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Cheli Sigler lives life and pursues her God-given purpose of teaching from her home base in sunny Orlando, FL. Cheli and Matt, her husband of 20+ years, are blessed with two teenage daughters. She has experience as a professional educator and as children’s ministry team leader, trainer and writer. Currently, Cheli equips missionary kids for the mission field as a volunteer at Wycliffe Bible Translators, teaches a third grade Sunday School class, is a contributing writer for DoNotDepart.com and participates in Hello Mornings as a group leader, mentor, and writer. Inviting people to sharpen their minds and soften their hearts for God’s purpose and the world, Cheli shares ideas and resources on her blog, Sharpen to Soften, at https://chelisigler.wordpress.com

“So SEND I You:” Missional Living

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Happy September! We look forward to engaging with you via the blog and/or our Do Not Depart Community on Facebook.

“Missional living” is a current buzz word in various Christian communities, but it is not a new concept. My church decided to move from being an “attractional” church to being a “missional” one. My church is growing the church by sending believers to BE THE CHURCH in the community. The current pandemic has given our church the perfect opportunity to put this into practice, and it has been wonderful to watch God work.

Missional Living Defined

We can understand what “missional” means for the church, but this month we are exploring what living missionally looks like for you and me. Essentially, a “missional” life is following Jesus and doing what He calls us to do. GotQuestions.org puts it like this: “In truth, every disciple of Christ should strive to be an agent, a representative of the kingdom of God; and every follower should try to carry the mission of God into every sphere of his life. We are all missionaries sent into the world.”

Sent as Jesus was Sent

Carrying out a mission implies a sending. Jesus was on a mission for God, the Father. Jesus confirms this in his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane:

“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do.” (John 17:3-4)

After His resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples and commissioned them:

“…Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” (John 20:21, KJV)

Jesus sends us. He is our commissioner. It is and can be a difficult mission, but it is not an impossible one. We can have peace that in commissioning us, He equips us to do what he asks of us.

Join Us

All month long, join us as we explore “missional living.” We’ll be share what it looks like in our lives and how it challenges us, stretching our faith. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect each week in September.

All month long, join us as we explore “missional living.” We’ll be share what it looks like in our lives and how it challenges us, stretching our faith. #MissionalLiving

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Dawn of Hope

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Fertility issues

Job loss

Uprooting and moving

Bankruptcy

At some point during each of these experiences, I felt hopeless. I can remember where I was and what I was doing when a loved one said, “Cheli, it is ‘always darkest before the dawn.’” You know, I have found that statement to be true. Each difficult circumstance gave me new opportunities to see God work in the darkest moments of my life and the dawn of HOPE.

The Dark

As I searched the scripture about hope, I came to a favorite passage in Lamentations 3. Here, the Old Testament prophet, Jeremiah, recounts his personal suffering and that of the kingdom of Judah while God enacted His justice on His people for their sin. It was a dark time for Jeremiah.

I remember my affliction and my wandering,

the bitterness and the gall.

I well remember them,

and my soul is downcast within me.

–Lamentations 3:19-20, NIV

Throughout our lives, even when walking with God like Jeremiah, we will experience hardship. Life gets hard. Sometimes the darkness threatens to overtake us. Jeremiah shares his suffering, but he does not wallow in it. He sees the dawn approaching.

The Dawn

Jeremiah has spent several verses detailing his despair, and then we come to his declaration of hope.

Yet this I call to mind

and therefore I have hope:

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,

for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;

great is your faithfulness.

–Lamentations 3:21-23, NIV

In his darkest hour, Jeremiah remembers God’s enduring presence, unfailing love, and abiding faithfulness. We can look to the future with confident expectation that these gifts of God are always available. Beyond the horizon, hope dawns.

We can look to the future with confident expectation that these gifts of God are always available: His presence, unfailing love and abiding faithfulness.

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Turning Point

In the middle of the difficult circumstances in my life, I reached a point where I surrendered it all to God. In my surrender, the light of HOPE broke through. Holding tight to Jesus because life depended on it, I had fresh understanding that in Christ my circumstances could not consume me, that God never stops loving me, and that I can trust Him with everything.

Jesus, thank you for your enduring presence, overwhelming love, and new mercies that greet me with each new day. I trust in You. You are my HOPE.

Masterpiece

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The Getty Center tops our family’s list of favorite art museums. Living outside of L.A. for nearly five years, we made more return trips to “The Getty” than any other cultural destination in southern California. A highlight of one of our trips, our older daughter was able to hang her artwork she created in a “hands-on” exhibit that day on The Getty’s wall (I’m guessing for 24 hours or so). It was a thrill for our whole family, and probably as close as any of us will get to having our artwork hang on the wall of a famous museum.

This month at Do Not Depart is a theology month. Where we consider who God is and the difference His attributes make in our life. Specifically, we are considering how being made in the image of God impacts how we engage with a world rife with division and strife.

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ephesians 2:10, NLT)

Today, I want to look at the beginning of this verse. Yes, I know there is much to explore in the entire verse. but I just want to consider what it says about God that humanity is His masterpiece. Then, we’ll look at how what we learn about God informs how we engage with a world in tumult.

God is Original

Everything in Heaven and on Earth originated with God. In a series of Divine iterations, God created light, sun, moon, stars, sea, sky, land, plants, and animals. Everything we see and know about nature came from the mind and creativity of God— all original. Talk about unprecedented!

God was not satisfied with a mere garden. God completed his creation by forming man and woman (Genesis 2:7, 22). Increasingly more complex, what truly separates humanity from the rest of God’s creation is that we are made in His image.

