Reaching New Heights

Posted on October 18, 2013 by Mark Shields

Reading in 2 Chronicles 19 and writing some thoughts yesterday, I noted that Jehoshaphat reformed the system of justice as he appointed judges of integrity. Justice, fairness, consideration, and cooperation shape societies of integrity for a future that reaches new heights.

Photo Credit – http://cindysphotoquest.blogspot.com

I remember once when my daughter was in Kindergarten and they invited all Dads over for a few hours of flying kites. We went out into a field beside the school. In short time, I looked over and many could get their kites to fly but ours struggled. Then I looked at our kite and noticed the part that holds the wings together was not secure; the part that is in the shape of a cross. Once I secured this part of the kite, it immediately was lifted and flew high.

Photo Credit – http://www.hcsv.org/education/crafts/build-a-kite/

This day with God, I would like to say to you my friends that the part that holds us together is the Cross. Because of Christ dying on the Cross, we are lifted higher. Like the part of the kite in the shape of a cross, the integrity of the Cross secures all sides together and allows the power of the Holy Spirit to lift to new heights.

Related articles
Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

One Reaps What They Sow

Posted on October 17, 2013 by Mark Shields

Photo Credit – http://www.flickriver.com

We get evidence in 2 Chronicles 19 that even though Jehoshaphat had compromised his integrity by making an alliance with an evil king, there was some good found in him. He seemed to be concerned for his people because upon his return from war, he initiates a reformed justice system with God being a big part of society. The purpose was to turn people back to the Lord (V. 4).

What amazes me today in societies throughout the world is that the justice systems seem to have forgotten where the laws come from in the first place which is from the Ten Commandments. Now, many within societies don’t want these commandments to be displayed in public buildings; desiring to take God completely out of everything rather than including Him in every facet of life.

From the passage today, we find that Jehoshaphat reforms his kingdom to push this idea of including God in society. Any leader today of a company, organization, or group of people should understand that they will not lead forever. In building their legacy, they need to set up programs for the next generation.

There will come a time when they will have to step down and someone else will need to be prepared to take over. What to look for are people who plant seeds of integrity as a leader. Many may find short cuts to getting work done or stretch the truth to make themselves look good but it is the person who has the courage to be honest that deserves the reward.

Two thousand years ago Paul wrote to the church at Galatia about this same principle but with fewer words, “What you sow, so shall you reap” (Gal. 6:7). The attitude all should have toward their work is that it is a commission from God not only for the good of fellow man but also to give Him honor. This day , let us do all things to glorify Him.

Related articles
Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Guidance of the Holy Spirit

Posted on October 16, 2013 by Mark Shields

A weapon we have in our battles each day is prayer. If we obey the guidance of the Holy Spirit, what we thought was impossible can become possible. In reading scripture and posting yesterday, Going Forward with Boldness, one of the main points discussed was how Jehoshaphat cried out to the Lord when in danger. He asked for help and God came to his rescue.

Be inspired by this song and know that you can take courage this day with God: The Rescue by Adam Cappa.


Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. – Deuteronomy 31:6

Related articles
Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Going Forward with Boldness

Posted on October 15, 2013 by Mark Shields

Reading in 2 Chronicles 18:23-34, Micaiah’s chief aim in life was to listen to God and report to others what to do. He had courage to go against the tide. In him we find someone with purpose and a desire to go forward under fire. He had the courage to take a black eye for God’s purposes.

When we have a chief aim in life there may be others that want to keep us off target but the main purpose keeps us on track and we stand up with courage to stay on course. When our main purpose is to do God’s will, He is there with us in our time of need. Jehoshaphat was in danger during the battle but he cried out to God for help (v.31) and God came to his rescue.

Photo Credit – http://www.kapilapshankar.com

God has a purpose for each of us and along with this purpose are responsibilities. This day with God, ask to be true in all responsibilities to boldly fulfill this purpose.

Related articles
Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Perfect Counselor

Posted on October 14, 2013 by Mark Shields

There is a difference between what we want and what the Lord has planned. That’s why it is so important to go to the perfect Counselor in prayer. We can take this counsel, study, and put what we learn into practice with the help of the Holy Spirit.

This day with God, let us look in the right direction, ask the right questions, ask the right people, and go to the Lord in prayer. One song that speaks to these thoughts is Come Let Us Return to the Lord  by Matt Redman.
 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in you’re your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. – Proverbs 3:5-6

Related articles
Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment