How to Become Rooted and Established

Josh and me at the park

“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” Ephesians 3:14-18

The Apostle Paul prayed often and was greatly burdened by the responsibility of not only winning souls to Christ, but teaching followers about Christ. He spent hours in the temple and teaching halls, once preaching so long a parishioner fell asleep and tumbled out of a window (Acts 20:7-12).

Paul’s prayers emphasize the urgency with which he wanted new Christians to be “rooted and established” in the love and knowledge of Christ. He knew firsthand how difficult the road of the cross is and what it took to be strengthened for the journey.

One way we can do this is to read our Bibles and pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance for discernment. I’ve heard many people say they don’t understand or wish they had a better grasp of the historical setting of the Bible or a deeper intellectual understanding of the basis of the Bible. Or they don’t know how to follow a particular topic thread through several books of the Bible. They yearn for answers, yet sadly, some Christians aren’t taught directly from the Bible in the churches they attend. Even when they are, time constraints of worship services don’t always allow for in-depth study to answer all of our questions.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15a

While Peter’s admonition mainly refers to a Christian’s testimony, being able to have a dialogue with a non-believer or fellow Christian about the Bible’s origin or history or answer questions about our faith is imperative. We live in difficult times, as have most believers, and being saturated in God’s Word and having a clear understanding of it is not optional, if our faith is challenged.  It also leads to a deeper relationship with God.

I’d like to share two reliable, time proven resources I’ve utilized in Bible study.  These will take you deeper than many contemporary Bible studies. Think of these like having access to a Bible seminary on your computer.

J. Vernon McGee was a leading authority on the Bible during the mid to late 20^th century. His program “Thru The Bible” is still heard worldwide and can be accessed through their website. The program methodically goes through the entire Bible in five years. That will give you an indication as to the depth of his teaching. Tons of free downloads including Bible book notes and outlines, study guides, and audio programs are available. All of his materials are designed in such a way that you can go through them on your own or along with his radio broadcasts. For years, I’ve listened to Dr. McGee, and his passion for Christ shines through all his teaching. His program can still be heard on some Christian radio stations including the Bible Broadcasting Network (BBN) out of Charlotte, NC. And speaking of BBN…

It’s my other recommended resource. Several years ago, this nationwide radio network added a Bible Institute to their website. Click here to access, then click "browse courses." I’ve taken a few of their courses after consulting my pastor as to their credibility. (I really had no doubt, but his endorsement made me feel better.) Whether it’s studying individual books, Bible characters, doctrine, end times, discipleship, relationships, leadership, etc., BBN Bible Institute has dozens of free classes to choose from, and you work at your own pace.

Please let me know if you decide to use one of these resources to deepen your Bible knowledge and how you liked it.

What Bible study have you participated in that you would recommend to others?

While you’re here, if you have a prayer request, I’d love to pray for you. Leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests. There’s also a prayer list at the top of the blog if you’d like to join me in prayer for these needs.

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Bible image courtesy of Arvind Balaraman/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Taking A Step Back

“A flash of harmless lightning, a mist of rainbow dyes, the burnished sunbeams brightening, from flower to flower he flies.” John Banister Tabb

Last summer, I walked through my garage and heard a noise coming from behind the window blinds. It sounded like an oversized bumblebee—or a miniature power tool. Along with the hum, I heard a tap, tap, tap. The little creature was beating itself to death against the closed window, when he only needed to back up and exit the way he came in—through the open garage door.

We have this problem every summer. No doubt, hummingbirds are attracted by anything red in the garage. They hover around my van’s taillight trying to discern if it’s a food source.

Hummingbirds are the only bird that can fly backwards. I could list many amazing attributes about this beautiful creature, but no matter how magnificent, its design is also limiting. One trait in particular—fear—causes the hummingbird to ignore its God-given instinct to simply back out of a situation it shouldn’t be in.

Horrified that the bird would tap the window until it died, I grabbed a rake. After several careful attempts to free the bird without stressing or injuring it, I guided it away from the closed window back to the open garage door. Was it relieved? I doubt a bird has the capacity to feel relief, but it went on its merry way, to the next red bloom or taillight that caught its attention.

Sounds familiar. How often do we insist on following a path in pursuit of something that turns out to be a counterfeit blessing, much like the taillight is to a hummingbird? We see the end of the path—the objective we’re after—so we keep beating our head against the invisible wall to reach it. Though we could take a step back and reassess our objective and the means to achieve it, we refuse to do so.

