Its Time to Put the Fire Out

{Daily Selah}

Children say the funniest things sometimes but they are usually also very bluntly honest. Kids need to be taught what is socially acceptable to say and what is not. They also have to learn when to say something and when to be quiet. 

We're quick to notice the slips of the tongue our children make, but often are not aware of our own.

As Christians, the representatives of Jesus Christ to this world, we should be very careful of what we say, when we say it and how we say it. James understood that though the tongue is a relatively small part of us, it has the capacity to cause great destruction.

Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! (James 3:5)

As I was beginning to write this post, a thought crossed my mind regarding the events that took place on the Day of Pentecost. This post is not directly about how the Holy Spirit works in and through believers today, but take a look at Acts 2 with me for a moment... 

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance (Acts 2:2-4).

Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to give us power to live for and be witnesses of Him (Acts 1:8). (Again, this post is not about speaking in tongues. That's a discussion not relevant to this post, nor is it one I wish to have publicly here on this blog since it has a tendency to cause division. If you really want to discuss that topic please send an email to faithinreview@gmail.com)

When the Holy Spirit came, He did indeed and still does empower believers for victorious living. Speaking in tongues refers to speaking in other languages not previously known to the speaker. The body part - the tongue itself - was not set on fire.

The Holy Spirit does cause the fire of faith to grow within us. He does not set tongues on fire. Remember what James said?

Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! (James 3:5)

What sets our tongues on fire? Sin. When we sin with our mouths, we kindle a blaze that doesn't just affect us, but also everyone around us. 

The tongue of just one disgruntled, complaining employee can spread through an entire work force, creating a burning discontent. Just one disparaging comment about the pastor can grow into a raging fire of gossip with the power to destroy a ministry. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!

You may think those are grossly exaggerated examples. Sadly, I've seen both happen. The tongue has the power to burn up marriages, destroy families and separate friends. 

James had even more to say about the tongue...

Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be (James 3:10). 

Our mouths were made to proclaim the praises of our Creator, not to gossip, grumble, complain or curse. It is easy to say the right things in church on a Sunday morning but what happens on the other 6 days of the week at home, at work, or out in public? 

The wonderful blessing you and I have is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit living within us. We have the power through Him to overcome the tongue because Jesus conquered sin and death and hell in His death, burial and resurrection. So, really, we have no excuse for fiery tongues. 

The psalmist knew the power of his own tongue and asked God for help controlling it. 

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer (Psalm 19:14).

Our prayer should be the same.

Its time to put the fire out.

{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Turn Your Feet

{Daily Selah}

Places like Milwaukee, Chicago and Atlanta are much larger but I have found them so much easier to navigate than Rochester, Minnesota. Last fall, on my way to an appointment, I found myself driving around in circles while in absolute dire need of having to "go." I'm quite certain the staff of a Chinese take out thought I was crazy when I dashed in, used their rest room, then waited in line only to ask for directions. Perhaps I should consider investing in a GPS system and avoid drinking Dr. Pepper when travelling that far.

Lest you think I'm completely directionally challenged, I have to tell you that the letter I received prior to my appointment directed me to the 3rd Street parking ramp. Seems pretty plain, right? Well, not in Rochester. There is a 3rd Street West, 3rd Street South, and a 3rd Street North, as well as multiple 3rd Avenues all in the same general area. 

 I'm so very thankful God always makes His directions very clear. Our verse for today, Psalm 119:59, shows how David found direction.

I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.

When the nice people at the Chinese take out told me where to go, I turned my car around and found my way. David also knew he was going the wrong way. He stopped, sought direction from God's Word, turned his feet and found his way.

Psalm 119 is all about finding the right way through God's Word. Take a look at the first 5 verses:

Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. 

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.

They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. 

Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.

O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!

Today, I'm taking my son to an appointment about an hour away. Don't worry, we're going to a town I know well. We won't be driving around in circles today. But, I have asked the Lord to direct in this appointment and to direct my son's steps now and in the future. My son is at somewhat of a crossroads in his life. He knows what God says but feels the allure of this world. My prayer for my son is that, like David, he would think on his ways and turn his feet to the right way - God's way.

How can any of us make sure we're going the right way? Another passage from Psalm 119 (v 9-11) has the answer:

Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. 

With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.

Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

When I was younger, I wandered, directionless for several years. I strayed far from God and His Word (see God Didn't Walk Away - my testimony). Thankfully, He brought me to repentance and turned my feet back to His ways about 20 years ago. Now, as 50 is fast approaching, I still need His direction in my life to keep my feet going in the right direction - in God's direction.

