Suffering and Trials | Devotions By Jan

January 11, 2016
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Puddle Jumping

Scripture for Today: John 21:7b “…As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, ‘It is the Lord,’ he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.”

Puddle splashing and little boys go together! My grandsons happily jump into the biggest puddle they can find with both feet, hoping to make as big a splash as possible. With the recent rains and flooding in Southern California, there are plenty of opportunities. At their age it is a supervised controlled activity, but I imagine when they are older, shoes, socks and pants will be well soaked.

Today’s verse has someone jumping in the water. The disciples were not too sure who exactly it was on the shore telling them how to fish. But in following His instruction, these experienced fishermen realized that their huge haul was a miracle. With John’s declaration, impetuous Peter jumps into the water to meet the Lord! He is excited to brave the wet and cold in order to reach Jesus first. If it meant getting wet and soggy he was willing. That cold water was surely a shock to the system for Peter, especially after fishing all night. But after the humiliation of his recent denial, Peter may have been anxious to prove his love and faithfulness with that jump.

Jumping in with both feet into something cold, wet and uncomfortable does not appeal to me. But often, the Lord puts those trials or puddles directly in my path. That path could lead to a deeper more intimate relationship with Him. If going through that difficulty can result in a closer more loving relationship, than maybe I should “consider it joy” (James 1:2) and jump in with both feet!

Lord, help me live life with joy, regardless of the puddles.

January 8, 2016
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High Surf Advisory

Scripture for Today: Psalm 107:29 “He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.”

It is not uncommon to hear of high surf advisories in our area of Southern California. The National Weather Service uses this term to describe any pounding surf that poses a danger to those in the water. This alert can also mean the presence of dangerous rip currents or “sneaker waves.” The sneaker wave is a coastal wave that is much greater in force and height than the ones preceding it. It is unanticipated and takes one by surprise.

Today’s verse is reassuring as a reminder of God’s absolute control of the waves and the weather. He stills the storm to just a whisper. The waves that looked so menacing are hushed in a moment at His command. What is less reassuring is verse 25 where He spoke and stirred up the tempest that lifted the waves up high to begin with. In this psalm several negative scenarios are described where God allows circumstances that cause people distress. Each time they cry to the Lord and each time with love and tenderness He responds. The Lord allows the difficulty to show Himself powerful. He shows His unfailing love and His wonderful work in a way that would not have been otherwise seen.

Those waves ebb and flow in each life. There are wonderful times of calm, but perhaps more often, the winds are blowing and the waves are rough. But with each storm He is there, ready to show Himself powerful and build up my faith. He is faithful and has never yet failed me. He will not let those waves overcome me. He has already overcome the world and I can trust Him!

Thank you Lord, for Your steady love holding me up!

January 5, 2016
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Oil Tasting

Scripture for Today: Hebrews 1:9 “You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.”

There are so many varieties of flavored-infused olive oils to choose from that stores will sometimes offer a “tasting bar.” The salesman was adept at explaining the different pairings and recipes possible, so much so that I walked away with an expensive bottle of rosemary flavored oil. I am supposed to feel good about olive oil as it is better for good health than some others. But oil is still fat and I hesitate to feel too enthusiastic about it!

Today’s verse mentions an oil of joy and is speaking of Christ which means, “the anointed One.” Jesus is set apart as holy and righteous, superior to the angels or any other created being. There is joy in this righteous relationship Christ shares with the Father. There is joy despite the fact that Jesus was called a “Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.” (Is. 53:3) It was for the joy set before Him that He endured the cross (Heb. 12:2). It is this same joy that we can experience even when going through trial and difficulty (James 1:2).

Just as oil was used in biblical times to consecrate and set apart a person, so this “oil of joy” does for me today. Living with joy when nothing is going according to plan sets me apart and makes me different! Joy in spite of grave health problems, uncertain finances or dashed dreams is not the norm. But His Spirit’s fruit includes a joy that I can set before me as I endure whatever life may throw at me!

Lord, may the oil of joy overflow my heart regardless of what today may bring.

October 21, 2015
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Grits

Scripture for Today: Hebrews 10:36 “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.”

My impression of grits is that it is bland and heavy. But in fact, this ground-corn dish, popular in the Southern States, has many mouth-watering variations. I have enjoyed them with shrimp and with cheese as a main dish. But grits are often thought of as a breakfast side dish. In any case, the word “grit” has another meaning, associated with the idea of courage, resolve and strength of will.

Today’s verse also alludes to “strength of will” but curiously, not our own. Believers are encouraged to continue living out God’s will. These early Christians endured “great conflict full of suffering” (verse 32). When they were not being persecuted themselves, they were standing side by side with those who were. They were publicly humiliated and insulted, even suffering the indignities of prison and confiscation of property.

It takes perseverance to follow God’s desires ahead of our own. We mistakenly believe that the goal of life is the pursuit of happiness. But God’s will is much grander than our own little lives. He is about building His Kingdom and believers are privileged to participate in something that is eternal. My confidence and obedience will one day be richly rewarded. Knowing that helps me persevere in doing His will. I enjoy His blessings now but they pale in comparison to all He has prepared for me!

I frankly do not always understand His will. It is often at odds with my own selfish desires or what I believe are “my rights.” But I do know that whatever it takes, He is worth following!

Thank you Lord, for giving me what it takes to persevere.

October 19, 2015
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Feeling Down

Scripture for Today: Psalm 126:6 “Those who go out weeping carrying seeds to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.”

In all my years living in Europe, I had never seen a European Weeping Beech tree. But recently in Rhode Island, on the grounds of the Château sur Mer in Newport I saw this incredible sight! The drooping branches were so thick, the trunk was not even visible. The English call it the “upside down tree!” I am familiar with the Weeping Willow, but apparently there are several species of trees that are called, “Weeping,” if they grow pendulous branches. That sad weepy look is so strange looking. I am not sure I would want such a sad looking tree in my yard.

Today’s verse describes a weeping that ends in joy! What an amazing reversal promised to the Israelites! The Lord would bring back their captives and restore their fortunes causing all the neighboring nations to sit up and take notice. The Lord will be known as having done great things for them. All those tears are replaced with laughter and songs of joy!

This promise has many layers as we too can look forward to a time when our weeping and sorrow will be transformed! Laughter and joy will echo in the halls of Heaven as I enjoy a hope that is realized forever! Weeping will be a distant memory. Everything sad and awful will seem light compared to the weight of glory that I will one day enjoy! (II Cor. 4:17)

So much sadness in this life now, but before long, “One glimpse of His dear face, all sorrow will erase!” Better than anything I can dream, His joy and recompense will exceed every expectation!

Thank you Lord, for the songs of joy yet to be sung!