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.  Genesis 1:27

God is Excellent

The imprinted imago Dei (image of God) sets us apart from other created things and attests to God’s excellence. Like the artist who signifies the completion of his/her artwork with a signature, God’s image emblazoned on us is His certification that we are His “masterpiece.” We are the crown of creation, the Magnum Opus of God’s world.

And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.   Genesis 1:31

God is Collaborative

When I write about God, I am really writing about the Godhead: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Each have always existed and were present at Creation.

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.   Genesis 1:26

Father, Son and Holy Spirit live in community with each other. They are diverse in works but unified in purpose. They collaborate to accomplish the Father’s will— a will that includes you, me, and the rest of humanity. Together they made a “masterpiece.”

What does this help me with today?

In making mankind in His image, God displays His originality, excellence, and collaboration. How does this help me engage with others in this troubled world?

Celebrate and Learn

When I know that everything in creation originated with God and came from His unending creativity, I can celebrate the diversity He has made. No matter if it is skin color, language, personality, or talent; I can celebrate what God calls “good.” Diversity can be a source of division, but I can build bridges of understanding to people who are different from me by seeking new experiences and exploring new relationships.

Recognize and Respect

Because I know humanity is the crown of God’s creation, I will work to see and remember that each person in my path is made in God’s image. Somedays Most days this is difficult! Our fallen natures get in the way, but the Holy Spirit can help us share a kind word, look people in the eyes, and listen without getting in the last word or having to be right.

Work Together

As I experience the collaborative work of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in my life, I know the value of co-laboring. Side by side, working towards a common goal, this is a great way to see the imago Dei in action. Working together, adopting new ideas, encouraging the talents of others, unveils the masterpieces God created in the people around you.

Like the artist who signifies the completion of his/her artwork with a signature, God’s image emblazoned on us is His certification that we are His “masterpiece.” @DoNotDepart #InHisImage

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You are God’s Masterpiece!

Yes, there is a tremendous amount of distress in the world today. Yes, the ultimate answer is Jesus. He ultimately redeems our fallen nature. Just as God’s story starts with creation, we can build Gospel relationships by starting with our common humanity. Consider the amazing work God did when He made you, and look for His imago Dei in those around you.

 

 

The HIStories Behind the Hymns: June ReCap

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Music plays a prominent role in my story, especially hymns. Whether I play them on the piano or sing them at home while participating in online worship, hymns guide me in singing God’s story over my life. All this month at Do Not Depart we have been looking historically at hymn writers and their hymns. It is encouraging to see how God uses diverse people and talents to tell His Story again and again.

Today’s brief recap of each post in the series contains a link to each post— everything in place for easy access. I’ve also created a Spotify playlist of our featured hymns. Consider listening as you read today’s post.

Edward Mote and My Hope is Built on Nothing Less

Though the world twists and shifts— Jesus Never Fails. Ali Shaw shares this message by introducing us to Edward Mote in her post titled, Stand on the Rock. Although “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” was written over a hundred years ago, it is perfectly penned for the circumstances we are living in right now. Ali writes, “Through the constant, steady nature of God, we can find hope when our world shifts. All of God’s promises are true, His commands are good, and His ways are best. Always!”

John Newton and Amazing Grace

Even for the vilest of sinners— God’s Grace Transforms. The words of the famous hymn, “Amazing Grace,” endures and resonates across all branches of Christianity 241 years later because it reflects our deep debt of sin and Jesus’ great gift of grace. In my post, The Transforming Power of God’s Grace, I share how God’s grace through Jesus Christ changed a slave trader into an abolitionist and more.

James Weldon Johnson, Lift Every Voice and Sing

In a world tainted by sin and injustice— God is Our Hope. Lisa Burgess shines the light on the life and words of James Weldon Johnson. Although he suffered many injustices as a black man in the segregated South, he knew God was with him. His hymn, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” sings of faith and hope. Using the words of the beloved hymn, Lisa teaches us to practice hope, remember the past, and trust God for the future, in her post, Lift Every Voice and Sing: The Story Behind the Hymn.

Civilla D. Martin, His Eye is on The Sparrow

When I am overwhelmed— God Sees Me. In her post, Simple Truth in a Simple Tune, Jaime Hilton shares how “When storms rage in my heart, I can rest knowing that the God who cares about the sparrows, cares even more for me.”

Frances Ridley Havergal, Take My Life and Let It Be

When I lose control, I am reminded— My Life Belongs to God. Inspired by the life of Frances Ridley Havergal and her famous hymn, Jennifer Hong writes about surrendering our lives to God in the post titled, Take My Life and Let It Be. Our human condition keeps us from complete surrender, but Jennifer encourages us as she preaches to herself: “As I surrender to Him all that is not mine to hold tightly — my wealth, my hours, my talents, my goals, and even my pain, I find my heart becomes more spacious, an appropriate throne for the King of Glory.”

Fanny J. Crosby, Blessed Assurance

I may lack what the world treasures— but, Jesus Is Mine. Blindness robbed Fanny Crosby of her sight, but she found the richest of blessings in knowing Jesus. In “Blessed Assurance,” Ms. Crosby paints a picture of our blessings in Christ. In her post, Blessed Assurance is Knowing Jesus is Ours, Kelli LaFram writes, “Though sometimes we doubt His love and mercy, it will be continually echoed and whispered to us in Heaven.”

Keep Singing His Story

Friends, I hope you’ve enjoyed our look at the histories of hymn writers and their hymns. I love seeing how God works through each individual, joining his story, her story, your story, and my story to His Glorious Story. Take a minute to let us know in the comments what you’ve learned through this series, or share a story about a hymn you love.

