Journey to the Cross - Our Father

The "Our Father" is the nicname for Jesus' model prayer. Many Christian churches say it together at every service.The rooms of Alcoholic Anonymous contain people from every religion, socioeconomic group, and culture. They have one thing in common - addiction has leveled them and destroyed their lives.They’ve also discovered a secret. If they call out to God, He’ll help if they let Him, regardless of their circumstances or beliefs. While AA is careful not to identify with any particular religion or sect, the universal words of the Lord’s Prayer end many meetings. Like everyone else in the AA rooms, Jesus remains anonymous as they beg a common Father for the much-needed help.

Morning Meditation

Read Isaiah 64:8.
Isa 64:8

Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. NIV

• God is father to everyone, regardless of personal opinions. Enjoy that truth.
• Some reject the truth of God’s fatherhood. Allow the pain of that to wash over you.
• Offer yourself as clay for the master potter.

Morning Prayer

• Pray to Our Father, asking for what you need.
• Pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly and carefully.
• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.
• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

God is our Father. In the beginning, He created us in His image for His pleasure. He gave us free will, which we often use for our detriment. Because of our confusion and mistakes, God came to earth to show us how to live and love. On His journey to the cross, He took a brief moment to teach us how to communicate with Our Father.

Each of the scriptures below are written first in the King James translation and then in the paraphrase, The Message. Compare and contrast the meanings as you study this important prayer.

Read Matthew 6:9.

Matt 6:9

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. KJV



With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. Like this: Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are. The Message



• Whose Father is the prayer to?

• What are we asking of our Father?



Jesus knew what He would be facing at the end of His journey on earth. The agonizing trip to the cross was the will of the Father and best for humanity.



Read Matthew 6:10.



Matt 6:10

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. KJV



Set the world right; Do what's best — as above, so below. The Message



• Where is God’s will always done?

• Are you willing to pray for God’s will on earth regardless of what it means for you personally?



In Matthew 6:11, Jesus gave us permission to ask for our daily needs. Read and pray His simple prayer.



Matt 6:11

Give us this day our daily bread. KJV



Keep us alive with three square meals. The Message



• Do you remember to pray daily for your needs?

• Are your daily needs met?



Not only did Jesus tell us to forgive, He showed us how to forgive by praying the words, ”Father forgive them, they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) We witness His agony on the cross and willingness to forgive and become able to forgive others their petty wrongs against us.



Read Matthew 6:12.



Matt 6:12

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. KJV



Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others. The Message



• What are the 2 parts of this prayer?

• How do you think forgiving and being forgiven are related?



Like us, Jesus was tempted and gave us hope by His stern words, “Get thee behind me Satan.” (Mark 8:33.) Read Matthew 6:13.



Matt 6:13

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: KJV



Matt 6:13

Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil. The Message



• What is the prayer?

• What are the two things we need safety from in the paraphrase, The Message?



The last part of this prayer is not in the earliest manuscripts but I included it anyway because I like it and pray it. Read Matthew 6:13.



Matt 6:13

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. KJV



You're in charge! You can do anything you want! You're ablaze in beauty! Yes. Yes. Yes. The Message



• Is God in charge of your life?

• Do you recognize His beauty?



By using the words, “Our Father,” Jesus meant to be inclusive and not exclusive. When I travel, talking to people about Jesus, I try not to debate their beliefs. I often encourage them to pray the words, “Our Father,” asking the God they don’t believe in to reveal Himself in truth and light. It has been my observation that when people sincerely pray this prayer, the truth of Jesus Christ becomes evident without my having to do, or say another thing besides letting them know I’m a Christian. Our Father is truly ablaze in beauty! Yes. Yes. Yes.

Application

Every morning was the same. I arrived at the red brick Ruth N. Upson Elementary School and formed a line outside my classroom. When the first bell rang, wiggly excited children filed into the room to put away our coats and books. I can still smell the wooden floors, chalk, and the slightly sour cafeteria aroma that assaulted my senses as I left the fresh air and entered the musty damp building. By the time the second bell rang, we were in our seats waiting expectantly for the loud speaker.



The crackle and loud blaring feedback from the box in the corner of our ceiling announced that the principal was ready to begin. We stood, faced the flag, and laid our hands over our hearts in solemn pledge of allegiance to one nation under God. Then our principal led us in what she called the Lord’s Prayer.

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Together, the Muslims, Jews, agnostics, and Christians prayed to one father, asking for deliverance from evil. I didn’t include the word atheist because those innocent young children hadn’t yet thought to reject Our Father. I did include agnostics, because some of the children were mature enough to begin a search for their Father, even if they hadn’t been introduced to Him in church. God answered our prayers and protected our schools from evil. We felt safe as we memorized spelling words and chased each other on the playground.



We all wondered what trespasses were and now, the translations use the words debt and debtors. As a first grader, my husband prayed, “Forgive us our trash baskets,” while wondering why we needed to be forgiven for using trash baskets. As we said these words, without understanding the meaning, God forgave us for our childhood pranks and antics and we found ourselves tolerant of the mistakes of those around us. I had bucked teeth and had to wear corrective shoes so children were occasionally mean to me. That early Morning Prayer gave hope and peace as I learned to forgive.



Regardless of our financial status, we all received our daily bread while at school. Christ’s kingdom ruled in our classrooms as our teachers lovingly taught orderly lessons. I remember few disruptions and no violence while sitting in those tiny desks. Mean teachers were so rare that I can still recall the one or two that walked menacingly through the halls.



We consider the Lord’s Prayer to be a Christian prayer, but as a young child, I didn’t. I’m Baptist and we don’t say that prayer in weekly services so I only had it memorized because of public school. In my innocence, I assumed it was for everyone and trusted God to answer it for everyone. Since no one mentioned the word Jesus or Christianity, Christ anonymously helped us all as we found unity in the words “Our Father.” No one complained about the words of that prayer as all children reverently repeated it together.



As a parent of children who grew up in schools not protected by that early Morning Prayer, I missed it. My children learned to take for granted the drug deals they witnessed and the hidden guns in the classroom. When my son was instrumental in saving the life of a student and heard the blast of a pistol going off 2 feet from him, I was proud of his heroic efforts but baffled that these were the same rooms that educated me. When my 8th grade daughter had to kick a fellow student to get him to remove his hands from her body, I was glad she defended herself but wondered why she had to. Where was God in these violent disorderly rooms?



For today, pray the Lord’s Prayer for our schools, life, and country. As we’ve seen from the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous and our nation’s public schools of days long past, God answers prayer, even when people don’t understand what their words mean or to whom they are praying.

Journey to the Cross - Is It I Lord?

Have you ever been betrayed? As I’ve traveled the streets of America, I’ve met countless broken people who have been betrayed by others. As they try to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives, they struggle to find the meaning behind what happened to them. As happened to our Savior Jesus, their betrayer had turned them over for little more than a few paltry pieces of silver.

I met Jim and his young son James in New Mexico. James managed the shop that was putting a new tire on poor limping Happy. As James stood behind the counter taking my tire order, I noticed the haggard expression of what I call the “ICU Waiting Room Look.”

After turning the keys over to Jim, I sat down to watch cartoons with little James. “I don’t like this show,” I complained to James.

“Why not?” He asked.

“The adults and children are always fighting. In my family, we love each other,” I told him. “We try to be nice to each other.”

“Not in mine,” James said glumly as he shared their tale of betrayal. His mother had left them to move in with another man. Since James’ older brothers and sisters were from a previous marriage, she had taken everyone but him. James and Jim had packed up and moved to New Mexico to start their lives over and be a little closer to family.

I’m sorry James,” I said. “Grownups do confusing things sometimes.”

He nodded. Changing the subject, I started telling him about the wonderful church I had visited that morning. “My church sometimes helps me with things I don’t understand,” I told him.

“I miss my church,” 8-year-old James confessed. “Daddy hasn’t found us one here.”

I immediately went to the counter to talk to Jim. He was surprised at his son’s need. “I can’t make his mother come home but I guess I could take him back to church,” he admitted. “Thanks. I guess I could also get him back into Karate. Maybe it’s time to get things back to normal.”

I had visited a church that morning that turned out to be near their home. “I had actually been thinking about visiting there,” Jim gasped in surprise when I mentioned the church. We both knew God had orchestrated our time together. I left knowing that God was going to heal James and Jim’s brokenness if they let Him.

