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A five-fold plan, We need a lift, Not for the dead, God is busy

KEEP ON FLYING

KEEP ON FLYING

KEEP ON FLYING

KEEP ON FLYING

 Prior to our departure into Colorado Springs, the pilot gave us our flight forecast. He told us that we would be cruising about 32,000 feet in the air; however, we would experience a few bumps on the way in. He also made it clear that it would be nothing to be alarmed about and that it was just like the bumps in every day life. I thought that was interesting when he said that and begin to ponder it in thought. But the story didn’t end there. As we approached closer, the stewardess addressed the matter as well. She said that the captain was going to turn on the fasten seat belt sign because our entrance into the Springs was going to be bumpy and that we needed to make sure our seat belts were securely fastened. Well, I had had just about enough of that! But, then, we had one more warning from the pilot that we were getting closer to Colorado Springs and that it would be very bumpy so hold on! Okay. Enough is enough! I love flying but I hate the bumps! I surely learned the meaning of praying without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5: 17)! And after every announcement, I prayed even harder that God would keep us safe and smooth out the flight. But I was well aware that some bumps should be expected. I shouldn’t think that we would not encounter any bumps at all. Why? Because we are in the air! Just so, we must expect some bumps while we are here in this world. Why? Because we are in this life! Let me tell you my experiences and lessons learned from this flight so that we may: KEEP ON FLYING!  

 First, I learned that the bumps didn’t stop the progress. As we were flying, we would from time to time run into some bumps. But we were still flying! And as unpleasant as the bumps were (to me that is) we were still on our way to our destination—home! It is that way in life my friends. We will encounter the bumps in life just like the bumps in the air. But while we are on ground level, we should continue to press on. Life is full on bumps. And we will never rid ourselves of them completely as long as we are in this life. Just as the jet was flying through the bumps in the air, we must have the fortitude to get through the bumps in this life. Therefore, keep on flying!

Second, I learned that the bumps involved everyone and not just me. How often do we think the bumps we are facing in life are just unique to us? Everyone on the plane was experiencing the bumps. We were all on the same “plane.” And everyone had to handle the bumps just like me. Your bumps are not unique to you. Whatever they may be, you can handle it just like they have been handled by those before you. Now, the question on the floor is, how will you handle it? I noticed that some were calm and cool. Some were tense. Some were even sleeping! It is ours, as much as is possible, to ferret out God’s will about the matter and trust in His sovereign care. We should seek the proper counsel, pray about it and keep on flying!

Third, I learned that bumps are only temporary. That is, they don’t last forever. I have been on flights where it was bumpy the entire flight! But we still eventually landed. Life has its season of bumps; some shorter and some longer. We must endure the bumps till the end! Even though the bumps were unpleasant to me, I still had the assurance that we will finally land. So, I girded up my resolve to deal with them. The Bible teaches, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psalm 34: 19). And believe me, I was praying for deliverance! Question: Why should I become overly exercised about something soon to end? Friends, the bumps in life don’t last forever. Therefore, keep on flying!

Finally, I learned the most important lesson of all: God is in control! Would you know it, as we were flying and I kept hearing the warnings about this bumpy flight, it never happened! What? That’s right, it never happened! Sure, there were little bumps here and there—but the predicted forecast never happened! At one time as I looked out the window, it was very cloudy—thick clouds that assured me we were in for it now! Well, nothing happened. Okay, maybe it will happen when we turn a certain direction? No—still nothing. Well, surely when we begin to make our descent, that’s when it would occur? Friends, it never happened! I am convinced that they (the pilot and stewardess) all knew what they were talking about and reported what they saw from a natural standpoint. I am even more convinced and further convicted that God controlled the whole situation because I was praying! Peter wrote “…casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5: 7). I’m reminded of the storm the disciples were in. “Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace be still!’ And the wind ceased and there was a great calm” (Mark 4: 39). Jesus did it because of His disciples! On this particular flight, He had a praying child of God! I thank God for all those who prayed for a safe flight. But I was specifically praying for a smooth flight! And our God rebuked the wind—put it in time out because I (and perhaps others) was praying for a smooth flight in. This was indeed the greatest lesson of them all. Let us remember the same. The forecast is one thing; the end result is another. I am now more confident and grounded in God’s power when the bumps in life confront me. And through my story it should ground you as well. Therefore: KEEP ON FLYING!  

 ~Stacey Mobley

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS

 The words, “I love you” are some of the most thrilling, heart-warming, consoling, and comforting words that can be expressed to an individual. Spouses are reminded by them. Children are reassured by them. Family lives by them. Friends are sworn by them. Those words captivate the spirit in a way that gives hope, confidence, and a will to keep on. We need that. And we need to say it to those we do love and hear it from the ones that love us more often. However, those words can become a frustration to those who do not hear them. After all, we are human and were built a certain way by God. The absence of those words can do irreparable damage. But equally (or more) damaging can be the expressing of those words without the backing of action. This goes deeper because of the hypocrisy that is involved. Lord knows we have too much of that going around. John writes, “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth” (1 John 3: 18). Now John wasn’t suggesting that it was wrong to express those words; he was calling for consistency in our action when those words are expressed. And the action required is an aggressive action. It is not passive at all. It manifests itself in what it does and in what it desires to do.

