EQUIPPED FOR MORE
Equipping our spirit, soul, & body
to be all God created us to be

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June 2016 

Deeper Still:

In the beginning God created… Gen 1:1

If God can create everything out of nothing in six days, I think I can trust Him to create in me everything that I need at this very moment. I choose to trust Him with every fiber of my being; I choose not to trust what my eyes are seeing in the natural. 

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Deeper Still: 

It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’” Gen 3:3

It’s so easy to focus on the things I don’t have, shouldn’t have, can’t do, or shouldn’t do. As I learn to trust God more, I trust that He only has my best interest in mind. He wants me to be all He created me to be. When man say “no”, I probably should obey; when God says “no”, I don’t look, smell, touch, or see how close I can get without crossing the line.

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Deeper Still:

 “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman. Gen 3:4

It’s tempting at times to believe others, to believe that somehow they know what’s better for my life than I do, and at times, they might. But God holds me accountable for the decisions I make in my life. He holds me accountable to know His Word, and to learn to recognize His voice. He holds me accountable to discern between the voice of the enemy and the voice of a Godly man or woman of God, just trying to help me be all God created me to be.

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Deeper Still:

The man replied, “It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it.” Gen 3:12

It’s so easy to blame others for the poor choices I make. When I sin, I need to take responsibility for it. I need to talk with God about how and why I made that choice, and how I can keep from doing it again. I need to repent immediately, accept any repercussions from it, and then release it to God. Life is too short to carrying around guilt from sin that’s already been dealt with.

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Deeper Still:

Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.” Gen 4:7

There are big sins and little sins, big lies and little white lies. Yet, sin is sin. If I don’t acknowledge it, I can’t repent and change. I must not allow pride, justification, rationalization, or any other excuse to keep me from getting control over sin. All sin, big or little needs to be subdued and mastered. I cannot be all God created me to be without getting control over the sin in my life. Lord, show me the sin in my life, so I can repent and get control of it.

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Deeper Still: –

Cain (who killed his brother) had sexual relations with his wife, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Enoch. Gen 4:17

I doesn’t matter where I come from, or who my parents might be, my life is not defined by my earthly lineage. My life is defined by my relationship with God the Father, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit. My life is defined by the choices I make; therefore I will make them wisely and with God’s leading.

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Deeper Still: –

Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. Gen 6:9

I think there is a special place in God’s heart for people who can walk out their faith, with absolutely no support from family or friends. It can be done, and it’s being done every day. I have been blessed with lots of support, may I take advantage of that support and not squander that which God has given me.

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Deeper Still: –

A male and female of each kind entered, just as God had commanded Noah. Then the Lord closed the door behind them. Gen 7:16

It’s easy to get concerned, and all riled up about what I can’t do.  I need to keep my eyes, and heart, fixed on Jesus; I need to be obeying what I hear all the time. I need to leave the impossible to God. He is quite capable of closing, or opening doors; He is quite capable of doing whatever needs to be done. I have my part, He has His.

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Deeper Still: – 

Two more months went by, and at last the earth was dry! Gen 8:14

Noah and his family were on the ark for over a year. Now I’m sure God could of accomplished what He wanted in just a few weeks. Why a year? I don’t know. Why have I been going through what I’m going through for more than a year? I don’t know. What I do know is that God is God, and He has a plan. I can grin and bear it, with my focus being on “when this is over, then ….”. Or, I can fix my eyes, and my love on Jesus, soaking in all His love, knowing that He does have a plan.

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Deeper Still: –

Then God said to Noah, “Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth.” Gen 9:17

I can choose to rejoice with every rainbow I see, whether in the sky, or on a flag. I can remind God of His covenant with every living creature; I can ask Him to bless every living creature with knowing His love for them, with knowing Him intimately, and with knowing His truth. God needed a reminder of His covenant, His love for people, maybe sometimes I do too. 

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Deeper Still: –

When Noah woke up from his stupor, he learned what Ham, his youngest son, had done. Then he cursed Canaan, the son of Ham: “May Canaan be cursed! May he be the lowest of servants to his relatives.” Gen 9:24-25

When I do something stupid, it might have an effect on others. They, in turn might do something stupid, which then can be life changing. How I lead my life does affect others. If I get mad and curse someone, it could last for generations. Words cannot be taken back, so I must choose them wisely.

