Transformational Tip
Today's scripture is so comforting. It tells us that God gives strength to the weary and power to the weak. Times of weakness come to us all..... sickness, financial problems, relationship struggles, our addictions. I know how difficult it is, but try to look at these times as opportunities, opportunities to increase your connection with and dependence on you Lord. My mother's faith was deep and she had created a total dependence on God's grace and mercy. She taught her children at a very young age that there will be times where we will feel as if we cannot go on; that we just can't handle all that is in front of us. She told us that is the time to admit to the Lord that we cannot do it alone and to turn ourselves and our situations over to God. We tend to think we are God and God is just our helper, but He is God and we are His helper (when we aren't getting in the way). Calling on God's promises and knowing His character during times of adversity really does work, try it as you pray today's prayer.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I come to You with empty hands and an open heart, ready to receive Your many blessings. You know the depth and breadth of my neediness...and the needs of all those praying this prayer. Lord I pray that You continue to provide them and me with Your Holy Spirit and Your peace.
I am learning Lord that faltering steps of dependence are not lack of faith; rather they are links to You. My path appears today to be so difficult, draining me of my strength. At times I feel that I can hardly breathe. I come to You Lord for nurture and understanding. Fill me up with Your presence...You in me, and me in You.
Your Word assures me that Your power flows most freely into the weak who are aware of their need for You. I need You. Give me Your strength. Equip me as I go through each day so that I may handle whatever comes my way. You are my Lighthouse Lord.
I pray in the name of Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Isaiah 40:29
"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
John 17:20-23
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Stepping Stones: A Focus On Renewal
Transformational Tip
Have you ever found yourself not doing what you know is the right thing to do? Who hasn't? One way to gain victory over the struggles we face is to find out what God's Word says about the things we struggle with, the things that deliberately and consciously keep our mind rooted in that Word.
The bible is loaded with references about renewing of our mind to the truth of what God says about a situation. Most of us grew up with limits being put on us at every turn. Things we weren't allowed to do and things we were told we could never do because we weren't smart enough, pretty enough, rich enough, good enough or that they were just wrong based on other peoples thinking.
But God says that all things are possible to him who believes, that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, that he gives wisdom to any who lack it (and want it) and that there is no good thing He will withhold from those who walk uprightly. But we forget the promise of His Word because our minds are not renewed. Let's renew our minds with the Truth of His Word!
Prayer
Dear Father,
I thank You for the renewing of my mind by receiving the Holy Spirit, Your Spirit. It is with my renewed mind that I thank You for for all the blessings You have bestowed on me. It is with my renewed mind based on Your word and promise that I pray today.
I know Your son Jesus was whipped and by his stripes He took all of our sins. I want to open my heart for You to come and live inside me and guide me. Dear God, I want the healing Jesus promised. Help me never to doubt Your word and when I read it, help me to understand what You want me to do. Dear Father, I love You so much, help me be of service to You. Mark 11:24 says "Therefore I tell you, whatever You ask for in prayer, believe You that You have received it, and it will be Yours." Dear Father, with my renewed mind I believe Your word and I thank You for Your grace and mercy. I thank You for Jesus Christ. I pray in Jesus precious name. AMEN
The Truth
and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Colossians 3:10
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
then his flesh is renewed like a child's; it is restored as in the days of his youth.
Job 33:25
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
Have you ever found yourself not doing what you know is the right thing to do? Who hasn't? One way to gain victory over the struggles we face is to find out what God's Word says about the things we struggle with, the things that deliberately and consciously keep our mind rooted in that Word.
The bible is loaded with references about renewing of our mind to the truth of what God says about a situation. Most of us grew up with limits being put on us at every turn. Things we weren't allowed to do and things we were told we could never do because we weren't smart enough, pretty enough, rich enough, good enough or that they were just wrong based on other peoples thinking.
But God says that all things are possible to him who believes, that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, that he gives wisdom to any who lack it (and want it) and that there is no good thing He will withhold from those who walk uprightly. But we forget the promise of His Word because our minds are not renewed. Let's renew our minds with the Truth of His Word!
Prayer
Dear Father,
I thank You for the renewing of my mind by receiving the Holy Spirit, Your Spirit. It is with my renewed mind that I thank You for for all the blessings You have bestowed on me. It is with my renewed mind based on Your word and promise that I pray today.
I know Your son Jesus was whipped and by his stripes He took all of our sins. I want to open my heart for You to come and live inside me and guide me. Dear God, I want the healing Jesus promised. Help me never to doubt Your word and when I read it, help me to understand what You want me to do. Dear Father, I love You so much, help me be of service to You. Mark 11:24 says "Therefore I tell you, whatever You ask for in prayer, believe You that You have received it, and it will be Yours." Dear Father, with my renewed mind I believe Your word and I thank You for Your grace and mercy. I thank You for Jesus Christ. I pray in Jesus precious name. AMEN
The Truth
and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Colossians 3:10
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
then his flesh is renewed like a child's; it is restored as in the days of his youth.
