What's in Your Storage Bins?

"How great is Your goodness which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You have wrought for those who take refuge in You!" Psalm 31:19



"Because of a stubborn and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath and indignation for yourself" Romans 2:5



Enjoy reading Psalm 31 and Romans 2



There is no doubt in my mind that God, the creator of all life, is good. From the beginning of all He created ("and God said it was good") to the end of the book when evil will be overthrown by good- God is good. Whatever good is in this world comes from Him and He wants us to take part in it.



I love Psalm 31:19. The meanings of the original Hebrew words "stored" and "wrought" here are "reserved, treasured up" and "commit". Wow! God has things He has specifically committed and treasured for you on reserve! Just imagine- a room in a storehouse just for you! Storage bin after storage bin with your name on all of them. Can you even imagine what good things God has stored in those storage bins for you? Peace? Complete health? Favor at work? Wisdom? Strength? Loyal friends? Knowledge? Contentment? Joy? You may be realizing how many of those things - and others- God has already given to you. Or you may question "how do I get those good things God has for me?"



The second half of the verse answers this- when we fear Him. The original Hebrew word here is "reverence", which means to honor, esteem, adore and have deep respect toward. This (sincere) attitude and way of life gets God's attention- just like (if you're a parent) children with this attitude get your attention. (Oh, how many more good things I want to give my children when they give me respect and honor!) The bottom line is to revere God and receive all that He has for you.



This brings us to what God is not- bad. The "bad" things we encounter in life do not come from God, but rather Satan, who is the source of evil. It is Satan who would have us filled with darkness and turned from God. Because God created us with free will, He will allow us to walk into evil, receive it and entertain it, but He doesn't give it to us. In fact, He teaches us in Romans that by being irreverent, we store wrath up for ourselves! (Greek "wrath"= anger/punishment). If we walk before God irreverently and in sin, we cannot receive the goodness He has for us; thus we become weaker and more vulnerable to the bad we store up- in other words, if we aren't repentant, we just keep heaping up trouble for ourselves! It is wise to remember that the most damaging thing sin does is separate us from God. And, although He allows it, He doesn't want us to choose it. God longs to be gracious to us. (Isaiah 30:18)



I don't want bins with things like jealousy, insecurity, illness, stress, heartache and worry in them. How about you? God, please help me to always make the daily choice to honor You and receive Your goodness.

I'll Just Have the Salad

"...a very little thing..." Luke 16:10

Enjoy readying Daniel 1

I thoroughly enjoy the book of Daniel. There's no other book of the Bible quite like it. Kings, dreams, fire, angels, lions, feasts, idolatry, pride, friendships, visions, mental illness, wealth, trust, reward, humility (and more) all in one story. I encourage you to read the entire action packed 12 chapters and ask God to inspire you with the truths and treasures within this account of Daniel's extraordinary life.

If you've read chapter one, I believe you will agree that the tone is set in verse eight. "But Daniel made up his mind". Daniel, taken from his home & family, forced to train three years for adequately serving an ungodly king, does not change his mind about whom he truly serves. He does not lose focus (even in a situation he did not ask for) on the One he worships. Even though Daniel's first test of faithfulness is given to him (literally) on a silver platter, he does not waiver. He has made up his mind.

Though he may not have realized it at the time, Daniel's success in life was set with the simple act of "eating his vegetables".** I also enjoy how Daniel takes the step of respectfully asking to be excused from the "defiling foods" rather than just rudely refusing. I can't help but think how easy it could have been for Daniel to change his mind at the sight of this awesome spread in front of him. He could have used any excuse to make it easy on himself (what teenager doesn't?). "I've been taken captive, I deserve this reward of a feast" or "God will understand, after all, it is the rule of the King" or "just this once-it's only food, then I'll get back on track". But, no, Daniel was determined to obey. I believe he found his resolve before he ever crossed the border of Babylon. He (and his friends) made up his mind to serve God no matter where he was or who/what might try to stop him. His mind was set to honor God when this Babylonian world around him would continually do the opposite.

