Thursday, February 17, 2011

Why Are We so Tired?...

But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired." (Isaiah 40:31 Amplified)

The words I am hearing from lots of people are, “I am tired.” Yes we are because maybe we are working hard so many issues, nonstop challenges, bleak circumstances, on and on. Exhausted, give me a break, will this ever end? And we keep trying and trying to bring about the change necessary to help. Everything is building up around us. Can someone see a light at the end of the tunnel? So many people today are looking for true, inner peace. They are searching in relationships, hobbies, money, gadgets and even religion to try to find something that will fill the void inside. Try as we may, we are working too hard in our strength and must learn to wait in Him!!!

Here is an interesting analogy: why flap when we can soar? Have you ever noticed that an Eagle doesn't flap vigorously like other birds? It doesn't struggle when winds blow against it like other birds. The power of its wings allows it to fly above everything else and glide on the current in the air. What does this have to do with us? When we draw close to the Lord and wait on His strength to renew us, we too can soar. Above what? The circumstances and things that try to weigh us down. When we try to function in our own strength we flap, getting somewhere but not able to rise above. But when we rely on the Lord, He gives us that power to get through and the peace to soar, not allowing the situation to stop our progress!

The challenge is to focus on Jesus, so we see things better than if we were focused on the situation. Why? Because He is guiding our steps giving us the direction we need to be victorious. Even as this year is just beginning we can change our altitude by adjusting our attitude. David in the midst of all his adversity says "But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works." (Psalm 73:28)

Proverbs is said to be the book that provides wisdom and understanding: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."(Proverbs 3:5-6) No more flapping it's time for us, to soar!
"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" (Hebrews 12:2&3 NIV)

Please don’t quit. There is so much more to do and believe for!!

Bless you,
Pastor Joel & Terri

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Anxious for Nothing...

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God”
(Philippians 4:6, NASB)

This scripture is extremely challenging based on the world around us and the events going on. So many of us are facing tough times that cause us to be uptight, worried and anxious about our future, leaving us filled with frustration and concern. In the natural there may be good reason for being anxious we think but understand that living that way is not God’s best for you and I. God doesn’t want us to be filled with anxiety and frustration. He wants us to live in peace and contentment. You can find rest in Him, knowing that no matter what is happening around you, God has His hand on you and me.

The next time you’re challenged to worry or be anxious about something, remember this verse. God invites us to come to Him. In fact, the Bible says He rewards those who diligently seek Him. Take note the rewards may not be what we think but peace through the storm is amazing! But notice, we can’t just come to Him any old way. He wants us to come to Him with a heart of expectation and thanksgiving.

“In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:3 NIV)

The model I choose to follow is by simply saying, “God, thank You for the privilege to come before You. Thank You for hearing my prayers and I know I can depend on the fact that you are guiding me and you will direct my steps.” As you come to Him with an open and humble heart, He will hear you and fill you with His peace and joy to live free from anxiety all the days of your life!

Blessings,
Joel and Terri