Getting to Sleep

This post is fifth in the Psalm 127 series "Live Like a King."

~ ~ ~

It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.
~ Psalm 127:2 (NKJV)

Getting to sleep used to be a simple matter. Most nighttimes past, my head hit the pillow, sleep embraced me within moments, and my next conscious thought did not seep in until daylight.

During the last few years, sleep has become more of a tease. I'll play that game for up to an hour. Whether sleep eludes me when I go to bed, or a moment of wee-hour wakefulness grows into sixty, I refuse to stay in bed once an hour has elapsed.

Occasionally, I'll get up and attack a pressing task before taking another stab at logging some Z's. But I know in my heart that's not the way to go. So most often, I'll get up and read the Bible for an hour or two, then easily give myself to slumber. Without fail.

For in much wisdom is much grief,
And he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.
~ Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NKJV)

Wisdom and wealth—King Solomon possessed greater stores of them than any mortal before or since, gratuitously indulged in both, yet found no pleasure in his intemperance. As I've said before, Solomon carried Wisdom, but Wisdom did not carry Solomon.

So it is with me. And perhaps you. I forget or otherwise fail to consciously choose wisdom.

I have well learned that if I go to bed thinking about the Lord's goodness, getting to sleep comes as easily as breathing. But if thoughts prevail of those pressing tasks, or of the problems that seem to have me boxed in, my mind remains in this world rather than the world of sleep.

… for so He gives His beloved sleep …

Sure, I need to get the proper nutrition for the right hormones to bring on sleep. Though I'm one of those oddballs who can sleep about anywhere, an environment conducive to sleep is helpful when insomnia is a problem. But ultimately, getting to sleep by night is like getting productive by day.

Or, if you prefer Christian vernacular, getting to sleep is like getting fruitful.

When the focus is on me, when I indulge in cares about this world, when I rely on my own wisdom and knowledge to untangle a problem—all of them as the devil prefers—there is no peace.

When the focus is on my Lord, when I indulge in His Word, when I rely on the wisdom and guidance of the Spirit, there is perfect peace from the Prince of Peace.

You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
~ Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)

It's all about You, Lord. It's all through You. Please remind us often. I love You. : )

Comments are welcome (including respectful disagreement) and will receive a reply.
You may also contact author via Twitter – @anne4JC
or e-mail – use @gmail.com *after* buildingHisbody
Copyright 2012, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Spiritual Armor: Gospel of Peace

As any soldier knows, proper footwear is vital to traction, stamina, and strength for fighting. In spiritual warfare, the Gospel of Peace is the source of our solid standing.

Jesus answered, "You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice." Pilate said to Him, "What is truth?"
~ John 18:37-38 (NKJV)

How do we discern the truth? Satan is known to masquerade as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14) and to distort truth for his own purposes (Matthew 4:5-6). We must not only be able to distinguish between the voice of our King and the voice of the enemy, but also be able to recognize whether truth is rightly applied or misappropriated.

Such knowledge begins with familiarity. There is a time to wield God's Word as a sword (the post planned for Thursday). Until then, we build a firm standing on the Gospel as the foundation for our lives.

"Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock."
~ Matthew 7:24-25 (NKJV)

A spiritual attack may storm in on various battlegrounds. Vicious words may rain down upon us, troubles may flood us, the ways of the world may blow against us, anti-Christian contempt may beat upon us. When we have adequately prepared, we are ready to withstand the storm in peace.

"To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace."
~ George Washington

Comments are welcome (including respectful disagreement) and will receive a reply.
You may also contact author via Twitter – @anne4JC
or e-mail – buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2012, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Comfort Food

Comfort Food. Do you easily lapse into fond thoughts of those particular foods which make you feel as if all is right with the world?

Mine are homemade soup and dark chocolate. I'd happily indulge in the former more often if it were as readily available as the latter. And since one should only have so much chocolate, I'm more likely to indulge in comfort drinks. I like cool water generously laced with fresh lemon, hot black coffee, or perhaps a glass of a not-too-dry Riesling. I needn't even sip of them to feel happy. Simply holding a cup or glass of one is enough to impart harmony with the world.

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
~ John 16:33 (NKJV)

John gives us an in depth, five-chapter glimpse of that last night Jesus spent with His disciples. Jesus may have spoken at such length on any other night, but it is only these final and fatal hours to which we are privy. We can nonetheless be certain that our Master weighed these particular words with special care, to feed His followers' souls at their Last Supper together.