As people betrayed by co-workers, employers, church members, pastors, spouses, friends, and others share their stories with me, I am thankful that Jesus shared His experiences with betrayal so I can share it with others. We learn from Jesus’ experience that God’s plans work through everything, including brutal betrayal.

Morning Meditation

Read Jesus’ warning in Matthew 24:9-13.

Matt 24:9-13

Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. NIV

• Let Jesus’ bleak warning wash over you.

• Let the hope in Jesus’ words strengthen you.

Morning Prayer

• Take time to remember those who have betrayed you.

• Pray for your betrayers.

• Thank Jesus for warning you that people would betray you.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

It is said that if you are in a room of twenty-one people, seven will love you, seven won’t have an opinion, and seven won’t like you at all. Certainly, this generalization won’t be true in every or even most situations but its point is well taken. We can’t control how others see or feel about us and we often have no idea of the schemes that might be going on in their minds.

Judas was one of Jesus’ disciples. He had traveled with Jesus, listening to His sermons and watching His miracles. Judas was trusted enough to be the disciple that handled everyone’s money. Read his words of betrayal in Matthew 26:14-16.

Matt 26:14-16

Then one of the Twelve-the one called Judas Iscariot-went to the chief priests and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" So they counted out for him thirty silver coins. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over. NIV

• What motivated Judas?

• What price did Judas put on Jesus?

Jesus knew of the betrayal and warned all of them. Here we see a glimpse of the humanity and insecurity of each disciple as they ask, “Surely not I, Lord?”

Read Jesus’ warning and their response in Matthew 26:21-24.

Matt 26:21-24
And while they were eating, he said, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me."

They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, "Surely not I, Lord?"

Jesus replied, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born." NIV

• How did the disciples feel about the upcoming betrayal?
• Why do you think they asked, “Surely not I, Lord?”
• What warning does Jesus give about the betrayer?

Read Judas’ hypocritical words in Matthew 26:25.

Matt 26:25

Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?"

Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you." NIV

• How do you think Judas felt as Jesus revealed what He knew of Judas?

We’ve already read about Jesus’ agonizing time in the garden in a previous devotion and we know that Jesus’ heart was broken. Read again His words in Matthew 26:45-46.

Matt 26:45-46

Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!" NIV

• What had already happened to Jesus?

• What does Jesus call Judas?



Imagine the disciple’s alarm as they witnessed Judas leading a mob. Read Matthew 26:47-49.


Matt 26:47-49
While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him." Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed him.NIV

• Who sent the mob?
• How did Judas identify Jesus?

The book of Luke gives us some additional insight about Judas. Read Luke 22:2-6.

Luke 22:2-6
Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. They were delighted and agreed to give him money. He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present. NIV

• Who was behind Judas’ actions?

• How did the Chief Priests feel about Judas’ betrayal?

• Do you think Judas could have rebuked Satan’s temptation?

Like most that succumb to Satan’s temptation, Judas expected to be able to enjoy his reward for the betrayal. Read Matthew 27:3-5.

Matt 27:3-5
When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. "I have sinned," he said, "for I have betrayed innocent blood."

"What is that to us?" they replied. "That's your responsibility."

So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. NIV

• How did Judas feel after he betrayed Jesus?
• What did Judas try to do?
• What did Judas end up doing with the money?
• Do you think Judas could have been saved if He had turned to Jesus instead of killing himself?

The story of Judas’ betrayal reminds us of the pitfalls of giving in to Satan’s temptation. It also reminds those betrayed that betrayers suffer far worse than those they betray. It proves the point that guilt and remorse for sin are not enough without the redeeming grace of Jesus Christ. Instead of turning to Jesus and living in the grace of a Savior who forgives all, Judas chose to let the guilt of his transgressions destroy him. Without grace, the burdens of our lives are too much to bear.

Application

When I was about 12 years old, I had my first experience with betrayal. My best friend, Christie, lived behind me. From the time we were small, we rushed outside every morning, looking for each other. There was a fence dividing our property. We climbed the fence so often that Daddy built us steps over the fence so we could more easily travel back and forth.

On school mornings, Christie tossed her books into my yard, scampered over the fence and knocked on my door so we could walk to Ruth N. Upson Elementary School together. After school, we spent our afternoons drawing chalk Hop Scotch patterns on the hot pavement of my cement driveway or sitting on my red brick porch playing Jacks. On weekends, we had sleepovers in the green shuttered white dollhouse that Daddy built behind our house. We giggled as we whispered our secrets.

When we entered 7th grade, Christie walked up one day and announced, “You are no longer my best friend. I have a new friend who is better than you. I plan to spend my time with her from now on.”

"What did I do wrong?” I cried. Christie ignored my brokenhearted pleas as she walked off. Never again did she climb the fence.

I went home and cried as my mother held me. “I don’t know what I did wrong,” I sobbed.

“Honey,” Mama consoled. “It doesn’t sound like you did anything wrong. Sometimes people just let you down. You’ll find another best friend.”

Of course, Mama was right. Little by little, my heart healed as new friends entered my life. Daddy took down the fence steps that were a painful reminder of the lost friendship. Eventually Christie moved way from neighborhood and school and I lost touch with her.

God eventually sent Nancy Edwards, who continues to be my closest friend today. Nancy and I double dated in high school and went to our Junior and Senior Prom together with the men who later became our husbands. I was her Maid of Honor at her wedding and she was my Matron of Honor. She had I have shared our lives, joys, and sorrows. Nancy challenges me when I’m on the wrong track, encourages me when I’m discouraged, travels with me when I want to play, and listens when I want to vent. We’ve shared this precious sisterhood for most of our lives.

A couple of years back, Nancy and I were reminiscing about our school days. For some reason, I told her the story of Christie. Nancy and I knew each other in Junior High School but didn’t become close until High School. After she heard the story, Nancy went to laughing. “Cheryle, I was the friend that Christie dumped you for. We hung out for about a couple of years until she dumped me for another ‘best friend.’ I also wondered what I had done wrong.”

The same girl had betrayed Nancy and me. Christie was the betrayer but like the disciples, in our insecurities, Nancy and I had asked, “Is it I Lord?” Our betrayal was painful at the time but it taught us a lesson about true friendship. When true friendship came along, we recognized it and held on to it. After Christie betrayed Nancy, Nancy prayed for a best friend who would love her through everything. While our friendship has had its rocky moments, it has survived the test of time and trials, always becoming stronger. We wonder if poor Christie is still going through life, betraying one potential friend after another.

If someone has betrayed you today, understand that like Judas, they are one who will suffer the most. Pray for them.

Journey to the Cross - Blessed Are the Pure in Heart

I have a friend who constantly reminds me to check my motives. She helped me understand that you can do the right thing for the wrong reason. While it is true that right is right, when our motives aren’t pure, we suffer.

Our family has seven seats for the Jacksonville Jaguar games. Each week, phone lines buzz as we decide who is going to the weekly game. One Sunday, it worked out that we were only using 3 tickets. My 17-year-old nephew Jim was taking his girlfriend, and my father, Grandpap.

The night before the game, my daughter Kelley got engaged. We invited family members not attending the game to Sunday lunch to make the surprise engagement announcement. Jim found out about the secret announcement and told Granpap that he should probably miss the game and go to lunch instead. Grandpap complied which meant Jim got to spend an afternoon at the game alone with Alex. Our entire family joked about Jim’s motives when Grandpap showed up for lunch.

The next day at piano lessons, I teased Jim about encouraging Grandpap to miss the game. Jim grinned and sheepishly asked, “Did I do something wrong?”

I laughed and said, “I guess that depends on your motives. Were you really concerned about Grandpap missing the engagement announcement or were you just trying to get an afternoon alone with Alex?”

Jim got quiet a moment and finally said, “The truth is, both were true. I was worried about Grandpap missing the announcement but I also wanted to be alone with Alex. Is that bad?”

Perhaps the reason the Bible talks so much about a pure heart is that it’s hard to tell when we have one. Our behavior might look the same either way. We often benefit either way. The promise that goes with a pure heart is our ability to see God. I told Jim, “Maybe the real test about your motives being pure is whether or not you saw God that afternoon.”

Morning Meditation

Read Matthew 5:8.



Matt 5:8

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. NIV



• Think of the many ways you serve God.

• Are your motives pure?

• Do you see God in your service to Him and others?

• Let yourself gaze “wide eyed” at His glory.

• If you have trouble seeing God, let Him purify your heart.

Morning Prayer

• Ask God to help you check your motives for purity.

