The Weekly Encourager – August 30, 2019 – Theological Disagreements Among Believers

What happens when you have a difference of opinion? Well, that’s easy if you’re discussing ice cream flavors, but what if it’s a theological issue being discussed among brothers and sisters in Christ?

A Bible study group I’m in has chosen to study the book of Revelation this year, starting next week. Understandably, this is a courageous move. I know mature godly ministers who are reluctant to preach/teach on this book, due to all the confusing content. Revelation is filled with fantastic events and images, but are they past, present, or future? Is every image to be taken wholly literally since the Bible is inerrant, or are some things symbolic since Jesus often speaks in parables? If you’ve been a believer for any length of time, you know that there are many different interpretations of the same passages of Scripture.

One of the reasons I’ve been hesitant to study Revelation before is that I didn’t feel I was mature enough in Christ. Well, I’m 62 years old now, and I shouldn’t be shying away from studying a book that promises a blessing to its hearers. If not now, when? All Scripture is profitable, and I need to profit from whatever God says in that book. It’s a gift from God that I want to open and enjoy! I’m not going to leave a Christmas gift forgotten under the tree. The second reason is that discussing it can lead to divisive arguments rather than uplifting encouragement; however, the book we’re using as a study guide seems designed to use Revelation to worship God. The author focuses on what unites us rather than on what can divide us. The third thing that gives me confidence in studying Revelation now is that I believe this particular group of women will be thoughtful and kind to one another as we go.

That said, before our study begins, I’m taking the opportunity to read up on various viewpoints, so I’ll be prepared when we get to the relevant passages. With such a complicated book of the Bible, I don’t expect everyone to agree 100% on everything in it. I’m not even sure yet what I believe about some of it. I am going to approach this book prayerfully, engaging both mind and heart, before coming to conclusions about difficult passages.

This is the approach I recommend when having theological debates with other believers. Before you start, pray together! Recognize that you are speaking with those for whom Christ died. Make love your highest aim, not winning an argument. Let the fruit of the Spirit be seen in abundance. No yelling! Listen carefully to alternate points of view – you just might learn something. Lovingly accept brothers in Christ who differ.

Also, be able to defend your view from Scripture alone, not just from church tradition. Yes, we rightly respect those in authority over us, but we also test everything that they say according to the Bible, as the Bereans did (Acts 17:11). It’s not enough to say that Pastor A or Professor B or Elder C or Teacher D told you so. A wise teacher can give us a good place to start, but then we must do our own research. In the end, each person is called to follow Christ.

Our attitude must be one of humility, always willing to be corrected in future. Consider the other as more important than yourself. Never let disagreement destroy unity, for that would not honor Christ. Of course you can quietly try to convince others that your view is correct, but you do so with patience, tenderness, and respect. You are sensitive to appropriate time and place, as well as the age, condition, and relative position of the other party. Godly men and women are strong but gentle, confident but careful. A mature Christian knows that he won’t need to bang the truth into people’s heads. The truth will speak for itself if you are in the Spirit. Those who speak by the Spirit obey the two great commandments: love God and love one another.

“But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” - I Timothy 1:5

Just some thoughts. As usual, I welcome your comments.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – July 16, 2019 – The Value of Mercy

How valuable is mercy in your life? Today we have a guest author, my husband Davide Marney, who posted the following on Facebook:

Last night I was struggling in a dream over a memory of a bad thing that had happened to me many years ago. In the Bible, Satan is identified as the accuser – so much so that his very name means "The Accuser."

I think Satan wants us to hold on to our bad memories. He wants us to comfort ourselves with them like a child hugging his knees and feeling sorry for himself.

But God has given us hands big enough to only hold on to either His mercy or our self-centeredness. To hold on to past sins is to reject His forgiveness of the one who hurt you.

As Jesus said, treat others the way you wish they would treat you. If I had sinned against another and had repented of it and sought their forgiveness, I would want them to forgive me. I would want it with my whole heart.

Thank God we have a way out! Without mercy none of us would stand.

By Dave Marney

Shortly after reading this, a verse came up in my daily devotional reading. “Lord, if you keep in mind our sins, then who can ever get an answer to his prayers? But you forgive! What an awesome thing this is!” - Psalm 130:3-4 TLB

Heavenly Father, whenever we feel shame over our own past sins or sorrow over the sins of others, remind us that “The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” - Psalm 145:8 ESV Your mercy is beyond what we can imagine, even "in our wildest dreams."

May our hearts be rich in that most valuable of commodities, mercy.

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – December 27, 2018 – Ring Out, Wild Bells

As 2018 draws to a close, some of us are grieving the loss of loved ones. Others are disturbed by the direction our society is moving in, dismayed by the seeming loss of Christian virtues. This stirring poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson (published in 1850, as he grieved not only the loss of his dear friend, but social injustice in his country) seems particularly appropriate for this week between Christmas and New Year's.

Ring Out, Wild Bells

Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky,

   The flying cloud, the frosty light:

   The year is dying in the night;

Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.

Ring out the old, ring in the new,

   Ring, happy bells, across the snow:

   The year is going, let him go;

Ring out the false, ring in the true.

Ring out the grief that saps the mind

   For those that here we see no more;

   Ring out the feud of rich and poor,

Ring in redress to all mankind.

Ring out a slowly dying cause,

   And ancient forms of party strife;

   Ring in the nobler modes of life,

With sweeter manners, purer laws.

Ring out the want, the care, the sin,

   The faithless coldness of the times;

   Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes

But ring the fuller minstrel in.

Ring out false pride in place and blood,

   The civic slander and the spite;

   Ring in the love of truth and right,

Ring in the common love of good.

Ring out old shapes of foul disease;

   Ring out the narrowing lust of gold;

   Ring out the thousand wars of old,

Ring in the thousand years of peace.

Ring in the valiant man and free,

   The larger heart, the kindlier hand;

   Ring out the darkness of the land,

Ring in the Christ that is to be.

- Alfred, Lord Tennyson

As we approach a new year, let us do so with renewed hope in Jesus Christ. He alone can console us in our private grief. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” - Psalm 34:18 ESV. Know that “God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns.” - Philippians 1:6 TLB.

Christ alone can bring kindness, cooperation, and equity to the nations. “Look at my Servant...he will proclaim justice to the nations.” - Matthew 12:18 NLT. As 2019 begins, let's renew our commitment to pray regularly for all those in authority. “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9 ESV.

Know that Christ will strengthen us, the weak yet faithful, until He comes again to wipe away every tear and to reign in glory forever. Thanks be to God!

Happy New Year!

j

The Weekly Encourager – December 21, 2018 – The Christmas Marathon

Are you running the Christmas Marathon? Between planning, decorating, shopping, wrapping, making, cleaning, cooking, baking, hosting, serving, singing, greeting, visiting, writing, sending, etc., most of us are pretty busy this time of year. There will always more to do, yet we can make the choice to do less. For many years, I've made a conscious decision to drop some activities in order to have a little more time to rest and think about the significance of this holiday. What I don't need is more Christmas lights. What I do need is more of Jesus, who is the Light.

Last Sunday the Scripture reading at our church was a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new testaments. I'd like to share these verses here from John 1 and Isaiah 9.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.

For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given.

And we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

For from His fulness we have all received, grace upon grace.

What a beautiful interweaving of prophecy and fulfillment. An artist depicted a similar interweaving in her amazing portrait of the Virgin Mary consoling Eve. Eve is depicted as downcast, holding the remains of an apple in one hand, with a serpent winding around her legs. By contrast, Mary is shown smiling, fully pregnant with Jesus, with the head of the serpent under her foot. One hand is resting on Eve's shoulder, while the other guides Eve's hand to feel the divine child move in the womb. The sorrow and shame of Eve is wonderfully contrasted with the mercy and hope of Mary. This is Genesis 3 in action. Come, Thou long-expected Jesus, born to set Thy people free!

This portrait has been especially meaningful to me lately, as I've been cast down with the horrible effects of my own sin: how I hurt others and myself, and how poorly I reflect the light of Christ to the world. This is one reason why I haven't written many Encouragers for several months. I just feel like, I'm such a sinner, how can I possibly encourage someone else? Then, I finally wrote the Gender Bender piece, which I recently learned was not encouraging, but discouraging to two people dear to me. Therefore, seeing the portrait of Eve and Mary for the first time was a balm to my wounded soul.