"So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD."
~ Deuteronomy 8:3 (NKJV)

When conflict churns and chaos clamors all about us, an oasis of calm waters and comfort food for the soul may be found in the every Word of Jesus.

You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
~ Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)

Comments are welcome (including respectful disagreement) and will receive a reply.
You may also contact author via Twitter – @anne4JC
or e-mail – buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2012, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Riding out a Storm

"Peace is not the absence of storm
but the presence of calm within a storm."
~ Unknown

"Master, Master, we are perishing!" (Luke 8:24)
"Lord, save us! We are perishing!" (Matthew 8:25)
"Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" (Mark 4:38)

One of my favorite ways to study Scripture is to look at the same scene through the eyes of different Bible passages. As I well learned from police work, more witnesses, with contrasting details, provides a more complete picture.

You gotta love Mark, whose descriptions often include extra details and rougher edges. In recording Jesus' calming of the storm, Mark starts with Jesus sleeping "in the stern, on a pillow." The very human Master didn't simply doze off, but planned to get His rest. Matthew and Luke show the disciples awakening Jesus to call for His help. Mark depicts utter desperation.

"Do You not care that we are perishing?"

These aren't the words a person uses with an initial plea. Do you get the impression that Jesus hadn't responded immediately? Were some of them simply looking for two more hands to bail out water? How many understood, as Matthew implies, that Jesus had power to save, even if they weren't anticipating the magnitude of His power?

And other little boats were also with Him.
~ Mark 4:36 (NKJV)

This other detail from Mark makes me wonder—couldn't the disciples who actually had Jesus in their boat sense their advantage by comparison? The storm might take out those guys, but we have the Holy One of God with us, who has raised the dead. At least we'll survive.

Do You not care that I am perishing?

Have you ever reached the place of utter desperation which prays like this? Do you know what it is to exhaust your own efforts and the capability of others, and turned to God knowing that He is all you need anyway?

Do you remember that some people nearby don't have Jesus and sense your advantage?

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
~ Matthew 11:28-30 (NKJV)

Being yoked together with Jesus means you are bound to Him. Whether He chooses to calm the storm or He rides it out with you, you will not perish.

He has told us that in being attached to Him, we will find rest for our souls. Will He not be true to His word?

Lord Jesus, when we face the kind of tests that cause us to believe we cannot endure even one more day, please increase our faith to believe that You do indeed care, and You offer us rest in You.

Your comments, questions, and respectful disagreement are most appreciated. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments, or e-mail buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2010, 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Soul Cares

Image source: Missionary Help

This week's posts are based on Jesus' words of Luke 21:34-35, taken from the Literal Translation, with the original Greek amplified:

"But take heed [pay attention; as a nautical term, to hold a ship in a direction, to sail towards] to yourselves that your hearts not be loaded down [heavily burdened, oppressed, dull, stupid] with headaches [hangover; disgust following intemperance], and drinking [intoxication], and anxieties [distraction; see below] of life, and that day [Isaiah 24:17] come suddenly upon you as a snare [spring on you like a trap], for it will come in on all those sitting on the face of all the earth."

: : :

Anxiety, worry, fear, solicitude, concern, cares—there are a number of ways to translate the the Greek word merimna in the above passage. From a root word meaning "division," merimna captures the idea "division of mind."

This is what soul cares or anxiety does—it cuts our mind into portions. Bad enough that we lose a sizable measure of brain and heart power which apportions itself to fruitless worry and fear. But the brain and heart capability left behind to face a challenge may struggle to operate effectively without doing more damage to the situation. Like the motor or electrical component which strains to function under brownout conditions until it burns out, it might be better to just shut down and wait until adequate power is available.

And [Jesus] said to them, "Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while." For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.
~ Mark 6:31 (NKJV)

It's often difficult to simply rest and wait, even under duress. There's too much to be done. We have commitments.

But if too many thoughts are coming and going, and they are bringing anxiety, it really is time to drop out of the action in order to feed on the bread of God's Word and drink from the living waters of God's Spirit. Truth supplies power to heart and mind when it restores unity with with the heart and mind of our Father.

From experience, I know the reality of life doesn't always allow a physical time-out from commitments. I also know that there are times when activity can function on autopilot while mind and heart seek the Lord.