• Ask God to help you have a pure heart.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

The Greek word for “see God” used in Matthew 5:8 can actually mean to stare with wide-eyed wonder. Read the following paraphrases of Matthew 5:8.



Matt 5:8

You're blessed when you get your inside world — your mind and heart — put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. The Message



God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. NLT



• What does it mean to have your inside world put right?

• What do you think having your inside world right has to do with seeing God in your outside world?



Like any good pastor, when Jesus preached this particular sermon, He was quoting the Bible. Read Psalms 73:1.



Ps 73:1

Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart! NASU



• Who was God going to be good to?



Read Psalms 24:4-5.



Ps 24:4-5

He who has clean hands and a pure heart, Who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood And has not sworn deceitfully. He shall receive a blessing from the LORD And righteousness from the God of his salvation. NASU



• What is the definition of a pure heart?

• What is the reward of a pure heart?



Read Psalms 18:24-27.



Ps 18:24-27

Therefore the LORD has recompensed me according to my righteousness, According to the cleanness of my hands in His eyes. With the kind You show Yourself kind; With the blameless You show Yourself blameless; With the pure You show Yourself pure, And with the crooked You show Yourself astute. For You save an afflicted people, But haughty eyes You abase. NASU



• What does God show those who are kind?

• What does God show those who are blameless?

• What does God show those who are pure?

• What does God show those who are crooked?

• How does God treat those who are haughty?



The interesting thing is that God’s work can be done even if our motives aren’t pure. Read Philippians 1:15-18.



Phil 1:15-18

It's true that some here preach Christ because with me out of the way, they think they'll step right into the spotlight. But the others do it with the best heart in the world. One group is motivated by pure love, knowing that I am here defending the Message, wanting to help. The others, now that I'm out of the picture, are merely greedy, hoping to get something out of it for themselves. Their motives are bad. They see me as their competition, and so the worse it goes for me, the better — they think — for them.



So how am I to respond? I've decided that I really don't care about their motives, whether mixed, bad, or indifferent. Every time one of them opens his mouth, Christ is proclaimed, so I just cheer them on! The Message



• Read the first paragraph of the above scripture. What are the motives of the two groups of people?

• Now read the second paragraph. What was Paul’s reaction to their differing motives?



When I travel across America, I often hear the words, “I’m spiritual but not religious.” I always ask what they mean by that. Invariably, the response has spirituality as good and religion as bad. I always suggest that they look to the Bible to find the definition of “pure” religion. Using that definition, no one can find fault with religion. Read James 1:27.



James 1:27

Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. KJV



• What is pure undefiled religion?



Unfortunately, not everyone who calls himself or herself religious has a pure heart. Apparently, the churches Paul mentored had similar problems. Read 1 Timothy 1:5-7.



1 Tim 1:5-7

But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. For some men, straying from these things, have turned aside to fruitless discussion, wanting to be teachers of the Law, even though they do not understand either what they are saying or the matters about which they make confident assertions.

NASU



• What is the goal of our churches instruction?

• What happens in some churches?



While having wrong motives may harm others, the consequences to us are worse. Read James 4:3.



James 4:3

You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. NASU



• What happens when we ask with wrong motives?



As with everything, we must remember that these scriptures are to us. It is our job to check our own motives. It is not our job to check or ever suspect the motives of others. Read 1 Corinthians 4:5.



1 Cor 4:5

Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God.

NASU



• Whose job is it to bring to light what is hidden in darkness?

• Whose job is it to disclose motives of our heart?

• Where does our praise come from?



Being honest about our motives often takes hard spiritual work but it is worth the struggle. The promise for having a pure heart is that we will see God.

Application

I have a confession to make. In my service as a church musician, my motives have not always been pure. I grew up taking piano lessons in a competitive environment. Playing piano was about being on stage, impressing an audience, and winning competitions. It often puzzled me that people seemed to actually enjoy it.



In my early adult years, I occasionally served as church pianist. Those were not happy times as I obsessed about preparation, stressed over each mistake, and thrived on affirmations. My motives had little to do with service and everything to do with impressing the congregation with my skills and willingness to serve.



No matter how hard I worked, I was unhappy with myself. I certainly didn’t see God in the worship services. I was too busy seeing myself and judging what I now know were performances. Eventually, it became so burdensome; I dropped out of musical service.



About the time I dropped out of playing for services, my husband dropped in. He started singing in the choir and playing bass guitar in our contemporary service. I was astounded by how much he enjoyed it. For him, every service was worship and he participated with a servant’s heart. He actually said, “I love singing in choir. It’s a place where I don’t have to be the best or in charge. I just serve.” I was confused. One of the reasons I didn’t enjoy singing in the choir was that I would never be the best singer. I had some work to do.



I got honest with God about my music. I confessed my motives and asked God for a servant’s heart. My church asked me to play for a small mission they were starting. I knew God was giving me a chance to practice serving with humility. For a year, I was faithful to that mission, learning weekly how to offer my music to God. I prayed about every selection. Instead of picking the hardest offertory to perform, I picked something that I could easily prepare and that would help the congregation quietly worship. The pressure of a good performance was gone and suddenly I could see God through my music.



My attitude about serving as a church musician is now completely different. I play when asked but don’t compete for positions. Usually my piano playing is used for nothing more than accompanying a Sunday School class in the singing of a simple hymn but I feel as if I am playing for the King of Kings. I love singing in the choir and grieve the times when I am unable to participate. What joy I was missing when my music was for nothing more than showing off!



Think of how you are serving God. Get honest with yourself and check your motives. Perhaps the most valid test is to ask yourself if you can see God in your service. If your heart isn’t pure, do yourself a favor. Confess and ask God for help. He is faithful. He will bless you beyond anything you can imagine!

Journey to the Cross - Blessed Are They That Thirst After Righteousness

“Nothing stays constant,” Bill said."Everything changes."

At 16, my nephew Bill was a philosopher. I understood his point. When my children were small, I corrected their behavior when necessary. In fact, it was the “righteous” thing to do. Now they’re adults, and as much as it frustrates me, when I disapprove of something, the “righteous” thing to do is to mind my own business. At best, I can give my opinion once when asked. Otherwise, I have to keep quiet. I’m not sure what day the rules changed but they did change.

“That’s probably true, Bill, but only about earthly things. It isn’t true about God’s righteousness. God’s definition of right and wrong hasn’t changed since the beginning of time. Even societies who don’t follow our God, usually makes laws that resemble the Ten Commandments.”



The word “righteous” means morally upright, without guilt or sin. (www.dictionary.com) The 4th Beatitude says, Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. It doesn’t say, blessed are those who are righteous. It goes on to promise to fill that hunger and thirst. The word hunger in the Greek actually means to be famished. If we’re famished for righteousness, our hunger and thirst will be satisfied.



“How can that be?” we question. “After all, none of us can be without sin. How can we ever be satisfied while we are still sinning?” The answer lies in the cross. Jesus is righteous and the cross makes us righteous. If we crave Jesus, our craving will be satisfied. If we follow Jesus, His path leads to righteousness.

Morning Meditation

Read Matthew 5:6.

Matt 5:6

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. KJV



• Allow yourself to be famished for Jesus.

• Pant for Jesus, the way a deer pants for water.

• Allow your hunger and thirst to be filled.

Morning Prayer

• Ask God to help you hunger and thirst for righteousness.

• Thank Him for His promise to fill us.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

Are you righteous? Studies show that most people are righteous in their own eyes but don’t see others as righteous. Even when they see righteous behavior, they are suspicious of the motives behind the actions. There is an old saying that when we point the finger at others, we point three fingers at ourselves. A truth I’ve found for myself is that when I’m accusing others of something, I’m usually the one guilty of the very behavior I’m angry at them for. For today, let’s look at ourselves, our motives, and let others work on themselves.



As we have with the other Beatitudes, we are going to study different translations and paraphrases of Matthew 5:6.



Matt 5:6

Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God), for they shall be completely satisfied! AMP



You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat. The Message



Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. ESV



God blesses those who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full. NLT



• What differences do you see?

• What do you think “right standing with God” means in the Amplified Bible?

• Have you ever felt completely satisfied?



Like many of the other Beatitudes, when Jesus spoke in Matthew 5:6, He was referring to ancient scripture. Read Isaiah 55:1-2.



Isa 55:1-2

Ho! Every one who thirsts, come to the waters; And you who have no money come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, And your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And delight yourself in abundance. NASU



• What is the invitation for the thirsty?

• What is the invitation for those that have no money?

