In the Chill of the Night

October 31, 2014

“Don't let evil get the best of you, but conquer evil by doing good.”    Romans 12:21

Witches, goblins, ghosts and ghouls, mummies, zombies and a vampire or two will be walking about the neighborhood tonight.  Princesses, fairies, knights and superheroes will be there too.  The pumpkins have been carved, the candy bowls filled, candles are in the windows and the air is crisp and chilled.  As darkness falls upon the land the doorbell soon will ring.  What you give those little goblins can have eternal results.

For you see it might be the perfect time to remind them one and all; of the goodness, love and mercy that awaits them should they call.  The expectation is for candy, sweets and treasures to fill their bags.  For if nothing is delivered, your fate demands tricks and gags.  So give them what they’re looking for, but even give them something more.  Consider dropping a message in with the candy as you so choose.  To help them understand the truth the God will win and Satan will lose.

To them it’s all fun and games, and harmless door to door.  Consider that this night brings you thirty, fifty, one hundred or even more, to share your message with.  Take the opportunity to give them something that truly helps them live.  God’s message is clear and simple, every person needs to hear.  So when they holler “Trick or Treat” do not recoil in fear. 

Tell them of the One who died, and rose again.  Tell them of the Spirit that lives within their soul.  Tell them of the power and authority our God has, over life, over death and over all the lands.  Assure them there is evil in this world, but they are not alone; for in the end we all will die and stand before His throne.  That day will separate the good from the bad, and those who have refused Him will regret that they had.  For the real evil, witches, goblins and ghouls will be cast away that day, into a fiery pit of hell is where they will stay.  They had their chance to embrace His gift, but looked the other way.  Their choice was made, their path confirmed, they’ve met the evil one. 

So choose this day to be a light in the darkness of the night.  When little feet walk to your door, don’t be afraid to tell them “There’s so much more.”  You have the opportunity to bless many on this night, and turn the evil of this world into a morning bright.

God Bless You.  Halloween is just a day.  Don’t over think it.  Use it as an opportunity to tell them about Jesus and God’s love for them.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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Living Prosperously

October 24, 2014

“Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.” –James 1:9-11

When is enough – enough?  At what point does the size of my bank account, stock portfolio or income reach a point where it is absurd and disgraceful?  There are times I have prayed for that problem.  Just let me win the lotto, I’ll tithe I promise.  It can’t be helped.  The human perspective (in most of us) is to succeed financially and materialistically in this life.  The world’s view is hitting us from every side through the media, the music, the internet and everywhere else you turn.  “Buy this”, “Go here”, “Get away”, “5 easy payments”, “the New and improved” and so on and so on.  Who cares? 

We are under constant pressure to get more and do more and live more in order to demonstrate our success to the world.  I’m as guilty as the next person in line.  Based on my income I am in the top 2% of the world’s population.  Woo Hoo, look at me …. Arrogance, pride, self-righteousness and hierarchical thinking follows this constant effort to get more and do more.  Look at what I’ve done.  A little pat on the back for all of my accomplishments in life.  Really? –That’s what Jesus died for?  (you can sense the sarcasm, right)

Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with success and prosperity.  The bible tells us in many instances that God will make us prosper, be successful and live long lives.  What most of us forget to read though is the caveat to His word of prosperity.  “Follow me”, “live righteously”, “serve God”, “humble thyself”, “walk in obedience to God’s commands” – these are examples by which God promises prosperity.  When our focus is on God and His purpose, His kingdom and serving Him; His love and mercy will shower down upon us.  Richness is not in the material possessions, houses, cars, vacations or the size of our bank accounts.  No, richness is described in being One with God and fully embracing His word and His love. 