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Deeper Still: –

So she (Sarah) turned to Abraham and demanded, “Get rid of that slave woman and her son. He is not going to share the inheritance with my son, Isaac. I won’t have it!” Gen 21:10

Come on Sarah, really?  I wonder what was God was thinking when He heard her say this; I wonder if He just shook His head and said “Sarah, Sarah, Sarah”. I wonder how many times He’s done that with me. I’m sure she thought she was justified at the time; I’m sure I think I’m justified at times. Lord, I give You permission to smack me when I am tempted to over-react in situations when I should be grateful for what I have, and just trust You.

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Deeper Still: –

Some time later, God tested Abraham’s faith. Gen 22:1

If I don’t start building my faith and trusting God with the little things in my life, then when the big things and the big testing comes, I don’t stand a chance of trusting God. God tests me in the little things, so I can count on Him during every situation that comes into my life. 

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Deeper Still: –

And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed—all because you have obeyed me.” Gen 22:18

There is no substitute for obedience. I may not always know what God wants me to do, many times I have told Him to just tell me what He wants me to do and I will do it. I may not know if he wants me to do this or that, take this job or that job. But I do know what His Word says: love, trust, forgive, repent, encourage, praise, worship, help the orphans and widows, heal the sick, raise the dad, cast out demons, walk in righteousness and purity, just to name a few. 

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Deeper Still: – 

God blessed Isaac with bountiful croups and livestock. The philistines were jealous and filled up Isaac’s wells several times. Finally he found land where he could dig a well, and not have it covered up. Gen 26

Sometimes it’s hard to understand why God does what He does. He gives bountifully, and then conflict comes, and we have to fight to hold on to what He blessed us with. As one who doesn’t like conflict AT ALL, I have to remember that God may be allowing this conflict for a reason. It’s in the midst of conflict, uncertainty, despair, confusion, and roadblocks that love, joy, peace, patience, trust and faith have a chance to really grow.

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 Deeper Still: –

Jacob to Esau: And what a relief to see your friendly smile. It is like seeing the face of God! Gen 33

Some people go all day without seeing another human being. So when they do get out to go to church, shopping, doctor’s appoint, or whatever, wouldn’t it be nice for them to see a smiling, friendly face. God’s love may come out of my hands and feet at times, when I’m helping others, but God’s love should be coming out of my face 24/7. Letting God’s love come out of my face is a choice, and it can take effort, but it just might be what someone needs today.

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Deeper Still: –

So it was God who sent me (Joseph) here, not you (his brothers)! And he is the one who made me an adviser to Pharaoh—the manager of his entire palace and the governor of all Egypt. Gen 45:8

God sometimes has a different plan for getting people from point A, to point B, then most would like. It’s not my place to tell God how to orchestrate His plans, though I do put my two cents in from time to time. My part is to trust that He does have a plan in place for every day of my life; my part is to say “Here I am, use me, mold me, teach me, prepare me, for whatever You’d like”. My part is to trust in Him no matter what my current circumstances look like.

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Deeper Still: –

Moses killed an Egyptian for beating a Hebrew, then he tried to break up a fight between two Hebrews, then after fleeing to Midian he rescued shepherd girls trying to draw water. Exodus 2

Years before Moses was used to free the Egyptians, he was displaying his heart against injustice. I can count on God to be creating in me a heart and passion for what He plans on using me for in the future. Sometimes it doesn’t look or feel like anything is happening, but God’s got a plan. I choose to embrace and tru

st God’s plan for my life.

Deeper Still: –

God choose Moses to steak to Pharaoh, He allowed Aaron to speak, but it wasn’t His first choice. Ex 4

At times, all I can see are my faults, my shortcomings. But I have to remember that if God has called me to do something, He will qualify me. I might think someone else can do it better, and maybe they can, but if God calls me, He has a reason.

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Deeper Still: –

As Pharaoh approached, the people of Israel looked up and panicked when they saw the Egyptians overtaking them. Ex 14:10

The Israelites had just witnessed firsthand how powerful God was (the ten plagues), and how much He loved them, yet here they are panicking at the first sign of opposition. I experience this myself at times. I have to keep reminding myself how powerful God is and how much He loves me; I have to remind myself that He is on my side, no matter what the circumstances look like. I have to keep my eyes on Jesus no matter what. It’s always easier to see the negative, but more joyful to see the positive by trusting in God.