: : :

Monday: Soul Hangover
Yesterday: Soul Intoxication
Tomorrow's Conclusion: Riding out a Storm

Your comments, questions, and respectful disagreement are most appreciated. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments, or e-mail buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2010, 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

The Comfort Zone

Once a month, age 12 Joshua and age 9 Abigail go to a drawing class. I send my Abigail because she loves to draw. I send my Joshua because he hates to draw is drawing-challenged.

My days are filled with me leading my children outside The Comfort Zone, firmly but gently encouraging them to rise to become more than they think they can be. It seems that parents continually walk a fine line as we try to discern when necessary testing might become unhealthy pushing or an unfruitful battleground.

The above situation is easy. Others not so much.

The culprit was not me when a different challenge was presented last week to my age 17 Michaelle, an accomplished classical pianist. This spring she received an unexpected opportunity to play with a philharmonic orchestra. One to shun the spotlight, she didn't mind in the least that the pianist sits far left upstage, behind a grand piano and the rest of the orchestra.

One of the pieces presented during this week's concert was the well known Pink Panther theme song. Moments before they were to go on stage, the conductor asked for a volunteer to walk a 4-foot stuffed Pink Panther to the conductor's podium just before the music started. Despite numerous other musicians' eager requests and Michaelle making herself as small as possible, she was selected.

(I shudder to think of the discussion if I'd have suggested her for the role.)

Bad enough that she had to emerge from her niche and walk across the stage in front of the entire audience in unfamiliar heels. The moment of truth arrived when she stepped forward to perform her unrehearsed part and suddenly realized that the musicians' chairs arranged along the front left only a tiny strip of stage for a person to walk.

Have I mentioned before that Michaelle is afraid of heights?

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
For I am the LORD your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
~ Isaiah 43:2-3 (NKJV)

There's no drama or disaster to report. When she had to do what she had to do, Michaelle simply did it. Everyone in our family was tickled ... pink, and I thanked the Lord for accomplishing what I would not have attempted.

(You may have already guessed where I'll take this ... )

God does the same thing all the time as He stretches us well beyond The Comfort Zone. He puts us in situations we'd never in a million years choose for ourselves so that we'll grow.

I know that. You know that.

But it never hurts to be reminded that wherever you and I are being stretched right now, it's all part of His good and perfect plan.

"Our prayers are answered not when we are given what we ask,
but when we are challenged to be what we can be."
~ Morris Adler

Note: Let the record show that Michaelle is not afraid of heights, she simply doesn't like them. [Does that work for you, baby?] ; )

Comments, questions, and respectful disagreement are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments, or e-mail buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: decal-orations.com

Question of the Week: Forgiveness or Reconciliation?

by Anne Lang Bundy

What is the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation (in the context of being vulnerable to further abuse)?
~ Anonymous

Once again, a question is posed which defies adequate explanation on a lone page. This week, five contrasts from the Bible will be presented. Next week will look at how biblical truth plays out in relationships.

Accountability & Forgiveness:

"If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more ... if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen ..." (Matthew 18:15-17 NKJV)

"Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:21-22 NKJV)

Holding someone accountable for doing wrong to you, with a goal of reconciliation, is separate from the unrelenting forgiveness of heart that Jesus teaches.

Non-resistance & Escape:

"But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also." (Matthew 5:39 NKJV)

And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, "Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?" ... Then immediately those who were about to examine him withdrew from him. (Acts 22:25,29 NKJV; other examples of escape are Acts 5:17-20; 9:23-25;12:7-10)

Jesus both taught and set the example of accepting abuse without retaliation. But we should avoid injury when possible.

Marriage, Separation, Divorce:

A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife... If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. And [likewise] a woman ... if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. (1 Corinthians 7:10-15 NKJV)

God hates divorce. If separation is necessary, Christians are instructed to remain unmarried and work for reconciliation. Only if the non-believing spouse divorces is the believer released from the marriage. (An exception is divorce for sexual immorality—see "Can Marital Sex be Sinful?")

Willing Suffering:

But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps. (1 Peter 2:20-21 NKJV)

There really are some circumstances when suffering is preferable to quitting a situation or quitting a person. God's will and guidance are necessary for discernment.

Peace With Others & Peace Within:

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. (Romans 12:17-18 NKJV)

Reconciliation doesn't always happen after we offer forgiveness. As much as depends on us, we must offer peace—and then be at peace.

: : :

This post originally appeared at Bullets & Butterflies. To see ongoing dialogue in comments posted there click here.

What questions do you have about Christianity or the Bible? You're invited to leave them in the comments below (anonymous questions welcome), or email buildingHisbody [plus] @ gmail.com.

© 2011 Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: "Reconciliation in Sri Lanka"

Back to the Future

"Your past is important,
but it is not nearly as important to your present
as the way you see your future."
~ Tony Campolo

image from the movie "Back to the Future"

© 1985 Universal Pictures

If the dawn of a new day brings dread rather than anticipation, perhaps we are stuck in the past and need to get back to the future of the present.

Among the reasons we get stuck in the past:

◄ guilt, shame, regret
◄ bitterness, unforgiveness, nursing our injuries
◄ nostalgia

But Jesus said to him, "No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God."
~ Luke 9:62 (NKJV)

Looking back has value. We can gain a better perspective of the present as we better understand who and what brought us here. We cannot afford to forget the mistakes of history. Calling to mind foundational principles and goals helps narrow our options of how to move forward.

But there is a difference between looking at the past and living in it.

► If through Christ God has forgiven our sin, we can do no less.
► If we know God's forgiveness, then He asks us to pass it along to others.
► Whatever good the past held, the Lord has plans for even better.

As the past is a place to look and not to live, so is the future.

Now go with God and create an incredible today!

Lord, please show what to do in this very moment to bring us into step with You, and give us strength to do it.

☼ ☼ ☼

This post is part of a blog carnival hosted by Peter Pollock. You're invited to visit his site and see what others are saying about today's theme: Future.

Comments, questions, and respectful disagreement are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments, or e-mail buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Place of Peace

The name of the LORD [YHWH] is a strong tower;
The righteous run to it and are safe.
~ Proverbs 18:10 (NKJV)

To run to any one of the many names of our God is to call upon it in prayer, to live in accordance with its character, to bless it at every opportunity.

If security and peace are interdependent, then running to the Lord's name in any moment of distress will surely bring peace.

Thank You, dear Jesus Yeshua, for the power and peace and protection in Your precious name, in the name of the LORD—YHWH.

Comments, questions, and respectful disagreement are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments, or e-mail buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com
Copyright 2011, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Question of the Week: What is Peace?

Some of the [Christmas] words have been worn out. Can you put “glory,” “joy,” “Messiah / Christ,” etc. in today’s vernacular?
~ Don Kimrey

A wonderful Q&A theme for the Advent season is to revisit biblical definitions of these words. We'll insert the quintessential Christmas word “peace” for "etc.," and spread the answer out over four posts:

December 3: Glory
December 10: Joy / Rejoice
December 17: Peace
December 24: Messiah / Christ

: : :



Here is one Hebrew word easily translated: shâlôm.

Peace.

This Hebrew masculine noun is rooted in a verb that means to be safe and well; to make complete or to be completed.

True peace is holistic; that is, it takes in the whole person. Anyone who otherwise lives in health and ease, yet experiences gnawing hunger pangs in body, mind, heart, or soul, is not at peace.

If we look to the Bible for how to find peace, we discover that not only does peace affect the whole person, it is obtained in a Person:

You will keep in perfect peace,
The one fixed upon You,
Because he trusts in You.
Trust in YHWH forever,
For YAH—YHWH—is the Rock of Ages [everlasting strength].
~ Isaiah 26:3-4 (author)

We see here why peace eludes us. We think we can find peace in prosperity, in vigor of health, in relationship with another human. These things can bring a measure of peace, especially when we recognize them as gifts from God.

But they are all temporal. Prosperity is maintained by no small effort. Health and vigor are under constant attack from lifestyle, environment, and age. Every human relationship will eventually fail us, since every other human is as flawed as ourselves.

YHWH (also Yahweh, Jehovah, the LORD) is the Rock of Ages—eternal, everlasting strength. He does not change. His love never fails.

The more we are fixed on temporal things, the more ways we experience disappointment in their failing us. The more we are fixed upon YHWH, and establish Him as the solid foundation of our lives, the more peace we find amid the failures of all that is temporal.

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
~ Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)

A closing thought about peace is this: just as lack of peace in one part of the body affects the whole person, lack of peace in one part of Christ’s body of believers affects the whole. Indeed, lack of peace in one part of humanity affects the whole.