Nothing we accomplish in this world is of our own accord.  Look at your surroundings.  Everything is there because of what the Lord has given you.  We are so ungrateful at times and self absorbed that we do not even realize the blessings we have as we seek more.  Not a single thing in your possession today will you carry with you to the judgment seat of the Lord.  When that day comes it will be you, Christ and God; and the topic of conversation will be based on your acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and the fruit by which you lived.  Are you living to gain prosperity in eternal things or for riches on earth?  I highly recommend the former.  Live for the Lord and let Him reign down riches and blessings upon your life.


© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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You’re not the First

October 23, 2014

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” –James 1:5-6

Within the confines of my mind a war is raging.  Every thought, emotion, worry, concern and joy is held captive to the inherent sinful nature of my being.  I’ve heard so many times that the flesh is weak and as often as I hear it, it continues to challenge my walk each day.  The problem is that in my complete unrighteousness I am struggling to glorify God in my words and actions.  A wise man once said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” (Socrates) 

Who is the first person you call when you are having a problem in life?  Your spouse, your sibling, your best friend, your parent or another close acquaintance are going to give you another humanistic opinion on a subject.  Granted, they may have more experience in a specific matter, but they do not have the answer to finding wisdom.  We, as humans, have a natural tendency to solve problems ourselves.  We research the problem, discuss it with others and fret over it time and time again.  When confronted with difficult choices we generally look to our own wisdom, experiences and worldly view for the answer, when we have the power and authority of the Creator available to us.

God’s promises throughout scripture that He will be there for me.  He will be my strength, my comfort, my courage and my provider.  I have nothing in this life that I have not received because of His loving grace and blessing in my life.  When I am in the word and studying my eyes are opened to all that He has given me and all that He has for me in the future.  My problems don’t go away, but my mind is enlightened with the reality of where my persistence and strength will come from. 

Often times we question if God is really interested in my trivial daily problems.  The answer is a resounding yes.  The Creator of the universe, created the sperm and the egg that in turn created you.  He formed and multiplied your cells to the point you became a baby in your mother’s womb.  He gave you your first breath and He will give you your last.  There is not one aspect of your life He isn’t intimately familiar with.  What problem are you facing that God has never seen before?  Is there something in your life that will take God by surprise?  You can rely on friends and families for advice, but rely on God’s word for answers to life’s questions.  Seek Him and you shall find Him.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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The Purpose – Stay the Course

October 20, 2014

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” – Philippians 1:6

Frustration often abounds as we look forward with anticipation of what is to come.  There is often nothing but bad or disappointing news in the media.   Let’s face it, we spend way too much time listening to other’s talk about how hard things, rather than focusing on how we can make it better.  People like to complain, they like to tell of their difficulties and struggles rather than the goodness that happens every day.  It is common that people look for sympathy from others, rather than looking for areas where they can help others and be of service.  We move at such a fast pace in this life that we often times take for granted the hundreds of small wins each day.  In addition, we often lose sight of the purpose we are put here to accomplish and we lose sight of the greater good that we can provide in this world because we become overwhelmed with our smallness.

It’s important to remind yourself and those around you how big and how great our God is.  Don’t lose sight that you are working on His plan in this life and that you are called to serve Him right where you are.  It is often easy to miss the small accomplishments each day if you can’t get your eyes off of the negative around you.  God does not work on our timetable and although there are times we wish Jesus would come back today, He realizes there is still much work to do.  Paul reminds us in Philippians 1:6, that what God has started inside of us, will come to pass in due time.  He has not forsaken or forgotten us, and we need to be strong in staying the course, standing for His righteousness and glory, and spreading His love and message to those in need.  Do not allow the negativity of the world’s news influence the goodness of the Good News.  You are an overcomer through Christ Jesus and you are destined for an eternity with the King.  Stand for His principles, His truth and refuse the tolerance of unrighteousness perpetrated by society.  For on that day, when He comes again, you will be in His glory and serving His Kingdom.


© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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The Purpose – Requires Obedience

October 15, 2014

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10

When I saw them sitting on the curb of the parking lot, my heart felt compassion.  She had tears in her eyes, he had a look of desperation on his face and they both looked very hopeless, lost in this big world.  As they stood and walked into the restaurant, she went straight to the restroom and he ordered two glasses of water and sat down at a table near the door to wait.  His face buried in his hands, which were tattooed and covered in dirt.  Then came the voice in my head, “Give them everything in your pocket.”  Of course I think to myself that I’m just imagining things, so I try to rationalize it away: “they’ll just waste it”, “they’ll blow it on smokes or drugs”.  The voice returned, “It doesn’t matter what they do with it, the point is to give it to them because it is My will.”

Arguing with God is not a good idea.  His plan is always right and ours is often very wrong.  Needless to say I rose and walked across the room, approaching this young couple down on their luck.  As I neared them she returned and gave me a defensive look as he rose from his chair.  Before either could say anything, I reached in my pocket took out all of the folded up money in my pocket and handed it to the man, with the words, “God truly loves you and wanted me to give this to you.”  She started to cry, he gave me a very puzzled look.  Just then two others, similarly disheveled, came in and joined them, one carrying a baby.  I simply nodded and said, “Have a blessed day.” and went back to my table.

They took the money and each ordered some food, and took it with them out the door.  The young man though, turned and came to my table.  “Why?  Why, would you help us?”  I looked him in the eye and said, “When God tells you to do something, you do it.  He wanted me to give this to you, because He knows you needed to feel His love today.”  Tears in his eyes, he reached out and shook my hand.  “We haven’t eaten in 2 days, and we spent what little we had to get baby formula and diapers.  You have no idea how much we needed this.”  I shook my head, “No, I didn’t, but God did and always remember He will always be there to help and provide a way.”  He thanked me once again and walked away to meet up with his friends.

God is our provider, everything we have comes from Him and belongs to Him.  We are here to use it for His purpose.  We don’t have to understand the how and why, but we are called to be obedient.  I don’t tell you this story to speak of how wonderful I am, but of how loving and wonderful He is.  I can’t consider myself further blessed than to be used to enact a good deed upon the life of another.  Our good works are not to gain His approval, but are because of His love working through us.  He created me for good works, and if I am willing to be obedient and trust in Him, His purpose will be fulfilled in my daily walk.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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The Purpose – From the Beginning

October 13, 2014

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” – Micah 6:8

Why do we do what we do?  Why do the sins from our past continue to remind us of who we were?  Throughout life we are challenged to live righteously, with integrity, with truth and with humility.  We know this, from our childhood.  We were taught right from wrong, to be nice to others, to share, and to love.  The baseline for our character, our value structure and our moral position in life was developed from our upbringing.  So, where does the unrighteousness come from?  Why do we continue to push against what we know is good and pure?

It is inherent.  You and I are born in sin, not from sin, but in sin.  There is a huge difference.  Mankind was created by God the Father, who knows no sin.  Placed into this world with authority over all things (Genesis 1).  We were created to love, serve and worship God the Father with every fiber of our being.  Satan, the evil one, deceived mankind though.  His temptation was to convince mankind that they could be as powerful as God.  In pursuing this, mankind became separated from God’s perfect peace and love.  For there is no other like God in all of creation.

This choice, this weakness to succumb to the temptation of this world, has forever set an inheritance for mankind’s generations.  From that moment on, the seed of man would be tainted by sin and passed on.  Because Jesus Christ was conceived by the Holy Spirit in Mary’s womb, He alone was made perfect by the Father.  Through His birth, His perfect life, His sacrificial death and resurrection, God created a way for us to atone for our original choice to separate. 

By choosing to accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, we are choosing to walk away from the sinful past and the inherent nature of this world.  We are making a choice to accept that God is authority over all things, including our lives and that we are here for no other purpose but to serve, love and worship Him and Him alone.  All other desires and all other actions are for self gratification, which is sinful and evil in His eyes.

We are no different than Adam and Eve.  We must make choices daily to serve God or serve ourselves.  It takes humbleness and a desire to please Him above all other things. From our origin that is the purpose we were created for.

