spirituality – Bible Treasures for Today

Do Not Fear God’s Plan. Embrace it!

July 11, 2013 by markjemilbooth, posted in Bible Study, Christian Biography, Christian Life, Sacrifice for Christ

The Smoky Mountains at Sunrise (Photo by: Mark J. Booth)

A young girl was suddenly confronted by a strange visitor whom she had never seen before in her village of Nazareth. This visitor greeted her with very strange words. “Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”

What was going on in Mary’s mind as she heard these words? The Bible says that she was troubled in her heart and was quite perplexed. She probably couldn’t understand why this visitor was talking with her. In her humility, she couldn’t believe what the visitor was saying about her character and her close walk with God.

Mary’s life would soon change in a way that she would never imagine. God chose her to give birth to the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Because of God’s plan for her life, she would almost lose her future husband Joseph. She would face misunderstanding. She would give birth to the Messiah in a stable. She would see her son suffer and then die upon the cross. Mary didn’t choose this type of life, but God chose it for her.

Mary had a choice when her visitor, God’s angel, shared God’s plan with her. She could fear God’s plan and reject it, or she could heed the words of the angel: “Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.” (Luke 1:30) Mary chose to embrace God’s plan when she said: “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.” (Luke 1:38) Mary cast away her fears and embraced God’s plan for her life in spite of the obstacles she would face.

God’s plan can create fear in our lives. We fear surrendering ourselves totally to God because His plan may include pain, suffering, rejection, and sacrifice. Our fear causes us to forget that our loving God knows what is best for us and for those around us. We find it difficult to say: “I am your servant. Do as you please with my life.”

All through the Bible, we see people who did not fear God’s plan, but embraced it.

Abraham embraced God’s plan when he left all that he knew to go to an unknown land.
Moses embraced God’s plan when he left the quiet life in the desert to lead God’s people.
Joshua embraced God’s plan when he defeated Jericho according to God’s plan of action.
Ruth embraced God’s plan when she left her land of Moab to go to Israel.
Jeremiah embraced God’s plan in spite of the persecution he faced.
Hosea embraced God’s plan when it didn’t make sense to him.
Steven embraced God’s plan though it meant certain death.

Will we listen to God’s voice when he says: “Fear Not”? Will we embrace His plan regardless of the consequences? When we embrace God’s plan, we will not only be blessed of God, but we will also be a blessing to others as Mary has been a blessing to the world.

David shares His desire to embrace God’s plan when he wrote: “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.”
(Psalm 143:10) God is good and His plans for our lives will lead us into a life of blessing and joy. Let’s not fear God’s plan today, but let us embrace His plan with all of our hearts.

God: The Lifter Up of My Soul (Psalm 3)

February 15, 2013January 9, 2014 by markjemilbooth, posted in Bible Study, Christian Life, God's Attributes, Prayer, Psalms

The Canadian Rockies (Photo by Mark J. Booth)

Hurt and discouragement are realities in every person’s life. We have felt the painful arrow of someone’s words. We have experienced being misunderstood or betrayed. Discouragement settles into our lives as an unwelcomed guest. Even our friends can do nothing to relieve us of our painful hearts. We don’t know where to turn.

King David had these very same experiences in his life. He had enemies who were out to get him. His few remaining friends pushed him into a deeper despair by saying that God had abandoned him. He shares his experience in Psalm 3. This Psalm begins with David expressing the helplessness of his soul: “Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.” (Psalm 3:1-2)

The words: “There is no help for him in God.” cry out for an answer. We have all faced discouragement because of circumstances, people who don’t like us, and our own actions. However, when those who are closest to us give up hope for us, what are we to do? We often crawl into our shell and nurse our broken heart alone.

In the midst of the darkness of his soul, David looks up to God. Has God abandoned him? No! He finds his hope and encouragement once again in God. He reaffirms his faith and trust in God: “But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.” (Psalm 3:3)

God is his protector (shield) in spite of his enemies.
God will be glorified, in spite of his circumstances.
God will lift up his soul unto joy and encouragement in spite of his despair.

After David reaffirms his trust in God, he then cries out for God to act in his behalf. “I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah” (Psalm 3:4) God is waiting for us to cry out to Him. Our Heavenly Father knows all about our enemies, pain, trials, and discouragement; however, He chooses to wait until we humble ourselves before Him. Our crying out to Him is saying: “Lord, I have no where else to turn. I desperately need you. Please come and deliver me.” God will hear our cry and respond.

