Thankfulness
By Elin Henderson

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Highs in the upper 90’s and clear blue skies.” Sounds like a nice weather forecast, doesn’t it? Especially to those suffering under the snow and cold! But, what if that had been your weather forecast every day since September, with the occasional days in the 100’s? Do you think you would still feel the same about it? Maybe I am complaining to the wrong crowd, but God has been working on my heart recently in the area of thankfulness and, thus, contentment. Day after day I sit here in Mozambique, sweating in the heat, praying for rain. As I face person after person crying because their gardens have dried up and there will be little to no food for them this year, I struggle to be thankful and content.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 offers advice to those of us struggling to be thankful. Giving thanks is God’s will for us no matter the circumstances. In every situation, His will is for us to find thankfulness and contentment. Now, how is this possible? On our own it is not! Yes, some days we can muster up thankfulness for a moment, but let’s face it, every day, every thing, always thankful? That is not within us. And, God never intended we do it on our own. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 goes on to say, “Now may the peace of God sanctify you completely.” It is His Spirit at work in us that will produce this thankfulness as He conforms us to His image through the process of sanctification. Our job? Walk with Him, depend upon Him, cry out to Him when we are struggling, and see His sufficient grace come through every time.

The following is taken from Linda Dillow’s Calm My Anxious Heart and is a helpful reminder regarding thankfulness:

• Never allow yourself to complain about anything – not even the weather.
• Never picture yourself in any other circumstance or someplace else.
• Never compare your lot with another’s.
• Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise.
• Never dwell on tomorrow – remember that (tomorrow) is God’s, not ours.

What a challenge! I keep this posted in the open so that I see it daily and am reminded to never complain…not even about the weather!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What areas in your life are you struggling to be thankful? Ask the Lord to help you trust Him and be content.

FURTHER READING:
Philippians 2:14 & 4:6; Ephesians 5:20; Colossians 3:15

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

Loving the Unlovable
By Karen D’Amore

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Matthew 5:44

Looking deep into my childhood, I have no recollection of an endearing relationship with my grandmother. Criticism and displeasure were the fruits of her embittered spirit, creating chasms in her personal relationships. When my attempts to draw close were met with conflict, I quit trying. As an adult, intolerant of her difficult spirit, I remained an outsider. Relocating to another state served as a fitting excuse for keeping distance…in the distant relationship.

At 98 years old, my grandmother now lives a lonely existence plagued with dementia and delusions, residing with strangers in a board and care home. I returned home to California several weeks ago to visit my parents and re-connect with old friends. A short trip, with limited visitation time, I entrusted my itinerary to the Lord. Praying He’d orchestrate my steps, I sought direction in the reunions of His choice. Shortly after landing, my father asked if I would consider visiting my grandmother. Eight years had passed since our last visit and honestly, she wasn’t on my reunion list. Remembering my yielded prayer and desiring to be obedient to God’s commands to love the unlovable…I watched Jesus revise my list!

En route to her home, I prayed that Jesus would give me His eyes, to see her as He sees her, and His heart to love her with His love. The unexpected reunion found her sitting in a corner of her room, her frail shrinking frame being consumed by a large over-stuffed chair. “Look who’s here,” my father announced. Her hollow stare reflected her inability to recognize me. Kneeling at her side I took her frail hand into mine, and whispered, “Hello, Grandmother.” A single tear trailed her shallow cheek and a smile encompassed her wrinkled face. Disarmed by the love of Jesus, the tension, criticism, and harsh words were replaced with tenderness. Flooded with emotion, the many years of pain and frustration peacefully diminished from my heart.

Difficult people are God’s instruments for shaping us into His image; catalysts through which He lovingly upsets our comfortable plans and purposefully redirects our safe and sound steps. Every relationship, difficult or easy, is delivered with God’s permission and sealed in His plan. Questioning God’s purpose for my grandmother’s prolonged life, I can now see the “unfinished business” He had for me to complete. An opportunity to extend God’s love to the unlovable healed my heart and restored a broken relationship. When God takes my grandmother to her final resting place…may she know His love and truly rest in Peace.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Is there someone in your life who is difficult to love? Ask the Lord to give you His heart and eyes for that person, and embrace the opportunity to extend God’s love.

FURTHER READING:
Romans 12:9-10; 1 John 3:18

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

A Common Misconception
By Susan Klein

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him...”
Romans 8:28a

One of the most common misconceptions about the verse above is that some believe it to mean, “God makes all things good in the lives of those who love him.” Not quite! Though He is good in nature, and works for good in our lives as well as for His perfect will, He most definitely allows bad things to happen. Sometimes, in His “working for the good,” He allows us to endure hardships.

For example, a woman suffers from years of anxiety and depression. Her family is neglected, her health is poor, and she suffers from a loss of hope. One may question, “Where is the good in this?” Many years later, she recovers, and God uses her to minister to other women who are suffering in the same way. Her family learns compassion and long-suffering.

Another woman’s husband loses his job. After several months of unemployment, they cannot afford to pay the bills or make their monthly mortgage. All seems hopeless. Then, God gives other people the opportunity to reach out to this couple and share what they have with them. The givers and recipients alike see the loving hand of God’s provision and goodness.

Then there is the woman who loses a child in an accident and is grief-stricken. How can God possibly work something good from this? Her heart will always ache with the wonder of what would have been, but now cannot be. Perhaps she will not even see the good work that God does through this. He may have used the tragedy to touch a different person’s heart. It could be that her faith has led another to Christ without her ever knowing this side of heaven. His goodness in this may only be visible to Him, but it is there. He promises it!

God does not promise everything will be good. But He does promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us in our time of need. He does promise that His grace is sufficient for us and His power is made perfect in our weakness. And, He does promise us an eternal glory that far outweighs all of our troubles.

“The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made” (Psalm 145:9). Now that’s a promise we can cling to!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Are you questioning God’s goodness in a difficult situation you may be going through? Are you willing to put your trust in the promise that He is “working for the good,” even if you cannot see it?

FURTHER READING:
Romans 12:2; Psalm 34:19, 100:5; 2 Corinthians 1:20, 4:17, 12:9

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

Talking and Listening
By Jen Wollner

“…love the Lord your God, listen to his voice…”
Deuteronomy 30:20a

My three-year-old has a problem with talking. No, it’s not that he needs speech therapy. Quite the opposite! He, like many other three-year-olds, talks too much at times…usually the wrong times! It’s particularly a problem when he wants or needs something. He makes a request, but then just keeps asking and doesn’t stop to wait for a response. One specific time, he was asking for a piece of candy. I told him that he could have it, but in a minute. He asked again. I repeated my “yes” answer. He asked again. I answered. He, again…and again…. I started to think he needed his ears checked! But, it wasn’t his hearing that needed fixing, it was his listening! He was so set on getting that candy in his way and timing that not only did he not stop asking so he could hear my answer, I don’t even think he cared about my answer. If I wasn’t handing him the candy, no other response was acceptable.

This made me wonder…do I do this to God? Do I talk so much at Him that I can’t hear His answers? Or, is it that I do hear Him, but if I don’t like the answer, I keep asking, thinking that if I persist I will get my way? Scripture tells us to pray continuously, but I don’t think this is what it means! God encourages us to talk with Him about every area of our lives. He delights in spending time with us. But, He desires to have a two-way conversation and if we spend all of our prayer time going through our laundry list of wants and needs, we are missing out on the most important part of prayer—the relationship. He wants to give us the things we really need, like peace, strength, comfort, wisdom and rest, but we can’t hear Him if we aren’t still and quiet.

