"As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." (Revelation 3:19)

Most of us, at one time or another in our childhood when parental disciplinary action was necessary, remember hearing the words, "This is going to hurt me more than it is you!" I never quite understood that phrase until I had children of my own. Suddenly it made sense, and it's true. When we need to discipline our child, it's hurtful if not devastating to the parent. But, we understand that if we love our child, we will discipline him/her because we care about their future, their success, their heart.

Proverbs 3:12 says, "For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth." God corrects us because He loves us! His correction is proof of love on His part toward us. Just as a parent longs for a wayward child to be back "on track" again, there is no higher proof of his love than when, with great pain to himself, he administers such chastisement as shall save his child.

But there is no restoration until there is repentance. Correcting a child does little good unless that child acknowledges his wrongdoing and changes his ways. Again, many of us as parents can remembering disciplining a child over and over and over again for the same offense until finally that child showed true sorrow and changed his ways.

We must be earnest in our exercise of true repentance and turn from our wicked ways. The more time we take in turning back to God in true repentance, the harder it is for us to turn back. Before long, we lose the deep need to repent and we become like the Laodicean church . . . lukewarm and unimpressed by God's repeated call to repentance and restoration.

2 Corinthians 7:10 reminds us that "godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death." In other words, God's discipline must be met with "godly sorrow" and repentance. This is not the same kind of "I'm sorry" the world offers . . . a token phrase to momentarily ease the conscience. This is true "sorrow" which is translated as "grief, heaviness, and deep sorrow, weeping and lamenting". When we feel grievously sorry for our sin, God's forgiveness and mercy washes away our tears and replaces them with joy unspeakable and full of glory.

Is it no wonder that John, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit said, "Be zealous therefore, and repent" . . . don't take your good old time about it and don't do a half-hearted attempt at repentance. Allow God to draw you back into fellowship with Him unhindered by hidden or unhidden sin. Why? Hebrews 12:11 says it all . . . "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby."

Father, I'm learning more each day about Your love for me, learning to recognize it in the midst of trial and tribulation as well as in the time of peace and joy. Lord, forgive me for hidden sin, for being so foolish as to try to tuck away some attitudes and actions thinking You don't really need to deal with them or know about them. Shine Your holy light on my heart and expose all hidden sin, Father, and draw me to repentance and restoration. Lord, I desire to show true Godly sorrow for my sin, not like the world is sorry, but Godly sorrow that effects change in me and yields the peaceable fruits of righteousness. Father, You are my Father and I choose to submit to Your discipline knowing that Your chastening will always be wrapped up in Your unwavering love for me. Father, I submit to Your will as You make me and mold me and form me and fashion me into Your image for Your glory. In Jesus' name, amen and amen.

"Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." (Hebrews 12:11)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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"And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus." (Acts 4:18)

What would you do? How would you react? Have you given this any thought?

Surely by listening to the news, discerning the time in which we live is not too difficult. An attempt to silence the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ has already been seen in many nations and it's going to get worse. Untold numbers of worshippers have to meet in secret, whispering, hiding, and closely disguising their lives so they can continue to gather as the Body to worship the Lord of lord and King of kings. It's hard to fathom.

What would be your response if a law was passed that prohibited you from speaking about the Lord, mentioning the name of Jesus, and preaching the Christ of Calvary? Would your motivation be fear, causing you to go into hiding and never let it be known that you are a Christian? Or, would your motivation be faith, with wisdom and care leading your life in a way that the light of the Christ you serve shines through you without ever speaking a word?

Regardless of your eschatological views, we all must admit that this is a very real possibility even in our own lifetimes.

Do you have enough of the Word of God hidden in your heart to carry you through a time that you might be commanded not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus?

Ps 119:11
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Ps 119:16
I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

Ps 119:38
Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.

Ps 119:105
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Ps 119:114
Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

Ps 119:133
Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Acts 4:29
And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

Consider your own "Word-Level". Are you running low or are you well prepared? You don't have to go into battle with an unloaded gun. Open the pages of the precious Word of God and begin loading your weapon. And, if your weapon is already "loaded", make sure your ammunition isn't old and outdated. Keep it fresh daily. Remember, the weapons of our warfare aren't carnal (flesh and blood), but they're mighty through God. His Word is your most priceless possession, but it's not worth a red cent unless you read it, receive it, and recycle it daily.

Father, it's hard for me to fathom not being able to speak the name of Jesus or to teach openly the truth found in Your Word. Forgive me for taking this right and privilege for granted when there are, right now in our world, people who suffer great persecution for gathering together to worship You. Oh Lord, forgive me for not recognizing my freedoms and for not being grateful for the privilege of assembling together, preaching and teaching the Word, and sharing the name of Jesus and pleading His shed blood. Lord, help me to be more diligent in my personal study time as I hide Your Word in my heart. Father, I don't know what the future holds, but I want to be ready and prepared. Father, help me to be that one who has studied and shown to be approved, the workman that doesn't need to be ashamed but who rightly divides the Word of Truth. Teach me, Lord, and I will obey. Open my heart and I will receive. Open Your Word to me and I will hide it in my heart. In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)

© Jan Ross
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"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1)

What does it mean to "dwell in the secret place of the Most High?" Ask yourself these questions: Are you at home in God, at rest in Him? Are you acquainted with Him throughout your whole being? Is your heart-work the service of God? Do you worship within the veil, loving to be alone with Him and converse with Him in solitude?