God grabs our shirttails and tries to rein us in. We try to wriggle out of His grasp.

“But, God, I see the prize. If I try hard enough, work hard enough, sacrifice enough, I’ll get there. Don’t pull me back. Here’s a better solution—Remove the invisible wall.”

Because we know best, right? And removing the barrier would be best.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

If you're in a tough situation that seems to have no solution, or you're pushing too hard to make something work, challenge yourself to take that step back into the arms of God—then trust Him for the answer.

“God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with Him.” Jim Elliot

What have you had to completely trust God for that you’ve found difficult to have faith about?

If you have a prayer need, I’d love to pray for you. Please leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests.

God bless,
Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Post shared from archives.

Hummingbird image courtesy of Christian Meyn/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Leaving A Legacy

“I look back on my life like a good day's work, it was done and I am satisfied with it.” Grandma Moses (American folk artist)

One of the writing hats I wear is ghostwriter/collaborator. I’m in the process of helping two wonderful Christian ladies write their life stories that will bring encouragement to all who read them. You might characterize this as part of their legacy. I also keep two journals of reflections for my son and daughter to enjoy after I’m gone. I pray the work I do will inspire and encourage many for years to come.

If you were given paper and pen to write a final statement about your life before your death, what would you write? The Apostle Paul wrote this passage in the shadow of impending execution.

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time of my departure is near.  I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8 

Paul had committed egregious sins prior to becoming a Christian. Formerly a Jewish zealot who persecuted Christians, he was equally fervent in leading people to the Christ he knew intimately. He instructed the early Christians, not only in behavior but in their life’s purpose.

One might say this final recorded statement reflected Paul’s legacy. Yet nothing in his closing remarks mentions punishment for past sins.

Why?

Because he’d been forgiven. And once we’re forgiven, the only direction to go is forward. Paul’s ministry was the best example we have of the Christian faith manifested through works—bringing action to his testimony.

So, back to the piece of paper in front of you—the one that will hold your legacy. Can you write that you’ve fought the good fight? Finished the race? Kept the faith?

Very few Christians can measure up to Paul’s accomplishments, but do we earnestly try? The first step of leaving a legacy is creating one. Regardless of man’s assessment, when we stand before God, will we hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant?”

Our legacy before God and man is created by living a life worthy of being remembered.

What do you hope to be remembered for when your life is over?

If you have a prayer request, please leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests. I’d love to pray for you.

God bless,
Laura

©Laura Hodges Poole

Book image courtesy of Nuttapong/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
Silhouette of Man image courtesy of Chaiwat/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

When You Walk Through The Fire

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” Isaiah 43:2 NIV 

I’d spent the morning alternating between worry and prayer. My son Josh is enrolled in a Fire Science degree at a local college and was participating in a dangerous training exercise.

As a volunteer firefighter, he’s been in dangerous situations before—real world and training. A couple of months ago, he went to the fire academy in Columbia, SC, to participate in live propane tank fire training. Yes, these are the large ones—train car size. My nerves were shot that day, as well.

But this particular training day involved a flashover simulator. In the real world, firefighters don’t survive flashovers, so learning the warning signs of one is imperative. In the simulator, firefighters train to detect the conditions and environment that precipitate a flashover. The only way to do this is to create an actual flashover as close to real world conditions as possible. Though the trainees wore special protective gear, the instructors had cautioned them not to touch anything or each other because it would leave a burn where they touched.

So when Josh pulled into the driveway that afternoon, my heart leapt with joy and thankfulness that God had protected him and the other trainees. He was sooty and exhausted, but as I plied him with Powerade, I couldn’t help but ask questions. He hadn’t been burned, so I was excited to hear the details of his day.

“Mom, the thermometer inside the simulator read 1200 degrees. It was the hottest thing I’ve ever felt. Even the air coming through my mask was hot!”  His eyes shone with excitement as he recounted the experience. He said it was the coolest thing ever. J I thanked God that Josh had come through it with the knowledge, hopefully, to recognize the warning signs of a flashover.

Ironically, I awoke that morning anticipating this training would be the most dangerous situation Josh would face that day. But all kinds of danger exist for firefighters.

