Building a Wall

I am reading the book of Nehemiah. I am strongly encouraged and challenged by it because it tells me that responding to injustice is possible. Nehemiah hears about the wall of Jerusalem in need of rebuilding and he starts taking steps to repair it. We don't see him making excuses, "I am busy at work.", "I need to get my affairs in order.", "I just don't have the time, with my kids in soccer and all.".

Nehemiah sees a need and starts toward fixing it. It is amazing to see the influence he has with the king. Not only did he get permission to go, he requested the king for various letters to make the journey more possible. Of course there will always be nay-sayers. There always is. In fact we read about them twice in the first few chapters.

It is inevitable to experience opposition when you are producing change for the betterment of the Kingdom.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Resist

1 Peter 5:8-9

Peter begins wrapping up his thought about being responsible, submissive, humble and casting your anxiety to God with more character traits necessary to live this Christian world. He says to be self-controlled and alert. If you stop right here you may read over the reason or dismiss the thought entirely. We are to be self-controlled and alert because we have a very real enemy that is looking daily for someone to devour. I fall in the camp that not all the things that are uncomfortable or difficult are attacks from Satan. However, we can't ignore what scripture says about how our story has a villain that is bent on destroying our relationship with God and us in the process. So be alert.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Anxiety

1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
⁷ Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

I love this verse. I have used it in many lessons, shared it in many times of council and read it over myself in seasons of stress and worry. But today I read it in a different light. I was exposed to these words in the scope of what was just being said as opposed to just a random thought from a man that was bouncing all over the place. Peter has placed this thought while telling the Elders to lead and the young men to be submissive. Then, Peter, instructs everyone to clothe themselves with humility. After that we find ourselves in verse 7.

I can imagine that being a leader in the early church could have been quite stressful. Not just making something out of nothing, but the threat of persecution, being misunderstood and friction from inside the church (people may have been fighting for the spot you were holding.) I could see how worry could keep these men from responding to the call God had placed in their lives to lead. I think that is why Peter decided to throw them a bone in the form of a verse that could fit in their wallet. It was a reminder that we are not alone in the great task. That God cares for us and knows our limits and protects us.

What a beautiful reality to live in, when the love of our Father lives in our hearts.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Suffering

Peter wraps chapter 4 up with some views on how we can view suffering. I wonder sometimes if what I view as suffering though is not really what Peter was talking about. I wonder if "my suffering" is really not more than minor to major inconveniences. At the time of his writing the church was still facing persecution. Not the kind of persecution that we view from the media but literally life and death persecution.

But I don't think that we are totally disengaged from Peter's words. Our choice to remain faithful in difficult circumstances develops perseverance and creates deeper intimacy. So regardless if it is suffering or not. When we experience discomfort or trials, we can know that how we choose to trust in Him makes a big difference.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Submissive and Considerate

Peter 3:1-7

As Peter wraps up his thoughts about submitting to authority, he takes is home. The relationship between a husband and a wife has been under attack from the beginning of our story. Imagine the first couple of fights that Adam and Eve had. The fruit incident, Eve weakness and Adam not protecting her. The first relocation, moving from the garden to the desert had to be quite the adjustment relationally as they lay on the hard floor after working in the fields all day and Eve is experiencing the discomfort of growing a child in her belly. Then of course the difficulty of losing a son. How do you deal with the burying a child, especially when he was murdered by his very own brother?

Needless to say, marriage has been on attack for a long time. Peter lends us insight into how the two partners are to treat each other. Though this isn't all of Peter's marriage advice, I believe it is a great place to start. Wives are to be submissive. It is important to note that Peter is writing at the time when arranged marriages were prevalent. It would make sense to tell the wives to submit and tell the husbands to be considerate. They aren't necessarily the kind of relationships that form in the fairy tales.

God always calls us to work through authority. Peter tells wives to be submissive not to make their husbands feel good about themselves but that in so doing they would bring glory to God. Husbands will eventually be called to go a step further than just being considerate. They will be called to love their wives in the same way that Christ loved the church.

Bottom line... marriage has been under attack for as long as our story has been going on. It is important that we as believers set the example instead of blending into a society that has missed the mark.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Trust

1 Peter 2:23 (NIV)
²³ When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

There is a great possibility in this world you will be misunderstood. You may be unfairly attacked. You may be beaten both physically and emotionally. This is nothing new. In fact the one whose mark we bear modeled this kind of reality in the life He lived. However, He did it in a radically different way than we tend to. When we are attacked by others there is a tendency to equate the attack as fair or unfair. The challenge with this kind of thinking is that we are dealing with imperfect people. They can attack or judge based on the emotion of the moment and not the reality of the situation.

