What’s Weighing You Down?

Recently, following a bad ice storm, I was traveling from Atlanta to North Carolina. As I traveled up the interstate, I noticed a lot of trees had fallen and many pine trees were leaning. The weight of the ice had caused many trees to fall, break, or bend. Highway crews were still clearing the trees, limbs and other debris from the storm.

As I continued traveling north into the Carolinas, I observed the same scene and it got me to thinking. Many times we live like these trees. We’re not weighed down by ice, but we are weighed down by so many other things that come into our lives. It could be a health crisis, or a situation at work. It could be guilt from a past failure. It could be a troubled marriage or a strained relationship with a child. It could be any number of things…you fill in the blank.

Although we can’t do anything about those bent pine trees, we can do something about those things that are weighing us down. The psalmist instructs us, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved” (Psalm 55:22). So whatever is weighing you down take it to the Lord and allow Him to sustain you. You can always trust Him to hold you up no matter what’s weighing you down.

When You Want To Get Even

After a 4-year-old got into trouble at preschool, his mom asked him what he had done wrong. He explained, “I was angry with a playmate. But you told me that I should not hit anyone, so I asked my friend to do it for me!” ¹ I believe you would agree that this little boy got revenge in a rather creative way. Often when someone gets hurt they want to get even—one way or the other. If anyone ever had a reason for wanting to get even it was a young man named David.

David was on the run for his life! He was being hunted by King Saul who, because of his jealousy of David, was determined to kill David. In fact, David had already escaped from Saul on more than one occasion. It is clear that David had done nothing to deserve Saul’s rage and yet he was hunted like an animal (1 Samuel 24:11). On two separate occasions, while Saul was hunting for David, David had an opportunity to kill Saul. He was even encouraged by his own men, but he spared Saul’s life. David entrusted his life to God. He trusted God to avenge him (1 Samuel 24:12). He trusted God to deliver him from Saul’s hand (1 Samuel 24:15; 26:24).

Although he had what many would call justifiable reasons to take Saul’s life, David chose not to touch him (1 Samuel 24:12-13; 26:11, 23). Instead, he left it in God’s hands. By choosing not to harm Saul, David was commended by Saul. Saul told David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil" (1 Samuel 24:17). Later Saul acknowledged: “Blessed be you, my son David! You will do many things and will succeed in them” (1 Samuel 26:25).

Do you feel you have justifiable reasons to seek revenge? Are you waiting to get even with someone who has hurt you? If so, learn a lesson from David. Entrust your life to God. Trust God to avenge you. Leave the matter in God’s hands. Like David, don’t in any way harm the one who has hurt you. We would do well to remember the words of David to King Saul, “The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness” (1 Samuel 26:23a).

So, when you want to get even, follow David’s example and entrust your life to God! Remember, God will reward you for your righteousness! 

“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.” Romans 12:17

 

¹ Story taken from Our Daily Bread, November 20, 2010.

Got To Have Your Way? Think Again!

Burger King is known for their famous slogan, Have it your way! Of course, they are promoting their restaurant to be a place where you can get your burgers fixed the way you want them. But outside of a burger, have you ever just had to have your way? No doubt, we would all say “Yes!” I’m sure, if you’re like me, there were many times when you were happy to get your way. Yet, I wonder, did it always turn out well when you got your way?

The nation of Israel wanted to have their way. Their motivation? To be like all the other nations (see 1 Samuel 8:19-20). What did they want? A king! Why did they want a king? Here’s their answer: 

But there shall be a king over us, that we also may be like all the nations, and that our king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles.” (1 Samuel 8:19-20)

As I was reading this story recently to my little girls, Sarah spoke up, “But God was the one who fought for them.” Sarah was correct! In an effort to be like everyone else though, Israel rejected God (1 Samuel 10:19). They overlooked the fact that they already had a King—the perfect King! God was not only their judge, He was a righteous judge. He had also demonstrated time and time again that He would go out before them and fight for them. But no, Israel wanted to have their way and God granted their request. A young man named Saul was anointed king and served Israel for 42 years. If you study Saul’s reign, you will see that he repeatedly failed to lead the people as he was instructed and he dishonored God.