Marriage between a man and woman has two faces—one that is seen in public and one that is perceived only in private between the husband and wife. A married couple holding hands, walking arm-in-arm, exchanging winks or touches . . . all these are "public" faces of a marriage relationship; all these are good and necessary but superficial and not intimate by definition. But, that which takes place in the "secret place" need not be spoken of, but the fruit of the intimate relationship can be seen without any word of public testimony.

Have you found that place of true intimacy with the Lord? Do you love being alone with Him, conversing with Him, sharing with Him, learning from Him? Have you learned to set aside some quiet, alone time to be in His presence where an intimate relationship can develop and grow?

Don't take your time with Him lightly, but nurture it and allow it to grow deeper and deeper day after day for if we DWELL in that "secret place" of the Most High, we will ABIDE under the shadow of His wing. No safer place can be found in all of creation.

Father, although our relationship has grown and blossomed since I first met You, I long for a deeper, more intimate relationship with You. I long to find that "secret place" where I can dwell and find my safety under the shadow of Your wing. Lord, help me love You more, know You more, serve You more! Lord, help me surrender to You more and more each day, that our relationship can be seen and perceived by all who meet me without ever having to say a word. Father, be glorified in our relationship today and every day! Amen!

"Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast." (Psalm 57:1)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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"Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?" (James 3:9-11)

Have you ever tried to pick up something that was too heavy? What was your immediate reaction? Most likely you cried out in pain and dropped it, or kept silent and suffered for it later. Regardless of your reaction, you reacted.

The burden of bitterness is too heavy for anyone to carry. In fact, if we pick it up and attempt to carry it, it will weigh us down and eventually crush us to the point that we will be unable to function. Yet, day after day we pick up bitterness and try to walk around with it strapped on our back.

Can you imagine someone walking around with a huge block of cement on their back, weighing them down while they're singing in the choir or tending the nursery? What about if this burdened one is teaching children's church or is an usher at the church? First thing everyone would notice is that they've got a load that they don't need to be carrying. Secondly, people would immediately be distracted by that huge block of cement on their back before they heard a word that person uttered. They can wear a big smile, beautiful clothing, expensive perfume, but the all attention will be drawn to that burden they're carrying. Preach the best sermon, but the burden shows. Sing the best song but because of the burden, no one hears.

Bitterness does the same thing . . . do you see it? The burden of bitterness is too heavy for us to carry.

What is bitterness? The dictionary defines it as proceeding from or exhibiting strong animosity marked by resentment or cynicism. Interestingly, the Greek word for bitterness has its root in a word meaning "tent" or "pitch". In other words, bitterness plans to stay around for a while – it intends to pitch a tent and take up residency!

• Bitterness divides . . . Jesus prayed that we would all "become one". (John 17:11)
  
• Bitterness pollutes . . . we are to love one another with a pure heart! (1 Peter 1:22)
  
• Bitterness destroys . . . our words are to be as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones. (Proverbs 16:24)
  
• Bitterness offends . . . we are to hold our peace. (Proverbs 11:12)
  
• Bitterness is of the flesh . . . we are to live by the Spirit and reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:8)
  

The list obviously could go on and on but it's not necessary. If you are carrying a burden of bitterness, drop it and let it go. Don't entertain it any longer. Don't let it control you life and rob you of abundant life in the Lord Jesus Christ. If someone has wronged you, forgive them. If you feel cheated, misunderstood, used, abused, or hated, drop that burden of bitterness and go on. Carrying the burden of bitterness will keep you from picking up the freedom bought with the precious and priceless blood of the Lamb. Don't allow bitterness to destroy you and destroy your relationship with the Lord and with others. The burden is too heavy to carry and you weren't created to bear it. Don't take another step without dropping it and walking away. Do it for yourself and do it for those you love!

Father, I do have bitterness in my heart toward [fill in the blank] and because of [fill in the blank]. I knew it was there but didn't really consider it to be a burden too difficult to carry . . . I thought I was handling it but I see now that I'm not. Lord, with Your help I'm going to drop this burden right now and leave it at your feet. You promised You would fight my battles for me. I realize that I'm not able to fight this kind of battle – it's not a battle with flesh and blood. Father, help me to forgive totally and to go on and not look back. Help me to draw on Your strength as it is made perfect in my weakness. Forgive me for carrying this burden much too long . . . give me the courage to go on so that You will be glorified in me and through me. I love You, Lord, and I long to be wholly Yours without the burden of bitterness which is too heavy for me to carry. In Jesus' name, by His blood which sets me free, and for His glory which is so deserved . . . amen and amen!

"Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." (Psalm 55:22)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

You probably think this is going to be about the elections . . . well, maybe a little, but not for the most part. It's more to do with living a life sanctified and set apart for the Master's use. It's about living above the base lusts of the flesh and conducting our lives in a fashion that is pleasing and acceptable in the eyes of God. After all, that's what He's commanded us to do.

Leviticus 20:7 says, "Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God." But, what does "sanctify yourselves" really mean? One commentator says, "We must cleanse ourselves from all the pollutions of sin, consecrate ourselves to the service and honor of God, and conform ourselves in every thing to His holy will and image: this is to sanctify ourselves."

We are to keep ourselves from sin . . . make informed decisions, think before we act, weigh our choices and then make the choice that is right according to the Word of God. Every temptation that comes our way brings with it a choice . . . one way will lead to destruction, the other way to abundant life.

According to 1 Peter 1:15-16, we are called to be holy in all manner of conversation. All of our fellowship and interaction with others MUST have its basis in holiness. Anything less will rob the testimony that God is building on the earth today … through YOU!

