Rehearsing God’s Mercy

January 31, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Rehearsing helps us remember.

When we hear the word “rehearse”, we conjure up visions of singing, dancing, or acting. A rehearsal is a preparatory event that is performed before the official public performance, as a form of practice. The intent of a rehearsal is to ensure that all details of the performance are adequately prepared and coordinated for presentation.

This Psalm is a timely rehearsal that help us to remember God’s loving protection and provision in our lives. It is a time that we reflect when God has shown His great mercy to us (Lam. 3:22-23). It is, then possible, by repeating God’s example, that we can begin to expand our mercy and our compassion to others. It is in preparing that we begin to conform to the image of Jesus (Rom. 12:2). We can begin to rehearse God’s mercy.

Rehearsing prepares.

In Psalm 106, the psalmist prepares the Jews who have returned from Exile by recounting the mercies extended by God to the nation of Israel. Can you imagine returning to your hometown after a 70-year absence?

Many of the older Jews had died in captivity; younger Jews had little to draw upon to refresh their memory of God’s love and provision for Israel during her glory days. Instead, they arrived to find burnt gates and broken walls.

Many would have forgotten God’s reason for allowing them to go into captivity. It was their habitual, sinful nature and rebellious lifestyle (v.43) that resulted in their 70-year banishment from Israel. It was the psalmist’s intent to prepare the returning Jews’ hearts and minds for spiritual revival—a return to God.

Rehearsing increases wisdom.

The Psalmist takes time to share with the returning Jews, the errors that contributed to their exile. Here are a few key learnings that are still appropriate for today’s believers.

- Confess and repent of your sins to avoid God’s judgment. “We have sinned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly.” (v. 6)

- Seek God’s wisdom in all your decision making. “They soon forgot his works; they waited not for his counsel.” (v. 13)

- Eliminate complaints about what you don’t have and express gratitude for God’s provision.“They despised the pleasant land, they believed not his word: But murmured in their tents and hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD.” (vv.24-25)

Even in Israel’s rebellion and sin, God never failed to extend His mercy and grace (vv. 44-45).

“Nevertheless he (God) regarded their distress when he heard their cry. For their sake he remembered His covenant and showed compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love.”

Rehearsing makes for great testimonies.

If we were to “rehearse” God’s mercy in our life, what would we write? Would it be similar to Israel’s history reflecting a life pattern of sin and backsliding? Do we see evidence of God’s love and mercy regardless of our rebellion and spiritual failures? Take time to reflect on where you’ve come from and then write your own psalm reflecting when and how God’s love and mercy was extended to you.

Satan uses our memory to evoke shame and guilt for things we have done that were not God honoring. However, we can use our past errors as our testimony to others about the saving love of Christ. If we now walk under the guidance and direction of God’s Spirit, remembrance of our life B.C. (Before Christ) should not be an indictment against us but evidence of the immense love God has for us.

There is nothing better than living in God’s A.D. (Abundant Dominion). Let us continually rehearse God’s mercy in our hearts and minds as we prepare for effective service and kingdom building.

Victorious Living

What I Learned in 2022: The Needful Thing

January 11, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Where did I spend my time?

In formulating my list this year, I began by answering the question, “where did I spent my time.” I considered the books I read: books on spiritual disciplines, strategic prayer, and holy watchfulness. Who were the people I included on my calendar and how was my life enriched by being with them?

All these informed my final selection of what I learned in 2022. And what I learned was this: The pursuit of God is the most important thing in my life. He is everything His Word says He is. He is Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. He is our Everlasting Father, our Healer, Provider, and Protector. And much, much more.

The pursuit of God and His righteousness really resonated with me as I read the Luke narrative about two sisters who had differing views on how to spend their time.

Mary and Martha

In Luke 10:38-42 (NKJV), we are introduced to two sisters, Mary and Martha. We are given a snapshot of how each chooses to “spend their time with Jesus.” As you read this text, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal who you most resemble.

Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore, tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Is this us today? The busyness of life steals time from us. That same time can be best used in fellowship with Jesus. What stands in our way? Perhaps, it’s social media, or an over committed calendar. Satan loves to keep us busy. As a result, we fill our lives with things of the world rather than sitting at the feet of Jesus, the only One Who has all we need.

A Thirst for God

In Psalm 42:1-2, the Psalmists uses the imagery of a thirsty deer, to describe longing to be with God.

As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.
I thirst for God, the living God. When can I go and stand before him?

This is perhaps what Mary had a thirst for: The Living God. Isn’t it funny how we continually look for things in this world to satisfy our human “thirsts”. We attempt to satisfy them with “stuff”: money, clothes, ambition, relationships. But in the end, it is the intangibles that only a relationship with Jesus Christ can truly satisfy. Love, joy, peace. Only in God’s presence can we satisfy our thirsty soul.

One thing is needful…that good part

What was the one thing needed? The New Living Translation says it this way: “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it.” The word “needed” is translated to mean “a necessity; such things needed for sustenance and the journey”. And what was that good part? Jesus. Jesus, the Living Word, was necessary for Mary to live life more abundantly (John 10:10). Jesus was needed for spiritual sustenance and the journey of life. And He still is.

As we address the challenges of 21^st century living, we as believers have left our “first Love” (Rev. 2:4). We have forgotten what it means to be “in relationship with Jesus”. Relationship is built as we read God’s Word and better understand His ways and His works. Martha had forgotten that at one time she too sat at Jesus feet and listened to His Word. But now she had allowed the “busy work” to replace the “good work”.

Why is it the “good part”? Relationship with Jesus is the only thing that is important—in time and for eternity. What we see now is fading away…deteriorating…temporary. But what God offers us is incorruptible and undefiled, that never fades away; reserved in heaven for us (1 Pet. 1:4). This is what was offered to Mary and therefore, wouldn’t be taken away from her. This is still the offer to us today.

Where do we sit?

What’s most important to you? What will our calendar say is the priority for our time? What “words” capture our attention and become our values, beliefs, and lifestyles? What I learned in 2022, was illustrated in the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus states it clearly then as He states it in 2023. “One thing is needful.” (Luke 10:42) Rediscover and pursue your First Love. Make fellowship with the Father and Jesus your top priority in 2023.

Spiritual Maturity

Making a Fresh Start

January 4, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Opportunities and challenges

Happy New Year! With this new year comes both opportunities and challenges. More importantly, comes our chance to receive exceeding great and precious promises through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord (2 Pet. 1: 2, 4).

To begin this year, WordBytes will launch a new series entitled The Clarion Word Classics.

The word “clarion” comes from the Latin word claru or ‘clear’. Used as an adjective, it means ‘loud and clear’. Our intent with this quarterly series is to make “loud and clear” what is ours in Christ and as children of God (Rom. 8:17).

Making a Fresh Start

Throughout 2023, we will share faith writings from key theologians who will strengthen and enrich our spiritual lives and faith walk. This includes such sage theologians and writers such as J.I. Packer, Oswald Chambers, and C.S. Lewis.

We will also introduce contemporary writers who express spiritual answers to the challenges of 21^st century living. This includes such authors as Priscilla Shirer, Alistair Begg, John Piper, and black theologian, Bruce L. Fields.

To begin the Clarion Word Classics, we introduce F.B. Meyer (a favorite of mine). His devotion for the new year is entitled, “Making a Fresh Start.” Meyer infuses scripture throughout his writings. See if you can find them within the text.

Advent/Christmas

What do you want for Christmas?

December 20, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Christmas past

What do you want for Christmas this year? What’s your ask? When I was a child, my anticipation of Christmas was so high. I remember the special journey to see the animated Christmas displays in the store windows in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The shops on “Petticoat Lane” and the special baked goods at “The Cake Box”. There was no sitting on Santa’s lap and sharing our list of wants, but endless nights of looking at the special Christmas catalogue from Sears, J.C. Penney’s, and “Monkey Wards” (Montgomery Wards). What a wonderful and magical time!

But I’m no longer a child. To the contrary, I’m a grandmother and family elder. Now as I anticipate Christmas, I ask myself, what do I want? What are my choices? Things eternal or things of this world? Now I must look beyond Christmas Day with its torn wrapping paper and empty boxes. I want something that lasts beyond Christmas Day. Don’t you? As we close out this year, I invite you to join me in answering this question for yourself.

What’s on your list?

Harry & David suggests we warm hearts with festive gourmet gifts and Christmas gift baskets. That’s no surprise! “Do it Yourselfers” ensure us that handmade gifts will be received with joy: polaroid photo magnets (try finding a polaroid camera), beautifully packaged cookie mixes or pretty finger knit blankets. Who has the time?

Topping the list of the 23 “hottest cool gadgets” for Christmas is a Black Bird drone with camera for $99. “For the first time, ordinary people can capture crazy selfies and shots that were previously only possible with professional equipment.” I’m sure our neighbors and friends will love sharing in on this gift.

But what do people really want?

Here are some things to consider as you plan your gift shopping.

In an article entitled The Top 10 Things People Want in Life but Can’t Seem to Get, I was amazed in reading the responses to this informal survey that probed “critical life and career questions.” From my reading, I compiled (in their order of importance) the top five (5) areas people are feeling desperate about: happiness, money, freedom, peace, and joy. I’ve included a sixth, balance, since it is the focus of many Millennials and Genxers. What was surprising was that most of the items were intangible, subjective (what I can feel), and internal versus external.

In the aftermath of COVID (before the variants), people wanted “relationship”. A few verbatims are captured below recognizing the extraordinary power and satisfaction that can only be found through our connection with one another.

“Have a big family get together!”
“Go to a game and watch some sports!”
“See my mom in assisted living.”
“Make sure all my friends are cured too, then we’ll party!”

A new Barna Group report was released this month on trends in the Black church[1]. When asked what churchgoers wanted for their lives, the results were as follows:

84% wanted good health
83% wanted a close relationship with God
77% wanted to provide for their family
75% wanted a clear purpose for living

Note the focus of the three groups. They were primarily, intangibles, subjective, and internal.

What I want for Christmas 2022

Challenges will continue in 2023. Financial upheaval, political squabbles, shortages, rising social needs, hunger, and homelessness (regardless of the new names). What do we need? What do we want?

After conducting my personal survey among friends and family, I’ve created a revised “short Christmas list”. Many of the items on this list have been sermonized during this season of Advent. They are hope, peace, joy, and love.

- Hope—”expecting a better future for the world, our nation, and our families”
- Peace— “less hatred, division, and political strife”
- Joy— “more contentment and gratitude regardless of our situation”
- Love—”better relationships and greater compassion for others”

Reflecting on the various lists of “things” people desire, it is clear, God has already provided these and much more. Happiness, freedom, and balance. God will provide it. Relationship. God will be whomever we need in our life. Hope, peace, joy, and love. In Him and in His presence, we will find more than we need (Eph. 3:20-21). It is up to each of us to access our heavenly gifts through faith and obedience to God. In Christ, all these things are currently ours.

Below are my “gift lists” available to us through relationship with our Heavenly Father, Who only gives “good and perfect gifts” (James 1:17). God’s gifts last beyond the torn tissue and open boxes. They last beyond Christmas day through all of eternity. With God and in Christ, every day is Christmas.

Ephesians 1:3-17
2 Peter 1:3-18

[1] This report was created in partnership with Black Millennial Café, Urban Ministries, Inc., Compassion International to celebrate the legacy of the Black Church in America and to pursue racial justice inside and outside the Church. With that intent, there is no comparative study for White churches.

Advent/Christmas

Preparing the Way: Advent 2022

December 13, 2022 ITWMinistries

How are you celebrating Advent 2022?

What will you do differently to usher in the most phenomenal event in the history of mankind: the incarnation of God? Advent should be more than participating in special Bible studies or in the lighting of Advent candles. I’m afraid to say that I was guilty of both.

While thinking I was really doing something “spiritual” to usher in the true meaning of Christmas, I had allowed this sacred season to become “ritualistic routine”. Advent, celebration of Christ’s explosion into human history, should be a time of excitement and spiritual awakening. Just as Simeon and Anna faithfully awaited the long-prophesized Messiah (Luke 2:34-38), we too should be faithful and watchful as we hopefully prepare the way for the arrival of our Lord and Savior during this season of advent.

Time to prepare

One meaning for “prepare” means to construct or create as well as to furnish or equip. It often involves making a building, vessel, or object ready for use. The second meaning for prepare means to make the necessary preparations for an event that will happen later.

Throughout the Gospels, prepare is used to describe the nearness of a great wedding or banquet feast, or even what will happen at the second coming of Jesus (Matthew 22:4,25;34,41).

The different aspects of “prepare”, calls us to: 1) make ourselves ready vessels or homes to receive Jesus and 2) to participate in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.[1]

Living in between

Living between Jesus’ First and Second Advent is a place of tension for us. Although we know that Jesus’ first advent has occurred, how can we “prepare the way” to celebrate Advent for this year and beyond—even until Christ’s second return?

With joyful anticipation. Anticipation is the act of looking forward. Let us rekindle this emotion that generates joy and pleasure as we remember what Christ’s presence has meant to us. In addition, let us allow our imagination to create new scenarios of possibilities as we think about “what is to come”.

Attentively waiting. This is not mankind’s strongest attribute as attested by our impatience with people, places, and things. Our busyness and overscheduled calendars have pushed us into believing that waiting is an indication of either a problem with “the system” or flaw in others. Some things are worth waiting for. Jesus is worth waiting for.

With faithful preparation. Let us become “ready vessels” to receive the presence of God in the person of the Holy Spirit. This begins with intimacy with God, meditating on His Word, and praying with “listening ears”. Secondly, we must make ourselves “living sacrifices” to God—in humble submission including service to others. Finally, we must faithfully prepare by aligning our thinking with “things above” (Col. 3:2). It is our future hope of glory that will motivate us to be conformed to the image of Christ.

A Prayer for Advent

Advent, the coming of Jesus Christ, brings something the world alone can never provide—unconditional love for those who trust in Jesus as their Savior, unwavering faith that trusts in the sufficiency of God to meet every human need, and unquenchable hope that guarantees an inheritance in eternity future. Love, faith, and hope—these are key benefits that come with the advent of Christ. Joy and peace then follow as we abide faithfully in His presence. All this and more are ours as we prepare the way for Christ.

Eternal God, we are seeking signs of your presence in our lives. Open our eyes, open our ears, open our hearts to receive your words of hope as we anticipate the coming of the One whom you are sending.

[1] Awaiting the Already, Magrey R. de Vega.

Spiritual Maturity

How to Untangle a Knot

November 29, 2022 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Tangled stories

Jesus was “never without a story”. He used them to help His audience gain a greater understanding of God and to resolve real-life problems. The Apostle Mark describes this as “sorting out tangles” and “untying knots.”

When He was alone with His Disciples, Jesus went over everything, sorting out the tangles, untying the knots. Mark 4:34 (The Message)

Today we will examine the benefit of listening to God’s voice through His Word to sort out the tangles and knots in our life.

Learning to sort out my tangles

Have you ever been faced with a knotted shoe lace or tangled necklace? It can be frustrating trying to find the biggest knot that will result in the ultimate resolution to your problem. Knots can impede the full use and benefit of our possessions or abilities, i.e., knots in a tie or tangled chords of a wind chime.

How did we learn to untangle and untie knots? While I can’t remember my “first knot” or most “frustrating tangle”, I do recall that if I had problems with either of these, my mother was always there to help me based on two things: First, I had to realize my limitations—I was unable to resolve this challenge on my own. Secondarily, I had to trust her–she was both available and able to help me with my problem.

Life is full of knots and tangles

Our world is full of knots and tangles. The challenges of life appear to be “insurmountable messes” which we are unable to resolve.

Life cycle knots—work, family, and relationships.
Personal tangles—financial challenges, health problems, dying and death.
Societal snarls—turmoil, instability, and uncertainty.

Some knots and tangles are the natural result of living in a fallen world; others may be of our own creation. What is the answer to these kinks and twists of living? How are we to manage these real situations in our lives?

The World and Life Knots

The world offers futile solutions to life’s knots and tangles. It suggests resolution through substances (alcohol, drugs, and food), through systems (affiliations, power, and influence) and through stuff (materialism and riches) (1 John 2:15-17).

These answers are temporary and subject to change (2 Cor. 4:18). However, God’s Word is eternal and provides needed insight into His nature and the realities of life, inviting believers to trust, peace, and contentment (Ps. 37:1-6, 23-27).

It’s In the Word

There’s an old gospel song entitled, It’s All in the Word that retorts: “The answer to your problems, if you haven’t heard…it’s all in the Word.”

For those who are willing to listen to Jesus’ voice, there are many promises and privileges (John 10:27). As we connect to God through His Word and the Holy Spirit, we have access to wisdom and knowledge so desperately needed to navigate these perilous times (Eph. 1: 8).

The Psalmist put it more eloquently in saying “God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path”. God’s close proximity keep us from stumbling. It is also broad and sufficient to protect us from potential danger and pitfalls (Ps. 119:105). Psalm 19:7-11 speaks to the great worth of God’s Word. “Warning and reward” are key benefits in embracing God’s Word.

What about my knots?

God may not choose to always remove the knots and tangles in our life. Some knots and tangles are needed to mature and strengthen us. They help us when we choose to be “trained” by them (Hebrews 12:11).

However, we can always depend on God to be available and ready to help us “find the big loops” (John 16:33). Jesus is ready to help us with the tangles and knots of our life. What are the things that you’ve been unable to resolve? Draw near to Him who is willing and able to help.

Victorious Living

Thanksgiving Gratitude

November 22, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“In everything give thanks.”

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we are instructed to give thanks in everything. What does that look like in our homes and cities as we continue to deal with challenges on every hand. Especially this Thanksgiving.

As we prepare for our family gatherings, the impact of inflation, rising gas prices, and supply shortages may cause us to question, “is there really anything to be thankful for?” What gratitude are you bringing to this year’s Thanksgiving celebration?

Gratitude is an emotion expressing appreciation and thankfulness for what one has. Is there anything we appreciate or are thankful for? While we are very good at expressing our displeasure for what we don’t have, regrettably, we often miss the mark in articulating our gratitude.

Failure to show gratitude

We, in general, are slow in offering gratitude. We will sometimes express gratitude when prayers are answered, or catastrophes are avoided. However, even in those special circumstances, we are more likely to attribute our good fortune to luck than to God’s benevolence.

In the busyness of living, we take for granted those things God provides through His grace to all mankind: the sun and the moon (Deut. 33:14), the regularity with which the seasons change (Gen. 8:22), and the marvels of created life (Rom. 1:20).

We fail to recognize our blessings and therefore fail to express gratitude. Gratitude is the only “proper response” to beneficence: the generosity and kindness from a benefactor. In our case, exuberant gratitude is the best response to our gracious and loving God.

Gratitude and salvation

With salvation, we as believers experience a multitude of blessings, both now and in the future. First and foremost is our deliverance from the power and penalty of sin (Rom. 6:9). This release from our sin nature provides instant access to God the Father (Rom. 5:2).

We are given a new identity in Christ, both as children of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:16-17). As new creatures in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17), we are gifted with the presence of the Holy Spirit who empowers us with the same dunamis power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph. 1:19).

Finally, eternal life is God’s special gift to believers. It is a gift that cannot be acquired through works, or any other path. Yet it is readily available through belief in Jesus the Christ (John 3:16). Through eternal life, we can experience God’s presence, peace, and provision. As heirs of God, we await our final inheritance reserved for us in heaven, when we return to our true home (1 Pet. 1:3-4).

It is God’s will that in everything, we give thanks.

It is not God’s will that we express gratitude for “gratitude’s sake only”. We know that in giving thanks, His power can be released into our life in ways never before seen.

This includes the formation of incredible joy, unshakeable hope, and unbroken peace (1 Pet. 1:2-4). The outward expression of appreciation to God, works to bring new power and access that, under other circumstances, would be unattainable.

As we prepare for this year’s Thanksgiving, are we grateful for what we do have? According to the Greek writer and philosopher, Cicero, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of the virtues but the parent of all others.” Let us, therefore, bring to this Thanksgiving dinner an “extra serving” of gratitude.

Spiritual Renewal

Do we need revival?

November 15, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Revival?

When I say the word, revival, what comes to mind? Perhaps the first thing we think about is something from the past becoming popular or important again, such as the revival of board games or the revival of drive-in theaters.

From a religious standpoint, however, a revival is the “reawakening of religious zeal or enthusiasm”. I remember as a child when revivals were held in our community. Sometimes it was initiated by our pastor who felt his members needed a “spiritual jumpstart” to either usher in the new year or finish up the old one.

During the summer, it was not unusual to have traveling evangelists come into our community. With large tents and wooden platforms, they would preach “fire and brimstone” in true “Elmer Gantry” style, until someone came down front to “repent and turn from their wicked ways.”

We hear of revivals even today, but probably with less frequency, as people choose more convenient and less demanding ways of “stoking their spiritual fire.” The question is, however, is what we’re doing enough to truly “maintain the spiritual fire” we need in our souls? Do we need revival?

Why revival?

In both my prayer circle and Bible study group, “the buzz” is all about the need for revival—in our nation, in our churches and in our homes. Although the actual word “revival” is not used in the Bible, there are many instances cited where revival or spiritual awakening occurred (1 Sam. 7:1-6; 2 Kings 18:1-7)

Revivals are not new in the economy of God. The largest recorded revival occurred in Nineveh where it is recorded that 120,000 souls repented and were saved from God’s wrath (Jonah 3:4-10). Revivals are often preceded by a major moral crisis that has plowed the soil of people’s hearts, readying them for the fertile seeds of revival: God’s Word and God’s salvation. Are we currently experiencing similar crises in our nation?

We have become desensitized to the social needs of people in our community. Our entertainment choices reflect a tolerance for moral depravity and disregard for human life—not much different than Sodom and Gomorrah.

Man has “deified” himself over God. Society continues to attempt to redefine God, trivialize family, and devalue Christ’s church. And what have we gained in return? Broken and wounded people feeling hopeless, in despair, without joy. Are we in need of revival?

Preparing for revival

To this point, we have described revival as a noun; an event that stirs up religious faith. Revive can also be a “verb”, which in Hebrew, means to bring to life or cause to live. Do we need to be revived—brought back to life?

As I look around, I believe we are in desperate need of “spiritual CPR.” We need new breath and true life that can only come from God (Ps. 85:6-7). Using Jonah 3:4-10, below is a “CPR” acrostic to communicate how we can prepare for revival.

Confession. Readiness for revival always begins with confession of sin. The people of Nineveh proclaimed a fast of which everyone participated, “from the greatest of them even to the least of them.” (v. 5) Confession recognizes the need for change and realization that the only true source of change is God.

Prayer. Prayer is the most powerful force God has given us to implement change. The city of Nineveh, “both man and beast were covered with sackcloth and cried mightily unto God.” (v. 8a) Prayer prior to revival prepares the way for the preaching of God’s truth. God’s truth defeats the lies of Satan and provides light to expose the darkness of sin (Acts 26:18).

Repentance. Repentance requires two actions: the turning away from sin and the turning to God. The people of Nineveh “turned from their evil way.” (v. 8) The turning away from sin begins with accepting Christ as both Savior and Lord. Repentance should lead to transformed living—one of good works and service (Eph. 2:10).

Where do we begin?

I heard a minister state that individuals should “draw a circle on the ground and then step inside it—it is here where revival begins.” Confess, pray, and repent. Revival starts with us. Are we ready to begin?

Spiritual Endurance

Throwback Wednesday: Recapturing Our Thoughts

October 26, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

A Great Read

I recently finished a book which has proven very insightful for me as I strive to be “more conformed” to the image of my Lord and Savior. The book is entitled, “Watchfulness: Rediscovering a Lost Spiritual Discipline, by Brian G. Hedges.

Hedges proposes that Christians could benefit spiritually by exercising greater “vigilance or watchfulness” over their hearts, minds, and souls. Why? To protect ourselves from Satan’s snares, the world’s bendings, and our flesh’s weakness. We need to be more intentional.

Throwback connection

With this book I mind, I thought it would be a great refresher to revisit for this Throwback Wednesday, “Recapturing Our Thoughts.”

Our thoughts are vulnerable to attack by the world and by Satan. Our flesh is continually weakened by marketing and media; by every sound byte we listen to.

Begin your “watchfulness journey” by recapturing your thoughts.

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: Where is God in our Suffering?

October 18, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Suffering Summary

We began our study on suffering by discussing its definition and its implication in the life of the believer. While no one wants to suffer, it is a fact of life that we must manage every day. We mentioned early in the series how we try to alleviate our suffering. Living in a fallen world, however, we will experience some form of suffering.

We examined the practice of pain management and the strategies we use to ease our pain and suffering. For believers, we agreed that our pain management comes from our knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. Armed with that knowledge, we can live confidently, trusting in His goodness and His greatness. (Ps. 27: 1-3).

We concluded that having the right theology of suffering will help us to not only manage the pain, but also sustain us through our suffering. Suffering is best managed first, by putting our trust in God and secondarily, by having a Christian worldview.

Where is God?

With all we’ve discussed about suffering to date, there is yet one question we have. “Where is God in the midst of our suffering?” Through the COVID pandemic, in natural disasters, and during mass shootings; with these and many more events in mind, where is God? This is where the right theology of suffering is important.

If we believe that God is our spiritual “Superman” who will rescue us from suffering, then we will always be disappointed. God loves us and is intimately involved in every aspect of our lives. His glory and His power can best be recognized not in His rescuing us “from” our suffering BUT INSTEAD in His provision for us “during” our suffering. God is where He has always been and where He will always be—actively participating in our suffering.

How does God participate in our suffering? By sustaining us (Ps. 55:22; Phil. 4:19). By strengthening us (Ps. 27:1; 2 Thess. 3:3). By comforting us (John 14:7; 2 Cor. 1:3-5). By providing and protecting us (Isa. 54:10). God is not observing our suffering from afar. He is ever near (2 Chron. 16:9; Isa. 30:21).

As our Sovereign, God controls all events, people, and circumstances that flow into our lives. By faith we trust God, knowing that all things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28). And that purpose may include the experience of suffering (2 Cor. 12:7). Without God we can’t fit suffering into the fabric of life.

Look for Jesus in the midst

In reading God’s Word and through the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, I have learned to not only, trust in God, but also, “look for God” during my suffering.

While working with a soul healing team, we witnessed how the Holy Spirit would reveal Jesus in the midst of a person’s painful experience. The Holy Spirit helped individuals see Jesus during their situation. They realized they were not alone. Jesus was there with them! Sustaining, comforting, strengthening, and protecting.

Jesus is always with us! We must learn to practice looking for God during times of suffering. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see Jesus with you during times of suffering. Look for Him with your spiritual eyes.

Closing words on suffering

F.B. Meyer, noted theologian, wrote these words about suffering.

Suffering in the will of God challenges us to persevere in our faith. God desires to use such suffering to advance his Kingdom and righteousness in many ways, including further conforming us to the image of God. We need to keep the right perspective about such suffering.

Andrew Murray had this to say about suffering:

By faith alone are we able to bear suffering, great or small, alright to God’s glory, or our own welfare. Faith sees it in the light of God and eternity; It’s short pain, it’s everlasting gain; it’s impotence to hurt the soul, it’s power to purify and to bless it.

While I appreciate both writer’s input, I commit to memory the following from my Lord and Savior Jesus. Especially its closing promise.

These things I have spoken to you, that in me you might have peace. In this world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33