Why do I fail?

Why do I fail and what to do about it.

I must begin with this caveat: if there is anything useful in this essay it is only God who is accountable. Mine is the insignificant stuff.

Did you ever try to do something and failed? This is almost a rhetorical question. And yet for me several come to mind quitting a bad habit, failing to love, and not accomplishing many goals I have set for myself.

Is there something that I don’t understand which causes me to fail?

One answer I found is that I do not hear what I need to hear nor see what I need to see. Often afterwards I am awake to the reasons why I failed but prior to the fall I am blind and deaf.

My mind is wrapped up in things that are irrelevant and detrimental to my success.

Jesus let His disciples in on a secret about why he speaks in parables to people instead of just coming strait out with the answers:

(Matt 13:15) “For this people’s heart has become gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.”

I wonder if I was relying on Jesus more would my failures be less. The answer I am presenting is not that simple. The answer is that I must redefine what success is. I must change my mind about accomplishing what I want and turn it into accomplishing what is for my best good.

One more thing. Convert means ‘epistrepho’ or revert or turn about. I need to be converted daily.

To more clearly define the problem lets look at Ephesians 4:17-32:

” This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you no longer walk as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto licentiousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Christ;

If so be that you have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That you put off concerning the former way of life the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that you put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Therefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. Be angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needs. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, by whom you are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be you kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.”

Notice verse 18 ” Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:”

This is a clue to the solution. It defines the problem – blindness and the whole passage begins to show some of the goals that everyone daily fails at.

John also reiterates the blindness problem by saying, ” He has blinded their eyes, and hardened their hearts; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, and be converted, and I should heal them.” – John 12:40

And finally one more quote:

(2Cor 4:1) Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;

(2Cor 4:2) But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.

(2Cor 4:3) But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:

(2Cor 4:4) In whom the god of this age has blinded the minds of them who believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

(2Cor 4:5) For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.

(2Cor 4:6) For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

This quote points out some causes of blindness such as dishonesty, craftiness and deceitfully handling the word of God. In the next sections I will look closer at what exactly are the causes of blindness in believers and unbelievers.

Want is trouble

Narrowing it down more ‘want’ causes me a lot of trouble. When I consider Psalm 23 and especially the first line, “The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.” I realize that if I only want Jesus I would never fail.

What is ‘want’? I think 1 John outlines it pretty good:

(1John 2:15) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

(1John 2:16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

(1John 2:17) And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that does the will of God abides forever.

So if I didn’t want the world or want things of the flesh or want to make myself feel good and look good I would not have blindness.

Lets look closer at some things I want.

Pride.

What does pride get me? Lets look at the example of Eve in the garden of Eden.

(Gen 3:5) “For God does know that in the day you eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and you shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.”

I imagine that Eve probably was very tempted by the thought of being as gods. I know it tempts me. Why? Because God created me to want to be like Him. It is a good desire but placed on myself instead of Him for the fulfillment is where it goes wrong.

‘Jesus forgive me for pride and root it out of my life permanently.’

Wrath

I want violence. I watch very violent TV shows and I like it. What’s wrong with it? It does me no harm and doesn’t hurt anyone. One thing it might do is desensitize me to real life violence. It changes my mind to think its ok to fight people. The truth is I do want violence in my fallen nature.

‘Jesus forgive me for wrath and take it away from me permanently.’

I want Lust. The goal is sexual gratification. It amazes me how much time is wasted on building up to a 5 minute orgasm. ‘Jesus forgive me for lust and take it away from me permanently.’

I want Sloth which involves apathy – ease of living – laziness. ‘Jesus, forgive me for sloth. Take it away permanently.’ I want gluttony. I love food and especially finding that perfect meal. What is scary is that I think about food a lot and spend a lot of money on it and comfort myself with it.

‘Jesus forgive me for gluttony and take it away from me permanently.’

I want avarice (or greed). ‘I am sorry for caring more about money than you, God.’

Lastly I want envy or covetousness. There are many other things which look good like new phones, shiny cars and fashionable clothes.

It seems the things I want which cause me trouble have some good desire in them which is turned toward the wrong things.

There is a way to curb my appetite for evil.

Honestly I don’t like admitting that I want or like anything that I deem evil. There is a tension in me where I am very frustrated because I try not to desire evil things and yet I find myself doing so.

Here are some helpful insights:

(Zech 4:6) Then he answered and spoke unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, says the LORD of hosts.

(Ps 44:3) For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but your right hand, and your arm, and the light of your countenance, because you had favor unto them.

(Ps 44:4) You are my King, O God: command deliverances for Jacob.

(Ps 44:5) Through you will we push down our enemies: through your name will we tread them under that rise up against us.

(Ps 44:6) For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me.

(Ps 44:7) But you have saved us from our enemies, and have put them to shame that hated us.

(Ps 44:8) In God we boast all the day long, and praise your name forever. Selah.

(Ps 44:20) If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god;

(Ps 44:21) Shall not God search this out? for he knows the secrets of the heart.

(Eph 1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

(Eph 3:16) That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

(Eph 3:17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love,

(Rom 15:13) Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

All of these verses point to God as giving strength to turn my heart toward Him and desiring Him instead of the bad things.

How important is Forgiveness?

How great is it that Jesus allows us to do such a blessed and wonderful thing.

Be forgiven. And extend the gift of canceling all debts owed.

An objection has come up. Are we supposed to just keep being a doormat for someone to abuse us? This is the ultimate question. Jesus was abused by humanity and He freed us from abuse.

I would not say for a person to keep submitting to abuse is God’s will. It would be important for them to hear what God wants for them. To submit to horrible conditions or even sacrifice their own life may very well be God’s will. It’s not a rule. I forgive but I get out of the situation. Or I forgive and I continue in it if it is God’s will. Can’t God change a heart? Over time yes. And if the person chooses.

Its like being financially in debt though. The abuser actually owes the one they abused something. Like a court judgement or money. I may or may not maintain my relationship with the abuser but I forgive them the money.

The forgiveness in this respect does open up the possibility of relationship. But more so it frees my heart from the grudge and responsibility of carrying around revenge, rage and murderous thoughts.

The real forgiveness that I’m after though is God’s forgiveness of me. I owe Him more than anyone on this earth owes me. I owe Him my life from creation to end of time on this earth to eternity. That’s a lot of time and money.

I know the kind of forgiveness He gives. I want to extend that kind to everyone. No matter how big the bill.

Even here, I have to grow. I have not been completely forgiven for some things that I continue to hold on to. ‘Jesus take it all. Oh that it was completely true. Take something new right now.

Forgive me for trying to abort my firstborn son. Thank you Jesus.’

I like how livetoforgive puts it…

“[[25] And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. [26] But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.

Ah, that little word, “And” that indicates a continuation of the preceding sentence. The word, “And” may be the key to the entire recipe. Like if a parent said to their child, “Yes, you can go play with your friends and don’t forget to take your medicine on the way to their house or you’ll die.” What comes after the “And” almost seems unrelated but, in fact, is the most important part.

Daily forgiveness is a critical part of the faith recipe. If you don’t include that ingredient, your whole faith cake is going to fall flatter than a pancake. Even worse, full, unfettered fellowship with your heavenly Father is impossible. Unforgiveness is a faith blocker. That means that unforgiveness is a blessing blocker. An answered prayer blocker. Because it is impossible to please God without faith, and our faith won’t have power without forgiveness. – http://www.livetoforgive.com/page.cfm?p=47&d=13 ]”

Jesus is radical. Its almost like His request for me to jump so high causes me to jump higher than I ever thought possible. For instance:

(Matt 5:38) You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:

(Matt 5:39) But I say unto you, That you resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.

(Matt 5:40) And if any man will sue you at the law, and take away your coat, let him have your cloak also.

(Matt 5:41) And whosoever shall compel you to go a mile, go with him two.

(Matt 5:42) Give to him that asks you, and from him that would borrow of you turn not away.