Father, my heart's desire is to live a life sanctified unto You. Help me to consider my choices in all I do, then act on the right choice as a way of bringing glory to Your Name. Lord, teach me Your ways through Your Word. Be a shield all around me, O Lord, as I journey along life's path. Give me strength to choose righteousness and to disdain sin using the Word of God as my pattern. Lord, I love You; thank You for Your presence and direction in my life. Where would I be without You, Lord?

"And to make thee high above all nations which he hath made, in praise, and in name, and in honour; and that thou mayest be an holy people unto the LORD thy God, as he hath spoken." (Deuteronomy 26:19)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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"And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not." (Ezra 7:25)

Judges are important to us all, particularly those of the higher courts in every nation. They bear much responsibility to the people, but if we look closely at the Word of God, judges have a great responsibility before the Lord; however, so do those who "set" the judges according to our verse today!

Ezra was told to "set magistrates and judges", not just any magistrates and judges, but those who know the laws of God! When Moses was told to appoint judges, he was to find men "such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness . . . " (Exodus 18:21-22).

For those readers who are in the United States, you are keenly aware that this is an election year. It is interesting to note that our vote will have much to do with the Judges who will be appointed or "set". The Word of God tells us that Judges should be those like in Moses' day, men "such as fear God, men of truth…"

Regardless of where we live, as Christians we have dual-citizenship being citizens of Heaven and citizens of our homeland. If our government has granted us the right to vote to choose our leaders who will appoint our judges, we must be good stewards of our right to vote while we pray for Godly leaders and those who will have a bearing on righteousness in the land. If we live in a country where we are not given those rights, we still have an awesome responsibility to pray for our leaders and those who rule over us, those who will also have a bearing on righteousness in the land!

Isaiah 1:26 says, "I will restore your judges as in days of old, your counselors as at the beginning. Afterward you will be called the City of Righteousness, the Faithful City." The judges, according to Isaiah, are responsible for righteousness! Keeping this in mind, if there is any reason for us to exercise our right to vote and pray for our leaders, this is it!

Prayerfully contemplate your vote, remember these verses and God's mandate for Judges who are appointed or "set" over the people. God led Moses and Ezra and Isaiah to appoint Judges who would have a direct bearing on righteousness in the land. Since He never changes, it would be safe to assume that when we cast our vote, we should look to the Word of God and vote God's will!

Father, it weighs heavily on my heart concerning the governing of the nations. You sovereignly placed each one of us in the nation of our birth – we didn't decide where our birth would occur! By that, we understand that You have sovereignly given each of us a task to be good stewards of our nation by exercising the rights afforded us to create and oversee the government that You would have in place! Lord, help me to know how to vote, to be discerning with my vote, and to remember that righteousness exalts a nation! Father, I thank You that I am a citizen of Heaven while I am a citizen on the earth in the country where I reside! Just as I would never disregard my rights and privileges of my citizenship in Heaven, show me how to be a good steward of my citizenship of this land. Father, finally I pray for all the leaders of my country; give them the wisdom to lead us with integrity, sincerity, and power from on high! In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

"When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." (Proverbs 29:2)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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"And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready."  (Luke 14:17)

"Come, for things are now ready." Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us ... that's a certainty!

We are now living in a time where now only is prophecy being fulfilled before our eyes, the table is being set for the greatest banquet imaginable.

Are your ears in tune with the Master's voice? Will you hear and respond when He says, "Come!" Or, will you be like those who were invited but found themselves too busy with things in this world and not able to set them aside to be with the King of all kings!

It is time to examine our hearts to make sure that our ties to this world are not so strong as to delay our response when we hear Him say, "Come, for all things are now ready!"

Father, I have examined my heart and found that there are many areas in which my ties to this world are stronger than my ties to You. Forgive me, Lord, for not giving you pre-eminence in all areas of my life. Help me shed the excess baggage that this world requires so I will be ready to leave when I hear your voice say, "Come!" Oh, how I long for that day! Amen!

"Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed." (1 Corinthians 15:51-52)

© 2008 Jan Ross
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"The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." (Isaiah 58:11)

"You will be like a well-watered garden…" This phrase caught my attention since I just put away my canning and freezing equipment for the season. What are the signs of a well-watered garden? What are its benefits? How does this relate to us?

This year our garden was "well-watered" and it produced amazingly! Although our garden is small compared to many in the farming community in which we live, it produced an abundance tomatoes and beans and corn and peppers. In fact, we finally pulled up pepper plants because they were still blooming—still producing! This is the sign of a well-watered garden.

Our pantry is filled with canned vegetables—tomatoes and beans and sauces and such. Our freezer is packed with freshly frozen vegetables for our family, friends, and guests—anyone who eats from our table to enjoy throughout the cold winter months. The benefits of a well-watered garden will continue to bless us for a long time to come—at least until next years' crop is ready for harvest.

But let's think beyond the obvious … a well-watered life will produce fruit. Not just some fruit, but abundant fruit—fruit that will be a blessing not only to the individual but to those whose live he touches.

The Bible tells us that the Church is made clean by the "washing with water by the Word" (see Ephesians 6:26). The Word is the water that cleanses—the Living Word, Jesus Christ, is the "water" that enables us to bear fruit. We have the ability to bear abundant fruit as our hearts are transformed by the power of the Living Word.

Be that "well-watered" garden, not only today but every day. Start your day with the Word…with Jesus Christ, the Living Word. Meet with Him and learn from Him in greater measure each new day. You, too, will become a well-watered garden that produces abundant fruit to the glory of God.

Father, I long to be like that well-watered garden, producing fruit fit for my King. Cleanse me, wash me, purge me, and water me through Your Word. Remind me each morning to meet with the Living Word and learn from Him so that my life will produce abundant fruit that You might be glorified. In Jesus' name, amen.

