Nuggets of Truth

Vice or Virtue?

2009-07-24T21:45:00.000-07:00

But when you follow your own wrong inclinations, your lives will produce these evil results: impure thoughts…hatred and fighting, jealousy and anger, constant effort to get the best for yourself, complaints and criticisms, the feeling that everyone else is wrong except those in your own little group…anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21 (TLB)

A vice, according to Miriam Webster, is an act of self-indulgence. It’s an action that demonstrates that we think more highly of ourselves than we ought to and seek to serve our own pleasures. It’s something that most of us have and acknowledge as a ‘bad habit’ yet one that cannot be given up. You might have heard someone say, “Oh, I know smoking is bad for my health…but I just can’t quit.” Just last weekend I heard someone say, “I know that I’m a controlling person…it’s just the way that I am…I can’t change it.”

A virtue, on the other hand, is moral excellence; right action and thinking. The attitudes that contribute to self-indulgent living are often learned at a very young age when our parents serve our every need and desire. And they are reinforced as we grow up, especially in the modern world where the media floods us with false images of success and tells us that happiness comes from getting what we want. It is difficult to combat this mindset, but the Bible tells us in Galatians 5:22-23, when the Holy Spirit controls our lives he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control… (TLB) Virtuous living does not result from discipline and trying really hard, but from trusting God and relying on His Holy Spirit to guide your daily life. Those who say, “I just can’t quit,” or “I can’t change it,” are right in one respect. When they focus on themselves, they are helpless to change. But when they focus on God, and allow the Holy Spirit to direct them, they will conquer their vices…because nothing is impossible with God, not even change.

New! Official Website for Stephanie French

2009-07-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

The official website has launched today. Find Stephanie French at http://www.FaithInspiredWriter.net.

Worthy of the Calling

2009-06-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Ephesians 4:1

As the Apostles traveled on their missionary journeys, their intentions and their sincerity were often questioned…by both believers and unbelievers. Time and again, they demonstrated that their motives were pure by the exemplary lives that they lived.

Many times in the New Testament, we find teaching from the Apostles on the importance of living an upright life. Paul writes to the church in Corinth, We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. (2 Corinthians 6:3) Peter urges the followers, as aliens and strangers in the world…abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. (1 Peter 2:12) The writer of Hebrews says, …We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way. (Hebrews 13:18)

The Christians in the Macedonian church made consecrating themselves to the Lord their first priority, and then followed their heart preparation with serving as He determined (2 Corinthians 8:5). First Thessalonians 2:4 says, … we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. The Apostles never sought personal profit or recognition for their deeds. They knew that their message was God’s message, not their own. They didn’t seek to please people. They never tricked or enticed people with false pretense and they never covered up their true natures with phony veneers. They didn’t have to. As they served God out of a pure heart, they pleased God and as a result, it was God who was praised.

As we commit ourselves—our hearts, souls, minds and strength—to the Lord first, we will develop pure hearts. Then serving Him in keeping with his will, we will become men approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel. Ultimately, as we demonstrate pure motives by our exemplary lives, not for the eyes of men, but for God alone, He will be glorified.

© 2009 by Stephanie French

That the World May Know

2009-06-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

And may these words of mine, which I have prayed before the LORD, be near to the LORD our God day and night, that he may uphold the cause of his servant and the cause of his people Israel according to each day's need... 1 Kings 8:59 (NIV)

In First Kings 8, Solomon had just completed building the temple of the Lord. It took seven years and six months to construct the long awaited temple that would serve as God’s royal palace and the national center for worship for the Israelites. For generations, people would recognize this as the dwelling place of God on earth as they directed their prayers toward this Holy temple and brought their sacrifices and offerings to its altar. Imagine the magnificence of it with its golden walls, floors, tables and golden lamp stands, ornate bronze columns and intricately carved, pure gold overlaid woodwork. This was quite an exceptional accomplishment achieved under the direction of one wise and humble God-fearing man.

God had blessed Solomon not only with great opportunity, but with wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. (1 Kings 4:29, NIV) Additionally, the Bible tells us that he received riches and honor that could not be equaled by another. He could easily have boasted, “Look at what my hands have made!” Yet, as Solomon stood before God and Israel to dedicate the work of his hands, he offered up an amazing prayer of dedication thanking God for his faithfulness, requesting mercy and forgiveness for his people and seeking salvation for the foreigners who will hear of God from distant lands.

As he wrapped up his prayer to the Lord, he turned to the assembly gathered and blessed them. I could not help but notice inclination of Solomon’s heart throughout his benediction in 1 Kings 8:56-60. He expressed his hope for God’s presence to remain with Israel and his desire that He would be comfort enough for them. But then he says this: Not that he may enlarge our coasts or increase our wealth, but that he may turn our hearts to him. (v. 58, emphasis added) In verse 59 he requests, let a gracious return be made to every prayer that shall be made here…that we would receive grace sufficient for every need. Why? That all the people may know that the Lord is God… and may come and worship him. (KJV) Solomon’s purpose was that God would ultimately receive the glory for Israel’s blessing, that their hearts would be inclined toward Him and through these, all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God. (v. 60)

How and why do you pray? Do you praise God for the magnificence that he has created through you? Do you seek God’s wisdom? Is He your source of comfort? Regardless of your supplication, the question to ultimately ask is this: What is your purpose for asking? Do you wish God to increase your territory and your wealth? Are you asking God for personal edification, or for some other thing that would be to your benefit? Know this: God will supply your need, but not so you may marvel at the splendor of what you have received or accomplished, but so that you and others around you may see and know that He alone is God.

