ARTICLES
Kathy and Larry love to offer practical ideas and inspirational thoughts to encourage and bless you! Log on frequently to this page to get a burst of motivation and a dose of support. A new article is added at the beginning of each month.
Announcement
Kathy
& Larry are currently on Sabbatical, therefore, they will not be adding any
additional articles on
this page for now. But they hope you enjoy their past articles.
The
Beauty of Holiness
by Kathy Collard Miller
1 Chronicles 16:29 tells us, "Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
As I meditated on that verse, I began to wonder, "How is beauty related to holiness?" I began researching and first noticed that different translations indicate that 1 Chronicles 16:29 is talking about God's holiness being beautiful (NIV) and others refer to us wearing holy garments (The Message, NASB, Amplified). Bible commentator Matthew Henry says, "worship him in the beauty of holiness, in the holy places and in a holy manner, v. 29. Holiness is the beauty of the Lord, the beauty of all sanctified souls and all religious performances."
Then I tried to define beauty. When I think of something that we call beautiful, like a face, I think of something that is rightly aligned and in right symmetry. The dictionary defines it as, "the quality attributed to whatever pleases or satisfies the senses or mind, as by line, color, form, texture, proportion, etc."
If holiness is described as something beautiful (pleasing and satisfying), then I'm wondering why wouldn't I want to be holy and worship a holy God in holiness? It's the most wonderful thing there is. It brings an abundant life, wisdom for challenges, confidence through trusting God, and the fruit of the Spirit.
How about you? How is mediating on the beauty of holiness meaningful to you? How is it motivating to make holy choices? How have you seen that choosing holiness brings beauty into your life?
And do you know what the best thing about the beauty of holiness is? It never changes. The beauty that the world regards has changed over the centuries. Plump bodies used to be painted in pictures hundreds of years ago as the ideal yet today we value being thin. In different cultures, people have different definitions of beauty.
Yet, how wonderful that God's definition of holiness never changes and we can experience its beauty without fear that we don't really know what we'll receive. We'll receive all the blessings that God wants to give us—and so much more.
The
"TRPFAW" for Holiness
by Kathy Collard Miller
I couldn't believe it! I was emailing my weekly Princess message and suddenly my email server cut me off! Aaarrgghhhh! This had happened in the past when the "system" interpreted the multiple emails as SPAM—even though the people receiving the emails had requested the message. So frustrating! Now, I not only couldn't send out my Princess message but for the next 24 hours, I had trouble receiving and sending all emails! It took forever! Even after multiple contacts with the support people, I still couldn't get the problem solved. I was so frustrated! Have I mentioned I was frustrated?
But
then I remembered what I'd committed to in my devotional time that morning:
TRPFAW! That's what I came up with when I studied the armor of God. I started
calling it "trip-faw" when I listed the different aspects of the
armor:
T: truth (gird loins with truth)
R: righteousness (breastplate of righteousness)
P: peace (shod with
preparation of the gospel of peace)
F: faith (shield of faith)
A: assurance (helmet of salvation)
W: Word (sword of Spirit, word of God)
Ephesians
6:13-17 says,
"
In
my devotional time, I'd tried to get a handle on applying those verses and came
up with this application:
Belt of truth: what is the truth in this situation?
Breastplate of righteousness: what is the right and
godly reaction?
Feet shod with preparation of the gospel of peace:
I have peace with God and I can also seek peace with others.
Shield of faith: I
believe God is in control.
Helmet of salvation: I am not condemned. I'm
assured of my position in Christ. Nothing can steal that away and nothing can
separate me from God's love.
Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God: What does God
say about this?
As I meditated on those principles and put on the full armor of God, I didn't get upset about all the email problems. In fact, the next morning in my quiet time, I wrote in my journal: "I passed the test! Even though I dialogued by email with two tech people and talked personally to two other tech people, I never got upset about the frustration. I could sense so clearly that it was a test. And when I initially didn't get hooked, I sensed Satan wasn't giving up. He was thinking, 'She'll cave in when this goes on long enough.'
"But then I rehearsed TRPFAW over and over again. I concluded, 'God, if you want me to 'waste' my time in this way, then OK. I'm your servant. My time belongs to You. You know how much I have to do and You've allowed this to happen, so there's nothing I need to get upset about.'"
Putting
on the armor helped me "
How about you? How can TRPFAW empower you to trust God more and grow in holiness more?
STAND
Firm Against Temptation
by Kathy Collard Miller
My
husband, Larry, looked through his binoculars and spoke into his police radio,
“Rick, see the man with the three bags exiting the store? Store security just
called to say he’s a shoplifter. Close in now.” My husband was a sergeant of
an undercover police task force watching for shoplifters, car thieves and
carjackers, and once a year, I was allowed to ride along with him.
As
I watched, I couldn’t help but think of 1 Peter 5:8: “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary,
the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (NASB).
Although Larry watches for criminals to bring them to justice, Satan watches you
and me for opportunities to tempt us and lead us into sin. Unless you and I are
alert, we will be destroyed by his schemes.
When
we’re alert, we’ll be able to “STAND
firm” (Ephesians
S:
See Satan’s schemes
T:
Tell yourself the truth
A:
Analyze your thinking
N:
Name the advantages of resisting
D:
Determine the godly response
Since I’ve been talking these past several months about my battle against sugar, let’s apply this STAND principle to that temptation in my life.
When I apply the “S:
See Satan’s schemes” of the STAND principle, I’m more alert to recognize
that this isn’t just about my cravings, it’s about a spiritual battle.
Whatever temptation you’re facing isn’t just some benign desire but your
Adversary’s scheme to “devour” you.
The
“T” of STAND states: “Tell yourself the truth.” I must remind myself
that sugar isn’t good for me and state the reasons why: I’m more irritable
and tired when I eat sugar. At times, I’ve even come down immediately with a
cold.
The
“A” of STAND means: Analyze your thinking to see the roots of temptation
since it can be based upon past experiences. For instance, as a child, I was not
allowed to have sugar unless it was a special occasion. Although that was wise,
I formed a connection between sugar and the love and fun of special events.
Understanding that sugar falsely represents comfort and excitement helps me to
turn to God for my true needs.
The
“N” of STAND is crucial: Name the advantages of resisting this temptation.
If you’re struggling with lust, what are the advantages of staying pure? If
you’re struggling with workaholism, what are the advantages of paying
attention to your family? Write them down and refer to them often. I frequently
rehearse the good things that happen when I resist sugar: I’m able to deal
with stress better and my body is more fit for the Master’s service.
The
“D” of STAND offers: Determine the godly response. If we haven’t yet
sinned, run away from the temptation—mentally, emotionally, and/or physically!
Each time we do that, we grow stronger. But if we have given in, then quickly
confess and claim God’s forgiveness and cleansing. Then count on His
empowering for the next temptation.
Yes,
we do have an enemy and he is even more diligent than the watchful eye of my
husband’s task force members. But we can STAND strong in God’s mighty power
against temptation.
Why
Do I React in an Unholy Way So Quickly?
by Kathy Collard Miller
It seemed like I didn't have any choice in my reaction. I had signed up to bring goodies for our adult Sunday school class even though I knew I would be out of town the week before. But that wasn't a problem. I already had in stock the treat I would bring.
So when I returned home to find several calls on my voice mail from the woman in charge of snacks, I wasn't surprised. The first one asked me to call her to verify I was bringing snacks. The second one said, "I haven't heard from you so I guess you're not home to bring the snacks. I'll get someone else to do it."
I flipped! How dare she think I'm not dependable. Am I stupid or undependable that I would sign up for something I don't plan to do? I felt angry, as if she had called me a liar. I wanted to walk into that room on Sunday morning bringing a snack just to show her I was indeed dependable.
When I told Larry about what had happened and how upset I was, he replied, "Well, it doesn't seem like that big of a deal. Why are you so upset?"
That irritated me more! Couldn't he see this was important?
After I calmed down, I felt a little embarrassed about my strong reaction, but I still didn't know why I'd reacted like that. Why was it so important to me? I couldn't really figure it out.
Recently, though, I read a book and attended a seminar based on the material from that book that has shed some light on my reaction. The book is Understanding People by Christian psychologist Larry Crabb. He explains that overreactions usually occur because of painful or negative experiences in our past that created sinful strategies in our thinking, meant to protect ourselves from pain or being wounded again. As I considered that concept, the puzzle pieces of understanding began to come together.
