mercy – prayersandpowerchords

of intercessors and bearing burdens

As believers in Jesus Christ, we’ve been given a gift far greater than we often realize—direct access to the throne of grace. Hebrews 4:16 tells us, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” By the blood of Jesus, we can come boldly before God—not just for ourselves, but on behalf of others.

This privilege comes with a responsibility. If we have access to the Father, and those who are lost do not, then intercession is not just an act of love—it’s an act of spiritual rescue.

Scripture paints a sobering picture of the condition of the unbeliever. Isaiah 59:2 declares, “Your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.” The prayers of the unrighteous are hindered, not because God is deaf, but because sin separates.

Proverbs 15:29 says, “The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.” And John 9:31 reflects, “We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, God listens to him.”

This is why intercession matters. While God may respond in mercy to a seeking heart (as He did with Cornelius in Acts 10), the normal state of the unbeliever is spiritual alienation. They are estranged from the throne we freely approach.

In Ezekiel 22:30, God says, “I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land… but I found none.” He was looking for someone to stand in the gap—to intercede on behalf of the guilty. Sadly, in that moment, no one did.

But we can. We must.

The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 10:1, “Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.” In 1 Timothy 2:1–4, he urges prayers and intercessions for all people, specifically tying our prayers to God’s desire that “all people be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.”

Intercession is not passive. It’s not wishful thinking. It’s the active, powerful work of standing in the gap between the lost and the judgment they face—and pleading for God’s mercy.

I often picture intercession like a scene from The Lord of the Rings. Frodo, the ring-bearer, represents the lost soul—crushed beneath the weight of the One Ring, a symbol of sin and death. As the journey draws to its close, Frodo collapses on the slopes of Mount Doom. He cannot go on. The burden is too great.

Then Sam comes.

Sam doesn’t take the Ring. He can’t. But he does something just as powerful: he lifts Frodo onto his back and climbs the mountain with him. He says, “I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you!”

That’s what intercession looks like.

We can’t take the sin of the lost upon ourselves—that’s Christ’s work alone. But we can carry their names, their stories, their burdens into the throne room. We, the redeemed, are like Sam—free from the burden, but willing to climb for the sake of the one who isn’t.

If you are in Christ, you have access to the throne of grace. The lost do not. That means your prayers may be their only pathway to mercy, until they come to Christ themselves. When you intercede, you are not just talking to God—you are carrying someone to Him.

So pick them up. Carry them. Cry out on their behalf. Stand in the gap.

Because the throne is open. And someone needs to be carried there.

Father in Heaven,
Thank You for the mercy that opened the way for us to come boldly before Your throne. Thank You for the blood of Jesus that tore the veil and welcomed us into Your presence as sons and daughters.

Lord, we grieve for those who are far from You—those still burdened by sin, blind to Your goodness, and cut off from the grace we now walk in. Place their names on our hearts. Give us compassion that won’t grow cold. Give us faith that won’t grow weary. Teach us to stand in the gap with love, persistence, and boldness.

Make us intercessors.
Like Sam carried Frodo up the mountain, help us carry the names, the needs, and the eternal souls of the lost into Your presence. Remind us that when we pray, we do not come alone—we carry others with us, trusting in Your power to save.

We ask You, Lord, to break chains, remove blinders, soften hearts, and draw the lost to Yourself. Let our prayers prepare the way for redemption. Let our cries echo Your own heart for the world.

And may we never forget what a privilege it is to stand in the throne room—not for our sake alone, but for theirs.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

are you harming yourself

The Bible speaks a profound truth: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21). Our words hold immense weight, shaping not only our interactions with others, but also our inner world. Often, the most insidious attacks come from within, as negative self-talk chips away at our confidence and faith.

But fear not, for we are not alone in this battle! The Holy Spirit is our ever-present guide, offering the strength and wisdom to transform our inner monologue. This week, let us embark on a spiritual journey of taming the tongue, harnessing its power to reflect God’s love and build ourselves up in His grace.