© Sondove Enterprises, 2014
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The Purpose – Help Others See

October 10, 2014

{Jesus to Paul} “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.’” – Acts 26:18

Salvation is by no means the end of the journey.  No, for that event of accepting Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord is just the beginning.  The journey consists of the daily effort to help and serve those around you to come to an understanding that God, through Jesus Christ, is the answer for them as well. 

Everyone is seeking something more.  Each day, we wake up and believe that today will be different than yesterday.  We judge our accomplishments in 18 hour windows, from the moment you wake up to the moment you lay your head down at night.  This is global, every country, every state, every village and every home; the routine is the same.   The problem that everyone of us is facing though is that when we lay our head down, there is still a feeling that more could have been done.

Saul (later converted to Paul) was approached by Jesus Christ directly.  A light so bright it blinded him temporarily.  He heard the Lord say, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”  (Acts 26:14) So, I ask, is that truly what it will take for some to come to Jesus?  A personal visit to convince them that He is real.  Jesus went on to give Paul his direction and purpose for the rest of his life on earth (Acts 26:17-18 above). 

We are no different than Paul, having accepted, by faith, that Jesus Christ is Lord.  We are purposed to learn from Jesus, through His Word, and open the eyes of those around us.  There is no limiter on this, no filter on who we should help.  Therefore we should look for opportunities to help them all – family, friends, co-workers, students, neighbors, strangers, foreigners and enemies.

It’s not a suggestion, it’s a directive from Jesus Christ himself.  Why then is it so difficult for most of us to take the initiative?  I propose it is pride.  Fear of confrontation, political correctness or embarrassment; which all comes down to maintaining a perceived image in someone else’s eyes, therefore pride.  Most of us who have accepted Jesus Christ are content with salvation and be done with pursuing Him.  It’s almost like a checkbox in our life plan, once completed we can then move on to something else.  I fear that is not salvation at all, but rather a convenient escape clause for death.  We should not be okay with the fact that our spouse, our children, our parents, our siblings, our neighbors, our friends and colleagues, our classmates and even the strangers we meet are destined for Hell.  Whether you like it or not, you have a responsibility to help open their eyes to the truth each and every day.

When your head hits the pillow at night, forget what you did for the company, for your social network, for your family and for your friends and simply ask yourself one thing – “Did I do everything I could for God today?”

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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The Purpose

October 9, 2014

“You shall follow the Lord your God and fear Him; and you shall keep His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him.” – Deuteronomy 13:4

Stand up.  Get off your chair and stand up.  Say this out loud, “I am designed for a great purpose, to do great things with the life that has been given to me.  I will not settle for what mankind says I can do, but will pursue that which God alone has created me for.” 

Why do we settle for mediocrity?  What is stopping each of us from standing up and pursuing that which is greater than any man made charter or man inspired dream?  I propose that we have become comfortable and settled for a life that is within our own control rather than pursuing that which requires us to be 100% dependent upon His provision.  I know this is true for me, and I’m guessing if you were completely honest with yourself it is true for you as well.  Here is how you will know.

If Jesus walked amongst us here in the 21^st century and came upon your house as you walked to your car.  His words, “Come and follow me.”  Would you expect that He would lead you to your place of work or school?  Would you hesitate and consider the cost of missing a day at work?  Would you struggle giving up everything around you: the car, the house, the stuff and perhaps even the relationships?  Would you fear how you will pay your bills, how you will provide for your family and yourself?  All of these would suggest that you are the one in control and not the Father.

We all want to have a greater purpose in life.  We all want to know what purpose God has for our life, but I suggest that most of us really do not want to know the answer.   For if we became aware of the answer, that would mean a dramatic change in our lifestyle and choices in life.  We lose control of those decisions and we are forced to depend on Him for everything.  We all know that what He has planned is much bigger than the comfortable life we have chosen to participate in, but yet few of us will actually step into the greatness we were designed for. 