David’s situation has yet to change, but he has changed. He knows that God is working everything for His glory. David no longer faces sleepless nights turning his bed. “I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.” (Psalm 3:5) We don’t have to lie awake at night worrying about our enemies, future and tribulations. Sleep comes when we remember that the Lord is our shield. Nothing can enter our lives that doesn’t first pass through his loving presence.

The dread of each day would no longer be a part of David’s life. “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.” (Psalm 3:6) We don’t have to wake up in the morning filled with fear of what will happen. God is in control. He is the One who restores our confidence and hope. Each day is a new opportunity to bring glory to God who has lifted up our soul

David concludes with confidence that God will show His justice upon his enemies. “Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone;thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.” (Psalm 3:7) When we turn to God, we are free to allow Him to deal with those who have committed evil, whether it be against us, or others. We are free from bitterness when we commit them completely to the justice of God.

Turning to God has caused a transformation in David’s life. In the beginning of the Psalm, David’s soul is downcast and hopeless, but at the end of the Psalm, he proclaims that he is greatly blessed by God. “Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.” (Psalm 3:8)

God transforms our despair into joy, peace, comfort, courage and blessing. God’s ears are always open to our cry. Are we ready to cry out to Him?

“Dear Lord, I have a heavy heart. My life seems hopeless. Those around me say that I am beyond your help. Yet, I know that you hear my cry unto you. Your Word tells me that you are my Protector. Help me to hide behind your shield. Give me the grace to live for your glory. Thank you for lifting up my soul no matter how low it may go. You alone can restore my hope, my joy, my courage, and my purpose in life. Thank you for hearing not only my cry, but the deepest sighs of my soul that I can’t express outwardly. Amen.”

The Distress of My Soul (Psalm 31:7)

December 11, 2012December 11, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Christian Life, God's Attributes, Joy, Prayer

A Boca do Inferno (The Mouth of Hell) Cascais, Portugal. Photo by: Mark J Booth

“I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities;” (Psalm 31:7)

Physical pain is a warning sign that something is wrong with our body. The pain is screaming out for attention as though it is saying: “You have a problem, and you need to do something about it!”

Likewise, when we have pain in our soul (our innermost being), it is a warning sign that something is wrong. The following problems can cause our soul to cry out in pain.

Sin in our life.
Lukewarmness towards spiritual matters
Resistance to God’s will
Selfishness
Emptiness within our soul
Confusion
An angry spirit
A great and heavy trial
Loneliness, etc.

Like our physical pain, we can tell others about the pain, but they don’t really understand. The Lord God alone can feel the pain of our soul. He alone can diagnose the pain of our soul. Psalm 31:7 says: “Thou hast known my soul in adversities.” God knows our pain. He knows when our soul is crying out in distress. God wants us to pour out our heart to Him as we share the pain of our soul.

Not only does God know the pain of our soul, but He diagnoses the source of this pain for us. How is this accomplished? Hebrews 4:12 says: “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.”

When we read and study the Word of God, God uses it to penetrate the deepest part of our soul. An x-ray machine shows what is under our skin. The Word of God shows what is in our soul. It shows our sins, fears, doubts, sorrows, pain, hurts, anger, bitterness and many other trials and diseases of our soul.

The Word not only shows us the trials and diseases of our soul, but it also shows us the cure for our soul. Are we experiencing the following ailments of the soul? Have we tried God’s remedy for each ailment?

Sin? Confess our sin to God. (1 John 1:9)
A deep trial? Depend upon His grace (2 Corinthians 12:9)
An angry spirit? Yield all of our rights to God. (Matthew 5:5)
An overwhelming burden? Cast our care upon Him. (1 Peter 5:7)
Loneliness? Remember the presence of God. (Hebrews 13:5)
Bitterness? Forgive in our heart the offending party as Christ has forgiven us. (Ephesians 4:32)
Fear? Lean upon God’s perfect love because love casts out fear. (1 John 4:18)
Lukewarmness? Take time to enjoy deep communion with the Lord.(Revelation 3:20)
Confusion? Allow the Lord to direct our way. (Psalm 32:8)
Sorrow? Find joy in Jesus. (Psalm 30:5)

The Lord knows us inside and out. He knows our heart. When our soul is in distress, we know that he will hear our cry. He gives us answers for the distress of our soul. The pain in our soul is God showing us our need for Him in a certain area of our life. He is ready to apply His cure to our aching soul.

