Fill the Gap

I recently saw this post by TobyMac. We can post these words all day ourselves because they sound good, but the fact of the matter is there is life-changing truth in these words if we fully embrace them and strive to apply them. As a woman who used to be a teenage and college-aged girl, I couldn't embrace or understand this for the longest time, and would wish for a man to come into my life to fill the gap, fully convinced I was sold out for God. The scary thing is that in the midst of my personal pining, I realized I wasn't even close to allowing God to have the reins of my life, especially in that area. One day, it clicked though for me. I remember wrapping up the study "Lady in Waiting" with some of my high school ladies and thinking about how I would be okay with or without a guy in my life. I'm not saying this is the "magic formula" but not much later my husband entered my life, and I didn't even think we were dating, but hanging out! That is how much I had clicked that switch off, and had found so much joy and peace, and satisfaction in Jesus. No one else entering my life could cause that kind of joy.  

But after a summer of fishing, baseball games, and just late-night faith talks, I knew this guy was the one. He was attracted to my faith, and I was so blown away by how much he challenged me to dive into God, not into him. That's what made it clear for me. He didn't provide the joy Jesus gave me, but he complimented it. He didn't "complete me", but he complimented my relationship with Jesus.

You see, we try to fit so many different people into a role that only God can fill. We are unfair to our friends, siblings, significant others, parents, loved ones, etc, because we expect them to fix the problems and the gaps that only God can fill and fix. We expect people to bring us a joy and a peace that only comes from God. So for the rest of February, I would like to take some time to consider what it looks like to allow God to fill the gap you think only a human can fill. Or the ones that you may be already trying to fill with a human.

I want to challenge you to give it all to God. This sounds like your basic, Sunday sermon here, but truly, right now, write down the things in your life that are frustrating to you at the moment. The things you can't let go of. Maybe it's finances. Maybe it's a career path you want to be on. Maybe it's finding a spouse. Whatever it is, let's find ways to let it go. Let's consider the things God can give us that those things or those people can't.

Consider Ruth for a moment with me. We read right off the bat that her, her mother in law, and her sister in law had all lost their husbands in a land and people frowned upon by God's people, Moab. Naomi's son's had married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, and as Naomi decides to return to Judah, to make amends with God in her homeland, she urges Ruth and Orpah to stay in Moab, as she has nothing else to offer them, and knows full well that Moabite women would have much difficulty creating a new life for themselves in Judah. Orpah goes home, but Ruth insists on going with her mother in law, risking her future at getting another husband, living in a new land that didn't accept her people, and serving a Good that wasn't that of her people. Ruth chose to take a risk. What do you need to let go of in order to allow God to come in and fill the gaps?

Another powerful example from the Bible is when the woman came, broke her alabaster jar for Jesus, and anointed His feet with the perfume. This box represented her future, for they were meant to be broken at the feet of a fiance/future husband, as well as her wealth, as it cost much money of the woman's family to give this as her dowry. This woman gave it up for Jesus, showing that He was her Hope and future.

So the question that remains as we look ahead to this series, is are you willing to sacrifice your plans to God, allowing Him to guide you where He would like you to go, despite where you would like to go? As we move along the next week or so we'll consider how we fill the gap of our hearts with Christ, and how we do that, based on Ruth's story.

Scripture to Read:
Ruth 1, Luke 7:36-50

Questions to Ponder:
What is something you want so badly?
How can you come to a place of knowing that only God can truly satisfy you?
What does it look like in your life for you to abandon everything you have/want to God? (Whether than means that you can't place expectations on your loved ones that only He can fill, etc.)

Agape Love - He'll Never Stop Loving

There are days I feel like people will or want to give up on me. The swings of depression that I get are not only frustrating for the people around me, but they are a giant elephant in the room that no one knows what to do with it or approach it. The scary thing is I don't really know either. I just have to wait it out and let it slide by until I come out of it and wonder when the next dip will come. I continually think about how people could possibly continue to deal with me when I'm in those moments, but they keep loving me for who I am, despite the low times. And I know that God is always there, loving me through too. His love is perfect, and that is why agape also perseveres.

There is a song that goes "Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me...and on, and on, and on, and on it goes..." It is ironic because this song seems to repeat over and over, much like that songs that never ends. But that is exactly how God's love is for us. It goes on and on and on and on. It never gives up. Love endures all things, and God's love endures forever. (Psalm 136)

James 1:2-4 says "Consider it pure joy, brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." 

What this tells us is that persevering through any trial, even those in love, will not be in vain. Persevering is to remain, to not run. It isn't easy to make it through hard patches. Consider some things to remember when those times come:

- Lean on God. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to not trust our own understanding, but to lean into Him and everything will become clear. When we try to make sense of things, nothing makes sense. When we use our own earthly perspective to unravel the knots of the mess we are in, we lose perspective. When we consider bailing from our hardships, whether in life or in relationships, we are bailing on what God is calling us to do. If we can just remember that God's got it and simply follow His leading, we can handle the hardships with a little more hope.

-Let go of your plans. We all know that life never goes as planned, so why do we try to live like it will? We need to remember to allow our time, resources, etc. to be flexible. We can never see a crisis coming, but we can try to roll with what we can in not grasping too tightly to things, including the things we treasure most. The only thing this world can't take is your faith if you truly have Christ in your life. Cling to that like your life depends on it. 

- Those hardships won't last forever. They will feel like they are going to last forever or that they are, but we can hold onto the hope that this world isn't the end all. (Remember our conversation about hope yesterday?) We can look forward to a reward for our suffering. (1 Peter 2:18-20)

On the flip side of persevering in love, we need to remember to give all we have to Christ. There may be days we just don't want to serve anymore or carry on with our faith anymore because it feels like a lot, but we need to remember His love is light. It doesn't mean life is light, but He will carry you. A poem by Jill Briscoe inspires me as we consider carrying on in our faith without ever stopping. Half of "All the Way Home" below:

"Saw a cross alone, discarded
Lain at rest against a wall,
Who'd lain down such a holy symbol?
Who'd abandoned life's 'faith call'?

Then a voice so dear - familiar,
Asked a question - pierced me through,
Who is it that you're expecting
Carrying it home for you?

How could I lay down that crossbeam?
How to think that no one saw?
Who did I expect to lift it 
Carry it to heaven's door?

'Jesus, Jesus, please forgive me,
Carried Thou your cross for me,
All the way to hell to save us,
Help me carry mine for Thee!'