Fear is what stands between you and the purpose for your life.  Fear is from man, not from God.  It is Satan’s way of keeping you from realizing the incredible freedom and truth that comes from truly serving God in this world.  I’m not suggesting that you leave your job, or school, or give up those things you have in life.  I am only suggesting that you carefully consider who you are, what are you afraid of losing and what are you addicted to in this life that keeps you from His purpose.  If you are serious about finding God’s purpose in your life than you must be willing to dig into His Word and seek Him in everything you do.  He’s not hiding it from us.  Most of us are unwilling to peel back the curtain and reveal it.

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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Finding Me - Day 21

October 7, 2014

Well, another year has come and gone.  Each one is filled with ups and downs, good and bad, and blessings that abound.  As I take a moment to reflect on my last year upon this earth I can truly say that the Lord has provided and shown favor upon me.  Sure there were hard times, things I said which I wish I could take back and days that didn’t go the way I wanted.  But, putting all of those aside and moving forward, I think about the great things that have happened and about the possibilities that lie ahead.

We have a tendency to get wrapped up in the negatives of life.  It’s human nature to dwell on the “could haves” and “should haves” rather than wonderful blessings that come our way.  Each day we gather at the dinner table as a family and thank the Lord for the wonderful events of the day.  We circle the table and point out the “highs” for the day (the best parts) and the “lows” for the day (areas that need prayer or help).  Each person must have more highs than lows, which forces our reflection on the goodness that each day brings.  It’s a little thing, but it truly helps us realize just how blessed we are each day.

Day 21: I Am Blessed
“Praise the Lord! How blessed is the man who fears the Lord, Who greatly delights in His commandments.” – Psalm 112:1

God intends for His children to prosper and be blessed.  He is the provider of all that we have and in Him we must be thankful.  For by His hand we are given eternal life and there is no greater blessing in all of life.  By His hand we are given love to share with others, we are given peace each day to find rest in His presence.  Find the way each day to reflect on all the goodness in your life, and do not dwell on the negative, for there is no value in that.

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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Finding Me - Day 20

October 6, 2014

What is the most important thing in the world to you?   If you had to choose one thing, therefore not a group of people, or all-encompassing object (water, air, world peace or happiness).  What would you say?  What do you think most people on the streets of America would say?  Setting priorities in life is difficult.  There are so many things we value and lift up in this world; including our family, friends, material objects and positions of status.  I think we would all be surprised if we asked this question to the masses, that most of them would indicate some person of importance in their life (parent, spouse, child).  Still others might indicate the most important thing to them is money or time.  But, how many would say that the most important thing is Jesus Christ and their eternal salvation?

I would like to believe that is how I would answer that question.  My wife knows I love her dearly, and would do anything in the world for her; so do my children, Grand-children and family.  My friends know how much I care for them as well do the people at my work.  But, they all know that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in my world.  I often find myself guilty of elevating ‘things’ above Him and must remind myself that it is all His, and I am nothing but a steward.
    

Day 20: Prioritizing Life
“He who comes from above is above all, he who is of the earth is from the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.” – John 3:31

How could there be something more important in life, more valuable, more treasured than the love and acceptance of the Creator Himself?  Tell me, who has done more for you than He?  Who has given up more for you than He?  Who else can give you eternal life, but He?  For without God’s grace and promise for eternal life we have nothing to look forward to, we have no hope for a future, no reason for life.  Take a moment today and carefully think through those things which stand between you and your relationship with God.  Yes, it will include people, material things and desires or dreams.  Now ask yourself one question; “Are you willing to walk away from all of those things to love and serve God?”  Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, and the others did.  When Jesus said “Follow Me” they left everything and followed him.