“Dear Lord, my soul often experiences pain. My words, actions, and attitudes cause much of the pain in my soul. Other people can also create some pain in my soul. Regardless of the cause, please show me the source of the pain in my soul and its cure. I thank you that you are the Great Physician who heals all the diseases and troubles of my soul. Amen”

Jesus is Knocking. Will I Answer? (Enjoying the Presence of God)

December 1, 2012December 1, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Bible Study, Christian Life, Joy

Rogue River Trail-Rockford, MI (Photo by: Mark J Booth)

The Christian life encounters many pitfalls. One unsuspecting pitfall is that we lose the joy of being a Christian. We become lukewarm in our relationship with Christ. Prayer is routine. Bible study is a chore. Our worship has become cold and formal. What has happened to our lives?

There was a church in the New Testament that had these same problems. Jesus spoke these words to the church at Laodicea: “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.”(Revelation 3:15-16) This church was religious, but they no longer enjoyed Christ’s presence. They had lost a vibrant relationship with their living Lord.

What was Christ’s answer to their problem? “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20) Christ was telling the church that they were leaving Him out of their lives. He politely was knocking on the door of their hearts; so that they would once again enjoy having fellowship with Him.

Chateau-Abbadia (Southwestern France)Photo by: Mark J Booth — Chateau-Abbadia (Southwestern France)
Photo by: Mark J Booth

A meal in Bible times was a time-consuming event where people enjoyed talking and listening to one another. Jesus longs for this kind of communion with us. Have we opened the door? Christ has prepared a meal for us with His presence and blessings. Have we sat down and taken the time to enjoy His presence? He is waiting.

When we take the time to enjoy Christ’s presence, we will view life and our circumstances from a totally different perspective. We will see life as God sees life. We will see our problems as God sees our problems. God has prepared a banquet for us. Here is what He offers to us as take time to enjoy His presence.

1. We have guidance in our life. “O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me;” (Psalm 43:3a) The question is often asked: “How can I know the will of God?” To understand the will of God means more than following a formula, but we follow the Lord. As we commune with the Lord, we will discover what pleases Him and what doesn’t please Him. God’s greatest priority for our lives is that we know Him. His light and truth will guide us.

2. We enjoy true worship of God. “let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.” (Psalm 43:3b) The Psalmist in the midst of all that was happening in his life saw the importance of worshiping God. Worship is not to please ourselves, but to please our Lord. He desires worship because He is worthy of our worship. Our worship is bringing glory to God in all that we say and do. When we worship God, we recognize His presence and majesty.

3. We have joy in spite of the circumstances in our life. “Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy:” (Psalm 43:4a) The Psalmist faced many trials in his life which caused him to become to discouraged and depressed. He understood that in God’s presence there is great joy. No matter what is happening in our lives, if we remember that God is with us, we can experience a joy that is not based upon circumstances, but based upon a relationship.

4. We have an attitude of praise. “yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.” (Psalm 43:4b) We often give praise for the blessings that we receive from God, but what about giving praise to the giver of those blessings. When we enjoy God’s presence, we will focus upon all that God is. We will praise HIm for His attributes and titles. Every day, we should take the time to praise God for all that He is and does.

5. We have a contented spirit. “They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.” (Psalm 36:8) A lack of contentment is a warning sign that we are not enjoying God’s presence. When we are walking with God, we will be totally content. When we are close to the Lord, everything else will fall in place.

6. We receive comfort from God. “I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) Comfort is not based on circumstances, but upon our relationship with our Living God. His rod shows his protection against our enemies. His staff shows His guidance and help in our lives. When we have His protection and guidance, we are sure of His comfort and love even in the most trying times.

Enjoying God’s presence begins with salvation, but it continues for all eternity. We enjoy His presence as we listen to him, communicate with Him, meditate upon Him and pour out our heart unto Him. Are enjoying His presence today?

“Dear Lord, my life often becomes filled with the routine. I have lost the joy of being Christian. I haven’t taken the time or effort to enjoy your presence. Thank you for knocking on the door of my heart. Thank you for your desire to fellowship with me. I now open up the door of my heart to you. Please come in! I know that the greatest joy in life comes from being in your presence. Amen.”