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Deeper Still: –

But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Ex 14:13-14

When I am positioned right where I’m supposed to be, right smack in the will of God, there is no reason for fear. I will either do exactly what God tells me to do, or just relax and watch the Lord Himself fight for me. Either way, my responsibility is to trust God.

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Deeper Still: –

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. Ex 14:15-16

It seems that sometimes God wants me to “Just Do It”. Stop whining, stop praying, stop begging, “Just Do It”. I know who I am, I know His plans, I know the power and authority I walk in. I need to trust that if I’m getting it wrong, He will step in, if need be.

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Deeper Still: –

Then the people complained and turned against Moses. “What are we going to drink?” they demanded. Ex 15:24

Really? They had just walked through the red sea on dry ground; God had just wiped out all the Egyptians; they had just sang a really long song (Ex 15:1-18) about all that God had done and how powerful He is, and couple of days without water and they fall apart. But how often have I done the same thing? I need to make sure I am one of the encouragers, instead of one of the complainers. The roots of my faith need to be so grounded in God’s truth, that I do not waiver in unbelief. 

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Deeper Still: –

“Quiet!” Moses replied. “Why are you complaining against me? And why are you testing the Lord?” Ex 17:2

Again, there was no water, and again the people started complaining. God knew the people needed water to survive, just like He knows exactly what I need. What will I do when faced with a similar situation? Will I complain to my pastors and anyone else who will listen about how unfair my life is, and how God isn’t doing His part? Or, will I fall face down before my Lord, praising Him, worshiping Him, and trusting Him?

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Deeper Still: – 

Joshua chose men to fight against the army of Amalek. Moses held up his staff on the top of a mountain. Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ arms when he was too tired to go on. Ex 17: 8-13

No one person won that fight, it was a team effort. At times I may be called to be on the front lines. At other times, I might be called to help someone else by holding up their arms. If I am obedient to God, then every thing I do, big or small, is important to the Kingdom of God. Also, I better not be too quick to judge what others are doing. What looks like nothing to me, may be monumental in God’s eyes. So I will continue to encourage, and bless others to be obedient to God, and to be who He created them to be.

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Deeper Still: –

As the people stood in the distance, Moses approached the dark cloud where God was. Ex 20:21

There are times when I feel like I’m on this journey all by myself. Some may choose to stand at a distance, with the safety of the masses, receiving God’s message second hand. But when I’m willing to approach God in a way that my natural eyes cannot see, and my natural mind may not understand, then I step into the bliss of His presence. There I meet with Him, and we talk.

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Deeper Still: –

Then Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel climbed up the mountain. There they saw the God of Israel. Ex 24:9-10

These 70 plus people had sat face to face with God and shared a meal. Yet, later on these same people were among those who couldn’t trust God to go into the Promised Land. I need to focus on, and never forget all the things God has done for me, and for others around me. I need to focus on, and remember all the miracles being done everyday. I need to focus on our special times together where He talks to me personally. So when the impossible in the natural comes along, my faith in God is strong. 

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Deeper Still: –

God had specific plans for the making of His tabernacle, and everything in it. He had specific plans, down to every detail for making Aarons cloths and chest piece, and the priests clothing. Ex 25-31

God is definitely a God of details and Exodus is full of them. There are times when God says, “Just do it, Ill be with you”, and times when He says, “Listen carefully to what I say, and do exactly what I say to do”. My responsibility is to get to know God so intimately that I can that I can tell the difference; to be so tuned into Him that I know when to stop and listen more carefully.

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Deeper Still: –

You must keep the Sabbath day, for it is a holy day for you. Anyone who desecrates it must be put to death; anyone who works on that day will be cut off from the community. Ex 31:14

Wow, pretty harsh language here, and consequences for not giving God His holy day. It’s would be easy to nit pick this verse apart. However, I think what God is so passionate about is setting apart one day a week just for Him. To cease from my own agenda, and from working. Giving my spirit, soul, and body a chance to rejuvenate, and for me to spend more time connecting with God the Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit.