• What is the price for the wine and milk offered by God?

• What is the promise for the righteous?



The word righteousness is in the Bible 309 times. Read Psalms 89:14.



Ps 89:14

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; NASU



• What is the foundation of God’s throne?



Read Psalms 106:3.



Ps 106:3

How blessed are those who keep justice, who practice righteousness at all times! NASU



• How is this similar to the 4th Beatitude?



Read Psalms 119:140-144.



Ps 119:140-144

Your word is very pure, Therefore Your servant loves it. I am small and despised, Yet I do not forget Your precepts. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, And Your law is truth. Trouble and anguish have come upon me, Yet Your commandments are my delight. Your testimonies are righteous forever; Give me understanding that I may live. NASU



• How does the Psalm writer feel about God’s word?

• How constant is God’s righteousness?

• Despite the troubles of the world, what can we delight in?

• What is righteous forever?

• What is the Psalm writer’s prayer?



We usually know what the righteous thing to do is but Jesus gives us a warning about our motives. Read Matthew 6:1-4.



Matt 6:1-4

Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven. So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. NASU



• What is the warning?

• What is the consequence of ignoring the warning?

• How are we supposed to practice righteousness?



God’s righteousness is constant. In fact, it is everlasting – constant in this world and the next. Seek righteousness and be blessed.

Application

Years ago, a Christian mentor gave me an assignment. “I want you to do something nice for someone else every day. There’s a trick to this assignment. Keep your acts a secret. Don’t let anyone find out about them. If someone finds out, it doesn’t count.”



I was about to find out just how self-seeking I really was. Mystified, I couldn’t believe how hard his assignment was. I did many “nice” things for my husband but I always let him know about it. For example, I often had to put away his newspaper. I suppose it was a nice thing to do but what I really wanted was for him to put it away. That meant, every time I put the newspaper away, I let him know about it. I found out that I did almost nothing for the sheer joy of doing something for someone else. In fact, if I didn’t get the satisfaction of someone thanking me, I wasn’t sure what satisfaction I would have.



At first, I thought the nice things I did needed to be big. I tried to follow my mentor’s advice but when I did something big, people noticed. I gave showers for people at church, cooked food for the sick, and gave money to a beggar. Suddenly, I was hearing the word “thank you” more than ever but I was also exhausted. I enjoyed the attention but knew this wasn’t the point.



I went back to my mentor and complained. He laughed and said, “Cheryle, keep it simple. Pick up a sock and put it away. Flush a toilet in a public restroom. Pick up litter on the street.”



Why would I do things like that? I wondered. I was deeply ashamed when I realized that if no one found out about it, I had no interest in doing it. I had some spiritual work to do. My mentor helped me do some introspective confessional work and slowly I released my driving need for public affirmation. I began to follow my mentor’s simple advice and was amazed by what I found out. The simple act of secretly doing the right thing gave more satisfaction than the most public “thank you” I’d ever received. I also found out it was a lot less work.



I wish I could say that I’d never again hungered and thirsted for public approval but that isn’t true. What is true is that when I seek the approval of the world, my cravings are never satisfied. When I hunger and thirst after righteousness, I find satisfaction in the simplest things. My mentor taught me a wonderful secret. God’s satisfaction is better than anything the world could give me.



For the rest of the Lenten season, secretly, find something nice to do for someone everyday. Keep your acts simple but be diligent. You’ll be amazed at the results.

Journey to the Cross - Blessed are the Meek

"Gi Gi," Noah demanded. "You're going the wrong way. You need to take 9A."



"Noah," I said. "I like taking Butler. I know that way better."



"But it's longer," he said. "It's not even a highway."



I went to laughing. Noah was only 6 and one of his favorite activities was to study maps. He had most of the major highways in the country memorized. Going 9A hadn’t occurred to me because the entrance from the mall was new and I wasn’t completely sure how to get there. I guess I could have asked Noah.



"Noah," I said. "Gi Gi doesn't always take the shortest way. She has ways she likes to drive. Besides, Butler is a highway.”



“No it’s not,” he said. “It has red lights.”



“Highway just means main road. Expressways don’t usually have red lights except on entrance and exit ramps but highways might or might not have red lights. Think about Phillips Highway. It is a main road but has red lights. Noah, you’re really smart but Gi Gi wants you to be humble too. I drive all over the country and know a lot about roads. Since you like roads, you could learn more about them from me if you let me teach you. Sometimes when people are very smart, they get arrogant and think they know everything. Do you know the word arrogant?”



He didn’t so I explained the difference between humility and arrogance. “To be humble is to be teachable. People who are smart and humble do great things because they never stop learning. Gi Gi wants you to always be learning.”



To be meek is to show patience and humility. The definition of humility is to demonstrate meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit and not be arrogant or prideful. My favorite definition of humility is teachable. I’ve also noticed that when I refuse God’s teaching, God kindly humiliates me. Humiliate means to lower ones pride, dignity, or self-respect. It usually takes a while for me to appreciate God’s kindness. (www.dictionary.com)



The third Beatitude we will study is, “Blessed are the meek.” The promise is that the meek shall inherit the earth. I guess inheriting the earth is worth a little humiliation.

Morning Meditation

Read Matthew 5:5.



Matt 5:5

"You're blessed when you're content with just who you are — no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought. The Message



• Allow yourself to be content with who you are.

• Think of everything you have and let yourself be grateful.

Morning Prayer

• Ask God to help you become humble without having to be humiliated.

• If you’re brave, pray for patience.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

Some confuse meekness with low self-esteem. When complimented on her cooking, my grandma would invariably point out what was wrong with it. We all smiled, knowing the food was delicious. I always wondered if she knew how good her food was.



I’ll share with you what I’ve observed about people who seem to be meek. They know who they are and are content with it. They don’t put on airs. Because they’re content with themselves, they are content with others, so people feel good when they’re around them. The meek aren’t surprised when they’re wrong and are willing to grow and change. Little embarrasses or surprises these paragons of virtue and they can easily laugh at themselves.



Compare and contrast the below translations and paraphrases of Matthew 5:5.



Matt 5:5

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. KJV



Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous-- with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth!

AMP



God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them. NLT



• What do you think meek means?

• What behaviors have you observed from the meek?

• What do you think “inherit the earth” means?



As with other beatitudes, In Matthew 5:5, Jesus was quoting ancient words from the Bible. Read Psalms 27:11.



Ps 37:11

But the meek [in the end] shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. AMP



• How is this similar to Matthew 5:5?

• What does it add?



There are similar passages in the New Testament. Read James 4:10.



James 4:10

Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you. NASU



• Where are we to humble ourselves?

• What is God’s promise to us?



Read 1 Peter 3:8-9.



1 Peter 3:8-9

To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. NASU



• What kind of spirit are we to have?

• What are signs of that spirit?

• What is the promise?



And finally read the paraphrase of 1 Peter 5:5-7 from The Message.



1 Peter 5:5-7

And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for — God has had it with the proud, But takes delight in just plain people. So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you. The Message



• What should the young do?

• How should a leader act?

• Why are both of these signs of humility?

• What does God take delight in?

• What is the promise?

• How are we supposed to live?



Humility is both wonderful and elusive. Just as soon as you think you have it, its gone. There is a story that floats around the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous. Humility is critical to recovery in 12 Step recovery programs. An AA group decided to give a button to the man who was the most humble. When he wore the button to the next meeting, they took it away.

Application

In my last career, it was easier to pretend I was important. I could dress up in a suit, stay in 5 Star Hotels, and look and act like the rest of the “successful” people. When you live in campgrounds, sometimes miss showers, and travel with a dog, you get a better picture of where you fit in this world.



I’m a mother and not above using coercion to spend time with my adult children. On the most recent missionary journey, I called my son. “Chris, Kelley visited me on this journey and so far, you haven’t. I realize you gave me a grandson and that’s a lot of points towards ‘favorite child status’ but all the little things Kelley does are starting to add up. If you aren’t careful, she’ll get ahead again.”



“Mom,” Chris laughed, “I’ll be in Los Angeles on business in two weeks. Why don’t you meet me there?” I was in North Dakota and it didn’t seem possible but I wasn’t passing up the rare opportunity to be alone with my son. Knowing I could do all things in Christ, I started driving like a mad woman.



“What about bringing Noah?” I asked hopefully. “I’ll take care of him.”



“Mom, I’m not bringing Noah. I’ll have to be enough.”



