David LaFrance

Examine thyself

September 6, 2016

The last few weeks at church we have been reading in John and discussing the many many events that happened hours before the death of Jesus. Using figures of speech and talking plainly Jesus spoke so we can read today and have hope, faith, love for Him, ourselves, and others John 16:25. In these hours before a betrayal Jesus sat down with his disciples first showing how we should serve others John 13:16 , take heart in tribulations, be not of the world, and that God loves us with the same depth as His only son John 17:26.

Today’s Readings: 1 Samuel 31; 1 Corinthians 11; Ezekiel 9; Psalm 48

In the second half of 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 we read about the Lord’s Supper. This is a part that Christians have read and listened to every time we take communion. Starting at 1 Corinthians 11:24, Paul writes how the bread and the cup represents the body and blood is taken in the remembrance of Jesus. Verse 1 Corinthians 11:26 is that reminder to us that we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

In 1 Corinthians 11:28 Paul talks about us examining ourselves. Yesterday, as Brandon Grant read and preached from John 17:20-26 he talked about The Oneness that Wins the World .This Oneness challenged me to be reflective in my desires and the oneness I have with others. I felt this examination run through my mind and in my heart. As I reflected on my prayers, engagement in others, and the sacrifices that I should make for God and His kingdom. These thoughts continued through the night as I read through this part of 1 Corinthians 11:28 into now. I asked myself how many times I have had the Lord’s Supper and not examined myself. Remembering that it is the Lord who truly knows our hearts and will judge us. In our time of communion, eating the bread and drinking the cup shows that we are remembering Christ’s death for us and renewing our commitment to serve Him. In this time of communion, instead of thinking of what plans I have that will follow that service I need to be thinking about what Jesus did and Why He did it! Taking the Lord’s Supper should be a time when I can examine myself for any unconfessed sin or resentful attitudes. What barriers am I hiding that affect my relationship with Him and with other believers.

Dear Lord, by Your grace do we get to be part of this special time where we can take this sacrament given by Christ to help strengthen our faith. Jesus, thank you for this time where we are at oneness with each other and completely focused on You. Thank you for the reminder that the Lord’s Supper is not to be taken lightly and this new covenant came at the cost of Your life. Amen

Imitators of me

August 30, 2016

im·i·ta·tor

ˈiməˌtādər/

noun plural noun: imitators 1. a person who copies the behavior or actions of another. 2. To use or follow as a model: Your brother imitates you because he admires you.

People imitate for many reasons. Some good, and, …some bad. Imitators of words, actions, and lifestyles. Currently, I will see this all the time with my two sons. Jackson the 5 year old will do something, anything, and Marshall our 19 month son will do his best impression of it.(good or bad) Likewise, I see these same actions carried out by both boys through my actions as well. (again, good or bad)

Today’s Reading:1 Samuel 23; 1 Corinthians 4; Ezekiel 2; Psalm 38

In today’s readings, 1 Corinthians 4 shares a message from Paul telling Timothy to be an imitator of him. (1 Corinthians 4:16) Paul was sent for Timothy as a model like a father with their child. Paul was sent for us to remind us of the ways of Christ that we need to model.

Each day God presents us with needs and opportunities to challenge us to do what is right. Is my “Christian conduct” that which Paul modeled for Timothy? My prayer is to grow in this desire and my behaviors daily until His will calls me elsewhere. As a husband, father, son, brother, and friend I know as I list some of these examples of Christ there is vast opportunity to grow. I can talk about faith, but if my actions don’t follow or I’m saying sorry all the time then I need to make some changes. This is the time where I can reflect on another reading from today Psalm 38:18.

I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin.

The days are long but the years are short. Let’s set our best example of Jesus for others. In my study bible it shares some great verses to help us along this path.

