Barbara's Banter

Short and sweet thought for the week…

Envy is an unhealthy desire to have something that belongs to someone else. We can envy another’s possessions, qualities, status, accomplishments, success, blessings, or even their luck. More than that, we can resent them for having what we don’t. Envy makes us miserable!

Another biblical term for envy could be covetousness. It sounds a bit old-fashioned but it basically means we want what another has. From the beginning, God said this is not a good idea. In fact, God says we shouldn’t covet anything that belongs to someone else (Exodus 20:17). That covers a lot of territory.

Once envy takes root in a heart, it can lead to works of the flesh such as discord, selfishness, dissension, hatred, rage, and many other negative actions that God cautions us to guard against (Galatians 5:19-21). That’s why we are not to have bitter-envy in our hearts (James 3:14). It’s better to fill our hearts with love for love does not envy (1 Corinthians 13:4). If we truly love others, we will be happy for their good fortune.

Okay, you’re saying! Envy is bad, but how do I conquer these dissatisfied longings? A couple of things come to mind…

First, we should stop comparing ourselves with others. Do we not know that God loves us just as much as He loves others? His love for us is not manifest in physical possessions or attributes. When God lifts another up for some reason, it does not mean He is putting everyone else down. Appearances can be deceiving. We don’t know what a person is going through. That’s why we run our own race, the one God tailor-made just for us (Hebrews 12:1).  

Next, we should learn to be truly content with our lives in Christ regardless of our circumstances. This is a lesson Paul learned through dire experiences (Philippians 4:10-12). He concluded that he could do all things through Christ who strengthened him (Philippians 4:13).

Envy will draw our focus from Christ to ourselves. If we have any hope of contentment, we must keep our eyes focused on Christ, not those around us.

David tells us not to be envious and then gives some helpful tips on how to do that (Psalm 37:1). Trust God and do good (Psalm 37:2). Fill your mind with God’s faithfulness (Psalm 37:2). Delight yourself in the Lord (Psalm 37:2). Commit your ways to God (Psalm 37:3). Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him (Psalm 37:7). Cease from anger and do not fret (Psalm 37:8).

If we concentrate on doing these things, we won’t have time to be envious!

“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” ~Colossians 3:2

Short and sweet thought for the week…

In Exodus 3:14, God reveals Himself to Moses as Yahweh which means “I AM who I AM” or “I will be who I will be.” In other words, God is God and there is none like Him. Ancient scholars knew exactly who I AM was and what that meant.

When the Pharisees dialogued with Jesus about who He was, they were confused when He mentioned He had seen Abraham. They said, “You aren’t even 50 years old. How could you have seen Abraham?” Jesus answered with, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born I AM” (John 8:58).

This angered the Pharisees, so they picked up stones to stone Him, but Jesus hid and slipped away (John 8:56-58). The Pharisees understood the significance of Jesus saying, “I AM.” He was declaring Himself as God. They considered this blasphemous because He was making Himself equal with God (John 5:18). Of course, they didn’t know that Jesus was God in the flesh and the very Messiah prophesied to come (John 1:1).

Jesus made several “I AM” statements that have great meaning for us. He said…

• I am the bread of life (John 6:48).
• I am the light of the world (John 8:12).
• I am the good shepherd (John 10:11).
• I am the Son of God (John 10:36).
• I am the resurrection and the life (John 11:25).
• I am the true vine (John 15:5).
• I am the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

Jesus very clearly tells us who He is. Each “I AM” statement reveals more about Him, His nature, and what He means to us. He is our sustenance, our sustainer, our Light in a world of darkness, our guide, our hope, our provider, our protector, our Savior, our truth, our way, our victory over death, and our whole life—not just now but in the future with eternal life.

Our future rests on recognizing Jesus for who He is. He is still the great I AM who is always with us fulfilling our needs and keeping His promises.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, who is
and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” ~Revelation 1:8

Short and sweet thought for the week…

The word practice means to do something repeatedly in order to improve one’s proficiency. Most of us could use a little practice in being appreciative. We tend to think in terms of what we don’t have, instead of being thankful for what we do have.

There’s an old legend that says God sent two angels with baskets to earth to gather the prayers of humans. The first angel was to fill a basket with the requests, wants, and desires of people. The other was to gather prayers of thanksgiving. When they returned to God, one angel’s basket was heaped high, running over with the countless petitions of men and women. The other angel had searched diligently but alas, returned with an almost empty basket.

Sometimes it’s difficult to appreciate what we have so readily available such as decent food to eat, clean water to drink, shelter from storms, and warm clothing to wear in the winter. These are basic blessings that many in the world live without. We can practice appreciation by thanking God continuously for every blessing because, indeed, all blessings come from Him (James 1:17).

Practicing appreciation means we look for something to be grateful for even in dire circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). We aren’t necessarily thankful for each trial, but we can be thankful God is always with us. Problems can be opportunities to grow in deeper relationship with Him. Thankfulness can help us rise us above our circumstances.

We can practice appreciation by recognizing little things that come our way that lift our spirits. Today, did we behold sunshine, flowers, a smile from someone, a child’s laughter, a phone call from a friend, an unexpected note of encouragement, or find a good parking space? Give thanks!

The Bible tells us those who aren’t thankful are foolish (Romans 1:21). When angels in disguise come to fill their baskets at our doors, let’s be sure that one basket does not outweigh the other in our lives. One of the sweetest prayers we can offer God is an appreciative, “Thank You Lord!”   

“It is good to give thanks unto the Lord.” ~Psalm 92:1

Short and sweet thought for the week…

An epitaph is a phrase written in memory of a person who has died, such as an inscription on a tombstone. Have you ever thought about what you would want written on your headstone? Although, I don’t want to rush the process, we will all die at some point. How would we want to be remembered?

When my third child was born, I was exhausted. I remember telling my husband that if I died from fatigue to put “Rest in Peace” on my headstone, because it would have been the first rest I’d gotten in years.

Some think cemeteries are spooky. Not me! I love visiting them and reading headstones. For some reason, I don’t think of their deaths, but the lives they must have lived. Family plots are almost a thing of the past, but our family has one in Southeast Missouri where many of my ancestors are buried. It’s fascinating to go there with an older person who knows the history of the area. They will point out so many things that aren’t on a headstone such as that one died in the pneumonia epidemic or this one died during a feud.  

There are some very funny epitaphs scattered throughout the world…

TV personality Merv Griffin’s stone reads,  “I will not be right back after this message.”

Comedian Rodney Dangerfield has “There goes the neighborhood” on his.

Mel Blanc, who voiced many cartoon characters and would sign off Looney Tunes with the famous “Th-th-th-that’s all folks,” actually has “That’s All Folks” on his tombstone.

Even those not so famous have left some lasting impressions…

William H. Hahn Jr. of Princeton, New Jersey had the final word with “I told you I was sick.”

There is one from Ruidoso, New Mexico. “Here lies John Yeast. Pardon me for not rising.”

Another in Uniontown, Pennsylvania has an informative stone. “Here lies the body of Jonathan Blake. Stepped on the gas instead of the brake.”

One of my favorites comes from father and son dentists. The father John Denby passed in 1927 with this phrase: “I’m filling my last cavity.” When son Maurice passed in 1964, they added “Me too” to the stone. Don’t you just love dentists with a sense of humor? Actually, I don’t think many people love dentists but I guess it’s better to have one with a sense of humor.

I’m not sure what I would want as my epitaph. More than likely it will have my name, date born, and date died. Maybe I’ll have them put something like: “Loved by Jesus, Saved by Grace” or “Waiting for the Resurrection!” Fortunately, I have some time to think about it!

“For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord.
So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.” ~Romans 14:8

Short and sweet thought for the week…

When we were at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, I was mesmerized by the artwork. The basilica’s interior is elaborately decorated with frescoes in the dome and huge paintings hanging on the walls. Imagine my surprise, finding out these “paintings” are not paintings at all. They are actually mosaics. Each has a myriad of tiny tesserae (little pieces of glass) painstakingly and intricately put together. When we got very, very close we could barely see these minute fragments of glass. However, when we stood back, we could see the beautiful results of what creative craftsmen had put together from broken pieces.

A little research reveals that mosaics were first developed around 3000 B.C. by the ancient Sumerians in Mesopotamia. The Egyptians and the Greeks adopted the technique, and later, the Romans created even more elaborate mosaic designs that skilled artisans used in larger patterns that actually looked like paintings. 

What most people don’t know is that God is the greatest artisan of all! He takes the broken pieces of our lives and puts them together in an intricate design to form a beautiful masterpiece. We humbly offer our broken hearts, bodies, and souls to Him (Psalm 51:17). Then He lovingly makes a new creation, a mosaic out of the old chards of our lives (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our new lives in Christ make us valuable works of art (Ephesians 2:10).  

