Seeking Him Radio

Reasonable Service

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: There are times when I feel like God asks for something unreasonable. It may be giving a caring ear after a long day of ministry or helping a family give their kids a Christian education.

Whatever it is, I have to go back to the words of Paul in Romans 12:1: "I urge you . . . in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices. . . . This is your reasonable act of worship."

The word translated reasonable is where we get our word "logical." Because God has given so much, it's only logical that we should surrender ourselves to Him.

When you feel like God's call is unreasonable, remember Christ's sacrifice on the cross. When you think about what He's given, it will inspire you to give as well.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Evaluate the Consequences

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Have you noticed that a lot of people don't think about the consequences before they make a decision?

"What's that?"
"It's my new Mastercut 2000. It just came! I saw it on TV, and I just had to have one."

Nancy: We just live our lives responding to whatever comes our way without really thinking things through.

"How'd these credit card bills get so big?"

Nancy: What would happen today if we thought about the consequences of every decision we made? What would happen if we brought every decision under the Lordship of Christ?

As you face choices today, remember the words of Galatians 6: "Whatever a man sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Busy for God

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: It's easy to get really busy doing things for God.

"I teach three-year-olds. I'm Assistant Deputy Secretary for Meals on Wheels. I'm the Junior Coordinator for the Forty but Sporty group."

Nancy: It's easy to get so busy that we forget why we're serving in the first place.

"I'm on the welcoming committee. I'm at the Wednesday night choir practice."

Nancy: In the Song of Solomon, the Shulamite woman says, "They made me keeper of the vineyards, but my own vineyard I have not kept!"

I think that we too often neglect our own "spiritual vineyard." It's easy to get so busy serving others that we don't have time to cultivate intimacy with God ourselves.

Would you stop and evaluate your schedule? If you're not spending time in prayer and the Word of God, maybe it's time to make some changes.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Surrendered for Eternity

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: We all know that Jesus was the perfect picture of a surrendered servant when He was here on earth. But did you realize that Jesus will remain the surrendered servant for eternity?

The gospel of Luke gives us a moving picture of what'll happen when Christ comes again. It says, "I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them."

Can you imagine that? The King and Lord of the universe will put on a servant's uniform and wait on us. It takes my breath away.

Do you ever get tired of serving others? Maybe picking up after your kids has become a chore. Or maybe you're caring for an elderly parent who doesn't seem to appreciate it. Can I encourage you? You're never more like Jesus than when you surrender your own rights and take the role of a servant.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Because Christ Died

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Why should we be careful not to sin?

"I don't know why preachers are always harping on sin."
"I don't think much about sin. I don't think people should judge."
"I like to focus on the love of God."

Nancy: If we really do focus on the love of God, it will motivate us to avoid sin. The love of God led Christ to the cross.

An old-time writer said, "Surely that man must be in an unhealthy state of soul who can think of all that Jesus suffered and yet cling to those sins for which that suffering was undergone."

Jesus didn't suffer so we could have a passport to happiness while continuing to indulge our lust, anger, jealousy, and pride. His death provides the motivation and power to say no to sin and yes to holiness in every area of our lives.

When you're tempted today, keep the cross of Christ in the center of your mind.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Mary Was an Influential Woman

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: What do you do when someone comes to you with a problem? The best thing we can do is to point the person to Jesus. That's what Mary of Nazareth did. She was at a wedding, and the host ran out of wine. Instead of trying to solve the problem herself, she pointed the servants to Jesus. "Do whatever he tells you to do," she said.

She used her influence to encourage them to obey and follow Christ. Jesus performed His first miracle that day, and the servants saw Him turn water into wine. Mary's influence allowed them to see Christ's ability.

When friends come to us with their problems, we don't need to solve every issue. Like Mary, we need to point them to Jesus and say, "Do whatever He tells you to do."

Are you pointing those around you to Christ to solve their problems? Who could you influence today to trust and obey the Lord?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

A Daily Habit

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: I know a couple that appeared to have a deep, genuine love for the Lord and a strong family. But the husband's heart had become hard and cold. He was harboring private sin for a long time, but eventually it became public. He had to admit to his wife that he'd been committing adultery.

It was a sobering reminder of why we all need to be pursuing holiness. When we're in a daily habit of repentance, it can help keep us from a pattern of sin that will destroy us. Dealing with the sin in our hearts will protect us from the big, visible sins.

Remember 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24: "Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it."

Are you letting God sanctify every area of your life?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

God Doesn't Love Me

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

"I haven't heard from my children in months."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When we feel rejected by other people, we can fall for a lie.

"Sometimes I even think God doesn't love me."

Nancy: Most of us would never say it out loud, but have you ever doubted God's love? If we dwell on the lie that says, "God doesn't love me," it'll lead us into bondage.

The truth is that God does love you. Would you listen to what Paul says in Romans 5? "At just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.... God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

If you're ever tempted to doubt God's love, the best place to look is the cross of Christ. It's the ultimate picture of love. Not just for the world. But for you.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Wash Your Heart

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

"When I was young, I was in church every time the door was open, and I still go every Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening . . ."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Does going to church make you right with God? I believe our churches are filled with people who keep up religious appearances, but they don't necessarily have a heart for God.

"I sure wouldn't want those people in my neighborhood . . ."

Nancy: The same was true when the prophet Jeremiah said of the nation of Israel, "This people has a defiant and rebellious heart." He wasn't describing pagans—he was talking about religious people! They performed all kinds of ceremonial cleansing, yet he told them "wash your heart from wickedness."

"I just hate people who smoke! They drive me crazy . . . "

Nancy: Sometimes an outward religious appearance covers up a sinful heart. If you've never done it, would you let God wash your heart from wickedness through the blood of Jesus Christ?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss

A Burning House

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Do you know someone who's in a dangerous situation?

"I don't know what's wrong with my sister. She's on the verge of an affair. I don't know if I should get involved. I don't know what to do."

