Tag Archives: Knowing God

The Theology of Suffering: Purpose and Possibilities, Part 2

October 11, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Just the Facts

We understand that suffering is a part of life. As we know, suffering is not part of God’s original divine plan but is a result of sin. Because of that, Christians acknowledge that we live in a sinful, “fallen world.” As believers, our response to suffering—pain, distress, and hardship—is shaped by two key factors. First, our trust in God (Ps. 62:5-8) and secondarily, our Christian worldview (Eccl. 9:11).

An “enlightened” response

The Bible also informs our response to suffering. Although it offers no “magic pill” to overcome pain and distress, it does reveal how God operates on our behalf during difficult times (2 Cor. 1:3-5). Jesus demonstrated how man can operate knowing he will suffer. For Jesus, suffering was needful and “purposeful” (Heb. 2:10). It resulted in the salvation of mankind and the elimination of the power of sin (Heb. 2:14-15). In His suffering and death, Jesus modelled for us His trust in and obedience to God.

How we choose to respond to our suffering will determine its purpose and possibility in our life. As I said earlier, our response to suffering can either make us “better or bitter”, it all depends on our trust in God and our worldview. These create an enlightened, faith-based response.

Better or bitter?

In 2010, a well-known Bible teacher and speaker, Joni Eareckson Tada was diagnosed with breast cancer. The thing that made this news so heart wrenching for me was the fact that Joni had for the last 43 years lived as a quadriplegic—and now this? Questions raced in my mind. “How much suffering can a person take?” She dedicated her life to Christ and helping others—and now this? The old cliché came to mind. “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Can any good come from suffering?

Certain types of suffering may result from our own wrong choices or because of the wrong choices and acts of others. But regardless of the cause (sin), it is our personal response that really matters. A faith-based response will not only enable us to cope during the suffering but also rekindle our hope (2 Cor. 4:7-9). It will also strengthen our resolve and build our resiliency (2 Cor. 4:15-17).

Suffering—purpose and possibility

Our suffering is purposeful. As a ship is proven seaworthy by the beating of the waves and the whipping of the winds, likewise, our suffering aids us in becoming mature Christians.

The Apostle Peter states that after we have “suffered a while, we will be perfect, established, strengthened and settled” (1 Pet. 5:10). Paul eloquently witnessed to the value of his many suffering experiences and the future reward of his obedience and faith: “I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18).

How we respond to suffering is a witness to the power of God and His sustaining Presence (The Holy Spirit) in our life. It will result in His praise, honor, and glory (1 Pet. 1:6-7).

Our suffering offers possibilities. Possibilities is defined as “unspecified qualities of a promising nature”. In Latin, possibilis means “able to be done.” All things are possible, even in the midst of suffering, if we build our full reliance and trust in God. Is anything, including our suffering, too hard for God? (Jer. 32:27)

Possibilities build our hope. As Christ trusted Himself to His Father, so should we believers commit ourselves to our faithful Creator (1 Pet. 4:19). He remains our strong tower and defense regardless of the challenges we face. In addition, our hope is anchored in the firm expectation that we will reign in heaven with Christ (2 Tim. 2:12). We are to fix our eyes on Christ and the future He has for us, even though we may suffer all kinds of trials in these present times (2 Cor. 4:17-18).

Can any good come from suffering?

What would Joni Eareckson Tada say? How would the Apostles Paul and Peter respond? If we read their writings, we’d find they would answer yes. Why would they respond in that manner? Because they had developed the right theology of suffering.

That theology was not based on their current condition (suffering) but on their trust in God and their Kingdom worldview. We are told that in everything we are to give thanks (1 Thess. 5:18). That includes our suffering. We know that in that suffering experience we are guaranteed the presence of God to sustain us and the exceeding promise of His glory, both now and in the future.

Next week, we will conclude our study on suffering by answering this question, “Where is God in suffering?”

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: Purpose and Possibilities, Part 1

October 4, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Why suffering?

Pain and suffering have been themes for many great philosophers. But when we enter a time of suffering, all the wisest speculation of the philosophers seeing empty and meaningless. We simply hurt. And the mystery as to why we experience suffering often remains shrouded and hidden.

Beginning with Adam and Eve, human beings have suffered because of their wrong choices AND/OR because of the wrong choices and acts of others. As we shared earlier, suffering is the natural consequence of sin and therefore, an integral part of the human experience.