I love what Peter says here about Jesus. Jesus entrusted Himself to the smile of one person, that being His Heavenly Father. When we follow in Jesus' footsteps here there is no guarantee that other's will not attack. But, I believe in the moment when we do face an unfair attack that the Holy Spirit comes in during that time of weakness and lends support. Sometimes that is in a strengthening whisper, in boldness, in clarity. This brings me hope.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Chosen, Royal, Holy, Taken

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
^"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Knowing what we are helps us know what is expected of us. Peter describes who we are as believers and in return challenges us in how we live. God has chosen us above all other creation. He loves us that much to choose us! He has called us into a royal priesthood. This applies to all the believers regardless if they are committed to full time ministry. We are to carry out the duties and commands of the Lord each day of our lives. He has made us into a holy nation. This goes so much deeper than just a conservative or liberal outlook on life. If studies are accurate there are millions upon millions of us world-wide. I think it's probably a good time to awaken from our slumber and start standing for the right things.

Peter wraps up this verse with giving us direction for living. We are to declare the praises of God for what He did for each of us. I love the imagery because it is both figurative and literal. We have been called out of the darkness by the light of the Father. What a wonderful light this indeed is.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Crave

1 Peter 2:2 (NIV)
"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,"

A thought occurred to me this morning while reading this verse about babies and milk. Newborns are suppose to get all their nutrients from milk for a large part of their first year of life. In fact that is all they know. It is all that exists for them... and they know it.

Peter challenges us to crave God's spiritual nutrition the same way a newborn craves milk. I think this is beautiful poetry and application. If God is all we knew was there to supply our needs, we would be more apt to coming only to Him for nutrition. The challenge we face is that we convince ourselves that He (in our own minds) is not the only source of fulfillment. So we go searching for it. We taste other gods thinking they taste the same but knowing down in our hearts there is something lesser, weaker about what we are tasting.

What would happen if today you and I lived as if God's supply was everything? Peter tells us the answer lies in that when we taste, we will see that the Lord is good.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Taking God at His Word

1 Peter 1:23 (NIV)
²³ For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

For we have been born again---- this is the great rescue that God has made possible to all who believe in Him. We who had no hope have been given hope through Jesus Christ.

Not of perishable seed---- because of sin this perishable seed is not only death, but a separation from a beautiful relationship with our Heavenly Father.

But of imperishable---- but God in His infinite knowledge and love saw because of our choice in sin that we were without hope and made possible a way for us.

Through the living and enduring word of God---- here is where faith plays such and important role. We literally have to take God at His word. We can have confidence in that what He is saying is the truth but to stake your life on it is a different subject all together. He promises us so many things and we would be wise to explore the possibilities of what He is speaking into our hearts. The more we realize that He has been honest with us the more willing we are to trust in Him in future situations.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Sincere Love

1 Peter 1:22 (NIV)
²² Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.

Peter leads us to believe that we pursue purity because it leads to love. He instructs us to go even further in saying that we should have sincere love for our brothers and a deep love for everyone. This morning the word "SINCERE" is the center of my focus. It is very easy to show respect without love. To show care without love. To show tolerance without love. Peter tells us that we are suppose to show our brothers a kind of love that is selfless, sacrificing and attractive. When we show love without an agenda that is always attractive. If you show love with conditions there is a tendency to only display love when it is of benefit to you. That is where God comes into the picture. He displayed for all of us the greatest act of love. Making it possible to accept us while we are living in sin. This reality is so easy to push into the back of the mind (we kind of do that with all of life's mysteries, like how the microwave works). Sincere love comes from a heart that has been redeemed. It is a reactionary love.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Self-Control

1 Peter 1:13 (NIV)
^...be self-controlled; ...

Peter writes the statement as if it is as simple as that. Just control yourself!!! For me this is a constant battle. yesterday I was determined to do this, but faster than I decided to pursue self-control a series of events outside my control seemed to launch an attack. After reacting in a way that I was sure wasn't under self-control this thought occurred to me. I am not sure who said it but I am confident this is not an original thought bouncing in the head of BAG:

I can not fully control the actions of others. I can only control the actions of myself. This is self-control.

Because I can not dictate others emotions and desires, I must pre-decide much of my responses. Self-control can save us from many challenges down the road.

The good news is, even though yesterday was a challenge and I may have failed in my pursuit. Today is a new day. I will choose to have control over my actions, my emotions and my desires.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Preparing Your Minds For Action

1 Peter 1:13 (NIV)
¹³ Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.

Prepare your minds for action...
I am wondering what Peter was talking about when he instructs us to prepare our minds for action. I am curious as to why he wouldn't us the word "heart" here. So much in Jesus' teaching deals with the heart and how important preparing and protecting the heart is for us believers. Instead Peter challenges us to prepare our minds for action.

