Rise Again Pt 2

It's funny how my last post was named Rise Again.  I didn't plan it like that..
You see last night I went to see Batman The Dark Knight Rises.  It was a good day for it.  The last several days have been a fight for a number of reasons which I won't go into.  Yesterday it got to the point where a morale boost was called for.
I would be remiss if I didn't write about the movie because I am after all a writer.  If I'm going to spend time writing non fiction essays I also need to spend time with my first love which is adventure/fiction.
The elements that caught my attention and what made The Dark Knight Rises a memorable story were several.
The main character overcame serious setback time and again in his struggle with the nemesis.  In fact he took such a terrible fall that it appeared to be hopeless for him.
I can recall writing a story a while back for someone.  It was a story about courage in the face of extreme danger.  At the time I felt intense fear.  To say that I wasn't afraid would have been a total fabrication.  In fact I didn't really try to hide my fear in the story that I wrote but indicated that I was afraid and that I was relying on faith to get me through my fear.  At least that's the point I was trying to get across.
That story also included a fall.  Reaping and sowing?  I wouldn't be surprised.
The second thing that caught my attention was the fact that I tried really hard to get somebody to go with me to see the movie but I was rejected.  I recall how it seemed that everyone but me was against the idea.  Even at work last week a fellow employee brought in a box of old movies which seemed to indicate that I was to play it safe, save my money, wait for it to come out on DVD.
But something occurred to me.  Isn't that what I did a few years back?  When The Voyage of the Dawn Treader came out I waited till it was gone from the movie theaters.  And I never got to see it.  Then as today my excuses for not going would have been very much the same.
It basically boils down to the rejection issue.  Because I couldn't find a person to go see it with I assumed that God was against it.
It appears that might not be the case.  Earlier this year I stepped out into what God was calling me to do and I went despite my fears and despite the fact that I went with myself.  That didn't stop God from moving powerfully through me.  It didn't stop God from moving powerfully through me when I got the petition signed for VOM either.  The thing is when it's just you and God it can be a very powerful motivator to lean on God with all your trust.
The main character in the movie was viewed as an outcast by the very people he was trying to help.  That's how it was with the character in my story, too.
It's funny how I just now remembered the ending.  It seemed kind of anticlimactic after all the action but now I realize the importance of it.  :)
By Grace,
Travis

I've

Rise Again

I'm not a failure because I fail.
For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.  Proverbs 24:16.
Caroline G. Benton writes, "So how does a believer overcome the falls since our time here on earth is brief?"
One of the positive things about falls is that they teach us to learn from our mistakes.  I once saw the cover of a book on Scripture where the image was of a rock climber clinging to the face of a sheer precipice.  Actually the picture focused only on the hands gripping the tiniest of cracks in the rock.
How do you think that man got so good at holding on?  I'm sure it must have taken him many falls before achieving such a high level of proficiency.
It's what you do after you have fallen that determines the rest of your life.
For a righteous man falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.  Proverbs 24:16.
Pastor Steven Furtick writes,"And as I speak God's Word to myself, I'm reminded that God's mercy can convert the mistakes of my past into wisdom for my future."
By Grace,
Travis P. Dickerson

The

toxic thoughts - one of the things Craig Groeschel said in part 1 of soul detox helped me out today.  For over week now there has been a towel laying out in the middle of Sardis Road at the entrance of my street.  A couple of days ago it occurred to me that it was like the sign of Gideon's fleece.  That made me think of it in a negative light.
But then as I was pulling out today I saw it and I remembered what Pastor Craig said.  And I was reminded that last year about this time was when I got that petition signed
Building the wall went very well today.  While I was building it I realized what I was going to ask Renea for as payment.  I took some pictures so I can have something to send to Teshale.  I think I might send him one of Tyler.
Mom's washing machine broke and she bought a new one.  My prayers have been answered.

Summoning the Abiezrites

Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet, summoning the Abiezerites to follow him.  Judges 6:34.


It's interesting to note that nothing had materially changed about Gideon's situation.  He was still a member of the weakest clan in Manasseh.  (v15).  
It's interesting to note that nothing had materially changed about Gideon's situation.  He was still a member of the weakest clan in Manasseh.  (v15).  
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.  John 8:32.
The enemy operates through deception to keep believers from the truth.  The Israelite's in that day were afraid of the Midianites because they had forgotten God.  (Judges 6:10).
Nothing at all had changed about the enemy.  Baal according to John MacArthur was son and successor of El, was "lord of heaven," a farm god of rain and storm, his name meaning "lord, possessor." His cult at Phoenicia included animal sacrifices, ritual meals, and licentious dances.  Chambers catered to sacred prostitution by men and women (cf. 1 Kin. 13:23,24; 2 Kin. 23:7).
Are any of those things fearful in and of themselves?  No!


By Grace,



Travis P. Dickerson

About Midnight Welcome Home Gracie

My mom is weird.  She is weird in a God way.

This morning I woke up out of bed and I didn't really feel like getting up and praising God.  But an ordinary encounter with mom in the breakfast room turned into a spontaneous praisefest.  

I am fully persuaded... 

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson  

Journaling 8

There's not enough room to receive it is an understatement!


What an awesome God we serve! 


By Grace,


Travis P. Dickerson 









  

Journaling 7 Marshmallows

This is not the politically correct thing to say about the Colorado wildfires.  

Dear Heavenly Father thank You for the Colorado wildfires.  I pray that You would cause all things concerning the Colorado wildfires to work together for good to those who love God and who are called according to His purposes.  And I thank You for the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keeping my heart and mind through Christ Jesus.  

Thank you?  Thank you for the fires?  

How can you say that?  Why don't you pray for the fires to go out?  

I don't see anywhere in the Bible where God puts fires out.  

I see numerous examples of where God promises to be with us in the fire.  

When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee:  when thou walkest through the fire, thou shall not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.  Isaiah 43:2.  

The prince of the power of the air milks the media coverage of events like the wildfires in order to squeeze every last drop of panic and fear out of the minds and hearts of viewers who are powerless over the situation but feel they must react in some way.  So they pay countless hours of tribute to the devastation being wrought while God gets a few scant seconds of worship throughout the day.  

Praise God and pass the marshmallows!  

By Grace, 

Travis P. Dickerson  

Journaling 6

And the sons of Naphtali; Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shillem.  Genesis 46:24.

We saw yesterday in Matthew chapter 4 the fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah concerning the Messiah, and we are studying the importance of remembering the works of God.
Remembering the works God has done in the past helps us we have said to find faith for situations we might be going through and to believe Him for greater works in the future.


But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;  Hebrews 10:32.

By knowing who it is we fight alongside I believe we will have even more success in our battles.  We will go from being survivors to truly being more than conquerors.  

For unto you, it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;  Philippians 1:29.

