Category: Faith & Prayer

True Peace or the Illusion of Peace

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Faith & Prayer, Inspirational Blog , , , , , , ,
True Peace or the Illusion of Peace

With communities fragmented and divided, we may accept an illusion of peace rather than contend for true peace — peace only God brings. Our hearts and minds ache for perfect and lasting reconciliation in so many areas of our lives. Sometimes, we choose silence instead of truth or compliance instead of standing up for core values. Whatever false peace we achieve comes at an ever-increasing cost.

A mob of crows fight (or, shall I say, heavily discuss territorial rights) outside my window, awaking me from a placid sleep. Crows are communal birds, faithfully defending their strong family ties. But now in early spring, “old family” connections must make way for the priority of developing new family units. Their disagreement raged on through most of the morning. Eventually, some crows harassed others out of the neighborhood so those who remained could live in peace. It reminds me how once peaceful families can suddenly become distant or even destructive.

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18

Even a flock of birds are wise enough to know that peace is not always possible. “The Illusion of Peace in biblical theology refers to the false sense of security and tranquility … when individuals or nations believe they have achieved peace apart from God’s will and truth. This theme is prevalent throughout Scripture, warning believers of the dangers of relying on human efforts or deceptive assurances rather than seeking true peace through God.”

Anxiety

As wars and conflict increase, it is no wonder we seek places of stability and calm wherever we can find them. It is difficult for those who are conflict adverse. It is difficult for those who live close to those who look for a fight at every turn. How do we find a balance — that place of true peace? Living in a high state of fear and anxiety quickly becomes detrimental to physical, emotional, and relational health.

Jesus is the Prince of Peace. All enduring peace begins and ends with Him.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.“
John 14:27

“Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” … easy to read … hard to do, but not impossible. We all face that real and endless battle for our hearts and minds. We must be relentless to capture thoughts that induce anxiety and worry. Our thoughts control our emotional responses. As we develop the habit of giving to God those things outside of our control and seeking His strength to work through those things we can change, we gain a sense of both empowerment and true peace.

So perhaps the first step is to ask God for His help.

“Lord Jesus, I give this situation to You. In myself, I cannot change either the situation or person involved, only You can. Give me grace and wisdom to do my part to bring reconciliation. My focus will not be on these things. I turn my thoughts completely toward You, and I receive your promise to give me strength and bless everyone involved with Your peace (Psalm 29:11).

The Word

Learning to apply God’s Word to our situation makes all the difference between winning or losing this battle. Does a simple prayer end the struggle? Usually not! At least not for me! But taking everything to God in a consistent fashion patterns our hearts and minds to trust in Him rather than being tossed by current circumstances. It is possible to trust God in and through it all.

Here are only a few God-promises He gives to us:

  • “Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” (2 Peter 1:2).
  • “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).
  • “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble” (Psalm 119:165).
  • “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3).
  • “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:8).

Many of us snuggle into safe beds without bomb sirens piercing the darkness. Many others live under the constant fight-or-flight response of volatile home situations. We empathize with those robbed of peace no matter the scale of conflict.

Nonetheless, we all experience peace robbing techniques like fully capitalized emails containing threatening language, insecure work situations, frightening diagnoses, sudden death of one too young, etc. As such, we look to the comfort and assurance that God brings.

True Peace

None of us desire empty illusions of peace. We long for the real thing. Smoothing over differences doesn’t bring resolution where relationships thrive. So, we draw healthy boundary lines, determining which actions and attitudes are acceptable as Christ followers and which are not. By God’s grace, we choose our battles prayerfully and wisely. Then, in His grace, we take our stand on holy ground and fight for peace that endures — true peace.

We face another reality. Jesus Himself is a dividing line. People will either consider Him foolishness or accept Him as who He declared Himself to be — righteous God, only Savior, and Redeemer of all.

“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”
Matthew 10:34

When we choose to follow Jesus, we choose to stand out against the world’s philosophies and beliefs. Division will come. It is a price we willingly pay to live fully for Him. As Christians, we may become the cast out ones from certain circles. At other times, we make the difficult choice to end destruction relationships. We cannot accept peace at any cost and yet live devoted to Jesus Christ.

Even the crows understand that temporary battles never offer long-term sustainability. True peace comes as a response to trusting in the Living God and renewing our mind in His Word and Presence. May we all come to know such enduring peace!

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Stand Firm, Let Nothing Move You

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Faith & Prayer, Inspirational Blog , , , , , , , , ,
Stand Firm, Let Nothing Move You

We are most apt to hear advice like “stand firm and let nothing move you,” when we are being shaken by circumstances beyond our control. As world events shake with uncertainty, standing firm becomes more and more difficult for many people.

Several years ago, I broke my back in a relatively minor accident. It left me shaken and in excruciating pain, unable to stand up straight. Through much prayer over three years, God intervened and healed me. I am now able to function without any serious limitation and with absolutely no pain. But during that time, any effort to stand tall caused a substantial pain. Though I stood firm in faith, I sure wasn’t standing firm physically.

Standing firm in our faith usually costs us something — often something painful.

I found this description for standing firm on the Bible Hub app:

The phrase “stand firm” in Scripture involves remaining unwavering and resolute in one’s faith, convictions, and moral commitments despite trials or opposition. Its connotation frequently includes the idea of readiness — prepared to face challenges with an unshakable trust in God’s power and promises. Whether in an Old Testament context, exhorting the people of Israel to remain faithful to God’s covenant, or in New Testament teachings, urging believers to stand in the strength of Christ, the command calls for steadfast loyalty.
(Bible Hub)

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.“
1 Corinthians 15:57-58

Strength to Stand

We all endure hardship. In those times, we will either focus on the difficult situation or the victory Christ has already won for us. Keeping our eyes fixed on Him is easier said than done, however. Often, reminding ourselves that God has something far better awaiting us than this moment helps us to stand firm no matter what we are facing.