If the heart holds the emotion, the mind holds the knowledge and the strategy. This section of scripture is shared after Peter talks about the eminent return of Jesus. He is telling us how to live as we anticipate the second coming. I think he may be telling us to prepare our minds so we can pre-decide our actions. By doing this we are less likely to fall into the traps of the evil one and our own selfish desires. Preparing our minds is important because not all logic is bad.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Pursuing Holiness

1 Peter 1:13-16 (NIV)
"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

There is a lot to unpack in these few verses. I feel a leading to camp here this week. Peter is challenging us in how we follow God. I know for me that it is easy to get comfortable in my desire to draw closer to God. I think that is kind of what happens when we know that He will never walk away. However, just because He will not walk away doesn't mean we should treat Him as if we do not take the mission He has given us for granted.

The pursuit of holiness can be a tricky one to say the least. It is one where you never arrive and once you think that you do then you really need to take a step back. We pursue holiness because we serve a Holy God. Actually pulling that off is dependent on how determined we are to reflect the attributes of our Him who created us.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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2 Kings Seventeen

There was one verse that resounded in my spirit this morning as I was reading about the nations exile.

It is a part of verse 15....
"They followed worthless idols and
themselves became worthless."

What an intersting description of who these people became because of what they were pursuing. As they pursued worthless idols they inherited the traits of worthless idols.

I believe this principle rings true still in our lives.
If we pursue hate we become people of hate.
If we pursue apathy, we become people of apathy. If we puruse hope, we become people of hope.
If we pursue love, we become people of love.

Pick a single quality this week of something you wish to pursue and put this theory to the test. Though a week isn't necessarily a long amount of time, I believe you will start seeing some effects of it.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twenty - Two

There is a lot of things happening in this chapter, though one stood out above the rest. The messenger who went to collect Micaiah instructs him to give a favorable report since all the other prophets were doing the same. However, Micaiah knew that his responsibility and allegiance lied with God and not the opinion of man. Then, in that moment when he had the opportunity to say what was wanting to be heard instead of what was right Micaiah spoke from principle.

Ahab places him in a prison cell to be held until his safe return. Because I don't remember the rest of Micaiah's story at this point it seems that becasue his prophecy came true that he will be in that cell for a long time.

It is easy in life to tell people what they want to hear even if it is not the truth. I believe a large part of the test in character is being able to speak the truth regardless of the circumstance. Especially when the truth comes from God.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twenty - Two

I couldn't believe what my eyes were reading this monring. Ahab wants a vineyard that isn't his. Naboth says that he is unwilling to give it or sell it to the king because it was part of his inheritance. Ahab goes back to the palace and throws a good ol fashioned hissy fit that would make any two year old proud (I am speaking now from experience). Jezebel (the name just sounds evil) develops what she had to think was the only option. Eliminate Naboth.

Take a step back and realize what happened here.
A man was killed so another man can plant potatoes. Be aware of what is going on in your heart and how your emotions are effecting you. You do not want to sacrifice something menial today for something special tomorrow.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twenty

And then there was war. What I found most interesting was verse 28. God declares that He is not only the God of the hills but also of the valley. he is stating that there is nothing He is not capable of, a feat which is greater than that of the imaginary gods the Arameans serve.

I love it in scripture when God refocuses people's attention to His majesty. I wonder though, how many times is God revealing His splendor to us but we are too concerned with our own situation to acknowledge it?

God is always at work. We need to open our eyes and our heat to experience His glory.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Nineteen

Elijah following a moment where God reveals Himself with fire from the sky has now hit the road in fear for his life. Over the course of a few days he goes from bold prophet to not wanting to live any longer. It is amazing how a few days of focussing on your challenges can change your perspective.

But God had a greater plan...

As Elijah is wishing for death, he falls asleep, only to be awakened by God's provision. As I read this today I couldn't help but think that when possible rest is necessary to gain perspective. Eventually we find Elijah strengthened and God reveals that He is not done with His prophet. In fact, God directs Elijah to find invest in the life of Elisha and teach him how to pass on this torch.

In the midst of our storms and our fears, it is true that death seems like a tempting option. That is why faith and hope and love is so important.
Our faith gives us persistence to continue on in the journey. Our hope is what gives us a goal to shoot for. Love, as the apostle Paul says in Colossians, is what binds us all together in perfect harmony.


Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Fifteen

It is so easy to get confused with chapters like this. Reading about so many kings as they overlap each other. Keep this in mind. You are reading about to two different kingdoms. Israel is comprised of twelve tribes (or smaller kingdoms). Judah is one of those tribes/kingdom.

The reason we continue to read about who is leading Judah is because of Jesus. The risen King comes from this tribe. What we are reading here is His family tree in Judah and the history of God's people in the other.