Prayer Focus:
In your own prayer life, ask yourself what is your purpose. If your purpose is not that God be glorified so that all may know He is God, ask him to incline your heart toward this purpose. It is our nature to stray from God. As the prophet Jeremiah said, the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked… Jeremiah 17:9 (NKJV) It is through God’s generous and abundant grace that our hearts yield to him and this we must continually seek in prayer. Ask the Lord today for grace sufficient for your every need so that others may look and see that the Lord is God.

©2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

Shepherds Over God's Flock

2009-05-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers... Acts 20:28 (NIV)

If you serve in a position of authority or influence, it may be because you have been asked to fill a role, or you may have been reluctantly placed there as a result of necessity, but more than likely, you are there because you are uniquely designed by God to be a mother, teacher, encourager, pastor, worship leader, ministry coordinators, etc. and have consequently chosen to take on that role. This is no small task and should not be taken lightly. Whether you lead your family, a ministry, a small group or a church, you are an overseer of God’s flock and you have chosen and have been chosen for a high calling. First Timothy says, …If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Webster defines ‘noble’ as “having eminence” and “showing high moral qualities or greatness of character.” As an overseer of God’s flock, you must seek to demonstrate greatness of character in everything you do.

Since the responsibility of an overseer is a divine appointment, there ought to be the heartfelt desire of Christian leaders to bring glory to God first through his service to others. There are many who satisfy the awesome responsibility while honoring God and their calling. Yet, there are many who simply fill the role of an overseer, without fulfilling the moral obligation that goes with it.

First Peter 5:2 says, Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care… A shepherd knows his sheep. He leads them, shelters them, feeds them, protects them, seeks them, brings them back when they wander off, encourages them, and sets an example for them. (John 10:1-6) First Peter 5:3 says we should be shepherds, —not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. How shall we be examples to the flock? We must demonstrate the greatness of character that proves us to be “above reproach”. (See 1 Timothy 3:1-14.)

The Bible says that as leaders, we must give an account (Hebrews 13:17) for how we shepherd God’s flock. Do you know your sheep? Are you caring for them, protecting them? Do you feed them, nourish them? Are you setting a Christ like example? As you choose to live your divine calling as a shepherd over God’s flock with integrity and a servant’s spirit, you will not only demonstrate the greatness of character that your noble task requires, but you will bring honor and glory to God as well.

© 2009 by Stephanie French

Conviction or Stumbling Block?

2009-05-06T12:01:00.000-07:00

For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Romans 14:17-18 (NIV)

Certainly, we’ve all had conversations with others about the appropriateness of watching R-rated movies, playing violent video games, listening to secular music, or drinking alcohol. These are all disputable matters, both within the Christian community and without. Each of us will have differing viewpoints on these and more. These viewpoints, whether right, wrong, or just different, are formed through the individual filters, or “lenses” through which we look. As an individual, you may find that none of these areas cause you to struggle in your walk with God. You might believe that all of them are ok. You may perhaps believe that none of them are. (There is of course middle ground, as well.) Whichever camp you find yourself, keep in mind that these are opinions, not essentials to our faith. Paul teaches the Jewish Christians that our fellowship should not be based on whether or not we agree with one another about what it means to live the Christian life. He says, Give a warm welcome to any brother who wants to join you…Don't criticize him for having different ideas from yours about what is right and wrong. (Romans 14:1, TLB)

Christians will not agree on all matters, the countless denominations ought to prove that point. Nor are we called to agree with one another. Each of us has individual convictions and as we grow in faith, the Holy Spirit continues to develop in us a greater sensitivity to the heart of God and with that grow our ideas of right and wrong.

While Romans 14:1 is clear that we should not allow our convictions to hinder our fellowship with one another, the Bible teaches us that those who are strong have a great responsibility to those who are not as strong in faith. In Romans 14:21-22, Paul says, It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall. So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. (NIV) If you say that it is not ok for one to participate in something because they are weak in faith, yet you approve of it for yourself by your own actions because you are strong, you are allowing the devil to make use of what you do to ensnare those to whom you minister. This may not only cause your friend to stumble, but may result in growing scorn to the message of Christ itself when someone believes deeply that what you are doing is wrong. You may believe that it is ok to have a drink on occasion. You may think that movies or video games won’t affect your ability to minister to others…and you may be right. But we must always consider who may be watching us. If a person struggles with something and they witness someone to whom they admire or respect engaging in that with which they struggle, then the strong become a stumbling block to the weak. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be the person that Satan uses to cause another to stumble. Romans 15:1-2 sums up the point best, Even if we believe that it makes no difference to the Lord whether we do these things, still we cannot just go ahead and do them to please ourselves; for we must bear the "burden" of being considerate of the doubts and fears of others-of those who feel these things are wrong. Let's please the other fellow, not ourselves, and do what is for his good and thus build him up in the Lord. (TLB) Isn’t this what we ultimately live for?

