Filed under: Consider This
We are called to live above reproach. [Definition of Reproach= Blame, discredit, disgrace]
So let’s show them what it looks, sounds, and acts like.
So then each one of us shall give account of himself to God. -Romans 14:12
Also: Romans 14:14-23
Filed under: Inspiring | Tags: Allish, God, Help, Patience, Perserverance, Persistence, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Reaping, Sowing, Strength, Tired, Water, Weariness, Word, Zamora
The necessary keys in order to reap what you’ve sown.
“And let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” -Galatians 6:9
We often hear about both reaping and sowing, but we often overlook the essential steps in between. Galatians 6:9 shows us that we must have persistence, patience, and perseverance in order to reap what we have sown.
I. Persistence
Paul tells to “Not grow weary in well doing”. The Strong’s definition of weary is: “Physically or mentally exhausted after growing impatient or dissatisfied with something.” It’s easy to get frustrated in our day to day seemingly insignificant tasks and activities. But we must remember that no task is unimportant to the Lord. If you’re faithful in the little, He’ll make you ruler over much (Matthew 25:23) Our God is a good book keeper, He is faithful to His word and will honor your diligence!
Today, we look at magnificent structures in Europe with admiration. We look at prestigious works of art which stand alone clothed in their dignity and splendor. We might realize in part how much work and dedication went into the building of the jaw-dropping cathedrals. What we don’t realize is the magnitude of devotion which was required. Cathedrals aren’t like churches, or houses, which can be designed, and obtained within years, or even months. Men who began working on the awe-inspiring cathedrals recognized that they would spend the entire duration of their lives building. Only to accomplish a portion or section of the finished creation. They realized that they themselves were working towards something which their grandchildren might not even live long enough to enjoy. Very rarely, would anyone have the privilege of seeing the cathedral completed. Possibly first started by one of the builder’s grandfathers, each generation devoted their entire life to further its completion; it was a family affair.
As a believer, you must continue in the things that the Lord has called you to, even if you never see the task completed, or receive the credit. You must continue to work even in the day to day activities that can at times seem repetitive and redundant. You must realize that you are only part of the process in God’s grand scheme of things. You see only in part. He is sovereign. We must be worthy of being entrusted with the work He has given us. Even if we don’t think it is significant, or big enough. We aren’t the ones with the vision of the completed cathedral, only He knows what the finished product will look like.
II. Patience
Paul explains that “In due season we shall reap”. This tells us that there are appointed seasons which we must wait for. This verse shows that it’s not enough to simply do the work; patience is required. So, we’ve put for the effort; we’ve tilled the soil, purchased the necessary supplies, and planted the seed. This portion of the passage reminds us, that sometimes it’s not about us, or our actions. It is simply that the environment, circumstances, or “cooking stage” simply isn’t finished. We must learn to “Be still and know that He is God.” (Psalm 46:10)
I recently visited the Texas State Fair back in October. I was lost. So, so lost. I was running around trying to find one of the gates to meet up with my friends. I realized that it would be so much easier if I could just find a map. After about 15 minutes of my vigorous search for a pamphlet, I finally found one. I opened it up and immediately began looking for the “You Are Here” circle in bold red ink; because it would be the fastest way to figure out where I was. It took me a few minutes to realize, that it was nowhere on the map. In my impatience, I didn’t realize that it was a handout, unlike the giant maps at the mall or various theme parks. I was so impatient.
These days, it’s so easy to obtain instant gratification. I know you’ve heard it; we live in a microwave oven, elevator instead of stairs, society. We’re used to taking the necessary steps in order to receive the benefits. Bottom line, we don’t like to wait. But, we must remember; You can’t rush the process of a dying seed and a growing plant; you must learn to have patience and wait for the appointed season to reap.
