Upright

by Eileen Thugi | Mar 28, 2021 | Blog

Strive for Excellence.

When we are principled, honest and discerning, we make choices that will impact us, and others. There are benefits to being upright that will be reaped for a lifetime. We can motivate or discourage others by our conduct as Christians. God delights in those who are determined to live righteously in the midst of a world full of temptations, darkness, trials and sin. 

3  Who may ascend into the hill of The Lord? Or who may stand in His holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive blessing from The Lord, and righteousness from The God of His Salvation ( Psalm 24).

God is Holy; those who desire to come before Him, must show Him reverence and honor. We are unworthy to stand before The Lord, because He is Holy. He wants us to approach Him, because He loves us and delights in fellowship with His people. God doesn’t share glory with other gods. Our loyalty to Him is of utmost importance. We have to approach Him as The Only God we seek. Our hearts should never be lifted to an idol. 

He requires we come in repentance, with a pure heart that is honest about sin. We are not to make excuses for our disobedience while in His Presence. A pure heart is inspired to please God. Submission to God compels us to forsake our ways for His—no more deceit and self-righteousness. The one who may stand in His holy place yields to God’s Righteousness. God imparts His Righteousness, because ours is wanting before Him. We are to approach with clean hands, with hands undefiled by works of darkness, that don’t take part in wickedness or harming others. 

Those who are in good standing with God will be blessed by Him. They will not leave the same way they came into His Holy Presence. They will be clothed in His Righteousness, and Salvation; they are blessed for eternity. They are donned with garments that are befitting His Honor and Majesty. Approach The Lord with a desire to be acceptable before Him. He will honor and bless the initiative we take to live for Him.

23  Search me, O God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my anxieties; 24  and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (Psalm 139).

An introspection reveals weaknesses, strengths and areas that need remedy. If we are determined to walk uprightly before God, then we have to be willing to let Him examine our heart. God will test us to show us who we are, when we are under pressure. When in adversity, our fears can make us vulnerable, doubtful and hopeless. Challenges test our mettle and convictions. When God tests us, He uncovers any wickedness within us. We ingratiate with God more when we are facing hardship, because we need Him to intervene. He works within us, while we are waiting for Him. Trials can be training grounds for righteousness. If we are pliable, He will lead us in the way of everlasting.

29 Now Jacob cooked a stew; and Esau came in from the field, and he was weary. 30 And Esau said to Jacob, “Please feed me with that same red stew, for I am weary.” Therefore his name was called Edom. 31 But Jacob said, “Sell me your birthright as of this day.” 

32 And Esau said, “Look, I am about to die; so what is this birthright to me?” 33 Then Jacob said, “Swear to me as of this day.” So he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. 34 And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose, and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright (Genesis 25).

Esau sold his birthright for a soup of lentils. He disregarded a long-term boon for a short-lived desire. He despised his birthright, by giving it to Jacob. Hardship can drive us to a point of utter desperation. What are you willing to sacrifice in the Kingdom of God, to satisfy a desire? We are co-heirs with The Lord Jesus Christ, in the Kingdom of The Father. We have an inheritance that we should not forfeit for fleshly lusts. That insatiable desire may intensify, but we have to master it, by reminding ourselves the cost we are unwilling to pay. 

16 Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; 17 for the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men. 19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. 20 Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed are pure, but it is evil for the man who eats with offense. 21 It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak. 22 Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves (Romans 14).

God is concerned for the weak ones, who are susceptible to temptations. The pleasures we indulge in as Christians could cause others who are weak to stumble. The Kingdom of God is not summed up in whether we eat certain meat, or what we drink. If we are filled with The Holy Spirit, we will be content with His Righteousness, Peace and Joy; and nothing else will satisfy. If our indulgences tempt another believer who was once captive to those pleasures, they could relapse. What we become party to may weaken another who is on a path to recovery from their past decadence. 

The work God is doing in others’ lives should not be undermined by our poor example. If a fellow believer stumbles, or is made weak, because of what we allow, we are no longer serving Christ, but ourselves. If what we may indulge in will weaken our children, or cause to stumble those who look up to us, then we should consider keeping it out of their sight. Practice your faith in what you approve in the sight of God. For the sake of another be considerate, by encouraging them to walk in righteousness. We should be willing to make sacrifices that edify others. 

12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which The Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death (James 1).