The English Standard Bible Version says, “be steadfast and immovable.” “Steadfast” suggests a firm, unwavering commitment, while “immovable” implies resistance to external pressure. The Corinthian church, like us, were facing the external pressures of cultural challenges and ungodly moral beliefs. Like the church in Ephesus, we wisely recognize we must stand against spiritual opposition and oppression.

“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
Ephesians 6:13

With the right spiritual equipment, we are promised that we will be able to stand our ground! Once on our feet, we are to keep standing. Standing unwavering in our faith! In our own strength, standing is impossible. “With God all things are possible” (Mark 10:27). So let’s rise and stand together, “so that with one mind and one voice (we) may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:6). By leaning on each other’s strength, we stand firm!

What are our greatest challenges today? Where do we experience the most pressure to compromise our faith or values?

We all have pressure points. Knowing and acknowledging our weaknesses help us to find strength in God and other Christians.

Be on Your Guard

Let’s not assume we can go the journey of faith alone, independent of the help from others or God.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.“
1 Corinthians 16:13

I join with Paul encouraging us to stand firm. No matter how we might feel, may our faith stand the test. Feelings come and go, but faith endures. We can do it! By the grace of God, He will help us in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Perhaps during weakness, we find the greatest strength in Him.

Paul tells us the first step for standing firm is to “be on your guard.” We guard what we value the most. We especially guard the weakest points in our communities, families, and lives. Let’s take a moment to ask:

  • God, what are You calling us to guard today?
  • Show (us) me the place (we) I am the weakest.
  • How can we strengthen a guard over and around these areas?

When my back was broken, every movement brought either increased pain or relief. I attempted to protect myself from further injury. Things that I once did with ease, I now refused to do. Other times, I needed to press through the pain to increase strength and mobility, knowing that present pain brought future benefits.

Placebos of pleasure only temporarily dumb discomfort and keep us weak rather that help us to become strong in every area of our lives.“Your labor is not in vain,” Paul reminds us. Every effort to stand — every courageous movement toward God — improves our strength to withstand the enemy’s plot.

May we be encouraged — we can do it! Together, we can “stand firm, letting nothing move us, and always giving ourselves fully to the work of the Lord.”

Prayer & Declaration

Father, I declare Your victory over Your sons and daughters. May you give each one a boldness and desire to stand firm in You. Where the enemy has tossed them back and forth, may today be a turning point … a line in the sand … a marked change in their devotion and dedication to You. Lift their arms. Strengthen their weak knees. Restore every broken area — physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Courage, Lord! Faith, Lord! May it increase over their lives. Give them victory and triumph in the battles they face. The enemy is strong but You are stronger. Your love endless. Your power unlimited.
May discouragement vanish … defeat no longer haunt them … disgrace does not mark their story.
These are Your called, Your chosen, the ones You delight in.
Breathe over the dead and broken places within Your children, Lord. Breathe fresh wind, fresh fire, fresh anointing into them today. May their lives resonate with the goodness and grace of God. May they reflect You in every way.
Unwavering, resolute faith, firm convictions, and strong moral commitment, Lord. That is their portion!
I see many rising from the ashes of defeat, becoming ever stronger. The enemy thought he won … but no! Not with these, Your beloved! Give them fresh hope that depends not on circumstances but upon Your faithfulness.
Thank You, Father. You are good in all You do.
Amen

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Never Give Up Praying

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Faith & Prayer , , , , , , , ,
Never Give Up Praying

Twice in as many days, yesterday through a sermon and today through reading my Bible, God has reminded me to never give up praying. Prayer sometimes resembles the persistent dripping of tiny droplets of water against a solid rock. It may not be soon, but inevitably those little drops of prayer will create an impression upon the hardened rock of people’s lives. We welcome those times when we simply whisper the Name of Jesus, and the supernatural flow of the Holy Spirit transforms lives and circumstances. Quite often, however, we see God move only after years of faithful intercession.

Early in my Christian walk, I witnessed the power of persistent prayer. Hunchbacked and leaning on a cane, a wizen elderly lady would cross the street each Wednesday for prayer meeting and every Sunday for church. Though married, she walked alone. Her husband postured himself in front of the television each time, ignoring her treks through all types of weather. Always she prayed. She prayed, with calm trust, that one day he would yield his life to Jesus and join her in corporate worship. One day, he did. Forty years of praying finally melted the hard rock of an equally forty years of defiant resistance. From that Sunday on, they never missed a service together.

As I think about her quiet witness, admiration fills me.

“When people are brought low and you say, ‘Lift them up!’ then he will save the downcast. He will deliver even one who is not innocent, who will be delivered through the cleanness of your hands.”
Job 22:29-30

We all know someone who fits the description of “downcast” or “not innocent.” Didn’t we all carry that profile before Jesus came into our lives? Yet, someone prayed. Someone prayed for us when we least deserved to be lifted up or delivered. When someone prayed, God listened and responded. Just as He once melted the hardness of our hearts, He will do the same for others.

Deliver

The melting away of crusty layers continues. After decades of intercession, we all continue to hold on to stubbornly defiant areas that resist God’s touch. Some things quickly and completely yield to His gracious hand. Other things remain hidden until, in His love, He exposes them to deliver us once again.

We have probably all waited for some kind of a delivery — a book from Amazon, a government cheque, a piece of furniture, a pizza, or (joy of all joys) a baby. Some deliveries come with little effort, others with great pain. Although we might dread some deliveries, we welcome most with eager anticipation, hastily opening the package and exploring the contents. Always, we hold to faith. It will come!

“He will deliver!” That’s a promise. We don’t know the exact timing. How we can’t fathom. But HE WILL! I can’t. You can’t. But HE WILL deliver those held bound … bound by evil … bound by … whatever …

“Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.“
James 5:13-16

“Prayer offered in faith” changes everything. It changes circumstances. It changes people. Prayer offered in faith opens the way for God to do what only He can do, if and when we never give up praying.

