As Many Times as It Takes

This week during our devotional time together we explored Easter Resurrection Day and the days immediately following through the perspectives of people present at the original event. And now we come to the story of Peter, but even here, I would like to find some small piece of the story that may have been overlooked or under-emphasized in the past.

The story of Peter’s denial is found in all four Gospels: Matthew 26:31-35; Mark 14:27-31; Luke 22:54-62; and John 18:15-27. How quick we are to note someone else’s flaws. Of the four, only John records the redemption and restoration of Peter, John 21:15-17.

Countless sermons and devotionals connect Peter’s three denials with Jesus’ questions given three times, Peter, do you love me? But I remember a similar conversation between Peter and Jesus that took place on an earlier occasion.

Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV)  ²¹Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” ²²Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

How often should we forgive others? As many times as it takes. How often will our Heavenly Father forgive us? As many times as it takes.

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)  Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your love and mercy. Thank you for the gift of salvation through Christ’s death and resurrection. Thank you for continued forgiveness for the many times we fall short of your glory and purpose. Create in us a heart of compassion and forgiveness for others.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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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.

 

What Am I Missing?

Of the four Gospels, only John mentions the absence of Thomas at that first Post-Resurrection gathering of the disciples.

John 20:24-25 (NIV)  ²⁴Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. ²⁵So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”

Thomas must have been asking himself, What am I missing? The answer; We have seen the Lord! That was the very first thing Thomas was missing. He was never guaranteed another opportunity to see his Risen Savior in person; only by God’s grace and mercy did he receive a second chance that next week.

John 20:26 (NIV) ²⁶A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them.

The truth is, we are never told why Thomas missed that first gathering. We can suppose; we can assume; but we cannot know for sure. It occurs to me the reason for Thomas’ absence is not the focus; the consequence is. Actions have consequences, and so do inactions. Because of his absence, Thomas had to wrestle with his doubts and skepticism for another week. Because of his absence, Thomas missed the comfort and encouragement the disciples offered each other in the wake of tragedy. Because of his absence, Thomas missed being overjoyed with his fellow disciples at the sight of their Risen Lord (c.f., v.20), at least for a time.

The question falls even to us, today; What am I missing? The church pews are full on Easter Sunday, or for that matter on Christmas Sunday, too. But what about after Easter? What am I missing? When we are missing church, we are missing the presence of our Heavenly Father and the opportunity to know Him better. When we are missing church, we are missing the opportunity to bring peace to our doubts and skepticisms, our challenges and difficulties. When we are missing church, we are missing the comfort and encouragement of our fellow Christians. When we are missing church, we are missing the joy and fellowship of our Brothers and Sisters in Christ.

Psalm 84:10 (NIV) Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

Matthew 18:20 (NIV) For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

Hebrews 10:23-25 (NIV)  ²³Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. ²⁴And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, ²⁵not 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.

Online services are wonderful for those who are unable to attend in person. There are many who are elderly, sick, and homebound. Online services provide a much-needed benefit for many. But what about the rest of us? When our pew is empty, we must ask ourselves; What am I missing?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the joy and privilege of meeting with fellow Christians. Thank you for the comfort and encouragement of others during our times of challenge or distress. Most of all, thank you for Your presence in our hearts.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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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.

 

Are You the Only One Who Doesn't Know?

Today we continue our exploration of Resurrection Easter and the days immediately following. The four Gospels record several different encounters between groups of disciples and the Resurrected Jesus. But it is Luke who records the happenings on the road to Emmaus. Here we find Cleopas and another disciple heading out of Jerusalem for the nearly 7-mile trek to Emmaus.

Luke 24:13-16 (NIV) ¹³Now that day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. ¹⁴They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. ¹⁵As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; ¹⁶but they were kept from recognizing him.

One of the commentaries has noted that the verbs “talked and discussed” bears the connotation of debate or intense scrutiny. Whatever the case may be, one thing seems certain, the disciples were fully engaged in trying to make sense of all the events that had just occurred. Jesus joins them. He asks a simple question, “What are you discussing... (c.f., v. 17). Cleopas responds, basically saying: Are you the only one who doesn’t know? How ironic. Standing in the midst of the Risen Lord, their eyes cannot see the very One about whom their discussion is focused. Perhaps their eyes were prevented from seeing Jesus for good reason...did they really know who He was? I encourage you to read Luke 24:19-24 and pay attention to some of the excerpted details:

Luke 24:19-24 (NIV)excerpts  ^{19 “}About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.  ... ²¹but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel.”