III. Perseverance
Paul didn’t fail to mention that, “We shall reap, if we faint not”. That “IF” is key. You will reap, but only if you don’t faint. Fainting must be averted! We should learn to stay hydrated and persevere through the Word of God. Ephesians 5:26 tells us that the Word of God is like water. It gives us the strength to continue! Water is a necessity! Our bodies are composed of over 60% water. The Word of God must become a part of us in order for us to persevere through His strength! His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9)
There is a legendary race which takes place annually in Canada. It’s known to be so life threatening, that its official name has recently been changed to “The Death Race”. It earned its reputation after hundreds of men passed out along the way. This race isn’t for the faint of heart. The vigorous race’s brave contestants train for months at a time both mentally and physically. After loosing so many men, they installed a “scan in” system, every hundred feet or so that they could keep track of those who were still in the race; and send help to those who weren’t. Nic Southwell was one of the first men who determined that he would make it across the finish line no matter the cost. He refused to pass out. He pushed pass any and all odds, making him the first man to ever make it that far. He passed out across the finish line. This is a beautiful picture of what perseverance looks like. Immediately after collapsing across the finish line, he was rushed to ER, and put in critical condition where both of his kidneys failed, and he ultimately ended up in a coma. Yet, still, he fought to live. After fully recovering, he explained that while he won the race, he could have avoided further complications if he would have stayed better hydrated along the way.
You must persevere; don’t make the race any more difficult by not taking the proper steps to stay hydrated and healthy as a believer through Jesus Christ- He is the source! The “if”, in this verse cannot be overlooked. What good is an athlete who runs faster, jumps higher, swims further, and hits harder—only to pass out, or cheat merely seconds before the finish line. He’s worthless. We must be more stubborn than our circumstances or obstacles. We are in a war with the enemy, and we cannot back down!
The Lord goes before us! He sees the finish line. You can’t fake, cheat, or explain victory. There is no greater feeling than to know that all of your hard earned work finally paid off. No cheating, no shortcuts, no tapping out. Victory is yours—and it’s sweet.
When you race with Persistence, cling to Patience, and embrace Perseverance through the Word of God; You will reap what you’ve sown!
So, Get Yours!!
Filed under: Inspiring, Love & Relationships | Tags: Acceptance, Allish, Christian, Confidence, Dating, Everlasting, Happiness, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Love, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Real Love, Relationships, True Love, Zamora
“I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. -Jeremiah 31:3b
I distinctly remember my first crush. Ah preschool; running around in a plaid shirt, coveralls, boots and a cowboy hat– his name was Riker. Throughout the duration of my preschool career, he was the only boy taller than me. From the moment I met him, he instantly caught my eye and I thought he was amazing. Despite the fact that he couldn’t spell, I whole-heartedly cherished his letters. I didn’t care that his mother had to translate over half of them. Reading them now, they honestly look more like finger-painted hieroglyphics. It was at this stage in life that I didn’t care about his spiritual beliefs, personality, calling, family, or background. I was more interested in regular playground activities; playing tag, making mud pies, and jumping rope. And he stood far above the rest when it came to them.
Despite our obvious connection; our relationship was cut short when he moved out of state. For a little while, I still received letters. It was an exciting “pen-pal” kind of relationship. While I’m sure long-distance relationships can work for others, in our case, the letters eventually stopped. I remember this gut-wrenching, heart-breaking reality. He was no longer mine. I seemed to be somewhat of a quiet drama queen- Holding my breath when I was angry, until I passed out. Writing depressing songs that consisted of phrases such as “all it is to you is another heart beating, another person breathing.” Yes, I was a rather odd child, crammed into a glass case of emotion, with no sense of reality, and a peculiar passion for life.
Though I may no longer be attracted to coveralls, care for mud pies, or pass out for attention, some things still remain the same. After talking to some of my girlfriends, I’ve found a few feelings of ownership which we claim to have the right to. I’ve discovered, whether the dumper, or dumpie; we seem to think that the particular boy we are no longer with shouldn’t ever move on. As if, we are God’s special gift to them or something.
We think to ourselves; “Surely, they will never be blessed with another girl as good-or God forbid- better, than us.” For instance, if our best friend gets harshly (or nicely) dumped, we assure her that he has made a mistake. We convince our poor & miserable friend not to worry, that he will never find anyone as talented, beautiful, or caring. After talking to some of my small group girls, I found a few things we had in common. Whether we were responsible for the heartbreaking or not- in both scenarios we were still bitter and confused when they moved on. Over and over in our heads, we think to ourselves- “What, how could he move on just like that, that’s impossible, he’s not actually happy.”
We allow those around us to determine the weight of our self esteems. We build our confidence on people who were never created to define our value. Lets face it ladies, this is a pathetic attempt to justify building our worth on something which should never have been built on to begin with. We have a tendency to immediately compare and evaluate ourselves. Somehow, we weren’t enough; we didn’t cut it. Not pretty enough, not nice enough, not funny enough, not caring enough, not skinny enough, not talented enough, etc…Because if we were, he would be incapable of moving on and thus, he would still be madly in love with us until the day we die. This is painfully pitiful.
Or, maybe you were more like me in another sense; known to have “daddy issues” as a highschooler. I grew up with an abusive father who eventually walked out of my life completely. I lived trying to earn a father’s love and attention which seemed to come so easily for other girls. Growing up, this drastically influenced me to answer the question; “why am I unlovable, and what will make me likeable”. As a girl, this was a dangerous question to wrestle with- especially in our society.
At a young age, I realized that I wasn’t able to get my dad to love me but I could get guys to like me. I grew comfortable with wearing a mask on the outside which displayed an inaccurate picture of a girl whose life was perfect and had it all together. I became the unattainable tease that was never broken up with first. I vowed I would never be hurt again. I went to any length to be assured of it and have my way. Break up first; this was my motto. Unfortunately, just because I broke up first and hurt others, it never made me feel any better- or made life any easier. I was now the one hurting not only myself, but others as well. The fairy tales I read as a child- and my life had absolutely nothing in common.
I remember skipping meals, throwing up, and working out for hours at a time to keep up with models in the industry and the plastic barbies on TV. All this in hopes of being prettier, in order to gain power to get any guy I wanted. But then again, I also remember trying to gain acceptance from my own father. Dancing my heart out in order to receive approval from him. The few times he was able to make it to my performances, it made the 40-hour rehearsal weeks in point shoes worth it all. I was manipulating everything on the outside, in order to fix a deep wound on the inside.
Whether you’ve been hurt, hurt others, both, or are simply human. I believe we all feel the need to belong. We each desire to be wanted. This world shoves diet pills, sex, plastic surgery, and success, in our faces- implying that if we follow their easy step plan for lovability; we’ll be happy. However, at the end of the day, while our attempts at improvements might grow our likeability; true love’s essence is hard to come by. We eventually rationalize that we aren’t like the characters in a storybook. And, somehow, we are to blame for being unlovable.We forget that as humans, we are incapable of loving someone fully, extensively, and exclusively apart from God and His love. Unfortunately, because of our naivety, we still do our best to earn other’s love and approval by any and all means possible.
I believe that true Love doesn’t fade, grow weary, die, or ever give up. This is what it’s supposed to look like. And I believe True Love Himself, died on a cross in order to proof just how long suffering REAL LOVE is; any length, any width, any depth, any height. When we realize just how everlasting HIS love is for us, man’s version of fake and phony love pails in comparison. Cheap imitations aren’t and won’t ever be enough to fill the void. No person, job, fame, weight, hobby, or relationship will ever bring as much fulfillment as acknowledging and accepting His exclusive love. His love doesn’t hinge on our actions. He just simply loves us. Forever. It’s that simple. It’s this simplicity which makes God’s love so hard to understand. Why? Why, does He love us this way? He just does. Because He wants to. And that’s all there is to it.
I was set free when I recognized that He is the only one with the capabilities of this powerful love. It makes sense that others fail me. It is not because of what I am, or am not. It is because we are simply incapable of loving others unless we ask God for His innate ability to love. This agape love is the glue originally designed to hold marriages together. Marriages fail, not because they are supposed to, but because the relationship is most likely founded upon man’s feeble desires and indecisive “feelings”. While man’s heart can be fickle and untrustworthy at times, there is a Love worth absolutely everything in my being. This love chooses by its own will to love me steadfastly, exclusively, and despite any obstacle. When we accept that God is the only one capable of loving, and offering this kind of love—we take our eyes off of ourselves in having to earn love. I choose to rest in His unending, everlasting love that will stand against any and all odds. Who needs likeability when you have True Love?