Confession

“Therefore confess your sins to each other.” James instructs.

So, here’s my confession. I have given up praying more than once. “How is that a sin?” you might ask.

“As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right.”
1 Samuel 12:23

As the spiritual leader and voice over his nation, Samuel took prayer seriously. He wanted others to do the same. He equated failing to pray, even to pray for those in outright rebellion against God, as a sin.

Most of us guard our hearts and minds carefully, diligently following the Lord the best way possible. We would never deliberately commit an offense against God that would fall under the category of “SIN.” And yet, how lightly we may sometimes take the responsibility to pray for others — the rebellious others, the downcast others, the wayward, broken others. How much easier to cast a distaining look or spew a snide comment.

To pray in full sincerity, we must first lay down any superiority or self-righteous pride. We can all possess the “Jonah-like syndrome,” preferring to run and hide rather than extend help to those in need.

“He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall … I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.”
Jonah 4:2

Never Give Up

Who or what is it? The one for whom you have given up praying. That thing for which you no longer pray.

Sometimes we justify any weariness to pray with excuses: “I’m believing God will answer in His time. I’m waiting in faith.” What if God is waiting for us to finish what we have started? What if He is wanting to teach us lessons through and in our prayers that never quit, never give up, and stay the course to the finish.

  • “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always” (1 Chronicles 16:11).
  • “Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live” (Psalm 116:2).
  • “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up … ” (Luke 18:1-8).
  • “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42).
  • “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

Yes, we wait for God to answer. We never find a passive “Que será, será, whatever will be, will be” kind of waiting in Scripture. Rather, the Bible teaches a co-laboring — people praying, then God responding to their petitions.

People who expect God to answer pray while they wait.

God answers with perfect timing through His perfect ways. In Him we trust.

Who, What or Where

Join me for a moment of honest reflection. Who, how or when have my prayers faltered or faded into silence. When I look honestly at my personal prayer life, I see evidence of things I would far rather ignore — resentment over injustice, anger or bitter residue from former harm, faithlessness or unbelief that God will answer, or even frustration at God’s apparent lack of action. Ouch! None of these are easy to acknowledge, yet they all play a role in my prayerlessness. What about you?

God honors honesty. Far better honesty before Him than feigned obedience. After we repent or any nasty attitudes, He gives us the opportunity to start again with fresh zeal to “pray and not give up.”

We all, like the elderly lady I once knew, have prayed for hard-hearted people and hopeless situations for extended periods of time.

“And another angel came and stood at the altar with a golden censer, and he was given much incense to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar before the throne, and the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel.”
Revelation 8:3-4

What assurance! All of our prayers, guarded by holy angels, rise before the altar of God like precious incense — beautiful to Him. The golden bowl containing our prayers is about to be tipped over, spilling the answers over the earth as it is ordained in heaven

“Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Matthew 6:10

Until everything on earth conforms to God’s will and the fullness of heaven, we pray. We pray and never give up praying until that glorious day. The day or great rejoicing!

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The Battle Belongs to the Lord

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Faith & Prayer, Inspirational Blog, Victory , , , , , ,
The Battle Belongs to the Lord

When we find ourselves in the thick of trouble, it may not always be easy to remember that every battle belongs to the Lord. He is our Advocate and our Redeemer. He stands in every gap to rescue and to save us.

Almost daily, I need to come back to this simple principle, reminding myself of God’s faithfulness to fight for not just me but all His sons and daughters. Before rising from my bed each morning, I deliberately turn my eyes toward Him, breathing in the confident assurance that with Him the future holds overcoming promise.

Within one of my favorite chapters in the Bible, we find the true story of a king winning an unwinnable battle. The “ites” had congregated and aggressively advanced against Israel. The Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites came, waging war against Jehoshaphat, King of Judah. His first response to call a prayer meeting sets an example for us.

“Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.”
2 Chronicles 20:3-4

The best step to take when we see a battle ahead is to pray, pray, and never stop praying. Jehoshaphat worshiped God as much as he sought God’s answer to his problem. Whole families gathered to pray.

“All the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, stood there before the Lord.”
2 Chronicles 20:13

Can you envision it? Babies in arm, toddlers, ruckus boys, giggly girls, aged grandparents, laborers, the rich and poor on their knees seeking the only one who could help them — worshiping despite the circumstances.

Let this little clip set the tone.

Matthew West - Don't Stop Praying (Acoustic Version)
Watch this video on YouTube.

Assurance

Battles come unannounced and unexpected — often creating confusion and hiding any path of escape. Oh, how wonderful when a clear word of assurance comes from God either through His Word, the counsel of godly saints, or a divine whisper.

“…This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
2 Chronicles 20:15 

God unfurled His battle plan, giving the king a clear strategy on how to advance against the enemy. The king continued to worship. Then in a most unusual move, he appointed singers and musicians to lead the army into battle.

Praise paved the way to victory.

Wait! What? Musicians not warriors? Singers before brave kings? Exactly!

“…Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever.”
2 Chronicles 20:21

How unnerving to the enemy, when we look at the battle with unflinching eyes and praise God!

Alisa Childers - The Battle is the Lord's (Lyric Video)
Watch this video on YouTube.

The Battle Belongs to the Lord

God would not refuse such simple trust and faith. At the beginning strands of the opening song, He completely ambushed the enemy! WOW!

“As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.”
2 Chronicles 20:22

Lesson learned! Yes, we hold fast to the weapons of our warfare. Yes, we take a strong stand against the wickedness that surrounds us. Our greatest weapon, however, comes from knowing that every battle belongs to the Lord. When we know that we know … when faith replaces doubt … when we refuse to give fear a place … God shows up, He annihilates every enemy, throwing him into complete confusion.

The three opposing forces turned on each other until no one was left standing. Jehoshaphat and his warriors came only to gather the plunder.

