How Can I Be Sure?

Pam Ford Davis

How can I be sure what people say is truth? I hear many statements from opinionated people, but I would be a fool if I believed they were all true. News channels carry segments where the anchor is interviewing several people all at the same time; it begins with a pointed question, then it becomes a shouting match. Is that informative? Each person believes he or she alone is sharing the truth of the matter, and all others are just spouting error.

I am so grateful that God reveals truth. He does not want me confused or misled by false teachers and has given me the inside story. Jesus prepared his disciples for his death, burial, resurrection and ascension. “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you (John 16:12-14 NIV).”

The Holy Spirit is a good listener; he hears the Father and Son’s spoken word and whispers it in our ear. It is not rumor or opinion; the message is truth. I pray for guidance. He is here. What am I waiting for? “Lord Jesus, thank you for letting me eaves-drop on your conversation with the disciples. I want the Spirit of truth to guide me on lighted paths; place my hand in his and open my ears to his still, small voice. In your name, I pray. Amen.”

Family, Parents, Relationships, Women

A Letter From Mama

GUEST WRITER: EMILY SWANSON

How quickly time has flown. The yesterdays now far out-measure the tomorrows. But please don’t look at me with pity.

Inside me there is a little girl swinging in the sunshine, running through the fields and playing dolls in a make-believe playhouse on the dusty earth beneath a live oak in the yard. There is a happy teenager, giggling and sharing secrets with my best friend. Sometimes there emerges the memory of a new bride who has chosen to make her home with a special young man. They clasp hands and exchange knowing glances. The twinkle in his eye tells me I am still special.

“Precious memories flood my soul” of the children with whom I shared life. The joy and pain of giving birth was my special blessing from God. A large portion of my life is labeled “mama”.

Now the sands of time have shifted and the sand is nearly run out. The hourglass is turned upside down and once again I am become that helpless little child, vulnerable and trapped in this tired, used-up, adult body.

I know, my child, you grieve for me. It is hard for you to assume your new role as caretaker. I too, wish it did not have to be so. But the cycle-of-life dictates it to happen just this way.

When you were a babe I rejoiced when you were first put into my arms. My heart expressed wonder in my breast as I examined every tiny finger and toe. I marveled as you began to crawl and laughed out loud at your first word! There were times of great pain as I rocked you through the night with high fever, unable to administer the healing I wanted for you so desperately. I nursed you, nurtured you, loved you and enjoyed you. You were one of my special gifts from God. You are “mama” now. I’m sorry it must be so, for it takes a special grace for both of us to surrender our roles. But His Grace is sufficient.

Know that sometimes I am afraid. This is an unfamiliar path I walk. I have shown you how to walk many paths in life. I shall try to show you how to tread this one with faith and dignity. There are may old people who have to life this time of their lives alone. Thank God I do not walk alone, He is here and so are you! Do not try to be Him and take responsibility for making me whole and pain free. Do as I once did in that rocking chair so many years ago…acknowledge that He is in charge. Whatever transpires here is for just a little while and has great purpose in His plan for our lives.

When you come, bring gifts. Bring the gift of your smile and of loving arms to “hold me”. Bring the gift of reassurance that I am loved and I am hot a burden (for I fear that I am). Let us share meaningful words for time is too short now for trivia.

And when the Father calls me home, grieve for a little while. You will be lonely for a part of you will be gone. Mama and Daddy will both be away. (But you are not alone or comfortless, my child. You have family to whom you have given life) Grieve the loss. Talk about it. Then you can begin to remember the good times and the good things we shared in life. Those precious memories will far out-weigh the grief…in due time. Then your healing can occur.

There came a time, my child, when you wanted to leave home and fly on your own. I had to release you…thought it made me lonely. Release me, my child, and let me go home. I’ll wait for you there and the light will be on.

Christian Growth, Devotionals

Spring Sing

Pam Ford Davis

God delights in variety; look at people and animals. Yes, His creation gives ample examples of vast differences and each ad to the beauty of His handiwork. The changes of seasons are not as dramatic in all areas of the globe, but changes do occur and most of us have our favorites. I am a fan of spring, summer and autumn.

Spring is alive with the hope of new life. I bubble over as buds blossom and green grass makes a way through winter weary soil. I anticipate the Easter celebration as we worship the Lamb of God. Coats remain in closets and sweaters keep me comfortable as I begin to choose lighter clothing and brighter colors.

Summer months are hot and humid but I do not mind that. I remember the past winter and I try to keep complaints of heat waves to a minimum. There are fresh vegetables from our garden, outings and picnics with friends and family, July 4^th flag waving parades. It sadly rolls to a last minute frantic close with Labor Day.

Autumn is a dramatic display of shades of red, orange and brown. My eyes try to take it all in, but it eludes me. I’m not sure if my body temperature needs regulating or the change of seasons finds it difficult to control. I feel a chill when I step outside in the morning or evening, but crank up the AC in the afternoons. Winter lovers can fill in my blanks…

I’ve discovered another benefit of the spring season in scripture. I can celebrate the arrival of the Spring Sing! “For lo, the winter is past, The rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; The time of singing has come, And the voice of the turtledove Is heard in our land (Song Of Solomon 2:11-12 NKJ).” Praise to God echoes through the land and I want to attend the free concert!

