Sonsofthesea.org

"Come follow me and I will make you fishers of men." Matthew 4:19

Author: ministermaryellen@gmail.com (Page 41 of 54)

Greetings!
We are thankful you have decided to follow us as we follow Jesus.
What we share here is not opinion, nor will you find it wrapped in new age theology.
You will find the uncompromising Word of God which leads to Salvation and New life!
I am the Overseer of Sonsofthesea Ministry.

Sonsofthesea is an on-line ministry dedicated to sharing Gods Word faithfully, with unyielding Truth spoken in love.
This Blog is intended for those who are searching for more, birthed from a call of God to utilize the gifts and talents He has given us.
Perhaps you recognize that call on your own life? We each are called to be good stewards with our resources, time, and talents. God will use a willing vessel to accomplish His purpose. 1 Corinthians 1:27 tells us that,” God uses both the foolish and weak things of this world to confound the wise and the strong.” (paraphrased)
I personally thank Him for this daily!

Its A Battle and A Journey Both…

February 17, 2019 /

 “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” –John 16:33.

There are many I know, or know of these days, that are dealing with, praying through, simply just trying to press through their share of the Truth contained in this Scripture.

“You will have…”

Friends just lost their 20-year-old son. And, though he is now with the Lord—and they know that, still, they must walk into his now empty room and face the fact he will never again occupy it. They must wait to see Him, as they wait to see their Lord, face to face in heaven. And, then, there’s a 30 something sister from my college days who recently lost her fight to a life-long illness. My mother is battling heart disease. A sister in Christ whose husband of 25 plus years, refuses to keep his vow to the Lord—or to her, and continues to stray—unrepentant. To say nothing of the murders and wars and rumors of wars one hears of nightly on the news. Is it any wonder that Paul the Apostle cautioned us to remain strong in the Lord? To rely on Him. To stay fully clad in the power and covering of the armor God has graciously provided for us? It is our only hope for any peace or joy as we navigate our “trials and sorrows.” We simply can’t pilot any of this and not end up on some rock—shipwrecked, without Jesus! We were never intended to…

In today’s Scripture Jesus isn’t saying that bad things won’t happen to good people. He, more than anyone, knew first hand they would. They do. And, that they will continue to. These “things” however, often come to try our faith—ridding it, our faith that is, of the burdensome will and dross of the flesh that pollute it. That seeks its own desires. Refining it then, as by fire.

Call to mind here Jesus’s plea in the garden as He faced His own, “you will have” moment.

They come, these trials, perhaps to add to us a strength, some fixed resolve we would not have had they not come our way. And, as with Jesus, we need that final resolve so that we may move forward in complete surrender and faith. Though we often feel as though they, our trials, and sorrows, are robbing us of our life—when I ponder the miracle of His empty tomb, and all those it affects still, I see the pain these trials and sorrows exact have the potential to actually add to life, and not take life away. I do admit however, this is a lesson that is far beyond my ability to comprehend. It’s more an intrinsic knowing I hope will encourage you as much as it does me. This great privilege of sharing in Christ’s suffering. I know, it’s not the most folks favorite part of the Gospel Truth. Yet it is a privilege nonetheless. And, though we cannot see these trials and sorrows for what they have the potential to produce in us, more, through us, while they are exacting their desired end—if we give them all over to the Lord, He is faithful to draw beauty from our ashes. As unbelievable as that may feel while we’re walking through the full force of their crushing pain…

What Jesus was saying in our Scripture is this:

I’m telling you now to expect it—it’s going to come. All these things I’ve spoken of in my Word. They have to. You live in a fallen world. You possess a fallen nature. Trials and sorrows and troubles of all types will beset you. But when that happens, any of it, all of it, any-thing that disturbs your peace, causes fear to grip your heart or riddles your mind with anxiety; look to me. Look to my example of obedience to the Father and, then, call out to me for my help, wisdom, and guidance. And, remember this too, you won’t be navigating any of these “things” in your own strength—rather, you’ll be doing all things in my strength, with my peace—if, you’ll but trust me. I will never leave you. That’s my promise. I love you with an everlasting love. Therefore, regardless of what may be swirling all around you—fix your eyes and heart and mind—your every thought, on me. And, then, trust me to bring something unimaginably wonderful, something unfathomably beautiful out of all you will endure for my name sake. And know this, your life will be a fluid mix of battles and joy unspeakable both. A journey of refinement and faith. An adventure chuck-full of laughter and tears. Some of which you’ll understand, most you won’t. Nevertheless, remember what I’ve told you about my ways being far different from yours. Remember I told you that I possess the ability to make everything—every-thing, work together for your good, and my glory. I know pain will try to rob Truth. Yet remember, please. Then, when you do, trust in my love for you. Yet, if you’ve forgotten, allow me to re-mind you now that I love you so very much, I laid willingly on my Cross that I might offer up my life in exchange for yours…

We get tripped up—caught off guard, blindsided even—but not Jesus. Ever!

He knew every detail of every event long before He ever stood before His friends informing them of His imminent return to the Father. He knew the troubles they’d soon face because of their love for Him—because they were His own. He knew of ours too. The troubles we’d face that is. Even to the loss of our very lives. Nothing, not one thing, has ever escaped Him! He also knew of the inexpressible joy they’d one day share in also. Perhaps it was His focus on this, on all that the Father had prepared for them, on Gods will alone being accomplished—regardless the cost, and, on the coming joy they’d soon know that prompted Jesus to share these Words of love and encouragement with His friends? If so, we’d be wise to cherish them—more, to use them as a piloting Light when all that we’ve been forewarned of suddenly happens.

And it will happen suddenly, more often than not…

So, with that in mind, let us use this promise from our Savior to shine His Light into these dark days of heartache and the deep loss experienced when a loved one is taken from us. When a child has been suddenly taken from our arms. When the uncounted multitude of someone’s nameless children die as the result of war—or abuse, neglect, or starvation. When a husband or wife’s side of the bed is now empty—no longer warm and scented by their presence. When addiction destroys our loved ones and we are helpless to stop its insidious devouring of them. When alcohol robs a nascent life of its promise and joy—leaving it dried-up and deadpan. Or, when fear wraps its icy fingers around our throats, threatening our very life breath because any one of these, “in this world” suddenly befalls us. When we find ourselves on our knees, cheeks wet with tears of confusion watching our dream die or the door of our business or home close for a final time.

“Why!” “I don’t understand!” “God please! Help me! This is too much, too big, too heavy, I was never meant to carry this, I can’t! Help!”

Let’s shine Jesus’ Words into the very thick of all trials and sorrows. Into every other thing that threatens to rob us of our peace and joy, of our breath, of the very faith Christ alone affords us—if that were even possible. Let’s take every thought captive and force it to bow its knee before the authority of heaven. Let’s tell our wills that they too must surrender—completely. We will never pass this way again friends. Though Jesus promised us we’d go through these fiery trials, let’s not forget, as we reflect on His life, what a wonderful journey, what a great privilege, we’ve been afforded also. “But fear not, for I have overcome the world.”