Now that that is cleared up,
I hope you have a great day.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Fourteen

I find it disappointing that all that is mentioned with the stewardship of Rehoboam was that he allowed Egypt to take the treasures of the temple. Instead of going after them, it appears that they replaced gold shields for bronze ones. I believe this marked a deeper issue for the nation. Rehoboam was willing to settle instead of being drawn to action.

There are times in life when we should fight for what is precious to us. There is a reason that what matters most should actually matter the most. I would hate that, at the end of my life, the only thing said about me was that I settled for less than the best God was offering me when the world was on attack.

What do you hope is said about you? The best way for that to be said is either record it and play it at your funeral or live it and have others say it.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Thirteen

Though Jeroboam had clear warnings from God about his choices to disobey God's commands, he decided to not heed the advice. Eventually, this will lead to his downfall. I am reminded today that any position of authority we may find ourselves in is always a stewardship.

As we lead others, God is continually challenging us to make good use of our decisions and our time. If you take advantage of people or your situation or forget where your leadership opportunities come from, don't be surprised when you find yourself without the opportunity to lead.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twelve

Jeroboam is about to start leading the Israelites as their king. The leaders ask for a lighter yoke to be placed upon them than what Solomon did. Jeroboam seeks counsel from two different groups of people. Those with experience and those without it. Choosing who to take counsel from is an important part of the decision making process.

Here are a few thoughts to consider when seeking counsel:
1) Do you have respect for the one you are seeking counsel from?

2) Have they been where you are attempting to go in regards to the decision?

3) Are they quick to take praise or say, "I told you so?"

4) Does their counsel contradict the Word of God?

5) Do you feel they have your best interest in mind?

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Eight

As Solomon dedicates the temple, something significant happens in verse 10. God's presence fills the temple. This had to have brought great strength and confidence to the Israelites. Because God was near, they could celebrate.

Today, I am reminded that we have the same reason to celebrate and can have strength and confidence because our God is near. Draw close to Him today and He will draw near to you.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Seven

Yea, well I hope you found this chapter as interesting and life altering as I did. For me I enjoyed the fact that Solomon finished what his father started. Because David was not allowed to make the temple, he started the initial capital fund raising. As Solomon completes construction we se at the end of the chapter that he placed the items David had set apart in the treasury. Solomon could have done anything to those items. He was king and had dominion over life and death. But Solomon knew his integrity was worth more than silver and gold and furnishings.

What is your price tag? For you to abandon your values, what would it take? The payment comes in different scenarios based on the category. Some of you know all to well what I am saying and others are still looking confused at the screen (you may want to stop, your face may freeze like that). There is always a price that either we or the enemy will offer in an attempt to disqualify you from barrier free living with God. Take some time today and ask yourself in the areas that matter most to you, what is your price tag?

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Six

Talk about a church building program. 7 years to complete, I think our society would have moved in by year 2. Its probably good that the general contractor was also a king. The building of the temple was less about giving people a place to go worship as it was about showing God how magnificent He is and giving Him the excellence due to Him. Solomon provided the very best materials as an offering to his King. I believe excellence matters as we give back to our Heavenly Father.

Colossians 3:17 "whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Five

What a great few chapters to read over the last few days. As David passes away and Solomon begins his stewardship as leader of the Israelites to Solomon asking and receiving wisdom and the preparation for building the temple. I find that it is easy to read books like this as if they are fables and stories that we tell kids. Today, I would challenge you to read this as both a history lesson and an applicable principle for life. As you ask God to speak to you through His word, I am confident that He will do just that.

Heart and Soul<
BAG
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1 Kings One

As I sit here typing after reading this chapter I wonder where to actually start. There is so much to write about with each character that is introduced. But, it's Friday, I'm hungry and you are tryin to get out of the office early so I will spare you a long message.

I will say however, on the day we read about Solomon woke up the son of the king and went to sleep as the king. This thought crossed my mind; "What do you do when God's plan comes over you like a tidal wave?" Solomon now has the responsiblity to take care of the people, the authority to call shots in matters of life and death and the expectation to become a king greater than his father. What an overwhelming task when one believes they bear the burden solely.

However, Solomon was wise...VERY WISE. He rode the wave not by himself but with God. There are times in our lives when opportunities are thrusted upon us and it is literally a matter of sink or swim. In those times, acknowledge that God is near and allow Him to bring you strength and insight for the journey.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Forty - Two

As our story of Job wraps up, we see the "And Everyone Lived Happily Ever After" tag at the end. Job is restored, his friends are forgiven, and God is glorified. I would, however, like to remind you that as of last week, the outcome was not looking promising.

I believe the same is true of our story. Maybe the storm you find yourself in is at its last stages. Have you considered the possibility that in a few days things will settle and you will experience restoration?

God had a great plan for Job, and it is evident not in the restoring of all Job's stuff and then some (even though that is what we tend to notice as the bow is added to wrap up the story), but, I believe, it is evident in the fact that God knew what Job's friends had said and how the conversation was going. Through the storm... God was there. Through the party... God was there.

And for us, today, He remains the same. He is near. If you look you can see Him at work in your heart and around you. Open your eyes and taste and see that the Lord is good.



Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Forty - One

God shares all that insight into the leviathan just to say that He can do all things because He is God. Today, make it a point to keep your eyes open to see Him at work around you.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Forty

Job has been saying all this time that all He wants to do is plead his innocence with the Almighty. Here, in chapter 40, he get's his chance. However, after God's entrance and introduction, Job is left with few words. God has shown Job that his perspective is extremely limited in comparison to the omnipotence of the our Heavenly Father. In essence, God tells Job that there are greater things at work than what he is aware of. As a loving Father, God is always in control of our situations.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Thirty - Five

Elihu speaks to a reality of God's personality. He shares with the men that even though God does not intervene immediately at the first sight of a storm, He still cares.

I am reading a book right now by Mark Batterson titled, "In a Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day". He shares a similar response and offers what I have found to be good advice on how we react to it. He says:

"We pray for comfort instead of character. We pray for an easy way out instead of the strength to make it through. We pray for no pain, when the result would be no gain. We pray that God will keep us out of pits and away from lions. But if God answered our prayer, it would rob us of our greatest opportunities. Many of our prayers would short-circuit God's plans and purposes for our lives if He answered them. Maybe we should stop asking God to get us out of difficult circumstances and start asking Him what He wants us to get out of those difficult circumstances."

Heart and Soul,

BAG

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Job Thirty - Four

I am chomping at the bit to get to the part of this story when God speaks to the men. It is one of my favorite parts of God's Word. When He speaks, amazing things happen as a result. Today, listen for the words He has for you. Listen both externally and internally. He has something to say.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Twenty - Eight

Job is talking about all the good that he did when he had his wealth and his family. It seems to me that he is dancing the line of prideful boasting But then again, he may be holding on to the memories of what he considers better times. For that, I can't fault him. I would be stuck in the middle of a pity party.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Twenty - Eight

Job lends insight this morning as to where true wisdom is found. There is a tendency in us all to confuse knowledge with wisdom. They are two separate things. There are such things as wisdom without knowledge and knowledge without wisdom. One can buy knowledge. Universities attest to that reality. But wisdom is intertwined with character. As Job speaks to us this morning, He reveals that wisdom is found in fearing the wonder of our God. So in a large way, wisdom is a gift that God gives His children to navigate the waters of life with certainty that we will arrive at our desired destination.

Heart And Soul,

BAG

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Job Twenty - Seven

Life Application Bible Notes

Notes for 27:13-23

Job agreed with his friends that the end of the wicked will be disaster, but he did not agree that he was wicked and deserving of punishment. Most of the punishments Job listed never happened to him. So he wasn't including himself as one of the wicked. On the contrary, he continually pleaded for God to vindicate him.

Heart and Soul,

BAG

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Job Twenty - Six

I don't know about you but this is starting to read like a Shakespearean play. Blah, blah. Blah, blah. Blah, blah. I think Job should hit someone and there be a great scuffle near a cliff. It would read something like this... "Job punched Bildad right in the mouth, so hard that he almost fell off the edge of the cliff they were sitting near. But at the last minute a hawk swooped by and knocked Bildad back upright saving him from certain death. They named the hawk, Brandon. Because he was just that cool."

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Twenty - One

—Life Application Bible Notes
Notes for 21:22

Although baffled by the reasons for his suffering, Job affirmed God's superior understanding by asking, "Can anyone teach knowledge to God?" The way you respond to your personal struggles shows your attitude toward God. Rather than becoming angry with God, continue to trust him, no matter what your circumstances may be. Although it is sometimes difficult to see, God is in control. We must commit ourselves to him so we will not resent his timing.

Heart and Soul,

BAG

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Job Twenty

Zophar comes in this round as the ambassador of compassion. Let's recap all that has happened to Job. His children are dead, the wealth he had amassed has been taken, his body has been inflicted with sores, his wife is nagging him to just die and his friends have come along and are expressing their opinions.

With Zophar's, "You got what you had coming to you" rant, I would not be surprised if Job's repsonse started with something like this: "And Job stood, dusted the ash off his body and punched Zophar in the mouth."

At least that is what I would be thinking.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Sixteen

When we have a friend that is suffering through one of life's many storms it can be difficult to help. I am reminded of that today we Job replies to his friends. They seem to be needing a lesson in compassion or at the least a lesson in how to support a friend when he needs community. But, I don't blame them for their actions because I have shared their shoes. And I bet you have as well.

Here are some things I try to remember when I have a friend that needs a friend.