To give one of the greatest examples of this love is found in a statement God made to Israel in the long ago. “Can a woman forget her nursing child, And not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, Yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me” (Isaiah 49: 15). The context of discussion involves God’s chastisement of His people who because of God’s punishment equated it with abandonment. God responds by assuring them that this was not the case at all. He compares His love to the greatest love ever known in the physical realm—the kind and degree of love that a mother has for her child. It would be unthinkable for a sane mother to forget her baby and the child she brought into the world and cared for so compassionately. But it can happen; and it does happen. But not so with God! Now think with me for a moment the degree of this love. God’s love goes deeper than that of a mother for her child who may even forget the love deserving of her own child. This shows the frailty of humans and flawlessness of God. To put it in even more perspective, think about your loving mother. I wouldn’t trade mine in for nothing the world has to offer. And yet God’s love goes deeper than my (and yours) own mom! Again, the loving earthly mothers can not even love like God can because of their feebleness and inconsistency as human beings. But God’s love is stable, perfect, consistent, and to a degree that cannot be comprehended by our feeble minds. Oh what love! Can I talk about it? His love didn’t forget Joseph when he was sold by his brothers and sent to prison through the lies of Potiphar’s wife. His love didn’t forget the panicked Jews when Pharaoh was chasing them to a dead end Red Sea. His love didn’t forget Elijah when he felt he was all alone and wanted to die. His love didn’t forget the poor widow who gave all she had. His love didn’t forget Peter when he denied him three times. His love didn’t forget the seven persecuted churches of Christ in the book of Revelation to inspire John to write a “love letter” to them. His love didn’t forget Paul and Silas when imprisoned for their faith. His love didn’t forget a Gentile man name Cornelius when he was trying to do right. His love didn’t forget Dorcas who was full of good works, but died. Peter, by the power of God, showed He (God) didn’t forget by bringing her back to life. His love didn’t forget Lazarus even though He waited four more days before His love showed up. And, His love hasn’t forgotten you and me.

One of the dangers in living the Christian life is for us to forget about the love God has for us. Why is this danger? It is when we forget about God’s love for us that we start believing the devil’s lies and begin to exclude God out of our lives. We begin to do things our way instead of God’s way. We begin to enthrone man and his trust and dethrone God and mistrust. We take men up and bring God down. Think about it. When you do not feel loved, you begin to think and do silly things. Your life becomes incoherent and irrational. Prisons are filled with those who did not feel loved. There are many Christians today who are in spiritual prisons because they have forgotten about the never ending love of God. Their health has escaped them; their relationships have failed them; their finances are challenging them; and their faith is wrestling with them. But Paul writes, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword…For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8: 35-39). “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you. So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me” (Hebrews 13: 5-6). We need to feed on these scriptures. And as great as these verses are, there is more.

Today, in New Testament times, God has given us the ultimate proof of His love that never forgets. How did He do this? He gave us Himself! Listen to Him. “And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him, nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you” (John 14: 16-18). He came in Spirit form on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. Those who responded to the gospel (see Acts 2: 38), were promised the gift of the Holy Spirit. Then Paul writes about this love when he says, “But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you…But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to our mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you…The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God…Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us…” (Romans 8: 9-26). Just as God was with Israel under the old covenant, so, today, He is with and in His people through the Holy Spirit. So the next time you are lonely, know that you are not alone. The next time you are forsaken by others, know that God sweetly resides within. The next time doubt begins to creep, know that it is removed by God’s personal presence. You want to talk about love? God, the Creator, Sustainer, Self-Sufficient, Eternal One, invites and desires sweet intimacy with His people by placing Himself within them! Now that is: A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS!

~Stacey Mobley

GOD REMEMBERS

GOD REMEMBERS

GOD REMEMBERS

            I remember when in Florida I requested prayers for myself to be stronger in the Lord and that I needed to be a better Christian. (Looking back on that request, I realize even more now than ever a greater need for strength). In that request, a dear sister humbly chided me for asking for such strength because she felt as the preacher, I was already strong. She equated being the preacher and strength on the same footing. To her the request somehow brought me down because I wasn’t one of them—but the preacher. It was from that brief exchange I was taught a lesson on humility and was determined to show and let my fallibility be known.

            How often do we do God the same because He is the eternal Spirit? We infer what God never implies about His essence. We conclude because He is God, He is void of feeling. And since He is God, surely, He cannot be bothered or concerned with little me. But God is not an impersonal being inhabiting heaven void without feeling. As a matter of fact, we have taken on the emotions of God being made in His moral image.

            In the book of Jeremiah, God expresses to His apostate people His deep feelings from the past—what He remembered about them. “Go and cry in the hearing of Jerusalem, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord: ‘I remember you, the kindness of your youth, the love of your betrothal, when you went after Me in the wilderness, in a land not sown’” (Jeremiah 2: 2). It was here in this text that God was revealing his heart—his pain and sorrow over their apostate state. In a powerful moment, God shared His heart with His people recalling what it was like when they first began loving Him. He remembered how they had loved Him as a new bride loves her husband, with excitement and enthusiasm for the future. He recalled the kindness they had expressed to Him as they willingly followed Him wherever He led them. God reminded them of the love they had once had for Him, so that the memory might rekindle feelings of devotion and their hearts might return to Him. Yes, God remembers. My question to you is: Do you?

            Do you remember the joy you had when you first became a Christian? Do you remember the youthful commitments of servitude you made to Him, pledging to do anything He told you to do? Do you remember the day of your repentance after God brought you up out of the miry clay of sin? Do you remember how that love permeated your life and became evident and obvious to all those around you?

            It is a dangerous thing for us to drift away from God and not realize it. We made promises and vows to God. We resolved to be greater in service, fidelity and faithfulness. We prayed hard, fervent and effectual. God answered our prayers and has brought us through many things. It is now time to rekindle our fires for the Lord. It is time for us to pay up on the vows and promises we made. If your love for God is not as intense as it once was, return to Him and He will restore the intimate fellowship you once shared with Him. I lovingly bring this to all our attention just in case we have forgotten; but not God, for: GOD REMEMBERS!

 ~Stacey Mobley

BETWEEN ME AND GOD

BETWEEN ME AND GOD

BETWEEN ME AND GOD

I title it this way because that is usually how it is phrased when confronted about some questionable or even deviant behavior that one is involved in. When it starts with ourselves, it never has the desired outcome before God. The path that leads to the road of ruin is when I put myself before God with the hopes of God co-signing my pursuits. This is futile. The truth of the matter is it is between God and me. It has always been so and will continue to be hence forth and forever more. When it is what our title suggests, we will always find ourselves in a struggle—a constant state of confusion and frustration. When we deliberately choose the former and not the latter, we have bought into the snare of the devil and his lies.

The following is written to bring us back to the proper order; to awaken us out of our spiritual stupor and to get us back on the right track. God loves us and always wants the best for us. But the question on the floor is: do we love God enough to allow His best for us? The question should invite serious attention. We answer in the negative when it is between me and God. We answer in the affirmative when we resign ourselves to it being between God and me.

My Salvation. On that Pentecostal affair in Acts 2: 40, Peter said, “…Save yourselves from this perverse generation.” Salvation is the most important matter in one’s life. It does not matter what or who you are. It does not matter what you have or do not have. It does not matter about your education or intellectual prowess. It does not matter if you are rich or poor. It does not matter where you are from. The only thing that matters is are you saved. Salvation is God’s business. No one can create his/her own plan of salvation. The reason the majority of people are lost, is because they have made it a matter between them and God. They have obeyed the doctrines and commandments of men. They have decided to choose men over God. But salvation is not between you and God. Let me ask you an honest question dear reader or listener. Why are you what you are religiously? Why are you a Catholic? Why are you a Baptist? Why are you a Methodist? Why are you an Episcopalian or so-called Jehovah Witness? Why are you a member of any denomination? Is it because the Bible teaches it? These and every other man-made religions are conspicuously absent from the Bible. No one in the Bible was ever any of these, or called so, but were members of the church of Christ identified as Christians (Romans 16: 16; Acts 11: 26). Sadly, ignorance abounds when it comes to the matter of salvation, but the good news today is, you, my friend, don’t have to remain ignorant. You can free yourself from the shackles of denominational error and obey the gospel of Christ where Christ will then add you to His church (Acts 2: 47). The decision is now before you: will you hold on to your present premise that your salvation is between me and God? Or will you change your course to the truth that it is now between God and me?

My State. My reference here is to my position in this life. As a Christian will I live beneath my privileges? Will I leave on table what God has so graciously offered me? As a child of God, we are tremendously blessed to have God as our Father! But I humble suggest that many are living in remiss of the blessings God wants to bestow! Why? Let me mention a few reasons. First, our relationship is not in accord and agreement with our Father. God demands faithfulness on our part. When we fail to live up to our responsibilities as a child of God, God cannot and will not bless us. He said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6: 33). Second, we do not avail ourselves to His strength. Why are Christians so weak and struggle against sin? Why are we not more successful overcomers against the temptations of the devil? If victory is in Jesus, why do we seem to be failing? We know that it cannot be the fault of God, for He said He will always make a way of escape for us (see 1 Corinthians 10: 13). I would answer it is our ignorance on the power He supplies through His Spirit. We are Spirit-filled Christians with Spirit-filled power! We do not have miraculous power; but we have non-miraculous power that comes via the Holy Spirit! Listen to Paul: “But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you” (Romans 8: 11). He also said, “…that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man” (Ephesians 3: 16).  And when we draw on the Spirit through prayer, in conjunction with His word, God has promised us power through the Spirit to withstand anything the devil may throw at us! Finally, we have to decide if we are going to believe God or not. This may seem so fundamental. That’s because it is! But the failure to practice such parts ways with what God will do for us. Do we believe the promises of God? Paul wrote, “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day” (2 Timothy 1: 12).When Paul was travelling to Rome, they encountered a severe storm that threatened the lives of everyone. In the midst of the storm, an angel appeared to Paul and told him all was going to be well and Paul responded by saying, “Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told to me” (Acts 27: 25). In the first scripture, notice Paul says he (God) is able to keep what I (Paul) had committed to Him. Do you see the order dear friend? For Paul it was God and me! In the second scripture we have the same. Paul based his confidence on the ability of God with the absolute assurance that he would be taken care of! His drawn conclusions were not based on the false claim between me and God; it was God and me!