Remember Naphtali meant, "Wrestling."  Naphtali had four sons.  I looked up the meaning of each of their names in Hebrew.  They are :
Jahzeel - "God Divides"
Guni - "My Defender"
Jezer - "Forming"
Shillem - "Repaid"
Sounds like Naphtali knew wheat Jesus meant when He said, "But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience."  St Luke 8:15.   
Remember.  
By Grace,
Travis P. Dickerson

Journaling 5

And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephtalim:
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaisas the prophet, saying, 
The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephtalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;  Matthew 4:13-15.
Because accurate records were kept the people of our day can see that the predictions of the prophet Isaiah were fulfilled in the life of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. 
Journaling will help us keep track of prayers that have been answered and promises that have yet to be fulfilled.  
Just yesterday I received answers to several prayers that I had been praying.  I'll be honest I almost didn't realize it because I have not been keeping a daily journal of my interactions with God.  I've been somewhat lacksadaiscal in my relationship with Him.  Fortunately it did start to dawn on me and I was probably spared from making a blunder that I would have later regretted.  
When I say it dawned on me, it reminds me that sometimes the darkest step we are on comes just before the brightest light we have ever encountered.  
The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.  Matthew 4:16.  
When Leah gave birth to Zebulun it probably didn't seem like much to very many people.  But to her and to Jacob and yes even to Rachel it was a big affair.  It was an event worthy of remembrance.
Little did they know it at the time but they were laying a path that would one day be the path that our Savior took when He came to redeem His people.
By Grace,
Travis P. Dickerson

Journaling 4

In our culture sports are often a way that father's bond with their sons and sons with their fathers.  

My father and I didn't go that route.  I'm not really sure why.  Sports were a big part of community and a big part of our family.  

To my dad's credit I don't think it was his fault.  My memory of my childhood is pretty clear and I don't ever recall really, really wanting to play sports.  There may have been a big part of me that felt like I was missing out by being a spectator, but it didn't translate into a desire for me to put on the uniform and try out.  

My dad did not force me to play.  

It's hard to believe I've lived all these years and never really appreciated my dad for letting me be what I want to be.  I know it must have been hard for him.  After all he invested everything into raising a family so I'm sure he must have felt shortchanged on a few occasions.

Still, I'm glad he didn't force his will on me.  

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Journaling Pt 3

That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God.  Numbers 15:40.
Charlie Dunn told a story one time in Community Bible Study.
A group of American GIs were exploring a south sea island when they were confronted by some native tribesmen.
One of the tribesmen related a story to them of how some Christian missionaries had been to the island and preached the gospel to them.  He proudly displayed his Bible to the GIs as if it were his most prized possession.
"That's great," said the GIs.  "But we've gotten beyond that."
"It's a good thing we haven't gotten beyond it," said the tribesman.  "If it weren't for this Bible, you'd be a meal."

Journaling 2 Great Wrestlings

And Rachel said, With great wrestlings have I wrestled with my sister, and I have prevailed: and she called his name Naphtali.  Genesis 30:8.
The dynamic forces working themselves out in the lives of Jacob, Rachel and Leah make for a pretty good drama don't they?  I've heard some rather good sermons taught from the standpoint of sibling rivalry and family dysfunction taught from these passages.
But isn't it interesting that while it looks like the situation is out of control from the standpoint of the main characters, God is totally in control.  What looks like chaos is actually God's canvas so to speak.  Because we see the unfinished work we think everything is a mess.
So perhaps God wants to reveal something more than how to have healthy relationships in a mixed family.
I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.  
I will meditate also of all they work, and talk of thy doing.
Naphtali.
I'll say one thing about it.  That is one really interesting name when you think about it.
By Grace,
Travis P. Dickerson

Journaling 1

And Leah said, God hath endued me with a good dowry; now will my husband dwell with me, because I have born him six sons: and she called his name Zebulun.  Genesis 30:20.  


For Jacob, Rachel and Leah Genesis chapter 30 must not have seemed like a picnic.  There were some serious issues being worked out in their lives and the Bible points them out for us.  Jealousy, envy, rivalry, etc...  If one is not careful one will assume that this is primarily a story about the conflict between Rachel and Leah.  
I don't agree with that assessment.  It's primarily a story about the birth of the nation of Israel.  It's a beautiful picture of how God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God and who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)

Keeping a journal will not only help to get through difficult times it will provide a record of God's faithfulness in the wilderness.


But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions.  Hebrews 10:32.   


By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Get a Life Pt 2

But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.  Matthew 8:22.

There's plenty of places to go to get psychiatric help.  There are plenty of good Christian counselors out there.  I'll be happy to pray with you for your specific need.  But it has to be out in the open where it can be seen.  And the Word of God is excellent at doing that.

For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12.
We're not talking about a dentist's drill here.  That's way crude in comparison.  Saying that the Word was sharper than a sword was the best they could come up with back then.  If they would have had the language they would have said surgeon's scalpel.  But it's even sharper than that.  Sharper than a laser beam.
It goes on:  And not a creature exists that is concealed from His sight, but all things are open and exposed, naked and defenseless to the eyes of Him with Whom we have to do.  Hebrews 4:13.


I remember one time my mom took my brother and I to the Dr's office.  We each had to get a shot.  There was a Godzilla double feature playing at the movie theater that afternoon and if we were good and didn't cry we'd get to go see Godzilla.  Not just any Godzilla.  Godzilla vs. MechaGodzilla.
When that nurse drove that needle into my arm everything in me wanted to scream.  I clenched my teeth and held my breath for a good five minutes it seemed like.  My arm hurt so bad I sat through most of the double feature cross eyed.  I couldn't even tell you much of what happened.
But I remember that MechaGodzilla had laser beam eyes.  That was cool!  Lasers hadn't even been invented back then.
To this day I don't know why that needle had to hurt so bad.  I sure hope the nurse knew.  But the point I'm trying to make here is that when Jesus said to the man,  Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead (Matthew 8:22) He knew exactly how much pain the guy was in.  
He suffered every ounce of pain that you and I suffer when He hung on the cross.  That rules out the question of whether He was being insensitive or not.
Surely he took up our infirmities
   and carried our sorrows, 
yet we considered him stricken by God, 
   smitten by him, and afflicted.  
But he was pierced for our 
              transgressions,
   he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace 
              was upon him
   and by his wounds we are healed.  Isaiah 53:4,5 NIV


And that's worth celebrating!   

http://thekitchykitchen.blogspot.com/2012/04/movie-night-snacks-from-food-for.html

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Fruit

But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;  Philippians 1:12.  

I thank God for giving me this gift and for this ministry.  I had an opportunity earlier in the year to minister to someone.  Without going into the details I will say it was an awesome experience.  I learned alot from it.  I can't say whether they received it or not.  That's not under my control.

All I did was plant the seed.  If I acted right it will be seen, For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.  For every tree is known by his own fruit.  For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes.


A good man out of the treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.  St. Luke 6:43-45.  


Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out.  Let my beloved come into his garden and eat his pleasant fruits.  Solomon's Song 4:16.

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Thorny Issue Pt 3

Let's look at two separate acts.  One in the Old Testament and one in the New Testament.  

And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.  2 Samuel 9:7.  

Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up they bed, and walk.  St. John 5:8.  