The beauty of Christmas is that Jesus left all the glory of His heavenly home to come to earth as a child and die as a man. He did this for me, a sinner. Have you ever thought about how long that journey must have been? That's the Real Christmas Marathon.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for hope! For forgiveness! For such a great love! As I think of You running such a great distance for me, equip me to run my own race with endurance, carrying the shining torch of Joy!

Merry Christmas!
j

Copyright 2018 Janet A. Marney

To see the portrait “Virgin Mary and Eve” by Sister Grace Remington, visit https://www.monasterycandy.com/Detail?prod=99

The Weekly Encourager – December 14, 2018 – Little Things Mean a Lot

Today's Encourager features a guest writer, Davide Marney. He writes about The Small Jewel of Christmas.

"Recently a good friend of mine did me a favor, for no other reason than they knew I would like it. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? Happens every day. Friends do nice things for their friends all the time.

"But it just so happens that in this case, the favor was totally unlooked for, in an area that I never expected to experience again.

"Imagine walking out onto a forested mountain slope recently flattened by some huge natural catastrophe such as a volcanic eruption. Everything around you as far as your eye can see is moonscape, complete devastation. Then, as you step over a tree, you come upon a single flower growing in a crook of a branch.

"At that moment you realize in a flash that this entire mountainside is going to be covered in forest again. That one, little flower is not just a sign of hope, it’s proof. That flower is a promise, an unstoppable promise of what will be.

"The Small is the Large.

"The entire universe, the largest thing we can ever know, is in fact made up of the smallest particles. The creation of the very first particle is the real miracle of creation. Out of it flowed all that we are and know. From nothing to something.

"This is the point of a Baby Jesus. He is the small jewel of Christmas, the unstoppable promise of what will be. The seed is the future of the tree. You can hold it in the palm of your hand, even hide it deep in the soil, but it will grow and cover the earth.

"Every small act of kindness is a jewel. To restore one relationship; to speak one kind word; to grant one mercy; to forgive one slight; these are the small jewels of Christmas. These are the seeds that are planted by God within our hearts.

"Merry Christmas, everyone. May you shine like stars in the smallest – and most meaningful -- of ways."

- By Davide Marney

What my husband wrote ties in well with last week's sermon by Pastor James Forsyth. In his exposition of Micah 5:1-5, James noted the contrast between little Bethlehem, an irrelevant town in the middle of nowhere, and the largeness of Jesus, who came to be our Shepherd, Security, and Peace. God takes what is little and uses it for great things, to show bright flashes of His glory.

While listening to this sermon, I thought of a dear friend whose life, by God's providence, is particularly challenging right now. I wrote her what I hoped would be words of encouragement. But then I thought of several other people who are going through their own difficult trials. And somehow, the Christmas holidays seem to magnify their impact.

Here's what I wrote to my friend; see if it applies to you. "Pondering Bethlehem's insignificance, I immediately thought of your situation.  You've indicated that you feel that way now – that no one listens to you or is aware of what you desperately need, that you feel invisible, unappreciated, even unloved.  

"But, viewed in the light of Eternity, you have been chosen to share in the sufferings of Christ!  He also was neglected, ignored, misunderstood, betrayed, mistreated, cursed, despised, and rejected, and by His own family and close friends!  Hearing this sermon reminded me that you have been given the great privilege to follow in His footsteps. 

"Therefore I say God has some great plan for your life to be an influence which we cannot begin to fathom at this time.  You will shine forth the light of Christ from the very suffering you endure now.  You will be His witness.  Believe it.  Your very 'insignificance' in the eyes of the world is what will make your testimony bright.  You will NEVER be insignificant to God.  You are one who is beloved by the King of Glory.  You will give glory to God and sing to His praise, even if you have to croak it out with your dying breath. 'Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.'  Believe it.  You have been crucified with Christ.  You are no longer living for yourself, but for the One who loves you with an everlasting love."

This Christmas, I am praying that we all may see the Light in the midst of darkness, the Large in the midst of the mundane. I have this quote by Helen Keller on my frig: "I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.” Press on, noble saints! Keep on doing what is right, and don't be discouraged. Read God's word and pray each day, then tackle the To-Do list. Your little day has a much larger purpose for a much larger God.

God is faithful,
j

As always, I welcome your comments below.

To hear the sermon by Pastor James Forsyth, visit
http://mcleanpres.org/sermon/2-the-bethlehem-candle/

The Weekly Encourager – September 24, 2018 – Gender Bender?

I apologize in advance, for today I'm going to share thoughts on a controversial topic: homosexuality and “gender reassignment.” I know that in many circles this is politically incorrect, but sometimes as Christians we are called upon to speak the truth. Read or delete as you wish.

I start with this irrefutable fact: “God created man in His own image...male and female He created them….God saw all that He had made, and behold it was very good.” - Genesis 1: 27, 31. Just let this soak in.

I'm not an expert on the topic, but here's what God says, “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” - I Corinthians 6: 9-11 ESV

Note that, after listing a bunch of sinful lifestyles, the Bible says, “And such were some of you.” It doesn't say, “such ARE some of you,” but “such WERE some of you,” indicating that they have changed, by God's grace. Every one of us is a sinner, so we can't judge homosexuals as being any worse than idolaters, thieves, or drunkards. We still love these people just as much. BUT, those who have met Jesus and chosen to follow Him will repent of evil and try to reform bad habits with the help of the Holy Spirit. Yes, we slip and fall into old patterns sometimes, but our hearts have been changed in a fundamental way. These sinful acts are no longer our chosen lifestyle, but aberrations we regret. The church is made up of sinners of every stripe who are not perfect, but forgiven. We have received mercy, thus we have a new desire to live righteous lives which bring glory to God. Therefore, if we have homosexual thoughts, we try not to act upon them, but direct our minds to something else. If we are alcoholics who feel like getting drunk, we step away from the bar.

I know several teenagers and young adults personally who are “identifying” as homosexuals and/or pursuing changes in gender. By the way, most of these dear children come from “good Christian homes” with parents who believe in Christ. These parents have tried to live by faith and raise their kids in the faith. I cannot begin to understand the grief of these parents, who are my dear friends. My heart goes out to you, and my prayers go up to God on your behalf. My love for you and your children remains as strong as ever.

What's happening to these young people is beyond sad. And it's just Wrong. No matter what you do to your body, you can't change your DNA. This is a scientific fact. Therefore, I cannot bring myself to call a boy “she” or a girl “he.” I could change my name to Butch S. Manly, get surgery, take hormones, act like a man, and dress like a man, but I will never BE a man inside. Every cell in my body cries out, “I am a woman.” “Gender reassignment” is ridiculous on the face of it. God gives gender assignments, not people. If you are required to pass a Spanish class and the teacher gives you the assignment to learn a certain set of Spanish verbs, you don't answer back, “No, I'd rather learn some Chinese verbs instead.” It should be obvious that the teacher gives the assignment, not the student. Our job as students is to do the work to get comfortable with those verbs, to practice and become fluent in the assigned language, whether it's our first choice or not.

The underlying problem here is not the child's gender, but the overall unhappiness with his/her life in a sinful world. Most often, the person seeking a gender change is depressed and not getting help for it. The person believes that changing gender will be the solution to his/her problems. Often, the child is going through the typical “I don't fit in” feelings of youth. They struggle with perfectly normal feelings of not belonging, being rejected by peers, etc. As parents, teachers, mentors, coaches, relatives, and friends, our role is to help these struggling children to navigate the difficult phases of growing up. At the risk of being overly simplistic, we do this by providing unconditional love along with positive male and female role models. We must foster an environment where the child feels safe and accepted, loved and listened to. We must help the child find his/her God-given gifts, so that he/she can feel the satisfaction of doing something well, finding some place to fit in. We also must provide age-appropriate rules and boundaries, with firm discipline when necessary. We get pastoral or professional help when needed. No matter what our fallen world says, we never let the child set his own agenda. That is a fool rearing a fool.

I am reminded of a young boy I know, who got up early one Saturday and ate an entire box of a dozen donuts himself. His parents awoke in time to see their son vomit up the sugary treats. I assure you that if he had asked first if he could eat a dozen donuts in one sitting, his parents would have refused. A parent is given the responsibility of helping the child distinguish between Want and Need. Train the child in the right way to go, so he/she can make healthy choices later. We can't give a child everything a child wants, but we try to give everything a child needs.

