Share the Harvest

Dawn Wilson says, "Whether it's sharing a Thanksgiving care basket or a large sack of groceries, one of my favorite things to do at Thanksgiving is to Share the Harvest."

Our traditions of sharing the harvest in America go back to the days of the Pilgrims.

But sharing goes back much further than that. 

In Acts 2:46, we see the early disciples meeting together to break bread in their homes and eat together with glad, generous hearts. They were sharing the bread of harvest as a sign of their love and commitment to each other and the Lord.

And it goes back further than that.

After the exiles returned to Jerusalem (Nehemiah 7:1-5a), when Nehemiah was the governor and Ezra the priest and scribe, Ezra read the Book of the Law of Moses from morning until midday (Nehemiah 8:1-8); and the people understood the law and wept. But the priests told the people, "Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:9-11).

That day was recognized as a special holy day for God's people and they worshiped and celebrated in booths—temporary shelters—at The Feast of Booths (Nehemiah 8:13-19). The Levites had already encouraged God's people to eat and celebrate and "send portions" of food to those who did not have food as part of their own celebration! (Nehemiah 8:12) They were to share their harvest!

And it perhaps goes back further than that.

Many people believe the Puritans' celebration of the harvest springs from the Hebrew Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), as taught in Leviticus 23. "For the ancient children of Israel, thanksgiving was a time of feasting and fasting, of praising God, of singing songs," one pastor writes. "It was a rich celebration...."

Perhaps their feasting might be considered sharing the harvest too.

Today, we have many opportunities to share the "harvest" in our pantries and refrigerators. 

1. We might share with and serve at a local soup kitchen;

2. Or take food to our church food pantry to help locals in need;

3. Or take a care package to a friend or neighbor;

4. Or invite a friend or family member—or a stranger-now-friend—to dinner in our home.

5. And if we don't want to share actual food, we can share cash or a check so a college student, young single mom, or needy family can enjoy buying their own special dinner.

At one time, I didn't even think about sharing my food. It wasn't that I was being selfish; I just assumed  everybody I knew had what I had in my kitchen pantry.

I didn't realize how privileged and blessed I am.

There is always someone with something more ... but far too often, there are MANY with far less.

It's not only a matter of good stewardship, but of Christ-like love. Thanksgiving leads to Thanks-living.

As we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we must see the needs around us, and if we have the means to help, it's our responsibility, joy and blessing to share.

So how will you share the harvest—YOUR harvest—this Thanksgiving?

Dawn Wilson, founder and President of Heart Choices Today, is the creator of three blogs: Heart Choices Today, LOL with God (with Pam Farrel), and Upgrade with Dawn. She is the Director of the San Diego chapter of Network of Evangelical Women in MInistry (NEWIM San Diego). Dawn is the co-author of LOL with God and contributed "The Blessing Basket" in It's a God Thing. She and her husband Bob have two grown, married sons, three granddaughters and a rascally maltipoo, Roscoe.

How to Face Five 'Giants'

"Giants" can appear in all our lives. But we can knock them down if we have the right weapons. In this Spiritual Life and Victory UPGRADE, Dawn Wilson says, "Let's take on five of these giants!"

     

When a Philistine named Goliath tormented and mocked Israel, young David, a simple shepherd boy, came out against him. But David didn't use the armor King Saul suggested to fight the giant; he used a bag filled with five smooth stones. One in particular took the giant down (1 Samuel 17:1-51).

In the same way, we can use five purposeful, "powerful pebbles" to take our giants down. 

1. For the Giant of Fear, we need The POWER of God. 

Whether we are afraid of the unknown, or we fear failure, or our stomach is tied in knots because we're facing a tough challenge, God is more than able to help us. We can place our confidence in His power and strength.

David said, "I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble" (Psalm 59:16, NIV).

God's grace offers strength for our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9; Psalm 56:3-4; 57:1; Isaiah 40:28-30; 41:10b, 13; Philippians 4:13).