Both are acts of mercy.  David loved Jonathan very deeply and this act was done with the purest of motives I am sure, or it would not be included in the Bible.  God's purpose was served through this incident.   

Suppose however Jesus came and healed the man by the pool (John 5).  The man got up and walked and went about his business.  Incontrovertible proof that Jesus Christ heals the lame and the sick.  Fully recovered.  

Then suppose that one day David came along and saw the man and said, "Hey man, come sit at my table.  I'll take care of you from now on.  You don't need to walk.  Just sit at my table and I'll give you bread."

At first that might seem like a pretty good idea.  But in reality the only person who would benefit would be David.  Before long the man would start to doubt whether he was really healed or not.  He would be depending on David's generosity and not the Lord's Word.  Essentially he would doubt the very authority of Jesus Christ.  He would in essence go from worshiping Jesus to worshiping David.  

The reason it's such a thorny issue is that David could have the purest motives in the world, but in this instance the result would be disastrous.  

I think that's why Jesus told the man at the pool to get up and walk.  He didn't take the man and put Him in the pool.  He told the man to get as far away from the pool as possible.  Jesus knew that if the man hung out at the pool after his healing he eventually would end up in the same condition or worse.  

That's all folks.  

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

 

Thorny Issue Pt 2

Lol.
I'm having a discussion on Facebook and I'm not sure but I think it's a beautiful illustration of this particular point.
The question is what should I be doing about it?
Should I walk away and leave it alone or should I stay there and possibly see it to it's conclusion?
Where is Girl Scout Troop 57 when you need them?
By Grace,
Travis P. Dickerson

Thorny Issue

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.  Proverbs 15:1.

Tai chi this morning revealed areas of imbalance, which is precisely what Tai Chi is supposed to correct.  Good.
A word that I spoke to someone, was connected to a word that somebody else spoke, which was connected to a word that I spoke to somebody, which was fueled by another word that somebody else spoke...
If I were to use a Star Wars illustration, I would call it, "A disturbance in the Force."
Frustrated fixers would have a field day with it and at the end of the day would more than likely walk away saying, "good job."
God speaking to His people on the other hand might say:
They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying Peace, peace; when there is no peace.  Jeremiah 6:14.
Definitely a thorny issue.
To be continued...

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Lay Down Your Weapons And Take Up His

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  Colossians 2:8.

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  
(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;  
And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.  2 Corinthians 10:3-5.





By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Gift of Encouragement

I was having a conversation with my mom and she encourage me that God loves me with a jealous love.

And I receive it.

Thanks Mom.

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Good

That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good.  Psalm 104:28.

Grace comes in many ways.  One of those ways is material provision.  Food, clothing, shelter, etc...

There is another form of grace which God offers.  Grace to overcome sin.  It seems that certain sins are more difficult to let go of than others.

For example, when I was saved, God mercifully cut the ropes which bound me to alcohol.  Before I was delivered I could not get sober by myself nor could I stay sober for an indefinite period of time.  It was a definite moment in time when I placed my trust in Jesus Christ to forgive me of my sins that set me free from a perpetual addiction.  Miraculous!

Grace is miraculous.  Even when it seems minor or inconsequential.  For by grace are ye saved through faith;  and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast.  Ephesians 2:8,9.

My mom is one of the most grace filled persons I know.  She has given me so much.  I can never ever repay her for what she has done.  Only God can reward her the way that she deserves!  There's no amount of good that I can do to cancel my debt to her.

It's the same with Jesus Christ.  I couldn't repay Him if I tried to.  The truth is I don't even know what all He has done for me.  I haven't lived long enough in God's redeeming love to accept the truth of how fully and unconditionally was His atoning sacrifice on my behalf.

It's amazing how truly blessed I am to live here, rent free, utility free, bill free, indefinitely.  Glory to God!

Lord, I believe.  Help my unbelief.  Amen.

By Grace,

Travis

Get a Life

But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.  Matthew 8:22.

Tell that to somebody who's loved one is dying or who has just lost somebody to the grave.
I don't know whether or not it would do them any good.
But it won't do you any good to follow them that's for sure.  And it won't do them any good for you to follow them.  I'm sure they would love to have a big entourage.  Misery loves company.


By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Best Friends

He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice:  this my joy therefore is fulfilled.  John 3:29.

Long night.  Next door neighbor was playing some jazz music outside and I don't know if it was trumpets or saxophones.
It was kind of annoying at first until I realized that it was a call to pray.  After I prayed I experienced a feeling of being held fast.
This morning I spoke with an old friend.  It was refreshing to say the least.  And encouraging.
So I'm sticking it out on the narrow path.  Though the way is constrained.  I know that it leads to life because it's the path that He took.

By Grace,

Travis

Topaz

His hands are like rods of gold set with [nails of] beryl or topaz.  Song of Solomon 5:14a AMP

Today I want to leave you with a burning question.

I found when I was looking up topaz that the scholars debate whether or not topaz mentioned in the Bible is the same topaz as we know today.  I've decided that for the purpose of this study it would do little to clarify our understanding.  

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.  1 Corinthians 13:2.  

What good are hands in a display case if they never touch anyone?  

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Beryl

His hands are like rods of gold set with [nails of] beryl or topaz.  Song of Solomon 5:14a

Sharply dressed.  You all know that it's what's inside that counts.  God looks at the heart not the outer appearance.  Joyce Meyer puts it this way, "We're not just clothed in our regular clothing but there's spiritual clothes we have to put on as well."

Revelation says, "Behold I'm going to come like a thief.  Blessed is the man who stays awake and guards his clothes."

The first mention of beryl in the Scriptures is found in Exodus 28:20.  And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings.

Beryl is a precious stone that comes in many variations.  The most well known are emerald and aquamarine.  Emeralds probably would have been in the possession of the Israelites at the time of this event taking place.  Emeralds are mined in Egypt.  As part of the Exodus God god gave the plunder of the Egyptians into their hands.  For something as important as the breasplate to be worn by the High Priest I would imagine they weren't frugal.  I stress the word imagine because I don't have the definitive answer.

But what I do know is this.  The best way to detect a counterfeit is to examine the real thing.  Look at the price that God paid for your soul and for mine.  Jesus Christ.  The spotless Lamb of God.  He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things.  Romans 8:32.

Next time you look in the mirror remember Romans 8:32.  I hope that helps you to see yourself as you truly are.

Till next time.

By Grace,

TRavis P. Dickerson

Gold

His hands are like rods of gold set with [nails of] beryl or topaz.  Song of Solomon 5:14a AMP.

The rod can and was used for offensive purposes - When going after a wolf or lion that snatches a sheep - Moses for example in Egypt.

 Here they represent the very opposite of that.  They are the hands of a tenacious defender.  Nehemiah comes to mind.

Their enemies had sunk so low that they hired a false prophet to come and pronounce judgement on Nehemiah.  They trumped up a totally bogus proclamation in order to frighten Nehemiah and the builders into giving up.

Nehemiah prayed, "Lord strengthen our hands!"

Think of a soccer match.  The only player on the field that gets to use his/her hands is the goalie.  If the ball gets past the goalie it's a point for the opposing team.