Biblical perspective of human suffering

Unlike the ancient Greek Stoics who viewed suffering as a man’s fate in an impersonal universe, the Bible affirms a world ordered by a personal God.

In the Old Testament suffering is set in the context of morality and the divine purpose. There is no hint of chance or fate. From a morality standpoint, suffering is a consequence of sin. God establishes a moral order in creation and retribution is metered out in life experiences.

Pain and suffering are concepts that draw attention to how human beings are affected by the tragedies of life. It is not the loss of a home or a loved one, nor physical agony, that seems devastating. It is how such an experience affects us within, causing doubts and fears and trembling as the pattern of our lives is shaken and our expectations fail.[1]

The prime Old Testament example of one who endured pain and suffering is Job. Although he was a person whom God Himself called blameless and upright (Job 1:8), he lost everything in a single day. However, even after Job was restored, there is no answer as to why he suffered. But in this revelation, we see, it was Job’s faithfulness and trust that resulted in blessings that were even greater than before his loss (Job 42:12-17).

In the New Testament, we discover God’s attitude to suffering expressed in Jesus. Not only did God sympathize, sharing in our hurt and suffering, but God in Jesus even entered humanity and took on to Himself the full weight of sin (Heb. 2:14-18). And with that weight came suffering. Christ presents to us a model we can use to “embrace” suffering. Jesus’ attitude reflected trust, obedience, patience, and hope.

So what are we to do?

Scripture offers no magic remedy when suffering surprises and overwhelms us. There is no verse to read that will instantly heal us or even dull our pain. Grasping what the Bible teaches us about suffering (and how to meet it) will not relieve it. Nor will it release us from circumstances beyond our control.

However, the biblical perspective on suffering, will enable us to better cope and even to overcome those difficult times. The sufferings of the prophets, the apostles, and others, just like us, “reveal” the goodness and the greatness of Almighty God.

It reaffirms our trust in God and encourages us to “go deeper” in our relationship with Him. While we may not understand the reason for our suffering, we as believers can be assured God is with us to both comfort and strengthen us. The God of the mountains—our good times—is the same God of the valley—our times of suffering (1 Kin. 20:28). It is in the valley that we rekindle our hope and trust in Him; that we will KNOW that He is our God!

Our theology of suffering

With every incident of pain and distress, we are continually “updating” our “theology of suffering”. What did we learn about ourselves or about God in this experience? Are we getting “bitter or better” in managing through suffering? How are we responding? With anger, fear, or trust?

The mystery as to “why” we experience suffering remains shrouded and hidden. However, our best strategy and response is to develop a theology that draws its strength, faith, and hope from Eternal God. Perhaps one day, in eternity, we will discover the purpose for our suffering. But once we see Jesus, will it really matter?

More on suffering, its purpose, and possibilities, next week.

[1] Encyclopedia of Bible Words, Zondervan Publishing House

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: Where does it come from?

September 27, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Suffering is part of life

I know you probably don’t want to hear this, but suffering is part of living in this fallen world. Suffering is the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship. As humans, we continually look for every possible way to either avoid suffering or move through suffering as quickly as possible.

As we discussed last week, Satan introduced sin in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:16-19). Suffering is a natural consequence of sin. However, we often direct our frustration, not at its source, sin, but instead we ask, “Why did God let this happen?”

However, if we look behind the pain, distress, or hardship, we will discover “the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16). These things make up “the world system” that is at enmity with God. Take a moment and reflect on the latest sufferings. Even the extreme weather can now be attributed to man’s abuse of the ecology.

Our theology shapes our view of suffering

Our theology of suffering is shaped by our understanding of who God is. It is important to know who God is and conversely, who He is not. While God IS all powerful, all knowing, and everywhere present, God does not exist to act as our Superman, or Wonder Woman, or Batman—running from here and there stopping evil.

God is the rightful ruler and authority over His universe (Col. 1:16). His divine plan of salvation and redemption of mankind is constantly at work. God is the sure foundation on which we can stand in times of uncertainty and times of suffering (Hab. 3:17-19).

Our trust in God shapes our view of suffering

Trust in God is another key factor that shapes our theology of suffering. In review of the biblical record, there are many incidents of suffering—pain, distress, or hardship. Incidents which required the Lord God to show Himself strong on behalf of His people. Sometimes God would remove the object of suffering. More often, however, God allowed the suffering to continue to grow the believer’s trust and faith in Him (2 Cor. 12:7-10).

