Throughout this Healthy You study we've gone deep into some wonderful, uncomfortable, intense ways God works in us and calls on us to live. We've studied how we are called to find rest in Him, what it means to have loving relationships, that God paves the way for a fruitful life, and defined our identity as children of God. Now we will explore why God made each of us unique.
'Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. '
Our world is constantly pointing out differences as if it were a terrible thing not to be molded to confusing worldly expectations. We cry for conformity while chasing away inequality. We shout for love and unity while creating hate and division. While the world is drowning in mixed messages, seeking acceptance yet missing the point more often than not, we are blessed yet again with another way our Heavenly Father provides clarity. God has blessed each of us with our unique individuality.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
We were each created as unique parts of the body of Christ and given a place in His plan, paved just for us. Our whole being was designed by our divine Creator, and each of us called to a special mission aiming for the same goal. Every one of us has different skills, traits, talents, struggles, successes, failures yet all of us were blessed with our specific set of tools for an ultimate purpose.
'Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”'
Before Jesus ascended into Heaven He told the disciples that once He was gone they were to make disciples of all nations. They were given what we call “the Great Commission” and called to teach others about Christ, far and wide. When we come into a relationship with Christ we too inherit this commission.
God gives us so many instructions throughout scripture about how to live and carry out His good work, and Christ also showed us that there are different ways to do His work in a variety of situations. The ways we carry out this great work will be particular to who God has made us as individuals, what blessings He has given us, and will be catered to the situation and persons involved.
Not everyone will be called to the same conversations, service, relationships, or situations and we will all be given wisdom and guidance in our own time and way as God determines.
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
It is too easy to fall into a trap that claims we have to preach the gospel, talk about Jesus, and teach others all in the same ways as one another, but God didn’t make us cookie cutters. He made each of us different in our own ways. He blessed us individually with the Holy Spirit to guide us along our unique path, and He calls us out onto different creeks and rivers all leading to the same ocean. Our differences are blessings to use and unify us within the one mission to bring others to Him in the different ways God knows are needed in this world.
'Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. '
Each of us has a unique story and testimony, different from anyone else's, and each has been given our different skills, blessings, and path to be used for the glory of God’s great plan. Our differences are designed to be cherished and used for good. We are not meant to be like the world, but instead thank God for making us the way we are on purpose - for His purpose. Let the Spirit guide you on the path God paved for you and in the ways He calls you to carry out your calling.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Have you ever been denied? Rejected? Trolled? Shunned? Wronged? Have you ever wondered "who am I supposed to be?" or “what am I supposed to do?” So many things can impact our identity, but only one thing should define it.
Growing up I experienced all of these forms of rejection and more as I struggled to navigate life's raging waters toward self discovery. I was never satisfied and never happy. I wanted so badly to make a name for myself, but the only names I was making were "loser", or worse. I took on these names given to me by my peers and that became my identity. I conformed to how others thought of me, and I paid dearly for it.
Even though I'd accepted this as my identity I longed for something more. I knew there was something more for me than this fate as a doormat nailed to the earth.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
When I made the decision to accept Christ as my Lord and Savior, I gave up the identity my peers had tagged me with. All the years spent believing I was worthless, unlovable, disgusting, and useless no longer named me and I began to heal. I began my journey as a Child of God.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
Being a child of God is to be completely transformed, from being led by the world to being led by the Holy Spirit. You seek to please God, long for His love, and obey His instruction. You are no longer chained to your worldly, sinful brokenness, but set free by the love of Christ who paid with His life so that you could be forgiven and be in a relationship with God.
'For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.'
With this new name comes your calling as a part of the body of Christ. Each part of this body is given a path and calling, guided down the path He has instructed you to go. As you walk down this path with Christ, growing in faith as you learn more about Him and how to trust Him more, you also learn how to live better as an example of Christ and this identity as a Child of God.
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.
As we grow into this new identity, growing in His guidance and care, experiencing tests, trials, failures, and successes, we find that there is so much grace, blessing, and wonder in this relationship. We begin to bear fruit in this world, putting Christ on display, and sharing with the world what it means to identify as a Child of God in hopes of planting seeds that will also bear much fruit in their own time.
Bearing fruit is not easy work, and we will face a new kind of rejection as we plant and sow, but while we may be rejected by the world we will always have God to lean on, look to, and sustain us through any trouble that comes.