1. I don't have all the answers.
So I try not to act like I do.

2. Sometimes a friend needs a good kick in the
pants. Other times they need a hug.
When in doubt.... give the hug.

3. They probably know that God is working all
things out for those He loves. maybe
reminding them isn't the best course of
action.

4. Love always wins. God's story is saturated with
it. So when you don't know what to say,
show love.

Heart and Soul,

BAG

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Job Fifteen

It seems the conversation is heating up a bit as the second round of discussions get started. Today we see a more forceful and intense Eliphaz. Even though he will be wrong in his assessment of Job's situation, I am reminded this morning that conflict will happen in our relationships.

All lasting relationships will experience strain at some point. It is my belief that if one can go into friendship aware that conflict can happen then the two have a better chance of growing closer through the challenge.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Fourteen

I think that it may be something that I ate, but to be totally honest with you, today's reading was pretty difficult for me to fight through. I am really excited about the end of this book, as God sets the record straight. On days like this I try to remind myself of

Hebrews 4:12
¹² For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Thirteen

I attempted to write about this chapter as if my take was an original thought, but it wasn't. The study notes in my bible put great words to what I was thinking.

Notes for 13:4

Job compared his three friends to physicians who did not know what they were doing. They were like eye surgeons trying to perform open-heart surgery. Many of their ideas about God were true, but they did not apply to Job's situation. They were right to say that God is just. They were right to say God punishes sin. But they were wrong to assume that Job's suffering was a just punishment for his sin. They took a true principle and applied it wrongly, ignoring the vast differences in human circumstances. We must be careful and compassionate in how we apply Biblical condemnations to others; we must be slow to judge.

-Life Application Bible Notes

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Twelve

Even during a great challenge he feels God is responsible for, Job acknowledges that God is powerful. I find it easy to start looking for flaws in God's plan when discomfort sets in. I justify my actions based on the possibility that I read the signs wrong or that "surely, God meant it to happen a different way." Job brings me both great strength and a challenge here.

In the midst of my storm, God is near.
In the turmoil of my day, God is near.
In the love that I feel around me, God is near.
In the hope that I have for my future, God is near.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Eight

Notes from Life Application Study Bible:

Notes for 8:1

Bildad was upset that Job still claimed innocence while questioning God's justice. The basis of Bildad's argument (the justice of God) was correct, but his idea of God's justice was not. Bildad's argument went like this: God could not be unjust, and God would not punish a just man; therefore Job must be unjust. Bildad felt there were no exceptions to his theory. Like Eliphaz, Bildad wrongly assumed that people suffer only as a result of their sins. Bildad was even less sensitive and compassionate, saying that Job's children died because of their wickedness.

Notes for 8:14,15

Bildad wrongly assumed that Job was trusting in something other than God for security, so he pointed out that such supports will collapse ("what he trusts in is fragile"). One of man's basic needs is security, and people will do almost anything to feel secure. Eventually, however, our money, possessions, knowledge, and relationships will fail or be gone. Only God can give lasting security. What have you trusted for your security? How lasting is it? If you have a secure foundation with God, feelings of insecurity will not undermine you.

Heart and Soul,

BAG

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Job Seven

Job's honesty with God should not be taken as being disloyal. Job is committed to God's authority, but is truthful enough to speak to God as a child would to a father. It is all right when we face trials and challenges to speak openly with God about how we are feeling. He is big enough to take our complaining.

One practice that I try to implement when speaking like this is ending the conversation with something like, "Even though I would choose a different way. I am confident that You are in control, so I will trust in You even if the storm gets darker before it gets lighter because You alone are God." By doing this, I not only tell God that I am submitting to His authority, but I am reminding myself that my hope rests in Him who has great plans for me.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Six

Verses 8-9
⁸ "Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for,
⁹ that God would be willing to crush me, to let loose his hand and cut me off!

Job appears to have had a thought of giving up. He wanted to be free from his pain and die. God had a greater plan for him. SPOILER ALERT: At the end of this trial God will restore Job to his previous stature and then some. If God would have granted Job's request, this story would have ended no later than chapter 5 with: And God granted Job's request even though God had so much more in store for him.

I believe the same has applied in my life and in yours. Many times, because of discomfort, we abandon the path God has chosen for us when the reward is waiting at the end of the road. Now, I am not saying we should seek out pain, believing in false hopes of something better. What I am saying is that when trials arise, be confident that God is near and is protecting you in order to give you something greater.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Job Five

Eliphaz reminds us today of a forgotten growth conductor... Pain. We live in a society in which we believe that all discomfort should be avoided and any trials that come our ways bring no hope. However, there is a different side to experiencing pain. Sometimes pain bring clarity or healing or even hope. Job had to hold on to this as an anchor.

Though Eliphaz was insightful, he was not absolutely correct. His notion that Job had sinned and that that was why he was experiencing the trials he was facing is a common misconception among most Christians. A relationship with God does not exclude us from a life of challenges. Everything we experience is part of a process that is leading us toward total restoration and completion (James 1:3).

