Solid Rock Building Codes

The recent tragedies in foreign countries, has prompted me to question my foundation. Visions of the upheaval of large structures, ripped up paths, as well broken bridges demands attention and a healthy fear for the power of nature. For the Believer, it is an awe inspiring demonstration of God’s power. While it is not for us to argue whether earthquakes and storms are the act of God, we should, however, recognize the origin of the power. All the power which lies in the elements and earth originate in Almighty God.

The contrast of devastating natural catastrophes and the love of God would seem apparent, however, the two are not as opposite as we may believe. For the power which rocks the foundations under our feet, is the same power which shake’s our hearts and knocks us off our feet. And though God has granted us the ability to measure the powers of the earth, nothing can measure the force of His love.

Nothing.

The wake of God’s love in a believer’s life is evident. Faulty foundations are exposed, paths that lead to nowhere are ripped up and man made bridges over troubled waters collapse. Unexpectedly, everything around us trembles and our hearts, minds and mouths spontaneously cry out, “Oh, God! Save me!” We do it without thought, like a knee jerk reaction: the hammer hits a particular point in the body and a limb reacts. The same applies to our spiritual body…the hammer hits and we fall to our knees crying out to God. Why do we do this? We were designed to do so: instinctively we know, God is the only one can truly save us.

So if we are designed to cry out to God as a natural response to life…why do so many live fighting the programmed response? My professor would say this is a good question! (And then proceed in telling you a bunch of scientific notions and hypothesis in an attempt to answer it). However, --and I mean no disrespect—information gathered outside the Designer’s resources is junk and creates conflict in the circuits.

Just like an electrical storm can cause a major power failure, downloading academia’s idolized knowledge acts like a virus in our system. The result is always frustrating and sometimes fatal: for some drives must then endure a Mighty overhaul to operate properly and other drives completely crash…or burn. These trials, troubles and tragedies could have been avoided if programs installed kept to scripture teachings. Faulty programming keeps man inoperable in the work of God. Therefore, it is imperative followers of Christ pray for discernment and wisdom to detect virus teachings and programming.

The secure foundation we have in Jesus Christ provides a base for us to build our lives upon. Believers are not to fear the rumblings of the world, for our feet are secure in the Lord. However, though we build upon the rock, what we build will come from our programming. The two cannot be separated.

Devotion to Jesus will certainly prompt the true follower to work at building a life upon the rock that is glorifying to God. Yet, devotion is not enough to build structures that will pass code. Faulty programming will cause some believer’s to construct crooked walls, low ceilings and rooms without windows which prohibit the son to shine through. The result of their efforts may mirror the old nursery rhyme: “there was a crooked man, who lived in a crooked house…” Crooked lives, though built on the rock do not bring glory to God.

Poor construction is what Jesus was pointing out to Peter as he asked, “Do you love me?” (John 21:17NIV). Peter absolutely loved the Lord. However he had some faulty programming that he would have to deal with, before Peter’s human temple construction was brought up to code. With every question of love, Jesus--like a wrecking ball--struck at the weaknesses in Peter’s work, until the foundation it was built upon was fully exposed. Stripping away all that Peter had built with his own hands, Christ makes it clear from that moment on, Peter would construct things differently. He would not be allowed to cut corners or erect idols for his own glory.Peter would also have to suffer every detail in the plans…regardless of the cost. And yes, the cost to build heavenly lives is EXPENSIVE!

When Jesus asks his children, “Do you love me?” our faulty programming, like Peter’s will be exposed. Let us therefore, pause to consider the life we have built: is it up to Christ’s code? Chances are, some walls need to come down and some windows need to be added. For many of us, we will need to get back to the foundation and begin building again.

For when we take a good hard look at the foundation of our Christian lives, we will discover just how much we love the uncut stone of Jesus. A foundation not built by man…but the very hand of God. For just as we cannot build a secure foundation in a world that quakes, we cannot create our own salvation. Both are the work of Jesus Christ alone.

Oswald shares a wonderful insight regarding Peter’s revelation in this scriptural moment; “Peter was beginning to discover within himself just how much he really did love the Lord. He discovered that his eyes were so fixed on Jesus Christ that he saw no one else in heaven above or on the earth below. But he did not know it until the probing, hurting questions of the Lord were asked. “

Are you building to code? Will your human temple pass the Lord’s inspection? May you ponder your foundation and structure today, and seek the Master Carpenter’s input on where the two of you need to reprogram, restore or replace.