2010 draws to a close on a world without peace. While each of us might work toward peace in our corner of the globe, we remember—in this expectant season of Christmas—that peace cannot be complete until The Prince of Peace again walks the earth, as He promised He would.

: : :

This post originally appeared at Bullets & Butterflies. To see comments posted there click here.

What questions do you have about Christianity or the Bible? You're invited to leave them in the comments below (anonymous questions welcome), or email buildingHisbody [plus] @ gmail.com

© 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: flickr.com

Not Appointed to Wrath

Not Appointed to Wrath

By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed ... The rest of mankind that were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk. Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts.
~ Revelation 9:18,20-21 (NIV)

Fast-forward from 2010 AD to Earth's Great Tribulation. A fourth of the population was killed at Revelation 6:8. A third are killed here at 9:18. If one guesses that a third of the original population was Christians (who were raptured and are now absent), the planet has lost perhaps three fourths of its people, perhaps more.

Those remaining are a stubborn group. They have some clue that God is making war upon them (see Revelation 6:16). Yet like the Pharaoh of Moses’ time, they refuse to bow to His will. As the plagues of God’s wrath intensify, so does the pride which despises the goodness of God and refuses repentance Romans 2:4-5.

Rewind back to 2010.

For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.
(1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 NKJV)

The whole creation now groans because of sin (Romans 8:19-22). World governments are crumbling under waste and ineptitude. We who are Christ's face tribulation, trials, temptations.

But we are not appointed to wrath.

We are appointed to live together with Him (to abide in Jesus through His Word and Spirit), to comfort each other (one-on-one is implied), and to edify one another (build up the whole body).

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
~ Hebrews 13:5-6 (NKJV)

Rich comfort and peace and strength to each of you in such words.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Image source: globalpost.com

Miserly with Misery

Today's post is part of the Blog Carnival hosted by Bridget Chumbley on the one word topic "Joy." Click the link for more great posts! :D

“The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.
What is called resignation is confirmed desperation.”
~ Henry David Thoreau

Miserly with Misery

To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven ...
A time to weep,
And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn,
And a time to dance ...
~ Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 (NKJV)

I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.
~ Philippians 4:11 (NKJV)

There is a time to permit sloppy emotions to spill onto those around us. When we rejoice with dancing and laughing, it is no time to be selfish. When we mourn a great loss, we should not attempt to carry the burden alone, but allow others to lovingly share it.

Then there is the time for everyday weeping. Affliction is a fact of life—a consequence of living in a sinful world which God promises to use for good.

And though misery may love company, the loving person will be miserly with misery rather than carelessly splattering it all over the place. Misery is best shared with those we trust to love and comfort us, who are strong enough to help us carry it rather than be infected with it, who are wise enough to dispel rather than duplicate it.

A good way to dispel misery is to adopt joy when it isn’t being birthed naturally.

The fourth chapter of Philippians is filled with uplifting words, written by Paul while he was imprisoned. Though in chains, Paul encouraged, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” He used the Greek verb chairo, meaning to be full of cheer, to be calmly happy, to rejoice.

Chairo is also expressed as the noun charis, translated quite simply as “grace.”

To adopt joy is to do no more than acknowledge with gratitude the great and many unearned and unmerited expressions of lovingkindness from benevolent Creator to us. It is to know when and how to share deep misery, and the ability to reach into our souls for much deeper contentment and instead share that with both God and fellow man.

Among the other words of encouragement Paul spoke from that prison were these:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV)

My friends, amid affliction, I say to you from my own “much deeper contentment”—Rejoice!

Your feedback is appreciated. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
#Peace #QuietDesperation
Image source: dphotojournal.com

Stress or Distress?

"Although man has made the world very complex,
John the Apostle breaks down the entire universe
into two things: God and not God."
AW Tozer

Stress or Distress?

Out of my distress, I called on YAH.
YAH answered me with freedom...
YAH is my strength and song.
He has become my salvation.
~ Psalms 118:5,14 (WEB)

"You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free... Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed."
~ John 8:32,36 (NKJV)

For as long as we have distress, we are its captive.

Freedom may come by working through a problem, or in the problem's disappearance. It's also possible that we simply obtain peace about a distressful situation and are thereby set free.