 “So Jehoshaphat and his men went to carry off their plunder, and they found among them a great amount of equipment and clothing and also articles of value—more than they could take away. There was so much plunder that it took three days to collect it.”
2 Chronicles 20:25

Whatever the enemy tries to steal, God restores in such abundance we might struggle to carry the blessing. Do you believe it? Jehoshaphat did! Do you have faith for that great of a victory? The worshipers and the army did!

Albeit with trembling knees, yet we trust.

Phil Wickham - Battle Belongs (Official Lyric Video)
Watch this video on YouTube.

Victory and Peace

“The fear of God came on all the surrounding kingdoms when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side.”
2 Chronicles 20:29-30

Oh, dear brothers and sisters of faith, this is more than an ancient story of a king and kingdom long gone. This is a God-story — meant to inspire us and bring hope no matter what we may be facing today.

The source of the battle will never exceed the power of our God to overcome and carry us through to victory.

We don’t need to be trained musicians and soloists to praise our way to victory. The enemy trembles at the sound of our simplest praise; so, let praises flow. All the surrounding kingdoms in the heavenly realm will here of God’s victory. One day, we will stand in the place of His perfect peace.

Psalm 46 - Lord of Hosts - by Shane & Shane (Lyric Video) | Christian Worship Music
Watch this video on YouTube.

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Faith and Courage — Stronger Together

MaryAnn Ward 2 Comments Christian Living, Faith & Prayer, Inspirational Blog , , , , , , ,
Faith and Courage — Stronger Together

The two pillars of faith and courage determine the levels of excellence and success we will achieve in virtually every area of our lives. When we possess a faith based upon strong convictions in God, we are able to draw courage from the depth of that faith to stay the course and complete our God-given assignments.

However, the longer I consider these two attributes of faith and courage, the more illusive they feel. I even begin to wonder if I understand what courage feels like, looks like, and acts like in my culture and generation.

Moses spoke it over his successor Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:6) as he passed over the leadership of a nation to the next generation. David calls out this kind of wisdom and strength in his son, Solomon (1Kings 2), as he delegates him as successor to the throne. Paul inspires the struggling first century churches with a similar message.

“Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage. let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do.”
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 TPT

Most of us aren’t qualifiers as military leaders or heirs to thrones. Sadly, many of those reading this today face persecution similar to those of the recipients of Paul’s letters. They clearly understand the necessity of both faith and courage to stand strong.

What does faith and courage look like for the average person today? What does it mean in our ordinary lives? Could it be as simple as trying something new? Or maybe not giving up? Perhaps, it is speaking truth rather than remaining silent.

Faith

It is impossible for me to have courage without first holding a solid foundation of faith. My weaknesses often cause me to fail, falling flat on my face unable to get myself up again. Thankfully, the more I realize my own inability, the stronger my faith rests on God and His all sufficiency.

“Christian faith is confidence in Jesus Christ. It is confidence in his ability to bring you through every circumstance of life. I know that I will face many trials and many temptations and many circumstances of life that are too great for me. But I know that they are not too great for him. He is Lord over the darkest temptations and the strongest devils.”
(https://openthebible.org/article/what-christian-faith/)

“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.”
2 Peter 1:3 NLT

Faith confidently knows God is who He said He is and that He will do all He promised He will do. Faith never depends on personal ability for anything, but on God’s divine power to accomplish everything. On this truth our faith rests!

The disciples of Jesus quickly learned that when we have Jesus with us, no matter how loud the storm rages or how little our faith, God will call things back into order again (Matthew 8:23-27).

Superheroes are made not born!

Courage

I found these definitions for courage beneficial:

  • mental and moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty
  • the quality shown by someone who decides to do something difficult or dangerous, even though they may be afraid
  • the ability to do something that frightens one
  • strength in the face of pain or grief
  • the quality of being ready and willing to face negative situations involving danger or pain
  • the strength to do what is right and necessary, even when it’s difficult or dangerous

These definitions help us understand the importance of faith and courage to help us overcome serious and difficult situations. The scope of those circumstances will look different for each of us.

Sometimes, we face situations similar to the first followers of Jesus. They had moved in God’s divine call and walked in obedience to His will. When the night lasted too long and Jesus felt too distant, their faith and courage wavered. His first words, however, offered strength and solace.

” … Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
Matthew 14:27

Too late! Right? Fear gripped in the dark of night and courage faded long before the dawn. Neither they, nor we, hold any guarantee on how things will eventually turn out. But here, amid uncertainty, faith and courage stand — however wavering. Side swiped by the unexpected, we may panic when the girders of faith and courage hang limp and frail. But this is not the end of the story. May we not waver on the climax of a victory Jesus already paid for in full.

Faith and Courage

Faith and courage link together again and again and again throughout our lives, forming an unbreakable chain of mental and moral strength. Through them, God gives us the grace to “persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” Sometimes, we see the battle coming from ahead of time and can prepare for what’s coming. Other times, pain and hardship swipe us hard like a bear attack — fangs gaping wide and claws sweeping with swift precision. But God! He knows. He sees and comes to our aid.

“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command — be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:8-9

Most Christians have heard the last part of this verse. Oh, my dear friends! First, we stand upon the Bible, the very words of God, allowing them to penetrate our hearts and minds. They will always steady our actions and attitudes, aligning them with God’s heart and will. They will guide us to know the right way to take, even in times of confusion and pain. As we walk in obedience to Him, the Lord promises to be with us wherever we go. Oh friends, then faith and courage will hold strong.

And when we falter, we may quickly turn back to our loving Father in repentance. His mercy and faithfulness never fail.

Bless you dear warriors in the faith. Whatever the future holds, we know the One who stands with us, holding both our todays and our tomorrows.

