEET THAT!!

Psalm 127:1-2 says, “Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, To retire late, To eat the bread of painful labors; For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep” (NASB).

I began to believe that God could determine what I should get done in a day. TWEET THAT!!!!

Normally I would think I had to check off every item on my to-do list in order to be a super Christian. But then I began saying, “Okay, Lord, what do you want me to put first on my list?” and “What do you want me to do next?” I began to relax. “If I don’t get everything done, then that’s OK. I will finish what God wants me to complete because He is directing me.”

My friend, Mary, has learned the same thing. She told me, “I am mindful of a day last summer when I studied a list of eleven activities that I thought must be accomplished before the day ended. I suddenly became overwhelmed with frustration. I thought, It’s impossible for me to complete all of this today, and I should!

“But then I remembered that I’m not supposed to be anxious about anything (Philippians 4:6). I reconsidered my list. Surely some of the activities were not immediate. It might just be a matter of setting priorities. After revising the items, only four of the eleven proved necessary. The other seven remained on the list with less importance. Changing the impossibility to a comfortable possibility, I happily began my morning’s work, concentrating on number one, knowing that I could take more time to do it well. After accomplishing it, I began the second. 

“At the end of the day I smiled as I reviewed the items. I had completed the top six, two more than absolutely necessary.  I felt relaxed. God is helping me realize that overloaded expectations result in disappointment, worry, and frustration. Taking a step at a time allows a more joyful attitude and actions that are pleasing to Him.”

God can act whenever He wants in the midst of our time pressures! He’s expeditious in directing our way if we will just turn it over to Him!

At the beginning of each day, write out your list and ask God what He wants you to do item by item, project by project. And whatever you don’t get done, He didn’t intend for you to get done! He’s a wonderful time manager! He’s expeditious—speedy to get done what He wants done!

(Excerpt from Partly Cloudy with Scattered Worries: Finding Peace in all Kinds of Weather) PRINT copy

Kindle version of Partly Cloudy with Scattered Worries is currently 99 cents. CLICK HERE

Book Drawing! “Letting God Be Enough” by Erica Wiggenhorn

Here’s my February book drawing opportunity featuring a fabulous book by Erica Wiggenhorn titled, Letting God Be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck and How Surrender Sets You Free.

Erica Wiggenhorn

The details for the drawing are below. Keep reading and enjoy this excerpt from Erica’s book.

When You Question Whether You Are Enough

by Erica Wiggenhorn

Watching my son play soccer ranks as one of my favorite weekend activities. Now that he is a teenager, the games require much more skill and strategy than in years prior. His team wins when they play wisely and employ skills possessed through many hours of practice. Mama Bear gets pretty passionate on the sidelines encouraging the team. I’ve been dubbed the Team Cheerleader who rallies the other parents to chime in with me. We often bellow, “You’ve got this boys! You can do it! Don’t give up! You know what to do!”

This all sounds well and good and everyone needs encouragement, but sometimes in life, we just “ain’t got it.” We face circumstances and seasons where we know we are only going to be able to make it through by the grace of God.

This is when fear sets in, because we cannot rely on ourselves. We are realistic about our inability to be enough in our current situation. We look within ourselves and unequivocally know we just don’t have the power to eradicate cancer, equip a loved one to overcome an addiction, put the prodigal on the path back home, or look into the future with certainty of the outcome we so desperately desire. We can’t do it and we don’t know what to do. We are inadequate.

God never asked Moses to consider himself or his abilities. God implored Moses in Exodus 3:14 to consider who He is: “I AM WHO I AM.”

God never tried to convince Moses that he had what it took to get the job done. He never reminded him how he had received the finest education in the ancient world. He didn’t replay the scene when Moses single-handedly drove away a crowd of shepherds, coming to the rescue of Jethro’s daughters. God never mentioned one single attribute of either Moses’ skills, life experiences, or character.

God simply asked Moses to believe Him. Our God is able to make good on His promises and be good on our behalf. His very Name “I AM WHO I AM” promises this. This Name means the God Who creates and the God Who enters into relationship. He holds all of the outcomes in His Almighty Hand and every circumstance we face is an invitation to more deeply understand His character.

Unfortunately, Moses responded to God’s invitation to believe Him by responding in ways that revealed his heart: “Am I enough?”

Everyone else may think you’ve got it together. But like Moses, inside you’re asking, “Am I enough?” No matter how good we look to others, the nagging voice of self-doubt is hard to shake. We ask questions like:

If people really knew how I felt about myself, would they still accept me?Will I be rejected when I can’t perform?Do I have what it takes to withstand this new season, circumstance or assignment?Can I pull this off? What if I fail? Are you enough? Of course not! But wait till you see what happens when you put yourself in the hands of the God who says, I AM. TWEET THAT!!!!!

As we rest in our identity that we are chosen, called and equipped by our loving heavenly Father, our own fear of inadequacy becomes enveloped within His mighty arms of grace. We will never be adequate in and of ourselves. But I AM will always be enough. He’s got this.

Thank you, Erica, for sharing such important truths which lead us to freedom.

In this powerful book, Erica draws from the story of Moses, the greatest self-doubter of the Bible and will show us how self-doubt is tied closely to self-reliance. Erica writes, “It’s only when you cast yourself on God that you find the true source of strength Are you enough?”

To enter the drawing for Erica’s book, make a comment on this blog post. The drawing will end Saturday, February 12, 2022. Only USA addresses can win.

ERICA WIGGENHORN is the author of several in-depth Bibles studies including Unexplainable Jesus: Rediscovering the God You Thought You Knew. Her newest book Letting God Be Enough just released. Erica loves to teach God’s Word through conferences, seminars and retreats, and as a monthly faith blogger on Crosswalk.com. She lives in Phoenix with her husband and two children. For more information about Erica’s latest book along with access to a free 7 Day Devotional on Letting God Be Enough visit www.EricaWiggenhorn.com/Books

Connecting with Erica and her book:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Letting-God-Be-Enough-Surrender/dp/0802423310/ref=sr_1_2?crid=POWD0XG26H9H&keywords=erica+wiggenhorn&qid=1641870630&s=books&sprefix=Erica+Wiggenhorn%2Cstripbooks%2C142&sr=1-2

Free Letting God Be Enough Devotional: www.ericawiggenhorn.com/books

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricaWiggenhornAuthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericawiggenhorn/