Meeting God in the Psalms

November 18, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

If you’re like me, there are certain books of the Bible which hold a fond spot in your heart. In the New Testament, my favorites are Romans, Hebrew, and both letters to the church at Corinth. I like these books because they communicate God’s indescribable love for sinful man and our desperate need for His grace. In the Old Testament, my favorites are Isaiah and the Psalms. Both books bestow comfort and reassurance to my spirit. The Psalms, which I call the “Songbook of the Soul”, provide spiritual context for my daily activities. God “meets me” in the Psalms. Here are a few of our “favorite meeting places.”

Psalm 4:8 “I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” Dangers and perils are ever present in our community; when I pray “deliver me from evil” I can safely rest knowing He is with me. I am never alone. His eye is continuallyon me—He is my peace.

Psalms 42:1 “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.” When my life becomes hectic and crazy with the events of living, I thirst for the Lord. He is my release and my relief. He provides the basics of life—He is my living water.

Psalm 62:1 “Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation.” To silently wait is a personal challenge for me. My flesh wants what it wants right now. God is teaching me to depend on Him for all my needs—He is faithful and dependable.

Psalm 66:2b “Make His praise glorious.” All things are created by Him and there is no other like Him. My praise to Him acknowledges His universal Lordship. He deserves praise and honor for His goodness and His greatness—He alone is worthy of my total loyalty and all my praise.

Psalm 107:1 “Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” If I lived a lifetime, there would not be sufficient time to thank God for all He has done, is doing, and will do for me How do I say thanks? By living for Him daily—He is my God both now and through eternity.

Where do you meet God?

Knowing God

God’s Largesse and Bounty

October 17, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

F.B. MEYER

“Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed; Can he give bread also? So they did eat, and were well filled.”

Psalm 78:19, 20, 29

This is always the cry of unbelief, Can God? Whilst the triumphant assertion of faith is: God can. What a difference is wrought by the collocation of words! Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? God can spread a table, even in the wilderness, and in the presence of our enemies our cup cam overflow. Can he give bread also? He can satisfy the desire of every living thing, by the opening of His hand. Canst thou do anything for us; our child is grievously possessed of the devil? If thou do anything for us, our child is grievously possessed of the devil? If thou do anything for us, our child is grievously possessed of the devil? If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

The wanderings of the Israelites for forty years were due to the fact that they looked at their difficulties and questioned is God could overcome them. Amongst the people, only Caleb and Joshua looked away from the Canaanites and their fortified cities to Him who had brought them where they were and was pledged to extricate them. Some people speak of Giants with a capital G and forget to magnify the power of God. What wonder that they account themselves as grasshoppers and lose heart! Let us not forget that we are sons and daughters of God, “heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (Compare Num. 13:33 and Rom. 8:17).

Look back on the past; see what God has done for you; remember He is pledged to finish what He has begun. If He gave water, He can certainly give bread.

“They did eat and were well filled.” When we are poor and needy, we are inclined to humble prayer. But if suddenly our lot is changed and there us abundance instead of poverty, how often there is a change in our demeanor. We are apt to become self-indulgent and forgetful of the needs of the world. Instead of remembering that we are still God pensioners, we magnify ourselves as though we were exclusively owners. Probably this is why God keep some of us in poverty, for no greater temptation could befall us than to find ourselves with riches. In this way he answers our daily prayer, “Lead us not into temptation!”

Prayer: We thank Thee our heavenly father, for the new mercies of each returning day, for all that Thou hast given to us, and not less for that which Thou dost withhold. May we be receptive of all things that pertain to life and godliness. AMEN.

God's Word

The Salvation Challenge

October 3, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Salvation Challenge

Take the challenge.

Match the word list (A-L) with its closest definition (1-12)
Create a picture/process diagram of how we achieve salvation using selected from the word list below
On your diagram, identify “who” is performing the action associated with the specific act involved with salvation. Your choices include: mankind, God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit. Example: Faith is needed by mankind for salvation.

A. Condemnation	G. Consecration
B. Justification	H. Righteousness
C. Sanctification	I. Reconciliation
D. Restoration	J. Propitiation
E. Faith	K Regeneration
F. Imputation/Impute	L. Redemption

Renewal of something to its former state
God’s action declaring sinners are made righteous by Jesus Christ
Born again/new birth
Dedication to God’s service
Righteousness-holy and upright living, in accordance with God’s standard/’straightness’
To take something that belongs to someone and credit to another’s account/to transfer
Appeasement/satisfaction
To declare a person guilty and worthy of punishment
Paying necessary ransom
The process by which God and man are brought together again
A belief in or confident attitude toward God, involving commitment to His will for one’s reliance on Christ
The process of God’s grace by which the believer is separated from sin and becomes dedicated to God’s righteousness. How? By the WORD of GOD (John 17:7) and the HOLY SPIRIT (Rom. 8:3-4)

Our Faith Walk

Examine Yourself

August 29, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

This morning I had the opportunity to listen to one of my favorite Christian radio shows. The show is formatted to resemble a Bible study session, where there is an open discussion of a particular Bible passage, character, or faith principle.

Before closing, one of the study member said something that really resonated with me–so much that I had to share it with you. The question was this, “Do people think well of God from being around me?” This is a question worth some discussion.

We are told, in Scripture, who we are “in Christ”.

We are children of God (John 1:12).
We are His workmanship–His handiwork–born anew in Christ to do His work (Ep. 2:10).
We are partakers of Christ; We share in His life (Heb. 3:14).
We are ambassador for Christ (2 Cor. 5:20).

Since Christ has done so much for us, we should be the ultimate “poster child” for Him.

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil (Hebrews 2:14).
In whom we have redemption through the blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Col. 1:14).

As followers of Christ, we are to be “salt and light” in a dark world. Our light should “shine” before men, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. We are not to be conformed to this world–darkened by “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. All this is passing away. But he who does the will of God abides forever” (1 John 2:16-17).

So, now, your response. “Do people think well of God after being around you? If your answer is “yes”, glory be to God. Hold fast to your profession of faith, in both word and deed. If your answer is “no” then it may be time to examine yourself to determine, “why not?” (2 Cor. 13:5)

Our Faith Walk

Faith that Perseveres: THE APPLICATION

August 15, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Read Hebrews 11. All the Faith Hall of Famers “died in faith not having received “the promises” but having seen them afar off were and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth (Heb. 11:13). The word “promises” is a metonymy for “the things promised.” This speaks specifically to the promised Messiah and future heavenly inheritance.

As “partakers of God’s glory”, we have begun to receive the promises of God on “this side” of eternity”(2 Pet. 1:3-11) with the glorious assurance eternal life on “the other side.” Informed with the knowledge of God (2 Cor. 4:6) and empowered by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), we can move forward with that which God has set before us “being fully persuaded, that what He (God) had promised, He was able also to perform (Rom. 4:21).

Here are key principles we can learn

from the Faith Hall of Famers on persevering faith.

1. We must believe that He who promises faithful. This requires you know Him in a personal way—in relationship. This includes daily communion and fellowship with Him to better understand His will and His ways. Would you put your life in the hands of someone you don’t know personally? Confidence comes from knowing Him.

2. We must understand His promises for our life.This begins by acquainting oneself with the promises of God. Some scholars cite 365 promises of God for His people—one for every day of the year. “Seeing afar off” requires visual acuity beyond our physical sight resulting in seeing beyond what we can see. It is with spiritual eyes and the assistance of the Holy Spirit that we are able to “see afar off.”

3. We must look past our experience here on earth and look forward to the effect of our work on the greater effort of “kingdom building.” We must actively declare ourselves as “pilgrims” traveling through this temporary thing called “time.” We have an assignment from our King (Matt. 28:19-20) to complete while here on earth. But we must never forget our home is heaven. We must, like the Faith Hall of Famers, declare ourselves as “pilgrims on this earth.”

Our Faith Walk

Prosperity In The Word

June 13, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

There is much ado in the news this week about Creflo Dollar, pastor of the World Changers Church International in metro Atlanta, and his recent altercation with his daughter. I found it interesting that most news releases gave special attention to the fact that Pastor Dollar is a proponent of the “prosperity message”, the size of his congregation, and the monies he earns through speaking and writing.

Let me begin by saying this about Pastor Dollar’s prosperity message. I think Pastor Dollar has been successful in sharing God’s desire to bless and provide for His children. This is not new information but clearly communicated throughout God’s Word. In The Sermon on the Mount, specifically, Matthew 6, Jesus shared God’s promise for provision and attempts to relieve the anxiety of people over their needs (vv.27-32). Jesus, however, in the same sermon warns the masses not to lay up treasure on earth but in heaven. “Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.” (Matthew 6:21, New Living Translation) We are instructed to seek Him first and He will take care of our needs (v.33). Writers of the Old Testament warn of the fleeting value of riches and the perils of allowing them to become our “idol”. Proverbs 23:4 specifically warns: “Labour not to be rich…”

While many criticize Pastor Dollar for his “prosperity message”, they must also recognize his success in preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ, which is the “power of God unto salvation” (Rom. 1:16). I think the “hating on Pastor Dollar” originates from believers and ministries who are being challenged to better present the “Gospel message”—clearly, unabashed, and unashamedly. This is not happening in many of our churches. Let me further explain, by sharing my experience with the prosperity message.

While I was “saved” at nine (9), I didn’t relinquish lordship to Christ until I was forty (40). Good church training but no clear presentation of what it really meant to be “die to sin” and “walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:2,4). What Pastor Dollar, Kenneth Copeland, and other prosperity promoters did was “to stir up in my spirit” (2 Tim. 1:6) the desire to learn more about the Triune God. In Christ, I learned I had a new identity—I was God’s child and joint heir with Him (Rom. 8:16-17) and I could be in a personal relationship with the Triune God—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (who now lived within me). I was familiar with religion but relationship was something new! And as I drew near to Him, He drew near to me (James 4:8). The more I studied His Word, God directed me to more light and more truth about Himself. God then re-directed my study to better teachers and ministers who built on my new knowledge of God (2 Pet. 1:3-8). Isaiah 55:11 best describes my experience with prosperity ministries: “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

As believers we are personally responsible for developing and expanding our relationship with God. It requires us to get into His presence to know Him and be “known by Him” (Ps. 91:14). It is God that we must seek—His face and not His hand. He alone can provide what we really need—“grace and peace through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” (2 Pet.1:2) and “an inheritance incorruptible that doesn’t fade away” because it’s eternal (1 Pet. 1:3-4).

Our Faith Walk

The Invisible Cross-How do People See Christ in You?

June 11, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

I recently celebrated my birthday–praise the Lord! Before the special day, my husband asked what I would like for a gift. At first I couldn’t think of anything but then a thought came to mind–a cross necklace. I had resisted either purchasing or requesting a cross necklace before but this year I felt differently. Why had I declined one in the past? Perhaps it was because I had seen how people diminished and trivalized this symbol of unconditional love and sacrifice.

I think crosses reflect people’s personalities and style preferences. They come in a variety of sizes and metals–some are even fashioned from trees found in the Holy Land. Some crosses are plain and simple; others are encrusted with diamonds and other precious stones–bejeweled and dazzling. But do people really understand the significance of the Cross? Do they full know what wearing one says about “who and whose” they are?

For me, wearing the Cross is more than donning a “trendy accessory.” For me, it is an expression of love and commitment to the Lover of my soul–to my Beloved. Remember when you would wear your boyfriend’s class ring on a chain around your neck. And if it got real serious, you might receive a locket (heart-shaped) to wear as evidence of his affection. It is now Christ who reigns on the throne of our heart (Ephesians 3:17). The Cross represents the greatest gift we could ever receive–eternal life, freedom from the bondage of sin, peace with God–all purchased with the precious blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Cross invites “whosoever will” to newness of life (Rom. 6:4) and power to live victoriously. The Cross transforms.

Ask yourself these questions next time your put on your cross.

1. Are you more careful with your language that day?

2. Are you especially patient and kind to rude people you encounter that day?

3. Do you find yourself listening to more praise music in your car that day?

4. Do you find yourself promising to pray for those who share their problems that day?

5. Do you have to adjust your clothing to match your jewelry that day? Too short? Too revealing?

If you answered yes to any of these question, you might want to read Ephesians 4:23-32 and its companion scripture Colossians 3:10-14. As believers in Christ, our behavior should be guided by more than a piece of jewelry. Our behavior is motivated by our love for the One who died on the Cross. I will now wear my cross proudly knowing full well that it is really Christ in me that makes the difference

Knowing God

Ministries of the Holy Spirit

May 30, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

While this listing may be familiar to many, it’s nice to have all them listed in one place. May this information assist you as begin your journey to learn more about the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

Baptismal Medium Calls to Ministry Channel of Divine Revelation Empowers Fills Guarantees	1 Cor. 12:13 Acts 13:2-4 2 Sam. 23:2; Neh.9:30; Zech. 7:12 Ex. 31:1,2; Judg. 13:25; Acts 1:8 Luke 4:1; Acts 2:4; Eph. 5:18 2 Cor. 1 :22; 5:5; Eph. 1: 14
Guards Helps Illuminates Indwells Intercedes Produces fruit	2 Tim. 1 :14 John 14:16,26; 15:26; 16:7 1 Cor. 2:10-13 Rom. 8:9-11; 1 Cor. 3: 16; 6: 19 Rom. 8:26,27 Gal.5:22,23
Provides Spiritual Character Regenerates Restrains/Convicts of Sin Sanctifies Seals Selects Overseers	Gal.5:16, 18,25 John 3:5,6,8 Gen.6:3;John 16:8-10; Acts 7:51 Rom. 15: 16; 1 Cor. 6: 11 ; 2 Thess. 2: 13 2 Cor. 1 :22; Eph. 1:14; 4:30 Acts 20:28
Source of Fellowship Source of Liberty Source of Power Source of Unity Source of Spiritual Gifts Teaches	2 Cor. 13:14; Phil. 2:1 2 Cor. 3:17,18 Eph. 3: 16 Eph.4:3,4 1 Cor. 12:4-11 John 14:26; Acts 15:28; 1 John 2:20, 27

God's Word

Word Transformation: The Rhema of God

April 11, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

God’s Word contains power to transform a person’s life. The secret to “Word transformation” is two-fold: first the reading of the Bible and secondly, in living out its specific instructions. In the New Testament, there are two words commonly found to reference “God’s Word.” One is logos, which in its broadest term includes the Bible and its Christian message. The Bible is rightly called the “logos of God” because it denotes the expression of God’s thought and revealed will. The other use of God’s Word is rhema (rhay’mah). Rhema focuses attention on a specific word, command, or utterance of God directed to an individual and their life circumstance.

The significance of rhema can be illustrated by its first occurrence in the Bible (Matt. 4:4). When a word or phrase appears for the first time in the Bible, it is deserving of special attention because it is the introduction of new truth to man about God. Every other occurrence of that truth in Scripture builds upon the example established by its initial appearance.

In this foundational scripture, Satan challenges Jesus to change stones to bread. He counters Satan’s temptation by responding that man is to live by “every rhema that comes from the mouth of God.” Subsequent temptations are diffused with specific words or utterances from Scripture. (Matt. 4:5-11) The new truth revealed in Matthew 4:4 was that man was to live by God’s specific rhema (word) to them. Jesus’ retorts to Satan show how we are to respond to life’s circumstances–follow the rhema God reveals to us.

The importance of rhema (versus logos) is seen in God’s directive to believers to “take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word (rhema) of God.” Here the reference is not to the whole Bible as such, but to individual scriptures which the Spirit brings to remembrance for use in time of need. The only requirement is that there has been regular storing of Scripture in the mind. When you immerse yourself in God’s logos through reading and meditating, you are setting yourself up to receive the rhema of God.

Our Faith Walk

As I Look in the Mirror…Remembering MOMA

January 25, 2012 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The occasion–my sister’s 70th birthday. I rebuked the cold of Cottage Grove, Minnesota to spend this special time with my “Sister Dear.” How much fun it was to laugh and be silly once again like we did when we were little girls. We even shared her king-size bed for our five days of true sisterhood. As we experienced this special time, I caught glimpses of our mother in my sister–her face, her smile, her gestures, and her wisdom. Oh my, we DO BECOME OUR MOTHERS. I had dread that thought as a young woman, believing I had mastered both my life and my personality. But as the Psalmist shared, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Hopefully also, with age comes wisdom and I now see the true gift we have inherited from our mother.

The old folk use to think that our loved ones might be seen shortly after their passing–a quick glimpse to reassure our souls that they are always with us. Moma never did appear that way. She did, however, give us glimpse of her in the faces, actions, and wisdom of her children she left behind. I saw her in my sister Jean this weekend and oh yeah, when I look in the mirror, I see her too!