Christian Growth, Devotionals, Relationships

May I Have the Pleasure?

Pam Ford Davis

“May I have the pleasure?” Such formality is a remnant of our past; let’s dance took its place and we barely noticed. Good manners were as common as the box step; gentlemen felt it an honor to escort a partner to the dance floor and requested permission, sometimes even with a bow. The belle of the ball rose to her feet, took him by the hand and entrusted herself to his care.

Where do I find true pleasure? I waste time and energy looking for it in recreation, entertainment or material baubles. It is all around me, I alone delay the joy of the treasures. Relationships are the storehouses of pleasure and fulfillment. Pleasure is in the smile of the infant and elderly, firm handshake of a new acquaintance or embrace when reunited with a lifelong friend. We can know personally the greatest pleasure; it is the presence of our heavenly Papa.

“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand (Psalm 16:11 NIV).” I agree with King David. He desired to be God’s right hand man. “Lord, I know there is room for me too. May I have the pleasure?”

Christian Growth, Devotionals

Folly or Fulfillment?

Pam Ford Davis

It is far easier to begin many projects than it is to finish. If we are establishing a new business on pay as you go construction, it can be a slow tedious process. My husband put on both radio and television stations from scratch and I am well aware of the many difficulties that arise. Expenses are nearly impossible to estimate and out-of-pocket funding is painful.

Broadcast towers were one very visible sign that we were close to our goal. We could send the transmitter signal across our area at the flip of the transmitter switch. We located towers and hired a crew of professionals to raise them, then anchor securely with guide wires. It involved a commitment of a large lump sum of cash. We had come so far, if we failed to get the stations on the air, competitors and residents would mock us.

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish’ (Luke 14:28-30 NIV).” Jesus taught a relevant message; discipleship comes at a price of lifelong submission.

Devotionals

Storm Chaser

Pam Ford Davis

Man instinctively runs from storms, taking cover in places of refuge and safety. Today, meteorologists depend on a new breed of adventure seekers; they call upon storm chasers. These men and women run to storms in hopes of catching remarkable film footage and recording detailed statistics on wind speed, amounts of rain and size of hail. Most of us who view the completed work take it for granted; weather forecasters applaud the efforts of storm chasers.

Jesus took complete control of storms; He calmed them and those who cowered in fear. “And behold, there arose a great storm in the sea, so that the boat was covered with the waves, but He Himself was asleep. And they came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, ‘Save us, Lord; we are perishing!’ And He said to them, ‘Why are you timid, you men of little faith?’ Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and it became perfectly calm (Matthew 8:24-26 NAS).” We marvel at His power!

Bible Studies, Devotionals, Women

Why Women?

Pam Ford Davis

The Lord God frequently does what we least expect! If we try to put His activity in a box He is sure to burst it open! Resurrection morning would not be scripted by any of the disciples.

Before complete daylight a close knit group of faithful women began a mission of love, for their departed Lord and friend. They reverently approached His tomb, laden with spices to anoint His body. They likely discussed the problem of getting in to perform their task. The large stone sealing His tomb created a barrier they needed to overcome.

The sight of His open tomb caught them by surprise. This development never crossed their minds, still numb with grief. The stone lay off to the side, giving complete access to the burial place given by a wealthy Council member, yet a follower of Jesus. The kindness of Joseph of Arimathea did not go un-noticed.

The women humbly entered the opening and nearly fainted in the discovery that Jesus no longer occupied the grave! Where is He?

Suddenly in their midst they encountered two men in clothing radiant as a bolt of lightning! The natural reaction of fright gripped the women and they fell to the ground in awe. Maybe this was all a dream! The men then spoke to the women with a penetrating question, “Why do you seek the living One among the dead (Luke 24:5b NAS)?” Before they had time to answer, the message continued, “He is not here, but He has risen. Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again (Luke 24:6-7 NAS).”

Yes, now they remembered Jesus telling them! It just did not seem possible; they saw Him die! Three days passed by and His lifeless body was sealed inside the tomb!

This was amazing! The morning skies now showed the glow of dawn and their hearts once cold moments before, now pulsed with reborn hope and joy!

Next we come face to face with culture, tradition and prejudice prevalent in the days of Jesus life and ministry. Women did not normally hold a place of authority or great influence. They lived in the shadows and did not expect many changes in their acceptance. In spite of the odds they were given the announcement of Jesus resurrection! Matthew said, “And they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy and ran to report it to his disciples (Matthew 28:8 NAS).”

Do you read between the lines of scripture? If you do, side step briefly and catch sight of these frail women, lifting their skirts, and breathlessly running to tell the men, found cowering in fear!