God promises to answer us when we call to Him. He doesn’t say it will always be the exact answer we were looking for, but He will answer. Let’s not make the same mistake that my son makes by talking too much and listening too little. Let’s lay before our God our requests, concerns, joys and pains and then let’s rest and surrender…listening for and accepting His will for our lives.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What specific requests do you want to share with God today? Practice asking Him and then listening for His answer.
2. Is there an answer that God has given to you that you have a hard time accepting? Ask Him to help you have peace and a surrendered heart.

FURTHER READING:
Jeremiah 33:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Philippians 4:6-7

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads Oakwood’s Fresh Start ministry.

Need Directions?
By Elin Henderson

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6

I was a few years too late for the discovery of the new little G.P.S. gadgets that are found all over the place nowadays. I moved overseas just as they were becoming popular and what a loss for me. I have a horrendous sense of direction. No one could use a permanent built-in G.P.S. more than I could!

This problem has now been magnified for me as I have to walk everywhere in the village where we work. My friends in the village can’t understand how I could think every hut, manioc field and coconut tree looks like the next, but it does! One day, while returning with some friends from a visit to see a new baby, I had one of my “direction” problems. They had to go on to their gardens and I thought, “No problem, I can easily backtrack and find my way home. This isn’t the first time I have been out in this area!” So, off I trekked, sure that I knew where I was going. I kept walking and walking, looking for the familiar landmarks, but the next thing I knew, I was lost. I looked up and saw a lady I’d met working in her field, so I embarrassingly ask her, “Do you know where my house is?” She smiled and calmly pointed about 100 meters over the trees in front of me and there it was. I thought I was walking toward my house, but all that time, I was walking parallel with it!

My friends in the village are still laughing about this story, but it was a good reminder of how much we need direction from above. We could all use a G.G.P.S. (God’s Global Positioning System)…and we have one in the form of the Holy Spirit. We need to be in tune to the gentle “beep” of the Spirit that says, “Wrong way!! Turn around!! Not good!!” Sometimes we ignore Him, thinking we can do better on our own.

There are many things that can pull us off track, but only one way to put us back! Let’s tune in to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our lives, allowing Him to guide and direct every part of our path. Let’s ask Him to help us be sensitive to any wrong turns or wanderings of our heart.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What in your life pulls you off track? When this happens, do you hear the warning “beeps” of the Holy Spirit?
2. What could you do to make sure you are following the direction of G.G.P.S?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 32:8; I Thessalonians 5:19

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

A Tragic Tumble
By Elizabeth Cole

“So then, let us stop judging one another. Instead, you should decide never to do anything that would make others stumble or fall into sin.”
Romans 14:13 (GNT)

Jack and Jill went up the hill
To fetch a pail of water.
Jack fell down and broke his crown,
And Jill came tumbling after.

I’ve always felt so sad for Jack and his friend Jill. On what seems to be an appropriate and well-intentioned mission, Jack falls. After considerable thought and pondering, I’ve come up with a number of questions about this tragedy:

1. Did you carelessly wander off the path, Jack? No map? Is that what caused you to fall down?
2. New shoes? I’ve noticed in the church nursery that new shoes are a guarantee for at least two falls per hour.
3. A little too chatty to pay attention to that turn in the road?
4. Or maybe someone had strung a line across the trail to trick you?

While Jack’s fall is certainly concerning, especially the part about his broken crown, it’s Jill who gets my particular sympathy. Apparently, she was just innocently trekking along—doing her best—when all of a sudden Jack’s fall tripped her up short and sent her tumbling too.

Yes, it’s Jill who has my heart. The Jill who’s struggling with an addiction and is invited out for “just one” with the girls. The Jill who’s trying to figure out what godly “wife-ing” and parenting looks like, but encounters consistent criticism, husband-bashing and harshness. The Jill who’s new to following Christ and experiences rejection by a fellow believer for being a little too authentic. The Jill who’s getting ready to give up trying to make a friend at church. The Jill who thought that love, surrender and obedience to Christ really matter.

Being in Christ means being in Christ together. What we think and what we do matter, not only in our own walk with Christ, but in those lives whom God has placed beside us on this part of the path. May we choose this day to be women who grab a hand and help another woman along the way. May this be a day of deciding to lay aside what could cause a sister in Christ to stumble and, instead, to intentionally “walk in the Spirit.” May we live in such a way that others see what we do and give praise to our Father in heaven.

Walk well today, Jack.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Whom has God placed in your life right now to influence her spiritual walk? How are you doing with that divine privilege?
2. Take a moment to thank the Lord Jesus for those He’s placed beside you to influence you for His good in your life.

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 5:22-26; Matthew 5:16; 2 John 6

Elizabeth is a wife, mother to three teen-aged daughters, and Director of Women’s Ministries at Oakwood Church.

Lord, Where Are You In This?
By Susan Klein

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

A few years ago, my husband and I were faced with needing to make a very difficult decision. While we were certain the Lord was directing us, we struggled with obedience to this painful change. We just didn’t see how any good could possibly come of it.

That summer, I was sitting out on my patio early one morning having some quiet time before the kids arose. Usually, I relish the time when it’s just me, the early sun, and the animals at the feeders. On this particular morning, however, the burden of our situation weighed heavy on my heart. “Lord, how can this be what you want for us?” I questioned. Seeds of doubt had begun to plant themselves in my mind that we hadn’t really heard God correctly in this matter. “If only you could just give me a word or a sign to confirm this is from you. I’m trying to trust you, Lord, but I just don’t understand this!”

Diverting my attention to the scenery around me, I observed the daylilies beginning to open and the clematis flowers as large as saucers. Over by the potting table, I had transplanted some hollyhocks the year before and they were inching up quite nicely now. Then I noticed it! The plant to the left of the table had several bright pink buds, but the one on the right had only one large blossom, and it was white! As white as snow! I did a double take before getting out of my chair to go get a closer look. How could this be? The seeds I planted all came from the same pink-blossomed hollyhock in my front yard. I stood in awe at this incredible sight! And then I heard it. The still, small voice in my head saying to me, “If I can make a white flower out of this pink-blossomed plant, don’t you trust me to make the right decision in your life?”

Tears of joy fell like a soothing rain from my eyes and a river of peace overtook me! God didn’t have to speak to me in this way, but he chose to. He loved me so much that he wanted to comfort me and give me peace. The God of the universe came down to touch my little heart in my little backyard! What a personal God we are blessed with!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Are you struggling with trusting God’s decision in your life? Ask Him to speak to your heart and listen for His voice.

FURTHER READING:
John 14:27, 16:33; 2 Corinthians 1:8-10

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

Extravagant Giving
By Jen Wollner

“As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘I tell you the truth,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’”
Luke 21:1-4

The television show 20/20 recently aired a program about the Appalachian Mountain region. It wasn’t a show about the beauty of the mountains or wildlife; it was about the extreme poverty and despair that face those who live there. It’s one of the most destitute places in America. Many people don’t know how to read, much less finish high school. They have a difficult time finding jobs and, instead, rely on the welfare system. Alcohol use and prescription drug abuse run rampant. In fact, the most profitable “profession” in the area is drug dealing. Many people keep their prescription drugs under lock-and-key, for fear of being robbed by a dealer. And, the people in this area die younger, compared to the national average, due to their poor diets and lifestyles. Suffering and heartache are a way of life.

Despite the hardships, many people have strong faiths and cling to their God. As the 20/20 camera crews visited a small church in one of the tiny towns in the mountains, they noticed something interesting on the wall. It was a sign that posted the previous week’s tithing. That week, the congregation had given $1.85.

