Sunday Sprint: Stand Firm

“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

- 1 Peter 5:8-9

When it seems like everything in life seems to be going wrong, it's important to remember that there are evil forces at work in this world that want to see us fail. Our enemy wants us to give up. But we have God on our side, and we are not alone. Everyone in this world--every single person--goes through some tough times. Some more than others. We have to stand firm against an enemy that wants to see us suffer and we need to stand together, unified, in Christ.

Don't let life knock you down. 

Drawing Near to God as an Enthusiast

"...He made known to us the mystery of His will..."

Ephesians 1:9

" 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams."

Acts 2:17

en·thu·si·ast

[en-thoo-zee-ast, -ist]

–noun

2. a religious visionary or fanatic.

Do you search for signs in the world around you? Do you seek God's will fervently? Have you ever had answer to prayer? Perhaps a miracle? 

I know I have. 

Drawing near to God as an enthusiast is, as the name would suggest, is one of the most exciting ways to experience His presence. This is where faith and tangible collide. This where, with a sensitive heart, one can actually see and hear God. 

I've had dreams that I feel were warnings from God (in fact the last one I posted about this past Sunday!). 

I've had my soul tugged on by the Holy Spirit--pointing out signs and warnings.

I've also had God work incredible miracles in my life. It is in moments of crises and devastation that I've been able to lean so fully on God that I could put my complete and utter faith in him. Don't get me wrong, I've never lost my faith in God... but there have been times where I didn't fully trust God. That is why you know me as the Daily Stumbler. I have a wobbly faith. I am self-centered and all too often mistakenly think that I have got things under control, that I can "do" life on my own. 

However, there have been times when life has knocked me to my knees. I've had nothing left of my own power. All there was left for me to do was to pray. And trust. And pray some more. The exciting thing was... God responded to me when I was broken. He heard my prayers for miracles and he granted them. God transformed my heart and gave me strength when I needed it. He also transformed the hearts of those closest to me. I've seen him change a heart of cold cruelty into a heart of love. I don't really want to go into too much detail about my miracle... as it is incredibly personal... however, believe me when I say... our God is a God of miracles. He listens to his children even in this modern, fast-paced era. God listens and responds. 

I would consider myself an "occasional enthusiast". Sometimes my heart is in the right place to receive visions, signs, and miracles. I wish I had the faith and humility to live in this state more often. However, my self-centeredness often gets in the way. Enthusiasts draw close to God by seeking and receiving signs from Him. They teeter between fervent asking and zealous praise when their requests are granted. God doesn't always respond with signs and wonders... but when he does, his children notice. Being blessed with a miracle (big or small) even just once in a lifetime is enough to bring a person to tears and thank their Heavenly Father for revealing Himself to them in such an incredible way.

I thank God for the miracles he's performed in my life already. I pray that he'd keep my heart sensitive and humble enough to continue to receive his signs, visions, messages, and miracles. I hope that this Stumbler will learn to trust God fully so that she will stumble no more.

**This post is in my "Drawing Near to God" series inspired by Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways. 

Drawing Near to God through Caregiving

"...Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Matthew 20:26-28

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is...serving, let him serve"

Romans 12:6-7

Have you ever given someone the perfect gift? A gift that was worth giving just for the sublime look on the recipient's face? Do you remember the absolute joy you felt as you watched that person open that special gift? 

This is how some people feel when they serve and care for others. They find God's presence--His joy--in giving the gift of service to those around them. They might not always get that eye-popping, gratitude-oozing reaction from those they care for, however they still find the Lord's joy in giving that gift nonetheless. 

I've known many a Great Servant (what a wonderful oxymoron that is!). Men and women who serve tirelessly and joyfully. Men and women who find no greater satisfaction than in being able to give of their time and energy to others. 

I don't know about you, but this Stumbler has often found herself grumbling when it comes to serving others. I've been known to whine and complain on more than one occasion when the work got too hard or went on for too long. I am in awe of those who can give so selflessly to those around them on a regular basis. However, this is how some people find the presence of God. This is how some people stoke the fire in their soul. While I might be ignited with a Holy fire in discovering God through a good sermon or Christian book, there are those who find that flame in caring for others. 

Have you found your flame yet, dear reader? In writing this "Drawing Near to God" series, I've grown more and more amazed at the many ways people can find closeness with their Heavenly Father. It makes me so thankful that my God is an excellent friend. He's willing to touch our hearts in a variety of ways so that there doesn't have to be a cookie-cutter method of worshiping Him and finding the warmth of His presence. There are still a few more paths in this series, but I have found it extremely rewarding to ponder and even practice a few different "paths" to cultivating a closer relationship with God than my defaults. It has stretched my soul muscles and made my heart a little softer to His voice.