“Will you stay in the camper?” I asked excitedly. Silence met me on the other end. Chris hates dirt, germs, heat, and bugs. He wears water shoes in the shower of a Hilton. He went on his first camping trip at 3 months and screamed the entire time. His attitude about camping never improved. While I waited for an answer, I knew he was picturing getting dressed for a business meeting at a campground bathhouse. The next time I heard from him, he had found a dog-friendly luxury hotel with wireless high-speed internet.



My first sign of trouble was when I pulled into the Embassy Suites at the Los Angeles Airport and saw a parking garage with a sign that said “6’ 6” Clearance.” Sighing, I pulled next to a sign that said “absolutely no parking” and went inside.



As I climbed out of Happy, the Bellman squinted, trying to read the words on Happy’s side. He must have decided I was a delivery truck and not a customer because he didn’t meet me with a cart or offer to help with luggage. I was relieved because I had no idea how I was going to get my stuff into the Embassy Suites. The only thing that resembled a suitcase was under the bench seat cushions. To get to it would require removing the bicycle on the back and laying the cushions on the ground. I was too intimidated by the formal Bellman to create such a scene.



Since Chris was stuck in the Atlanta airport, I had to register. For me, registering meant paying the $25 per night pet fee and signing a formal pet contract where I agreed to pay for damages, walk her in certain areas, and about 10 other legal points. Do I need my lawyer to travel with my dog? I wondered as I read and signed.



“Where do I park?” I asked. “My van won’t fit in your garage?” Notice that I didn’t say RV.



“Your van won’t fit?” she asked incredulously.



“OK, it’s an RV,” I confessed. “It’s over 8 feet tall.”



She stared and I felt myself withering. What was wrong? I wondered. I’d put on my best casual clothes. As I followed her eyes to my faded, wrinkled clothing with a stain on the shirt; I realized how hard campground Laundromats were on clothes. There was a shopping trip in my future. Finally, she said, “You’ll have to park on the street.” I supposed that was better than being told I’d have to enter by a side entrance.



“But there are no spots,” I argued, knowing parallel parking wasn’t my strong suit.



“You’ll have to wait for one to open up. We have no other parking. Be sure you check signs for street cleaning times and move your RV at the right time or it will be towed.”



Great, I thought as I went back in search of a parking place. Finally, I found a spot along the park in front of the hotel. This must be where I agreed to walk Belle. The sign said “Street Cleaning, Tuesday 8-10 AM.” Since it was Wednesday, I was safe on that front.



Next came the difficult task of getting Happy level. If Happy isn’t level, Happy isn’t happy, and Happy shuts down the refrigerator for revenge. Briefly, I considered carrying the refrigerated food into the room but the projected humiliation of carrying multiple bags of groceries through the lush lobby stopped me. As I pulled forward, backward, and realigned along the curb looking at the levels, I wondered if the Bellman was watching. I refused to get out the greasy blocks and put them under the tires.



After parking, I sat down to decide the best way to get my stuff into the hotel without making a spectacle. Aha, I thought looking at the travel bag holding my devotional books. It had a little room left. If I finished filling it up and took it to the room, I could return with an empty bag for a second trip. As I packed, Belle began barking frantically, jumping up and down because she didn’t want to be left behind. I tried to calm her worries. “Don’t worry. You’re going with me.” Could the Bellman hear Belle’s barking? Was there something about barking in the contract?



I looked at Belle’s dog dish, realizing I should take that up on my first trip. It’s a clever design, made for traveling. One side holds water and the other side is for food. Knowing I would be there 2 nights, I filled the dog food side to its capacity.



As I climbed out of Happy, I worried I was carrying too much stuff but I had a sore foot and wanted to walk as little as possible. I left the RV, dragging a nervous Belle on a leash, a rolling computer bag holding an overstuffed and unzipped travel bag, a purse, and a dog dish.



Trying to get the hotel door open was a frustrating battle with balance that I lost. The travel bag went tumbling off the computer, spilling unmentionables on the pavement. Quickly, I stuffed everything back in, casting furtive glances for the now missing Bellman.



As I went inside, I realized I didn’t know where the elevators were. Not in a mood to go on a hunt, I walked back to the front desk, to the same woman who had checked me in. I looked at the check in line and decided I could ask my quick question without waiting in line again. “Where are the elevators?”



“What room are you in?” she asked. I told her and she pointed. As I walked off, a glaring man stomped to the counter, clearly wondering why I had jumped ahead. Belle saw the scary stranger huff up and bolted, catching me by surprise. As I jerked to balance myself, the dog dish went flying, throwing dog food all over the lobby and everyone in line. As I looked at the dog food, covering a 15-foot square area, I didn’t know what to do. I knelt down and starting picking it up with my hands. “Maybe she’s hungry and will help you clean it up,” the scary man suggested, as he brushed himself off.



“Just leave it alone,” the woman said from behind the desk as she picked up a microphone. “We’ll send someone to clean it up.”



Still on the floor, I looked up at the woman behind the desk and everyone in line and said, “I used to know how to act in hotels like this.” My humbling realization was that I was no longer like the sophisticated business people in that line. I was a woman on the floor, cleaning up dog food. The worst part of the realization was that instead of being embarrassed, I was amused. I loved my life as an executive, but I also love my new life. If inheriting the earth includes cleaning up dog food, I’m OK with that.



Do you know who you are today? Are you at ease with it? As you go through your day:

• If something embarrasses you, be teachable and look for the lesson.

• If you’re self conscious, ask God to help you accept who you are.

• If you find yourself putting on airs, notice whom you are trying to impress and ask God why.

• Be yourself. It’s good enough.

Journey to the Cross - Blessed Are Those that Mourn

Have you ever mourned? To mourn is to express grief or sorrow. Have you wailed until you thought there were no tears left? Did you wonder if your pain would ever stop? Has your body ached in response to your mourning? Could everyone see the expression of grief in your face?

Today’s devotion is about the comfort we can receive through mourning. The second Beatitude from the Sermon on the Mount says, Blessed are those that mourn. The promise is that God will comfort us.

Morning Meditation

Read Matthew 5:4.

Matt 5:4

Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. KJV

• Remember your times of mourning. Allow yourself to revisit the pain.
• If you have been fighting mourning, surrender to it.
• Let God comfort you.

Morning Prayer

• If you’re in mourning, claim the promise of comfort.
• If you’ve received comfort from God, thank Him.
• If you’ve lost something or someone important but have been avoiding mourning, ask God to help you express your grief and claim your promise.
• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.
• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

There was a time in my life when I thought that with enough faith, people could avoid the darkness of mourning. Then, I lost a son. I found out that grief isn’t a sin. It’s a useful emotion created by God and talked about in the Bible. It’s a process that has stages. If grief didn’t hurt so much, it would be interesting.

Compare and contrast the differing translations and paraphrases of Matthew 5:4.
Matt 5:4
Blessed and enviably happy [with a happiness produced by the experience of God's favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His matchless grace] are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted! AMP

You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. The Message

God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. NLT

Happy the mourning -- because they shall be comforted. YLT

• What is the difference in these translations and paraphrases?
• What do you think it means to be blessed?
• What is the promise to those in mourning?

Jesus often quoted scripture when He preached. Perhaps in Matthew 5:3-4, He was quoting prophesy from Isaiah 61:1-2.

Isa 61:1-2
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, NIV

• Think about the first beatitude, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” To whom is the good news in Isaiah 61:1?
• For what purposes is the anointing?
• What is the promise at the end?
• What do you think this scripture is prophesying?

If people live long enough, chances are they will have a turn at mourning. Many try to avoid it. When it is our turn to mourn, mourning is healthy. If we refuse to mourn, we won’t find the comfort we crave. There is an appointed time for everything and as much as we’d like, we refusing these dreary appointments aren't healthy.

Read Ecclesiastics 3:1-4.
Eccl 3:1-4
There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven — A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. NASU

• What comes after a time to weep?
• What comes after mourning?

Read the promise contained in Jeremiah 3:13-14.
Jer 31:13-14
“For I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and give them joy for their sorrow. I will fill the soul of the priests with abundance, And My people will be satisfied with My goodness," declares the LORD. NASU

• What is the promise?
• What will satisfy us?

The ancient King David struggled with enemies throughout his life. People he loved betrayed him and broke his heart. Always, he turned to God crying out his pain and then his relief. Read Psalms 30:11-12.

Ps 30:11-12
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness, That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever. NASU

• What happened to David after his time of mourning?
• To whom does he give the credit?
• What does David do in celebration?

Without mourning, there would be no joy. Let us take our turn and mourn when necessary, always hanging on to the promise that God will turn our mourning into dancing.

Application

Terry never seemed happy. She sought answers through therapy, 12 Step Programs, and church. “I don’t know what’s wrong,” she confided. “It seems like I should be happy and yet I’m not.”

One night, at a retreat, a group of us women began having one of those femininely typical philosophical late night discussions. The topic turned towards abortion. As women offered differing views, Terry grew pale and quiet. The next morning, she asked if we could talk.

We found a quiet place by the water and she shared her story. As a teenager, she had gotten pregnant. “I decided an abortion was best. It seemed easier. After the abortion, I got an infection that caused me not to be able to have children. I told myself it didn’t matter but secretly, I’ve always felt like God was punishing me. This is the first time I’ve talked to anyone about it.”

I held Terry as she sobbed. She finally grieved for her unborn child and for the children she would never have. She released her guilt and accepted God’s forgiveness. The last time I saw Terry, she was glowing. She’d married a widower and adopted his children. Her 12 Step program was finally working and she was addiction free. Therapy was no longer needed. Church became a blessing instead of a constant reminder of guilt. By surrendering to grief, God turned her mourning into dancing.

When we avoid mourning, we postpone our blessing. People try to avoid mourning many different ways, some of them deadly. For today, if it’s your turn mourn, wail and then enjoy the dance.

Journey to the Cross - It is Finished

Have you ever known when something was finished? I have. I remember the moment my first book was finished. I’d been working on Pocket Full of Quaters for almost 2 years and as I typed those last few words, relief flowed through me because I just knew.

I needed to tell someone so I called my sister-in-law, Susan, and said, “I just finished my book!” Technically, the book was a long way from complete. There were many edits and drafts and it wasn’t published until almost a year later but those were just clean up. I knew when it was finished. Finishing my book was the beginning for my readers.

Jesus' work was harder than anything we have to do on earth. He did it willinging and knew when it was finished. He shared it with the world by saying, "It is finished." The finish for Him was the beginning for us. The sixth message of the Seven Last Words of Christ is about being finished.

Morning Meditation

Read John 19:30.

John 19:30

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost. KJV

• Let yourself wonder what the world would be like if Jesus hadn’t finished.
• Quietly bow your head and enjoy what He finished.
• If you are struggling with anything, bow your head and “give up the ghost.”

Morning Prayer

• Thank Jesus for finishing His work.

• Ask Jesus to help you finish your work.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

Lest you think that Jesus’ words were a silent whispering, read Matthew 27:50-51 and Mark 15:37-39.



Matt 27:50-51

And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. NASU



Mark 15:37-39

And Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed His last. And the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. When the centurion, who was standing right in front of Him, saw the way He breathed His last, he said, "Truly this man was the Son of God!" NASU



• How did Jesus utter the words?

• What happened as He breathed His last?

• What impact did it have on people watching?



Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could get to the end of our life knowing we’d fulfilled our assignments? When Paul was close to dying, he knew he was finished.



Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8.

2 Tim 4:6-8

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. KJV



• What did Paul say he had done?

• What was he anticipating?

• How could he have such confidence?

• Why do you think he shared that confidence?



Often when the work of others is finished, our work begins. As the ancient Jacob lay dying, he charged his sons with their assignments. Jacob was dying and the work of his sons was beginning. Read Genesis 49:33.



Gen 49:33

When Jacob finished charging his sons, he drew his feet into the bed and breathed his last, and was gathered to his people. NASU



Perhaps more importantly, often when God finishes, our work has begun. While Jesus breathed His last breath, the disciples were being prepared to spread the gospel message. We see examples throughout the Bible of our work beginning when God’s work is finished.



Read Exodus 31:18.

Ex 31:18

When He had finished speaking with him upon Mount Sinai, He gave Moses the two tablets of the testimony, tablets of stone, written by the finger of God. NASU



• What did God do when He finished speaking?

• Think about what you know about the Ten Commandments. What did Moses do with them?

• How are the Ten Commandments being used today?



As you probably know, after breathing His last, Jesus returned to earth 3 days later. Before returning to God, He left us with orders. His work was finished but ours had just begun. Read Matthew 28:18-20.



Matt 28:18-20

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen KJV



• Who had the power?

• Where are we to go?

• What are we to do?

• What is Jesus’ promise to us?

Application

For 17 years of our life, my husband Bob and I ran a custom software development company. I was the Chief Executive Officer and Bob was the Chief Technology Officer. Bob was famous for asking the developers, “Is it done yet?” Over the years, I grew to understand that Bob and I had different definitions of done.



In the role as CEO, my definition of “done” meant the software was ready to deliver to the customer. When we were “done,” I hoped to hand working software over so the customer could “begin” their work with the software. I understood little about the nuances of the development phases but I understood finished.



To a Chief Technology Officer, “done” meant ready for the next stage of development. When technologists said the software was “done,” they really meant that it was ready for the next software developer to complete their phase of development. The final delivery of the product could be weeks or months away. Bob, who did understand all the nuances of the development phases, celebrated every completed victory as finished.



After being disappointed with software delivery timelines, I began teaching a class about what “done” meant. I found that if we communicated our definition of finished, everyone’s expectations were met. At our company, when developers were asked if something was done, they learned to ask what you meant by “done.”



The interesting thing about being finished with software is that the work is never really “done.” If a software developer has “finished” their task, the next software developer’s task may be just beginning. If our company delivered “final” software, our customer’s work was just beginning as they learned to use and apply the software in their business environment. As the customer’s business environment changed, the software had to change right along with it and often they handed the software back to us for changes.



When Jesus used the word “finished” on the cross, He was referring to His “pre-resurrection” work - the fulfillment of prophesy and the sacrifice He made for the sins of the world. He had other earthly assignments, which He fulfilled during the 40 days following His resurrection. When He ascended into heaven, He left assignments for us to fulfill during our time on earth.



Every earthly assignment we have connects to another assignment. When I talk to people on the streets of America, the words may or may not have a visible impact but I have a feeling of completion at the end of every conversation. I know that I am one small part of what God is working out for each person. God may have to send many more people and circumstances before someone surrenders to Him or they may never surrender. My work may be finished and someone else’s is just beginning.



The only thing that is important for us to know is our own personal assignment. We don’t have to know why or how it all fits into the grander plan for creation. If we don’t know our assignment, we can’t know when we’re finished. Each assignment has a beginning, middle, and an end. Like the differing definitions of “done” Bob and I used in the software world, perhaps our definition of “done” is different from God’s.



If, when I travel, I used a global definition of “done” for my ministry, I would be constantly disappointed. Personally, I want the people I meet to turn their life and will over to the care of God by the end of our conversation. I would like to see the results of the finished product. But alas, I’m like the software developer who has to hand their work over to someone else. My task may be small but it’s necessary. I may never see the results but I have to trust that they’re there. God is my CEO and His definition of “done” is bigger than mine is and it is the only one that counts.



What is your assignment today? Are you frustrated because you’re not “done?” Perhaps you need to redefine the word “done” and accept that your assignment may be smaller than you imagined. Ask God for knowledge of His will for you today and the power to carry that out. He will answer that prayer.

Journey to the Cross - I Thirst

Have you ever been really thirsty? When my nephew Bill was 4 years old, he made what we all called “The Bill Noise.” Bill could whine better than any child I’d ever met. He also could negotiate. One day, he said, “Aunt Cheryle, why don’t you take me on the trips with the other nephews?”

I said, “Sweetheart, you’re still pretty young. Besides, I have a couple of rules before I take children anywhere. You have to be able to swim and I don’t allow whining. You haven’t learned to swim and you love to whine.”

Bill pondered the words carefully and finally said, “I’m not ready to swim yet but I think you should take me on trips where there is no swimming if I promise not to whine.”

I agreed. The next trip we made was to Cypress Gardens in sunny central Florida. We were standing in line for a ride when Bill said, “Aunt Cheryle, I’m thirsty.”

I said, “I’m thirsty too but we’re going to ride first.”

Bill repeated, “I’m thirsty.”

“I know honey but this is a long line. We’ll buy a coke right after we finish the ride.”

Bill struggled with this news and paused for a few seconds. Finally he said, “Aunt Cheryle, I’m really thirsty and it’s making me want to whine.”

I hugged him as I said, “Yes but you’re not going to.” He didn’t whine and as soon as the ride was finished, we bought drinks for everyone.