I hope this has inspired you to embrace the One who will love you more than any one person ever will. Walk in confidence; you are loved with an everlasting love.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. -1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Filed under: Inspiring, Uncategorized | Tags: Allish, Body Of Christ, Christian Living, Church, Faith, Judging, Love one another, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Walk., Zamora
“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” -John 13:35
The Church is the only army that kills its own wounded soldiers.
One of our lectures this morning has left this topic burning in my heart. I wonder; how true is this distressing statement within our congregations, ministries, & other social JC-loving gatherings? I am currently striving to be one who doesn’t prove this to be true in the body of Christ.
I am not perfect; I have found myself guilty of this several times. I am learning daily that I am not the Holy Spirit in other’s lives. I cannot convict, judge, condemn, or assume I know what’s going on. In order for anything I do to be of worth; it can’t be in anyway any part of me. All Him, all the time, with zero percent of myself involved. This is how Jesus lived. “Where You go, I go. What You say, I say.”
How often do we rush to the scene with a handgun and badge? We insist that we know what’s going on and understand everything from our outsider perspectives. We are so quick to judge that we leave encouragement and our God-given loving hearts behind. What if, instead of pretending to play the ‘police’ role, we switched mindsets?
Please hear me, I absolutely believe in rebuke from Godly counsel & accountability- or possibly even donkeys. I am so thankful to have the privilege being surrounded by people who I am submitted to. They are far more matured and seasoned than I am. So, I am not at all saying the principle is incorrect, but I do believe the method which we often execute in (no pun intended) is flawed. I absolutely refuse to be a modern-day Pharisee in heels among my peers.
I’ve had my share of disappointments when it seems others are standing in judgment instead of with a heart of earnest desire to search for truth, or offer solutions in love. However, I’m sure what I’ve experienced only pails in comparison what others have endured within the four walls of our at times; not-so-safe congregations. And yet, we wonder why we have a bad reputation after we strike down our own with our gossip, judgment, and legalism.
It has been said, time and time again that; “Our perception is our reality.” I wish that I would remember the fact that my perceived “reality” isn’t always reality. We each have our own set of customized goggles through which we clarify and define our world & its drama. Without the heart, love, and mind of Christ; these goggles can proceed to hinder the very things the Lord is trying to show, teach, or minister to us. Or perhaps a situation has been brought to our attention so that we could pray, instead of spreading rumors in our “holier than thou” blind assurance.
I believe it comes down to one thing; we are human, therefore; we are flawed, imperfect, and quite frankly- we have no idea what we’re talking about. I’m not saying that the Lord doesn’t give insight, or words of knowledge. I’m simply saying that at times, I find myself standing in judgment while expecting others to stand in mercy on my behalf.
Most likely, my battles are not your battles, and your battles are not mine. So, who am I to judge? As brothers and sisters, it is our mandate that we uphold and encourage each other in the Lord. BUT, the method & motive should ALWAYS be in and through a way which portrays love; not judgment or self-righteousness. Lord, help us. This is far more easily said than done.
My mom always taught me “Throughout life, God will always allow people to portray & exemplify both what to do, and what not to do.” As some kid in the movie said a hurtful word; I distinctly remember when she first instilled this saying in my mind. This whole standing in judgment thing is most definitely, without question; a “not to do”.
We are so quick to point out flaws; we forget that others could just as easily do the same about us. What I sow, I shall reap. Ah! What would the church look like if we realized that the more we sow gossip and judgment; the more others will judge and gossip about us. The higher we feel about ourselves, the further we have to fall. This is such a powerful concept it makes me cringe. “Anybody who thinks they are God’s policeman will be judged.” -Gary Hayness
At the end of the day, we must realize; we are each a work in progress. We are all equally condemned, sinful, awful, hateful, distasteful, miserable, and pathetic- apart from the saving grace & faith in Jesus Christ and His completed work on the cross.
Let us live & abide in love, after all; we serve Love- flawlessly exemplified Himself. Lord, more of You; less of me.
Filed under: Consider This | Tags: Allish, Christian Living, Direction, Faith, Jesus, Perfect Will, Protect, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Zamora
You’re covered where you’re called;
So don’t worry! If you are called, rest assured; you will be covered!