2. For the Giant of Insecurity, we need The PRESENCE of God.

This giant says, "You can't succeed" ... or "Who do you think you are?" ... or "You're stupid" ... or "So-and-so is better, smarter, prettier, wiser and more spiritual than you." We compare ourselves and think people won't like or accept us. But remembering the presence of God—and who He is—is a powerful weapon against our insecurities.

Dr. Bill Elliff, a pastor of Arkansas, says: "Everything flows from the presence of God." Abiding in God's presence will encourage us. He never leaves us!

God told His people, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Exodus 33:14). But in another sense, we must seek His presence—become more aware of it and choose to rest there (Psalm 105:4). 

In God's presence there is "fullness of joy!" (Psalm 140:13b) In fact, the Westminster Shorter Catechism encourages us to glorify and enjoy God forever. It will be one of our preoccupations in heaven, and we can get started now!

3. For the Giant of Worry, we need The PROVISION of God.

This giant suggests we're going to lose something: our family, our friends, our job, our shelter, etc. Worry's brow is always wrinkled. Worry is tense, clutching things. But all our worry makes our God seem to others that He is a "lesser god." After all, can't He take care of us?

God provides for our needs according to the riches found in Jesus (Philippians 4:19). The Lord is our providing shepherd (Psalm 23:1; 34:9b). He gives us all we need so we can "abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:8). We can cast our burdens on Him, knowing He will care for us and sustain us (Psalm 55:22).

4. For the Giant of Confusion, we need The PERSPECTIVE of God.

There is so much that can confuse the truth these days. The giant of confusion says, "Everyone is doing it" ... or "What is truth, anyway?" This giant has one foot in the world and another in the Word—pulled by the culture and struggling with priorities. Easily distracted and discontent, this giant is always looking for the next exciting thing, even if it's "borderline" good.

We've forgotten to pursue the perspective of God—His wisdom. The truth sets us free, and the Spirit of Truth will guide us in the challenges of life (John 8:32; 16:13). It's Satan's lies, the world's pull and our own deceived hearts that enslave us. Sometimes our thoughts and ways don't align with God and His Word (Isaiah 55:8). We need to seek the Lord's wisdom and heed His advice (Proverbs 12:15; Psalm 3:5-6; 25:4-5).

5. For the Giant of Affliction, we need The PEACE of God.

This giant says, "God doesn't care about you; just look how you're suffering!" ... or "Don't say anything about Jesus—they'll laugh at you" ... or "You're struggling more than anyone. Poor you!" This giant carries heavy burdens and may be tearful or angry. This giant's mind is full of questions and doubts about God. 

Hurts, struggles, suffering, afflictions. They come to everyone. But what is our weapon to deal with them? God's peace. 

Isaiah 26:3 says, "You will keep in perfect peace the mind [that is[ dependent [on You], for it is trusting in you" (Holman CSB). God will guard our minds from anxiety and keep us in His unfailing peace when we focus on Him, lean on Him and hope confidently in Him. "The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials...." (2 Peter 2:9a).

These are only a few of the giants you may face. But remember:

Whatever your giants, you need to pick up the "powerful pebbles" of God's Power, Presence, Provision, Perspective and Peace and defeat them! 

These and many other weapons of faith can bring victory.

David ran toward the giant, Goliath. He was intentional and he used the weapons God gave him. Just as you have these five "pebbles" (and more), you also have five intentional choices you can make when faced with giants.

They are my "Principles for Giant Slayers."

Praise the Lord. Move your eyes from your problems and focus on the Problem Solver.

Pray without ceasing. Keep a running conversation with the Lord—big, bold prayers, not wimpy ones!

Prioritize your life. Sometimes dealing with our giants doesn't work because we haven't aligned our will with the will of God for our lives. Make dealing with personal sin issues (through confession and repentance) a priority!

Pursue the giant. Get intentional and proactive about making new choices that can help you defeat any weaknesses and sins in your life. Don't make haphazard choices; make positive, Bible-based decisions that build your life. Think about the consequences of your choices.

Persist in the battle. While David's giant fell with one blow, yours may tougher. Remember what Jesus said when his disciples returned after an unsuccessful time of ministry—specifically, trying to rid someone of a demon: "This kind goes out after much prayer and fasting" (Matthew 17:21). Sometimes the battle isn't easy. Take courage and persist!