In his letters to the new churches, the Apostle Paul often spoke of the need to trust and believe God, regardless of their current suffering.

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (Rom. 8:28, NLT)

All of this is for your benefit. And as God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more and more glory. That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! (2 Cor. 4:15-17, NLT)

Our worldview shapes our view of suffering

Our worldview—our beliefs, values, and behavior—also influences how we view suffering. Many of us believe that we are in control of the events and circumstances in our life. We go to great efforts to manage and manipulate those things, which we feel, are in our control. That, however, isn’t always true. Remember COVID 19?

The Preacher (King Solomon) makes this assessment of “control” in Ecclesiastes 9:11. Regardless of personal capacity or ability—speed, strength, wisdom, cleverness, or skill, “time and chance” happens to us all. Suffering nullifies both personal capacity and ability.

Believers operate from a different worldview. We operate from God’s “Kingdom” worldview. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are citizens of God’s Kingdom, though we “temporarily” reside on earth (Phil. 3:20). This view acknowledges the reality of sin and suffering but offers an “alternate” response to the suffering we face.

The kingdom view recognizes that:

- God always loves and cares for His children (Ps. 23).
- God sovereignly rules over the universe (Ps. 103:19).
- God is always with and for us (Gen. 28:15; Matt.28:20).

Holding this view, we are able to persevere and live confidently even amid suffering.

Conclusion

Suffering is a reality of living. We will be better equipped to deal with suffering when our theology is correct. It begins with: (1) the correct view of God, (2) placement of trust in the “right” Person (The Triune God), and (3) an “eternal” Kingdom worldview.

Next week we will look at suffering: its purpose and possibilities.

Spiritual Endurance

Our Theology of Suffering: An Introduction

September 20, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

No suffering please

How do you feel about suffering? What are your beliefs about its cause and effect? Its purpose and possibilities. I, for one, am not volunteering for any unnecessary pain. However, if it hasn’t become evident at this point in our life, suffering is part of our journey as human beings.

Suffering was not part of God’s original divine plan. However, Satan’s introduction of sin in the Garden of Eden resulted in its creation (Gen. 3:16-19). As humans, we continually look for every possible way to avoid suffering. And if we can’t avoid it, we try to move through suffering as quickly as possible.

That’s why it is important for our spiritual growth and development to understand the what and why of suffering. This includes learning to best strengthen our resolve and focus when suffering occurs. Because “I guarantee you” that we all will suffer in the future. But the question is, what is your response to suffering? How well do you manage your pain?

What is suffering?

Suffering is the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship. As we look around, we might conclude that we are living in a continual state of suffering.

Pain, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional is evident in our society by the number of individuals seeking relief through food, drugs, and alcohol. Distress is extreme anxiety and sorrow.

Anxiety disorder is the class of mental disorder in which anxiety is the predominant feature. This disorder, an illness characterized by constant and boundless worry that interferes with the daily life, is the most common psychiatric illness in the United States, affecting 40 million American adults.[1]

Hardship (deprivation) is caused by any number of reasons: acts of nature resulting in loss of life and property or man-made (political/social/economic agendas and policies). Hardship presents itself in the growth of the lower economic class, which is one-third of where Americans are today.

The lower economic class, also known as the working class, is the socio-economic group with the least income. They are often categorized as families whose income falls below poverty line. These are the people who live hand to mouth, or paycheck to paycheck. They barely earn enough to cover their expenses and a huge expense often sends them into debt.[2]

What do we learn from the definition of suffering? Suffering affects more than our physical well-being. Suffering is not just episodic. It occurs more frequently and “routinely” than we want to admit. We have, unfortunately, accepted it as “part of life”. And to some degree it is part of life BUT how we respond and manage it, makes the difference between successful living and thriving OR stressful living and surviving.

Pain management

When we experience pain that cannot be alleviated with medication, surgery, or rehabilitation, our physician will often prescribe pain management treatment. The intent is to teach us strategies which will help us maintain control or influence over our pain. This might include for example, breathing techniques or mindfulness-based therapies.

Key to successful pain management treatment is the realization that the pain will not be eliminated, however, we can exercise control over the degree the pain will hinder or disrupt our life.

For believers, our pain management for suffering lies with our knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord (2 Pet. 1: 3-4). Since we live in a fallen world, suffering will continue. However, armed with knowledge of God, we can live confidently, trusting in His goodness and His greatness (Ps. 27:1-3).