My Stand. Where do you presently stand with God my friend? Do you know that how you may stand with family or friends is a moot point? The consensus of public opinion has no bearing on your standing with God. There is a sobering passage that always gives me pause in my doings and goings in this life. And that is, that one day I will have to stand in judgement for everything I have ever did in this life before a holy and righteous God. John sees in his vision the great day of judgement and writes, “And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books” (Revelation 20: 12). Our text before us has to do with standing as a posture. But in principle, I’m dealing with our standing in the sense of how we lived our lives on this earth. How are you living before God now? What will be God’s verdict on how you lived your life before God then? Multitudes by the multitudes are living in the here and now. Their lives are capsuled by the accomplishments of the times. But there is coming a day—a day when all you have ever accomplished from a material stand point will mean absolutely nothing. Jesus said, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul” (Matthew 16: 26)? When asked how do you think you will fare at the judgement, I have often been told, “that’s between me and God.” Well, in a sense that is correct. I or anyone else will have nothing to do with you when you stand before God. But, again, between me and God is not the due order when it comes to your final destiny. Listen to Jesus, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness’” (Matthew 7: 21-23). What’s sad about this verse is the desperation of these individuals and their erroneous claims. They had a claim that was not. What they claimed, God said was not the case. And He never confirms lies with signs. How did they stand? Notice the order: It was me and God when they stood before Him with their claims. The contrast is seen and the rightful order is given when God speaks and gives the final verdict of their practice as lawlessness. When God spoke, it was what He said that mattered. Thus, it will be when we stand before Him based on His word (John 12: 48). While they had a claim, God had the truth. And the truth wasn’t based on their claims or their order—me and God; it was based on the omniscience of an all-knowing God, His divine word, and the right order—God and me!

~Stacey Mobley

THREE THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS

THREE THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS

THREE THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS

            One of the greatest challenges in living the Christian life is that of emulating and imitating our Lord. Paul wrote, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11: 1). The standard of following any man goes as far as that individual follows Christ. Therefore, it ought to be encouraged to follow one who’s life follows the Christ.

            As Jesus lived on earth, He left us with an incredible example of how to live. The list is manifold and is the perfect pattern to living the faithful Christian life. In a world filled with debauchery and outright blatant sin, we want to take a look at three things that our Lord manifested while sojourning on these earthy shores; and, it is these three things the church needs.

            First, the church needs conviction. I hear define conviction as standing on the truth. The church is in the position to uphold the truth (cf. 1 Timothy 3: 15; Proverbs 23: 23). If the world is to be saved, we must have the conviction that what we believe in is true. If we are to stand against sin and every false way, strong healthy convictions are needed to do so. Christians need not make any apology to a world hell bound for its convictions on the saving message of Jesus Christ.

            Second, the church needs courage. Although it may seem that these are synonymous or equivalents, it is not always the case. One can have convictions about truth; however, they may not let it be known. For example, in John 12: 42, we are told, “Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” This is very telling! This proves that a belief in Jesus is not sufficient if it is not willing to confess Him with mouth and in life! Jesus said, \”But why do you call Me \’Lord, Lord,\’ and not do the things which I say\” (Luke 6:46)? Courage is the act to voice one’s convictions whether in word or in deed. And in this context of discussion, I am talking about truth. There are many who have the courage to voice their opinions. But it takes courage to stand for something and against something. Jesus is described as the Lion of the tribe of Judah because He had courage. You will never see our Lord shrinking from responsible duty. The church must muster the courage to stand for what is right and oppose all that is wrong.

            Third, the church needs compassion. Often compassion has been redefined as tolerance. There is a sense in which we should be tolerant of one another. But our tolerance has limitations when it comes to sin. No where will we ever read or see our Lord tolerant on sin. Jesus confronted sin as the evil it is. However, He had compassion on the sinner. He was not out to destroy the sinner. His was to purge the sin from the sinner. It was this feeling that the father had for his wayward son who had come back home (Luke 15: 20). The text informs us that the father had compassion on him. This is the feeling of sympathy or pity. What follows is the father, “ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.” We must remember this in opposing sinful behavior: People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. This is the disposition we should have for one another. And it is this compassion the church needs.

~Stacey Mobley

 

KEEP ON FLYING

KEEP ON FLYING

KEEP ON FLYING  Prior to our departure into Colorado Springs, the pilot gave us our flight forecast. He told us that we would be cruising about 32,000 feet in the air; however, we would experience a few bumps on the way in. He also made it clear that it would be nothing to be alarmed […]

Read More

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS

A LOVE THAT NEVER FORGETS  The words, “I love you” are some of the most thrilling, heart-warming, consoling, and comforting words that can be expressed to an individual. Spouses are reminded by them. Children are reassured by them. Family lives by them. Friends are sworn by them. Those words captivate the spirit in a way […]

Read More

GOD REMEMBERS

GOD REMEMBERS

GOD REMEMBERS             I remember when in Florida I requested prayers for myself to be stronger in the Lord and that I needed to be a better Christian. (Looking back on that request, I realize even more now than ever a greater need for strength). In that request, a dear sister humbly chided me for […]

Read More

BETWEEN ME AND GOD

BETWEEN ME AND GOD

BETWEEN ME AND GOD I title it this way because that is usually how it is phrased when confronted about some questionable or even deviant behavior that one is involved in. When it starts with ourselves, it never has the desired outcome before God. The path that leads to the road of ruin […]

Read More

THREE THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS

THREE THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS

THREE THINGS THE CHURCH NEEDS             One of the greatest challenges in living the Christian life is that of emulating and imitating our Lord. Paul wrote, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11: 1). The standard of following any man goes as far as that individual follows Christ. Therefore, it ought […]

Read More

mayron oliveira 1224441 unsplash

NOT FOR THE DEAD

NOT FOR THE DEAD Psalms 23 is perhaps the most known and most read of all the Psalms in its 150 collection of treasure. We learned it as children and most of us were taught to commit it to memory. It is beautifully packed with words of comfort throughout. Interestingly, I have seen it on […]

