In my last post I incorrectly quoted from the movie Pollyanna. The inscription on her necklace was “If you look for the bad in people you shall surely find it”, Abraham Lincoln. The major theme of the movie was to look for the good, not the bad. Whatever you look for in people, you will see it.
Philippians 4: 8 [KJV] Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Form an opinion of those things which heighten, elevate us and those around us. People need to see the true, see integrity, see justice, purity, beauty, and the good. They need to see they are made in the image of God.
The moment we behold [with our soul] as with the clear light of Christ, we are transformed, and so is our world. Light removes the darkness. It penetrates the heart and spirit, and take us to the sacred place of forgiveness and love.
Your good eyes shining on the poor soul who has lost their way will be like a drop of water in the dry desert. Let resolve ourselves to see the good, and share the Good News today.
Recently, I watched an old movie starring Hayley Mills “Pollyanna”, who came to live with her maiden aunt after the death of her missionary father. Her aunt Polly was extremely wealthy and ran the town. Its citizens followed a strict code of conduct and weren’t particularly happy. Pollyanna’s character, upon arrival introduced the philosophy of “The Game.” Her father taught her to look at the bright side of things, even when disappointed in circumstances, or in people. “If you look for the good in people, you are sure to find it” was the inscription on the necklace given to her by her father. There are more than 800 happy texts in the Bible Pollyanna told the Pastor portrayed by the late actor Karl Malden. He went and looked up every single one of these “happy texts” and it dramatically changed his ministry, and relationship with the townspeople.
Cynicism, malaise is creeping into our thoughts, actions, and deeds. Are you looking for the good in people at the home, the supermarket, store, bank, school or on your job? You might say, you don’t understand what I’m going through. You don’t understand the news I just received. My kids, my spouse, my job, my work, my life….there is nothing good here now. You are so wrong. Good is always present. “Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from Heaven above, with wisdom, power and love, our God is an awesome God” are lyrics from a song sung by Helen Baylor. Our awesome God has given abundant life. He has given us the perfect planet in which to live. He has given us his Only begotten Son Jesus to rescue us from the wages of sin and the grave. He has given us family, opportunity to use our gifts and abilities, and so much more. We are his beloved children, stewards and ambassadors who should be looking for the good in others. The world needs us looking through the lens of good so they can have hope. So go find a happy text in the Bible, and then play the Game. Remember: When you look for the good, you will surely find it.
Jesus holds many titles: Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Savior, Lord of Lords, King of Kings, Prince of Peace, Bright and Morningstar, Alpha and Omega. He has also been described as “despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” Our Savior bears each title with dignity, honor, and much love. From the princely realm of heaven to the depths of humanity, Jesus carries these titles like jewels in a crown. They represents the essence of his character, and his divinity. Because of them [the titles], we understand Him a little. He is approachable. We relate to Him, because He is acquainted with every facet of life. He knows our pain, our sadness, as well as our joys and triumphs. C.H. Spurgeon described Christ as the Lamb that was slain…”who wears the glory of an Intercessor who can never fail, of a Prince who can never be defeated, of a Conqueror who has vanquished every foe, of a Lord who has the hearts’ allegiance of every subject.”
My husband taught a class entitled, “The Power in God’s Word“. He used the first five chapters of Genesis to get the class to understand how important it is to read the Bible, not just for the sake of reading, but also for understanding. He used the illustration of Seth (Cain and Abel’s brother) to show how easy it is to miss connections and relationships between events, timeframes, and biblical figures. So how should one read the Bible? Pray first and ask the Holy Spirit for understanding, read slowly, and do asecond read.
Let’s face it. We won’t truly understand who we are and our purpose with a cursory read of God’s Holy Word. The average 21st Century Christianis woefully lacking in their knowledge, and understanding of God’s Word. They pick up some bits and pieces, but not enough to produce the Power they should have.
The Bible said “my people perish from a lack of knowledge.” That lack of knowledge is evident in our daily walk, and in our homes, schools, communities, businesses, and even in the church. The body of Christ does not reflect the Power of God. Just take a look around you. Do you see evidence of the awesome power of God?
Taking time to study is part of our responsibility as servants, and inheritors of the Eternal blessing. Study helps us to rightly divide the word of truth. As a consequence, we regain power that was lost, when our fore-parents sinned in the Garden of Eden. We re-gain lineage [family line, ancestry, roots] and heritage [legacy, birthright, inheritance] from the power in God’s Word.
Do a second read for understanding, and for the power in God’s Word.
“Happiness resides not in possessions and not in gold; the feeling of happiness dwells in the soul”. Democritus
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:9-11 The abundant life has nothing to do with possessions and everything to do with what possesses our soul. On long walks I often marvel at God’s creations, because in nature, and in our lives there are lots of opportunity to discover and maintain real lasting happiness. It begins and ends with our relationship with God, which points us to those things that makes us happy, such as family, friends, compassionate service to others, and being with precious Jesus. Think of it, God formed us to worship and be with Him. He created a way to have an eternal relationship through His Son. There is nothing quite like deep abiding sacred place of happiness formed by God. Satisfaction in knowing that if you had a Job experience, it would still result in happiness because you have God. To know nothing can separate you from the love of God, from Christ our Savior is a wonderment, and a blessing. We have happiness. We have abundant life. We have all we will ever need for our soul. So take a moment to slow down, breathe and say Amen for being abundantly happy in God.
My husband and I made an 11 hour road trip yesterday to see our granddaughter perform in a dance recital. Watching her and others dance, I thought, at what moment do we recognize our special gift or talent? What triggers the thought this is what I want to do, this is who I am, this is what I came to do? I’ve read that some can recall in vivid detail the moment they realized their gift or purpose. They called it a “deep knowing” which they stated made them realized this is why God made them. With this knowing they move into the flow of their giftedness.
There are plenty of distractions, lost opportunities which delay, or prevent this discovery. Lots of people go through life feeling there is nothing special about them. That they are not valued, and have nothing to contribute. Some abused, and discarded souls fail to launch sensing their only purpose is to experience pain, and not to experience the feeling of being in their destiny.
What I witnessed yesterday was the beginning stages of recognition. It was evident on some dancer’s faces, in their movements and in their eyes. There was a yes, this is what I am supposed to do.
Why is this important? God wants us to recognize who and what we are. He wants us to express our gifts and talents. Expressing our gifts shows our gratitude to Him, and give the world a chance to experience more of God. The Bible tells us, “Every good and perfect gift comes down from Him”. Our source and connection to the Creator and Source of All Things is the creative lifeline. We were made in his likeness and image, and because of it, there is a longing to express beauty, love, peace. [Genesis 1:25-27]
The moment you begin the journey of discovery you change. Life flows differently. Just as some of those young people yesterday began discovering their gifts, it can happen to you.
It has been a joy and privilege to watch the flower of discovery unfold in our grandchildren. I believe their journey of learning who they are, and what God made them for will culminate in pure joy. As they move forward, and they will come closer to God, and their purpose. Ecclesiastes 8:6 states, “to every purpose there is a time”, and there is an eternal plan for us. While we are here, we are called to demonstrate to the world who we truly are [Ephesians 3:11].
Everyone was given something unique in which to express their connectedness to the Holy One. It’s quite remarkable. Just as Jesus’ purpose was to reveal His deity, and destiny to mankind, so to are we. Do you know your purpose? Are you expressing your true gifts and talents? Do you know what they are? If not, take the journey of discovery. The world needs to experience those precious gifts. Don’t hide them under a bushel.
Liturgical Dance performed by Elder Cassandra Henry. All rights reserved. Oshkosh, Wisconsin. 2008.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus in chapter 4 about walking in unity. Verse 3 states…”endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Unity by definition is to join; to become united in oneness. When you look at the Greek and Hebrew definitions, there is an emphasis not only on becoming one, but doing so one by one for the purpose of abundance. Abundance is an outgrowth of our oneness in unity with the Spirit. It is a reward or benefit of abiding in unity. Our definition of unity is expanded. The sum of our parts is greater because of our oneness with Christ. Further in chapter 4 of Ephesians, we are told there is one body and one Spirit, and we as believers are called into one hope through our Lord, our faith, our baptism, our God and Father. How do we become one body demonstrating unity? By equipping the saints til “we come into unity of the faith” and in the knowledge of Jesus. With the combined gifts and works of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, the church becomes a mature, stronger and fully prepared entity ready to carry out His plans. We become more powerful, more loving, more compassionate, more cunning about the ways of the enemy…all parts working together in sync [harmony] with the divine plan of salvation. We become one. Not all at once, but individually, one by one until every part of the body is in place and fully operational.
The word unity appears three times in the Scriptures, just three. In Psalm 133:1, and in the verses 3 and 13 of Chapter 4 in Ephesians. And yet despite its absence in other scriptures, the theme of unity in the house of God can be seen throughout the Bible. Even before Adam and Eve sinned, God had devised a unifying plan to restored us to “glorious abundant oneness” with Him. May you grow up in all things [one body] into Him who is the Head-Christ our Lord.
Graduations are times of immense joy for both the graduate and their families, friends, and loved ones. When the graduate receives his or her diploma, the long days of study, hard work and sacrifice seem worth it for this one moment.