Matthew 11:29 – Jesus told his followers to learn from his example of gentleness and humility.
Philippians 3:17 – Paul urged believers to follow his example of enthusiasm, perseverance, and maturity.
1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 – The new Christians in Thessalonica received training in discipleship from Paul.
1 Timothy 1:16 – Paul used his unworthiness to receive Christ as an example of grace so that no one would hold back from coming to Christ.
1 Peter 5:3 – Peter taught Christians leaders to lead by example, not by commands.

Dear Father, We pray that we are examples of Christ. That we are examples of Christ in our children and in the world. That nonbelievers will be able to see the belief of Christ in us and be drawn to this salvation through our examples. Thank you God, we know this is only possible through you. Amen

Law of Love

Today’s Date: 8/23/2016

The Beatles were onto something when they sang the song All You Need Is Love . But Paul says it best in Romans 13:8-14

Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 15; Romans 13; Jeremiah 52; Psalm 31

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8

Being asked to Love others is the only way we even come close to showing God our appreciation for sending His own son to die for us. Let’s refer back to John 3:16 where we find out exactly how much God loves us. So as believers, we are asked to love one another.

How hard can it be? Honestly,.. hard, because naturally we attempt to make excuses as to why or what others do to not allow us to love them. We can gratify the desires of the flesh without understanding that the day could be on hand when our worldly bodies won’t be able to share this love.

God wants us to hold no debts except for the debt of Love to others. So as we work diligently to cut out our own or our children’s financial debt never lose sight of the debt of Love that doesn’t impact any bank statement. Our only obligation here is to love our neighbors.

Loving others as ourselves is a deep love that covers everything to make sure all needs are met. Helping and loving others means that your secure in yourself enough to make sure that you love your neighbors. James 2:8 says to love thy neighbor like thyself.

In order to show this love you need to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ“. There are many references to putting on a new self. Ephesians 4:24 talks about a new self created in the likeness of God; In addition Colossians 3:14-17. We can also show this in be baptized. Galatians 3:27. Second, we model the same qualities that Jesus had while on this Earth. (Love, Humility, Truth, Service) Here is where you could go with the acronym W.W.J.D. Ephesians 4:17-32

We must make sure we are getting dressed everyday – taking off sin and putting on the righteousness of Christ. It is an everyday love that we need to put on new each day. We need to keep God’s promise of a new self close to not allow worldly things invite us to enter into jealousy, anger, mistrust, being negative against others for whatever previous mistakes you or they made.

The night is far gone; and the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12-13

Dear Father, I am thankful that You are love. That You have woke us up from a sleep that only focused on ourselves. We rejoice that You demonstrated incredible love for us in the flesh through your son Jesus Christ. I pray that we share this great love with others. We are forever changed because of this love and I know that it extends to those around us because You have enabled us to love deeply. Today, I pray that You let Your love flow through us and touch those around us. May the love we give be a blessing and a light for Your kingdom. Amen

Love ~ Chris Tomlin

Victory in Battle

Today’s Reading:1 Samuel 7–8; Romans 6; Jeremiah 44; Psalms 20–21

Victory In Battle

Do you remember the song, Victory in Jesus? What a time tested song that has truth embedded throughout. As we read today in Psalms 20-21 I reflect on that victory song and the sermon Mike Baker did this past week on, Rider on the White Horse and being victorious. When we find our victory through Him, we need to praise Him.

Unfortunately, we can often find trouble based on our own desires to conform to certain desires of the flesh. Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform but in the testing we receive in battle, it can can help us see the desires of the Lord. I pray we see the will of God in these moments.

Psalm 20:1 May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the God of Jacob protect you!

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

Challenge upon challenge can come at you at any moment without any kind of warning. What is our response? Taking a trip down memory lane can reveal the many times I trusted in myself, chariots or horses. In these times I would struggle, make excuses, and continue the pattern. My prayer is that we turn to our Lord for everything and especially in our troubles. In the heat of a moment I still can fall back to this old selfish pattern. I will continue to pray for a faith that is present in all moments, has enough presence to change my heart, and present to the point it’s my first choice at all times.
So in our times of challenge by yourself, in your home, work, or community turn to God. Ask for Holy Spirit help and Psalm 20:4 says may he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans!