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I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
Coming into your new self is a beautiful experience. It has its ups and downs, it is not always easy, but it is always worth it. If you have yet to take on your new identity, you can do that now, today, if you seek God out, bring your sin and brokenness to Him, seek forgiveness from a Father who loves you, and believe that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior who paid with His life and rose again for your sins so that you may be forgiven. Seek a place in this family and allow God to transform you into His child as He so desires you to be. Take on your new identity as a Child of God and see what wonders God has in store for you.
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.
I think we can all agree that talking about this pandemic is like playing a broken record. It is hard to feel like anything new, let alone anything good, could come from this whole experience. By now a lot of us are exhausted by worry, absorbed by the questions we all want answers to, completely stir crazy, and stuck between not wanting to hear another word about it and feeling like we need to hear every detailed update all at once. I think we can all agree that none of us were prepared for times such as this.
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.
When we live in a constant state of worry and panic, and we focus on all the chaos suffocating our society, we become preoccupied with things of the world and lose sight of what God is doing in the midst of it all. God has a plan. God is prepared. We can trust in God's plans because His plans are for our good, our future, and for hope. He literally knows every detail of the past, present and future and has already determined how all of it is going to be used for the good of those who love Him. We can choose to be guided by God's wisdom, hope, and good or we can make our own path focused on things we have no control over, leaving us stressed, worried, and no better off for it.
'And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. '
Generally speaking, our purpose is to come to Christ, then go out into the world and bring others to Him as well. More uniquely, we each have our own God-given calling that is special to each person. God not only provides the plans but also provides everything we will need in order to accomplish that plan.
'Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? '
Sometimes where God leads us doesn't fit what we want or expect, and it's easy to grow impatient as we try to navigate His timing. We think we know the right way, the right thing, the right time and it doesn't make sense why we are still waiting. When we focus on our own wants we are quick to veer off His path, but when we stay tuned into God and are patient with Him, we find a much more blessed path than one we would try to create ourselves.
' The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. '
Jesus shows us so many examples of pure faith in God's timing. All the way to the cross Jesus trusted God's path for Him and trusted that God's plan was for good. He was patient as each piece of His journey unfolded, and leaned into God, praying for guidance, and when God said "go here" Jesus went. It took many years and lots of pain and suffering for God's plan for Jesus to unfold, but through that time and pain, God had a plan to bring His people back into a relationship with him.
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
He made all of us, and those who have chosen to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior, who choose to have a relationship with God through their salvation in Christ, are all called to God's great plan which He has paved for our good. He has the entire plan settled, and He calls us to trust Him and the road He's made. He leads us away from our old selves, leaving behind the desire to live for ourselves and walk with Him in His ways, welcoming His spirit as our guide. We have opportunities every day to walk with God or to walk away, but no matter our choice God is prepared and His plan will always prevail.
'Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. '
' Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. '
Self-esteem feels like a fickle thing. It can ebb and flow with the tides of each day. Sometimes we feel great, floating along as if on water, ready to take on anything that comes our way. Other times we feel utterly wrecked like a ship smashed into a shore being picked apart by scavenger birds. We turn on the news and feel our hearts break or soar. A phone call or work assignment can leave us deflated or encouraged. The words of a loved one, a stranger, or a friend can be the pick-me-up we think we need or the last straw to a terrible day. We surround ourselves with people or things that we expect will satisfy us. We look for our worth in our relationships with people and possessions alike.
Self-esteem is our estimate of ourselves. It is how we feel about and view ourselves, our abilities, and our value. We estimate what we can or cannot do, have or deserve, and our self-estimate can be too easily influenced by someone else's estimate of us.
See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
When I first came to Christ I had friends I considered the best I’d ever had, and expected them to stay so for years to come. I finally had a recovering relationship with my dad, was close with my siblings, and was surrounded by people for the first time in my life. I changed, though, when I began my relationship with Jesus. It is said throughout scripture that we will become new when we start this relationship with our savior and I was a living testimony of this. I had no idea I was different but everyone around me saw it.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
In choosing a relationship with Jesus most of my other relationships ended. That was a huge hit to my self-esteem. In this, though, I realized that God was calling me out of unhealthy relationships that were crushing my self-esteem with lies and conformity and into a relationship with the one who would show me that I am worth so much more than what the world says I’m worth.