Nancy: If you noticed that your neighbor's house was on fire in the middle of the night, you'd do whatever it would take to get their attention. You wouldn't worry about hurting their feelings. You'd pound on the door and try to get them out of the danger.

Maybe you know someone in danger. Not with a literal house on fire. But maybe you know someone who knows the truth of God's Word, yet they're toying with a dangerous, sinful situation. God may have you in a place to pound on their door.

Remember these words from James 5. "If one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

No Fruit on a Dead Tree

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

"I'm generally a good person. I make it to church when I can."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Christ calls us to something deeper and more fulfilling than just being a pretty good person. He invites us to be transformed into His image.

"I might cheat on my taxes once in a while, but I never cheat on my wife. So I look at it that it cancels each other."

Nancy: Trying to do good things apart from Christ is like gluing oranges onto a dead tree. We can try to attach all the fruit we want, but it doesn't change the tree.

In the same way, God isn't impressed by some good works tacked on to a dead person. He wants to make us alive, like a growing tree that produces real fruit.

The apostle Paul says that as we contemplate the Lord's glory, we will be transformed "into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord."

Are you spending time with God in prayer and the Word, letting Him transform you into His image?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Insulting Words

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

"Still I just well up with emotion as I remember all the times growing up that my father used the words, 'You dummy.' Because of that, I have not honored my father."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When we think about those who have cursed us with cruel words, it's natural to justify responding in anger.

But King David modeled a supernatural way to respond. In 2 Samuel we read about a time when someone continually yelled insults and curses at David. As King, he could've had the man killed, but his response showed his trust in God's sovereignty.

David said, "Leave him alone, and let him curse.... It may be that the LORD will look on the wrong done to me, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing today."

If you're haunted by words of cursing from your past, would you ask God to give you a view of His sovereignty? He can help you heal through His power.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Broken or Crushed?

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Jesus once said something interesting. He described Himself as the "stone that the builders rejected." Then He said, "Whoever falls on that stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder." What does that mean?

It tells me that everyone will experience brokenness. Some will experience brokenness in this life by humbly giving up their own desires and letting Christ live through them. Those are the people who "fall on the stone."

Others will refuse. God may allow them to walk in pride for a while. But eventually, either in this life or the next, He'll bring down everything that exalts itself against Him. That's what Jesus meant by being ground into powder.

Have you fallen on the Stone, choosing to humbly submit your will to God's? Or are you still approaching God in pride, in danger of being crushed?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Handing God the Cup

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

(answering machine)

"Please leave your question at the tone." (beep)
"I am facing a major decision. I've got two good opportunities. How do I know what to do?"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Sometimes when I'm praying over a specific decision, I symbolically place that issue in my hands, then lift my cupped hands to God. I say, "Lord I'm committing this matter to You. Please use Your Word to guide me to a wise decision."

God may bring to mind Scriptures that give insight on the situation. He may impress me to get godly counsel. He may remind me of another priority He's already given. Or, He may grant the desire, the faith, and the freedom to step out in the new venture.

Psalm 119 says, "The entrance of Your words gives light." Do you need light on your situation? Do you need direction for the tough choices of life? Open the Word of God, hand Him the issue, and ask Him for direction.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

God's Love Letter

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When I was a teenager, my dad helped me learn how to speed-read. But he said there were two things that should never be speed-read: love letters and the Bible.

Most of us wouldn't think about quickly skimming through a love letter. Instead, we would study it for every nuance of meaning.

The Bible is a love letter. The more carefully we read it, the more we'll discover God's heart for us.

If you're in the habit of rushing through the Bible, would you consider reading more thoughtfully? Pause to meditate on the things you're reading. Dwell on it, and ponder it until it becomes part of you.

That's what Joshua told the children of Israel to do. He said, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it."

Why don't you spend some time today meditating on God's love letter to you?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

An Example of Holiness?

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Do your kids see one side of you at church . . .

"Now look down at verse 25. It says that we should put away lying and speak the truth."

Nancy: . . . and another side at home?

"I just called in sick to work. Let's go shopping!"

Nancy: Parents don't usually realize how much their example affects their children. Kids know what their parents' standards are.

They notice when their parents use language at home they'd never say in public. They notice when their parents belittle each other. They know what kinds of videos parents rent and what they laugh at on TV.

If your kids grow up loving the world more than God, if they don't have a hunger for spiritual things, will it be any surprise? Will you be prepared to give an account for the way your life influenced them?

As you make choices today, would you remember that your heart for holiness is shaping the character of the next generation?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

I Can't Find the Time

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: What are the things that keep you from spending time alone with the Lord?

"It seems like something's always breaking down, or getting spilled, or blowing up around the house."

Nancy: I once sent a survey to 300 women asking what seemed to hinder their prayer and Bible study. The number one response was:

"I just can't find the time!"

Nancy: So what do we do? In Colossians 4:2, we read, "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Devoting ourselves includes devoting our time. Some women I know have found it helpful to make an appointment with God and then keep it like any other commitment.

I've discovered that if I don't make a conscious, deliberate effort to set aside time to be with the Lord, other things will always demand my attention. Why don't you look at tomorrow's schedule and make an appointment with Him?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

The Horse is Broken

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: It's a beautiful thing to watch a horse that's fast and powerful, yet obedient to its master's commands. A slightest move of the reins can immediately change a horse's direction.

But before a horse can be useful to its master, it needs to be broken. That doesn't mean that someone literally breaks its legs. But it means that its will is broken. It becomes compliant and submissive to its rider.

Before you and I can be used by our Master, we need to be broken, too. Brokenness is the shattering of my self-will so the spirit of the Lord Jesus can be released through me.

Psalm 51:17 says: "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." You and I can choose to be broken today. Just submit yourself to His direction and will.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss

Pictures of Christ

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: You've probably read in the Old Testament about Israel wandering through the desert. They spent years traveling but couldn't stop at any clothing or shoe stores. They didn't have any grocery stores or obvious supply of food, but God provided everything they needed.