Behind these deceptions is Satan who desires us to make bad choices and turn away from God. A spiritual battle that without God will sadly have one result. In this battle we need our Lord and Holy Spirit to bring us to victory.

Psalm 20:8 They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.

And when the victory is our Lord’s we will be like Psalm 21:13 Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power.

Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

It can be done, the short term victory is yours but the long term victory is HIS. God bless your Tuesday. If you missed last week sermon I have attached the message that shows how we can be victorious with HIM.

Godly Gleaning

Today’s Readings: Ruth 2; Acts 27; Jeremiah 37; Psalm 10

August 9, 2016

glean: ɡlēn/ verb extract (information) from various sources.
synonyms: obtain, get, take, draw, derive, extract, cull, garner, gather; More
collect gradually and bit by bit.
historical definition: gather (leftover grain or other produce) after a harvest.

What an amazing story we heard yesterday from Jillian that brought tears to my eyes helping me to take a breath and reflect on our own marriage in the midst of a busy household preparing for the start of school. I’m reminded to not take things for granted since we don’t know when God will call us home. Prayers for the McGriff’s and family throughout this week as they celebrate Elmer Newton.

The story of Ruth and the introduction of Boaz in today’s reading is a story I never really thought about until this time through. Ruth, through her genuine love stays with her mother-in-law Naomi and returns to the country of Bethlehem right at the beginning of harvest season. What love, honor, and dedication to another person.

Humbly, Ruth realizes she can’t remain idle at home and goes out to the field to glean for her family. (Ruth 2:2) Ruth’s example of diligence, humility, and love is an example for us today. Diligently she goes off and takes on a job to provide for her family. Even though her previous lifestyle didn’t include gleaning fields she does it because it’s what she has to do. Today, the desire by some to seek only glamorous high paying positions or that a job will come to them can leave many just waiting and jobless. Here is an example from Ruth that honest work is better than no work when you are trying to help yourself or others taking initiative makes a difference. Diligence promises well and there is nothing wrong with honest employment.

When Ruth goes to the field you hear an amazing work environment. Imagine when your employer starts the day with, “The Lord be with you!” and you answer with, “The Lord bless you.” Boaz came out to his field to greet his crew in a loving and praising way grateful for what they are doing. (What a great reminder for myself and others to praise all employees.) We can bless them, even if for some reason you can’t say it out loud?! Pray for this courage and follow through with the way you treat people. This has allowed me to reflect on ways that I interact with those I work with. Is there opportunity to share this love and blessing from our Lord? (Ruth 2:4) Boaz notices Ruth gleaning and inquires with his foreman. After hearing that she has been there since sun up and worked all day with minimal breaks Boaz takes heart and recognizes her work ethic and love for Naomi. Boaz has the crew watch out for her and remembers the story that has been shared with him about the loss of Ruth’s husband. (Ruth 2:17) How are we looking out for those we work with? Is it a kind word or recognition? Boaz is sensitive to her needs and shows a genuine care for Ruth.

How often do we go beyond the accepted patterns of providing for those less fortunate?

It’s amazing some of the stories I’ve heard at registration for school that include a very adverse circumstance. Where parent, grandparent, or relative is trying to get their child signed up for school. School provides many students an opportunity to be surrounded by love and attention in the midst of many things going on in the current place they are calling home. Pray for our students, families, and school staffs to get to know these stories and through the all the curriculum, first and always show love:)

Ruth gives Naomi her gleaning and what she had for left overs from earlier that day. Naomi is grateful and blesses Boaz and gives advice to Ruth to stay close with Boaz and his young women. Naomi recognizes in Boaz an honest loving person who is dedicated to the Lord.

“May he be blessed by the Lord, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead!” (Ruth 2:20)

Reflecting on this story is also an example of how God always provides for us. When Ruth goes to glean she ends up in Boaz’s field. (All part of God’s plan that will continue tomorrow.)

So if you are in Ruth’s shoes where are you gleaning? Are you taking initiative looking out for others?

If you are in the shoes of Boaz how are you treating others at work? How are you treating those less fortunate at this current moment?

Dear Lord,

Help us to do what is right similar to the story with Ruth and Boaz today. Help us to recognize those who need support and reach out to them. When faced with challenges help us to make the right choice and not just the easy choice. Thank you for our faith believing you are always directing our lives for your purpose.

Amen

Powerful Planning

August 2, 2016

One of my favorite verses that I read today is Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare, and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Today’s Reading: Judges 16; Acts 20; Jeremiah 29; Mark 15

I’ve read, written, and quoted this verse many times to myself and to others. At first to me it was a reminder that God has a plan for all of us. In His plans, and according to His timing, we will be taken care of in both good and bad moments. These encouraging words can provide you with boundless hope you need to conquer any agenda, task, or adverse circumstances that at first may seem impossible. You can rest on the fact that God is with you the whole time. In our stress, pain, and hard times God has a glorious conclusion for us.

Jeremiah 29:12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.

These next two verses is a reminder about us calling upon Him. That the plans we want may not always be the plans He has set for us. So in our minds when we’re asking, “Why did this happen?” submit to the plan God has given to you and find ways to bless others. This is a tough one for me to swallow since I spent most of my life to this point doing everything for me. Self confession, its not about me its about God.

In researching various interpretations to Jeremiah 29:11 I’m sent back to Jeremiah 29:1 where you will see these verses were part of a letter Jeremiah wrote to surviving elders, prophets, priests, people who had been exiled. This exile based on their disobedience lasted for 70 years. Imagine the wait now. In our instant gratification world its hard to wait 70 seconds let alone 70 years. It also is a heart check to see where our obedience is. In today’s reading God has a plan for Samson and the Philistines, Paul and Eutychus, Nebuchadnezzer and all the exiles in Babylon, Joseph of Arimathea, and us. Jeremiah 29:11 can be a reminder.

These Israelites were sent to exile because of their idolatry. Exodus 20:5 tells us that he is a jealous God and how we should only focus on Him. – God is Just

Despite the fact of their sins and ours God gives us hope that he will take you out of your current situation when we call on Him and according to His time. – God is full of Grace

Through history you can see all the promises our Lord has fulfilled. We can trust that God will follow through on the promises made to us. The promise that we can receive the forgiveness of our sins and the gift of eternal life. – God keeps His Promises

So today…

Ask yourself, Do I continually seek Him?
How do I respond when God’s plans are not always the plans I desired?
Am I still being a blessing to others when His plans are not according to my timing?

Dear God,

You alone are our God. Please help us to focus on this throughout our days. You go before us and have divine plans set for us. Equip us to continually bless others in the midst of this day you have set before us. Help us to grow closer and closer to you as we seek you continually. Allow our responses to be full of Grace just like you have given to us. Thank you God for this day, let us follow the plan you have set for us. Amen

Truth in Love

Today’s Reading: 7/26/2016 Judges 9; Acts 13; Jeremiah 22; Mark 8

Acts 13:38-39 “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses“

Good Morning,

Acts 13 helped me reflect on the wonderful love from our Lord. What a timely and wonderful reminder that no matter our selfish driven mistakes, the true forgiveness comes from our Lord. Now, I understand you still may have those who may hold a grudge against you, or you can struggle with anger, but continue to show God’s truth in grace and love. I know, it’s hard at times to always show this love because of a past or present situation. But persevere with this love so these tribulations if not addressed with God can result in hurtful actions or negative words. I know easier said then done, I get it but allow yourself to have a growth mindset knowing with God He can do all things. With Jesus and prayer we have the strength to not give into these temptations. While in the midst of our own walk with the Lord, we have to remember that God wants us to make a difference in others. Those who know you are a Christ follower will see your relationship with the Lord. This includes in our words and actions. Do I act in a way that I would in the presence of the Lord? Or can I fall into the hypocrite category by what I say and how I act. To others who I’ve just met I may be the only example of a Christian they know? Am I saying, doing, believing what God has asked? At small group the this last week we said what if Jesus was a guest at your house? – Literally sitting on the coach with you. We challenged each other to go into the next week thinking this. Would you be watching the same shows? Would you be saying the same words? Would you be thinking the same thoughts? Would you be doing the same things? All along, the truth is that He is. Maybe not in the physical sense like we discussed, but in our hearts and soul. Applying this to your day will change all aspects of your life.

Acts 13:47 I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.

This earth is huge and we encounter many people daily. Am I bringing salvation in my Acts? Am I providing light to others?

Acts 13:26 Fellow children of Abraham and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.

What we share is the wonderful message that God loves us, cares for us, and wants us to be with him all the days of our lives and eternally.

Acts 13:32 We tell you the good news: what God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising Jesus.

So no matter where you are at, who you are with, and how your day is going….Jesus is with you. He will listen, comfort, and heal if you ask Him. I encourage you today and everyday to share this wonderful command and Love given by our Father.

Acts 13:29 O land, land, land, hear the word of the Lord!

Dear God,

Thank you for who you are. I pray for us to share Your light with others and in our own week moments of flickering in the midst of darkness, share Your love to remind us to turn to you for the guidance we need. Give us the reminder that our words and actions are representation of you. You love us more than we can ever imagine, please continue to be with us as we live out your Word. Lord we need you. Amen

Jesus Heals!

Today’s Date: Tuesday, July 19, 2016

I love stories about our Lord’s healing. It encourages and builds my faith when I need it most. Stories upon stories have been shared and lived out about Jesus healing. How awesome is He! What are the ways in which he has healed you?

Today’s Reading: Judges 2; Acts 6; Jeremiah 15; Mark 1

As we read through Mark you will hear some of these healing stories. Jesus healed and continues to heal. Are you in need of some healing?

Last week you heard an amazing story from Jennifer Armstrong and the healing that Jesus provided to her in Great is Thy Faithfulness. Truly, when it comes down to healing we will need to examine our faithfulness. Let’s look at a few of these amazing stories in Mark 1 and grow together in believing that when our faith is strong our Lord is near and can heal anyone at any moment spiritually, mentally, and physically. (1 Corinthians 1:18, Luke 6:9-10, Mark 10:52, Luke 7:47-50).

Once Jesus heals the man with an Unclean Spirit in Mark 1:24-26 everyone is amazed and realize his authority over all. Jesus then heals Simon’s Mother-In-Law bringing the whole city to allow Jesus to heal many who were sick.

³³And the whole city was gathered together at the door. ³⁴And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him.

We recognize and receive God’s healing through our faith. Many times Jesus would heal those who had faith (ex. Mark 5:34, Luke 8:48) and got frustrated when others would want some kind of sign to show he could heal others. (ex. John 4:48, Luke 24:25 ) Keep the faith!

We also get the opportunity to share God’s grace of healing to others through our faith or confidence in God’s Word. This is an active faith not passive faith. We must share our faith with others. This could be through our prayers with others who are in the middle of tribulations. Mark 11:24

Jesus is our healer. His calendar is never too full for any of us. No situation is too big or small when you ask. His treatment is gentle and results are wonderful. The way a believer receives God’s healing power is through faith. God’s healing power is available to us through the grace of Jesus Christ. We are Living in God’s Grace. Viv Anba Gras Bon Dieu.

