“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” Proverbs 3:5&6

I thought my daredevil days were behind me until I ended up on a black diamond trail at a ski resort near Lake Tahoe.

We had discovered skiing while living in northern California in the early 1990s, and at the time found it to be quite exhilarating. I had not grown up around the sport and I was solid “bunny slope” material. My confidence soared when I graduated to green, then blue, runs and for a moment, I thought I had really improved. Then one day, while skiing with my husband, we hopped off the lift and started down a trail.

While honing the tuck, and trying to keep my elbows in, I cruised past my husband who was patiently waiting by a small sign at a fork. Trying my best to maneuver through the challenging terrain that included moguls and narrower and icy rides, I heard my husband catch up yelling, “You are on a black diamond, called JABOOM!!” Immediately, I felt defeated and thought, “How did I end up on a black diamond? How did I miss staying on the right path?”

God’s Word tells us that he will guide along the straight path, but that it is our choices that keep us on the path or force us to go a different route. Often, while thinking we are following God, we discover we have somehow left the path. Today’s verse reminds us that to keep our path straight, we must take action.

• First, by choosing to trust God’s reliability and his Word and believing what he says.
• Secondly, when we do not see the entire picture, we must not lean on our own limited understanding.
• Lastly, we must have a submissive and humble heart that seeks to be conformed to the image of Christ, so that we can grow and be led to the path that is God’s absolute best for us! Jesus said that there is a path that leads to life, and he promises to guide us and show us all the roads we are to travel in this world.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for directing my path as I follow your commands and trust you with all of my heart. When I do not understand, please help me to rest in your promises and to continue to seek your guidance by submitting to you. In Jesus’s name, amen.

Before every decision you make this day, ask God to direct your thoughts and your paths so that you remain in his will.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

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•  Fully Surrender to the Lord
•  Salvation Explained

The post Staying on God’s Path can be found at Thoughts about God.

“I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago” Psalm 77:11.

Like many people, my life has had its ups and downs, and there have been lingering seasons of uncertainty when I have not remembered God’s goodness in the past. Recently, I had been struggling with a dilemma and the Holy Spirit reminded me of how God had graciously provided the answer and clear direction in a similar situation. Sometimes, I have to look back, and be reminded of God’s incredible faithfulness and power, and see his gracious hand in every detail that has concerned me. Intentional remembering can grow our faith, lead to greater intimacy with God, and reshape our feelings in the present.

Throughout the scriptures, God reminds his children of his faithfulness. Zakar is a Hebrew word meaning “to remember.” In the minor prophet book of Amos, God reveals details to the children of Israel to reinforce his faithfulness. He reminds the Israelites that he conquered the Amorites, rescued them from Egypt, and gave them the promised land (Amos 2:9-12). These details set the example for how we should remember the many times God has shown up during our trials.

We are living in complicated times, and the daily news is filled with all kinds of problems facing the world but when we are anchored to remembering the good deeds of the Lord, we are able to change the way we see ourselves, and our situation. Ultimately, by focusing on God’s grace and remembering his goodness you will be strengthened to face the uncertainties and impossibilities of life. Spending quiet time with God to “zakar” God’s goodness will lead to inward heart transformation and fill you with hope.

Lord, I want to live a life that glorifies you. Help me to intentionally remember all the good things you have done in the past. Thank you for your promises that remind me of your goodness and help me to be thankful even in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

• Anticipate God’s Goodness by Debbie West

• God is GOOD –by Katherine Kehler

• God is Good—All the Time – by Helen Lescheid

The post Remembering God’s Goodness can be found at Thoughts about God.

“The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did.” Genesis 39:2-3

Most of us have experienced the painful ramifications of betrayal. Perhaps we were falsely accused, deceived by a good friend, or abandoned by a loved one. In the well-known Bible narrative about Joseph, we learn that he was struck by betrayal more than once. It’s hard to say what the lowest point of Joseph’s life was: the betrayal of his brothers throwing him in the pit; dipping his robe in goat’s blood to deceive Jacob, their father, into thinking Joseph was mauled by an animal, being sold into slavery, or spending time in prison. The Bible story about Joseph is one of deep darkness and betrayal; yet we continue to see the invisible, benevolent and gracious hand of God in every passage, and God’s favor was upon Joseph at every stage.

Joseph recognized God’s presence and continued to serve and remain faithful even as a slave; no matter the cost. Joseph’s circumstances were probably worse than any of us have experienced, yet God did not abandon him. Fifteenth century Christian author Thomas a Kempis, stated, “Wait for the Lord. Behave yourself manfully and be of good courage. Do not be faithless, but stay in your place and do not turn back.”