Our own desires will drive us to get what we want. We have to subjugate urges that lead us into sin. Resisting temptation will take putting greater value on a different desire. When we uphold faithfulness, righteousness and relationships, we will be vigilant and discerning. God does not tempt us; He tests our love for Him. Those who endure temptation are bolstered by love and honor. We are sucked into temptation, when we thrust aside godly virtues. We can overcome our thoughts and emotions with fortitude and resolve. The crown of life is given to the one who loves God with their whole mind and being. Love for God and others stimulates us to have integrity. Desires that lead us to sin reveal our discontent with who we are supposed to be. Sin leads to the death of the soul, because it separates us from God. Christians are enticed as much as unbelievers, but they must choose to love God first.  Their love is expressed in obedience.

7  For The Lord is Righteous, He loves righteousness. His Countenance beholds the upright (Psalm 11).

The Lord is Holy and Righteous, and He intends for us to be like Him. He made us in His Image and Likeness; just as children bear resemblance to their parents. He loves those who live uprightly. What parent doesn’t delight in a child who applies what they have been taught? An obedient child will not be denied blessings, favor and grace from their parents. God looks on the upright as the apple of His Eye. He will not withhold Good from those who love Him and desire to please Him.

We have access to God, by His Grace. If we approach Him, we will receive from Him, when we come with clean hands and a pure heart. Our willingness to be upright will forbid us from making excuses for our sins. Repentance rejects our sinful condition, for His Righteousness. God is Faithful to the faithful. So, we must be faithful in righteous living, no matter the temptations, or the adversities we are faced with. We are always tested in times of trials. Our love and honor for God will keep us grounded, so that we don’t slip. He has already given us an imperishable eternal inheritance in The Lord Jesus. We should not sell our birthright for the ephemeral or short-lived pleasures. Whatever we do or allow should not cause the weak or those who look up to us to stumble. We must serve The Lord with what we indulge in and participate in, by being an example to others. If we love and honor God and others, we will ensure that we live not just for ourselves, but for the betterment of all. 

20 Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant, 21 make you complete in every good work to do His Will; working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be Glory forever and ever. Amen (Hebrews 13).

Overcome

by Eileen Thugi | Mar 20, 2021 | Blog

Stand tall.

There are situations we have to attempt to take control of, because if left unchecked, they will overpower us. We can be steadfast, if we pluck our courage and hold firm to what we know and believe. With the right perspective, we can overcome our fears, harmful desires, and any opposition that can stymie progress. We should be advancing and not regressing, so that we are becoming who God wants us to be.   

“And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. 3 Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. 4 You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. 5 He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels (Revelations 3).

The Lord Jesus rebukes and warns those who are falling away, within the Body of Christ—the church. They have been involved in different ministries and programs, but have neglected to address disobedience in other areas. They may think they are alive, because they are involved in church activities that they believe are keeping them in good standing with God. They are wanting before Christ. He has given them a window of grace, to repent, before it is too late.

Christ cautions us not to turn a blind eye to the areas of our lives we have failed to comply with Him. He commands us to repent and relearn what we already know and have received. While there are some in the church who are falling prey to worldly dissipation, there are those who will not succumb to the pressure. There are those who will not defile themselves, even as they see other Christians drift away. These will be clothed in white, and will forever walk with The Lord. Those who overcome internal urges, and those of their surroundings will be honored before The Father. Their names will be engraved in the Book of Life. Resist forfeiting your place in the Presence of God. If The Lord has already warned you, made you feel uncomfortable about the places and people you are indulging, repent and strengthen what is already dying. 

9  Because you have made The Lord, Who is my refuge, even The Most High, your dwelling place, 10 no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling. 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. 12  In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone. 13  You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot (Psalm 91).

Evil and all forms of danger are lurking all around us. If we make God—The Most High God, our dwelling place, we should not fear most of what life throws at us. The Lord will shield us, and preserve us from every form of evil. Though we walk in the midst of it, we are protected all around. We are kept under His Shadow and no harm will destroy us. Overcome fear with the assurance of God’s Might. He has the universe at His Command. The stars will only fall if He allows them. No child of God is ever forsaken while in the midst of danger. Our Everlasting Father has commanded His angels to protect us. We can subdue insurmountable and frightening adversities, because God is always with us. When we make Almighty God our shield and fortress, nothing will overcome us. He is the dwelling place of those who shelter under His Wings. 

11  I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in the right paths. 12  When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble. 13  Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go, keep her, for she is your life. 14 Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. 15  Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn away from it and pass on (Proverbs 4).

