A Blessing of Trust: Obedience



"but those who hope in the LORD will...soar on wings like eagles"
Isaiah 40:31 NIV

     There is an important connection between trust and obedience which makes a world of difference in the lives of Christ followers. For when we truly trust the goodness of God we believe in His Word and we are eager to obey Him. The flip side of course is doubt which paralyzes and produces disobedience. How so? When God tells us to do something, not acting as instructed is rebellion.  The compounded consequence is the immeasurable loss of blessing which is tethered to obedience and the vast riches of growing deeper in relationship with our Heavenly Father.  

     We could list many reasons why obedience is not our first response when the LORD calls us to His side in service. Yet, regardless of how many excuses we conjure up, the truth is each proclaims the same reality; we do not have enough trust in God and His Word over that area of our life to act.

     The stinging experience of facing my own anemic trust in the LORD was a turning point in my relationship with the Holy Trinity. For all my reading and studying of the Scriptures, I had a disconnect between my heart and my head. I knew the Word but I had not come to believe the word for me. The result was a lag in my obedience which is the same as disobedience. There were simply times I was afraid to do what God asked me. So I foolishly ignored the Spirit’s prompting. Other times I delayed responding until it was convenient and the opportunity was lost. I have no idea what adventure or glory for the LORD was lost by my disobedience nor can I measure the loss of intimacy with the Father my submission would have produced. But judging by the blessings associated with acts of immediate service in my life, I believe the loss is substantial. The Bible illustrates this principle again and again. For example, Abraham was quick to obey God’s call to sacrifice his son Isaac and the blessings of his single act of submission out-number the stars in the heavens! Graciously God does not leave us guessing what produced Abraham’s astounding obedience to this call. His Word states clearly it was Abraham’s faith, his trust in the goodness, faithfulness and power of God which empowered him to do the unthinkable, (Genesis 22).

    So how do we gain trust in God which will produce immediate obedience like Abraham? First we must spend time getting to know God. That means we read the Bible which is God’s primary and eternal revelation of Himself. Second, we ask the Holy Spirit to teach us the nature of God at work in every verse and how to apply it to our lives.  After all, the historical accounts of the LORD’s faithfulness to do what He says He would do are provided as evidence of His sovereignty, omnipotence and omnipresence. In short they prove Almighty God alone is worthy of our worship but most importantly our trust. Third we ask the LORD to heal us of any unbelief which may hinder our obedience, (Mar 9:24). For, when we believe as Jesus instructed Thomas; “Stop doubting and believe,” we are empowered like the obedient servants in the Bible! (John 20:27NIV). Soon the idea of walking on water, healing the sick, or even raising the dead become possible in the name of Jesus Christ and we are free to respond immediately to God’s call. (Mar 5:29), (Acts 9:15-18), (Acts 9:34), (Acts 10:33), (Acts 16:33), (Acts 22:17-21).

     I have found it true in my own journey of faith that the more trust expressed in my walk, the more intimate the LORD is with me. Greater intimacy produces deeper desire to surrender and serve. And though there are still times when I blow it and miss an opportunity to draw nearer to God, I find comfort in knowing His mercies “are new every morning”(Lam 3:22-23).

     Let us rejoice in the truth that Jesus did not die on the cross that we might be burdened with the weight of our weakness but that through repentance we would soar by His power! (Isa 40:31)

Tracy L. Frazier

Director/Founder
The FOLD Ministry

For further insight and teaching view the inspirational videos below.

Video Clip: Shelia Walsh : Beautiful Things Happen When a Women Trusts God

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWbkcH3VhXM

 

Worship Music Video: Chelsea Moon w/The Franz Bros - Trust and Obey

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrSCxfnN2B8

Writing on a Promise

           

            Do you know how many God proclaimed promises there are written in the Bible? How about in the New Testament? The truth is many Christians would find it difficult to answer that question without doing some kind of web search. I was determined to put myself to the challenge of recalling as many promises as I could. I started with fervor, tapping the keyboard of my laptop in a continuous cadence for several minutes. Scriptures were flying through my head and I was feeling good about my recall. After a few minutes an occasional pause broke my rhythm and soon the stream of scriptures slowed to a trickle. Ten minutes into the challenge I was nearly dried up. After fifteen minutes I had a sound sixty-five promises on my list!

            You can imagine my disappointment when I learned there were 250 promises in the New Testament. The number triples to 750 if you count repeats. Most of the promises are for the believer in Christ, but there are many for the non-believers also. For example Jesus promises to those who acknowledge Him before man, He will acknowledge them before His Father. But Jesus also promises that he will not acknowledge those who do not acknowledge him before man, (Matt. 10:32). I find these numbers incredible, especially considering these numbers only represent half of God’s written Word.

            So, why does it matter how many promises I can recall from the Bible? Because trying to live the victorious Christian life without complete information is like trying to finish a puzzle with half the pieces missing. The designed finished product will be incomplete no matter how efficiently I handle the ones I have. Each promise thereby represents an important part of the big picture and our story. If these precious truths are left unrealized how might the portrait of our life be effected? This question actually unsettles me.

            Author and Speaker, Lisa Bevere challenges the believer to know well the numerous promises the LORD has given us in His Word. Lisa emphasizes in her message Proverbs 3:3 which states;

             “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on    the tablet of your heart.”

            The promise we have from the LORD when we put this verse into practice is found in Proverbs 3:4;

            “Then you will win favor and a good name with God and man.”