Job 33:25
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Stepping Stones: Strength Through the Holy Spirit
Transformational Tip
Many of us have been or are in situations of great anxiety: Illnesses, surgeries, addictions, accidents, loss of jobs...the list goes on and on. We know that overwhelming sense of fear that wells up deep within. We are scared. That's when we listen to our flesh and Satan's lies. But know this: strength can be found. Courage can be discovered. Communities can come together. Hundreds of prayers can storm heaven...We move forward with a resolve that sometimes we are amazed that we have. Pray for a still heart that will listen to the Holy Spirit and follow him. The Holy Spirit is powerful, but we get in the way. Learn to sit still, listen to the Holy Spirit, then follow instead of getting in the way. He will direct better than you directing yourself.
Prayer
Dear Lord, you are an amazing God. We want to experience more of your glory in each one of our lives, but that means we need to trust you in, and through, every aspect of our lives, especially when life doesn't make sense. I ask that you would reveal more of Your glory in me as a result of my current struggles. I pray that You will honor your promise and my request. There are many skeptics who are watching me to see if I really trust you. Please give them the strength to trust you at all times. If we could taste just a drop of your glory, it would whet our appetite for more...more of you...more of you we pray. In Jesus' name we ask all of these things. AMEN
The Truth
The Lord GOD is my help; therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame. He is near who upholds my right; if anyone wishes to oppose me, let us appear together. Who disputes my right? Let him confront me. See, the Lord GOD is my help; who will prove me wrong?
Isaiah 50:7-9
This dream I, King Nebuchadnezzar, saw. And you, O Belteshazzar, tell me the interpretation, because all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known to me the interpretation, but you are able, for the spirit of the holy gods is in you."
Daniel 4:18
But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:4-7
Many of us have been or are in situations of great anxiety: Illnesses, surgeries, addictions, accidents, loss of jobs...the list goes on and on. We know that overwhelming sense of fear that wells up deep within. We are scared. That's when we listen to our flesh and Satan's lies. But know this: strength can be found. Courage can be discovered. Communities can come together. Hundreds of prayers can storm heaven...We move forward with a resolve that sometimes we are amazed that we have. Pray for a still heart that will listen to the Holy Spirit and follow him. The Holy Spirit is powerful, but we get in the way. Learn to sit still, listen to the Holy Spirit, then follow instead of getting in the way. He will direct better than you directing yourself.
Prayer
Dear Lord, you are an amazing God. We want to experience more of your glory in each one of our lives, but that means we need to trust you in, and through, every aspect of our lives, especially when life doesn't make sense. I ask that you would reveal more of Your glory in me as a result of my current struggles. I pray that You will honor your promise and my request. There are many skeptics who are watching me to see if I really trust you. Please give them the strength to trust you at all times. If we could taste just a drop of your glory, it would whet our appetite for more...more of you...more of you we pray. In Jesus' name we ask all of these things. AMEN
The Truth
The Lord GOD is my help; therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame. He is near who upholds my right; if anyone wishes to oppose me, let us appear together. Who disputes my right? Let him confront me. See, the Lord GOD is my help; who will prove me wrong?
Isaiah 50:7-9
This dream I, King Nebuchadnezzar, saw. And you, O Belteshazzar, tell me the interpretation, because all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known to me the interpretation, but you are able, for the spirit of the holy gods is in you."
Daniel 4:18
But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:4-7
Monday, April 27, 2009
Stepping Stones: From the Inside Out
Transformational Tip
Far too often we focus on the outer person...true transformation starts from the inside then ripples out. When you glorify something or worship it, you give it great weight in your life. Objects that weigh a lot, like the sun, cause gravitational forces that cause other, smaller objects to orbit around it. Ideally, God is who you worship, He weighs more than anything else in your life, and He determines the orbits of everything else around Him. In reality, we worship other things...short list....self....need for control, safety, love, acceptance, importance, competence, money, material things....nice things like, our kids, house, spouse, job, ministry. No matter what it is, it will shape and determine the orbits of everything else in your life around it. God orbiting around anything else is a formula for disaster. Only God is omnipotent, omniscient, and sovereign over all things to be at the center and order the orbits of everything else in a great way.
When you make your decisions today, examine what is at the center of your heart/universe by asking "what is my greatest need?" or "what does life depend on?"
Prayer
Dear Father,
Through this renewed intimacy with you I feel I am being transformed from the inside out. Far too long I have been focusing on the outer person, now I focus on the inner person. I pray that as I increase my focus on You my Lord, that You transform me into the one You desire me to be. I yield to you Lord, I do not resist this change nor do I desire to slow it down or speed it up. I let You set the pace Lord, for I know Your timing is perfect. I know now that a delay does not mean no. I hold your hand Jesus with childlike trust, just as babies hold their parents hand as they learn to walk, step by step. Hold my hand Lord, letme feel and enjoy the tempo of this God-breathed life I am now living. All glory to you God. Thank You Jesus, Thank You Lord. I pray in Your name - Amen
The Truth
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
"And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good? Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it.
Deuteronomy 10:12-14
My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.
For a prostitute is a deep pit; an adulteress is a narrow well.
She lies in wait like a robber and increases the traitors among mankind.
Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes?
Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine.
Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly.
In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.