The Lord's peace comes by seeing the situation from His perspective, and therefore seeing it in truth. I testify that this is how the Lord says He works, and how I've seen Him work.

As I write these words, a little voice says, "Not always—what about this? What about that? What if the Lord is using distress for good?"

Whether that little voice comes from me, from my enemy the devil, or from the world, I don't have to listen to it, and neither do you. The Lord allows the stress of testing and trial, but I believe stress need not become distress and take us captive. The Lord reminds me:

You will keep in perfect peace
The one stayed upon You,
Because he trusts in You.
Trust in the LORD forever,
For YAH, the LORD,
is the Rock of Ages.
Isaiah 26:3-4 (author)

I confess that I can allow stress to become distress. The failure is not the Lord's but mine, if I fail to keep myself adequately stayed (focused) upon Him. I cannot think of a time when distress came knocking, when I got my heart and mind stayed upon the Lord and His trustworthiness, that He did not set me free.

What are your thoughts? Where does stress become distress? Are truth and trust in the Lord enough to set us free?

Lord, our Savior and Deliverer, please lead our hearts to seek and find Your truth and freedom at all times.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved. #perspective

Strange Language

"The cross is 'I' crossed out."
~ Unknown

Strange Language
#powerofwords

When Israel went out of Egypt,
The house of Jacob from a people of strange language ...
~ Psalms 114:1-2 (NKJV)

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God... Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
~ 1 Corinthians 1:18,20 (NIV)

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
~ Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

The message of the cross looks like more than just a little bit of insanity. What kind of fool is assaulted and actually turns the other cheek as if to say, "Hit me again"?

Jesus Christ did not merely turn the other cheek. Almighty God, Ruler of innumerable angelic warriors, took on the flesh of man and mutely allowed His creation to flog and spit upon Him, crucify and kill Him. Little wonder the "wisdom" of this world sees Jesus as impotent or lunatic, refusing to bow before Him as Lord and God.

We are not to be of the world. The world says "I've got rights" and "look out for number one" and "you need attitude to survive" and "you'll get yours." Such philosophies should be a strange language to the Christian from which we segregate ourselves.

If we accept Jesus as Lord and Master, we will follow in His footsteps. We will be crucified with Him. We will not retaliate when injured or offended.

When I have been crucified with Christ and He lives in me, the world does not do injury to me but to Christ. All offense is owned by my Master, and any judgment lies in His hands.

What is mine in return? He who loves me and gave Himself for me allows me to feel His caress upon my soul and know His peace.

Lord Jesus, Your power lies in the goodness of holiness, humility and love. Enable us to exercise such power, and to honor You in doing so.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to

BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Photo from sangam.org

Sanctuary

Sanctuary
#encouragement

Surely I have cleansed my heart in vain...
When I thought how to understand this,
It was too painful for me
Until I went into the sanctuary of God ...
I am continually with You;
You hold me by my right hand.
You will guide me with Your counsel,
And afterward receive me to glory.
Whom have I in heaven but You?
And there is none upon earth
that I desire besides You.
My flesh and my heart fail;
But God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.
~ Psalms 73:13,16-17,23-26 (NKJV)

How often do we think that doing the right thing doesn't matter?

Do we grow weary in doing good?

Do we think God is taking too long?

Whether or not we are in a church sanctuary, there is always opportunity to enter the presence of God. Because is He continually with us, we are continually with Him. He sees. He knows. He feels our frustration and impatience and weariness.

In turning our minds and hearts to Him, we are reminded that in Heaven and upon Earth, He is all we need, able to fulfill all desire.

Lord, in Your presence we are made whole. You are everything. Please fill our hearts with the praise for You that is fitting in every moment of every day for all eternity.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Photo from trekearth.com

A Touch That Never Hurts

"Have a heart that never hardens,
a temper that never tires,
a touch that never hurts."
~ Charles Dickens

A Touch That Never Hurts
#powerofwords

"How shall I curse whom God has not cursed?
And how shall I denounce whom the LORD has not denounced?"
~ Numbers 23:8 (NKJV)

Death and life are in the power of the tongue.
~ Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV)

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
~ Romans 12:18 (NKJV)

As soon as I pick up my car keys, I am sure to immediately hear the running footsteps of my eight-year-old Abigail. However much household noise rules or far away she is, that distinctive sound is a magnet for her to hasten to my side and determine where I'm going, how long I'll be gone, and give me at least one 'I love you' kiss good-bye.