He was. We had hoped. Notice the past tense. It is easy for us today because we (the ones reading the story) can see what they (the ones doing the walking and talking) could not. They wonder if Jesus has a clue as to what is going on; Jesus knows they do not. So the Resurrected Jesus uses the seven-mile trek to explain things to them.

Luke 24:27 (NIV)  ²⁷And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

For us today, we too, can know who Christ is through the Scriptures. Most sermons and lessons about the events of Emmaus focus upon the revelation through the sharing at the table...four verbs:

Luke 24:30-31 (NIV) ³⁰...he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. ³¹Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.

Luke 22:19 (NIV) (Jesus’ words spoken at the Last Supper) ^{19 “}...do this in remembrance of me”

Yes, this was a most amazing event. Yes, we remember our Resurrected Lord through the partaking of communion. But do we know Him? Do we study our Bibles to know Him through the Scriptures? Does the Resurrected Jesus live in our past tense of who He was, or does He reign in our present tense of who He is?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Sometimes I bow my head and feel as if Cleopas was speaking to me as if I am the only one who doesn’t know. And yet I know beyond doubt that Jesus Christ is real. Jesus Christ is alive. Thank you for the guidance of your Holy Spirit who gives the wisdom to understand your Word; to understand who Christ is.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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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.

Do You See What I See?

As we continue our thoughts this week concerning Easter Resurrection Day and the days immediately following, let’s take a glimpse at the guards. Did they know about the Resurrection? Of course, they knew! The phrase, scared to death comes to mind.

Matthew 28:2-4 (NIV) ²There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. ³His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. ⁴The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

I find it interesting that the written record does not mention the angel speaking to the guards, only speaking directly to the women (c.f., v. 5)...the guards, however, witnessed it all. They knew. They knew it all. In fact, we next see them running to tell the chief priests. Why would they run to tell the chief priests? We discover the answer first by backing up in Scriptures just a bit:

Matthew 27:62-66 (NIV) ⁶²The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priests and the Pharisees went to Pilate. ⁶³“Sir,” they said, “we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ ⁶⁴So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first.” ⁶⁵“Take a guard,” Pilate answered. “Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.” ⁶⁶So they went and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and posting the guard.

The body is buried. The tomb is sealed. The guard is posted. Earthquake. Do you see what I see?

Matthew 28:2 and 28:6 (NIV) ²...for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven...  [Notice—the angel speaks directly to the women, but the guards hear every word] ⁶“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.”

They knew. They knew the truth. They knew it all. Their story continues:

Matthew 28:11-15 (NIV) ¹¹While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. ¹²When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, ¹³telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ ¹⁴If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” ¹⁵So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.

History tells us the penalty for falling asleep while on duty was severe, and often fatal. It is completely understandable the guards would be concerned about using the excuse of falling asleep. But the bonus money, and the promise from the chief priests don’t worry, we’ve got your back was enough for them. Do you see what I see? now becomes This is how it all went down. In today’s terms we would call this Revisionist History.

Matthew’s Gospel is interesting for immediately following this account, Matthew closes his writings with what we refer to as The Great Commission. Given by Resurrected Jesus to his disciples, and still important for us today:

Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV) ¹⁹Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Do you see what I see? The guards knew the truth of the Resurrection back then; and we know the truth of the Resurrection now. The guards chose the path of Revisionist History; what will we choose?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Forgive us for limiting Christ’s Resurrection Day to a single Easter Sunday, for it should be the foundation of our life as a Christian. Embolden us to proclaim the message of salvation including the resurrection truth to others, both in our spoken words and in the life we live.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional  Do You See What I See? 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.

What Happens After Easter?

What happens after Easter? Eggs have been hunted and found. Chocolate bunnies have been consumed. Easter programs have been sung. Families have gathered for Easter dinners and dishes have been washed and put away. Family pictures have been taken. Easter clothes have been tucked into closets. It occurs to me that we tuck Easter away as quickly as Christmas or any other holiday.