Allow me to remind you as you walk through your pain and loss, that you’ve been chosen by God—to walk with Him. You are never alone beloved. Let’s  remember the Words of our Savior and be encouraged by them when these trials come. Because my friends, they have come, these trials, and will continue to do so for as long as you and I live. And, it’s when we’re in the thick of it, preoccupied with just trying to put one foot in front of the other and simply breath that we need to be reminded of this the most. You are loved. And, you are not alone. Just breath beloved—trusting God has not forgotten your pain. “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Beloved, if you are in the midst of a season of fiery trials or loss, take heart, that’s hard to hear in your pain I know, yet it must be said. I offer this Truth in love. The prayers of the faith-filled are with you and, more, Jesus is praying for you and the arms of our Father are enveloping you. Giving you His strength in exchange for your current weakness.

And friend, if you don’t know Jesus personally and you’re trying to press through this life on your own know this: God has led you here today that you might have a relationship with Him. He is offering you the opportunity, right now, to ask Him into your heart. To acknowledge your need of Him. He wants nothing more than to freely give you Him. His love, forgiveness, peace, healing, and strength that He may walk with you—lifting the heaviness of your burdens from you. Won’t you ask Him into your heart today?

It’s that time of the year…

February 10, 2019 /

It’s that time of the year…

Cold and flu season are upon us! And, one them has caught me! Sonsofthesea will not be posting this week. It seems as though I’ve been bitten by a bug! And no, it’s not the love bug. Prayerfully, I will return next week. Thank you in advance for your prayers and your understanding. Until then, may God continue to bless you and keep you.

In His Adventure,

MaryEllen

“The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.” 

The Promise… Deuteronomy 4:30-31.

February 3, 2019 /

 “In the distant future, when you are suffering all these things, you will finally return to the Lord your God and listen to what he tells you. For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors.”

This world  surrounds us with evidence that God is who He says He is. Its inescapable. God is Creator of heaven and earth. Of the sky and sea and everything in, and on, and under them. Without a voice of its own the very wind sings His praises! And, each leaf adds its amen in its rustling. “…Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world” –Psalm 19:2-4.

At the base of a mountain called Sinai,  shrouded now in dark clouds, fire, shooting skyward from its peak, God has allowed the Israelite’s to hear Him speak—to know the sound of His voice! How fortunate for these chosen few—this nation who has stolen the very heart of God to have heard Him for themselves! This people, so deeply loved by Him; loved as one loves an only child.  “The Lord said to Moses, “I am going to come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people will hear me speaking with you and will always put their trust in you.” Then Moses told the Lord what the people had said” –Exodus 19:9. They had endured such privation at the hands of a merciless Pharaoh. Evil is relentless by its very nature. Its only joy is found in torment. Its driving force, its sole hope, to exact death and destruction. And yet through Moses, God reminds His people who He alone delivered them from: “the iron-smelting furnace of Egypt in order to make them His very own people and His special possession…” –Deuteronomy 4:20.

And, as God did for each one standing at the base of Sinai, He does for us too. Our Lover pursues us. Hems us in. Still. Because of this joyful Truth it’s here where I say Hallelujah! I too have been delivered from Egypt’s chains. So then, it’s here I join my whispered “thank you Lord” to the deep night. Weaving my gossamer thread into the brilliant tapestry of thank you’s. I join it to the millions who have gone before me—and, with those whispering their thank you, now, still.  We each, trembling, yet certain the Lord catches our offerings with His own hands; pressing them to His heart. Cherished. Its my love song, a heart posturing itself in adoration—in recognition that He first loved me, chose me.  A heart that admits that He alone has opened this one heart to be able to hear His voice calling in the night.

As it was in their wilderness, so it was in my own; yours too I’d imagine. Sin isolates us. Yet, because of His great love for us, we, like the Israelite’s before us, mustn’t take this love we’ve been afforded for granted. We must never forget  He is a jealous lover who will not tolerate our “flirting” with another. After-all, how would you, a mere man, react to your beloved playing the harlot with another? Making room in her heart for someone other than yourself, the one she has vowed to remain faithful to—’til death part you? And yet they did. We do too. Take His great love for us for granted that is. Though forewarned of the consequences of their actions, they allowed their ardor for the One who loved them like no other to wax cold. And, in their luke-warm-ness, they soon found themselves following after the culture of the peoples around them. Cultures filled with foreign gods and moral compromise. A tainted world comprised of second-bests. They had forgotten they were called to come out from them and be separate. They had for gotten they were the chosen of the Lord. They were not created—never intended, to live with second best. After all, they were His beloved. But they forgot that. They allowed themselves to relapse into the “mentality of captivity.” And so do we. At least I have, momentarily…

Let me ask you Christian; after having been freed, have you ever felt the chains of captivity threatening to bind you once again? Felt it’s fetters searching you out? Wanting to bind, once again, what God had freed you from? Moses, through the revelation of the Holy Spirit, was allowed to see the future fate of those gathered before him. Those God had instructed him to pronounce liberty over. Yet the Israelite’s freedom was not the result of Moses showing up on the scene, nor of Pharaoh’ agreeing to release them.  Rather, the Israelite’s would gain their freedom because God, through His election of them, and, in His infinite wisdom and great mercy towards, saw fit that they would be His chosen people. “A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy” –1 Peter 2:9-10. And, though Peter was speaking to us here, the gentile nations, still, all of us, all those “chosen” in Christ, whether Jew or the grafted in gentile, would never have tasted His Truth, known His freedom, had we not first been chosen by Him…

Fidelity and integrity are non-negotiable; they are the very ink with which the covenant between God and man has been written. Sealed by Loves promise, His bond irrevocable!

And still we fall short. Still we rebel. Much like Lots wife we each stop and look back toward the Egypt God has delivered us from. And, though we aren’t instantly turned to a pillar of salt—we do not escape the consequences of our rebellious actions. God is just. We tend to forget that fact. As His children, we sometimes close our eyes to this Truth as it applies to our own lives. Consequences and discipline are for others, we becry, God’s grace covers me! And that’s true.  It does. He is merciful beyond measure. Yet, it is equally true that God disciplines His children; listen: And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, or lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises everyone He receives as a son.” Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father…?” –Hebrews 12:5-7.