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Deeper Still: – 

Aaron saw how excited the people were, so he built an altar in front of the calf. Then he announced, “Tomorrow will be a festival to the Lord!” Ex 32:5

When God doesn’t come through in a timely manner, it’s easy to start looking elsewhere; and it’s easy to get wrapped up in mans ideas and applause. I cannot allow what looks like God’s delay to change my focus from God to man. I cannot allow mans applause to sway me in a direction that is not from God.

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Deeper Still: – 

God wanted to destroy the Israelites for turning away from the way He commanded them to live. Moses talked Him out of it. Ex 32:8 & 14

God takes sin very seriously. God’s grace is amazing, and I’m so thankful for it. But, God takes His commands and His Word very seriously. Some think the Old Testament commands are done away with, but what about the New Testament? Love your neighbor, love yourself, walk in peace, joy, righteousness, holiness, freedom from fear, walk in the power and anointing of God, repent and turn to God after sinning, etc. I love His grace, and love Him enough to respect (and love) His commands.

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Deeper Still: –

Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Ex 33:11

How awesome that the God of the universe wants to speak face to face with me. He is not a distant God, but a relational, up front, face to face God. And, how blessed I am that I don’t have to go to a tent to meet with Him.  Because of Jesus Christ, God is with me, in me, and never leaves me. I need to take time throughout the day and just relax, face to face with God.

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Deeper Still: –

Afterward Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun, would remain behind in the Tent of Meeting. Ex 33:11

Joshua must have been so hungry for more of God that he just couldn’t leave God’s presence. Oh Lord, I need that hunger for more of You.

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Deeper Still: –

Moses responded, “Then show me your glorious presence.” Ex 33:18

Moses had already spent so much alone time with God, at Mt. Sinai and in the tent. He must of known that there was more of God than what he had experienced. When Moses asked to see more of God’s glorious presence, he was shown God’s goodness (vs 19). God wants me to experience and to get to know all of who He is, all of His love, and all of His goodness. Maybe, all I have to do is ask.

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Deeper Still: –

“Yahweh! The Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. Ex 34:6 & 7

God is so amazingly good, so full of compassion, mercy, love, and faithfulness. He draws a line with guilty people though. What separates the guilty from the not guilty? The not guilty have repented of their sins, and been forgiven by God. To walk in the fullness of Gods compassion, mercy, love and faithfulness I need to stay free from the guilt of sin. Lord, show me any area of my life where I am still guilty, so I can quickly repent, and be restored to Your amazing love.

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Deeper Still: –

I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected— even children in the third and fourth generations.” Ex 34:7b  

What I do with my life, what I do in secret, doesn’t just affect me. At the same time, what my ancestors did, may very well affect me, and I may need to repent on their behalf. It’s also a reminder that others may be affected by the sins of their ancestors. So instead of judging, maybe I should be praying that God would show them the way to freedom in this area. Maybe I should be willing to be used by God to help.

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Deeper Still: –

“You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but on the seventh day you must stop working, even during the seasons of plowing and harvest. Ex 34:21

Even during the busiest times of my life, I must take one day a week to rest with the Lord. It’s a choice really, to obey, or not. I can get really legalistic as to when my one day should be, Saturday, Sunday, or any other day. Working for God, is not the same as resting for God. If I am preaching, teaching, cleaning, etc. at church on Sunday (or any other day), then that is not my day of resting in Jesus. I know a pastor who allowed his farming equipment to rest on Sundays. His equipment lasted longer than any of the other farmers, even when stopping and starting was harder on the engines. Lord, help me not neglect this commandment of Yours.

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Deeper Still: –

God gave extremely detailed instructions for making the Tabernacle. He Himself put His Spirit into people gifting them in various areas. Ex.35-40

It took the Israelites several months to complete the very detailed tabernacle. Every detail had its purpose. THEN, the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle (Ex 40:34). I am God’s temple now; He resides in me. But still, how do I prepare myself to receive Him, His presence, His intimacy, and the fullness of who He is? Am I rushed, and multi-tasking, or am I still and focused on the details?