She likely got this from me. I do whatever possible to make sure every good-bye and its 'I love you' carries full weight. I most easily lay down pride when it comes time to part company. I am adamant for pleasant farewells, and I sorrow over every disagreeable one.

I do not obsess about death. But between the numerous death aftermaths I've been closely involved with, and my husband's occupation as a police officer—assigned to death investigations—I am acutely aware of how tentative life is. One never knows which words we speak may be the last between us and a loved one.

Another thing of which I'm acutely aware is how inclined my intensity is to take a hard stance, flash a quick temper, use a sharp touch with my tongue. The internet is a place of words offered at keyboard speed, where it is easier to measure each transmission, and double-click the trash can icon on regrets. You who know me only electronically see (as one critic called it) "the kinder and gentler Anne." I try ever so hard to be just as gracious in speech and electronic chats, but am sometimes not. Nearly all of my deepest regrets are of my words.

Is there anyone you've touched with words who has been hurt by them?

With eternity daily in the balance, is there any valid reason to not live peaceably?

Prince of Peace, You've given Your life and blood that we might know peace. I pray that every person who reads these words would know Your peace, and pass it on to as many people as possible, in as many ways possible.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
Photo from hebrewprincess.sulekha.com

By Day or By Night

"I do not know what the future holds,

but I know Who holds the future."
~ Unknown

By Day or By Night
#perspective

So it was always: the cloud covered [the tabernacle] by day, and the appearance of fire by night... Whether by day or by night, whenever the cloud was taken up, they would journey. Whether it was two days, a month, or a year ... At the command of the LORD they remained encamped, and at the command of the LORD they journeyed.
~ Numbers 9:16,21-23 (NKJV)

O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself;
It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps.
~ Jeremiah 10:23 (NKJV)

I've always enjoyed being spontaneous—as long as an idea sounds fun and I have a choice. I've otherwise planned ahead, with everything neatly in its own organized cubbyhole, necessary resources on hand for contingencies, and the calendar comfortably arranged.

Parenthood happened. I adjusted—mostly. Shortly thereafter I became involved in ministry, and learned how to flex for a slew of situations. Then my husband John (a police investigator) started working on-call hours, and in a moment's notice whatever semblance of order our household precariously maintains may be thrown out the window.

It took me a while, but I finally got it through my head that since God is Lord of my life, He's allowed to arrange my calendar and change my schedule. He may inconveniently disrupt long-planned vacations, important appointments, or simply thoughts of a nap.

The Lord has an exhaustive list of interruptions—among them sickness or injury, emergencies minor or major, relationship crisis—any of them my own or a third party's. Death seems to visit with unusual frequency, whether of family member, friend, or complete stranger who requires the police in attendance.

If I choose to see unwelcome circumstances as random fate, I will pout and be discouraged and maybe even rant a tantrum in my frustration. If I choose to see everything outside my free will to control as within God's predestined control, I can receive it as His plan to work good in my life.

Like the Israelites, I need only be attentive to His presence, ready to move when He says "Go!" and wait when He says "Stay."

Lord, thank You for always planning ahead, and always purposing good in Your perfect timing. Please help all of us to receive from Your hand whatever You give and whatever You take away, ready to bless Your name for it.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Not Fair

This Tuesday thru Thursday, focus will be on three key principles of the Christian life.

"Wealth consists not in the abundance of our possessions,
but in the fewness of our wants."
~ Unknown

Not Fair

"Your Father in heaven ... makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust."
~ Matthew 5:45 (NKJV)

For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
~ 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NKJV)

Yet again, I knew the topic of today’s post well in advance. Yet again, the Lord gives me the message afresh in the day I write it.

Yesterday my children expressed disappointment for what they perceive they lack. But they knew better than to cry "Not Fair," because I’ve explained countless times that God is certainly not fair.

The Lord does not give to us with the measure we deserve—as He would if He were fair. He instead blesses us when we’ve cursed Him. He repays our evil with good. He returns our apathy with love.

Jesus is the only Man Who might have legitimately said, "Not fair." The Son pleaded, "Abba, take this cup from me. Yet not my will but Yours." The Father said, "No. I will not take from You the cup of My wrath. You will die for sin committed by others, that they might live for Me and bring Me glory."