Sounding the Alarm

The question of whether or not we love the Lord is answered only through our actions. For if we believe we love Jesus as Peter did, yet we confess His lordship over our lives in speech only, we too may hear the cock crow? Oswald states; “True love never simply declares itself.”

This is not earth shattering insight. For we know this…we experience this in our daily lives. Our emotional nerves are so in tune with this truth that it often governs our days, weeks and years: for we are very aware when someone treats us unkindly or unjustly. We sound our emotional alarm signaling programmed responses to "kick in". The responses are developed into a defense system over time which is designed to ward off injury: both physical and emotional pain. This system immediately engages when we feel threatened or the pierce of another’s blade. So sensory sensitive, we can move into defense mode without knowing it, reaching DEF CON levels of security before sun down. The problem with this type of security system is it is geared for defense and protection, not service and support. It's full of programming flaws because it was programmed outside the wisdom and love of God. Thus, it is doomed to fail.

For example; some systems respond to unloving behavior by pulling down their shades and retreating within to nurse their wounds. They hide their injuries and internally bleed…sometimes to death, rather than heed the word of the Lord; "Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry and do not give the devil a foothold," (Ephesians 4:26NIV).

Others retaliate. Responding to the offense of unkind behavior, they declare war, call in the Calvary and alert the media of the battle. This programmed response tragically produces casualties.

Yes. We are very in tune to superficial love…when we are on the receiving end. However, our sensory awareness of true love on the export level could be enhanced and managed better. Because we are so profit minded we focus more attention on the import of love; closely monitoring receivables and woefully neglect our investments or expenses of love.

Oswald warns of the pain of emotional love. “Peter loved Jesus in the way any natural man loves a good person.” Yet, when the tip of the enemy’s tongue pricked Peter’s side, his emotional love failed him. There was no real defense system truly installed in Peter…yet! His insecurities sounded his internal alarm and he responded automatically to the attack of the enemy.

However, while Peter suffered terribly the consequences of emotional love, his pain was not wasted. For Jesus knew the depth of this man’s soul and patiently guided Peter through the process of reprogramming. The Peter on the victorious side of the cross, loved Christ very differently, than the man weeping in the shadows of the night. His affection was demonstrated by his hands and his feet, rather than a prideful and arrogant tongue.

Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me?” (John 21:17)

We know through the scriptures that Peter did indeed love the Lord at each point of his walk. However, it is evident that the brotherly love Peter first gave in return was less than what Jesus wanted from him. We are to learn from his example. Christians need to love Jesus with more than affection and adoration. Believers must love Jesus by exporting love to others. Sharing the gospel, their testimony, their prayers, their comfort and their peace, with those they “claim” to love. Not out of duty, but because a deep love for Christ compels them to do so.

Oswald states, “When the Lord asks us this question, it is impossible to think and respond properly, because when the Lord speaks directly to us, the pain is too intense. It causes such a tremendous hurt that any part of our life which may be out of line with His will can feel the pain. “

Brothers and sisters, we need not despair if we too have heard the cock crow. For the Lord is merciful and forgiving. We must simply confess our sin and pray for the Lord to renew our minds—reprogram our defense system—so we may act according to the principles of Christ and not self destruct when the enemy fires in our direction.

It Is Well With My Soul

The Samaritan women waited for the setting sun before they journeyed to the well each day. For the labor of hoisting and carting water to their homes, was easier when the heat of the day faded into the cool of night. The chore in many villages would have been a social opportunity: a time for the young ladies in the village to connect and perhaps journey together for safety.

No doubt scorned and ridiculed, perhaps even an outcast due to her many husbands, she comes to the well when the sun is high in the sky. It was about noon, "When a Samaritan woman came to draw water," (John 4:7NIV). Coming to the well at such an hour and alone would have been her way to avoid the cold stares and snubs of the other women. Certainly she had lost any hope of being part of the respectable crowd, a few men back. Yet, Jesus knew her soul's thirst and he showed her compassion.

Fatigued from his journey, Jesus rested at Jacob's well in the small village Sychar near Shechem. (John 4:5-6NIV).

