"In that day the remnant left in Israel, the survivors in the house of Jacob, will no longer depend on allies who seek to destroy them. But they will faithfully trust the LORD, the Holy One of Israel. A remnant will return... " Isaiah 10:20, 21a I hear this call just about everyday, "Return". What? Is Wanda backsliding? Isn't Isaiah talking about the 'remnant' of Israel who survived God's punishment toward them because of their unfaithfulness toward Him? In less words... they were a remnant of disobedient people. Every day I make choices to either stay close to innocence (God) or not. I see, smell and hear things that want to challenge my desires and appetites - that require some type of response. These parade as allies - fulfilling my imminent needs while sabotaging my future. Often, the best reply I can give is what may look like indifference - to walk away without response. You know; not taking the 2nd look, closing the fridge door, turning the pity off, etc. Otherwise the pity starts to party and the treat turns into bondage. Sound trivial? Maybe, but these are the things that spoil my connection with the Holy Spirit. I am human. I decided to follow Jesus a long time ago. And I tend to get distracted. When I do, He calls me back. Maybe one day I'll be so perfect in my desires and pursuits that I will not need to have this reminder. But until that day comes, this remnant will return as often as is necessary! Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 (NKJV) A friend put out a public prayer request asking for a non-believer's healing. It was given with her consent and with the assurance that God is a healer, has been doing some great things in people's lives lately, and that we will ask for a miracle to happen ... that she has a full recovery. I found myself praying for the individual and then, I thought, "God, Your name is being put out on the line today." And just as quick as the thought was out, was this realization: God is His Name! We serve a great God; One who actually personifies His name. Healer Lover Provider Redeemer Faithful Friend Powerful Merciful Just Compassionate Forgiving Let them know that You, whose name is the Lord —
that You alone are the Most High over all the earth. Psalm 83:18 NIV God stands by His Name. Ever do something that you've come to regret? Did it have awful consequences?
Take time and read this account of David in 1 Chronicles 21. Please stop and take the time... David seemed to have a bit of a knack for arrogant decisions that resulted in heavy consequences. This sounds much too familiar to me! sigh. BUT, here is what struck me in this story. When David repented before God, God relented on carrying out the full punishment. The place where God stopped, was the very spot that the Tabernacle was built in Jerusalem... where God's presence would dwell! Do you see it?! God's place of dwelling is at the point of His Mercy. It is found in our humility & brokenness. This is where He delights to be. This is where we experience the beauty of His holiness. How great God is and how feeble I am. I am a pendulum in my head, but God is my Rock. I am no better than those who frustrate me, but God is my Rock. Hang on to those who live like David. They may do foolish things, but they always come back to God in extravagant surrender. |
Inquiring MINDS
Please inquire for the word of the LORD today. 1 Kings 22:5
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