When I was in the third and fourth grades, I had Mrs. Leighton as my teacher for two years. I loved Mrs. Leighton and I was "teacher's pet." Everyone knew that she favored me and I reveled in the importance that gave me. I sensed that she appreciated my dependable and conscientious nature. I took great pride in that also.
But one day I spoke negatively about another student that was heard by several students. One student told Mrs. Leighton. Mrs. Leighton came over to me in the presence of the other students and asked, "Kathy, did you say that?"
I felt boxed in. If I told the truth, would Mrs. Leighton still like and favor me? As the students stared at me, waiting for the confession, I made a decision. I said, "No, I didn't, Mrs. Leighton."
Mrs. Leighton smiled and walked away, while I cowered under the dagger stares of the other children. They knew the truth about me. I was a liar and undependable, not to be trusted. I regretted my decision and felt humiliated.
That incident (and maybe there were others before that that I've forgotten) formed a sinful strategy within me that said, "I must prove that I really am dependable and that I'm not a liar." As a result, I tried to act even more dependable and never tell a lie from then on. I tried to be perfect so that no one could say anything negative about me.
Now, that might not seem so bad. But it had nothing to do with God, with trusting in God, and in seeing myself through God's eyes: as a person of value, not based on my performance but on a relationship with God.
This incident was only one of many in the following years where I tried to cover my inadequacies with the veneer of appearing perfect. Thus, my perfectionism was deepened over and over in my heart. And whenever anyone seemed to indicate through their attitudes toward me that I wasn't dependable, that I wasn't perfect, or that I might not be telling quite the whole truth, I overreacted, trying to prove that I really was!
Thus, when the woman from our class seemed to indicate I had been undependable in signing up for something I couldn't do, I overreacted with anger. Her "message" threatened my value. In that moment, I couldn't trust God enough to look to Him for my value and importance, knowing He knew the truth about me: that I had dependably planned.
As I've been working with this new insight, I'm seeing the connection with holiness (read the next article). So often, we want to respond in holy ways, but we react instead in unholiness: anger, fear, hate, discontentment, a critical spirit, impatience, and many other responses that we know aren't honoring to God. And it seems like we didn't have any choice in that reaction; but in reality, we were triggered by the sinful strategies we've formed to protect ourselves from pain.
As you consider the painful experiences from your past, can you see connections to your current reactions? There may be more going on below the surface than just the incident you're facing. Pray and ask God to reveal what might be fueling unholy reactions.
If you would like to share your discoveries with me, check out "Holiness" which will give the instructions for responding (or if you haven't yet become a part of our dialogue on holiness.)
An
Invitation to Dialogue About Holiness
by Kathy Collard Miller
On September 1st, 2004, I gave up sugar.
Now, unless you've gone to a restaurant like Cheesecake Factory with me, you most likely can't imagine the significance of that statement. (By the way, at Cheesecake Factory they offer over 20 different kinds of cheesecake. Oh no, now my mouth is watering). You see, sugar has ruled my life for many, many years. In fact, all my life, I've struggled with valuing sugar to excess. As in, thinking throughout a meal, "What's for dessert?" and "Is anyone going to find my sugar stash in the pantry and eat it before me?" And like...getting angry if anyone does!
If you aren't a sugar fiend, then you're most likely thinking, "What's the big deal?" For me, it's primarily the control that sugar has over me. I think about it all the time and feel like it's more important than God sometimes. It's an addiction—I must have my "fix." Yet when I do, it can create irritability, weight gain, and even more cravings.
In the past, I've abstained from sugar for periods of time, even one time for a complete year in 1990. But lately, I've found it more difficult to make such a sacrifice. I chalked it up to older age and less self control! Hormones and the like, I rationalized.
But last August, I'd felt like, "Enough!" And for some gracious empowering from God, on the morning of Wednesday, September 1st, 2004, I committed to abstaining from sugar. Something clicked and it was almost easy to decide, "Sugar is not an option." And the past four months have been wonderful! The freedom I've felt has been liberating. No longer do I have to make a decision about whether to have dessert—it's not an option. And for the first time, I'm truly not needing the fix. At times, I've literally danced with joy because of the freedom of the lack of control sugar has over me. And of course, I've thanked God over and over again for this gift. In fact, I feel closer to Him than I have in a very long time. It's as if a sheer fabric has been shredded that had been a slight block to our relationship.
Have I been perfect? No! I had quite a bit at Christmas but I'm back "on the wagon" and the commitment is easy again.
But this discussion about sugar isn't really the important point I want to make. What I thought as I enjoyed this freedom from sugar and a new closeness to the Lord is, "I wonder if this is what personal holiness is supposed to be like. Holiness should give a sense of freedom and drawing ever closer to the Lord. I like that!"
One day in my devotional time as I pondered that thought, I felt the Lord give me the theme "holiness" for 2005. And since then, I've been meditating and studying about holiness. I mused about the freedom that holiness gives—that it sets us free to be who and how God wants us to be. And the consequences of living in holiness are so wonderful and attractive; yes, liberating. And it brings a greater sense of closeness to the Lord.
And then I felt the Lord direct me to invite YOU to be a part of a discussion about holiness—an ongoing, interactive discussion about holiness so that I can learn from you and we can benefit from each other. If this sounds intriguing, please go to "Holiness" for the full details.
I'm excited to see what God does. And regardless of whether you join me in the discussion, I encourage you to seek holiness as never before. It's our challenge, our right, our inheritance in Christ, and results in our liberation of joy and closeness to the Lord.
A
Box of Blessings
by
Kathy Collard Miller
Our 7-year-old daughter exclaims,
"Mommy, it's time to open another present." No, it's not Christmas
morning, but it is time to help keep our family's thoughts focused on the true
meaning of Christmas by joining together for a holiday project which has become
a family favorite. The children can hardly wait to dive into our "Box of
Blessings," a special box which holds 24 gifts for the Advent season.
The first present introduces the idea. On
December 1, I open the large gift-wrapped box containing 24 more attractive
gifts, and read the enclosed tag to the family: "Today we are beginning a
Christmas project. We will open a different present for the next 24 days to help
remind us of God's most precious gift--His Son Jesus."
In preparation for the Advent season, gifts
are selected that are practical and useful as visual aids, and then a specific
object lesson is planned around each gift. Scripture references plus discussion
questions are chosen which will both reinforce biblical principles and stimulate
good conversation within the family.
The children grow more excited with each day.
We find that the discussion time allows for them to share their ideas and
feelings rather than to shout back "pat answers" to our questions.
Sometimes we ask additional follow-up questions to help clarify an area of
misunderstanding. My husband and I also add our own ideas and the children learn
from our discussions.
Everyone can benefit from this family holiday
project. Simply wrap a large box with Christmas paper, wrapping the lid
separate. Gather 24 visual aids, wrap them, write out tags for each (object
lesson, Scripture and discussion questions), and place the gifts in the box.
With little effort and a bit of creative
imagination, every family can make Christmas more Christ-centered. The Lord used
object lessons consistently. He took things that were familiar to the disciples
and made sermons out of them to teach eternal truths. Our "Box of
Blessings" has helped each of us to know God better and to absorb simple
principles from His word. When our 5-year-old son received Christ as his
personal Savior less than three weeks after our Advent observance, we knew this
was one Christmas tradition we would continue.
Present #1
A large, wrapped box
containing 24 gift-wrapped presents. READ: Today we are starting a family
Christmas project. We are going to be opening little presents for 24 more days.
God gave us the most precious gift of all, His Son Jesus. (John 3:16) Have each
of us received this gift of Jesus into our lives?
Present #2
Several pieces of any kind
of food. READ: Does food always stay the same even after a long time? No, it
changes when it gets old, doesn't it? But Jesus never changes; He is always the
same. (Hebrews 13:8) Why do you think it is important that Jesus never changes?
Present #3
A heart-shaped object.
READ: Hearts remind us of love. We love others, but did you know that God loves
us even more? (I Corinthians 13:4-7) How many things about love can we find in
these verses?
Present #4
A piece of soap. READ:
Jesus washed His disciples’ feet to show them that they should be servants to
each other. (John 13:5) How can we be a servant to each other?