Proverbs 23:26-32
Far too often we focus on the outer person...true transformation starts from the inside then ripples out. When you glorify something or worship it, you give it great weight in your life. Objects that weigh a lot, like the sun, cause gravitational forces that cause other, smaller objects to orbit around it. Ideally, God is who you worship, He weighs more than anything else in your life, and He determines the orbits of everything else around Him. In reality, we worship other things...short list....self....need for control, safety, love, acceptance, importance, competence, money, material things....nice things like, our kids, house, spouse, job, ministry. No matter what it is, it will shape and determine the orbits of everything else in your life around it. God orbiting around anything else is a formula for disaster. Only God is omnipotent, omniscient, and sovereign over all things to be at the center and order the orbits of everything else in a great way.
When you make your decisions today, examine what is at the center of your heart/universe by asking "what is my greatest need?" or "what does life depend on?"
Prayer
Dear Father,
Through this renewed intimacy with you I feel I am being transformed from the inside out. Far too long I have been focusing on the outer person, now I focus on the inner person. I pray that as I increase my focus on You my Lord, that You transform me into the one You desire me to be. I yield to you Lord, I do not resist this change nor do I desire to slow it down or speed it up. I let You set the pace Lord, for I know Your timing is perfect. I know now that a delay does not mean no. I hold your hand Jesus with childlike trust, just as babies hold their parents hand as they learn to walk, step by step. Hold my hand Lord, letme feel and enjoy the tempo of this God-breathed life I am now living. All glory to you God. Thank You Jesus, Thank You Lord. I pray in Your name - Amen
The Truth
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
"And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which I am commanding you today for your good? Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it.
Deuteronomy 10:12-14
My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.
For a prostitute is a deep pit; an adulteress is a narrow well.
She lies in wait like a robber and increases the traitors among mankind.
Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes?
Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine.
Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly.
In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.
Proverbs 23:26-32
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Stepping Stones: Does Their Opinion Really Count?
Transformational Tip
Why do we place so much importance on what other people think of us? Why are we so devastated when they say hurtful things to us or about us? Does their opinion really count? Try and remember that "hurt people hurt people". Only one has perfect vision of your situation, knows all the facts, has righteous motivation, and doesn't make any dysfunctional requests of you. Focus on the one whose opinion will ultimately count...your Lord and God. He tells you in His word how He sees you and what He thinks of your functioning. Above all else, He loves you and continues to pursue you know matter what others think of you. Today, let Him catch you and talk to you....take time to listen. It will change your opinion of you and Him and life celebrate what He reveals to you!
Prayer
Dear Father,
Help me see myself trough Your eyes today dear Lord. When people do or say hurtful things to me, big and small, help me view this as an opportunity to grow in grace. Please help me quickly forgive the one who has wounded me and not focus on getting even or setting the record straight. Instead of focusing on what others opinions are of me, help me focus on You Lord, for ultimately it is Your view of me that counts. When others treat me unfairly, help me remember that Your ways with me are much better than fair. Your ways are forgiveness, love and peace which You have poured into my heart by Your Holy Spirit. I pray this in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:13
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness
Isaiah 61:10
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us
Romans 5:5
Why do we place so much importance on what other people think of us? Why are we so devastated when they say hurtful things to us or about us? Does their opinion really count? Try and remember that "hurt people hurt people". Only one has perfect vision of your situation, knows all the facts, has righteous motivation, and doesn't make any dysfunctional requests of you. Focus on the one whose opinion will ultimately count...your Lord and God. He tells you in His word how He sees you and what He thinks of your functioning. Above all else, He loves you and continues to pursue you know matter what others think of you. Today, let Him catch you and talk to you....take time to listen. It will change your opinion of you and Him and life celebrate what He reveals to you!
Prayer
Dear Father,
Help me see myself trough Your eyes today dear Lord. When people do or say hurtful things to me, big and small, help me view this as an opportunity to grow in grace. Please help me quickly forgive the one who has wounded me and not focus on getting even or setting the record straight. Instead of focusing on what others opinions are of me, help me focus on You Lord, for ultimately it is Your view of me that counts. When others treat me unfairly, help me remember that Your ways with me are much better than fair. Your ways are forgiveness, love and peace which You have poured into my heart by Your Holy Spirit. I pray this in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:13
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness
Isaiah 61:10
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us
Romans 5:5
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Stepping Stones: Pray with Faith
Transformational Tip
Pray aloud and with faith - for praying without faith is only words. How many times do we make statements, tell people things that we don't even believe. How about doing something we don't really want to do....just going through the motions? Why do we do it? Amazing how much we deceive ourselves. Praying should be a real conversation, with God knows everything about us, and still loves and wants to be with us. Hiding from or deceiving God is impossible, in fact it's counterproductive. Humble yourself, show Him who you are
Prayer
Dear God in Heaven, I come to You believing that Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins and the sins of man. I open my heart and invite Jesus to come in to be my personal Lord and Savior. Forgive me for all my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Teach me Your Word, and fill me with the power of Your Holy Spirit. Give me knowledge and wisdom, and teach me how to live a victorious life. I thank You Lord because I am born again and saved through the blood shed by Jesus on the cross at Calvary. I am on my way to heaven, in the name of Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
John 14:6
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Mark 11:24
Pray aloud and with faith - for praying without faith is only words. How many times do we make statements, tell people things that we don't even believe. How about doing something we don't really want to do....just going through the motions? Why do we do it? Amazing how much we deceive ourselves. Praying should be a real conversation, with God knows everything about us, and still loves and wants to be with us. Hiding from or deceiving God is impossible, in fact it's counterproductive. Humble yourself, show Him who you are
Prayer
Dear God in Heaven, I come to You believing that Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins and the sins of man. I open my heart and invite Jesus to come in to be my personal Lord and Savior. Forgive me for all my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Teach me Your Word, and fill me with the power of Your Holy Spirit. Give me knowledge and wisdom, and teach me how to live a victorious life. I thank You Lord because I am born again and saved through the blood shed by Jesus on the cross at Calvary. I am on my way to heaven, in the name of Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
John 14:6
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Mark 11:24
Friday, April 24, 2009
Stepping Stones: He Prayed For Us Before We Were Even Born
Transformational Tip
Did you know that Jesus prayed for you and me while he was on earth? He did, in John 17: 20-26 Jesus prayed to God His Father for all future believers, for us! His key message was that He wanted all future believers to be as and act as one...He prayed for our unity. The unity of all those who put their faith in Christ, the power and testimony of God's love, acceptance, and power to transcend our differences.... is a Lighthouse shining God's glory to the rest of the world as everyone wants to be part of a loving community. Many of you have commented on the benefits of you being part of the Stepping Stones Daily Devotional. As we come together, we are doing exactly what Jesus prayed for. Pray for each other and the future readers of Stepping Stones. Today's prayer is for the further unity of the Stepping Stones community.
Prayer
Dear Father,
All those reading the Stepping Stones Daily Devotional come together as believers, we come together unified as one as a powerful witness to the reality of Your Love. Thank You Lord for this opportunity to be part of something so beautiful and so meaningful. Help us work together Lord in humility, and help us refuse to get sidetracked by arguing over dividing and unimportant matters. I know Lord that unity amongst this Team can only be achieved by each of us living first in union with you. We come together as one to give You Glory and to witness the fulfillment of Your Word. Knowing Your Son Jesus prayed for me even before I was born gives me confidence in my struggle to work for Your Kingdom. Help me, through the daily reading of Your Word to purify my heart and mind, point out my sins and confess them to you, renew my relationship with you, and forever guide me back to the right path. I pray this in Your holy name - AMEN
The Truth
"that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. "Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them."
John 17:21-26
For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,
so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Romans 12:4-5
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
Romans 12:9-16
Did you know that Jesus prayed for you and me while he was on earth? He did, in John 17: 20-26 Jesus prayed to God His Father for all future believers, for us! His key message was that He wanted all future believers to be as and act as one...He prayed for our unity. The unity of all those who put their faith in Christ, the power and testimony of God's love, acceptance, and power to transcend our differences.... is a Lighthouse shining God's glory to the rest of the world as everyone wants to be part of a loving community. Many of you have commented on the benefits of you being part of the Stepping Stones Daily Devotional. As we come together, we are doing exactly what Jesus prayed for. Pray for each other and the future readers of Stepping Stones. Today's prayer is for the further unity of the Stepping Stones community.
Prayer
Dear Father,
All those reading the Stepping Stones Daily Devotional come together as believers, we come together unified as one as a powerful witness to the reality of Your Love. Thank You Lord for this opportunity to be part of something so beautiful and so meaningful. Help us work together Lord in humility, and help us refuse to get sidetracked by arguing over dividing and unimportant matters. I know Lord that unity amongst this Team can only be achieved by each of us living first in union with you. We come together as one to give You Glory and to witness the fulfillment of Your Word. Knowing Your Son Jesus prayed for me even before I was born gives me confidence in my struggle to work for Your Kingdom. Help me, through the daily reading of Your Word to purify my heart and mind, point out my sins and confess them to you, renew my relationship with you, and forever guide me back to the right path. I pray this in Your holy name - AMEN
The Truth
"that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. "Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them."
John 17:21-26
For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,
so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Romans 12:4-5
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
Romans 12:9-16
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Stepping Stones: He Knows Us Inside And Out
Transformational Tip
Picture the Samaritan woman that Jesus selected to evangelize the whole town. Talk about a bad reputation; First of all she was a Samaritan, hated by the Jews. She was a woman, looked down on by men, not just a divorcee...but 5 failed marriages and she's currently living with a guy who refuses to marry her.
After her talk with Jesus, the entire city knew about this man claiming to be God within one day. She told the town; "He told me everything I ever did...and he loved me anyway"
So listen. As a Christian (see Spiritual Basics link below and the Salvation section) you have not just been sprinkled with forgiveness, you have been totally submerged in His forgiveness...you are totally covered with His grace. Let it change you the way it changed the woman in Samaria.
He found her full of trash and left her full of grace. She knew it and it changed her view of herself and how she interacted with others. Do you have trash colored lenses?...... or grace colored lenses? Try changing your glasses today and see miracles happen.
Prayer
My Father and my God,
I pray to you with a humble yet thankful heart. I am so thankful for your gift of forgiveness, so thankful for your unconditional love. You know me inside and out, and yet you still love me. Help me and all those reading this devotional today to accept your beautiful grace and gift of forgiveness, let us begin today telling your story and the impact you have had on my live so that others may accept this precious gift. I come to you my Lord so full of trash. Empty my trash and fill me with your glory...let all those that I meet today see your radiance coming from me. I pray this in the name of Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.