This is especially true during difficult times—times of suffering—when fear and doubt challenge our faith. When this happens, we can stand firmly on what we know about God and those things which He has revealed to us as His children (Rom. 8:17).

Knowing these things can not only help us better respond to the suffering happening in our life but also react appropriately to the disruptions in the world around us. How we respond to things revealed become the entry point for God to provide His power, His provision, and His presence.

Next week, we will continue to discuss and develop our theology on suffering.

[1] Pew Research Center

[2] Ibid

Our Faith Walk

When Life Happens

September 13, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

How was your day?

You rush to the bank to make that critical deposit on Friday afternoon. Your watch shows you have five minutes before closing. As you pull up to the bank window; instead of the teller, you see the “closed” sign. Your watch evidently was running slower than you knew. Life happens!

You go for your annual mammogram examination. The technician finishes with a smile and a promise to be right back. She leaves to share your pictures with the attending physician. She returns and somberly informs you that after dressing, the physician would like to meet with you. Life happens!

Majoring in misfortune?

From minor irritations to upsetting reports, life happens. These interruptions catch us unprepared for the inevitable. They are unexpected and usually, unfavorable circumstances that come to take “the wind out of our proverbial sail.”

In Ecclesiastes 9:11, The Preacher (King Solomon) makes the assessment that regardless of personal capacity or ability—speed, strength, wisdom, cleverness or skill, life happens.

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

He uses two words, time and chance, to create a figure of speech that represents “life happens moments”—we call it misfortune (Ecc. 9:11b). Misfortune nullifies both personal capacity and ability. No one is exempt from misfortune. We all have our day when it gains our full attention.

What is our response?

What is our response to misfortune? “Why me?” We try to do the right thing, make the appropriate preparation, and make the best choices based on “what we know at the time.” So what happened? Life happened.

As inhabitants of fallen world, we are not immune to the affects and experiences which life presents. But while believers live “in the world”, we do not have to respond as the world when life happen moments occur.

A better way!

I’d like to recommend 3R’s that will help us manage life’s misfortune.

#1. REMEMBER our position. We are not our misfortune. Our hope and security lies in our position in Christ Jesus. In Christ, we are heirs of God and therefore, the object of His love. Therefore, in spite of misfortune, we stand firm on God’s promises and His power (Eph. 1:19).

#2. REFRAME our situation. We are not blind to misfortune but we know who controls all circumstances. Nothing happens to us that does not first pass God’s examination. Reframing begins with accepting God’s sovereign rule over our lives (2 Cor. 4:8-9).

#3. RECAST our response. Recasting is accomplished by trusting God and looking for ways to transform misfortune into opportunities that enrich our spiritual life. These opportunities may be more time in personal witnessing, intercessory prayer, fasting, and Bible meditation. We respond with confidence times of misfortune because we are assured of who will be with us until the end (1 John 4:4).

Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to memory a time when “life happened” to you. How did you respond? Using the three (3) principles listed in today’s teaching, journal how that moment or situation can now be understood differently. Feel free to share your thoughts.

The next time you have a “life happens moment”, read Ecclesiastes 9:11. Better yet, commit to memorizing this scripture for future reference. Why? Because life happens!

Spiritual Maturity

Where’s the light?

August 23, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Where’s the light?

This is the panicky question young children ask their parents as they enter a dark room. They are concerned in knowing where the light can be found.

Similarly, “Where is God?” is the panicky question we ask as we see our “secure” world coming unraveled before our very eyes.

Jesus is the Light

I know my last few WordBytes have centered around a song. Guess what? I have a new song for you this week. It is a familiar song typically (but not exclusively) sung during Christmas as we celebrate the advent of Jesus into this darkened world.

We’ll walk in the light, Beautiful Light,

Come where the dew drops of mercy shine bright.

Shine all around me by day and by night.

Jesus, the Light of the world.

Guess what? Jesus is STILL the Light of the world 365 days of the year!

Light that dispels the darkness

Even amid the darkness cast upon our world and our environment, nothing can extinguish the brightness that Jesus offers to “penetrate” the darkness. Why do I say that? Examine the historic evidence in the biblical record.

In the Old Testament, we first meet Jesus as part of the Holy Trinity that entered the “earth without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, let there be light; and there was light.” (Gen. 1:2-3) In Creation, God’s light entered the physical realm.