            The principle then of learning these promises and believing them with all our heart, mind and soul is that they will begin to determine our story. Our lives will be infused with confidence and power because we trust what God says is truth. Belief will produce resolve which will bring about action which results in “favor with God and man,” (Proverbs 3:4).

            Lisa poignantly presents the promise of Proverbs 3:3-4; when we write the Word of God on our heart we take control of writing out our life stories…and we write them well!

            So how many of God’s promises can you recall? Chances are there are some that have slipped your mind. I’m resolved to accept Lisa’s challenge to begin writing God’s promises on my heart. Won’t you join me? Not just transferring information from the Bible to our heads, but accepting each promise as everlasting certainty. For Jesus says “Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but my Word will never pass away”. Ladies that is a promise worth binding around our neck!   

Tracy L. Frazier
Director/Founder The FOLD Ministry

For further insight and teaching view the inspirational videos below.

 Video Clip: Lisa Bevere: Writing the Future (Words of Life)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0JcrXq2PYQ

Worship Music Video: Sanctus Real: Promises

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pB_jxGYXRw

 

Empowered by GRACE

 

Living the Extraordinary Life
 

      “My grace is sufficient for you” is the LORD’s response to one of the Apostle Paul’s prayers for empowerment in his area of weakness, (2 Cr 12:9 NIV). What may appear as a cool response to a passionate plea actually reveals the power we are to live by and its source.  The reality is God plants within every Believer at their moment of salvation the fullness of Christ’s grace; His might, His wisdom, even His awesome ability to love. Everything the disciples need to accomplish God’s will in their lives rest in the declaration of 2 Corinthians 12:9. The LORD tells us why his grace is sufficient; “for my power is made perfect in weakness,” (2 Cr 12:9 NIV). Thus the abundant life we were created to live is intentionally yoked to our weakness. But what does God mean by weakness?

     Of all the words granted to us for communication and expression, three dominate our culture, “I am tired”.  We hear them every day from family, friends and co-workers. Some of us utter them regularly. This statement acts like a mantra of our generation. We state it over and over until we find ourselves under the spell of fatigue and living life in a state of lethargy. Whether young, old, working, retired, single or married the burden of weariness weighs us down and presses from our lips the tragedy of our lives, we are "tired." But is exhaustion what God meant as weakness?

      John Bevere hits the grace nail on the head in his new book, Extraordinary: The Life You're Meant to Live. With awesome insight John speaks to the impotent lives of Believers who strive in their own strength to persevere through life, when we were never expected to endure by our own strength but by faith in the One who is able to do all things. John's message is that faith--which is belief in God and His ability alone--is what opens the floodgates to the flow of abundant grace in our lives. He emphasizes it is our measure of faith which determines the level of grace we allow to empower us to live extraordinarily. Weakness is our human dependency on God.

      The all sufficient grace of God is planted in every Believer. But as John points out, it is our faith in this divine deposit of the Almighty’s power which is truly anemic. Why? John reasons that “Christians read what they believe and do not believe what they read,” in the Word of God.  Simply our faith tanks are small and running on low…some on empty…when it comes to accepting we can walk on water, heal the blind, even raise the dead. In other words the minds focused on and wrestling with doubt and fear dam the flow of grace, tire the body and oppress the spirit. Yet God’s Word tells us that through our faith...by believing...we can do extraordinary things. We can not only live the abundant life, we can display the awesome grace of God according to His will.

“I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.  And I will do       whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.  You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it,” (John 14:12-14).

      Beholding this truth and accepting it as the Believer’s reality, opens up the floodgates of Heaven; releasing the power, wisdom, love and peace of God. Grace Jesus longs to flow through our lives. Belief begins the flow of abundance. Faith empowers our weakness and we become an awesome force of grace in a lethargic world: A life of power which brings glory to God the Father. Why? Because it will be marked with extraordinary “greater things than these” of which Jesus did in His earthly ministry. Is this the kind of life we are living as followers of Christ?

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurable more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus           throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen,” (Ephesians 3:20-21NIV).

       So…are you tired of being tired? Me too! It is time to confess unbelief, repent of fatigued faith and show the world what it really looks like to be empowered by the Holy Spirit for the glory of our God!

Amen!

Tracy Frazier
Director/Founder of The FOLD

For further insight and teaching view the inspirational videos below.

 

Video Clip: Crossroads/Full Circle TV: guest John Bevere

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nL1U2gh8NHg  (1 of 3)

Video Message: Lakewood Church: guest speaker John Bevere

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA4g5mHtAnQ

Worship Music Video: Chris Tomlin - Your Grace Is Enough For Me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtnE_e1LylY

 

 

Soaring in the Son

Summer has come at last! It is time to hang the chimes, pamper our toes and squeeze basket amounts of citrus. While temperatures rise, so do our dreams of blissful days basking in golden rays. We imagine ourselves on exotic vacations even staycations floating in casual comfort, sipping tranquility and dripping with laughter. The season which draws us outdoors into extended day and entices with sweet fruit also invites us to play.

When I was a little girl my three sisters and I would leave our inland home to spend summers at the beach with our Dad. While our father worked, we took to the sand; two lathered in baby oil resolved to become bronze beauties while the younger two braved shimmering wonders. The sunny shores were a wide open and endless playground where our adventurous spirits could soar like seagulls. Back then white capped waves were glorious playmates which tossed us about as we squealed with glee. I can recall our long blonde locks matted with sand whipping about our faces as we flew colorful kites. Days were spent designing castles and digging for crabs, fishing from the jetty and exploring under stilted homes at low tide. Tiny toes traipsed upon the beach before sunrise to catch sand dollars on the shore until long after sunset when they danced around campfires.