Moving Beyond Covetousness to Contentment

October 9, 2012October 9, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Christian Life, Christian Worship, God's Attributes, Moving Beyond (Series), Uncategorized

Woldumar Nature Center (Lansing, Michigan USA) Photo by: Mark J. Booth

Discontentment is found everywhere, including our own hearts. People are discontent with their marriages, with their jobs, with their health, with their relationships, as well as their possessions. The root of discontentment is covetousness. Covetousness is defined as the inordinate desire to have something. It is also defined as the desire to have something that belongs to another.

Covetousness is a sin that creates a warped view of God. We feel that God has cheated us out of something. Satan used this approach with Eve when he told her that God was wrong to withhold the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Eve coveted the fruit and ate it. The tenth commandment says: “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.” (Exodus 20:17)

God’s gives this commandment for two reasons. First of all, God hates covetousness because it places the coveted object above Him, which is a form of idolatry. It also causes us to have the wrong view of His person and blessings. “For the wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire,and blesseth the covetous, whom the Lord abhorreth.” (Psalm 10:3)

Secondly, covetousness brings harm to us and to those around us. The Bible teaches us that covetousness leads to:

injustice: “And they covet fields, and take them by violence;and houses, and take them away: so they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage.” (Micah 5:2)
harm to ourselves: “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.”
(1 Timothy 6:9)
departure from the faith: “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (1 Timothy 6:10)
many sorrows-See the above verse
family problems: “He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house;”
(Proverbs 15:27)

Covetousness is clearly a problem many of us face. The solution to this problem is having a spirit of contentment. The secret of a growing, joyful Christian life is being content in our relationship with God in spite of the circumstances. One person defined contentment as: “Realizing that God has provided everything I need for my present happiness.” How do we go from a spirit of covetousness to a spirit of contentment?

We move beyond covetousness to contentment when:

1. We know that our Heavenly Father will take care of us. Covetousness says: “I want something beyond what God gives me.” Contentment says: “My Heavenly Father loves me and He takes care of all of my needs.” “Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.” (Matthew 6: 31-32)

2. We know that God is with us even in the most difficult situations we face. Covetousness looks at others and thinks that they have a better situation than we have. Contentment doesn’t look at others, but looks to God. God is with us. What more do we need? “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
(Hebrews 13:5)

3. We focus on our spiritual lives above all else. A covetous person focuses upon the physical realm. He doesn’t make his spiritual life a priority. Jesus reminded His hearers; “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) A contented person understands that in this life we will have difficulties, but he knows that life is more than this material world. His desires are focused upon his soul and his relationship with God.

4. We give God all of our burdens. A covetous person attempts to find security through their own efforts. They always feel that there is something missing in their life to have total security. A contented person gives all of their cares and burdens to the Lord. He is their security. “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Our Heavenly Father has blessed us beyond what we will ever know or understand.
“Dear Father, thank you for your many blessings. Help me to see you in every circumstance in my life. Help me to trust you to meet all of my needs. May your presence, love, and provision be the focus of my daily life. Thank you for adopting me into your family. Amen.”

Moving Beyond Fear to Courage

September 28, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Bible Study, Christian Life, Christian Worship, God's Attributes, Moving Beyond (Series)

577571_396297700417095_253130602_n — Sleepy Hollow State Park, MIchigan- By Mark J. Booth

When fear takes its grip upon our lives, it affects our view of circumstances, of others and of the future. Fear causes us to doubt the love of God, the presence of God, the provision of God, and even the protection of God. Fear keeps us from doing what God has called us to do. How can we move beyond our fears and approach life with courage?

Courage is the willingness to move forward with our lives in spite of the obstacles and dangers that we face. The nation of Israel, including King Saul, was paralyzed by fear on account of Goliath. His size was overwhelming. However, David had moved beyond his fear to courage. David didn’t see the power of Goliath. He saw the power of His God. His courage has inspired us to face life’s situations with the understanding that God is greater than anything that is happening in our life.

How Can I Move Beyond Fear to Courage?