Grace Reigns

2009-04-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

…the more we see our sinfulness, the more we see God's abounding grace forgiving us. Romans 5:20 (TLB)

In Jesus’ sermon on the mount, he taught his followers about the danger in judging others. In Matthew 7:3-4, He asks, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?” (NIV)

It’s easy to recognize and criticize the sin in the lives of others, saying things like, “How can that person be so blind to their sin?” “I can’t believe anyone could do such a thing!” “I would never do something like that!” Jesus’ response to this attitude is found in Matthew 7:5, “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.” (NIV) We must judge our own actions before ever thinking about criticizing another’s. In fact, just like a plank in front of our eyes prevents us from seeing the speck beyond it, our own sins should appear so great to us that the sins of others are difficult to see.

We must be careful to not misunderstand Jesus’ teaching in this passage. Where judging others is wrong, admonishing a brother or sister is a great responsibility. Colossians 3:16 says, Let the words of Christ, in all their richness, live in your hearts and make you wise. Use his words to teach and counsel each other. (NLT) We are sharpened as we sharpen others (Proverbs 27:17) and we grow in knowledge and wisdom as we communicate to others for their edification. Ultimately, whether you're judging or admonishing comes down to the attitude of heart. Judging others is produced by arrogance or jealousy and results in speaking evil of others, despising or disregarding them for their sin; but admonishing others is produced by love and compassion for the struggles that we share with our brothers and sisters in Christ and results in an offering of grace.

As we look into our own hearts and discover the sin that lives within each of us, we realize the great measure of grace that God has given to us. Romans 5:20-21 says, …where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (NIV) If God’s grace, which reigns, can give us right standing with him, can it not be enough to give others right standing with us as well? Remove the plank from your eye and allow the grace of God to reign in your life and others’.

Testify to Grace

2009-04-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

…prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Acts 20:22-24 (NIV)

In Acts 21-22, Paul was confronted by a situation that would discourage, if not defeat, most of us. He was beaten, bound in chains and carried by soldiers to the barracks where he was to stand trial against false accusations by the Jews. He demonstrated unyielding confidence in God as he requested permission to speak before the crowd and then presented his testimony. He was not fearful, bitter or angry. Paul could have stood before the mobs of hateful people and testified against them…pointing out their own sin and condemning them for judging him falsely. Contrary, Paul spoke with humility and respect, identifying common ground (Acts 21:3).

Most of us do not respond to our ‘accusers’ with humility and respect. Some of us defensively argue back with harsh words or harbor feelings of resentment, anger and hatred in our hearts when someone confronts us, offends us or seems to stand in the way of God’s will being accomplished (as Paul could have complained of his captors). Others of us may respond with indifference and just “shrug it off”. But Peter tells us in 1 Peter 3:15-16 …in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (NIV, emphasis added) Paul was prepared to answer his persecutors…and he did so with gentleness and respect.

In Philippians 3:8-9, Paul said, “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ-the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith.” (NIV) Paul considered everything he endured as nothing compared to the task of testifying to the gospel of grace, even being locked up in chains. Everything we say and do, in good times as well as bad, communicates either grace or animosity to the world (or possibly indifference). As Christ’s followers, we have been set apart to testify to God’s grace through our words and actions. We will face circumstances that test our willingness to consider our own agendas or dignity as loss compared to the “surpassing greatness of knowing Christ”. As we respond to the persecutors in our lives with kindness, forgiveness and love, our lives become a testimony to the gospel of God’s grace, and through us, others may come to know God’s grace personally.

©2009 by Stephanie French.

A Heart Condition

2009-04-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Acts 8:21 (NIV)

In chapter eight of the book of Acts, Peter and John went to Samaria to encourage Philip in his ministry. The believers had heard and received the Word of the Lord, but the Holy Spirit had not yet come upon them. In verse 17, Peter and John placed their hands on them, (prayed) and they received the Holy Spirit. Simon, a sorcerer, had also believed and been baptized but when he witnessed the giving of the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands, he offered Peter money for the ability to anoint with the Holy Spirit as well.

Peter answered Simon saying, May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin. Acts 8:20-23 (NIV)

Simon was shocked by Peter’s reprimand and begged the apostles to pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me. Acts 8:24 (NIV) Simon did not desire the gift of the Spirit, but the power to bestow it…and it was not for the sake of advancing the Gospel through the performing of miraculous signs and wonders, but for the sake of personal profit. Simon desired the honor and recognition of an apostle, not the spirit of a follower of Christ. While he may have been surprised by Peter’s criticism, immediately seeking prayer, his words demonstrated that he was more concerned about receiving judgment for his behavior than with correcting the condition of his heart. His response should have been in accord with David’s found in Psalm 139:23-24, which says, Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (NIV)

Proverbs 4:23 tells us, Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. (NIV) As Christ’s followers, our desire is to serve God, but sometimes, if we are not careful to guard our hearts, participating or sharing in the work of Christ can overshadow the spirit of Christ working in us. We may become motivated or encouraged by what people say about what we do, rather than by simply doing it. We might begin to seek the approval of our peers before seeking the approval of God. We may struggle with desiring the gifts that others possess rather than embracing the gifts God has already given to us. We might place higher value on visible ministries over those done behind the scenes.