"This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." (John 15:8)

© Jan Ross
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"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night." (Psalm 1:1-2)

The book of Psalms starts off with three areas of personal problems: Walking in the counsel of the ungodly; standing in the way of sinners; sitting in the seat of the scornful. Immediately, the Psalmist gives us the preferred alternative . . . our delight should be in the law of the Lord – the Word of God – as we meditate in it day and night. In other words our delight should not be found in the counsel of the ungodly, the way of the sinners, or the seat of the scornful, it must be in the Word of God.

What is the counsel of the ungodly? Have you ever stopped to think about that statement? Matthew Henry is rather strong in his interpretation of the first part of this verse: "A godly man, that he may avoid the evil, utterly renounces the companionship of evil-doers, and will not be led by them." Psalm 119:115 says, "Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God." Those who do not fear God have no understanding of the things of God and are in rebellion against Him.

What is the way of sinners? Simply put, the man who fears God does not follow the same path or way of those who have no fear of God. The way of sinners is not the way of the child of God! Proverbs 4:14-15 says, "Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away." Avoid the path of the sinners, don't follow the ways of those who do not know the Lord, don't use them as rolemodels, or allow them to influence your life. Those who do not fear God have no knowledge of the path which leads to righteousness and holiness.

And, what is the seat of the scornful? Again Matthew Henry offers an explanation: "The scornful are those that set their mouths against the heavens." They shun good and adhere to evil, their wickedness makes them proud and they boast in their sin. Their consciences appear to be seared and they have no regret for their rebellion and wickedness. Those who do not fear God have nothing in them that appeal to the Godly man or woman.

But . . . But! But the righteous delight in the law of the Lord! We find comfort in God's Word. We find fulfillment in knowing God through His Word! Our lives are sustained by His Word as His promises are revealed and we cling to them for hope in our times of need. We run to the Word when we have troubles and we find help. We draw from the Word the very essence of our life . . . it is our manna from heaven in the right proportion to meet our need for that day.

John 1:14 gives us a reason to meditate on the Word of God day and night: "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."

Do you allow the Word to guide you, or are you following after the counsel of the ungodly?

Do you follow the path of righteousness and holiness revealed to you in the Word, or are you standing in the way of sinners?

Do you willingly and eagerly obey the Word with humility and a tender conscience, or are you sitting in the seat of the scornful?

Finally, do you meditate on Him in the daytime and in the nighttime? Is your gaze fixed on the Lover of your soul? Do you delight in Him?

Father, I need help . . . I see where I need to make some changes in my life but am powerless to do it on my own. I need Your strength to be made perfect in my weakness so that I can pursue You with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength. Father, forgive me for times I've neglected to use wisdom in my associations. Forgive me for not eagerly seeking Your Word to find the answers to situations in my life. Forgive me for seeking answers I desperately need from those who have no understanding of godliness. Help me to seek You first, Your kingdom first, Your righteousness first with the understanding that You are all I need in every situation and every circumstance I could ever face. I love You Lord, and I love Your Word! In Jesus' name, amen.

"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." (2 Corinthians 6:17-18)

© 2008 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)

God looks on the heart, not at the outward appearance of man. That is so contrary to the way our society does things. If you doubt me, look at the television, the billboards, the magazine covers, etc. For the most part, the most handsome faces and shapely bodies are advertised as the "norm" and everyone who doesn't conform to this level of "beauty" needs help. So, the make-up companies make money in an attempt to help women cover up their flaws. The personal diet companies are making untold millions while everyone tries the latest fad diet to lose weight to look like some model or superstar. I could go on but there's no need . . . it's quite clear.

Aren't you glad that God looks past our outward appearance and discerns the heart?

Samuel made the mistake of assuming the most handsome and "kingly" looking son of Jesse would be the one he would anoint as king of Israel. The Lord, on the other hand, had in mind a young shepherd boy who, when summoned to meet the prophet, was more concerned about leaving his sheep unattended than meeting with Samuel. His heart was tender . . . like the heart of God.

I want a heart like God's, don't you? Let's start by not judging by appearance but rather looking at the heart of men and women and understanding that they are ALL the handiwork of the Creator, made to glorify Him and to bring Himself glory.

Father, I admit that all too often I get caught up in judging others by their appearance, forgetting that the outward appearance has little to do with the treasure hidden in the heart! Lord, teach me to grow in character that most resembles You, with a heart like Yours, that sees beauty beyond the veil of flesh, the beauty hidden in the heart of redeemed man! In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

"Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's." (2 Corinthians 10:7)

© 2008 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:8)

"Radical obedience" is a phrase that's challenged me. But it's not just for me.  This should be a daily challenge for ALL who call themselves Christian.

What is radical obedience? Let me see if I can put it into words. To me, radical obedience is obeying God when it doesn't make sense. Radical obedience is doing God's will when our own agenda makes more sense. Radical obedience is not only asking "What Would Jesus Do" but DOING what Jesus did. Radical obedience is denying my flesh while fulfilling God's purpose for me. Radical obedience is heeding the call of God when, by all appearances, it's out of the question. Radical obedience is not compromising even if it means losing friends. Radical obedience is venturing outside my comfort zone no matter how uncomfortable or unreasonable it feels.

Radical obedience demands I do whatever I do so that Christ might be glorified, so that He is the focus of my life, so people see Him and not me. Radical obedience demands I disregard those things which seem to be important to me so that Christ becomes of paramount importance to me.

I have thought I was living a radically obedient life. But each day I learn there are more areas that absolutely MUST be submitted to radical obedience.