Yes, you read that right—one dollar and eighty-five cents.

This figure speaks not only of the great poverty of these people, but also of their great wealth—their wealth of trust and obedience to the Lord. They have nothing, yet they still give back to God. They can’t afford food, yet they tithe so that Jesus can take it and give to others. Just like the widow whom Jesus commends for putting in the temple treasury all she had to live on, these people give out of their extreme poverty. The amount of money may seem small to us, but I’d be willing to bet that the Lord multiplied it and blessed those that worshipped Him in such an extravagant way.

Convicting? Yes! Inspiring and encouraging? Yes! Yes! As we give back a portion of what the Lord so generously gives to us, let’s emulate the example of these Appalachian brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s give abundantly, joyfully and expectantly—resting in the knowledge that our God will use it to bless others…for His glory!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Ask God this week for guidance and direction in your personal tithing. Then, be obedient to His prompting.

FURTHER READING:
2 Corinthians 8:2-5, 9:6-7

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads Oakwood’s Fresh Start ministry.

The Display of His Splendor
By Peggy Kleckner

“They are the shoot I have planted, the work of my hands, for the display of my splendor.”
Isaiah 60:21b

I have a flowering plant on my kitchen table. I noticed that a few of the leaves were yellowing and some of the edges were a bit dry, so I took the plant from its position of display, plucked off the dead leaves, placed it in my sink and watered it. I left it there for a bit, so the soil could soak up the water. Once it was fully refreshed, I set it back on display. When I walked by later, I noticed it looked as if it had an empty spot that I hadn’t noticed earlier. I reached over and spun it a bit and realized that it had a better side!

I wonder if I have a better side that God turns toward those I meet. He does call me to step away from the world and be refreshed by Him. Perhaps, once I am well-watered and pruned, as He sets me back on display, He turns my best side out toward the world and He keeps my empty spot facing Him. Then He continues His work in me, filling all of my empty spots.

How about you, do you have some dry edges? Perhaps your roots are in need of some watering. No wonder God’s Word is so often referred to as water…we need it for life! We must step away with Him to be refreshed. When we invite Him in and surrender ourselves to Him, He will prune away the ugly, dry areas of our lives and fill us with His nourishing grace. How wonderful to think that the Creator of everything is willing to water us, prune us and put us on display. How equally wonderful to recognize that He is the One that knows exactly what we were meant to look like and how to draw out the most blooms for the display of His splendor!

Let’s enjoy our time of being watered and pruned in His Word and presence, and then allow Him to display us for His splendor.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Have you met with Him today for watering and pruning? What specific “dry” or “empty” spots is He working on in you?
2. Are you a display of His splendor or are you tempted to take credit for His work?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 1:1-3; John 15:1-17

Peggy is a wife and mother of four adult children - two sons and two stepsons. She is the Co-coordinator of Oakwood’s Wednesday p.m. Bible Study.

Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing
By Susan Klein

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.”
Matthew 7:15-16a

One memorable summer evening, my husband and I enjoyed dinner at a nice restaurant with a group of friends. The food was fabulous, the atmosphere relaxed, and the conversation flowed easily from one topic to the next. Until it came to an abrupt halt!

There is an old adage that says, “Never talk about religion or politics.” So, when one of our table guests brought up the subject of a well-known, yet controversial religious personality, my husband and I exchanged “uh-oh!” glances. We felt compelled to offer a response to her well-meaning inquiry on the subject. Boldly, yet lovingly, we challenged this friend to consider if this man’s views on self-empowerment and financial prosperity lined up with those of Scripture. Were his teachings good fruit, or bad fruit?

The word “fruit” here is used metaphorically to describe actions or deeds. In this verse from Matthew, it is in reference to the outward visible actions produced by the invisible power of the Spirit within. The Holy Spirit within us produces fruit such as love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22). Good fruit, which is from the Holy Spirit, will always line up with Scripture. Bad fruit, which comes from the sinful nature or from Satan, does not line up with God’s Word.

Earlier, when this man’s popularity was on the rise, my husband and I decided to do some research of our own. We read his bio, his mission statement, and even caught part of an interview with him. After comparing it with God’s Word, we were quite convinced that many (though not all) of his teachings were contrary to that of Scripture. He had a large following because he promised a life of financial prosperity, but not because he spoke of the redeeming work of Christ, or encouraged repentance of sin. He deemed that too controversial to talk about. The problem was that he mixed Scriptural truths with his own secular philosophies, causing much disillusionment in his audiences. What may have sounded good was actually potentially harmful.

Jesus warns us in Matthew that these men will appear and deceive many people. We must ask God for wisdom and discernment and test everything we hear against Scripture, so that we, too, are not deceived by bad fruit or false teachings.

Wolves are not easy to recognize when they are hiding under sheep’s clothing!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What steps could you take to guard yourself from being misled by false teaching?

FURTHER READING:
2 Timothy 4:3-4; Philippians 1:9-11; James 3:17; 1 John 4:1-3

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

Need a Hand?
By Elin Henderson

“…I will uphold you with my righteous right hand…For I the LORD your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’”
Isaiah 41:10b, 13

Sometimes we think, like the author of the well-known poem Footsteps, that the idea of God holding our hand is a lot like walking side-by-side together. When I first read this passage in Isaiah 41, I was thinking the same thing until the Lord drew my attention to the wording in the Scriptures.

Think back to when you were last walking hand-in-hand with someone. What hands were in use? Someone’s right hand and the other’s left, correct? You can’t hold hands right hand to right hand without it being a little awkward and odd!

Now, consider situations in which right hands are held. I think of climbing a mountain and the climber above reaches down, supporting and pulling up his companion. Another possibility would be pulling someone out of a hole. Someone is above and someone is below. Someone is in need of help and someone else is helping. Words like support, strength and rescue come to mind when we consider His right hand in ours.

As the one being helped, what is our responsibility in this rescue effort? Are we to strive or struggle? I am not much of a mountain climber, but I would imagine that a lot of groping about and floundering while suspended high above the ground just can’t be good! Likewise, we need to be fully dependent on the strength and guidance of the One above us. It’s best to rest and take hold of the hand held down to us, allowing His strength to be our and His stability to pull us along.

More than that, all the while that His hand is extended downward, He is calmly reassuring us, “Fear not, I will help you.” Not only are we being helped, we are being soothed. It is a double comfort and support!

How many times do we find ourselves down in a ditch for one reason or another, or scaling a mountain far beyond our reach? In times like these, may we constantly be reminded of His strong right hand, extending down from above, reaching for our right hand, ready to rescue us. And, all the while He is softly and calmly encouraging us: “Don’t struggle, take my hand…Fear not, I will help you!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. Are you facing any mountains too large to overcome or holes too great to climb out of? Where are you going for strength and support? Are you depending on yourself or His guidance and strength?

FURTHER READING:
Isaiah 48:13, 59:1

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

My Superhero!
By Susan Klein

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
Ephesians 6: 12

I remember as a teen going on long car trips over summer break. With a blended family of seven, air travel was usually not an option for us. Five kids in a hot car with no AC could be challenging to say the least! We didn’t have I-pods, MP3 players, televisions, laptops, or even CD players to occupy our time. But, we had something even better. COMIC BOOKS!