But as Shulamite is saying here, "His hands are not just any old hands.  His hands are like rods of gold."

The defenders have their work cut out for them.  It's going to be a long night and shots will be fired before it's all said and done but, "Hold on, help has been dispatched."

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Attitude Adjustment

So Moses brought Israel from the Red sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur; and they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water.
And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah.
And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink?
And he cried unto the Lord; and the Lord shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them,
And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.  Exodus 15:22-26.


I love going to a Spirit Filled church and hearing God.  That's why I like going to a church that's populated with believers young and old.  Who doesn't need an attitude adjustment once in a while?
When you realize that Israel's hope could have been over three days from the Red Sea you realize that if you were in Moses' shoes you had to do something.  Instead of ending their hope endured.  Yes only Joshua and Caleb made it into the promised land but what a glorious day that must have been.  When the priests carrying the ark dipped their toes into the Jordan River and God stopped the water.  All those years living in hope deferred and then suddenly the promise was fulfilled.  
As Pastor Steven Furtick writes in Sun Stand Still, "Maybe the greatest Sun Stand Still prayer God will answer over the course of your life will be the audacious prayer of faith you pray for others.  Maybe no one will know you prayed them.  Maybe you'll never see the connection between what you prayed for somebody else and what God does in the other persons's life years down the road."

By Grace,

Travis

Desire

Go and learn what this means: 'I DESIRE COMPASSION, AND NOT SACRIFICE,' for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.  Matthew 9:13.
In this verse Jesus makes it clear what He desires.  Compassion.  Other translations put it mercy.  When I can find it in the Hebrew I'll let you know a little bit more.
Sin left a broken road.  If we're not walking with Jesus we are wandering aimlessly.  When Jesus spoke with the Samaritan woman,"Go, call your husband and come here.  "The woman answered and said, "I have no husband."  Jesus said to her, "You have correctly said, 'I have no husband', ' for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband;  this you have said truly."  John 4:16-18.    Knowing everything about the woman before hand Jesus reached out and had compassion on this woman.  What's even more amazing is it sprang from the depths of his soul.  There wasn't even a crowd of followers so it wasn't a public miracle.  He just felt the depth of her need and offered to satisfy it.
That's compassion.

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Heavenly Bodies

And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman , and embrace the bosom of a stranger?  Proverbs 5:20.  
The word ravished is Shahgah in Hebrew.  "And why wilt thou, my son, be Shahgah?"
Shagah has several meanings:
1) to go astray, stray, to err.  A perfect example is Samson.  Samson was a Judge (Judges 13-16) who should have been at home delivering his people from the hands of their enemies.  Instead he went astray 'Shagah' chasing after Philistine women.
2) to swerve, meander, reel, roll, be intoxicate, err (in drunkenness).  This is the case in the Rod Stewart song Infatuation that I talked about yesterday.  Listen to the lyrics:
Early in the morning I can't sleep
I can't work and I can't eat
I've been drunk all day, can't concentrate
Maybe I'm making a big mistake
3) to lead astray.  This is the act of purposefully leading someone down the wrong path.

Taken together it means that there's more than way to go astray.  We can stray after something or someone.  Another way it can happen is when we fix our gaze on the wrong object and we start to deviate.  We may think we have it under control but if we keep going in that direction we're going to have an accident.  And sometimes the enemy sets a trap for us according to the third definition.
One way we can be ravished is to indulge in pornography which is readily available at the touch of a mouse button:
The U.S. Customs Service estimates that there are more than 100,000 websites offering child pornography (which are illegal) worldwide.
Red Herring Magazine, 1/18/02


See you again!


By Grace,


Travis P. Dickerson

Infatuation

Why should you, my son, be infatuated with a loose woman, embrace the bosom of an outsider, and go astray?  Proverbs 5:20.
Back in the early days of MTV Rod Stewart released a video of his song, "Infatuation."  Back then it was considered over the top and almost too racy for TV.  Nowadays it probably wouldn't even get our attention.
I don't remember the whole video.  I'm sure it's on the internet somewhere.  The part I do remember is a guy in his upstairs bedroom using a telescope to spy on the woman sunbathing next door.  Perfect example of what I'm talking about.
Ring a bell?  King David and Bathsheba?  Samson and Delilah?
Rod Stewart probably sold more telescopes than Copernicus.
Actually I made that up but here's a real statistic.
42% of songs on ten top-selling CDs in 1999 contained sexual content, 41% of which were "very explicit" or "pretty explicit."
Family News in Focus, July 2005


It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of kings is to search out a thing.  Proverbs 25:2.

Next time...Heavenly Bodies

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

One Glance

In a sex saturated society how is it that a young person can keep him or herself from promiscuity.
I asked myself that today.  Taking my Bible and a Sarah Arthur devotional to the park to be alone this is what I saw.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe;  let her breasts satisfy thee at all times;  and be thou ravished always with her love.  Proverbs 5:19.
I watched as a mother deer and her fawn came down from the heights where they were playing with the other deer.  They came down right in front of me, passing within a few feet.
At that point it was just an ordinary scene.  My curiosity wasn't even aroused.  There was no sport involved.
I waited and they wandered down to the stream.  I pretended not to be curious but I could no longer focus on my reading.
After awhile they crossed over the stream and made their way along the opposite bank.  My peaceful retreat was now something out of a nature show.
Finally I got up and continued on my journey.  Very slowly.  Taking slow deep breaths and letting my heart settle into a steady rhythm.
Then she crossed over in front of me.  As she did I spoke three words.  "Hunting for mangoes?"
She looked stunned.  "Huh?"
"Hunting for mangoes?" I repeated.  
She shot me a sideways glance that I never will forget.  It is immortalized in the Song of Solomon.  Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse;  thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck.  Solomon's Song 4:9.
To be continued...
By Grace,
Travis

Unfaithful

And I will visit upon her the days of Baalim, wherein she burned incense to them, and she decked 
herself with her earrings and her jewels, and she went after her lovers, and forgat me, saith the 
LORD.  Hosea 2:13.

The first reference to incense is in the offering to be taken up by Moses in Exodus 25:6.  This was a very
delicate matter: Of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.  Exodus 
25:2.
Baalim was a Canaanite God who we read about over in Judges.  And the children of Israel did evil in 
the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim:  Judges 2:11.  Baalim worship was very prevalent in those
days.
Baal was the god of rain and storm.  Worship of Baal was ritualized.  One of it's manifestations was in the
form of sacred prostitution.
In the passage we see a snapshot of Gomer (wife of Hosea) going out for a night of Baal worship.  And we
see a picture of the jealousy aroused in her husband.  We don't know her motivation.  Maybe she was a sex
addict.  Maybe she had an abusive childhood.  Or perhaps she was caught in a spiritual tug of war between
the forces of light and the forces of darkness.
What we do know is that there are millions and millions of people today who are caught up in the world of
pornography.  According to a survey 47% percent of families said pornography is a problem in their 
home. Focus on the Family Poll, October 1, 2003.
That is a robust figure if catch my drift. 