Daniel's obedience in this "little matter" (and all of them throughout his life) led to great favor from God. Not only did he receive favor in the eyes of those in authority over him, but God gifted him with special abilities, which in turn led to more favor! Daniel was continually rescued from trouble, promoted on the job, healthy, strong and successful (even in old age) because of his diligence & willingness to obey, pray, worship & serve; wholeheartedly.

I encourage you to keep an eye on the "little" things, like Daniel's vegetables. What small things are on your list from God? I encourage you to never think the little things don't matter, and to not fall for the lie that God doesn't notice when you ignore them. Oh, how God sees you and longs to give you favor. Those who are faithful in a very little thing are faithful in much. (Luke 16:10) Do you make up your mind, like Daniel, to be faithful in the small things? You too can live an extraordinary life with the favor of God following you all of your days, just like Daniel.

**Hebrew word "zeroa" meaning "grown from seed", so fruits & grains were included.

Getting Your Hopes Up

"For my hope is from Him" Psalm 62:5

Enjoy reading Psalm 61 & 62

There is no shortage of hope in the Bible. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, God and His people spoke of having hope, and all of it in God. Hope isn't merely a good thought or a wish for something good. It is a strong expectation, a belief that good will come, because God is good. I remind myself each day to hope in God. Some days I feel that I am "hoping against hope".

If you are a child of God, your hopes do not have to be vague or weak. You do not have to rely on a situation or a person. The world will tell you to hope in titles, success, money, fame or even yourself. You have something greater. You have the God of all creation on your side! If you are true and faithful to Him, hoping in Him will be an anchor for your soul- no matter what you are facing in life. God is your hope.

The words of King David in Psalm 62 caught my attention, especially his repetitious thoughts. At the time it is believed these words were penned by David, he was facing one of the most senseless, burdensome, challenging events of his life. His son Absalom had become angry with him and took his anger to the extreme. Absalom was out to have his father-the King-assassinated and to have himself put on the throne. Not only was this Absalom's way of dealing with a family problem, but he recruited many to turn against the King and join his conspiracy. David felt alone and betrayed. Two of the worst feelings for a human being. The beloved King of Israel was now in danger.

David did not become King by inheritance or election. He was made King by God's choice and anointing. Now it looked as though the enemy would take all that God had ordained. To top it off, the enemy was (working through) his own flesh and blood. If there was a time for King David to feel that all hope was lost, this was it. Parenting can be heartbreaking at times, but how does a parent deal with such treachery? I cannot imagine the despair and hopelessness that could have gripped David's heart.

David, however, turned to God. In one of the darkest times of his life, he didn't give up, and he didn't seek revenge. To David, hope could not be lost! He spoke of God as his rock, his salvation, his refuge and his strength. And, he said it over again. He let God handle the situation, and kept his hopes "up".

I love the picture I see in my thoughts. The Hebrew word for hope in verse 5 is "tiqvah" which basically means "expectation". This word, however, comes from "qavah" which means, literally, a cord- as an attachment. I see David hanging on to a rope that God has lowered for him (Hanging on for dear life, as we might say, but hanging on, nonetheless). David was climbing up a "rope of hope. "Lead me to the rock that is higher than I" he penned in Psalm 61. He was holding on to God. He was attached to Him. David held onto hope. Absalom held onto anger. David was saved. Absalom was lost.

Ever been "at the end of your rope"? Does a situation seem hopeless? What do you need? Faith? Healing? Answers? Forgiveness? Love? Justice? Maybe you just need hope. Look up to God- your hope, rock, refuge, strength and salvation. Let go of doubt, fear, anger, revenge or hurt and hold on to hope. You will never regret getting your hopes (in God) up.

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick." Proverbs 13:12

Seek and Find

"...diligently seek..." Proverbs 8:17

As a child I loved the hidden picture puzzles. Pictures within a picture that one can't really see- until it is searched out. Once a picture is found, it always seemed to keep catching my eye- while searching for the next picture. (Especially when I color it in).