While there is only one path to Salvation, there are so many ways to delight in God. I praise Him for that.

**This post is in my "Drawing Near to God" series inspired by Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways. 

Sunday Sprint: Satan-- Beyond the Halloween Costume

"The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved." 

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10

I had a dream last night... it was of a suave, handsome gentleman. He dressed smart. He was sophisticated and charming. He had a smile that could melt anyone's heart and instantly endear them to himself. 

However, as the dream went on, this man grew more and more agitated and upset. His charming smile disappeared and he began to rant about the disrespect he had to endure from others. He vowed to get his revenge on the world. He would demand the respect of everyone. 

This man's eyes became more wild with every passing moment as a rage ignited within them. He performed unimaginable acts of cruelty in order to have his revenge on the world he felt had insulted him. 

This man's name? Satan.

With Halloween just around the corner, we're sure to see a myriad of devilish costumes roaming the streets... red horned headbands, plastic pitchforks, and pointed red tails. The world has reduced Satan to a comical cartoon. 

While Christians have nothing to fear in Satan---our Savior has assured us of that---he is still no laughing matter. Satan has put on a charming face for thousands of years... he has put up with our disrespect and scoffing. However, this fallen angel who was so arrogant and power-hungry as to face off with the God of the Universe--his own Creator---is not one to be scoffed at. He will destroy anyone not under God's protection when the time is right.

Satan isn't some fun party animal. He isn't a punchline to some funny joke. He is very real. He has been allotted real power. While his power is minuscule in comparison God's, he still has the permission and ability to torment and destroy all those who refuse to acknowledge Jesus as their Savior when the time comes.  

We take Satan's power away by putting our trust in God and our faith in Jesus. To those who are under God's protection, Satan can do little more than whisper arguments in their ear. And those who have set down roots in God's Word will see right through Satan's lies and schemes. However, those who have not yet accepted the Salvation found in Christ, Satan has the power to destroy--mind, body, and soul. 

This Stumbler is going to watch her step carefully so that she is not tripped up by this cunning tempter. The more of us who turn our back on the world and Satan's schemes, the less power he has. How blessed we are to have found safety in the arms of our God! Without Him, we would be hopeless...we would be defenseless against the anger and wrath of a prideful Satan, seeking his revenge.

Keep your eyes and ears open. 

Keep your faith unwavering. 

Keep a healthy respect for your enemy. 

Have no fear. 

Drawing Near to God through Activism

"In the temple courts [Jesus] found men selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, "Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father's house into a market!""

John 2:14-16

Have you ever had something in society make you downright angry? A social injustice that just broke your heart or made your blood boil? Perhaps it's poverty in Africa. Abortion in the big city. Corruption in governments. Domestic abuse. Environment.

Whatever the case may be, there is plenty in this world to stir a Christian's heart into a righteous anger. For some people it is this righteous passion for fighting for justice that allows them to find the presence of God. While some people find God in church, others find God on at the protest rally. 

I admire people who turn their righteous anger into productive action. All too often we (myself included) become apathetic to the injustices and sins of the world around us. Sure, we may get a little emotional---a little teary-eyed or riled up---at the stories of injustice that are brought to our attention in our day-to-day life. However, most of us never take it past that step. We get a little emotional... perhaps share a word or two with a close friend over coffee... but that's it. It takes a special person to put words into action. 

For those of you who are gifted in this area or have been called to find God's presence through activism, I commend you. I hope that I'll find the courage within me to take action the next time an injustice stirs my soul. Who knows? Maybe this Stumbler will be standing at your side at your next rally. 

God,

Thank you for your love and mercy... but thank you also for your anger. Give me a heart that mirrors yours. Make my heart joyful at what brings you joy, sad at what brings you sadness, and angry at what brings you anger. Stir my heart to match yours and give me the courage and strength to take action when you call me to do so.

In Jesus' name I pray always,

Amen.

**This post is in my "Drawing Near to God" series inspired by Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways. 

Withdrawing to Draw Near to God

 "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed."

Mark 1:35

Silence. To some, silence is a scary thing. It is a cold loneliness. An uneasiness. Unsafe. However, to others, there is beauty in silence. It is like a warm embrace. A refuge. A retreat. A Holy place.  