Look at our verse in context … "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11 NIV)

Jesus is the greatest example of radical obedience. It's time for Christians to understand what it means to be called a Christian – being LIKE Christ. We cannot be a Christian unless we pursue Christ-likeness. Unless we're willing to be radically obedient like Christ was radically obedient, then we have no right to bear the name Christian.

Oh, I have so far to go! But it is my desire to pursue radical obedience … not when it's convenient, but when it is most inconvenient.

What about you?

Father, forgive me for failing to be Christ-like in all I do.  I want to change.  I want to emulate my Lord Jesus Christ in every aspect of my life.  Help me.  Empower me.  Lead me.  Teach me.  It is my desire, Lord, to pursue radical obedience.  Not for a trophy or a medal or a gold star.  I choose a greater level of obedience so that Christ might be glorified – Him and Him alone.  In Jesus' name, amen and amen.

" For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him" (Philippians 1:29 NIV)

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© 2008 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." (Revelation 2:20)

But, what if He heard your prayer and answered your request. What if He split the skies right this very moment? Would He find you properly adorned with her wedding garments, clean and pure?

Take this opportunity to do a self-check in these final hours. Check your "garment" for wrinkles or soils. Develop and maintain an intimate relationship with Him as you find a secret place where you can spend time with Him alone. Allow your flesh to die as you put off the "old" and adorn yourself with the robes of His righteousness.

And, finally, check your lamp and make sure His light causes your life to shine in this world of utter darkness. Then, whisper, "Even so, come, Lord Jesus" and wait with urgent expectancy for His soon appearing.

Lord Jesus, I anticipate your coming more than anything I've ever longed for. Please show me how to walk ever closer to You as I find comfort in that secret place of intimacy with You. As a Bride makes final preparation with expectancy for her wedding day, Lord, help your Church to prepare for your appearance with fervor and anticipation in every way, day after day! "Even so, come, Lord Jesus"! Amen!

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18)

© Jan Ross 2008
All Rights Reserved

"And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8)

The attributes of God . . . what are they? When you think of God, what do you think of? His mercy? His love? His power? In fact, a weekly Bible Study that I teach, we just had a question – "What does it mean to have a heart like God?" Most of us gave answers that reflected his attributes such as love, compassion, mercy, etc.

The Bible gives us a glimpse of the most significant attribute of God, one that we don't often want to deal with. Take a peek into the throne room of God and hear what the angels are saying: "Holy, holy, holy!" In the Bible, emphasis is put on words that are repeated or mentioned twice such as "Truly, truly . . ." or "Lord, Lord . . ." But when we see a word spoken three times, it bears a weighty significance that demands our attention.

Isaiah 6:3 confirms the vision of John in Revelation 4:8 when Isaiah saw the Lord high and lifted up, seated on His throne, and the train of His glory filled the temple. He saw the angels . . . "and one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory." In fact, the sound of the seraphim reverberates throughout eternity as they worship before the Throne . . . "Holy, holy, holy!" They aren't around the throne proclaiming, "Love, love, love!" or "Mercy, mercy, mercy!" They are proclaiming the holiness of God, not just in passing, but over and over and over throughout all eternity.

What is the greatest attribute of God? God is HOLY, HOLY, HOLY!

When we consider God, let's consider His holiness . . . and then follow up with Peter's admonition written under the anointing of the Spirit of God: "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation (behavior); because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy." (1 Peter 1:15-16)

When you are faced with decisions, choices, and opportunities, remember Leviticus 20:7: "Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God." And, as we've just seen, our God is HOLY, HOLY, HOLY – perfectly holy in every way!

Father, as I consider You I often think of You as love, abounding in mercy, full of grace, and mighty in power. When I consider Your holiness, however, I am quickly humbled and convicted of my sin, and drawn to repentance. Father, forgive me for not often contemplating Your holy nature and lacking reverence and fear of Your holiness. Cleanse me, Lord, of my unrighteousness and teach me how to be holy as You are holy, holy, holy! In Jesus' name, by His blood, and for His glory, amen and amen!

"Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you." (Leviticus 20:7-8)

© Jan Ross
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"Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor." (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Many of us have childhood memories that we'll carry with us throughout our lives ~ some memories are good and some are not. It has always intrigued me that very often memories are associated with scents.

I can remember specific scents that are associated with unforgettable memories of great significance in my life. As a child the scent of fresh-cut lilacs off a spring bush sitting on the dining room table always brought to my memory the first time my mother snipped the blooms and placed them in the vase. The aroma penetrated every inch of the house with a sweet-smelling savor! My mother would stand nearby at her ironing board and time after time just stop to take a deep breath and comment on the fragrance. She loved lilacs and they seemed to have a tranquilizing effect on her . . . in those moments she was peaceful regardless of the circumstances at home. Oh what a joy it was to walk in from outdoors and just stand there . . . smelling and watching her enjoy the beauty of the lingering fragrance so strong that it made an impact on the small child I was at the time.

This time of year holds special memories for me! We lived in metropolitan Cleveland and there was a "valley" nearby. Every fall for several years, my dad and I would go for walks in the valley on Sunday afternoons. We'd tread through the fallen leaves, wet with dew and the occasional rainfall. The squirrels would scurry across the branches high above our head and an occasional deer would cross our path. You could hear horses from the nearby stables as they announced their presence! But even with all of nature's most awesome finery, the most significant part of our walks in the valley was his strong hand wrapped securely around mine as we plodded on unforged paths, tripping over fallen trees and stumbling into puddles! But what lingers in my memory is the scent of fall, a scent that catapults me back to these intimate moments with my dad on chilly Sunday afternoons. It was delightful, but even more than that, it has been a memory to treasure all these years later.