Proverbs 21:30, Jeremiah 29:11, Job 42:2, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 1 John 5:18-21, Proverbs 10:29, Proverbs 16:3, Isaiah 29:15
Filed under: Inspiring | Tags: Allish, Christian Living, Control, Jesus, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Sacrifice, Surrender, Zamora
“I will not present burnt offerings to the Lord my God that have cost me nothing.” 2 Samuel 24:24
Why is it that our own minds fail us- we somehow draw the conclusion that we can make the outcome better if we do it our way- instead of God’s. I’ve been reading a fantastic book entitled Dry Bones Dancing by Tony Evans. It has inspired me to learn from Abraham. I’ve been stuck on Genesis 22; where Abraham is tested.
“Then God said, ‘Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.’” Genesis 22:2
The Lord had already promised Abraham that his offspring would be “as numerous as the stars” (Genesis 15:4-5) Isaac was the answer to his prayers, yet for some reason; The Lord was asking Abraham to sacrifice the very seed of promise. This command was a contradiction to everything the Lord had said would surely come to pass. I wonder if most of us would have been able to go through with it.
Surely, it would have been easier to have ignored the gentle whisper. Since after all- it contradicted everything he was promised. I can’t imagine giving up the only answer to all of the questions; the answered prayer we thought was His perfect will. The Lord was testing not only his willingness to sacrifice, but his faith as well.
Here is where a lot of us would have called it quits. I can almost see the alternative response from Abraham; “Really God? I left my family, my mansion, my job, my livelihood, my religion- and traded it for what? Thieves, camels, tents, and the desert? You’ve demanded everything, and yet, You still have the audacity to ask me to sacrifice my only son; that is where I draw the line.”
But, Abraham puts us to shame with his instant reaction: “But early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey.” Genesis 22:3
Apparently, Abraham had the impression that delayed obedience was disobedience. He didn’t take a few days to spend some quality time with his son. That was it; he was going through with it. He didn’t delay taking several weeks putting it off or explaining it to others- he simply obeyed. He didn’t even have exact instructions yet “on one of the mountains I will tell you about” -that seems fairly vague to me. But it was enough direction for Abraham to pack his saddle, son, servants, and head out.
The fact that he was able to surrender it all so quickly truly gives us a picture as to how devout he was the Lord. He realized from where his blessings came. He must have kept this in mind daily in order for his decision to have been so easy. Lord help us. Are we at a place where we can sacrifice everything we’ve been promised because He simply requests it of us?
We complain about letting the things go that hurt us; the things that cheapen our worth, the things that shouldn’t have been there to begin with. How much more so if we were put in Abraham’s position? Are we strong enough to sacrifice the very things the Lord has destined and willed into our lives which bring us joy?
Still not convinced that Abraham was pretty straight up faithFULL; “When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an alter there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the alter, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son.” Genesis 22:9-10
Through his actions, Abraham proved that nothing God could ever give him was worth keeping from Him. He was confident that regardless whether God’s plans had changed or not- the benefits of His blessings would far outweigh his sacrifice. Abraham knew it was impossible to ever find favor with the Lord if he was withholding anything from Him. He went past the point of no return; he was willing to lay it all down. Everything he had been promised; the answer to all of his prayers; everything he loved and held dear; he decided to let it all go.
What a beautifully painted picture. This was a life altering decision to make. The choice was his alone, and in one instant; he was the epitome of complete and total surrender.
“‘Do not lay a hand on the boy…Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from Me your son, your only son.’” Genesis 22:12
This is so powerful, here we see that Abraham completely let go of what he deeply loved- Only then did God intervene. He had stepped past the point of no return. In his heart, Isaac was already completely surrendered to the Lord. Abraham had faithfully transferred any rights of ownership to God. He had given up full custody. He truly “died to himself”.
It’s amazing to me that even though Isaac wasn’t a “worldly or fleshly” desire; the Lord still requested that he completely surrender him. God doesn’t require just the bad from us- He demands it all. But it is here where we see that the Lord provided- only AFTER he offered Isaac compeltely.
“Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burn offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place ‘The Lord will Provide’ (Jehovah Jirah) And to this day it is said ‘On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided’” Genesis 22:13-14
God set before Abraham a test, I wonder what would have happened if he hadn’t obeyed. Many times promises come with prerequisites which we haven’t been informed with at the beginning. God didn’t tell Abraham that he would have a son which whom he would have to sacrifice before the promise could fully come to pass. He just let him in on it when He saw fit. We can’t assume just because we have a promise, everything will play out without any tests. There are usually underlying prerequisites that we must meet.
Why does God test us? I love what Evans says; “Tests reveal to us where we stand. They let us know whether we really love Him as much as we say we do in our songs and our prayers.” Is there something that God is asking you to put on the alter? Are you in the middle of a test and can’t figure it out? God’s command wasn’t to only take his son up the mountain or build an alter- He commanded Abraham to offer his son Isaac up as a sacrifice. “If you have approached God in worship, but you’re still waiting for Him to come through. The reason may well be that you haven’t finished the test.” Are looking for an out before following through- stop thinking or trying to make sense of it- simply follow directions and follow through!
You have to go all the way. When you let it all go, that’s when it’s difficult. Worship the Lord all the way, even when it’s difficult! And there at the alter God will show you His way, He will come through for you!
I’m not saying that God will allow you take your sacrifice back- but He will ALWAYS bless your effort to please Him with everything.
I think we could learn a thing or two from Abraham. And possibly think twice the next time we whine about surrendering our petty, simple things in life that make our self-consumed worlds go around. Nomatter how big or small; the blessing will always outweigh the sacrifice! You can count on it.
Filed under: Inspiring | Tags: Allish, Better, Christ, Christian, Devotions, Hope, Inspiration, Intentional, Jesus, Living, Peace, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Thrive, Zamora
What if what we said, did, felt, acted like, lived as; was all on purpose. What if instead of passing it off to be “a mistake in the moment” or “something which we didn’t mean” we actually thought about it, prayed for it, anticipated it. What if every word, every thought, every prayer, every second; was utilized to its maximum potential. This is truly how Jesus lived. Not in fear of what missing a moment would cause; but with expectancy for the outcome of what His awareness for each minute would bring.
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
It begins in our minds, that is where we have the power to kill what is negative, and nurture what is positive. You see, we frame our references around our own experiences. If our experiences in the past, have been distorted; our ability to discern and examine the present circumstances can be off center. If we’ve been victims of the past either forced upon us or chosen by ourselves; what do we do when we have been poorly programmed by life’s events?
In the above verse, the Greek word metamorphoo is translated as “transformed” in this text. Literally, it means to change into another form. We have all the tools necessary to turn our attitudes, reactions, moods, and lives around!
“May the God of peace…equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21
If your actions, responses, attitudes, and moods are not a reaction to the Holy Spirit’s gentle leading, then you are operating according to the subtle taunting of the enemy.
Eve could have chosen to be intentional; she could have lived by what she had known to be the Truth, instead of acting on impulsive desires which were deviously planted in her. Instead of doing her job of resisting, she accepted the offer and agreed with what she would have previously recognized as deceit.
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
Don’t allow the devil to get away with his camouflaged prompting. It’s his job to distract, accuse, and deceive-it is your job to resist! The devil loves phrases such as “I’ve had enough” “I can’t stand her” and “I’m just in a terrible mood today”.
“Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:27
Don’t be so ignorant to believe that the devil has devices strong enough to destroy your power and authority. We’ve been given absolutely every tool necessary to overcome. No questions asked, no excuses. Never allow yourself to settle for anything less than the attitude, response, mood, and lifestyle that God wants you to have. I love what T.D. Jakes says in his book Woman Thou Art Loosed; “Lips that say ‘I’m in a terrible mood today’ accept what they ought to reject.”
Countless times I’ve found myself walking away from a heated discussion realizing my failure. I responded in anger, instead of love. Instead of turning away wrath with kind words- I added fuel to the fire. I furthered the problem, and brought new issues to the table.
How many times do we find ourselves wishing we would have grabbed hold of our moment. How many times do we walk away wishing we would have been intentional in our conversation. How many times do we inconsiderately do what’s convenient or seemingly satisfying, instead of accomplishing the task assigned to us. How many times do we rush through life, ignorantly overlooking our cues and missing the mark. I find myself painfully looking back; seeing divine appointments which were intentionally put in my path. They have come and gone. Oh, how easy it is to pass it off for someone else to accomplish, without even a second glance or thought.