When they were thirsty, Moses struck a rock and water flowed out. When they were hungry, God sent bread from heaven. God went before them in a cloud to cover them, and He clothed them for all those years.

I think all of those provisions point us to Christ. Jesus said, "I am the bread of God come down from Heaven . . . I am the living water."

Jesus clothes us in righteousness. He is the rock of our salvation. On the cross He was struck for us, and out of Him comes a life-giving flow.

You feel like your life has been aimless? Accept the provision of Christ. He really is everything you need.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Set Apart

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When I was growing up and my parents made unpopular decisions for our family, we'd sometimes protest, "But everyone else does it."

My parents would invariably respond, "You don't belong to everyone else; you belong to God."

Early on, I learned what it meant to be set apart. That's what the word holy means—"to be set apart, distinct, or different."

We have examples of this in the Old Testament. For example, one day was set apart as a holy Sabbath. The first part of income was set apart as the holy tithe.

In the New Testament, God set apart a group of believers to be the church. The word means "a called-out assembly."

To be set apart isn't a punishment. It's a chance to be in an intimate relationship with God Himself.

Today, would you remember that you belong to God? To be set apart from sin and set apart to God is a great privilege.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

The Price Tag

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

"Oh, look at this dress! I wonder how much is it?"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When we find something we like at the store, one of the first things we do is look at the price tag.

"Whoa! It looks really cute hanging right there on that rack."

Nancy: Wouldn't it be nice if temptation were the same way, if we understood the cost of sin right up front?

If the forbidden fruit had been rotten and crawling with worms, do you think Eve would have taken any? But Genesis tells us, "When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it."

She acted on her immediate desires without looking at the price tag.

You'll be faced with a lot of decisions today. Would you ask God to give you discernment? He can help you recognize the cost of sin, no matter how attractive it looks at the moment.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

True Protection

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"When my daughter was born, I said, "Lord, this child belongs to you."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: It's easy to say that we surrender ourselves or our children to the Lord. Following through with it can be more difficult.

"Now my daughter's getting ready to work as a missionary halfway around the world. I find myself worrying all the time about her safety."
"Bye, I love you guys." (jet plane taking off)

Nancy: There's no safer place than in the center of God's will. Psalm 91 tells us about God's amazing protection.

It says, "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart."

God doesn't promise that we'll never face danger. But He promises to provide a refuge for those who love Him and to keep them from fear.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Drive Thru Prayers

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: For nearly 12 years I traveled full-time, year-round. During that time, I became a fast food junkie.

"Welcome to Starbees. Would you like to try our special today?"

Nancy: But when I turned 30, my body started to feel the effects of years of junk food. It was begging for a more nutritious, balanced diet. I needed to make some drastic changes.

I'm sad to say there have been times when I've fallen into the habit of spiritual fast food. Grabbing a quick verse here, saying a brief prayer there, meeting with God on the run. The problem is, devotions like that always leave us spiritually malnourished.

But Psalm 81:16 tells us what happens when we listen to Him. It says: "You would be fed with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock I would satisfy you."

Do you need to slow down and let God satisfy your hungry heart?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

The Power of the Word

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Have you heard about the latest trend in technology for cars? It's voice activation software. You can give vocal commands to have your car perform certain tasks while you drive.

"Climate control—70."

Nancy: Now that's interesting, but it's nothing compared to the amazing power of God's Word. He spoke and created out of nothing!

The apostle Peter reminds us that "by God's word the heavens existed and the earth was formed."

It's the same Word planted by the Spirit of God in our hearts that causes us to be born again. In 1 Peter 1:23 we read, "For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God."

God's Word is so amazing! Where would we be without it? When's the last time you thanked and worshiped God for His Word?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Chambers of Death

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Several years ago a woman wrote me a note that really got my attention.

"I've been spending up to 15 hours a day on my computer. I try to escape my lonely, empty marriage. I've met a wonderful man in a chat room, and now I'm deciding whether to leave my husband."

Nancy: I was reminded of the foolish woman that we read about in Proverbs 7. She sees a young man and says, "Come, let's drink deep of love till morning. . . . My husband is not at home."

Proverbs goes on to say this about that woman: "Her house is a highway to the grave, leading down to the chambers of death."

Don't let that describe you. There may be some things that you don't like about your marriage. Take those before the Lord. Let Him satisfy the desires of your heart. God can give you the strength to invest in your marriage and make it better, as you're seeking Him.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

A Wall or a Door?

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Are you more like a wall or a door?

In the Song of Solomon, two types of women are described. One is like a wall; the other like a door. What does that mean?

I think that a wall represents a woman whose life is based on convictions. She doesn't bend to pressure. When men come along with the wrong kind of advances, she doesn't give in easily. She has established her life on the truth of God's Word.

The other kind of woman is like a door that can easily be swayed because her life isn't built on biblical convictions. She's vulnerable to temptation. She's turned aside from integrity and actually becomes a source of temptation herself.

When temptation comes, are you easily moved? Or are you in the process of building your life on God's Word? Stability comes when we're seeking Him through His Word.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Shy and Proud?

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: If you hear someone dominating a conversation, it's pretty easy to say, "They're arrogant." But do you know that excessive shyness can also be an evidence of pride?

Most people assume I'm an outgoing person. But the truth is, when I get into a crowd of people I don't know, it's hard for me to start conversations. But when my fear or self-consciousness keeps me from reaching out to other people, I'm being self-centered, proud.

Starting a conversation and showing interest in others can be an expression of genuine love. So whether we are an introvert or an extrovert, we can both have trouble with being proud in our own way. But when we're filled with God's power and motivated by love, we'll be able to reach out to others in a way that makes them feel appreciated.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Kids and Modesty

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: What are you teaching your children about modesty?