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Deeper Still: – 

“If any of the common people sin by violating one of the Lord’s commands, but they don’t realize it, they are still guilty. Lev 4:27

Ignorance of sin is not an acceptable excuse to God. It is my responsibility to know what is and is not sin. I have a Bible, which explains it pretty well. I’m so glad I live this side of the Cross and don’t have to abide by the thousands of regulations of Old Testament times. But does this verse still apply; am I still guilty if I don’t realize my sin? I choose to allow this verse to motivate me to an even deeper relationship with my Jesus. I choose to allow this verse to motivate me to be so close to Jesus, that all He has to do is nudge me when I’ve crossed the line into sin, so that I can repent quickly.

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Deeper Still: –

When you arrive in Canaan, the land I am giving you as your own possession, I may contaminate some of the houses in your land with mildew (leprosy). Lev 14:34

What? Why in the world would God contaminate a house with leprosy? Though this makes absolutely no sense to me, God must have a reason. Possibly He’s testing the residents to see if they will follow His laws, or to see how they react when unpleasant things happen. Possibly to see if they unite as a family, or blame each other. No doubt about it, I just don’t understand why God does, or allows some of the things He does. But I do know that God is good, and I don’t have to understand Him to totally trust Him.

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Deeper Still: –

for the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord. It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible. Lev 17:11

The life of the Body of Christ (the church) is in the blood of Jesus. Jesus alone purifies us through His death and resurrection. If only the Body of Christ would unite together to keep the main thing, the main thing. Life, real life, real living, is in the blood of Jesus. It’s all about Him. Thank you Jesus for what You did for me.

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Deeper Still: –

So do not act like the people in Egypt, where you used to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You must not imitate their way of life. Lev 18:3

God may very well take me out of something (or some place) that is not the right environment for me, only to lead me right into another environment that isn’t right for me. Now I’m right where God has led me, but I cannot embrace my surroundings. I may spend days, decades, or my whole life in surroundings where I am to live set apart for God. I must stay so tuned into the His voice that no matter where I am, I am where He wants me to be.

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Deeper Still: –

You must obey all my regulations and be careful to obey my decrees, for I am the Lord your God. If you obey my decrees and my regulations, you will find life through them. I am the Lord. Lev 18:4&5

It’s easy to become resentful of rules and regulation. Children often test the rules, to see how close they can come before getting in trouble, and some blatantly, just don’t care. But God says that I can find life through HIS decrees and regulations. Obedience brings life. So if my life seems empty, unfulfilling, or missing something, maybe I need to check my obedience level.

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Deeper Still: –

Do not have sexual relations with ….. Lev 18:8-23  

Sexual sins are detestable to the Lord, and they are epidemic these days. I know there are many otherwise godly men and women, who seem trapped in this sin. But with God, one is never truly “trapped”, because Jesus died to set the captives free. Satan knows the power that this sin holds, and starts early in one’s life with enticement. Generational curses need to be broken, and Jesus is the answer.  

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Deeper Still: –

Show your fear of God by not taking advantage of each other. I am the Lord your God. Lev 25:17

There are people and cultures that pride themselves on taking advantages of others. The most detestable in my opinion are those who take advantage of children, elderly, and handicapped. Lord, I give you permission to do whatever is necessary to expose any areas where I am guilty of this, so I can repent. It is not smart, crafty, ingenious, expected, or anything else. It is sin! 

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Deeper Still: –

But you might ask, ‘What will we eat during the seventh year, since we are not allowed to plant or harvest crops that year?’ Be assured that I will send my blessing for you in the sixth year, so the land will produce a crop large enough for three years. Lev 25:20-21

The Israelites knew when the seventh year was, so they prepared with harder work during the sixth. I may not know when my “seventh” year, or my time of lack or rest might be coming. But I can count on God to bless me with abundance to take me through the times of lack, or the times He tells me to rest. So I need to steward this abundance, whatever it might be, and whenever it might come. 

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Deeper Still: –

As long as the land lies in ruins, it will enjoy the rest you never allowed it to take every seventh year while you lived in it. Lev 26:35

There is a time when the price for disobedience is due. Sometimes it takes weeks, months, years, or decades, but it will come due. I have experienced this first hand with my body. I went for over thirty years teaching several exercise classes a day. Even though I didn’t teach on the weekends, I didn’t really give God His Sabbath day of rest, the way He intended it to be. He has been collecting this past year. God in His mercy though has used this time to draw me closer into His heart. Lord, show me the areas where I am not totally obedient to Your Word, and Your will.