Later that evening, he worked a call where a motorist had somehow failed to see a fire truck with lights flashing on the interstate working a scene and crashed into it. I’m not sure how the driver or his passenger survived hitting something that big at full speed, but Josh was among the crew who cut the guy out of his vehicle before he was airlifted to a nearby hospital. The firefighters in the truck sustained only minor injuries.

Dangers and trials ensnare all of us throughout life. On any given day, we awake with hope for what the day holds. We have no idea if our anticipation will come into fruition or if disaster will strike us or a loved one. So, how do we go about living our fragile, earthly lives with no assurance of a good outcome?

Because of the One who provides eternal assurance.

What an encouraging picture Isaiah created in the verse above to show the faithfulness of our Lord. Isaiah wasn’t referring to physical fire, though we read an account of such in Daniel 3. Rather, his words invoke safety we only experience through a relationship with Christ. Trials are going to come. There will be rivers filled with rapids and waterfalls. There will be fires. Yet, through it all, God never leaves our side. His grace is sufficient to see us through anything. He promises this (2 Corinthians 12:9). The safest place for any Christian is inside the will of God.

What trial are you walking through today? Do you feel as though you can barely keep your head above the raging waters? Or flames are nipping at the hem of your garment as you try to stay one step ahead? I’d love to pray for you. Please leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests.

Have you recently walked through a trial with God’s help? What did you learn about His faithfulness?

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Fire image courtesy of think4photop/freedigitalphotos.net.

Waterfall image courtesy of manostphoto/freedigitalphotos.net.

Greater Love Hath No Man

“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” Romans 8:29-30

I don’t know about you, but I love Easter, even more than Christmas. Perhaps it has something to do with the purity in celebrating the resurrection versus the almost total commercialism Christmas has become. (Though some have sought to do the same with Easter.) Maybe it’s because I feel the renewing of my spirit as I celebrate Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, much like nature is reborn each spring.

Easter is a time for Christians to explore whether their lives conform to the image of Christ. How do we do that? By embracing the fact that it’s our destiny.

God has predestined us to fellowship with Him and do His Kingdom work. But how is this possible, when sin and our own self-focus often interfere? There’s only one way—through the cross.

Jesus’ earthly life and ministry culminated on the cross for our salvation. This was the central focus of everything He did. He loves us that much! (John 15:13). One could say His destiny was the cross. Yet, in order for His death to mean anything, He had to choose it.

God created us with free will to choose our own path. Once we encountered the cross and became Christians, we were no longer our own. Because of this, every decision we make reflects Christ to the world.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 

Christianity means living much deeper and broader than ourselves. We must never forget what an awesome and enormous responsibility it is to carry the name of Jesus.

The cross was costly. When Jesus was resurrected, an enormous price had been exacted on Him. He bore the wages for our sin. This Sunday, when we celebrate His resurrection, take a moment to consider that cost. It’s easy to become complacent in the politically correct society we live in, when faced with moral and social issues, and forget the price of our redemption. We have been “predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”

Are we willing to take up the cross of Christ and the cost it encompasses? Consider these thoughts from Jim Elliot, a martyred missionary:

“We are so utterly ordinary, so commonplace, while we profess to know a Power the twentieth century does not reckon with. But we are "harmless," and therefore unharmed. We are spiritual pacifists, non-militants, conscientious objectors in this battle-to-the-death with principalities and powers in high places. Meekness must be had for contact with men, but brass, outspoken boldness is required to take part in the comradeship of the Cross. We are "sideliners" -- coaching and criticizing the real wrestlers while content to sit by and leave the enemies of God unchallenged. The world cannot hate us, we are too much like its own. Oh, that God would make us dangerous!”

Amen!

When you analyze your life, does it resemble the world or the cross? For Jesus, it was all about the cross. As we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior on Easter morning, can we say the same?

It was all about a man

It was all about a cross

It was all about the blood that was shed

so I would not be lost

It was all about the love

That was bigger than a life

It was all about a freedom that was given

through your sacrifice

'Cause you would rather die

than to ever live without me

(by Jody McBrayer)

If you have a prayer request, leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests. I’d love to pray for you. Would you take a moment to lift up those who leave comments, as well as those on our prayer list at the top of the blog? Thanks! J

I pray you all have a beautiful Resurrection Sunday.