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A TIMELESS TIME TABLE

A TIMELESS TIME TABLE

A TIMELESS TIME TABLE   One of the hardest lessons for us as God’s people is to trust in the Lord. It is easy on paper. It is easy when things are going well. It is easy when we are telling others to do it. But when the moment of truth arrives at our front […]

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WE NEED A LIFT

WE NEED A LIFT

WE NEED A LIFT The world can be a mean place. When we survey its landscape, we are all too familiar with the complications, sadness, degradation, dishonesty and immorality that so often inundates us. All too often as Christians we are challenged everyday with its temptations. I have often said, God did not make the […]

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A FIVE-FOLD PLAN

A FIVE-FOLD PLAN

  A FIVE-FOLD PLAN God said, “Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11: 24). He also said, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to […]

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GOD IS BUSY

GOD IS BUSY

GOD IS BUSY Too often in our conversations the devil is giving priority in the affairs of this life. You have heard it said that the devil is busy. I agree. But the devil isn’t running anything! He never has! He isn’t now! He is indeed wielding his influence in so far as God allows […]

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mayron oliveira 1224441 unsplash

NOT FOR THE DEAD

NOT FOR THE DEAD

Psalms 23 is perhaps the most known and most read of all the Psalms in its 150 collection of treasure. We learned it as children and most of us were taught to commit it to memory. It is beautifully packed with words of comfort throughout. Interestingly, I have seen it on more than one occasion giving its emphasis being read at funerals to comfort those of the decease. I, myself, have been asked to read it either at the beginning of the service or at the conclusion. I can understand the emotional lift it gives to those who are mourning; but this psalm was never intended for that. A careful reading will show this psalm is for the living—our living now! It is NOT FOR THE DEAD!

If you haven’t lately, please take the time to read Psalm 23 in its entirety before continuing on in this article. Having done so, consider the last stanza of this beautiful Psalm. In verse 6, we read, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.”

This last verse is a concluding statement that puts the icing on the cake! Let’s notice some wonderful truths the Psalmist leaves for us as we journey in our lives for God!

Surely—That’s Certainty

The only thing that is sure is God! Often times we interpret the surety of God by what He does or does not do. That is, if God does what we desire then He is our certainty. If God does not do what we desire then He is not our certainty. This is a tremendous mistake! God cannot fail! God is everlasting! God is God! We must be very careful not to confuse our circumstances with the benevolent certainty of our God! Get your eyes off your circumstances and get your eyes on the certainty of God! We reiterate, Surely, Surely!

Goodness and Mercy—That’s Company

We all need some company! The kind of company that will sustain us when we fall! The kind of company that will lift us up when we’re burdened down! We need some goodness and mercy! Goodness and mercy capsule the heart of our God! God is good! God is mercy! Think about your life. I would not be writing these lines and you would not be reading them if it were not for the goodness and mercy of God! Am I right about it?

Shall Follow Me—That’s Constancy

We live in a changing world! People change. Jobs change. Money change. Everything but God changes! And isn’t it wonderful here in our text goodness and mercy never give me up? I may not get it right today; but there’s goodness and mercy following me! I may have a setback; but there’s goodness and mercy following me! I may have fallen on my face; but there’s goodness and mercy following me! I may be destitute of my responsibilities; but there’s goodness and mercy following! Thank God the perfections of His heart of goodness and mercy never give up on me!

All the day of My Life—That’s Capacity

All my days! Good days! Bad days! All my spring days, all my summer days, all my fall days and all my winter days, are included! Yes, and some day are all four seasons in one! What more can I ask for? My God is with me all days every day! Who could make such a claim! No one but our God! I saturate myself in the promise! Will you?

It is my certainty, my company, my constancy and my capacity that lifts me from the sinking sand of this life! It is an all-inclusive promise for the living—NOT FOR THE DEAD!

~Stacey Mobley

A TIMELESS TIME TABLE

A TIMELESS TIME TABLE

A TIMELESS TIME TABLE

 

One of the hardest lessons for us as God’s people is to trust in the Lord. It is easy on paper. It is easy when things are going well. It is easy when we are telling others to do it. But when the moment of truth arrives at our front door and comes in, it is altogether another story. As I write these very lines, I am reminded of my own unresolved problems that must be faced as I wait on God. Do I have the brazen assurance as a child of God that God will come through? Do you dear reader? Our lives are consistent with the inconsistent. When God told us we, “walk by faith and not by sight” He indeed said a mouthful! Let me ask a question. What kind of disposition do you possess when the winds are contrary in your life? Do you have a sanguine calmness and peace? Are you affrighted? Are you angry? More specifically, are you angry with God? After all, He told me He would take care of me, right? I am His child, right? This situation that now engulfs me seems to go against all that God has ever said.

I want to invite you to a story in the Bible that we’re all too familiar with. God saw our need for this story so He put it in the Bible for all time. You, my friend, may be at a moment in time where you desperately need this story. You may now, or soon may be, in a situation that seems to go against all sense. Let me encourage you to keep reading, for you will be better prepared at the end of this article to face the very thing you cannot face right now.