"Jesus said to her,'Will you give me a drink?'" (John 4:7NIV). What appears to be a simple question, is more like a proclamation. First, the idea that a Jew would address a Samaritan--let alone a woman--would have immediately put this woman on guard. For the hatred between Jews and Samaritan's was severe: Jews believed themselves defiled by touching anything a Samaritan touched. Furthermore, it was customary for Jews to take great effort in keeping there distance from Samaritan's as well as Samaritan towns and villages.

"You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?

Jesus was not only traveling in Samaritan territory, he paused at a well Samaritan's drew from. Without something of his own in which to draw water from the well, the woman quickly understood that Jesus was willing to handle something she had touched.

"Jesus answered her, 'If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water," (John 4:10NIV).

His unique behavior and request for her to fetch him a drink, no doubt puzzled her. Additionally, Jesus' use of the word "gift" spoke to her of God's grace available through Christ. Her mind was stirred, yet she responded in her natural way:bantering and arguing with Jesus--the Jew--about customs and beliefs of their people.

"Sir, the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep." (John 4:11NIV).

Her words speak of drawing water, and yet there is a deeper meaning welling up: Jesus appeared to her a mere man and this woman had drawn from the well of men many times. Yet, with every drink, she found herself more dehydrated than before. She was not enticed by his boldness in speaking to her, on the contrary, the pain of her trials at the well of life rose to the surface and she took to arguing with the Lord. Accustomed to having to defend herself...even fight for the things she needed, the woman spoke sharply.

"Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?" (John 4:12NIV).

Perhaps she thought this cutting remark would quiet him and free her to go about her business. For how could he claim to be better than father Jacob who provided the very well. Jesus showed great mercy in pursuing her bitter heart.

"Jesus answered, 'Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again...'" (certainly he got her attention with this remark)'but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." (John 4:13-14NIV).

Jesus moved their speech from Jacob's well, to the deep well of pain in her life. His words reaching down to the crusty bottom: seeking to touch her deepest need. Something in Jesus' conduct and presence drew upon her final drop of hope.

"The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." (John 4:15NIV)

The emphasis on "keep coming here" is mine, because I believe these words came from her brokenness. How painful it must have been to keep going to the well in shame. Her heart was desperate and Jesus was determined. However, God is the same yesterday, today and forever. One does not enter into the presence of God without first being cleansed...for God is holy and pure. Therefore, Jesus addresses the sin in her life:

"He told her, 'Go, call your husband and come back,'" (John 4:16NIV)

The woman confesses her sin to the LORD; "I have no husband," and thus allows the work of Christ to cleanse her.(John 4:17NIV).

"Jesus said to her, 'You are right when you say you have no husband. the fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true" (John 4:17b-18NIV).

With this confession of sin she not only tells the truth, the TRUTH sets her free from her bondage of sin and shame. For next her eyes are opened and she is able to see Jesus as more than a man...she sees him as a prophet.

Up to this point in the story we see only the woman's sin and shame. However, Jesus gives us a wonderful view of her untapped water within. For having confessed her sin her heart is now moved to worship God. Thus she inquires of Jesus: where shall I go to worship God?

"Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem," (John 4:20NIV).

Her sincere desire to be set upon the right path in seeking God, showed true repentance and granted her the most astonishing revelation from heaven.

"Jesus declared, 'Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem...a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."

Jesus was not unaware of when the women of Sychar drew their water from the well. Likewise, his noon rest at the well did not produce a chance encounter. The Lord seeks true worshipers, thus like Moses seeking after a single lost lamb, Jesus sought his own lost sheep that day. For he knew beneath the dirt of sin was a heart looking for a Savior.

"The woman said, 'I know that Messiah' (called Christ) 'is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us,'"(John 4:24NIV).

And with these words, the woman professed a spring of faith, thus the Lord presented her with an amazing gift...REVELATION AND ETERNAL LIFE.

"Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he," (John 4:26NIV).

This is the only time before Jesus' trial that he declared he was the Messiah. How generous Jesus was with this woman. Her brokenness was as deep as Jacob's well. Considering Jacob's well measures about 138 feet, we find a symbolism for the depth of this woman's pain. Oh, the mercy of our Lord is great!