Our role is to help these sad children to find Jesus, for He alone holds the answers. He alone can give meaning to life, ease real suffering, and bring joy to troubled hearts. Even if a child asks for a stone (thinking it to be a box of donuts), good parents will give him nourishing whole-grain bread. As the Proverbs say, there is a way which looks appealing to a person, but it leads to death. Remember Adam and Eve, the original disobedient children. Trying to become the opposite sex is like eating a bad apple full of worms or a box of donuts which will make you vomit over and over. Eating a stone will only drag you down further. Suicide rates are twenty times greater in people who have artificially “re-assigned” their gender through surgery.

Sometimes it's an issue of authority. Remember that we have been given the sacred duty to supervise and superintend our kids' growing years. We must cultivate healthy relationships with the children God has placed in our lives, so that they are able to confide in us. We are wiser than they. We try to cultivate good sense and emotional awareness, so that they can make wise decisions as they mature. We must build trust. We must build faith. We must affirm, encourage, and celebrate the gender God chose for them.

What if it's too late? If you are a parent, this situation may not be your fault, but a result of living in a broken world. It's never too late to change your relationship with your child. Get godly help. For your child, this may not be his/her fault, but a result of living in a broken world. It's never too late for God to change a heart. Get godly help.

In any case, keep on praying, for God is faithful. Keep on loving the person, no matter what, yet speak Biblical truth and maintain boundaries. Refuse to call good evil and evil good. Truth is a part of love. Maintain your integrity, finding your strength in the Lord, who is our only Rock. Stay close to the Lord, His word, and His people. These are the same things we all must do to fight our daily battles. Stand firm! God is more than able to overcome any problem, to forgive any sin, to reach any reprobate. “They who trust Him wholly, find Him wholly true.” - Frances R. Havergal.

Have hope! Remember that love covers a multitude of sins. Above all, do not hate sinners, but love them to Christ.

God is faithful,
j

For further reading: http://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2015/06/15145/

The Weekly Encourager – September 5, 2018 – God's Timing is Perfect

It's been a long time since I've posted here, but today I have some encouragement that needs to be shared. After all, the Scriptures remind us to tell others what God has done.

I mentioned a while back that my husband Dave lost his job last Thanksgiving. Due to a change in management at that company, Dave's department was mostly eliminated. This was bad news: a 61-year-old white male losing his job right before the holidays, with no guarantee that he'd ever get a similar position again. Although he was not excited about it, that was the job that Dave had planned to do until retirement. But God had other plans.

Of course no one was hiring during the holidays, so Dave ended up out of work for four months in total. During that time he kept a daily job journal and spent a fair amount of time in God's Word, prayer, and self-examination. What a wonderful opportunity to reboot his life! It was a time of spiritual growth. One of the fruits of this time was the decision to make a major life change via bariatric surgery. Thus he began the long process of preparation and paperwork. It's important to note that if he had not been laid off, he would not have had time or energy for all this.

Meanwhile, he accepted a temporary job for six months with low pay and no benefits. As the six months were ending, the employer was impressed with his work and broadened the scope of the project, asking Dave to renew for another six months. Dave reluctantly agreed, but told them that, after that additional period, he would seek something more commensurate with his abilities and experience. A week later they called him to say that they had created a new position for him! This would be a permanent job with more appropriate salary and some benefits, too.

In answer to our prayers, Dave was approved for the surgery under COBRA and was able to schedule it just at the end of the first six-month contract! Therefore, he had two weeks of (unpaid) recovery time before beginning his new permanent role. God is so good!

The surgery went well, with lots of prayer support from many Christian friends. Yesterday, Dave had his two-week follow-up appointments, and the doctors were very pleased with his progress. He's healing well and feeling well! Yay! I've been so impressed with his dedication to the new program of healthy diet and exercise. He's lost 35 pounds since the spring, his blood sugar is in the normal range, and he looks much better. We even took a two-day getaway together.

After the doctor visits yesterday, he took the metro downtown to begin the new job. Interesting note: our new medical insurance does NOT COVER bariatric surgery, so it's a good thing he had it done while still on COBRA. We are so grateful for the job loss last November that led to this chain of events. God's timing is perfect.

These verses from Psalm 118 seem to sum up our situation now:

“The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.
Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous….
The right hand of the Lord does valiantly!
I shall not die, but I shall live and recount the deeds of the Lord.
The Lord has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death.
Open to me the gates of righteousness that I may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord….
Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, and his steadfast love endures forever!”
- from Psalm 118 ESV

How much happier we pilgrims would be if we would just remember that everything God brings is for our good! What may look like a huge stumbling block in our way can turn out to be the hill we climb that strengthens our legs for new hikes ahead. God loves us! We shall not die, but live to tell the story! If we fall into a pit, the Lord's arm is strong enough to pull us out. God loves us with an everlasting love!  His covenant love, bought with the blood of Christ, endures forever.

Gracious Father, help us to trust in You despite huge obstacles in our path. Teach us to give thanks in all things as we walk along day by day. Remind us to share Your good deeds with others whom You have placed in our path. Fill our hearts with joy that we may sing praise to You!

God is faithful,
j

Copyright 2018 Janet A. Marney
I welcome your comments below.

The Weekly Encourager – June 8, 2018 – Resolve Relationships

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” - Romans 12:18 NASB

I'm featuring a guest author today, a young woman whose father just passed away. What she said really struck a chord with me because I've been struggling with a situation in which a relative has deeply hurt and betrayed me. Although I've tried to show love and respect over the years, there's an emotional distance between us. Just this week, I've been wondering whether I should call this person and try again to resolve things before it's too late. Here's what my friend wrote about her father:

Lots going through my mind and heart currently. Definitely sad that our relationship was in disrepair, and we had not spoken in years. Glad that when I did think of him (which was often) that I was able to pray for him and chose to keep moving forward, hoping that one day everything would work out. Unfortunately, pride and hurt feelings got in the way so much so that he couldn't bring himself share the news [of her father's very aggressive cancer] with me himself. It saddens my heart greatly that whatever got in the way, Dad felt he couldn't share the news with me personally.

I'm grateful for my friend who shared the awful news with me. I know first hand that wasn't easy as I had to deliver the news to my grandparents who are still going strong at 80+ years of age. Delivering bad news is the worst!

I'm thankful for voicemail as I wouldn't have had another way to contact my Dad or his wife to at least let them know I was thinking of them and praying for them. And I'm thankful that in the end my stepmother graciously called to give me the news of my father's death first hand. I know it wasn't easy for her and the worst news no matter how long you are apart!

So with all that said, no matter what kind of family crap anyone may be dealing with: anger, hurt feelings, resentment... in the end none of it is worth getting in the way of choosing to let go of the past long enough to express forgiveness and love to one another.

There's a lot I could be angry over. Many sins committed against me by my father that only Jesus and a few people close to me are aware of. The truth is hard to take sometimes and it's not always easy for others to want to hear or even try and understand. With all that's happened, what I have learned through this long process of silence is that forgiveness and love are always the key! Pride is killer and comes to naught!

Life is hard sometimes and it can be hard to forgive. Forgiveness is a choice, a daily choice in fact, regardless of past mistakes. The enemy will use old mistakes and memories to cut you up and keep you spinning in circles away from the light if we allow it. So it's imperative to stay vigilant and choose to keep forgiving and loving one another.

Love and forgiveness do NOT mean you should over look mistreatment or that it's ok to overstep boundaries. But love and forgiveness DO mean you should still care, pray for the other, do your best to leave the door open for when peace is possible so when that time comes you can work together for positive changes. And in the meantime while you wait for enough healing to happen to start taking those positive steps forward, it's always important to do self care and work on changing what you can control, yourself.

My only wish is that in the end Dad really understood my door was open and that I still cared for him. Although I did relay that long ago to him, sometimes it's hard to hear when feelings are hurt. So I hope he knew it.

I'm sad that he missed out on so much, especially his grandkids. But I know that Jesus has it all under control and His plan is perfect. So what may not be repaired here on earth, may be repaired later after life.

I will never forget how fun he was, his love of music, word play, theater, singing, our time driving in the "rolling speaker," love of sci-fi movies, Dr. Who, running and many other things! I've been able to share so may cool things with my kids because of what Dad shared with me through the years. And I am thankful he is out of pain and at peace now. I love you forever Daddy!

Is there a relationship you need to resolve? “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” - Romans 12:18 NLT

God is faithful,
j

Excerpt written by Leigh Hamlet Ingham, June 5, 2018, on Facebook. Used with permission.

The Weekly Encourager – March 27, 2018 – Why?

As we reflect upon Christ's journey to the Cross, may this song by Michael Card deepen our devotion. 