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Sixty - Three

When I was growing up the whole praise thing through me for a loop. I thought, "If God is perfect then why would He have a need for us to tell Him how great He is?" Then it hit me, He doesn't need anything. We tell Him how magnificent He is out of love and appreciation. Love cherishes his recipient and is determined to display affection in word and action.

That is where David is today. He is telling God how amazing He is not out of obligation, but out of joy. Take some time this morning and do the same. You will be amazed what this does for the heart.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Sixty - Two

Psalms 62:8 (NIV)
⁸ Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Selah

The word Selah appears many times in the book of Psalms. I spent the early part of my relationship with God reading over words like this that I didn't understand. Doing this, however, robbed me of some great thought.

The word Selah means: to stop and ponder. Psalms were kind of the first formal praise and worship songs. They would be recited with instruments. People would sing, hum, do the na na na's, but when the word Selah would be said people would be silent and think about what they just heard.

Today, I would challenge you to read verse eight again and then stop everything and think about the words inspired through David.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Sixty - One

David calls out to God for security and assurance.
I believe there is a tendency in us all to anchor on false hopes and shifting sands. If you are honest enough with yourself, you have felt the sting of being let down because someone or something did not hold their end of the bargain. God has not nor will He ever come up short in His promises to you. He is a constant refuge, a faithful King and a loving Father.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Fifty - Seven

Take some time today to let these words wash over you.
Read it as the nourishment for your soul that it is intended to be.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Fifty - Six

Verse 3
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.

Fear is a very natural reaction for us. You don't have to teach it to kids, and as adults it has the ability to paralyze us from truly living. God tells us not to fear. Jesus reassures us that we have no need to fear. But from the beginning of our story, fear has played a significant role.

As I was reading this verse today, a thought occurred to me. (I'm not sure this is totally original and would put my money on the fact that someone has shared this with me in the past and I forgot about it.) We fear out of the uncertainty of the outcome. We don't tell our spouse everything because we don't know how they will take it. We don't take that next step in our careers because there is the chance that it won't pan out as expected. We don't fully trust God because, though faith is believing without seeing, we prefer the tangible over the mystical.

Fear is natural for the believer. I think that is why God addresses it so much in His Word. It can either shackle or liberate us - shackle us in the way that we live only partial lives, playing it safe - liberate us in the beautiful reality that when fear shows it's ugly face, we have one in whom we can place our trust, one who has overcome the fear that would so easily slow us down.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Forty - Two

There is a tendency in us all to take matters into our own hands when life brings difficulties. I can speak from experience that doing this has created more issues and prolonged the conflict than what was necessary. David teaches us a valuable lesson here.

The choices we make while in conflict is important to damage control. By asking God to illuminate David's path, he is assured to have good counsel. The same applies for us.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Forty - Two

Verse 1-2:
As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

Verse 11:
Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

I love David's transparency before God. In the same Psalm He declares his thirst for more of God in his life and then tries to figure out why he is so downcast. I believe this is a beautiful picture of the human condition. We can tend to be like H.G. Wells' description of Mr. Polly: "not so much a human being as a civil war."

It begs the question, "If everyday with God is sweeter than the day before, why in the world is today so difficult?"

David seems to be having this challenge. I think it's important to point out that his desire for God and his emotions may be in conflict, but his heart is prioritizing what is important, and his mind is helping him down a beautiful road of reasoning. David's self-talk at the end of verse 11 brings me great comfort today.

I will put my hope in God (not man).
I will praise Him because He is my Savior.
He is MY GOD!

Psalm Forty - One

David is asking for God's mercy in a time of trouble. I find that this is different than what I typically do in similar situations. I am quick to blame and complain to God about whatever is the trouble. This rarely does anything but waste breath. God's mercy is ever present... even in times of trouble. He is working all things out for those He loves. Allow His presence to comfort and sustain you today when things don't exactly go your way.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Forty

Sometimes following God's will require seasons of waiting patiently. We don't do waiting well in our society, especially when you tack on trying to do it patiently. Much of the time, the wait can save you from unnecessary damage. I am amazed, sometimes, at how quickly I throw myself into battles prematurely. Only realizing in hindsight that the conflict was not even necessary for what I truly wanted. God has a way of working all things out for those He loves. As His child today, you are one of those He loves.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Thirty - Nine

David holds his tongue until he feels he can't hold it any longer. When he decides to speak about his complaints, David takes them straight to God. There are many times in life we complain to people that have no effect in rectifying the situation. Taking your complaints, your fears, your hopes and dreams to God is the greatest way to make sense out of the emotions of your heart. Asking His Spirit to guide you will help in staying the course. God will not lead you astray.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Thrity - Eight

David seems to have an understanding of what you reap, so you will sow. He believes here that he is getting what he deserves and does not cast blame on God for what he is going through. In his petition, David only asks that God would protect him from his enemies. Sounds fair to me.