Through this, I have gained new self-esteem that I never experienced while looking at what the world said I should do, what my friends thought of me, and how my family treated me. I no longer estimated myself based on my relationship with the world, but instead found my value in Jesus.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
We live in a world full of broken people, ourselves included, who all have a broken estimate of ourselves. God, on the other hand, sees us all as precious and valuable. He made each of us just the way we are on purpose and sent His Son to be a sacrifice so that we could have a relationship with Him, all while knowing we are broken and loving us anyway. God hard-wired us to desire a relationship with Him and His people, but often we disregard Him and chase after worldly things and approval, love, attention, and fulfillment from other broken people, placing our estimate far below God’s value of us.
'You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your right hand upholds me. '
One of the biggest lessons we can learn while on this earth is that we don't need, nor should we seek, the approval of the world around us. We don't need to seek our worth in this world because God has already told us our worth when He sent His son to die so that we could have a relationship with Him.
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
Are you seeking approval from other broken people? Are you placing your value in earthly treasures? Is your self estimate based on what others think or say about you? Does your self-esteem plummet or rise because of your circumstances or your relationships with people?
When we put our relationship with God first we find our true worth and learn what healthy relationships look like between people. Coming into a relationship with Jesus allows you to get to know Him better, and in turn learn how to live better. Put your relationship with Him first in your life and He will show you that your true worth is priceless.
'Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you. Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “ Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. '
In today’s society, we face conflicting views, stigmas, and expectations about rest. One side of the coin touts that idleness equals laziness, time is money so don’t waste it sitting still, and that we should always be doing something. The other extreme claims that taking time for ourselves often and putting ourselves as top priority all the time is what we deserve, and that others should put our opinions, wants, desires, perceived needs, appearances, wealth, and fame above all else. If we listen to what the world says we will certainly be left confused and wondering what on earth we should do.
Fortunately for those who have a relationship with God, He helps us to understand how we should seek and value rest. Looking to what God says is the only way to find true rest and peace in a never satisfied world.
We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
We need to remember that this world is full of broken people, ourselves included. In Isaiah we are compared to sheep. Sheep like to wander off, always chasing a patch of green grass way off in the distance, wandering away from the love, care, provision and protection of their shepherd. We chase after those little patches of attractive impulse, leaving behind what God is trying to provide for us. This tends to leave us feeling drained, afraid, overwhelmed or even confused. We become restless as we drift away from His instruction.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Those two extremes about rest are both completely inaccurate views. What we really need is to rest in the knowledge that God is in control. He is our shepherd, will always look after us, and will quiet our soul and provide us with the rest we need in this chaotic world. He has given us a new identity in Him and instructs us in all areas of our life so that we never need to chase after anything because He provides it all.
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Being always on the move or incredibly idle are neither right ways of living. There is a time for rest and a time for work. Even God worked 6 days to create the whole world then rested the entire seventh day. He calls us to rest, to sleep, to be filled with His peace. He wants us to work hard for His Kingdom, but He also knows we need to take time to rest.
'In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves. '
Allow yourself to rest and not always be in the hustle and bustle. Don’t toil in vain making a road when He already has the path paved for you, but don't sit on the curb while your path is being paved ahead of you waiting for you to step out onto it.
We are living through a very chaotic time right now. The world around us feels tense, people are experiencing heightened anxiety, anger, and frustrations, and society does not feel like a joyful place at all. How could we possibly find joy in a time like this? How could Christ possibly be glorified in all this pain, sickness, and division? How can we rejoice in the middle of all this suffering?
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. '
Lately I have been on a roller coaster. Life seems to be going up and down, and I know most if not all of us are experiencing the same in our own ways. This week has been tough, but as I struggled in moments of anxiety I realized that I have begun to understand Paul’s words in these verses. He tells us that in every situation when we seek God out, bringing every joy, pain, and all the in-betweens to Him He does not sit idly by. When we’ve emptied ourselves out to Him and made space for Him to fill us, fill us is precisely what He does.
'Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. '
A vital way to make space in our hearts for more of Him is to remember what we have to be thankful for. These days it seems a bit harder to see those things, but even Paul, while he is imprisoned for his faith, points out that there are always things to be thankful for. Paul says at the end of verse 8 “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
What is praiseworthy in your life right now?
Think about that. Don’t focus on what is going wrong; focus on those bits of light, patch them together, and see that there is so much more light than you realize. There is so much more to rejoice over than it seems. Let that light fill you and overflow from you, strengthening you.
'I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
No matter what phase of life you find yourself in, whether you have much or little, whether you are in peace or suffering, whether you have more questions than answers, you can get through all of it with Christ. Christ is in you, strengthening you, building you up from the inside out. Paul is calling on you to change, to empty yourself, to be transformed by the power of Christ.
'Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. '
No matter what tests you face or waters you wade through you will always have His glory and promises to look forward to, and His love and provisions to be thankful for. You can rejoice in your responsibility to imitate Christ and bring others to Him. You have a mission while you are here, and an incredible inheritance to look forward to. Never forget how worthy of praise this is. Rejoice always, because there truly is so much to rejoice over.
'The Lord your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.”'
Last week we discussed what it means to be emptied. When we are emptied of ourselves, we clear out our old selves and sinful nature, and with this clearing out we are making room to be filled up. This process of being emptied and filled is a constant process we need to repeat over and over throughout our lives. When we empty ourselves to God, we need to leave ourselves open to Him so He can fill us up with Himself; with all that He knows we need.
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,
When Christ came to earth, He humbled Himself in becoming a man like us. He set aside His privileges in order to prioritize the needs of others; of us. He didn’t hold His status of being one with God over anyone. He emptied Himself of His privileges and allowed Himself to be filled with the spirit of a humble servant, obedient to God’s will and glory.
'Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. '
Jesus remained steadfast, humble, and obedient in all He did. He served people all around the world, loved them, did not complain or slander, and in this servitude, He was then placed in the highest place above all others. If we are called to be like Christ, we, too, are called to empty ourselves of our perceived and assumed privileges, our selfishness, our complaining and slandering, and our old, sinful selves and allow God to make us new in Christ, filling us up as well with the spirit of servitude for His Kingdom and obedience to Him.
For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
He calls us to love others, to display patience, kindness, humility, mercy and grace. This is what He wants to fill us up in, but we must be emptied of what our culture expects of us, what our society demands of us, the norms and stigmas we face, and instead become a beacon for Christ.
'Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky '
Philippians 2:15 says we “... will shine among them like stars in the sky”. We can choose to be a beautiful light spreading love, joy, truth, and healing or we can choose to be a broken light that spreads darkness, hurt, and harm. You have an identity in Christ and a responsibility to spread His light rather than the broken lights and darkness of this world. Empty yourself to God, let Him change your broken bulb, and be filled with His light so that you can spill over into the lives of others.
And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lamp-stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.
The other day I found myself asking “what sin do I struggle with most?” This isn’t something people are likely to ask themselves often if at all, but it reminded me of a similar question I have been asking myself; “What have I been saved from?” It led me to explore the additional questions "what has God emptied me of?"
'In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
Each question is unlikely to come up in everyday conversation, but all are questions I wholeheartedly believe God wants us to be asking ourselves often. These aren’t questions to condemn, or make you feel guilty or ashamed, but are rather questions to steer you in the direction of emptying yourself.
In the book of Philippians, we see a theme of three key principles to answer these questions. We are going to break these principles down and look at why we should be asking ourselves these questions, as well as the importance of being emptied, filled, and rejoicing always.
What does it mean to be emptied?
To be “emptied of yourself” means to cast off your old self, or your sinful nature. When we make the decision to follow Christ we undergo a transformation. We go from “believing” to applying that belief. We are made new in Christ and must empty ourselves of how we once lived before we knew Christ, of who we were before we gained our new identity as a child of God. The answer to these questions we are asking can be found within this transformation and will continue to shift and change as you continue to be transformed by God.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.
In order to be emptied, it can be helpful to know what we need to be emptied of. Christ died to save us each from our own specific sins. We all face our own struggles. Some of us battle with pride and esteem ourselves higher or better than others. Some of us fight with sloth or gluttony, some with idolatry, wrath or violent behavior, lust, and even envy or jealousy. The sins we face come in different forms, depths, and names, but we all fight sin.
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
I determined that sloth is my weakness. I am not intentionally lazy, but man do I lack motivation sometimes. Sometimes I just purely have a hard time correctly prioritizing tasks and then more important things can sometimes fall through the cracks or become delayed. Knowing this about myself makes it easier to give my laziness to God, empty myself of it, and strive to let that nature go.
We will always be faced with temptation for our weaknesses, but in allowing God to empty that out time and again I’m better able to resist, avoid, and become stronger against it. It's not a one and done or quick fix, but each time we lift it up our yoke is lightened.
For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.
Look at where He is transforming your life as you give yourself over in faith. Lift your hands up and give it to God. Allow yourself to be emptied, so that you may be filled again, and rejoice always.