Shalom,

Laura ✞

“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 1 John 4:10

©Laura Hodges Poole

Cross image courtesy of luigi diamanti/freedigitalphotos.net 

The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends - Author Interview

Today, I have the privilege of welcoming fellow Christian author, TC Avey, to discuss her newly released book, “The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends.” I hope her honesty and passion about Christianity and where we’re headed spiritually and as a nation will inspire you. Information on how to order her book is at the end. Having read the book as her editor, I consider it one of the most eye-opening books for Christians on the market today. A collection of short stories with futuristic settings, most are plausible in our current world situation. Following each short story is a list of discussion questions and reality checks to help the reader explore their own belief system. This book would make a great small group or Bible study resource.

Welcome, TC. First, I’d like to ask what led you to write “The Precipice?”

One day I sat in church and wondered how I would react if someone threatened my life if I refused to recant my belief in Christ. Honestly, I’m not sure how I would react. I’d like to think I’d be brave. Men and women die for Christ every day, but I’m not so sure I’m that strong. Living in America, I feel safe. But I cannot assume I will always have the right to “freedom of religion.”

What would I do?

That question plagued me. Especially as I read more and more news stories forcing me to believe such a reality isn’t as far fetched as many would like to believe. With these thoughts in mind, I sat down and wrote my book.

Your book leaves people with a great deal to mull over. What do you hope people will take away from reading your stories?

I hope they realize life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are not guaranteed. Not for Americans or citizens of any nation. The only One who can keep such a promise is God.

2 Cor 3:17 tells us, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

God does not lie. Therefore, it is imperative people build their lives—hopes, dreams, everything—upon Him. A shallow relationship with Him will have difficulty standing when the winds of adversity blow like a tornado (Matt 7:24-29). Only those with deep roots will thrive (Matt 13:1-22).

One must begin today to place their trust in Christ alone.

Why do you think some Christians are hesitant to discuss ‘end times’?

There’s no simple answer to this. Each person is different. But in general, I think part of it is fear—few like thinking the world is going to end—and part is lack of knowledge. The Bible has numerous Scriptures about the End Times, but there’s no formula for cracking when it’s going to happen. The Bible says only God knows the hour He will return for His children.

Also, there’s great debate within the Christian community about WHEN Christ will call His children home—how much pain and suffering we will endure at the hands of the anti-Christ.

Despite all this, I believe it is vital Christians acknowledge the world will one day end. I have no clue when that time will be. But I can trust God and follow what I believe He is revealing to me in His Word. Each person must read His Word, not trust someone else to tell them what it says. Honestly, it really doesn’t matter when He comes, all that matters is that His Bride is ready and carrying out His work—the Great Commission.

We need to stop worrying, and arguing, among ourselves about issues such as pre-tribulation vs. post-tribulation and focus on sharing the Gospel with the Lost.

Our lives are not our own. We were purchased at a price. It’s time Christians begin realizing this and go about their Father’s business.

How did you research the Reality Checks in your book?

The Reality Checks are short summaries of Modern Events transpiring around the globe. Some regard technology, while others focus on infringements of people’s rights, and others tell about persecuted Christians.

I have a few sources I trust and read on a regular basis. But I don’t take what they say at face value. I try to have two-three sources back up any story. I especially like when I can get sources from opposing “sides” telling a story, not only is that interesting, but it paints a more complete picture.

The references I used are at the end of my book. If you go through them, you will discover even more references and newer stories about these events.

Knowledge, technology, civilizations, and news stories are ever changing. One must make an intentional effort to stay up-to-date or they will be swept away by others who are “in the know” and are navigating the winds of change to their advantage.

The only thing that never changes is God.

How can people get more involved with current events?

Be intentional. Few have the time, or desire, to be informed about the world around them. Also, it can be VERY difficult to know who to believe. Media bias and flat out lies can make it confusing and frustrating. I encourage people to find someone in the media they trust and listen/read that person. When they discuss something you find interesting, don’t just take off with it. Make the effort to look into it further. At least, get it backed up by one other source.

How do you recommend people do research?

As I mentioned above, take the time to read a story from a few different sources. When stories provide links, follow those links. Go back to the original source whenever possible. Like the Bible, you must go to the source and not let anyone else interpret something for you. When reading a history book, whenever possible, read the original (or as close to it as you can get) documents and not a publication that professors have built upon year after year—slowly and gradually distorting original meaning.