I'm no hero - special woman
Just a lady, old and gray,
But my cross, Lord, I will carry,
Home, Lord, home, Lord - All the way!"

Love endures through all things. No matter how hard something gets, persevere on. Nothing shows love to a hurting person more than sticking around through the hard times, shameful times, and less than wonderful times.

Scripture to Read:
James 1:2-4, Proverbs 3:5-6

Questions to Ponder:
Have you ever wanted to quit at loving someone, or carrying on with a hardship?
How can you rely on God in times that are hard?
How does knowing God's got it and has a grander plan beyond what we can ever see help you in getting through the struggles?

Day 131: Be a Light

Day 131
Judges 19-21; 1 Corinthians 14

Sometimes, it take tragic events or desperate hardship to realize we have drifted so far from God. It is up to us as followers of Christ to be a light in those dark times. Today, we will see how terrible it is to drift from God and lose loyalty to Him. Our awakening can be quite harsh at times.

The events of the last books of Judges are quite atrocious. Because of Israel's drifting and the morels of the world at that time, we see how incredibly wicked people were. When a person drifts, a country drifts, a world drifts, we lose sight of where our standards lie, and in time, our standards come from the person next to us, or the country next to us, or the group of people who are "worse than I am". Rather than looking side to side, think about looking up for your standards. Keeping your loyalties in God is the most solid thing you can do to anchor down.

Notice that the people finally started talking to God after this tragic incident. It took something like this for them to realize that God was missing from their picture - because of them drifting and losing sight of Him. Unfortunately, this had been a pattern for the Israelites as kings and leaders came in and out of the picture of their history. The whole situation with the concubine was insane, and the matter shouldn't have even left that community. Yet, it blew up and gave people a reason to go to war, so they did. Because this matter was not handled properly, within the bounds of the community it happened in, it got carried away across the nation. How many times do we blow things so far out of proportion, that rather than letting the process handle the judgement, we rely on our emotions and "right to revenge" work ahead?

The biggest thing we can take from this, and from the entire book of judges is that we need to trust God. When we drift away, we fall out of His direction, guidance, law, light...As a result, atrocious things happen, and we want to blame Him for it, when all along, we wanted nothing to do with Him because we thought our way was better. Let Him light your way in all circumstances. He is the Light that will drive out the darkness in this world, our nation, and our hearts. Be loyal to a God Who has set the system out before us and wants the best for us.

Be a light in your church. Don't walk in asking what you can get from the church, but walk in asking what you can offer to your church and do for it. We need to remember that Paul is writing specifically to the situations that were occurring in the church of Corinth. Many were view church selfishly and wanting their way, when really, Paul wanted the people to work together as one under the One Who guides them. Many wanted to offer their opinions and make the choice on who was smartest, most gifted, wisest, etc. How often do you want to simply "show off" what you're gifted at? There is nothing wrong with showing it off, but there is a lot wrong with doing it out of selfish motive, rather than for the sake of being a light for Christ.

We are all entitled to our opinions, however, we are not to let our opinions overshadow that of God's direction. We can talk for the sake of talking and "being heard", but don't talk for only for that reason. Offer light and love to those you worship alongside of. Remember back to 1 Corinthians 13 where Paul told the people that if they speak without love they are as annoying as a gong. Don't be that person. Speak with love to further the Kingdom, for the sake of the Kingdom and bringing people to it. Don't speak with hate and intent to draw lines in the sand and prevent people who are broken like you from entering God's Kingdom because you put the sour taste in their mouth. Be light. Offer light.

Look to the Light to guide you, and be a light to the people around you. Don't allow hate and revenge to take over the love you should be offering in an effort to further God's Kingdom. His Kingdom isn't exclusive, but available to all who want it. Make sure people know God wants them in it. Walk into your church thinking about what you can give, not what you can get from it. Change your view on people you don't particularly agree with and be a light in love. They are broken like you.

Day 126: Loyal vs. Disloyal

Day 126
Judges 9-10; 1 Corinthians 10-11:1

There is quite a difference between being a leader who is loyal and one that is disloyal. I'm sure you've had bosses that were both great and not so great. Today, we read about a leader who was disloyal to God, his family and to the people he led. We also read the words of a famous leader, Paul, who looks to his example in Christ.

Abimelech was a terrible leader. He weasled his way into leadership and then proceeded to kill 70 of his half-brothers with his trouble-making soldiers. Abimelech's younger brother, Jotham, managed to escape the attacks and shares some words about leaders. It is about more than the power and reputation - it is about being loyal to your people and to God. A leader who is in it for themselves, such as Abimelech will be a crummy one. Because of Abimelech's insecurities and lack of faith, he killed off his brothers and was disloyal to the people he was supposed to be leading. As a result, he was killed by them in a violent way. Check your priorities as a leader. Are you in it for your own glory, or for God's and the good of the people you are in essence, serving?

The people of Israel themselves seemed to struggle staying loyal to God. Again, they had fallen away. Again, God had allowed oppression over them so they might learn their lesson. Again, the people ended up crying out to God when they realized they needed Him. As we read here, however, God was fed up with them, stating these facts of repeated offense to Him. I think many times we stop and ask God "why me?" In reality at times, however, we need to be open to what He is trying to tell us. Perhaps you are hitting your head on a wall over and over in disloyalty to God like the people of Israel. Look at your life and ask God, "what do you need to teach me, Lord?"

Paul's words as a leader to the church of Corinth are pretty well laid out in terms of loyalties to God and resisting temptations. He even uses the Israelites from long ago to prove his point. (Talk about a crummy reputation as grumblers, complainers, and falling into idolatry.) Paul tells the people to be careful when they think they are standing strong. Temptations and ways to fall away from Christ are lurking everywhere. Paul wants us to be a unified people in Christ, working toward building the Kingdom and resisting the things that take away from that mission. He tells us that in everything we do, do it all for the glory of God - even in what you eat and drink. This may seem daunting, but looking to leaders who look to the Lord to walk with you through this life can help.

Loyal leaders look to Christ. Paul tells the people to imitate him, just as he is imitated Christ. Leaders who value Christ in their lives will first and foremost lead you in the way of Christ. They want you to look to Him before looking at them. Paul is saying here, I am looking to Christ, and so should you. As a leader (because you all are one in some sense), are you directing those who look up to you to Christ, or are you beckoning them to look at you? Loyalties that lie in Christ are ones that can't be shaken.

A disloyal leader will have disloyal "followers". A loyal leader will have followers that want to support them. First and foremost, however, our loyalties are to lie in Christ, as we strive to be good leaders to those who look up to us. Check your life out today, and ask if you are like the Israelites, constantly hitting the wall, and wondering when God will show up. Ask yourself, "what are you trying to tell me, Lord?" Then pay attention to the answer He gives you - not the one you make up in your head that sounds ideal to you. Be loyal to His following and fall into His leadership over your life, so that you in turn can be a leader for Him.

Day 120: When Emotions Fly

Day 120
Joshua 19-21; 1 Corinthians 5

Things seem so gray today, as we decide what is right and wrong. We do things because it feels good, or because our heart tells us to, or because we are so angry, emotions take over. Today, we'll read about how we need to stand up to our emotions and hearts sometimes and follow what is right in God's eyes.

Sometimes, we can get so angry at someone that we jump to conclusions about the situation before we hear the entire story. This is why cities of refuge were created. When someone does something offensive to us, whether it's something as serious as murdering a loved one, or standing on the wrong side of the political arena in someone's opinion, emotions tend to fly. Rants are posted on Facebook. People want revenge. They call names. It's messy in general if someone can't handle emotions. The same was true when someone accidentally killed someone in Old Testament times. In order for the person who accidentally killed someone to be protected, there were the cities of refuge they could hide out at until it was all settled.

Sometimes our hearts and minds tell us to seek revenge and hurt someone like they have hurt us. When people face judgment and need to state their case, it is important to create space for them to do that without someone talking over them or someone who is too on the warpath to listen. Sometimes it's time to back away and let the other side cool down. If it's an argument that you know you will never win, perhaps it's time to back away for good from that conversation and call it an area you don't agree on. Don't ever allow emotions to get in the way of common sense. Emotions will get you into trouble. Your heart and it's "feelings" will get you into trouble, whether those feelings are good or bad. Listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and rely on God's leading - not yours.

1 Corinthians today talks about a different viewpoint of emotions and allowing them to rule you over God's ruling. We walk through this world thinking we deserve it. We deserve to find love with that person, no matter how moral it is. We deserve to be "happy". We deserve what our heart wants right now, no matter how against it God speaks on it. Then we twist His words to say it the way we want it said so we are fulfilled and not ridden with guilt. "Since God loves me, He means to say..." We put ourselves ahead of God because we think this world will fall apart without those things we want, that person we want, that lifestyle WE want. But the God who created you and knows your heart and what can fulfill it is shoved out for what you think you need. This is a harsh topic - I get it. We can twist words all we want to make it fit our life.

Paul is quite clear here. If a person living in sin has no intention of turning, they need to be removed from the protection of the church. They are still welcome in the church, but their sin will not be endorsed, no matter how "right" they think it is. As harsh as this idea sounds, it's in the Word. God wants all to ultimately come to Him. A church family is not to applaud the sin and accept the open-mindedness, then pat themselves on the back for being so accepting. They are to be loving, but not supportive of the sin. We are to encourage each other to live with pure lives, repenting for the sake of our eternity with Christ and living in a testimony to the power He has in our lives. We are not to come to church, living the way WE want, by OUR rules, not seeing anything wrong with it, and insisting we get a say in how the church is run. We need to see our need for a Savior. We can claim we WANT Him in our lives, but we need to also recognize our NEED for Him in it, and strive daily to put Him there.

The other side of the coin here is we need to be open to the correction of trusted friends in our church family. Don't deny the sin in your life, then call others judgmental when they lovingly try to steer you. God is the ultimate judge, and your friends will warn you, but God can make that final call and surely will. Be open, humble and in tune with God's direction - not yours.

Don't ever follow your heart or emotions. Those tend to cover your ears, your judgment, and your eyes to God's Word. Don't twist His Word to fit your heart. Do the hard things of making necessary changes in your life so that God is put at the front of your decisions - not your feelings. This is hard and harsh, but remember what is possible with the power of God.

Day 117: Aligning with the Cross

Day 117

Joshua 10-12; 1 Corinthians 2

There is a different kind of perspective that mature followers gain by aligning their thoughts with the cross. The cross symbolizes so many things, like grace, love, and victory. Seeing those things and and looking at this life with the perspective of the cross changes everything.

Joshua was commanded not to fear as he battled. Many times as we go out and stand up in those battles we face, whether they are spiritual, physical, mental, etc., we can easily be crippled by our fears. Joshua was reminded over and over again not to fear. I can't say that I blame him for being so fearful, as the nations he faced were mighty, and he was beaten by less than mighty ones when Achan disobeyed. We can see that God makes anything happen, as He even made the sun stand still until Israel's enemies were overtaken. When we can look to the cross and remember the victory we have been given through Jesus, we can stand in confidence that nothing in this world can touch us. Even if we lose everything, we gain in eternity. He has defeated death itself. A cross-centered perspective gives you confidence to face whatever battle you're looking at. Remember His victory and know it exists in your life.

Recall back to when the Gibeonites misinformed Joshua so they could align with him. We read here that they were a mighty nation with very mighty men to fight. They knew they couldn't overcome the power of Israel's God. Thus, they became their servants. The Lord will fight for you. His power alone will bring nations to their knees.

As the Israelites conquered nation after nation and king after king, we need to remember that this was over a period of time (about 7 years). When we think we can overtake our battles quickly and get discouraged when it takes so long, we need to remember that it's a process. Since we live a a culture of the "get it now" mentality, we tend to forget that things take work. We need to work on getting our lives to where we want them and that takes time and experience. The same goes for spiritual growth and learning the movement of the Holy Spirit. We get to know someone by spending time, and that it also how we get to know God.

There is ultimate victory and unity at the cross. Paul indicates that Christian maturity will recognize this and all their wisdom will be driven by the cross and what Christ has done for you and for me. The conflicts that took place in the church are "foolish" as Paul states in chapter 1. There is a certain wisdom that Paul talks about here that comes from the Spirit. That wisdom comes from aligning ourselves to the cross and viewing this world and every conflict we have by asking the Spirit to guide us and seeing everything from the perspective of the cross. True maturity lies within that. We can't grant others grace if we fail to see the grace poured out on us and on them.

When we accept the invitation to allow Christ into our lives, we gain His Spirit in us to help us in guidance and seeing things the way He sees them. We can have eyes that see the things the world sees, but hearts that can see God's purpose, God's plan, God's victory, etc. We may not always fully understand, but His Spirit in us will help us to comprehend the things that happen to us a little bit better. When we can align ourselves with the reason Jesus went to the cross for us, we can begin to see the reflection of it in our lives and throughout our daily living. Allow His Spirit to show you the way, inspire you, and give you wisdom that is only from Him.

Align yourself with the purpose of the cross. Know that the foot of the cross is a level place, open to all who want it. When we can see beyond our eyes and begin to see with our hearts, we place a different kind of value on people and we can see the complete victory we have in this world, regardless of what this world believes is our victory, and regardless of what this world takes away from us. The world has nothing on the cross. 

Day 103: How We Love Christ

Day 103
Deuteronomy 10-12; Mark 9:30-50

As parents, we feel most loved when our kids listen and obey us. Good parents want what is best for their kids, even if our kids can't see why they need to follow the rules immediately. Truth is, the rules are made so that they will be safe and grow into a life that has good foundation. We read today how God is like a parent for us. In fact, God is the ultimate parent to us, not because of the rules He makes, but because of the care He has for us. He knows us better than even our own parents know us. When we choose to commit ourselves to Him, the rules come naturally as we strive to please Him and do right by Him.

We read that the Lord requires us to to do some simple things to show our allegiance to Him: To respect Him and His authority in our lives. To live according to His will for us. To love Him. To worship Him. To obey Him. It's so easy to complicate faith with the man-made legalism. We never have to jump through hoops to meet God. He is open to us 24/7, no matter how messed up we are, or how ashamed we are. He has already taken care of us through the sacrifice on the cross. We only need to acknowledge and accept it.

When we are most tempted to to disobey God, it is because we don't trust that He has the best plan for us. Trust that God will still provide for you if you give to Him. Trust that He will bring you exactly what you need in this moment. I think we get fearful to defend the outcasts and love those who are on the outside, yet God calls us to love them, specifically the outsiders, the orphans, and the widows. Learn to trust Him as you strive to serve Him. Start small. You aren't called to go big, but to simply love, even if it's one life.

There is great blessing in obedience. We may feel restricted at times by obeying, but in the bigger picture, you will see the blessing that comes from obedience. We are called to teach our children these commands, and permeate our lives with them. When we follow the commands that God gives us, we save ourselves a world of hurt and cleaning up in the end. We end up weighed down by our guilt and shame. However, in obedience, we are told in verse 8 of chapter 11 that we will experience strength.

As we read into Mark chapter 9 today, we learn about some of the characteristics it takes to be holy as we strive to obey God's commands and show our love for Him. One of the things Jesus teaches His disciples is when they were arguing who was the greatest. Jesus explains that to be first, you must be last. In other words, a heart of humility is a huge part of having a heart purified for Christ. When we make humility priority, we stop thinking about our situations, what we want, what we think is best, what we deserve, etc, and we begin to put Christ and others ahead in our minds. Because of humility, we'll stop asking ourselves the question "if I help that person, what can I get back from them?" Jesus shows this by placing a child in His arms and says how welcomed they are. Our love for those who are lesser will also purify our hearts.

The disciples also told Jesus that they had told someone to stop trying to cast out demons because he wasn't apart of "their group". Does this sound familiar somewhere in your life? Jesus says however, that if someone isn't against them, they are for them. Don't stop people from trying to find their faith and trust in Jesus. Obey Christ and allow others to as well.

Finally, in Mark 9, we read about cutting things out of our lives that drag us down. Jesus uses our body parts, like hands, eyes, feet as pictures of getting rid of the toxic things in our lives. We may have people in our lives that continually cause us to sin or question who we are as a child of the King. Those people need to be cut out. We may continually turn to something that we know is keep us from growing in our Savior. Those things also must go. Jesus doesn't want you to actually cut off a body part, but He is displaying how serious of a matter it is to cut those things out that cause you to stumble. Make sure that you are not one to cause others to stumble as well.

Showing our love for Christ comes with obedience to Him. We will fall many times and stumble over things, but we must continually strive to follow His commands and humble ourselves to be open to His leading in our lives. What is something in your life that needs to go? What is causing you to stumble and question who you are in Christ? Get rid of it. Show you trust that God's plan is better than yours by trusting Him with whatever He brings you. He truly knows what you need most and will equip you to face what is coming. Love Him by showing your trust and obedience to Him.

Day 102: Know Him

Day 102
Psalms 44-46

There is much reason to be on the go all the time in our culture. We have places to be, people to meet, errands to run, kids to pick up, drop off, pick up again, jobs to work, meetings to attend, chores that always seem to pile up to do...the list is never ending and overwhelming at times. But when we actually take a piece of our day to "be still" and listen for God, there is a whole new dynamic and attitude in facing the day.

There are so many benefits to making Christ the center of your day and learning more and more of Who He is. We are told to "be still, and KNOW that (He) is God" in Psalm 46. You have probably heard this verse over and over, but to actually apply it is another matter. The more you spend time with someone though, the more you get to know them, the more you trust them, and the more you reflect on the times you've had together. The same goes for getting to know God.

Know His Victory - As we read in Psalm 44, we read as the writer(s) reflect on the words of their ancestors, and how they spoke of the victories that God provided them. Upon reflection, we can take a look at today's issues and remember the victories God provided for us in the past, and know He is faithful for our future. Being still and knowing His heart and His longing for good in our lives will give us a heart that trusts Him more deeply each day and through each storm we face.

Know His Attributes - The writer(s) of Psalm 45 write poetry about the attributes and character of God. We can only truly know His character when we take the time to know Him through reflection, His word, and listening for His guidance. Take some time today to write about an attribute of God and why it is amazing to you.

Be Still and Know Him
There are so many things we get by simply being still day to day and learning Who God is. We gain so much from that time and realize so many things about the realities of Who God is in our lives. We learn to rely on Him as our true security in times of the unknown.
We learn that there is truly joy in being close to God because He has given us every reason to be joyful in this life.
We learn that He is our complete protection, as we face the storms, the people who taunt us, the questions we ask ourselves in lack of confidence.
We also learn that He is a peace that passes all understanding, especially in times where being at peace is not a "natural response".

Be still and know that He is God. Your day will be faced with reassurance of Whose you are, and direction on Who to follow in times of the unknown. Open your Word. Open your heart. Open your ears. Be still and know Who your God is in a world of chaos and busyness.

Day 99: Leadership Qualities

Day 99
Deuteronomy 1-3; Mark 7

As we dive into Moses' final words and the book of Deuteronomy, we can see the qualities that made him a great leader. The words Moses shares shows who he is and how he valued God's direction in his life and in leading the people. Jesus also has some things to say and show about what a good leader has and values.

Moses opens his sermon with a reflection on where the people had been, remembering the hardships and the victories God gave them. While reliving hardships and battles we have faced can be a hard thing to do, it can also give us hope for conquering what is up ahead and remembering the God can take care of things there too. A good leader remembers what God has done for them and they know God will provide ahead, as well as empower people to feel that confidence in God as well, encouraging them to remember there is hope.

Moses continues on, remembering the heavy load he had in managing the people. It was then he learned that a good leader delegates and finds other good leaders to help them. A good leader can pick out great traits in others that make up a good, honest leader. In doing so, more is accomplished with less struggle. A good leader communicates clearly what needs to be done and allows other leaders to grab the reigns without feeling like the need to micromanage. When there is lack of communication, that is when micromanaging tends to happen.

Other traits of a leader are listed off as Moses explains. Well-respected. Wise. Understanding. Those who lead well can understand where a person is coming from, or at least strive to understand. They take the time to listen and know the struggles and needs. Some of the leaders that were appointed were judges and had to have good discernment and fairness. They needed thick skin, as Moses mentions, "don't be afraid of anyone's anger, for the decision you make is God's decision." (1:17) Leaders also know when things are over their heads and need a little extra guidance, as Moses had told them to bring difficult cases to him.

Good, Godly leaders know that their secret weapon is the Lord. They rely on His wisdom and guidance through every hard and easy thing. Moses recalls the victories they had over what seemed impossible. Leaders seem fearless because they know that God will fight for them if it is His will. Their strength comes from God, not of themselves. Managing people and hard things seems impossible, but we have a God Who can accomplish the impossible. Leaders remember this and handle the hard stuff through Christ.

Jesus displays what a good leader is all throughout His ministry. Though His way isn't the world's way, it is the best way. One of the key things Jesus displays here is having a pure heart. A heart that puts God's Word and ways ahead of traditions and what the world tells you to do. We see that there were religious leaders who ultimately crucified Christ because His ways didn't match theirs. Don't be that leader - who is so focused on what you want and what is convenient for you, that you fail to see what God's mission is for you.

A good leader also sees the needs people have, no matter who they are. Jesus helps a Gentile woman, even though He says it is right to help His own people first, the Jews. The woman replies humbly, knowing that Jesus has even enough for her to heal her daughter. Jesus sees the need and replies her daughter is healed. We can also get so caught up in our passions and what is immediately near us, that we forget there is need outside of our circles. Jesus proves this is important here. This woman pursues what she knows to be true whole-heartedly and Jesus respects that.

A good, Godly leader first and foremost, follows God. They realize their need for Him, and they strive to lead in such a way that honors Him. The entire Word of God is filled with leadership qualities and ways you can pursue Christ in leading others. Leaders get their strength from Him and can delegate tasks to others without micromanaging the scene. Clear communication and vision make up a great leader as well, and can keep you from micromanaging. We can learn from the best in the Bible, such as Moses, and the greatest yet in Jesus. Strive to be a leader that puts Christ first and that gives Him the glory in all of your accomplishments. 

Day 97: Community

Day 97
Numbers 32-34; Mark 6:1-29

There is something about community that draws people in. When you find a group of people or a person that you can put faith and trust in, that is a blessing indeed. We were created to be in community with others and with God.

As we continue to read about the community of people that worked and worked their way towards the Promised Land, we can sense the community that God had formed in giving them duties and tasks to carry out in service to each other and to Him. We read how the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh wanted to claim land on the other side of the Jordan river (opposite of the Promised Land). While Moses was skeptical and wondered if they were trying to get out of the work of fighting for the Promised Land, the people assured him that they simply wanted to settle and get situated in safety. There is something very important about having safety within a community. When you are vulnerable, whether it is physically, emotionally, or spiritually vulnerable, having that safety and reassurance that you won't be judged is huge. It is hard to really open up and grow withing a trusted community if you are always under attack or worried what you say will come back to haunt you. If you are in a small group, encourage safety as priority. Make sure you have a group you can trust and keep you safe.

Set boundaries for yourself as well, as we read that the land was broken up in Numbers 34. This was a job for Moses, but he delegated much of the work that was laid out to him. A group of people that doesn't let you work alone is to be treasured. They help you and take direction well, not feeling bossed, but empowered to be apart of something big. Give yourself clear boundaries so you are not over-worked or stressed by the list of things you have to do. However, say "no" when you need to. A good community will help you see those flaws in your boundaries and help you improve. 

We also read as the writings of Numbers reflects back to all the places the people had been. Each of these places carried memories, whether good or bad, that created a lesson and growth for them as a people and community. While there are new generations in the time we are reading of this community, the lessons are still there. This is why it is important to reflect back and see what the Lord has done for you, especially if you are a family or community. I rely heavily on one of the groups I'm apart of in my church, an outreach team that visits the Dominican Republic each year. While we have been an intact group, that forms differently over the year, we still laugh at memories we've shared and remember what we have learned from experiences. We learn each other's temperaments and weaknesses and encourage one another based on what we know. Looking back is important. Though we aren't to dwell there, we can continually take lessons from there and remember how powerful our God is.

When Jesus sent out His disciples, He told them to bring nothing. Nothing except someone to go with. He sent them off two by two to do ministry and service. When we can face things with another person, we can encourage each other. There is a reason Jesus sent them out together, and wants us to work together. So rather than going it alone and facing challenges by yourself, find someone you can rely on to encourage you, and someone you can encourage. You will face rejection, like Jesus did in Nazareth. People will underestimate you and tear you down. Find a person that can appreciate you for who you are and see the gifts you have to offer. Allow them to encourage you to keep going.

King Herod actually respected John the Baptist, even though he told him to leave his adulterous relationship with Herodias. While this advice was valid, Herod still respected him, as Herodias wanted John dead, and Herod wouldn't let her. But because of a bad vow and a reputation to be upheld, King Herod allowed John to be beheaded. We need to be careful to listen to the advice of those we trust, so we are not caught in a trap that separates us from what God intends. Not only listen to advice, but heed it, if it is Godly advice. Allow the people you respect to have a say in what you do.

Community is a huge part of your Christian walk. Surround yourself with trust-worthy people who strive to serve and grow in Christ. It is important to know you are not alone in  your worries and your frustrations as you walk through this life. Reflect back on how God has used people to grow you and be sure to be poured into and pour into others as well.
 

Day 94: Take Initiative

Day 94
Numbers 26-28; Mark 5:1-20

There are times we like to just sit back and watch God's work happen around us. While there are times for this, there are also times for taking the initiative and following what God leads us to do. As we dive in today and read about different times initiative was taken throughout the Bible.