Oh, how we looked forward to reading those wonderful adventures of our favorite Super Heroes! My mom always stocked up just before the trip. Superman (a.k.a. Clark Kent) was the “man of steel” from the planet Krypton who used his superhuman powers to fight off all the evil villains who wanted to control the world. Then there was Spider-Man (a.k.a. Peter Parker), who had amazing spider-like qualities that enabled him to climb walls and cling to any surface, and his “spider-sense” warned him of impending danger. And of course, who could forget Batman (a.k.a. Bruce Wayne)! He was not only a super hero, but a millionaire in his personal life. He didn’t actually possess any super-powers other than flying, but he had many cool super-gadgets at his disposal. It was so gratifying to know that, in the end justice prevailed and good triumphed over evil!

As an adult, it’s comforting to know there is one true Superhero that triumphs over all evil. Psalm 118:6 & 8 say, “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.” The Lord is our Protector and Defender! He and His angels wage war against the evil ones around us constantly in the unseen realms. We need not live in fear because He is the Victor, and so are we! Psalm 60:12 confirms this saying, “With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.”

Unlike the comic books, we must remember that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil in this world. And God has provided us with every weapon we need to fight the daily battles that come our way. He has given us the ability to pray, His Word to stand firm on and His Holy Spirit to empower us. Now that’s one true Superhero!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What spiritual battles are you struggling with today?
2. Which weapons do you need to ensure victory?

FURTHER READING:
Ephesians 6:10-18; 2 Corinthians 10:3-4; 1 John 5:4-5

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

Jesus Loves Me This I Know
By Karen D’Amore

"I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself."
Jeremiah 31:1

“Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” As a child I sang this familiar song each week in Sunday school. Beyond singing about God’s love or the Bible telling me of God’s love, love was nothing more then a word to me. Growing up in a home where love was not openly expressed or professed, my perception of love was skewed. Love, as I knew it, was based on self-effort and won through perfection. Well aware of my imperfections, my defeated journey to earn love followed me deep into adulthood.

Paul wrote: “And I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust in Him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of God’s marvelous love. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God (Ephesians 3:17-19).”

Transformed by brokenness and surrender to Jesus, this Scripture came to life in my heart a number of years ago. Knowing me better then I knew myself, Jesus understood my struggle to comprehend love. In His own intimate way, God divinely orchestrated circumstances, answering a specific silent prayer I had hesitated to ask Him. A request significant only to me, God’s response would forever transform my perception of His love. Meeting me in a small dark corner of my heart, the truth of God’s love became real to me. Healing flooded the inner core of my heart, enabling me to fully receive God’s love and eventually extend it to others. Trust in God’s love, shaped by a pivotal prayer answered, allowed Jesus to take up residency in my whole heart.

It’s one thing to hear and believe that Jesus loves us, but we can also experience the length, width, height and depth of His love. Then we can believe and sing: “Jesus loves me this I know for He has shown me so.” How about you…can we sing it together in three-part harmony?

GOING DEEPER:
1. Do you struggle to comprehend God’s love? Ask Him to show you His love in a personal way that will deepen your trust.

FURTHER READING:
1 John 4:7-8; Psalm 32:10, 36:7; Romans 8:39

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

Don’t Look at the Water!
By Jen Wollner

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Matthew 14:30

Two of my children hate having their hair washed during a bath. They just don’t like the water running into their eyes. I keep saying, “Look at me and keep your head up,” but both of them will inevitably move and all the water goes right into their faces. They are so focused on the water that they can’t focus on me. Occasionally, they will follow my instructions and when their faces end up dry, they are glad they trusted me. But, even with this proof of success, fear and doubt oftentimes still rise up in them the very next bath time.

We read of a scenario like this between Jesus and Peter in Matthew 14. Jesus sends the disciples out on the Sea of Galilee while He goes up on a mountainside to pray alone. During the night, He goes out to meet them…by walking on the water! When Peter sees Jesus, he says, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus obliges and says, “Come.” So, Peter gets out of the boat and begins to walk on the water toward Jesus. Suddenly, though, he is aware of the strong wind and waves around him and he becomes afraid. As soon as he takes his eyes off Jesus, he begins to sink. Interestingly enough, just hours before, the disciples had witnessed Jesus miraculously taking two fish and five loaves of bread and turning them into enough food for about 5,000 people…with twelve baskets to spare! In spite of just having witnessed the Lord’s power and provision, Peter’s doubt and fear still crept in when he focused on his situation instead of on Christ.

There are many fears we are facing today, aren’t there? Maybe it’s relationship woes, financial crisis or health problems. Whatever it is, it will eventually sink us unless we stay fixed on Jesus. When we look only at our circumstances and the storms going on around us, we become filled with worry. But, when we look past the wind and waves of life and stay close to Him, we are filled with peace and joy. Our faith won’t be perfect and there will be times when we slip back into doubt and worry, but with the Lord’s help, we can refocus on Him.

As Peter was sinking in the waves, he cried out to Jesus, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out and caught him. Each time our fears begin to sink us, let’s call out to our Savior for help. He won’t let us drown!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What are you most afraid of today? What can you do to turn away from your fear and focus more on Jesus, your ever-ready Rescuer?

FURTHER READING:
Philippians 4:6-7; Matthew 6:34

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads Oakwood’s Fresh Start ministry.

I’ll Have More Faith, Please!
By Susan Klein

“...faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
James 2:17

Recently, while sharing a memorable evening with some dear friends, our conversation turned toward spiritual matters. One of the men in the group was sharing some struggles he was facing, and how discouraged he felt over some long-term issues that plagued him. He made the comment, “I wish I had more faith.” That statement caused me to wonder; can we really obtain more faith?

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus issues the command to “have faith in God,” yet He also addresses the issue of “weak faith” or “little faith” several times when speaking to those in doubt. Is He saying then, that we need more faith? Ephesians 1:3 tells us that God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ. One of those spiritual blessings is faith! If we believe in God, then do we not believe His word to be true? Do we not already have the faith that we need? Nowhere do we see his command to find more faith than what he has already given us.

Like a cup of water, God has blessed us with a full cup, not one that is half empty and needs replenishing. But it is no good to us if we don’t choose to drink from it. I think the issue at hand is “exercising”, or “putting into action” the faith we have. James tells us our faith must be accompanied by action. I believe this action includes choosing to not doubt. If we say we believe in the power of God then, we must act upon those words and truly trust Him to do as he says He will. When we pray, we must consciously choose to believe that our prayer will be heard and answered, and not be in doubt.

I do believe that our faith can be “weakened” by our circumstances. We know that the water is in the glass, but we are so focused on the desert of our circumstances that we forget to take a drink! Ephesians 6:16 says we have a “shield of faith” to protect us from Satan’s fiery darts of doubt, but it also says we must “take it up.” It is an action that we must choose to make.

As we mature in our Christian walk and grow in our knowledge of scripture, we will be better able to understand how to utilize the wonderful faith that our God has blessed us with!

GOING DEEPER:
1. In what areas of your life has your faith been weakened by circumstances? Are you willing to commit those things to God in “faith-filled” prayer?

FURTHER READING:
James 1:2-6, 2:14-26; Hebrews 11; 2 Thessalonians 1:3

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

What Would Jesus Do?
By Karen D’Amore

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children, and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
Ephesians 5:1

In 1989, the WWJD movement emerged from the inspiration of Charles Sheldon’s novel In His Steps. The primary theme of the book—total commitment to Christ—is wrapped in a story about a congregation’s yearlong pledge not to do anything without first asking the question, "What would Jesus do?"

Recently I was rummaging through an old box of jewelry when I came across an original WWJD bracelet. Ironically, I was wrestling with a decision when the bracelet prompted me to pause and consider…What would Jesus do? My husband and I were days away from leaving on a desperately needed vacation and an opportunity to re-unite with family and distant friends. We had waited two years for timing, finances and an affordable travel deal to finally align.