Jesus exemplified what it was like to draw near to God through solitude and simplicity. Yes, Jesus would often be in community with others. Yes, he sought to reach out to others and cultivate relationships with them. However, I truly believe that Jesus found God's presence the best in solitude. Whenever he needed to have a serious chat with his Dad, Jesus left his friends behind and sought solitude.

Solitude and simplicity go hand in hand. To be alone is to be away from distraction. I think many of those who find God's presence best through solitude also find it necessary to live simply. Possessions cause distractions. Possessions cause worry and stress. A person with nothing has nothing to worry about but sustaining life and relationship with God (which, in many ways, are one in the same). Jesus had nothing but the clothes on his back. If God led him to a new city, Jesus merely had to put his sandals on and started walking. It is so difficult for those of us who are rooted by possessions--a house, car, job, items big and small--to pick up (or leave) everything and follow God. 

I can really understand why some people find God's presence in solitude and simplicity. There truly is nothing between you and God then. I wish I had the faith to live that way. I know that I am guilty of letting so many things get between me and my Heavenly Father. Even if I am in solitude, I will sometimes let my loneliness get between me and my God. 

But, really, why should I be lonely? The God of the Universe is with me. Why should I worry about my possessions? I can't take them with me when God calls me Home... and, besides, I'm sure God has much better things waiting for me in Heaven than iPhones and two-car garages.

This Stumbler is retreating to solitude to find companionship with her God. Less, as they say, is more. So much more. 

**This post is a post in my "Drawing Near to God" series inspired by Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways. 

Sunday Sprint: Coffee? Try Depending on God for your Pick-Me-Up

"It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect"

Psalm 18:32

If you're anything like me, you probably feel that you just can't take it anymore some days. You just can't go one. Can't face the day. Just want to pull the covers over your head and declare the day a write-off before you even begin.

Well you're right.

We can't do this on our own. The day IS a write-off before it even begins if we don't have the Lord leading the way. He is the one who gives us the strength and guidance to make the day worth living. Life is meaningless without Him.

Have a good week in the Lord, fellow Stumblers.

**Sorry for the late post. Monday's regular post will be up later today.

Drawing Near to God Through Tradition

"[Jesus] went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom" 

(Luke 4:16)

"On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus...

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body."

Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'" (Matthew 26:17, 26-28)

Every family has traditions. Whether they are based around holidays, a weekly ritual, or a daily routine... every family has its own traditions. I think we find traditions comforting. We know what to expect. They happen on a regular basis and always happen in a similar manner. We have fond memories attached to tradition. Good food, good conversation, and good times with family and friends. Traditions are comfortable.

Likewise, every church has its own traditions. While some churches are considered more "traditional" than others, I think this is a misnomer. ALL churches are "traditional", it's just that some churches have been practicing their traditions a lot longer than others. 

In continuing the "drawing near to God" series, I wanted to explore the idea that people sometimes best draw near to God through practicing traditions. While we need to be careful not to become dependent on rituals, traditions do serve a purpose in helping people find God's presence. 

Jesus had the tradition of attending church regularly. He celebrated the tradition of Passover with his disciples. He also created the tradition of Communion. Traditions serve the purpose of bringing people together and reminding them of God's amazing grace, mercy, and love. As I  said before, traditions are comfortable. People are creatures of habit. We like knowing what to do and what to expect. In this crazy world, sometimes the most effective way to draw close to God is by taking part in a familiar tradition to remind us of Him.

Traditions offer us a warm, familiar hug. God knows that we need gentle, regular reminders of Him. This is offered in the traditions He set out for us. Is it really any surprise, then, that often our fondest memories are built around tradition? I certainly hope that some of those fond memories have my Father God at their center.

**This post is a post in my "Drawing Near to God" series inspired by Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways. 

Drawing Near to God Through Senses

 "Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp" 

Psalm 149:3

"He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy."

Job 8:21

"The LORD will march out like a mighty man, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal"

Isaiah 42:13

"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."

Romans 12:11

Have you ever felt the presence of God? The undeniable, overwhelming, exhilarating, yet humbling feeling that God is with you? While I always know that God is with me, it is an amazing experience to feel that truth. In exploring today's theme of drawing near to God through the senses, I came across many examples in the Bible of the emotions people felt when they drew near to God. However, none summed up the sensual experience of feeling God as the words "zeal" and "fervor".

I looked up both of these words and they were both synonymous with "great warmth and earnestness of feeling". In other words, being "on fire" for the Lord, burning with passion for Him. The best way I can explain it is that it is kind of like falling in love... you feel your heart flutter with excitement and joy, you feel a little awkward as you try to make a good impression, and you feel like you would do anything--anything--for the object of your affections. However, when this feeling of fervor washes over me in the presence of God it is different somehow... bigger... Holy. 