None of us likes to be thirsty. When Jesus was on the cross, baking in the hot sun, his body cried out for a drink. The words, “I thirst,” both indicated his physical need and fulfilled prophecy.

Morning Meditation

Read John 19:28-29.

John 19:28-29
After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth. KJV

• Imagine Jesus, on the cross in the hot sun.
• Imagine the feel of vinegar on His cracked parched lips.
• Let yourself thirst for God the same way Jesus thirsted for water on the cross.

Morning Prayer

• Thank Jesus for fulfilling the scriptures and being our Savior.

• Ask Him to help you thirst for Him.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

If you read the above scripture carefully, you will notice that both the thirst and vinegar had a purpose and fulfilled prophesy.



Read Psalms 69:20-21.

Ps 69:20-21

Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none. They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. KJV



• How was David feeling?

• When he asked the world for help, what did the world give him?

• How was this foreshadowing of the cross?



Throughout the Bible, thirst is a metaphor for needing God. Read Isaiah 41:17-18.



Isa 41:17-18

When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. KJV



• What happens when the poor and needy seek water?

• The people want a drink. What abundance is God promising?



In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, He used the same metaphor of water. Read Matthew 5:6.



Matt 5:6

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. KJV



• What are we to thirst for?

• What is the promise?



Jesus is our Living Water. Read John 4:14.

John 4:14

But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. KJV



• What is the promise?

• Describe the water Jesus gives.



Perhaps the most exciting part of this Living Water is that it flows through us and on to others. Read John 7:37-38.



John 7:37-38

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. KJV



• What is the invitation given?

• What is the promise if we accept this invitation?



The people who crucified Jesus were His enemies and yet He offered them Living Water. We are to do the same. God gives us specific instructions for dealing with our enemies.



Read Romans 12:20-21.

Rom 12:20-21

Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. KJV



• What are we to do if our enemy is hungry and thirsty?

• What happens to our enemy when we return evil with good?



We look at the cross to see how difficult our world can be. Disappointments, loss, and confusion threaten our peace. Often, like Jesus, we cry out in agony, “We thirst.”



Read Revelations 7:16-17.

Rev 7:16-17

They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. KJV



• What will heaven be like?

• Who will feed us and lead us into fountains of water?

• What will happen to our tears?



Read Psalms 42:1-2 and offer it as a prayer.

Ps 42:1-2

As the deer pants for the water brooks, So my soul pants for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; NASU



Let yourself pant for the living God as a deer pants for water. Feel your soul thirsting for God and fill it with Living Water.

Application

While on my first missionary journey across America, I decided to walk a trail at Hovenweep National Monument. Hovenweep is the site of six Puebloan-era 1,000-year-old villages that run along the rocky cliffs of the Utah/Colorado border. I didn’t know it then, but the park covers about a 20 square mile area.



It seemed easy enough. I looked at a map and marked out a trail that led past some ruins. I thought about going into the Visitors Center and getting directions but it looked straightforward. While the terrain was rocky and rugged, it was also flat. The temperature was well over 100 degrees but it was late in the afternoon and hopefully cooling off. There were at least 3 cars in the parking lot so I shouldn’t be alone on the trail. I grabbed 1 small bottle of water and set off on my journey.



The first hour was lovely as I meandered past the multistoried crumbling buildings perched on canyon rims. As I passed the ancient kivas or Puebloan ceremonial buildings, I imagined the people that worshipped and lived there. I read the signs, hungry for information about this primitive society. I sipped the water slowly, hoping to make it last. I regretted not wearing my newly purchased hat as the western heat beat down on my head.



Suddenly I realized the trail should have only been a mile long. I normally walk a 20-minute mile but had stopped along the way to look and read so I wasn’t surprised it had taken longer. Still, I thought about where I was and realized I should have been back to the Visitor’s Center by now. I panicked. Where was I? I looked around but couldn’t see anyone. By now, the water was gone. I was hot, thirsty, and ready to be back at the car. Where was the car?



I looked at the map and calmed down as it looked like all the trails were linked. I wasn’t sure what trail I was on but hoped that if I made all right turns, it would eventually lead to something familiar. I was in a rocky desert so I could see for miles and the trail looked endless. As I trudged across the rocks, my hiking shoes grew heavy and in my weariness, I stumbled. I was thirsty and dreamed about the water in my small refrigerator. Why didn’t I bring more? I wondered at what point I would start seeing mirages. My head ached from heat so I rested a moment trying to cover the top of my head with my hands.



Ruins lost their charm as my need for water grew desperate. How had the Pueblo people lived in this hot, rocky, barren land? Now that I thought about it, I wondered what I was doing there. God, give me wisdom, I prayed.



I felt Him whisper back, You should have asked for wisdom before you left with so little water, no hat, and no directions. Or maybe that was my guilty conscious talking. I reminded God that He protected the foolish and felt His sigh as His hand gently guided me. If I’d had the energy, I’d have danced a jig when I finally came to a sign that said “Visitors Center” and pointed left. I still had quite a walk in front of me but at least I had hope.



I arrived back at the Visitors Center, after a 2.5 hour walk in 105 degree weather. I felt foolish as I gulped the tepid water from the fountain. Nothing had ever tasted so good. I reminded myself to drink slowly. Never again would I leave my car without enough water, good directions, and a hat. When I got to the car, I opened a bottle of the deliciously cool water and thanked God for leading me home.



Our souls long for God the same way my body was longing for water. In our search for God, we often find ourselves suffering on the wrong trail. Our God longings may be masked by our insatiable cravings for more – more money, fame, attention, alcohol, drugs, food, love, or what ever. When we get what we thought we wanted, it is never enough. A popular saying is that we have a God shaped hole in all of us where nothing else fits. We may try to put other things in that hole but until we fill it with God, we don’t get that satisfied sigh of relief that comes from relaxing into what our soul craves.



Today when you find yourself dissatisfied, forget what you think you want and assume that dissatisfaction is a longing for God. Fill that hole in your soul by seeking God. Follow the longing to the Living Water of the cross.

Journey to the Cross - Woman Behold

Have you ever heard Jesus say, “Behold?” The word “behold” means to “call attention to.” Maybe He said, “Behold!” as He offered the earthly help you needed. Perhaps He said, “Behold, your neighbor. They need you.” Were you tempted to say, “Yes, Lord but…?” or did you surrender to the heavenly command of, “Behold!”

I felt Jesus whispering that sweet word on February 4, 2004 as my son Chris presented my infant grandson Noah to his waiting grandparents. The words “Yes, Lord but…” never entered my mind as I stretched out my arms to cradle this long awaited child. Other times, the word “behold’ caries with it duties I’m not always sure I want to fulfill.

Jesus uses “behold” several times in the scriptures. As He was dying on the cross, He offered us seven valuable lessons. Today’s lesson is about caring for one another. Knowing that His mother was probably the one person suffering worse than He, Jesus looked at her and said, “Behold,” as He offered her a son to care for her in her old age. He then turned to a beloved disciple, whom we believe to be John, and said, “Behold,” as he assigned him the honor of caring for Jesus’ beloved mother.

Morning Meditation

Read John 19:26-27
When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. KJV

• Ponder Mary’s reaction to seeing her son tortured on a cross.
• Share Jesus’ compassion as He cared for his mother while suffering gravely.
• Listen as the Lord says, “Behold…”

Morning Prayer

• Thank Jesus for the privilege of taking care of His children.
• Ask compassionate Jesus what your assignment is for today.
• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.
• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

I’ve always told my children that their home is where they are and their family is who they’re with. I wanted to insure that no matter with whom or where they were, they always felt a part of something. I longed to teach them that earthly families are temporal and God’s family is forever. That was tested for me when my husband took a job 2000 miles from my earthly family.

A natural human tendency is to cling to earthly families. We’re tempted to give them the majority of our time as we make them the focus of our earthly existence. What happens when we lose every member of our earthly family? Are we without family? Is there no one to care for and love us?

In the book of Ruth, we meet Naomi at the darkest time of her life. She had lost her husband and sons and was sending her son’s wives back to their families.

Read Ruth 1:8.
Ruth 1:8
And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. KJV

• What did Naomi say to her son’s wives?
• How had her daughters-in-law treated her?

One of the women kissed Naomi goodbye and left. The other refused.

Read Ruth 1:16.
And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: KJV
• What was Ruth’s plea?
• What promises did Ruth make?
• Whom did Ruth consider her family?
• How had Naomi influenced Ruth’s spiritual life?