However, just days before our departure, complications from a surgical procedure immobilized my mother-in-law. With my father-in-law left to care for her alone, his own physical limitations could make the task quite difficult. Furthermore, while out-of-state, I would be missing the memorial service of a precious elderly client, to whose family I had grown extremely close.

Jesus knew the concerns of my heart…the need for my husband and me to get away…stewardship of cancellation fees…and the desire to minister to the unsaved.

As I asked WWJD, I had to first go back and look at WDJD…What did Jesus do? Jesus, our role model, pleased His Father by giving Himself for others. His ultimate example of love was when He laid down His life for each one of us. To follow in His footsteps, our lives should be a continual out-giving on behalf of others. WDWD…What did we do? We modeled Christ’s example by canceling our trip and were blessed with a priceless opportunity to show God’s love to others.

Initials, carved on a worn bracelet, prompted a simple question and produced life- and faith-altering results. As Christ followers, we are called to imitate Jesus—to live as He would, to love as He does and to sacrifice as He did. WWYD…What will you do?

GOING DEEPER:
1. Practice prefacing your thoughts and actions with WWJD and see the difference that it makes.
WWJD…are you wearing it or living it?

FURTHER READING:
1 Peter 2:21; John 13:13-15; Philippians 2:13-14

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

Comparisons
By Susan Klein

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Psalm 139: 14a

My daughter and I often watch the Annual Academy Awards show. I have to admit, we do enjoy seeing the stars parade down the red carpet all decked out in their evening splendor! We can’t help but become armchair critics as we decide for ourselves who has the most glamorous gown. One year, my husband read an article stating that the one star who sets the fashion standard for all to emulate is Jennifer Lopez. Wow! Imagine having to compare yourself with her!

Yet, isn’t that what we so often find ourselves doing, comparing ourselves to others? It’s been happening since Bible times. We compare our looks, our talents and abilities, even our possessions. We sometimes shrug back from accepting a job or a ministry opportunity because we feel that someone else is more qualified. Didn’t Moses do the same? As God spoke to him from the burning bush, sending him to bring the Israelites out of Egypt, he replied, “Who am I that I should go...” In other words, “I’m not good enough! Surely you could find plenty of others more qualified to do the job.” Then there are the brothers of Joseph. They compared the attention he received from their father to the attention they received, and became so jealous they plotted to kill him.

On the other end of the spectrum are the Pharisees. They thought themselves superior by observing rites and ceremonies, and separating themselves from the common people. In the book of Luke, one Pharisee stands up to pray publicly and actually thanks God that he is not like other men—such as robbers, adulterers, or even like the tax collector standing next to him.

God has created each of us in His own image. He delighted in putting much thought and consideration into making us just the way we are. All of our talents and abilities are meant to complement each other, not compete with each other. He gifted each of us according to how He would use us to do His will here on earth. We were created intentionally and purposefully. We are valuable to God! We don’t have to worry if someone else sings better, or speaks more eloquently, or has the most glamorous gown on the runway. We are all “one of a kind,” hand-made by a loving Creator. Take joy in knowing you are uniquely you.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Do you struggle with comparing yourself to others? Ask God to remind you of your own unique gifts, talents and abilities. Pray for contentedness in these.
2. If you have never taken a spiritual gifts survey, now might be a good time. If you don’t know where to find one, ask someone at your local church.

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 6:3-5; Romans 12:3-8; Psalm 139:13-16

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

Your Love Sets Me Free
By Jen Wollner

“Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:32

I was watching TV recently and came upon a show about a young man named Mike. Ever since Mike was a boy, he dreamed of playing baseball. He grew up on the ball field and became a player with real potential. When he was a teenager, though, he also became someone with real addictions, often over-indulging in drugs and alcohol. It became such a big problem that it cost him his dream of playing professional baseball.

After being cut from his college team, Mike plunged deeper into his addictions to mask his disappointment and failure. One night, after spending hours at a local bar, he got into his car to drive home. With a blood-alcohol level of more than three times the legal limit, Mike’s judgment was severely impaired and he hit another car, killing the driver. He was immediately arrested and spent years in jail for his crime.

As God would have it, one of his cellmates was a strong Christian. He introduced Mike to Jesus and Mike accepted Christ as his personal Savior. He began to devour God’s Word, reading his Bible all day, every day. When asked how he felt about his time behind bars, Mike said, “Being in prison saved my life.” The love of Christ and truth of the cross had set him free—a spiritual freedom that he treasured far more than his physical release from jail.

Thankfully, most of us will never spend time in prison, but there are things in our lives that can feel like bondage. Like Mike, maybe we are suffering the consequences of poor choices—either our own or someone else’s. Or maybe we are just facing the trials of a fallen world. Whatever it is, we can all understand the heavy weight of sin. But, also like Mike, we experience freedom in Christ. Scripture tells us that if Jesus has set us free from sin, we are no longer a slave to it—we are free indeed! The love and sacrifice of the cross is more than enough to throw off the chains that bind us.

Everything rides on hope now.
Everything rides on faith somehow.
When the world has broken me down, your love sets me free.
(lyrics from “Hope Now” by Addison Road)

No matter what comes our way, there is always hope…always faith…and always a love that sets us free.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What sin or trial is enslaving you today? Ask Jesus to show you His love that is strong enough to release your burden.

FURTHER READING:
John 8:31-36; 1 Corinthians 13; John 3:16

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads Oakwood’s Fresh Start ministry.

Dressing for Success
By Shelly Schumacher

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.”
Ephesians 6:11

Just recently, I decided to go back to the professional workforce. After 12 years working at home, a lot of things have changed, not the least of which is my professional wardrobe. I was always told, if you wanted to look professional, you had to dress for success. With that in mind, I went shopping for a few interviewing outfits.

While out shopping, I thought about how I might dress if, instead of portraying a professional, I wanted to portray a Christian. I was reminded of a Vacation Bible School at our home when the kids dressed up in the armor of God. Everyday, a child would put on another piece, until they were completely outfitted in a suit of armor. Our last volunteer was barely able to stand under the weight of the shield of faith and had trouble seeing through the helmet of truth, but she was a shining example of the protection God gives us each day.

Ladies, when is the last time you put on your suit of armor? So often, we go out into the world unprotected. At the end of the day, we limp home, wounded from the battles encountered. Like me, you might find yourself questioning what you did wrong and what you can do to make things run smoothly in the future. What we fail to understand is that many times our difficulties arise not because of what we did, but what we didn’t do!

I wonder how different our days would look if, while we were dressing for success with our wardrobe, we mentally went through the ritual of putting on our God-given suit of armor that’s referenced in Ephesians 6: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the Spirit (God’s Word), and prayer. While things would not always run perfectly, the armor of God would allow us to face the day fully protected and dressed for God’s success. And, unlike the child at my VBS, our helmet would fit perfectly as we stood tall against the arrows of the evil one.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What battles do you face daily?
2. Take some time every morning to put on your suit of armor. Keep a journal making note how dressing for God’s success changes your day.
3. Praise God for His provisions and protection.

FURTHER READING:
Romans 13:12; Ephesians 4:14; Ephesians 6:13

Shelly is wife to Nick and mom to her two girls. She spends her time freelancing as a writer/PR professional, and is active in Oakwood's worship and drama ministries.

This World is Not Our Home
By Karen D’Amore

“In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would
have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.”
John 14:2

Moving to Wisconsin was God’s relocation plan…not mine! A native California beach girl, I truly had no clue what life in the Midwest would entail. Snow shovels, snow boots and windshield scrapers were all foreign objects to me. Some of my new “Wisconsinite” friends even questioned my sanity, when learning where I was from.