This week, in our brief devotional time together, I would like to pause and take a look at what happened the few days that followed Easter, from the perspective of people present at the original event. We will look at Mary Magdalene, the Guards, the Disciples, Thomas, and Peter. Perhaps through their eyes we will find a fresh way to respond to the question, What happens after Easter?

The four Gospels offer a slight variation in the account of the women who went to the tomb. Luke simply identifies them as “the women who accompanied Jesus from Galilee,” (c.f., Luke 23:55) while Mark gives a more specific roll call of  Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, and Salome,” (c.f., Mark 15:40). Matthew pairs Mary Magdalene with “the other Mary,” (c.f., Matthew 28:1). It is John who emphasizes the presence of Mary Magdalene, and we will explore the post-Easter days through her eyes.

What do we know about Mary Magdalene? We know that she had been healed by Jesus; she was cured of seven evil spirits, (c.f., Luke 8:1 and Mark 16:9).  We know she was present at the crucifixion of Christ, (c.f., Mark 15:40). We know she followed the body of her Savior as he was placed in the tomb, (c.f., Matthew 27:56). That tomb was now sealed with guards posted. That tomb holds the only One who ever considered her more than human refuse. To the Jewish culture of the day she was unclean, unlovable, and less than the least of humans. To the Jewish culture of the day, dogs had been considered more valuable than she. That is until Jesus reached out in compassion and healed her. To Jesus she was a woman of worth and value. Now, the unjust treatment of Jesus was clearly evident and she would make certain his death received proper care.

John 20:1 (NIV)  ¹ Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. ²So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

How could this be? She had promised herself to care for the body of her dearly loved Savior; the only One to see her value and worth. And now, the body was gone. As I consider Mary Magdalene, I cannot even fathom the range of emotions running through her distraught mind. And then, oh but then... a familiar voice...

John 20:16 (NIV)  Jesus said to her, “Mary.”

One word. Her name. She knew in that moment she had not been abandoned. Her Savior, her Lord, her “Rabboni!” Teacher was alive!

John 20:18 (NIV) Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!”

Now it is time for us to consider, What happens after Easter? Jesus suffered and died for us. But it is Easter, and He has risen! He is alive! How will we respond?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Words cannot express my gratitude for your mercy and love that provided for my salvation through the suffering, death, and resurrection of your Only Son, Jesus Christ. Through Mary Magadene’s experience written in your Word, I have seen the Lord! My heart sings with joy. Christ lives for me; now let me live my days for Him.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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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.

 

Plans for Making Plans

Proverbs 21:30 (NLT)  No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the LORD.

Psalm 33:11 (NLT)  But the LORD’s  plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.

Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)  We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.

James 4:13-17 (NLT)  ¹³Look here, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit.” ¹⁴How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. ¹⁵What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.” ¹⁶Otherwise you are boasting about your own pretentious plans, and all such boasting is evil. ¹⁷Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.

I have a lot of plans for this coming year and I cannot believe that the first three months of 2026 have already vanished. I’m pretty sure you have many plans as well. So, do these scriptures mean we shouldn’t be making any plans? Of course not. If you re-read the James passage, the author is clearly saying we should be doing what we know is right and good, because it is in failure to do what we know we ought to do that we err; it is in planning for our own self-promotion or self-gain that we err. The whole point of these verses, at least in my mind, is that when I make plans—daily, yearly, long range—I should be doing so with the clear understanding that God has ultimate control and his plans may differ from mine. What it tells me, is that before making any plans I should be prayerful and have confidence that what I plan to do is in line with those things that are right and good according to God’s word.

So how does all this work in the everyday nitty gritty of life? Well, I’m pretty sure God would want me to keep a clean home, and although I’m good at that, there is still plenty of room for improvement. When I make plans to spend time on cleaning projects, that’s the right thing to do. I’m confident God has given me a small talent for writing and when I make plans to spend time in that activity, I’m sure I’m making a good choice. I know beyond doubt that God wants us to encourage one another, so making plans to write or call someone (or visit when we are able) is also something that is a good plan. God wants me to take care of myself, so I know plans for future medical appointments is part of that good plan.

Most of us have calendars of some type, and it seems today most people use their phones to keep important dates. Yet as we pack the dates of whatever calendar we use, remember God has plans for your life, too! Those things we want to do need to be in line with what we know to be good and right according to God’s word through prayerful consideration. And even beyond that, we need to remember that God’s ways are greater than our ways, and his thoughts far beyond our own. Finally, we need to be ready and willing to obey when our plans are interrupted by some plan or opportunity God places before us. Perhaps it is time to browse through our calendars and appointments...are the things that pack our daily schedules in line with what we know in our heart honors God?

Proverbs 16:3 (NLT)  Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.

 

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for giving us clear instructions in your Word. We know in our heart those things which are good and right and those things to which we should be making plans. Now, remind us that what you have planned for us comes first over any of our own plans. Grant us a ready and willing, obedient spirit to seek you first in all that we think, say, and do, and to complete the tasks and opportunities you provide.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Freedom to Use Self-Restraint

Romans 14:7 (NLT)  For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves.

Paul’s letter to the Roman Christians had much to say by way of both instructions and reminders of their responsibilities in regard to the law, faith, salvation, and especially in living a life pleasing to God. Paul reminds the new Christians they do not live in isolation of humanity. This message is also a good reminder today. What you do in life (i.e., the choices you make) affect more than just yourself. Although you are free to choose as you wish, what you choose affects not only you, but your family and others as well. Paul reminds the early church that freedom to choose often means freedom to use restraint.

Apparently, it seems some of the early Christians believed their new-found freedom in Christ was a free pass to do whatever they believed to be right in their own interpretations. This caused conflict in the early church and it set a very negative relationship between the Jews who lived by strict rules and regulations, and the Christians who now felt they had no restrictions. Paul carefully responds to this disparity of thought, and tucked inside a message specifically addressing dietary differences between Jews and Gentiles, Paul has the following comments:

Romans 14:13-23 (NLT) _excerpts  ¹³So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.  ...  ¹⁹So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.  ...  ²²You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God.

My heart tells me that although this passage initially addresses concerns about what was, and was not, lawful or right to eat during Paul’s time; there is still a message we need to hear today. Perhaps we need to realize that it is wiser to spend less time worrying about what our “rights” are, and more time considering how to promote peace with those around us. As Christians, we have both a responsibility and an obligation to encourage and lift up one another. Sometimes, it’s best to keep our thoughts and opinions to ourselves because God already knows what is on our hearts. Why stir up animosity? Doing so only leads to resentment. Our job is to lead others to the light of Christ through living responsible, peaceful lives; encouraging others whenever we have the opportunity.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

We live in a world concerned only with “what is right for me,” and sometimes we forget that our ultimate responsibility is to show your love to others. Help us lay aside those things that promote self and instead display those things in and through our lives that honor you. Thank you for the freedom you give us to use self-restraint.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Peace During the Night

Psalm 8:3-4 (NLT)  ³When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you set in place—⁴what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?

Psalm 3:5 (NLT)  I lay down and slept, yet I woke up in safety, for the LORD was watching over me.

Psalm 63:6-8 (NLT)  ⁶I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. ⁷Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. ⁸I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.

There are nights when I go to bed, only to wake up an hour or so later, and then I remain awake most of the night until nearly morning. It’s almost as if I cannot find the “off switch” for my thoughts. On those evenings, the best solution I have found is to lie still and think of Bible verses and hymns I know, and also to spend time silently in prayer for others. What a comfort it is to know that the same LORD God Almighty who placed all the stars and heavenly bodies in place, is the very same God who watches over me. Changing my focus from daily stresses and cares of the day, and turning my focus toward my Heavenly Father, calms my thoughts and gives me good rest for the evening. It is the best way I know to have peace during the night and awake refreshed in the morning.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

You understand our thoughts and you know what keeps us awake at night. Calm our fears, quiet our thoughts, and help us to focus on you. Thank you for the safety you provide and for the comfort of knowing you care deeply for us. You never abandon us.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

 

Whatever You Ask

Matthew 21:22  (KJV) And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing ye shall receive.  (NIV)  If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.  (NLT) You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.

John 14:13-14  (KJV) ¹³And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. ¹⁴If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.  (NIV) ¹³And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. ¹⁴You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.  (NLT) ¹³You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. ¹⁴Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

John 15:7  (KJV) If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.  (NIV) If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. (NLT) But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!

The scriptures noted above have been provided in three different translations to make the message absolutely clear. One of the greatest biblical misconceptions is the idea that you can get whatever you want—whenever you want—however you want, just by asking. One of the most tragic biblical misinterpretations is that you didn’t get what you asked for because you didn’t have enough faith. One of the greatest misunderstandings is thinking our request qualifies as long as it’s something we assume, at least in our own opinion, is “a good thing” to ask.

To put these texts in scriptural context, Christ was speaking to his disciples. He had just washed their feet to indicate he had come in obedience and service to his Heavenly Father—our Heavenly Father as well. He was in the midst of explaining the events that would soon follow and his disciples had many questions. The time of Christ’s earthly ministry was rapidly ending, and in its place a new phase of growth would begin through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The critical message was that of continued obedience and faithfulness. Remaining rooted and grounded in Christ would be the only way for the disciples to persevere in the coming times. The same is true for us to this very day—remaining rooted and grounded in Christ is the only way we can persevere in today’s unsettling times.

As for requests the disciples might have had, and as for the requests we might have today, the response of Christ was clear. Whatever the request might be, it must above all be such that Christ would be able to glorify his Father. My heart tells me the same is true today. We must be so grounded in our faith that our requests are in line with those things that glorify our Heavenly Father. We might think this, that, or the other, might be a “good” thing to ask, or a “beneficial” thing to ask; but if it does not ultimately honor God and bring glory to his name, then it is a request purely of our own desires no matter how “right” we think it is at the moment.

Now having said this, let me be quick to add, it is completely appropriate and obedient as a Christian to bring to God in prayer all the concerns of our heart! It is completely appropriate to ask for guidance, strength, steadfastness, as well as attitudes of love and mercy. Those things always bring glory to God for when they are displayed consistently in our life, others will be drawn to the Lord. Asking for healing is the right thing to do, however remember this; we have already been promised healing to be delivered on the day of Christ’s return. So in a sense, that prayer has already been answered affirmatively, even if we have to wait for it. Waiting for something (such as healing) that has already been promised does NOT indicate a lack of faith on the part of the Christian in need! We do not control God’s timing! In fact, I would be bold enough to say there is greater faith in persevering through current pain while one must wait for the promise of future healing when the Lord returns. Dear Friends, be oh so careful not to judge others’ physical problems as a lack of their faith. Their faith may be greater than yours! Our only job is to see that any and all of our requests are in line with what brings glory to the name of our Heavenly Father and in line with what honors him.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for opening our hearts and minds to your word, especially when the topic may be a difficult one to understand. We know you listen to our prayers and you are faithful to respond. Sometimes we forget that you have already provided answers. Help us to remain rooted and grounded in Christ and live a life that leads others to you.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional  Whatever You Ask appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked KJV are taken from The Holy Bible, King James Version (cum privilegio), undated, Cambridge University Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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.

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Working on Our Assignments

Acts 20:24 (NLT) But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.

Ephesians 6:19-20 (NLT)  ¹⁹And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. ²⁰...So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.

Perhaps I should open with a disclaimer that this week’s devotionals are based upon themes I have already written about years ago. However, those who follow my writings know this is a topic that is frequently on my mind.

When I sit down to write, I often begin with prayer and study, and most times my prayer is simply to ask the Lord to lay on my heart whatever it is that he knows someone else (or even I, myself) needs to read. For me, I feel writing is my “assignment;” but one which I enjoy and look forward to completing each day. For me, writing brings purpose and satisfaction to my retirement days. Like Paul, I also try to focus on sharing the Good News as well as offering words of encouragement to others. It is not easy to be “bold” especially during these current days of turmoil and unrest in our nation. However, I must ask myself, what better time could there be than now to be a witness for my Lord and Savior?

Are you aware that you also have an “assignment?” It might be small acts of encouraging others. It might be sharing music. It might be contacting others to make sure they are well. It might be continuing to work in your chosen profession or occupation while being keenly aware when others need that quick word of hope that you have opportunity to offer. It might be helping in the various ministries of your home church. It might be simply spending time quietly in prayer lifting up those who need God’s comfort, healing, hope, peace, and strength. We all have purpose and can be useful to our Heavenly Father in more ways than we could possibly imagine. What is your assignment?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Thank you for giving us work to do for your glory and honor. May we quickly and faithfully respond to the opportunities you provide.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

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Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.