By Grace,


Travis P. Dickerson   

Peer Pressure

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.  2 Corinthians 2:14.

I had a chance to go to Lucky Clay Farms.  But I could not go there and honor my commitment to God.
The pressure was really on me to conform once I had spoken out against it.
God didn't remove the pressure.  He allowed me to experience it.  But one thing He did for me was He gave me a promise.

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.  1 Corinthians 10:13.

If I told you that I wasn't at all tempted to go, I would be lying to myself.  The pressure to please man rather than God was strong.  Resisting was pretty scary and somehow it cost me a dear friend.

The fear of man bringeth a snare:  but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.  Proverbs 29:25.

Not only did I walk away with all of my limbs intact, I learned the potential benefits of incense.  Thanks be to God!

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

So Far

“A gazelle lies slain on your heights, Israel. How the mighty have fallen!  2 Samuel 1:19.  


Today's passage from pages 99-100 is  full of meaning.  The nasty orcs appear to have bitten off more than they could chew.  The trap they had sprung on Gandalf and the dwarves proved to be their own undoing.
Gandalf proved his worth during both the rescue and escape as well as in the retelling of the story to Bilbo.  The backdoor which was the goblins' secret weapon was the very escape route used by the party.
Of course Tolkien aficionados aren't as surprised as latecomers.  This happens to be the same Gandalf who stands toe to toe with a balrog in the Fellowship of the ring mind you.  But if you are new to the epic I won't be a spoiler.
But almost overlooked at the end of this passage is one really important key.  It's easy to skip over this part.  In the celebration of the hard won victory there is also a tragic tale.

All the others laughed too.  After all they had lost a good deal, but they had killed the Great Goblin and a great many others besides, and they had all escaped, so they might be said to have had the best of it so far.

I like how he tacks on those last two words.  So far.
As Sarah Arthur writes in Walking With Frodo "Satan hasn't surrendered.  He's still waging battles and skirmishes."
David had every reason to rejoice over the death of Saul.  Yet he mourned the passing of a great man.  A fallen man, yes, but a king.  Last year when we studied 1 and 2 Samuel I thought I would identify with David.  Instead God showed me how much I resembled Saul.
A bitter pill to swallow perhaps, but good medicine if it keeps me from becoming prideful.  But for the grace of God, there go I.
One more bit of wisdom I have picked up, "Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth."  Proverbs 25:17 KJV.  

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson

Weird Friend

Mark is an extremely intellectual guy.  He has cultivated his personality and it has made him very successful in business.  He loves people.  He has a great sense of humor.  

Being around Mark is never dull.  If things are dull Mark usually does something to get them stirred up.  

He's extremely creative.  

Mark is definitely not a fair weather friend!  

Mark is sort of weird.  

Dressing

Good Morning,
This morning I was passing through the kitchen just as my mom was putting some fresh baked banana muffins in the freezer.  I took one and it was gone in about four bites.
She makes them at least once a week.
Yesterday she brought home a large pepperoni pizza for $5.  I didn't even know there was a Little Caesar's nearby.  Not to mention she brought home a bag of Crazy Bread sticks.
Ms. Thomas posted a recipe on her blog a couple of months ago.  I told mom we should try it this Sunday.  I don't want to snatch and borrow so I'll post the link.  http://thekitchykitchen.blogspot.com/search?q=gnudi
Remember to thank her profusely!!  :)
By Grace,
Travis

David's Love

Now he's wrapped himself
in a trenchcoat of black-cloud darkness.
But his cloud-brightness bursts through,
spraying hailstones and fireballs.  Psalm 18 (The Message)

Warfare, battle, conquest.  That's what this Psalm is all about.  Yet notice verse one.

I love You fervently and devotedly, O Lord, my Strength.  Psalm 18:1 (AMP)

Not only that.  Check out the ending.

and He shows mercy and steadfast love to His anointed, to David and his offspring forever.  Psalm 18:50.

Sandwiched between the first and last verses of a love story is this raw and powerful war story.  That's how David worshiped God.
Is it a love song?  Or is it a war anthem?
Think about it.

By Grace,

Travis

The Notorious Mr. Bilbo

It is a fact that Bilbo's reputation went up a very great deal with the dwarves after this.

Bilbo must have been quite dismayed to hear the argument going on between the dwarves and Gandalf.  Gandalf tried to persuade them of the need to go back and find Bilbo.  And the dwarves argued about why he was even brought along in the first place.  Although Tolkien doesn't mention Bilbo's reaction, as the scene plays out there are signs of the effect is has had on him.
As he steps into the circle and removes the ring something happens.  The dwarves are impressed by his stealthy entry and start to praise his burglary skills.  His notoriety goes up in the eyes of his companions.  This has the effect of encouraging Bilbo to continue his deception.  He mentions nothing of the ring.
Isn't it fascinating how the deceptive power of the ring begins to exert it's influence not only on the ring bearer but on those around the ring bearer?  Such is the power of corruption.  It should be noted also that bad company corrupts also.  Just a few minutes before they were talking about him behind his back and now they are exalting him?  I'm not suggesting they are shifty.
Nevertheless despite the temptation to claim that it was the ring's fault the temptation is not too much to bear.  In our case, those who are followers of the Lord, we know the truth.  Truth with a capital T is a person.  Jesus Christ.  And we know that God always leaves us an escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Bilbo, alas, like many of us succumbs to one of the enemy's oldest tricks.  The sin of pride.  "How do you like me now?"

Gluten Free Spice Bars

This recipe calls for using regular flour but we decided to make them gluten free and they really turned out nice!

3/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup honey

1 cup sugar

1 egg

2 cups garbonzo bean flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

add raisins

Combine all ingredients a mixing bowl.  Mix evenly.  Press dough into a casserole dish.  Bake at 350 for 25 to 30 minutes.  

Enjoy.

For gluten free hush puppies check these out!  http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/breads/gluten-free-hush-puppies/

By Grace,

Travis 

Love vs. Fear Pt 1

My Beloved.  I really do love You and You really know how to lead me.  You are the master, and I am the disciple.  At Your feet do I come, to sit and be still.


When Mr. Bilbo finds himself in a harsh wilderness setting he does what any of us do when we find ourselves lost.  He musters up his survival instinct and does his best to strive with his surroundings.  He soon finds that he is no match for the challenge.  Ridges and slopes falling great distances.

In the spiritual life I have often come to this place.  There is a sense of vertigo and a feeling of aloneness.  What if I fall?  Who will be there to pick me up?  He will give His angels charge over me.  

Disoriented by his new surroundings he wanders around for a bit.  The sun starts to descend.  Not only is it getting dark but the mountains are behind him and cast their shadows upon his path.  He is in a dark and scary place.  Darkness and shadows.

Familiar things are stripped away (hood, cloak, food, buttons).  The unknown becomes a canvas for our innermost feelings.  Search me and know my anxious thoughts.


A spark of courage flares up in Mr. Bilbo.  He will return and find his traveling companions.  The thought of them a the mercy of the goblins is stronger than his survival instinct.

Darkness, shadows and fears cannot extinguish hope.  Real hope comes from relationship.  There is no fear in love, but full-grown complete perfect love turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror.  

He Persuaded Me - His Banner Over Me Is Love

He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love [for love waved as a 

protecting and comforting banner over my head when I was near him].  Song of Solomon 2:4.

For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, 

nor things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, 

Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God 

which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Romans 8:38,39.

About Midnight Part 11 Joy Which Surpasses Understanding

What then?  notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached;  and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.  Philippians 1:18.
I'm sure you have heard of the peace which passes understanding.
Paul must be talking about the joy that passes understanding in this verse.  I have tasted and seen.  The Lord is good.
That is why I can say I am fully persuaded...
By Grace,
Travis

About Midnight Pt 10 Welcome Home Gracie

My mom is weird.  She is weird in a God way.  

This morning I woke up out of bed and I didn't really feel like getting up and praising God.  But an ordinary encounter with mom in the breakfast room turned into a spontaneous praisefest.  

I am fully persuaded... 

By Grace,

Travis P. Dickerson  

About Midnight Part 9 - She's Really Amazing

My mom is really amazing.
But what's really amazing is what God can do with her life when His glory shows up.
Some of the places in her life that God could visit and transform. 
She has a timeshare at the beach she hasn't used in years.  Infinite possibilities.
Season tickets to the Carolina Panthers.  Definitely not ordinary.
I'm not suggesting that she needs improvement.  What I am suggesting is that I need to have a perspective change and realize that I am really blessed in life to have a relationship with her.  She's really interesting when you get to know her. 
God can transform a desert into a lush oasis in the blink of an eye. 
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.  Psalm 126:5,6. 

About Midnight Part 8 - It's No Big Deal

My mom is pretty cool.
We watched a movie together today.
She liked it and so did I.
That's something that we have in common.
She likes the church that I go to.
She has never once complained about the music being too loud.
She maximizes her time and is able to accomplish alot with very little.
She lets me eat what I want to eat when I want to eat it.
She never gives me a hard time when I assert myself.
She totally respects that I'm my own person and I have the right to make my own decisions.
She doesn't hover and she's not clingy.
She's still very young at heart.
God is not through with her yet.

By Grace,

Travis

About Midnight Part 7 - The Sword

If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?  1 John 4:20.


There's a picture in my heart of a medieval broadsword.  A broadsword was a heavy two edged sword which could be wielded either in one or two hands.  It's definitely not a butter knife.  It's not a toy either.
The meaning of it to me is this:  it's time to put away our personal differences and personal preferences and rise up as one.
To be continued...
By Grace,
Travis

About Midnight Part 6 - Refills

As he lay asleep under the broom or juniper tree, behold, an angel touched him and said to him, Arise and eat. 1 Kings 19:5.

I've got a coffee mug.  Written on it are the following words.

Blessed is the man
  whose delight is in the law
        of the LORD.
He is like a tree planted
      by streams of water;
which yields its fruit in season.
  Whatever he does prospers. 
            Psalm 1:1-3.

For some reason that just puts a smile on my face.

By Grace,

Travis

About Midnight Part 5 - Ingredients

Ingredients

As if a familiar voice broke through the steel bars of doubt and discouragement in the confines of his imprisonment Dzeekishah had a moment of clarity.  Despite his chains he nearly bolted up off the floor.
Not because his life depended on it, but because the fate of Midgard rested on the knowledge that he had of the location of the stolen relics, Zeek listened attentively.
The simple yet compelling instruction was clear.  “Trust.”
Zeek looked at the now cold plate of Alb food on the prison cell floor.  The very sight of it initiated an unconscious gag reflex yet he was compelled by something deeper than hunger.
The voice called again, more strongly, “Trust!”
Picking up the fork in his dexterous hand Zeek lifted it up to about half the distance to his mouth.  The smell assaulted his cerebral cortex and ignited a spark of protest that flared into a flame of hope.
“I can do this,” he muttered and put the fork to his lips.
He opened up.  That first bite was sickeningly sweet.  As he started to chew a flood of euphoria hit -intense grief, bitter sorrow and terrible affliction swept through him like a river.  In it’s wake he was completely rejuvenated.  Something miraculous took place where the ingredients in the food acted like an antivenom to the injuries that he had received.  Every thing was in it’s rightful place and he felt good.
A word appeared, “Zeek.   Get ready.  We are coming to get you out.  Wiggles.”

About Midnight Part 4 - Sheaves of Joy

God can turn a desert into a lush oasis in the blink of an eye.  Where you saw sand and bare rock and dry bones there can be teeming life.  Where there was sadness there can be joy.  Beauty for ashes.

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.  He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.  Psalm 126:5,6.

On the other hand Satan can turn a lush oasis into a graveyard in an equal amount of time.  Hell has an address and it's name is SIN.  Sin is both a tyrant and a slave driver.  It never stops demanding.

Sin will take you for a trip and leave you in the middle of nowhere.

By Grace,

Travis

About Midnight Part 3

Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.  Psalm 104:20.

The type of angels the Psalmist is writing about are the kind that do God's will in heaven.

In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus taught His disciples to pray, Thy kingdom come.  Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.  Matthew 6:10.

We proclaim the Word of God.  We proclaim the Word of God in places where the kingdom of darkness holds dominion in order to establish God's Kingdom.  Proclamation releases God's power into our situation in the same way that praise releases the glory of God:

But thou are holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.  Psalm 22:3.

Paul and Silas.  Two men sent by God.  Filled with the Spirit.  Singing praise.  In agreement.  Heaven came down.

By Grace,

Travis

About Midnight Part 2 - Let Them Come

But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily?  nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.  Acts 16:37.

What gets me in this passage is how Paul and Silas and all the other prisoners were freed from prison by an act of God yet here the Roman authorities were still trying to tell them where to go and what to do.
They weren't prisoners anymore.
And neither are we.
I don't need a jailer to keep me out of trouble, I've got the Holy Spirit.  I don't need bars and walls to keep me from sin I've got the Word.
If you really want to take it one step further than that:


A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you:  and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.  
And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgements, and do them.  Ezekiel 37:26-27.    

Hold on!  Before I close this one down I want to say something perceptive.  I don't really think that Paul was rubbing it in their faces here.  He was doing it for the glory of God first and foremost.  Secondly he was giving them one more chance to repent and he was being very gracious after what they had been through.
Aren't we called to do that as Christians?  Don't we sometimes have to just let it go, or let them go as the case may be.  Whatever they did to us is not worth staying upset over.  God can use it for His glory.

Let them come!


That's what Joseph did.  Joseph was beaten and robbed and thrown into a well and sold into slavery by his own brothers.  God turned the whole thing around.

But as for you, ye thought evil against me;  but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.  Genesis 50:20.

Let them come!


By Grace,

Travis

About Midnight Pt 1

I woke up last night a little before Midnight.  I didn't really want to get out of bed, but the bed was on an incline and I eventually rolled out onto the floor.  Maybe I need to check the hydraulic lift.