Here’s something I find interesting. Scripture reveals that King Saul was taller than any of the people (1Samuel 9:2). In fact, he was a head taller than anyone else (1 Samuel 10:23). Why is that significant? During Saul’s reign, a champion named Goliath, who was over nine feet tall, came and taunted the people of Israel. He wanted someone from Israel to come out and fight him (1 Samuel 17:4-10). Now, who would be the most likely candidate for such a challenge? King Saul! After all, the people wanted a king who would go out before them and fight their battles. So, why did King Saul not accept the challenge from Goliath? He, along with all Israel, was dismayed and greatly afraid (1 Samuel 17:11). Israel’s fearless leader was full of fear! So much for getting their way.

In an effort to be like all the other nations the people of Israel asked for a king and God gave them one. Israel’s story teaches us many lessons. Let me share three:

1.  Guard your motives. Are your motives selfish or selfless? Are they self-exalting or God-exalting?

2.  Be careful what you ask for. After all, like Israel, you may just get it.

3.  Remember Who your King is and trust Him! Don’t put your trust in man when you can trust in God! We can always trust God to judge righteously, to go out before us, and yes, to fight for us.

So, when you’ve just got to have your way, maybe you should think again!

When Evil Seems To Rule The Day

Have you sometimes wondered how long God will allow the ungodly to prosper while the godly suffer? Have you ever looked around and wondered why God doesn’t do something about all the evil in our world? The prophet Habakkuk, who prophesied during the final days of the Assyrian Empire, could relate! Habakkuk had two basic questions for God.

First, he wanted to know, How long? “O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save?” (Habakkuk 1:2). Ever found yourself there? You’ve called out to God for help and yet it did not appear He was listening to you. Ever found yourself praying that God would end the violence of our day, yet to no avail?

Second, Habakkuk wanted to know, Why? Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise…why do you idly look at traitors and remain silent when the wicked swallows up the man more righteous than he? (Habakkuk 1:3, 13). Habakkuk wanted to know why his people must suffer injustice and wrongdoing. In his day, justice had essentially disappeared from Judah causing violence and wickedness to reign unchecked. They were dark days!

Habakkuk witnessed corruption and wrong doing. Manasseh, Amon, and Jehoikim were corrupt leaders. For example, during Jehoikim’s reign, the land was poor, yet Jehoikim delighted himself in extravagance, building majestic palaces, and enhancing towns by way of forced labor (Jeremiah 22:13–18; Habakkuk 2:9–17). We too are living in a nation where corruption is prevalent at all levels and where wrong doing is often shamefully ignored. Habakkuk also witnessed the oppression of his people under Jehoikim. The same is true in our nation. No doubt religious freedom is being oppressed. For example, the Ten Commandments, along with crosses, are being removed from the public square as well as state and federal government-owned land. Free speech is even being oppressed by some. Habakkuk also witnessed violence in his day. In our day, news stories are filled with abductions, murder, rape, and robbery. The recent shooting rampage at the Century 16 theater in Aurora, Colorado, is one clear example of the violence of our day. In addition, Habakkuk witnessed conflict among his people. Today, there is conflict wherever we turn, whether in government, politics, public debate, the work place, or in the home. Sadly, many churches are filled with conflict. Habakkuk wanted to know how long and why? Two fitting questions for our day, don’t you think?
What was the result of all this? First, the people were indifferent towards the law. So the law is paralyzed (Habakkuk 1:4). The people of Judah became numb to the Law of God. The same is true in our day. As a nation, we condone what God’s Word condemns. God’s Word teaches justice, integrity, and honesty, and yet we see just the opposite in all levels of society. Second, there was a perversion of justice. ...and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround the righteous; so justice goes forth perverted (Habakkuk 1:4). Do we not see this in our day? As a result, perpetrators often become victims. The third result was not what Habakkuk was expecting: impending judgment (Habakkuk 1:5-17). In short, God was going to bring judgment on the nation of Judah. Habakkuk knew that his people had sinned and deserved God’s judgment but he wrestled with God’s answer.

As we look at Habakkuk’s response to what was happening in his day we learn what we can do when evil seems to rule the day.

1. Get honest with God. Habakkuk came with questions, sharing the concerns of his heart (Habakkuk 1:2-13). It is okay to wrestle and pose questions to God when we are genuinely seeking answers to life’s problems. When we wrestle with the issues of our day the best One to turn to is God. Habakkuk looked around but then he turned to God!

2. Trust the character of God. Habakkuk, speaking to God, says, Are you not from everlasting, O my God, my Holy One? (Habakkuk 1:12). God is holy. We can trust His character. He will act in His time.