Our outward behavior is determined by the condition of our inward attitude of heart. Similarly, our outward behavior is a barometer of our heart’s condition. If our hearts are not right before God, then our actions will eventually follow suit and our ministry will begin to suffer. As Peter instructed Simon, if we discover that we have been laboring toward our own ambitions, we must repent and pray to the Lord for forgiveness. Ask God to search your heart. If you are surprised by what the Lord reveals to you, do not merely repent for the sinful act itself, but for the heart condition that led you to sin in the first place. Remember that God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn his face from you if you return to him. 2 Chronicles 30:9 (NIV)
©2009 by Stephanie French.

Do Not Be Moved!

2009-03-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

For two years, I was involved in a homeless ministry in Los Angeles, California. Every Saturday, I would wake up early and drive 55 miles with my children to LA to walk the stinking alleys and pass out bologna sandwiches to many seemingly thankless individuals. On my very first visit, I met a woman who had been a homeless alcoholic for over 16 years. For some reason that I cannot explain outside of the inner prompting from the Holy Spirit, I felt particularly drawn to her and her situation. My kids and I made special effort to see her on each Saturday even searching for her if she weren’t in her usual location. Our consistent visits for over 1-½ years and the deliberate nature of our ministry to her allowed me to build a trusting relationship with her and during the next several months I began advocating for her recovery. Life circumstances caused us to eventually lose touch with her, though. The last time I saw her I was delivering a bologna sandwich to that same alley where we’d met. Since that time, I have often wondered if all that I had done had been in vain, yet I’ve never stopped praying and believing that with God, her life could be renewed.

Recently, I sent the ministry office in LA a copy of our family’s Christmas newsletter. Within a couple of weeks, I received a reply that she had been living in a sober living residence for almost 2 years. Wow! I've since written to her. In her response letter she wrote, "I am very close to God…I am so grateful for my life today and am so grateful to you for everything you did for me…Thank You. I love you so much!"

Many people questioned why I spent so much time working with people like her. It was hopeless and tiresome work without evidence of bearing fruit. Acts 5:38-39 says, …if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men… From human eyes, the situation was hopeless. Thankfully, I stood firm and let nothing move me from the work of the Lord, because not only has it brought about the healing of a human body and soul, but it has also resulted in praise and glory to God.

Ministry is sometimes a tiresome and seemingly unpromising process. Our job is not to work toward our own goals which often prove unrewarding, but to give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord. We may not always see the fruit of it with our own eyes, but we must continue to trust that it will not be in vain.

Prayer focus:
Do not be discouraged if your work or ministry seems wearisome and hopeless. It took 18 months to earn the right to influence the life of my homeless friend.I was often tempted to give up when it seemed like she was complacent. Yet the Lord was viewing the situation from the ‘crow’s nest’. He saw the beginning, established the course and will see it through until she reaches her final destination. Stand firm, trust Him and give yourself fully to the work of the Lord. It will not be in vain.

© 2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

Your Goliath is Calling!

2009-03-26T22:36:00.000-07:00

…I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. John 15:16 (NIV)

In 1 Samuel 17, the Philistine Army gathered their forces for war on a hill while the Israelites assembled on an opposite hill leaving a valley separating them. The Philistines, who were related to the ancient Greeks, chose a champion from among their people to fight on their behalf. Goliath, standing over nine feet tall, was sent into the valley to call to battle a champion from among the Israelites. Night after night Goliath shouted to the Israelites, taunting them to send out a man to fight. This carried on for forty days until finally David, the youngest of eight sons of Jesse who had been left tending his father’s sheep, was sent to the camp to take bread to his brothers and cheese to the commander of the military unit. He heard the cruel mocking of the giant and said, “Who is this heathen Philistine, anyway, that he is allowed to defy the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26, TLB)

The others all laughed at David’s indomitable spirit, including Saul, who said in verse 33, “Don't be ridiculous! How can a kid like you fight with a man like him? You are only a boy…” 1 Samuel 17:33, (TLB) But David was determined and replied “The Lord who saved me from the claws and teeth of the lion and the bear will save me from this Philistine!” Saul finally consented, “All right, go ahead,” he said, “and may the Lord be with you!” 1 Samuel 17:37, (TLB)

The Lord was indeed with David! As he stood face-to-face with Goliath, he said, “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands.” As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. 1 Samuel 17:47-48 (TLB) David triumphed over the Philistine giant that day, not by the expertise of his sling and stone, but by his dependence on the power of God.

You are a champion chosen by God to fight on his behalf! There is a giant in your life and he is calling you out from behind the battle line. You may feel too young or too small or too insignificant to face the colossal challenge that taunts you, but God will be with you. Remember that the battle is the Lord’s. Rely on His strength, not your own fighting abilities and not only will you triumph, but through you “the whole world will know that there is a God…” 1 Samuel 17: 46 (TLB)

Prayer Focus:
As you spend time with God this week, ask him to reveal to you the Goliath that you face. Ask God to give you the same strength and determination that David had that allowed him to trust Him fully for his deliverance.

© 2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

Great Expectations

2009-03-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:3 (NIV)

We place expectations on many things…we expect our parents to be there for us when we need them; we expect our spouses to meet our needs; we expect our children to do their best and succeed in life. We have expectations on our friends, church ministries, employers, neighbors, and commerce. We even have expectations on inanimate objects such as: our car starting when we turn the key or our furnace igniting when the temperature drops. Have you ever reached into the refrigerator and expected to find warm milk? Probably not.

Reasonable expectations are not only acceptable; they are essential to measuring and directing our lives. Let’s face it; if we have no expectations, we simply go through the motions of life…never imagining, looking forward to or anticipating anything new or reaching new heights. Unfortunately, our expectations tend to be focused on the wrong objects or persons and often develop from the wrong motivations. This naturally causes us to be disappointed when life doesn’t measure up. Sometimes we even set low expectations so we won’t have to face the frustration or disappointment of failure, in others or ourselves.

To expect according to www.dictionary.com means to look forward to; regard as likely to happen; anticipate the occurrence or the coming of. When we expect something to happen, we look forward to it with a considerable degree of confidence. While we don’t usually use ‘hope’ and ‘expect’ synonymously, they are similar in definition. Hope means: to look forward to with desire and reasonable confidence. The word ‘hope’ as used in the Bible means ‘confident expectancy’. Seldom will you ‘hope’ for something that is impossible…we call ‘impossibilities’ fantasies or dreams or wishes…but not hopes or expectations. While we may anticipate that considerable time may pass before our hopes are realized, ultimately we do ‘expect’ to receive what we ‘hope’ for.

So what are reasonable expectations? Those centered on the Word of God. Genuine hope is not wishful thinking, but confident assurance of what is unseen. (Hebrews 11:1, NIV) A Christian’s hope does not derive from our own desires, goals or aspirations, but from God himself. Psalm 39:7 says, But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you. (NIV) Our hope is found in the Lord (Psalm 33:22), His Word (Psalm 119:114), His unfailing love (Psalm 147:11), His promises (Acts 26:6), and His Son (1 Thessalonians 1:3). Not only is our hope derived from Him, but He is the object of our hope as well. Nothing we could hope for on this earth could surpass our expectations in God’s promises or his faithfulness to honor them.

While the flesh and things of this world will fail us, if our hopes, or expectations, are in alignment with God’s character and His promises, nothing will ever fall short of them. Have great expectations as you place your hope in God …you won’t be disappointed.

Prayer Focus:
Ask the Lord to align your expectations or hopes with His character so that you can be confident that what you hope for will become reality in your life.

© 2009 by Stephanie French.

Journey into Uncharted Territory

2009-03-19T10:37:00.001-07:00

Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. Hebrews 13:17 (NIV)

For hundreds of years, the Israelites were held in captivity in Egypt. After generations, the LORD heard their cries for a deliverer and sent Moses to lead them to the Promised Land. But, as they left their familiar lives for the unknown, they ‘grumbled’ against the LORD by constant complaining. As they stood at the bank of the Red Sea with Pharaoh’s army approaching, they were terrified. They said to Moses, "Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die?" (Exodus 14:11, NIV) Later, after three days without water in the Desert of Shur, they grumbled again to Moses saying, “What are we to drink?” (Exodus 15:24, NIV) In the Desert of Sin, when they had no food to eat, they grumbled again saying, “…you have brought us out into this desert to starve…to death.” (Exodus 16:3, NIV) Again in Exodus 17:3, the Israelites grumbled to Moses, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us… die of thirst?" (NIV)

Why did the Israelites continue to doubt Moses? Hadn’t he successfully led them this far? Hadn’t God shown himself faithful to provide? Absolutely! With Moses in charge, the Israelites were brought out of bondage in Egypt; the Red Sea was parted; the water was sweetened; and manna and quail were provided. The Israelites never lacked what they needed…except trust and confidence in God to lead them through Moses…and this was to no advantage. In fact, as they continued to complain and grumble, the LORD continued to extend their journey.

God has appointed leaders who will guide us and nurture us in our journey to the Promised Land. It is so easy to grumble against the LORD by complaining to those he has appointed as overseers because we can’t see where we are going. We know where we’ve been…and that is more comfortable than the uncharted territory into which we are headed. Why must our leaders continue to take us where we don’t want to go? So we can learn to trust in God as he continues to show himself faithful through them…and if we continue trusting without complaining, maybe God will allow us to reach our destination sooner!

Prayer Focus:
As you spend time with God this week, ask Him to reveal where you have allowed a spirit of disunity to enter your heart causing you to lack confidence in the leadership in your church, your ministry team, your families, your work, or other areas of your life. Decide to trust the leadership that God has placed in front of you.

© 2009 by Stephanie French.

Pruned by the Master Gardener

2009-03-17T13:55:00.000-07:00

But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season...Whatever he does prospers. Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV)

When I first moved into my house, there was a tree in my backyard that had been badly neglected by the previous owners. From a distance, it looked healthy and full, but as I examined the tree more closely, it looked like a bowl of spaghetti with branches intertwining, curving in and around and through other branches. It was so bad that some of them had begun to fuse together. If left untended, the tree’s overall growth potential would have been severely limited, if not suffocated altogether.

Pruning plants serves several purposes. It encourages a plants health by removing diseased branches; it directs the growth of a plant by removing undesired branches; it increases the quality and quantity of fruit that a plant produces and; when a plant is young, pruning can manipulate the position of its main branches to ensure it grows strong and healthy.