God is much the same. He is always there. We just don't always know it, or see with our eyes (evidence of Him), because we aren't looking for Him. Still, He is there, waiting for all who say they love Him to seek Him. I've learned that this is to be an everyday experience, not just a once in a while occasion or during a difficult experience in life. It also takes a great deal of faith. Our circumstances or feelings may try to lead us to believe that He can't be found, He's abandoned us in the tough times, or He just isn't concerned with our everyday life. We must lean on our faith and not what we see in our circumstances. Our faith must take hold of His promise "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). In fact, He so longs for us to be close to Him, that He himself is a seeker. 2 Chronicles 16:9 tells us that God looks for those whose hearts are completely His. Am I as willing to seek Him? Are you?

The key is diligence. The word diligence means "a constant and earnest effort". Do we seek God with the same effort as we seek for that perfect job, spouse, education, house, income, etc. Do we know Him as well as we know the stock market, sport statistics, political issues and other current events? God told His people "seek Me that you may live" (Amos 5). God is our source of life. He longs for us to seek Him.

One of the best motivators I have to seek God (other than I have experienced it and know it is life changing) is the reminder that Satan is also a seeker. He is a seeker of me. He is a seeker of you. However, he seeks to destroy us, and he does so diligently, like a lion hunting prey (1 Peter 5:8) . If we aren't seeking God, we make it easier for Satan to find us. I know that when I am diligently seeking God, Satan can have no access in my life!

Can't find God? Keep seeking. Seek Him in His word. Seek Him in prayer. Seek Him in obedience. No matter what you need. No matter what your hurt. No matter what your questions, He will reveal Himself- like the hidden picture popping out in front of your eyes. Has He come through for you at other times in your life? Color those times in your mind and use them to strengthen your faith. Become a Kingdom seeker. A God seeker. A truth seeker. You'll not only find God, but your life as well.

God and Sinners Reconciled

"so the people stood at a distance." Exodus 20:21

Christmas seems to have many aspects. To many that celebrate it, it is purely a religious holiday. Others look at it as mainly a time to enjoy extravagant food and gifts, and still

others dread everything the season has to offer. One thing I've noticed about Christmas, however, is most who celebrate it focus on being together with those they love. Relationships

seem to have top priority at Christmas.

Like no other holiday, Christmas brings memories of family and friends, and desire to see those

who are far away. Even families who see each other on a regular basis will do everything they

can to be together at Christmas. Distance at Christmas time brings a sense of sadness to most people. We long to be close to the ones we love and enjoy their company. I believe this is the heart of Christmas, starting with it's inception in ancient times, with the birth of Christ.

For centuries, mankind had distanced and disconnected themselves from God. God's desire was to be close to the people He created; however, the majority of mankind chose to stay far from God. The reasons are numerous and varying, but God always offered a hand of relationship. He spoke to individuals on a personal level. He sent angels with instruction and guidance. He delivered people from trouble. He fulfilled all promises. He spoke through people and showed Himself through miracles, thunder, lightning, fire and pillars of clouds. Most people still would not keep their hearts attentive to God, or for that matter, even pay attention.

In all of His patience, love and mercy, God chose a time in history when, no longer giving His people words, miracles and national guidance, He got their attention. He brought one final opportunity for mankind to accept His hand of relationship. He did this by setting His hands and feet on the earth He created. The source of life Himself lived a human life, walked human roads, experienced human needs and felt human emotions. Jesus met man face to face.

Those who believed did not stay distant. Angels sang for joy. Poor shepherds drew close to welcome and worship. Wise men looked until they found Him, then bowed down to give Him their best. Family gave Him a home and friends accompanied Him as He brought God's love to all who would dare to come close.

This opportunity remains for all today. God continues to want to be close to mankind. Those who are distant from God can be reconciled. This is the heart of Christmas. The love that came down to earth and forever made a way for man to be close to God still calls to each one. Jesus said "come". He never pushes away. He is ready and waiting for all to know Him. He wants to know you. He wants to be close. Whatever you are longing for- He has. My prayer at Christmas is that you won't keep your distance.