1. Remember the presence of God. God is with us as we travel through this life. His presence brings courage because we know that we are not alone. If we are passing through the shadow of death. we are not alone. If we are facing some great trial, we are not alone. If we are facing an unknown future, we are not alone. “Fear thou not; for I am with thee:be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10)

2. Enjoy the love of God. God’s love was clearly demonstrated upon the cross of Christ. The fear of death was removed when Jesus died upon the cross for our sins. His death and resurrection conquered death. If his love has removed our greatest fear, it can also take away all other fears. A baby in the arms of its loving mother has no fear. Likewise, we are in the arms of our loving God. Why should we be ruled by fear? “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18)

3. Develop a fear of God. The fear of God has been defined as: “Realizing that God is watching and weighing every one of my thoughts, words, actions and attitudes.” The fear of God places God in His rightful place in our lives. When our walk with God is right, we can live our life with courage instead of fear. “In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence:and his children shall have a place of refuge.” (Proverbs 14:26)

4. Walk by faith, not by sight. When walk by faith in our loving, all-wise, and all-powerful God, we can face life with courage. Fear cannot exist together with faith. Fear flourishes when we see life from our perspective, instead of trusting our Great God. When faith rules in our heart, we will have the courage to conquer any mountain that is before us. “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him (Christ).” (Ephesians 3:12)

5. Study and memorize the Word of God. Fear often is the result of ignorance. When we study the Word of God, we see God working in the lives of people such as Moses, Joshua, Ruth, David and Daniel. These people faced fearful situations; yet they faced them with courage because they knew their God. “But the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” (Daniel 11:32) When we study the Word, we get to know God better. The more we know Him, the more we will be able to trust Him. Our fear will turn into courage, not because of who we are, but because of who He is.

6. Become familiar with the “fear nots” in the Bible. God knows our heart. He knows that we are prone to fear. We are prone to walk by sight and not by faith. He encourages us with many of His “fear nots” in the Bible. Here are just a few.

Fear not in your life’s journey. “And the Lord appeared unto him the same night, and said, I am the God of Abraham thy father: fear not, for I am with thee,” Genesis 26:24
Fear not concerning your daily needs. “And Elijah said unto her, Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son. For thus saith the Lord God of Israel, The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the cruse of oil fail, until the day that the Lord sendeth rain upon the earth.” (1 Kings 17:13-14)
Fear not when in danger. “And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.” (2 Kings 6:16)
Fear not in times of weakness. “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee;” (Isaiah 41:10)
Fear not in times of trials. “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee,I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee;and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned;” (Isaiah 43:1-2)
Fear not in times of failure. Here is what God said after the Israelites’ failure at Ai. “And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be thou dismayed:” (Joshua 8:1) God did bring the victory after their previous failure.
Fear not in times of sickness or nearing death. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)

“Dear Lord, thank you for assuring me that you are with me throughout this life and for all eternity. Thank you that you give me the courage to move forward in my life in spite of the obstacles that are before me. Please, give me the courage to live each day for you. ”

Author’s Note: This is the second article in the series called “Moving Beyond!”

Moving Beyond Doubt to Faith

September 24, 2012October 2, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Christian Life, God's Attributes, Prayer

Morning sky over Sydney, Australia-Photo by: Mark J Booth

Faith in God can often be elusive in our lives. We know that we should have faith in God; yet everything around us is crying out saying: “Can you really trust God?”. “Why is God taking so long.?” “Where is God in all of this?” How can we move beyond these doubts and live in faith towards God?

How do we doubt God in our daily lives?

We doubt the protection of God. We feel vulnerable when events bring hurt into our lives. Like the Israelites, we feel that God has left us on our own.
We doubt the promises of God. God’s Word is full of promises, but we don’t accept them for our own lives. We feel undeserving. We may be ignorant of his promises. We think these promises don’t apply to our circumstances. Thus, we lose out on the blessings that these promises provide.
We doubt the presence of God. God says that “He will never leave us nor forsake us.” We look for God, but we can’t seem to find Him. We may think that he doesn’t care.
We doubt the power of God. Paul says: “I can do all things through Christ which sterngtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13) However, we fail to experience this power when we are expecting God “to come through for us.”
We doubt the provision of God. God says that He will take care of us; yet we fret and worry about our money and possessions.
We doubt the plan of God. God is not working in our lives in the way we would like. We decide to go our own way. Joseph could have doubted God’s plan because the path was dark and difficult to which God had called him.

What causes us to doubt God?

We doubt God because of our own human nature. One of the conflicts we have in our Christian life is that we choose to walk by sight and not by faith. We allow our circumstances to cloud our view of God. Sin blinds us to the reality of God’s Word and His Promises.
We doubt God because of the influence of others. When those around us doubt God and His Word, they can infect us with this same thinking. The ten spies influenced one another to doubt God. Caleb and Joshua had enough faith to withstand the pressure from the other spies.
We doubt God because of the many obstacles that happen in our lives. Job had some difficulties with his faith because his whole world had collapsed. Likewise, we tend to doubt God in the tough times.
We doubt God because of his “divine delays”. God doesn’t work His plans in our time. Because of this, we become impatient and we begin to doubt God. We say: “Why hasn’t God done something!”