Summer then was a bright eyed beauty which beckoned me to play, explore and sing. I eagerly took her hand and skipped on warm planks until our season of soaring came to a close. With my bag packed for our trip back home I would don socks and shoes once more. A hearty loot of seaside treasures carefully cradled in my lap made the parting less painful and later prompted memories of freedom when school schedules set in.

Over the years my friendship with the shore had been battered by the storms of life. The dangers of the deep clouded the once sunny skies and the waves upon which I surfed now carried the ashes of my Dad. Though thirty minutes away, I seldom spend summer days on the shore and never enter the water.

Last week at the request of my son I chaperoned he and his friends on a trip to the beach. After the final bell of the school year, they were climbing into my car with smiles and anticipation for the summer ahead. While they enjoyed their long leash of freedom on the pier, I took off my sandals and took to the sand. The sensation took me back to younger days when I was free of fear and braved the waves. The sights and smells beckoned me remember as I walked once again on spitting wet sand and through sizzling foam.

This side of salvation it was not Summer which bathed me in radiant light that day. It was my heavenly Father’s love. There on the sand I wrestled with the past as memories like waves washed over me again and again. Old fears began to swell as the retreating water washed the sand out from under my feet. Though I wanted to retreat myself to dry ground my spirit was reminded that I stood upon the Rock of Christ; my iniquities which threatened to drag me out to dark depths of death rested at the bottom of the sea. Once more I stood free on the shore. The breeze carried sweet sentiments to my ear and cool sprays of saltwater to my lips. I had no need to fear for my Father was near; His faithful eyes ever upon me past, present and future.

There and then I turned on the sand and found that which was lovely became dazzling when facing the sun. The water’s shades of deep blue and the white foam were changed to gold, amber and red. A glorious example of what a life looks like when facing the Son. God certainly does make all things new!

This summer I resolve to visit the beach often and allow the child in me freedom to soar once more. I will take to the sand holding my husband’s hand, dig for sand crabs with my grandchildren and fly kites with my son. I will wade in the water and watch peacefully as those I love surf. I will let my golden locks whip in the wind and lick the salt off my lips while I soak up the Son, His Word and sunshine. 

May we all have a summer of soaring in the Son!

 

Detoured on My Way Hwy

 

The thought of God’s will paving through our daily circumstances and encounters is pleasant and lifting most of the time. That is until His plan detours our own. One day we are pleased with our route and without warning God allows or produces a hearty interruption in our journey. Wheels screech to a halt, the road is closed before us and we are suddenly redirected. Our trip down “My Way Hwy” is stalled and we are forced to reconsider our position and destination before again moving forward.

Priscilla Shirer shares in her study titled          Life Interrupted  that these interruptions are God’s intimate ways of bringing about His best in our life. Of course we understand the concept of biblical principles at work in our circumstances. Still these interruptions can often feel like accidents or traffic traumas which leave us in shock in the middle of the road. So what are we to do when life is interrupted and we are given a map through unfamiliar, uncomfortable or even frightful territory?

First we seek the LORD in prayer. Nothing we experience gets around God’s sovereignty. Therefore it is imperative that we cry out to our Heavenly Father for insight and discernment in our circumstance. He has either allowed the interruption or orchestrated it to bring about His will in our life. Second we will come through the interruption well when we yield to God’s map. As the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:12-13 shares that he had to learn to be content in every circumstance through the power of Christ, we also should strive to be content before, during and after interruptions. Third we must trust the purpose of God for the interruption. Our Heavenly Father desires more than we can comprehend to bring us to a spiritual wholeness. Everything spoken to us through His Word and by His Holy Spirit is meant to teach us of His ways and encourage us through His hands on the wheel process of sanctification. God’s goal is good and while His path is narrow it is the only road which leads to Home. Finally we should hold onto the hope that each challenging interruption has potential to lead us to more than we could ever imagine. As we submit to God’s plan for our life and humbly journey through our days with the LORD, blessings will be ours in great measure; peace, joy, rest, contentment and purpose shaken, pressed down even overflowing.

The choice is ours. We do not have to let Jesus navigate. Yet, through my own experience of gripping the wheel and charting my course I have learned spiritual summits are never reached via smooth roads. They are usually experienced through life interruptions which send us off road and through bumpier terrain.     

For example when I was fifteen my mother lost her battle with cancer. Just two weeks before her fortieth birthday she had to say good-bye to four daughters and her first grandchild still in the womb. Cancer interrupted all our lives and forced us to travel a road of despair. After my mother’s passing, my life continued to be rerouted by interruptions. Unfortunately, what was meant to navigate me into the arms of divine comfort left me embittered and broken down on the road. I rejected the invitation to follow Christ’s route to salvation and instead bought a ticket on a fast train in the opposite direction.

Like Jonah I wanted nothing to do with God’s plan. His interruptions and map thus far had only produced heartache and sorrow according to my GPS. Little did I know that act of rebellion would lead me into treacherous territory, like Jonah’s raging sea. I too would narrowly escape with my life. In a moment of desperation and spiritual bleakness Jesus extended grace; offering once again to be my guide. I wholeheartedly embraced His interruption with relief and gratitude (For I was very tired of navigating life on my own).