Present #5
A piece of flat bread for
each person. READ: Jesus was tempted just like we are. (Matthew 4:1-11) When we
are tempted, how can we resist the Tempter like Jesus did?
Present #6
A small candle or
flashlight. READ: Both a candle and a flashlight give light. (Matthew 5:16) How
can we be a light so that other people can see Jesus in us?
Present #7
A little Bible or tiny
Scripture booklet. READ: God gives us His words in the Bible. (2 Timothy 3:16)
How does the Bible help us to live the Christian life?
Present #8
A piece of modeling clay.
READ: We can mold this piece of clay into whatever we want it to be. Sometimes
we want to be like the people of the world but Jesus wants to mold us into His
image. (Romans 12:1,2) Are there some things we do that are like the world and
not like Jesus?
Present #9
Scissors. READ: With
scissors, we can cut out crowns for us to wear. (Have construction paper
available for crowns.) Jesus promises to give heavenly crowns to those who still
love Him even when sad things happen to them. (James 1:12) What sad thing has
happened in each of our lives? Do we still love Jesus?
Present #10
A toy boat. READ: The
disciples were afraid they would die in a storm. (Mark 4:35-40) Are we afraid of
something? What does God say about fear?
Present #11 A small battery. READ: A
battery gives a flashlight the power to produce light. Similarly, the Holy
Spirit gives us the power to live a Christian life and have the fruit of the
Spirit. (Galatians 5:22,23) What are the fruits of the Spirit? How can we have
the fruits of the Spirit?
Present #12 A penny for each person.
READ: God gives us everything we have and wants us to give a part of it back to
Him. (2 Corinthians 9:7) What can each of us give to God? Does God want us to be
happy or sad when we give to Him?
Present #13
A plastic lid. READ: We
use a lid or seal to keep something inside a jar or other container. (Ephesians
1:13) Who does God use to seal our salvation within us?
Present #14
Plastic toy sheep. READ:
Sheep follow their shepherd's voice. Just like sheep, we should listen to our
Shepherd's voice. (John 10:4,5) What are some things our Shepherd, Jesus, tells
us to do?
Present #15
A rubber band. READ: See
this rubber band? When we pull and stretch it, it becomes tight. That's a good
example of how we feel inside when we worry. If we don't stretch it, the rubber
band is soft and relaxed. (Philippians 4:6-7) God wants us to relax in Him. If
we are uptight, what do we need to do so that we can relax inside?
Present #16
A blank piece of paper
with "sin" erased off. READ: When you make a mistake in writing, you
can erase it and start over again. When you do something wrong, called sin, you
can ask Jesus to forgive you and He will forget all about it. You can start over
again. (Ephesians 4:32) What is something each of us did wrong lately that Jesus
has forgiven us for?
Present #17
Empty. READ: Were you
surprised to find this present empty? So was Peter when he found the tomb of
Jesus empty. (John 20:1-9) Jesus was born so that He could grow into manhood,
die for our sins and then be resurrected from the dead. What does resurrected
mean? Jesus is alive. How does that affect our lives as Christians?
Present #18
A cotton ball with perfume
on it. READ: This smells good, doesn't it? What Jesus did for us, by dying for
our sins, smelled good to God. (Ephesians 5:2) What nice thing have each of us
done lately that smells good to God?
Present #19
A plastic or toy angel.
READ: An angel will announce when Jesus comes back to earth to take His children
to heaven. (I Thessalonians 4:16) Do each of us know that we are going to
heaven? How can we know for sure?
Present #20
A match. READ: The deeds
we do are either valuable or worthless. (I Corinthians 3:12,13) What deeds are
each of us doing that will be considered good in heaven? What deeds will be
judged worthless and burned up?
Present #21 A picture of a neighbor
or friend. READ: God uses the word "neighbor" to mean everyone.
(Galatians 5:14) He wants us to love everyone. Do we have a hard time loving
everyone? What can we do about it?
Present
#22 A
happy face sticker. READ: Is there something you can do to make God happy?
(Colossians 3:20) What are some ways each of us can be obedient today?
Present
#23 A
tiny piece of concrete. READ: The foundation of a house is usually made from
concrete. It is put in first before the house is built. (Luke 6:47-49) Is Jesus
our foundation? Is He first in each of our lives?
Present
#24 A
tiny globe or picture of the earth. READ: God made the earth and everything in
it. That includes each of us. (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 139:13-16) Do you know that you
are special and important to God?
Present
#25 A
photograph of each child when each was a baby. READ: You used to be a baby,
didn't you? So was Jesus. Just as you are growing up, Jesus grew up so that He
could one day become our Savior. (Luke 2:1-20) What do you want to be when you
grow up? In what way can each of us continue to have the Christmas spirit every
day of the year?
Learning
I Shouldn't Have Worried
by Kathy Collard Miller
When
Larry and I began considering retirement, the desert was the last place I
thought we’d settle. I always considered it a dusty and dirty place, too hot
in the summer and too cold in the winter. Yet, when visiting friends who lived
in the desert, we found it to be a rather appealing location. When we made the
decision to move here, I wondered, It’s
such a huge change from the
I
shouldn’t have worried. We have loved the area and weather, since there are
many more months of perfect weather than uncomfortable ones. Lots of sun graces
each day with crystal-clear skies, revealing bright orange sunrises and
magnificent sunsets dotted by multi-colored hot air balloons floating towards
us.
The
abundance of sun and a natural underground aqua fir provide the perfect
combination of growing lush plants and colorful desert flora. What I’d never
realized before was how colorful desert plants are. Most desert plants bloom
with flowers colored in purples, reds, and oranges. Purple seems to be the most
popular of God’s desert creations and I thought, “How appropriate from a
royal King of Kings. It’s the color of royalty.”
Yet,
with all the beauty and clear skies, in the few years we’ve been here, I
sometimes take it all for granted. I can get so wrapped up in duties and
responsibilities within the house that when Larry calls, “Kath, you’ve got
to come see this magnificent sunset,” I’m tempted to respond, “Oh, just a
minute, I’ve got to finish making dinner.” But of course, by the time I’ve
finished, the sunset beauty is gone and the sun has disappeared behind the
mountains. Then I mentally kick myself for missing a part of our day that we
enjoy together. But when I choose to leave the dinner or come away from my desk,
I’m reminded again of the blessings we enjoy here.
I’m
also reminded that I was initially worried whether we were making the right
decision in moving here. I needn’t have worried. God guided us in His love to
enjoy this place of beauty and sunshine. It’s another life experience of
learning not to worry and thinking of the sun representing the “son-shine”
of God’s love. Yet, even His love is something that I can take for granted,
just like the beauty the desert offers. But when I constantly remind myself of
God’s love, I realize I can worry less because He has only good intentions for
me.
(This
article is from Kathy's newest book, Partly Cloudy With Scattered Worries,
to be published in April, 2005)
Celebrating
37 Years with God
by Kathy Collard Miller
Today is October 1st, 2004, and 37 years ago this morning I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior. I'm enjoying reflecting back on an exciting life that I never anticipated. First, in seeing God's hand in drawing me to Him by Larry inviting me to attend his church after we'd been dating for 10 months. I'd always thought of myself as a Christian because I attended church and was born in a Christian nation. But as I went to Larry's church, even the first time, I saw and heard of a new relationship between those people and God. My curiosity was peaked and for the first time, I wondered, "Am I really a Christian?"
The following Sunday as I returned to Larry's church with him, I again noticed the difference. Then as Pastor Folden concluded his sermon, he had everyone bow their heads and close their eyes and asked, "Is there anyone here who is wondering whether they are really a Christian?"
Wow! How did he know what I'd been thinking? Larry must have told him! But then I realized I hadn't told Larry what I'd been thinking. It seemed like a spotlight was on me and for the first time I thought, "God is trying to get my attention."
I raised my hand to indicate I was that person! But as I looked up at my hand, I thought, "Wait a minute, I don't do things like this!" I quickly took down my hand! Fortunately, Pastor Folden had seen my hand and after the service, came over to me with the brand new youth pastor, Wes Anderson. Wes invited me into his office and with Larry there, after Wes explained how to become a Christian, I made that commitment.
What a relief for my soul. No longer did I have to try to become perfect to earn God's love and approval and a ticket to heaven. I received it in God's gracious gift through Jesus' substitutionary death on the cross...for me! For me!
That morning I began a spiritual journey that I am amazed to see God's influence in so many ways. Yes, bad times have been sprinkled through the 37 years but God has been faithful to lead and guide creating an intricate web of His presence and power. I'm so glad I made that choice and commitment so many years ago.
No
Needed Updates to God’s Word
By Kathy Collard Miller
Several
years ago, the Encyclopaedia Britannica
told its readers that the Salem Church Dam on the
How could this mistake have happened within such a respected encyclopedia? “The whole reason for the encyclopedia is accuracy, but we are dealing with 44 million words, and we sometimes do make mistakes,” says Larry Grinnell, a spokesman for the Encyclopaedia Britannica, as quoted in the LA Times (Aug. 18, 1988). “The error will be corrected in the next update possible.”
You and I are never going to be given an update to correct the facts about God’s character or His Word. His qualities of truthfulness, love, compassion, and so many other wonderful characteristics have always been there, and they always will be. They never change. And the facts stated in His Word are timeless and immutable. We may not always understand them perfectly, and at times our explanation of them may have to be altered; but the facts themselves never change.
Deuteronomy 32:4 says, “He is the Rock, his work is perfect; for all his ways are judgment, a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.” (KJV)
Talk about security in our lives! God’s truth is a strong, rocklike foundation that will always hold us steady! You can lean on it!
Lifting
Weights and Growing Spiritually
by Kathy Collard Miller
Can you see the "definition" (that's work-out talk for "shape") in my arm muscles? Oh, sorry, of course, you can't, because you're not looking at me right now. But if you were, you'd see the difference since I started lifting weights seriously about six weeks ago. I'd done some weight lifting in the past but just kept it at the same level for a few years. I didn't challenge myself by causing the weights to be heavier and heavier.
But then I was inspired to be challenged with stronger weights and I've been keeping track of my progress. It's been a fun process and I eagerly look forward to my next weight session. I can see my muscles not only feeling stronger but looking stronger with better shape. Sometimes, I feel a little soreness from the exertion but it's a small price to pay for greater strength. As I observe on my progress sheet that I'm lifting heavier weights, I'm motivated!
Of course, I had to apply this spiritually. I seem to do that with everything. But it did make me wonder, "How does spiritual weight lifting happen? How do we grow stronger spiritually?"
I concluded that just as muscles grow stronger by lifting heavier weights, my soul and spirit grow stronger in Christ in several ways:
***giving up my rights. This "spiritual weight" really leaves me sore—spiritually, that is! This is a heavy weight! Being willing to trust God enough to say, "I don't have to have this my way," or "God, I'm going to believe you'll meet my real needs" makes me grow stronger in the Lord.
I think this is the fastest—yet, most difficult—way for us to grow spiritually. When I'm selfless and interested in the needs of others, I'm really lifting a heavy spiritual weight with strength. Philippians 2:3-4 tells us, "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others" (NASB).
But when I lift this weight, I sense God's work within me and most of the time, I experience greater joy and usually see God meet my needs.
***changing my perspective. This "spiritual weight" calls for me to look at life, people, and even myself through God's eyes. I wrote a book on that called Through His Eyes and I've been challenged ever since to grow spiritually by asking myself, "How does God look at this situation or person or challenge?" Asking that question helps me to recognize that I could be wrong in my assessment or that there could be more than one way to look at something. When I see people through God's eyes, I can change my bitter or critical perspective to understanding and compassion.
It's a hard choice to believe that the way I see something may not be God's view, but it definitely makes my spiritual strength grow stronger.
Those two "weights" are the ones that most often create growth in me. What have you discovered creates growth in you? I'd love to hear from you.
Hair-Growing
Update
by Kathy Collard Miller
I'm still growing out my hair! (If you haven't followed along on the story started in July of last year, scan down to "The Similarities Between Growing Hair and Christ-likeness.") Sometimes I'm still amazed that I've actually been able to do it. In the beginning, I really wondered if I could, since I remember past years (when I was young!) and it was so difficult to go through the different stages.
But it really hasn't been bad and I've enjoyed each new stage--and trying to figure out what to do with a different length. Now I can put it up in a pony tail in the heat and it feels good.
Early in the process, I'd found some photos of a model in a clothes catalogue and used it for a goal. Then I found more photos of the same model with different styles of different length hair and I cut them all out. I pasted them on a piece of paper and every time I blow dry my hair, I have a goal to concentrate on. I began seeing a likeness in my own style and the model's hair! And it's only been about a year! I was so glad.
And of course, since we've been making the hair-growth process an analogy for growing more Christ-like, I can see the connection. Jesus is our "model" and we refer to His example in the Bible. Little by little we see how we are growing closer to Jesus--albeit imperfectly.
A few weeks ago, I looked at my hair and thought, "I think it's stopped growing." It seems like it's at the stage when the growth doesn't show as much. At first I was alarmed, "Maybe it really isn't growing!" But then I realized that wasn't true; it's just hard to see the difference.
Well, spiritually, that's how we feel sometimes. "I've shopped growing closer to Jesus." We feel like we've hit a plateau. We're not making any progress and sometimes we even feel like we've gone backward. But God is making progress. He's in charge of it as Paul wrote in Philippians 1:6, "For I am confident of this very thing that He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus." Whew! God won't let us stay where we are! He'll make sure we continue to grow.
And growth requires change. Like with my hair. The last time I saw my daughter (she's the one who started this whole business!), she commented, "Mom, your style is longer but you've just kept the same style. Do something different!" Oh, the honesty of a twenty-something daughter!
So I tried fixing it different and I like it! It was a risk, but it paid off! And that's just like growth in Christ-likeness. Sometimes you have to give up the status quo and discover new ways to grow spiritually. Have you always studied the Bible the same way? Try a different method. Have you consistently prayed with some formula? Try something different. Have you been responding the same way to a circumstance? Find a more godly reaction. Is someone a constant irritation? Ask God to reveal a different way to see this person through His eyes. Make progress! Don't just stay with the same spiritual style. Risk!
How's your spiritual growth going? I don't know how long I'll let my hair grow but it's fun finding out. I do know I'll be growing spiritually until the moment I die or Jesus returns. Let's keep growing!
Touring
a Mystery House
by Kathy Collard Miller
Are you like me? Do you take the peace we have in Christ for granted? I certainly fall into that trap but I was recently reminded of how wonderful it is to have the peace of God. I toured through the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California, and heard the story of Sarah Winchester. She married Oliver Winchester, the creator of the Winchester rifle. After the death of their 6-week-old daughter and then a few years later her husband, Sarah believed that the spirits of the dead people who had been shot with Winchester rifles killed her daughter and husband. She was told in a séance that the only way she'd have peace from her grief and make restitution for the use of Winchester rifles was to move and constantly build. As a result, she moved from Connecticut to California, bought a home with lots of acreage and began building onto the house in 1884. In her private séances, she received directions from "spirits" for building onto the home and construction went on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When Sarah Winchester died in 1922, 38 years later, construction immediately ceased and the house had 160 rooms. Today, it's open to the public and the tour reveals some very unusual things like cupboards that are an inch deep and stairs that lead nowhere.
As I toured the home and heard the history, I constantly thanked God for the peace that comes from trusting Jesus as Lord and Savior and believing God wants to lead and guide me. Sarah Winchester never found that peace. How wonderful to know a loving God who cares about us and offers guidance and contentment. We don't need to earn it or deserve it. I felt sorry for Sarah and never want to forget to appreciate the joy and peace I have in knowing Jesus.
How about you?
Drink
Living Water! Avoid Spiritual Dehydration!
by Kathy Collard Miller
Yesterday at my speaking engagement, I became lightheaded and had to lay down for a few minutes. I realized that I hadn't eaten enough nor drank enough water. My body rebelled and said, "You didn't treat me well, so I'm going to let you know to treat me better next time!" I listened!
Sometimes, we aren't listening when our spirit and soul is telling us we are spiritually dehydrated. We haven't been drinking and eating enough spiritual water and food. Our walk with God is dry and undernourished. We can become depressed, lacking joy and easily frustrated with the irritations of life. No fun!
You and I don't want to be like that. We need to make sure we stay spiritually hydrated and nourished. Psalm 1:1-3 tells us, "How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season, And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers." (NASB)
If we want to drink from the streams of water and be fruitful, we need to make God's Word our delight and daily bread and water. Time with God is essential. It refreshes us and reminds us of the truths which we can stake our lives on.
Are you currently spiritually hydrated and well-fed? It's a good thing to be spiritually fat! Enjoy God's presence today even if it's for a few minutes.
God
Can Do Whatever He Wants: He’s
Experienced
by Kathy Collard Miller
God
is an expert! God knows the “what” that He desires to accomplish. The
“what” is the result of His plan, yet as we’re heading toward the
“what,” we get worried. We wonder if God really is capable and powerful
enough to handle our situation as the tornado of problems heads for us.
Sometimes I do wonder if God is standing in heaven wringing His hands,
muttering, “Oh, no, I really hadn’t banked on this happening! What in the
world should I do about this?!”
NOT!!!!!!!!!!
God knows the result He has in mind and nothing will stop Him. That is what the
miracle of the feeding of the 5,000 in John 6 teaches us. “Jesus therefore
lifting up His eyes, and seeing that a great multitude was coming to Him, said
to Philip, ‘Where are we to buy bread, that these may eat?’ And this He was
saying to test him; for He Himself knew
what He was intending to do.” (John 6:5-6 italics mine, NASB)
Jesus
knew all along what He was going to do but He wanted to include His disciples in
the miracle. Yet, can’t you just envision the disciples’ worry when Jesus
asked that question? Philip must have been thinking, “Oh, my! If you
don’t know how to feed them, then I sure don’t! Why are you asking me? I
don’t want the responsibility!”
That’s
sometimes how you and I feel when God is in the process of bringing us to the
“what” of His plan. We’re wondering what’s going on! And we begin to
doubt God’s power to take care of the problem or situation. But God knows what
He intends to do! Believe it!
The
Ole "All Or Nothing" Tendency Sneaks In Again
by Kathy Collard Miller
I'm working on another book project and it feels so wonderful. Although I loved having a two year sabbatical from writing a book, it's a great feeling to be back concentrating on a book. And the writing is going well and quickly. I'm very grateful to the Lord.
But in the writing, I'm finding that old "all or nothing" perfectionistic tendency creeping up again, trying to make me worry. And I'm writing about worry! I'm worried that I won't finish my project and so I must concentrate to the exclusion of doing other things. Although I do have a quick deadline, the writing is ahead of schedule so there's really no reason to worry, but my perfectionistic thinking is helping me to do so anyway.
As a result, I can become impatient with interruptions and also miss the opportunities that the Lord really does want me to participate in. He is in charge of my time and if He says "go do that," then I can trust that He'll provide the time I need.
If you have this same tendency, beware of concentrating so hard on one thing that obedience to God is hard to do. We can learn to multi-task even if it's difficult. And it really ends up being a test of our trust in God. He knows all that He wants you to do, so believe He can give you enough time and energy to do all He has planned for you.
Follow
Up On "Just Give Me the Chocolate and No One Will Get Hurt"
by Kathy Collard Miller
The past
month (January) has been a fun one working on the goals that I wrote about last
month. If you haven’t read about it yet, you can—by scrolling to the next
article entitled “Just Give Me the Chocolate and No One Will Get Hurt.”
Eight women responded to that challenge. They made goals for themselves that
were as diverse as “I will only have one sweet coffee drink a week” to
“I’ll spend ten minutes with God three times a week.” My own goal was to
have only one sweet per week. I encouraged them to make reasonable goals yet
some just couldn’t resist having multiple goals. For instance, Janet wrote
that she wanted to have at least four servings of veggies a day and one serving
of fruit, only one treat per afternoon, no eating after
I think
it’s been a good month for them and me. For instance, Janet realized she’d
made too many goals and revised them to just one. It was interesting to see some
of the perfectionistic attitudes of some of the women emerge. For instance, Joan
originally sent me the goal of “spend an hour with God seven days a week.” I
wrote back and suggested she at least allow herself one day that she didn’t
have to fulfill such a big commitment. She thought that was wise. But then when
she reported in, she couldn’t give herself a high score even though she’d
met her goal. The reason? She couldn’t say she was successful because she said
she talked too much and didn’t let God talk. I gently tried to point out that
God loved her talking to Him and that her goal was to spend the time—which she
did—not how it was spent! Therefore, she should give herself credit but that
was hard to do.
But she has
learned some important things, as she says, “Now, looking back at my hour a
day with God, I have discovered a truth (many truths really). God fills a hungry
heart in many ways. He reminded me this morning, of His faithfulness and
that His love for me is unconditional, and that He loves His time with me.
Because of my legalistic upbringing, I keep trying to "earn" His love. I'm
thankful He has pointed that out to me. I need to be like a child. It is so
simple, "Jesus loves me." Joyce Meyer says to say every day,
"God, you love me." I was doing that in one of my sessions with God,
and in my heart I heard, "I sure do!"
Jill gave
these comments. “I limited myself to only one coffee drink per week, which I
managed to do.....only one week did I have one drink...the rest I had none. I
think, other than the Lord, of course, is the fact that I prepared myself
mentally ahead of time. It took a few MONTHS to succeed in even preparing
myself, but in time, I was able to do that. Once I was there (at the coffee shop), I would stop and think, first of all, I
didn't really need that coffee drink to stay alert in the afternoon. It was a
‘lie’ that I did. Secondly, I considered the money and how much I was
spending each week on coffee drinks. It really added up. Of course, my overlying
reason for limiting myself on these drinks was because I needed to lose weight.
And I am! I also have a sweet tooth like you, Kathy, and I want you to know that
I actually walked into a candy store where they made fresh fudge, and whatever
kind of candy you can think of, and walked out. I stood there looking at all the
options available to me, maybe three to four minutes. I thought, ‘Am I really
hungry, or can I pass this up for something more nutritious?’ I weighed out
the fact that I really wasn't that hungry, and certainly the cost of the candy
was outrageous. So, I think part of the secret is .....self talk. We can pay
attention to what we are thinking when we are tempted, whether it be a coffee
drink, skipping our prayer time, or whatever.....we can defeat the ‘lies’ if
we just tune in to our thought life.”
Kitty confirmed that when she wrote, “This week two things came through from several sources - truth vs. fact, and watch your thoughts. The TRUTH is that in Christ I am a new creation, and the joy of the Lord is my strength, even though the TEMPORARY FACT is that I'm overweight and out of shape. I have to watch the thoughts (or self-talk) in my head because thoughts become attitudes and beliefs which become behaviors which become habits which become character which becomes my destiny.”
Another
important element was brought out by one of the women who found it very
difficult to meet her goal. So I encouraged her to revise it to be more
realistic. It had started out seeming realistic but since she found it wasn’t,
it was alright to revise it.
As I’ve
considered this month of goals, I realized how easy it is to focus so much on
the goal, that I forgot that the purpose of the goal is to draw me closer to
God. The goal isn’t the goal, drawing closer to God is! So I’m trying to
remember that about any goal I make.
Now January
is over and the pressure is off! I, who had been limiting myself to one sweet a
week (OK, one week it was a whole day of sweets), am really looking forward to
celebrating the end of the challenge. I think I’ll have a hot fudge sundae and
go get some donuts and my favorite cookies…hey! Wait a minute! What am I
thinking!? I shouldn’t go hog wild.
Yet,
isn’t that just like us? We go crazy once the challenge is gone, yet that
really isn’t the healthy thing to do. So I’ve been contemplating my next
step. I think a realistic goal is two sweets a week. I’d like to continue but
be a little more relaxed for the long haul.
I hope you
can learn something from our January goals challenge. Are you making goals that
are too ambitious and then wonder why you can’t meet them? And if you do meet
them, do you find some way to judge that you didn’t do it perfectly—or even
better than originally planned? Maybe you find it hard to give yourself or God
credit for the work He’s doing within you.
At one
point, I asked the women about what they’ve found helpful in keeping to their
goals. Here are some of their comments:
·
I had to prepare myself mentally to meet the challenge, along with
the desire to read the Word daily and watch what I eat.
·
I have found it helpful to tell myself, “It’s only for
January, it’s not for forever.” Then I’m able to tell myself “no” a
little better.
·
The biggest change is focusing on just ONE thing, only 1%. Then it
doesn't feel so overwhelming. Also knowing the group members are praying. Also,
praying each day and asking God to help me with self-control.
·
I think the fact of being covered in prayer has helped my success
in this January endeavor.
· I'm finding my time spent with God is a great time. I don't know why I have never done this before. Maybe I just didn't think of it so I have to thank you for prodding me. I have to really concentrate to keep my mind focused on him for an hour, and I want to get to the place I hear his still, small voice.
Super ideas! Good reminders for us all.
I’m so very proud of these eight women. Congratulations! You deserve it!
"Just Give Me the Chocolate and No One Will Get
Hurt"
OR
E-mail Prayer Support for Healthy Eating/Living
by Kathy Collard Miller
"Just give me the chocolate and no one will get hurt!" That's what I often say to get a laugh but it's really true! I am addicted to chocolate...and sugar! I confess! By the time the Christmas week had ended, I was thoroughly disgusted with myself. I had definitely taken advantage of all the goodies that Christmas offers and I felt out of control in my eating and had gained a few pounds.
But the "out of control" part is the part that bothers me the most for I see a lack of self control and I know that grieves the Holy Spirit. One aspect of the fruit of the Spirit had been replaced by sweets! So I made a new commitment to cut down, even go without sugar, for the month of January, as much as possible.
Then I thought, "Maybe my internet friends would like to form an email support group in healthy living and eating." So here's the way I'd like to offer you some support in whatever commitment you sense God is leading you. And you can support me!
First of all, make a goal that is reasonable. Since I teach about "The 1% Principle," we can use that to help us be reasonable. That means choosing a small step instead of a 100 percent goal that is unattainable and unreasonable. Here are some examples:
| 100 Percent | 1 Percent |
| Never eat sugar again | Only one small candy or sweet a day |
| Never smoke again | Use nicotine patch |
| Never eat chips again | Eat only 10 per day (count out beforehand) |
| Exercise every day | Exercise 20 minutes 2 times this week |
| Spend an hour a day with God every day | Spend 10 minutes with God 3 times this week |
Secondly, let me know you'd like to be a part of an email support group by sending me your first name along with the commitment you want to make. Then I will send out the first names and the commitments to everyone who responds. We will pray for each other every day for the month of January. This is a January-only commitment.
Then every 3-4 days, I will email you to get a report of your progress. You can respond by simply emailing me with a number between 1 and 5. "1" means "I'm doing first rate. "5" means "I'm having a really hard time." That way we can have some accountability. I will pass along your results to the others in the group so that they can know how best to be praying for you.
I look forward to hearing from you! I will be blessed to pray for you and we will see what God wants to do in all of our lives.
Spiritual
Hearing Problems
by Kathy Collard Miller
My mother-in-law called me and her voice conveyed her concern, "Dad can't hear! All of a sudden he is deaf in one ear! What are we going to do?"
"Mom, I'm so sorry. I'll call the doctor and make an appointment. I pray it's nothing serious."
She didn't sound comforted. "He said he felt all numb on that side of his face and it's been bothering him for several days. But now he can't hear anything!"
I felt a little nervous myself. At 89 years of age, Larry's father is in remarkable health yet was this the beginning of something serious? Had he had a stroke or did the numbness indicate something significant?
Within a few minutes I was able to make an appointment for the next day and Larry took his father into the doctor. When Larry returned, he reported, "It was ear wax buildup. The nurse washed out his ear and he could hear immediately. She said it's most likely been building up for quite some time but he just didn't realize it."
We were so relieved and thanked God for the solution being a simple one. Yet I couldn't help but think of the application to my spiritual life. At times, I've had "spiritual ear wax buildup." It numbed my ability to hear God and obey Him. This buildup comes on gradually just like Dad's loss of hearing. Sometimes, it's not even noticeable. Of course, there can be many causes, but maybe I allow busyness to prevent me from having my time alone with God in prayer. Or my Bible studying seems a little boring and so I don't study as much. Or I feel too tired to go to church. Or something always seems to come up when it's time to attend my women's study group. Or I read a passage or verse from the Bible and it just seems like an unreasonable request from God. He wants me to love my enemies? That's going a little too far, it seems.
So subtly and imperceptibly, a spiritual hearing problem develops and I no longer am sensitive to God's guidance or conviction. Even a certain spiritual heart numbness increases but since it doesn't really seem like a big deal, I ignore it. If left untreated, little sins can build up and a deafness to hear God's voice can increase. Spiritual ear wax build up! It can happen so easily and Satan can so cunningly use it for our destruction. Usually a "big" sin that can even bring down ministries starts with the spiritual ear wax build up that is never washed out.
We can prevent this by being sensitive to even the littlest of sins and attitudes that displease the Lord. We can wash out the beginnings of spiritual deafness by keeping faithful in spending time with God and being open to hearing His gentle voice of conviction. By believing that He knows best, even when He tells us something is sinful or destructive, we will keep our spiritual hearing clear and open.
How's your spirituals ears today? Got any ear wax building up? I hope not. If you're not quite as sensitive to hearing God's voice as you have been in the past, you might want to have an ear washing treatment of confessing your sins and recommitting to obeying God's smallest of whispers. It'll feel good to have the numbness gone. And as my father-in-law said after the ear washing, "I couldn't believe all the junk that came out of my ear. No wonder I couldn't hear. Now I hear better than ever!"
Carry
Water in Your Tummy
by Karen Dye
When my
daughter, Kelly was in middle school, I accompanied her science class on a field
trip to
I can see
the transference of this idea to the living water that God has for us in His
Word. As we travel through the hard, dry places in our lives, the living
water, the Word of God, needs to be carried within us. If it is carried within
our hearts, we will be able to access it to help us.
Water
carried in a bottle is heavy and burdensome, but water carried within our
tummies is easy and light. If we just read the Word and don't receive
and absorb it into our hearts, allowing it to change us, it is just another
burden. It will drag us down as rules and regulations rather than bringing
life.
But God
has incredible living water for us, just waiting for us to drink deeply—into
our spiritual “tummies.” Remember: carry the living water inside of
you. Then you’ll be prepared for any challenge you face on your hike through
life.
Karen
Dye is a speaker who loves to motivate women to walk close to God. She lives in
Lone Pine,
Growing
Hair Report
by Kathy Collard Miller
Guess what? I haven't cut my hair! (If you're new to this page, read the next article first). And I've been surprised that it hasn't been as bad as I thought it would be. But that doesn't mean there haven't been times when I thought, "Hey, what I had was good enough—why go to all this trouble?" And isn't that like Christlikeness too? When we're trying to be more like Christ, it almost seems harder than when we didn't care that much. "After all," we can think, "I was a pretty nice person before. Everyone likes me. I go to church. What's all this stuff about responding like Jesus would? That's a far-fetched goal since He can do it—and I can't."
But Christlikeness is exactly what God is calling us to, and it's worth the "trouble." There is always room for growth and improvement—regardless of how much everyone loves us. And since we all have areas that may actually be fairly ugly at times, we need to continue in our journey of seeking godliness.
And sometimes, my hair has felt "fairly ugly" as I'm learning how to manage it at a different length, most likely the longest it's been in years. It's when I've been out in public that I cringe and want to shout, "Please don't judge me now because I'm in process." It's then I wish I would carry around that picture I found of my future hair style. I can point to it and say, "Look! This is how I'm going to look in a year or two. Won't it be grand?"
I realized that spiritually, in my journey closer to Christlikeness, I also can say to people (especially when they are aggravated at me or disappointed because I'm less than perfect in godliness,) "Look in the Bible! See how Jesus was? That's my goal. I won't reach it here on earth completely, but I am growing closer to the way He walked on earth. Won't it be grand?"
I'm excited as I continue my hair growth and my character growth. I'll give you a report in several months. I hope you and I, regardless of our hair length, will be growing closer to "looking" like the picture of Jesus in the Bible.
The
Similarities Between Growing Hair and Christ-likeness
by Kathy Collard Miller
I was visiting with my daughter and off-handedly mentioned, "I sure would like to have long hair again." I'd expressed that thought before but it always seemed inconceivable. After all, I'm in my 50's (young 50's, that is) and it's been a very long time since I had long hair. I didn't know how long I wanted it...I just had been thinking it would be nice to have it longer. But it seemed like a very long process to get it there! (I think I'm fixated on the word "long").
My daughter replied, "Well...why don't you?"
I caught my breath. Yes! Why don't I? In that moment, the desire clinked into my brain as something I really could do...and well...why not? I looked at her and smiled. "You're right. I can!"
A week or so later, I was flipping through a clothes catalogue and paused as I looked at a model with the hair style I wanted! A little longer than her shoulders, it was soft and flowing. That's it! That's what I want to look like! I cut the picture out and taped it above my desk. I'm encouraged by that picture. Seeing it makes the process seem more possible. I know the goal—the outcome.
As I've thought about the small commitment I made that day, I've been surprised to see a spiritual counterpart to my hair quest. I began to see that having that picture of my goal is like seeing Jesus as the goal of what I want my character to be like. It's "Christ-likeness." The more I concentrate on Jesus, the more I'll become like Him. Christ-likeness is living and responding like Jesus would. Yes, it's the wonderful concept of "WWJD:" "What would Jesus do?" And the more I've meditated on the concept, the more analogies I see.
For instance, growing hair longer is a very long process, especially when allowing it to grow many inches longer than I currently have it. And becoming Christlike is a very long process too. I may reach my goal of having my hair long but I'll never completely reach Christlikeness. But the process is similar because we get impatient with both! I'm sure I'm going to be tempted to cut my hair short again many times because it won't grow as fast as I want. And it's going to be hard going through the different length stages.
The consequences of giving up my goal of long hair won't be bad but quite the opposite is true of our quest for Christ-likeness. It's not an option! It's a commandment, "...and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth." Ephesians 4:24 (NASB)
And when we're seeking to be like Christ, doesn't it seem like a very long process? We can feel discouraged and want to give up. We agonize over why we reacted in anger or gossiped or have trouble forgiving. Thankfully, God is very patient with us. He knows we won't be completely like Christ until we die and see Him face to face. Philippians 1:6 assures us of that: "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6 (NASB). I find it very encouraging that God doesn't expect us to be perfect until we see Jesus—in heaven. But here on this earth, He does want us to be progressing!
Have you noticed that when you want to keep your hair at a certain length, it seems to grow too fast? But when you want to grow it longer, it seems to grow at a snail's pace? It's the same head of hair, but our expectations and anticipation make the difference.
And that's like becoming Christlike. When we didn't want to have character like Jesus, we didn't notice our flaws as much. We may have justified our mistakes and sins, or blamed them on others. "If only she wouldn't make me angry, I wouldn't be like this." But when we realize that we have the challenge of putting on the clothes of righteousness, it seems like we're suddenly impatient with every error and fault. And that's good, isn't it? It means our minds have been transformed to see things differently—through God's eyes. Be encouraged if you feel like that.
I'm glad I'm telling you all this because you're going to want an update next month, aren't you? And I'll have to report whether I decided to lop off my hair prematurely. So keep me accountable, OK? And come to think of it, that's another analogy. We need accountability to stay persistent in working on our Christ-likeness. Bible studies, going to church, talking with other Christians, and confessing our sins and asking for prayer support, all help to strengthen our ability to "act like Jesus would."
So...look for my report next month.
Where's
the Justice, Lord?
by Kathy Collard Miller
Where's a cop when you need them? I was traveling down the 15 Freeway in Southern California and a construction zone limited the speed to 55. Yet, cars were whizzing past me and for once, I was traveling the speed limit. Well, maybe just a few miles over it, I mean. But at least I wasn't going the 70 m.p.h. that the other cars were! "Where's justice, Lord?" I thought. "Why am I trying to keep to the speed limit and nothing bad is happening to these other people?"
I felt like I agreed with the Psalmist, "God takes His stand in His own congregation; He judges in the midst of the rulers. How long will you [rulers] judge unjustly, And show partiality to the wicked? Selah." Psalm 82:1-2 (NASB)
I couldn't help thinking, "God might have the opportunity to judge these speeders in heaven, but I want the 'rulers'— the policemen—to get them now!"
I must confess to feeling some smug superiority, so I had to remember that I don't always keep to the speed limit. But this time, I was determined to do it right: not speed! Yet, I felt jealous that these other people were going to reach their destinations sooner than me!
Then I remembered some other verses in the Psalms, "Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret, it leads only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land." Psalm 37:7-9 (NASB)
I realized that even in my jealousy and desire for justice, I could slip into sin—evildoing—through my attitude. So I backed off and released my desire for vengeance.
But God does have a sense of humor, don't you think? An hour later, I was on a different freeway and because there was no construction, I was able to speed up and go faster. I looked forward to arriving home soon. Then I glanced in my rear view mirror and noticed a car heading toward me fast in the lane next to me. "Wow!" I thought, "He must be going at least 85! Where's a cop when you need one?"
The guy whizzed past me and then I looked in my rear view mirror! And I smiled! A California Highway Patrolman's car was whizzing toward me even faster than the speeder and I cheered when he put on his lights and flashed the speeder to pull over. I couldn't help it! I cheered out loud! "Justice does happen! Yeah!"
I smugly drove home and rejoiced because God had given me a glimpse of the justice that is part of His very nature.
Are you feeling a little jealous because of some people who seem to be getting away with wickedness? Be assured that justice happens a lot here on earth and God will bring complete justice later. Let's be sure that our own attitudes don't bring us to their level of wickedness with a desire for vengeance. Don't focus on them, let's focus on our own attitude so that we trust God to do the right thing.
But if you want to cheer a little when a speeder is pulled over, go ahead! Just make sure it isn't you!
Who
Me? Worry?
by Kathy Collard Miller
Although I can’t stake
any claim to have conquered worry completely and perfectly, many years ago I
heard a concept that began the transformation of my mind about worry. I attended
Bill Gothard’s Basic Youth Conflicts as a fairly new Christian and he said,
“Think of the worst possible thing that can happen and then think of reasons
why it wouldn’t be so bad after all.” He based the concept on Romans
Hmmm. An interesting concept. Obviously
scriptural. I mulled it over and then got worried! I don’t think I want to give God the impression He has my permission
to do the worst possible thing!
It seemed to be a risk,
but my heart longed to be free from the nagging worries that ruled my life. Even
as an almost-young-adult—I was nineteen or twenty—I felt like worry was my
daily portion. I knew God didn’t want it that way, but life was a bother! I
had to think about how my friend may have misunderstood what I’d said. I had
to be concerned about my grades in college. I had to wonder about my future. Of
course, I used those innocuous words because I worried that someone would think
I wasn’t a strong Christian if I used the word “worry.” What a cycle of
fear! I felt tense all the time and guilty because I knew God couldn’t be
pleased with me as a worry wort!
Then came the day I
attended that seminar and Bill’s comment stood out in bold relief. Could I
apply it? I decided I would try.
The day after the seminar
I returned to work and school. I worked part time in the morning and then only
had a short time to drive to school. There wasn’t a minute to spare and I
often fretted about arriving late to class. My dependable nature just hated the
idea of being late.
That morning I left work
a few minutes late because my boss pulled me aside to discuss something and then
there was an accident on the freeway that slowed traffic to a crawl. My heart
started pumping with anxiety, my hands gripped the steering wheel and I mumbled,
“Come on, people! Drive past the accident quickly. You don’t need to gawk at
it! Get going—I’m going to be late!”
I envisioned walking into
the classroom late with all eyes on me and the teacher making some belittling
comment. I didn’t want to stand out, especially about something negative!
As my stomach began
churning, the principle I’d learned over the weekend popped back into my mind:
“Think of the worst possible thing that can happen and then think of reasons
why it wouldn’t be so bad after all.” And I rehearsed Romans 8:28. Here’s
my chance, I mused. I took a deep breath and began trying to come up with
something good that could happen from my walking into the classroom late.
Okay!
If I’m late…I’ll be noticed! But that’s the very thing I’m afraid of!
I smiled. But wait! I’ve been trying to
share Christ with my fellow students. Maybe I can use my lateness as a way to be
noticed by that girl I’ve been trying to talk to. I could tell her how worried
I was as I drove and how God gave me peace of mind!
Bingo! With those
thoughts, my anxiety level plummeted. I couldn’t wait to be late to class! I
even drove more reasonably to make sure there was the possibility. I didn’t
need to drive like a maniac! God was going to use it!
Ten minutes later, I
walked into class without my typical breathless state, and was shocked to see
that the teacher hadn’t even arrived yet. He was late! I took my seat beside
my new friend and I told her what happened. We laughed together.