No matter how long we've been walking with the Lord, we all need direction to prevent us from driving around in circles in our lives, going the wrong way. God's Word is our road map for life. In it, He provides answers to all of life's difficult questions and shows us which way to go - for our good and His glory.

Paul, under the direction of the Holy Spirit wrote, Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. In other words, "Don't be upset if I repeat the same things over and over. Its because I want you to be safe."

1 John 5:3 says, For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. God doesn't give us commandments to grieve us our make our lives burdensome. He gives His commands to keep us safe from harm and the consequences of sin because He loves us so very much. 

Which way are you going, right now in this moment? Are you trying to follow God's direction for your life? Turn your feet. Are you still going in circles, try to go your own way? Turn your feet. 


I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies (Psalm 119:59). 




{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Fully Persuaded

{Daily Selah}


Promises. Sometimes we make them, but we're not always able to keep them. I'm so glad God is not like we are. He has no limits like we do. He never changes, neither does His Word. His decrees stand for all eternity. He always says what He means and means what He says. He has never broken a promise and never will.

(continue reading below the picture)

Abraham knew he served a faithful God. He didn't hesitate to trust his promises. 

He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform (Romans 4:20:21).

God wants you and I to have an Abraham-like faith; a faith that never wavers; a faith that understands who He is and is fully persuaded that God will keep His Word. 

God always has, always does and always will keep His Word. 

Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations (Deuteronomy 7:9). 

There is no reason for us to ever doubt Him. We serve the only true God, the Almighty Creator of the universe. Our God has conquered sin and death and hell. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords and He is on our side. 

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:31-32). 

The God of the universe loves us so much that He gave His Son to die in our place. He proved His love when Christ's blood poured down to the earth from the cross. We know He has never broken a promise so why do we ever doubt, worry or fear? 

We've seen Him at work in our own lives. We've seen Him at work in others. We've seen Him at work in His Word. God has never given us reason to waver in our faith. We have no excuse for our lack of faith. But, we have every reason to have an Abraham-like faith, fully persuaded that God will do what He says He will do.

He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform (Romans 4:20:21).

Fully persuaded. 


{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Believing is Seeing

{Daily Selah}

Many people say, "Well, I have to see it to believe it" in regard to matters of faith. However, there are many examples in the Word of believing then seeing.


Remember the woman with the bleeding disorder who just wanted to reach out and touch the hem of Jesus' robe? She had spent everything she had over the course of many years, going to doctor after doctor, trying to find a cure. Imagine how weak and tired and pale she was. Yet, she was determined to get to the Messiah. She knew only He could heal her.

Jesus' response was, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole (Mark 5:34). It was faith that brought her the miracle only Jesus could perform. The woman's mindset was not that of "I'm gonna be healed because I say I will." She was convinced that only Jesus could heal her. It was genuine faith that brought her to the feet of the Master. She believed and then saw a miracle in her life.

Right after Pharaoh finally let God's people go, he had a change of heart and decided to go after them. Moses knew that believing is seeing. He was convinced that only God could rescue them. And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day (Exodus 14:13).

Put simply, the message the Lord gave the people through His servant Moses was, "Don't be afraid. Believe and you will see what your God will do for you." That same encouragement can be applied to any situation or circumstance you and I face in our lives.

Personally, I've never ascribed to "name it and claim it" or, as one pastor I know says, "blab it and grab it" theology. There are those who say we should declare our own destiny, speaking what we want into our lives. This post is about living by faith, not on presumption.  Let's take a look at 1 John 5:14-15 for a moment...

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

The key here is to ask according to His will. Obviously, it is not God's will for us all to live in a mansion or drive a Ferrari. But, God has promised to meet all our needs (Philippians 4:19). Asking Him to provide food for our family or to help us meet the bills or to have enough left over each week to be a blessing to others - these things are all in accordance with His will. (Bear in mind that He usually requires some work on our part to get us there.)

James 1:6 is written in the context of asking God for wisdom, but the principle found there can be applied to asking God for anything we need. We are told:

But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering...

Check out that verse in the ESV:

But let him ask in faith, with no doubting...

God has made exceeding great and precious promises to us (1 Peter 1:4). Being convinced that He will do what He says He will do is the life of faith. It is believing and seeing. Remember Thomas? Thomas was an "I have to see it to believe it" kind of guy. He was not willing to believe Jesus had done what He said He would do until he saw the risen Savior for himself.

Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:29). 

1 John 5:4 says, For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

Hebrews 11:6 tells us believing is seeing. Take a look...

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Did you see that? Faith first, then reward. Believing then seeing. 

Want victory in your life? Need God's provision in some area? Don't know which way to go? Don't be afraid. Ask God. Believe and you will see what your God will do for you. 

Believing is seeing. 


{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Go...and be glad

{Daily Selah}

When I was growing up, our family took a lot of vacations at the beach. My brothers and I so looked forward those trips and enjoyed every moment splashing through the waves and searching the sand for hidden treasures like shells, starfish and driftwood.

Most of us have a favorite place we like to be. We look back to certain places and times with fond memories. King David had a favorite place, a place that made his heart glad whenever he had an opportunity to spend time there. He said, I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord (Psalm 122:1).

People say, "Well, I don't have to go to church to know God." They're right. You don't. But, there is so much we miss out on if we neglect gathering together with other believers to worship the Lord. Take a look at something else David had to say about God's house...

One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple (Psalm 27:4). 

David's desire was to spend every moment in the house of the LORD.  As king, he had other duties and responsibilities to attend to just and you and I do, but David really looked forward to the time he could spend in God's house. 

David prayed, sang and worshiped the LORD at other places and times, but he so enjoyed being in the house of the LORD that it made him glad whenever he had opportunity to go. 

Some easily dismiss the importance of believers gathering together in corporate prayer and worship, but God has made it a high priority for every one of His children. Hebrews 10:19-27 expresses God's thoughts on the matter of being present in His house...

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

Read that again slowly. Do you see the point being made here?  The context speaks of spending time with other believers, Jesus being high priest over the house of God, reminds us we must assemble together in that house, and gives us and important warning that is all part of the same thought.

We're told to continue meeting with other believers (i.e. going to church with them and having fellowship with them) and to encourage one another. Then, the writer says, For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins... Sin makes Christ's sacrifice on our behalf ineffective for us because we have chosen to sin instead of living as those who are blood-bought children of God. This statement is made right after the exhortation to assemble with, fellowship with and build up our fellow believers.

Under the direction of the Holy Spirit, the writer warns us that refusing to be the functioning member of the body of Christ God has designed us to be is sin. Neglecting His house, and neglecting other believers is sin.

What should we do then? Go... and be glad.



{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Worthy is the Lamb

{Daily Selah}

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing (Revelation 5:12). 

Have you ever noticed how much importance our society places on concepts such as self worth, and self esteem?  Did you know God never mentions or even hints at either one in His Word? 

Both ideas are the result of humanistic thinking. In other words, it's me-focused thinking. God has never once told us to focus on ourselves. He has never told us to worry about how we feel about ourselves, nor has He told us to focus on ourselves in any way. In fact, He has told us the opposite. The only One who is worthy to be esteemed is the Lord Jesus Christ. Worthy is the Lamb that was slain. Our attention should be always focused on Him and what He has done for us, not on ourselves. 

Jesus is worthy of far more than just the praise of our mouths. The apostle Paul had experienced an encounter with Jesus that transformed his life. He lived out the rest of his days with one goal in mind: to esteem Christ by living for Him and proclaiming Him to the world. Paul wrote...

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12:1-2). 

Our "reasonable service" could be translated as "it's the very least we can do." The very least we, as recipients of the grace of God because of the Lamb who was slain, is to live for Him, esteeming Him in every area of our lives every day. 

Its not about our self worth. Its not about our self esteem. Its about esteeming the Lamb who alone is worthy. 

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing (Revelation 5:12). 

{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

So, let's get out of the way

{Daily Selah}

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me (John 15:4).




Christians often wonder what Jesus meant when He said, Abide in me, and I in you. Entire books have been devoted this subject and some are well intentioned and useful. But, our human minds tend to over-analyze and complicate even the most basic of scriptural principles. For example, God tells us that salvation is a free gift of His grace for all who will believe yet millions have tried to add their own thinking, works and even ritual to His grace. 

The apostle Paul clearly understood Jesus' meaning when He said, Abide in me, and I in you. Take a look at Galatians 2:20:

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Paul understood that, at the very moment he believed on the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, Jesus came to live within him.  He understood that his life was not his own (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Paul realized, like John the baptist that he needed to get out of the way. John said, He must increase, but I must decrease (John 3:30).