So, too, is the sacrifice that Christ, because of His love for us, made nearly 2,000 years ago . . . and the aroma from that sacrifice is still a sweet-smelling savor in the nostrils of the Father! Why? Because that one obedient act of total submission by His Son bought entrance for us into His holy presence!

Oh what a savored memory in the nostrils of God!

Oh, what a Saviour . . . Oh, what a Love Divine!!

Father, I love You . . . may my life be an acceptable sacrifice unto You, a sweet-smelling savor in Your nostrils! Burn out of me everything that is not pleasing to You. Lord, teach me to walk in love and to be a complete, total "follower of God". Help me, Lord, to be constantly reminded of Your unfailing love as I live and breathe surrounded with the handiwork of your creation. My prayer is that the fragrance of my worship and obedience rise to Your throne as a sweet-smelling savor unto You. Father, this is my desire today, tomorrow and every day until I have become nothing and You have become everything in me! In the precious Name of Jesus I pray, Amen!

"For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish" (2 Corinthians 2:15)

© 2008 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:11-12)

The grace (or favor) of God saves but it also teaches us some important elements of sober and godly living.

First, we must deny ungodliness. However, before we can deny it, we must understand what constitutes ungodliness. It comes from a Greek word meaning irreverent, impious, or wicked. In order to live godly lives in the grace (or favor) of God, we must deny ungodliness and flee from it.

Second, we must deny worldly lusts. However, again, before we can deny the worldly lusts, we need to understand what they are. It speaks of longing for those things which are forbidden, things unclean, things that have no part in the life of a child of God.

Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts is never easy. It takes consistency without compromise as we pursue sober, righteous, and godly living.

Three important words to remember . . . soberly, righteously, and godly!

Use your personal time of reflection and prayer today to consider your life. How do you measure up? Are you pursuing godliness? Are you denying ungodliness and worldly lusts? Be honest in your self-examination and listen to the voice of the Spirit as He draws you to repentance and teaches you the importance of sober and godly living for the glory of God!

Father, as I consider this scripture and the elements of ungodliness and worldly lusts, I find that I am in need once again of Your grace. Forgive me, Lord, for many times denying godliness rather than ungodliness, for embracing worldly lusts rather than turning away from them. Lord, I am weak but I'm reassured to know that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness! Teach me to be sober, righteous, and godly so that You might be glorified in me and through me! Father, I love you and choose to pursue godliness in every area of my life . . . I need Your help! In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness" (Romans 1:18)

© 2008 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee."  (Isaiah 54:10)

"Peace, peace, wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above . . ."

How wonderful it is to know that we have a God who "keepeth covenant and mercy" (see Deut. 7:9) with His people!

How great is our God? Look again at His promise in the verse for today . . . though everything may crumble around you, and everyone turn their back on you, neither His kindness nor His peace shall EVER depart from you because He's a God of covenant and mercy toward us who love Him and keep His commandments.

Now, that's a GREAT GOD!

Help me today, Lord, to comprehend once again what an awesome promise You have made to us . . . You keep your covenants . . . You show us mercy . . . You never leave us . . . You never forsake us . . . You're always there for us! Lord, who is there that could compare to You? There is no one, there is nothing that can compare with You for no greater can be found in all of creation than our Lord, our King, our Saviour, our Everything! Thank you for revealing Yourself to me again in such a special way! I love You, Lord! Amen!

". . . for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." (Hebrews 13:5)

© Jan Ross
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"And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay."  (Mark 2:4)

Obstacles are sometimes hard to overcome; they can cause people to quit trying, or they can cause people to develop more determination than ever.

Today's verse talks about an obstacle.  A friend was sick, unable to walk and needed the healing touch of the Lord.  Yet because of the throngs of people it seemed to be an impossibility to reach Him.  Immediately the friends tried to find a way to reach the Lord regardless of what they had to do.  Finally, they climbed up on the rooftop, removed some of the tiles, and lowered their friend down to where Jesus was . . . to receive from Him a healing touch.

Sometimes it takes determination and fervency in our requests for help of any kind from the Lord.  These men, acting on their faith that Jesus would heal their friend, withstood every barrier and acted on their faith.

Probably in an attempt to gain entrance into the house, they were ridiculed (this man had been lame since birth), pushed out of the way by others anxious to receive His touch . . . they may even have been told to leave, that there was no possibility for them to get their friend inside on this stretcher.  Yet, they withstood the opposition and persevered!

When you need a touch from the Lord, do you seek Him and soon give up when you are unable to "reach" Him . . . or are you fervent in your prayer?  The Bible tells us in James 5:16 that "the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."  That lets us know that we may be called upon to persevere against all opposition from the enemy.  Folks, we cannot cower down in the face of opposition to our prayers . . . we have to have an attitude to prevail against all odds.  The Christian walk was never meant to be one of weakness . . . that's why we're told in Ephesians 6:10 to "be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might."  This is a war we are in; we've been given the armor to wear and weapons with which to fight.  To run in retreat would be to surrender to the enemy.

The next time you pray and feel the opposition from the enemy, remember that you are a prevailer . . . you are an overcomer . . . you are equipped to push through opposition.  Stand firm and don't give up when the hindrances to prayer begin to bombard your mind . . . remember that Jesus was right there for the lame man all the time -- He was in his midst, He never moved -- the lame man and his friends had to push through the opposition to reach Him.

Jesus is always there to hear our prayer, to meet our needs, to give us that healing touch that we so desperately need.  Press into Him until you "reach" Him!