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Deeper Still: –

But at last my people will confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors for betraying me and being hostile toward me. Lev 26:40

“We can do this the easy way, or the hard way” We’ve all heard this, usually from our parents. Well, God says it too. The easy way is to walk in obedience, to start confessing sin as soon as He brings them to my mind, and to learn about confessing the sins of my ancestors (generational curses). The hard way is to keep on doing what I’m doing thinking that nothing will happen, or if it does, just not caring. God is such a good, good God and just wants the best for me, and all His children. 

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Deeper Still: –

‘May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.’ Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them.” Num 6:25-27

When we ask God to bless others, it’s not just words. It’s like a declaration being activated into the spirit realm. Sometimes I’m specific in my blessings, like asking God to bless someone to be who He created them to be. Other times, I just ask God to bless them anyway He chooses. I may never know the ramifications of the blessings I speak, and that’s ok.

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Deeper Still: –

Sometimes the cloud stayed only overnight and lifted the next morning. But day or night, when the cloud lifted, the people broke camp and moved on. Num 9:21

Can you imagine setting up the Tabernacle only to tear it down the next day? But day or night they were ready to go wherever God went. It doesn’t matter if I just got settled into a nice doable routine, if God’s wants me to move on, I best be moving on. Even though God is everywhere I go, when I’m right smack dab where He’s wanting me to be, there is a thicker, richer, heaver, amazing presence. There is a clearer connection between His heart and mine, and between His voice and my ears. 

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Deeper Still: –

And the Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt? Will they never believe me, even after all the miraculous signs I have done among them? Num 14:11

I wonder if God says that about me. How long, how many healings and miracles does He have to perform before I really believe He is who He says He is, and His Word is His truth, and He really does love me? How long until I totally trust Him completely with every aspect of my life? How long until I walk in my true identity as a child of King Jesus? How long until I truly belief that God talks to me personally? Lord, may it be now.

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Deeper Still: –

Now tell them this (Moses): ‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord, I will do to you the very things I heard you say. Num 14:28

My words have power. Am I speaking life into my life and the lives of others, or am I speaking death and curses? Am I speaking God’s truth, or the enemy’s lies?

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Deeper Still:

Moses was angry because the Israelites were complaining again about water. He hit the rock twice instead on once, therefore sinning against God. That sin cost him entrance into the promise land. Num 20:9-12

I can totally understand Moses’ frustration with the Israelites. I personally think he hit the rock twice out of frustration and anger against the Israelites, not against God. Never the less, it cost him deeply. My anger, against God or others, may cost me greatly. I don’t understand God’s harsh judgment in this case, but He is God, and His ways are always right, whether I understand or not.

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Deeper Still: –

“But you all came to me (Moses) and said, ‘First, let’s send out scouts to explore the land for us. They will advise us on the best route to take and which towns we should enter.’ Deut 1:22

It’s so easy to start rationalizing once God tells me to do something that seems challenging. “Let me just check this out”, “Let me see if this seems possible”, “Could this really be God” even though He’s told me dozens of times to do something. When God says to do the impossible, it then becomes the possible. I need to stop thinking rationally all the time, and start thinking Kingdomly. Because with God, all things are possible.

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Deeper Still: –

That is enough,” the Lord said. “Do not speak to me anymore about this matter.” …. Deut 3:26   But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him… Deut 3:28

God would not even allow Moses to discuss going into the Promised Land; the matter was settled. As if that wasn’t hard enough, Moses then had to commission, encourage and strengthen Joshua to go instead. Sometimes I may be asked to do what seems so unfair, so extremely hard and heart breaking. That’s when the real me has to make a decision. Do I continue to honor God for who He is, by doing what He’s told me to do, with love in my heart? Or, do I do it with an attitude of “This isn’t fair, I don’t deserve this”? The choice is mine.

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Deeper Still: –

But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul. Deut 4:29

God wants to be found and to be known intimately by everyone. He wants me to want Him enough that I seek Him with every fiber of my being; not just once in a while, but daily. It can be frustrating at times when “it seems” He is far away, when I’m not seeing, or hearing like I want. But that just makes the times when He meets with me face to face even sweeter. Encountering intimacy with God should be as normal as brushing my teeth and washing my face.