(Matt 5:43) You have heard that it has been said, You shall love your neighbor, and hate your enemy.

(Matt 5:44) But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you, and persecute you;

This kind of love that turns the other cheek and gives away my coat and lets those who sue me win and walks two miles when asked to walk one and lets him borrow whoever asks and gives to him that asks and loves my enemies and blesses those that curse me and does good to them that hate me and prays for those who despite-fully use me and persecute me. This kind of love that Jesus offers to us is rooted in the kind of forgiveness that He offers.

Complete and unwavering. Ideal, difficult and completely free.

I think it has to do with freedom. Do I want the kind of freedom where I can do what I want. Or do I want the kind of freedom where I am free from sin?

One way leads to death and the other to life.

I quite often don’t want to serve those around me but I do because I know its the right thing to do. How many friendships have been cultivated this way? In the long run love wins.

This also is the bottom line. Not only does my way lead to death but it is a loss. I only end up in a lonely place, broken, needs unmet, sad, hopeless and weary.

Not that there aren’t spikes of supposed okayness. The rain falls on the evil as well. That means God still blesses evil people because He loves. That is all God does. He loves.

I know now what being loved means. I picture a loving parent holding me as a young child. This is hard to understand if it never happened to someone personally. Hopefully someone showed each person unselfish forgiving love some time throughout their lives. This is what God shows constantly. He forgives.

I believe it is impossible for anyone to forgive unless Jesus empowers them to do so.

This is radical but it is true. Jesus has the final word on forgiveness. It is finished. This war is over. The game has been played and the good news is Jesus won. Gentleness won in Jesus.

Forgiveness wins relationships. I want my relationship with Jesus to grow so I have to ask Him for forgiveness over and over and over. But I also want other people to experience what I do when I ask Him for forgiveness – undying love that lasts beyond eternity.

We Choose

What bible verse highlights my choice in the decision of good and evil?

Every example. Eve did not have to eat the apple. She could have waited and asked God more about it when she met with Him in the garden. I also like Joel, ‘(Joel 3:14) Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.’ It reminds me of the first time I made a good decision by making Jesus my friend

My choice is not a small matter. I can not force anyone to love Jesus. In the end I am sending myself to hell when I choose to satisfy my desires with anything other than Him.

I can choose to ask Him for forgiveness. I may not want to because it hurts my pride to admit that I made wrong choices. But, I can do it and do it more often.

We all make decisions everyday. Many decisions. Some are hard and some not so hard. This is like a guide. How do I make better decisions? By knowing the consequences and understanding what exactly am I choosing. Am I choosing to be my own god or am I rejecting my friend whom I love.

Deception

How am I to know I am deceived? – Listen to God.

It requires bravery like Peter walking on the water.

do I have enough faith to take His hand and let Him lead me out of my own deceptions?

No one wants to know they are wrong,, And yet, how wrong am I?

Some of the answer to how I can change my mind is in meaning,

the fact that the truth contains a deeper meaning,

Yes I can know a fact like the earth is round. But do I really believe it?

what criteria do I use to back it up? I can not really see the round earth. I have to accept it to believe it. How much do I accept it? 99%, 51%.

I can like someone and even show them great acts of kindness and love but do I really love them?

Would I lay my life down for them? I am not as sure of this. I hope I would.

How can I commit more to it?

It seems trust and confidence are also part of it.

Even my language -English leads to certain problems. When I say that I hope I would. I really mean I wish that I would -that it is probable but not certain.

Hope in Jesus is not like maybe He will be there for me or perhaps not. I know He will be and this brings me great comfort like knowing my good friend will always be there for me.

This kind of hope seems different from wishing for something. And yet my language uses the same word.

Here is a bible verse about hope which advocates endurance and encouragement in reading God’s word:

(Rom 15:1) But we who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not just please ourselves.

(Rom 15:2) Let each of us please his neighbor for his good to build him up.

(Rom 15:3) For even Christ did not please himself, but just as it is written, “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”

(Rom 15:4) For everything that was written in former times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and through encouragement of the scriptures we may have hope.

(Rom 15:5) Now may the God of endurance and comfort give you unity with one another in accordance with Christ Jesus,

(Rom 15:6) so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The meaning of hope from Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries is G1680 ἐλπίς elpis (el-pece’) n. 1. expectation 2. (abstractly or concretely) confidence [from a primary elpo “to anticipate, usually with pleasure”] KJV: faith, hope.

Jesus gives us good hope as it says in 2 Thesalonians:

(2Thess 2:15) Therefore, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold on to the traditions that we taught you, whether by speech or by letter.

(2Thess 2:16) Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope,

(2Thess 2:17) encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good thing you do or say.

It is interesting that good is added to hope here. I suppose one could hope for bad things. Or is there bad hope that isn’t t expectant enough?

I think and feel and know in my spirit that Jesus’ hope is far greater and deeper than any human hope or concept of hope. His kind of hope raises people up. It gives me motivation to keep living. It raises my attitude so that I think good things will happen. I start to expect to see God’s blessings many times throughout the day. This is a beginning. It is the tip of how high and deep and wide God’s love is and His hope. Jesus is beyond. Beyond all human imagination. Beyond all the imaginations of all people from the past and into the future. When I get to the end of eternity – still Jesus is more.

And Jesus is at the beginning. He is all through out the time in between and He is now. Right now He is ministering to everyone, loving everyone, right beside them prompting them highlighting certain things that they can hear that will lead them to Him. Jesus is the best shepherd ever.

So I guess an answer to deception is to follow the leader. I may not know if this is good or bad for me but the leader, Jesus, knows. I may not know if water is over the next ridge but I trust that He will provide. Its kind of like being a kid. I never worried about my next meal. I knew my parents would provide something. It wasn’t even a concern. So deception doesn’t need to be either.

Yes we are all deceived to some degree because we are human. But Jesus delivers. He has delivered us and will continue to keep delivering us.

‘Thank you Jesus for being my guide.’

“Watch your thoughts, they become words;

watch your words, they become actions;

watch your actions, they become habits;

watch your habits, they become character;

watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

FRANK OUTLAW

Deception is alleviated by turning to God with my whole mind and being as it states in Deuteronomy:

(Deut 30:10) if you obey the LORD your God and keep his commandments and statutes that are written in this scroll of the law. But you must turn to him with your whole mind and being.

(Deut 30:11) “This commandment I am giving you today is not too difficult for you, nor is it too remote.

(Deut 30:12) It is not in heaven, as though one must say, “Who will go up to heaven to get it for us and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?”

(Deut 30:13) And it is not across the sea, as though one must say, “Who will cross over to the other side of the sea and get it for us and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?”

(Deut 30:14) For the thing is very near you – it is in your mouth and in your mind so that you can do it.

(Deut 30:15) “Look! I have set before you today life and prosperity on the one hand, and death and disaster on the other.

(Deut 30:16) What I am commanding you today is to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to obey his commandments, his statutes, and his ordinances. Then you will live and become numerous and the LORD your God will bless you in the land which you are about to possess.

(Deut 30:17) However, if you turn aside and do not obey, but are lured away to worship and serve other gods,

(Deut 30:18) I declare to you this very day that you will certainly perish! You will not extend your time in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess.

(Deut 30:19) Today I invoke heaven and earth as a witness against you that I have set life and death, blessing and curse, before you. Therefore choose life so that you and your descendants may live!

(Deut 30:20) I also call on you to love the LORD your God, to obey him and be loyal to him, for he gives you life and enables you to live continually in the land the LORD promised to give to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”

On final word on deception. When Adam and Eve sinned, did they die immediately? I think so. Aren’t we all walking around dead, or at least partially dead until we physically die and enter eternal life completely. Some of us are more dead but we are all presently dead only as much as we partake in sin and turning away from God. I don’t mean to be too grim. It’s an eye opener. ‘I want Your life Jesus. You are the life.’