The time has now come for God to deliver His people from the awful oppression of Egyptian bondage. God has prepared His man Moses for the task. Moses is very insecure so God assures him He is with Him by the signs he will perform. Let’s fast-forward to the matter at hand. At the end of Exodus chapter 4, we read, “Then Moses and Aaron went and gathered together all the elders of the children of Israel. And Aaron spoke all the words which the Lord had spoken to Moses. Then he did the signs in the sight of the people. So the people believed; and when they heard that the Lord had visited the children of Israel and that He had looked on their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshipped” (Exodus 4: 29-31).  So far so good. Aaron, no doubt, enthusiastically, spoke to the people what God had spoken to Moses and even did signs in their sight. I’m sure the optimism was high after this encounter. Have you dear friend listened to a sermon, read scripture about the promises of God and were encouraged? I’m sure we’ve all been there. But as we are about to see, life comes and brings about a seemingly contradiction in our own experience. This is where the wrestling match of our faith begins.

In chapter 5, Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh and tell him what God has said. Pharaoh is enraged. He responds questioning who the Lord is. He then makes things worse for God’s people. They are now responsible to meet the quota of bricks but now they are to get their own straw. But wait a minute! Aaron, you and Moses told us what God said and we saw the signs confirming it! And now things are worse for us! Listen to the specifics: “Then, as they came out from Pharaoh, they met Moses and Aaron who stood there to meet them. And they said to them, ‘Let the Lord look on you and judge, because you have made us abhorrent in the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants, to put a sword in their hands to kill us.’ So Moses returned to the Lord and said, ‘Lord why have you brought trouble on this people? Why is it you have sent me? For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has done evil to this people; neither have You delivered Your people at all’” (Exodus 5: 20-23). The people are incensed and turn on Moses and Aaron. Moses grows despondent and blames God for the supposedly failed outcome. Their problem is our problem. We always have it figured out how God is supposed to do things. Even when we have His word and His “signs”, we conclude it should be a certain way. And, more importantly, we think God should do it in our time. But God never has and never will work the way we think He should and when He should. This is very important to comprehend. Because the date may come and pass and God has not moved. The prayers prayed may result in another outcome. Things may even get worse for a while. And God may take another day, another month, or another year. We are all subject to the very same thing the Jews and Moses experienced if we don’t settle these things in our minds. When God doesn’t do it the way we think He should or in the time we think He ought to act, we need to understand that God has a higher purpose. Every time! The Jews and Moses’ mistake are all too common. They, like us, conclude what we think God should do and when He should do it. All of our problems and solutions should be neatly packed so when the time comes, we can unpack them and find our desirable outcome just as we think they should be. I said God has a higher purpose always. But friend, He also has a higher purpose for you! This is why we have a plethora of scriptures affirming this point. You know them! “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3: 5-6). The Psalmist says, “I believe that I should look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27: 13-14)!

As we continue on in the story, God did eventually deliver His people. What was before them was plagues and a Red Sea. The plagues to defy their (the Egyptians and Pharaoh) so-called gods; and the Red Sea to destroy their enemies for good! While they were longing for their deliverance, God wasn’t through working out His plan. So, the next time life throws you a curve ball, remember that the Lord has a higher purpose for you. God’s dealings are always based on His infinite knowledge and wisdom. What we see and experience today, is not always the whole story. The script is continuing to be played out. And this knowledge will give us the right perspective every time! Write it on the tablets of your hearts my friend, God has: A TIMELESS TIME TABLE!

~Stacey Mobley

WE NEED A LIFT

WE NEED A LIFT

WE NEED A LIFT

The world can be a mean place. When we survey its landscape, we are all too familiar with the complications, sadness, degradation, dishonesty and immorality that so often inundates us. All too often as Christians we are challenged everyday with its temptations. I have often said, God did not make the Christian life hard. We are told that His commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5: 3). So, what is the problem? The devil is not going to make it easy! We are in the fight of our lives! But we must remember, we are fighting a defeated foe! And depending on our degree of spirituality, will determine our victories or defeat from our great tempter.  

If we look back at our lives, we can all agree there has been great and difficult challenges. Perhaps in the present, you are experiencing this very thing. It is called life! And as long as we sojourn on these earthly shores, we can expect the same thing! This life does not promise nor can it give us a utopia. We have lived long enough to know this is the case. So why do we pursue that which is not? Why are our expectations grounded in changing the unchangeable? Have we not figured it out that this is just a temporary stop? God’s best for us is not here on this earth. Let me suggest to us when we desperately try to redefine our purpose in this life and create a narrative that was never intended for us, we at that point create immeasurable frustration. Is this your case dear reader? Are you sick and tired of the frustration? I would answer in the affirmative! What we all need is something more than the promises from this world; something more than the ebb and flow of expectations: WE NEED A LIFT!

In Psalms 43: 5, the psalmist asks a question, gives the answer and proclaims his confidence. It is one that deserves our most intimate attention. It can change the perspective of our lives going forward. It is all-encompassing as a solution to our struggle. Let’s delve into it!

“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God”

Why I am Sad—The Question

Much of what we have said already answers the question that is asked. The psalmist informs us of the reality of our pressing circumstances. It seems he had a little talk with himself! We need to do the same! We need to put it in the forefront of what is the problem. Why are you sad? Why are you in turmoil? Whatever it is bothering us, we need to boldly, openly, and honestly call it by name! Is it financial? Is it relational? Is it social? Is it my job? Is it my children? Is it some tragedy? Let us fetch it out in the open! But don’t stop there!