“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ -Matthew 25:23
But how rewarding it is to know that you passed the test; you were given a choice. You were intentional in the way in which you handled yourself. You weren’t raging in anger, caught in a fit of emotions, or found having a bad case of impatience. You were simply walking in the spirit; at peace.
What if the gravity of our words brought harmony and restoration, instead of conflict and destruction. How different our world would be. What if we thought before we spoke, listened before we answered. What if our actions made the path straight, instead of adding questions and confusion. What if we prayed and observed before we acted. What if we were led by what we know to be truth aside from the present circumstances.
What if we weren’t power hungry, greedy, superficial or materialistic. What if our words didn’t reek with bitterness, vengeance, pride, or resentment . What if we recognized that there is a common goal. A mission at hand, and countless opportunities to further develop everything we’ve ever learned. Since the beginning, we were created to live purposefully every day, every hour, every moment- to it’s fullest potential-it’s original design.
After all, our world won’t change for the better on accident, because of a lucky streak, or by chance. I encourage you– Be Intentional; on Purpose.
Filed under: Inspiring | Tags: Allish, Christian, Devotion, Faith, God, Hope, Inspring, Jesus Christ, Life, Live, Patience, Perfect Will, Perserverance, Rachel, Rachel Allish Zamora, Strength, Zamora
“The Lord Answered Moses, ‘Is the Lord’s arm too short? You will now see whether or not what I say will come true for you.’” -Numbers 11:23
The Israelites had to leave Egypt with nothing more than a promise of a better place, and God’s blessing. They had to end their previous relationship. They had to forsake Egypt in order to gain the promised land. It was one or the other; not both. They had to stand up and turn their backs on the bondage of the past. They had to walk away from the lifestyles they had grown so accustomed to. They left their comfort zones, their coping mechanisms, their pain, and their pasts. So why long for the former things that only cheapen your worth?
While we may view them as naive at their desire to go back, how many times do we find ourselves in the same place? We find ourselves safe from the pain in our pasts, yet walking away from them seems uncomfortably inconvenient. We find ourselves lost in transition. Questioning the decisions we made to leave, fighting our guide, and rejecting our provision.
It’s this uncomfortable, inconvenient, and unpredictable stage where the former things-despite how painful they were; begin to look desirable. We struggle trusting. We find ourselves looking upon our pasts and saying “at least we knew what our job was, at least we knew who we were, where we were going, how to make a living”.
I believe this is why the Israelites went round and round in circles. They didn’t trust the process, or embrace the present. God hadn’t let them in on his fast-forward button; He only gave them a glimpse. A promise of what was to come. Somewhere, lost in transition; Their glimpse, which was once a bright future-seemed galaxies away from their current location and circumstance. They questioned His way, because they didn’t feel it was how He should bring the promise to pass.
Maybe God doesn’t give us all the answers so that we trust the One who makes the promises instead of the promises themselves. What if He’s just waiting for us to prove ourselves faithful, trusting, worthy of the call. What if giving us all the answers would only cause us to trust in ourselves, or the promises, more than Him. “Trust Me, I’m the only way the promise will come to pass.”
Perhaps God wants us truly trust Him, beyond the voices, circumstances, and situations. Perhaps He would have us prove ourselves as Abraham did with Isaac. Even though Abraham’s present circumstances screamed that killing Isaac would surely kill the seed of promise; he trusted the Lord. Abraham knew God well enough to know that the Lord is a keeper of His word. He was confident that God would fulfill his promise- even if Isaac was out of the picture, and all hope seemed lost.
You see, promises in themselves have no power if they aren’t backed by a trustworthy source. It’s the Promise-Keeper who alone is worthy of our unfaltering faith. Too many people grow tired, weary, impatient, and unhappy because they placed their trust in “the word of the Lord” instead of the Lord Himself. So when the present circumstances don’t match up with their promise; their faith falters.
We must press onward, prove ourselves faithful, embrace the present. You never know how far, or close, you are from your promise. Longing to go back could be turning a short trip into forty years of misery and discomfort.