“All this month @DoNotDepart we have been looking historically at hymn writers and their hymns. It is encouraging to see how God uses diverse people and talents to tell His Story again and again.” #HIStoriesBehindTheHymns

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The Transforming Power of God’s Grace

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All this month at Do Not Depart we are looking at the history behind our great hymns of faith. In the introduction to this new series I posted the words to John Newton’s beloved hymn, Amazing Grace. Written in 1779, the hymn was originally titled, Faith’s Review and Expectation. It was John Newton’s testimony of the power of God’s grace to transform even the worst of sinners.

Early Years

Born in London on July 24, 1725, John Newton’s mother faithfully trained him in the Lord until her death when John was only six years old. Most of his formative years were spent at sea with his father, a respected sea captain. As he entered adulthood the spiritual influence of his mother faded, and he pursued self-satisfaction. It is at this point where his life begins to mirror that of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15.

…the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living.  Luke 15:13

In the pamphlet, Thoughts Upon the African Slave Trade (1787), Newton wrote:” My headstrong passions and follies plunged me, in early life, into a succession of difficulties and hardships, which at length, reduced me to seek a refuge among the natives of Africa.”

 

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found;

Was blind, but now I see.

 

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

And grace my fears relieved;

How precious did that grace appear

The hour I first believed!

 

A Life of Sin

Like the Prodigal Son, John suffered the consequences of sin. Attached to the sea, between 1742-1748 he spent time on a merchant ship, was pressed into service for the Royal Navy, and eventually worked on slave ships. He was not well liked, even among the worst of the worst. Physical and emotional anguish plagued his life during this time.

“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger!”  Luke 15:17

 

Through many dangers, toils and snares,

I have already come;

’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,

And grace will lead me home.

 

Transformed by Grace

Just like the Prodigal Son had an epiphany while eating with pigs, it took a near tragedy at sea to turn John Newton toward God. May 10, 1748 is the day marked as the beginning of John Newton’s conversion. I appreciate his honesty when he said, “I cannot consider myself to have been a believer in the full sense of the word, until a considerable time afterwards.” He did not completely leave the slave trade until 1755.  During the seven-year span between his salvation and leaving the slave trade, the Holy Spirit worked in his life to produce a powerful preacher of the Gospel and abolitionist.

…But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. Luke 15:20

 

The Lord has promised good to me,

His Word my hope secures;

He will my Shield and Portion be,

As long as life endures.

 

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,

And mortal life shall cease,

I shall possess, within the veil,

A life of joy and peace.

 

Proclaiming Grace

In the years after 1755, Newton became an Anglican minister and working with Methodist, Baptist and Independent ministers and preachers to promote the Gospel. He discipled a young William Wilberforce who would later lead the abolitionist cause in Great Britain. As an abolitionist he wrote,

I hope it will always be a subject of humiliating reflection to me, that I was once an active instrument in a business at which my heart now shudders.

—John Newton, Thoughts Upon The African Slave Trade, 1787

In the latter years of his life he was a prolific hymn writer, producing over two hundred hymns. Of course, his most famous hymn, Amazing Grace, chronicles his life and the power of God’s grace to transform the most hardened sinner.

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.  Luke 15:24.

 

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,

The sun forbear to shine;

But God, Who called me here below,

Will be forever mine.

Listen to Amazing Grace.

The HIStories Behind the Hymns

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Join DoNotDepart.com during the month of June as we delve into the history behind the great hymns and/or hymnwriters of our Christian faith. These are the stories of God’s working in the hearts and minds of his people— they are HIStories.

In the United States of America we are confronting the sin and strife of racial injustice. John Newton’s hymn, Amazing Grace, is a testimony to the transforming power of God’s grace through Jesus Christ. I leave you with the lyrics of the great hymn and look forward to sharing more with you next week.

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me,
His Word my hope secures;
He will my Shield and Portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Will be forever mine.

—John Newton, 1779

 

Join DoNotDepart.com during the month of June as we delve into the history behind the great hymns and/or hymnwriters of our Christian faith. #HIStoriesBehindTheHymns

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Note: There is a seventh stanza to this hymn written by an anonymous writer. I have only included John Newton’s original lyrics.

A Pilgrim’s Prayer

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A pilgrim’s song, Psalm 84, is sung by one attuned to God’s Word as he journeys closer and closer to the heart of God. The journey of the psalmist is joyful, even amidst dangers and difficulties. Because of his delight in the Lord, the pilgrim psalmist pursues dwelling with God because that is his heart’s home. Augustine of Hippo echoes the words of the psalmist,

You move us to delight in praising You; for You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You. —from Confessions by Augustine of Hippo

Last week, Lisa walked us through the middle of the pilgrim’s journey, where things proved more difficult than at the start of his pilgrimage. She provided excellent strategies for “staying strong in the middle.” It is at the end of this “middle” section the psalmist turns to the Lord in prayer.

O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer;

give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah

Behold our shield, O God;

look on the face of your anointed! Psalm 84:8-9

Join me as I journey through these verses. Let’s uncover what the psalmist says phrase by phrase.

O Lord God of hosts…

The pilgrim psalmist’s prayer is a bold supplication, invoking Almighty God who rules over heaven and earth. In the safest place possible is the Believer who places herself/himself in the hands of God according to the fullness of His power and strength.

In the safest place possible is the Believer who places herself/himself in the hands of God according to the fullness of His power and strength. #Psalm84

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Hear my prayer; give ear…

Before God’s throne in prayer, the song writer petitions God to hear him— to hear his heart outpoured. He deeply needs God to listen to him. The added emphasis, “give ear,” underscores the depth of the psalmist’s need.