Moses foresaw the Israelite’s’ wondering around in a wilderness for 40 years. Many died there. Never to see, touch, nor taste, the fruit of this beautiful promised land God swore to give them. Their dreams dying a barren death. They’d bore no fruit. They had chosen to come away from the True vine, lusting instead after the gods of Asherah poles and the Baals. This jealous Lover of our souls will not be mocked! “Be careful not to forget the covenant of the Lord your God that he made with you; do not make for yourselves an idol in the form of anything the Lord your God has forbidden. For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God” –Deuteronomy 4:23-24. And, yet, inconceivably, even though God knew His own would reject Him, turn away from Him and towards the gods of money and greed, of pride; even though we’d blindly run after the god of “more”, nonetheless, He loves us still. Died for us. Gave His only begotten Son for us, still. He’s here now. Available to all who will, today. Even when we are Gomers, He remains our Hosea. In their shame and rebellion—and in ours, Moses comforts us each with the words he spoke to those who followed, and follow still, the Pillar of Cloud by day and of Fire by night: “When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the Lord your God and obey him. For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your ancestors, which he confirmed to them by oath” –Deuteronomy 4:30-31.

My beloved brothers and sisters, consider these words shared by our older brother, Peter, concerning our living in a pagan society, and, as you do, ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes that you might reflect on the condition of your life: “Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” 1 Peter 2: 11-12. Beloved, as iron sharpens iron, allow me to urge you to seek the Lord today. Asking Him to revel all un-confessed sin before Him. And then, repent, quickly; remembering His mercy and His promise to forgive. And please, tuck His Words of assurance to Joshua into your heart. In today’s world, we need  to hold more tightly than ever to His promise! “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” Deuteronomy 31:6.

Dear friend, if you’re visiting us for the first time, welcome! Know that Jesus has called you here today to confirm what He has been pointing you towards—Himself. He loves you with a love that we’ll never fully be able to take in this side of heaven! Won’t you accept His invitation to share Himself, His time, His love with you today? “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me” –Revelation 3:20

Is it Ready Yet? John 14:3

January 27, 2019 /

 “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”

We are a people, most of us at least, who are impatient for an expected end. Bear with me for a moment as I explain…

You wake up to the smell of something delicious baking. Sticky buns drizzled with warm icing? Your favorite cake or cookies perhaps? Maybe? Hopefully! Whatever it is, your nose has foretold the rest of you to expect some gooey, goodness soon! And, your taste buds have announced that they will not be denied! Your salivating in anticipation of the deliciousness that is soon to come.

Or, You’re a child. Your parents announce they’re taking the whole family out for a drive. It’s a surprise. Someplace fun! And you can bring a friend. Your adrenaline starts pumping. You become feverish with excitement. The butterflies in your belly have turned into dragons by the time you get into the car! You’re ready! Anxious even. Yet full of enthusiasm and expectation! “I can’t wait” you squeal! This is going to be so good!

Perhaps its a  blood test that has confirmed what you’ve instinctively known for days now. Your pregnant! Even though you know that it takes nine months before the baby is born, you find your hand searching out your belly. You’re in front of the mirror looking for the slightest evidence of a “bump”. It’s too soon though. Yet everyday you’re examining your body for signs of what’s to come. Knowing it takes 9 months doesn’t deter you from checking things out daily. Why? Your waiting to see evidence of your baby! Even though you know he or she is there, still, you want to see for yourself. What will you be like little one? And the anticipatory ticking away of days and weeks and months begins…

Most of us do great beginnings. Some of us even finish strong. It’s that middle part—the “in-between” waiting part that we’re not all necessarily the best at. Those, “for-evah” in-between places where some of us eventually lose it! It’s around the 78th time we hear ourselves singing about the wheels on the bus that our proverbial wheels fall right off!

“Are we there yet?”

“Is it ready yet!”

“God how much longer; I’ve been carrying this baby f-o-r-e-v-e-r already!”

And we the Church are no different…

Much like those above, we too are filled with a growing sense of expectation. We too are keeping our eyes open for our expected end. The scenery of life whipping past our windows in a blur. We’re focused on our destination. We’re looking for our hope to finally be fulfilled! We know we’re going on the ride of our lives! A heavenly journey unlike any other. We know we’re about to partake in a slice of heavenly goodness unlike anything we’ve ever tasted before! Sure we’ve had a sample. A little wooden spoon full of a taste. A taste that so enticed us it has left us longing for so much more of its sweet goodness. Forget this wooden spoon stuff give me the scoop and a bowl! We know that at any moment, in a nanosecond, before they can fully blink their eyes we’ll be gone; delivered from this world. “Caught up” we’re told. Snatched, as one would snatch another from a roaring fire. Saving them from death…

Rejoice! No more wooden spoons.  Jesus is coming for us! For some 2000 plus years we’ve been told—in some shape, form, or fashion, that He will return for His children! Even the world knows of this Truth; those that don’t believe in “all that Jesus stuff” have heard about Jesus’ returning.

So then, are we that generation every other generation before us has spoken of? The, “This generation that will not pass away until, generation?” Will He come in my lifetime? In yours? By all indications time has crowned. Its head is showing. We’re almost there! We are one more “big push” away from seeing Jesus face to face! From, quite literally—meeting our maker, our Father, our lover. That Friend who has stuck closer to us than a brother throughout our anticipation of His coming. And yet, even in our knowing He will return for us, in the guarantee He has given of this fact, in its absolute-ness, are we really still looking up? Still eagerly awaiting Him? Yearning for His coming? Or, have we allowed ourselves to become so enamored by the seductive scenery passing by the windows of our lives that we’ve mistakenly accepted it as our home? Have we taken our eyes off of Jesus’ promise to come and, “snatch us up?” Bringing us to Himself. Back home where we belong? Back to all He has prepared for us? Have we taken our eyes off of Jesus while we were busy running around preparing for His arrival?

Martha knows a thing or two about this type of distraction. You know Martha; Mary and Lazarus’s sister. She was the one scurrying about making certain every detail of her dinner and its presentation was well attended. After all, Jesus was the guest of honor. She was so focused on everything being “just so”, she snaps at Jesus, her honored guest, commanding Him to get after Mary! To charge her to get up and start helping with the serving of this dinner! Martha has definitely lost her focus. Jesus is with her. The Prince of peace is in the room and yet she is filled with anxiety. She’s gotten caught up in the seductive scenery. She’s taken her eyes off of her honored Guest. But not Mary. She was determined to pull up a cushion and just sit, enthralled, at Jesus’ feet; drinking in His every Word. Her belly full long before she’d taken one bite of her dinner. After all, man doesn’t live by bread alone…

This account of John’s goes on to tell us that Mary, in her devotion and love for her friend, her teacher, her Lord, breaks open, what in all likelihood was, if not her entire dowry then certainly a large portion of it, an alabaster jar of nard. In an instant she is at Jesus’ feet. And her worship, along with her nard, is freely spilling forth.  Filling the room with a sweet fragrance. Mary sees Jesus clearly. Yes, she has enjoyed dinning with Him and laughing with Him—but she never lost sight of just who it was she was sharing this privilege with. Yes, He was her friend. And yes, He was her Teacher—her Rabbi. But above all He was her Lord. Her long-awaited Messiah. She was certain of this. After all, He had raised her brother Lazarus from his tomb after he’d been 4 days dead. Who but God could do such a miracle! And, she remembered His conversation with the 3 of them concerning their belief in seeing the glory of God.