When the disciples caught up with Jesus, they found him engaged in conversation with this woman. Though they were "surprised" they spoke not a word against it. Perhaps her face was glowing from having seen the glory of God.

We find that the woman was indeed filled with the Living Water. For while she came to the well, parched and seeking water, she left overflowing. Why, she even left her jar behind. Having accepted Jesus'"gift", she took back to the parched town of Sychar a new well: a woman full of the Living Water. Renewed in spirit, the woman who feared the crowds, stood in the midst of the town and;

"said to the people, 'Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ? They came out of the town and made their way toward him,"(John 4:28-30).

No longer bound in shame for her sinful past, the woman boasted of the Living Water and the power it has to cleanse, forgive and set free. This amazing story shows the depths of our Father's concern for our pain and the extent he will go to in seeking his lost sheep. It also serves as a reminder to us all, that Jesus can mend any broken heart, as well as make a new creation out of anyone.

"Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony..." (John 4:39NIV). Jesus can also use anyone to testify to his power and glory.

Oswald states; "The reason some of us are such poor examples of Christianity is that we have failed to recognize that Christ is almighty...When we get into difficult circumstances, we impoverish His ministry by saying, "Of course, He can't do anything about this." We struggle to reach the bottom of our own well, trying to get water for ourselves...Beware of sitting back, and saying, "It can't be done."...You will know it can be done if you will look to Jesus."

This woman's faith is what brought Jesus to the well. Her hope...though just a drop was in Christ. The promise of God which states, the weary souls that seek will find, is refreshing to see in this story. Now, how about you? Are you parched, weary, broken and full of shame? I pray you will open your heart to the Living Water, Jesus the Christ, and allow His love to cleanse and fill you. For then you too can leave your jar behind and proclaim the power of Christ! If your story is beyond the well of revelation...to which people are you taking your well of Living Water?

Can You "Bear" A Dime?

It was twelve years ago this month that I found myself "taxed" with a crippling pain in my back. I know I'm dramatic, but this is no attempt at an Oscar. One minute I was admiring my six month baby boy and the next I was writhing in pain. That evening, I was alone with my son as my CPA husband was in an important client meeting. Therefore, I did my best to recall my Lamaze and try to breathe deeply through the agony. Lamaze is a big fat scam! It didn't help me during the twenty-eight hour delivery of my son (Just ask the family and friends that still joke about my screams echoing through the Placentia Linda Hospital maternity ward, terrifying all within earshot), and it wasn't helping me then either.

Now, not quite healed from having had a difficult pregnancy and the delivery of my ten pound, fourteen ounce baby boy, I thought I would never, ever, feel that kind of pain again. I was tragically wrong! Unfortunately, we learned I was the proud parent of a kidney stone...the size of a dime. (Are you catching the number ten theme?) The diagnosis was not what my tired and weak body wanted to hear. Nor was my fatigued husband ready to take on more with my sudden health situation. Life felt out of control and I feared how I would manage caring for my small son.

I was taxed physically, emotionally and spiritually. I needed more than medical care, I needed the care of my Savior, for my faith in God's deliverance was turning to stone as well. This of course was something the doctor's could not help me with.
Unfortunately, I would have to undergo the most horrific medical experience of my life before relief would come.

Reporting to the facility where the doctors meant to hoist me into a dreadful "Tank" and proceed to blast my kidney stone with a laser, aimed at my side, I began to consider living with the pain. The procedure seemed more than I could bear. Another x-ray was taken to confirm the location of the double digit sized stone. My body was marked like a treasure map and I was sent to the the "disrobing room."

It was in the privacy of this small space that I fell to my knees: my heart as bare as my body before the Lord. I cried out to him; "spare me the pain" and the ordeal of what I considered a harsh treatment. Soon there was a knock on the door which brought me back to reality. Then, with nothing but a thin paper wrap draped about my altered form, I was led to the chamber of horrors.

Inside this sterile room, a crew of white coats scurried about, with their beady little eyes and noses twitching with excitement: a new experiment was underway and I was the object lesson. Before I could fully access the situation, I was guided to a bizarre contraption that looked like a large mechanical arm with six salad plate sized panels at it's one end. Instructions spilled from the only woman physician in the room who directed me to hoist my naked self up onto this metal contraption: basically it dawned on me, they intended to hoist me--in all my glory, like the catch of the day, into the holding tank. Mortified and quite unable to voice my objection--perhaps for the first time in my life--I surrendered myself to their will. The pain in my body was of no concern as the spider like arm lifted me above their heads and S-L-O-W-L-Y lowered me into the water. My body jerked at its coolness...was there no end to their torture!