Thinking about Pastor Holly's sermon the other day.  I was really convicted by it.

I'd like to do alot of things now that CBS is officially through.  For instance, I'd like to do that Onward Christian Soldiers Bible Study at http://www.settingcaptivesfree.com/.  I definitely feel like that would help me to dress for the wedding.

Strong Conviction!   Do I do something I've been longing to do?  Or do I listen to that conviction?

It's like one of those Choose Your Own Adventure Stories that I loved growing up.

Hmmmm.....

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 40 - Coming and Going

And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul;  then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday:  Isaiah 58:10.

I've always wondered how my mom seems to hold on through such great difficulty.  Then I realized, It's not as dark to her because she dwells in the light.  She is constantly drawing out her soul to the hungry, and satisfying the afflicted.  She has her own ministry, her own little flock.
Tyler is doing real well, coming and going.  It's hard keeping him out of the trees.

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 39 - Don't Mention It

You are the light of the world.  A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Matthew 5:14.

Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another.  Romans 12:10.

Family secrets.  I guess it means you've passed the acceptance test.  Learn to drive properly!  Just a few things the Holy Spirit brought to my attention at Church today.

My personal favorite,

Remember the pillow, the bag of popcorn and the movie.

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 38 - TGIF

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.  Matthew 5:13.


Today was a relaxing day.  I spent a good part of the afternoon watching a good adventure flick.  


Speaking of adventures I never finished that parable I started.  


Low blows.  Do you remember awhile back how I was talking about low blows and how many times  Satan has tried to take me out?  


Sometimes the battle is raging so strong it's hard to tell based on appearances who is on our side.  Thank God He has given us His Word to base our responses on and we walk by faith and not by sight.  


If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.  1 John 1:7.  Written by one of the greatest Seers of all time, and my all time favorite apostle, John the Beloved.   


Last item today is an email I got from Claire.  Check it out!  http://thekitchykitchen.blogspot.com/2012/04/beauty-recipes.html

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 37 - Visit

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.  Matthew 16:18.

LOL.  Wouldn't it be exciting if Jesus walked into the church and started ministering to folks without following protocol?  I'm sure it happens more often than we realize.  We may pass it off as a normal occurrence or we may see think it is odd but not odd enough to say anything about it.
What if He got up, started leading worship and the choir and everybody got caught up in it?  Then what if He just handed the mike over to the Pastor and went and sat down in one of the seats?
Think about it.

4/11/12

I'm thinking of calling these push-ups.  I suggest doing 3 sets of 40 reps.  I have my friend Steevo to thank for  the inspiration!  Thanks Steevo!

Greater Reach 36 - Favorite Show

He must increase, but I must decrease.  John 3:30.

Sometimes I get a real boost out of watching Plank.  But don't take my word for it, watch it yourself.

http://ed.wikia.com/wiki/Plank

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 35 - Mercy Call

Mercy triumphs over judgement.

We live and breathe in a sea rocking back and forth.

There are basically two solutions.

1) Don't judge.

2) Show mercy.

Mercy is the stronger of the two.

Look at the bright side Jonah.  What can God do in Nineveh that has never been done before?

Greater Reach 34 - Pleasure and Joy

He must increase, but I must decrease.  John 3:30.

The blood of Jesus speaks a better word.

My pleasure and joy are complete.

He who has the bride is the bridegroom.

My heart rejoices greatly at His voice.

The best is yet to come...

Greater Reach 33 - Healthy Fear Part 2

He must increase, but I must decrease.  John 3:30.

I saw something here in this verse for the first time.  It's odd that I'm just now seeing it considering that it occurs twice.  Do you know what it is?
The word is must.  He MUST increase.  I MUST decrease.  Must is a strong word.  It actually can be either a verb or a noun.  In this case it is a verb.

Must -

1. indicates that the sentence subject is required as an imperative or directive to execute the sentence predicate, with failure to do so resulting in a negative consequence

I think the tendency all Christians have is to think that once you get to a certain place you're going to be able to set the thing on cruise control and coast.  Just last night I found myself pushing against a barrier of fear.  I encountered fear and resistance and I instinctively began to resist it (as I have been trained to do in the Word) but I stopped short of going all the way.  I went about 2/3rds of the way and then I stopped.  I thought it would subside when I resisted it, but the struggle lasted a little bit longer than I thought and I decided to call it quits. 

Relating that back to yesterday's blog helps complete the picture:

God said to Joshua...

 

Be strong and of a good courage...Joshua 1:9.

To Gideon He said.

thou mighty man of valour...Judges 6:12.  

This adds a whole new dimension to it.  

Come back tomorrow for Part 3 of Strong, Healthy, Fear.  ;)

With Love,

Travis  

Greater Reach 32 - Healthy Fear Pt 1

He must increase, but I must decrease.  John 3:30.

Gideon was in a winepress beating wheat to hide it from the Midianites, when God appeared to him.

God saw Gideon's potential.

The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour.  Judges 6:10b.

Same God, same message, different recipient,

for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.  Joshua 1:9b.

Joshua was facing the biggest challenge of his life and his mentor had just checked out for good.  Gideon needed more than a pep talk.
Ponder that for a moment...  I'll be back.

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 31 - Hen Rewrite!

He must increase, but I must decrease.  John 3:30.

I was talking with Jeff Hughes, and something he said got me thinking about the Hen blog I posted some time ago.  I wasn't aware that it needed revision, but with a friend's perspective and an ounce of humility I have to admit I can go off on a tangent.  As it was one of my favorite blogs I was reluctant at first to take his advice.  But Jeff is usually on target and the more I thought about it the more I liked his idea.
You see I started thinking about Barnabas a couple of weeks ago.  Jeff's approaching me about the Hen blog is like Barnabas coming to the church in Antioch and encouraging them.


When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.  For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith.  And a great many people were added to the Lord.  Acts 11:22.

Okay.  I don't need the Holy Spirit arm twist.  Rewrite the Hen Blog.

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 30 - Pour it Out!

I want to make a slight shift this time and go over to the Amplified translation.  And I want you to know that I don't endorse any particular translation.  I use many different translations in my study and I encourage you to use the one you love.  Let His Word be a love letter to you!

And I tell you, you are Peter [Greek, Petros - a large piece of rock], and on this rock [Greek, petra - a huge rock like Gibraltar] I will build My church, and the gates of Hades, (the powers of the infernal region) shall not overpower it [or be strong to its detriment or hold out against it].  Matthew 16:18.

Here we are on number 30 and we're still working on extending that reach.  We've seen that God is on the move and the He is unstoppable.  We've also seen opposition, and resistance.  I hope you have been blessed as I have.

I couldn't do any of it without God.  That's why I keep doing it.  That's why I keep repeating these verses day after day because it's all about Him.  This morning I'm brought back to a favorite of mine in the OT.  David's last words.  An ode to the men who stood by him.  David's mighty men.  The thirty.

I'm not trying to prophesy or analyze it this time.  I don't fully understand it with my mind.  But the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down and demolishing strongholds.