There are mistakes that are made unwittingly, and those that are made knowingly. If we have wisdom, we should apply it appropriately and timely. Wisdom will lead us away from wickedness, deceit and danger. We can overcome the temptation to engage in activities that may seem innocuous at first, but eventually lead to a cycle of uncontrollable urges. If we apply ourselves to God’s Wisdom, in the Word of God, we will not stumble. When we obey God, we resist the prodding of other voices. We can’t overcome what we refuse to subdue. 

It’s vital to keep away from places and people we already know are a bad influence. Don’t enter the path or place where wickedness abounds; don’t come near, steer clear. There’s plenty of ways to be lured into what we think we can control. The more you linger around, the more likely you will reconsider an offer. Wisdom is your life, don’t give it up for short-lived pleasures. What are you willing to lose to entertain sin? Take firm hold of God’s Instructions and do not let your guard down, to impress anyone. We are swayed by what we are willing to sacrifice. Depart from the path that will adversely affect your loved ones and your progress in Christian living, by standing firm with God.

30 Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.” 31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we.” (Numbers 13)

Caleb and others had gone to spy out the land that God had promised to give the Israelites. The other spies gave a bad report, because they feared the people in that land. Caleb was adamant about going forward to possess the land that God had promised them. He was not afraid of the stronger men in the land. He knew that God was going to provide what they needed to possess the land. If God had already promised to give, He would ensure they received. Fear casts doubt on God’s Abilities. 

The other spies did not believe that God was able to give them the land, flowing with milk and honey, because of the fortified walls and the men of great stature. No human strength or man-made endeavors can be stacked against God. Caleb understood that nothing can withstand God’s Might. Are you willing to believe that God has already gone ahead of you? Overcome fear with faith and confidence in Who God is. What God says He will do can not be outflanked by human or physical efforts. Silence critics and naysayer by chartering your own course. Don’t fall into the trap of putting out feelers about what God has already ordained for you. The opinions of others will influence you to either go forward or shrink back.

19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says The Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him;  if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good (Romans 12).

It’s not so much our adversaries or our environment that we are unable to overcome; it’s our unwieldy desires and thoughts that are difficult to subjugate. We can walk away from a situation that seems inflammable, but we often choose to yield to our emotions. Anger is very overpowering. When we have been offended, hurt or disappointed, we can’t help but become infuriated. Our emotions are part of who we are, just as God intended. We are not to use them for evil, but instead overcome evil done against us with good. We are told to not revenge, but allow God to express what He feels. It is God Who avenges because He knows the other person’s motives and intentions; if they were with malice aforethought. God knows others more than we do. We only have our side of the events, we don’t know all the details of what would have led up to someone’s actions. 

We are responsible for our words and actions. We should not behave like the offender who hurts others. We should try to respond differently from them. If our enemy is in need, we are commanded to help them. Evil can’t overcome evil; it intensifies it. Give your enemy another alternative, by how you respond. Overcome evil with good, and they may feel mortified, like burning coals on their head. God will avenge better than we can. God has determined that it is His responsibility to avenge and repay. For it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says The Lord. We would be presumptuous to assume God’s Position.

We should strive to resist pressure that keeps us from being better each day. We are made in the Likeness of Christ. He overcame so that we can live an abundant life. Giving up ground by succumbing to worldliness, fear and temptations proves we have no confidence in letting Christ live through us. We are made one with Him, by His death for us on The Cross. We are part of His Broken Body, and now live in The Life of The Risen Lord. He sits enthroned as One Who overcame all the pain, adversity, suffering, temptations and powers of darkness. As He was, so are we to be. He is pleased to write our names in The Book of Life. He will reward us before The Father, if we trust Him, resist being overcome by evil, and advance to attain what He has already promised.

4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He Who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 5 They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. 6 We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error (1 John 4).

Gentleness

by Eileen Thugi | Mar 13, 2021 | Blog

Keep your cool.

²⁹ Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4).

It matters how we approach others; in our tone of voice, eye contact and facial expressions, as we interact with them. People want to feel comfortable, safe and respected, while engaging with others. Those we encounter may be carrying emotional, mental or physical burdens, so they may not respond to us kindly. It’s not easy getting past an offence or rude remark. A kind gesture often lowers the temperature. As difficult as it is, we have to strive to do what is right and pleasing before God. If we live by The Spirit and not by our fleshly desires, we submit to God’s Will for us, especially when we don’t feel like it.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. 17 Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men (Romans 12).

We can reject wishing others evil, as a first step to being gentle. Even the worst person is still a human in need of grace and love. Let God avenge us for wrongs others do against us, by not trying to get even. Attend to the needs of others, undeterred by their off-putting attributes. We can help their situation; but we can’t change who they are. If they rejoice, we can rejoice with them, or grieve with them in their time of need. 

But for God, who has given as His manifold Grace, we are no better than others. We should not think highly of ourselves by looking down on others. Only God is perfect, because only He is Holy. We are a work in progress in need of mercy, each day. If we are to be more like Christ Jesus, we are to be gentle as He is. On The Cross, as they mocked Him, He pleaded to God to forgive them because they did not know what they were doing. The Lord Jesus wants the best for everyone at all times. We should look out for the best interest of others, even though we don’t often see eye to eye. No one likes to be in constant friction with others. Strife robs us peace of mind, by weighing us down. It’s better not to spew out all our thoughts when we are upset. Choose to keep the peace by the extent to which you can offer it. Walk away and restrain yourself, before things get out of hand. 

22 ” But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ (empty-headed) shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire. 23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift (Matthew 5).”

For the most part, people get miffed at minor incidents or nothing of great significance. We are sensitive to other people’s remarks and overly sensitive about their opinions. Anger can lead to sin and even harm others. The Lord warns us that if we become angry with others, for almost no apparent reason, we are subject to His Judgement. We should do a double take and determine if the offence is worth exuding rage. The Lord cautions us that anger is an offence that warrants punitive eternal consequences. Our words have a significant impact on us as well. 

Before we bring God our offering, we are to ensure that we have been reconciled with the ones we have disagreed with, and made things right with them. Reconciliation absolves us of wrongdoing and restores what was broken.  We should not bring our gifts and offerings to God along with our bitterness, anger and resentment. God is concerned about our inner well-being more than outward appearances. The offering would express our gratitude and honor, while still offended with another. God wants us to be whole in our entirety. God is not fooled by a semblance of peace, while there’s emotional distress within. Resolve issues so that you can cheerfully bring your offering; having peace with God and others. 

12  Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins (Proverbs 10).

Hate doesn’t address issues; it engenders perpetual anger. Love forgives and covers the sins of others. By forgiving we drown out hatred. We too need forgiveness. So we give what we would want others to offer us when we will need the same. We love our neighbor as ourselves, by covering their sin with forgiveness. No one can undo the past wrong they have committed against others; and our hatred will not reverse what happened. We can choose to keep the past where it belongs, with all the darkness that goes along with it. We should try to press forward to ensure that we are becoming more like The Lord, by loving those He also died for. He covered a multitude of sins—our sins. He now lives through us. If we allow Him to, He will cover the sins of others, while He does ours. The Love that covers sin, is The Love of The Lord Jesus, and not our version of love. 

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up (Romans 15).

Those who are spiritually weak are easily swayed by the perceptions of others. Newly born-again Christians are still vulnerable to return to their past lifestyles. Since we are all sinners and growing in maturity to be more like Christ, we need to be patient with others. We can learn from the impressionable as much as they can learn from us. We build each other up by not excusing unseemly conduct, but dissuading it with love. A gentle rebuke focuses on the issues, without being condescending. Patience suppresses the urge to be abrasive with our words. People don’t like to feel like they are being judged. We should first meet the spiritual, emotional or physical needs, instead of trying to fix others. 

21 Now when the king of Israel saw them, he said to Elisha, “My father, shall I kill them? Shall I kill them?”

22 But he answered, “You shall not kill them. Would you kill those whom you have taken captive with your sword and your bow? Set food and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master.” 23 Then he prepared a great feast for them; and after they ate and drank, he sent them away and they went to their master. So the bands of Syrian raiders came no more into the land of Israel (2 Kings 6).

The king of Syria had sent his men to capture Elisha, a man of God. Elisha asked God to blind the men, then he led them astray, he misled them to Samaria. The king of Syria had been planning an attack on the king of Israel, but Elisha had visions of his plans, and told them to the king of Israel. When the king of Israel saw the Syrian men that Elisha misled to Samaria, he wanted to kill them. Elisha prevented him; he told him to feed them, and send them away.

When an adversary has a need, we should try and offer them help. Elisha fed his enemies with a great feast and they never returned to take him or destroy the Israelites. Show your enemy abounding kindness; they might be mortified by their own intentions. When we are gentle with those who don’t deserve it, they may reconsider their motives. If it is within your power to destroy, choose mercy. At bottom, it’s hard to resist kindness or not be moved by it. Gentleness defuses animosity, with a courageous act of kindness. 

8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen (1 Peter 4).

As stewards of God’s Grace, which he lavished extravagantly on us, we are to love and forgive others. We start by being hospitable to others. We can stifle the urge to be angry, bitter and rude, by being gracious. Before we speak, we should weigh our words carefully to see if they could mimic God’s Words spoken through us. Before we do something for someone we don’t like, we should check our attitude, whether it is glorifying to God. If we glorify God with our words and actions, we will not entertain thoughts of revenge and hatred. Ask, “Is this the Will of God?” before you speak or act. Gentleness is not as easy as it sounds. It compels us to soften our response to those who irk us. It musters all our energy to suppress our own aggression. 

Then Job answered and said: 2  “I have heard many such things; miserable comforters are you all! 3 Shall words of wind have an end? Or what provokes you that you answer? 4 I also could speak as you do, if your soul were in my soul’s place. I could heap up words against you, and shake my head at you. 5  But I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the comfort of my lips would relieve your grief  (Job 16).”

Job had lost his children and his possessions in one day. His close friends blamed him for his calamities. They questioned his righteousness to God, and deduced that he was being punished for his sins. Job rebuked his friends for not giving him solace when he needed them. He told them that if the shoe were on the on the other foot, he would have strengthened them with comforting words. 

We try not to be critical out loud, when we hear about the struggles of another. Our thoughts speak volumes of what kind of comforters we would be, if we were truly honest. Loss and despair are part of life; but this is when we put aside differences, or personal opinions, to give hope and comfort. We may know about another’s poor choices, but we should refrain from casting aspersions. Criticism that doesn’t offer a solution is unprofitable and misplaced. It will not remedy, but add to the problem; it rubs salt into a wound. Comfort and strengthen the one who is hurting, and keep your opinions secondary. 

Gentleness is a fruit of The Holy Spirit; it is the Character of Christ. Those who are born-again of the Spirit of Christ, need to cultivate gentleness, myself included. It is very difficult to show mercy and kindness to our adversaries. We have to be intentional about meeting their needs, as we thrust aside resentment. Comfort those who are already suffering, regardless of how they got there. We are stewards of God’s Grace and we should not be found wanting in giving what we have received. Forgive by covering sin. No one is sinless in The Presence of The Holy One. Speak as if God were speaking through you, and in everything you do to others do it for the glory of The Lord. Keep your opinion and criticism to yourself, if it doesn’t build or strengthen the hurting. We are all a work in progress. We need to be gentle and pursue peace willingly. 

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in Heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your Heavenly Father is Perfect (Matthew 5) .”

Flourish

by Eileen Thugi | Mar 6, 2021 | Blog

Fruitful in spite of circumstances.

11 You will show me the path of life. In Your Presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16).

After a trying time, we may not know how to pick up the threads. Somehow, we have to move on. We can take the lessons we have learned and begin the next chapter of our life. Every season usually comes to an end. Challenges can put a damper on future prospects; but we must take the good with the bad, and look forward to brighter days ahead.

Celebrate the blessings that come from adversity, and be grateful with expectation. Remember how God came through for you, and steel yourself with His Faithfulness. Don’t begrudge honor and thanksgiving for small mercies. If we focus on hardship, we will discount any blessings. Usher new beginnings by commemorating past blessings.

8 So The Lord brought us out of Egypt with a Mighty Hand and with an outstretched Arm, with great terror and with signs and wonders. 9 He has brought us to this place and has given us this land, “a land flowing with milk and honey”; 10 and now, behold, I have brought the firstfruits of the land which you, O Lord, have given me.’

“Then you shall set it before The Lord your God, and worship before the Lord your God. 11 So you shall rejoice in every good thing which The Lord your God has given to you and your house, you and the Levite, and the stranger who is among you (Deuteronomy 26).”

God brings out His people from afflictions, so that they may enter into the place of His choosing. The Israelites had no doubt seen great wonders and signs, before their departure from Egypt. They would not forget how God brought them out by His Mighty Arm. They had to take these memories of God with them into the promised land—a land flowing with milk and honey. The God of Mighty Power, in the place our struggle, is the God of provision in the place of promise. 

The Israelites had to bring the firstfruits of the land before The Lord. The firstfruits of our success should be dedicated as an offering of worship and thanksgiving to God. He is the making of all our success. When we fail to worship God with our substance, we usurp the glory that belongs to Him. We become grateful in what God has blessed us with, when we rejoice in His Goodness. For some people, nothing ever seems enough, because money burns holes in their pockets. So if all they think about is how much they need to spend, they will not see that they are already blessed to be able to plan ahead. Until we worship God with what He has blessed us with, we will not be content with what we have. Rejoice in every good thing God has given you, whether big or small. Enjoy the fruit of the land with thanksgiving. Rejoice in the blessings God has provided you and your loved ones. Celebrate God’s Goodness with an offering, and by giving to those in need. 

8 “Therefore you shall keep every commandment which I command you today, that you may be strong, and go in and possess the land which you cross over to possess, 9 and that you may prolong your days in the land which the Lord swore to give your fathers, to them and their descendants, ‘a land flowing with milk and honey.’ 10 For the land which you go to possess is not like the land of Egypt from which you have come, where you sowed your seed and watered it by foot, as a vegetable garden; 11 but the land which you cross over to possess is a land of hills and valleys, which drinks water from the rain of heaven, 12 a land for which the Lord your God cares. The Eyes of the Lord your God are always on it, from the beginning of the year to the very end of the year (Deuteronomy 11).

We don’t just waltz into what God has for us with no strings attached. Since He has determined what He has for us, He has instructions that we must follow. We have not been this way before, so we must keep in lockstep with Him. We need to be obedient and be courageous to go in and possess what He has allotted for us. He promises that if we obey, everything will fall in place and our days will be prolonged. As long as we are in God’s Plan, He will work out everything for our good. He will oversee all our affairs; He will supply what we need from the start of the year, to the end. When God is running every detail of our lives, we don’t have to be concerned about our circumstances. We are furnished from His Presence. But we must be obedient to reap the benefits of God’s Provision. God favors those who are willing to submit to Him. 

The places where God has settled us for blessing are nothing like those of our past. The future God has for us is not the place we left behind. The Israelites had to look forward to the land flowing with milk and honey, by not longing for Egypt. A born-again Christian has to forget the past life, and yearn to be renewed in the Life of Christ. They have to get a fresh perspective on life, that is guided by God’s Word and The Holy Spirit. They will have to give God their entire life, responsibilities and relationships. He will equip them with Power from above to strengthen them in their weakness. He will bless them and give them Eternal life, by the promises in Christ. The promised land is the inheritance we have, as children of God, in The Kingdom of God, year after year. Eternal life starts here and goes beyond our lives on the Earth. The life we have been promised is nothing like the “Egypt” we left behind. It’s not the place of uncertainty and hopelessness. It’s a life that is fruitful in peace, joy, love, mercy, grace, and hope—it’s flowing with milk and honey. 

11 You crown the year with Your Goodness, and Your Paths drip with abundance. 12  They drop on the pastures of the wilderness, and the little hills rejoice on every side. 13 The pastures are clothed with flocks. The valleys also are covered with grain; they shout for joy, they also sing (Psalm 65).

The Lord crowns every year with His Goodness. He creates a path of abundance and fatness for those who put their trust in Him. Even in the wilderness, where nature seems famished and destitute to provide, God prepares a spread to satisfy the hungry. He is not limited to natural resources. Those who are lacking in the world’s standards, living on a day’s sustenance, rejoice in the abundance that God supplies them. Every blessing is a source of joy in the midst of scarcity. Though the year may seem like it’s filled with tragedy, loss or uncertainty, God has crowned it with His Goodness. He has already gone before us to ensure that we are not consumed with grief and misfortune. In this seeming wilderness, there’s still pastures and providence, carefully portioned out so that in the present we lack no good thing. We are accustomed to not just having enough; we tend to want to have a surfeit to feel comfortable. If we have enough right at this moment, we are still blessed. 

4 Thus says The Lord of hosts, The God of Israel, to all who were carried away captive, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 Build houses and dwell in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit. 6 Take wives and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons and give your daughters to husbands, so that they may bear sons and daughters—that you may be increased there, and not diminished. 7 And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to The Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace (Jeremiah 29). 

God had sent the children of Israel captives to Babylon, because they had rebelled against Him. He spoke to them by His prophet Jeremiah; He told them to increase and prosper in the land of captivity. When we are not where we hope to be in life, either by our poor choices or God’s Purpose, we have to still believe that He has our best interests. It may be that we are facing the consequences of our actions, and no longer have the comforts we are used to. We can still live, prosper and flourish where we have landed. We must give our best, in the worst situations we find ourselves. We may not like where we are, whether it’s a job or a home. As long as we have no other alternatives, we have to pray for the welfare of that place; if it prospers, we prosper. We just don’t know how long we are going to be stuck in the rut. Flourish where you are, as you bide your time for greener pastures. Make every moment count to your benefit, by seeing it’s potential. Nothing is worthless to God in His Plans for you. 

14  “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My Name. 15  He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. 16  With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My Salvation (Psalm 91).”

It truly doesn’t matter your station in life. If you set your affection on God, He will honor you. He will not disregard His devoted ones, who know Him and trust Him. When facing trouble, call on Him because He promises to answer. Trouble is not going to hamper God’s Goodness. Don’t fear hardship or trouble, if you have set your love on God; He will set His Love on you. You will prosper in every plan God has for you. He will still satisfy from His Glorious Riches. He will give His beloved honor, and show His Salvation. What great promises we have, when we love and trust God! No famine, sickness, adversity and storm can separate us from His Love. We are satisfied by His Goodness in the midst of trouble. 

7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in The Lord, and whose hope is The Lord. 8  For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river. And will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit (Jeremiah 17).

The one who trusts in The Lord will never lack. Just like a tree that is sustained by the waters, so is the one who is blessed by God. By trusting and seeking God, even as roots grow deep to seek water, we will continue to be nourished by God. So in the famine or drought, we are always kept in God’s sustenance. There’s no fear when we trust, but bated expectation. Though the funds may seem to dwindle in the bank account, or food is diminishing, our needs will be met. We can still yield fruit, be productive, and useful to others at difficult times. Our countenance is kept radiant, like leaves that remain green; because we have hope instead of fear or anxiety. The one who trusts in God is fruitful in meeting the needs of others, though they may have needs of their own. Like a tree planted by the river, they are continuously supplied by God’s Riches, which never run out.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. 2  But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and in His Law he meditates day and night. 3 He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither. And whatever he does shall prosper (Psalm 1).

Be careful to consume what will benefit you. Don’t gorge on empty calories in place of real nutrients. Hunger can make us eat anything that is on hand; so does hopelessness. It’s important to get advice and counsel that is based on sound doctrine. People who are disappointed with their lives often project their frustrations on others. They want others to feel like they do; so they always have someone to blame for their misery or have nothing positive to say. Blessed is the one who doesn’t indulge in the opinions of nay-sayers. Blessed is the one who doesn’t take advice from those who oppose God’s Counsel. 

The one who delights in God and His Law will prosper in what they do. They weigh their decisions by God’s Ways and stick to their convictions. Instead of complaining and murmuring about what God could have done, they focus on what they can do to please God. They are like a tree planted by a river and are prepared for every good work. Those who shift their focus from their circumstances, by doing the next thing in obedience to God, will be fruitful in every season of their lives. They will not wither in despair, but become useful vessels for God’s Purpose. 

13 ‘And it shall be that if you earnestly obey My commandments which I command you today, to love The Lord your God and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, 14 then I will give you the rain for your land in its season, the early rain and the latter rain, that you may gather in your grain, your new wine, and your oil. 15 And I will send grass in your fields for your livestock, that you may eat and be filled (Deuteronomy 11).’

We can flourish in every situation whether good or bad. God has ordained our lives for His Purpose. In the midst of trials, we have opportunities to still be fruitful in caring for the needs of others, and being obedient to God. Whether we are in the land of promise, or in the place of affliction, we are still kept in God’s Goodness. We can enjoy the fruit of the land. We can be thankful and offer God the firstfruits of His Provision, and enjoy what He has blessed us with.

We have to be careful where we get our counsel and source of hope, in times of uncertainty. If we continue to believe and trust in God, we will not fear our circumstances. Instead, we will be like a tree planted by the rivers whose leaves remain green, and are fruitful in every season. God has crowned every year with His Goodness, from the start to the end. He has created a path of abundance and fatness in the times of scarcity. He is Faithful to show His Favor to those who depend on Him. 

13 Those who are planted in the house of The Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. 14  They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing, 15  to declare that The Lord is upright. He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him (Psalm 92).