Hebrews 12:11 "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." (NIV)
Discipline: (3809 in Strong's Exhaustive Concordance): The Greek word for "discipline" is Paideia (pronounced pahee-di-ah). By implication, it means "disciplinary correction: chastening, chastisement, instruction, nurture."
Trained (1128): The Greek word for "trained" is Gumnazo (pronounced goom-nad-zo). It means "to train; exercise."
My Take
There are two ways to interpret this verse. One way is to look at discipline as a chastening from the Lord. The other way is to view it as instruction from the Lord. I believe though that these two interpretations intermingle with each other.
Discipline is a common theme in our household. We discipline the children when they do something wrong. We discpline our dog for tearing into the trash. When we do discipline, it is not for the sake of punishment. Granted, punishment may be involved so that our children will learn more about actions and consequences (the dog is hopeless), but we discipline in order to correct a behavior or action that is wrong.
Though we may be Christians, we are still human and still exercise free will. Sometimes we do things that are not in line with Abba's way, including actions that may harm ourselves or others. Since we are His children, He will discipline us in order to correct our behavior or action.
Don't think His discipline will take away our free will. We still have the choice to either accept or rebel against His discipline. When we do accept His discipline and train ourselves according to His will, we will reap righteousness and peace. Of course, when we rebel against the Lord, there is no peace because we are not in righteous standing with Him.
The other way to interpret this verse is to see discipline as instruction from the Lord. He shows us, through His Son Jesus, how we should live our lives. It is up to us to train ourselves, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to follow His examples, His instruction.
Whether the Lord is chastening you or instructing you, it is for the good. It may hurt, but the results will include peace and righteousness in God's eyes. As children of the Lord, that should be what we desire.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
I'm Back!
To begin with, I want to thank all of you who prayed for my Mom and the rest of my family while she was in the hospital. She is home and doing a lot better. Many prayers were answered. She amazed the doctors with her recovery (because the Lord healed her). For example, the pulminologist planned on keeping her sedated and on the ventilator for an additional day, but the fluid in her lungs started clearing faster than he thought it would. They took her off of sedation and tested her breathing ability. Her blood / oxygen levels did well while she wore the oxygen prong (the plastic tubing that goes up your nose).
I also want to thank those of you who sent me encouraging words of support. Those words helped me more than you know during a difficult time.
I plan on getting back on the blogging track beginning with my Word Study Wednesday tomorrow.
If you need prayer for anything, please let me know. I've always believed in the power of prayer and the events of last week strengthened that belief.
I also want to thank those of you who sent me encouraging words of support. Those words helped me more than you know during a difficult time.
I plan on getting back on the blogging track beginning with my Word Study Wednesday tomorrow.
If you need prayer for anything, please let me know. I've always believed in the power of prayer and the events of last week strengthened that belief.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
I dedicate this post to my mom.
I've always been thankful for my mom. We've had our disagreements, but I've never doubted her love for me. She let me know from an early age that she (and my dad) always loved me, no matter what. She also worked hard during my pesky teen years to maintain a close relationship with me (although I was nearly perfect - okay maybe not, but I can dream, right?). Though we may be hundreds of miles apart, we are still close. I call her looking for advice and I love telling her stories about her grandchildren.
One of the most important things she ever did for me (besides giving birth to me) occurred when I was five. I remember sitting in her lap and accepting Jesus as my savior. I may not have understood the complete importance of it at that time, but it impacted my life. I am forever thankful for that moment.
I truly never appreciated the difficult task of being a mom until I became one. So many of my emotions, thoughts, and actions dedicate themselves to my children. Though exhilirating, it is also exhausting. So, thank you Mom for your sacrifice, your wisdom, and your love. You are a blessing not only in my life, but in others as well. I love you.
PS: Mom, I'm listening to JG as I write this post in honor of you!
I've always been thankful for my mom. We've had our disagreements, but I've never doubted her love for me. She let me know from an early age that she (and my dad) always loved me, no matter what. She also worked hard during my pesky teen years to maintain a close relationship with me (although I was nearly perfect - okay maybe not, but I can dream, right?). Though we may be hundreds of miles apart, we are still close. I call her looking for advice and I love telling her stories about her grandchildren.
One of the most important things she ever did for me (besides giving birth to me) occurred when I was five. I remember sitting in her lap and accepting Jesus as my savior. I may not have understood the complete importance of it at that time, but it impacted my life. I am forever thankful for that moment.
I truly never appreciated the difficult task of being a mom until I became one. So many of my emotions, thoughts, and actions dedicate themselves to my children. Though exhilirating, it is also exhausting. So, thank you Mom for your sacrifice, your wisdom, and your love. You are a blessing not only in my life, but in others as well. I love you.
PS: Mom, I'm listening to JG as I write this post in honor of you!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Word Study Wednesday: Fear (Part 2)
Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrifed; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with your wherever you go."