Many times we do not understand why we are going through difficulties and we think our impact is insignificant if we are not in a position of authority. Even as a slave, Joseph trusted God and remained faithful and served diligently, showing Potiphar that God was real.

As followers of Christ, let us honor God by living by these same principles so that others can see the difference that Jesus makes in our lives, regardless of our worldly status. Let others be drawn to the glorious message of eternal hope and salvation through Jesus Christ because of our conduct.

Dear Lord, help me to be faithful to you and to rise to the extraordinary plans you for me so that I can serve you wholeheartedly, thank you for for giving me grace and wisdom to resist bitterness in the midst of insurmountable trials, and show me how to remain faithful and serve you fully so that you will be glorified. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

• Serving and Supporting – by John Grant

• Serving the Lord Wholeheartedly –  by Katherine Kehler

•  Walk it Out – A Devotional about Serving Others by Gail Rodgers

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The post Serving Faithfully and Fully can be found at Thoughts about God.

One of my favorite aphorisms is, “the more you learn, the more you know you don’t know”.

Today, we have access to more knowledge than at any point in history, but one thing is missing from all the access to this information: great wisdom.

Despite advances in technology, high levels of education and instant communication, many people still lack spiritual wisdom.

Godly wisdom and understanding is achieved when we apply truths in the Bible to our daily lives.

The best place to start is in the book of Proverbs, which is often referred to as wisdom literature, and within this book are rich and practical instructions for life.

The primary way we gain godly wisdom is by learning God’s Word, meditating on the Lord’s commands and applying these principles to our everyday lives. We are reminded in Proverbs, God’s wisdom is reserved for those that heed his instructions and choose to apply his truths to their lives (Proverbs 8:33-34).

Throughout life, you will face difficult decisions that demand a wise solution. When faced with these circumstances, meditate on the Scriptures and pray. When you are committed to trusting God and obeying his Word, he will pour out his wisdom on you (Jeremiah 29:13).

You may not always have the answers, and may struggle to make the wisest choice, but you can be assured that

“if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (James 1:5-6).

Several benefits of acquiring godly wisdom include: living a godly life, growing spiritually, finding your purpose, living peacefully and being an enormous light to a hurting world.

Pastor David Jeremiah once said, ”When the peace of God follows the purity of God’s wisdom in our hearts and lives, it will affect those around us.” When godly wisdom becomes part of our lifestyle, we become God’s vessels, building the kingdom of God and pointing others to God’s perfect counsel and his endless love.

Dear Lord, help me to pursue your wisdom and to obey you. Thank you for teaching me to respond according to biblical principles, and enabling me to become the person that you want me to be so that I can influence the world for your glory. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

•  Wisdom and Knowledge of God

•  Ask For Wisdom

•  Salvation Explained

The post The Benefits of Acquiring Godly Wisdom can be found at Thoughts about God.

“I will give you a new heart, and put a new spirit within you: I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes, and you will keep my judgements and do them.” Ezekiel 36:26-27

Everybody likes new things, including God. He’s called the Ancient of Days but he says “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). God begins his story with creating a new world, and he ends it with his plans to make a new heaven and earth.

Our Heavenly Father wants to do new things in the lives of his children. He wants to teach us new truths about himself and provide new opportunities for ministering and helping others. He desires to take us to higher levels of worship and deeper levels of trust.

In today’s passage, Ezekiel says the people of Israel will return to the Lord. He tells them that God will give them a new heart and put his Spirit within them.

How do we obtain a renewed spirit and a new heart? God provides the tools to keep our faith and spirit renewed. As we study Scripture and read devotionals, we learn that God’s Word is timeless. Reading and applying the Scriptures can give us a new understanding, fresh insight, and renewed strength.

Let us continue to, (as Paul said), “Put on our new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).

Heavenly Father, help me to expect new things this year, and daily renew my spirit by reading the Bible and praying. Thank you for giving me a new heart and helping me to gain new understanding so that I may glorify you in all that I do! Amen.

Think about a time you put on something new, perhaps a piece of clothing you received as a present. It made you feel great, right? Special, different…in a good way. Let that remind you that God wants to dress you in a new heart and spirit as well.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

•  Squeaky Clean

•  Beauty out of Brokenness

•   What Happened to the Golden Rule?

The post He Makes Everything New can be found at Thoughts about God.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.:  Isaiah 43:2

I have a wonderful admiration for firefighters. Their acts of bravery, showing initiative and capability in their rescues is inspiring.

My dad was a courageous and heroic fireman; he willingly risked his own life to save others. My childhood memories are still very vivid and I keenly remember when my mom used to take me to Central Fire Station #1 for weekly visits while my dad was on duty. Sliding down the fireman pole, standing on the back of the bright red fire truck, playing with Sparky the Dalmatian and giving him his favorite treat out of the Chiclets gum machine. I can still smell the aroma of spaghetti in the firehouse kitchen while the firemen sat around the table, playing cards and reflecting on their day.

One incredible story my dad shared is when he rescued a woman who was wedged inside a burning house. The Christmas tree had caught on fire, and the home was completely engulfed in flames. Working for approximately 30 minutes to free the trapped woman, he ran out of oxygen. He was doubtful they would survive, but miraculously the Lord sustained them and they both made it out. He gives God the glory for delivering him though many treacherous situations.

The promise in today’s scripture still applies to us today. The prophet Isaiah penned these words to the nation of Israel to comfort and assure God’s people. All of us have experienced the “heat” of trials. It is through these places of fire that God has made some of his most faithful servants. Many great testimonies will include “while I was in the fire” in recounting how God refined them and that it was “in the fire” where God lifted them up. King Nebuchadnezzar had three Jews thrown into the fiery furnace for refusing to bow to an idol god. When he looked into the furnace, he saw four men “walking in the fire” (Daniel 3:19-25). “And the fourth man looked like the Son of God.”

Jordan St. Cyr, writer and singer of “Fires”, reminds us that we don’t have to be afraid. Through God’s unfailing love, endless mercy and compassion we can be victorious even when the smoke billows higher and higher. We will all have troubles, but Jesus will always walk through them with us.

Dear Lord, thank you for helping me walk through the fires even when I am afraid. Help me to rely upon your promises in the Bible during challenging times, and rest in the full assurance of your love. May you be glorified in all situations. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

•   God Is…

•  More than a Father

•  Salvation Explained

The post Walk Through the Fire can be found at Thoughts about God.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interest of the others.”  Philippians 2:3-4

Are you looking out for the interest of others? When was the last time you shared Christ’s message with a stranger? Time and time again people are open to having conversations about Christ simply because his humble followers cared enough to serve and share. You can make God’s love known to others by praying for them, comforting the grieving, encouraging those in their trials and tribulations, gently guiding the straying and simply just listening.

Jesus charged his disciples to preach the gospel to all people. His desire and heart is consistently revealed throughout the Bible. We are reminded of this great truth in 1 Timothy 2:4,

“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”

Many times, we are hesitant to share the gospel because we feel inadequate, but those feelings are from the enemy. As you begin to share, the Holy Spirit will give you the words and the ability to be an effective witness for Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:17). Apart from the Holy Spirit, we have no power to influence people for Christ.

Be humble; allow yourself to be used and trust that God is working through you. Developing a genuine interest in others’ needs without any strings attached and remaining consistent. Your consistency will show others that your heart is in the right place and offer additional opportunities to share Christ’s love with others.

There are countless opportunities to exemplify the love of Jesus to others and to give a reason for the hope that is in you. Will you be his ambassador and seek the best for others today? As you do this, don’t be surprised if the Holy Spirit uses your heart of service to lead people to Jesus Christ.

Dear Lord, help me to seek what is best for others. Please forgive me when I do not take the time to share your love and biblical truths with others. I pray for your hand to guide me. Please give me the right words and specific opportunities to be an effective instrument for your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Ask the Lord to show you who in your life you can humbly walk alongside. Pray that he would give you opportunities to connect with them, hear their story and share Christ’s love with them

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

• The Way of Love – I Corinthians 13

•  Random Acts of Kindness it is amazing how random acts of kindness affect those around you.

•  Salvation Explained

The post Seek What is Best for Others can be found at Thoughts about God.

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”  Ephesians 4:29

Just spit it out! We were playing a fun and high energy game, and our insightful granddaughter, B, was in the “hot seat”. She had to answer the question on the game card in rapid-fire fashion before the timer ran out in 5 seconds. With excitement, our daughter read the next question to B. “Name 3 people who help others.” Quickly, she shouted, “Mimi and Papa, they use Jesus words!”

Before I placed my eternal hope in Jesus Christ, I used to struggle with a bad temper which was rooted in sin and selfishness. Sin was affecting my relationship with others and separating me from God. My words and lack of patience claimed me as a victim, and I kept falling into its snare. I realized I needed to change and to be transformed by Jesus Christ alone.

I am incredibly grateful for the Lord’s endless mercies and how he answered my cries for help. After surrendering to the Holy Spirit, praying and reading the Scriptures, the Lord freed me from the bondage of sin and taught me how to use my words to speak life into others that would glorify him. I was transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, and am constantly reminded of the promise in Proverbs 10:11 “the words of the godly are a life-giving fountain.”