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The Link Between Faith and Hope

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Christian Living, Faith & Prayer, Inspirational Blog , , , , , , ,
The Link Between Faith and Hope

Perhaps no where do we see the link between faith and hope as clearly as we do throughout the psalms recorded in the Bible. Over one third of the psalms are classified as songs of lament, expressing deep sorry, sadness, and struggle. Yet, in all but one of these psalms, the writer makes an about shift, turning from expressions of despair to those of hope. Faith overrules! Hope rises! Such authentic expressions cause me to appreciate the psalms so much more.

Can you relate to David in Psalm 42, as he pours out his soul to God? Without a home, absent from corporate worship, accompanied by the daily uncertainty of survival, everything appears hopeless. He fully recognizes how “downcast” his soul has become. “Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become restless and disturbed within me?” His mind and emotions feel crushed under the weight of circumstances. But in the very next breath he declares,, “Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him.” He adds, “for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.”

Can you relate? Do you see it? How he stirs himself to look and feel beyond the natural?

When there was no reason to hope, faith and hope linked arms. Faith and hope rest secure in one source, our Savior and our God. From the Old Testament writers to New Testament apostles, and finally to us, this thread of faith and hope proves strong and steadfast.

“Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.”
1 Peter 1:21

Faith and Hope

Rather than ignore troubles, make excuses, or deny dangers, faith and hope allows us to look at present circumstances through the lens of Almighty God. More specifically, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ assure us, offering quiet confidence in the midst of trouble. His victory has become ours!

“Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.”
Hebrews 11:1

Only in the eternal reality of faith and hope will courage and confidence take root. Rather than delusional or wishful thinking, they offer the impetus for positive action. They give us the strength to make wise choices as we move toward brighter days.

The not-so-secret difference between a dictionary and biblical definition of hope is the God factor. As Christians, we base all our faith and hope in who God is — nothing more and nothing less. Without God as the object of our faith and hope, all certainty has been removed.

Oh, what advantage He gives to us, even though for a season we may lament as the psalmists before us.

“Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:13

Bible Verses

Just in case you think I’m grasping at a weak link between faith and hope, allow these verses to speak for themselves.

  • “We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:3).
  • “But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet (1 Thessalonians 5:8).
  • “…continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel… (Colossians 1:23).

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
Romans 5:1-5

Oh, my dear friends, I have no idea what challenges you are facing today. I do know God is sufficient to carry you, me, and us through those great difficulties. I’m not here to provide idle platitudes or empty promises. He will not forsake you! He forever proves faithful to all He has promised on your behalf. My humble prayer for each of you is this:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

Psalms of Encouragement

David speaks from personal experience when he says, “weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). He finishes this song of lament with

“You (God) turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. LORD my God, I will praise you.” Psalm 30:11-12

I understand enough of David’s story to know that the dancing and joy came long before his trials ended. They were a purposeful faith and hope response to the goodness and faithfulness of God. Because God is unchangeable and consistent in all He promises, David held a sure faith that a new day was coming — if not on this side, on the other.

Because of Jesus, we, too, may hold to the same confidence.

For more psalms of encouragement, check out these additional thoughts on faith and hope:

Psalm 84 — When All Else Fails God Doesn’t 
4 Promises from Psalm 34 — Tell of the Lord’s Greatness
Psalm 91: Promise of Protection

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Pick Up the Sword — A Mighty Weapon

MaryAnn Ward 1 Comment Faith & Prayer, Freedom & Transformation, Inspirational Blog , , , , , ,
Pick Up the Sword — A Mighty Weapon

The Word of God is a mighty weapon, a powerful sword of the Spirit. Our prayer takes on new intensity as we actively engage God’s Word. Below, you will find an excerpt from my book, Unlocking Legacy: Taking Your God-Given Territory Through Prayer. The chapter on using the Bible as a mighty weapon begins with this personal testimony.

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A Mighty Weapon

As soon as the door closed behind him, I ran to the bedroom collapsing on my knees beside the bed. “Lord, change him! Please! God, I don’t know what to do; I’m done; I’ve got nothing left to give.”

My prayer was an all too familiar plea oozing out from not just a broken marriage but a broken life. Tension filled every moment we spent together. Psychological abuse scarred my mind and bruised my soul, leaving indelible marks too deep for human eyes. It was a cycle that began days into our marriage and continued unabated—a cycle of mutual destruction that we both tried and failed to change.

As I wept, I heard the Lord speak sharply—not in my ears, but into my heart in a way that stunned me, “Leave him to me. It’s you who needs to change.” God’s words were not condemning but, nonetheless, assertive and unwavering. Even though the abuse was identifiable and the games of emotional volleyball real, I knew, beyond a doubt, God was right. He saw what I was obviously blind to.

Rather than prayer, my petitions flowed from a cesspool of self-loathing. God had heard enough of my bitter grumbling filled with self-pity. God was bringing change, but not how I wanted nor with whom I had hoped. At that moment, God presented me with two options: living pitifully or powerfully. The choice was mine.

Refocus

Intense brokenness thrust me into God’s loving arms and brokenness kept me there. A new level of surrender was necessary for Him to do in me what must be done. I needed radical spiritual surgery removing every self-defacing system I had previously relied on self-protection and self-righteousness, selfish desires and selfish ambitions, self-reliance and self-conceit, self-service and self-gratification.

Each me-centered motivation was a cancerous tumor of sin, destroying everyone around me. Such invasive intervention from God would go beyond a single moment, day or week, but rather a necessary continuum throughout my life. Every rotten attitude and fermenting mindset had to go. I had to fully acknowledge that I was filled with dis-ease, contaminating my relationships with an infectious malady.

My tone changed to deep and submissive resolve, “Whatever it takes, Lord, change me.” God’s Word had become a mighty weapon for change!

Shortly afterward, I was watching a Christian television program called 100 Huntley Street. One of the guests talked about declaring the word of God over personal circumstances and relationships. My spirit grabbed hold of the concept, knowing it was a strategic prayer tool that I desperately needed.