Friend, God wants to hear your prayer. He loves it when you share it all. He is always ready to listen to you. He’ll never grow tired of hearing what is on your mind and heart. Your words are safe with Him.

O God of Jacob!

Powerless, weak, and right where God wanted him, Jacob did not stand a chance of winning a wrestling match with God (read Genesis 32). Grappling with God, Jacob learned what the apostle Paul preaches in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10:

But he [The Lord] said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

By His grace, God let Jacob win the wrestling match, but God won the man. Jacob surrendered his will to God and exchanged his strength for God’s strength. Jacob is justified by faith that God will secure the promised inheritance.

In calling on the God of Jacob, I believe the psalmist’s prayer is an admission of weakness and a petition to God for His strength. Strength to move beyond “the middle.” Strength to find joy in all circumstances. Strength to remain faithful to the end.

Do you need God’s strength today? Consider making Paul’s prayer your own. Invite God to replace your weakness with His strength.

Selah

The depth of the prayer requires a rest here. Take a moment to pause and consider who God is and what He has done. A link to Rich Mullins’ version of Fanny Crosby’s, All The Way My Savior Leads Me is provided here for your encouragement.

Behold our shield, O God…

As the psalmist’s prayer continues, he asks God for His favor by virtue of the character of the king the psalmist serves. Historically, a shield bore the emblem of the sovereign it served. Throughout scripture God describes himself as Israel’s shield. God says to Abram, “I am your shield” (Genesis 15:1).

Since God is our shield, it follows that He is our Sovereign and we are His people. The psalmist is asking God to look favorably on His children. When God sees me, I want Him to see that my shield bears the cross of His Son. Certainly, God’s unmerited favor grants us grace for each day and hope for the journey ahead.

Consider using a concordance or a Bible app search to see what God says about being our shield.

Look on the face of your anointed.

According to Strong’s Hebrew Lexicon, “look” can be translated as “regard with favor.” The word “anointed” refers to the king whom the psalmist served. So, after asking for God’s favor on His people, the pilgrim prays for his king. Certainly, we need to pray that our political leaders would know God’s wisdom, grace and mercy.

Considering this more deeply, I know the word “anointed” also refers to the Messiah. When I approach God’s throne in prayer, I desperately need Him to see Jesus, my mediator. Jesus secures my standing with God. In Christ, my hope is secure.

Strength to Journey On

Having faced difficulties in prayer and sought the Lord’s strength, the psalmist is ready to continue on his pilgrimage. Taking courage from faith and buoyed by our hope in Christ, may we be steadfast pilgrims until at last we are at rest in Him.

Taking courage from faith and buoyed by our hope in Christ, may we be steadfast pilgrims until at last we are at rest in Him. #Psalm84

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Season of Lament: Embracing Grief and Hope

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Since the middle of March when #StayAtHome became a reality for my family, I readily accepted the challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID- 19 pandemic. Even through last week, my husband and teenage daughters agreed we were managing well.

And then we hit a wall.

The compounding effect of one small loss after another, finally took its toll. Inspirational hashtags and memes were not enough to raise our spirits. Remembering the example of the Greatest Generation during the Great Depression and World War 2 was not enough to bolster our courage. We are physically healthy, but our spirits are worn.

Throughout April at DoNotDepart.com, we are addressing how to respond to trouble in the world.  Struggling with what to share, I keep coming back to the word “lament.”

I don’t know what difficulties you are facing today. You weren’t made to bear it alone. #TakeHeart

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Defining Lament

According to various dictionaries you’ll find that “a lament” is “a cry, grief or mourning.” A biblical understanding of lament points to something more purposeful and God-focused. Contributing writer at DesiringGod.com, Michael Vroegop, defines lament as a “divinely-given invitation to pour out our fears, frustrations, and sorrows for the purpose of helping us to renew our confidence in God.” The Psalms and Lamentations provide prominent examples of lament in the Old Testament. Jesus even laments in the Garden of Gethsemane and from the cross.

A lament gives us space to mourn, encourages us to reach up and out, and spurs us towards steps of faith.

Mourn

Loss. Grief. Signs of brokenness encompass daily life as “sheltering in place” grinds on through April. I hesitate to share my struggles when so many are experiencing greater sorrow. Everyone is struggling with varying degrees of heartache. For this reason, I share my lament with God. It is for Him. I give God all of my heartache because He is my safe place. The writer of Lamentations knew this. Hear him as he pours out his heart to God:

I remember my affliction and my wandering,

  the bitterness and the gall.

I well remember them,

  and my soul is downcast within me.

(Lamentations 3:19-20, NIV)

Threatened by overwhelm, music provides a solace and helps me communicate with God. Hymns like, Abide with Me, Be Still My Soul, and O Sacred Head Now Wounded resonate within me. More contemporary, Rich Mullins’ music, helps me express my sadness and distraught to God. Rich’s song, Hold Me Jesus, is currently part of my playlist.

Reach Up and Out

Yet, a lament is more than a cry; it is a declaration of hope. Simultaneously as I reach up and ask for God’s help, I am declaring that He alone is the answer to whatever besets me.

Yet this I call to mind

    and therefore I have hope:

 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,

    for his compassions never fail.

They are new every morning;

    great is your faithfulness.

(Lamentations 3:21-23, NIV)

Although not directly stated in these verses, I believe God imparts hope and help through His people. It is good to reach out for help. Revealing our vulnerabilities to others, asking for help, gives God another avenue to impart His compassion and new mercies. It buoys our hope.

