July 07, 2017
There are only two verses in the Bible about Jabez, but they are recorded here for a very important reason.
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother named him Jabez saying, “Because I bore him with pain.” Now Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that You would bless me indeed and enlarge my border, and that Your hand might be with me, and that You would keep me from harm that it may not pain me!” And God granted him what he requested. (1 Chronicles 4:9-10)
Yesterday I was driving back from Austin, Texas, from helping my kids move there. I was pulling a 32' travel trailer. If you've done this, you know the wind is not your friend.
I was hit with a gust of wind south of Texarkana that almost knocked me off the road. If a car had been in the lane next to me, I would have hit it. I looked over to see a flagpole, and the flags were flying parallel to the ground. After multiple days of work, great tiredness, semis all around and construction zones, I was gripping the wheel.
As I stopped for gas, I asked the Lord, ""Father, I know you don't have to do this, but could you let the wind die down, or, if not, just keep my trailer from being so hard to handle, I would be so grateful."" Simple prayer from a son to His Dad.
I got back in the truck and passed another flagpole. The flag was lying limp on the pole. No wind. Smooth ride home.
I thanked Him. I wouldn't have blamed Him if he had not answered that prayer, for I know His judgment is better than mine. But I was sure grateful. He wants to be involved in everything in our lives. Big and small.
Jesus said, ""Up until know you've asked for nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full."" (John 16:24)
It never hurts to ask your Dad.
February 18, 2025
I have known many people who have had great joy and power in the midst of great suffering. It is humbling that the slightest inconveniences deter many of us from following God. We have not gotten to the bottom—settled the issue. Most often, we live for our comfort, reputation, or gain. When any of those goals are touched, we are troubled and discontent.
February 17, 2025
The repentant who finds God gains everything. “He who has God and everything else,” said C.S. Lewis, “has no more than he who has God alone.”
February 12, 2025
Repentance helps us. Repentance heals us. Repentance restores us and refreshes us. And these are all the outcomes a loving Father desires for His children.