I sat in that stainless steel monstrosity for...I don't know how long. My eyes closed to hold back tears. I was broken and at the end of my emotional rope. THEN...the laser gun operator--in the booth at the far side of the room--began to speak with an agitated voice. Everyone scurried to view monitors with puzzled brows. "Mrs. Frazier, we are having difficulty locating your stone, we'll have to take another x-ray to confirm its exact location before we can proceed."

I once more ascended like a cherub above the cloud of white coats and returned to the loading zone where I quickly donned my paper gown. Padding back to the gurney, I was informed of the next set of procedures for my treatment to which I instructed the doctors to put me under. They could do to me whatever they wished, but I was not able to continue conscious. My hope Jesus would rescue me had dried up...so I was checking out!

When I woke in the recovery room, queasy from the anesthesia, Kevin told me my stone was gone. Thankful the ordeal was over, I was ready to go home. However, realizing I hadn't grasped the situation clearly, my husband repeated his words and explained that when the doctors took the second x-ray they could no longer find the dime sized stone they had just filmed thirty minutes prior. Concerned it may have passed from my kidney into my bladder they decided to scope my system. They found no traces of a stone in my system.

I wasn't surprised by their attempts to medically explain what could have transpired to cause this outcome. However, I openly praised my LORD. He had come through for me, even when I had given up hope of being rescued. Oswald states we should confess our doubt of Jesus' deliverance this way; "Lord, I have had misgivings about You. I have not believed in Your abilities, but only my own. And I have not believed in Your almighty power apart from my finite understanding of it."

I have learned through this ordeal not to question the miraculous work of God. Regardless of the doctor's claims that perhaps there never was a stone to begin with, I KNOW the Lord healed me. A week later, my family was enjoying a walk along the beach. I suddenly became very away of a particular pain. Excusing myself I journied to the ladies room, where the Lord provided proof of His hand. I must say, though nothing can compare to the pride of motherhood, I was certainly proud of those bits of stone! There upon a throne of grace and mercy I praised my God. For he is good!

This act of love and kindness has supercharged my faith and since this experience I have found myself blessed with other "unexplainable" experiences. Faith in our God is truly warranted because He is faithful. He is good and He is kind. No matter what may come my way...I know Jesus is my foundation of STONE!

Give and Give

We've all heard the adage; "Give and take," and most would accept this as a healthy concept. What's not to like about it: You do something nice for someone and in return you take something back. While the world claims this is how people should deal with one another...a little for you and a little for me...this is contrary to the Spirit of God who believes you should simply give and serve with no regard of getting back.

When Jesus entered our world, He did so with a single purpose; He came as a servant to serve. Destined to do far more than shepherd and heal us, Jesus emptied himself of His eternal glory to serve our greatest need; to be our Savior and eternal groom.

Its easy for our hearts to accept we need a Savior. Before salvation the burden of sin weighs heavy on us and we rejoice over surrendering the load to Christ. The mind agrees as does the flesh with the heart and so a sinner accepts the grace of God: a modern bride is so willing to accept her groom's proposal, take his hand and repeat "I take thee to have and to hold."

As sinners headed for hell we have so much to gain in the marriage to the Son of God. We gain eternal life, the kingdom of heaven, the Holy Spirit, forgiveness. The list has no end. We, being the bride, come to the altar with nothing but our love and devotion, and our divine groom embraces us. For Christ is looking to the life long partnership, the relationship that will be built over years. The experiences ahead--both good and bad--when he will be able to shower you with love and comfort, peace and courage. He hopes for tender moments in the night when he will call you out under the stars to speak to your heart. He desires to be the arms you run to when you are broken or afraid. The Lord, wants to show us what a dependable and reliable Savior He is and looks forward to thrilling us with his provision. Our groom gives, and gives, and gives to his bride.