In the beginning, God had me on the “ease-her-in” plan! My first winter was, by Wisconsin standards, mild. My first experience driving in the snow was memorable, but tolerable. But, each winter to follow has gotten progressively worse. This difficult season has afflicted me with severe physical and personal challenges causing me to question God’s relocation plan. For the first time since relocating here, I have found myself resenting the move and wanting to leave.

In the midst of my “resentment-party,” God used a humorous “typo” to declare the party over! An email was sent out to a team of women coming to my home for a meeting. In the email, the sender accidentally listed my address as “HARDLAND” (instead of Hartland), Wisconsin. Reading the email, the “HARDLAND” typo moved me to laughter. Marveling at God’s timing and His sense of humor, His Spirit spoke to my heart. Given the opportunity, Satan will use anything (including challenging weather) to move us to question God.

Life can be hard and as Christ followers our life in this world will not be lived on “Easy Street,” “Comfort Circle” or “Blissful Boulevard.” Because we live in a fallen world, we will face hardships, calamities and suffering. We will experience earthquakes, tornadoes and even dangerous snowfall. But as believers, we can be encouraged that this world is not our home! Our citizenship is in heaven where many mansions await our arrival. And oh how I look forward to that glorious day, when I am transplanted from “HARDLAND,” to my heavenly home…where the streets will be paved with gold, and never in need of plowing!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What hardships are you facing that have you feeling discouraged? Search the Scriptures for words of hope and encouragement.

FURTHER READING:
John 16:33; Philippians 3:20

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

Moving Past the Politics
By Shelly Schumacher

“Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God and those which exist are established by God.”
Romans 13:1

Can you imagine having the power of the President? Can you fathom having the ability to pass or veto laws with the stroke of your pen, or declare war with the nod of your head? From the outside, it might seem the man (or perhaps, someday, woman) who rules the free world holds infinite power. However, with his seemingly infinite power comes immeasurable responsibility.

When a President takes the Oath of Office, he typically recites the following:

“I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of
the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and
defend the constitution of the United States, so help me God.”

In essence, as President, he is the CEO of the most powerful company in the world. And as such, the task of running our nation’s business rests squarely on his shoulders.

Therefore, when things happen in our country, the finger is quickly pointed in the President’s direction. We are quick to condemn him when things go wrong and give him the credit when times are running smoothly—we often forget that he is just a man. And, like any other man, he has fears, worries, hurts and hang-ups. He, like the rest of us, is a sinner who needs the Savior. He, like the rest of us, needs prayer.

How different would our nation look if everyone prayed for our President—remembering that his leadership was predestined by the Most High? How different would our government be if we moved past politics and realized that his position is part of God’s plan for this nation? And, how different would our lives be if, instead of fighting the power he holds, we submitted to his authority in all that is consistent with God’s ways?

Take some time today to pray for our President. Put aside politics and remember that he is just a man who needs your prayer.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Make a list of the responsibilities our President holds. Take a few moments everyday to pray for God’s wisdom as he takes on the jobs you have listed.
2. Pray for our President not just as the leader of the free world, but also as a man who needs to rely on the Savior.

FURTHER READING:
Acts 2:41; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 3:12; Daniel 2:21

Shelly is wife to Nick and mom to her two girls. She spends her time freelancing as a writer/PR professional, and is active in Oakwood's worship and drama ministries.

Back to the “Heart” of Valentine’s Day
By Karen D’Amore

“We love because He first loved us.”
1 John 4:19

Looking beyond the roses, candy in heart-shaped boxes, and heart-embellished cards, the true meaning of Valentine’s Day lies hidden in the shadows of commercialized traditions.

Saint Valentine was a Roman Christian who was martyred during the third century A.D. for refusing to renounce his faith in Christ. Imprisoned for not worshipping Caesar, he continued to minister in prison by witnessing to his prison guards. Valentine was sentenced to death after being instrumental in winning 46 converts for Christ from within the prison walls. On the eve of his execution he wrote a note to be delivered to the jailer’s daughter, signing it, “From your Valentine.”

The tradition of sending “love notes” on Valentine’s Day was inspired by this true story. It’s sadly ironic that the cards we send have become the emphasis, rather than focusing on the content of the original note. Valentine’s message reflected his unconditional devotion to Christ, even in the face of death by execution.

At this time of the year, I am reminded of the ultimate Valentine message. It wasn’t written with pen and paper, but with the sacrifice of flesh and blood. The inscription on the outside reads, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” The words on the inside read, “But God demonstrates His love for us in this: while we were still sinners; Christ died for us.”

Married, single, widowed or betrothed…God loves you and wants you to be His Valentine. His love is unlike the world’s love: a rose that will wither…candy that will melt or rot…the flimsy paper of a greeting card. God’s all-giving love was and is willing to suffer and die for deliverance.

Will you be God’s Valentine? Will you remember the first Valentine and follow his example of unconditional devotion to Christ? Let’s rejoice and bask in God’s love today…and everyday. Let’s find a quiet place to curl up with His Word and read His precious love notes to us. This Valentine’s Day, instead of sending Hallmark…let’s become an extension of God’s loving arms, and offer a heart in-scripted with His love.

GOING DEEPER:
1. God’s love invitation to the world is BE MINE…have you received that invitation? If not, consider accepting today.
2. How can you extend God’s love to a friend, acquaintance or perhaps the unlovable?

FURTHER READING:
Jeremiah 31:3; Psalm 85:7; Psalm 103:17; Psalm 36:7; Psalm 52:8

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

A Gentle Answer
By Susan Klein

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Proverbs 15:1

In the movie Australia, there is a scene where a young native boy has just witnessed the brutal death of his mother. He is sad, alone and angry. A lovely, but rather stiff young British woman wants to console him, but has no experience with children. She offers her brief, formal condolences, but they do nothing to curb his anger or bring him relief from his pain. She hesitates a moment, then sits on the ground next to him and very softly begins to tell him a story. He warms to her gentle words, eventually producing a smile of gratitude as he is slowly comforted.

Scripture tells us that gentle words turn away anger. They are like a soothing balm to the soul. They sustain the weary. In an article produced by Ethical Communities Council Gold Coast Inc., an interview was conducted with Bosnian refugees who had been physically tortured and verbally abused. Being treated for their injuries, one woman was quoted as saying, "We have a saying that doctors help with gentle words, not with medication only. Our people need a nice word." They craved a spoken ointment for their hurts. Don’t we all have a need for gentle words?

Even our Lord, when He walked this earth, used gentle words to comfort His people. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29) Would it have been as soothing if He had said, “Just buck up and be tough?”

I have had to learn from my own difficult experiences that harsh words have absolutely no value. When I respond harshly to my children or my husband, it usually provokes them to anger. When I can remember to use gentle words, it reaps the blessing of a peaceful household! I’m sure we can all remember a time when someone chose to respond to us in a kind way when we were expecting the opposite. Didn’t it feel great?!

Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, exhorts us to let our gentleness be evident to all. Let’s make a conscious choice to imitate our Lord, and be a comfort to those around us with our gentle words.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Who in your life could use a gentle word today?
2. The next time you are tempted to use harsh words in responding to someone, take a deep breath first and ask God for a “gentle answer.”

FURTHER READING:
Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Peter 3:15-16; Proverbs 16:24

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

God is Good in the Midst of the Storm
By Shelly Schumacher

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28

To say that 1999 was a tumultuous year for my husband and me would be an understatement. January started with the announcement that we were expecting a second child, but our joy quickly turned to sorrow when I suffered a miscarriage early in the pregnancy.