If we are to grow strong and healthy and yield fruit in our lives we must endure some pruning. Jesus said, I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. John 15:1-2 (NIV) God’s desire is for our lives to bear fruit, which is produced by godly lives and character. We cannot bear fruit without being pruned by the Master Gardener. As we grow in our relationship with God, He will remove the diseased and dead areas of our lives; He will cut off the areas of our lives that bear no fruit; He will prune the branches that do bear fruit so that they will grow stronger and healthier; and He will manipulate us and shape us into the men and women that He desires us to become.

Jesus said in John 15:3-4 says, Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. (NIV) Remain in constant fellowship with God. Seek his direction as you read your Bible each day and pray. As the Psalmist says…as you delight in the laws of the LORD, you will be like a tree planted by a stream…producing fruit and prospering in all you do. Pruning can sometimes be painful, but yielding to it will unleash our greatest growth potential.

Prayer Focus:
Invite God to begin pruning your life so that you may become stronger and healthier and bear more fruit as a result.

© 2009 by Stephanie French.

"Be Still?"

2009-03-12T09:32:00.000-07:00

…may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation always say, "The LORD be exalted!" Psalm 40:16 (NIV)

"Be still and know that _________________;" Can you fill in the blank? Most of us are familiar with this verse. In fact, most have probably highlighted or underlined it in our Bibles, memorized it and written it on a note card. Many think of it as admonition to 'find a quiet place to wait upon the Lord'. Even I thought this at one time. It wasn't until I was challenged to recite the remainder of verse 10 at a missions conference that I even questioned whether I believed correctly what the Lord is saying through the Psalmist.

Psalm 46:10 says, Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. (NIV) In order to correctly understand the direction of this verse, we must read the verses within the context of those surrounding it. As I began to study the rest of the psalm in the days that followed the conference, I couldn’t help but notice how I misunderstood this portion of Psalm 46.

Consider the Scripture's context in these verses. …though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Psalm 46: 2-3) Be still! God is within her, she will not fall. (Psalm 46:5) Nations are in uproar, kingdoms will fall; he lifts his voice... (Psalm 46:6) Be still! Come and see the works of the LORD. (Psalm 46:8) I will be exalted among the nations. (Psalm 46:10c) These words are bold declarations of God's victories in the world. God is not wanting us to passively wait upon him, He wants us to cease our trembling in fear and boldly move forward without worry because He is God and He will prevail over our circumstances. Luke 1:79 tells us that [Jesus will] guide our feet into the path of peace. (NIV) How can God direct our footsteps if our feet aren't moving?

Second Corinthians 4:7-10 should shed new light on what I'm trying to say. It says, But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. (NIV) Through the victory of our Lord, we too are victorious. Through His victory in our lives, He is revealed through us.

God's will is for every tongue, tribe and nation to know Him and worship Him as Lord. One of the ways He brings glory to his name is by showing Himself victorious through the 'uproars' in our lives. We must acknowledge the certain triumph of God over our circumstances, then actively persevere, confidently and fearlessly trusting Him. As much of the world becomes paralyzed with fear through tumultuous times, what a stark contrast is our witness in our confident trust in the power of God.

What does Psalm 46:10 say is the result? He will be exalted in the earth.

Prayer Focus:
All of the nations of the earth experience varying degrees of war, hunger, disease, natural disaster, economic and political unrest, and spiritual uproar. Pray that the LORD would be exalted as He reveals himself through the believers that demonstrate fearless trust in the certain triumph of God’s kingdom.

© 2009 by Stephanie French.

A Forsaken Birthright

2009-03-06T09:58:00.000-08:00

"Look, I am about to die," Esau said. "What good is the birthright to me?"…So he swore an oath…selling his birthright to Jacob…So Esau despised his birthright.” Genesis 25:32-34 (NIV)

In ancient times, the birthright was granted to the oldest son and included all of the family inheritance rights. In Esau’s case, he stood to inherit the covenant promises of Israel granted by God through Abraham and Isaac. But, Esau was so famished; he sacrificed his birthright for a bowl of stew saying, “What good is the birthright to me (if I am dead)?” He chose immediate self-gratification over the promise of a secure future.

This passage came to life for me as I traveled east to visit my family a few years ago. I prayed for opportunities to share Christ with them because as they are enduring extremely difficult times, a relationship with a loving and faithful God is what they need. Rather than being receptive to God’s love, they angrily refuted…asking, “What good is that to me?” As I struggled to love my family in a ‘love-deficient’ environment, I realized that they desired instant solutions to their problems, not the promise of an eternal future. They despised their birthright…the covenant love relationship offered to them through the death of Jesus Christ.

As I was flying home, I picked up my Bible and read in Luke 14:26, Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far more than he does his own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, or sisters... (TLB) As my family demonstrated hostility over spiritual things, my concern for the condition of their souls caused my focus to shift from God’s plan for salvation to my plan for their salvation. As much as I love my family and wish to see them come to a saving relationship with Christ, I must love God more, always trusting in His sovereign plan.

We are called to share Christ in a hateful and angry world. Not everyone will respond to the message of a loving and faithful God. Many choose to sacrifice his or her birthright for a life of self-gratification. Sadly, our faith in Christ often creates a divide between us and those we love and desire to reach most. Jesus himself experienced this when he was rejected in his own hometown of Nazareth. We must not be deterred by their lack of interest, but continue to share with them through our demonstration of love…not only by loving them, but by loving Christ…first!