Prayer:
Father,
You alone are above all things.  You are seated upon the throne and we all bow before Your glory.  We are but servants to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Let us serve You unashamedly, without abandon and fear of rejection.  Let us be stewards of all that You have given us, and use it for Your Kingdom.  My hope is in You and Your promises for eternal life, which helps me overcome all fear from mankind.  Strengthen me with courage to stand for what is right and pure in Your eyes.   – Amen

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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Finding Me – Day 19

October 3, 2014

What if it’s all gone?
What are you going to do if it’s all taken away today?  You’re life is a compilation of people, events, actions, words and things.  If you step out your front door today and that all changes, what will you do?  I often find myself a steward of this world and the “things” I have, rather than a steward of the One who gave them to me.  I sit in my comfortable leather chair, head phones on, listening to Kari Jobe singing “Overcome” as I type this, and I try to take in all that He has given me.  I’m amazed at every little thing as I look around; the piano, the guitars, the dining room set, the appliances, the TVs, the furniture, the computers, cell phones and tablets.  The amazing thing is I act as if I am the provider, as if I am the reason we are blessed to have these things.  What is it that I have done to deserve such things.

A new friend opened my eyes this week to the possession syndrome we have in America.  We are driven by our accomplishments, our possessions and our pride in being able to accumulate success.  It has made me ask this one question, “If it’s all gone, who am I, then?”  I found myself realizing that I am driven, I am dependent upon and I am addicted to the things and people around me.  I cannot imagine if today I lost my home, my family, my job, my vehicles and possessions.  I cannot fathom what this life would be like if it were all gone and I stood alone with absolutely nothing to my name, and that scares me.

It scares me because it makes me realize that I am bound by worldly things and less by heavenly things.  Do I truly believe that God is all I need? 

Day 19: I Am Bound
“Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshiped.  He said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”” – Job 1:20-21

God is our provider and has given you and I the blessings we have around us.  Everything you have is because He has given you the capability, the talent, the wisdom to achieve in life.  Satan has made us arrogant, prideful and possessive.  He uses our pride and our success to drive us to be satisfied and dependent on worldly possessions.  We must all realize that we are only here as servants of the most High God Almighty.  Being in His presence, enveloped in His Holy Spirit is sufficient and satisfying.  Take it all away, and discover who and/or what you are addicted to.  Will you fall to your knees and praise the Lord for all He is, despite all He has given you? 

Evaluate where you are with the Lord.  Right now, stop and lift your voice to God in thanksgiving for providing all that you have.  He alone is your provider, your supplier, your source and strength.  Do not take for granted all that He has given you including your very salvation. 

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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Finding Me - Day 18

October 2, 2014

I knew I shouldn’t have done it, but once it’s done, how can I take it back.  The reality is nobody saw it anyway, so what difference does it make, nobody got hurt and to be honest it’s none of their business anyway.  Yes, I’m guilty; and so are you.  Oh sure, I can try to justify my actions and make excuses for why I do certain things.  The truth will always be upon my heart and mind though, and that starts to pile up after a while.  Then comes the shame, the guilt, the feelings of unworthiness.  If you are like me, you can spend hours in self- judgment and prosecution.

The act is never as large as the impact.  I’m not talking about hurting others, either.  The smallest act of unrighteousness has the potential to weigh upon our mind in such a way that we convince ourselves that we are broken, worthless and discarded.  There is an old cliché` that I want you to think on today.  It’s been said in many different ways, but it’s none the less truthful in every sense.  “Character is not who they perceive you to be, it is who you are when no one is looking, when you are alone with your Creator.”  This week I was reminded that there are times when it is just me and God.  For there is no place I can go where He is not and He sees all things, even the unspoken and unfulfilled desires of my heart (Psalm 139:7)

Day 18: Guilty as Charged
“Who will bring a charge against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies;  who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us.” – Romans 8:33-34

It’s so easy to fall into the lie that our actions will separate us from Him. This is Satan’s way of convincing us that we aren’t worthy of God’s love, of salvation and eternity.  I strongly advise you to rebuke these thoughts and feelings.  Satan will consistently point out to us our shortcomings, our weaknesses and faults, with a judgment that indicts and condemns.  His strength comes from our belief that we must earn God’s love, when in reality we need only accept it.  For you see God put only one condition on His love and salvation – “Accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.”

Do not believe the world that tells you that you are unworthy of God’s grace.  There is no greater lie from the enemy.  The world will call you a hypocrite, and shame you into disgrace.  For, the world is the devil’s playground and he is fully aware of your weaknesses and will exploit them at all cost.  Stand firm then in knowing that you are a child of God; forgiven, sanctified and made whole through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  His blood atoned from your sins, and you have been made whole, despite your feelings of inadequacy.  He cannot provide another path for salvation; for Jesus Christ has provided the redemption for all sin, not just some. 2 Corinthians 12:9 tells us that “My grace is sufficient …” 

Prayer:
Father,
You alone are capable of loving me despite my weakness.  You have provided a path for my salvation, and have given me the sufficient grace to overcome my weakness and sinful nature.  I stand firm in my faith that Your love is unwavering, unfailing, immutable and everlasting.  I know I have sinned against You and I am not worthy of eternity with You.  I believe in Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord, and it is upon His death, burial and resurrection that I am made whole and am able to enter into Your presence.  Thank You for providing a way for my iniquities to be washed clean.     – Amen

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Finding Me – Day 17

October 1, 2014

I have never been a patient man.  By my very nature I have a hard time watching as things develop, I would much rather jump to the end and skip the difficulty and pain along the way.  Yes, I realize it is in these experiences and in these times that I am learning, growing and becoming stronger; but I really can’t stand to wait. 

It’s like an Easy Bake Oven.   You’re all excited for the fun to begin.  You make the batter, plug the oven in (and of course the light bulb has burned out and needs to be replaced), you pour the batter into the little pan and slide it in.  10 minutes go by, you push it out the other end.  Nope, not done yet – so back in it goes.  5 minutes go by, repeat the process – still not ready, back in it goes.  5 more minutes – repeat with the same result.  By that time I have completely lost my patience and I’m ready to throw that little plastic oven out the window, and put the cake batter into a real oven.  As I’m losing my temper, I see the joy, laughter and happiness in my 6 year olds eyes and realize she will wait all day long for her little oven to do it’s job, because she realizes that she’s going to put frosting and sprinkles on that cake.  As the chef, she is capable of seeing the end result and realizing that it will be worth the wait.  I’m still frustrated, but it helps me get through the process.

Day 17: In His Time
“Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” – 1 Timothy 1:16

It’s hard to view life in God’s perspective.  We are here for 90, maybe 100 years, which is nothing but a small blip when compared to eternity with Him.  I look at my life and struggle with waiting minutes, hours or in some cases days or weeks for something to come to fruition, when in the big scheme of time it is like seconds to God.  This world has created us to want things now, instantaneous availability of information and products have reduced our ability to patiently wait for things.  Yesterday, I learned that we all need to slow down and appreciate what we have, and what we are going through.  Yes, we want to pass by the hardship, the heartache and the pain on life’s journey, but in doing so we will miss the opportunity to demonstrate, to others, the strength and courage of God Almighty to see us through it.  Realize that it all belongs to Him, and that you are nothing but a vessel for His purpose.  He doesn’t wear a watch and just like that little cake in the Easy Bake Oven, you might have to take another lap through the heat before God looks down and says, ‘Now, you are ready for the frosting and sprinkles.’

Prayer:
Father,
Give me patience to endure Lord.  Help me to see life through Your eyes, through Your purpose and realize that You are in control.  Your ways and Your timing are perfect for what I need to learn, help me to dwell within Your grace and wisdom to see it.  Strengthen me for the trials ahead and give me courage to withstand the pressures I will face in this life.  I trust in You and release my burdens to You, knowing that You are the source of all that I do.      – Amen

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
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