Jesus is the life. He is the fountain of life giving water, the bread of life.

These are not just quaint titles. These are the secret to moving out of a living death into a life everlasting in relationship with Him our provider and creator who knows how we are made and knows how we work and knows exactly what we really need at every moment.

My interpretation that Adam and Eve did not immediately die because I did not see them physically die is wrong. It is a deception. This was the greatest death ever. And one I follow when I sin and choose not to be in relationship with Jesus.

The truth will set you free. The truth is Adam and Eve did die immediately.

But that wasn’t the end of the story. Jesus rose from the dead and either did raise the dead already or will when He comes again and they will all have a chance to be redeemed. People born after Jesus has come however do not get this ‘second chance.’ And we should pay close attention to His promptings during this life to choose Him.

What can protect us from sinning?

Ps 130:3) If you, LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?

(Ps 130:4) But there is forgiveness with you, that you may be feared.

(Ps 130:5) I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait, and in his word do I hope.

The fear of the Lord comes because He forgives. Staying in His presence protects me from sinning anymore. I like how it says ‘there is forgiveness with you.’ Just be with God. Worshiping Him and noticing how great He is carries a reverence and awe. Thinking about Him talking to Him in prayer and feeling His presence honestly automatically puts me in my place. I am very little and low compared to His greatness.

Listen to the next verse:

(Isa 33:5) The LORD is exalted; for he dwells on high: he has filled Zion with justice and righteousness.

(Isa 33:6) And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of your times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.

He says that the fear of Him is His treasure. It is a gift that we can receive along with forgiveness. I know I am thankful when He forgives me truly deep in my heart. This is more what His fear is like. It is a thankful for being forgiven. I owe Him my life literally.

(Ps 19:7) The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

(Ps 19:8) The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

(Ps 19:9) The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

(Ps 19:10) More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

(Ps 19:11) Moreover by them is your servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

The fear of the Lord is clean. I think He is tying it into righteousness. I noticed that He often unifies concepts in my mind probably because they are all connected in reality.

(Prov 23:15) My son, if your heart is wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.

(Prov 23:16) Yea, my inmost being shall rejoice, when your lips speak right things.

(Prov 23:17) Let not your heart envy sinners: but be in the fear of the LORD all the day long.

(Prov 23:18) For surely there is a future hope; and your expectation shall not be cut off.

(Prov 23:19) Hear you, my son, and be wise, and guide your heart in the way.

It is not a human fear : ‘Jesus, help me be in the fear of you all day long.’

Love and Worship God

God, you are spectacular.

wonderful, impressive, amazing, astonishing, astounding, breathtaking, daring, dazzling, dramatic, eye-catching, fabulous, fantastic, grand, magnificent, marvelous, miraculous, remarkable, sensational, splendid, striking, stunning, thrilling, wondrous, histrionic, prodigious, staggering, stupendous and wonder-working.

beyond my understanding yet very believable.

Farther away from me than the beginning and the end. Still there still at the beginning and the end right now.

Yet closer to me than a husband to his wife in their wedding bed.

You blow my mind. You gently encourage me to move to the next baby step in understanding your vastness and gentle peace. You are a loving Father encouraging me to walk across the road with you.

Thank you Jesus.’

Lets dance. I’m not allowed to know everything I want to know. Only what I need. I am challenged to have faith and trust Jesus for the rest. He lets me participate in supernatural things as long as I give Him all the credit. Everything is because of Him.

I am sorry for ever taking credit. This is not right. God is great. How great I can’t even express with this tongue. It requires me to be silent and bow down and look high up to Him who is and who was and who is to come.

Its not that my mind can’t understand a dance. I can outline the steps. Its just that dancing is a little more fun than knowing the movements of it. Its like singing a song. Why bother if your heart isn’t in it?

(Deut 10:12) Now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you except to revere him, to obey all his commandments, to love him, to serve him with all your mind and being,

(Deut 10:12) And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul,

‘Help me serve You with all my heart and all my soul.’

serve = H5647 (Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries)

H5647 עָבַד `abad (aw-bad’) v.

1. to work (in any sense)

2. (by implication) to serve, till

3. (causatively) to enslave, etc

[a primitive root]

KJV: X be, keep in bondage, be bondmen, bond-service, compel, do, dress, ear, execute, + husbandman, keep, labour(-ing man, bring to pass, (cause to, make to) serve(-ing, self), (be, become) servant(-s), do (use) service, till(-er), transgress (from margin), (set a) work, be wrought, worshipper,

To serve involves worshiping.

and working and listening to the good direction from Jesus.

So Your word to me today is : ‘Work, worship and serve Me with all your heart and being (spirit)”

What amazed me about this verse is that I hear love God with your whole heart and mind and spirit. But this verse is richer. There is also respect and reverence awe required. There is need to walk in all His ways and to love Him and serve Him with my whole life.

It doesn’t matter the translation

RSV “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul,

I keep hearing on quick reading “love God as best as I can.” sometimes I hear ‘Israel’ and think what does that have to do with me. But slow it down. Focus on Jesus and really hear…

Those who love Jesus (Israel, the chosen ones of God)

-That’s me.

What does God require of me?

-Oh good I’ve been wanting to hear what God wants me to do…

Only to fear the Lord your God

-I must try to find my true position. I can enter into worship with the One who is Holy Holy Holy. (why are those four creatures able to praise God eternally? Because every second they discover something else that they did not know about how great God is.)

To walk in all His ways

-‘Help me God, get to know you. Not to get stuck in formulas but to trust. Lead me. I trust you.’

I want to love Him and to serve my Lord God with all my heart and with all my soul.

Heart and soul are curious words.

Not relevant though for this discussion. Only focus on the serve and How that relates to being enslaved worshiping and working.

Also there is an element of serving my country or being a soldier. It is an honorable thing to serve the Almighty.

And it is humbling to serve.

It is a privilege and a dance.

It fills my heart to overflowing.

‘Thank you Jesus for allowing me to serve you. I love you.’

There is no picture for God’s kind of beauty.

Obey don’t think. – this is a pearl not meant for unbelievers. They can think all they want. As can I. Sometimes thoughts can dance with God too. He’s not bothered by thoughts.

Its just If the devil’s playground is the mind then its better not to go to the playground sometimes;

There are a lot of other places to go.

I can go to the shepherd

I can go to the Holy Spirit.

Pray in tongues. Ask for interpretation.

‘Jesus help me to speak in tongues more often. It is a tremendous gift. I believe you and I trust you and I will follow your guidance.’

Heart = H3824 (Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries)

H3824 לֵבָב lebab (lay-bawb’) n-m.

1. the heart (as the most interior organ)

2. used also like H3820

[from H3823]

KJV: + bethink themselves, breast, comfortably, courage, ((faint), (tender-)heart((-ed)), midst, mind, X unawares, understanding.

Root(s): H3823

Where am I?

Listen to a few verses and see what they have in common:

(Ezek 37:4) Then he said to me, “Prophesy over these bones, and tell them: ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the LORD.

(2Tim 3:15) and how from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.(2Tim 3:16) Every scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,(2Tim 3:17) that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.

(Matt 22:29) Jesus answered them, “You are deceived, because you don’t know the scriptures or the power of God.

(Ezek 37:9) He said to me, “Prophesy to the breath, – prophesy, son of man – and say to the breath: ‘This is what the sovereign LORD says: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these corpses so that they may live.’”

(Ezek 37:11) Then he said to me, “Son of man, these bones are all the house of Israel. Look, they are saying, ‘Our bones are dry, our hope has perished; we are cut off.’(Ezek 37:12) Therefore prophesy, and tell them, ‘This is what the sovereign LORD says: Look, I am about to open your graves and will raise you from your graves, my people. I will bring you to the land of Israel.(Ezek 37:13) Then you will know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and raise you from your graves, my people.(Ezek 37:14) I will place my breath in you and you will live; I will give you rest in your own land. Then you will know that I am the LORD – I have spoken and I will act, declares the LORD.’”