Give thanks to the Lord, for He embodies love, mercy, and all goodness forever.
j

Why

By Michael Card

Why did it have to be a friend
Who chose to betray the Lord
Why did he use a kiss to show them
That's not what a kiss is for

Only a friend can betray a friend
A stranger has nothing to gain
And only a friend comes close enough
To ever cause so much pain

And why did there have to be thorny
Crown pressed upon His head
It should have been a royal one
Made of jewels and gold instead

It had to be a crown of thorns
Because in this life that we live
For all who would seek to love
A thorn is all the world has to give

And why did there have to be
A heavy cross He was made to bear
And why did they nail His feet and hands
When His love would have held Him there

It was a cross for on a cross
A thief was supposed to pay
And Jesus had come into the world
To steal every heart away

Yes, Jesus had come into the world
To steal every heart away

The Weekly Encourager – March 20, 2018 – Two Days Later...A Long-shot

We don't know what God is doing, but we know He is good.

If you read last week's post, you learned that my husband did not get the “perfect” job he was hoping to get on Wednesday, but we were still humbly trusting God to provide. Just two days later, on Friday, Dave got an interview for a six-month temporary job with a different organization. On his way out the door, he told me it was “a long-shot,” which the dictionary defines as “a venture or guess that has only the slightest chance of succeeding or being accurate.” After the discouraging news of 48 hours previous, he didn't want to get our hopes up. Well, guess what? The Friday interview lasted two hours, then an hour later he got the call that he was hired. “Can you start on Monday?”

Besides being good news, this whole experience brings to mind the Good News. Would you believe that a little baby born to poor parents in a stable would be able to forgive our sins? This certainly fits the definition of a long-shot! But God had a good plan. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. For as high as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts that your thoughts.” - Isaiah 55:8-9 The Jews of Jesus' day expected a royal Messiah who would conquer the Roman government and bring peace and prosperity. Even the most faithful believers of that time could not anticipate God's plan to save them by sending His Son to die on a cross at the hands of Roman soldiers. People wanted victory over men, but God gave victory over sin, Satan, and even death. People wanted diplomatic peace in their community, but God gave permanent peace with Him spiritually. People wanted worldly prosperity, but God gave heavenly riches beyond all measure, and for eternity. Yeah, I'd say God had a different plan, and it was far better than human minds could conceive.

Let this be an example to us. His ways are higher, so we don't always know what God is doing! I've been studying the Sermon on the Mount, and Jesus' words are resonating as never before. Blessed are the poor in spirit (the humble), blessed are those who mourn (for their sin), blessed are the meek, blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Do you want to know how to live as a Christian in hard times? Here it is, spoken by Jesus Himself, “Thy will be done.” True godliness cannot exist apart from a humble heart. This heart submits graciously and gratefully to whatever our Father sends, be it disappointment, tragedy, loss, poverty, or any sort of humiliation. Yes, any sort of humiliation! If we are discouraged, we need look no further than the Cross of Christ, and His humiliation on our behalf.

We don't know what God is doing. He may allow us a glimpse at times. For example, during these past four jobless months, God had a different “job” for my husband: to grow in Christ. This down time has allowed Dave to explore some issues in more depth than before. He told me that the Lord convicted him of an attitude that needed changing in order to conform to what God desires.  In a different area, Dave made an important decision because he had time to think it through. Third, Dave started a job seekers group that has been meeting here weekly to encourage and pray for one another. He was even blessed to be able to provide direct help to enable one friend to get two part-time jobs! (Both jobs were long-shots, by the way.)

We don't know what God is doing. The job that seemed a sure thing didn't come through, and the job that seemed a long-shot did. The baby that looked like a “loser” was revealed as Lord of All. Our job is not to know everything God is doing, but to be faithful in doing what we know we need to do. Our job is not to tell God what we think is best, but to humbly bend the knee to His decree. Our job is not to grumble, but to be thankful in everything.

“But I have trusted in Thy lovingkindness; my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.” - Psalm 13:5-6

God is faithful,
j

Copyright 2018 Janet A. Marney
As always, I welcome your comments below.

The Weekly Encourager – March 14, 2018 – When God Says No

Dave did not get the job. This was quite a let-down since he was one of the final two candidates, and the position seemed “perfect” for him. Here's what he wrote today to a person who had given him a recommendation, “I just heard yesterday that I do not get the position. I wish they hadn't taken a full month to reach that decision, but it was a very cool opportunity. You know me, I'm always 110% in, so I gave it everything I had, no regrets. On to the next!”

Although his tone was upbeat, I can tell you that when we found out last night we were both sad and tired. Dave had worked really hard preparing for all the interviews. He spent many hours researching the company and many more hours developing a new web site to show what he could do for them. So many people have been praying faithfully, which has been a big encouragement to him over the last four months, but God said No to our request. Again.

I know we're not the only ones who have prayed in faith and worked diligently for a worthy goal. Some of you have been in far worse situations. I know one man who loved a woman and wanted to marry her. He was one of the final two candidates, but the woman chose the other man. God said No to our friend. Why? Was it a lack of faith on this man's part? Not enough prayer power?

The apostle Paul pleaded with the Lord for healing, but the Lord said No. Was Paul a man who could have had his wish granted if only he had enough faith? No, Paul was a giant of faith, held up for our example. And then there's Jesus. In the garden, the Lord Jesus pleaded with God to take away the horrible agony of the cross, but God said No. Was Jesus low on faith? Did he not have enough friends praying for him? That is laughable. Jesus was fully God, and therefore the ultimate example of true faith in His heavenly Father. Friends, if anyone preaches to you that you can have anything you want if only you pray hard enough with real faith, reject that false doctrine!

Nowhere in the Bible does God promise He will give us everything we want. What He does promise is that He will give us everything we need. Nowhere in the Bible does God promise His people perfect happiness, but He does promise perfect holiness. We are being refined. God will use whatever process He deems appropriate to work holiness into us. That job seemed “perfect” for Dave from our perspective, but it obviously wasn't perfect from God's perspective. What we need most is not the perfect job, perfect spouse, perfect health, or perfect house, but perfect holiness. God's ways are higher; His plans are divine. He who began a good work in us will complete it, and we will find our joy in Christ alone and give Him the glory. We will thank Him for every No answer!!

This season of waiting has been a test of our faith. Will we stay close to the Lord and keep on trusting Him to provide? Will we learn humility and contentment? All I know is that last night I heard my husband thank God for this latest No answer, and I agreed with that prayer. It's not always easy to be thankful in all things, especially when the answer is No. But then the Scripture reminds us that God is a faithful and good Father who loves us. He always does what is best for His children, even if it's trudging through the wilderness for forty years...or four months. We can trust in Him! And if we have Christ, we have all we need.

God is faithful,
j

Copyright 2018 Janet A. Marney
As always, I welcome your comments below.

The Weekly Encourager – February 16, 2018 – Lessons from David vs. Goliath

Guest writer today! I have not been able to write for a while, but my husband has been writing about what he's learning through his job search. Today I'll share his thoughts about the account of David vs. Goliath in 1 Samuel 17.  I hope we are all encouraged to fight our giants with God on our side!

Be Bold and Unafraid

“Saul replied to David, 'You aren't able to go against this Philistine and fight him! You're just a boy!' David replied to Saul, 'Your servant has been a shepherd for his father's flock. Whenever a lion or bear would come and carry off a sheep from the flock, I would go out after it, strike it down, and rescue the sheep from its mouth...Your servant has struck down both the lion and the bear. This uncircumcised Philistine will be just like one of them.'”

Fear saps the will.The longer the job search stretches on, the more you begin to think there is something wrong with you, people don't want you, that you are insufficient or defective. But this is not how David acted. When facing a difficulty, he stepped out and set things right, bold and unafraid.

 David knew that the past is prologue. We, too, need to learn to draw on our past victories and remind ourselves that there is something "there" there. As David drew a parallel between killing a bear, a lion, and Goliath, so we need to draw a parallel from a past job we've done well or a past difficulty we overcame, and our job to be. If we did it once, we can do it again.

Likewise, we have to overcome the discomfort of having to always put ourselves "out there", meeting new people, introducing ourselves, explaining our accomplishments, and all the rest. It's uncomfortable because we don't like bragging about ourselves, and we like to stick with who and what we already know. But when the bear drags your sheep out of your own field, you have to go after it! Take up your staff, run to meet your challenge, and snatch it back, right out of its very jaws, if need be.

 Be Yourself

“Then Saul clothed David with his own fighting attire... but he was not used to them. David said to Saul, 'I can't walk in these things, for I'm not used to them.' So David removed them. He took his staff in his hand, picked out five smooth stones from the stream ... took his sling in hand, and approached the Philistine.”