That alone would give us reason to praise God, but then He goes way above and beyond. He replaces our ashes with a crown of beauty. He replaces our mourning with the oil of joy. He replaces our sadness with a garment of praise (Isaiah 61:3).

Our spiritual mosaics are still being formed today. God continues to combine all our experiences into a bigger picture. It is comforting to know that God has begun a good work in us and will faithfully complete it (Philippians 1:6)!

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite
heart–These, O God, You will not despise.” ~Psalm 51:17

Short and sweet thought for the week…

As we age, we become aware of quotes that are supposed to make us feel better about getting older. Many say, “The older the fiddle, the sweeter the tune.” However, I think the original quote was, “The older the fiddler, the sweeter the tune.” After all, an old fiddle doesn’t sound all that good if the one playing it is tone deaf. It’s the musician that makes the bigger difference. 

But whatever… The point is that growing older doesn’t have to be depressing. While it’s true that the aging process can be disconcerting, it’s doesn’t have to be defeating. There may be things we can no longer physically do, but there must be plenty of things we can do or why would my “to-do” list be so long.    

Since this is my birthday month, the subject of aging is on my mind. A lady doesn’t tell her age, so I’ll spare you my details. Let’s just say I am no longer a spring chicken. I take heart in scriptures like Psalm 92:14 that says, “They shall bear fruit in old age. They shall be fresh and flourishing.” The original King James says, “fat and flourishing” which I’m sure was some sort of compliment in ye olden days. However, that may be one reason newer translations are so popular. But I digress…

Because the world around us is always changing, it can be difficult for many of us seniors to navigate. However, Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). His strength helps us to do what we need to do. His love gives us hope and comfort. His presence helps us remain significant in a youth-oriented society. God’s purpose for us has no age limit (Isaiah 46:4).

So happy birthday to me! Growing older does have its challenges, but it beats the alternative. You know what they say, “The older the grape, the sweeter the wine.” I’ll drink to that!    

“So teach us to number our days, that we
may gain a heart of wisdom.” ~Psalm 90:12

Short and sweet thought for the week…

A song we often sang in church when I was a child had the phrase, “I’ve anchored my soul in the haven of rest. I’ll sail the wide sea no more.” Of course, I really didn’t know what it meant. I just liked the tune and the words. However, I learned that an anchor in the early church was very symbolic. It represented the hope they had in Jesus. Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) says, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…”

In biblical times, one of the main forms of transportation was by ship. When a ship reached its destination, an anchor was thrown overboard to keep it in position so it wouldn’t drift. The anchor was also used to stabilize a boat during a storm, to slow it down in turbulent waters. No wonder the author of Hebrews uses an anchor as a metaphor of hope and stability for our lives.

Early Christians understood this. They were persecuted and had to hide their faith, so symbols were very significant to them. They never lost their hope, even when forced to worship in underground Roman catacombs. Archaeologists confirm that one of the most common signs carved into the walls of those darkened chambers was an anchor. Even tombs of dead Christians had anchors chiseled on them.

Early Christians understood that although they experienced trials and turmoil in this world, their lives in Christ were secure. If we anchor our souls to Christ, we don’t have to worry about drifting away when the storms of life come. He will keep us centered and steady. We, too, can anchor our souls in God’s haven of rest. We can rest with assurance that our faithful God, who cannot lie, will fulfill His promises to us (Titus 1:2).

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul,
firm and secure…” ~Hebrews 6:19

Short and sweet thought for the week…

Brother Lawrence, author of The Practice of the Presence of God, wrote “A little lifting up of the heart suffices; a little remembrance of God, an interior act of adoration, even though made on the march and with sword in hand, are prayers which, short though they may be, are nevertheless very pleasing to God, and far from making a soldier lose his courage on the most dangerous occasions, bolster it.”

Of course, he is admonishing soldiers, but are we not, as the song says, Christian soldiers daily marching into war? That’s why we are told to put on the whole armor of God every day (Ephesians 6:10-20). During our daily battles, we may not always be where we can kneel in prayer. That’s when short, sincere, split-second prayers can keep us connected with God.

Brother Lawerence goes on to say, “Let him then think of God as much as possible so that he will gradually become accustomed to this little but holy exercise; no one will notice it and nothing is easier than to repeat often during the day these little acts of interior adoration.”