God will open our graves and raise us. He will bring us to the land of Israel. We/I will know that He is God. He will place His breath in us and we will live;

He will give us rest in our own land.

We will know that He is the LORD.

He has spoken and He will act.

It’s not about me speaking it’s about God. He can handle it. He is God.

‘Praise you Jesus for being able and for doing so much in my life. I love you.’

(Ezek 37:3) He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” I said to him, “Sovereign Lord, you know.”

He knows.

3 good responses to God

Here I am lord.

You know.

Give me wisdom.

(1Sam 3:4) The LORD called to Samuel, and he replied, “Here I am!”

(1Sam 3:7) Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD; the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.(1Sam 3:8) Then the LORD called Samuel a third time. So he got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me!” Eli then realized that it was the LORD who was calling the boy.(1Sam 3:9) So Eli said to Samuel, “Go back and lie down. When he calls you, say, “Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.” So Samuel went back and lay down in his place.

Remember Genesis (Gen 3:9) But the LORD God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?”

Isaiah also said ‘here I am lord”

(Isa 6:8) I heard the voice of the sovereign master say, “Whom will I send? Who will go on our behalf?” I answered, “Here I am, send me!”

(Ezek 37:3) He said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” I said to him, “Sovereign Lord, you know.”

(2Chr 1:7) That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Tell me what I should give you.”(2Chr 1:8) Solomon replied to God, “You demonstrated great loyalty to my father David and have made me king in his place.(2Chr 1:9) Now, LORD God, may your promise to my father David be realized, for you have made me king over a great nation as numerous as the dust of the earth.(2Chr 1:10) Now give me wisdom and discernment so I can effectively lead this nation. Otherwise no one is able to make judicial decisions for this great nation of yours.”(2Chr 1:11) God said to Solomon, “Because you desire this, and did not ask for riches, wealth, and honor, or for vengeance on your enemies, and because you did not ask for long life, but requested wisdom and discernment so you can make judicial decisions for my people over whom I have made you king,

(1Kgs 3:5) One night in Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream. God said, “Tell me what I should give you.”(1Kgs 3:6) Solomon replied, “You demonstrated great loyalty to your servant, my father David, as he served you faithfully, properly, and sincerely. You have maintained this great loyalty to this day by allowing his son to sit on his throne.(1Kgs 3:7) Now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in my father David’s place, even though I am only a young man and am inexperienced.(1Kgs 3:8) Your servant stands among your chosen people; they are a great nation that is too numerous to count or number.(1Kgs 3:9) So give your servant a discerning mind so he can make judicial decisions for your people and distinguish right from wrong. Otherwise no one is able to make judicial decisions for this great nation of yours.”(1Kgs 3:10) The Lord was pleased that Solomon made this request.(1Kgs 3:11) God said to him, “Because you asked for the ability to make wise judicial decisions, and not for long life, or riches, or vengeance on your enemies,(1Kgs 3:12) I grant your request, and give you a wise and discerning mind superior to that of anyone who has preceded or will succeed you.(1Kgs 3:13) Furthermore, I am giving you what you did not request – riches and honor so that you will be the greatest king of your generation.(1Kgs 3:14) If you follow my instructions by obeying my rules and regulations, just as your father David did, then I will grant you long life.”

(2Cor 1:9) Indeed we felt as if the sentence of death had been passed against us, so that we would not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead.

(Heb 11:17) By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac. He had received the promises, yet he was ready to offer up his only son.(Heb 11:18) God had told him, “Through Isaac descendants will carry on your name,”(Heb 11:19) and he reasoned that God could even raise him from the dead, and in a sense he received him back from there.

‘Do you believe that I can raise the dead. Then be raised yourself and then pray that those dead around you will be raised.’

(Ps 139:1) For the music director, a psalm of David. O LORD, you examine me and know.(Ps 139:2) You know when I sit down and when I get up; even from far away you understand my motives.(Ps 139:3) You carefully observe me when I travel or when I lie down to rest; you are aware of everything I do.(Ps 139:4) Certainly my tongue does not frame a word without you, O LORD, being thoroughly aware of it.(Ps 139:5) You squeeze me in from behind and in front; you place your hand on me.(Ps 139:6) Your knowledge is beyond my comprehension; it is so far beyond me, I am unable to fathom it.(Ps 139:7) Where can I go to escape your spirit? Where can I flee to escape your presence?(Ps 139:8) If I were to ascend to heaven, you would be there. If I were to sprawl out in Sheol, there you would be.(Ps 139:9) If I were to fly away on the wings of the dawn, and settle down on the other side of the sea,(Ps 139:10) even there your hand would guide me, your right hand would grab hold of me.(Ps 139:11) If I were to say, “Certainly the darkness will cover me, and the light will turn to night all around me,”(Ps 139:12) even the darkness is not too dark for you to see, and the night is as bright as day; darkness and light are the same to you.(Ps 139:13) Certainly you made my mind and heart; you wove me together in my mother’s womb.(Ps 139:14) I will give you thanks because your deeds are awesome and amazing. You knew me thoroughly;(Ps 139:15) my bones were not hidden from you, when I was made in secret and sewed together in the depths of the earth.(Ps 139:16) Your eyes saw me when I was inside the womb. All the days ordained for me were recorded in your scroll before one of them came into existence.(Ps 139:17) How difficult it is for me to fathom your thoughts about me, O God! How vast is their sum total!(Ps 139:18) If I tried to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. Even if I finished counting them, I would still have to contend with you.(Ps 139:19) If only you would kill the wicked, O God! Get away from me, you violent men!(Ps 139:20) They rebel against you and act deceitfully; your enemies lie.(Ps 139:21) O LORD, do I not hate those who hate you, and despise those who oppose you?(Ps 139:22) I absolutely hate them, they have become my enemies!(Ps 139:23) Examine me, and probe my thoughts! Test me, and know my concerns!(Ps 139:24) See if there is any idolatrous tendency in me, and lead me in the reliable ancient path!

‘Thank you for knowing me Jesus.

Guide me toward You.’

(Rom 11:33) Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how fathomless his ways!(Rom 11:34) For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?(Rom 11:35) Or who has first given to God, that God needs to repay him?(Rom 11:36) For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever! Amen.

“Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world.” Archimedes

The lever is God’s strength not my own. He is the long handle of the lever -where the strength is.

How to tune in and turn to Him?

(Isa 40:28) Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is an eternal God, the creator of the whole earth. He does not get tired or weary; there is no limit to his wisdom.(Isa 40:29) He gives strength to those who are tired; to the ones who lack power, he gives renewed energy.(Isa 40:30) Even youths get tired and weary; even strong young men clumsily stumble.(Isa 40:31) But those who wait for the LORD’s help find renewed strength; they rise up as if they had eagles’ wings, they run without growing weary, they walk without getting tired.

Test this out. Expel all energy and see if God does not fill up with more.

‘Help me wait on you Jesus. Help me. Thank you for your sustenance and help.’