Beloved, how often do you find yourself looking up or out these days and asking, “Jesus, are we there yet? Is it time yet? How much longer must I wait to enjoy your sweet presence face to face Lord? How often do you find your hand checking the proverbial bump on your own belly? This world is one more good push from seeing Jesus face to face. This world has crowned. Its waters have broken, and creation is bearing down with all its might. Are you ready to receive your portion? Beloved let these words found in Hebrews encourage and comfort you both. “Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay” Hebrews 10:35-37.

And for you dear friend saying to yourself, “I don’t think it’s an accident I’m here today.” You’re right! Listen to what Jesus is saying to you too; if you’ll just ask Him into your life as Lord: “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne” Revelation 3:19-21.

Are You Willing to Climb? Luke 19:1-10

January 20, 2019 /

 “And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. “‘

Exactly when did Jesus know that this man would run through the thick of the crowd that had gathered and climb up into a tree—simply to get a look at Him? Zacchaeus, this chief tax collector, this marginalized, ostracized son of Abraham…

Was it while Jesus was teaching yet another crowd on another day in some other little village; concerning the Parable of the lost? The lost Sheep, coin, and son that is. Was it during His time of teaching His disciples about forgiveness and faith? Maybe It was after He had entered a small village somewhere between Galilee and Samaria and ten men covered in leprosy cried out to Him for healing? Or, perhaps it was in a Nanosecond of time somewhere in eternity? Was Jesus standing over the dark void perhaps when the plan to meet Zacchaeus under the Sycamore-fig came to be?

The Bible doesn’t fill in that particular blank for us…

Suffice it to say however, God knew the exact second this man of small moral and physical stature both would quite literally be found, “up a tree!” More, it had always been God working just below the surface of Zacchaeus’s knowing. Across the span of his lifetime; unnoticed by him, unrecognized, yet ever-present in every-thing that had ever-happened to him, or in him, or through him! God had used every-thing. Every joy, each smile, every pain, hurt, disappointment. Every rejection, each harsh word spoken, every bright ray of sun that had ever pierced the darkness of Zacchaeus isolation—and loneliness. God had used them all to pave the path that would eventually lead Zacchaeus to this exact tree, at this precise time.

The Holy Spirit is stealth—and intentional. There are no accidents with God. No almost…

God had a plan for Zacchaeus’s life. Just as surely as He had for Father Abraham’s. Different certainly. Each of ours are—different that is; those plans God has for you, and you, and me. Yet similar because we are One Body in Christ Jesus, if we believe. God has a plan for our salvation; if we are found in Him. He has a plan for our transformation. Just as He had a plan that would empower Zacchaeus to do what he had not done, probably, since boyhood. Climb a tree. God will drive us towards the most peculiar of tasks and, He’ll do it at the most inopportune of times. Our time that is, not His. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” –Jeremiah 29:11.

There is no reason given us in Scripture as to why Zacchaeus wanted to “see” Jesus.

He, unlike the blind beggar that shouted out to Jesus from the roadside entrance of this same Jericho village had his sight; physically speaking that is. But in fact, it was the blind man who had 20/20 vision when compared not only to Zacchaeus, but to many others gathered together that day! He saw Jesus for who He was. But that’s best left for us to explore another day. The blind beggar knew he wanted to receive healing from Jesus. He stated it plainly. “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, I want to see,” he replied –Luke 18:41.

Yet we never hear Zacchaeus crying out to Jesus for healing or forgiveness. Verse six plainly says that when Jesus called him down out of the tree that they might share lunch together, “Zacchaeus climbed down quickly and with great joy and took Jesus into his house.” Where’s the shame? The downcast eyes, heart, and spirit? Where’s the wailing and tearing of garments that might evidence Zacchaeus’ feeling the weight of his sins? Where is the sackcloth and ashes? Where’s the remorse? Thank God that He sees what mere men cannot! But the LORD said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” –1 Samuel 16:7.

In this account of Zacchaeus, I was reminded of yet another wayward son of Abraham—a son separated from his family and community as a result of his sins and selfish choices. We’re never told what drove Zacchaeus to become a chief tax collector—perhaps the vilest of jobs a Jew could have. Maybe we should ask the Apostle Matthew? Remember, he too was a tax collector up until the moment Jesus “just happened” to walk by him that day in the Temple.

In spite of their both being men and tax collectors I saw myself in Zacchaeus and Matthew. Broken and dead in sin. Separated from family and friends due to poor choices. Having lusted after the things of this world. Sullied by the sin of countless offences. More, I too was separated from God. Thankfully for each of us, God, unbeknownst to us, was never far from us. Plus, unlike blind Bartimaeus, it had never occurred to me to call out to Jesus! Sure, I knew of Him. Believed in Him even—at least I believed that He was. But I never opened my mouth. Never asked for what I needed most. How fortunate (such a pale expression of such an incomprehensible blessing!) I was that Jesus determined to walk past me—just as He did Abraham, Zacchaeus and Matthew, Paul too. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” –Romans 5:8.

For whatever His reason God chose each of us in Himself long before we had a clue!

While Zacchaeus and Matthew were swindling and cheating people out of their hard-earned money and goods and while Paul’s heart was burning with murderous intentions to kill those that believed in this Jesus, God had sealed each of them in Himself—as His own. Me too. Scripture is clear that Zacchaeus never cried out to Jesus. Never shouted out to get Gods attention. Matthew either. In each of their cases—Paul’s also, it was God who made certain He had gotten their attention. It was God who came to them. It’s always God. God whom presented Himself to each of them in such a way that to not follow after Him—not leave it all behind, not change their ways—not repent, was not an option. Me too. “Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before! And he received circumcision as a sign, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. So then, he is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them” –Romans 4:10-11.

I don’t profess to understand the depths of God—or fully understand His ways for that matter. I see and understand in part.  I’m no biblical scholar. Just a simple sheep following after a God that is far too big—to marvelous—too brilliant, creative, deep, Holy, and pure for me to ever comprehend in full this side of eternity. Nor would I want to. I am incredibly happy being me and knowing that I serve a God who is far too big for me to get my mind, knowing—and heart around. What I am capable of doing, by His grace, is climbing whatever tree necessary to get a better look at—a more intimate understanding of—a deeper revelation of, the One I love. The One who stood over the void and said to himself, “This world will not be complete without my daughter in it.” The One who left the Fathers side that He might walk before me. Making certain that I don’t forget my way back home.