Christ allows us to be free from sin. Well-known, Billy Graham once said, “Sin is the great clogger, and the blood of Christ is the great cleanser.” You too, can experience the freedom in Christ by seeking him through prayer, reading and applying Scriptures, and being obedient in his ways in the power of the Spirit. By staying in right relationship with God by faith you will be changed by the Holy Spirit and experience growing freedom and righteousness in Christ.

Dear Jesus, please forgive me for the sin in my life. Help me to turn from temptation and fix my eyes on You. Thank you for setting me free from the bondage of sin. Use me, Lord, to bring glory to you and to use my words wisely. In Jesus’ name, amen.

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

Further Reading

•  Pressing the RESET button on our lives 

•   Keeping Yourself in God’s Love – even during painful times in your life

•  Salvation Explained

The post Jesus Words can be found at Thoughts about God.

“Let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity” Hebrews 6:1a.

Spiritual maturity does not happen instantaneously.

As Christians, we rely on the Lord to give us the power and the wisdom we need to make mature choices. Growing in the grace and knowledge of God requires dedicated time every day reading, studying, and meditating on God’s word, fellowshipping with believers, serving the body of Christ, praising him and most importantly praying, all in his Spirit’s power.

Growing in spiritual maturity will only take place when we have a desire to grow, which translates in spending time with God. We must actively practice what we learn through repetition and perseverance and develop the skills necessary to instill the word in our hearts. In 1 Timothy 4:7, we are exhorted to “train ourselves to be godly.”

I was recently reminded of a truth that Andy Stanley said. “Spiritual maturity is measured in terms of persevering faith, not perfect behavior.” Everyone has experienced spiritual maladies, and we must know how to overcome these issues with strength that is provided by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:16).

Recently, I struggled with spiritual burnout. I was over-committed, had a lack of enthusiasm, and wanted to be left alone. I am so thankful the Lord knows our weaknesses and struggles.

During this season, through his gracious leading, God helped me overcome my situation as I read and meditated on the rich truths of Scripture. The time I spent with him in the Scriptures encouraged me and strengthened my resolve against the enemy. Revelation grew, my thinking was reshaped, and God provided the comfort and hope I needed. Throughout the process, I grew spiritually by persevering and leaning into God.

Dear Lord, thank you for helping me grow spiritually in my walk with you. Please give me the wisdom to make the right choices every day that will draw me closer to you and lead me to become a more mature believer. Amen.

How much do you trust the Holy Spirit day by day to deepen your faith and enable you to walk more obediently in his strength? What are ways that you can grow in this area?

By Julie Lairsey
Used by Permission

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Further Reading

•  How to Have a ‘Quiet Time’ with God

•  Reading the Bible – Where to Start?

•  Salvation Explained

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The post Developing Spiritual Maturity can be found at Thoughts about God.

“The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’”  Jeremiah 31:3

God loves you with an everlasting, all-powerful love. His love is unconditional, unlimited, and extended to all people. The Bible describes a kind of love that goes far beyond what is considered humanly possible. The Hebrew word for everlasting in Jeremiah 31:3 is olam, which means “eternity” and is used to describe an unending time span.

When you read the prophet Jeremiah’s words about God’s love, you can be encouraged that it can bring hope and restoration to your darkest days. His everlasting love is incomprehensible, immeasurable, unconditional, and unchanging. C.S. Lewis stated, “Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.”

God demonstrated his love for us by sacrificing his Son in order for our sins to be forgiven. Sin was a barrier that stood between God and us. It had to be removed, and that is exactly what Jesus did. He was bound to the cross by love and crucified in order to grant all humankind the opportunity for forgiveness, mercy, and new, everlasting life. Jesus defined eternal life for us in John 17:3, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Take great comfort in knowing that God loves you with an everlasting love, and that his love forgives, protects, hopes, and rejoices in the truth. Be assured of his extravagant love and that he is always working in your life in love.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your great love for us. It makes a difference. Help me to lean into your love because you first loved us. I’m so grateful for your everlasting love and the amazing life you give us because of your love. Help me, Lord, to have fellowship with you so that the results of your presence become clearly visible to those around me. Amen.

Write down the ways God has shown he loves you so far this year. Ask him to reveal those ways to you, then be open to “hear” his response as things come to mind over the next few days.

By Julie Lairsey
used by Permission

FURTHER READING

HE IS!  A great poem
God Demonstrates His Love

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The post An Everlasting Love can be found at Thoughts about God.