I pray you will seek the LORD’s direction when your journey is interrupted with detours and closed roads. Though your ultimate destination is not meant to be reached in this world, Jesus promises following His course will bless you with the BEST ride of your life!  

Tracy L. Frazier

Director/Founder of The FOLD: Fellowship Opportunity for Ladies Discipleship

 

Video: Priscilla Shirer – Life Interrupted

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z__D_dr5Ivc

 

Music Video: Carrie Underwood – Jesus Take the Wheel

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lydBPm2KRaU

Scripture: Jonah 1:1-3; The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai:  “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”  But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish.  He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying for the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the LORD.

 

A Miracle of Jesus

 

     Within each miracle of Christ I see a proclamation of more than divine power: there is also a distinct revelation of our Heavenly Father’s message of “Good News” in every miraculous encounter. For example, like water to wine, Jesus desires to change us from lost sheep to the Bride of Christ. Like loaves and fish He creates abundance from our meager lives so that we might bless the multitudes.  He empties mute mouths of evil and fills them with words of praise and testimony; in order to spread the hope of Truth. Through the one man from the group of ten healed who returns to thank Jesus, we see how few will turn and seek our Redeemer; though Jesus died for us all. I see in Peter’s amazing catch of fish an illustration of how God wants to use our talents for His glory. Likewise, a single coin in the belly of a fish reminds us that when we obey the LORD’s instructions, He will meet our every need.

     When I contemplate the miracles Jesus performed among the multitudes I see more than opened eyes and strengthened limbs, I see miraculous compassion: Love which is compelled to flow from a source of pure goodness. “For while we were yet sinners,” Jesus loved us completely. Holding nothing back but His wrath and disdain for our sin, the LORD stepped out from the Holy of Hollies. Veiled by flesh He touched His creation with pure devotion. Though we were not priests, had not passed through the Sea and our hands were stained crimson, the Almighty drew us near. More than healing came from Jesus’ embrace.  Hope of becoming a miracle was born in the hearts of man.

     Imagine the hope of each person in Jesus’ midst as they wondered what miracle He might have for them. They gathered round, some stood in lines, all stood in awe but few heard His message. Yet, every miraculous healing was meant to convey the reality there is much more to life as we know it; more to see, hear, and walk through in this life, but only to be experienced through Jesus. Even Christ’s exorcisms proclaim His gospel truth. For sin leads to spiritual oppression, paralysis, blindness and destruction; only Jesus can free us from the oppression of evil and sin.  

     The nature of God to create life, nurture and sustain it, is powerfully put before us in His miracles of raising Lazarus from the tomb, the widow’s son, and Jairus’s daughter from the dead. These three miracles proclaim that eternal life through resurrection is God’s desire for us all; first for Christ and then for His sons and daughters. And God makes it clear eternal life does not begin at the grave but at the hands and feet of Jesus Christ. God’s compassion compelled Him to take the nails in our place that we might live as He intended.

     Accept the love of God as a sinner redeemed by the pierced hands and feet of the LORD and become His next miracle! Soon the love of God will pour into your life and the miracles your read on the pages of your bible will be part of your testimony. You will become a new creation in Christ. Your life will take on new meaning. You will desire to share the Good News of Jesus with others. You will see and hear things differently and turn from old patterns of thinking and living to follow Jesus.  You will seek to serve God by using your gifts. Obedience to Christ will no longer be an option but a desire and your rest will be found in the LORD.        

     Indeed, our hope is not based solely on the testimony of the Truth in the Holy Scriptures but on the power of Christ’s miraculous work in us day after day. I am a continuous miracle. You can be one as well.

That is the “Good News” at its best!    

Tracy L. Frazier
Director/Founder of The FOLD Ministry

For further contemplation watch the short Inspirational Video and music video below.

Video: Nick Vugicic - Truth on the Go: If You Can't Get A Miracle, Become One

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJwHSGjjifg

Worship Music Video: Prince of Egypt - When You Believe 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gur8ccqrQ9c

Overcoming Offense

My command is this: Love each other
 as I have loved you. (John 15:12)

     When Jesus began his earthly ministry He interestingly invited men of the sea rather than of the Temple to be His disciples. James and John along with Simon Peter and Andrew--four fishermen who spent their days casting their nets into the water-- accepted Christ’s call to become fishers of men. Early in their discipleship, brothers James and John (whom Jesus nicknamed Son’s of Thunder), took offense when a Samaritan town rejected Jesus (Luke 9). Angrily they sought permission from the LORD to call down fire from heave to destroy these offenders, just as Elijah had once done against the prophets of Baal. However Jesus quickly rebuked them and revealed His ministry was about saving souls, not destroying them. The Son’s of Thunder would learn in time the art of casting love before men rather than destruction.

     In his book The Bait of Satan, author and Christian speaker John Bevere reminds the Church that our enemy the devil is also fishing for souls. Not only does our foe seek to hook us and destroy our testimony, he desires to reel us away from the Father and abundant life. According to Bevere, one of the baits the enemy uses to lure us is offense: an unkind word, rejection, exclusion or any kind of betrayal blinds us to the devil’s horrid hook before us. Like fish which swim circles around a tempting morsel, we can allow our minds to mull over an offense until our hearts desire to bite back. Before we know it, we are caught in trouble and the enemy gains control over us.  Jesus did say we would have trouble in this life because the days of man are filled with darkness and evil. But our Savior also told us not to fear;  “But take heart! I have overcome the world,” and Jesus did so on the cross (John 16:33NIV).