Ruth stayed with Naomi and cared for her. Together, they traveled to Naomi’s home, Bethlehem where they sought out Naomi’s relative, Boaz. In one of the most romantic stories ever written, Boaz and Ruth married. Give yourself a gift and read the short book of Ruth. When Ruth and Boaz had a son, Ruth offered the child to Grandma Naomi. Can’t you just hear the words of God’s whisper to Naomi, “Woman behold, your grandson.”

Read Ruth 4:13-16.
So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son. And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel. And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him. And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it. KJV

• How did Naomi care for Ruth?
• How did Ruth care for Naomi?
• What rewards did they each experience?

If we do the will of God, we are never without family. Read Matthew 12:47-50.
Someone said to Him, "Behold, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside seeking to speak to You."

But Jesus answered the one who was telling Him and said, "Who is My mother and who are My brothers?" And stretching out His hand toward His disciples, He said, "Behold My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of My Father who is in heaven, he is My brother and sister and mother”. NASU


• Who does Jesus say His family is?

What an honor it is to be brother, sister, or mother to Jesus but this honor also carries responsibility. Read John 21:17.

He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep. KJV

• What question did Jesus ask Peter.
• What were Jesus’ instructions to Peter?
• How do we demonstrate our love to Jesus?

When we care for Jesus’ sheep, we care for Him. Read Matthew 25:40.

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. KJV

Every act of generosity to the world, every kindness we pay to a neighbor, we do for our family member, Jesus. Every lonely, broken person is a sheep of Jesus. Every opportunity of service is Jesus saying, “Behold!” Can you walk by Jesus today and ignore Him?

Application

Susan and Fred never had children but they cared for Susan’s mother up until the day she died. “My mom is my child,” Susan often joked. When Susan’s mother died, Susan clung to Fred as she looked for her new purpose in life. Unfortunately, Fred had a heart attack and in a few short weeks, he too was dead. Susan was like a lost child without Fred but her nightmare wasn’t over. Her brother and his wife both died a few weeks apart. Over the period of a year, Susan lost every member of her earthly family.

“I’ve lost everyone,” Susan cried to anyone who would listen. “I have no one left.” God heard her cries, looked at a friend, and said, “Behold!” The friend held Susan as she cried and helped her handle the business affairs involved with so many deaths. This friend became the executor of Susan’s estate and her lifeline to sanity.

Another friend heard the words “Behold” and moved in with Susan, offering companionship. Other friends responded to the call of God by surrounding her with love. Now, wherever Susan goes, people encircle her, responding to the words, “Behold.” Slowly, Susan responded to the word “Behold,” and accepted the love of her new family.

How do you think Mary responded to behold? Her season of grief was beginning. When it passed, was she able to enjoy the gift given or did she cling to the grief and spoil the gift? I suspect that when her tears dried, she relaxed into the gift and praised God for it.
As you go through your day, listen for the word, “Behold.” If God offers you a gift, accept it. If God offers to make you a gift to others, accept His honor. Look for your gifts in the middle of suffering.  Be a gift to someone during their suffering. Be a mother, brother, and sister to Jesus and feed His sheep.

Journey to the Cross - Why Have You Forsaken Me?

Have you ever felt forsaken? Perhaps you were left “at the alter” or your best friend betrayed you. Maybe you bravely spoke the words of God to an unfriendly crowd or defended truth and righteousness in a world where evil was more popular. When the world forsakes us, it can seem eerily like God has forsaken us.

Morning Meditation

Read Matthew 27:46.
Matt 27:46

And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? KJV


• Imagine Jesus hanging on the cross, nails in His hands. What would it feel like to have the world’s fears, doubts, guilt, and shame on your shoulders?
• How would it feel to have your beloved children hate and reject you?
• Now imagine yourself at the foot of the cross. As the blood of Jesus drips on your face, allow it to wash away your fears, doubts, guilt, and shame.

Morning Prayer

• Pray for the lost people in the world – those that feel broken and forsaken.

• If you feel forsaken, let yourself pray Jesus’ prayer, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me? Listen to His answer.

• Tell God your joys, fears, and needs. Praise Him in everything.

• Pray for knowledge of God’s will for you today and the power to carry that out.

• Ask the Holy Spirit to interpret the scriptures you are about to read.

Morning Bible Study

While Jesus was dying, He used the words of the Bible for comfort. As He cried the words, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me, he was actually quoting the ancient worlds of Psalms 22:1.

Read Psalms 22:1-4.

Ps 22:1-4

My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent.

But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them.

KJV

• How was David feeling at the beginning of his prayer?
• As he doubted God, what did he remind himself?

Throughout the Bible, we see places where people felt abandoned. In their despair, they offered their honesty to God and He faithfully answered. Read Isaiah 49:14-16.

Isa 49:14-16
But Zion said, The LORD hath forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me.

Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me. KJV

• What did Zion say?
• What was God’s answer?

Poor Gideon was discouraged. He knew God had been previously faithful but surely, God had forsaken them now. Read Judges 6:13-14.

Judg 6:13-14

And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? And where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? But now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.

And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee? KJV

• What did Gideon say to God?
• How did God respond to Gideon? What was His promise?

Psalms 9:9-11 makes a promise and then gives instructions about what to do when we feel forsaken.

Ps 9:9-11
The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. Sing praises to the LORD, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings. KJV

• What does God promise to be for the oppressed?
• When we feel forsaken, what 2 things are we supposed to do?

In Genesis, God separated the light from the dark. He will do the same in our life if we allow His light to shine upon our hearts. Read 2 Corinthians 4:6-10.

2 Cor 4:6-10
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;



Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. KJV



• What light has God shined on our hearts?

• What are we to expect while living on earth?

• What is the promise we have in the dying of Lord Jesus



Troubles may surround us but we never have to be demoralized. We may not have answers, but God does. On those days when we are spiritually terrorized, we can take comfort in the knowledge that God has not forsaken us. The world rejected, tortured, and killed Jesus and yet, He rose from the dead. The same power that overcame death, will overcome our doubts and discouragement.

Application

Children can be cruel. As a child, I had problems with my feet. When every other girl was wearing dainty black shiny “Mary Jane” shoes, I had to wear heavy, ugly brown, corrective ones. My ankles turned over and I naturally walked with my toes pointing inward or “pigeon toed.” As my shoes clodded across the wooden floors, children snickered and pointed. As I listened to the words “pigeon, pigeon, pigeon” being chanted, I wanted the dry unvarnished floors of the classroom to open up and swallow me.



If that wasn’t bad enough, I also had bucked teeth. There was a gap between my protruding teeth large enough to blow bubblegum through. Words like “chipmunk” and “can opener” haunted the dreary reality of my school days and dreams at night. Each day as I left school, I couldn’t wait to reach the comfort of my mother’s sympathetic arms. As I cried out my pain to her, she would tell me how beautiful I was.



My mother did more than just listen to my cries. She took action. A little girl named Gloria was everything I wanted to be. Beautiful and dainty, she dressed well and glided when she walked. Gloria always wore a strand of delicate white pearls around her neck. I told Mama, and she bought me a strand of pearls and made sure my clothes were stylish and beautiful. Mama took me to doctor who taught me how to walk with my toes pointed outward and Mama and I practiced daily. Mama put a book on my head and encouraged me to cross a room proudly. When I was old enough, she and Daddy had braces put on my teeth. The corrective shoes came off at the end of sixth grade. In Junior High, I looked in the mirror and knew I looked as well as anyone else. I remember deciding to believe Mama when she said I was pretty. The world may have forsaken me but my loving parents never did.



Those difficult times in my early childhood taught me valuable lessons. I learned to see with the eyes of the heart. I felt compassion for those who were different and made a point to befriend and defend them. The wisdom of that pain led me to take the five dirty lonely neighborhood children to church, much to the chagrin of my parents. At age 12, I talked a group of my friends into sponsoring a foster child. We babysat and used our money to buy clothing and toys for an abandoned child. Our afternoons and weekends were spent visiting her crowded foster home, taking her shopping and to the movies, and making her the center of our world. That early recognition of the loneliness of feeling forsaken helped me recognize it in the eyes others. When I thought God had forsaken me, He was preparing me for His call in my life. Glory to God in the Highest!



Today, if you feel forsaken, cry out to God, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me. Then, like the words of the ancients, remind yourself that God never forsakes those who put faith in Him. Sing praises to His name and declare the works of God to others, always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.