"I don't think parents should impose their standards on their kids' clothing. We should let them express themselves. I mean, I may not like everything my kids wear, but they've got the right to make their own decisions."

Nancy: It's true that parents can give their children freedom to express their own tastes. But parents are also responsible to teach their children about modesty. Daughters need to be taught how guys think when they see provocative clothing. Sons need to be taught to run from temptation.

Children also need boundaries and guidelines when they're still at home. They need parents to help them show restraint.

"But mom—it's just a belly button. What does it matter?"

Nancy: What are you teaching your kids about modesty? Will they leave home knowing how to be modest? And most important, will they have a heart that wants to be modest?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Daniel's Prayer

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"Well, it seems like I pray for all my family and every missionary I know. I never know what else to pray for."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: I think Daniel gives us a good example of knowing how to pray according to God's will. The nation of Israel was in exile. While reading the prophet Jeremiah, Daniel discovered that their captivity would last 70 years.

Daniel prayed for the outcome that had already been promised in the Scriptures. He said, "O Lord, hear and act! For your sake, O my God, do not delay."

By praying for God's revealed will to be done on earth, Daniel aligned himself with the heart, the plan, and the purposes of God. Through prayer, he became a partner with God in fulfilling those purposes.

You can do the same thing. If you don't know what to pray for, try praying through the Scriptures. Ask God to align your heart with the things He wants to do.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

The Quiet Time Chair

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

(answering machine beep)

"When I get up to have my quiet time with God, I see all the toys in front of me and realize I need to clean up. Then I see the pile of yesterday's mail and realize I need to pay bills. It's hard to concentrate! Can you think of anything that will help me concentrate better?"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Believe me, I understand! I get this amazing urge to do housework when I'm trying to pray. One thing I've found helpful is to find a place away from all the distractions.

In one corner of my study, there's a comfortable chair that's become my quiet time chair. Just like Moses pitching the "tent of meeting" outside the Israelite camp, I've often used this chair as my place set apart to meet with God.

When is the last time you spent undistracted time alone with the Lord? Let me encourage you to find the place in your home—maybe even in your vehicle— that's most conducive for meeting with Him? Then go there, and spend time in the Word of God and prayer.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Christ's Example

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"My son stole from me, lied to me, and took advantage of me. He messed up his kids, and now that he's in jail—I've got to raise them!"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Is forgiveness really possible in every situation?

"Don't talk to me about forgiveness when I'm living with his bad choices every day!"

Nancy: When we're deeply affected by other people's sin, forgiveness might seem impossible—until we think about how our sin affected Jesus.

The Bible tells us, "He was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities . . . and by his wounds we are healed."

Maybe you're living with the effects of other people's sin. Maybe it seems impossible to forgive. Why don't you spend some time thinking about your sin—the sin that caused Jesus to suffer on the cross?

You can forgive others with the same forgiveness you've received from Him.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Is God Enough?

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"I can face anything . . . as long as I've had my morning coffee first!"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Do you believe that God is all you need?

"When things got bad in my marriage, I started eating more and more."

Nancy: We're tempted to fill the empty places in our hearts with food or family or friends, vacations, hobbies, or shopping.

"I've always said that I rely on God. But when I feel pressure, I just want to go buy stuff."
"When I can't get what I want, I complain and criticize."

Nancy: The next time you feel pressure, instead of turning to these other things, would you turn to God? In the book of Romans, we find this amazing truth: "If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Continual Praise

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"I used to enjoy worship times at church. But now, the struggles at home just fill my mind all the time, and I can't really get into praising God."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Sometimes we have to praise God no matter how we feel or what we're going through.

God had promised David that he would be the next king of Israel. But then David found himself for years hiding in the wilderness being chased by an insecure egomaniac named Saul. In those dark circumstances, David wrote Psalm 34.

"I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth."

Nancy: When he decided to praise the Lord, David's heart was lifted.

"My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear of it and be glad."

Nancy: Praise isn't a response to our circumstances, which are constantly changing. Praise is a response to the goodness of God who never changes.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Hurried Prayers

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"And Lord, I pray that . . . um . . . you'll keep us safe . . . and . . ."
"Come on, Mom, we're ready!"
"Oh dear, it's 7 o'clock—we're late!"
"Come on, we've got to go!"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: I've come to believe that a rushed or hurried attitude is one of the deadliest enemies of an effective devotional life.

I remember years ago hearing Henry Blackaby explain how he felt rushed in the morning when he woke up to pray and read the Bible. God convicted him about this, so he started getting up half an hour earlier. He still felt rushed, so he started earlier.

Dr. Blackaby said, "I kept moving the time up in the morning until I knew that I could meet with God as long as He wanted to meet with me, without being hurried."

Do you feel hurried when you meet with God? What would it take for you to meet with God as long as He wanted tomorrow morning?

Isaiah 26:9: "My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

A Devotional Rut

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"Every day I get up at dawn, get my tea, and read the Bible on the back porch. I've been doing it that way for years! But lately, I'm doing all the same things, but the joy just isn't there. I'm not really connecting with God."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Sometimes we can get in a devotional rut. We get so focused on the mechanics of what we're doing that we lose the meaning behind it.

I do recommend using a regular Bible reading plan. But occasionally, when I need some freshness in my devotional life, I may take a few days out from my normal Bible reading schedule to focus on and meditate on just a few verses.

Psalm 77:12: "I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds." The last couple of days I've stayed on that verse and spent a long time thinking about all of the amazing things God's done. It's been great!

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Time Set Apart

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"It's easy to talk to God when I'm in church or to pray when I'm in Bible study."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: As part of a community of faith, we need times to worship and pray with other believers.

"But I don't pray much when I'm alone. It's just hard for me to come up with the time."

Nancy: But we also need time that is set apart just between God and us.

"Truth is, maybe I'm afraid of what He'll show me."