In deliverance of the Israelites out of Egypt, the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud by day to guide them; by night, He provided a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. (Exod. 12:21-22). In Deliverance, God’s light showed the way.

In the New Testament, God sent the consummate Light in Jesus Christ. The Gospels give evidence of Jesus as the True Light. The Apostle John introduces Jesus in these terms in John 1:4-5, 9.

In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.

Jesus was the Light that would shine on our souls and redeem us from the darkness: the bondage of Satan, and the deceitfulness of sin.

Our Journey through Darkness

Our life is perhaps a consummate example of how Jesus penetrates the darkness that rises in our life. Take time right now and reflect on when there seemed to be no answer to a problem or a solution for a particular situation. Nothing but darkness! It may have risen externally, by way of personal danger, family illness, or financial struggle.

Do we ever take time to reflect on not only, how we made it through, but more importantly, who brought us through the darkness? That’s why I journal, because it records the “dark places” in my life and how Jesus provided the light I needed to see. It also captures the scripture that the Holy Spirit shared to burst through the darkness that seemed to hem me in.

One of my “light” scriptures was given to me while experiencing my mother’s transition. It was Psalms 138:3.

In the day when I cried, thou answered me, and strengthened me with strength in my soul.

Another came from Habakkuk 3: 19:

The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.

In my dark places and in my tight spaces, Jesus has been and will always be my Light.

Walk in the Light

Today, we don’t have to stay in darkness. We must be careful not to be deceived in believing that the answers to our world and personal problems (darkness) can be found in power, money, nor political affiliation. Have they produced the light we need for joy, peace, and contentment? Why not? Because darkness cannot create light!

Let us come out of the darkness and walk in the marvelous light that God has given us through Jesus our Lord and Savior (1 Pet. 2:9). Walk in the beautiful Light. JESUS IS the Light of the world.

Our Faith Walk

Have you got good religion?

August 16, 2022 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Do we have it?

“Have You Got Good Religion?” is an African American gospel song which imagines a series of questions Jesus might ask believers.

After the opening query, “Have you got GOOD RELIGION?”, there are five (5) additional questions which Jesus asks. The individual then answers with an emphatic response, “Certainly Lord!” As there have been many renditions of this song, there also have been many modifications to the “original” questions.

For this teaching, I’d like to share the original verses:

Have you been redeemed?
Have you been to the water?
Have you been baptized?
Is your name on high?
Has your name been changed?

The occasion or background for this dialogue is not given nor is it even important. But as I purview the Church in the 21^st century and the role of each of us as believers, I find the questions very appropriate.

Do we have good religion?

What is religion?

The origin of the word religion is from Latin religio or religare which means “obligation, bond, or to bind”. Modern classification describes religion as a particular system of faith and worship. It is also belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power especially a personal God or gods.

I’m sure one time or another our faith walk has been described in terms of how we pursue our “religion.” As we share our beliefs as it relates to world events, we might be told, “you are taking this religious thing too far!” Or as we refuse to acquiesce to some immoral or dishonest act, we may be accused as being “too religious”.

So what is good religion?

I concur with both definitions of religion put forth earlier. I worship only One God, the Creator and Sustainer of all life (Ps. 104). He is the ruling authority in my life. My Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ redeemed me and translated me from darkness into light (1 Pet. 2:9). Jesus lives in me through His Holy Spirit who empowers and guides me in all things. I am a Christian and I worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24).

We must be careful however, not to allow man-made rituals and practices to keep us from true righteousness—being in right relationship with God AND with each other. Such was often the case with the Pharisees who often mistaken religious activities for true worship and love for God (Matt. 15:1-20). Sadly, we see this in our churches who cling to history and tradition. These often result in the quenching of the Holy Spirit.

What’s in a song?

I think the questions put forth in the song, help us to define what “good religion” looks like. Then we can begin to examine ourselves to see if we are still of the faith (2 Cor. 13:5).

- Have you been redeemed? To be redeemed means we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We no longer belong to Satan but are now part of God’s family. (Titus 2:11-14)

- Have you been to the water? Have you been baptized? Baptism is our public testimony to our willingness to follow Jesus. It is our external witness to our allegiance to Him. (Rom. 6:3-4)

- Is your name on high? “On high” refers to “heaven” where the Book of Life is kept until Judgment Day (Rev. 20:11-15). In it are the records of all people considered righteous before God. Our name is in the Book because we have Christ’s imputed righteousness. (2 Cor. 5:19).