Moses was a leader who truly took initiative. If you recall from the beginning of Moses' story, not only in leadership, but in life, you read how his life was spared because his mother took a risk and put him in a basket, and then Pharaoh's daughter took initiative and picked him up. Even in Moses' leadership, it was small steps of initiative and risks that led him to one of the greatest leaders under God's direction. Now, as Moses continues to deal with the people's complaints, and land distributions, and the census, and complex requests, we can see how much he has grown since the burning bush left him shaken and questioning God's decision in his leadership to lead the people out of Egypt.

Again, we see how well Moses follows up and follows God's guidance when the fatherless daughters step out and take their own initiative to claim land for their family. Moses uses great wisdom in bringing the request before God and following through with the request. The women take great initiative in simply asking, and it pays off. Not taking the initiative to simply ask can cause you to lose out on things or opportunities at times. Take initiative as a good follower and a good leader.

As Moses nears the end of his life and reign as the leader of the people, he passes his title onto another initiative-taker in Joshua, as God tells him to do. Rather than Moses being bitter about God not allowing him to enter the Promised Land, He asks God to choose the leader who will lead the people well. This is a sign of true maturity. Could you be a leader who looks after the interest of your people rather than being bitter about not getting what you think you're entitled to?

Jesus takes huge initiative when he enters the land of Gerasenes, where a demon-possessed man roamed the caves and couldn't be restrained. Talk about a creepy scene. I think I would have been in the boat with the rest of the disciples, staring with my mouth wide open, wondering what in the world Jesus was doing. Yet we see Jesus take initiative and care for this man. He got out of the boat and healed the man, casting his thousands of demons into a herd of pigs. Taking this initiative caused a huge witness for Jesus and His ministry throughout this area. When you step out and take a risk, it can send ripples.

Are you more apt to play it safe rather than take initiative at times? It is hard to step out and take a risk, but when you do, it can change a life and cause a great witness for Who Christ is in your life and Who He can be for others. Be mature enough to step up to the plate and allow God's glory to shine through, rather than yours. Do what is best for those you lead, rather than trying to accomplish your own agenda. Take initiative for Christ. Step out and step up.

Day 85: All You Need to Know

Day 85

Numbers 8-9; 2 Thessalonians 1

In a culture that is constantly on the move, we are always looking ahead to what is next. We want to know all the answers to where our troubles will lead us, or know the next turn to take in our lives, or simply know all the answers to what God is doing. We live, wanting to hold a spotlight in order to see what is way up ahead, and judge others in what we see now, but God is more of a candle guy. He knows what we need to know as far as a candle can shine, not a spotlight.

I found it interesting when the men approached Moses and asked if they could celebrate Passover since they had made themselves unclean by touching a body.  Moses, approaching the Lord to ask Him instructions, learns what they are to do. It makes it seem so simple as we read this, to ask God what we should do in a certain situation. He doesn’t always answer so clearly as He did to Moses. One thing we should keep in mind though is that when we ask God for something or for direction, He may hesitate on answering because He wants us to learn along the way, growing us more deeply in Him. Other times, like this instance with Moses, He’ll answer right away because He knows we need to know right away. It’s all about having faith day to day and step by step in keeping our eyes on Him.

The cloud we read about that directed the people where to go when also seems like it came in handy in knowing God’s direction. The people only knew day by day though, if they would move or if they would stay put.  As a type A person, I always like to know what is coming. When am I traveling? Where am I going? I like to pack my bag in preparation of it and know what I will need. The people didn’t quite get that. They would see day to day where they would be. I think this is important because God has a reason for that. We often ask God to lead us where He wants us and show us what is ahead, but it seems like we hardly ever pray for Him to use us here and now, content in where He has put us. The people here had to rely on the day to day, rather than know where they would be later.  It took them 40 years to finally reach the Promised Land.  God had a reason for it.

It is best to face hardships in the same way at times too. We read Paul’s encouragement to the people of Thessalonica in his second letter to them, as they are facing persecution and hardship. Paul reminds the people of Christ’s return someday and His judgment on those who persecute. We seem to want justice NOW, and answers NOW, and relief NOW, but God doesn’t always work that way. If our faith is in Him and we can truly say “I trust You, Lord,” then we can have confidence that one day we will. Have hope in that. Today may be hard. This life may be hard. But God’s plan is much bigger than the depths of our mind. He is doing great things in the midst of your struggle. 

Paul reminds us to keep doing the good things our faith prompts us to do, and says he prays that the believers follow a life that is worthy of Christ’s calling. Honor comes when we live lives in complete faith towards Him. This doesn’t mean we’re not proactive with our faith, or that we are lazy stating God will take care of it all, but it means we live a life that is open to His leading, trusting that He will handle the judgment of our enemies and the steps of our lives.

Are you someone that needs to know what is up ahead in life? I know I like to be prepared having all I need for what is to come, but God doesn’t always work in that way. We like to hold a spotlight to see what is coming, but God gives us a candle so we know what we need to know now. Jill Briscoe said “If you know Christ, then you know all you need to know.”  Live life like you’re holding a candle in front of you, trusting that God will give you all the answers when you need them. Stay alert in His Word and leading. You know all you need to know.

Day 79: Rules of Freedom

Day 79:

Leviticus 26-27; 1 Thessalonians 1

I think we all go through times in life where certain rules feel unfair or we just are plain annoyed by them. As kids, we probably didn't care for some of the rules our parents put into place, but as we get older, we can begin to understand why we have or had rules (hopefully). If you think of rules from the standpoint of a competitive sport, you know they are necessary. Without the rules, it would be a free-for-all, chaotic mess. People would get hurt and the game itself would essentially go nowhere. Life is similar to that because of the "rules" God sets out. 

God didn't set rules to cast a cloud over us or make us feel constrained. In fact, God set the rules for His people because He loves them, and doesn't want to see the consequences of their actions ruin the rest of their lives. He knows the path you will go down and where it will lead you. If you truly know in your heart that God wants what is best for you, then following the rules will come naturally and with ease.

God lays out very clearly what will happen when the people fall away from Him. We can view this as a punishment from God, or we can view it as the consequences of OUR own choices, despite the warnings from God. (Remember when I mentioned that He knows what will happen down the path we take?) This happens today. We make a choice, despite the warnings, and we end up angry at God. (By the way, there is nothing wrong with being angry with God, but blaming Him is another story.) Our actions put us there, yet we think it's God's fault. Believe, believe, believe that God wants what is best for you. All His plans are good and His ways are good. His thoughts are higher. 