Especially when preparing for an interview, don't try to second-guess what people will ask you, or what you think they are looking for. Be ready with what you know, your own version of a staff and smooth stones, and then use them at the time they are needed, just as you always have in the past.

Try not to rehearse in your mind how the conversation is going to go: she'll say THIS, and I'll respond with THAT, etc. While it's good to have some sense of what will be discussed, being over-scripted is like wearing someone else's armor, shield, and sword. It can't help but come off as being clumsy and inept.

Have your OWN reasons for fighting for the job you are interviewing for, and be prepared to let your own stones fly when the time is right.

 Look With The Eyes Of God, Not Man

“When the Philistine looked carefully at David, he despised him….The Philistine said to David, 'Am I a dog, that you are coming after me with sticks?' But David replied to the Philistine, 'You are coming against me with sword and spear and javelin. But I am coming against you in name of the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel's armies ... This very day the Lord will deliver you into my hand! ... and all the assembly will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves! For the battle is the Lord's, and he will deliver you into our hand.'”

An extended job search is a crucible, a time of testing. If you are a sincere believer, it will drive you to your knees in prayer and supplication. At the same time, you are being bombarded with advice on how to build your job seeking network, how to craft the perfect resume, how to ace that interview, how to leverage the vast resources of the Internet, not to mention the anxious queries of all your Christian friends and family members.

All those things are swords, spears, and javelins. They are useful but not necessary instruments of God's plan of salvation. God can get you a job using nothing more than a casual remark, or a shared request for prayer. God wants you to be faithful in all the small things so you can experience to the full all the means of His grace.

God is in command of your future. The job you are getting is something he desires you to have so that you might do good works. It is not by stint of our attempting to be perfect that God brings blessings. He brings them because he loves us, He wants to deliver us, He delights in showing us grace.

God cares about relationships above all things, especially our relationship to Him, and our relationship to one another. It may be that God is getting you a new job because He wants you to be salt and light to someone. It may be that God is making you go through the experience of losing and finding a job so your own heart might be softened up and you can grow closer to him. 

We need to look with the eyes of God on our situation, not with the eyes of the world.

 Yes, You Have To Fight! But God Gives The Victory

“The Philistine drew steadily close to David to attack him, while David quickly ran toward the battle line to attack the Philistine....David prevailed over the Philistine with just the sling and the stone. He struck down the Philistine and killed him. David did not even have a sword in his hand.”

When we are confronted with something that must be overcome, then we must fight. We must gather up our courage, collect our smooth stones and advance right into the teeth of adversity. We should do all that we have prepared to do to get the job. But God gives the victory. Not us.

Look at it this way: if God did NOT want you to have a particular job, is there any power on heaven or earth who could thwart His will in the matter? Impossible! And the reverse is equally true. When Paul teaches in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good for those who love God", note he doesn't say that things will just fall into our laps. Rather, he says all things "work together" for good. We are to keep on working.

God delights in small acts of humble obedience. He delights in taking our puny efforts and achieving great things through them, not so much by them. He does so, I suspect, because he respects us as people made in his own image, people who make and do and create. We are not just puppets on a string. 

So, we must advance, boldly and unafraid, using our own gifts as God has provisioned us, seeing with the eyes of God, not man, trusting to Him the victory, and trusting that He will, indeed, work all things together for our good.

The Weekly Encourager – January 10, 2018 – Joy in Thankfulness

If you slip in the mud and fall down, what is your first thought? Earlier today I slipped and fell. Being fully aware of my past history of breaks and sprains, my first thought was, “Thank You, Lord, that I didn't break anything or sprain anything this time.” The human tendency we all share is to be angry, upset, or annoyed when something bad happens. But over the past couple of years, God has been teaching me a different tendency. A habit of thankfulness has transformed my life, leading to so much joy!

After acknowledging God's goodness to me in that nothing was broken, it was only a few steps away to think of many more reasons to be thankful. First, I was glad that I had just read an article on “how to fall safely” so I remembered to fall on the “meat” of my body rather than on a bone. There's plenty of meat to fall on since I'm so well fed. Although all my clothes got muddy, how fortunate that this is not my only outfit: I have other clean clothes to put on. And how nice that I have a washer to do the job, and electricity to run it. Knowing that many people around the world struggle to find clean water, I already thank God on a regular basis for the blessing of fresh water. Mud in the yard means that the ice has melted, and I do appreciate warmer temperatures after the frigid weather we've had. Also, having a yard in the first place is a great gift from God. I could go on, but you get the idea.

I was not born with the tendency to be thankful. I was born with original sin like everyone else, plus I grew up in a family that tended toward negativity. But that was my family of origin. My new family is the family of God, those who are called by Jesus Christ to live in a radically different way, a way of life absolutely transformed by grace. He who has begun a good work in me is bringing it to pass, molding godly character, changing my heart and mind. Not feeling it? We can't do it on our own, but we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. He is the one who gives the ability to be thankful, yet our obedience plays a part.

Being thankful is a discipline. The more I read and study the Bible, the more I learn about God's love, power, wisdom, kindness, mercy, and every other fine aspect of His holy nature. The more I learn, the more I pray that I will see His character at work in my own life. The more I ask God for eyes to see His supreme beauty, the more I see. The more I see, the more I thank Him. God inhabits the praises of His people, so when I thank Him, I feel Him right there with me, filling my upheld cup with joy. I have just begun to learn how central thanksgiving is to the Christian life. Thankfulness is the cup held out to receive whatever the Lord brings. It is confident trust that whatever happens, be it a simple fall in the mud today or cancer last spring, it comes from the hand of God, because He is sovereign. It is an essential part of my journey and therefore to be sanctified unto Him. And because He is not just sovereign, but good (always and forever), how blessed we are to receive each thing from such a loving Father!

His mercies are new every morning. Shouldn't our thankfulness be new every morning, too? This is how we find God in the tough situations, by small but heartfelt acknowledgments of gifts He is happy to bestow. And when He's happy, we're happy! Over a year ago, I began posting a positive quote on Facebook each morning – my own tiny effort to counteract some of the harsh political posts of others. After a couple of months of that, I started posting “inspiring art of the day” and got an overwhelming reaction. People didn't want more quotes. People love to see these works of art. Our world can be so ugly, so full of hate, that people are longing for the good, the true, and the beautiful. They are crying out for justice, compassion, rightness, honesty, respect, cleanliness, hope. We as Christians have a wonderful opportunity to bring beauty to our little corner, wherever God has placed us. We can draw people's eyes up. But we are unfit to lift the eyes of others if our own eyes are stuck on the ground.

He brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a Rock. God pulled me out of a deep muddy hole when He called me to be His own. He has given such beautiful blessings that I can't help but thank Him from the heart. He continues to bless every day of my life. Let him who has eyes to see contemplate the perfect essence of God in all things, for He holds it all together, and it's all about Him. May our first thought be thankfulness each day, each hour, each moment. May we open our hearts to receive all the good gifts of the One who loves us best. Thank You, Lord!

God is faithful,
j

Copyright 2018 Janet A. Marney. I welcome your comments below.

The Weekly Encourager – January 5, 2018 – The Crown

Have you seen “The Crown” on Netflix? It's an absorbing drama about Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip. After Season 2 was released, some people were eager to correct mistakes in the Netflix rendition. While it was based on historical events, I had no illusions about every detail being entirely factual. This is entertainment, folks, not fact.

Halfway through Season 2 of “The Crown,” it was Christmas Eve. That evening, a good friend wore a shirt with a large, colorful crown on it. After the year I've had, seeing the Crown of Life depicted in such a beautiful way brought tears to my eyes. Like “The Crown,” this rendition was only an artist's interpretation of events. But the concept was based on fact from an unerring irrefutable source, the Holy Bible. No media personality is going to write a blog post pointing out inaccuracies. This art was not entertainment, but edification: a reminder of truth to give us hope.

No matter what kind of year you've had, there is hope! God promises “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” - James 1:12 How appropriate to consider the crown of life on Christmas Eve! This is what it's all about, all the grief and all the joy: living for the crown. Because the King of Kings came to earth to wear – for us – the horrible crown of thorns, we can look forward to a royal crown of life in eternity. From His suffering will come our joy.