'For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; '
And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.
How do we know when we are blessed by God? What does it mean to be “blessed”? One definition, according to Dictionary.com, says “a favor or gift bestowed by God, thereby bringing happiness.” So by definition being blessed is when God gives us favor and gifts.
Throughout this series, we have looked at how we are tested in day-to-day life, what to do when we struggle with God’s plan, how to face conflict, and the importance of standing firm in our faith in the midst of it all. But what comes of all this hardship? Why is standing firm and remaining faithful so important?
When we remain steadfast, constant, and firm in our faith it does not go unnoticed. God sees us keep faith and blesses us through the muck and grind of life in so many different ways. So often we think that being blessed means we will have more money, more ‘things’, perfect relationships, or fewer struggles. We think that by being blessed life will somehow just be easier. This is not what it is to be blessed, though.
Being blessed starts inwardly
Throughout scripture we see a constant theme that explains as we remain steadfast in faith we will experience increased peace and joy that surpasses our human understanding. This peace and joy then overflows out of us into our outward selves and henceforth to other areas of our lives, provisions, and relationships, which are then increasingly blessed as well.
So, to be blessed is really to receive God’s peace and joy, and to be loved, cared for, provided for, and transformed by God. It is God’s fingerprints on every day of our lives. Not only in the big things but also in every little detail of every day, shaped and molded for you by His hands. It is all a blessing.
As we let the blessing of God’s goodness transform our hearts, we begin to see all the additional ways God blesses our lives every day. Soften your heart, open your eyes, and see the wonders God has placed in your path, and through your faithfulness watch those blessings grow.
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You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in God.
But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
There is a strange peace in knowing that any moment could be your last and trusting God with your life nonetheless. This peace has the power to heal, humble, transform, and bring you closer to your calling than you ever imagined was possible. When faced with this strange peace, we must stand firm in it, knowing God is with us and will carry us through in His will and way.
The story of Job tells of circumstances where Job needed to make a decision to trust God, look forward to his heavenly fate whenever it may come, and put his family, friends, and self in God’s hands without wavering. God had taken care of him all his life and now all that he had was stripped away, his friends turned on him, his wife told him to curse God and die, his health was in terrifying condition. Job lost everything, was faced with what seemed to be certain death, and even still Job did something exceptional. Job stood firm in his faith and trust that God was in control, even in his terrible circumstances.
This week I found myself looking to Job for guidance in my own circumstances. I realized that God was trying to teach me to trust Him with my life and with my death, whenever that may come, and even beyond that; that whatever comes, my faith must stand firm in who God is; and that I must always trust God to be in control, no matter what my circumstances are.
I asked God what He wanted me to do and I kept hearing a resounding “do you trust me?” I chose to stand firm in my faith, in who I know God to be, and in the fact that God is in control of everything. No matter where He leads me I am going there with His blessing.
When we are faced with a challenge, suffering, fear, or even possible or certain death in this life we must stand firm in the fact that God is in charge. Oftentimes when we’re seeking it too much we do not see the point, blessing, or lesson and we fail to give God the reigns and let Him handle our situation.
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Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.' Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the Lord will be with you."
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
When Christ walked the earth it was incredibly dangerous to be a follower of Jesus. Even before Christ came people faced peril and ridicule when they talked about God and their faith in Him. When Christ gave the disciples their great commission, He told them they would face trouble in this world while following Him. They would be challenged.
Our culture is what we call the "1st world" may not be a threat of death at every turn when we follow Jesus, but we still face challenges in our walk with Him. We face loved ones, friends, enemies, and strangers alike who will try to sway our faith in God. We trudge through slander, ridicule, loss of relationships, harassment, bullying, assaults, and all kinds of abuse from people because we choose to believe that God is God, scripture is truth, and Jesus died and rose again to save us from our sins. The world around us is ripe with those who will gladly rip your faith to shreds if you let them.
What do we do when we face challenges?
So what do we do when we face these challenges? How do we respond when loved ones and friends discourage us in our faith? What do we do when we face loss and hurt for the sake of our relationship with our Creator?
Rejoice when you are challenged
The first thing we do is rejoice. Rejoice because when we face hostility and suffering for the sake of our faith, generally that means we're doing something right. We are called to be different, to be set apart. One of the best ways to know you're set apart for Christ is when others who don't walk with Jesus notice and lash out because of it. Just as Christ suffered we will suffer, and through it we will glorify God when we respond with praise to our Father in the midst of the hurt and danger.