And I know that my brothers Abraham, Zacchaeus and Matthew and Paul, and all in that great cloud of witnesses, felt much the same as I do now.

How about you?

Are you willing to climb?

Beloved, I encouraged  you today to keep climbing! let nothing or no one stop your running after or seeking out our Lord. Especially not those lies the enemy of your soul whispers incessantly. Telling you you’re not saved, or good enough, smart enough, or that God could never love someone who has made the mistakes you’ve made. Sinned as grossly as you have. It’s a lie! God has chosen you. And He’ll never let go of you! See, even now, He’s passing you by…

And friend, if you’ve yet to ask Jesus into your heart as Lord and Savior, let today be your day. Look! Just there. He’s coming your way. Won’t you ask Him to come in and dine with you? HE will if you will…

“If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved” Romans 10:9-10.

May God Richly Bless You!

January 13, 2019 /

 To my faith-full friends,

Sonsofthesea will not be posting this week due to a sudden medical issue within my family. Your prayers are greatly appreciated. And, please let me say how grateful to God I am for you and time He so graciously allows us to spend together each week, via these blog posts. Thank you for continuing to meet with me weekly, I so look forward to sharing all that God has placed on my heart with you!

In His Adventure!

MaryEllen

Deliverance. Exodus 21-22

January 6, 2019 /

“Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelite’s went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left.”

 

This message dropped in my belly on New Year’s Day. I grabbed my Bible, journal, a pen, and headed over to the nearby pond for some alone time with the Lord. It was the first morning of the New Year…

As I sat before the Lord seeking His will for this new season, I realized that it had taken a series of awfully specific yet outwardly random events to lead me to one simple, yet powerful Word: Deliverance. And, just in case I might have missed what the Lord was impressing on my spirit, in His infinite wisdom and grace, He confirmed His Word yet again, today. As I share what’s been deposited in my belly with you, I’m also speaking over myself. This was—is, a very personal, specific, and, for me at least, a very timely Word. And I believe it is for some of you as well. For someone this will be the confirmation you have prayed for, for others not.

Might I suggest you eat the meat and spit out the bones…

Amid all the New Year hype, all the varied conversations with family and friends concerning resolutions, intentions, and hopes, all I wanted—needed actually, was to go and get alone with God. I couldn’t wait to get out of the house. There was a sense of urgency bubbling-up within me. I sensed in my spirit that a “suddenly” moment is upon the Body of Christ. A communal experience for sure, yes—yet also a deeply personal one as well.

There is nothing new under the sun…

Scholars estimate that some 2 million plus Jews—and those Egyptians that chose to go with them in the exodus, left Egypt behind following after Moses and Aaron. To give you a visual of what that may look like today, picture turning on the news and seeing all of Houston Texas, with its population of 2 million plus citizens, walking some 220 plus miles—the approximate distance from Egypt to the Red Sea—across that state. Or, google a picture of the Anti-Nuclear March that took place in New York’s Central Park in 1982; though that visual would pale in comparison to the march of the Israelite’s, as only a mere million people were gathered in Central Park. I stress these numbers that you might try to wrap your mind around such a great multitude. Now, liken that visual to the mammoth amount of individuals God actually delivered across  11 miles of the Red Sea—safely! Through a sea He had to first divide and then continue to send such powerful winds through its midst that its saturated sea-bottom became dry land! Firm enough to bear up under the weight of many souls, of every animal, cart, child, and its mother…

Surely if God fulfilled His promise to deliver those who had become so entrenched in hopelessness that most had all but forgotten He was God; He is equally faithful to deliver you and me, all those equally entrenched in their own slavish hopelessness. As I stated at the beginning of this post—I’m sharing this for all who believe. Also, for each of you who have yet to come to have faith in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. The blanket of God’s promise to deliver His people covers even those whose toes are still sticking out from under its covering…

None of us stand before an actual sea that must be crossed in order that we might live. And yet each of does stand facing our own Red Sea nonetheless. What has God strategically put in front of you? What impossible “thing”, what situation, addiction, relationship, life-style choice are you currently facing? What is your personal impossible? Is it drug addiction? Porn perhaps? Are you drinking too much? Lying, cheating, or stealing maybe? Are you sleeping with someone you have no business being intimate with? Have you aborted your baby? Are you eating yourself to death? Does your mouth profess one thing, yet your secrets tell an entirely different story? Are you full of fear? Suicidal? Do you wrestle with ongoing depression? Are you an adulterer? A child molester? Maybe a murderer? Do you choose to believe there is no God? I’m here today to tell you that if you’ve ticked any or all of these boxes—God still loves you. Let me say that again. If you’ve committed every sin I’ve listed—or some I haven’t, God loves you. Period.

It’s not, “God loves you, but you must.” Or, “God loves if you’ll but do x, y, and z.” It’s not like that. God just loves you ________ (add your name).

Do you see the difference there? Pay close attention. There’s the you that God has created, and then  the sins you’ve committed that keep you separated from Him. You are not your sins! You are God’s creation! And you were created for a purpose! And, He died that you might one day walk across the bridge of His Body—broken just for you. Delivered now, safely back to the Father, washed clean in the Blood He shed to rid you of those sins. As surely and safely as God delivered Israel from the grip of their enemy so too Jesus will deliver you from the grip of your enemy as well. That’s His part—to deliver you. As only He can…

Yet look at our Scripture verse. We too have a part to play in this deliverance account. Small as it might be it’s ours nonetheless—and, there are no stand-ins. As it was with Moses, so it is with us. We need to act. We must offer back to God what He has graciously placed in our hands; our free will. We must stretch it out before God in humility—in recognition, admitting that outside of Him we are powerless to deliver ourselves from all that is “impossible” before us.

He alone is God of the impossible. Only He can deliver His children…

Even the mighty King David, a man after God’s own heart, knew this… “The valleys of the sea were exposed and the foundations of the earth laid bare at your rebuke, Lord, at the blast of breath from your nostrils. He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me” –Psalm 18:15-19.

Beloved, as you stand facing the very dawn of this New Year take heart, you are not alone! God has led you to this seeming wilderness. Suddenly, while facing what has appeared impossible to conquer, or get, let go of, repent of, believe Him for—maybe half a life-time now for some, God will divide the waters before you that you may cross over safely. Never to see this vicious enemy that has held you captive again! “But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again” Exodus 14:13.

Friend, I do believe God in His infinite mercy, and out of His great love for you, has surely brought you here today. If you are His child, I pray this Word confirms what He has already spoken to you. And, I pray your obedience in seeking what it is He will have you to do, give up, submit yourself to, take your hands off of, repent of; in this season of His mighty deliverance!