"I bring you good news of a great joy which will be for all people. For to you is born this day in the city of David, a savior who is Christ the Lord". Luke 2:10-11

God's Will 101

"...in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:18

If you ever struggle with knowing God's will for a certain situation in your life-this verse is the place to start. We all love to be appreciated by someone, and I believe that God is no different. The key is thankfulness.

God has opened my eyes to the concept of thankfulness through this verse. God's message wasn't to a group of complaining, thankless people, but rather to a group being commended by Paul for their dedication to Christ and working together to spread the gospel. Even when we're living in obedience and moving confidently where He has called us, giving thanks is key. Notice that the words are "give thanks", not "say thanks". Thanks can often be said and not meant. The Greek word here is "eucharisteo" which means "expressing thanks". To express means to show, manifest or represent.

To me, this goes on beyond the simple daily prayers of "thank you for this food", "thank you for this day", "thank you for my job". It is what I do with the days- the provisions-the gifts-the people, etc. that He have given to me. Often it may be that all you or I can do is fall on our knees and cry out "thank you" to Him for a specific something He's done. However, I believe God is speaking to us about "everything" here- the general everyday everything we all experience. Do we give (express) thanks- or do we express complaints? I am learning that God wants me to express my gratitude to Him in all that I do- not merely pay lip service to Him. I've learned that a thankful spirit moves God's heart. It also moves my heart- toward His.

Remember the Israelites? While Moses-guided by God-led them out of a land of bondage and toward a land of feedom, all they could muster were complaining, murmuring attitudes. They flunked the test on giving thanks- big time! God was displeased, as they grumbled even over the food He had provided. (Ever have that happen to you at dinner time?) The Israelites' thankless spirits kept them wandering around aimlessly until they died. They were blinded by their own discontent and never saw the good things God had planned for them. I never want to become a thankless wanderer. (I wonder what might have been different if the least they would've done was say "thank you for this bread"?)

Unsure of God's good plan for you? The key to knowing God's will for your life is in your expression of thanks. It only has to be turned.

"come before His presence with thanksgiving" Psalm 95:2

"enter His gates with thanksgiving" Psalm 100:4

Makin' a List

"Remember His wonders which He has done" Psalm 105:5

Enjoy reading Psalm 105

It's that time of year...grocery, shopping and "to do" lists seem extra long when the holiday season comes around. I don't know about you, but I have to make a list (and check it twice) of everything I need to got done- or something will be forgotten.

The author of Psalm 105 tells his audience to remember God's wonderful works- and he helps them to do so by listing several wonders God had preformed. I believe this is one of the most important faith building exercises we can do- list the awesome things God has done in our lives- and speak of them and be glad (verses 2-3). When I come to an obstacle in life, I remind myself of all the other obstacles that God has helped me leap over. Although the obstacle may at first stop me dead in my tracks, remembering what God has done gives me a vision of getting over the obstacle. What I've learned from my personal lists of God's wonders is this: God has never given me a reason not to trust Him.

In doing a little study of the Psalm(s) I've discovered it is probable that this Psalm isn't one of David's. It is believed it was most likely written after his time, as an encouragement to the Jews who had returned to their homeland after 70 years of exile. They faced much opposition as they worked to rebuild their city and it was a difficult time for them. The Psalmist's list of God's wonderful works was to remind the people that God had done and would continue to do wonders in their lives. (And He did. Those wonderful workings are in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther).

If this year has been difficult for you, try listing all of the wonderful things God has done in your life. Go over it twice- or a few times- if you need. How has God made a way for you? What has He provided? What has He spoken to you? Ask God to bring to remembrance all of those things you may have forgotten- or overlooked. Begin to thank Him for what He has done and for all that He will do in your life.

I am positive that the faith you have in Him and the knowledge of the love He has for you will be renewed and strengthened. He will help you leap over whatever obstacles you may be facing.

"He brought forth His people with joy" Psalm 105:43