A Sword

Almost immediately I began to pick up the Word of God in a new way, learning to use it as a mighty weapon in my daily struggles. God gave me many passages to declare and decree in prayer over myself and the things I was facing. Through Psalm 84, I began to proclaim God’s promise to take me through all difficulties. I prayed with a new confidence knowing that God was with me and that I was secure in Him.

“My soul yearns, even faints for you Lord. The place I want most to be is near You, near Your altar of sacrifice. You are my King and my God, and I will continually praise You. I am blessed! My strength is in You. I have set my whole heart on pursuing Your face and Your Kingdom. I know that there are difficult places that You are taking me through. Yes, Lord! You are leading me through! You are not abandoning me in this valley, but You are leading me through! Even when I pass through the places of weeping, I am digging wells that will sustain and strengthen others who also walk this path. I ask for deep pools of refreshing for everyone else who will journey this valley. I am not weak, fragile or broken. You are taking me from strength to strength . . . my whole trust is in You, Lord. My past does not dictate my future. Today is a new day.”

I also began to declare Psalm 1:1-3 and other Bible verses over my husband. By inserting his name, I personalized these Scriptures in prayer declaration, annihilating my negative mindsets and the devil’s lies with God’s mighty sword.

“My husband is blessed! Lord, he does not walk in step with the wicked. Nor does he stand in the way that sinners take. He doesn’t waste his time sitting in the company of mockers. My husband delights in the law of the Lord. Oh God, he takes great delight in Your word, meditating on it day and night. While he is working or resting bring Your Word into his thoughts and settle it deep in his heart. My husband is like a tree planted by streams of water. Oh Lord, cause his spiritual roots to go down deep, drawing strength from You. You are his Source of all good things. My husband’s life will yield fruit in every season, continually being productive. Lord, You know the season he is in now and the one You are drawing him into in the future. You have determined that my husband’s life will not wither. Your portion for him is not barrenness, brokenness or waste, but whatever he does will prosper. God, You are watching over him and making all his ways straight as You lead him into righteousness. He will be an example to many men, young and old, showing the difference You make in our lives.”

Power to Change

Rather than dramatic or instantaneous changes in either my own or my husband’s behavior, God worked out a consistent and continuous process of transformation in us both. What’s more, the sword of the Spirit exposed my perverse attitudes and behaviors, allowing God to increasingly deal with my internal garbage. Many of the problems in our marriage were directly connected to the invasive, ungodly roots in me. (Shocking but true!)

Other Bible verses became declarations over our marriage and family:

  • repenting through Psalm 51
  • seeking protection through Psalm 91
  • gaining comfort through Psalm 23
  • praise and worship through Psalm 149
  • proclaiming victory through Psalm 30, and
  • declaring wisdom, understanding and insight through Psalm 119:97-104.

The word of God became a mighty prayer weapon of warfare. With time and practice, I became increasingly skilled in its use. God knew that the greatest motivation for me to learn how to utilize this new key of unlocking legacy was through applying it in prayer for those I loved the most. The more I allowed God’s word to penetrate and change me, the more I saw changes in others.

Process

We often want instant and miraculous; God works through the process. The sword-wielding process, once learned, can be applied strategically to every area of life. Years later, I look at my husband with awe, wondering, “Who are you? Where did you come from? How did such dramatic transformation occur?” Out of the ashes of the old, God has recreated a new and amazing man worthy of honor and respect. The husband, father and man he once was is only a faint memory. By God’s marvelous grace, he truly has become a Psalms 1 man of righteousness, loving God deeply, while prospering at everything he does.

The changes in my own life, although no less drastic, continue — some slowly, others quickly. Perhaps the greatest change is in the way I pray. God taught me how to use the Bible, His powerful key to unlocking the legacy of transformational change. By speaking God’s Word back to Him, activating His authority over circumstances, the Bible becomes a mighty weapon on our tongues and in our hands.

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Unlocking Legacy: Taking Your God-Given Territory Through Prayer — Amazon.ca
Unlocking Legacy: Taking Your God-Given Territory Through Prayer — Amazon.com

MaryAnn Ward, a self-published author from Saskatchewan, explores personal testimonies and miracles related to prayer in her book "Unlocking Legacy" adorned with an cover featuring an antigue key representing authority.

God Still Speaks

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Faith & Prayer, God & Bible, Inspirational Blog , , , , , , ,
God Still Speaks

Prayer is powerful! God still speaks and He reminded me again today that prayer is a two-way conversation.

While shopping, I encountered a woman incessantly talking on her phone. She was having a non-stop, one-way conversation with someone who could not possibly have gotten a word in edgewise! I’m not even sure when or how she found time to breathe. Her voice could be heard throughout the entire store.

I’m afraid our prayer conversations with God might all too closely resemble this scenario. Do we do all the talking, or do we take time to listen, expecting to hear from God? God designed prayer to be a mutual exchange of dialogue.

Do you ever feel like your prayers hit the ceiling and go no further? From time to time, I think we have all experienced the feeling. Let’s be encouraged. God hears and He answers! In many places throughout the Bible, He encourages, “Anyone with ears, let them hear” (Matthew 11:15). But how does God speak to us? And how do we know that it is God speaking and not just our own thoughts or imagination?

We don’t need any unique gift to hear from God. The only qualification is to have ears. That includes most of us. Contrary to what some people might believe, God still speaks. Let’s explore what the Bible says about the topic.

He spoke to an incredibly wicked king, King Nebuchadnezzar both through dreams and through the prophet Daniel (Daniel 4). He spoke to Moses face to face, like we would speak to our friends (Exodus 33:11).

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
Jeremiah 33:3

God Speaks Through the Bible

The most common way God speaks to us is through His infallible Word — the Bible. Scriptures form the plumbline for every other way God speaks. He will never say anything that contradicts the Bible. So whatever way He might speak, we measure against the accuracy of His Word.