And, if you find yourself here and have yet to ask Jesus into your life as your Savior and Lord, then I believe also, that today is the day God has chosen as your new birth day! Jesus, when talking to Nicodemus, a teacher of the Law said this: “He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him.” Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again”—John 3:2-3; emphasis my own.

Whatever it is your facing today beloved know this in your very bones: You can cross over safely if you’ll but take the Hand of the One who makes all things possible. Jesus Christ the Lord…

“After-Glow.” Matthew 1:23

December 30, 2018 /

 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel”—which, when translated, means, “God with us.”

So much had to be sacrificed  in order that one flawless night, one single, holy night, that life-changing night, might come to pass. And, too, that one night happened so that you and I might be afforded the opportunity to follow the Light that had guided three wise men and some lowly shepherds to a child born in the lowliest of settings, so awfully long ago…

The birth has occurred. Jesus is among us! The sweat from birthing a child dried now on Mary’s body. Her flush waning. The sheep are back out in the fields with their respective shepherd’s. Jesus is wrapped up securely. He sleeps peacefully tucked up against Mary’s warm side. Josephs’ face is still beaming. Look there! Yet His star guides us still, this day! Just over that next hill the wise men linger on their way back east. The memory of His star that had guided them to that Holy place, lasting. Burning brightly in their hearts, still. Its light as inescapable now as it was the moment it first summoned them on their journey. Never again will this world be the same. They are not the same now as they were that pivotal day each decided to mount up on their camels in pursuit of this newborn King.

Immanuel is here now—and nothing, not one thing ever, will be the same. Loves brilliant Light has pierced every darkened corner of this world—theirs too! Inescapable…

As a result of that first Christmas some 2000 years ago, neither these three kings—nor any man, anywhere, will ever again be able to say that they did not know about the glory of God having been birthed in a manger! If somehow, they  had been blinded to the physicality of His Truth seen in creation; there could still be pardon. Now, with the knowledge of His birth, all excuses have been removed. And so it is still in these final hours. All excuses are removed. All men have but two choices set before them. Those same two choices that have been set before each of us. Will you, like wise men before you, leave everything behind and follow in pursuit of the King? Or, will you enter this new year once again closing your eyes, hearts, minds, every unction bubbling up within you, off from the guiding Light of His glorious presence?Choosing instead to remain in darkness…

Love was born with one purpose in mind—sacrificial obedience. And, out of that obedience to God this new babe would one day lay down on His Cross—willingly. Stretching Himself wide, He’d make certain there is room for you and me inside the inn of His body. The divine exchange taking place. Him taking in your death—your filthy sins, that you might instead have His eternal life having been washed as pure as He is by the shedding of His innocent Blood. That is what this and every other Christmas is all about. That is the gift God has offered you—year, after year, after year. Him loving you so much that He’d send His only Son—to you. A free gift. As I said a moment ago, it’s most definitely personal. Will you receive Gods’ gift or, will stuff it in some forgotten corner of your life until this time next year?

What will you do with the Gift that cost both Father and Son so very much? Mary and Joseph too? Just think of it all! If it were not enough—as unimaginable as that is, that the Sovereign God of the universe handed over His pure, perfect, beloved Son to us—filthy, fallen, sinful man—He did so knowing that we were going to kill Him!

More, God sent Him to us specifically that we would kill Him! He was Gods spotless atoning sacrifice. Intentional! Gods most precious gift to the entire world. And, Jesus, when asked to leave heaven and die for us said: “Yes, sure, I’ll go. I know I’m the only One who’s able to help them make their way back to You. Father” More still, if the Prince of heaven coming to earth were not a great enough sacrifice, an incomprehensible gift given us; think then of simple everyday people, like Mary and Joseph, ordinary people willing to offer so much of themselves for you. When’s the last time a complete stranger sacrificed anything for you?

Mary, a woman like any other woman, endured great shame and rejection for you and me so that Gods Son might be born of her virgin flesh. That He might understand, from a human perspective, everything you and I think, desire, and experience. Feeling every temptation; yet He’d never sin. Mary, this stranger to us, endured this and so much more, for you. Only God can place the grace needed for this level of sacrifice inside of anyone’s heart. And then there’s Joseph. Joseph who was ostracized—thought to be a fool by many for going through with a marriage to a girl who obviously cared so little for him she had allowed herself to be sullied by another man! Joseph who left a family, a home and a business, a plan for a life he’d never know…

My friend, now that you’ve once again heard about this Jesus, now that you’ve been re-minded that He was born, and that He died just for you; what will you do with this knowledge? Will you, like the wise the wise men of old, follow after this same guide they were afforded—Jesus’ undeniable, inextinguishable Light? Will you, like those who’ve gone before you, use whatever ray of hope that’s been shined into your current darkness to mount up in pursuit of this King of Kings? Or, will you choose to close the door of your heart for one more year? Again. Will you, as some did that holy night, hang a “do not disturb” sign on your door? Refusing to acknowledge even now the still visible after-glow of a Love so divine, so cherished above all things that men, wise men, common men, both learned and unlearned men, still, to this very day. leave all behind to follow Him . So much has been sacrificed for you. So much has been freely given that you might know—might be willing to experience, such a love.

Friend, it’s never too late, So long as there is breath there’s hope…

With this in mind, I’ll close asking you just one question. Yet before I do, in anticipation of those who might say, “I don’t believe in that Bible stuff. I don’t believe in your Jesus. Nice story, but I’ve read  many a nice story. I just don’t buy it!” I will add this precursor. Please, know, some things are real whether you believe in them or not. Now, with that having been proved, my question on the eve of this New Year is: What will you do with the greatest gift ever presented you? Yes you. It is personal. I know, I know, He came for the entire world. And that’s Truth. Yet, it’s equally True that He came explicitly for you. Christ chose to leave God and the glory of heaven. He chose to wrap Himself up in flesh and be birthed by Mary among barnyard animals, reeking Shepherd, and dank hay. There was not one accidental event leading up to Jesus’ birth—nor has there been one since. So, if you’ve been thinking Jesus came for everyone but you—you’re mistaken! The world may have told you that lie—many of us have been lied to by broken people who’ve been lied to themselves—but He sent me here today, in the power of the Holy Spirit, to bring you good news!

Jesus came specifically for you! That is the Truth of why He came at all…

Wise men, in adoration and hope, look up to heaven still in their silent nightly prayers. And, their reward is that of the Light of the world reaching down from heaven touching their birthing places here on earth—the Inns of their hearts. His Body once broken on our behalf mended by our re-joining with it…

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” John 8:12.

Friend, that star that shone brightly might seem but a dim reminder of some tall-tale told long ago of a babe born to us that few acknowledge today. I pray if you have been one of these—may His star be magnified in your New Year sky! Leading you to the One that was born to save you! Won’t you choose to follow Him in this New Year friend?