Some people draw near to God best in this way. By seeking and maintaining this feeling. While I personally am in awe and am invigorated by the presence of God, I have a difficult time maintaining this feeling. I've found that by seeking this feeling as the main source of affirmation of my faith, that my faith falters in the bad times when I can no longer maintain the good feelings.

However, other people have no trouble maintaining the feelings of joy, awe, zeal and fervor. It is the way they best draw close to God. I am ashamed to say that I have often judged those overcome with spiritual fervor in a charismatic church service as being "fake"... and while I am sure there are those who are putting on a "show", I've come to realize that I am actually envious of their passion. I wish I could maintain those strong feelings. I wish that I could feel the presence of God like that all of the time. 

We each draw close to God in different ways. It is such a gift when God draws so close that he touches our hearts, when his Holy Spirit washes over us and we are able to truly feel his warmth. 

It certainly brings tears of joy to this Stumbler's eyes.

**This post is the second post in my "Drawing Near to God" series inspired by Gary Thomas' book Sacred Pathways. 

Sunday Sprint: Thanksgiving

"I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving." 

Psalm 69:30

Today I celebrated Canadian Thanksgiving with family. We had a wonderful time with each other, sharing in good conversation and great food (thank God my husband can cook...if it were left up to me we'd probably have mac and cheese!) I was filled with gratefulness for a great long weekend and time with family.

 It's so easy to thank God when times are good--- surrounded by loving family and good food. However, today I am reminded that I need to thank God during the difficult times too. If nothing else, I will always thank God for forgiving and saving a Stumbler like me.

Times won't always be good or easy, but God will ALWAYS be worthy of our praise and thanks. After all, he loved and saved us while we were still acting like wretched, selfish brats. He didn't wait for us to be "worth" saving.

Thank you, God. 

Drawing Near to God Through Nature

"He makes me lie down in green pastures, 

he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul."

Psalm 23:2-3

"There are three things that are too amazing for me, 

      ...the way of an eagle in the sky, 

       the way of a snake on a rock, 

       the way of a ship on the high seas, "

Proverbs 30:18-19

"I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth."

Genesis 9:13

"[The Son of God] will endure as long as the sun, 

       as long as the moon, through all generations.

He will be like rain falling on a mown field, 

       like showers watering the earth."

Psalm 72:5-6

"[A person who trusts in God] is like a tree planted by streams of water, 

       which yields its fruit in season 

       and whose leaf does not wither. 

       Whatever he does prospers."

Psalm1:3

There are countless verses in the Bible that deal with nature. The splendor of nature, nature as a metaphor for God, nature as a symbol... 

Nature stands for us as a testament to God's power, awesomeness, creativity, and nurturing. Is it any surprise, then, that people often feel closest to God and feel his presence in a very real way when they are out in nature? 

My in-laws own a quarter section of land a few miles out of town. It's an untamed piece of land. It is densely treed, has a creek running through it, and a variety of wildlife that call it "home". My in-laws have built a very simple cabin on their land and retreat to this quiet little corner of the earth whenever they can. 

There is something very holy and sacred about being out in nature. Perhaps it's just getting away from distractions that plague us in the city... or perhaps it's the splendor of being surrounded by God's creation. Either way, the quiet and untarnished beauty of nature has a way of opening our souls to hearing the Holy Spirit's whisperings. 

There have been times when the magnificence of the natural world has overwhelmed me to the point of tears and I just had to whisper my prayers of praise and thanksgiving to the God who created it all. Nature gives us a glimpse of the Divine hand that created it all...

The beauty of a majestic landscape at sunset...

The ferocity and power of a tsunami, hurricane, or other storm...

The tenderness of a mother animal tending to her young...

The splendor of the mountains that reach to the heavens...

The detail of the insects that keep our world clean and fruitful...

The mysteries that have yet gone undiscovered...

The simplicity of a river-smoothed stone...

The complexity of the human body...

The renewal of all things through seasons and cycles...

The miracle that it all works together to sustain life!

While not everyone feels the same connection to God through nature, I think that it's hard not to be in awe of the wondrous creation before us. I pray that God would continue to reveal himself to me through nature. I hope that I never cease to be amazed by the magnificence of it all. I hope my heart always soars with wonder and gratitude when I consider God's artistry and engineering.

Hmm... I think I'm going to go for a walk! Perhaps I'll pass one of you on the trail! 

*Post series inspired by Sacred Pathways by Gary Thomas.