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.”
Hebrews 4:12

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet
    and a light for my path.”
Psalm 119:105

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”
2 Timothy 3:16

God consistently speaks through the living words recorded in the Bible. His Word remains relevant and undiminished in power.

God Speaks Through the Holy Spirit

God has given us the Holy Spirit to teach, comfort, and direct us. Holy Spirit waters God’s Word within us causing it to grow and become fruitful.

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”
John 14:26

“The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 2:14

The Holy Spirit brings the truths we read in Scripture or receive from biblical teachers and leaders, making God’s Word relevant and alive. He affirms God’s words written or spoken to our hearts to our spirit, in a Spirit-to-spirit communication.

God Speaks Through Nature

Like many people, I feel the closest to God while walking in nature. In His creation, my heart seems the most sensitive to hear His sacred echoes. Jesus used many illustrations from nature to reveal God’s character, purposes, and truth. Whether birds, sheep, storms, plants, or so much more, Jesus strung His parables around everyday life and the land people were familiar with.

“The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic.“
Psalm 29:3-4

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.”
Psalm 19:1-2

“For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.”
Romans 1:20

How God speaks through creation remains one of His many mysteries. Yet we find ourselves filled with awe as we gaze into a starry sky or hold a newborn baby. We can’t help but worship Him as we watch ocean waves crash against the rocky shore or feel the power of a summer storm. God is in it all. He speaks through a gentle breeze as clearly as through the intricacy of a flower. God speaks the language of a listening heart.

God Still Speaks

The limitations we have to hear from God rests within ourselves. God speaks in limitless ways. I love the way Job phrased it:

“For God does speak — now one way, now another — though no one perceives it.”
Job 33:14

Why is perceiving His voice so difficult? Has the overture of busyness dulled our hearing? Oh, may we give God opportunity to speak, and tune our ears to hear what He is saying. May we have a willing heart to receive His words. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, compared us to sheep — His sheep. He said,

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.”
John 10:27

God speaks through gifted authors, teachers, and speakers. He speaks through circumstances and the difficulties we face. He speaks through dreams and visions, just as He always has. Because of His unending love for us, He invites us to draw close and to listen.

If you would like to learn more about prayer, how to talk to God and hear from Him, I invite you to check out these two books: Unmasking Myths and Unlocking Legacy. To celebrate my upcoming milestone birthday, take advantage of this half-price special! I would be happy to share these resources with you.

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Miracles and Gifts of Healing

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Faith & Prayer, Miracles, Spiritual Gifts , , , , , , , , ,
Miracles and Gifts of Healing

Far too many people dismiss the concept or miracles and gifts of healing as something that occurred centuries ago but not today. Unfortunately, many others seek those same miracles and healing power through crystals, Eastern medicine practices, psychics, ceremonies, and various other means. However, the evidence rests indisputable. God continues to perform miracles and gives gifts of healing.

Our small church occupies a space in a shopping mall. Yesterday after church, I stood outside visiting with people I hadn’t seen for awhile. A lady and her friend approached, asking if I would pray for her ears. She had already received prayer after the service and had experienced some improvement. Happy to oblige, I prayed with her on the sidewalk while shoppers milled in and out of stores. She immediately felt a greater release in one ear and a subtle change in the other.

I resumed the conversation with friends. Suddenly, a stranger hopped out of a car passing along the street. She, too, sought prayer for healing. Shopping for groceries would wait. Her more urgent need was prayer. Of course, I prayed! This beautiful lady was deeply touched by God’s love and a sense of His Presence.

Sometimes when we pray, instantaneous healing occurs. Other times, we don’t see evidence of immediate miracles and gifts of healing. Either way, we know for certain that God hears and answers our prayer.

“For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Matthew 7:8

Gift Not Ability

Doctors only claim to practice medicine, but God calls Himself by the name Jehovah Rapha — the God who Heals. God purposes to do His work through fractured, imperfect people who are willing to do His will. That sounds far too risky to me. But as the Healer, He gives gifts of healing and miraculous powers to people, partnering with them as they pray.

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them … There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work … for the common good … to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers …”
1 Corinthians 12:4-10

He gives gifts for the “common good.” As we operate in those gifts, we bring Him glory.

Immediate

We all desire and seek immediate healing and results to prayer. The Bible gives us so many instances of immediate healing:

  • The centurion’s servant who was sick and about to die is instantly healed (Luke 7:1-10).
  • Peter’s mother-in-law healed (Mark 1:29-31).
  • Bleeding stops for the woman hemorrhaging (Matthew 9:20-22).
  • Two blind men receive their sight (Matthew 9:27-31).
  • Man with dropsy healed (Luke 14:1-4).
  • Jesus restored the ear of the High Priest’s servant (Luke 22:49-51).

Immediate healings occur through the gift of miraculous powers. God performs wonderful events and occurrences beyond human capability through miracles which manifest His supernatural power to heal and fulfill His purpose.

Some people receive healing simply by believing the Bible concerning God and His ability to perform miracles. Others are healed while listening to a God-inspired message. God’s ability to heal and restore is limitless.

A Process

The Bible also includes many examples of people who were healed through a process:

  • The paralyzed man was first forgiven of sin (Mark 2:1-12).
  • Man with the shriveled hand stretched it out and then was healed (Matthew 12:9-13).
  • Mute man was delivered from a demon to be healed (Matthew 12:22-23).
  • Jesus put His fingers in the man’s ears and then spit on His finger and put it on the man’s tongue for healing to come (Mark 7:31-37).
  • The ten lepers were healed when they believed the words of Jesus and acted on them (Luke 17:11-19).
  • Blind man was healed after he washed in the Pool of Siloam (John 9:1-7).

Sometimes the healing came after an action Jesus did. Other times, there was an action that the sick person needed to do before they received their healing.

The Greek word for gifts of healing is iaomai which means a process of healing, cure, or remedy. Gifts of healing often require an action or movement — usually something that was previously impossible for the person to do.