Renewing Our Minds Through Scripture

Our self-talk is a reflection of our dominant thoughts. To transform Sin, iniquity, and negativity, we must replace it with the life-giving words of scripture. Memorizing Bible verses isn’t just about mental exercise; it’s about embedding God’s truth deep within our hearts. As we meditate on His Word, the Holy Spirit washes away doubt and replaces it with the unshakeable foundation of scripture.

Instead of “I’m a failure,” we can hold onto the truth of Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

When faced with self-doubt, we can turn to Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

These verses become our battle cries, our shields against negativity. With each repetition, the Holy Spirit strengthens our resolve, reminding us of our worth in God’s eyes.

Transforming Our Language: Prayers and Affirmations

Prayer is a powerful conversation with God, a space to lay bare our struggles and plead for His guidance. As we confess our sins, the Holy Spirit works to convict and transform our hearts.

Instead of dwelling on shortcomings and backsliding, we can offer prayers of gratitude and affirmation. “Thank you, God, for your unconditional love. I choose to believe that I am capable and worthy, for you have created me in your image (Genesis 1:27).”

These prayers become daily affirmations, spoken declarations of faith that empower us to replace self-doubt with God’s truth.

The Holy Spirit: Our Source of Strength

Taming the tongue is a lifelong journey, and there will be moments of weakness. But remember, we are not alone. The Holy Spirit resides within us, a constant source of strength and guidance. When iniquity creeps in, call upon the Holy Spirit for help. Ask Him to convict you of harmful thoughts and replace them with His truth.

With each conscious effort, with each prayer and affirmation, the Holy Spirit works within you. He guides you towards self-compassion, replacing negativity with the unwavering truth of God.

The Fruit of Transformation

As you embark on this spiritual journey, you’ll begin to experience the fruits of a transformed tongue. Your self-talk will become more encouraging, your interactions with others more uplifting. You’ll find yourself radiating God’s love and grace, a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit working within you.

Remember, you are a beloved child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). By wielding the power of scripture, prayer, and the Holy Spirit, you can transform your inner dialogue, replacing self-sabotage with a life-giving symphony of faith and love.

Heavenly Father,

As we reflect on the power of our words, we confess the negativity that has seeped into our self-talk. Forgive us for the times we have spoken doubt and discouragement over ourselves, forgetting the truth of Your love and purpose for our lives.

We open our hearts to Your transforming power. Fill our minds with Your Word, that we may meditate on scripture and be renewed by Your truth. Grant us the strength to call upon the Holy Spirit in moments of weakness, and guide us towards replacing negativity with affirmations rooted in Your grace.

Help us to see ourselves as You see us, worthy children created in Your image. May the words we speak reflect Your love, both towards ourselves and others.

Empower us to be instruments of encouragement, spreading seeds of hope and faith wherever we go. We surrender our tongues to Your will, and pray for the fruit of the Spirit to blossom in our lives.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

what are you full of?

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus imparts profound wisdom in a short yet powerful passage found in Chapter 6, verses 22-23. He states, “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” NIV

At first glance, these words may seem enigmatic, but a deeper exploration reveals a profound spiritual lesson about the nature of our perception and the connection between our inner and outer worlds.

Jesus uses the metaphor of the eye as a lamp to emphasize the importance of the quality of our vision. In this context, “healthy eyes” symbolize a clear and enlightened perspective, while “unhealthy eyes” represent a distorted and obscured view of the world. The state of our perception, according to Jesus, directly influences the condition of our entire being.

The metaphorical “light” within us represents our inner understanding, consciousness, and spiritual clarity. When our internal vision is healthy and aligned with truth and righteousness, our entire being radiates with positive energy. Our actions, thoughts, and emotions become infused with the divine light, creating a holy, righteous, and virtuous existence.