Prayer Focus:
All over the world there are people whose life circumstances stand in the way of their willingness to open their hearts to the LORD. Pray that God will soften their hearts to the message of salvation through a relationship with Christ and they would begin to trust in God’s Sovereign plan for their lives.

©2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

A Plentiful Harvest

2009-03-05T09:10:00.000-08:00

Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Matthew 9:37-38 (NIV)

One day while I was traveling to a small rural city in China, I watched out the bus window to see literally miles of rice fields ripe for harvest. This abundant crop was the primary source of income for the small rural communities, therefore critical to their survival. Yet despite the impending loss of the harvest, very few laborers could be found among the fields, for many had sold out to better jobs and more comfortable lifestyles in the bigger cities.

This image often replays in my mind as my thoughts return to the abundant harvest of lost souls in the world. There are millions of people in the world interested and desiring to learn of spiritual things. Yet there are few who are willing to lay aside the creature comforts, roll up their pant legs and step into the flooded fields to save even one from dying without knowing their Savior.

In Matthew chapter 9, as Jesus looked out into the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36, NIV) What was his response to the helpless crowds? He told his disciples, “Ask the Lord of the harvest…to send out workers into His harvest field.” (Matthew 9:38, NIV)

The Bible says that some day, everyone will acknowledge Jesus as Lord, yet God’s plan is that all should worship Jesus as Lord. God does not want any to perish, but all to come to repentance…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 2:9-11, NIV)

Ask God, the Lord of the harvest to send workers into His harvest field…and believe, for I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (Mark 11:24, NIV) Then, be willing to allow God to send you.

Prayer Focus:
Psalm 127:1 says, Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. We, as workers sent into His harvest field, are the laborers. Let us not build in vain. We must bathe the Lord’s harvest and his laborers with prayer, believing God for the great work that He will perform in and through them…to the glory of God.

©2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

Are You Sleeping?

2009-03-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Be…alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith... 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)

In Matthew 26, Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane where he left Peter, James and John to keep watch while he withdrew to pray. When Jesus returned to his disciples, He found them sleeping. He asked Peter to “Watch and pray so that (he would) not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (Matthew 26:41, NIV) Again Jesus withdrew to pray and again He returned to find the disciples fast asleep. Upon His third return, as Judas arrived in betrayal, immediately Peter jumped to the defense of Jesus striking the high priest’s servant cutting off his right ear. Jesus rebuked Peter for drawing his sword against God’s plan for salvation asking, “…how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (Matthew 26:54, NIV) Later, as Jesus was arrested, all the disciples deserted him and fled. (Matthew 26:56, NIV) Because Peter and the others did not ‘keep watch’, they fell into the temptation to be unfaithful in the face of what appeared to be threatening circumstances. This revealed a vulnerable place for Satan to drive a wedge among the disciples.

First Peter 5:8 tells us that the enemy […] prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Sometimes, like Peter and the disciples, if we are sleeping when we should be keeping watch, we strike back against God’s very own plan because our circumstances seem threatening. As we focus on those threatening circumstances, rather than on God’s plan through them, we reveal a vulnerable place where Satan can strike. Satan wants to drive a wedge among God’s children. If he can divide us, then he is the victor. We must continually keep watch for the enemy, putting on the full armor of God so that (we) can take (our) stand against the devil's schemes (Ephesians 6:11, NIV). First Corinthians 12:25 says, there should be no division in the body. (NIV) As we resist him and stand firm in faith, united as the body of Christ, He will not prevail against us.

Prayer Focus:
Pray that God would reveal to you where you are sleeping…leaving yourself vulnerable to attack. Put on God’s armor, stand firm in faith and resist the devil…he will flee from you.

©2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

A Question of Doubt

2009-03-03T11:22:00.000-08:00

I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth. Romans 9:17 (NIV)

In chapter three of Exodus, God asked Moses to approach Egypt’s Pharaoh with petition to release the Israelites from their suffering and bondage. Moses was reluctant to obey God, and questioned Him asking, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11, NIV) God’s response was simple: "I will be with you". For Moses, this answer was not enough. He continued to doubt, questioning God for all of the details.

God in his grace disclosed to Moses all that he would do, but in spite of God’s words and demonstration of power, Moses still doubted God’s ability to use him. Finally Moses pleaded, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it." Exodus 4:14 tells us, the LORD's anger burned against Moses. (NIV) God wanted to display His power through Moses, but because of continued reluctance, He finally appointed Aaron, Moses’ brother, as his spokesperson. God’s message was going to be delivered to Pharaoh whether Moses was cooperative or not. Thankfully Moses participated with God and God was able to use him in the deliverance of the Israelites from Pharaoh’s grasp.

How often are we faced with acting in obedience to God and respond as Moses did? As we are confronted with making choices, whether taking a new job or new responsibilities, giving to someone in need or sharing Jesus with the lost, we often toil about the ‘what ifs’ and expect God to give us more details so we can make well-informed decisions. “How am I qualified for this position?” “What if I take on this project and fail?” “What if the needy person refuses my help?” These are all good questions, but none should ever keep us from being obedient to what God has asked us to do. It should be enough for us to know and rest in the fact that God is with us.