So where do you need healing? Is it physically, mentally, or spiritually? It’s hard to do anything when you are in pain. Life is not filled with JOY. What about those you interact with throughout your day? God heals! He is the great physician and He can heal anyone of any affliction, whether it be physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. There are going to be times in your life when you’ll need God to heal you or a loved one, so pray to God for the healing that you need.

Dear God, You are our healer. Let us call on you when we are in need and recognize that you alone are the one who we need to have faith in. Thank you for your love, grace, and healing you have already provided and for being there when we fail to remember. Amen

Listening Pleasure: Kari Jobe ~ Healer

Wedding Feast Invitation

Today’s Reading: Joshua 16–17; Psalm 148; Jeremiah 8; Matthew 22

This past weekend I attended a wedding that made me reflect on the Parable of the Wedding Feast in today’s reading of Matthew 22:1-14. There is so much JOY at weddings. Love, laughter, dancing, singing, prayer, food, music and beautiful wardrobes being worn for the party. What a wonderful reminder of the invitation Our Father has given us to attend the wedding banquet of eternity. Have you accepted the invitation?
“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son,…everything is ready,… come.” I personally haven’t attended any royal weddings but can recall the most recent royal wedding that attracted much media and a desire by many to attend this event. The pictures shared all over the media portrayed and amazing event. Yet, behind all the glamour the most meaningful part is marriage itself. This is the time when two hearts are joined together. God desires our heart. The invitation by God to an eternal wedding feast is way more important than a royal wedding and yet the invite is rejected multiple times.

What are our reasons for not paying attention and rejecting the invitation? I know at times this lack of importance to RSVP can be because of our own selfish desires, work, play, schedules, convenience. This could also include who we are putting first in our lives? It should always be God but as humans we can insert ourselves, spouses, children. God doesn’t give up on us. He desires for us to be at the wedding with Him.

The Parable Jesus tells about the Wedding Feast in Matthew eventually has a room filled with guests and many people are here physically together. But will we be called out for our attire? Are we dressed for the occasion of this event God has invited us to? Similar to our “Sunday’s best” do we wear the fine linen desires in Revelation 19:6-8.
Christ has provided a garment for everyone. The garment of righteousness has a perfect fit when you have accepted God as believers. But, we must choose to put it on in order to enter the King’s banquet (eternal life). What support do you need? Are you dressed and ready? Matthew 22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen.

I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God,
for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10

If you are reading today and want to be part the Wedding Feast that will have an eternal impact. Take a couple minutes to read the invite and pray to our Lord.

Invitation to the Feast

Who: Insert Your Name Here

When: Today

RSVP: Now

Reception to Follow (eternal kingdom)

How: Praying this prayer. ..Lord Jesus, I ask You to forgive my sins and save me from eternal separation from God. By faith, I accept Your work and death on the cross as sufficient payment for my sins. Thank You for providing the way for me to know You and to have a relationship with my heavenly Father. Through faith in You, I have eternal life. Thank You also for hearing my prayers and loving me unconditionally. Please give me the strength, wisdom, and determination to walk in the center of Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

If you have just prayed this prayer, congratulations! You have received Christ as your Savior and have made the best decision you will ever make—one that will change your life forever! Please let us know by contacting us at biblejournal.net so we can rejoice with you.

Comforting Confidence

Happy Tuesday and Post 4th of July!

July 5, 2016

Let’s jump right into His Word.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5

God is talking to Jeremiah in 1:5. God speaks with Jeremiah many times over many years. Actually, He doesn’t only speak with people from the Bible, He speaks to us. How is He speaking to you today? Are you hearing what He is saying?

Is knowing God speaking to us reassuring and comforting in our everyday lives of controlled chaos? It should be. This is true when our human mind tends to make us feel like we are lacking purpose, adequacy, or direction. But, God has a purpose through it all for you and me. Yet, there will be our tribulations and breathtaking events of awesomeness! But similar to Jeremiah, Deuteronomy 31.8 says, “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” He is always there for you. God should be glorified. He is there for us in the middle of those important decisions or when you think you are losing a little control of a situation God steps in and let’s you know He controls it all.