Conversely, if our internal vision is clouded by the sins of ignorance, negativity, or self-deception, our inner light becomes darkness. In this state, our actions may be misguided, our thoughts clouded with negativity, and our emotions dominated by fear or hatred. The consequences of such darkness extend beyond the individual, affecting relationships, communities, and the broader world.

This teaching invites us to reflect on the quality of our perception and the motivations behind our actions. Are we guided by the light of truth, compassion, and love? Or are we stumbling in the darkness of ignorance, selfishness, and hate? It challenges us to look within and assess the health of our spiritual vision.

The broader context of this passage is Jesus’ sermon on the mount, where he addresses the crowd about the principles of righteous living and the Kingdom of God. In the verses preceding this teaching, Jesus emphasizes the futility of accumulating material wealth and the transitory nature of earthly treasures. He encourages his followers to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, assuring them that all their needs will be provided.

Understanding Matthew 6:22-23 in this context suggests that the “eye” also symbolizes our focus and priorities. If our eyes are fixed on material pursuits and worldly desires, our inner light may be overshadowed by the darkness of greed and self-centeredness. However, if our focus is on spiritual values, righteousness, and the Kingdom of God, our inner light will shine brightly, illuminating our path and positively influencing the world around us.

In a world often filled with distractions and temptations, Jesus’ words serve as a timeless reminder to prioritize our spiritual well-being. It prompts us to be vigilant guardians of our internal vision, ensuring that our eyes remain fixed on the values that lead to a life of purpose, compassion, and love.

As we navigate the complexities of daily existence, let us heed the wisdom of Jesus’ teaching, cultivating healthy eyes that perceive the light of truth and goodness. In doing so, we contribute to the illumination of a world that so desperately needs the transformative power of genuine spiritual insight found only in His gospel.

Heavenly Father,

As we reflect upon the words of Jesus, we come before you with open hearts and humble spirits. We acknowledge the profound truth in His teaching, understanding that our eyes are the lamp of our body and the gateway to our inner being.

Lord, grant us the grace to cultivate healthy eyes that are attuned to the light of your truth and righteousness. May our perception be clear, our vision untainted by the darkness of ignorance or selfish desires. Help us to prioritize the Kingdom of God in all that we do, seeking first your righteousness and trusting in your provision for our needs.

In moments of distraction and temptation, O Lord, guide our focus towards the eternal values that bring forth light—love, compassion, humility, and justice. May our actions, thoughts, and emotions be illuminated by the divine light within us, radiating positivity and goodness into the world.

Forgive us, dear Lord, for the times when our eyes have been clouded by the darkness of worldly pursuits and selfish ambitions. Strengthen us to turn away from the allure of material wealth and fleeting desires, and instead fix our gaze upon the enduring treasures of your Kingdom.

We pray for the discernment to recognize the state of our spiritual vision. If any darkness resides within us, reveal it to us, Lord, that we may repent and turn towards the brilliance of your light. Heal our spiritual eyes, that we may walk in the path of righteousness and be a source of illumination to those around us.

Lord, we thank you for the promise that if our eyes are healthy, our whole body will be full of light. May this light shine brightly within us, dispelling the shadows of doubt, fear, and negativity. May we be beacons of hope and love, reflecting the transformative power of your grace to those around us.

We surrender our hearts, minds, and eyes to you, trusting in your guidance and grace. May the words of Jesus be etched in our souls, guiding us to live a life that radiates the light of your truth.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, we pray.

Amen.

faith, courage, and obedience

In the realm of Christianity, the relationship between faith, courage, and obedience is a central theme that has guided the lives of countless believers throughout history. These three elements are intertwined, forming a foundation upon which Christians build their spiritual journey. Let’s explore together how faith, courage, and obedience work in harmony to strengthen one’s walk with God.