Pray when you are challenged
The next thing to do is pray. Be grateful to God for the opportunity to shine His light, and lift that gratefulness to Him. Just like we discussed last week, tell Him all that you're feeling, experiencing, and struggling with. Suffering for His sake is by no means easy. When we lift our hurt feelings, struggles, and sins to Him, and pray over our relationships that are tough or at risk, we allow Him to give us His grace, mercy, and love so that we may exemplify Him to those who try to condemn us. Seek to empty yourself to God so that He can fill you up with Himself, equipping you for the battle ahead.
Set the example when you are challenged
Lastly, set the example. Now that you've rejoiced and given it to God, use what God fills you up with to live in the image of Christ. Don't just walk the walk; talk the talk. It's not an easy thing to be loving toward those who seek to tear you down, but do it anyway because that is what Jesus would do, and what God calls on us to do.
Praise God for trusting us with these opportunities to glorify and exemplify Him. Let go and let God fill you up with His goodness. Use what God fills you up with to glorify Him, strengthen you, and share the love, truth, mercy and grace of Jesus.
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'“Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty. But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams, as the streams that overflow when darkened by thawing ice and swollen with melting snow, but that stop flowing in the dry season, and in the heat vanish from their channels. ' Job 6:14-17
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Luke 22:41-44
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 2 Timothy 3:12
But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13
For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, Philippians 1:29
Last week we dove into some different ways we are tested throughout life, and how we should respond to being tested. Another important thing we can learn from the story of Job is that we will not always understand why we're going through what we're going through.
Job does not hide the fact he is confused, upset and in pain. In fact he expresses it straight to God. Throughout the turmoil Job continued to seek God and remained firm in what he knew about God's nature and promises. He was upset about what he felt God was doing to him, confused about why he was being so brutally treated, and in great agony of many kinds but he still clung to what he knew about God.
What do you know about who God is?
What do you know about His character?
God is faithful, always keeps His promises, never leaves or forsakes us, is in control of everything, loves us without fail, is patient, merciful, our provider, and always has a bigger plan than what we can see.
When you don’t understand your circumstances, talk to God about it. It's okay to not understand and to be honest with God about our feelings, and above all we should cling to what we know to be true about God’s character and promises when we don’t understand His ways. When we accept that His plan is higher than us we're better in tune with Him, more at peace with our God-given path, and more thankful for our God-given purpose, promises and provisions. When we try to understand His ways we get distracted from what we know already.
Share your worries, frustrations, confusions and pains with God and lean on who you know He is instead of His ways that you don't understand.
' "Why is light given to him who is in misery, and life to the bitter in soul, who long for death, but it comes not, and dig for it more than for hidden treasures, who rejoice exceedingly and are glad when they find the grave? Why is light given to a man whose way is hidden, whom God has hedged in? For my sighing comes instead of my bread, and my groanings are poured out like water. For the thing that I fear comes upon me, and what I dread befalls me. I am not at ease, nor am I quiet; I have no rest, but trouble comes."'
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. '
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
Fasting is so often taken for granted. We see fasting in scripture and we think “okay, I can cut down my meals” or “eh, that isn’t really a thing these days. I don’t need to do that.” Let me tell you that both views are completely wrong. Fasting has taught me a lot about how, when, and why to let go and let God take control in more areas of my life.
In honor of Holy Week, my family chose to each fast from something. We prayed about it and chose something we each felt God put on our hearts to do without. For me it was coffee. Now, if you’re like me the thought of giving up coffee for any length of time sounds like a combination of silly and ridiculous, and completely unnecessary. For some, it may feel impossible, as silly as that may sound. I went into it with an obedient heart but I was not thrilled about it. I knew I could go without it but I didn’t really want to.
Why should I fast?
The point of fasting in the spiritual sense is to go without something we cherish or may feel like we need so that through going without we can gain much more from God. We should plan to learn something through fasting, and grow closer to Our Father. I’ll be honest. I really didn’t see how going without coffee was going to help me in this way, but on Day 4 I began to understand the point a lot better than I'd expected to. It hit me hard enough that I wanted to share my experience.
Day one was manageable. I woke up feeling a bit mentally prepared for my lack of delicious coffee and was completely exhausted by the end of the day. Day two, on the other hand, left me feeling horrible and ready to give up. I was so tempted to cave in that I almost did. I had a horrible migraine, was grouchy and tried really hard to keep my attitude in check. Day three was a little better on the grumpy side, and after resisting the temptation on day two I knew I could keep going.