- Has your name been changed? Our name is the source of our identity. Biblical name changes were the result of spiritual identity changes in the life of those who have been with God, i.e., Abram to Abraham, Sari to Sarah, Jacob to Israel. Our spiritual identities are changed when we become new creatures in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17).

How would we respond?

If God were to pose the six questions contained in our song today, can we say emphatically. “Certainly Lord?” What would be our proof?

F.B. Meyer, noted theologian shared this description on religion—I offer it as my definition of “good religion.”

In Matthew 15:16, our Lord teaches that true religion is certainly not a matter of eating and drinking or outward ceremony. It is the intention of the soul, the continual drawing from Christ the life power needed for our work and ministry to others.

Is our life a witness to God’s power and love? Have we joined Jesus in His work to serve in this fallen world? If we can say, “Certainly Lord!” then our life and works become a testimony of our “good religion.” (2 Cor. 5:14-15).

Our Faith Walk

Two Boats and a Helicopter

July 19, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The choices we make

I’m sure you have heard the story about the man who faced imminent danger as a result of a flood that begun to ravage his community. The flood waters became higher, forcing him to retreat to the roof of his house. On two occasions, individuals in boats beckoned him to climb into their boats and save his life. But he refused and shouted back from his roof, “I’m a Christian! God will save me!”

Finally, the waters rose to the edge of the roof. Suddenly a helicopter appeared and begged the man to grab the dropped latter and be saved. Well, you know what happened! The man refused and ultimately died. When he entered heaven, he demanded to see God. “Why did you let me drown?” Instead of striking him down with a lightening bolt, God calmly replied, “Hey, I sent you two boats and a helicopter.”

As we face the challenges and problems in our life, we often fail to watch and follow the leads that God sends us. Many of these are given to us before we enter our trial. However, when we’re in that dire situation, so is God! God is there AND He wants us to use the resources He has provided for us. Such was the case with Moses as he faced his first hurdle upon leaving Egypt for the Promise Land (Exodus 14).

After Moses and the Israelites left Egypt, Pharoah had “seller remorse”. God hardened his heart and caused him to regret letting the Israelite slaves leave (S). He probably felt like he had been duped. Who would do the work that the Israelites did? Egypt’s economy would probably suffer, not to mention their quality of life—who would cook, clean, and serve them? So much for Pharoah right now, let’s return to Moses’ dilemma.

The dilemma

As Pharoah and his army approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, “Weren’t there enough graves in Egypt that you brought us out here to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt?”

The complaints escalated. Moses tried to reassure the Israelites that everything would be alright. He tried to coach them to “stand firm” and “be still”. God would fight for them! (Exod. 14:13-14). Moses told them that they would see the salvation of the LORD on that day. But all they could see were Egyptians bringing up the rear fast. They could not see God!

As I read this passage, I saw myself when facing hard times and challenges. I tend to see only what I can look at with my physical eyes—loss of health, injustice, change in relationships, economic uncertainty.

It’s even harder for me to “be still”. I need to fix this situation and now. I see only me standing before the Red Sea. But all is not loss—I’ll tell you why in a few. Back to Moses.

“Any old help will do.”

I’m sure Moses cried to God. Exactly what he said is not included in the scripture text. But the Lord used this moment to speak directly to Moses. Was God going to tell him that help was on the way? Was He sending two boats and a helicopter?

The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward” (Exod. 14:15).

Moses probably thought, “Really? Red Sea before me and Egyptians behind me.” Sometimes when we pray, God’s answers don’t always make sense to us at first. But that’s where our faith in God—His greatness and His goodness—reinforces the need to obey His instructions (Heb. 11:1).

God gave Moses an answer he didn’t expect: “Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.” (Exod. 14:16)

Moses had the answer to His dilemma “right in his hand” PLUS the power of God. Moses and his staff would be the conduit God would use to not only deliver the Israelites but also glorify God. This act of deliverance would spread throughout the countryside including to the potential tribes in the Promise Land whom the Israelites would need to conquer (Exod. 14:18).

When you need help…

From this study, I came to the following conclusions about what to do when I need help.

1. Assess what I currently have available to address my problem. I will not only inventory what I have with my “physical eyes” (my mind and my intellect) but also with my “spiritual eyes”. When I read God’s Word, especially His promises and follow that with prayer, I can expect God to show me what to do. I have learned that God’s ways, methods, and timing are not the same as mine (Is. 55:8-9). THEY ARE BETTER!

1. “Lift up to God” the resources He has already provided for my solution. Moses failed to remember that God had told him that He would go with him on the journey to the Promised Land. He had forgotten how God used Moses’ staff in the court of Pharoah (Exod. 4:3). Sometimes I refuse to move forward until I have “all the information and answers”. When that happens, it is important for me to call to remembrance (Is. 46:9,10) where God has stepped in to join me in my battles (2 Chron. 20:6-7, 12).

1. Move forward. I am still learning each day to move forward when directed by God. I guess it’s part of being human. I am learning to move “more quickly” when God directs me and learning to trust Him more.

In my moments of prayer and meditation, I ask God to show me those areas of my life where I sin by being prideful or self-reliant. He uses that time together to gently redirect my attention away from my problems and look to Him. God is greater than any problem we may face and better equipped to solve them. Only God can guarantee our success!

When God created us, He not only placed His purpose within us but also placed the ability to complete that purpose (Phil. 1:6). As God prepares our path, He also prepares us for the path. It is our responsibility to believe, to trust, and then obey.

Conclusion

The next time you need help, deliverance, or an answer for life’s challenges, don’t always look for a miracle from God. He doesn’t need to come to our rescue. God is always with us. We daily live not in God’s miracles but by His lovingkindness and grace. He is there to help us see the resources He has already provided for our escape (Eph. 1:17-20).

Prayer: O Heavenly Father, grow within us the faith we need for the challenges we face. Train us to look at our problems as opportunities to partner with You in their resolution. Forgive us when we lean on our own understanding. Place in our heart an expectation that You are with us and will always act on our behalf. Lord, finally, help us to “Go forward” in Your name and by Your power. Amen

Our Faith Walk

Opportunities in Uncertainty

July 12, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Josh’s opportunity

Josh had experienced much turmoil and strife during his current job assignment. There was frequent upheaval among his peers against current management. Those efforts, fortunately, had been squelched. As a result of that effort, many of his team members suffered great loss and were not allowed to move forward with the organization.

Earlier in his career, Josh was chosen to be part of a special team to evaluate next steps for his organization. Because of Josh’s loyalty and his credentials, he was now a candidate for a new opportunity.

Because of the earlier “coup attempt”, many of the older, seasoned members were no longer there. What remained was a young and inexperienced group, who needed guidance and support in moving the organization to new heights that had been promised to them.

And now, he was being offered a promotion as head of the organization. But was he ready? What did he need to move forward? Was there an opportunity in this uncertainty? These were possible questions asked by Moses’ replacement, Joshua (Deut. 31:7).

Ready for an opportunity?

How would we respond if offered the opportunity set before Joshua? That was the question I asked myself during my morning devotion as I read Deuteronomy 31:1-8 and Joshua 1:1-18. In both scripture texts, Joshua is repeatedly told several things that would prepare him for his new leadership role.

The first dealt specifically with his reaction to the opportunity. What were the emotions he felt knowing what lie ahead of him? Joshua was told to “be strong, fear not, and be of good courage” (Joshua 1:6-9). But how was he to do that?

He had seen Moses as he dealt with this group of stiff-necked and disobedient people. He remembered the frustration that Moses often felt in trying to keep them faithful to God and His commandments. Moses was the great mediator between these people and Yahweh, Almighty God. Would he be able to do the same?

Fear or dismay?

As I studied these texts, I asked myself (and my husband) this question. Which is worst—fear or dismay (discouragement)? Is there a difference? Fear is anxiety caused by approaching danger—real or imagined. Discouragement is described as depression of one’s spirit. It can be caused by a heavy burden, defeat, an apparent failure, or even sickness.

Both fear and discouragement would be unique challenges that Joshua would need to manage as he moved forward. Both could potentially lead to failure in Joshua’s assignment to take the Israelites into the Promise Land. And not only entrance into the land that God promised, but to also conquer the current inhabitants.

Fear or discouragement? Which one is our biggest threat as we face the challenges of living in these times of uncertainty? How are we to manage the stresses of life that come both rapidly, continuously, and often violently?

Fear and discouragement are Satan’s “weapons of choice” to hinder and even stop us as we move into God’s purpose for our life. Satan will often focus on the largeness of the problem and/or the smallness of our ability to stop us in our tracks.

That’s why we need the intervention of Someone who is bigger than the problem and able to do exceedingly above all that we can ask or need (Eph. 3:20). That Someone is God our Father, made available through His Son Jesus the Christ, and made manifest in our lives through the Holy Spirit.

God’s Promise

In his new leadership role, it was critical that Joshua remembered what God had promised: It is the Lord who goes before you; He will be with you, He will not fail you or forsake you (Deut. 31:8).

Despite the difficult times experienced living in the Wilderness, Joshua saw firsthand God’s love and faithfulness to His people. God had chosen Israel to be His treasure (Deut. 7:6) and He would make good on every promise He made to them (Joshua 1:5-7).

Joshua had seen God’s great power as evidenced through His miracles and works: The ten plagues in Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and God’s provision during Israel’s 40 years in the wilderness (Deut. 8:3-4). God’s promise to Moses was the same promise He now made to Joshua: God would go before him and with him. God would not fail nor forsake him.

We daily face changes and challenges, turmoil, and threats. They are as great and as real, for us, as Joshua’s new leadership opportunity. But like Joshua, we can rest assured that we can depend on and trust in the promises of God. God goes before us and with us, wherever the circumstances of life may lead us (Heb. 13:5).

God is more than able to handle whatever may come our way. He is “Alpha and Omega, the beginning, and the ending…which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty” (Rev. 1:8). It is in His presence, and under His authority that all things are possible (Matt. 19:26). So be not afraid nor be dismayed, we are not alone. There is always opportunity even amid uncertainty when God is with us.

Our Faith Walk

How’s your joy capacity?

July 5, 2022 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Joy and strength

Upon returning from exile, Nehemiah told the builders of the new wall of Jerusalem that “the joy of the Lord would be their strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10) The type of joy Nehemiah was alluding to was only possible from our Almighty God Who would sustain them through the direst of circumstances.

What sustains you? In the midst of all our challenges as a nation, in our communities, and in our families, how are you holding up? How is your joy capacity? Is the joy of the Lord still our strength today? Yes! The principle of joy still resonates even in the 21st century (James 1:2-3; Phil. 4:4).

What exactly is joy?

Joy is defined by Webster as a feeling of great pleasure and happiness. This definition, however, fails to explain the importance of joy in building resiliency, or our ability to “bounce back” from the challenges of life. It is joy that increases our emotional capacity to handle the difficulties we face while we live in this fallen world.

Joy nuggets

Although we may feel like we have little or no joy left, we must be diligent to “refill” our joy tanks. I’d like to share just a few “joy nuggets” nuggets so you too can increase your JQ–joy quotient.

We increase our joy when we are in relationship. I’m not talking about sexual relationship (although that is important) but I mean when we are in fellowship with others. God said it is not “good for man to be alone.” In response, God created woman to be in relationship with Him. (Gen. 2:18) God Himself was in relationship with the first married couple.

In relationship, joy comes from knowing that the person you are with is happy to see and be with you. Relationship was key to Christ as we observe His relationship with His disciples and His close circle which included Peter, James, and John

We increase joy when we are in community. Social restraints and changing technology have made archaic the idea of a physical community. Remember Mrs. Branch who taught the girls how to play the piano? Or Mr. Johnson’s “show and tell” sessions about his adventures in the Army. Or Mrs. Mott’s homemade cider and gingerbread at Halloween.

Community offered familiarity, authenticity, and validation. Joy was found in acceptance and genuine interest in the individual. Join a community that can offer these benefits. Remember the television sitcom, “Cheers”. At Cheers “everybody knows your name and their all so glad you came. We want to go where everybody knows your name!”

We increase joy when we reflect on moments of appreciation. Think about a person that you appreciate and a time you felt especially grateful to be with that person.

Describe the emotion you felt when you were with them. Describe what your body felt like when that person was present. Doing this exercise regularly will raise your joy level.

Let your joy flow

Although joy might appear to be a fleeting emotion, it really requires that we be intentional in our pursuit of it.

My joy begins first with God, my most important relationship. It is in time of prayer, reading His Word, and fellowship through worship that I feel my greatest joy. With Him, I feel safe, calm, and connected. I feel joy.

Next, I find great joy with family and friends. It is in sharing meals, recounting stories, and in creating new memories that I find joy. These times together help me put into perspective what is important and “joyful.” I share joy.

How is your joy capacity?