Faith is the cornerstone of Christianity, the belief in things unseen and the trust in God’s promises. The Bible teaches that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). It is the starting point for any Christian journey, as it is through faith that individuals accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Faith involves surrendering control and placing one’s trust in God’s plan. This act of surrender requires tremendous courage. In a world that often questions or ridicules faith, it takes courage to stand firm in one’s beliefs. The Apostle Paul, who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity, exemplified this courage. Despite facing persecution and adversity, he proclaimed, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the strength to face fear head-on, knowing that God is with you. Throughout the Bible, there are countless examples of individuals who exhibited remarkable courage in their faith journey. The story of David and Goliath is a classic illustration. David, a young shepherd boy, faced the fearsome giant Goliath with unwavering faith in God’s protection. He declared, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37).

Similarly, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego displayed courage when they refused to bow down to the idol set up by King Nebuchadnezzar. They faced the fiery furnace with faith in God’s deliverance, saying, “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it” (Daniel 3:17). Their courage in the face of certain death not only saved them but also brought glory to God.

Obedience is the natural outgrowth of faith and courage. It is the active response to God’s call and commandments. For Christians, obedience is not seen as a burdensome duty but as a joyful act of aligning one’s will with God’s will. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of obedience when He said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).

Abraham’s obedience is a compelling example. God called him to leave his homeland and journey to an unknown land. Without knowing where he was going, Abraham obeyed in faith. The author of Hebrews notes, “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). Abraham’s obedience not only resulted in the fulfillment of God’s promise of descendants but also made him the father of faith for future generations.

The interplay of faith, courage, and obedience for Christians can be likened to a three-legged stool. Each element is essential, and the absence of one can lead to instability in one’s spiritual walk. Faith provides the foundation, courage fuels action, and obedience demonstrates a genuine relationship with God.

When faith is strong, it emboldens believers to face challenges with courage. Courage, in turn, empowers believers to step out in obedience to God’s call. Obedience, rooted in faith and fueled by courage, brings believers closer to God and allows them to experience the richness of His blessings.

Faith, courage, and obedience are not isolated concepts but a beautifully intertwined tapestry that weaves together a strong and vibrant relationship with God. Faith is the starting point, courage fuels action, and obedience is the tangible expression of a life surrendered to God’s will. As Christians navigate the ups and downs of life’s journey, we do so with the unwavering belief that faith, courage, and obedience will guide us and draw us closer to the Creator who loves us.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You today with hearts full of gratitude and reverence, acknowledging the profound interplay of faith, courage, and obedience in our journey with You. We recognize that these three pillars are essential in deepening our relationship with You and fulfilling Your purpose for our lives.

Firstly, we thank You for the gift of faith. It is through faith that we have come to know You, believe in Your promises, and accept Your Son, Jesus Christ, as our Lord and Savior. We humbly ask You to strengthen our faith, Lord, for it is the foundation of our walk with You. Help us trust in the unseen, knowing that You are the author and finisher of our faith.

Grant us the courage, dear Lord, to face the challenges and uncertainties of life with unwavering trust in You. Just as David confronted Goliath and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced the fiery furnace, we pray for the courage to stand firm in our convictions, knowing that You are with us in every trial and tribulation. Help us to step out in faith, even when the path ahead seems daunting, knowing that You are our fortress and refuge.

Father, we also seek to walk in obedience to Your commands. May our obedience be born out of love for You, not as a mere duty but as a joyful response to Your grace. Help us align our will with Yours, knowing that Your plans for us are far greater than anything we can imagine. Grant us the humility to submit ourselves to Your divine authority and the wisdom to discern Your guidance in our lives.

Lord, as we navigate the intricate dance of faith, courage, and obedience, may our lives be a testimony to Your goodness and faithfulness. May our faith inspire courage, our courage lead to obedience, and our obedience bring glory to Your name. In the moments when doubt creeps in, when fear tries to paralyze us, or when disobedience tempts us, remind us of Your promises and the example of Christ, who, in perfect obedience, endured the cross for our salvation.