I've been comparing and contrasting Queen Elizabeth's crown with the one God promises. In the Netflix series, the writers depict the constant duty of a modern monarch. Service rules her entire life, influencing every decision. As followers of Christ, diligent service to God should permeate our whole life. Also, the queen's calling is stressful: her life seems full of landmines both political and personal. In a broken world, you can expect problems from your closest relationships to the most distant parts of your realm. That much is similar to what we have in our lives. However, worldly kings and queens will not carry their crowns into eternity. They work “with strict discipline...for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable.” - 1 Corinthians 9:25.   In Heaven, the first shall be last. If Queen Elizabeth has a high rank in that place, it will a reward from God for faithful service to His crown. She must bow to a higher throne.

One interesting aspect of the Netflix series is the essential importance of Balmoral Castle in Scotland. This royal home is where the queen retreats for short periods to rest. The highlands seem to be the one place where she can relax and truly be herself. For us, the prayer closet is our Balmoral.  To live for the crown, it is essential that we go there on a regular basis. We retreat to the “high places” to find God “in the mountain of His holiness.” Private prayer is the one place where we can truly be ourselves in every aspect, free to express any thought or feeling or desire or heartache. In God's holy presence we are fully known, yet fully forgiven and fully loved. We dwell on the holy mount now only in prayer, but one day we will dwell there in body and soul. We will enjoy the privileges of royalty forever!

How can this be true? That is the miracle of Christmas: God loves us. In the Bible we read that the Lord “made [us] a little lower than the angels and crowned [us] with glory and honor.” - Psalm 8:4; Hebrews 2:7. This is the God “who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.” - Psalm 103:4. Jesus, the High King, says, “Do not fear what you are about to suffer….Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” - Revelation 2:10.

O Lord, “You crown the year with Your goodness, and Your paths drip with abundance.” - Psalm 65:11

Happy New Year!  Live for the crown!

God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – December 21, 2017 – Joy in Giving

Do you consider yourself to be a generous person? Would others say that about you? What would God say?

It's Christmas; have you pondered God's extraordinary generosity in sending His only Son?

I was not raised to be generous. My parents grew up poor and worked hard for everything they got. Accordingly, I was taught to shop carefully, to take good care of possessions, and to save everything possible for later use. There was an unspoken sense of fear that we might not have enough at some point in the future, so we'd better stock up now and never give anything away. Hard work, self-reliance, and saving are good traits in many circumstances, but not helpful in others. I'll never forget wanting to share a snack with the girls from next door, and my mother saying, “We're not feeding the neighborhood.” It was only as an adult that I figured out that other people routinely offered food and drink to every visitor!

When I became a Christian and started reading the Bible, I got new input. The New Testament gives several examples of Christians who gave generously both to support the work of the gospel and to provide for the practical needs of fellow believers locally and in distant lands. The people who gave were not always the wealthy members of the congregation, but regular folks who gave sacrificially out of loving hearts. They didn't wait for “a better income” to give to the church. Whether giving “the widow's mite” or feeding dozens in large, well-appointed homes, all were commended for liberality.

In studying Jesus' life, I learned that generosity is one of God's traits, and therefore to be emulated. This “Prodigal God” is generous with resources, calling men to “come ye buy and eat, without money.” Salvation is full and free for any who desire it. Certainly at Christmas we see how generous God was with His Son. We see the preeminent model of sacrificial giving. Love was the motivation of the triune God. This love would demand the highest price, yet it was given willingly. One of my favorite hymns is often sung at Christmas:

Thou who wast rich beyond all splendour,
All for love’s sake becamest poor;
Thrones for a manger didst surrender
Sapphire-paved courts for stable floor.
Thou who wast rich beyond all splendour,
All for love’s sake becamest poor.

When I became part of a church as a teenager, I saw many examples of generosity in action, from the wealthy people in the congregation who established large funds to help people in need, to the dear saintly older widow who gave Dave a “love gift” to help him pay some bills he could not afford. She said she didn't want him to pay her back, but to help someone else down the line. What a fabulous witness that “love gift” was to us when we were dating! And yes, he has paid back that gift many times.

Our pastor at the time, Steve Smallman, preached a series of sermons on Money which made a big impact on me and Dave. He gave a Biblical rationale for tithing which became our standard practice. Of course, tithing is not to be a forced, legalistic task, but a jumping off point, a place to start. “God loves a cheerful giver.” The spiritually mature will desire to give more and more, and God will bless their labors to that end, so that they are enabled to give more. Steve also said that what we do with our money reveals our priorities in life. Hearing that at age 20 was interesting, and now at age 60 I can testify that it's true. I've seen that, even when your resources are quite low and every human instinct says to hoard what you have, the more you give, the more God will provide. He is able! He is faithful! He is generous!

Marrying Dave was another way the Lord used to transform my stingy habits. At first I was pretty disturbed at how much my new husband wanted to give away, but I learned over time to respect this godly quality that the Lord had given him. Meanwhile, Dave respected the good training I had received in saving and managing money; he soon delegated the bill-paying to me. [This is one example of how opposites can benefit from one another in marriage.] I began to pray that the Lord would make me more generous with my money and possessions. Sure enough, He who began a good work in me is working to complete it.

Fast forward to Christmas 2016, one year ago. God had prospered us tremendously over the years. Yes, we started with next to nothing (“a bed and a piano”), but with hard work and God's provision, we saw our capital grow. Two key Biblical principles of careful management and generous giving can go hand-in-hand. Last Christmas I had the most wonderful time writing a bunch of checks! Instead of my fleshly nature filling me with fear for our future, the Lord of the Universe filled me with great joyfulness. Instead of a duty, it was a privilege to bless others. I'm not saying I have learned this concept perfectly yet (I am hanging on way too tightly to way too many things), but I can see the Holy Spirit working in me.

This Christmas is a bit different, since Dave's job ended just before Thanksgiving. Here is a test of faith, and what will we do? We're giving the same amounts as last year, and I get to write the checks! It is my JOY to tithe and to support various missions and causes in the community. It is my JOY to trust that God will provide a new job for Dave. It is my JOY to be obedient to Christ. It is my JOY to try to model my life after the Scripture, and to carry on the tradition of saints who were generous to me. He who did not spare His own Son will give us everything else we need. If I can trust Him with my salvation, I can trust Him with my money.

Are you generous with what God has given you? May this be a season of joy in giving, to the glory of God.

A Blessed Christmas to you all,
j

Copyright 2017 Janet A. Marney. As always, I welcome your comments below.
Thou who wast rich beyond all splendour, written by FRANK HOUGHTON (1894-1972).

The Weekly Encourager – December 15, 2017 – Joy in Waiting

I recently heard a sermon about Advent as a season of waiting. In fact, our whole lives on this earth are a season of waiting, and Advent is just an annual reminder of this truth.

What are you waiting for? Are you waiting to meet that special someone? Are you waiting to find a job, or a place to live, or a church home? Are you waiting to finish a degree or a major task? Are you waiting for recognition, approval, or acceptance? Are you waiting for friendship? Are you waiting for an apology? Are you waiting for justice and vindication? Are you waiting for healing? Are you waiting to finally conquer some besetting sin? Are you waiting for grief to abate after the loss of loved ones? Are you waiting for death?

In this world we struggle with trouble and suffering. We have broken bodies and broken relationships and broken finances and broken governments. We want it all to be fixed, right now! But God says, wait, My child, as a weaned child rests on his mother's breast. If we let tragedy get to us, we'll be sucked down into a dark, stagnant pond of despair. But the gospel brings us such hope! The people walking in darkness – you and I – have seen a great light, and that Light is Jesus. He is God's Son who came to live a holy life and to die a holy death for His people. He's the One we're waiting for, for He alone can free us from sin and all its terrible consequences.

We're all waiting for someone or something in our lives to change for the better. But how do we wait for these things that seem to take forever? King David had the same question: “How long, O Lord?” and the answer was, “But I have trusted in Thy lovingkindness; my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.” - Psalm 13:1, 5-6. David's in trouble, but he takes time to remember that the Lord has been good to him already. The way of waiting is prayer and praise. It is thankfulness and joyfulness. People have asked me, how do I get thankfulness and joyfulness when I don't have what I'm waiting for? Here's the answer: You have all you need already. “Faith comes by hearing, and that by the word of God.” You get faith by learning God's word, resting on Jesus, and asking the Holy Spirit for faith to believe in His promises.