This admonition reminds us to stay in constant communication with God. Split-second prayers are an excellent form of rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and always giving thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:16). It keeps us in a spiritual mindset and receptive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.   

If we are quick to listen and slow to speak, we can ask God for guidance before we respond to others (James 1:19). When a person comes to mind, we can lift them up to God. An unexpected call from a dear friend is an opportunity to ask God to bless them. If a co-worker has a problem, we can ask God to help. After all, we are urged to make supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving for all people (1 Timothy 2:1).

We can also continuously be praising God for who He is and what He does. Short, little talks with God throughout the day help us grow accustom to His presence in our lives. It helps us thrive and survive so we can face each new day with spiritual perspective, peace, and confidence—ready for whatever comes our way.  

“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing, in
everything give thanks…” ~1 Thessalonians 5:16

Short and sweet thought for the week…

When the disciples saw Jesus walking on the water, they didn’t know who he was or what to think. So Jesus told them, “Be of good cheer. It is I; do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27).

A couple of thoughts come to mind when I read this passage. First, I’m so pleased Jesus used old proper English in His wording, even though He wasn’t speaking in English. I know that today it is permissible to say, “It is I” or “It’s me,” but as an old-school former teacher, I’m always happy to hear people say, “It is I.” So thank you, Jesus! This alone makes me cheerful.

The other thought is that I wonder why Jesus said, “Be of good cheer!” I don’t think He was just telling them to “put on a happy face” or “look on the bright side.” This wouldn’t calm the nerves of someone who is apprehensive about what is going on.

Even though some think that Christians should always be smiling and happy no matter what is happening in their lives, it is a misconception. After all, Christians experience the same hardships as others. They lose loved ones, get divorces, face health challenges, feel abandoned, and have their hearts broken just like everyone else. I think the last thing they want to hear when they are fearful for the future or in despair is, “Be of good cheer!” 

Some translations describe the intent of “be of good cheer” as to “take heart.” Actually, the Greek word here is tharseite which means to be of good courage. Jesus uses this phrase to encourage those who are fearful. 

In John 16:33, Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.”

In other words, we have nothing to worry about because Jesus is with us and has everything under control. We can put our hope and trust in Him. So be of good cheer, Jesus will take care of us now and in the future, even at times when we feel confused about what’s happening.

“But immediately Jesus spoke to them saying, ‘Be of
good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.'” ~Matthew 14:27

Short and sweet thought for the week…

Good news/bad news jokes abound. For example…

Good news: Your favorite TV show got renewed.

Bad news: It’s only on a streaming service you can’t afford.

Good news: You got a reply on your email today.

Bad news: It was from a Nigerian prince.

Good news at your yearly physical: Your cholesterol has stayed the same:

Bad news: Research findings on cholesterol have changed.

These jokes could go on and on and on. If someone were to say to you, “I have good news and bad news, which do you want to hear first?” What do you answer? Do you want to hear the good news first or the bad news?

Years ago, a study in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin revealed that most people want to hear the bad news first because they think they’ll feel better if they end with something positive.

However, those who had to deliver the news preferred to start with the good news before the bad news. The researchers call it “priming emotion-protection,” which actually means that maybe the bad news won’t seem as bad if something good comes first.

Personally, whether I’m giving news or receiving it, I’d rather have more of a sandwich approach. Give me some good news, then hit me with the bad news, and end with some more good news.

That’s why I like to start my day with a devotional or a little Bible reading before I hear any current news reports. It doesn’t take much murder, injustice, disease, politics, fires, floods, war, hate crimes, conspiracy theories, or mayhem to dampen my spirits—and that’s the real news, not the fake news. With all the media options available, it is easy to access bad news 24/7. No wonder so many people are depressed.

So after hearing some bad news, I like to fill my mind with some really good news—Jesus!  

When Christ was born the angel said, “I bring you good news of great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10).

Did you know that the word “gospel” in the Bible means “good news?” So here’s the gospel, or what I call some really good news: Jesus came to earth. Jesus dwelt among people. Jesus loved us while we were sinners. Jesus died for our sins. Jesus rose from the dead. Jesus lives in us. Jesus will never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

Good news: God is allowing us to live another day.

Bad news: The world is going to hell in a handbasket. 

Good news: Christ brings hope to a hopeless world.  

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power
of God to salvation for everyone who believes…” ~Romans 1:16