We pray for Your guidance, Lord, as we seek to live out this interplay of faith, courage, and obedience daily. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live lives that honor You. May our faith shine as a beacon of hope to those around us, and may our courage be a source of encouragement to others facing their own trials.

We offer this prayer in faith, with courage in our hearts, and a desire for obedient lives that bring glory and honor to You, our loving Heavenly Father. We pray all these things in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

Amen.

the greatness of humility

In the book of Isaiah, the Bible offers profound insights into human nature, spirituality, and the consequences of unchecked pride. One of the most notable passages on this subject is found in Isaiah 14:13-14, where the downfall of a powerful figure is described. In these verses, we find a powerful lesson about the dangers of arrogance and the pursuit of greatness at the expense of others.

Isaiah 14:13-14 (NIV) reads:

“You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.'”

To understand these verses fully, we must examine the context in which they are situated. Isaiah 14 as a whole is a prophetic oracle against the king of Babylon, who was a symbol of worldly power and pride. The passage serves as a taunt against this king, highlighting his arrogant aspirations.

The essence of the passage revolves around the dangers of pride. The Babylonian king’s heart is filled with hubris as he seeks to elevate himself to divine status, asserting his authority even above God. These verses remind us that pride is not merely about having self-confidence or a healthy self-esteem; it is about placing oneself above others and even above God. It is a dangerous and destructive attitude.

The king’s ambitions are boundless, wanting to ascend to the heavens, sit above the stars, and be like the Most High. This insatiable desire for more and more power serves as a warning against unchecked ambition. It’s essential to have aspirations and goals, but when they become fueled by pride and a disregard for others, they can lead to downfall.

Comparing oneself to the Most High is the pinnacle of arrogance. It illustrates how pride can lead us to believe we are equal to or even superior to God, which goes against the fundamental principle of humility in spirituality. This comparison reveals the depth of the king’s delusion.

The pursuit of personal greatness at the expense of others is a recurring theme in human history. When individuals or leaders prioritize their own ascent without considering the well-being of those they lead or serve, it can result in suffering and chaos.

Isaiah 14 goes on to describe the consequences of the Babylonian king’s prideful ambitions. It foretells his ultimate downfall and the ruin of his kingdom. The lesson here is clear: pride, especially when it leads to selfish actions, has severe consequences. It may lead to isolation, loss of power, and even destruction.

In contrast to the arrogance portrayed in Isaiah 14:13-14, the Bible teaches us that greatness can be found in living righteous and humble lives. Humility is presented as a virtue throughout the Bible, involving the recognition of our limitations, acknowledging our dependence on God, and treating others with respect and empathy. It is a key element of spiritual growth and harmonious human relationships.

Humility begins with acknowledging our place in the grand scheme of things. Rather than seeking to elevate ourselves above God, we should submit to divine wisdom and guidance. In Matthew 18:1-4 (NIV), Jesus provides a powerful lesson on humility: “At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'”

It’s important to understand that true greatness is not necessarily measured by worldly achievements, power, or recognition. Instead, greatness can be found in leading a righteous and humble life. When we live with compassion, kindness, and integrity, we are already embodying greatness. Acts of kindness, empathy, and selflessness towards others are the marks of a truly great person.

By recognizing that greatness is not solely defined by external accolades or accomplishments, we can shift our focus towards the virtues that truly matter. Living a righteous and humble life is an inherently great endeavor, as it contributes to the well-being of others and the betterment of our world. In our pursuit of spiritual growth and a meaningful life, let us remember that true greatness lies in the daily choices we make to live with humility and righteousness, impacting the lives of those around us positively.

Rather than seeking to elevate ourselves above others, we can aspire to uplift and support one another, recognizing that in living righteous and humble lives, we are already great. By aligning our values with compassion, kindness, and empathy, we contribute to a world filled with genuine greatness, one where the pursuit of righteousness and humility leads us to the highest form of fulfillment and spiritual growth.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before you today with humble hearts, seeking wisdom and understanding. Thank you for the lessons we find in your Word which reminds us of the dangers of pride and the importance of humility.