Nancy: There are parts of our relationship with God that can only be nurtured in a solitary place. In Exodus 34 we read that God called Moses up to meet with Him on Mount Sinai. God said, "Present yourself to me there on top of the mountain. No one is to come with you."

But you know, it's not just Moses. We need time alone with the Lord, too—in the Word and in prayer. When's the last time you spent undistracted, quality moments with God, allowing Him to search your heart? Would you make some plans to get away with Him?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Empty Words

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Walk into a Christian bookstore today, and you'll probably find a modern example of a problem Ezekiel addressed.

The prophet said, "With lies you have made the heart of the righteous sad . . . and you have strengthened the hands of the wicked, so that he does not turn from his wicked way."

Sadly, I think that many of today's Christian authors, speakers, and counselors are "strengthening the hands of the wicked" by telling people they don't need to repent for sin. They don't intend to deceive, but their teachings, for example, justify anger . . .

"Actually, it's healthy to go ahead and express your feelings."

Nancy: . . . and selfishness . . .

"You've got to put boundaries between you and demanding people."

Nancy: . . . irresponsibility.

"You have every right to act that way; you've been wounded by others."

Nancy: We need to constantly be asking ourselves, "What's the message here? What does the Bible say?" Remember what Paul said? "Let no one deceive you with empty words."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Priorities

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"This is Seeking Him with Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Please leave your question at the tone."
"I hear you talking about developing a daily time alone with God. But I work until five, cook, clean, and then I'm exhausted. Why can't I make more time for devotions?"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: If we're serious about our relationship with the Lord, we've got to eliminate activities that keep us from the most important things.

Sometimes those decisions are pretty obvious. For a while, I used to turn on the TV when I got home at night—just for some noise and companionship. I ended up wasting precious hours every evening and realized my viewing habits had to change.

The writer of Hebrews tells us to "lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us." Is anything weighing down your schedule? Is there anything keeping you from making a daily time with God one of your greatest priorities?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Success the Night Before

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"Okay. I'm really going to do it this week. I'm going to wake up early and pray and read the Bible. (Sigh) I say this every week, and it never seems to work."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: I've learned something important about having a devotional time early in the morning. Success starts the night before. Our choices in the evening will affect our time with God the next morning.

One reason my dad consistently spent his first hour with the Lord each day is that he was disciplined about getting to bed on time the night before. We kids have laughed thinking about the times he said to guests, "Good night, y'all! Be sure to lock the door and turn out the lights when you leave."

He didn't communicate a rigid spirit. He just didn't want to miss the most important meeting of his day.

Psalm 143:8 says: "Cause me to hear Your loving kindness in the morning." Tomorrow morning you have a chance to spend uninterrupted time with God Himself. How can you prepare tonight?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Making Nothing

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Do you ever find yourself trying to use your position to get what you want?

"They won't argue with me; I'm the head of the committee. We'll get what we want."

Nancy: Philippians 2:6-7 tells us how Jesus acted when He came to earth. It says He "did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant."

Jesus didn't cling to His rights as God or boast about who He was. Think about all the times in the Gospels when people didn't understand Him, recognize Him, or respect Him. But He never used His position to overpower them because He came to love and to serve.

If we want to be like Jesus, we need to remember what it says in 1 Corinthians: "Love does not boast."

Have you been throwing your weight around, or are you spreading Christ's love?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Praying the Bible

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: We know that we're supposed to pray according to the will of God. And there's one sure way that we can do that. When we pray the Word of God back to Him, we know that we're praying according to His will.

Second Samuel 7 gives us one of King David's prayers. All he does is ask God to keep the word that came to him through the prophet Nathan. David says to God, "keep forever the promise you have made concerning your servant and his house. Do as you promised, so that your name will be great forever."

God had already promised that one of David's descendants would continue to sit on the throne. David was just repeating in prayer what had already been promised.

We can do the same thing by praying the Bible back to God. If you ever feel like you don't know God's will and don't know what to pray, try opening the Bible and asking God to do the things He's already promised.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Rich in Mercy

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

(voices arguing)
"I don't like to even think about those arguments right before the divorce . . . it's behind me."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Are you willing to forgive . . . everybody?

"There's no way I could forgive the things he said."

Nancy: Sometimes forgiveness seems impossible—until we realize what the Bible says about God's forgiveness.

"God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions."

Nancy: Thinking about how much God's forgiven us will change the way we view other people's sin.

"I am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins."

Nancy: Spend some time thinking about how much your sin has offended God and the incredible forgiveness He offers. It will make it easier to forgive those who have sinned against you.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Knowing the Purpose

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

"I guess modesty is important, but being popular is important, too. I mean, it's okay to be a little immodest to fit in."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Questions like that require that we go back to the basics. Why do we live? Why do we exist? What's our purpose in life?

Years ago, God gave me a desire and commitment to glorify Him, to please Him, and to reflect what He is like to a watching world. Knowing my purpose helps me make those tough choices I know are right, even when it means I have to go against the grain.

Modesty doesn't start with a list of rules but with a heart that's devoted to God and His glory. Styles change as quickly as the direction of the wind. But if your commitment is to God's glory, you'll be on solid footing. Have you made the decision to live your life for His Kingdom?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Thankfulness and Praise

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: We teach our children to be grateful.

"Okay, what do you say?"
(child with mouth full) "Thank you."

Nancy: But do we have a grateful heart ourselves? It's so easy to forget to say, "Thank you," to God.

Jesus once cured ten lepers, telling them to go verify their healing with the priest.

Luke's Gospel tells us that "one of them, when he saw he was healed, came back praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him." Jesus wondered why the other nine didn't say thank you. He said, "Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?"

I think we're too often like one of those nine lepers. God has delivered us from the awful disease of sin, and praise should be our natural response. But so many times, we just forget.

How long has it been since you stopped to thank Jesus for all He has done for you?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Ignoring the Plot

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When you read a story, you generally start at the beginning and go from there.