It is very evident from the way we read this section of scripture in Leviticus, that we WILL break the rules and fall out of line with God's will in our lives. However, we also read that God has redeemed us and has welcomed us back when we decide to turn around back to Him. His grace and love are always ready to have us back.

Rules can actually empower and cause you to thrive. As we jump into 1 Thessalonians, we read how the church was a model one in Thessalonica. The people from all over looked up to it. Because the people had received the message of Good News and actually carried it out, following God's leading with obedience, they thrived. Even though the people had suffered for their work in Christ, they didn't turn. (vs. 6) Rather than blaming God with their sufferings, they "received the message with joy, despite the severe suffering it caused. As a result of their obedience through that suffering, they have become the great example to all around them.

The people of Thessalonica knew the lean on Christ when things got hairy. They knew where they foundation was, and because of that, they endured the storms of persecution. It is important to know who's rules you choose to play by. You can play by the world's rules and have acceptance in this world for your lifetime, or you can play by God's rules that never change, and have the only acceptance you need now and for eternity. This proves, however, that even if you follow the rules Christ gives, it doesn't mean life will become easier. It just means you know what source you're turning to.

There is freedom in the rules. Seems contradictory, but if you really think about it, not having rules would lead to chaos and no direction. A game of football (or Monopoly for you non-sporty people) wouldn't make sense without the rules. Life is the same way. However, you choose who's rules you play by. You can conform to all of the ways of this world, experiencing it for a lifetime, or you can be transformed by Christ and His Word, and have that acceptance for this life and eternity. Life won't be any easier either way, but your foundation will sure be different depending on which way you go.

Day 74: Truly Trust

Day 74:

Psalms 33-35

There's a song that I fell in love with awhile back that I first heard on our local Christian radio station called "Trust in You" by Lauren Daigle. If you haven't heard it, or want to hear it again, check it out here. This song reminded me to not get bent out of shape when my type A personality wanted to kick in and try to control everything. (Have you ever tried controlling a two-year old?!?) There is something peaceful and reassuring about David's writings today, as we read his words about the Lord. On the other hand, there is something scary and eerie if you're reading those words and are not a Christ-follower. It is clear here that putting our trust and love into earthly things will result in the ultimate falling away. Yet, putting our trust and love into Christ will result in the ultimate satisfaction. 

There is a lot in our readings today about trusting in Christ alone and hoping in Him alone. I have to admit, that even though I worry about things, I don't worry as much now as I used to years ago. Christ moved deeply in my world as He put me to such an earth-shattering test. All I could do was trust Him in that moment, as my life was in the hands of others. Not to mention, I had a two-week old at the same time. Since then, I've learned that exclusive trust in Christ is all I need. I adore my family. I am in love with my husband. I love my job. I am very fond of my life, but those things aren't "needs" per se. Christ is my need. The rest are what have fallen into place and He as blessed me with.

David had to learn to trust in Christ alone as well. We can tell from his writings how passionate he is about His Savior, and how deeply he professes the love and trust he has in Him.
 "I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces." -Psalm 34:4-5
While those times of trials and unknowns are some of the darkest, scariest ones we can face, Christ can free us from our fears. I experienced this. I felt and now feel very at ease with Christ as my light. While trials still come and things still hit, the joy of the Lord is my strength, and to that I have to look up and say amen.

How do you react when God doesn't lead you down a road that seems right? Sometimes we face things that are brutal and unfair. We have fears that we'll lose something or someone. We fear for our reputations. We fear for how people look at us. The opposite of fear, however, is faith. Do you have faith and trust that God is enough for you? Do you see joy in the midst of your hardships because you know that God will deliver you in the right time, allowing you to grow and be refined in your faith?

It is hard to trust in something you can't see. But look back on your life and take a moment to see how Christ has worked in you already. You CAN see Him and the evidence of His work in you. Trust that He hears you. Trust that He will help you. Trust that His plans are greater. Trust that He will free you. Do you display a joy to others around you that shows that Christ is indeed enough for you? This is hard, especially in the middle of a situation that you feel is hopeless. Remember that Christ is your hope and His plans are greater.

Day 63 - Dwelling Place

Day 63
Exodus 39-40, Matthew 19

Jesus turned the tables on what it means to have an expectation in what faith is about. As you'll read here today, the Jewish people (and we) have made it about a check list and our own expectation of Who God is and what we need to do to come to Him. We make it about what we do and what we need to do, rather than what He has done.

As we wrap up Exodus, we read that the Tabernacle was completed and that God was with the people there. We recall how hopeless the Israelites were at the beginning of Exodus, but how God had delivered them and dwelt among them as they moved about the wilderness. Now, at the completion of the Tabernacle, they can keep God at the forefront of their journey, as they move when He tells them to through the cloud. Through their complaining and sinfulness, God still stuck with them and led them along the path that they were meant to take. It was about what He did for them, no longer what they had to do.

Jesus is continually leading the example of what it means to come to Him. As the little children were brought to Him to be blessed and the disciples tried to turn the parents away, Jesus contradicts them and says to allow the little children to come to Him. The disciples probably pictured Jesus as too busy and too great to care about children, who were to be seen and not heard. But Jesus uses them to make a comparison to who will indeed inherit the Kingdom, as it is those with faith like the children. They simply believe and have awe, without worrying about what they must do.

The Rich Man who approaches Jesus gets a wake-up call as Jesus tells him how to have eternal life. We read that it is not about what we know and how much we know, but where our hearts belong. This man obviously knew the commandments and was ready to check off another part of his list. But when Jesus tells him to sell all of his belonging, he is stuck. Not because he has the stuff, but because he loves his stuff. It is the one thing on earth that he cares about more then Christ.

We can try and try to earn our way to heaven and into God's favoritism, but that isn't how it works. It is about a heart of Christ and allowing Him to essentially "destroy" your ideas of a happy life and happy dreams and allowing Him to show you what He has in store. Giving up our checklists, our hopes, our dreams, our hope for a spouse, our relationships, our jobs, etc. will show us His heart. It is not about what we do, but what He has done! When we allow Him to live and dwell in our lives, we will experience His Kingdom indeed. 

Day 61 - Encounters with God

Day 61
Exodus 34-35, Matthew 17

We read about two very significant encounters with God today, and the effects that come with encountering God.