Abide in me, and I in you. Jesus wants us to simply get out of the way and allow Him to live His life out through us. The fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc) is evidence of a life lived out in this way. When we abide in Him, we allow Him to love others through us, to express His joy through us, and His peace is expressed both in us and through us, in our relationship to the Father and to the world around us. 

Abide in me, and I in you simply means we have to get out of the way and let Jesus live through us, for our own good and for His glory. 

So, let's get out of the way. 


{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Redeemed? Proclaim it!

{Daily Selah}

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace (Ephesians 1:7). 

The first couple of chapters of the book of Ephesians are among my favorite passages in all of scripture. They detail all the blessings given us in Christ. 

The Bible makes it clear that we could never do anything to meet God's standards of righteousness on our own. In grace, mercy and love, God chose to step in and make way - a way for us to be forgiven, a way to be redeemed, a way to be forgiven, a way to be free, a way to know Him and to be assured of a home in heaven. 

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (Ephesians 2:4-5).

Ephesians 1 and 2 tell us that all those who have placed their faith in Him for salvation have been made alive, chosen, adopted, accepted, redeemed, forgiven, given the Holy Spirit, seated with Christ, been saved, brought near to God, granted access to the Father, been made part of the household of God and built up together with other believers to form a dwelling place for Him. 

None of this is based on who we are or what we have done, nor could it ever be. 

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot...  In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace (1 Peter 1:18-19, Ephesians 1:7). 


Many years ago, Fanny Crosby wrote the now beloved hymn, Redeemed...


Redeemed—how I love to proclaim it!
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed through His infinite mercy,
His child, and forever, I am.

Redeemed, redeemed,
Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb;
Redeemed, redeemed,
His child, and forever, I am.

Redeemed and so happy in Jesus,
No language my rapture can tell;
I know that the light of His presence
With me doth continually dwell.

I think of my blessed Redeemer,
I think of Him all the day long;
I sing, for I cannot be silent;
His love is the theme of my song.

I know I shall see in His beauty
The King in whose way I delight;
Who lovingly guardeth my footsteps,
And giveth me songs in the night.

When Jesus said, "Go ye...", He was telling us to tell the world about redemption through His blood, the riches of His grace and His great love.

We have been granted great and precious spiritual blessings in Christ. As those who have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, we shouldn't be keeping God's wondrous grace and love to ourselves. We need to proclaim it.  

Redeemed? Proclaim it!

{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Lead me to the Rock

{Daily Selah}

From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I (Psalm 61:2).

Very few people enjoy being led. Most of us want to take the lead. It is human nature to want to direct our own course. We tend to think of that choosing our own path leads to freedom. Sadly, most don't realize such thinking leads only to bondage, chained to our own human desires and controlled by the flesh. 

Davis was king of Israel, the most important and powerful man in the land. If anyone had the freedom and the right to choose his own way, it was David. A few times he did just that. One day Nathan the prophet visited David in the the palace and confronted the king with his sin (see 2 Samuel 12). David was heartbroken over his sin and came to God in humble repentance (see Palm 51). 

(continue reading below the picture)

The king had no desire to go back to his sin and no desire to steer his life back into a sinful state of bondage to his own fleshly lusts. More than anything, David wanted to follow God's path for his life and thereby, experience true freedom. That desire for real freedom in his life and relationship with the LORD God of Israel led David to write many Psalms, of praise, worship, adoration and prayer. 

Psalm 61 reveals the cry of David's heart. He asks of the Lord, lead me to the rock that is higher than I. David understood that God's ways are so far above ours that we need to be led to Him, led to His Word and led to His ways. 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

We can't find God on our own, nor can we live for His glory our own way. 

 A Saviour would have been of no use to us if the Holy Spirit had not gently led us to him, and enabled us to rest upon him. To this day we often feel that we not only want a rock, but to be led to it.  -Charles Spurgeon

The cry of David's heart should also be ours. No matter how long we have known Him, we all still need to be led to the Rock, to His Word and to His ways each and every day. 

Lord, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.



{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Praise Him!

{Daily Selah}

Yesterday's Daily Selah was all about the power of praise in bringing us victory.

Today, let's praise the LORD for the great things He has done.

Psalm 28 begins with a desperate cry to the LORD for help.

Unto thee will I cry, O Lord my rock; be not silent to me... Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee (v 1,2).


By the time the writer reaches verse 6, he knows he has been heard and has seen the LORD answer his prayers.

Blessed be the Lord, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications.

A desperate cry has changed to rejoicing and praise of the God who hears.