John 4:39
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 139:14
Picture the Samaritan woman that Jesus selected to evangelize the whole town. Talk about a bad reputation; First of all she was a Samaritan, hated by the Jews. She was a woman, looked down on by men, not just a divorcee...but 5 failed marriages and she's currently living with a guy who refuses to marry her.
After her talk with Jesus, the entire city knew about this man claiming to be God within one day. She told the town; "He told me everything I ever did...and he loved me anyway"
So listen. As a Christian (see Spiritual Basics link below and the Salvation section) you have not just been sprinkled with forgiveness, you have been totally submerged in His forgiveness...you are totally covered with His grace. Let it change you the way it changed the woman in Samaria.
He found her full of trash and left her full of grace. She knew it and it changed her view of herself and how she interacted with others. Do you have trash colored lenses?...... or grace colored lenses? Try changing your glasses today and see miracles happen.
Prayer
My Father and my God,
I pray to you with a humble yet thankful heart. I am so thankful for your gift of forgiveness, so thankful for your unconditional love. You know me inside and out, and yet you still love me. Help me and all those reading this devotional today to accept your beautiful grace and gift of forgiveness, let us begin today telling your story and the impact you have had on my live so that others may accept this precious gift. I come to you my Lord so full of trash. Empty my trash and fill me with your glory...let all those that I meet today see your radiance coming from me. I pray this in the name of Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.
John 4:39
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 139:14
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Stepping Stones: Confident Assurance
Transformational Tip
Imagine a life where you go through your day with confident assurance, with a sense of peace even in the midst of your storms. Just like you would trust a championship coach or award winning director or decorated teacher.....these are guides with proven successful track records with a incredible vision for you. To get the most out of you, they ask for you to push yourself, they apply adversity, create some uneasiness or awkwardness....but we are pleased with the final product. The Bible repeatedly tells us of God's offer and promise of peace. Trust the ultimate life coach....He will deliver on His promises. In John 14:27 Jesus tells us "..my peace I give you." May we all remember today to learn and believe that when Jesus says something, it happens. When Jesus tells us to stand...we need to stand.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I thank You for Your gift of peace to me. I know that Your peace does not mean that I will not have conflicts in my life, rather Your peace is my confident assurance in all circumstances. With Your peace, I have no need to fear the present or the future.
I know Lord that my needs and Your riches are a perfect fit...and that this is exactly as you designed it. I rejoice in my neediness for you...for this draws me closer to Your presence.
I come to You today Lord with all my neediness, with my defenses down and my desire to be blessed. I know that only through You will I find completion. I pray in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
Agree with God, and be at peace; thereby good will come to you.
Job 22:21
And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
Isaiah 32:17
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
John 14:27
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus
Philippians 4:19
Imagine a life where you go through your day with confident assurance, with a sense of peace even in the midst of your storms. Just like you would trust a championship coach or award winning director or decorated teacher.....these are guides with proven successful track records with a incredible vision for you. To get the most out of you, they ask for you to push yourself, they apply adversity, create some uneasiness or awkwardness....but we are pleased with the final product. The Bible repeatedly tells us of God's offer and promise of peace. Trust the ultimate life coach....He will deliver on His promises. In John 14:27 Jesus tells us "..my peace I give you." May we all remember today to learn and believe that when Jesus says something, it happens. When Jesus tells us to stand...we need to stand.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I thank You for Your gift of peace to me. I know that Your peace does not mean that I will not have conflicts in my life, rather Your peace is my confident assurance in all circumstances. With Your peace, I have no need to fear the present or the future.
I know Lord that my needs and Your riches are a perfect fit...and that this is exactly as you designed it. I rejoice in my neediness for you...for this draws me closer to Your presence.
I come to You today Lord with all my neediness, with my defenses down and my desire to be blessed. I know that only through You will I find completion. I pray in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
Agree with God, and be at peace; thereby good will come to you.
Job 22:21
And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.
Isaiah 32:17
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
John 14:27
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus
Philippians 4:19
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Stepping Stones: The Shadow Of A Dog Cannot Bite
Transformational Tip
The Lord is the one always leading. His path is always the right path. He walks with us in the storms of our life; he walks with us in the Valley. Not a frightened run, but a calm walk. He will not ever leave us alone. We are walking through the valley. This is not the valley of death... but the shadow of death. Death is removed and the shadow is all that remains. No one should be afraid of a shadow. The shadow of a dog can't bite, the shadow of a sword can't kill, and the shadow of death cannot destroy. It is the light of the Lord that casts the shadow. So we need not fear. His rod and his staff comfort us. His rod protects, corrects, and guides us, and his staff gives us something to lean on and supports us.
What are you afraid of?.....people's opinions...rejection...financial struggles...your plan not being used....kid's safety.... Why have you given these things so much power over you? What in your past does Satan play with to make you think God and you cannot handle what you fear?
If you don't identify it, Satan is going to continue to push that button and use it to control you. Spend some time to journal a bit and let God guide your thoughts and freedom from fear will be yours.
Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus. You are my comfort, You are my healing, You are my salvation. Let me not fear. You are the one leading. Give me strength to look at you and not at a shadow. Help me keep my eyes on you. Open my eyes to the truth...help me dig into my heart to see what I am fearful of and why. Show me how you can protect me from and overcome these falsely inflated issues that sometimes rule my heart and rob me of peace, comfort, and sleep.
In Your Son's name we pray, AMEN
The Truth
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4
For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.
And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me, and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the LORD.
Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me!
You have said, "Seek my face." My heart says to you, "Your face, LORD, do I seek."
Psalm 27:5-8
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
The Lord is the one always leading. His path is always the right path. He walks with us in the storms of our life; he walks with us in the Valley. Not a frightened run, but a calm walk. He will not ever leave us alone. We are walking through the valley. This is not the valley of death... but the shadow of death. Death is removed and the shadow is all that remains. No one should be afraid of a shadow. The shadow of a dog can't bite, the shadow of a sword can't kill, and the shadow of death cannot destroy. It is the light of the Lord that casts the shadow. So we need not fear. His rod and his staff comfort us. His rod protects, corrects, and guides us, and his staff gives us something to lean on and supports us.
What are you afraid of?.....people's opinions...rejection...financial struggles...your plan not being used....kid's safety.... Why have you given these things so much power over you? What in your past does Satan play with to make you think God and you cannot handle what you fear?
If you don't identify it, Satan is going to continue to push that button and use it to control you. Spend some time to journal a bit and let God guide your thoughts and freedom from fear will be yours.
Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus. You are my comfort, You are my healing, You are my salvation. Let me not fear. You are the one leading. Give me strength to look at you and not at a shadow. Help me keep my eyes on you. Open my eyes to the truth...help me dig into my heart to see what I am fearful of and why. Show me how you can protect me from and overcome these falsely inflated issues that sometimes rule my heart and rob me of peace, comfort, and sleep.
In Your Son's name we pray, AMEN
The Truth
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4
For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.
And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me, and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the LORD.
Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me!
You have said, "Seek my face." My heart says to you, "Your face, LORD, do I seek."
Psalm 27:5-8
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
Monday, April 20, 2009
Stepping Stones: Expect God To Act
Transformational Tip
While I am a believer, I find myself many times not expecting God to act. At times I believe with tentativeness. How was God first introduced to you? What were some of the accurate and inaccurate "facts" you learned about God in your childhood? Do you believe God is personally interested in you and your life, as much as your parents are? He certainly has done more to save my kids than I could ever do for my kids. He does act in our lives all the time, we just take so much for granted. You see how much He gives us...life, the ability to read this, to have a computer, a home, warmth, food, people that care for us, opportunity to grow....think about everything you have that is more than death and nothing...all blessings from God. This is all when we don't pay attention to or walk with Him very much. Could you imagine what He will bless us with if we draw closer to Him and follow His guidance for life? Time and again God's word tells us we need to live with bold expectations for who He is and what He will do with your life. I find that when I focus on having bold expectations of my Lord, my worry and anxiety fall away.
God will act in ways beyond your imagination.....but it's your move next. What will you decide? Follow Him closer and see miracles happen in your life....or keep at a distance, believe those misconceptions of God from childhood, and get the same old, same old. Your call, He's ready!
Prayer
Dear Lord,
I commit myself to you for all time. I will let nothing separate me from your love. I know you are hearing my prayers and I wait patiently but with bold expectations for Your blessings and grace. You tell us in Luke 10:17 that we have the power to overcome the power of the enemy and that nothing will harm us. I ask and thank You for this power today. I know this strength comes only when I have complete dependence on You. Thank You Father. All glory to You my Lord.
I remember today that you gave your very life for me...so of course you will take care of all of my needs as well of the needs for all those reading and praying with me. All glory to you my God. I know now that I will never be alone. When I fail to focus on You my God my thoughts turn to worry and problem solving - help me bring my problems and myself into Your presence.
In Jesus' holy name - Amen
The Truth
But O my soul, don't be discouraged. Don't be upset. EXPECT God to act!
For I know that I shall again have plenty of reason to praise Him for all that he will do.
He is my help. He is my God.
Psalm 42 :4
"I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
Luke.10:17-19
"Your salvation requires you to turn back to me and stop your silly efforts to save yourselves. Your strength will come from settling down in complete dependence on me-- The very thing you've been unwilling to do."
Isaiah 30:15
And when the Philistine looked and saw David, he disdained him, for he was but a youth, ruddy and handsome in appearance.
And the Philistine said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.
The Philistine said to David, "Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field."
Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel,
and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hand."
When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.
And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground.
So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David.
Then David ran and stood over the Philistine and took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him and cut off his head with it. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.
1 Samuel 17:42-51
While I am a believer, I find myself many times not expecting God to act. At times I believe with tentativeness. How was God first introduced to you? What were some of the accurate and inaccurate "facts" you learned about God in your childhood? Do you believe God is personally interested in you and your life, as much as your parents are? He certainly has done more to save my kids than I could ever do for my kids. He does act in our lives all the time, we just take so much for granted. You see how much He gives us...life, the ability to read this, to have a computer, a home, warmth, food, people that care for us, opportunity to grow....think about everything you have that is more than death and nothing...all blessings from God. This is all when we don't pay attention to or walk with Him very much. Could you imagine what He will bless us with if we draw closer to Him and follow His guidance for life? Time and again God's word tells us we need to live with bold expectations for who He is and what He will do with your life. I find that when I focus on having bold expectations of my Lord, my worry and anxiety fall away.