The unspoken argument against "Not fair" did not prevent my sympathy with my children’s frustration in perceiving their upbringing a little different than some of their peers. I remember well my own childhood lament to God of "Why me?" because I felt despair in being something other than "normal."

So yesterday I spoke to my children not of the material wealth I’ve often described in comparison to others. I instead explained the many opportunities they have and that I did not. I found myself in tears when I told them that their imperfect parents will fail to give them what they might like. But they will know the Lord. They will have the knowledge needed to excel in life. They will be equipped as they’ve been gifted.

They graciously received my words. But my heart remained heavy, because I do not want our children to grow up perceiving themselves in want of even non-material wealth. I want them to find the same contentment I have regardless of how "normal" or not their own lives prove to be.

In His goodness, the Lord brought to mind words I’d read just hours earlier by my esteemed friend Billy Coffey, in a post titled "It’s Never Easy Being Normal." I had commented on his post in jest that pandemonium would break out among my children if the claim of "normal" came from the mother who is anything but.

Then the Lord whispered that in this life, it is indeed normal to experience hardship, injury, and loss. It is normal to feel loneliness, inadequacy, and turmoil. It is normal to be a gratuitous sinner in need of gratuitous grace. My God reminded me of plans to share that the world only claims it wants "fair" from the Father Who is anything but.

I felt depth of gratitude for my Lord and Savior, that He has given me such great material and spiritual wealth both.

And I felt that maybe, I'm normal* after all.

Dear Lord, You've chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, the weak things to put to shame the mighty, base and despised things to bring to nothing things that are. Thank You for defining "fair" and "normal" on Your terms, not ours. I love you so much.

*(but not too much :D)

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Destroying Enemies

"Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?"
~ Abraham Lincoln

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath;
for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.
Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
~ Romans 12:18-21 (NKJV)

Who is the man who desires life,
And loves many days, that he may see good? ...
Depart from evil and do good;
Seek peace and pursue it.
~ Psalms 34:12,14 (NKJV)

Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
~ Galatians 6:7 (NKJV)

Ask yourself: how often have you thought life would be easier if any particular person didn't exist? For a person to stop existing (around us) requires death. Wishing a person gone really amounts to wishing them dead. Is this not murder in the heart?

The Lord provides far better ways to destroy enemies.

First, if retribution seems appropriate, consider that the Lord sees the full extent of evil in a person's heart, has all rights of vengeance, and can exact punishment more effectively than we can. Stay out of His way.

Secondly, if we wish to overcome an enemy, the superior force against evil is not evil, but good. If enemy becomes friend by the force of good, is he or she not defeated as an enemy?

Last, we do well to remember that not only does the Bible admonish us that we reap what we sow, but that the good life is found in making peace—if it is possible, as much as depends on us. Not every enemy will make peace. But in the very pursuit of peace we capture the good life.

Father God, we were once Your enemies. You have overcome us with Your love and goodness, poured out upon us with the blood of Your Son. He supplies peace beyond understanding. We thank You for such peace and ask that You enable us to bring it to others.

[Note: I have spoken here concerning individuals. I am neither a pacifist, nor do I condemn pacifists acting according to conscience. I support righteous government's duty to preserve our security, with force when necessary. I also support the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. More about government next week from Romans 13.]

Your questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Exhibit F: Counselor

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.
~ Romans 8:14 (NKJV)

"But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
~ John 14:26-27 (NIV)

Paul's next compelling evidence in the case for Christ is His Spirit. The proof of the Holy Spirit's presence is not supernatural manifestation which may be duplicated by the enemy, nor is it easily manufactured emotion.

The presence of the Holy Spirit is manifest by Jesus Christ in human flesh. It first occurred at Bethlehem, heralded by a star and song of angels. It occurs each time divine light shines into the world's darkness through us, when songs of praise pierce through our pain to display peace.

Jesus' words that He leaves His peace with us were spoken in the context of us receiving the Counselor, and thereby receiving His reminder of Christ's words in the needed hour. This is compelling proof of divinity's existence: when we face what the world gives with untroubled hearts and no fear, grounded in the Word of God.

It may be had for the asking, and is ours when we yield to the Spirit's leading.

Lord Jesus, You know well the tribulation the world gives. You know well the darkness and pain of this world. You know well the joy and love of the Father's presence for which we long. Please draw our hearts to yield to Your Spirit, minute by minute, that we might know Your peace as well as You know us.

Feedback appreciated! Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.