Father, so many times I begin to pray and my mind becomes muddled with things that I need to be doing, with problems I am facing, with business that needs tended to.  Herein is my opposition!  Help me, Lord, become that one You call an "effectual, fervent prayer" so that I won't succumb to the enemy's temptation to disregard prayer for things that distract me.  Lord, my heart's desire is to please You . . . help me to persevere and stand firm when I am hindered during my time with You.  I thank You, Lord, that You are always in my midst . . . help me to remember that it is I who must move closer to You day after day, in every way.  Amen!

"Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

© Jan Ross
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"May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you." (Psalm 20:1 NIV)

A shepherd-boy, who watched a flock of sheep near a village, brought out the villagers three or four times by crying, "Wolf! Wolf!" and when his neighbors came to help him, laughed at them for their pains.

The wolf, however, did truly come at last. The shepherd-boy, now really alarmed, shouted in an agony of terror: "Pray, do come and help me; the wolf is killing the sheep" but no one paid any heed to his cries, nor rendered any assistance. The wolf, having no cause of fear, at his leisure destroyed the whole flock.

The moral of the story: There is no believing a liar, even when he speaks the truth.

Aesop wrote many fables that teach hard lessons. This particular fable has stirred in my heart many times, particularly in today's culture where it is accepted to take the Lord's name in vain. While the Lord promises He will never turn His back on us and He will always heed our call, I often wonder if He doesn't tire of the many times we cry out, "Oh my God!" as an expletive without really meaning to invoke His presence in prayer.

Psalm 124:8 reminds us "Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Proverbs 18:10 tells us, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

When we're overwhelmed with life's circumstances, we want to know the Lord will hear our cries. When pain consumes us and we cry out, "My Lord!" we need to know He's near. When we're too weak to face tomorrow, we need to know we can call on the name of the Lord for strength.

Honor the name of the Lord. Call upon Him in your time of trouble.

Father, forgive me for the times I've misused Your holy name. Oh Lord, hear my cries and answer when I am in distress. In Jesus' name. Amen!

"Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness." (Psalm 29:2)

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© 2008 Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come, wherever you live."  Leviticus 23:31

There are days when I close my eyes and try to imagine what it was like when God first commanded Israel to commemorate and keep the feasts and holy days.  I imagine the people who are suddenly reminded of the season by the blast of a trumpet, the ten days of awe, and the call to solemn assembly. 

There was a time when I thought all those scriptures were meaningless to us as believers in Christ.  These scriptures were never brought up in our church as I was growing up.  Neither were they referenced by our Sunday school teachers, and there were very few (if any) references to the holy days or festivals of the Lord in Bible studies I attended.  It was assumed, though not specifically articulated, that these were historical events with no meaning for us.

How wrong were my assumptions!  I repent …

Today, the trumpet still blows calling us to solemn assembly.  Although the High Priest has no temple in which to do service, there is no blood sacrifice to be offered on the altar, there is no atoning blood to sprinkle on the Mercy Seat, and there is no fire of God to consume the sacrifice, we can find profound revelation in the Atoning Sacrifice, Jesus Christ, Yeshua the Messiah. 

There are set seasons in God's timeline; we see this referenced throughout the Word of God.  God's times and seasons are perpetual … they never ceased.  God's call to a season of repentance was not for a dispensation, but for all generations—"the generations to come".  They were not for His people Israel only living in Israel, but for all generations wherever they live—"wherever you live" (ref Leviticus 23:31).

There is more than enough reason for us, as Christians, to heed the call to repentance and fasting, to enter into a season of solemn assembly, to honor God's times and seasons.  We are truly living in the time of the harvest.  The fields are ripe and ready, but the hearts of so many of God's people are far from ready simply because we, the Body of Christ, lack the attention to repentance. 

True repentance includes Godly sorrow (ref 2 Corinthians 7:10).  How often does the Church gather together to grieve over her own sins, to mourn the fact that we all miss God and fall so short of His glory (ref Romans 3:23)?  Some way, down through history, we have forsaken God's call to seasonal and perpetual repentance (throughout all generations), somehow thinking we are blood-bought through Yeshua's  incredible sacrifice and no longer need to set ourselves apart unto God for a season of mourning our sin.

The ancient Jews who feared God listened for the blast of the trumpet signaling a time of true repentance and fasting and seeking to right the wrongs in their lives.  They feared God's judgment if they had unrepented sin in their lives.  They used the Law—the Torah—as their plumb line and repented for the many ways they had failed God and their fellow man.  It was a season of atoning for sins and wiping the slate clean for all sins committed against God in the past year, praying God would accept the sacrifice of the High Priest and the sprinkling of blood on the Mercy Seat and grant His people mercy rather than judgment.

We need the mercy of God now more than ever before.  This nation has been reeling in natural disasters with increasing intensity for the past few years.  Each time a disaster strikes we see a precursor to God's judgment being levied against all of mankind because humanity as a whole has strayed so far from Him.  We need God's mercy!

So, let the trumpet be blown in Zion.  Listen to the Spirit's call to solemn assembly, to join together with all the saints to repent on behalf of ourselves, our families, our communities, our churches, our States, our nation, and our world. 

These are the days of Elijah,
Declaring the Word of the Lord
And these are the days of Your servant Moses,
Righteousness being restored.
And though these are days of great trial,
Of famine and darkness and sword,
Still, we are the voice in the desert crying
'Prepare ye the way of the Lord!'

Behold He comes riding on the clouds,
Shining like the sun at the trumpet call;
Lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee,
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes.