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Deeper Still: –

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deut 31:8

As God leads me into the unknown, never before gone to, new and exciting places He’s called me to go, I can be assured He’s with me. Yet I, like the Israelites, I have to pursue and fight for what He’s giving me. It’s mine, but I still have to fight for it. So when fear and discouragement start getting me down I have to stand my ground on the promises of God. I have to pick up my sword, not made with steel, but made from the very heart of God. His promises are my weapon; His Word and words are my weapon. My ability to do whatever He’s called me to do, is my weapon.

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Deeper Still: – 

Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:8

We all want to prosper and succeed in life, and here how. I am so blessed to have all sixty-six books of the Bible to read and meditate on, instead of just five. And I am so blessed to have Holy Spirit living in me to help me understand my Father’s heart and love for me. Knowing the Bible is more than just knowing His do’s and don’ts, it about knowing Him personally and intimately, His personality and character. The Bible is not stagnant; it’s full of life, and endless revelation and sustenance for my spirit, soul and body.

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Deeper Still: –

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Fourteen times in the Bible we are called to be “Strong and Courageous”, usually followed by, “do not be afraid”. That’s enough times to assume that this should be a lifestyle to live by, especially when facing difficult situations.  Strength and courage is birthed and developed in the spirit and soul, and not exclusively the body as some might think. It increases every time I choose peace instead of fear; it increases every time I choose to trust God over trusting man.

Deeper Still: –

So the Israelites examined their (Gibeonites) food, but they did not consult the Lord. Jos 9:14 Then they made a peace treaty with them, and later found out they had been deceived. (vs 15-16)

Some people are master manipulators, and as compassionate, loving people we want to believe them. Because I don’t lie myself, I tend to believe others are always telling the truth. This is not always the best quality to have. What I need to do is to be continually asking God for discernment when dealing with others, especially if a binding contract is involved. Nothing, absolutely nothing, can take the place of spending a few moments asking God for wisdom and discernment.

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Deeper Still: –

The tribe of ____ failed to drive out _____. Judges 1

The Israelites failed to finish the job God had given them to do. They might of thought that 95% was good enough, but it wasn’t. That 5% (or whatever percent) cost them dearly. Because they were satisfied with doing a mediocre job for God, their unfinished business became a thorn in their sides, which led to disobedience, which led to God’s anger against them. Lord, forgive me for giving You mediocre so many times; You deserve my best, You deserve 100% obedience.

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Deeper Still: – 

After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel. Judges 2:10

It is so important to share with family and others the goodness of God; to share the signs, wonders, and miracles He performs. These are often called glory stories and they can range from something as simple as God helping you find your keys, to someone being raised from the dead. God’s goodness and miracles are happening everyday; they did not end 2000 years ago. Food still multiplies, people are healed, the dead are raised, and so much more. We need to share our testimonies; if we don’t have any, we need to start praying for some.

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Deeper Still: –

I (God) did this to test Israel—to see whether or not they would follow the ways of the Lord as their ancestors did.” That is why the Lord left those nations in place. He did not quickly drive them out or allow Joshua to conquer them all. Judges 2:22-23  

How many times does God test me to see how I will react? How many times do I pass, or fail? When I just don’t understand why God does, or doesn’t do something, maybe I’m being tested. So instead of throwing a hissy fit, maybe I need to put my big girl pants on and trust God to help me through it. Maybe I need to search my heart and make sure I’m in right standing with God. If not, I need to repent. If I am, than I need to praise God for who He is, continue being obedient, and if it is a test, plan on passing it with flying colors.

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Deeper Still: –

Then all three groups blew their horns and broke their jars. They held the blazing torches in their left hands and the horns in their right hands, and they all shouted, “A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!” Judges 7:20

Who goes to battle with only a torch in their left hand and a ram’s horn in their right? Only those who trust completely in their Lord? God can use any one and any thing to fight the evil of this world, all He really needs is a willing heart and complete obedience. My focus can never be on what I don’t have, it has to stay on who I do have, and that is Jesus Christ. 

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Deeper Still: –

Then the people of Ephraim mobilized an army and crossed over the Jordan River to Zaphon. They sent this message to Jephthah: “Why didn’t you call for us to help you fight against the Ammonites? We are going to burn down your house with you in it!” Judges 12:1

People fight over the stupidest things, and that hasn’t changed in thousands of years. There’s a saying “pick your battles”, in other words don’t get so upset over the little things in life. I think if I can do as Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind & strength. And love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30-31), some of the little things will loose their power over me. A true warrior of God knows when to fight, when to love, and when just release things to God.