In one sense, this life is just one big waiting room. If you've ever taken a little toddler (a weaned child) somewhere and asked him to wait an hour, you have a picture of how we must appear to God. Will the child whine, get angry, be sad, or have a meltdown? Will she rebel and try to escape the room? Will he destroy property or hit other people out of frustration and boredom? Or will the child cheerfully accept the waiting as an opportunity to be productive, or maybe see an extra chance to cuddle with her beloved parent? The wise parent will plan ahead to make the best use of the waiting time, by bringing little puzzles, games, coloring books, or story books to keep the child occupied. The good parent will stay nearby to direct the child's thoughts and activities. The loving parent will reassure the child that good things are coming. God our Father has provided all of this and more for us.

“God rest ye merry, gentlemen; let nothing you dismay. Remember Christ our Savior was born upon this day, to save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy!” We are to rest merry, in other words, wait with joy, be at peace until Christ comes again. Remember, you can't expect to have joy if you're not regularly in the word. Here are some promises to consider while you wait.

“You should have as little real desire for this world as a dead person does. Your real life is in heaven with Christ and God. And when Christ who is our real life comes back again, you will shine with him and share in all his glories.” - Colossians 3:3-4

“Trust him all the time. Pour out your longings before him, for he can help.” - Psalm 62:8

“No good thing will He withold from them that walk uprightly.” - Psalm 84:11

“Every good thing the Lord had promised to them came true.” - Joshua 21:45

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” - Revelation 21:4

“There is no question that he will do what he says.” - Hebrews 10:23

“Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words remain forever.” - Matthew 24:35

“Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child rests against his mother, my soul is like a weaned child within me.” - Psalm 131:2

So what are you waiting for? Now would be a good time to thank our good God who has dealt bountifully with you.

Wishing you comfort and joy in this season of waiting.
God is faithful,
j

The Weekly Encourager – November 29, 2017 – Joy in the Job Search

Earlier this month, my husband lost his job. Due to restructuring, his position was eliminated (along with most of his department).  The good news is that Dave saw the writing on the wall and was already thinking of looking around for another position, hopefully with a shorter commute. However, he is a 61-year-old white male, so maybe not the first choice of every employer.

I'm not really worried about his job at this point (more dreading the insurance hassle, #firstworldproblems). I'm confident that God will provide an even better opportunity for Dave, not just because Dave is a highly qualified worker, but because God's name is Jehovah-jireh, Yahweh Will Provide. If I have moments of doubt, I can just look to our history and see how He's always provided for us in the past. Thanks be to God, we have some savings, so we're still tithing and supporting Dave's brother as well as various missions. My husband is a very generous man, and I've learned that the more we give, the more God blesses us. We're doing fine!

Dave decided to keep a job search diary, and he'd like to share what he wrote a few days ago:

Day 6

Thanked God for arranging the timing of this. As a Christian, I know that God has something much greater planned for us than we are typically expecting. We lose a job, and immediately we think that all that God has in store for us is to get us another one. That's probably true, but God is also probably planning for us to meet new people through that job who we otherwise would not have come into contact with, or planning for us to have an impact in a situation involving something much more consequential than a mere job.

God is advancing His kingdom day by day. Our ultimate job is to serve Him and that means our primary occupation is kingdom-building. Working for our daily bread is a secondary occupation.

To the non-believer, this just appears like wish-fulfillment: you believers don't know what the future holds, so you just say that God is superintending over all of it, so no matter what happens, it was "God's will". This is superficially correct. We don't know what the future holds, and we do believe that God superintends over it.  

But we do so not because we need a convenient excuse, but because this is explicitly promised in the scripture, and it is directly experienced in our personal lives. Time and time again, we see God leading us beside still waters, even in the shadow of death itself at times. 

To believe that God is sovereign is, indeed, just a hope as long as we walk in this mortal life. But it is not an unfounded hope, nor a merely convenient one.  

We're heading into the Christmas season with hope, joy, and prayer. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” - James 1:5 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice!” - Philippians 4:4

God is faithful,

j

The Weekly Encourager – November 17, 2017 – Joy Observed

As most of you know by now, I was diagnosed with breast cancer last May. Now I'm ready to give a good report to all my readers! By God's grace, I've been able to have a good attitude about the whole cancer experience. After all, I have a sovereign, loving Father who brings only what is best for me and His kingdom. With each problem that comes along in my life, whether physical, relational, financial, emotional, etc., I try not to complain. Yes, I feel intense grief at times, but I know that constant complaining is an affront to God and His perfect plan. I can have real sorrow yet still be satisfied in Christ. Discontent with one's lot in life is a sin which helps no one and only makes life worse for me and everyone around me. Instead, I try to ask, what does the Lord want me to learn through this? How can I give Him glory in this? How can I have joy? How can I encourage others?

People have noticed my attitude since May. Let me be clear, I'm not saying this because I'm some kind of super Christian, or because I have a naturally cheerful personality. The truth is that I've messed up just as much as you have, and I've struggled with Major Depression (yes, that is my actual clinical diagnosis) since I was a kid. I'm the same woman who wrote in this blog about a time I almost committed suicide, but cried out to God instead and felt Him hold me. This unexpected, unexplainable joy I have now is all about the Good Shepherd who loves me “with an everlasting love.” He has promised that “I shall not want” no matter what happens.

It's surprising how many people are watching how I am responding to circumstances, from the first x-rays and diagnosis, through surgery, radiation, and now hormonal therapy. I've gotten many comments over the last months, and not just from Christians. I'm hearing from the people in my exercise class, my quilting friends, the people I sing with in a community chorus, unsaved relatives and friends, and even strangers. And everyone in my life now knows I am a Christian. Because of the pain of early persecution for my faith, I've been quite reticent to share the truth with unbelievers. I've always felt my main ministry is to encourage the saints, and let others do the work of evangelism. But the Lord has given me a new boldness this summer, and I'm speaking out. I just can't stop smiling.

One friend said, “You have a strong faith and that will see you through,” almost wistfully as if she wished she had such faith. I sure wasn't born that way, so how did I get such faith? Here's the game plan: We respond well to trials by responding well to trials. We grow strong in faith by exercising faith muscles. We feed it good fuel (Bible truths) and get good workouts (trials and tribulations). We consult the best coach (pray to God for wisdom). We commit to a community of fellow athletes (local church) who surround, guide, help, inspire, and encourage us in our regular gym workouts. We seek out one or two close friends who will challenge us and hold us accountable in the hard stuff. Yes, faith is a gift of God, but we play a part. We can't skip our exercises, stay home in bed and expect to have faith full of joy!

People say, “You have a good attitude and that helps,” but the truth is, “I have a good God, and He helps.” He is the One without Whom I can do nothing. This joy is not from me, but supernatural. Are you facing some terrible trial today? Here's some good news: Anyone who trusts in the Lord Jesus can experience this kind of joy. This week I read James 1:1-11. James doesn't mention his high position in the church or the fact that he's the Lord's half-brother, but describes himself as a servant of God. Then he says, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials.” Joy! But it's not just dropped into your lap like a pear falling from a tree. No, you are not the master who expects to have things brought to you, but a servant who follows the plan laid out for you. You have to look up, reach up, and pick that fruit by faith. This is your job. You must develop the self-discipline to “consider” it joy, especially when the situation is not joyful in itself. You must set your mind on things above, and dwell on what is good and pure and true and noble in your circumstance. A mind that “considers” produces a heart that is content.

As we approach the holiday season, Dave and I are going through hard things, and so are some of you. How wonderful that there is still one holiday not totally co-opted by our culture. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to exercise our faith muscles by responding well to trials (some of which may happen around the dining room table on Thanksgiving Day). By God's strength we can lift our weights with smiles on our faces. We can move mountains! Others around us will see our joy. We can bless believers while making unbelievers wonder what's going on! Do your friends, colleagues and neighbors know you're going through trials? Do they know you belong to Jesus? What conclusion can they draw from your witness? Will God get any glory in your gym?

May God strengthen us all in the true faith. May He bring us joy!

God is faithful,
j

Copyright 2017 Janet A. Marney. [For any who wish to follow my cancer journey, I have a page on Caring Bridge: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/janetamarney ]

The Weekly Encourager – November 1, 2017 – My Testimony

Recently, Dave and I were asked to write our Christian testimonies in 300 words. For me, this was a great opportunity to reflect upon how the Lord drew me to Himself many years ago, and how far I've come by His grace.  I highly recommend this exercise for every Christian.  I'm sure you will be encouraged in the Lord!  You may also be enabled to encourage someone else He puts in your path.

My Christian Testimony (short version, September 2017)

 I was raised in an upper middle class household in Northern Virginia. My parents, both of proud, independent, hardworking Scots-Irish heritage, were raised on rural farms in Appalachia. After putting themselves through college, they married and moved here to find jobs in the big city, leaving the Southern Baptist faith of their parents behind. My main exposure to Christianity was going to church with my grandparents a few times each summer.