What are your toughest giants? When and where do they attack you? Which of the "powerful pebbles" or principles for giant slaying do you need to use right now?

Dawn Wilson, founder and President of Heart Choices Today, is the creator of three blogs: Heart Choices Today, LOL with God(with Pam Farrel), and Upgrade with Dawn. She is the Director of the San Diego chapter of Network of Evangelical Women in MInistry (NEWIM San Diego). Dawn is the co-author of LOL with God and contributed "The Blessing Basket" in It's a God Thing. She and her husband Bob have two grown, married sons, three granddaughters and a rascally maltipoo, Roscoe.

Does Your Worldview 'Work'?

At one point in my walk with God, I (Dawn) found my worldview wanting. In this Spiritual Life UPGRADE, I want to invite you to take a moment to examine your own worldview.

"Christianity is like a flashlight," Andy Bannister said. "People judge a worldview by how well it lights things up. And by how well it works."

Andy Bannister is Canadian Director of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries and the author of The Atheist Who Didn't Exist, a book that dissects some of the popular arguments advanced by "media-savy atheists."

Few would question the first part of his quote. We are, after all, told to be lights in the world in order to bring glory to our heavenly Father (Matthew 5:14-16).

But Andy also stressed the importance of a worldview that holds up under scrutiny. I've been increasingly concerned that many Christians today don't have a worldview that "works."

What I mean by that is, when the world watches us, do people see us content in our confidence in the Lord, or constantly struggling to believe.

(If we're struggling, we likely have misplaced trust.)

What I mean by that is, do people see us compartmentalizing our faith or enjoying a worldview that satisfies all of our life—we find our emotional, mental, physical, spiritual needs met in Christ.

(If not, what have we substituted for Him who is our life?)

What I mean by that is, do we have a worldview that "delivers on its promises."

 (If our worldview doesn't deliver, it's not God's fault.)

Our youth, in particular, are casting off the "religion" of their parents because they don't see its relevance for today.

Parents, many of our kids have grown up seeing a worldview that doesn't work. Or at least, they didn't understand how it works because we have muddied the truth.

A Christian worldview is more than transferable concepts and a neatly packaged Christian philosophy. 

A Christian worldview should accurately reflect who Christ is and who we are in Him. 

Del Tackett defined Christian Worldview in these terms for Focus on the Family:

"A worldview is the framework from which we view reality and make sense of life and the world." And "A biblical worldview is based on the infallible Word of God."

Perhaps biblical worldview is a better term than Christian worldview, because there are so many in Christianity today who are diluting and redefining biblical truth. These non-biblical ideas come from various "voices" in the culture (film, books, etc.) and often get incorporated into our worldviews. Maybe we aren't even conscious of the changes in the way we're thinking and believing. 

There are many options for worldviews in our world (Marxism, Pagan Mysticism, Islam, Scientology, etc.), but Christians must have a truly biblical worldview if they want to lead their children into God's transforming truth (Romans 12:2).

It matters, too, if we want people to see the difference God's Word makes in our lives.

We can say, "I'm a Christian, so I have a Christian worldview"—and be totally deceived. 

But an authentic, born-again believer walking with God in a biblical worldview will spread a fragrance of life in the world! (2 Corinthians 2:14-16)

So we need to ask ourselves two questions:

1. Is my belief system founded and grounded in the Bible—the Word of God?

Or is it simply my personal interpretation of reality?

2. Does my worldview "work"?

Does it hold up in today's culture because it is God-inspired timeless truth that gives me stability and strength—no matter my circumstances?

Jesus, the Son of God and the Living Word, says He is the truth (John 1:1, 14; 14:6). We need to be sure our worldview reflects Him in every way.

Would your neighbors say your worldview "works"? Is it a truly biblical worldview? Do you need to UPGRADE your worldview?

Dawn Wilson, founder and President of Heart Choices Today, is the creator of three blogs: Heart Choices Today, LOL with God(with Pam Farrel), and Upgrade with Dawn. She is the Director of the San Diego chapter of Network of Evangelical Women in MInistry (NEWIM San Diego). She and her husband Bob have two grown, married sons, three granddaughters and a rascally maltipoo, Roscoe.

Graphic adapted, Åse Bjøntegård Oftedal, Stocknapio.

The Lonely Leather-Bound Book

Dawn Wilson wrote the original version of this back in 1983, but I find it is just as relevant—maybe more so—today. In this adapted Spiritual Life UPGRADE, which is a bit of a departure from our normal posts, let's think about our relationship to the "lonely leather-bound book."

“Oh, boy … it’s only 11 weeks until Christmas! I love Christmas. I seem so much more important then.”

The leather-bound book sighed. He remembered happier days when his owner spent hours reading and focusing on God’s timeless words.

“I don’t get used nearly enough these days. Years ago, when my owner asked Jesus to be her Lord and Savior, I was used every day—picked up from my special spot, opened with tender, loving hands, and read at least an hour. She just couldn’t get enough of me! (Psalm 1:2; 1 Peter 2:2)

But that was then.

I’ve been resting here undisturbed for a couple of months now, but Christmas is coming and I hope my owner will at least read the Christmas story. She used to pull me out all the time when her sons were small. She told her husband it was important to teach the boys about Jesus. And she seemed to have a hunger for the truth in my pages. (Matthew 4:4; Psalm 119:103; Job 23:12)

But last Christmas she didn’t open me at all. She was too preoccupied with parties and shopping.

And then, after Christmas, she made a lot of New Year’s resolutions about reading me regularly and maybe even taking me to a Bible study, but I guess her resolutions were empty promises. Again.

Oh, I know she’s been terribly busy. There’s the scrapbooking class and trips to the mall, and she’s especially fond of that spa.

She reads several books each month that talk about me. It’s not the same, though. I’m the real deal.

I do get dusted off occasionally, along with the coffee table and candy dish. She feels she needs to make a good impression for company. Anyone who knows my owner knows she’s very concerned about appearances, and I’m such a ‘spiritual’ decoration.

Please understand. It’s not that I don’t get picked up. I get carried to church every Sunday—though heaven only knows why. My owner doesn’t bother to look up the verses when the Pastor preaches. I’m just good ‘for looks,’ I guess.

And I suppose in a few years I’ll be replaced by a newer, snazzier model. I hope it will get used more than I have, but I doubt it.

She’s already got six translations, a big print version, and two devotional Bibles on her bookshelves.

Last month was a thrilling time for me, though. My owner had a lousy time with her kids, and she got so upset she sent them to bed early. Frustrated, she plopped down on the couch for a good cry. I was there on the coffee table—ready, as usual. She stared at me for a long time through her tears, then reached out and picked me up.

I was so excited!

She thumbed impatiently through my pages, wishing I’d fall open to a good answer or a quick promise … something, anything that would speak to her heart.

How I wish she’d get familiar with me before these moments of crisis arrive.

She did seem somewhat encouraged as she lingered in the psalms, though, and I was glad to help. One of her boys got out of bed to visit the bathroom, and he seemed surprised to see my owner reading me. No, shocked would be a better word.

Most of the time, I remain here forgotten, or at least, neglected. Once in a while she gives me a guilty glance. Oh, how I laughed at her expression when the Women’s Ministries director stopped by last week. She glanced over her shoulder at me, shocked to hear me screaming. (Actually, it was her conscience doing all the screaming.)

She’s been in denial about me for so long she can’t recognize her desperate need.

She forgets I bear witness to the One who gives life—not just eternal life, but the daily life her heart craves. I could show her God's wonders and help her understand His ways. I could teach and equip her to serve the Lord. Most of all, my words could make her more like Jesus! (John 5:39-40; Psalm 119:18, 130; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 17:17)

Sometimes I feel like extra baggage, especially on vacations. I can’t believe how much I traveled last summer. I was in seven states, but she didn't use me once.

Once she even took me on a cruise. I didn’t see much, though, except the inside of my owner’s suitcase. Her priorities were clear. She pulled everything else out several times, but I can’t see why I even went along. I just took up space.

The house is pretty chilly today, but I feel hot and stuffy. It’s hard to breathe when I’m covered up with magazines and all those catalogs. I can just barely peek out.

Sometimes I get lonesome and wish for the ‘good old days’ when my owner loved me more than anything, even food. (Jeremiah 15:16)

I was alive and powerful in her life—a real eye-opener, motivator, wise counselor and friend. I brought her peace and joy. I showed her how to make God smile.

Oh… she’s coming!

Hey, I’m over here—over here!”

Do you have a "lonely Bible" too? Could you schedule some regular visits?

Dawn Wilson, founder and President of Heart Choices Today, is the creator of three blogs: Heart Choices Today, LOL with God (with Pam Farrel), and Upgrade with Dawn. She is the Director of the San Diego chapter of Network of Evangelical Women in MInistry (NEWIM San Diego). Dawn and her husband Bob have two grown, married sons, three granddaughters and a rascally maltipoo, Roscoe.

This post was adapted from an article I wrote for Spirit of Revival magazine, a publication of Life Action Ministries, in 1983. Used with permission. 

Admit Your Mistakes!

Yvonne Ortega has rested in Christ to overcome the challenges and heartaches in her life, and she is truly a beautiful soul. In this Spiritual Life UPGRADE, Yvonne shares one princple that can help us exchange our shattered dreams for the promises of God and watch Him heal the broken places in our lives.

Yvonne writes, "After the legal separation I told our son, 'You paid the price for my mistake. I’m the adult and your mother. As a parent, I should have protected you and never have allowed you to go through all that you did. I was wrong to pretend everything was okay.'”

I (Dawn) believe this kind of admission takes courage, but it is rooted in love for God and others. Yvonne "owned up" to her mistake in a God-honoring way.

She continues . . .

Perhaps you wonder how I managed to admit my mistakes to my son.

Here are four tips I learned about the admission of big mistakes.

1. I realized the admission of mistakes requires PREPARATION.

My preparation included journaling, prayer, Bible study, individual counseling, and my recovery group.

I leaned on the promises of three Bible verses and reviewed them frequently. One verse was 1 John 1:9:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (NIV).

What will you do to prepare?

2. I had to admit my mistakes WITHOUT making EXCUSES for them.  

That type of admission requires honesty and humility. I had to take responsibility for my mistakes without any excuses, justification, defensiveness or blame. That way my child could believe I was sorry and trust me to protect him.

Why is it hard for you to admit your mistakes without making excuses for them? If the person you hurt has passed away, you can write a letter of admission and domeapologize. Then read it to a friend, mentor, or counselor.

Take ownership of your mistakes so they lose their power over you.

3. My admission of mistakes could either be ACCEPTED or REJECTED.

The longer I stayed in a domestic violence environment, the worse it became for my son. I had failed him. He suffered from the lack of peace and safety in the home. He could either accept or reject my admission of wrongdoing and my apology.

My heavenly Father gave me the courage to admit my mistakes by reminding me of Proverbs 28:13:

“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy" (NIV).

Your admission of mistakes may have nothing to do with domestic violence or hurting your child. It may involve:

• a strained relationship with a coworker,
• conflict with your in-laws,
• or a misunderstanding with a partner in ministry.

Whether your admission is accepted or rejected, the Lord will keep His Word.

4. I needed to make AMENDS to the best of my ability.

Life wasn’t perfect after my admission. However, it improved, little-by-little, as I worked to be the adult and parent my child needed and deserved.

Years later, he called and said, “You were a good mom.”

I cried for joy when I heard those words. The amends paid off.

I did my part, and God did His. I received the mercy the Lord promised in Proverbs 28:13.

When will you make amends? It’s worth the effort. 

Yvonne Ortega is a licensed professional counselor, a bilingual professional speaker, and the author of Moving from Broken to Beautiful: 9 Life Lessons to Help You Move Forward,  and Finding Hope for Your Journey through Breast Cancer. She has not only survived but also thrived after domestic violence, breast cancer and the loss of her only child. With honesty and humor, Yvonne uses personal examples and the truths of the Bible to help women move from broken to beautiful. Visit Yvonne’s website for more information.

Graphic adapted, Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.