(Ps 18:1) For the music director; by the LORD’s servant David, who sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD rescued him from the power of all his enemies, including Saul. He said: “I love you, LORD, my source of strength!(Ps 18:2) The LORD is my high ridge, my stronghold, my deliverer. My God is my rocky summit where I take shelter, my shield, the horn that saves me, and my refuge.(Ps 18:3) I called to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I was delivered from my enemies.(Ps 18:4) The waves of death engulfed me, the currents of chaos overwhelmed me.(Ps 18:5) The ropes of Sheol tightened around me, the snares of death trapped me.(Ps 18:6) In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried out to my God. From his heavenly temple he heard my voice; he listened to my cry for help.(Ps 18:7) The earth heaved and shook; the roots of the mountains trembled; they heaved because he was angry.(Ps 18:8) Smoke ascended from his nose; fire devoured as it came from his mouth; he hurled down fiery coals.(Ps 18:9) He made the sky sink as he descended; a thick cloud was under his feet.(Ps 18:10) He mounted a winged angel and flew; he glided on the wings of the wind.(Ps 18:11) He shrouded himself in darkness, in thick rain clouds.(Ps 18:12) From the brightness in front of him came hail and fiery coals.(Ps 18:13) The LORD thundered in the sky; the sovereign One shouted.(Ps 18:14) He shot his arrows and scattered them, many lightning bolts and routed them.(Ps 18:15) The depths of the sea were exposed; the inner regions of the world were uncovered by your battle cry, LORD, by the powerful breath from your nose.(Ps 18:16) He reached down from above and took hold of me; he pulled me from the surging water.(Ps 18:17) He rescued me from my strong enemy, from those who hate me, for they were too strong for me.(Ps 18:18) They confronted me in my day of calamity, but the LORD helped me.(Ps 18:19) He brought me out into a wide open place; he delivered me because he was pleased with me.(Ps 18:20) The LORD repaid me for my godly deeds; he rewarded my blameless behavior.(Ps 18:21) For I have obeyed the LORD’s commands; I have not rebelled against my God.(Ps 18:22) For I am aware of all his regulations, and I do not reject his rules.(Ps 18:23) I was innocent before him, and kept myself from sinning.(Ps 18:24) The LORD rewarded me for my godly deeds; he took notice of my blameless behavior.(Ps 18:25) You prove to be loyal to one who is faithful; you prove to be trustworthy to one who is innocent.(Ps 18:26) You prove to be reliable to one who is blameless, but you prove to be deceptive to one who is perverse.(Ps 18:27) For you deliver oppressed people, but you bring down those who have a proud look.(Ps 18:28) Indeed, you are my lamp, LORD. My God illuminates the darkness around me.(Ps 18:29) Indeed, with your help I can charge against an army; by my God’s power I can jump over a wall.(Ps 18:30) The one true God acts in a faithful manner; the LORD’s promise is reliable; he is a shield to all who take shelter in him.(Ps 18:31) Indeed, who is God besides the LORD? Who is a protector besides our God?(Ps 18:32) The one true God gives me strength; he removes the obstacles in my way.(Ps 18:33) He gives me the agility of a deer; he enables me to negotiate the rugged terrain.(Ps 18:34) He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend even the strongest bow.(Ps 18:35) You give me your protective shield; your right hand supports me; your willingness to help enables me to prevail.(Ps 18:36) You widen my path; my feet do not slip.(Ps 18:37) I chase my enemies and catch them; I do not turn back until I wipe them out.(Ps 18:38) I beat them to death; they fall at my feet.(Ps 18:39) You give me strength for battle; you make my foes kneel before me.(Ps 18:40) You make my enemies retreat; I destroy those who hate me.(Ps 18:41) They cry out, but there is no one to help them; they cry out to the LORD, but he does not answer them.(Ps 18:42) I grind them as fine windblown dust; I beat them underfoot like clay in the streets.(Ps 18:43) You rescue me from a hostile army; you make me a leader of nations; people over whom I had no authority are now my subjects.(Ps 18:44) When they hear of my exploits, they submit to me. Foreigners are powerless before me;(Ps 18:45) foreigners lose their courage; they shake with fear as they leave their strongholds.(Ps 18:46) The LORD is alive! My protector is praiseworthy! The God who delivers me is exalted as king!(Ps 18:47) The one true God completely vindicates me; he makes nations submit to me.(Ps 18:48) He delivers me from my enemies; you snatch me away from those who attack me; you rescue me from violent men.(Ps 18:49) So I will give you thanks before the nations, O LORD! I will sing praises to you!(Ps 18:50) He gives his chosen king magnificent victories; he is faithful to his chosen ruler, to David and his descendants forever.”

Using my own hand for a shield does not work. The arrows go into my hand and harm me. The shoot right through and pierce my heart. ‘Your shield however, Jesus is impenetrable. Praise you for your shield and your strength.’

(Ps 91:1) As for you, the one who lives in the shelter of the sovereign One, and resides in the protective shadow of the mighty king –

(Ps 91:2) I say this about the LORD, my shelter and my stronghold, my God in whom I trust –

(Ps 91:3) he will certainly rescue you from the snare of the hunter and from the destructive plague.

(Ps 91:4) He will shelter you with his wings; you will find safety under his wings. His faithfulness is like a shield or a protective wall.

(Ps 91:5) You need not fear the terrors of the night, the arrow that flies by day,

(Ps 91:6) the plague that comes in the darkness, or the disease that comes at noon.(Ps 91:7) Though a thousand may fall beside you, and a multitude on your right side, it will not reach you.

(Ps 91:8) Certainly you will see it with your very own eyes – you will see the wicked paid back.

(Ps 91:9) For you have taken refuge in the LORD, my shelter, the sovereign One.

(Ps 91:10) No harm will overtake you; no illness will come near your home.

(Ps 91:11) For he will order his angels to protect you in all you do.

(Ps 91:12) They will lift you up in their hands, so you will not slip and fall on a stone.(Ps 91:13) You will subdue a lion and a snake; you will trample underfoot a young lion and a serpent.

(Ps 91:14) The LORD says, “Because he is devoted to me, I will deliver him; I will protect him because he is loyal to me.

(Ps 91:15) When he calls out to me, I will answer him. I will be with him when he is in trouble; I will rescue him and bring him honor.

(Ps 91:16) I will satisfy him with long life, and will let him see my salvation.

(Ps 28:7) The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.(Ps 28:8) The LORD is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed.(Ps 28:9) Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever.

‘Thank you God. Your word is active.’

(Heb 4:6) Therefore it remains for some to enter it, yet those to whom it was previously proclaimed did not enter because of disobedience.(Heb 4:7) So God again ordains a certain day, “Today,” speaking through David after so long a time, as in the words quoted before, “O, that today you would listen as he speaks! Do not harden your hearts.”(Heb 4:8) For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken afterward about another day.(Heb 4:9) Consequently a Sabbath rest remains for the people of God.(Heb 4:10) For the one who enters God’s rest has also rested from his works, just as God did from his own works.(Heb 4:11) Thus we must make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by following the same pattern of disobedience.(Heb 4:12) For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart.(Heb 4:13) And no creature is hidden from God, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.(Heb 4:14) Therefore since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession.(Heb 4:15) For we do not have a high priest incapable of sympathizing with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way just as we are, yet without sin.(Heb 4:16) Therefore let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace whenever we need help.

(Heb 4:11) Thus we must make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by following the same pattern of disobedience.

(Heb 4:12) For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart.

(Heb 4:13) And no creature is hidden from God, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.

(Heb 4:12) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

quick = G2198 (Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries)

G2198 ζάω zao (dzah’-o) v.

1. to live

{literally or figuratively}

[a primary verb]

KJV: life(-time), (a-)live(-ly), quick

powerful =G1756 (Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries)

G1756 ἐνεργής energes (en-er-gace’) adj.

1. active, operative

[from G1722 and G2041]

KJV: effectual, powerful

Root(s): G1722, G2041

[?]

Sharper = sharper

The word of God is alive,

active,

and

sharp.

How sharp? Sharp enough to be able to

divide soul from spirit, and joints from marrow;

It is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart.

‘Thank you Jesus for always revealing. Teach me to be like you and show me more.

Help me see and help me hear.

Help me rely on you more and more and to build greater trust. I love you.’

Relationship is the remedy

God is beautiful.

The more I know that the more I see the beauty in Him. The more I hope the more hope I have Ultimately I begin to see my beauty and get refreshed by His hope.

‘Jesus, I love you. Help my love for you grow. You are beautiful and I love being with you. This is my ultimate truth. Not that I am striving to love. I am sorry for thinking love was a thing I could check of my to do list for the day. I love you in that I want to be with you more often more powerfully more truly throughout my life more often and in real relationship with you.’