That is not all; next they see Jesus face to face! It is true, ladies He is alive! Now, dropping to the ground and grasping His ankles revealed pure love, worship, and a desire to never be out of His sight again! In tender compassion The Son of Man, born of woman, talked to the select group, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to my brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they shall see me (Matthew 28: 10 NAS)”

Don’t lose track of the women’s prized privileges. They were the first to see the open tomb, first to hear an announcement of His resurrection, first to behold Jesus alive, and now first appointed messengers to carry the gospel, the good news of Jesus conquering death!

Did the disciples wrap them in arms of love and share their joy? “And these words appeared to them as nonsense, and they would not believe them (Luke 24: 11 NAS).” The men soon saw Him themselves through eyes of faith and rejoicing!

Jesus birth announcement came by a heavenly angelic assembly to simple shepherds, outcasts in society. The Easter story targeted women, in their lowly state. Jesus return will need no go betweens. Trumpets will sound and He will appear in the heavens! Every day is Easter! HE’S ALIVE!

Bible Studies, Christian Growth, Devotionals

The Lamb

Pam Ford Davis

The household pet quickly becomes a central part of the family in many homes, bringing pleasure to young and old. A faithful dog or cat is at your side giving unconditional love. Watching them romp and play brings laughter and joy. Those with a dash of mischief create problems mixed with interest.

Our son, Lee once owned a loyal dog named Kenwood. His Husky and German shepherd mix blended the strengths of both breeds. He was a “one man dog!” In a couple of occasions the housing arrangements made it difficult for having pets. So, we became guardians of Kenwood; but he roamed often, discovering the location of his master. He may not have been a blood hound; but he had the nose of a tracker! Kenwood loved yard sales. Well, his version was more of the variety we see in gardening season, signs posted reading, “Pick Yourself.” He went in yards and picked up anything our son might want, dragging home tools of assorted shapes and sizes, to surprise his master. Lee shares a story about once hearing a strange sound in the distance; getting closer he observed Kenwood dragging a shovel on the pavement! I guess he was a “kleptodogiac!” Another characteristic he displayed to Lee revealed his loving heart. If Lee experienced stress, Kenwood laid his head across Lee’s legs and showed he cared.

Did you know the lamb sacrificed each year at Passover, by the Israelites, often lived as the family pet? (Exodus 12:1-6). The busy family saw him grow, standing firmly on once wobbly legs. They witnessed his growing appetite and stubborn independence. The lamb depended on them for everything; his care and protection rested in their hands. When the Passover observance approached each member of the family eyed the lamb feverishly. They knew he must die; imagine their sorrow!

How could God ask for such a sacrifice? We must remember the reason for the Passover feast and worship. When God’s people were slaves in Egypt He said to Pharaoh, “Let My people go!” He refused God’s demands; and plague after plague fell upon the nation in God’s judgment. The final curse came in the form of the death of the first born in every Egyptian family, and even the first born to animals of the land. The cries of sorrow rang out across the country. God’s people were instructed to kill their lambs, taking blood from the dead carcass and to apply it to the doorframes of their homes, where the roasted lamb sacrifices would be eaten. (Exodus 12:6-9).

Why were they commanded to smear blood on their homes? “And the blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you live; and when I see the blood I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt,
(Exodus12:13 NAS).”

Their sacrificed lambs took the place of their firstborn. God provided a way for their deliverance. He provides for our salvation. He sent His firstborn Son, His only begotten Son, to become the Lamb of God, (John 1:36). He laid down His life on the altar of Calvary to become God’s perfect sacrifice, “but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:19 NAS).”

What does God ask in return? He desires us to live for Him, becoming living sacrifices (Romans12: 1-2). It is our reasonable response to His sacrificial love!

Christian Growth, Devotionals

Skinned Knuckles

Pam Ford Davis

Have you ever skinned your knuckles when involved in a building project? It is painful and may even leave scars as a reminder of a difficult job. Nobody wants to be a sissy, but skinned knuckles are hard to ignore.

Prayer is hard work. It is easy to mouth platitudes; cries for help and guidance take time, discipline and determination. We must never give up. God in his word instructs us to ask, search, and knock. “Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you (Acts 7:7 HCS).”

Sherlock Holmes asked murder suspects many questions. He searched for clues and knocked on doors of opportunity in solving unsolved crimes. His persistence matched his ability to unravel a mystery. Did he knock until he skinned his knuckles?

“Father, forgive me for whimpering when I skin my knuckles from repeatedly rapping on the door of prayer. Your will and timing is perfect. Give me perception to see a crack in the door and your hand upon the handle. It will swing wide open in the fullness of time.”

Christian Growth, Devotionals

Cosmic Capers

Pam Ford Davis

Boys of all ages have super-heroes, and make believe they can save the world from villains. We need someone we can look to for protection and safety. Today’s toddlers wearing costumes, capes and masks may one day dress in military uniforms and dedicate their lives to selfless service.

We are in a battle if we realize it or not. Cosmic capers are raging in our midst! “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of the dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:12-13a NIV).” Be prepared and ready for action; you have supernatural powers!

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