"I can't wait to start this novel."
"Oh, I read that book and at the end . . ."
"No, no, no, don't tell me anything. I want to find out for myself."

Nancy: It's important to read a novel from start to finish so you can get the whole plot. But a lot of times we miss the plot of the Bible. We skip around from book to book and chapter to chapter without appreciating the Bible's dramatic flow.

The Word of God tells one grand story that has a beginning and a conclusion. It's the amazing story of redemption.

You can get a lot out of individual chapters and verses, but sometimes we need to step back and get the big picture. We need to see how parts of the Bible support the entire plot.

If you haven't done it in a while, think about tackling the Bible from cover to cover. You'll love getting the grand, panoramic view of God's redemptive plan.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

No Person or Thing

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: It's natural to try and fulfill our longings by looking to people and circumstances. The problem is, people and circumstances inevitably let us down.

When things don't turn out the way we expected, we get disappointed. That's why so many of us seem to be always disappointed!

For years, I looked to people and circumstances to make me happy. And what a perfect set-up that was for disappointment.

It was so liberating to learn that the deepest longings of my heart couldn't be fulfilled by any person or thing. Things burn and break; they get stolen or lost. People can move or change or die.

But Psalm 16:says that fullness of joy is found in God's presence. God may not fulfill all our longings according to our timetable. But ultimately, we will be fulfilled in knowing Him.

Are you looking to anything or anyone other than God Himself to fulfill the deepest longings of your heart?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Misreading God's Signals

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"We tend to look at the circumstances of life in terms of what they may do to our hopes and conveniences. When a problem threatens, we rush to God, not to seek His perspective, but to ask Him to deflect the trouble."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Arthur Matthews was serving as a missionary in China when the Communists took control. He spent years under house arrest with his wife and daughter, and his writings show what it's like to embrace the plan and purposes of God in suffering.

"An escapist generation reads security, prosperity, and physical well-being as evidences of God's blessing. When He puts suffering and affliction into our hands, we misread His signals and misinterpret His intentions."

Nancy: The next time you face a trial, don't resent, resist, or run from the cross. Instead, embrace it and trust in the heart of the One who died for you.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

In the Lord's Hand

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"My husband and I make decisions on the budget together. But I have ways of getting everything I want."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: It might seem risky to choose to submit to the leadership of your husband, but it's not really a risk for a wife who trusts God. Proverbs 21:1 tells us, "The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will."

God can direct the decisions of kings, presidents . . . and your husband! When a wife gives up control and supports her husband's decisions, she's really saying, "Lord, I believe You're in control and can handle this situation."

"But I realized I need to back off and trust God to help my husband make decisions."

Nancy: Do you trust God enough to submit to the earthly authority He's put in place?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

For Our Good

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: God can use suffering in powerful ways to make us more like Jesus.

Sometimes we suffer because we're being chastened—God's loving discipline of our sin. Sometimes our suffering is caused from pruning as God cuts away unproductive parts of our lives. And sometimes we experience pain simply because we live in a fallen world.

Whatever the cause, God can use affliction to purge our sin and to sanctify us.

Maybe you're going through a season of affliction right now. Don't give up. Keep seeking God, and you'll look back on this time and be amazed at how much you've grown. Hebrews 12 reminds us, "He disciplines us for our good so that we may share His holiness."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Three Reasons to Forgive

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Here are three biblical reasons why we should choose to forgive.

First, Jesus said, "If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." One reason to forgive others is so that God will forgive us.

Here's the second reason. Paul told the believers in Corinth to forgive so they would not give Satan an advantage. When we don't forgive, we give Satan a foothold in our lives and in the body of Christ.

Finally, Matthew 18 describes someone who refused to forgive. It says he was delivered "to the tormentors." When we refuse to forgive, we may start to experience spiritual, emotional, and even physical consequences of holding bitterness in our hearts.

So, if you want to be forgiven, protected, and free, then choose to forgive today.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Endurance in the Desert

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"Right now, I'm training for a marathon. I never thought I could get to this point, but I actually think I can do it!"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Endurance is built, little by little, by pressing through difficulties.

"My dad's sickness is just wiping me out emotionally. I don't know how I'm going to keep going."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When you face a challenging situation through God's power, it's kind of like running on a cold morning. God may be leading you through the trial because He has bigger battles for you up ahead. Maybe He's training you for a marathon.

When He led the children of Israel out of slavery in Egypt, He knew they were going to battle some giants. So He led them into the desert to teach them endurance.

It turned out to be a spiritual fitness program. Maybe He's doing the same thing in your life right now. Would you trust Him? Someday you'll be able to see exactly what He had in mind.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Kindness at Home

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

(Kids creating havoc)

"Uhhh! I wish that everyone would just go away!"

(Phone rings)

(Changes tone) "Hello? Oh, hi, Deborah. Everything's fine here, just fine."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: One of the places where kindness is most neglected is within the four walls of our own homes or with the people who know us the best. Why is it that the ones we're supposed to love the most are the ones we tend to take for granted? And why is it that so often in our homes we are more kind to strangers and to guests than we are to those who we live with?

(Sweet voice) "No problem. See you later. Bye." (Changes tone) "All right. Who made this mess?!"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: As you interact with your family today, remember—love is kind.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Outward vs. Inward

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"I've heard you talk about Genesis 3. It says Eve saw that the forbidden fruit was 'pleasing to the eye' and was tempted. But didn't God make the fruit beautiful? What was so wrong about noticing the fruit?"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: There was nothing wrong with recognizing the beauty God had made. The problem came in making outward beauty a higher priority than internal qualities like trust and obedience.

We still do the same thing today. We're tempted to value our outward appearance more highly than what's on the inside.

First Peter 3 helps us to know what God values most. It says that our beauty shouldn't come from outward characteristics, but instead "it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight" (verse 4).