 

Step Forward in Faith

Throughout the songs and prayers of lament in the Bible, after the mourning and supplication for relief, there is a commitment, a decision, to act in faith. Faith is trusting God for my next step because He knows what is best. I relinquish my plans for His. See how the writer of Lamentations yields himself to God through faith:

I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion;

    therefore I will wait for him.” (Lamentations 3:24, NIV)

Here the writer’s step forward in faith is to wait for God’s lead. The current state of affairs is forcing us to wait, but maybe God is asking you to take action. After crying out to the Lord this past weekend, He directed me to an opportunity to teach my 4th grade Sunday School class via Zoom. Crafting a lesson on God’s love for a digital classroom instructed my heart and energized me to keep moving despite my feelings. God created the opportunity for me because He knew I needed it. I am glad I followed His lead.

Grief and Hope

The season we find ourselves in right now is marked by sadness, disease, and death. Our grief can overwhelm us and bring us to despair, or we can turn to God in lament and find hope. Tanner Fox, an associate pastor at my church says lament “properly honors the sting of grief and the joy of hope.”

I don’t know what difficulties you are facing today. You weren’t made to bear it alone. Cry before the Lord, seek His help, reach out to the Body of Christ, and embrace grief and hope.

Do you need to reach out for a word of encouragement? Do you need prayer? Please reach out to me in the comments.

Do you have a prayer of lament from scripture that you turn to in times of trouble? Please share it in the comments.

Our grief can overwhelm us and bring us to despair, or we can turn to God in lament and find hope. #TakeHeart

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Series Re-Cap: Missions Right Where You Are

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Throughout this month at Do Not Depart, we have been reflecting on how we participate in The Great Commission from our own corner of the world. In Matthew 28:19-20a, Jesus gave His disciples a command to share the “Good News” of God’s mercy and grace through Him:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”

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Missions

In addition to the The Twelve, this command is for us as well. Important to note, completing Christ’s mission does not necessitate a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Over the course of a month we have highlighted large and small, global and local, and Gospel-proclaiming and Gospel-serving organizations. It is my prayer that you have been challenged and inspired to join in The Great Commission from right where you are.

Let’s re-cap what we’ve read this month.

Missions Right Where You Are Re-Cap

What acts of humble service is God calling you to today?

In writing, Small Acts of Humble Service, Ali reminded us of Jesus’ servant heart and how that inspires her to serve others. By cutting shelf liner for an organization who helps hurting girls, she writes, “I provided a small, menial task so that others in the ministry would be free to focus intently on doing the work of healing, teaching, and ministering.” 

How is God leading you to use your gifts and talents for Him?

Through her God-given talents, love for God’s Word, and theater; Jaime shares in her post, The Word That Returns, about her participation in Piercing Word. This organization proclaims God’s Word in compelling ways through theatrical performance. I love what Jaime shares, “Though I wasn’t always aware of how He would use me and my enthusiasm for the arts, I realize now He was equipping me to be a part of sharing a Story the world is desperate to hear.”

Are there “helpers” in your life who need your support?

Sometimes we aren’t qualified to help where we are called. Lisa encourages us to “help the helpers” in her post, Not Gifted for That Ministry? Help the Helpers Who Are. Lisa and her husband volunteer with a disaster response group, PAR (Prepare and Respond). Lisa learned that “When we expand our idea of how we can work in a ministry, God may surprise us with opportunities we didn’t see coming.” She adds, “Whether in front or behind the scenes, the outcome is the same: the good news is spread and the love of God is felt.”

Who do you know who needs God’s Word?

As I share in the post, Challenge and Opportunity: Bibles For the Bibleless, God uses our gifts and talents for His purposes. From my home-base in Orlando, FL, I get to use my gift of teaching at the USA Headquarters of Wycliffe Bible Translators to train new missionary kids and play a small role in ending Bible poverty around the world. Interestingly, God uses my love for His Word in more ways than one.  I am privileged to participate in the “God. Plan. Move.” mission of Hello Mornings, which I write about in Digital Pathway to the Gospel. Serving in these two capacities God has given me a front row seat to watch Him work.

Who are “the nations” in your neighborhood?

Lastly, Jennifer reminds us that “the nations” are all around us in our neighborhoods and towns. Among other ministry, she and her husband support Bridges International, that supports, encourages, and shows Christ’s love to international students on college campuses. In her post, International Ministry: Right Here, she challenges us to “look at your own community, you may also see that the nations are coming to our doorstep. May we share the Good News and the Grace of Christ while they’re here, for the Church is comprised of every nation.

A Blessing as You “Go”

When Jesus commissioned His disciples to share the Gospel, He left them with a blessing. Re-read the Great Commission with this blessing:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”   Matthew 28:19-20

Yes! When we “go,” Jesus’ power and presence goes with us— always.

Thank You

Thank you for joining us this month. Have you learned something, thought a new thought, or have questions about the organizations we’ve highlighted this month? If so, let us know in the comments.

Digital Pathway to the Gospel

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Throughout March our theme is Missions: Participating in the Great Commission Right Where We Are. If you’ve joined us, I hope you’ve thought a new thought or considered how you participate in the Great Commission. Given worldwide pandemic precautions, “sheltering in place” and “social distancing” have become part of our corporate lexicon. Meanwhile, digital platforms are being used to create pathways to the Gospel.

With this in mind, I am grateful (along with other Do Not Depart contributors) to be part of Hello Mornings, an international online Christian community where women encourage each other in three key disciplines: spending time in God’s Word, keeping healthy habits, and planning each day with priorities in mind. What a joy it has been to hear stories from fellow group members and group leaders about how God is using the ministry of Hello Mornings to draw women to Him.

My Hello Mornings Story

With a large project looming amidst a busy schedule, I asked myself, “Where am I going to find the time to get it done?” Not just a question of time, I knew my prayer life and spiritual discipline were not equal to the task. I needed more Jesus and less me. Renewed spiritual discipline was key. In Spring 2013, I found Hello Mornings. The Hello Mornings community was a lifeline to my busy life. Creating the habits of “God. Plan. Move.” created more time for the project and brought me closer to Jesus.

For the first time in my life I was involved in an online group. I was nervous, but I kept at it and found it to be a life-giving resource for my spiritual life. Transformation began. I found myself with more time in my day, a regular prayer and devotional life that yielded answered prayers, and an intimacy with Jesus that had been long desired. I was a new woman; the Holy Spirit did the work.

Psalm 143:8 is the key verse for Hello Mornings.

Digital Pathway to the Gospel

As a Hello Mornings’ Group Leader, I encountered women with little to no experience in God’s Word. Women who needed a safe place for their Bible questions, found it in the virtual small group setting. While I facilitated the group, God gave me a front row seat to watch women read His Word for the first time and watch Him work. One woman followed Christ’s obedience in baptism as a result of studying the Book of Acts. Her involvement in Hello Mornings made an impact on her family as well. This is just one story, but I am sure there are more just like it.

More About Hello Mornings

Do your habits need a refresh? You can start building good habits right now. Kat Lee, founder of Hello Mornings, has free, ready-to-use resources ready for you right here. If you would like to know more about Hello Mornings, let me know in the comments. If God is calling you to engage with others over His Word, consider joining Hello Mornings as a group leader. We offer “real life” group and virtual groups. Our Do Not Depart readers tend to be mature Christians who love God’s Word, and we would love to have you leading women at Hello Mornings. Feel free to ask questions in the comments below. Lastly, if Hello Mornings isn’t right for you, please participate in our Do Not Depart Community Facebook Page.

God gave me a front row seat to watch women read His Word for the first time and watch Him work.Click To Tweet

Challenge and Opportunity: Bibles For the Bibleless

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God’s Word has forever changed me. It teaches, encourages, convicts, and comforts me. It is deep. I can dig down deep into it and extract fresh insight, growing my understanding of God and His plan for me.

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

Like me, you’re a reader of this blog because you know the transforming power of God’s Word. Our access to Bibles and Bible study tools is immense. It would not surprise me if you have more than one English translation of the Bible in your home and more than one Bible app on your smartphone.

In stark contrast, there are many who are Bibleless. These people do not have any Scripture in their mother tongue. Wycliffe Bible Translators exists to end Bible poverty.

Challenge

Just a five-minute car ride from my home is the USA Headquarters for Wycliffe Bible Translators. As a volunteer with WBT, the need for Bible translation and what it takes to accomplish it is staggering. Consider these stats:

  • There are 7,000 spoken and signed languages in use today.
  • 650 of these languages have a complete Bible.
  • 1,500 languages have either a New Testament or portion of Scripture.
  • Approximately 2,000 languages need a translation project to begin.

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In this case, the word “language” refers to one’s mother tongue, or “heart language”— the language in which you dream, think and pray. Consider this,

“Understanding Scripture in a language other than the heart language in which we think and experience emotion is like trying to eat soup with a fork. You can get a little taste, but you cannot get nourished.”  —William Cameron Townsend, Founder of Wycliffe Bible Translators

Wycliffe Bible Translators is just one of many like-minded Bible translation organizations determined to get God’s Word into all the heart languages of the world, so every tribe and tongue can know and experience who God is and His heart for them.

Opportunity

Thirty years ago, a missionary kid (“MK”) from Colombia, South America (my first college roommate), introduced me to Wyclife Bible Translators. Now, through a unique chain of events, I am a teacher helping with missionary kid programming at WBT throughout the year. I am a teacher through and through; teaching is my God-given calling. He has gifted me to do it. God uses my gift of teaching to connect me with world missions— right around the corner from where I live.

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Future MKs learning about the power of prayer in furthering Bible translation.

It is important to realize that when a family is called to become Wycliffe missionaries the whole family is called, not just mom and dad. So, while the parents go through introductory training at Wycliffe USA Headquarters, so do their children. On the surface, my job is to welcome the children, acquaint them with Wycliffe, and introduce them to Bible translation. What looks like fun and games, goes deeper. Our goals include discipling them in their faith, equipping them with tools to handle transition and change, and encouraging them in their calling as missionary kids. The goal is to send healthy, Christian families into the mission field prepared to handle the challenges and opportunities of missionary life.

I am thankful to God for giving me this unique opportunity to impact His kingdom using the unique gifts and talents He gives me. I stand in awe of how He weaves my story and small gift of service into His glorious story. Someday there will be no Bibleless people. I am glad to have a small role in ending Bible poverty.

God uses my gift of teaching to connect me with world missions— right around the corner from where I live. #MissionsClick To Tweet

Action Steps

Learn more about the importance of heart language translation here.

Pray for the Bibleless peoples of the world. Learn more here.

Where are you using your God-given gifts and talents today?

Missions: Participating in the Great Commission Right Where We Are

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Fifty kids listening to a missionary in a darkened room with the hum of a slide projector (not the PowerPoint kind) in the background, was part of my church camp experience. Exotic and challenging, my memories of their missionary stories shaped my thoughts and feelings about fulfilling The Great Commission.

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)

Since my church camp days, God has expanded my understanding of missions and missionaries. You see, Jesus’ command is for all believers, not just the pious, adventurous and multi-lingual. So, what does it look like when we participate in The Great Commission right where we are?

This March is “Missions Month” at Do Not Depart. Each contributing writer will share about an organization she serves or supports from her corner of the world. Some of the organizations we will highlight directly share the gospel by proclamation and discipleship. Some organizations we will showcase create pathways to the gospel through caring provision and relationshipbuilding. You will read about large, global organizations and small, local ones. You will see the variety of ways our Do Not Depart contributors participate in and serve these organizations. It is my hope and prayer that you learn something new, think a fresh thought, and are inspired to join in the Great Commission right where you are.

So, what does it look like when we participate in The Great Commission right where we are? #Missions

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Filled Up to Spill Out

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I am loving this current series on benedictions. Like waves on the beach, these benedictions overtake me— I am awash in God’s blessings from His Word. One of my all-time favorite benedictions in scripture is found in Ephesians 3:14-21, and today we’ll be considering verses 17-19.

This benediction, bridges the apostle Paul’s teaching on the doctrine of salvation and unity in Christ and his application of that doctrine. Here he prays for Believers to be filled up with the love of Christ in order to spill out manifestations of God’s love to others.


Dwell

. . .that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. . . . (Ephesians 3:17a)

Since Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden, God has been making a way to dwell among us and with us. Even more, through Jesus, God makes a way to live in us. The verb to dwell means “to settle, inhabit, be always present” (BlueLetterBible.org). Christ’s indwelling comes at His initiative and invitation. He isn’t asking to rent out space in our hearts; He is staking His claim and settling down. Faith enables us to yield to Him so He can make our heart His home.

Comprehend and Know

. . . that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge. . . . (Ephesians 3:17b-19a)

The apostle Paul wants us to know that everything of God is established in love— His great love for us and the love we share with one another. It is a multidimensional love; it reaches up and out. The use of the word comprehend here means to “to lay hold of so as to make one’s own” (BlueLetterBible.org). Paul desires that we understand God’s love in such a way that it transforms us into the image of Christ.

Futhermore, having lay hold of God’s love with our minds, Paul challenges us to experience and share it. How can we know this great love? Isn’t it beyond our understanding? The use of the word know in verse 19 means “to learn to know, to feel” (BlueLetterBible.org). This definition conveys to me a progressive understanding that comes with time, experience, and application. God’s love is meant to be explored and known. Let the words from The Message Bible wash over you:

And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you’ll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ’s love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! (Ephesians 3:17b-19a, MSG)

Be Filled

. . .that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:19b)

So far, these words of blessing remind us that Christ is in us, and that we have full access to the dimensions of God’s love. We are thoroughly equipped to do God’s will. God gives us access to a storehouse of spiritual blessings through Christ. Following Christ in faith and exploring His great love, we are filled to the brim, even spilling over. God wants the overflow of everything He pours into us to spill out onto others. Essentially, we are filled up to spill out. Who will you “spill out” on today?

God wants the overflow of everything He pours into us to spill out onto others. Essentially, we are filled up to spill out. Who will you “spill out” on today? #Benedictions

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Intentional Spiritual Growth: Serving the Body of Christ

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At the outset of this month’s focus on intentional spiritual growth, Ali wrote, “growth happens best when it’s fostered.” A PK (preacher’s kid), I grew up in the church, and sometimes it felt like I lived there. From a front row pew, I saw the beauty of God’s people united in Christ working together to bring about His purpose. Serving the Body of Christ (no matter how big or small the task) is an outward expression of faith that can foster spiritual growth.

Serving the Body of Christ (no matter how big or small the task) is an outward expression of faith that can foster spiritual growth. #IntentionalSpiritualGrowth

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Photo by Milada Vigerova on Unsplash

The Body of Christ

And he [Jesus] is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. (Colossians 1:18)

Neither country club nor service organization, the Church is uniquely identified as Christ’s body. It is led by Christ, bears His name and is a stronghold for His kingdom. Empowered by the Holy Spirit the Church exists for the fellowship and equipping of Believers to share the Gospel with the world. God designed the Church for growing disciples: “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love” (Ephesians 4:15-16).

Equipping the Church

And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. (Ephesians 4: 11-14)

God gives a variety of gifts for the purpose of building His church and sharing the Gospel. Spiritual gifts are given to Believers, made effective by the Holy Spirit, and are used specifically for God’s purpose: “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). God also uses our talents, which are ours by virtue of being His unique creations, for His glory. The Church is designed as a place where our spiritual gifts and talents are practiced, utilized and honed.

Spiritual Growth through Service

Despite all the Scripture about spiritual gifts and serving each other, churches have a difficult time filling their volunteer positions. I encourage you to take steps this week to find a need and fill it with a local congregation or parachurch organization.

Explore: Volunteer for a short commitment or a series of short commitments. Try new areas of service, some that match your talents and some that challenge you. Pray as you serve, asking God to show you if this is where He wants you to grow. Take note of what you see God doing in you and through you as you serve.

Discover: After dabbling in a variety of types of service, you might be ready for a longer commitment in an area of service where you’ve seen spiritual growth in yourself and in those you’ve served. Identify those who are leaders in your area of service and learn from them. Enjoy the fellowship with those you serve alongside.

Employ: Develop your spiritual gift or talents further. Pursue extra training. Be willing to grow into a leadership position. Continue to ask God to use your gifts and develop them for His glory. Be willing to train and develop others— always pointing them to Jesus.

As you serve the Body of Christ, you will grow in spiritual maturity, helping the entire body become more like Jesus. I would love it if you would share in the comments the ways you serve the Body of Christ and how you have grown spiritually as a result.

Christmas Holly: Reminder of God’s Perfect Gift

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This post is part of a month-long series at DoNotDepart.com, The Symbols of Christmas. Of all the symbols, a favorite for me is the evergreens. Whether found in garland, wreaths, or swags, the deep green reminds me of God’s ever-present, never-ending love for me.

Among the types of Christmas greenery, Christmas holly takes on special meaning, reminding Believers of Jesus’ sacrifice– God’s perfect gift.

Among the types of Christmas greenery, Christmas holly takes on special meaning, reminding Believers of Jesus’ sacrifice– God’s perfect gift.

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The lyrics of the Christmas carol, The Holly and the Ivy (18th century), explain the symbolism of the Christmas Holly. If you’d like to listen to the carol as you read, press, “play” below. Song and scripture will be our guide today.

According to the carol, several parts of the holly point to Jesus: the blossom, the berry, the “prickle”, and the bark.


The Blossom

“The holly bears a blossom
As white as lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our sweet Saviour.”

The Berry

“The holly bears a berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good.”

The “Prickle”

“The holly bears a prickle
As sharp as any thorn;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas Day in the morn.”

The Bark

“The holly bears a bark
As bitter as any gall;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
For to redeem us all.”

God’s Perfect Gift

Thank you for joining me in reflecting on the symbolism of Christmas holly. May you be reminded of God’s perfect gift throughout the Christmas season.

 

No Greater Kingdom

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Thank you for joining us this month as we delve into Psalm 145. Today we are studying verses 13 through 16, but if you’re just joining us you can catch up on all of this month’s posts here.

Psalm 145 is clearly attributed to the psalmist, David— the man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). Charles Spurgeon, a late 19th Century preacher and Bible commentator, said that Psalm 145 is David’s “crown jewel of praise.” We can make David’s praise our own, and even better, use this psalm as a model to create our own praise, for “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised…” (Psalm 145:3).

An Everlasting Kingdom

Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures throughout all generations. Psalm 145:13a

In this verse David praises God for His eternal kingdom. Unlike earthly nations whose rise and fall, success and failures, fill the annals of history and dot our timelines, God’s kingdom and rule will never end. From David’s praise to my own: “God, you are the King of Heaven; You will never vacate Your throne.”

A Faithful Kingdom

[The Lord is faithful in all his words
and kind in all his works.] Psalm 145:13b

Because God and His kingdom are eternal, we can count on Him to do what He says. We who are bound by time, can look back and count all the ways and times God has kept His promises. Furthermore, God uses His power and sovereignty for the good of His people. Earthly rulers parade their power and increasingly find ways to use it to benefit themselves and those who are in their cultural/political tribe. With David I say: “God, you are the Faithful One. You are true to Your people in every way.”

A Kingdom of Second Chances

The Lord upholds all who are falling
and raises up all who are bowed down. Psalm 145:14

True to His faithful nature, our failing is not disastrous because He stands ready to rescue and re-establish us in Him. Earthly kingdoms quickly abandon those who fail, but God embraces those who cry out to Him for saving. It’s humbling to ask for help or a rescue. Our earthly systems applaud self-sufficiency, but God exalts those who allow Him to take the lead in their lives. David knew the reality of sin and humility before the Lord, and with David I say, “God, there is NONE like You. There is no one gracious like Our God.” 

David knew the reality of sin and humility before the Lord, and with David I say, “God, there is NONE like You. There is no one gracious like Our God.” #GreatIsTheLord

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A Bountiful Kingdom

The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food in due season.
You open your hand;
you satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:15-16

The people of God know that everything belongs to Him and comes from Him. There are no winners and losers in God’s economy. Everyone has what they need. This is not the case with earthly kingdoms; no nation exists that satisfies the needs of its citizens. In God’s Kingdom His people are satisfied with His perfect provision. Along with David, I lift my praise, “God, You are my Provider.”

Kingdom Living

What about the days when our flesh fails, and our emotions take the lead? If we’re honest, there are days when we are dissatisfied with what God provides because we compare ourselves to others. There are moments when we get distracted by things we want, forgetting that God gives us what we need. On the days and in these moments, we can turn to praise and gratitude to train and retrain our hearts and minds to depend on the Lord.

Praise

From our lips to God’s ears, words of praise instruct our hearts on the nature and attributes of God. As we worship Him, our impotency becomes clear and God’s omnipotence overtakes the fear and failing. Simply start with the words, “God, You are. . . .” According to His Word, tell Him who He is, and His provision will become evident.

Gratitude

After telling God who He is and seeing His care in our lives, our praise turns into thanksgiving. “God, thank you for. . . .” Giving gratitude to God quiets our wanting with satisfaction. It creates a list of proofs of God’s working in our lives and confirms this for our heart and mind.

A Kingdom Like None Other

There is no other God like our God. His kingdom is everlasting, faithful, grace-giving, and abounding in blessings. The qualities of the kingdom originate with the King. Great is the Lord! May our praise and gratitude magnify Him and His kingdom.

His kingdom is everlasting, faithful, grace-giving, and abounding in blessings. The qualities of the kingdom originate with the King. Great is the Lord! #GreatIsTheLord

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Study Questions

1. What words do you ascribe to God today? Fill in the blank: “God, You are ________________.”
2. Continue to study what praise is by reading the following verses of scripture. In each verse, what specific attribute of God is being praised?

1 Chronicles 16:28
Daniel 2:20
Jeremiah 20:13
Ephesians 1:6
Exodus 15:2
Isaiah 9:6

3. Make a list of what you’re thankful for today.
4. How is God’s kingdom different from earthly kingdoms, and what does that mean for Believers?

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