Moses, went up onto the mountain for 40 days to inscribe the covenant he and God made for the people into stone tablets. During this encounter, Moses had no food and no water, as the Lord provided all he needed in that time. One of the covenants that was brought up was that of only working 6 days and spending the 7th resting in God. While this is a very hard thing to do in today's culture, it is still extremely important. I can't even begin to tell you how valuable and necessary my personal time with God is. While it He doesn't only encounter us in the quiet times, those are some of the best times I've shared with Him.

Moses comes down from the mountain, glowing, after his encounter with God. I can see so much truth to how we "glow" after encountering God. I find myself longing for those moments again and again. My day gets off to a much better start when I have those times and I tend to "glow" more brightly in my attitude and demeanor throughout the day.

In Matthew, we see how Peter, James and John up to the mountain to be alone and again, encounter God. This powerful experience leaves the disciples trembling and in awe of the power of God. God gives huge credibility to Jesus, His Son, telling the disciples to listen to Him. We can take from this to also listen to what Jesus tells us through the Word and in His example for us.

We don't have to have a HUGE encounter with God like Moses and the disciples had. He can move in mighty, mighty ways in our circumstances and in the quietness of our souls. Jesus tells the disciples that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains! It is interesting to me that this comes after this huge encounter on the mountain. God works in the big things and the tiniest of details.

Having those opportunities for encountering God is a necessary and powerful thing. It is so hard to do in today's culture and with the busyness of our lives, but when you allow that time, He actually makes life less complicated because you are in His Word and have Him in your mind. Allowing God to help you plan the steps of your day and being open to His encounter is a major relief. Life will still come with the problems, heartaches and pain, but when you have God in your day, you can face it more readily.

Day 50 - Faith in Action

Day 50
Exodus 14-15, Matthew 9

Prayer is a very essential part to faith and finding out God's direction for your life. I am a firm believer that it should be a a major part of your walk with Him. But when we begin to use that "wait and pray" time as an excuse not to jump eventually, it can sure hinder the faith in action portion of your walk.

We read an example of this in Exodus as the Israelites stay put and pray to the Lord as the Egyptians close in on them. God tells them to get moving, asking them why they are still crying out to Him. If we wait around too long, too fearful to move in the direction God is telling us to, we can get overrun and miss out on a great opportunity. Because the Israelites had faith in God doing the impossible, they got to witness great miracles done by Him, and we read how much they praised Him for it.

There are many examples of this throughout Matthew 9, as people continue to approach Jesus, needing healing and help. It's the people who go to Him and take the initiative who experience His true power. The bleeding woman who reached out and touched His robe took quite the risk in carrying out her faith, and it paid off. She was healed and blessed because of her boldness and faith.

At the end of Matthew 9, Jesus points out how workers are needed to help others in need. Isn't that so true today too? I think many times we are too afraid to help or jump on board a mission opportunity because we want that specific "nudge" from God that we can keep changing the specifications of. We can sit around and wait for the perfect opportunity, or we can pursue and path and know that God will close the door if it isn't right.

God wants us to take a leap in His direction. We can sit around all our lives waiting on all the "answers" and the "specific nudging that we make the rules for," but we will be missing out on what God has in store for us. His miraculous ways are evident when we move in His direction and allow Him to guide us through the seemingly impossible paths that lie ahead. As intimidating as they may be, He will make it all so worth it.

Day 46 - A Good Shepherd

Day 46
Psalm 23-25

Even though we read Psalms 23-25 today, I'd like to take a closer look at Psalm 23, and see what it means to us today.

The Lord is my Shepherd
I have all that I need

How has God provided for all of your needs?


He lets me rest in green meadows, 
He leads me beside peaceful streams

 How do you find peace in the Lord? Reflect on something today that you could use peace from or about.


He renews my strength
He guides me along right paths
bringing honor to His name.

Where do you need strength today? How can you bring God honor with the strength He provides for you?


Even when I walk through the darkest valley
I will not be afraid
for You are close beside me
Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.

How can you remind yourself that everything will be ok, even as you walk through a tough time in life? A shepherd uses his staff to keep a sheep on the right path and correct them. How does this line up with what God does for us?


You prepare a feast for me 
in the presence of my enemies. 
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.

What are your thoughts on this section? How does this apply to you today?


Surely your goodness and
unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

How does sticking close to your "Shepherd" lead you to a life of love and goodness? What about in the dark times of life - how does this apply then? What reward awaits us at the end of this life for staying close to Him?

Psalm 24 is a good follow up to the end of Psalm 23, as it goes into who will truly see the Lord. Psalm 25 leads us into our everlasting trust in the Lord, even when life throws us enemies (whether that be in health, people, jobs, etc.). Repenting and remember what He has done for us and holding tight to what He will do will keep us close to Him.

Day 44 - Obedience in God's Timing

Day 44
Exodus 1-3, Matthew 5:27-48

As you recall back when we wrapped up Genesis, Joseph and his family were a high-ranked people in Egypt. As time went by, and rulers passed on, however, the Hebrews become intimidating to the Egyptians, and they are forced into harsh slavery. As Pharaoh calls for all the newborn boys to be slain, in hopes of controlling the population of the Hebrews, we see two midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, who take the high road in doing what is right to preserve the lives of the newborn boys.

Because of another mother's heart for doing the right thing, we see that Moses' life is preserved and he would go on to rescue all of God's people out of Egypt. God's plan in the small acts is something that can end up huge in the end. This mother's small act of putting her baby in a basket, turned into a big deal later down the road.

Once Moses grew, he had a sense of justice as well, when he saw the Egyptian beating a Hebrew, and he reacted by killing the Egyptian, then fled. But as we continue to read, Moses escapes and God comes to him with a master plan through a burning bush. Moses, being unsure, still obeys with God's help, as we will read later.

The theme of obedience in God's timing continues as we read through the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus state various laws that came out of Moses' time and puts a different spin on them. Rather than abolishing the law, Jesus makes them more relationship-oriented. We can see how timing is everything here and in Exodus. As a world takes on a Savior, the laws become different. If you are 5 years old and your parents give you rules about staying out too late, that doesn't seem to fit. You have rules for what applies at the time and in the specific situation. The similarity is here as Jesus speaks about the laws. After a Savior dies for us, the world became a different place in terms of how things were done as believers.

Obedience in God's timing can be tough. We want things on our time and we have a hard time when things change. But trusting that God has a plan in the timing scheme, can help us to see past our wants, and look deeper into the grand plan of His power. Trust in His timing and allow Him to work in and through you as He carries out His master plan!