How do we move beyond doubt into faith?

We know that we should walk by faith and not by sight. We know that living by faith pleases God, but we still struggle with our doubts. What can we do to cultivate our faith.

We cultivate our faith through reading and studying the Word of God. Romans 10:17 says: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” The reading of the Word enables us to learn more about God, His promises, and His working in our lives. The more we know God; the more we will trust Him. The heroes of the faith in Hebrews knew their God. This resulted in their unwavering faith. How well do we know our God?
We cultivate our faith by learning to cry out to God. Once Jesus met a man whose son was demon possessed. This father understood his need to cry out to God: “And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.” (Mark 9:24) Crying out to God is saying: “I can’t do it.” “I can’t continue without you.” God will respond when we cry out to Him.
We cultivate faith by choosing faith when doubt is crying out to us. When we choose faith, we are siding with God and His Word. We put aside our viewpoints and opinions and accept the ways of God. 2 Corinthians 5:7 says: “(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)” Paul made a choice to choose faith in spite of all the obstacles. Our problems should be stepping stones to our faith and not stumbling blocks to our faith.

God is totally worthy of our faith. He doesn’t need to prove Himself to us. When we choose to move beyond doubt unto faith, we will live a life that is pleasing to God. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) Faith in God brings pleasure to God because it shows that we know Him, we love Him, and we need Him.

Faith is a choice in the midst of obstacles. Let’s move beyond our doubts and place our faith in Him. Doubt will make cowards of us all. Faith will enable us to face life with courage. Doubt will keep us from moving forward in our Christian life. Faith will keep us walking close to God.

“Father, I doubt you quite often. I choose to walk by sight instead of by faith. Like the man who cried out to you to help his unbelief, I cry out to you: “Increase my faith.”

Delighting in God in Stressful Times

September 22, 2012September 22, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Christian Life, God's Attributes, Joy, Prayer, Psalms, Uncategorized

574440_424229767623888_1915220915_n — God’s is waiting for us to come to Him. Photo by: Mark J Booth

The cares of this life often seem to build up until we feel overwhelmed. We become discouraged and feel stressed about life. Is there a place of comfort in the midst of the cares of this world? “In the multitude of my thoughts within me (cares of my heart) thy comforts delight my soul.” (Psalm 94:19). The Psalmist is saying: “No matter how stressful life is, God is here not only to bring comfort, but delight to my soul.”

There are many things that can be overwhelming and bring stress upon us:

the stress of our own failures, sins, and worries.
the stress from our concern for our loved ones.
the stress from people who oppose us.
the stress of work
the stress of growing older
the stress of keeping up with others
the stress of trials in our lives
the stress of loneliness
the stress of not knowing the future.
the stress of making decisions

Stressful situations fill our lives. However, In the midst of the stresses of life, we can always flee to the “God of all Comfort”. We can flee to Him:

by prayer and praise unto Him
by opening up the Word of God and listening to Him
by submitting our lives completely to Him
by confessing any known sin unto Him

He is always available to bring comfort, peace and hope to the soul who is coping with stress in their lives. Will we flee to Him in midst of the cares and stresses of life? Yes!
GOD WILL CHANGE OUR STRESS INTO DELIGHT IN HIM!

A Sunny Way to Start the Day(Psalm 19)

September 17, 2012September 18, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Christian Life, Christian Worship, Joy, Prayer, Uncategorized

The early morning sky over Sydney, Australia: Photo by: Mark J. Booth

How we begin each day not only affects us, but also affects those around us. How can we start the day in the right way? In Psalm 19, God shares the example of one of His greatest creations, the sun. The sun as it begins each day teaches us many lessons.

Once, Sharon and I had the joy of staying a couple of days in a bed and breakfast on the shores of Lake Huron. One morning, we enjoyed a beautiful sunrise over the lake. The sunrise brought the hope of a new day. It brought a renewed sense of the glory of God, and caused us to reflect anew upon the beauty of God’s creation.

A sunrise is one of God’s masterpieces. Psalm 19:4-6 says: “In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it:and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.”