Why I Am Safe—The Answer

The psalmist gives the answer! Hope in God! Is this cliché? This is as real as it gets! The problem is it is known on our lips but not lived in our hearts! Do you need a lift? Hope in God my friend! Biblical hope is defined as desire plus expectation. This is our only way out! But what do we do? We hope in getting a loan from the bank. We hope in the boss to recognize our efforts. We hope in doctors and their competence for our cures. We hope in friends and family for the solutions to our problems. If we are hoping in any and everything except God, we are hoping in the wrong thing! I read where God made a promise! Let me remind you of it! He said: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8: 28). We often sing the song: “My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ love and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame; but holy lean on Jesus name; on Christ the solid rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand; all other ground is sinking sand.” This is the hope we have in our God! Do you have this hope my friend? Are you robbing yourself of this hope because your hope has been misplaced! I encourage you today, put your hope in God!

Why I Am Sure—The Confidence

After the psalmist asks the question and gives the answer, he then exudes his confidence about the matter. Without hesitation, he exclaims, “I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” When we are right with God, we are right! That is, everything is right! Have you heard it said, “everything is going to be alright?” I have said that on numerous occasions myself. But this is faulty. It is not going to be alright; it is already alright! God is working it out! And as long as I know He is, it is alright! I shall again praise him! Say it with me! I shall again praise him! Why? Because God is my salvation and my God! When we make God the one solitary advocate of our lives, we can conclude life’s issues just like the psalmist! I encourage you do so hurriedly!

When the problems of life beckon on; when the situation seems hopeless; when pressures of the day are mounting, let’s not run in despair, but be in constant reminder: WE NEED A LIFT!

~Stacey Mobley

A FIVE-FOLD PLAN

A FIVE-FOLD PLAN

 

A FIVE-FOLD PLAN

God said, “Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11: 24). He also said, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways” (James 1: 5-8). Again, He said, “Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37: 4). And He said, “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures” (James 4: 1-3).  And then He said, “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him” (1 John 5: 14-15).

There is a recurring theme in all of the aforementioned scriptures concerning prayer. That is, God wants to answer our prayers. There is also a recurring theme on the behalf of those wanting to receive. That is, we have something to do with it. Question: Are your prayers being answered? To be as clear as we can, prayer is a wonderful privilege for the faithful child of God. God’s children have access to their heavenly Father. Listen to Peter: “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil” (1 Peter 3: 10-12).  James says, “…The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5: 16). When I read these scriptures, it is overwhelming clear that answer to prayer is not a matter of God’s willingness to grant our requests; it is our willingness to comply with stipulated conditions. God is a most generous giver. His hand is not reluctant. He enjoys bestowing our requests. What we have failed to understand is that our character must be in order to receive God’s blessings! Does your character match your requests? Can God trust you to give you what you are asking for? Failure to comprehend this point is why so many Christians have their prayers unanswered. Please reread the scriptures above and ask yourself if you are aligned with the positives and negatives. Are you in a scriptural condition in conduct and in faith to receive what God so graciously wants to bestow?

The following is a five-fold list I have compiled (though not exhaustive) for God answering our prayers. Please take note and consider in the light of your own life.

  • Humbly: When we approach our Father, do we come with a child-like disposition? We must humble ourselves even as a child. Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18: 3). Jesus is referencing child-likeness and not childishness. James informs us to: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up” (James 4: 10). So, what is humility? It is a deep abasement of ourselves. It is a recognition of our littleness before God. It is the antithesis of a person of arrogancy.
  • Reverently: When God told Moses to take off his shoes at the burning bush, God wanted in very clear in the mind of Moses that he was in the very presence of God! When we pray, we are not just talking to anyone; we are talking to the Creator of all things! This lets me know that this conversation is unlike any other! God is not my home-boy! He is not even some high ranking official. He is God and we need to approach Him as God! When we bow the knee, we must be conscious that our “shoes” must be removed in His presence! Metaphorically, it means we are to strip ourselves of any worldly and carnal-like disposition. Listen to the Hebrew writer, “Therefore…let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12: 28-29).
  • Boldly: As a child of God, God has given me certain rights when I approach Him. He wants me to understand that we are in a very unique relationship. This relationship has been brought about by the death of His precious Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Therefore, God doesn’t want us to come to Him unsure or afraid. We are not to be timid in our approach. He wants us to come in confidence—not because of who we are, but because of who He is! He says, “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4: 16).
  • Dependently: In the days of king Hezekiah, God’s people were threatened by the king of Assyria to give up and give in to his demands. The Rabshakeh boasted, “…On what do you rest this trust of yours? Do you think mere words are strategy and power for war? In whom do you now trust…” (2 Kings 18: 19-20). That is the question on the floor! In whom do you now trust? What or who are you depending on? When I go to God in prayer, I do not prayer to God on bended knee only to arise on standing feet depending on man! We must be careful who we are depending on! If God so chooses to use whatever means, then that is His business. But my trust is in Him and Him alone! And my dependency comes from God and only God! By the way, if you don’t know, read 2 Kings 19: 32-35 and see the final results of a people who trusted in their God! “For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken” (Psalm 62: 1-2).
  • Expectantly: This somewhat overlaps the last point but needs further clarification. After I pray, I look! My expectation is not how but when. And it is not now but when God sees fit in His timely will. However, my faith prompts me to look and expect answers to my prayers! I’m reminded when the church was praying for Peter in Acts chapter 12. While they were praying, Peter was knocking on the door! So much the more that they didn’t even believe it was Peter at the door! They were praying but they were not expecting! In God’s gracious care for Peter, he answered their prayers! Do we have expectation when we pray? Are we looking for God to answer our prayers! I submit that when we look for answered prayer, God will see to the bestowing because of our faith in Him! The Psalmist wrote, “I will lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121: 1-2).