Our family is gathering to celebrate a graduation. It is particularly meaningful, because of the events of the past two weeks. The enemy tried his best to take the life of this young person. However, those attempts were no match for the powerful intercessory prayers of his parents, family and friends, and the grace of God. When it was all over, we praised God for His grace, and for allowing us to complete this test.
I looked up the definition of graduate, and it means someone who holds a degree. Graduation signifies the completion of all the requirements necessary to become a degree holder. We are all enrolled in God’s University. This heavenly tabernacle of instruction is life changing and eternal for both disciple, and teacher. There are many courses to take, and completion of each is necessary to successfully pass, and withstand the fiery tests of our adversary. Spiritual courses such as prayer, fasting, solitude, silence, meditation, study are all critical requirements. Our book encourages us to “study thyself to show thyself approved, a workman who needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Belief in The Son of God is prerequisite for entry into the university. One of our professor emeritus, Peter outlined in one of his syllabi [2 Peter 3:18], that we are to grow grace and in the knowledge of Jesus, our Master Teacher. Jesus told us to remain connected Him-the True vine [John 15:4] for knowledge of Him changes and sustain us through each tests, as we strive to finish the course. Although, some tests, and trials may be difficult and long, in the end He promises that we will graduate, and become a degree holder.
For those who prayed for the life of this young person, we are pausing to celebration, and recognize this test was successfully completed, and the grade turned in. Maybe, you are pausing to celebrate a crucial victory in a young person’s life that has, or is about to graduate. Remember, you’re still in school, and another course is just around the corner. No need to worry though, we already have the best Teacher and the best Book.
“Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life.”[Mark 10:12 NKJV] The man who asked the question appeared sincere, and the question was a good one. He wanted to know, after hearing Jesus what was required to gain eternal life. Jesus looked into his heart noted the man needed some major spiritual house cleaning. So Jesus told him to go and sell all his possessions and give the money to the poor. The reply offered a promise, and a set of instructions. Jesus said you will have treasure but not on earth, but in heaven. Problem! He had lots of treasure on earth right now. And the instructions required him to picking up the cross, an object of ridicule and disgrace and follow Jesus. Give up position, prominence and become poor and the object of ridicule, what was Jesus asking?
Jesus was asking the man to rid himself of those things that strangle the life out of him, and focus his attention on Jesus who is the authority and finisher of our faith. A little leaven spoils the whole. Too much stuff blinds and robs us. We fail to see life. We fail to become what the world needs. Things grab, hold, and weigh us down. They become objects of our attention morning, noon and night. We don’t see the hurting, lost, and wounded. We are blinded by the adoration of others because of our wealth. And we certainly don’t listen to the call of the Master. Our lives are spent buying, organizing and storing our stuff. We have parties to show off our stuff. We build fences and create elaborate system to keep our stuff out of the hands of thieves and robbers. We build or move to bigger houses so we can buy more stuff. Our possessions rule and control us.
Jesus told the disciples that it will be hard for the rich to enter the kingdom, not because he is opposes to wealth, but He understands what great wealth can do to the soul. It [wealth] changes our perspectives and priorities. Christ came to give us an abundant life. He wants the church to show how to manage this life and all that is associated with it. Matthew 6:33 tells us to seek first the Kingdom of God and its righteousness, then all the other stuff [possessions] will be added. Only then will our possessions serve a useful purpose. Our focus will be to use them to advance the Kingdom.
Today, as you look around at your stuff, commit to a spiritual house cleaning, and put those possessions where they belong, under the control and leadership of the Lord Jesus Christ.
First Lady Michelle Obama was on The View sharing her new book, “American Grown” and recipes on healthy eating. As I briefly watched I thought about how sick our country is health wise. More and more of our children are obese along with their parents and guardians, and how difficult it is for our minds and spirits to be healthy when our bodies aren’t.
I encourage all of us, including myself to take another look at ways to create all around health.
“You surely know that your body is a temple where the Holy Spirit lives. The Spirit is in you, and is a gift from God. You are no longer your own.” I Corinthians 6:19 CEV
Our bodies are temples of the living God, entrusted to us to create love and life on earth. We dishonor the sacred trust God granted us when we chose not to maintain these bodies as best we can. From the beginning God gave us a plan for life-healthy life and living which included the body, the mind and the spirit. Failure to follow the plan leaves us to the mercy of the enemy whose mission it is to kill, steal and destroy.
However, even small, incremental steps can minimize and in some cases reverse the damage done. The choice is up to us. We can have a more abundantly life filled with all the best things God want for us. And at the same time, have a strong body ready prepared and ready to meet those divine assignments.
Ask God to help you get your whole body prepare for what lies ahead, and then follow the plan. Your body will thank you.
Loving God with Excellence 
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