God will act in ways beyond your imagination.....but it's your move next. What will you decide? Follow Him closer and see miracles happen in your life....or keep at a distance, believe those misconceptions of God from childhood, and get the same old, same old. Your call, He's ready!
Prayer
Dear Lord,
I commit myself to you for all time. I will let nothing separate me from your love. I know you are hearing my prayers and I wait patiently but with bold expectations for Your blessings and grace. You tell us in Luke 10:17 that we have the power to overcome the power of the enemy and that nothing will harm us. I ask and thank You for this power today. I know this strength comes only when I have complete dependence on You. Thank You Father. All glory to You my Lord.
I remember today that you gave your very life for me...so of course you will take care of all of my needs as well of the needs for all those reading and praying with me. All glory to you my God. I know now that I will never be alone. When I fail to focus on You my God my thoughts turn to worry and problem solving - help me bring my problems and myself into Your presence.
In Jesus' holy name - Amen
The Truth
But O my soul, don't be discouraged. Don't be upset. EXPECT God to act!
For I know that I shall again have plenty of reason to praise Him for all that he will do.
He is my help. He is my God.
Psalm 42 :4
"I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
Luke.10:17-19
"Your salvation requires you to turn back to me and stop your silly efforts to save yourselves. Your strength will come from settling down in complete dependence on me-- The very thing you've been unwilling to do."
Isaiah 30:15
And when the Philistine looked and saw David, he disdained him, for he was but a youth, ruddy and handsome in appearance.
And the Philistine said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.
The Philistine said to David, "Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field."
Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head. And I will give the dead bodies of the host of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and to the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel,
and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hand."
When the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.
And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground.
So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David.
Then David ran and stood over the Philistine and took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him and cut off his head with it. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled.
1 Samuel 17:42-51
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Stepping Stones: He Will Meet You In The Stillness Of Your Soul
Transformational Tip
Stillness of the soul is so very hard to achieve today in this world addicted to constant communication, speed and noise. I can imagine God searching this earth constantly looking for those who are attempting to seek Him. Communication is a 2-way process. God wants to talk to you and does all the time. Are you receptive to it? We need to develop spiritual radar that is tuned to His station. Satan jams our radar with constant clutter, so you have to be intentional and strategic.
GAME PLAN:
1. Create that quiet space where you can meet Him.
2. See "Spiritual Basics Link" below and click Armor of God.
3. Read His Word(He speaks incredibly through His Word).
4. Observe His incredible creation.
5. Analyze your situations.(yes journal a bit, you'll be amazed)
6. Listen to some of your trusted, clear-headed friends who have eyes that see and ears that hear.(to often we are listening to those that have eyes that don't see and ears that don't hear.
7. While you do #2-6, be still and see what God is saying to or teaching you.
He knows how difficult it is to create that space and listen....but even your efforts gives your God great pleasure. Seek His presence and let this mutual search result in joyful fulfillment.
Prayer
God my Father, I do seek you. My capacity for receiving you is growing each day - thank You Lord. Fill me today with Your love, joy and peace. Though I am an earthly being; I know you designed me to be filled with Your heavenly gifts. I know that my weaknesses, and I have so many, will not keep me from being filled with You. As I go through this day, I trust with all my heart that you will give me, and all those reading this devotional, the strength we need, moment by moment. I am learning more each day of just how approachable you are...and that is making it easy for me to loosen my grip on all those earthly things...and tightening my grip on you.
I pray in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.
2 Chronicles 16:9
Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.
Isaiah 55:3
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.'
But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
Matthew 13:15-16
Stillness of the soul is so very hard to achieve today in this world addicted to constant communication, speed and noise. I can imagine God searching this earth constantly looking for those who are attempting to seek Him. Communication is a 2-way process. God wants to talk to you and does all the time. Are you receptive to it? We need to develop spiritual radar that is tuned to His station. Satan jams our radar with constant clutter, so you have to be intentional and strategic.
GAME PLAN:
1. Create that quiet space where you can meet Him.
2. See "Spiritual Basics Link" below and click Armor of God.
3. Read His Word(He speaks incredibly through His Word).
4. Observe His incredible creation.
5. Analyze your situations.(yes journal a bit, you'll be amazed)
6. Listen to some of your trusted, clear-headed friends who have eyes that see and ears that hear.(to often we are listening to those that have eyes that don't see and ears that don't hear.
7. While you do #2-6, be still and see what God is saying to or teaching you.
He knows how difficult it is to create that space and listen....but even your efforts gives your God great pleasure. Seek His presence and let this mutual search result in joyful fulfillment.
Prayer
God my Father, I do seek you. My capacity for receiving you is growing each day - thank You Lord. Fill me today with Your love, joy and peace. Though I am an earthly being; I know you designed me to be filled with Your heavenly gifts. I know that my weaknesses, and I have so many, will not keep me from being filled with You. As I go through this day, I trust with all my heart that you will give me, and all those reading this devotional, the strength we need, moment by moment. I am learning more each day of just how approachable you are...and that is making it easy for me to loosen my grip on all those earthly things...and tightening my grip on you.