     Christ’s death on the cross was far more than an act of obedience to the Father’s will. Jesus’ sacrificial death was the greatest act of love ever expressed in our world. Undeniably love is the mightiest power known to man. Consider how Jesus held great power, but His might was both expressed and contained by His amazing love. When He healed it was driven by love. When Jesus rebuked it was guided by His love. Astoundingly, our LORD beholds the power to create, control or destroy anything, and yet all His acts are rooted in love. Notably, it is love which overcame the Son’s fear as he knelt in the garden of Gethsemane burdened with the plan of man’s redemption. Likewise, it was God’s devotion which compelled Him to die upon the cross. And it is love which continually and will forevermore conquer the devil’s dark influence over man.

      Simply stated, with Jesus there is no trickery or deception in the Father’s plan: no hook to fear. There is but love in all its forms and expressions to behold and abide in.  When we face the offenses of man cast before us by Satan, we have a choice: forgive and maintain our freedom to abide in the Living Water or take the bait of offense and be caught by the devil. Bevere points to Jesus’ warning that one of the signs of the end of the age is the hardening of hearts between brothers and sisters in the Church. Because of being offended many in the faith are prophesied to fall prey to cold hearts and false teachers (Matt. 4:9-13).

     Jesus proclaims the world would know His followers by the way they loved on another, (John 13:35). By the end of his life the Apostle John had learned well Jesus’ technique for saving the souls of man. For, the Son of Thunder in his latter days was known as the Apostle of Love.

Oh, Father, may it be the same for us!

 Tracy L. Frazier

Director/Founder of The FOLD: Fellowship Opportunity for Ladies Discipleship

 

Video: Full Circle;  Free From the Trap of Offense - 1/4 - John Bevere

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8g1By-89iIw
 

Music Video: Natalie Grant – Perfect People

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFDl-KWu-XQ

 

Scripture: Ephesians 4:30-32; And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of god, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.  Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.  Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving eachother, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

 

Abiding in the Promised Land

God's Word is our map to the Promised Land!

     The Word of God is full of promises. Some promises are meant for the Hebrew nation of Israel while others are meant for the spiritual offspring of Abraham. One inheritance meant for both is an abundant life in the Promise Land.

     In the Bible we learn that God had designated a specific territory for His chosen people the Israelites. This promised property is where God Almighty did dwell among man in the midst of a people He purposed to be a holy nation. The Israelites were meant to be God’s light in a dark world filled with sin and its painful and deadly consequences: A beacon of hope that would draw others to the warmth of God’s love and provision. Under the care and protection of Yahweh, the tribes of Israel took possession of the Promised Land and received the blessings of abiding in the presence of God. Though they first stumbled in the desert with unbelief delaying their inheritance, life was rich as cream and sweet as honey for Jacobs offspring past the Jordan.  At least life was blessed from time to time in the Promised Land.

     The covenant promise made between God and his servant Abraham was established with conditions that Israel must obey to possess the blessings of the land. God’s laws required the nation to worship no other but the Lord Almighty. The One True God was their provider and protector; they were to seek only His favor while serving one another in love.  They were commanded to live set apart from the people of other nations who worshiped false gods, lived immorally and pursued every kind of wickedness: The Chosen People were to be holy as God is holy. Had Israel obeyed the Words given them by God, they would still be living abundantly in the Promised Land today. Tragically, they broke the laws of the Covenant again and again until more than territory was lost in Israel’s failure to abide in God’s word, the Lord’s blessing was also lost for a time.

     Author and Speaker Beth Moore, encourages the Church with the truth that this side of the cross, New Testament Believers in Jesus Christ have their own Promise Land to enter and possess. While the Christian’s Promise Land is a spiritual territory to abide in it remains as real as the Holy Land of Israel. Likewise possession of the blessings inherent to the land, are subject to belief and obedience of its occupants.

     Gaining access to the gift of grace and eternal life through Jesus is simply gained through sincere repentance and a prayer of acceptance.  However possessing the Believer’s Promise Land takes battle. Just as the Israelites of old had to step into deep waters, shout in the name of Yahweh and draw their swords to take hold of their inheritance, so too must Christians fight the good fight to live abundantly in Christ.

     Jesus said “It is written:  ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word which comes from the mouth of God,” (Matthew 4:4NIV)

     I believe one principal of this truth is connected to Jesus’ title The Bread of Life. For through Christ we partake of His body--the bread--sacrificed for our sin and we gain eternal life. However, many Christians have long lives to live beyond their salvation experience. I hear in Jesus’ words, “but by every word which comes from the mouth of God,” that importance is equally placed on digesting also the truths and life principles God has commanded us to live by in His Word. The abundant life is connected to the balanced diet of both Christ crucified and resurrected life in obedience to the Word of God.

     Jesus also said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10 NIV )

     The Lord does not desire that we would merely hang on to our eternal salvation and live battered and broken while we wait for His return or our passing. Instead, Jesus desires we live victorious and blessed in a spiritual place of peace, joy, contentment, harmony, love, truth and purpose. These fruits of abiding in God’s Promise Land are not dependant on perfect circumstance. Even when fires of tests and trials rage and threaten destruction, we can trust the power of the Living Water is available for us to extinguish any threat.  

     Thereby the Word of God is critical to our possessing and abiding in the wonderful Promised Land of blessings. Beth reminds us that to believe God is to know he desires to bless our lives. Reading the Word, processing its truth, holding our own lives up to it as a mirror and discussing it openly with God will guide you to your Promise Land. With every step you will draw nearer to the heart of God where every Believer is destined to abide in a land flowing with milk and honey: a place of abundant provision, peace and beautiful.