I’ve experienced such healings in my own life and witnessed them in others. Healing may come through prayer and obedience, prayer and lifestyle changes, prayer and repentance, or prayer and inner healing. Often unforgiveness holds people in disease, but forgiveness releases the healing. Sometimes a spirit of abandonment or rejection ties people to illness, but through encountering God’s love and acceptance healing flows into physical bodies, minds, and emotions. Habitual sin may also keep people from being healed.

To Bring God Glory

Every miraculous touch must bring glory to God.

Peter and John encountered a crippled man begging for alms outside the temple. They gave him far more than a few coins to help him through the day.

 “When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.”
Acts 3:9-10

A crowd immediately gathered as a result of witnessing the healing. Peter seized the opportunity and preached a message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Five thousand people believed and came to faith!

Ask, Seek, and Knock

If you need a healing today, ask God, seek His direction, and knock on Heaven’s door through prayer.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8

When you receive your healing, remember to thank God for His goodness. Then, let other people know about what He has done for you. Give Him the full weight of the glory due His Name.

Father in the mighty Name of Jesus, I ask on behalf of those needing Your healing power today. I ask that You restore health and wholeness to bodies, souls, and minds. I ask that You deliver people from the bondages of past hurt, offense, and abuse. Deliver them from the consequences of other people’s sinful actions. May You move with supernatural signs and wonders, performing miracles on their behalf. If there are actions needed, may they have the courage and perseverance to walk in full obedience to Your promptings. May they have faith to continually press into Your Presence, finding mercy and grace to help them in their time of need. Be glorified, my Lord and my God! Be glorified in and through these wounded ones calling out to You today. Pour out such a blessing that they will know beyond all doubt that You alone have brought them deliverance and healing.
Amen.

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The Unexpected Way to Hope

MaryAnn Ward 0 Comment Christian Living, Faith & Prayer, Inspirational Blog , , , , , , ,
The Unexpected Way to Hope

We all hold expectations of who we hope to become and how we plan to get there. Often, however, we discover an unexpected way to hope.

Several years ago, on a trip to the west coast, we decided to be a bit adventurous and try a different road which was clearly marked on our map. The wide paved highway gave way to a narrower paved road, which led to a gravel road and finally a logging trail through the mountains. We crossed embedded grated gateways through cattle pastures and discovered herds of wildlife. Eventually, the road led us to our destination but in an unexpected way.

Often life resembles our mountain trail adventure. We never quite knew what was over the next ridge or around the next corner. Would we have to turn around? Would we reach a dead end? We had never travelled this way before. At times, it was terrifying. We simply had to keep going trusting the maker of the map.

“…but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Romans 5:3-4

Sufferings? Perseverance? Character development? None of these even places in my list of favorite experiences. But all are necessary. They lead us along the unexpected way to hope.

Suffering

As I counsel people of all ages, I hear far too many stories of unthinkable suffering, pain, and loss. I have wept with those who weep and mourned with those who mourn, feeling the depth of their pain. Suffering lashes against the deep roots of faith with a tenacious fierceness.

Often, the rawness of suffering thrusts us into the cavern of disappointment with God. Why didn’t He heal, save, or deliver? Where was He when we needed Him most? Questions swirl relentless and unanswered.

In Unmasking Myths: Is This Prayer?, those who have confronted their circumstances, bypassing disappointment with God, advise:

“God allows us to go through things to strengthen our faith and relationship with Him. Sometimes that thing is a desert; sometimes it is suffering.” (Lowell)

“The Lord is close to all whose hearts are crushed by pain, and he is always ready to restore the repentant one.”
Psalm 34:18 TPT

Perseverance

“Everyone needs to know God answers prayer, and that He is unquestionably good and faithful. Sometimes for reasons we don’t understand, however, we don’t see the answers we hope and believe for. When we fail to teach others about both God’s goodness and faithfulness along with the knowledge that He works beyond our understanding, we may hinder people’s faith … Circumstantial faith lacks the deep roots of knowing God’s goodness and faithfulness even if circumstances never change … Is our practice of prayer based on answers to prayer, or based on the character of God?” (Allison)

Along the unexpected path to hope, we discover God’s unchanging character — His love and absolute faithfulness in, through, and despite circumstances. He strengthens us in our weakness as we develop the perseverance necessary to walk through difficult seasons.

“In the hard places, He shows Himself as our everything.” (Emily)

When we least feel His presence, He draws near.

“The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Psalm 145:18

“One of the first things I heard God say to me was, ‘This was never the life I had for you. I have cried so many tears for you.’ That shook me!” (Shelly)

Hope

Out of perseverance, our character becomes strong and more like His. Then in the most unexpected way hope rises, like the fresh growth of spring after a long, cold winter.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

I’m not sure where each of you are along the journey of faith toward hope, but I would like to assist you in any way I can. God desires for each of us to “overflow with hope.” Though it may feel impossible today, God holds a better tomorrow for you.

Please forgive me for not following my “normal” blog format. As I prayed not only for these simple writings, but for each of you who would read them, I sensed an urgency in my spirit on your behalf.

First, let’s pray:

“God, You seem silent and distant. My emotions feel raw, and my heart torn open. I ask You to circle me with Your love. Open the eyes of my heart to sense Your Presence again and the ears of my spirit to hear the words You are speaking as I grope along the unexpected way to hope. I give You the brokenness of all I am. May I become increasingly sensitive to Your nearness. I declare my love for You. Show me how to rest waiting for Your love to cocoon me in this season, drawing me toward hope.”

Help On the Way

Second, I would like to offer you one or both of my books on prayer at half price

Enter the code “2023PRAYER” to receive the 50% discount. Then click the “Apply Coupon” button beside it.

Third, if you know someone who may also appreciate these books, please pass on the details. Too many around us have been suffering for too long without hope. Perhaps, this unexpected way will bring fresh and living hope to others.

Blessings!

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