However, once the ceremony of salvation is done, the battle of old returns between the heart and its counterparts and Spirit within: the mind and will of a person struggle for control over our devotion. The heart--which at first is ready and willing to give anything righteous in love--begins to feel "safe" in their covenant marriage. Soon old self serving patterns of thinking taint their behavior towards their husband and the bride so willing to give, give, give begins to offer less and take more. All the while the flesh itches to be satisfied and pleasure becomes a focus rather than their pledge of allegiance and servant hood. Just as this culture is poisoned with divorce, so too is the church poisoned with self focused and self serving believers.

Oswald states that "Natural human love expects something in return." When we stop and consider this, will we not find it true? How do we respond when we give and are unappreciated? What thoughts come to mind of a person who takes and takes and never reciprocates? Chances are, in such situations, we pull back our giving and some times we file for divorce and seek to give elsewhere. Why? Because we as a people do not like to give and not get in return.

Tragically, many only give in order to manipulate a favor in return. Sometimes we give looking for: acceptance, honor, forgiveness, or out of competition. Our country's government is run on this very concept; You grease my palm, I'll grease yours. However, the principle God set for marriage is modeled in two commands;

"Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church..."(Ephesians 5:22-23NIV). Love for our spouse should compel us to give generously.

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless," (Ephesians 5:25-27 NIV).

Jesus no doubt will fulfill his role and continue giving to His bride. Hopefully, the church will see the error of her ways and once more give her heart over.

Oswald points out the victory the apostle Paul had over a self focused nature. "But Paul is saying, 'It doesn't really matter to me whether you love me or not. I am willing to be completely destitute anyway; willing to be poverty-stricken, not just for your sakes, but also that I may be able to get you to God...His idea is that we serve Him by being the servants of others." When we give to others we give to Jesus and thereby honor our groom.

The message Oswald wants to convey is a message many don't want to hear. We like our comfortable lives, and cushy pews. We like taking all that the church can give: services, support, fellowship, entertainment and now refreshments. However, budgets will show that the church is filled with more takers than givers. The self-centered bride of Christ believes giving to God is an option, though His Word says we "rob" Him if we hold back our tithe. Thus, ministries limp along unable to find servants willing to hold babies, run Sunday school classes, minister to youth or mentor young adults. We love coming to church and seeing friends, singing songs, hearing a good message (as long as it doesn't convict too much or take too long), and we leave full and content: on to our busy, busy, busy lives which have little if no room to give to God.

The Church has become a greedy, self centered bride...a body of takers which looks nothing like her Savior, a groom who gave His own life for her. Is it any wonder the world mocks us or despises our evangelism? In many ways the Church is only a message and not an example of a righteous union or way of life. Simply put, we do not model a happy spiritual marriage.

An insightful pastor once said in one of his sermons; our check book will tell us where are heart is. We know this is true and we may even feel the bite of conviction over our own taking and giving relationship with the LORD. Regardless of where we stood on this yesterday, let us be encouraged. We can resolve to joyfully give generously and move closer to God in this area of our life today! Blessings beyond measure await the faithful wife! God's principle on giving will not fail: give to God ten percent of your time, talent and treasure and he will return to you effectively ten times your investment in the kingdom. Our God can not lie, therefore, we have absolutely nothing to lose in the deal.

When we give, all we can to God, He will give, give, give, give, give,give, give, give,give,GIVE back to us.

The alarms are sounding all around. Church wake up! Signs of the Lord's return are all around the body. It's time to recommit our hearts to our groom. It's time to serve our heavenly husband with passion. It's time to give Him our very best. His word warns us He will separate the sheep--which follow His commands--from the ornery goats--which kick up their hooves and ram in total rebellion. Jesus, himself, questioned the heart of his bride;

"However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"

In the words of Charles Stanley; "I pray the Holy Spirit will sink this message deep into the heart of every believer," and compel the bride of Christ to remember her vows: to love, honor, cherish and obey, until death does she depart...in glory.

Jesus Take the Wheel

When people are young they dream about being in charge and sitting in the driver's seat. The idea of choosing their vehicle, route and passengers in life are like keys to a hot rod for itching roadster's. However, as life unfolds they discover they merely move from the back to the front seat...still a passenger. While those in the driver's seat merely exchange places: parents are exchanged for employers, spouses and government officials. Soon one realizes, control over the steering wheel of life is one thing they will never truly possess, nor were they ever meant to.