“God had proved Himself strong and faithful, yet, the still distrusting Nation prolonged the process.” -Pastor Mike Hayes
Filed under: Inspiring
I’ve found myself angry. I don’t know, I guess somewhere along the way all the frustration and unmet expectations finally rose up inside me. For those of you who know me well, I write quite a bit so this might be long…
Throughout life I’ve tried to stay optimistic. I try talking it out, praying about it, writing it out, remembering that His plans are bigger than mine. Recently I’ve just felt so helpless, so frustrated, as if everything goes wrong. Like I’m about to take the next step; foot in mid air, the next stepping stone in sight. Then suddenly the once seemingly steady stone is moved and I’m stuck; in mid air, aggravated and waiting, almost worse off than before because now I only have one foot on the previous step instead of two, and my hopes have been deferred.
Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.
So, I wonder, if the Bible clearly states this to have a heart-sickening effect, is there any way to avoid a “deferred hope”? Could it be that I am trusting in the actual circumstances or situations instead of the One who controls them?
Has every deferred hope actually been a vain longing which I conveniently dubbed “Your will”? Or did I just screw up too badly to receive what I ignorantly thought was a part of “Your promise”?
NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU. Okay, so where does this leave me? Have His plans simply changed? Or were they never His to begin with? Is it possible that I took the step too soon, or that I just wasn’t ready? So will the plans permanently change? Or will they return in due time? Is it the right season? Should I take a few steps back? Is He using these circumstances to draw me closer to him? Has He been trying to get my attention with the solution, but I’m too stuck on the problem to budge?
Psalm 119:116
Lord, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! Do not let my hope be crushed.
If there ever was a time to “take a step of faith” I thought it was now. So there, Lord, I took a few steps in a few different directions. And I didn’t find any solid ground. It’s right HERE that I ask myself; what the heck is up with that? I feel like the donkey who ignorantly chased the carrot on the end of a string. Not knowing it was only a con to keep him moving, and he would never be able to get it; no matter how long, fast, or far he went.
The adults that I’ve talked to about this have counseled me and given me advice but then again they also laughed and said “welcome to life kiddo”. Is this really a part of the walk? I know I will never reach a point where I’m perfect, but seriously, what about my heart? Will it ever be completely healed? I’ve thought it was on several occasions, then another heart-wrenching event or reminder occurred which pretty much killed my previously “perfectly content heart.”
The Bible guarantees that it will be hard, and we will have struggles, But He will never leave us, and He will remain in control…Thank God!
Proverbs 23:17-18
Don’t envy sinners, but always continue to fear the Lord. You will be rewarded for this; your hope will not be disappointed.
I will continue to put my hope and faith in the Lord, He has proven to be the only constant thing in my life. He will heal me if I let him. And when I fall down then fall even further eight more times, He’s still there. I can rest assured with the fact that He would forgive me seventy times seven-DAILY. If it came to it. And He is faithful to exceed four-hundred and ninety times if need be. He doesn’t yell or pick me up upside down, or send lightning to strike me dead.
Psalm 119:116
Lord, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! Do not let my hope be crushed.
He sustains me, He knows what I want and need, and the difference between the two. I am so thankful He moves people and circumstances according to His perfect timing and not mine. I trust that His plans are set in stone. As long as I keep my eyes on Him, His desires will become mine and will materialize at their appointed time. He is more than enough for me.
Psalm 27:14:
Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
^That verse has been brought to memory quite a bit this month. I’ve felt so distant. After reevaluating things that have happened the last couple months, I realize why. I let things get in the way, I got off track. I wasn’t whole-heartedly running after Him. I got tired and bored of waiting. I was so busy, and before I knew it, I was falling.
He is faithful, and I feel at peace now, But I am still in this season where I feel its necessary to wait. Like I’m in a starring contest with God, seeing who will give in and blink first. Except its a waiting contest…Weird I know. But the Bible does say that in order to find Him, you must first seek Him…which implies He isn’t quite all that easy to find at times…
But I want His perfect will and guidance, and I am willing to wait for it. I’ve tried aimlessly wandering around and finding my own way…which only led to a lot of brokenness and hurt.
So here I am. I’ll wait, God. I will whole heartedly seek and trust You as Lord of my life. And I won’t get distracted this time; its not worth it.