By late April, we learned I was pregnant again. We were cautiously optimistic when we saw the baby’s heartbeat, but the next day our hopes were dashed again, when Nick was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The following week, he underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, and in early June, his radiation treatments began just days before I was diagnosed with a low-lying placenta. Our summer was spent taking turns throwing up.

Have you ever had a season in your life where you could barely keep your head above the water before the next storm threatened to take you under? Perhaps like Nick and I, you have found yourself desperately clinging to God. There are times when we cannot see through the fog as we wrestle with the fears that come from “what if…” questions: “What if I lose the baby again?” “What if we can’t pay the bills?” “What if he dies?” In those dark times, it is important to remember that God’s Word promises us that He will cause all things to work together for good—not just some things. Despite the trials we encounter, we can take comfort in knowing that He is in control and He will see us through by giving us encouragement and respite from the storm at just the right moments.

1999 ended with a brand-new baby girl, our 5 pound 13 ounce, 17 inch miracle. As we rang in the new millennium, we took some time to reflect on the blessings our difficult year had produced—a stronger marriage, larger family, a good prognosis for Nick and a renewed sense of the awesome power of our God.

As we all take a look back at 2008 and a look forward at 2009, let’s remember that God really does work all things for our good. Let’s praise Him for His faithfulness in keeping this promise!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What trails have you faced in your life? Take some time to count the blessings that have resulted from these adversities.
2. If you are in the midst of a trial, use this time to cling to God…or when you can’t even muster that, ask Him to hold you in His hand. Allow Him to minister in your suffering and in His mercy.

FURTHER READING:
Romans 11:2; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Eph 1:11

Shelly is wife to Nick and mom to her two girls. She spends her time freelancing as a writer/PR professional, and is active in Oakwood's worship and drama ministries.

Dying to Self
By Jen Wollner

“…If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23

In the movie Valkyrie, Tom Cruise plays Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, a German Army officer during World War II. Col. Stauffenberg was born into an aristocratic family and taught from an early age the importance of serving his country. He was a loyal soldier and quickly rose through the Army’s ranks. But, as the war progressed, he became increasingly convicted about the immoral brutality of Adolf Hitler’s regime. Even though his life and the life of his family would be in danger, he eventually joined the German Resistance Movement and its attempts to assassinate Hitler. On July 20, 1944, Col. Stauffenberg’s efforts to kill Hitler and end World War II failed. He and thousands of others involved in the plot were quickly arrested for treason and executed. They made the conscious decision to do what they believed was right and it cost them their reputations and lives.

Throughout the history of Christianity there have been numerous accounts of martyrdom. Many individuals, even in recent days, have died because of their faith in Jesus. While we probably won’t be called to give up our physical lives for our beliefs, we are commanded by Christ Himself to die to our selves and take up our cross daily and follow Him.

So, what does this look like for a believer living in the United States in 2009? I believe it means the same thing it’s always meant, regardless of place and time. It means loving God with all we are and have. It means loving others and considering them more important than ourselves. It means giving up our own comfort, pride, insecurities and personal rights to do what will best serve the Lord and His purposes. It means embracing suffering as a normal part of the Christ follower’s life. And, it means leaving selfishness and fear behind and proclaiming the Truth unashamedly.

Like Col. Stauffenberg’s decision to turn away from that which he had previously been wholeheartedly committed to—serving Hitler—when we accept Christ as our Savior, we, too, are called to cut ties with former loyalties—activities, material possessions and even people. It’s not an easy process, though. We will oftentimes fail to live out this command, choosing our own way instead of His. And, when we do boldly live out our convictions, we will sometimes suffer rejection or be ostracized because of our choices.

The calling of Christ to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him is a difficult task, but the eternal rewards of a life lived unashamed of Him are priceless.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What have you had to sacrifice in your life to follow Christ?
2. What does “deny yourself and take up His cross” mean for you personally today?

FURTHER READING:
Luke 10:27; Philippians 2:3-4

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads Oakwood’s Fresh Start ministry.

Are You in Need of a Head Lift?
By Elin Henderson

“…My glory, and the One who lifts up my head.”
Psalm 3:3b

I recently came across this verse during a particularly down time in my life. We all have faced times like these and I can think of no better word picture then to say my head was hanging low.

Let me ask, though, what is so wrong with our heads hanging low? Nothing in itself—we all face down times. However, how would you live if your head literally hung low all the time? Imagine looking down and trying to walk around a busy street. Your sense of direction would be way off and you would risk hurting yourself and others around you. You would only see one thing—yourself. Would you be aware the needs of others around you? Would you know where you were going or how to get there? No! Your focus would be you!

The world offers all sorts of solutions to the very common problem of a downcast mood: exercise, caffeine, sugar or NO sugar, movies, coffee with friends, or my favorite, “Lay down and relax…imagine you are on a tropical island. Listen to the waves upon the shore and the breeze blowing through the palms…” I have found that this technique only works when you don’t live in the tropics with breezes blowing through your palms night and day! What they fail to add to that picture is the heat, humidity, mosquitoes and lack of privacy!

The word picture found in Psalm 3:3-4 is one that we can and should meditate on, though: “But You, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the One who lifts up my head. To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill.” Wonderful hope lies in these verses. What we are most in need of in low times is a “head lift”! God alone can lift our head and help us to look upward and outward, keeping our eyes off of ourselves and on Him. When we cry to Him, we can know that He hears us and will answer with His free “head lifting service,” placing us on solid ground with a good view of the road before us and the world around us.

Now, I am not saying that other “coping mechanisms” aren’t helpful. A hot bath, a good chick flick and dark chocolate are all helpful sidekicks. Of course, if you live in the tropics, the hot bath is kind of out and dark chocolate is not found at the local market—but at least we’ve got chick flicks! No matter our coping preference, may we never lose sight that He alone is the true lifter of our heads!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What in your life is bringing you down today, causing your head to hang low? What can you do to re-focus on the One who is the lifter of your head?

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 24:7-10

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and six-year-old Elias.

Black Ice
By Susan Klein

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”
Psalm 119:105

Anyone who lives in Wisconsin will understand me when I say that “snow” is a four-letter word! We had over 100 inches of the wet, white stuff last winter in our area of the state! During one of those blustery days, I had the opportunity to be out shoveling our driveway. Now, I don’t usually mind shoveling, but this was a particularly dangerous day to be out because it had rained the day before. Overnight, the temperatures plummeted to below freezing which turned the rain into a thin layer of black ice. With fresh snow now falling, the ice was not visible to the eye. When I proceeded to shovel, I was met with unseen slippery spots that caused me to lose my footing. I had to stop, retrace my steps back to the garage, and grab a pail of salt. As I sprinkled the salt ahead of me, I could anticipate where the ice was by watching it form little pits as it melted. This would prevent me from slipping as I inched my way forward.

While I sprinkled and waited, I was struck by the parallel of God’s Word to our lives. As we walk the paths set out before us, we are often unaware of those unseen slippery spots of temptation and trials lurking around the corner. We forge on ahead in our own power, and BAM! We slip and fall into sin or into discouragement over our troubles. After we fall a time or two, we realize we need help. We cannot do this on our own. We need God’s Word to be a light for our path to expose the slippery spots before we reach them. We must know God’s Word, we must store it in our hearts and we must live it in our daily lives. David explains it well in Psalm 119: 9-11. He says: “How can a young man (a woman) keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

Let’s not be unprepared for the slippery spots on life’s path. Let us move forward with the salt of God’s Word in our buckets, prepared for the black ice that lies ahead!