On day four I was completely exhausted but that was when I began to understand what was really happening. Day five through seven was a breeze. I'd gotten past the temptation, recognized my cranky attitude, and trusted God to get me through it while believing He had a purpose for me in this experience.
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How does fasting help me let go and let God?
When we resist temptations we grow stronger. We break down the walls that have been built in our minds telling us we "can't". When we lean into God instead of our desires and the things we think we need, we give God space to show us what we really need and how He always provides it.
By the time my week of fasting was over I was able to see it wasn't about the coffee. It was about me thinking I needed something to help me get through each day, this staple to my routine, this awakening beverage every day. In reality God helped me see that this was really a mental stumbling block that I was placing on my road to him.
I'm not saying I shouldn't have it at all, but I am saying that sometimes we need to stop and recognize that the things we have or do, and even the blessings God gives us, need to be seen in a different light - in His light. Recognize that all we have comes from God, and all we need comes from Him as well.
Remember that He is in control and He provides. He is who we need to lean into, make the staple of our routines, the awakening of our mind and soul, and the focus of each day. Not these earthly things we think we need and tell ourselves we can't live without.
So, what are you convinced you can't live without?
What staple in your routine do you lean on too much?
Where can you let go in order to let God in?
“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
As our world is suffering in a variety of ways due to the current pandemic of COVID-19 we are all being plunged into a world of fear, selfishness, panic, judgment, chaos, and carelessness. Our faith is being tested at a capacity we are unfamiliar with. What we need right now is something so few of us are experiencing - peace.
Peace is found when we trust God and allow ourselves to be emptied of fear, panic, and worry in order for Him to fill us up with His peace. Trusting God is a very human struggle we all face. In order for our trust and faith in God to grow, we will be tested.
We are being tested every single day, from little things to big things. Testing is all about growth and strength training. As we endure testing in our lives we are being refined into who God intended us to be. We are being prepared for eternity in His kingdom.
There are many ways we are tested throughout our lives.
Tested in Selflessness
Do you focus more on your wants or the wants and needs of others? Do you take the time to help others, or worry more about helping yourself? We are called to be selfless, but must constantly fight our selfish nature to become more like Christ and find peace.
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
Do you give only when you have more than enough, share your time only when it suits you, or give only when you get something in return? We're called to give even when we have little and to expect nothing in return. God provides what we have so that we can be generous toward others. We are more blessed in giving than receiving.
You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
Are you only kind to people when you think they deserve it, or when you're in the mood to be kind? We are called to be kind at all times. Kindness is an active choice and it is contagious. You don’t spread light with darkness, but you can vanquish darkness with light.
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Do your goals and plans include helping others, or primarily yourself? Do you use the skills God gave you to further His mission, or to further your own? God blesses us with our resources, minds and abilities so that we can use them to serve others and further His kingdom.
For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.
Do you obey God only when it is easy, or only run to Him when life is hard? Are you selfless, generous, kind, and serving others in order to further His mission? God commands us to be faithful in all things, at all times; good and bad, easy and difficult. When we are faithful in the little things, we will be faithful in the bigger things. When we are faithful to God through the testing we see that He is faithful to us.
Whether it is good or bad, we will obey the voice of the Lord our God to whom we are sending you, that it may be well with us when we obey the voice of the Lord our God.”
In order to endure the testing we must face, we must lean into God, trust Him through it, and surrender ourselves and our sense of control to the One who is actually in control. Lift up your struggles with a thankful heart, and remain faithful to God who is always selfless, generous, kind, faithful, and serving His people.
Activate your faith and stand firm, not only to show God we can but to show ourselves that He can. How do you know you really trust God if you're never put in situations where you must? How will you strengthen your belief that God will carry you if you never surrender control?
God is right there experiencing your struggles with you, waiting for you to trust Him to carry you. Even when it doesn't feel like it, like He's left you, like there's just too much darkness, chaos, and pain, God is there to help you get through it and pass every test. Trust Him to be in control and let His peace replace your fears.