Lord, we acknowledge that at times, we may be tempted by the allure of greatness in the eyes of the world. Help us remember that true greatness is not measured by worldly achievements or power but by the love, compassion, and humility we show to others. May we strive to live righteous and humble lives, recognizing that in doing so, we are already great in your eyes.

Teach us to submit to your guidance and wisdom. Help us become like little children, eager to learn and willing to take the lowly position of a servant. May we find strength in our humility, knowing that it is through humility that we draw closer to you.

Lord, grant us the wisdom to intentionally put ourselves in positions of humility, to seek opportunities to serve others, and to embrace the humility that comes from recognizing our dependence on you.

As we navigate our journey through life, may we be vessels of your love and instruments of your peace. May our actions reflect your grace and mercy, and may our lives be grounded in righteousness and humility.

We pray for the strength to resist the temptations of pride and arrogance and to instead follow the path of humility and righteousness that leads us closer to you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

want a friend? be friendly

The Bible has a lot to say about friendship. It tells us how to be a good friend;

1 Thessalonians 5:11

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Why having the right friends is important:

1 Corinthians 15:33

33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

It tells us about the many benefits of friendship:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.

Friendship is a vital part of human existence. It is a bond that connects us to others, enriches our lives, and helps us navigate through the ups and downs of life. The importance of friendship is often overlooked, but it is a fundamental part of our well-being and happiness.

One of the greatest benefits of friendship is the sense of belonging and connection it brings. Having a friend means that we have someone who understands us, accepts us for who we are, and is there for us in both good times and bad. Friendships provide a sense of security and comfort, knowing that we have someone to turn to in times of need.

Friendship also helps us to grow and learn. Through our interactions with friends, we learn new perspectives, develop empathy, and expand our understanding of the world around us. A good friend will challenge us to be our best selves and push us to reach our goals. They will also be there to celebrate our successes and support us when we fall short.

Another important aspect of friendship is the sense of fun and enjoyment it brings. Friendships are built on shared experiences and memories, and these memories can be some of the most cherished moments of our lives. Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip, a day of laughter playing games, friends create memories that last a lifetime.

Friendship is also a powerful tool for self-discovery. Through our interactions with friends, we learn more about ourselves and what we value. We can explore our interests, passions and goals with friends, and they can often provide valuable insights and advice. Friendships also give us the opportunity to try new things and step out of our comfort zones.

However, friendships are not always easy. Conflicts and disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, and it is important to learn how to navigate these challenges. A good friend will be able to communicate openly and honestly, and will be willing to work through any issues that may arise.

The beauty of friendship is that it can come in many forms. It can be a bond between two people, a group of friends, or even a community. The key is to find people who share your values, interests, and goals. It is also important to remember that friendships can develop at any stage of life, and it’s never too late to make new friends.

In conclusion, friendship is an essential part of life. It brings a sense of belonging, connection, growth, and joy. Friendships help us navigate the complexities of life and provide us with valuable support and guidance. It is important to cherish and nurture our friendships, and to be open to making new friends. Remember, a true friend is a treasure and a gift, and it is a privilege to have them in our lives.

Lord I thank you for the many friends that you have given me during my life. Each of them was a unique blessing to me. Please bless them today as they blessed me. Continue to provide me with the friends that I need. Friends that will encourage me, help me, and add something vital to my experience on this earth.

Help me to be a good friend as well. Let me be an encouragement to some. Help me to bear the burdens of others. Make me into the good friend that someone needs today. Amen

a lesson in mercy

I was thinking today about Corrie Ten Boom, the Holocaust survivor. I used a story about her in a message that I preached recently. It was a story she told about returning to Germany for a speaking arrangement. After the speech was done she was approached by a man. To her horror she recognized him as one of the guards from Ravensbrück concentration camp. According to Corrie this man approached her and complemented her speech. The speech she had given was about God’s mercy.