If Adam and Eve had waited for God they would not have sinned.

If Moses had paid attention to the exact words God spoke he would not have sinned.

If I do God’s word. I no longer deceive myself.

(Jas 1:22) But be you doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

David would also not have sinned if he didn’t desire Bathsheba more than

God.

It boils down to the three things that cause sin…

(1John 2:15) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

(1John 2:16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

(1John 2:17) And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that does the will of God abides forever.

Moses struck the rock twice before the commandments were given. Before the ark was built and before the altar was built.

After the burning bush and after the exodus and after the Passover.

‘Father, help me keep fresh how important it is to do your will. Thank you for showing me that your will is delightful, joyful and hopeful. I love doing your will. I love participating with you in what you are doing. It is a privilege and delight to me. Forgive me for grumbling and resisting, please. Maintain my happy heart, my heart that loves you in relationship not duty.’

(Ps 51:6) Behold, you desire truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part you shall make me to know wisdom.

(Ps 51:7) Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

(Ps 51:8) Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which you have broken may rejoice.

Ps 51:9) Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

(Ps 51:10) Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

(Ps 51:11) Cast me not away from your presence; and take not your holy Spirit from me.

(Ps 51:12) Restore unto me the joy of your salvation; and uphold me with a free spirit.

(Ps 51:13) Then will I teach transgressors your ways; and sinners shall be converted unto you.

(Ps 51:14) Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of your righteousness.

(Ps 51:15) O Lord, open my lips; and my mouth shall show forth your praise.

(Ps 51:17) The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

(Ps 52:1) To the Chief Musician, a maschil. A Psalm of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech. Why boast you yourself in evil, O mighty man? the goodness of God endures continually.

(Ps 52:7) Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness.

(Ps 52:8) But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever.

(Ps 52:9) I will praise you forever, because you have done it: and I will wait on your name; for it is good before your saints.

‘Help me Jesus, not to trust my own strength but to rely on you and you alone.’

Doeg was there when David and his men ate the showbread. Doeg did not receive the right message though. He led many and slaughtered many priests. -kind of Hitler like or like Paul – when he was Saul.

What did Doeg overlook at the showbread incident?

That rules are not the underlying thing to do?

Or maybe He did not value the rules at all anymore. ‘I can make my own rules.”

Either way, the real bad thing is that he focused on himself instead of God. The real tragedy. How all mankind always sins and always fails.

(1John 2:15) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

(1John 2:16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

(1John 2:17) And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that does the will of God abides forever.

I must know God to know His will which is the remedy for all evil.

The lust of my flesh is abated by turning to God. I need not lust anymore.

The lust of my eyes is turned to the appreciation of God’s beauty.

The pride of my life is completely ended because I value Jesus’ conquering death, I rely on Him, I turn to Him.

When I see How Great He is, I am naturally and easily removed from pride in my self toward appreciation of Him.

‘Thank you Jesus. Thank you.

Holy, Holy, Holy are you.’

They say it takes three repeats to learn something.

I rely on you Jesus.

Keep repenting – be honest and brave

Sometimes it is hard to share with God. But I must repent. I must be brave and honest and tell Him where I am. (Gen 3:9) But the LORD God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?”

Other times it is hard to hear what God says. Hard to really believe. Hard to let it sink in. Hard to turn from the wrong way to His true way and life.

Nothing is impossible for God including changing hearts. He has changed mine and continues to on a regular basis.

Listen a little more to Genesis story. What is Adam doing?

(Gen 3:10) The man replied, “I heard you moving about in the orchard, and I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid.”

(Gen 3:11) And the LORD God said, “Who told you that you were naked? Did you eat from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?”

(Gen 3:12) The man said, “The woman whom you gave me, she gave me some fruit from the tree and I ate it.”

(Gen 3:13) So the LORD God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” And the woman replied, “The serpent tricked me, and I ate.”

Adam knows that He is naked now. Naked is not a sin. More honestly Adam knows he sined and is embarrassed about this. He disobeyed what God advised him to do.

Then the blame game – the woman made me do it, and the woman says the serpent tricked me.

Not taking responsibility for what they know was wrong

God gives Adam two chances after Adam tries to ‘lie’. did you eat from the tree of knowledge? and who told you that you were naked?

Either one would lead Adam back to the truth and God. If Adam said, ‘ok I was misled. I listened to someone else’s advice instead of listening to you.’ That would have been a good start back. Or be honest about how he knew he was naked. Adam needed to take responsibility and repent.

I did eat of the tree of knowledge and I’m sorry.

Not, ‘it was the woman you gave me’, or ‘I was afraid because I was naked so I hid.’

These words contain some truth. Adam felt naked emotionally because He knew God knows him very intimately. Its almost like He is embarrassed to be that close to Him.

How do we have courage enough to engage in the kind of intimacy Jesus offers us?

‘Teach me and give me your courage and grace. Thank you Jesus.’

God loves me so much that He wants to take me back to before Adam choose poorly and renew the way He used to walk with all men in the garden of eden together.

This is possible right now through Jesus our redeemer.

(Song 8:5) The Maidens about His Beloved: Who is this coming up from the desert, leaning on her beloved? The Beloved to Her Lover: Under the apple tree I aroused you; there your mother conceived you, there she who bore you was in labor of childbirth.

(Song 8:5) Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved? I raised thee up under the apple tree: there thy mother brought thee forth: there she brought thee forth that bare thee.

The word raised is ” H5782 (Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries)

H5782 עוּר `uwr (oor) v.

1. to wake (literally or figuratively)

[a primitive root (rather identical with H5783 through the idea of opening the eyes)]

KJV: (a- )wake(-n, up), lift up (self), X master, raise (up), stir up (self).

Root(s): H5783 “

‘Help me rely on you Jesus. To lean on you. You are my beloved. My groom. You created me and you know me. Thank you. All praise to you.’

‘Help me to stop agreeing with the devil when I say, “yes I am bad.”

You think I am very good.’

This is Holy ground because I’m standing here.

I am a child of God.

What was Jesus doing in the garden of Gethsemane?

(Matt 26:38) Then he said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved, even to the point of death. Remain here and stay awake with me.”

(Matt 26:39) Going a little farther, he threw himself down with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if possible, let this cup pass from me! Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

I have often thought it was harder for Jesus to lie down His life because He values life more than ordinary people do. God does not die. But He did, once. For us out of love and love is greater than death.

I have not been so sad that I was close to dying. I have not resisted sin to the point of shedding blood either. God give me strength.

It is not a bleak future. It is full of hope. Jesus has conquered those things for us forever, but we are not a perfect world yet. We will be soon is the final word. ‘Shine your light through me Jesus to participate in your transformation of the whole world. And when I fail help me to turn back quickly and teach me so that I can fall less often.’

‘Thank you for pointing out gross misconceptions that I have. It is a joy for me to work on things that I have power to change through you. Like being patient.

I should rather say I like being with you because you conquer these pesky habits of mishandling myself.’

What was Jesus doing in Gethsemane?

“Of course, the most important impact of this night was the willingness of our Savior to die on the cross in our place in order to pay the penalty for our sins. God “made Him who knew no sin, to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). This is the gospel of Jesus Christ.” -http://www.gotquestions.org/garden-of-Gethsemane.html

(2Cor 5:18) And all these things are from God who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and who has given us the ministry of reconciliation.

(2Cor 5:19) In other words, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting people’s trespasses against them, and he has given us the message of reconciliation.

(2Cor 5:20) Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His plea through us. We plead with you on Christ’s behalf, “Be reconciled to God!”

(2Cor 5:21) God made the one who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that in him we would become the righteousness of God.

God wants you back. He has not abandoned you. He has given everything to get you back.

Wow and wow.

Trust

There is an initial fear in hearing God. What if He sends me to Africa?

After listening a while, I found He is really more interested in getting to know me and for me to get to know Him. And to let other people into this triangle.