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him (v 7).

God does indeed hear and answer prayer. He has answered many of the cries of my heart and yours.

Think about His faithfulness, His answers to your needs and His loving provision and protection. We serve a great God who has done great things and who deserves our great praise.

Praise Him!

 

{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Discover the Power of Praise

{Daily Selah}

O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph (Psalm 47:1). 


Spiritual warfare is not a topic that makes it into the Daily Selah often but since we are in the battle every day, perhaps I should write on it more.

Christian music artist Kari Jobe has some thoughts on spiritual warfare I found rather interesting. The "about" page of her website relates the following:

"I have such a desire to go to war for people’s lives and to help them overcome the enemy through their worship and through their declarations of who He is. It’s astounding how many people just don’t live in the complete authority that we have over the enemy. He doesn't have any power unless we give it to him.” 

Please scroll back up and read those words carefully. Take a moment to digest the implications. When I read those words a few days ago, I had to ponder the message there for a while too. 

The concept of overcoming the enemy though our declarations of who God is and through our worship of Him may sound a bit "out there" but let's take a look at what God says in His Word for a moment.

The word praise is mentioned in Scripture 259 times, worship 188 times and the words declare, testify, testimony, and proclaim appear a total of 283 times. After tallying all those numbers, I didn't think it was necessary to check the frequency of other words such as exalt or glorify. But, obviously, God places a great deal of importance on all of these activities that lift His Name on high. 

Psalm 29:2 says, Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. It does not say, "Well, praise the Lord when you feel like it and you only have to worship Him on Sundays." That verse contains 2 commands: give God glory and worship Him.

You may be thinking, "Yes, but what does all of that have to do with warfare and victory?"  Don't worry. We're getting there.

Remember Jericho? It was the power of praise that won the victory against that city. Before you say, "What?!" please keep reading. The city of Jericho presented an obstacle in the path of the children of Israel who were on their way to taking possession of God's promises.

For 6 days, following God's command, the people marched around the city. Seven priests were at the front of the procession, blowing their shofars (trumpets, made from ram's horn). What sound they made is not recorded. It may have been a battle call or a specific sound to gather the people for worship. The Ark of the Covenant came next. The Ark was a reminder of the power, presence and promises of the God who loved them. The people walked in silence around the city, behind the priests and the Ark, just as God had commanded. 

The 7th day was just a little different... 

And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they rose early about the dawning of the day, and compassed the city after the same manner seven times: only on that day they compassed the city seven times. And it came to pass at the seventh time, when the priests blew with the trumpets, Joshua said unto the people, Shout; for the Lord hath given you the city (Joshua 6:15-16). 

What do you think they shouted? I doubt they were hollering a simple, "Woo-hoo!"  Several of the psalms speak of shouting for joy but one in particular speaks of victory. Psalm 47:1 says, "O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph."

Shouting to God is not the same as shouting at someone. Shouting to God is about declaring who He is and what He has done. For example, the people marching around Jericho may have shouted to God something like, "Hallelujah! You, O God, have given the victory! We praise Your high and holy Name forever!"

God had indeed won the victory that day, through the praises of an obedient people. And, that day, His people discovered the power of praise. 

Remember..

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12).

The power of praise is found in our obedience and our declaration of who God is and what He has done. Praise brings Him the glory due His Name and has a secondary benefit for us. Praise builds our faith and our ability to see God at work. 

For me personally, when life gets overwhelming, distressing or otherwise seems too much, my best weapon is praise. I'll turn on some good worship music and sing to the Lord. As I declare in song who He is and what He has done, it does my heart good. The doubts, fears and worries are replaced by joy and trust as I am reminded of the power, presence and promises of the God who loves me. 

Our enemy is the father of lies (John 8:44). He wants us to believe his lies so we will be ineffective, powerless and crippled in our Christian walk. The best way to combat his lies is by filling our minds with truth and praising the Name of the Lord, reminding ourselves of the power, presence and promises of the God who loves us. 

"O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph" (Psalm 47:1). 

Discover the power of praise. 



{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

It Shall Be Seen

{Daily Selah}

And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen (Genesis 22:14). 

Abraham must have felt as though he was on a roller coaster of emotions that day in the mountains. Here he was, a bent and worn old man. His wife was as old, grey and wrinkled as her husband. But, in their old age, God finally gave them the son they had so long desired. Not only was Isaac the fulfillment of Abraham's hopes and dreams, he also was living, breathing proof that God keeps His promises. 


(continue reading below the picture)

Now, God had given Abraham a command which must have made him sick at heart. For three days on the back of a donkey, the word of the LORD pounded in his brain... 

Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of (Genesis 22:2).

The Bible does not record any questioning on Abraham's part. He heard God's voice and simply obeyed, taking his only son and wood for the burnt offering on a trek to the mountains. He must have wondered though... 

Is God really going to make me give up my son, my only son I've longed for all my life? 

Why would God give me the desire of my heart, only to take it away?

When they arrived at God's appointed place, Issac naturally questioned his dad. "Dad, I see the wood and the fire but where's the lamb for the burnt offering?" (Genesis 22:7).

Abraham's response reveals his complete trust in the God who keeps His promises...

My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering (Genesis 22:8). 

Abraham proceeded to obey the LORD, laying his son on the altar and preparing to make the ultimate sacrifice. 

Suddenly, a voice comes from heaven. Abraham, Abraham! (v 11).

Verse 12 reveals that Abraham passed this test of his faith and obedience. 

Abraham believed and declared to his son that God would "provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering" (v 8). 

And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son (v 13). 

God did indeed provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering that day. 

And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen (v 14). 

What was it that Abraham declared would be seen?  The answer is found in the rest of his statement. JEHOVAHJIREH: THE LORD WILL PROVIDE. 

The LORD's provision shall be seen. 

How has God shown His provision for you and me?

First, and most importantly, He showed His provision for us by providing Himself a Lamb as an offering for our sin.

He also provides for us each moment of each day, in ways we often don't recognize. The home you live in, the car you drive, the clothes on your back and the food on your table are all gifts from God, our JEHOVAHJIREH, the One who provides all our needs. 

What do you need right now? Ask JEHOVAHJIREH. 

Ask Him and His provision for every need of your hearts and life shall be seen. 

Jesus said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full (John 16:23-24). 

JEHOVAHJIREH: THE LORD WILL PROVIDE. 

It shall be seen. 



{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.

Live in Unity

{Daily Selah}

Most families see something of sibling rivalry between the kids. My 2 youngest sons are very close in age and both very close to adulthood, but miles apart in personality and temperament. When we were kids, my older brother and I fought frequently. Until I became a mother myself, I never quite understood why it upset our parents so much. 

As our loving Father, God doesn't enjoy seeing division and strife between His children either. 

In Proverbs 6, God gives us a list of things He hates and that are an abomination before Him. Included in that list is "he that soweth discord among brethren" (Proverbs 6:16-19).

God requires us, as His children, members of the body of Christ, to be "Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3). 

What is "the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace"? The answer is found in Ephesians 2 where it outlines something the blood of Christ accomplished for us. Take a look:

13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;
15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.
18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

When believers in the Lord Jesus Christ don't get along, we are nullifying the effect of His sacrifice in our lives. He came to bring those who were "afar off" together. He Himself is our peace, who broke down the walls of separation. Jesus came to reconcile us and preached peace to us. And, through Him, we all have equal access to the Father. 

Without using words, we are effectively saying Christ's sacrifice was not enough when believers choose division over "the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

We're not talking about condoning sin or heresy. We're talking about the bond we have as believers in Christ by the blood of Christ. That is an eternal bond, held together by the Holy Spirit. 

The majority of divisions in the body today are caused by things that matter little in light of eternity. One glaring example is translations. My preferred translation is really of significance only to me. Yet, some believers will not fellowship with others who carry a Bible with a different label than their own. 

Neither the KJV, nor the ESV, nor the NIV, nor any other versions have the power to save or condemn. My sin separated me from God and condemned me. The blood of Christ paid the price for my salvation, not any English translation of His Word. 

Regardless of whether modern or archaic language is used in the translated text, the Holy Spirit is more than able to use the Word of God to open our eyes "that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power" (Ephesians 1:17-19).

There are many other little things that we choose to allow to divide the body of Christ today. For some, its the label of the door of the church. For others, its clothing or music. 

God sent His only Son to bring us peace - peace with Him and peace with one another as members of Christ's body (see Ephesians 2:13-15). Unity in the body is not an optional activity. We are required to be "Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3). 


Real unity in Christ transcends labels, versions, worship styles and any other differences and is a shining testimony of what Christ has done. 

He broke down the walls between us. Let's not put them back up again. 

Live in unity.



{Daily Selah} is a mini-devotional, a pause to ponder about the Lord and how He wants us to live.