 In general, my home life was not happy. My parents were very critical, perfectionistic high-achievers, and they raised me to be the same way. There was little affection and no positive reinforcement for doing well, only punishment for not performing. Some of what happened would be called child abuse today. My brother and I fought constantly; my parents took his side. At age six, I was sexually abused several times by a male babysitter, but I never told my parents, knowing that they wouldn't believe me. Later I was abused by others. Also at age six, I was a latch-key kid, responsible for picking up my four-year old brother from preschool.

 When I was a teenager, my combative parents got divorced, and we kids lived with my mother. After about a year, they re-married on April Fools Day, but it didn't last, so they divorced each other for the second time when I was 16. I was alienated and sad. I did not feel loved or valued by my family.* Consequently I looked for love from friends, sometimes making mistakes I regretted. I couldn't trust my family; I had learned how to lie, cheat, and steal.

 In seventh grade, another student invited me to a worship service. The House of Bread was a large charismatic fellowship meeting in the basement of Truro Episcopal Church. When I got there, I immediately saw that they had what I longed for: love, joy, and peace. I was looking for love and they offered total unconditional acceptance. I began going regularly, reading the Bible, and learning dozens of Scripture songs. I was searching for a reason to live and they told me, “Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened to you.” I would come home from school and read the Bible for hours and compose songs to God. Reading the New Testament in order, I was saved – gradually – somewhere around I Corinthians. The Holy Spirit used the love of believers, the gift of music, and the power of His Word to reach my heart with the amazing truth that God loved me, forgave all my sin through Christ's death and resurrection, and had a plan for my life.

 A high school friend invited me to McLean Presbyterian Church, where her father was a respected elder (Ed Keck). I was baptized by Pastor Steve Smallman and became an active member, soaking up all the truth and love I could. My parents were not pleased. For about two years, I experienced persecution from my own family: they mocked me, would not allow me to go to church on Sunday mornings, etc. However, an ex-nun was teaching science at my school, and I joined her after-school Bible study, which was wonderful. I continued to read and pray on my own. God was always with me.

 While I was in college, both parents abandoned me (long story). I became not a ward of the state, but a ward of the church. When I was at school, the Charlottesville Mennonite Church had a huge influence on my life through their teaching, lifestyle, and hospitality. When at home, members of MPC took me in, stored my possessions, drove me to summer jobs, helped me pay for college, etc. In addition to meeting very real practical needs, they taught the Bible, encouraged me, counseled me, prayed for me, loved me. I was showered with kindness. In a very real sense, the church had become my family.

 I could not write enough books to tell all that the Lord has done in my life since I was saved at around age 13-14. My boyfriend Dave was saved and Steve Smallman married us. We were given two wonderful sons, then helped found New Hope Presbyterian Church, where we had many good years rich with God's blessings. I am 60 now, and the Scripture songs I learned as a pre-teen have rescued me, encouraged me, and pointed me back to Christ many times. I have had struggles and sorrows, but the Lord has been with me through them all. Each time, my faith has been strengthened. I have never doubted His love for me. I have been blessed to see how the Lord has used my experience to encourage others. God is faithful.

 Here are a few of my life verses that sum up my testimony.

 “For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the Lord will take me up.” - Psalm 27:10

 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Hebrews 13:5

 “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.” - Jeremiah 31:3

 “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 1:6

 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion, and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” - I Corinthians 1:4

 [* Footnote: After he left home, my brother called me to apologize, I forgave him, and we moved forward.  I am so thankful now to have such a wonderful brother!  By God's grace, all three family relationships were eventually restored. Much healing has taken place, to the glory of God. God is faithful!]

The Weekly Encourager – October 25, 2017 – Dave's Testimony

It's been a while since I've written an Encourager. I have plenty to say, but no time to sit down and write it!

Recently, Dave and I were each asked to write a brief Christian testimony (about 300 words). Today I'm sharing his. One Scripture sums it up: “He [the Lord] brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.” - Psalm 40:2

My Christian Testimony

By Dave Marney

I grew up in a family where my father and all of my siblings were atheists. My mother, however, believed in Catholicism as a kind of a "who knows?" insurance policy, so we all attended Catholic school. I was a little unusual in that I was always interested in matters of faith, from my earliest memories.

 It was a young nun at the school who first told me that it's not enough to just go through the motions, one has to actually believe. The questions I had about God pestered me all through my childhood.

 When I started high school, I interviewed a priest, a rabbi, and a protestant pastor and asked them if they really believed in God. The priest told me yes, he believed, but the important thing was to follow the sacraments, that's what they're there for. The rabbi said no, he didn't believe, but it doesn't matter if God exists or not, it's what you do with your life that matters. The pastor said yes, of course God exists, and you should be looking for hard evidence of it. If God really created the universe, you should be able to see it in the universe. If God really created man, you should see it in historical accounts.

 The pastor's answer really struck me. It wasn't enough to convince me to be a believer, but it was enough to give me a way to answer my questions.

 Later on, I started socializing with a small group of students who had all become Christians around the same time. Some of them were musicians as I was, and they sang Scripture songs constantly, most of which I can recall word-for-word to this day. They were very different from other students, not quite so caught up in themselves, more thoughtful and kind. A very attractive group.  

 After I graduated, I got a job as a pianist on tour in Canada. The life of a touring musician sounds glamorous, but it really wasn't for me. Being on the road, separated from everything, working until 3AM every day is a very lonely existence. But I loved the music, it was my life.

 After about six months, I started coming back to the States to visit with a young lady of interest from that school group, Janet, who later became my wife. She was a Christian, and so I followed her to church every Sunday at McLean Presbyterian, then meeting in the much smaller facility on Balls Hill Rd.

 Every time I would visit, I would run into people like Carolyn Frickel, people just sparkling with the joy of the Lord. It was quite a culture shock. At that time, Janet was going through a very hard time with her family, and was kicked out of her own home. She was adopted on the spot by one of the church families, the Harrises, who became my role model for what a functioning Christian family looks like.

 So, when I would visit her, I wasn't just visiting a person or even a church, but an entire family and community of believers. Then I would go back to my job on the road, playing in yet another beer-soaked bar in Canada. It was like God was showing me two very different paths I could take, almost night and day.

 So, I left Canada and came back to the States. I started reading the Bible and other Christian books in earnest, because these questions would just not let me go. It took a very long time. I am a hard-headed person.

 Finally, I remember sitting in the front pew of MPC one evening just thinking about everything, when a good friend of mine, Jay, who was visiting for the weekend walked up and sat down next to me to say hello. And I just unloaded on him. All the questions I had, everything I had concluded, the Bible passages I had been studying, everything.

 And he said to me, Dave, you may think these questions are unanswered, but actually they're not. Based on what you've told me, you are a believer. You are a Christian. You should just pray right now and thank God for everything He has done to lead you to this point and accept it.

 When he said that, it kind of stunned me, but I realized he was absolutely correct. God had won my heart over. It had happened very slowly over years and years, but I had passed from death to life.

 It took a while to convince Janet and the rest of the people in my life that I was a new person, because I was pretty incorrigible. But it was true. From that point forward, my life took a very different path.

 As a child, I had learned how to read music by sitting around my grandmother's dining room table and singing through the Southern Baptist hymnal. My aunt was the director of music at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, and she would take me to church concerts with a score, and help me follow along.

 So, my first introduction to music was to sacred music. Later on, I realized that God had been using music to prepare my heart from childhood. I loved music because it combines creativity, intellect, and beauty -- all traits of God Himself, I later realized.

 When I became a Christian, I immediately turned my musical interests in a religious direction. I started taking hymns that had wonderful words, but the tune didn't really express them very well, and replacing the tunes with my own melodies. This turned into a lifelong hobby of mine, and over the years I have written a fair number of hymns which I publish at www.newhymns.org.

 I've gone through times of great sadness in my life, great difficulty, and I've always turned to music and to hymn writing at those times to work out those emotions and seek the reassurance that God is there and He cares for me.

 Looking back on it, the threads are clearly music, which God used to draw me in by beauty, intellectual curiosity, which God used to draw me in by my mind, and friends and church family, which God used to draw me in by loving relationships.

 God took me when I felt I was being sucked down into a pit, like in a pit of mud, and He lifted me out and He set me on a rocky ledge. Literally my entire waking life God has been drawing me to Himself.

 And that's my story.