3. Take time to hear from God. Notice what Habakkuk did: I will take my stand at my watchpost and station myself on the tower, and look out to see what he will say to me, and what I will answer concerning my complaint (Habakkuk 2:1). Once we share our concerns with God we must take time to hear from Him.

Perhaps you’re experiencing first hand some of what Habakkuk witnessed—you may be a victim or even a perpetrator. Maybe you, like Habakkuk have questions. If so, get honest with God, trust His character, and take time to listen to Him.

Finding Hope When Life Seems Hopeless

As we look at what is happening in our nation (the assault on religious liberties, decisions by our nation’s political leaders and justices, etc.), not to mention what is happening around the world (civil wars, hunger, religious persecution, etc.), it is easy to become overwhelmed and distressed. But in the midst of all this we must remember that we do not see the complete picture. At best, we see only bits and pieces, and even then we sometimes don’t fit the pieces together very well.

A man named Asaph, a chief musician under King David’s rule, wrestled with what he saw in his day. It seemed that the ungodly were prospering. In fact, if you look closely at his writing, recorded in Psalm 73, you will see snapshots of the times in which we live. Asaph describes the ungodly as arrogant, trouble-free, violent, oppressive, mockers of God. Asaph wanted to know how in the world these ungodly people could prosper. Even though Asaph knew that God is good, he still wondered why life seemed so unfair.

It was in this time of despair that Asaph found hope. Asaph writes, But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task, until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end (Psalm 73:16-17). Asaph was troubled and in despair because he had taken his eyes off God and placed them on others and the circumstances around him. But when Asaph redirected his attention to God, he not only saw the outcome of the ungodly but he was also reminded of who God is.

Perhaps you can relate to Asaph. As you look at your own life, or even at the events taking place around you, you find yourself filled with despair. Perhaps, like Asaph, you wonder how life can be so unfair. I encourage you today to redirect your attention to the One who knows all and sees all. Turn to God. Spend time alone in His presence. Trust God. Remember, He sees the complete picture and He is still in control. As you turn to Him and trust Him, like Asaph, you will find hope when life seems hopeless.

No Need To Despair

In light of recent events taking place in our nation and around the world, Christians would do well to remember that God is sovereign. He is still on His throne. He still reigns. The psalmist reminds us that “God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne” (Psalm 47:8).

With recent elections taking place in various countries, and our own nation’s upcoming election in November, we need to remember that God is sovereign. In reflecting on this I was reminded of two former world leaders. The first was Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, wrote: For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth” (Romans 9:17). Pharaoh did not appoint himself as king. God raised up Pharaoh as king of Egypt for His express purpose: to reveal HIS power and to make HIS name known in all the earth. It is also important to note that God is the One who defeated Pharaoh (Exodus 14:26-28).

The second world leader was Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar was a proud, self-centered man. In fact, he made an image of gold and commanded everyone to fall down and worship this image (see Daniel 3:1-7). By the sovereign plan of God, King Nebuchadnezzar had become great and strong. In fact, Scripture tells us that his dominion extended to the ends of the earth (Daniel 4:22). One day King Nebuchadnezzar was walking on the roof of his palace and proudly said, “Is not this great Babylon, which I have built by my mighty power as a royal residence and for the glory of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:28-30). Then God called out to King Nebuchadnezzar:

“O King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: The kingdom has departed from you, and you shall be driven from among men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. And you shall be made to eat grass like an ox, and seven periods of time shall pass over you, until you know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will”  (Daniel 4:31-32).

We can only imagine what Nebuchadnezzar encountered. It was quite a humbling experience. Following this ordeal, Nebuchadnezzar blessed the Most High:  

for his [God’s] dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom endures from generation to generation; all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, “What have you done?” … Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble (Daniel 4:34-37).

No doubt God used these two kings for His purpose. As I read the stories of these two world leaders, I was reminded of the words of King Solomon: “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will” (Proverbs 21:1). Through the centuries kings, queens, presidents, and prime ministers have come and gone, but there is One who will never leave His throne. He is eternal, sovereign God. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, and for all eternity, He sits on His throne. There is no need to despair! Keep trusting in Him.

Call To Prayer

The first Thursday of May is recognized as the National Day of Prayer. In 1775, the first Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer, asking the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a nation. President Abraham Lincoln signed a proclamation designating April 30, 1863, as a day of national humiliation, fasting and prayer. In his proclamation, Lincoln wrote, “It behooves us then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness.” In 1952, the National Day of Prayer was created by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. I am thankful for each citizen across our nation who took time on this day of prayer to pray for our nation and leaders. 