So we have: Humbly, Reverently, Boldly, Dependently, and Expectantly. My brethren, I encourage you to make your lives right with God! I encourage you get in agreement with God! And I encourage you to pray in the will of God and begin to implement this five-fold plan, or one of your own, consistent with scripture, and prepare yourself when the prayers go up, blessings will come down!

                                   

                                                                                                ~Stacey Mobley

GOD IS BUSY

GOD IS BUSY

GOD IS BUSY

Too often in our conversations the devil is giving priority in the affairs of this life. You have heard it said that the devil is busy. I agree. But the devil isn’t running anything! He never has! He isn’t now! He is indeed wielding his influence in so far as God allows him. This is why we read in 2 Corinthians 4: 4, “But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” Here we see the issue. Our gospel is hid to the lost. The devil is the culprit in that by his influence he has blinded minds. But watch this: The perishing ones whose minds are blinded are those who do not believe! The devil cannot force his will on anyone! It is their unbelief! The devil is very skillful. He uses his trappings of this world to draw people to himself. And it is a very effective methodology. It worked in the beginning of time and is still as effective today.

So, when we use the phraseology that the devil is busy, we need to properly understand in what sense he is. It bothers me no little when I hear Christians give more concentration and credence in what the devil is doing than what God is doing! I readily admit that his influence is being wielded powerfully in the world. But that is not the case when it comes to the people of God! Oh yes, he will try us and tempt us too; no doubt about it. But to those in the know, he has no power over us at all! Let me explain the explanation.

How often have we quoted 1 Peter 5: 8? Read that to familiarize yourself with the passage again. But the context doesn’t stop there. Sometimes we read it with emphasis on what the devil is doing and leave it there. However, Peter in the beginning tell us to be sober and vigilant. But let’s look at the rest of the story in verse 9-11. “Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered for a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”

When was the last time you read the totality of these verses in context? Peter says resist the devil. Be steadfast in the faith. He talks about the God of all grace who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus. He says after we have suffered for a while, this God of all grace, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. And then give us a great doxology by informing us of His glory and His dominion—not the devil’s—forever and ever amen! Now I ask you who is busy? I’ll answer with you: God Is Busy!

Let me invite you to just one story in the Bible where we see God is busy. He has been busy all along—and still is! Space forbids us to talk about it all. This is just one example of how God is and has always been running things! Take this story and apply it to your life in principle as well.

During the time of the judges, a beautiful story unfolds which was a contrast to the decadent character of those days. From a heathen nation came a woman named Ruth who put her faith in God and because she did finds herself in the lineage of Jesus Christ our Savior.

In these four short chapters, I want to do the reverse with this story which will give more of an emphasis on the busyness of God. Go with me to chapters four through one.

In chapter four, we see the Redemption. This is the wonderful conclusion of Boaz marrying Ruth. How we rejoice to see the end of the story and a happily everlasting ending. One of the sticking points was Boaz being in wait mode concerning the nearest kinsman redeemer. After hearing his responsibilities, he refused which opened the door wide open for Boaz! God is amazing! Before the Redemption there was the Romance. How did we get there? God is busy!  

In chapter three, we are involved in the Romance. God so arranged circumstances that now Ruth is in a position for marriage! Naomi knew that Boaz was unmarried and could perform the duty of the kinsmen redeemer for Ruth and counselled her how to request Boaz to marry her. The custom is somewhat strange to us, but it was status quo in those days. Boaz agreed to the proposal provided another kinsman refused to be the kinsman redeemer. Before the Romance there was the Reaping. But how did we get to this point in chapter three? God is busy!

In chapter two we are involved in the Reaping. Ruth is in Bethlehem and work needed to be done. Because Ruth was industrious, blessing would come her way! She did not depend solely on God minus her part. She was doing all she could do where she was currently situated in life. So, she volunteered to glean the fields. But the field she would glean would be the field that belonged to Boaz, kin of Naomi! Boaz ordered his men to protect Ruth in the fields and Ruth brought home an abundant amount of grain for food for her and Naomi. Before the Reaping there was the Resolve. So how did Ruth get to the point where she was now gleaning in the field of her future husband? God is busy!

In chapter one we see the Resolve. Here we have the sad stories of famine and death. It was a famine that sent a Jewish family to Moab. Two sons married two Moabite girls, but the death of the sons’ father and of the two sons made three women widows. Naomi decides to return to Judah and told Ruth and Orpah to stay in Moab. Orpah kisses her mother-in-law but Ruth clings to her. Ruth at this point makes a break with her past and makes Naomi’s God her God. This took them to Bethlehem in the time of barley harvest.   Ruth’s decision for the God of the Jews (the true God) was the springboard to all her success. Is God your God? If He is, then Ruth’s story is your story.

Now I wanted us to see this story in reverse for a very, very important reason. Often times we look at our present situation and define it as our concluding situation. What begin as a sad story for Ruth and Naomi, ended in the blessings of God! Why? Because God is the great architect and orchestrator of the universe! My times are in His hands! Do not look at your present and draw unwarranted conclusions about your future! What may presently be a Moab experience, can lead to a Bethlehem destination! Stay faithful to God in whatever your situation may be. God knows how to work everything out! He does so because: GOD IS BUSY!

~Stacey Mobley