TC Avey is a Christian devoted to God, family, and friends. She is passionate about encouraging Christians to live a life dedicated to Christ as well as helping them understand the importance of preserving our national freedoms through knowledge and love. She blogs at Wisdom of a Fool. You can also follow her on Twitter. Her book, The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends, is available for $2.99 on Amazon. 

Chaos, Troubles, and a Promise

“Troubles surround me, chaos abounding, my soul will rest in You, I will not fear the war, I will not fear the storm, my help is on the way, my help is on the way…Oh, my God, He will not delay, my refuge and strength always, I will not fear, His promise is true, my God will come through always, always.”~Kristian Stanfill, singer/songerwriter (from the song “Always”)

I’m sure many of us could claim this as our theme song. Troubles around me, but I will not fear the storm. My help is on the way. I love that thought. Or as the Apostle Paul said, God’s grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9). 

Chaos is defined as complete disorder and confusion. Storms and trials come, and my schedule gets disrupted on a daily basis, but regardless of how busy my life is, one thing I detest and try to avoid is chaos.

We don’t have to give in to confusion and disorder the enemy tries to create in our minds and lives. It’s possible to have troubles and still have spiritual peace. You’ll find this peace residing inside God’s will through prayer and Bible study.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

This past week was one of those times when chaos tried to invade my life, though my reaction to the specific adversity was tame in comparison to my college classmates. I’m in the midst of training for a medical coding certification, which is tough in and of itself, given the ever-changing healthcare environment. Toss in a major revision for a new diagnostic code system, ICD-10, by the World Health Organization, and it gets interesting. The certification track I’m on is the first to train strictly on the new codes. Millions of dollars have been spent by the healthcare industry to make the switch.

Many countries worldwide have adapted since the 1993 mandate. Yes, you read that correctly. This has been in the works for more than twenty years, and most of Europe and other parts of the world have made the transition. Of course, not the United States, where everything is delayed ad nauseam due to bureaucratic red tape. Each time a deadline is set, lobbyists and the government find a way around it. This time, with only six months to the switchover, Congress inserted a one sentence delay into a 3,000-page bill a week ago Friday, the Senate passed it last Monday, and the President signed it into law on Tuesday. Ironically, I don’t recall a time in recent history when they’ve acted so quickly on anything. Those of us on the ICD-10 track will have to back up and learn ICD-9, if we want to obtain our certification and find a job within the next two years. No one knows exactly how this will play out logistically, because of the confusion created on so many levels. One thing perfectly clear is added expense and time for everyone industry-wide.

I’ll admit spending more money, being in class through most of the summer, and dealing with government interference were not at the top of my fun list. Especially when my overload meter has been pointing red for a while now. But I take comfort in the fact that God knows all. Nothing that happens in my life catches him by surprise. “His promise is true, my God will come through always, always.”

I don’t have to let troubles turn my life into chaos. That is a conscious choice. I only have to lean on God’s strength to see me through. He’s never let me down yet. I don’t anticipate him doing so now.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

Praise God!

What adversity are you dealing with today? I’d love to pray for you. Please leave a comment so others can pray, as well, or e-mail me confidential requests. 

Prayer request from Betty: Her Uncle Jerry has been fighting cancer for months. A couple of weeks ago, he found out his liver had no sign of cancer, but he then had to be hospitalized due to leg swelling. The cancer has spread to his bones, and he is going downhill fast. Betty is not sure of his spiritual state. She wants prayer for his healing and salvation.  

While you’re here, would you take a moment to pray for Betty's request and lift others up in prayer? The permanent prayer list is at the top of the blog. Thanks! J

God bless you all,

Laura ✞

©Laura Hodges Poole

Coming Friday: An interview with Christian author T.C. Avey. Among my recent projects is a book I edited that T.C. wrote. “The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends” is a collection of short stories with futuristic settings, though most are plausible in our current world situation. Following each short story is a list of discussion questions to help the reader explore their own belief system. This book would make a great small group or Bible study resource. This Friday, she’ll discuss the book and some of the impetus for it. Meanwhile, why don’t you check out her blog, "Wisdom of a Fool," as well as her book on Amazon? If you enjoy reading her work, will you consider showing your support by purchasing her book? Thanks!

"The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends," available for $2.99 on Amazon.

“World” image courtesy of Danilo Rizzuti/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

“Stormy weather” image courtesy of dan/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

“Sweet Sunset” image courtesy of samuiblue/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

“The Precipice” courtesy of TC Avey