These are the days of Ezekiel,
The dry bones becoming as flesh;
And these are the days of Your servant David,
Rebuilding a temple of praise.
These are the days of the harvest,
The fields are as white in Your world,
And we are the laborers in Your vineyard,
Declaring the word of the Lord!

There's no God like Jehovah.
There's no God like Jehovah!*

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Copyright © 2008 Jan Ross
*Copyright © 1997 Daybreak Music Ltd.

This article was published in the October 2008 issue of JournEzine.

"Instead, they were longing for a better country-a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." (Hebrews 11:16)

I began to consider this verse: If God is not ashamed to be called their God, what would make Him feel ashamed to be called their God? The answer was right there—God would feel ashamed to be called their God if they had not believed His promise.

The men and women listed in Hebrews "Hall of Faith" people lived as if there was heaven to gain and hell to shun. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and more … they all "were still living by faith when they died" (v.13). They didn't give up! They didn't throw in the towel just because they didn't see the manifestation of their promise during their lifetimes. Their walk of faith wasn't dependent on what God could or would give them—they already knew what He had promised.

Today we have even greater revelation of the power of God's promises through 2 Corinthians 1:20. Paul tells us, "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God." In other words, what God promised—no matter what He has promised—Jesus ratified and sealed that promise by His blood so the Father is glorified.

To put it simply, God said, "Yes, I will be your God and you will be my people." Jesus shed His blood as a seal of the covenant and said, "Amen! God will indeed be your God and you will indeed be His people!"

Are you living like you believe His promises? Or, are you in danger of causing the Lord to feel ashamed to be called your God?

Trust Him! Believe Him! Know that He is willing and able to keep His promises to you!

"[Abraham] staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness." (Romans 4:20-22 KJV)

Father, there are times we struggle with our faith—those times are hard because what we see with our eyes is not the same as what we read in Your Word. But just like so many whom You call faithful listed in Hebrews 11, Lord, we want to trust You, believe You, and be assured that You are not ashamed to be called our God. Lord, help us to stand firm regardless what the circumstances say and trust You with all our hearts. Help us to live in full assurance of Your promises, not moved by circumstances. Help us to believe so You will be glorified through our lives. In Jesus' name, amen.

"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." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

_________________

©Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

"O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens."   (Psalm 8:1)

The whole earth is full of His glory! The reflection of His glory can be seen in everything. His Name bears the perfection of excellence; His glory testifies of His holy estate; His handiwork is a display of His creative power. "Oh Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!"

"Thou hast set thy glory above the heavens." The Lord God is infinitely more glorious and excellent than the noblest of creatures and those that shine most brightly. We on this earth only hear God's excellent name which in itself draws praise from the depths of our souls. The angels in the heavens see His glory and praise floods the throneroom, yet He is exalted far above even their blessing and praise! Our Lord Jesus sitting exalted at the right hand of God is the brightness of the Father's glory and the express image of His person. God set His glory above the heavens, far above all principalities and powers!

Praise Him today—not for what He's done but for who He is! He's not the "man upstairs" or the "big guy" or even "lordy, lordy"! Get a glimpse of the God we serve. He's no ordinary God! Our God is the one who set His glory above the heavens!

Oh Majestic Father, words cannot express your wondrous majesty. Who is man . . . who am I . . . that You are mindful of me? For without Your sovereign work in my heart, I could not attempt to approach Your holy throne or begin to perceive your glorious estate! Cleanse me, make me new, as you change me into the likeness of Your image. As I bow before You in pure adoration and worship, I cry, "Holy, Holy, Holy is my Lord God Almighty; the whole earth is full of Your glory." Amen!

"I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High." (Psalm 9:1-2)

© Jan Ross
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"But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing." (2 Thessalonians 3:13)

Paul's letter to the Thessalonians is full of good advice for servants of the Most High God as they live among people "which walk among you disorderly" (v.11). Sometimes it's a hard thing to not grow weary in our well doing when others around us appear to be carefree in their disorderly lifestyles.

But Paul offers this encouragement to us, "be not weary in well doing." Sometimes we need that gentle reminder. Sometimes we need to remember that although our "well doing" may be costly to our flesh, it is "the Lord of peace himself [who will] give [us] peace always by all means (v. 16). In other words, it's worth whatever it takes to allow "the Lord direct [to] our hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ" (v. 5).

We live in a world filled with people seeking their own pleasures, building their own "kingdoms", and storing up their own treasures. The hearts of unredeemed mankind are provoked by nothing less than feeding every fleshly desire that stirs in their heart. Their hearts are cold and indifferent to the needs and suffering of others unless by somehow reaching out will benefit them personally. Their flesh craves gratification and their lifestyles feed that gratification no matter what it takes.

But we seek to please God, to deny our flesh, to serve one another. And, that's why Paul reminded the people at Thessalonica to "be not weary in well doing." The words still ring true today and bring with them the promise that God will reward us for our life of sacrifice to Him and to others.

Are you tired of living for others? Are you tired of constantly denying your flesh of things that appear to be full of pleasure? Are you tired of laboring for the Kingdom of God? Take heed, dear ones . . . "be not weary in well doing" and know that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ will be with you always! Amen!

Father, it seems as if Paul could see into this day and hour when so many of Your people are becoming weary in battle. The flesh is weak and craves to be fed yet we rejoice as we die daily for the sake of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Empower us, Lord, to continue and to not be weary in our well doing. Grant us peace as we live in a world filled with chaos motivated by selfishness and self-serving attitudes. In Jesus' name, for His glory . . . Amen and Amen!

"Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ." (Philippians 3:8)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved