AYEKAH - Where Are You?

First of all, let me assure you that I have no expertise in the Hebrew language. Yet through the years, and through participation in various Bible studies*, I have managed to acquire a few Hebrew words with basic or rudimentary understanding. Today and tomorrow I would like to share some thoughts on two Hebrew words: Ayekah and Hineni. It reflects my own personal growth, and I hope it will inspire personal growth for you as well.

Ayekah (Heb.) is translated as the question, Where are you? The Psalmist often wrote psalms and songs of searching for God. Similarly today, when trouble arises or challenges come, we often ask God... “Where are you?” as if He has somehow wandered off and left us alone. But the sobering truth is that God is not ever the one who wanders off or drifts away from us. He is always there; the same place he has always been.

Psalm 33:13-15 (NIV) From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind: from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth – he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.

Psalm 34:18 (NIV) The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV) The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

In fact, the very first use of Ayekah (eye-eck’-ah) recorded in the Bible can be found in Genesis.

Genesis 3:9 (NIV) But the LORD God called to the man, “Where are you?”

God was not hiding from man. Man was hiding from God; and with good reason, because man had sinned – had drifted away from God’s commands – man had departed from fellowship with God.

Do we honestly think God had no idea where Adam was? The truth is that God knew exactly where Adam (and Eve) were; hiding in the bushes trying to conceal themselves with leaves. Perhaps the question, “Where are you?” was not to establish physical location; but rather to establish the distance that had interrupted fellowship between God and man, and to identify the cause.

Today, rather than asking God “Ayekah?” – “Where are you?” ... perhaps we should be listening to God asking us:

Where are you?

Ayekah? Where have you gone? Where have you drifted? Why are we no longer close? What is distracting you from being with Me? Where have you wandered? Where have you strayed? What has led you off course? Is this truly where you want to be – without Me? Where are you going without Me? Where are you hiding? Why are you hiding? Where have you gone that has taken you farther away from Me? Ayekah? Where are you?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

We have strayed away from our relationship with you. We have been inattentive. We have been too casual, and far too forgetful of spending time with you in prayer and reading your Word. And if we are honest, sometimes we have been just downright obstinate and rebellious. Please forgive us. Draw us back into a right relationship with you, for you have never left us nor abandoned us. We humbly thank you for always being right where you have always been – always within a whispered prayer away, and never any further distance.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional AYEKAH – Where Are You? appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com 

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version^®, NIV^®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.^® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

*Jesus and Women. K. McLelland, Lifeway, 2020

*Rabbi Heather Miller, All Saints Church, Pasedena, 2021

Procrastination - The Sneaky sin

1 John 1:8-9 (NIV) If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

If you have read any of my previous devotions, you know a few things about me. First, you know I always strive to write whatever it is that I feel the Lord is laying on my heart for others to read... especially when “others” includes me! Secondly, you know that I always strive to write things that are motivational, thoughtful, and encouraging. Occasionally, my thoughts and my writings take on a more serious vibe, and such is the theme of today.

SIN: No, not the egregious sins of murder, stealing, immorality and the like. I’m talking about the sins we often downplay as minor irritations, flaws, slight deviations of character. The ones we think really aren’t so bad, and certainly not as bad as the flaws we find in “others.” Yes, those are the sins I am targeting. Why? Because I am chief among the sinners who need forgiveness offered by our Gracious Heavenly Father; the forgiveness provided by the ultimate sacrificial blood of his Only Son, Jesus Christ our Savior. Furthermore, if the ‘sin’ highlighted in today’s devotion is pricking at my heart convicting me of the need for forgiveness, then I know I am not alone and others may feel conviction pricking at their hearts, too.

The Sneaky Sin of Procrastination

“okay, I’ll get that done right away, but I need to...”

“wait a minute, I need to finish (___) first...”

“my phone just beeped, let me just check to see...”

“it’s almost time for (___), I’ll do it right after...”

I think the sin of procrastination hit me the hardest not too long ago when I promised I’d pray about something... then 45 minutes or an hour later when I finally sat down to pray about whatever the important situation was; I felt piercingly convicted as if the Lord was asking me, “Dotty, if it was so important, why are you just now getting around to telling me? I have known about this all along, even before you knew about it, but do you realize how many things you did first before you actually started to pray?” Now I have to say this was not audible voices, but just thoughts in my head; nevertheless, they seemed to be thoughts of conviction by the Holy Spirit who lives and dwells inside of each Christian – inside of you – inside of me.

My second example of the sin of procrastination took place at a fast food restaurant. A worker in obvious distress over a huge mess he was cleaning, was told “good morning,” to which he responded, “What’s good about it?” Immediately I had the tug at my heart to tell him, “You, you are what’s good about today! Your Heavenly Father who sees whatever you are going through and gives you strength to handle it, is what’s good about today!” Of course, I procrastinated, convincing myself of all the reasons I should not respond, all the reasons I shouldn’t get involved, all the reasons it wasn’t any of my business, ...and of course within moments I missed the opportunity. I can never get that moment back. The sneaky sin of procrastination caused me to miss the opportunity to encourage someone.

This same sin of procrastination sneaks up on all of us and affects us all in one way or another. We must each seek our Heavenly Father’s forgiveness as it pertains to how the Lord is leading in our own life. For now, I will simply leave you with a few of my favorite verses that have helped me through the years:

Matthew 6:6-8 (NIV) But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like the pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Isaiah 65:24 (NIV) Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.

Colossians 3:17, 23 (NIV) And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. ... Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord...

In my final thoughts, I want to assure you that God is already very aware of our needs and our circumstances. He knows the urgency of our hearts’ pleadings. But answers provided within his will and his way, within his timing, are always the best answers we could ever hope for. However; on our end and from our perspective, if we promise to pray about anything, then that is exactly what we should do without hesitation and without putting it off until a more convenient time. We would not want our Heavenly Father to treat us in that way – to tell us that he’s too busy to listen to our prayer right now because He’s got other more important prayers to answer, so come back later. Our sins of procrastination – whatever that may be for each of us – is of a very serious matter – a most urgent one - one which needs your immediate attention.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Forgive us for the many times we put off praying, or put off doing, what we ought to do. When you lay something on our hearts, let us give it the utmost attention. Never for a moment allow us to treat you in any casual or second-thought way. Teach us to put you first in all things.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Procrastination - The Sneaky Sin appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com 

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version^®, NIV^®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.^® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Thoughts on Repentance

 Acts 2:37-38 (NIV) When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off – for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Acts 3:19 (NIV) Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord...

As a young Christian, I think I was able to grasp the concept of Repentance with a response of being sorry for whatever I had said or done. Yet back then, my rudimentary understanding did not allow for much depth of conviction. All too soon I would be right back where I started without any lasting remorse, regret, or obvious changes in my feelings or actions. As I look back, I realize those early years were not engaged in true repentance.

A short time ago I came across some writings of my father-in-law (T.E. Willmon, Jr.) who wrote many lessons, Bible studies, and sermons. His words can express the concept of repentance so much clearer than I am able to do. Although he passed away in 2012, I am confident he would allow me to share this portion of one of his lessons written in 2001 for the Advent Christian Church in Clovis...

“Before continuing the story... let’s stop and look at the instructive and very biblical word repentance. It is not my intention to delve into the Hebrew or Greek words so translated; nor do I want to search out the many examples, of which the Bible is replete. I would like to examine four kinds, or four phases, or four levels of repentance.

The first level could be called the beginning of repentance. It is a mere desire that ‘the done’ might be undone – a sadness for something which was done and wishing that it might be undone; a feeling that a wiser view of the past might have been better. In all-too-many instances this is as far as many acts of repentance go.

The second level is expressed by a change of mind. This is especially true when later events happen that cause a person to alter his, or her, thinking. ‘At the time, I didn’t think anything of it, but now... I have changed my mind.’

The third level is a change of heart. It is regret for the course pursued and clear displeasure with oneself for taking a certain action. It is remorse for the ill done in the past. It logically follows levels one and two.

Last, true repentance – after a change in feelings, mind, and heart – calls for a change in life  and action, change of conduct for the future, a change of life for the better. True repentance calls for confession.”

1 John 1:9 (NIV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

This, dear friends, is true repentance which leads to true salvation. I would encourage you to spend a moment or two in reflection – what level of repentance is your customary response, and what steps do you need to take to reach “true repentance”? I can assure you that your Lord and Savior is only a whispered prayer away; he will hear you; he has promised forgiveness through Christ.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your provision of salvation through the sacrifice of your only Son. Forgive the times we treat repentance as mere I’m sorry lip-service. We come to your with our sincere confession of heart and mind. Guide to take whatever steps forward that will lead us to your will and way.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Thoughts on Repentance appeared first on Write From My Heart at  

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com 

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

The Story of Cristianos Descolgados

There is a story¹ of a group of Christian students somewhere in Latin America. They called themselves, Cristianos Descolgados which the story interprets as “Unhooked Christians”. (Since I am unfamiliar with the language, I will accept the provided definition.) As the story goes, these students “dropped out” of going to church anywhere at all because they had apparently visited every church in their city and they were unable to find what they were looking for in a church. So what were they looking for? A church in which:

1.      the Bible is taught
2.      there is a loving, caring fellowship
3.      there is sincere and humble worship
4.      there is a compassionate outreach to the world outside

Wow! What an indictment on those churches; but I fear most churches do not fall far behind. In my own experience I have had the opportunity to be a part of many different churches in many different locations. As I think about my experiences in each fellowship, I can recall several churches that excelled in one or more of the areas listed, but I must admit I am having difficulty recalling a church that met all the criteria noted above.

1. the Bible is taught 

On one occasion, while scanning for something to watch on tv I noticed a church service, and I paused because behind the minister sat the choir— and every choir member held an open Bible in their laps. At first, I thought (skeptic that I am) it was probably just for “show” for the camera...but when the camera panned back, the entire congregation had Bibles opened and being used. It’s hard to find a church like that!

2. there is a loving, caring fellowship

Many churches have a time of greeting one another... but usually what happens is a beeline to our friends. I remember reading an online comment left by one visitor to a church that stated he had been there for three months and no one knew his name. That was an indictment on me because at that time I was part of that fellowship!

3. there is sincere and humble worship

I have been in churches that excelled in this area. I have also been in a church that was so regimented by the order of worship and formality that it seemed robotic and ritualistic. I have also been in a church that was so free style under the guise of being “spirit filled” that the loud noisy repetitive singing/shouting left me with headaches each week. Not fun. Definitely not humble worship.

4. there is a compassionate outreach to the world outside

My current church home excels in this area. We have a wonderful mission to Haiti that involves among other things, creating water collection systems for homes who do not have this basic necessity for life; as well as creating gardening projects that service many families. We support a local mission providing meals to homeless, as well as providing meals and support for students from a nearby college campus, and support for teachers and students of a nearby local elementary school. There are also other periodic mission project opportunities that take place throughout the year.

Today’s devotional has been a bit different from others; but I leave you with a few thoughts to ponder while you reflect on your own church:

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3, 7-8 (NIV) We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 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. ... And so you became a model to all the believers... The Lord’s message rang out from you... your faith in God has become known everywhere.

Colossians 3:15-16 (NIV) Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

Psalm 6-7 (NIV) Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care.

Psalm 119:10-11, 16b (NIV) I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. ... I will not neglect your word.

Ephesians 6:18-20 (NIV) And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel... Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

Dear Readers, if these scriptures are not descriptive of your church fellowship; I must ask, what are you doing to help improve it?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

We long to be a church where the Bible is taught, where there is a loving and caring fellowship, where there is sincere and humble worship, and where there is a compassionate outreach to the world outside. Thank you for guiding us in the areas in which we excel; but quicken our hearts to improve the areas which do not please you. Above all, may all honor and glory be given to You alone.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional The Story of Cristianos Descolgados appeared first on Write From My Heart at

 https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com 

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

¹Stott, J. Through the Bible Through the Year: Daily Reflections from Genesis to Revelation. Monarch Books, Grand Rapids, 2006. (p. 312).

 

Train Yourself in Othodoxy, Orthopraxis, and Otho-pathos

 1 Timothy 4:1-2, 7-9, 15-16 (NIV) The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars ... Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. ... Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Paul’s first letter to Timothy encourages him to remain strong in the gospel faith and it also warns about the dangers of false teachings. While this is a personal letter to Timothy, the truths it contains are valuable for us today. If you have not done so in a while, I encourage you to read chapters 3 and 4 of 1 Timothy. Resist the urge to think this is only advice for Pastors, deacons and teachers. Bring it home to a personal level. How does one live a godly life? How does one train yourself to be godly? I might suggest three areas as a first step:

Train yourself in orthodoxy (i.e., ‘right thinking’)

Philippians 4:8 (NIV) Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.

Train yourself in orthopraxis (i.e., ‘right doing’)

Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV) Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Colossians 3:23-24; 4:2 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord ... It is the Lord Christ you are serving. ... Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Titus 3:14 (NIV) Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for the urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.

Hebrews 10:23-25 (NIV) Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. and let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Train yourself in ortho-pathos (i.e., ‘right feeling’)

Colossians 3:12-15 (NIV) Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Dear Readers, I don’t know about you or where you stand right now, but I know one thing... I have a lot of personal “training” left to accomplish!

 

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the wisdom of your Word. Thank you for its teaching in how to live godly lives that are pleasing to you. Forgive us where we fail, and strengthen our resolve to improve.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Train Yourself in Orthodoxy, Orthopraxis, and Ortho-pathos appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com 

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.