The man then confessed to her that he was a former guard from Ravensbrück , but that he had been converted to Christianity. He told her that he knew that God had forgiven him. He then stuck out his hand and asked this question:

“Fraulein , can you forgive me?”

All she could think abou.t was her sister Betsie who died a slow painful death in that place. But she then remembered Jesus words:

“But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:15 NIV

She said a quick prayer telling God she could put out her hand but He was going to have to supply the feeling. As soon as she clasped his hand she felt a warm tingling start in her shoulder that quickly went down to their handshake. She burst into tears and forgave him with all her heart.

That’s a really great story, but it’s what she said afterwards that has really got me thinking. She says she still struggled to forgive as time went on. She learned that good feelings and behavior can’t be stored up, but only drawn fresh from God each day.

That is such a great lesson. I find myself so often feeling discouraged by my lack of the ability to remain in a state of forgiveness. Then I beat myself for backsliding into unforgiveness. What Corrie’s story helped me realize is that’s ok. I don’t have to remain in that state because I can draw on God’s mercies every day. That’s why they are there. God has need to be merciful to Himself. The new daily mercies are there for me and for you.

Great is his faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.

Lamentations 3:23 NLT

Father God you are my Lord and God. I worship you alone. Forgive me the times I put things between You and me. I know that you love me to much to leave me the way I am. Thank you for giving fresh mercies everyday. Remind me of this continually so I can draw on You when I need to forgive, when I need to show mercy. Send to me a revival of mercies to give to all those around me. In Jesus name Amen.

Be the bigger person

If God were easy to follow everybody would be doing it. If God always made you comfortable, if there were never any trials in your life because Of some kind of supernatural intervention there would not be any need for faith. I think that I like that He lets us face difficulty, that our decisions matter and we are made to face the consequences of the decisions that we make both the good and the bad.

It seems to me that today many people think that it is actually good to let themselves off the hook for the things that they do or think. I hear people say things like all ideas are good or that all lifestyle choices are equal. This seems absurd to me. One person says that it is society’s responsibility to take care of everybody and another says that each person is responsible for his own wellbeing. Those are quite opposite and can’t both be true. I know that is a extreme example but it makes the point.

This kind of thing gets truly evil when people think that they ought to be able to get away with stuff but you over there ought to be punished for the same thing. The more polarized we get the more that this mindset seems to rear it’s ugly head.

I know I’m being a little vague here by not pointing out some real world examples but I really want to stay a bit neutral while I think this through. I know that the us and them mentality has always been around I know that. I also know that long ago people were deeply divided by a lot of things that led to very extreme behavior but I thought that perhaps we had outgrown some of the really terrible ideas that had ruled interaction between people. I thought we had learned to be at least civil with each other, that we could share problems and solutions and be able to come to some kind of consensus. But Solomon was right. There really is nothing new under the sun.

So now I need to look into my own life to see if there is any of that in me. I don’t want to be the man that is shouting down somebody for what they did while excusing myself for my own misdeeds. I want to be the man that can listen respectfully to someone that I may disagree with and be able to have a reasonable discussion about it. I don’t want to be the man that looks past someone’s problems because I happen to agree with some of his or her thoughts or ideas. I want to be the man that is able to discern truth but not be filled with hate. I want to be the man that can be persuaded when I am wrong to see the error and make the appropriate change. I want to be the man that will gently but firmly hold fast to those things that I am confident are the truth. I want to be the man that is persuasive not belligerent. Mostly I want to be the man that loving and merciful to those around me wether I agree with them or not.

Lest I am misunderstood let me state that I will not tolerate evil. I do believe that there is real evil in the world and it must be opposed. But I must not allow myself to be evil to oppose it. Opposition must still come from a place of love and yes even mercy.

It is my prayer that after you read this you will join me in this self examination to find the condition of your heart and then follow me and make the commitment to love even those that you find youself opposing.