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Deeper Still: –

The Israelites did evil in the Lord’s sight, then God sent a judge who was very hard on them, and then the Israelites cried out to the Lord for help. Judges

For generations they choose to live in this circle of rejecting God, heavy oppression, crying out to God, and then receiving God’s blessings. God was always faithful when they confessed their sin, repented and turned back to Him. So much precious life was wasted in disobedience. Only obedience to God, and an intimate relationship with Him can bring true love, joy, peace and success in our lives.

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Deeper Still: –

So Ruth went out to gather grain behind the harvesters. And as it happened, she found herself working in a field that belonged to Boaz, the relative of her father-in-law, Elimelech. Ruth 2:3

As I go about my day I can trust that God will position me to be where He wants me to be. Heidi Baker once said “Soak and go, soak and go, soak and go”. There is a time for soaking in God’s presence, and then there is a time to just go and do. I can trust God to position me for Divine Appointments. I can trust God to interrupt my day with His plans.

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Deeper Still: –

All right, here is the king you have chosen (Saul). You asked for him, and the Lord has granted your request. 1 Sam 12:13

A mistake often made is to think that I know what’s best for me. Just because I might beg God for something and He gives it to me, doesn’t mean it’s His Plan A for my life. My prayers ought to follow Jesus’ example, “Not my will, but Yours be done”. 

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Deeper Still: –

Don’t go back to worshiping worthless idols that cannot help or rescue you—they are totally useless! 1 Sam 12:21

Even today so many people turn to idols to tell them what kind of day they are going to have. If their horoscope says that it will be a great, or not so great day, they believe it. People want a quick answer, they want to trust in something they can see or touch. Putting all my hopes, dreams, and trust into something (Someone) that I can’t tangibly touch is called faith. The benefits of trusting in God, even when it seems like nothing is happening, far outweighs the quick answers of false idols. God commands my total allegiance and worship to Himself, and He is 100% deserving of it.

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Deeper Still: –

Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. 1 Sam 15:22

It doesn’t matter what I do, or don’t do, if I’m not obedient to God, I am not pleasing Him. I can justify and rationalize my reasons for doing things with the best of them, but that doesn’t impress God one bit. It’s total obedience and submission (surrendering) to God that keeps me in right standing with Him. Not only do I need to be obedient to His Word, but also to the words He speaks to me throughout the day.

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Deeper Still: –

Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Sam 15:23

Most believers would never purposely engage in witchcraft or idol worshiping. However rebellion and stubbornness can be part of our every day lives, and some may even take pride in these character traits. But God takes both very seriously, especially when we rebel against His commands. Other words for stubbornness are arrogance, presumption, insubordination, defiance, and self-will. Oh Lord, shine Your light on any of these sins that start to rise up in me. 

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Deeper Still: –

Then Saul pleaded again, “I know I have sinned. But please, at least honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel by coming back with me so that I may worship the Lord your God.” 1 Sam 15:30

Saul was willing to worship Samuel’s God, but he never called the Lord “his” God. My relationship with God has to be my own intimate relationship with Him. I can’t worship my parent’s God, and my kids can’t worship my God. God wants individual, one of a kind relationships with every one of His kids. Each of us has to put in our own personal time in His Word, in His presence, in intimacy, in friendship, and in worshiping Him.

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Deeper Still: –

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Sam 16:7

Oh, if the world could just catch on to this concept, or even just believers, or even just me. May I spend more time preparing my heart for the day, than I do concerned about what I will wear, or how I look. May I never again be overly concerned with getting older, and how parts of me just aren't where they used to be. May I instead, concern myself with the condition of my heart. And may I also look first at another’s heart, before seeing their outside appearance.

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Deeper Still: –

And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on. Then Samuel returned to Ramah. 1 Sam 16:13b

Suddenly my life can forever be changed; suddenly my destiny can be activated; suddenly all those prophetic words can manifest; suddenly I can accept and walk in my identity as a child of the King. God, prepare and position me to receive “suddenlies” from You.

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