That day I saw two truths
about worry: God can bring good out of what we worry about and most of the time,
what we worry about, doesn’t happen! The principle of Romans 8:28 began to set
me free from worry, although worry isn’t something we get rid of forever.
I’ve never forgotten that principle for over 30 years and it continues to help
me deal with worry.
Are
You a Scaredy Cat?
by Kathy Collard Miller
Larry found Oscar by the gas pumps at the police station. When he brought him home, we figured he was just another stray kitten. His thin frame and filthy white fur made us sure we had rescued him from a miserable life and possible death. Darcy and Mark had been begging for a kitten; so when Larry saw this starving creature with one blue eye and one green eye, he figured he might as well give in and bring it home.
When I took Oscar to the vet for a checkup, I was surprised to learn our kitten was actually full grown and between two and five years old. As we fed Oscar regularly, he became a healthy, fat, and very handsome white cat.
I had heard of scaredy-cats, but Oscar proved himself to be the ultimate fearful cat. He would jump at the slightest sound; and we didn't dare get a plastic bag close to him, or he would run away and hide under the couch.
When friends came to visit, Oscar quickly found a safe hiding place under a bed. We were all fascinated by his behavior and wondered if he had been abused as a kitten and then abandoned. Had someone put him in a plastic bag and tried to get rid of him? We conjectured all sorts of things that might have happened to make him so skittish.
Though Oscar was in our family for many years, his fears lessened only slightly. When he would fearfully react to something like a plastic bag, I would ask him, "Oscar, what's wrong? Do you really think I'd put you in that bag? I love you. I wouldn't do anything like that."
One day when an aluminum cooking pot slipped out of my hand and banged on the floor, Oscar, who'd been eating nearby, jumped and ran. "Oscar!" I called, "I wasn't throwing it at you."
Whenever I drove Oscar to the vet for a check up, his plaintive cry made me question him, "I know you don't like going to the vet, but it's really for your own good. I'm sorry, Oscar, but we have to do it. It's the only way you'll stay healthy, and we want you to live a long time."
One day, I was walking through the family room where Oscar had been lying on the floor dozing in the sunlight. I reached out to pet him, but he jumped to his feet, backing away from me. "Oscar, you silly. I was just going to pet you. Don't you trust me?"
"Don't you trust me?" suddenly echoed through my mind and heart. God, you've said the same thing to me many times, haven't You? When I don't trust You, do You feel the same sadness I feel when Oscar runs away and seems afraid I'm going to hurt him? I can understand now if You do. Just as I intend only good for Oscar even when I take him to the vet, You, my Heavenly Father, intend only good for me through the experiences You allow in my life. I wish I could convince Oscar I'm worthy of his trust. You must wonder when I'm going to learn that You also are completely worthy of my trust in every aspect of my life."
Let's not be scaredy cats of God.
When It's Hard to Forgive
Yourself
by Kathy Collard Miller
When anger ruled my life and I was an abusive mother, I was overwhelmed by the belief that God didn't want to forgive me. How can God offer me forgiveness? I wondered. Doesn't He say in Matthew 18:6 that anyone who misleads a child should have a bag of boulders tied around his neck and be thrown into the sea? My sin is beyond forgiveness, even God's forgiveness.
For many months, I felt hopeless and helpless, even suicidal. Yet, God demonstrated His faithfulness by pulling me from my pit of destruction and setting me upon the rock of Jesus Christ. I could see God was helping me to become the patient and loving mom He—and I—wanted me to be. But I still wondered if He could forgive me.
While looking through my Bible one day, Isaiah 43:5 jumped out at me: "I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins."
"Wipes out your transgressions for My own sake"? For His own sake? My mind could not comprehend that new thought. You mean, Lord, that You want to forgive me not just for my sake but for Your sake as well? Something clicked within me. I've always felt so selfish asking for Your forgiveness because it's so beneficial to me. yet You're saying You want to forgive me because it's beneficial to You also.
How is it beneficial to You, Lord? I thought of how forgiveness restores my relationship with Him. That must be it! You want my fellowship. You want my company, my praise and adoration, and I can't give it to You unless I'm cleansed from sin. Ah, that's it!
This discussion with the Lord somehow set my heart free to believe He indeed wanted to forgive me. Isaiah 30:18 confirmed this: "Therefore the Lord longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you. For the Lord is a God of justice; how blessed are all those who long for Him."
I knew I wanted to be among those who longed for Him, and one of the ways I could do that was by accepting His compassion wrapped in His gift of forgiveness. From that point, I was able to believe God wanted to forgive me.
When God Seems Late, He’s
Just Not Early
By Kathy Collard Miller
We’re often most tempted to stop trusting God
when He delays in answering our prayers. When we’re in pain, we want
relief--now! We cry out, “Where is Your help, God? If You really love me and
want the best for me, why don’t You intervene?” Charles Stanley writes, “I
don’t know that I have met anyone who likes to wait. We live in the ‘now
generation.’ We expect and want solutions immediately. We dislike the tension
and uncertainty that waiting typically involves.”
That may have been the way Mary
and Martha felt as they faced Lazarus’ death in John 11. Their response
represents the way most of us view life with an earthly perspective. When
Lazarus fell sick, Mary and Martha demonstrated their faith by quickly calling
for Jesus. That’s to their credit. They believed with all their might that
Jesus could and would heal Lazarus. They couldn’t imagine that their
friendship with the Son of God wouldn’t spare them from the pain of having
their beloved brother die.
But Jesus didn’t come. We can
only speculate about the sisters’ perplexity, but can’t you just picture
Martha, the more active woman, walking out the front door a hundred times a day,
peering down the dusty road, expecting to see Jesus trudging, even hurrying
along, to relieve them of their pain? “Why isn’t He here yet?” she cries
out to Mary, throwing up her hands in disbelief.
“Oh, Martha, I’m sure
He’ll be here soon. He won’t forsake us. He loves Lazarus too much.”
“Then why isn’t He here?”
Martha demands, wringing her hands. She runs to the window again, squinting her
eyes. “Oh, I think I see Him,” she exclaims. “Yes, it’s Him!”
Martha and Mary run out of the
house and down the walkway but realize it’s not Jesus walking up the road.
It’s their neighbor, coming to check on Lazarus. Their shoulders slumped, they
shuffle back into the house.
Mary rests her hand on
Martha’s shoulder and says, “There must be a good reason He hasn’t come,
Martha. You know He wouldn’t forget us.”
Martha’s furrowed brow shadows
angry eyes. “What could be more important than his friend Lazarus?” she
asks. She couldn’t add “and us” without appearing selfish—but she wanted
to.
Finally, in her pain, she spits
out, “I thought He loved us. I guess I was wrong.” As Martha stomps into the
house, Mary stands shaking her head, muttering, “Martha, Martha....”
And then it happens. Lazarus
dies. Up to the very last moment, the sisters continue to search the horizon for
their Savior’s familiar form, knowing that no matter how late He comes, He can
and will restore Lazarus’ health. But now Lazarus is dead. Even Jesus can’t
do anything about that. It’s final. Over. Grief and hurt mingle in the
women’s eyes. If only Jesus had come.
And then He arrives. Late. Four
days after Lazarus was buried.
We know the rest of the story
and its glorious results, but in that moment, Martha and Mary didn’t. They
believed in the future resurrection for Lazarus and themselves, but to expect
Jesus to bring him back from the dead was beyond their imagination. Yet that’s
exactly what He does, and God is given greater glory than if he had arrived on
time to wipe away the pain of illness and prevent death.
I take great comfort in the way
Jesus responds to Martha’s plaintive rebuke, “Lord, if you had been here, my
brother would not have died” (John
Mary and Martha were Jesus’ good friends and they believed in His power and love. They thought that should add up to receiving His attention and healing hand upon their beloved brother. It’s easy for us to criticize their shortsightedness since we can read the end of the story within a few verses, but many times, we show the same earthly perspective when God doesn’t answer our prayers in a timely fashion. Like Mary and Martha, we may feel abandoned during those times when God’s answer comes slowly or seemingly late. But Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God’s outlook is far beyond our ability to comprehend: “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts. Neither are your ways My ways,’ declares 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.’” Mary and Martha didn’t see God’s higher po