'And the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servantJob, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil?" Then Satan answered the Lord and said, "Does Job fear God for no reason? Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face." And the Lord said to Satan, "Behold, all that he has is in your hand. Only against him do not stretch out your hand." So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord . '
And he said, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord ." Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped. In all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong. '
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
When I feel stuck, being at home and sitting around not doing a whole lot is really hard on the body and mind. While we’re all dealing with stay-at-home orders it can be really tough to navigate how to stay active while cooped up for who knows how long. I have been going through the motions myself, phases of slumps and then random bursts of energy, sleeping in too long, staying up too late, sitting at the computer too much. The list can go on, but you get the point and I am sure you are feeling it as well. It’s too easy right now to just fall into the rutt of wallowing in your isolation. So what can we do about it? Here are some things that have been helping me when I feel stuck.
Routine
You may not be able to (or even have to) be on your normal routine right now but I have realized that this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be on some kind of a routine. I spent a couple of weeks with literally no routine and eventually found myself feeling stressed out, exhausted, and just all-around terrible. So, I decided to find a sweet spot where I am not stressing over a routine, but I am still staying active, tackling each day with purpose and some consistency.
Before the stay-at-home order I had an early rise and early to bed routine. I don't need to be up or lay down as early right now, but I shifted my schedule only slightly. This allows me to have some quiet hours in my morning, and then plenty of time for winding down at night. I make a point of getting dressed when I get up, have a steady morning routine, daily activities that help prevent me from spending too long on the computer, scheduled meal times, and a bedtime routine to help me get in sleep mode. When I feel stuck, having this stability helps me not dwell on how different life feels right now, or get absorbed into mindlessness or restlessness.
Exercise
Yes, I said it. Exercise. The thing so many of us procrastinate doing. I was just getting into a workout routine before the stay-at-home orders, and it all fell apart again when the shut-downs came. I've started slowly working in daily yoga after I've had my morning coffee, and then again before dinner. When I feel stuck, this helps me step away from the pc and get moving. It also helps me sleep better at night, and feel more stable and relaxed during the day. Let’s face it. Sitting around is not healthy. We should all be doing things to help keep our bodies healthy right now, even more so than usual, so yes. Exercise daily.
Read
I know a lot of people are not readers, but here’s my point. Most of us are probably spending hours reading the various news networks right now. All that does is heighten the negativity, anger, frustrations, anxieties, panic, and stress - all the things we need to be combating, not feeding ourselves more of. Find something you enjoy reading whether it be comic books, magazines, novels, and especially the Bible.
Pick up a Bible reading plan. Find free and inexpensive book deals on BookBub. Check out eLibrary books on Libby by OverDrive to read on your phone, tablet or eReader. Find some fun audiobooks. There are all kinds of ways to find great content to feed your mind that doesn't always require money.
Reading is a great stress reliever when I feel stuck. For me, it takes my mind away from the stress of the world around me and throws me into a new world or adventure. You may not think you’re a reader, but hey - now is a great time to put that to the test and dive in to give your mind a needed break.
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Hobbies
Whether it be learning a new language, taking classes online, a yarn or sewing project, painting, writing, drawing etc. it is a great time to jump in when I feel stuck. I’ve been taking this time to get into my adult coloring books, yarn projects, and I will also be sewing medical masks. My family and I are learning some fun origami and playing board games, and we have started doing movie marathons at dinner time (note we reserve this for a specific time of day rather than sitting in front of the TV all day long). Soon I plan to also get into a little baking, and I have started doing some Spring Cleaning in my closets and drawers. The options are limitless! You have much less reason to put these things off, so why not just go for it?
Connect
We live in a time that is so incredibly easy to be isolated and not worry about social interactions. Hiding in our homes away from the world probably sounds really nice to many of us, but honestly this is something we really need to be careful with. We were not designed to be alone. We were designed for community, for relationship. Right now it is vital that we stay, or get, connected to others.
I am finding it all too easy to just worry about myself and myself alone when I feel stuck at home, but I urge you to reach out to your friends, connect with loved ones, share what you’re up to with others and talk to people about how you’re feeling and coping. Don’t shut the world out right now. Remember that we need to let the light in so we don’t get consumed by the darkness penetrating our world right now. Be a part of something more than yourself and get connected with people.
Life is tough as it is, but even more so right now. Don’t forget that we’re all going through this together. Stay connected, create a sense of routine for your days, get into your favorite hobbies, and grab a good book. We can all get through this, but it helps when we do it together.
I am a wife, mom, writer, crafter, and above all, a Child of God. I love to study the Bible, fellowship with other Christians, and serve God. I am thrilled to invite you to join me in seeking to satisfy our thirsty souls with the Living Water of Christ, which is what Water On Thirsty Land is here to do.