Simply ask Him into your heart as both Lord and Savior. He is faithful to come. He’s already proven that once…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If You’ll Just Follow… Mark 8:36

December 23, 2018 /

 “For what does it benefit a man to gain the whole world [with all its pleasures], and forfeit his soul? For what will a man give in exchange for his soul and eternal life [in God’s kingdom]?”

If you’d be so kind as to indulge me for a moment or two—I promise you, by the time we part company today, we’ll have discovered some Truths together…

Today I was led to the book of Zechariah.

It’s where my journey with the Lord began this morning. But, before I get into what He revealed, allow me to share just how joy-filled it is to sit at the feet of the Lord and have Him open the eyes of my understanding to His Truth! It’s as humbling today as it was the very first time the proverbial light-of-my-understanding was flicked on! Just like that, out of seemingly nowhere, bam! Truth is realized! And, as a result, I am forever changed in some great or small way. And so are you! Or, you certainly can be! Take a moment to think about that the next time you’re in your Word. The Creator of the universe is right there with you whispering His Truth into your spirit; causing your belly to jump in response to His presence with you!

Elizabeth knew a thing or two about this…

But it was the mention of being “brought through the fire” in verse 9 of Zechariah 13 that caused me to pause today. It resonated with me. In its reading I was reminded of a Word the Lord had spoken to me almost a year ago now concerning my imminent relocation. Sitting with Him one morning I had heard the Word ‘crucible’ drop in my spirit. I knew this was a Word concerning the season He was leading me into.  Now, I don’t know about you, but I’ve been walking with the Lord long enough to know that when you hear a Word like that drop in your spirit—buckle up! This was not going to be a mountaintop season—no refreshing time by the brook for this gal! This was going to be one of those walking through the shadow of the valley of death deals! Mine that is. I knew God was about to do a deep work in me. I also knew it was time…

Let us be re-minded that in this season of giving the very act of giving itself is designed to cost us something…

My first clue came in a “suddenly” moment. Standing at my kitchen island I heard the Lord say, “take your hands off of it.” Foolishly in the moment I thought He was referring to the new home He had just provided. In other words, “don’t get too attached to it.” See He’d dealt with me in the past about making idols of “things”. So, it was easy for me to see this as a reminder: This is a gift, NOT a possession!

Hence the hands-off thing…

I had no idea in that moment however, that in a just a few short months, not only would I leave that new home behind but with it my family, friends, my church family, my ministry work, and, the islands I so love. Those same Islands God has been bringing me back and forth between for the past 27 years! Would I ever come back?  Like I said, I had no idea this was coming. His ways are surely not mine!I would love to tell you that I was all super-spiritual and instantly—joyfully obeyed His command to pack it up, give it away, and go where He was leading me. But that would be a lie. However, I did pack. I did give away what I was told to, and I did go amid one of the worst hurricanes the Islands had seen in years. So severe was this storm that just 48 hours prior to my departure there were no flights off the islands due to the menacing wind. Only by Gods divine Hand was the storm turned away and literally swept out to sea.

His Word will not return to Him void…

Allow me to pause here and clarify something important: I was joy-filled to hear from God; that is my Spirit-man was. My flesh on the other hand, not so much.

Now you may be thinking, nice testimony, but what does this have to do with today’s scripture, or to your earlier reference of being led to the book of Zechariah? It’s here then that I will thank you for patiently following along. More, where I will start filling in the pieces of this puzzle for you…

In this season when everyone is running around searching for the perfect gift to give, it was in and through each of these passages that the Lord re-minded me of that one “perfect gift” He requires from us—from me, His children. A heart of obedience. One completely surrendered to His Lordship. After-all, it’s a large part of the reason He came for you and me. Why He chose us. Why He allowed Himself to be wrapped in milk rags and sleep in the leftover straw meant for animals. It’s why He gave up heaven and took on human flesh. It’s why that same flesh was ripped open by the Roman lictors whips. Why He held His Cross as one would hold their lover. It’s why He laid down upon it—willingly, stretching Himself wide; He wanted there to be room “for all who will” inside the Inn of His Body. It’s why this Spotless One took on every filthy thing I have ever done, said, thought. You too. He did this, and so much more, for us both. He did it for each soul that has ever been, is now, and those yet to be called by His great name.

Is there anything we might gain that is worth having outside of Jesus?

Is a fine home, a car, beautiful furnishings, cash in the bank, exotic destinations, the best of spouses or a house filled with children; never mind some finely wrapped gifts given us at Christmas worth having if our not knowing Jesus is the price we must pay to have them?

I say no. There is nothing. No thing I would exchange for knowing, and being both known and loved by my Lord. Nothing. And, that’s scary to say out loud. Though I know that I know He works all things together for my good—those “things He’s working with” are often exacting. Yet still, it’s on trembling knees I lovingly say, “not my will but Thine be done.” After all, I am His. Who else is there for me but Him?

It was in reading Zechariah 13 verse 8 that I was re-minded I have been chosen in Christ Jesus. Saved to serve my Savior. And, in verse nine how it is through this fire of adversity spoken of—this election of sacrifice and refining, that He burns off my dross. One day we will—I will, stand before Him spotless and without wrinkle. Oh, glorious day! It was during this same time that a verse we sing at this time of the year found its way into my heart. Thinking of it again now I am brought to my knees: “Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth…”

Oh, night divine! Oh, holy night…!

And there is it. My life, your life, the greatest gift we will ever receive laid out for us in nine simply profound and life-changing words. My worth—your worth, is found in Christ alone! Be re-minded of that in this season of hope beloved! Receive this precious gift friend. Is there any “thing” He might ask of us that is too great to give back to the One who came as Gods greatest, most costly gift to the world?

Friend, if you’ve yet to meet Him—to experience the life-changing joy of His birth, don’t let this Christmas pass without finding your way to His side and bow before Him in humble adoration. And, if you’re unsure just how to find Him, fear not, He is as faithful to guide you today as He was to those lowly shepherds so long ago… “And this will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests” … Luke 2:12-14!

And, to my brothers and sisters I welcome you to join me in worshiping anew our King. The greatest gift we will ever be given, Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. May His star burn brightly in your hearts. And, may it be used as it was that first night to lead those who will to Him…

 

Safe in the Sieve. Amos 9:9

December 16, 2018 /

“For, look, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all the nations, as grain is sifted in a sieve, yet not the least kernel will fall on the earth.”