He is including not excluding.

And after a while longer, yes He says things I don’t want to hear. Only after the relationship is established and only after there is a bond that can not be broken. Then the hard stuff comes.

Perhaps not go to Africa but to forgive people I don’t want to forgive. Or to do things that are inconvenient for me.

All the while building more trust because the things I don’t think would be so fun turn out to be the most satisfying things in the world.

‘Praise you Jesus for knowing me and showing me how I was created to work. You are beautiful.’

‘Change me. Jesus, change my heart and mind and spirit toward you. Grow me into your image.’

God’s image is not like us. He created us in His image which is a privilege but I have to live up to that image, have to grow into it. I have to become it more completely.

‘I trust you Jesus.’

Ok, I got one. When God reveals stuff to me instead of being thankful and asking Him what I should do with it. I get all proud and think ‘aren’t I special because I know something’

‘I am sorry. Please forgive me Jesus. You know everything. You see everything.

Please guide me to what I am supposed to do with the knowledge and wisdom You give.’

I read a sign this morning that said, ‘what wisdom can be found that is greater than kindness?’

‘Jesus, help me not get distracted by great things but always turn back to loving you and how you love me.’

Not that revelation is separate from love. We are intimate together by revealing ourselves to each other. But me knowing your strengths and weaknesses does not give me the opportunity to coerce you now. It is a gift to receive and I respond by opening myself up to you. By sharing honestly where I am and things about me.

God doesn’t really need to hear anything about me – He already knows everything about me. He wants me to share in order to be intimate and for me to hear it myself. For me to grow.

Growth and love often happens by sharing. It is part of doing. Doing is not always buying flowers but can also be a word or a decision to spend time or a kiss.

‘Thank you Jesus for meeting me where I am every morning.

Thank you for your creativity and showing me many ways to meet. Its never just one way or keep the same rule or do it the same every-time.’

When I made my first program it was very important to have the escape button. Otherwise the computer would just get stuck in the infinite loop and become useless.

‘Jesus you are my escape button. Get me out of the ruts I have created to follow you no matter what the cost.

Thank you for your gentle creativity and nudging to always show me what is best for me.’

Appropriate end

Start with insecurity:

My confidence comes from Jesus.

Don’t just know something know it deep. Obsess over it. Take it in. Agree with it.

How do I do that with how you see me?

I remember feeling like junk and thinking I am junk. A throw away. I remember agreeing with that as a small child. Crying because I was nothing but junk. I don’t really remember why and I don’t think I did anything to think that way.

‘Please Jesus rip out that agreement. I destroy that contract.

I want covenant with you. Not because I’m perfect but because you satisfied my end of the bargain already. Your grace is a free gift and I want to cash that check.

Make it so there is no mistake. I have no part in the good that you do. Cleanse me.

I am tired of taking your glory to satisfy my insecurity. I feel actually secure in your arms of love.

Help me stay with you throughout the day. Come inside me and dwell with me more completely.’

‘you can have all this world give me Jesus.’

‘His banner over me is love…’

‘Yes, Lord, Jesus, fill me so full that Your love pours out of me like a fountain of everlasting strong water.’

(Exod 17:15) And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it, The LORD is my banner:

(Exod 17:15) And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah nissi:

(Ps 60:3) You have shown your people hard things: you have made us to drink the wine of astonishment.

(Ps 60:4) You have given a banner to them that fear you, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah.

(Ps 60:5) That your beloved may be delivered; save with your right hand, and hear me.

(Ps 60:11) Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man.

(Ps 60:12) Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies.

Love has come.

(Song 2:4) He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love.

‘You felt like trash, now feel My Love – and agree with that.’

‘I do,

I feel so loved that I believe you like me. I believe I actually am something good. That I was created for good things. Praise you Jesus.

I trust that you will sink this into my spirit where it belongs.

Its only by keeping you on the throne of my heart.

I don’t want to step back on the land of my control. I would rather wade deeper and deeper into your all consuming love.’

‘No matter what happens, I am with you.’

‘You are good and anything good in me is You.

My heart is for you right now Jesus. I want to kiss you. Guard me when I might not feel like it. When I’m ashamed or afraid. Be with me then. Over and over. I must turn to you. Not dwell on the waves. I see them but I know you are greater than the waves.’

‘ Peter could have kept on top of the water.’

(Matt 14:24) But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.

(Matt 14:25) And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.

(Matt 14:26) And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.

(Matt 14:27) But immediately Jesus spoke unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

(Matt 14:28) And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be you, bid me come unto you on the water.

(Matt 14:29) And he said, Come. And when Peter came down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.

(Matt 14:30) But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.

(Matt 14:31) And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O you of little faith, why did you doubt?

(Matt 14:32) And when they came into the ship, the wind ceased.

Matt 14:33) Then they that were in the ship came and worshiped him, saying, Of a truth you are the Son of God.

Notice the first perception of Jesus. It is wrong. Jesus is not a ghost. Didn’t they already start fearing in a bad way. ‘Oh no there is a storm. What’s that a ghost?” Bad question. The fear is setting in. They are agreeing with it.

Just don’t worry about tomorrow or two seconds from now.

” matt 14:27 Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid”

and He said “Come” – Peter asked for some awesome miracle. And Jesus called him to Him.

How often is Jesus saying “Come” when I’m drifting away or starting to get sad or angry…

Just listen to Him, “Come” , “Come”, “Come”

If worse comes to worst, cry out, “Jesus save me.” – this is His name ‘Hosanna’ Oh save.

It is a war. Sin is the enemy. Separation.

The answer is togetherness, Love, being saved by the almighty holy all powerful savior of the world.

Matt 14:31) And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O you of little faith, why did you doubt?

Immediately He stretches out his hand and catches us.

Not in a little while but immediately.

Then teaches us more. Have more faith next time. Like He was saying, “You know I will take care of you.”

‘Jesus I know you will take care of me more than I think bad about myself or the situation or any person or you. I am sorry for all my doubt. I really am sorry for it. I weep. I commit to changing it.

To agree with you and take your hand that you are immediately stretching toward me.

Thank you for catching me.

Help me always to turn back to you.

I don’t expect that I will do it perfectly, but I believe you can make me more perfect.’

I remember the exact thing I agreed to. ‘Since I am not perfect right now, I’m no good.’

What do you think Jesus?

“‘Let me tell you a few things.

I died to take away your sin. It is over. Game over, I won. you can play and play but everyone looses except one. me.”

The more bound up with me you become, The more my righteousness and love will flow through you. You are doing good. Keep walking with me. I love you.

I value all of my creation. Think about your own children. Do you hate them or think they are unlovable because they did something mean to you or turned their back on you? No, never. You would always welcome them back with open arms. The prodigal returns. “

‘It seems a lot like how much greater you are than I imagined, is that correct?’

“Yes, you see nothing compared to me. I see every tear. I long to comfort you.”

‘Let me keep being honest and brave.’

” These are great qualities that I created you to have. I will be your Holy friend. Trust me. Be of great faith. Come. My hand is outstretched. Grab it and never let go.”

‘I am concerned about making it through the night. I know how I am in t’he morning all groggy. ‘

“Stop right there. It doesn’t have to be like that. I will wake you up. Fully and completely.

You only need to call out.

Be of good cheer. Be not afraid.

Of all the things you have to do tomorrow, I am only concerned with one – are you trusting me?

Have you grabbed a hold of my hand and are you keeping on the walk that we have started?

If not, cry out. I will be there immediately. I don’t delay.”

‘Thank you God for healing me here. It feels tender still. But so good – the healing. Deep deep inside. You are gentle and kind, my holy friend, a good gardener, a great teacher a strong god, the one and only creator. Thank you for teaching me how I was made and for what purposes.’

(John 1:12) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the children of God, even to them that believe on his name:

become = G1096 (Mickelson’s Enhanced Strong’s Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries)

G1096 γίνομαι ginomai (ghin’-om-ai) v.