But some may be thinking, they are absolutely in control of their life. They say who, how, when and where. True, they have liberty to make plans and seek their desires, but control over their life is impossible. For in order to have control, they would have to possess power over everyone and every force of nature on the road. Therefore, the truth remains--as it has since the beginning--there is only one source of power which possesses control and that power is Almighty God.

In the beginning, God created through His power all things. The book of Genesis gives the account of creation and the control the creator holds over all that was made. Man indeed was created by God and fashioned in His image, however, man was not created to be in charge. That position was already filled. Though, Adam and Eve were lovingly placed in the Eden paradise, they did not control the garden. They were simply charged with its care.

In the days of peace between God, man and woman, the issue of control was not relevant: Adam and Eve were naive to thoughts of power and control issues. Only when the serpent introduced to Eve the idea that she could be like God did her hands reach for the fruit. For who, wouldn't want to be like God? From this moment, everything changes and the seed from the first lie, sprouts mankind's desire to seek his own way.

Oswald states in his devotional "We have no right in christian service to be guided by our own interest and desires. In fact, this is one of the greatest test of our relationship with Jesus Christ," (John 15:13NIV). Therefore, we must give up control of our vehicle and allow the Lord to control our vehicle, route and speed. For while we are all called to journey with Jesus, we each have our own road to travel.

Control and choice are not the same thing. Choosing from options is not the same as providing the options. Though we are granted the freedom to plot a course for our road trip, we are never really in the driver's seat. Instead we are willful sojourners with Christ on the road of life. Eager to go where Jesus goes. Does this mean we are free to kick up our feet and nod off? Hardly. Like a faithful co-pilot, we serve the needs of the driver so He can keep his eyes on the road. Or we choose to be rebellious, reckless and out of control dragster's who threaten the safety of other vehicles on the road. The choice is simple, we either allow Jesus to take the wheel of our life and navigate us safely home or we pretend we know how to drive and foolishly climb into the driver's seat.

Thus, the way we choose to ride through life determines our final destination. Our lives become a series of choices that are strung together by consequences. What roads we choose to travel, determines what choices we will have further down the highway. For example; you can choose premium fuel for your vehicle for supreme performance or you can go with regular grade and risk the life of your engine. You can put steel belt tires on your rims or drive on spares. Nonetheless, though you may choose to drive to work tomorrow, someone else may choose to run a red light and blindside you! Man is absolutely NOT in control.

Finish the following sentence. Not being in control makes me feel ______.

Some people feel scared when they're not in control. Some feel up-tight,angry, worrisome, disappointed, even rebellious. Considering, these people will never be in charge of the big picture of things, it stands to reason that there would be a lot of scared, up-tight, angry, worrisome, disappointed and rebellious people in this world. Let's call it road rage.

Yet, the irony is, many feel this way because they doubt the goodness of those who are in charge over them, in the driver's seat per se. Their worrisome parents, angry spouses, up-tight bosses, disappointed teachers and so on are flawed drivers and they know this. And the old hissing snake whispers lies in their ears...they don't really love you, your spouse isn't trust worthy, your boss doubts your ability, your teacher thinks your stupid. They accept the lie as truth and they fight to take hold of the wheel. Children fight for the keys of independence to prove their worth, spouses question each other's desired destination and employees fight over the front seat.

Doubt of God's love, prompts us to feel fear and anxiety on the road. Doubt in the abilities of others makes us want to drive. We desire to protect our own hide,interest or route. Yet, when we choose to believe in the omnipotent power of God--as well His goodness, kindness and mercy--we will learn to rest in the passenger seat. We will see the gift of choice is our power in this life. This insight will allow us to take our eyes off the steering wheel and turn it to the window. For how much more can we appreciate the scenery along the journey when we don't have to worry about driving.

No, we were never meant to be in control...and that's a good thing. For God is the King of the road and the only hands that can steer us straight. He is the original GPS and under His care we will never be lost.

Serving Jesus

For many Believer's the idea of serving is frequently on their mind. However, the balance between serving and sacrifice is often a challenge. Within the body we are granted a plethora of opportunities to serve, for the needs are many. Still, there is a definite plan of operations the LORD has for our lives. Saying, "yes" to something God has not purposed for us to do, may very well, hinder our serving in the area which is best. In so doing, we rob ourselves of blessings purposed for us and can cause our service to feel heavy or joyless.