Asahel brother of Joab was one of the Thirty; then Elhanan son of Dodo of Bethlehem,
Shammah of Harod, Elika of Harod, 
Helez the Paltite, Ira son of Ikkesh of Tekoa,
Abiezer of Anathoth, Mebunnai the Hushathite,
Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai of Netophah, 
Heleb son of Baanah of Netophah, Ittai 
son of Ribai of Gibeah of the Benjamites.  2 Samuel 23:24-29.

I'm sure it wasn't a honeymoon everyday.  I'm sure it took plenty of grace.  Grace upon grace.  If you think about the fact that God didn't leave David to fend for himself in the wilderness, but surrounded him with warriors, that's an act of grace in itself.  Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours];  James 5:17.
Before you get to that passage there is another one that is of vital importance to the Body of Christ.  Confess to one therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart].  The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].  James 5:16.
I'm sure it was a vital part of their fellowship.  Corporate prayer and worship.  You can't hang around a group of men for years and not get to know something about their true nature.  Unless they just insist on hiding behind a facade all the time.  Thank God that I'm anointed with the Holy Spirit, and the Spirit of Truth to penetrate those barriers and He gives me wisdom and truth.
You could understand if David men had come to him when he ascended the throne.  But these were lean times.  People who will stick with you through lean times are worthy of remembrance.  And they were desperate.  Hungry for God.  Hungry for the glory of God.  If one man (Elijah) could withhold the rain for 3 years imagine what thirty men could do.

That's just a partial list.  God does answer our prayers exceedingly, abundantly, above and beyond what we can ask for and imagine.  When it rains it pours!

By Grace,

Travis

Greater Reach 29 - Second Wind

Ye are the salt of the earth:  but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted?  it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.  St. Matthew 5:13.

I find it fascinating that the verse before that says rejoice and be exceeding glad. 

I'm also amazed at Acts 5:41, "And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name."

On the one hand Jesus said that if we lose our saltiness we are good for nothing but to be trodden under foot by men.  On the other hand if we open our mouth and preach the gospel it brings persecution with it.  

What's the key?  Rejoice!  We can celebrate being rejected for our faith, praise God!  

Greater Reach 29 - Attitude

As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.  John 17:18.

Taking a different route this morning.  

Sometimes it is easy to see what the problem is and point it out to everybody but not be an active part of the solution.    

When I look bad it reflects poorly upon the church.  When I look good it reflects positively upon the church.  God is mainly concerned with our heart attitude.  It is from the heart that one speaks and it is from the heart that one's actions are birthed.  I may not be aware of any known sin but my attitude is even more important.  

He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.  John 3:29.

Greater Reach 28 - Surprise

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.  Matthew 5:13.

It is that time of year again.  Spring is in the air.  The birds are chirping.  The flowers are blooming.  Everything is putting forth it's produce.  God makes the sun to shine on the just and the unjust, and He makes the rain to fall upon the righteous and the unrighteous.
We are like fruit trees as well.   What kind of fruit are we putting forth?
I am hopeful that the changes I have wrought in my life over the past several years will work out.  Thank God I'm in this thing for the long run!


Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?  Luke 13:7.

I just got a blog from Claire.  I haven't even opened it yet.  Let's do it together and see what yummy treats are inside!  Be blessed!

http://thekitchykitchen.blogspot.com/2012/03/cheddar-beer-toast-with-chives-aka.html

Not by Might,

Travis

Greater Reach 27 - Fertilizer

Ye are the salt of the earth:  but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.  St. Matthew 5:13.

I definitely want to make sure I apply enough fertilizer so that the rose bushes come in nice and full in time for summer.

He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.  St. Luke 13:6.

Greater Reach 26 - Warm Fuzzies :)

I must decrease and He must increase.  John 3:30.

Warm fuzzies :).
What are these fears?  What are these persistent anxieties that attempt to unsettle?  Is praying about them enough to make them go away entirely, or is there something MORE?
How do we press through an attack of discouragement?  What if I have prayed and stepped out in faith to follow God and I meet discouragement?  All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.  2 Timothy 3:16-17.
Nehemiah is a man who did just that.  He and his men were making serious progress.  They were probably thinking warm fuzzy thoughts when Sanballat and Gershem sent a message,"Come, let us meet together in one of the villages in the plain of Ono."  Nehemiah 6:2b.
They also attempted to make up a false report on what Nehemiah was doing and file a complaint against him.  (v. 6,7).  Sound familiar?  Daniel's opponents used the same technique to get him thrown into the lions den.
Warm fuzzies :).
Sounds like a perfect recipe for defeat doesn't it?
Well speaking of perfect recipes I've got one that looks yummy.
http://dairyfreecooking.about.com/od/dessertsbeverages/r/CaramelRPudd.htm
Warm fuzzies, until next time!
By Grace,
Travis

Greater Reach 25 - Drop the Load

He must increase, but I must decrease.  John 3:30.

Pressing forward.  Without a doubt.  As David Chadwick said is his message, "the only thing that can stop the church is if we stop ourselves."

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 3:13-14.

Drop the load.  If I drop the load it solves half of the energy problem.  What is the load?  It's all the should'ves and wouldv'es and regrets I'm still carrying from yesterday.  Tomorrow has plenty of worries without me bringing a truckload with me from the past.  Better to live life facing forward.
The other half is taking Jesus' yoke.  He promises if we will come to Him then He will give us rest.

Coming or going.
As my strength was then,
So my strength is now.

Greater Reach 24 - Control Pt 2

And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him, and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!”  Judges 6:12.

Selah

Then all the Midianites and Amalekites, the people of the East, gathered together; and they crossed over and encamped in the Valley of Jezreel. ³⁴ But the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon; then he blew the trumpet, and the Abiezrites gathered behind him.  Judges 6:33,34. 

What turned Gideon from being weak kneed and paralyzed by fear, into a bold and fearless leader.  One was his father's affirmation.  Two was the Spirit of the LORD.  Nowhere does it say he took a class on the art of persuasion.  He didn't listen to a bunch of self-help tapes.  He didn't join Toastmasters. 

Greater Reach 23 - Control

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.  James 4:6.  

Selah.

And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.  Daniel 3:27.  

Selah.  

Greater Reach 22 - Bacon Grease

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.  Matthew 5:14.


The other day I was on the bus.  I heard one woman start judging another woman and at first I was tempted to judge her.  But wait a minute!  Who am I to judge her.  Didn't I just have a situation where I was in an argument with someone and I started pointing the finger at them?
Fortunately, I had on my Crossfires and I managed to dodge the friendly fire.
I turned to the lady and introduced myself.  I told her I was in the organic hog farm business.  Thus began a delightful conversation.
Rather than becoming an agitator I stepped in and became part of the solution.

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.  Matthew 7:6.

Greater Reach 21 - Bill's Adventure Part 2

Ye are the light of the world.  A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.  St. Matthew 5:14.


Last night I woke up and I knew right away what I was to do.  It's so reassuring to know that my Father sees our steps of faith (faltering at times) and wants us to know that:


He believes in us.
We are always on His mind.
He believes in us.  


By Grace,
Travis