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By Posted on Posted in discernment, schedules No Comments

It’s that time of year when we are settling into busy routines: maybe a new school year, new bible study sessions, rejoining clubs and activities, or renewed projects at work now that summer is over. We are also discovering that the fall plans we made in the summer might have been too ambitious. We were a bit too optimistic in anticipating what we could truly squeeze in a week and we’re feeling the crush of this new schedule. Am I right?

In Philippians 4:13 we read, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” We quote it as though it is empowering, but in reality, how many of us are using that verse to push ourselves into doing too much? We think, “The Bible says that I can do ALL things, so I better do ALL the things!”

Somewhere in my growing-up experience, I developed the core belief that I was responsible for everyone and everything around me. When I came to faith in Jesus at 16 years old, I immediately spiritualized this core belief. It became my Christian duty to take care of everything. Can you relate?

Let’s pause for a moment. Do you notice that it says that I CAN do all things in Philippians 4:13, but it doesn’t say that I MUST do all things?

When God revealed this insight to me, I felt so relieved! So empowered! So free to do only what He called me to, and nothing else.

It also challenges me to come to Him each morning and confirm what He wants me to focus on for the day. I am learning to ask Him to show me what my priorities should be for the day, so I know what to prioritize and what to let go of.

What are you feeling responsible for? What are you taking on that is not a part of what God has called you to? Stand in the truth of this scripture and remember that you CAN do all things, but you aren’t required to do all things. Be free, my friend!

By Posted on Posted in blogging, discernment, God's word No Comments

Started my quiet time this morning by reading this blog post written by one of the founders of  Good Morning Girls (an online accountability ministry). Courtney writes that we need to beware of the world of blogging because it is a great venue for false teaching. Whatever we read on a person’s blog, we must make sure it lines up with scripture, especially if you feel an internal nudge to explore the idea more. The Holy Spirit will tell you if something is awry, but you  must be tuned in to listen. If you come across an idea presented by a blogger that is new to you, I recommend that you look up scriptures to check it out for yourself.

This came as a definite warning to me as a blogger. I need to remember to back up my ideas and perspectives with the word of God. I challenge you to look up the things that I am talking about in my posts and make sure that my writings align with God’s writings. If you ever have a question about something I’ve posted, or think that I might be off a bit, feel free to email me.

The trouble with false teaching is that it can closely resemble God’s truth. Beware “of such men (who) are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ.” (2 Cor 11:13)

The enemy is sure to include enough familiar Christian teaching to make us comfortable, so that we do not detect the false teaching that will slowly but surely draw our hearts away from Christ. That is always the goal of false teaching… to take the focus off of Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of mankind.

I’m mindful of the wacky prophecies made about the rapture occurring this year. We may get a laugh out of the ramblings of an old man, or we might get irritated about his ignorance of Matthew 24:36 (“no man knows the day or hour”), but be assured that Satan made some major progress in discounting the idea of Christ’s second coming.  The world is scoffing… with no concern about being ready for this real event that will come at the appointed time known only by God the Father.

That false teaching was easy to spot, right? Be on your guard against teachings that will more subtly and slowly draw you away from the truth that you believe. Don’t be fooled by the enemy’s masquerade.

It’s crucial that we keep a firm grip on what we’ve heard so that we don’t drift off.   Hebrews 2:1 msg