My Take
God spoke these words to Joshua as He prepared him to take over the Promised Land thousands of years ago. He now uses these words to guide me through my writing career. Granted, my writing career does not entail physical war with large armies, but I am waging a war - with myself.
This past year battles raged inside me. Attacks from the enemy included "What would you write? Who would want to read something you wrote? You think you can really write?" But the message from my Commander came in loud and clear "I called you to write."
So, here I am today, writing a blog and working on a few submissions, no longer terrified, thanks to the LORD.
I will admit, discouragement, disguised as a rejection, snuck through my defense line, briefly. More attacks - "See, told you." More encouragement "I'm with you - write more." I accepted my rejection and am now re-working the article a bit for resubmission to another publication.
I've learned, re-learned, accepted, and rejected several issues throughout this battle. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that fear keeps us from our calling. Our enemy wants us to be terrified of the unknown and discouraged through rejection and failure because if we're not, then we are doing what God has called us to do - which terrifies the enemy.
My Take
God spoke these words to Joshua as He prepared him to take over the Promised Land thousands of years ago. He now uses these words to guide me through my writing career. Granted, my writing career does not entail physical war with large armies, but I am waging a war - with myself.
This past year battles raged inside me. Attacks from the enemy included "What would you write? Who would want to read something you wrote? You think you can really write?" But the message from my Commander came in loud and clear "I called you to write."
So, here I am today, writing a blog and working on a few submissions, no longer terrified, thanks to the LORD.
I will admit, discouragement, disguised as a rejection, snuck through my defense line, briefly. More attacks - "See, told you." More encouragement "I'm with you - write more." I accepted my rejection and am now re-working the article a bit for resubmission to another publication.
I've learned, re-learned, accepted, and rejected several issues throughout this battle. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that fear keeps us from our calling. Our enemy wants us to be terrified of the unknown and discouraged through rejection and failure because if we're not, then we are doing what God has called us to do - which terrifies the enemy.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Word Study Wednesday: Fear
Psalm 46:1, 2: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea..."
My Take
Today's news is full of fearful things: swine flu, tanked economy, food shortages, severe weather, terrorism, and the list continues. It is understandable if people live in fear. But we as Christians are called to live a life a faith, not fear. I'm probably the last person who should be talking about this as I tend to turn to fear first before faith, but I'm learning.
God is our hiding place, our shelter for when we are weary. God is strong for us and is always there for us. He is our Father and we are His children. No verses illustrate this point more than Luke 22:42 - 44:
"'Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.' 43An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him (emphasis: mine). 44And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."
As a disciple of Christ, we are to follow His example. In this case, when Jesus felt anguish, He prayed to His heavenly Father - our heavenly Father.
This is our chance, as Christians, to let others see God in us. When you feel weak or tired, seek the Lord - He will strengthen you. Even if the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the sea.
Update: After posting, I remembered a quote I wanted to add here. I'm not sure who said it, but if someone does, please let me know. "Fear is to Satan what faith is to God."
My Take
Today's news is full of fearful things: swine flu, tanked economy, food shortages, severe weather, terrorism, and the list continues. It is understandable if people live in fear. But we as Christians are called to live a life a faith, not fear. I'm probably the last person who should be talking about this as I tend to turn to fear first before faith, but I'm learning.
God is our hiding place, our shelter for when we are weary. God is strong for us and is always there for us. He is our Father and we are His children. No verses illustrate this point more than Luke 22:42 - 44:
"'Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.' 43An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him (emphasis: mine). 44And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."
As a disciple of Christ, we are to follow His example. In this case, when Jesus felt anguish, He prayed to His heavenly Father - our heavenly Father.
This is our chance, as Christians, to let others see God in us. When you feel weak or tired, seek the Lord - He will strengthen you. Even if the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the sea.
Update: After posting, I remembered a quote I wanted to add here. I'm not sure who said it, but if someone does, please let me know. "Fear is to Satan what faith is to God."
Monday, April 27, 2009
Embracing the Experience
Jeremiah 29:11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'"
Fear flowed through me when I learned of our relocation to Colorado. I lived in Texas for 17 years, and, despite the severe storms and hot summers, I enjoyed living there. My parents and brother lived only minutes away. I knew I would miss them terribly and regretted the fact that my children would not have grandparents and an uncle living nearby. I would also miss my friends. My family and I were starting over.
On the other hand, I realized this move was an opportunity for my husband. He worked really hard at his job, and I felt he deserved this promotion (I'm not biased or anything). After a few weeks of dwelling on the subject, I started to see the move as an adventure - a new state, new friends, and so on. What I didn't count on was a spiritual awakening.
You see, after a couple of years of the same routine, I became numb. Not numb towards family and friends, just numb inside towards daily life. I went through the motions. I also let my spiritual life become numb. The Lord used this move to shake up my life.