Oh Father, help us with our unbelief!

Tracy L. Frazier

Director/Founder of The FOLD: Fellowship Opportunity for Ladies Discipleship

Video: Beth Moore – Believing God (:23:00 – :31:22);

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_PZeql7xIc

Music Video: John Waller – While I’m Waiting; 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6X71sXagUY

Scripture John 15:1-11NIV; 11NIV “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.  This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.  Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.”   

Wielding the Word of God

      Jesus clearly teaches in His Word, “That man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God,” (Matthew 4:4NIV). The association the LORD makes between the Scriptures and life cannot be denied. For life is not only extended and fortified through the belief and intake of God’s Word it is also multiplied: the saving power of the Gospel rescues life after life from eternal death. Therefore, while it is necessary for us to feed our physical bodies nutrients from the earth, it is even more critical in order to thrive spiritually that we also digest the Holy Scriptures.  

      The LORD not only taught this life principle he demonstrated how to put it into practice. During His own temptation period in the desert, the LORD used the written Word as a shield and a sword to ward off the devil. Every baited lie the enemy cast before Jesus was rejected and cast down because Christ knew and declared the written Truth.  The power of God’s Word is evident in that though Jesus was physically weakened in the flesh due to His fasting, His Spirit was strong. What a boost this illustration is for the followers of Christ! For while we are weak in the flesh by nature, we like Christ can be mighty in our Spirit by the Word of God.

     The key which unlocks the power of the Almighty against our enemy is the knowing of the Word. Believing in Christ and receiving Him as our Savior gains us eternal life, but more is needed to live out our Christian purpose in this world. Jesus says, “I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10NIV). This kind of Christian life only comes through feasting upon the Scripture and obeying what it says. For the work of Christ in His earthly ministry bears witness to His divine position as Son of God. His work upon the cross frees us from the shackles of slavery to sin and its eternal consequences. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead shatters fear of death and comforts us with hope of peace beyond the grave. Yet, it is His Word which provides a shield in the battle for our souls and places a weapon in our hands. What makes up the bulk of  the word “sword”? The word… “WORD”!

     In the physical realm the sword of man is only as strong and victorious as its possessor. However, in the spiritual battle men, women and children need not despair for their physical weakness. Praise God all followers of Christ are fiercely empowered with the eternal almighty power of the Word. Young and old are capable of wielding the power of heaven through knowing the first spoken and later written Word of God. The same power which created the heavens and the earth is unleashed against the kingdom of darkness when we speak God’s Word.

     Lisa Bevere, author of Girls with Swords encourages women to rise up with the power of the Living Word in our hearts and minds to wreck havoc in the enemy’s plans and take back territory for the Kingdom. I say “Amen!” to Lisa’s battle cry. The scriptures testify again and again that the Truth defeats the darkness and pushes back the devil. Dear sisters we cannot leave the fight up to a few warriors in the faith. We are all needed in this war!

     Ladies, my prayer is that we united in Christ will purpose to be in the word, study the word and build up our arsenal of knowledge of Scripture. May we take seriously the reality that we are called to the battlefield in our minds and in our hearts to know and align with Truth proclaiming victory in Jesus Christ. Not only that we may live the abundant life Jesus desires for us, but that we would also rescue prisoners of war sentenced to eternal death in the enemy’s camp.

“Lord, inspire us by your Holy Spirit to sharpen our sword through daily focused reading in Your Word. Grant us opportunity to be not only hearers of Your Word, but doers by Your Word.  May we “be strong and of great courage” before are foe and bring glory to YOU our God!"  

For the King!

Tracy Frazier

 

For further contemplation watch the short IV (Inspirational Video) and Music video below.

Video: Lisa Bevere - Girls with Swords
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ptm-d9JxHhw

Music video: Mercy Me - Word of God Speak
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYu8ZyETnKo

Caring for the Pride

    

          When you hear the word “pride” what comes to mind? In most parts of the word “pride” is associated with the arrogant attitude of believing highly of self. However, for people living in Tanzania the word “pride” is associated with sleepless nights and fearful days in fields and villages. According to Abigail Tucker writer for the Smithsonian this reality is due to the 3,000 lions and their warring prides vying for territorial reign within the country’s borders, (Smithsonian magazine, January 2010).  Tucker’s brief surveillance of numerous prides under the guidance of foremost expert on lions, Craig Packer, granted her interesting new insights to the behaviors of the ferocious monarchs of the animal kingdom.

          Living safe and sound in the foothills of Southern California, my reality of a pride of lions is quite different than the Tanzanians'. Having only seen lions neutered by captivity, my affection for God’s majestic beast is explained. Notably Disney’s heart-warming movie, The Lion King as well C.S. Lewis’ literary caricature of Jesus, Aslan the Great Lion, have greatly encouraged adoration for the beauty of the pride.  And now, for the body of Christ, author and renowned speaker, Lisa Bevere offers more reason to regard the pride with respect and awe.

          Having studied lionesses for several years, Lisa has gained insight to the parallel of instinctual habits of the pride and the spiritual grooming of ladies in the body of Christ. The majestic cats' manner of interaction and care for one another not only sets them apart from the rest of their kind, it provides an illustration of how important acceptance and social grooming are to the sustainability of the Church.  Interviewed by James Robison on Life Today, Lisa Bevere emphasizes that the act of social grooming is key to helping each lioness look and act her best. 