The sun begins the day with great joy and purpose. It fulfills God’s plan every day. Also, it brings warmth to all of us who live upon the earth. The sun glorifies God in all that it does.
“The heavens declare the glory of God, the firmament showeth his handiwork.” (Ps. 19:1)
What about us? How can we live each day like the sun? How can we bring glory to God?

391736_433682273345304_811723723_n — The heavens declaring God’s Glory from the sky: Photo by: Mark J. Booth

1. The sun rejoices as it begins each new day. (“Rejoiceth as a strong man”)
How do we begin our day? Do we begin the day with dread? Do we begin the day with anger? Do we begin the day with a complaining spirit? Have we tried rejoicing as a way to start the day? Our joy is not based upon circumstances, but upon our relationship with Jesus Christ. A joyful start to the day will help us through the difficulties of the day, will bring glory to God, and will brighten the lives of other people.

2. The sun fulfills God’s purpose for each day. (“His circuit unto the ends of it”)
The sun willingly performs the task that God has given unto it. The sun doesn’t complain. It doesn’t get praise. It doesn’t doubt God’s plan. How about God’s purpose for our lives? Are we seeking to fulfill God’s plan for our lives? God has a great plan for each of us. It began with our salvation in Jesus Christ and will continue for all eternity. Daily, we have a choice: “Will I fulfill God’s plan for my life, or will I fulfill my plan for my life?”

3. The sun ministers unto others. (“There is nothing hid from the heat thereof”)
The sun brings warmth, light and a sense of beauty to all of us. Every day, we have an opportunity to bring warmth into the lives of those around us. We can encourage others with our words and actions. We can share God’s love with those that God brings into our lives. Every day is an opportunity to brighten the lives of those around us.

Each new day is a gift from God. We have the opportunity to rejoice in the Lord, to follow God’s plan and to brighten the lives of others. Don’t let the clouds of fear, doubt, anger and self-pity keep you from shining brightly before God and others. Whose life will you brighten today?

I Will Never Leave You (The Presence of God in the Dark Times)

July 11, 2012July 11, 2012 by markjemilbooth, posted in Christian Life, God's Attributes

sky1 — Photo by: Karla Da Silva (By Permission)

Nineteen years ago, I said goodbye to my father. He had suffered a stroke and I returned to the States to see him one last time. He probably recognized me, but he couldn’t communicate with me. My heart was heavy as I returned to Portugal. I would never see me father again. My father didn’t leave me by choice, but he was gone. I miss my father greatly.

In life, we all face separation from one that has loved us. This separation is painful; however, there is One who will never leave us. Our Heavenly Father is always with us. Hebrews 13:5 says: ” Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” God is with us in the good times and He is with us in dark times. How does His presence affect our lives?

God’s presence gives us a contented heart in dark times. The tendency in life is to complain about everything. We want more. We want it faster. We want it our way. When things don’t happen the way we desire, we become bitter and complain. Our lack of contentment is saying that God is doing a poor job of taking care of us.

Contentment means that we find our joy and happiness in a right relationship with our Living Lord. In spite of the tough times, we know that He is right there with us. He will not leave us. He will walk with us through any valley. As the Psalmist says: “I will fear no evil, for thou art with me.”

God’s presence gives us strength in the dark times. The Word of God informs us that Our Heavenly Father will never leave us. “So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper. ” (Hebrews 13:6) The dark times in this life weaken us spiritually, emotionally and even physically. We may feel like quitting. God’s presence gives us strength to carry on. God told Paul: “For my strength is made perfect in weakness.” (Hebrews 13:6) Our weakness says to God: “I need your strength.” God will respond.

God’s presence gives us courage in the dark times. Dark times can bring out the coward in us. We become fearful of people. We become fearful of the future. We become fearful of failure. Where do we find the courage to move forward. “I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” (Hebrews 13:6) God’s presence and love will cast out the fear that so easily torments us.

As a child, I developed a fear of crossing the street. The one street that brought out the most fear was Woodward Ave. This street had three lanes of traffic each way. However, when my Dad had my hand the fear dissipated. Likewise, no matter how difficult a road we travel, Our heavenly Father has us by the hand.

My Dad has left, but my Heavenly Father will never leave me. He is with me in the good times and the dark times. Yes, the clouds of darkness may dim my view of God, but He is still with me. May I lean upon Him in the darkest night so that I may see his presence in midst of the darkness.

-Mark J. Booth-