As Romans 9:17 says, God is raising you up that He may display His power through you and hear His name proclaimed in all the earth. Are you going to cooperate with Him in spite of the unknown details, or will you allow Him to use someone else in your place? Just as He told Moses and later Joshua, “…I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you,” He promises to be with us, too. What better assurance exists than our God’s Word?

Prayer Focus:
As you spend time with God this week, ask Him to strengthen your faith so you may begin to trust Him through your decisions and circumstances, especially where there are unknown details.

©2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

I Don't Want To, Lord!

2009-03-02T08:53:00.000-08:00

The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai: ‘Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.’ But Jonah ran away from the LORD… Jonah 1:1-3 (NIV)

Jonah was a prophet to Israel during a time when he and his countrymen gloated in their favored relationship with God, so when he received his mission to preach to an enemy nation, he ran away. Jonah never doubted the character of God. In fact, in verse 2 of chapter 4, he tells God that it was because of His unrelenting grace and compassion that He chose to disobey Him. Jonah understood his call clearly; he was to preach a message of repentance to the Ninevites. He just didn’t want to obey.

As Jonah learned in his fateful journey to Tarshish, we cannot run from the call of God. Psalm 139 says, If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. (NIV) God was with Jonah, even as he sat repentant within the depths of a great fish.

Jonah never did develop ‘desire’ over his call to go to Nineveh, or compassion for the people God chose to save. In fact, even as he sat east of the city after fulfilling his commission, he stubbornly awaited God’s judgment upon the city. Contrary to his own desire, he was obedient to the call and Nineveh was saved.

God’s compassion covers all of creation. His desire is for everyone to repent from their ways and live in a right relationship with Him. As we come to understand our role in carrying out this mission to share God’s love and grace over the nations, sometimes we discover that we must go where we don’t want to go, or do what we don’t want to do. Yet it remains God’s will. Has God asked you to do something that you don’t want to do? Remember that He never promised to call you only where you want to be called; He has called you to be obedient to His voice.

©2009 by Stephanie French. All rights reserved.

Water for a Weary Soul

2009-02-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land. Proverbs 25:25 (NIV)

Water is the most abundant substance on the earth and in the human body. 60-75 percent of your body is composed of water. Some say it is essential next to oxygen for survival. Doctors, even marketing gurus tell us that in order to be physically healthy, we must drink enough water. In fact, while one can live weeks or even months without food, you can only live for about three to four days without water. As the composition of water in your body decreases, your blood flow decreases and once reaching severe levels, can lead to shock and eventually death.

As Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:4, He said, “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." (NIV) All over the world there are people dying as a result of spiritual dehydration. As we take the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ to the lost, we bring a spring of cold water to revive weary souls not just for 3-4 days, but for eternity.

(c) 2009 by Stephanie French

Exposed!

2009-02-25T21:16:00.000-08:00

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

Gold is one of the earths most precious and valuable metals. It will not tarnish, rust, or decay. The unique properties of gold make it a vital element in our technology and economy. Unfortunately, gold is not commonly found in creek and riverbeds as it once was. It must be mined from the earth, sometimes at great depths. During the mining process, samples of rock are taken from the earth and examined to determine its characteristics. If the rock is high grade, it is delivered to a grinding mill where the ore is pulverized to a fine powder. The gold can then be leached from the rock and further refined until it’s purified.

Malachi 3:3 says, …he will purify…and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness… (NIV) God’s word is like that grinding mill. Jeremiah 23:29 says, Is not my word…like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces? (NIV) It works relentlessly to penetrate to our innermost being to test the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts. Once the true nature of our hearts has been exposed, God can then begin to refine us into pure and undefiled men and women who will bring offerings in righteousness. Are you willing to allow God to expose the attitude of your heart? Examine yourself regularly in the grinding mill of God's Word and be purified.

(c) 2009 by Stephanie French

What Are You Building?

2009-02-24T15:46:00.000-08:00

If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. 1 Corinthians 3:12-14 (NIV)

Remember the story of the three pigs from childhood? All three of the pigs set out to seek their fortunes. One built his home from straw because it was easiest. The second used sticks because they were a little stronger than straw. The third pig chose to build with bricks. What happened when the Big Bad Wolf came along? He huffed and he puffed the houses built from straw and sticks and they crashed to the ground, but the house built from bricks stood firm. There is a valuable spiritual lesson to be learned from these three little pigs. The Bible tells us in that if a man builds with gold, silver or costly stone, what he builds will stand the test of fire, which is divine judgment, but if a man builds with wood, hay or straw, what he has built is of no worth…it will not stand.

We are building on a foundation, and that foundation is Jesus Christ. If we are building with gold, silver and costly stone, then we are building with sound doctrine and pure Christian living. But if what we are building with is wood, hay or straw, then we are building weak and insipid lives that will not stand the test of divine judgment.

So how will I know if what I am building will last? Jeremiah 23:29 says, Is not my word like fire, declares the LORD, … As you read and reflect on God’s word daily, ask yourself these questions: Am I building with sound doctrine? Am I living a pure Christian life? Examine your ways and test them against the fire of God’s word. Will they be purified and refined by the fire, or will they be consumed?

(c) 2009 by Stephanie French