Recently while reading through the Psalms I read David’s words, recorded in Psalm 11:3, “if the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” As I look at our nation today it is clear that the foundations of our nation are being destroyed. For example, our religious liberties are under attack. Tolerance is the buzzword of our day; however, many are intolerant of Christianity. Christians are accused of imposing our views on others; however, those who make this accusation are themselves imposing their own views—views that are contrary to God’s Word. Morality is at an all-time low. In fact, many people are substituting feelings for Judeo-Christian, God-based standards. Many people today no longer ask if an action is right or wrong because to them moral choices are simply a matter of individual taste. In addition, our nation’s debt crisis, the debate over the definition of marriage, and the growing entitlement mentality are signs that our nation’s foundations are being destroyed.

When we see our nation’s foundations being destroyed what can we do? Like David, we can trust God. In Psalm 11:1, David writes, “In the Lord I take refuge.” God is completely trustworthy. As in David’s day, God’s throne is in heaven (Ps. 11:4). God is still sovereign. He reigns over all things, all people, all leaders, and all nations. As sovereign King He is very much in control. Trust God!

Like David, we can also turn to God. David writes, “The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven; his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man” (Ps. 11:4). David looked around and saw the challenging times but then he looked above to God. He knew that God sees all and therefore knows all. God sees and knows what is happening in our nation as well. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul instructs Christians to turn to God by making “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings…for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” Our neighbors need our prayers. Our co-workers need our prayers. Our leaders need our prayers. Turn to God in prayer!

There is something we can do as we look around and see the foundations of our nation being destroyed—we can trust God and turn to Him in prayer. As President Lincoln encouraged the citizens of his day, may we all humble ourselves before God, confess our national (and personal) sins, and pray for clemency (or mercy) and forgiveness.

You Are Not Alone

Have you ever been treated unfairly? Have you ever been betrayed by someone close to you? Have you ever been falsely accused? Have you encountered other experiences when life just seemed unfair? If you answered yes to any of these questions you are not alone!

The Bible tells the story of a young man named Joseph. Humanly speaking, one could say life was unfair to Joseph. Joseph was disliked by his brothers. Of course, Joseph did not help matters when he bragged about dreams he had where his brothers would bow down to him (Gen. 37:5-9). His dad did not help because he showed favoritism,  going even as far to make Joseph an expensive robe to wear (Gen. 37:3). His brothers were  jealous and hated him; so much so, they plotted to kill him (Gen. 37:4, 18). Fortunately his brother Reuben intervened and spared his life; however, his brothers ended up selling him and Joseph ended up in Egypt (Gen. 37:25-28). He was bought by a man named Potiphar, one of King Pharaoh’s officials (Gen. 39:1).

So how did Joseph make it in a strange land, surrounded by complete strangers?  Rather than simply survive, Joseph thrived. Scripture tells us that “the LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man” (Gen. 39:2). Joseph found favor in Potiphar’s eyes and was placed in charge of his household. God blessed everything that Potiphar owned for Joseph’s sake. However, Joseph’s hardships were not quite over. Potiphar’s wife lied about him and the charges were so serious that Joseph was put in prison (Gen. 39:11-20). While in prison, God gave him favor in the sight of the prison warden and Joseph was put in charge of all the prisoners (Gen. 39:21-22). Eventually Joseph was called upon to interpret the dreams of King Pharaoh, which he did with God’s help. King Pharaoh observed that the Spirit of God was on him and since Joseph was so discerning and wise, Pharaoh promoted him to the second highest position in the land of Egypt (Gen. 41:38-44).

Even while living in a strange place surrounded by strangers, Joseph was faithful. He was faithful to serve those who were over him. He was faithful to obey God’s commands by not committing adultery with Potiphar’s wife even though she pursued him time and time again. He was faithful while a prisoner. He was even faithful to forgive his brothers for selling him (Gen. 50:15-21). How could he remain faithful even when life seemed so unfair? He knew God was with him. He knew God was watching over him. He knew God was working out His plan (Gen. 50:20).

If you are a child of God who is going through some difficulty remember that you are not alone. God is with you! He is watching over you and He is working out His plan for your life (Rom. 8:28-29). If you are reading this and are not a child of God, then understand that you desperately need Him. Turn to God and admit to Him that you are a sinner in desperate need of His salvation. Believe the good news that Jesus died for you (Rom. 5:6-8) and then confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead and you will be saved (Rom. 10:9).

Walking Through Life’s Fog

Last evening as I looked out the window I noticed it was very foggy. It reminded me of an experience our family had the week before Christmas. We were driving home after visiting with friends in Alabama. It was dark and very foggy. In fact, although I was following my GPS, it was so foggy I had to stop on several occasions prior to making turns in order to try and see where the road was. I don’t know if I have ever been as happy (or relieved) as I was that night when we finally pulled into our driveway. It was so good to be finally home!

Sometimes life feels like driving through dense fog. We can’t see too far ahead and certainly can’t see what is around the corner. So what are we to do? We need to keep moving ahead. We can take one day at a time, following God and trusting Him with every step. After all, He knows what lies ahead so we can definitely trust Him. Solomon, the wisest man apart from Christ to walk planet Earth, penned these words, Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight (Prov. 3:5-6). We can trust Him with life and every detail of life—that includes eternal life (Rom. 3:22). We can trust Him to guide each step along life’s journey (Ps. 23:2). Regardless of what lies ahead we can trust that He will give us the grace we need to see us through just as He did the Apostle Paul (2 Cor. 12:9). And since we can trust Him, there is no need for us to waste a moment of our time worrying about what lies ahead (Matthew 6:34). After all, most of what we worry about never happens…and even if it does, worrying has never changed anything. So, when you find yourself walking through life’s fog trust God to see you through, knowing that He will continue leading you safely until you arrive at Home with Him (John 14:1-3).

I hope you'll enjoy this song, "Where I Belong."

Relax...God Is In Charge!

After about a three month process, I was recently called by the sweet people of Rocky Mount Baptist Church in Carrollton, Georgia, to be their pastor. What makes this call unique is the fact that I actually interviewed with this same church six years ago. But for whatever reason in God’s providence, six years ago Carrollton, Georgia, was simply to be a short rest stop along the journey to our next ministry. Since coming to Rocky Mount though and seeing how God has been working in my life as well as the church's life, I have found myself saying, “It’s amazing how God has been working these past six years.” However, God began gently reminding me that although He had been working these past six years the truth was that He had been working long before that! I was reminded of David’s words recorded in Psalm 139:16, “Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in Your book and planned before a single one of them began.” David points out three truths…
1. God saw us when we were formless.
2. God set the number of our days on this earth.
3. God planned each day.

I like how this verse is translated in the New Living Translation, “You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in Your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.” David directs our attention to the absolute sovereign plan of God in all of our lives. Although we can’t totally understand or even grasp all of its great truth, we can entrust our lives to the sovereign plan of Almighty God. So, relax, God's in charge!

Where Are You Headed?

Recently my lovely wife and daughters bought me a GPS for my graduation gift (in case you're not familiar with a GPS, it is a global positioning system that allows you to enter an address and then it leads you to your destination with every turn). The Garmin 200 that my family gave me is very easy to operate. So, while at the beach we wanted to go eat at LuLu's. Although my mother-in-law knew the way I thought this would be a great time to show off my GPS to my girls. So, I looked up points of interest and found LuLu's and made my selection and then we were off to LuLu's (or so I thought!). I followed the GPS's every direction. Along the way I noticed that my mother-in-law, who was following us, turned around and headed in a different direction. She called me on my cell and asked where we were going. I replied that I was following my GPS to LuLu's. She told me she would meet me there. I confidently reassured my wife that we would beat her mom there--after all, I had a GPS! However, when my GPS told me that I was arriving at my destination I discovered that we were not at LuLu's but rather had arrived at some motel. Somehow my GPS had landed our family across the river from LuLu's. To say the least, from that point on I chose to ignore the GPS and follow my mother-in-law's directions and we finally arrived at LuLu's. My sweet 9-year old daughter, Lauren, told me that she wanted to ride back to the condo with grandma because she did not have a GPS. So much for showing off and impressing my girls with my GPS!

As I reflected on this humorous experience I thought of something. I have been provided directions for life in the Word of God, the Bible. Every day I have a choice to make--will I follow the directions from God's Word or go my own direction? It is a choice we all make every single day. Unlike my GPS, God's Word will never lead us wrong. We can count on every single direction God gives to us because God has our best interest at heart. After all, He created us, therefore He knows what is best for us. Solomon penned these words, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths" (Prov. 3:5-6, HCSB). We can always count on God's directions knowing that He will guide us on the right paths. Who are you trusting today? If you want to go the right direction then trust God because He alone is absolutely trustworthy! So, where are you headed?