1. to cause to be (“gen”-erate)

2. (reflexively) to become (come into being)

{used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)}

[a prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb]

KJV: arise, be assembled, be(-come, -fall, -have self), be brought (to pass), (be) come (to pass), continue, be divided, draw, be ended, fall, be finished, follow, be found, be fulfilled, + God forbid, grow, happen, have, be kept, be made, be married, be ordained to be, partake, pass, be performed, be published, require, seem, be showed, X soon as it was, sound, be taken, be turned, use, wax, will, would, be wrought

[?]

Ginomai mentioned in Acts 91 times:

Acts 1:16; Acts 1:18-20; Acts 1:22; Acts 2:2; Acts 2:6; Acts 2:43; Acts 4:4; Acts 4:11; Acts 4:16; Acts 4:21-22; Acts 4:28; Acts 4:30; Acts 5:5; Acts 5:7; Acts 5:11-12; Acts 5:24; Acts 5:36; Acts 6:1; Acts 7:29; Acts 7:31; Acts 7:40; Acts 7:52; Acts 8:1; Acts 8:13; Acts 9:3; Acts 9:37; Acts 9:42; Acts 10:4; Acts 10:10; Acts 10:13; Acts 10:16; Acts 10:37; Acts 10:40; Acts 11:10; Acts 11:19; Acts 11:28; Acts 12:5; Acts 12:9; Acts 12:11; Acts 12:18; Acts 13:5; Acts 13:12; Acts 13:32; Acts 14:3; Acts 14:5; Acts 15:2; Acts 15:7; Acts 15:25; Acts 15:39; Acts 16:16; Acts 16:26; Acts 16:35; Acts 19:1; Acts 19:10; Acts 19:17; Acts 19:21; Acts 19:23; Acts 19:26; Acts 19:34; Acts 20:3; Acts 20:16; Acts 21:14; Acts 21:17; Acts 21:35; Acts 22:6; Acts 22:17; Acts 23:7; Acts 23:9-10; Acts 24:2; Acts 24:25; Acts 25:26; Acts 26:4; Acts 26:6; Acts 26:19; Acts 26:22; Acts 26:29; Acts 26:32; Acts 27:7; Acts 27:16; Acts 27:27; Acts 27:33; Acts 27:39; Acts 27:44; Acts 28:6; Acts 28:8-9

The more I say it, The more I believe it, the more I become it. ‘I am God’s child adopted through the sacrifice of Jesus.’

‘I am excited. Help me not to be distracted by joy and excitement either. I have used these in bad ways also. To be proud and take the credit. I repent of this Jesus. Guide me and teach me your ways to fear and be overcome by you instead of being proud.

I know in my heart. In the true part of me. That everything good in me is you.

I see how big you are. How Holy and Scary. In the way that you made big things. Your ways are beyond my ways. I can understand some but oh how far I have to go. You are so overwhelming.

Thank you Jesus. Thank you. Tell me more how to combat pride.

Keep my mind quiet and focused on you. I don’t care if I am stupid. I would rather be stupid and focused on you that smart and far away. -This is true to my core.’

Jeremiah 9:and to trust not in themselves, but in God

23 Thus says the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: 24 But let him that glories glory in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, says the LORD.

(Prov 8:17) I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

(Prov 8:13) The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the perverse mouth, do I hate.

Why would God give us hate? To hate evil which is pride, arrogance and the evil way.

also the perverse mouth.

(Rom 12:1) I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

(Rom 12:2) And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

(Rom 12:3) For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith.

(Rom 12:4) For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

(Rom 12:5) So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

(Rom 12:6) Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;

(Rom 12:7) Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teaches, on teaching;

(Rom 12:8) Or he that exhorts, on exhortation: he that gives, let him do it in simplicity; he that rules, with diligence; he that shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

(Rom 12:9) Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

(Rom 12:10) Be tender loving one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another;

(Rom 12:11) Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

(Rom 12:12) Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; constant in prayer;

(Rom 12:13) Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

(Rom 12:14) Bless them who persecute you: bless, and curse not.

(Rom 12:15) Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

(Rom 12:16) Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

(Rom 12:17) Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

(Rom 12:18) If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men.

(Rom 12:19) Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.

(Rom 12:20) Therefore if your enemy hungers, feed him; if he thirsts, give him drink: for in so doing you shall heap coals of fire on his head.

(Rom 12:21) Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

‘God, I feel thankful. You are precious to me. It is not anything I did. I did not find you. You found me. I did not re birth myself. ‘

(John 3:4) Nicodemus said unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?

This is a good human question. It implies that I have to do something in order for it to be done to me. And yet I have to do some things. I must repent. Even this I don’t understand fully.

Teach me how to repent better, Jesus. To accept more the gift which you gave on the cross. The gift of your blood that cleanses me.

It is not a mantra or magic saying ‘oh the blood’ It is real.

More real than my hand.

‘Thank you for the insight of why you like raising hands. So you can see the palms. Because your hands have holes and ours do not and we are yours.’

‘I’m a little scared of going asleep.

Help me not forget this time together. Make it happen again tomorrow. And again and again.

Thank you also for the gift of prayer language. How lacking is my own language. I like how you picked greek and hebrew to write your word in. They are rich languages.

ginomai (ghin’-om-ai) Jesus.

Help me to become more Holy like you.

more wholly like you and more like you who are Holy beyond all.

Help me tomorrow to use your prayer language whenever I feel insecure.

Help me to call out to you. Be my first turn. Help me Jesus help me.

I grab your hand.

I come when you call. I come.

I trust you and I know you can make me walk on the water.

I believe you do that and so much more.

Matt 14:31) And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O you of little faith, why did you doubt?

I know you will immediately stretch forth your hand and catch me.

Help me have greater faith and not doubt.

Thank you for growing my faith in you this much.

I want to continue on the journey with you and grow more in my faith of you.

I realize things don’t make sense to me sometimes until afterward. I trust you.

I realize timing is important.

Most of all I know you love me. You have proven it by your death and resurrection.

what more proof could be needed?’

“I have given you a new confidence just like you asked for in your heart. Its ok to voice these things.

You acted when I told you to point to me. Doing my word makes it come alive,

There are spiritual enemies out there which I have defeated. Stay close and they can not touch you.

Always rely on me. Always grab my hand. I am immediate in my help. I love you.

I see you as a precious child. I have given you my son.”

wow.

“Learn to recognize the attack. You are not groggy in the morning. the idea is being presented and you must reject it. You are my child. That is all you need to know.

Only take that in. Not other influences.

serve me.

I am a gentle master.”

(Matt 11:28) Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

(Matt 11:29) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls.

(Matt 11:30) For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

‘I have made my choice Jesus. I serve you. Like Joshua, as for me and my house we will serve the Lord.’

The idea of becoming a slave is repulsive. And yet the truth is I am a slave anyway only to the wrong things like sin, death and mammon – material stuff.

‘Help me know when to quit also. It is OK to end and say goodbye and go to sleep.

Let your song be with me while I sleep. Protect me and wake me up with my hand in yours.

Be my alarm saying trust me now.’

Be of good cheer it is I. ((Matt 14:27) But immediately Jesus spoke unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.)

‘Let me meet with you in my dreams.’

Scott's Blog

Jesus be with you

Why do I fail?

Why do I fail and what to do about it.

Want is trouble

There is a way to curb my appetite for evil.

How important is Forgiveness?

We Choose

Deception

What can protect us from sinning?

Love and Worship God

Where am I?

Relationship is the remedy

Keep repenting – be honest and brave

Trust

Appropriate end

Why do I fail and what to do about it.

Want is trouble

There is a way to curb my appetite for evil.

How important is Forgiveness?

We Choose

Deception

What can protect us from sinning?

Love and Worship God

Where am I?

Relationship is the remedy

Keep repenting – be honest and brave

Trust

Appropriate end

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