After the big move, I felt different - scared, but invigorated. I ventured out, became familiar with my new surroundings (I must say I have a great view of the Rockies). I joined a local writer's group. I hadn't even thought about writing in over three years. I attended a Bible study. During this time of newness, God opened my eyes to my spiritual state and awakened my soul to His mercies, grace, and love. He reminded me that I am His and He has a plan not just for my family, but for me as well. He also has me facing fears and conquering them (this blog is proof).
I am now thankful for this move. Sure, I'll complain about the April snow (a new experience, indeed) and miss my family a lot, but I feel I am where the Lord wants me to be. And I am embracing it.
Are you embracing your experience?
Fear flowed through me when I learned of our relocation to Colorado. I lived in Texas for 17 years, and, despite the severe storms and hot summers, I enjoyed living there. My parents and brother lived only minutes away. I knew I would miss them terribly and regretted the fact that my children would not have grandparents and an uncle living nearby. I would also miss my friends. My family and I were starting over.
On the other hand, I realized this move was an opportunity for my husband. He worked really hard at his job, and I felt he deserved this promotion (I'm not biased or anything). After a few weeks of dwelling on the subject, I started to see the move as an adventure - a new state, new friends, and so on. What I didn't count on was a spiritual awakening.
You see, after a couple of years of the same routine, I became numb. Not numb towards family and friends, just numb inside towards daily life. I went through the motions. I also let my spiritual life become numb. The Lord used this move to shake up my life.
After the big move, I felt different - scared, but invigorated. I ventured out, became familiar with my new surroundings (I must say I have a great view of the Rockies). I joined a local writer's group. I hadn't even thought about writing in over three years. I attended a Bible study. During this time of newness, God opened my eyes to my spiritual state and awakened my soul to His mercies, grace, and love. He reminded me that I am His and He has a plan not just for my family, but for me as well. He also has me facing fears and conquering them (this blog is proof).
I am now thankful for this move. Sure, I'll complain about the April snow (a new experience, indeed) and miss my family a lot, but I feel I am where the Lord wants me to be. And I am embracing it.
Are you embracing your experience?
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Word Study Wednesday: Name of the LORD
Psalm 113:3: "From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised."
Name (8034 Strong's Exhaustive Concordance - Hebrew) shem (shame): by implication honor, authority, character
LORD (3068) Yehovah (yeh-ho-vaw): Self-Existent or eternal; Jewish national name of God; Jehovah the Lord
Praised (1984) halal (haw-lal): Make a show to praise, give thanks, cheer, extol, to make one's boast (in the name of God)
My Take
I like the definition to "name." In essence, the name - the honor, the authority, the character of the LORD is to be praised. No matter what we are going through - good times or bad - we are to praise:
I also believe a good starting place is to know the many names of the LORD. Recently, some friends and I finished studying Kay Arthur's book LORD, I Want to Know You. In this book, Arthur explains the names of the LORD. This study reminded me of the many characteristics of our LORD. He is our Creator, Healer, Shepherd, Provider, and so many other things. Understanding these different aspects of God's character has made my praise, worship, and prayers more intimate. I not only praise Him as God, but I also praise Him as the LORD who is there (Jehovah-shammah) or the LORD who sanctifies me (Jehovah-mekkodishkem).
We need to praise God, not only for what He has done for us, but because of who He is. Whether we are experiencing great or painful times, scary or silly moments, the name of the LORD should be praised.
Name (8034 Strong's Exhaustive Concordance - Hebrew) shem (shame): by implication honor, authority, character
LORD (3068) Yehovah (yeh-ho-vaw): Self-Existent or eternal; Jewish national name of God; Jehovah the Lord
Praised (1984) halal (haw-lal): Make a show to praise, give thanks, cheer, extol, to make one's boast (in the name of God)
My Take
I like the definition to "name." In essence, the name - the honor, the authority, the character of the LORD is to be praised. No matter what we are going through - good times or bad - we are to praise:
- His honor: He will not do anything or have us do anything that will bring dishonor to His name
- His authority: He is God - creator of Heaven and Earth. He is our creator
- His character: He has so many facets to His character - provider, healer, banner, shepherd (just to name a few)
I also believe a good starting place is to know the many names of the LORD. Recently, some friends and I finished studying Kay Arthur's book LORD, I Want to Know You. In this book, Arthur explains the names of the LORD. This study reminded me of the many characteristics of our LORD. He is our Creator, Healer, Shepherd, Provider, and so many other things. Understanding these different aspects of God's character has made my praise, worship, and prayers more intimate. I not only praise Him as God, but I also praise Him as the LORD who is there (Jehovah-shammah) or the LORD who sanctifies me (Jehovah-mekkodishkem).
We need to praise God, not only for what He has done for us, but because of who He is. Whether we are experiencing great or painful times, scary or silly moments, the name of the LORD should be praised.
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