As I reflect on life before a relationship with God, I may have a response like Jeremiah did in verse 6 where he says, “I do not know how to speak for I am only a youth.” To me, this youth represents not knowing God. I focused only on myself and was hurtful to others in the process. This would include lacking in confidence or being boastful and only being about myself. In our lives it also can mean being fearful and lacking courage to take that next step. God doesn’t say, “Go; you are ready” he says, “Go; I’ll go with you”. Today, in all choices He is walking alongside you waiting for your call.

In my “youth” I was unhappy with many decisions I was making in my life. Most of the time trying to answer, prove, and do everything on my own making one mistake after another. This was the point where I was ready to “lose my life” like in John 12:25.

whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

I was about myself and stayed there for a long time until God purposefully put me around events in my life that allowed a life-changing attitude to surrender it all to Him. My excuses I would make started to change. “I don’t have enough money. ~ What am I doing with what I have? “; I’m not smart enough. ~How am I using God’s gifts?; I don’t have two parents. ~ Am I being an example for God? I don’t go to church. ~ What am I doing with my time? The list can go on and on about excuses I could make to allow myself to have a “stay-theist” attitude or I can do it myself! I could just stay in my own dysfunctional world and not let anyone in or do what I had to in order to superficially make connections with others. Yet all along God has known me and had a plan. He has this plan for you too. Each of us have a purpose, maybe you don’t know it yet? The details of our plan we don’t know and often can change in our lives but we know the root of what we need to do as a Christian. We are to love, obey, and serve God. In doing this our mission will become more clear.

Do not say I’m only a youth; for to all whom I send you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord. Jeremiah 1:8

Struggling with confidence, failures, and insecurity keeps you from doing many things and often making poor choices to compensate. Lacking in my faith because of my inadequate abilities outside of surviving skills, lack of experiences outside of an addiction dependent divorced household, and the tendency to make bad choices for the benefit of myself and no one else around me. This faith that God is with you allows your choices of serving to be about Jesus-Others-Yourself (JOY).

So what changed? Letting God into my life and surrendering to the relationship He planned for me. Not only as a last resort thing anymore. Dedicating waking hours with more consistent communication throughout my day. Being thankful and grateful for giving me one more day to impact His kingdom. I believe now that God is with us all the time and knowing this gives me the confidence to obey His call even if I’m unsure about the results.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare[a] and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

When God gives you a job to do, He will provide all that we need. By no means have we figured out what job He has planned for us, but the doors God opens will lead us to a place he has already prepared. I pray for our desire to seek His guidance. Turn to Him prayerfully and ask am I doing this for me or for You Lord?

No, we don’t have it all figured out, we are human. We are tempted by sins that sometimes we follow through on and in turn ask for forgiveness. We divinely and prayerfully follow God’s plans other times. Either way, God transforms us by changing our hearts. Whether lacking in confidence or full of confidence or in-between does our decisions, actions, and whole heart trust and serve God?

“Behold I have put my words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pick up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.”

God gives you all you need in order to fulfill His plan for you. In reading, “The Places You’ll Go” by Ortberg I’m reminded of this glory. He goes before us and is with you throughout ALL you do. God doesn’t promise a trouble free or temptation free life but that He will be with us and we need to call on Him. He will walk with us through the storm and calm the seas.

“Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’” Matthew 19:26

Dear God, You alone are the Creator of everything. You have a perfect plan for all of us. You are the perfecter of my faith, and I thank you for the Grace when I didn’t believe or trust in the seemingly impossible dreams you had planned. Help me to have courage to place my faith in You in all things. To trust your strength when mine fails. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your master plan. Stir in my heart a passion and gratefulness for all that you do in my life. Thank you for the comfort we have knowing you are always with us. Amen

Today’s Reading: Joshua 7; Psalms 137–138; Jeremiah 1; Matthew 15