We can not escape the consequences of our sins. And thought Jesus paid the ultimate price to make us right with God, we will need course corrections. God has a great plan for us. In order to achieve that plan we must follow God's path. It is important to acknowledge in times of correction that we are not being treated unfairly. God is a perfect judge.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Thirty - Six

Note from Life Application Study Bible:
[Theme:] God's faithfulness, justice, and love are contrasted with the sinful hearts of men and women. In spite of our fallen condition, God pours out his love on those who know him.

This should bring us comfort and joy today. Because God's love for us is so strong and He is willing to defeat sin and death on our behalf, we experience a love that is unmatched. God is good and we are blessed.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Thirty - Five

David is writing out of a state of hurt confusion. Usually his attacks came from enemies of other countries. Here, it seems the attack is coming from within - from people that he has shared life with - people that, when life was difficult for them, David went passionately to God on behalf of.

It has been my experience that an attack from a friend does more damage than an assault from an enemy. I believe the reason is that, in the former, the heart takes the most punishment.

I find great strength from David's self talk with God. He asks his Creator to affirm that He is his salvation. David decides that He will allow God to be his protector and vindicator. Then, finally, the most important moment of clarity in the chapter appears in the last verse. David chooses what kind of words will come out of his mouth. The choices are praise or slander. He chooses praise. And so should we.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Thirty - Three

^"We wait in hope for the LORD; He is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.
May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in You."
-----Psalms 33:20-22 (NIV)

How we look at tomorrow is important as we live in today. Knowing that God is our help and our shield, the promises He has given us about tomorrow bring great joy to the hearts of believers. Since His love has no end we are assured that each day we live will be with Him in our midst.

This week I want to make it a point to allow God's promises for my tomorrow to outweigh any trials that may come my way. In turn my "hope" for tomorrow has much more optimism.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Psalm Thirty - Two

"Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD"-- and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah "
-----Psalms 32:5 (NIV)

Acknowledging our sin is important. But being totally honest is vital in eliminating the barriers sin creates in our lives. By not covering up his iniquity, David shows God that what is going on inside is more important than outward appearances. We can learn an important lesson from this.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Micah Seven

"Work miracles for us, Lord, as you did in the days when you brought us out of Egypt."
Micah 7:15 (TEV)

We seem to believe that miracles are not possible in this day and age. I contend that maybe we don't see them as often as scripture makes it appear is because we don't eagerly await them enough. God has split seas, defeated armies single handily and raised people from the dead. I think we have become so self functioning that we don't have the reliance for miracles that only God can perform.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Micah Five

As the chapter starts about the coming King, I am reminded of just how fortunate we are and how much God loves us. Because our sin created a chasm that was unjumpable, God chose to give us another chance by sending His Son. It is easy (at least for me) to allow each day go by not recognizing what Jesus has done for me. I can get lost in the busyness, the laziness, and the activeness of my day.

All the while forgetting:

"Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe.
My sin had left a crimson stain.
He washed it white as snow."

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Micah Four

Verses 6 and 7 speak about what God will do at the end of days. I love reading these words. The Holy Spirit that lives in me leaps for joy when I ponder these words.

Ever have a day when right out of the gate you find yourself in frustration and conflict? I have found myself here today. As I write, I realize I have two options. Dwell or press on. The attitude I choose will navigate the emotions and actions of my day. Today, as I press on, I will make it a point to find beauty in God's creation. I will think about the good that this world has to offer. I will give my God my very best effort. He deserves nothing less than that. Love wins when we choose to wear it as our clothes.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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Micah Three

Two verses leapt from the pages today:
v1
"Listen, you leaders of Jacob,
you rulers of the house of Israel.
Should you not know justice,"

Leadership is a stewardship in which the leader is held accountable by God. At the time of Micah's prophesy, the leaders of the nation had led their people astray. Corruption was severe and justice was on hiatus. They treated God like a magic genie, able to be used whenever they wanted. God, however, refused to be their puppet. The same applies for us. God takes great delight in his children because He knows that His presence is the greatest place for us to be.

v6
"As for the prophets
who lead my people astray,
if one feeds them,
they proclaim 'peace';
if he does not,
they prepare to wage war against him."

These prophets were prone to accept a bribe for a favorable proclamation. They must have thought that no one would notice and if their prophesy did not come true that they would make up some excuse to get them off the hook. Their problem is that God was aware of their actions. They may have played the part on the outside, but on the inside they were something dramatically different. This is where the Holy Spirit plays a powerful role in our lives. Serving as a moral compass, He reveals the right path. What we have to be committed to is following through.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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