I think I see you, poor believer, tossed about like that wheat, up and down, right and left, in the sieve, and in the air, never resting. Perhaps it is suggested to you, ‘God is very angry with me.’ No, the farmer is not angry with his wheat when he casts it up and down in the sieve, and neither is God angry with you; this you shall see one day when the light shall show that love ruled in all your griefs. (Spurgeon)

There is a swift pivot—a sharp shift that takes place precisely between verses 10 and 11 of Amos 9. One so clean the best of NBA players would envy it! Up until the first Words of verse 11, the Lord has spoken solely of destruction, devastation, and death. A complete and widespread destruction is  vividly portrayed within its opening verse concerning the destruction of the doorpost. “I saw the Lord standing beside the altar: and he said, Smite the capitals, that the thresholds may shake; and break them in pieces on the head of all of them; and I will slay the last of them with the sword: there shall not one of them flee away, and there shall not one of them escape “ Amos 9: 1. If the doorposts of a structure have been destroyed (often the strongest part of the house), then surely the rest of the house has fallen also.

This descriptive, systematic destruction will come upon all those who do not know and love the Lord; we witness it begin in the opening verse of Amos 9 and run, terrifyingly, throughout verse 10.

But it is verse 9 that caught my attention. This talk of sifting—and safety.

If you are even mildly spiritually discerning, then you know that there is a shaking going on in the earth. If you have somehow missed it, just read the world headlines or watch the world news. God’s Hands have firmly gripped the sieve and, He is shaking loose the chaff from the wheat. Separating some things.

A refining is occurring in the Body…

God is reminding His own not to take Him for granted. Not to presume upon His mercy and grace. To remain awe-struck and humble before the Sovereign God of the universe. He is reminding us to shake off our presumption and—dare I say, expectant attitudes—as well as our luke-warm-ness. Our spoiled-rotten chosen-ness—and all that comes along with them…

I am feeling this—in a very real and tangible way in my walk.

Though I am secure in my salvation— both knowing and being known by my Husband, I have felt—and am feeling still, the crushing of my most recent re-folding. I am once again being reshaped for His glory. I am acutely aware of the Lords fingers working out the unwanted—the harmful hard bits that I have allowed to accumulate in my vessel, bits that are not a part of His work in me. I can hear Him asking, as His fingers lovingly press against me, “Will you surrender to my reshaping?”

I must confess here that as much as I love my Husband, and I do, there are moments where my lovers’ touch rubs me the wrong way! Especially in those moments when I am thinking everything is “good between us—we’re coasting along just fine, thank you very much!” Then wham, that rub! Or should I say pinch! Whatever you want to call it, it is meant to get my attention. To snap me out of my rote-ness and refocus my full attention back on Him. That’s where I am right now. And, from what I hear from my brothers and sisters across the country, that is where so many of us are. As our Scripture states, and as Spurgeon so aptly described it—we are all being tossed about, to and fro! Take heart beloved, it is intentional! And, as unsettling, as confusing—painful, discouraging, as disappointing as this feels in the moment, unless there are some holes in your spiritual foundation that are causing you to doubt the Truth of your salvation in Christ Jesus, then this work that He is doing, His asking that you be submissive to His knowing touch is exactly what you need in this season. He is sifting you. And sifting is a very un-settling, un-comfortable business. Nonetheless, as I stated earlier, it is intentional. To say nothing of beneficial!

For some, Gods wanting to rid them of spiritual pride…

Anyone that the Lord has shown great favor, mercy, and grace towards will understand just how easily—if left unchecked, spiritual pride can grab hold of you. And, as with any lie we leave unchallenged—its whisper quickly turns into a roar that eventually drowns out the Truth the Holy One is pointing us towards. Anyone who has spent a consistent amount of time on the mountaintop has most likely battled with spiritual pride—to one degree or another. It is a very sobering moment however—both a shocking and deeply humbling experience, when the Lord allows you to get a glimpse of your ugly! When He shines His Light on your sin, revealing it for what it truly is!

For others however, porn is their sin—or drugs are, judgement, or sex outside of marriage, or gossiping, stealing, lying, idolatry, or adultery; sin is anything we know to be wrong, unpleasing to God, and yet we rebelliously continue in it. “As it is, you boast in your proud intentions. All such boasting is evil. Therefore, whoever knows the right thing to do, yet fails to do it, is guilty of sin” –James 4:16-17.

And though the lord is speaking of Israel to Amos, it is the Lords brother James who opens-up for us Jesus’ plan to include the gentiles into the community of Jewish believers during the meeting known as the Jerusalem Council. In Acts 15 we hear James, along with Peter, Paul, and Barnabas, making clear to those present, as well as to us, that the gentiles (all non-Jewish races) would also become part of the Kingdom under Messiah—they would be grafted in. “‘After this I will return and rebuild David’s fallen tent. Its ruins I will rebuild, and I will restore it, that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who bear my name, says the Lord, who does these things’—things known from long ago. –Acts 15:16-18.

If anyone is qualified to speak to us of the deep pain, shame, and exacting sting of their sins, it is the one who was so highly favored—yet so deeply flawed; our brother Peter. He speaks ardently to us of the confusion experienced during the dark nights of the soul that come along with wrestling with our sin—as well as with our sifting. He can also speak first-hand of the pitfalls of spiritual pride. And yet, because of all these, despite them perhaps, and more, he is also uniquely qualified to teach us valuable lessons in personal integrity, steadfastness, commitment, decisive leadership, and deep humility. It was on the heels of his profound revelation, in his answering of one simple question posed that Gods Truth is first revealed to a small band of dusty brothers who would swallow His Truth whole. First feeding themselves—then going to the ends of the earth to share it, like so many pieces of bread, with a lost and starving world. “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren.”–Luke 22:31-32.

There is a swift pivot—a sharp shift that takes place precisely between verses 10 and 11 of Amos 9.

And beloved, it is in the cleft of these closing verses that the Lord speaks lovingly to His own. Sweet and comforting Words of reassurance, restoration, of His divine love, and Fatherly protection. Take heart brothers and sisters, though everything is shaking around you—though people and habits, jobs, and friends, and family, governments and systems are falling away. Though possessions and homes may be lost—lives even, God is on His Throne. And you, child of God, are safe and sound within His sieve…

“God’s Message: “Don’t let the wise brag of their wisdom. Don’t let heroes brag of their exploits. Don’t let the rich brag of their riches. If you brag, brag of this and this only: That you understand and know me. I’m God, and I act in loyal love. I do what’s right and set things right and fair, and delight in those who do the same things. These are my trademarks.” God’s Decree –Jeremiah 9:24.

Just as God the Father prayed for our brother Peter during his time in the sieve, so too He prayers for you beloved. Take heart and know that you are safe in the One who neither sleeps nor slumbers…

Beloved, continue to pray to the Lord of the harvest during these days of great trials—and great miracles! Keep watch over your house, hold tight to the everlasting Hand of God, and always, always, surrender to Gods sifting…

And friend, if you are here for the first time and have yet to meet Jesus face-to face, today is the day! God has you here to confirm in your heart Words/promptings He has shared with you. Won’t you say yes to Him today? Please give Him the seat of honor at the table of your heart…

Just invite Him in, He will do the rest…

 

 

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