Oswald's devotional focuses on the servant hood of Christ Jesus. Our LORD confesses to his disciples; "I am among you as the One who serves" (Luke 22:27NIV). Our Master spent his time in ministry serving the endless needs of others as an example we are to follow. He bent his knees before the blind and crippled as well the idolater and thief. Jesus spent his days in complete surrender to serving others. His very life was an act of service. I believe this is why Jesus was so moved by the expression of service in those he encountered.

I think of Mary Magdalene who sought the Lord one evening, compelled to honor Him with her sacrificial gift of perfumed oil, tears and praise. Her sacrifice was great not only because it was worth a years wages, but more so because she sacrificed man's opinion of her to honor God: her service was both silently and openly rebuked and ridiculed by others. Nonetheless, while Jesus reclined at the table, Mary anointed his feet with oil and tears in an act of pure devotion. Desiring to convey her love and appreciation she humbly knelt at Jesus'feet in praise and worship. For her heart was compelled to express itself and she could not wait.

Can you not see Jesus, sitting there quietly enjoying the sweet moment: his beloved child showering Him with affection?

When we lavish the LORD in this manner of unabashed service, it may be offensive to others. This is a risk Believer's must take to have an impact on the heart of God. For we should seek to please our King not man. In this story the host, silently chastised Mary for her affection and Judas openly rebuked her expression of love. Yet Jesus proclaimed she would always be remembered for her sweet worship: for she humbled herself and served her Master with all that she had: she gave her time, treasure, her hands and hair.

Long after Mary was gone, the fragrance of her service remained. For some it may have been a repugnant smell. Does not man measure himself at times against other's. The self-righteous host believed the gift of his company and a meal was grand, until a woman shamed him with her generosity. Likewise, the greed of Judas rose to the surface as he felt the loss of coin in his pocket: how quick he would have sold the perfume and stolen some of the proceeds. And yet, the lingering scent of Mary's gift, was no doubt to Jesus, a sweet reminder of a giving heart: a heart which was like his own.

When we, like Mary, give generously of our time, talent and treasure in service, we also anoint the feet of Christ. For we are told, that whatever we do in the name of Christ we do to Christ. Therefore, our gifts of service to others is service to the King. We know this...right?

Sit with this for a moment. Do you sometimes wish you could embrace Jesus physically? or kiss his holy hands and feet? Have you desired to serve you LORD personally as Mary and Martha, Peter and John did? We can absolutely experience the joy of washing the LORD's feet or tending to His needs by taking hold of others in love. Though we embrace Jesus symbolically, there is no loss of effect on Christ.

When we grasp this reality in our spiritual lives, it will transform our service. Suddenly the burden of serving as duty becomes an expression of love. We then will leap to serve our family, friends, body and community with eagerness and joy. The cry of our hearts will be, "Oh! Let me wash his feet! I want to clothe them! Take my ____! When service becomes opportunity to shower Jesus with affection, we move the heart of God and prompt Him to say;

"She has done a beautiful thing to me," (Mark 13:6NIV).

While the world trips over themselves to serve and honor celebrities and the like, Believer's should be crazed about serving Jesus. When we stop and consider how truly silly it is to clamber about in order to cater to a mere mortal, just because they can perform in some way, we discover the folly of fame. Man makes a fool of himself for what? the hope of an experience or a gift of charitable and empty praise from another? At best, man can only grant us the appreciation of praise or toss us a trinket of dust. But, when we fall all over ourselves to honor and experience Christ...we receive something of everlasting value: His praise, and token of gratitude.

Imagine your pastor announces Jesus was coming to town for a visit and needed a place to stay, food and someone to tend to a variety of ministry needs. Would not the congregation line up to fill these roles. How light and joyful is service when it is for the LORD. Oh, how I pray that the church will see Jesus in those around them. Thus be compelled to remove their outer garments and FIGHT to: pick up the bowl and wash the Master's feet, anoint His head with oil and shower Him with love. Would not the church become a blessing to God and a sweet fragrance in the world if it served Jesus like Mary?

LORD, let us fight and clamber to be first in line...to serve You... and nothing else.