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Long-Suffering Love

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: The apostle Paul tells us that true, godly love is patient. Another word for that is long-suffering. Sometimes, in a marriage, a spouse is called to suffer long. That's what my friend, Dorothy, has learned.

"When I had been married about 20 years, many people said I should get a divorce. I said, 'That's not God's way.' I went home and I prayed every day. Every morning I said, 'Lord, love my husband through me.'"

Nancy: The characteristics Paul lists in 1 Corinthians 13 aren't feelings. He doesn't tell us to feel patient. He calls us to be patient. I've found so many times that when we're obedient in our actions, the feelings follow.

"And you know, it was as if I woke up one morning, and I was in love with him."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

We Can Obey

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"I'm patient with everybody—except my daughter. If you knew her, you'd understand why!"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Are there exceptions to the commands of Scripture?

"I can forgive anyone—except my ex-husband."

Nancy: As hard as it may seem from a human perspective, when God gives us a command, He also gives us the grace to obey.For example, we can forgive. We can love difficult people. We can give thanks in all things. We can be content in every circumstance.

The problem is that we often choose not to obey.

If you're facing a tough situation today, ask God to be your strength and your help. Depend on His supernatural power. As we read in 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24: "Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Plugging In

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Have you ever been tempted to unplug from other believers?

"I just got tired of jumping from church to church to church. Now it's just me and God!"

Nancy: Can you have an independent relationship with God without other people? Here's the way I look at it. I'd be pretty foolish to go walking alone late at night in a dangerous part of town. But it would be different if I were with a group that included some big guys who could protect me.

As I pursue holiness, I'm weak and have a lot of limitations. God has put people in my life to protect me and help me grow. Disconnecting from God's people, from the church, would make me as vulnerable as a sheep away from its flock.

As you grow in holiness, be sure to stay plugged in to the lives of believers in your local church. Their prayer and accountability can protect you when you're weak.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Actions That Build

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: In the book of Proverbs, we read that "every wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down."

Ladies, let's look at some actions that build or tear down. Is your behavior with men discreet and chaste?

"For this is the will of God, that you should abstain from sexual immorality, that no one should take advantage of and defraud his brother" (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7).

Nancy: Or are you aggressive and flirtatious?

Do you look for ways to help the poor and needy?

"She extends her hands to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy" (Proverbs 31:20).

Nancy: Or are you wrapped up in your own needs?

Is your home a place of ministry and encouragement to other people?

"Be hospitable to one another without grumbling."

Nancy: Your actions today may seem insignificant. But actually, we're all in the process of either building people up or tearing them down. Let's be builders today.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

More Vulnerable

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Throughout the Scriptures we see how much God values a heart of humility and brokenness.

"I thought humility was important—for everybody else!"

Nancy: When people look up to us, we are more vulnerable to pride and self-deceit.

"Everybody looked up to me at church. I was a board member and a businessman. I had a model family. I thought I didn't need anything."

Nancy: Once we have a position of influence, we have a reputation to maintain. We have a lot to lose if we're honest about our real spiritual needs.

"There was a room set up for people who needed to leave the service for prayer and counseling. I was a leader in the church and wondered what everyone would think. But I needed to humble myself. I went and asked for prayer and confessed my pride."

Nancy: Are you working hard to keep up an image? Or do the people who look up to you see an example of true humility?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

15 Actions

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Love is more about actions than feelings. First Corinthians 13 gives us 15 characteristics of love, and each of them is active. Paul's description is about actions rather than feelings.

For instance, first he says, "Love is patient." Notice that he doesn't say love feels patient. Instead, love actively practices patience.

The same is true for the second characteristic: "Love is kind." Love doesn't just have kind feelings. It actually steps out and does kind things.

As we read 1 Corinthians 13, we realize that love takes action, no matter what our emotional state may be at the moment.

Ask God to help you love through your actions today—to demonstrate patience and kindness, no matter how you feel.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Three P's

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Let me offer three P's that can help us understand our connection to sin.

First, our position before God is secure. If you've put your faith in Christ, He's forgiven you of sin and you've been declared righteous.
Second is our prospect before God. Christ is coming back for us, and we'll live forever with Him without sin.
Then there's our practice. That's where we have trouble. We don't always live up to our holy position and holy prospect. That's why we constantly need the Word of God.

Jesus prayed for His disciples and said, "Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth."

We cooperate with God in the process of sanctification every time we let Him wash us with His Word. So how's your practice? Let the truth of God's Word make you truly holy.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

During the Years

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When a mom has preschoolers at home, it can be really hard to find time to spend in God's Word. I asked an older, godly woman how she handled that when her children were little.

"Remember that this season won't last forever. It's so important to keep our personal time with the Lord during these years, but you can't always predict the time and place. When my children were small, I taped up verses on cabinets and over the sink, even on the dash of the car. It was a lot easier to memorize that way."

Nancy: That reminds me of Deuteronomy 6, which talks about God's commands and says, "You shall bind them as a sign on your hand. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates" (verse 9).

What could you do, practically, to keep your attention focused on the Word of God? Like that one mom, you may want to post some verses on the dash of your car.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Full of Hot Air

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Have you heard it said that someone is "full of hot air"? That's a pretty good picture of a word Paul uses in 1 Corinthians. He says, "Love is not arrogant" (verse 4). One translation says, "Love isn't puffed up."

When we love, we don't have an inflated view of ourselves. I think of a bellows used to fan a fire in the fireplace. You push those bellows and the air comes out and makes the fire bigger. That's what arrogance is like.

We can start thinking about our own accomplishments or the honors we deserve, and it fans the flames of sin. No one wants to be around someone who's full of hot air.

The solution is to be filled with God's love. Then what comes out will be genuine interest and concern for other people.

Would you ask God for that kind of genuine love?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Stealing?

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When we're pursuing holiness, it means we won't steal.

"I've got that one covered. I don't steal."

Nancy: Let me give you a few questions to help you evaluate the level of honesty in your life.

Have you borrowed anything you've never returned?

"No. Uh, except about half the books and the rake and the shovel . . ."

Nancy: Do you give your boss a full day's work for a full day's pay?

"Well, I haven't really kept track."

Nancy: Are you honest on expense reports? How about tax returns?

"Uh-oh . . ."

Nancy: Have you stolen the affections of someone else's mate? Have you created any expectations you can't rightly fulfill?

"I guess I never realized that flirting is kind of like stealing."

Nancy: If you've been stealing, even in little things, Ephesians 4:28 explains what to do next: "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Stars in the Desert

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: There's a certain kind of beauty that's found only in the desert. When you can get away from the competing lights of the city, you can see the stars shining brilliantly.

That can be true in life, too. You may be working for a hard-to-please boss. You may be facing a difficult move. You might have some financial pressure or a health issue. Each of these could be considered a desert experience. But there are aspects of God that we can't see unless we're in the desert.

The desert is a place of danger, and that's where we learn that God is our protection.
The desert is a place of dryness, and that's where we learn that God is our provider.
The desert is a place of desolation, and that's where we learn that God will always be with us.

Are you in a desert? Gaze up above your situation to the brilliant light of God's glory. Ask Him to show you more of His beauty during this time.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

I Am Responsible

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"I think if I had different parents I would have turned out a lot different."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: How much do the actions of other people affect you?

"All of us kids became pretty sarcastic and critical after growing up in that house."

Nancy: One of the most liberating truths I've learned is that I'm not responsible for the actions of others—but God does hold me accountable for the way I respond to other people.

You may have no choice about your upbringing or how others treat you. But by God's grace, you can choose to respond to those circumstances in a godly way.

In Ezekiel's day, there was an expression that said sons would suffer for their father's sin. But God said, "When the son has done what is just and right and has been careful to observe all My statutes, he shall surely live."

Ask God to help you take responsibility for your own actions, no matter what others may have done to you.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Singing While Dry

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

"For the last few months, I've just felt dry. I don't feel like I can pray or listen to people talk about God or anything. It really does feel kind of like a depression."

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When I come across someone who's feeling spiritually dry, I ask them, "Have you been singing unto the Lord?" Praise is a cure for spiritual dryness.

King David gives us an example in Psalm 63, where he says, "My soul thirsts for you, my flesh longs for you in a dry and weary land where there is no water" (verse 1).

Then he goes on to tell how he handles this feeling of dryness. "I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. With singing lips, my mouth will praise you" (verse 4).

If you're not used to this, it may sound crazy. But if you're feeling dry and needy, why not try singing—out loud—to God?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Seeds of Happiness

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: Martha Washington faced a lot of challenges while being married to our nation's first president, but she didn't let circumstances control her emotions. Here's what she wrote to a friend:

"I am still determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may be, for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances."

Nancy: Are you carrying around seeds of happiness or of misery? Left to ourselves, we usually choose misery. That's why we need God's grace. He can plant seeds of contentment and joy in our hearts that will last through any difficulty.

The apostle Paul said, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." We can say the same thing when we realize that a wise, loving, sovereign God is controlling every circumstance of our lives.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

The Interests of Others

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: We all have a tendency to love ourselves more than others.

"Well, why do they keep asking me to volunteer? Don't they know how busy I am?"

Nancy: We need to make wise choices with our time. But before saying no to an opportunity, are you checking with the Word of God?

For example, Philippians 2:4 says, "Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others."

Nancy: We tend to protect and defend our rights. We want to preserve our possessions, time, and reputation.

"Now you kids don't touch anything! (Sigh) How did I get roped in to babysitting?"

Nancy: We need to remember the words of Paul in 2 Corinthians.

"I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well."

Nancy: Are you living more for yourself and your happiness, or are others seeing the love of God through your love?

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

The Long Road

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500

"It seems like I'm the only one to visit my mom in the nursing home. But as soon as I get there, she gets so angry with me. How long is this going to last?"

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: When we go through tough seasons of life, we're tempted to wonder, "Will this ever end?"

The children of Israel probably wondered that when God led them through the desert for the first time. They'd had a great victory in Egypt but now faced a long march through the desert. Exodus tells us, "God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country though that was shorter. For God said, 'If they face war, they might change their minds.'"

God took them on a longer route, so He would have time to teach them and prepare them for what was ahead. If it feels like you're in a desert, maybe God's preparing you for something special. One day you'll look back over your path and realize that God knew just what He was doing.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

As I Have Loved You

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: The apostle Paul wrote, "Love suffers long." We're called to show that kind of godly love. Now that may sound easy, until you get into the real world.

"Why would he pull out in front of me like that? I'll show him!"
"How could they give the promotion to Danielle? It's so unfair."
"If you don't stop tapping your pencil like that, I am going to scream!"

Nancy: How do you respond when people are rude or have annoying habits? We're called to suffer long.

"For 23 years I've had to put up with his put-downs!"

Nancy: Are you suffering long? Putting the interests of others above your own? That's God's kind of love, and He wants to fill our hearts with long-suffering, patient love so we can show the world what Jesus is like.

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

Modesty Quiz 4

info@seekinghim.com (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy Leigh DeMoss: What do you really believe about clothing and modesty? Here's a quick true or false quiz to help you get started thinking about the issue.

"According to the Bible, the purpose of clothing is to cover the body."

Nancy: True. God designed clothing to cover Adam and Eve's nakedness which became shameful because of sin.

"There are some settings where immodesty is okay."

Nancy: That's false. The setting doesn't determine modesty. In fact, let me challenge your thinking on something. When it comes to swimwear and formal wear, why do so many Christian women compare themselves to the world's standards? Shouldn't we be asking, "Is this truly modest?"

"Most girls and women don't understand the benefits of modesty."

Nancy: That's true. Remember what the Bible says, "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised."

With Seeking Him, I'm Nancy Leigh DeMoss.