          In the Church the concept of social grooming would apply to our spiritual self which directly impacts our disposition and outward expression.  The ladies of the church who engage in face to face connection and build each others spirit up through sincerity, compassionate care, encouraging discipleship and God guided accountability glow from the beauty treatments exchanged with their sisters in Christ. The result being a body of believing women who radiate spiritual beauty beyond compare and bring glory to the King of Kings. Just as social grooming sets lions apart from the rest of their kind, spiritual grooming should set God's children apart  from the rest of mankind as well.   

          During our Table Talk at The FOLD we discussed what makes us feel like we belong within our Church pride. The ladies shared that being acknowledged, greeted, embraced, invited, listened to, remembered, encouraged, appreciated and prayed for made them feel valued and a part.  When these expressions toward each other are absent in the Church, the ladies in the pride become vulnerable to attack. For the enemy of our souls roams around like a roaring lion seeking to kill and destroy us all, (1 Peter 5:8). Left outside the circle of fellowship sisters in Christ suffer more than the loss of spiritual grooming. This rejection and exclusion can lead to heartache and despair which can produce poor attitudes toward their church family and lead to ungodly behavior. The result is a disconnected and un-kept pride of women who do not bring glory to God.

           In the lion’s world, the threat of attack from roaming males looking to take over a pride warrants the lionesses remain on guard. They suffer greatly when a challenger enters their realm; their cubs are mercilessly put to death by the conquering beast and the lionesses are often killed while trying to protect their young. Interestingly the new insight Abigail Tucker shares of Craig Packer’s research of the pride is that the lionesses’ curious close quarters are not due to social harmony as previously determined but instead for protection. Simply stated, the pride’s survival rests on the closeness of the lionesses.  Without their fortifying relational bonds the pride's chances to increase in number are lost.

          Caring for the pride is critical. Whether you visit the ailing, encourage the downtrodden or lend a helping hand to a ministry leader, reach out and draw your sisters in Christ near. Strengthen your sisters and you fortify Christ’s Church. In the words of Lisa Bevere, “Our truest beauty is not reflected in our own mirror but in how we have affected other people.”

May the pride of the Lion of Judah be known for great beauty!

Tracy Frazier

 

For further contemplation watch the short Inspirational Video and music video below.

Video: Lisa Bevere - Strengthening Each Other LIFE Today/James Robison

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=uSKSzLPMeq0&NR=1

Worship Song: Laura Story - Mighty to Save (hit pause and let video load a bit before playing)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJmyg22Z9-o

 

Lisa Bevere says our differences are important to help strengthen the pride of women in God’s Church. How does drawing on the strengths of women in the pride make a difference to the body and to you personally?  

SHARE YOU THOUGHTS BY POSTING A COMMENT.

A Court of Passion

           

            Shakespeare understood passion. The brilliant poet and playwright had a way of tapping the deepest fears and desires in the human experience and poetically exhibiting them in dramatic theater and tale: Shakespear's Macbeth, Othello, Hamlet and Tempest still highly favored by Arts enthusiasts. Even so, who can forget the passion of his Romeo and Juliet as they fought for their unity against all the forces resolved to keep them apart?  Their story transcends beyond the page and stage into our spirit. Their romance hints to a story we all play a part in and speaks to our deepest desire to be passionately loved.

            Since before time the heart of God was filled with passion. Flowing from his fingertips, passion created heaven and earth and all that dwells within them. Yet, at the end of God’s vast and inspired work one creation, like nothing else, would capture His holy heart; you and me.  Thus begins the greatest romance.

            The grand and everlasting tale of God’s passion for our love dwarfs any other romance story. Romeo with all his poetic charm and fervor pales in comparison to the suitor of our souls. For the LORD’s passion compelled Him to endure the humility of life that he might destroy the enemy  which is death. Stripping Himself of His eternal glory, the King of Kings donned the temporal flesh of man that He might capture our hearts through His sacrificial death on the cross.

            “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends,”  (John 15:13 NIV).

            Romeo had passion for Juliet, yet his love led to death for he and his bride. On the other hand, Jesus’ love for you and me leads to eternal life. Notably passion conveys action. It is defined by Google's web dictonary as a “strong and barely controllable emotion”. The word evokes focus, determination and energy towards something. Thereby passion does not merely happen in our lives, it comes from resolve and compells us into action. 

            So here are some questions to ponder in regards to our relationship with the LORD.

-Would you consider your relationship with the LORD   passionate?

-Do you long to spend time with Him?

-In what ways do you strive to honor Jesus?

-What place does praise, obedience and gifts of service hold

  in your relationship?

-Do people have reason to “talk” about your passion for God?  
            These are questions I ask myself as I present them to you.  My desire is to remind us of this unfathomable lover of our souls who longs to court us and draw us into a rich and satisfying relationship. Jesus is ready to sweep us off our feet. Will we let Him? Sisters in Christ, let's give the world some passion to talk about!

            Our challenge at The FOLD last evening was to go on a date with the LORD. To set a specific time, at a designated place and share uninterrupted time together with Jesus. Some might share coffee time. Others may steal away to a park to read His Word. Still, someone may be inclined to stroll along the beach in His presence. The place does not matter, the pursuit does.

             I am certain of the LORD’s passion for us and I know Jesus would be delighted to have a special date with you!  

 

Tracy Frazier

 

Keeping with the concept of Christ's passion, you may enjoy the following:

Christine Caine-"Stop Acting Like A Christian and Be One"
Parts 1 & 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj8CmnANa7g

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoM-u_v2USg

Music video: All For Love-Hillsong; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjJNEsDJPFk

 

Keeper of Dreams

 

          

             If I were to ask you, "What tangible item is especially valuable to you?" what first comes to mind? Have you taken steps to protect or secure your valuables in a safe or safety deposit box? What consequences would be suffered if your valuables were to suddenly disappear?

            Being entrusted to care for something valuable is a big responsibility. Whether it is the well being of children, the care of an aging parent and their estate or the finances for a million dollar company there is much riding on your stewardship. The fact that people can get hurt and companies can crumble if we do not monitor and tend to these responsibilities is reality. Therefore it is wise for us to carefully consider what has been placed in our care.

            God has been speaking to me about my dreams for the past several years.  When I reflect on the dreams I have hoped for as a young girl, wife and mother I can see evidence of the LORD’s detailed attention and protection. Over the years as I have sought the will of God for my life, some dreams have faded without care while others have burst forth in vibrant hues.  He has put great effort into showing himself faithful and trustworthy to reassure me that my dreams are safe in his care.  Each step along the way has not been covered in pixie dust. Still, He has proven himself a worthy keeper of my dreams.

            Recently God has spoken to me about His dreams. He has revealed that the dreams He has for my life are His valuable property placed in my care. Like the talents given to the three stewards in Jesus’ parable God has given me his dreams to manage and care for. The reality that I have been entrusted with something of great value to the LORD has radically changed my attitude about seeking His will in my life. I used to see God’s will attached primarily to my becoming more like Jesus, producing fruit in my life and leaving a legacy of love. Now, I see that in the process of my growing in faith, works and relationship the LORD has specific plans for my life which will make a notable difference for His Kingdom. In other words He has placed some of His valuable dreams in my care. The reality of this excites and terrifies me! Because when I stop and consider the work of the LORD's hand in creation, the beauty and awe inspiring design he dreamt up, I can hardly imagine what visions his dreams hold for me.

            Jesus teaches in His parable that of the three stewards given some of the master’s valuable property, two tend to the talents with care and respect. They invest the talents and increase the value of the master’s property. They proved worthy of the trust that was placed in them and their joy was to have contributed to the master’s estate. The third steward buried the master’s valuable in the dirt and seemingly forgot about it until called upon to give an account. The neglect of this steward is evident and warrants a harsh rebuke. For the master’s estate was no better off due to the poor stewardship of this servant.

            God’s dreams for our lives are valuable property placed in our care. The question we must ask and significantly ponder before answering is “Are we good stewards of God’s dreams?” I trust as you spend time with the LORD discussing His dreams for your life, He will give you the answer to that question. How I pray by the power of our Master, each of us hears the praise, “Well done!”

Tracy Frazier

For further contemplation watch the short Inspirational Video and music video below.

IV: Beth Moore http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOgSNnkTFfI
Devotion Song/Video: You Raise Me Up http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DorNUsi5LE

What is God saying to you about His dreams for your life? Post a comment and share.

Destined To Dream

     September 2007 I heeded the prompting to attend the Women of Faith’s pre-conference session with Sheila Walsh and Dr. Henry Cloud. I was already going to the Friday night and Saturday Conference sessions with a group of friends. Yet, a very clear and distinct voice called me to attend Friday’s morning session “alone”.  Women of Faith conferences are designed to indulge in with friends. The idea of laughing and crying alone was not something that felt particularly pleasant. Still, I obeyed and found a single seat in the intimate crowd. My spiritual senses were tingly…something was going to happen. I was wonderfully excited and terrified. What was God up to?

     If you know me, you know fear and doubt have colored my faith walk. While my imagination and ability to dream has earned the reputation of being Technicolor, insecurity has left areas of my life in shades of grey. Part of the dream God has for my life was being missed and He wanted to tell me. So God made me a doctor’s appointment.

     Sitting in that seat, the Lord spoke powerfully through his servants; Sheila and Dr. Cloud. He diagnosed my spiritual illness and gave me a very clear set of instructions to set me on the right path. Hearing Dr. Cloud unknowingly use my very personal profile as his example of a dream put off, pierced my soul. Tears streaming down my face, I immediately understood “alone”. God wanted my complete attention and freedom to respond. Time stood still, while the Keeper of Time, held me close and whispered in my ear, “I have a dream for you Tracy…it is real…it is waiting…and it is WONDERFUL!”

     That day is a GOD SIZED benchmark in my life. It was the beginning of the most fantastic adventure I could have ever dreamed for myself. At the time, my fortieth birthday was approaching. I felt sure certain childhood dreams for my life were lost. God told me otherwise; “Just as the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years…your wandering days are through. I am taking you to the promised land.” What was grey is now being colored in neon!

     Before Israel entered the Promised Land, they were instructed to be courageous and strong. Territory had to be taken for the kingdom. Fear had to be conquered before God’s dreams became mine. There is victory with God alone! Five years later, I believe I am in the Promised Land…daily seeking and serving the LORD. His dream for me, coming true!

     God has a dream for your life as well. If you’re ready to dream with God…tell Him so. Don’t wait until you need a doctor!

Tracy Frazier

Women of Faith Pre-Conference Promo Video 2007

http://music.yahoo.com/sheila-walsh/tracks/his-dream-for-you--215066039