GOING DEEPER:
1. How much salt do you have in your bucket? Do you need to add a little more of God’s Word to your daily life?
2. Spend some purposeful time in Scripture this week. Ask God to show you which passages you will need to be prepared for this week’s trials and temptations.

FURTHER READING:
James 1:5, 22-25; Psalm 119:33-37; Proverbs 2: 1-15

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.

Concert of Gifts
By Peggy Kleckner

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering god’s grace in its various forms.”
1 Peter 4:10

I was quite excited to be invited to a Christmas brunch held at our church last December. Not only would I have a relaxing time with a friend, I would also feel pampered. This women’s event is very special. Each table is laid with fine china brought from a woman’s home and that same woman sets the table and decorates it for the event. As you might imagine, each table is unique and pretty to look at, much less sit at! How could I not feel pampered?

As I delighted in the morning, I realized I was witnessing and enjoying a “concert” of sorts. It was a concert of gifts being played to God. There were women who had envisioned the day and created the atmosphere of warmth—from the invitation to the decorations. There were women who baked, women who laid out the tables, women who performed in the play, women who sang, women who played instruments, women who cleaned afterwards, women who helped in lots of different ways. Even the men were part of the concert as they willingly served as the event’s waiters. One of the cutest gifts was the young girls who flitted and twirled on cue between the tables as angels, fitted with wings and white garments. I sat back in my chair and enjoyed the concert. Each gift coming on to the stage of the event playing her part, not jealous of the others, just playing to an audience of One. They used what they had been given and played out the joy in their hearts.

I love to watch the body of Christ work in harmony. What a joy, what a pleasure! Imagine the joy it must bring to the Father. Imagine what the music sounds like to Him. As everyone played out their gifts with the grace that was given to them, the concert was heavenly.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What gifts have you been given by the Lord? How have you been using them?
2. Are you using your gift in concert with others, or do you always want to play a solo?

FURTHER READING:
1 Corinthians 12:4-6, Romans 12:1-8

Peggy is a wife and mother of four adult children - two sons and two stepsons. She is the Co-coordinator of Oakwood’s Wednesday p.m. Bible Study.

Is What You See What You Really Get?
By Karen D’Amore

“If someone claims, “I know Him well!” but doesn’t keep His commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure that we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived.”
1 John 2:4-6 (The Message)

On the surface, the lump in my head appeared small and insignificant. But given my history of cancer, I opted to have the lump examined. The doctor concurred with my thoughts, but ordered a pre-cautionary biopsy. Surprisingly, the biopsy exposed that the lump was a cancerous tumor. Based on the external appearance of the lump, the doctor felt confident that we were catching the cancer in its early stage.

Awake for the entire surgical procedure, by the seventh hour, I was physically and emotionally…DONE! My sense of humor dwindling, I still managed to chuckle as the exhausted, perspiring surgeon announced, “It’s a boy!” as the large tumor was finally extricated from my head.

In the post-op follow-up, the surgeon shared the technical intricacies of the surgery. Referring to the abnormal tumor as an “anomaly,” he was taken aback by what he discovered under the skin. Based on his external findings, he was stunned by the size and complexity of the tumor, which had attached to the skull. Truly, his internal findings did not align with what was visible on the surface. Both myself and the doctor learned a valuable lesson: "What you see is not always what you get!"

As Christ followers, we must examine our hearts and lives and ask ourselves, "Is what people see, what they really get?" Is our outer life a true reflection of the inner Jesus? Though our hearts are not externally visible, out of our hearts our lives should speak! Scripture tells us that if we have allowed Jesus to take up residency in our hearts, the fruit of that intimate relationship will be visible in our external lives. What do others see when they look at our outer lives? Will people know that we belong to Jesus by the way that we act and speak? Does our lifestyle align with the type of life that Jesus lived? A routine "spiritual biopsy" is a healthy practice to incorporate into our daily lives; a precautionary check that the Jesus in our heart…is the Jesus our lives reflect.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What inner fruit is growing in your character and what outer fruit is evident in your life?
2. How can you better allow God to work through you to bring Him glory?

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 7:16-20; Philippians 2:5; John 15:4; Galatians 5:22-23; Proverbs 20:7; Malachi 3:18

Married to husband Dan, Karen manages Intrigue Salon & Spa, is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study, and co-leads a freshman girls’ small group.

You are the Aroma of Christ
By Elizabeth Cole

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.”
2 Corinthians 2:14-15

My daughters and I were in the Godiva chocolate store recently, and I got to talking with the store manager. I asked him if he ever smelled like chocolate. He said that after a whole day of working in the store, he was told that he did.

It makes sense. This past summer, I sat at a bonfire for a long time one weekend night, and the first thing I smelled the next morning was the aroma of my hair on my pillow…and it made me smile, because I loved those hours I’d spent at that bonfire. I was glad that I smelled like where I’d been.

Scripture says that we are the aroma of Christ. As we spend more and more time with Jesus, getting to know Him through His Word, the Bible, talking with and listening to Him through personal prayer, doing what He asks us to do, relying on His Spirit to empower us…I just wonder how much more the scent heightens.

There’s a precious verse in the New Testament book of Acts that describes the reaction of an audience that has observed and heard the apostles Peter and John: When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

This day, He’s calling us to be with Him. To put aside the tasks and distractions of the day, sit at His feet and delight in His intimate, constant presence in our lives through His Spirit. To share time and life with Him. To talk to Him; to listen to Him.

Oh, to be known as one who has been with Jesus…who has lingered with Him, bearing His scent.

You are the aroma of Christ.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How might you be able to build intentional time alone with Jesus today…to be with Him, enjoying His intimate presence through His Spirit?
2. If someone were to ask your family members about your “spiritual aroma,” what would they say?

FURTHER READING:
Acts 4; Ephesians 1:17-19; Colossians 2:6

Elizabeth is a wife, mother to three teen-aged daughters, and Director of Women’s Ministries at Oakwood Church.

Casting off Cares
By Jen Wollner

“Cast all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7

It seems as if the economic woes of our country are affecting all of us these days. People are losing their jobs or having their hours severely cut because of a lack of work. Others have taken huge hits to their retirement savings accounts and pensions. And still others who, while trying to sell their homes, either can’t find a buyer or have had to settle for much less than they had hoped. Not only that, but amidst these losses, so many of our prices are rising—groceries, school tuition, airline fees and the national debt, just to name a few! All of this turmoil is extremely unsettling. The situation feels so out of our control—and to a certain degree, it is.

But, there is Someone who is in complete control of our lives—Jesus. Scripture tells us that we can totally trust Him because He cares for us. He loves us deeply. He knows all that we need and promises to provide for us. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus says, “Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?” Birds and other animals don’t ever worry about how they will get their next meal because the Lord takes care of them. We are so much more valuable to Him than the rest of creation and yet we often doubt and fret about how our needs will be met. More times than not we rely on ourselves to “make ends meet” instead of looking to Him for provision, don’t we? And while we certainly are called to do our part, it’s about His plan of provision…not ours. We get so wrapped up in our problems that we forget that He is on His throne. We forget that He is completely sovereign and nothing is out of His control.

Today, instead of worrying and being fearful about our financial situations and other troubles in life, let’s focus on Christ, casting all our anxieties on Him, so that we can have peace and comfort in these trying times.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What is causing you the most anxiety and fear during this financial crisis?
2. Are you finding it difficult to take God at His Word regarding His care for you? Do you believe that He will provide for your every need? If not, spend some time today asking Him to fill you with faith and peace.

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 4:6-7

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children under the age of 6. Jen heads Oakwood’s Fresh Start ministry.