I pray in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.
2 Chronicles 16:9
Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.
Isaiah 55:3
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.'
But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
Matthew 13:15-16
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Stepping Stones: Fear Debilitates
Transformational Tip
We spend so much time and energy worrying. I have nights tossing and turning, playing different possibilities for the next day over and over, unable to fall asleep......worrying or nervous about that meeting, confrontation, financial dilemma, job decision, marriage conflict, or issue with a child. Not knowing what the outcome is going to be, or fearing that a "bad" outcome is guaranteed fuel a burning of wasted energy and effort.
Why do we waste time on situations that might not happen and we have no control over. Instead, spend your time and energy on facts and experiences you know.
Think about God, His sovereignty, His love for you, his power over all things, His ability to work miracles. Believe He can bring you peace during the adversity/opportunity He is allowing in your life just like He did for Daniel in the lions den and Shadrach, Meshac, and Abendego in the fiery furnace. Be excited about what He is teaching you and how you will be better after the challenge you will face.
Just imagine a life where you can transform fear and anxiety into productive energy and action. Seek today to achieve the "Mind of Christ". Rely on Your Lord's strength today, not yours.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I trust in You for You are my strength. Help me this day turn my fear and anxiety into energy that I can invest in trusting You and sing your Song. The battle of control for my mind is raging, and the years of worry and doubt make me vulnerable to the enemy. Please take control of my mind Lord. Help me Lord to not worry about my weakness...for I know you will use this weakness to draw me closer to you. Knowing that Your spirit is within me gives me comfort...that I do not fight theses battles alone. Help me build my faith that You can take what looks so often to be bad and make it good. I pray in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid; For the Lord is my strength and my song.
Isaiah 12:2
Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king declared to Daniel, "May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!"
And a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.
Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting; no diversions were brought to him, and sleep fled from him.
Then, at break of day, the king arose and went in haste to the den of lions.
As he came near to the den where Daniel was, he cried out in a tone of anguish. The king declared to Daniel, "O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?"
Then Daniel said to the king, "O king, live forever!
My God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm."
Daniel 6:16-22
22 Because the king's order was urgent and the furnace overheated, the flame of the fire killed those men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell bound into the burning fiery furnace.
24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, "Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?" They answered and said to the king, "True, O king."
25 He answered and said, "But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods."
26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the burning fiery furnace; he declared, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come here!" Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire.
27 And the satraps, the prefects, the governors, and the king's counselors gathered together and saw that the fire had not had any power over the bodies of those men. The hair of their heads was not singed, their cloaks were not harmed, and no smell of fire had come upon them.
28 Nebuchadnezzar answered and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set aside the king's command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.
29 Therefore I make a decree: Any people, nation, or language that speaks anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego shall be torn limb from limb, and their houses laid in ruins, for there is no other god who is able to rescue in this way."
30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the province of Babylon.
Daniel 3:22-30
24 And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep.
25 And they went and woke him, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing."
26 And he said to them, "Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?" Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
27 And the men marveled, saying, "What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?"
Matthew 8:24-27
We spend so much time and energy worrying. I have nights tossing and turning, playing different possibilities for the next day over and over, unable to fall asleep......worrying or nervous about that meeting, confrontation, financial dilemma, job decision, marriage conflict, or issue with a child. Not knowing what the outcome is going to be, or fearing that a "bad" outcome is guaranteed fuel a burning of wasted energy and effort.
Why do we waste time on situations that might not happen and we have no control over. Instead, spend your time and energy on facts and experiences you know.
Think about God, His sovereignty, His love for you, his power over all things, His ability to work miracles. Believe He can bring you peace during the adversity/opportunity He is allowing in your life just like He did for Daniel in the lions den and Shadrach, Meshac, and Abendego in the fiery furnace. Be excited about what He is teaching you and how you will be better after the challenge you will face.
Just imagine a life where you can transform fear and anxiety into productive energy and action. Seek today to achieve the "Mind of Christ". Rely on Your Lord's strength today, not yours.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I trust in You for You are my strength. Help me this day turn my fear and anxiety into energy that I can invest in trusting You and sing your Song. The battle of control for my mind is raging, and the years of worry and doubt make me vulnerable to the enemy. Please take control of my mind Lord. Help me Lord to not worry about my weakness...for I know you will use this weakness to draw me closer to you. Knowing that Your spirit is within me gives me comfort...that I do not fight theses battles alone. Help me build my faith that You can take what looks so often to be bad and make it good. I pray in the name of Jesus - Amen
The Truth
Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid; For the Lord is my strength and my song.
Isaiah 12:2
Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king declared to Daniel, "May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!"
And a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel.
Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting; no diversions were brought to him, and sleep fled from him.
Then, at break of day, the king arose and went in haste to the den of lions.
As he came near to the den where Daniel was, he cried out in a tone of anguish. The king declared to Daniel, "O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?"
Then Daniel said to the king, "O king, live forever!
My God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm."
Daniel 6:16-22
22 Because the king's order was urgent and the furnace overheated, the flame of the fire killed those men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell bound into the burning fiery furnace.
24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, "Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?" They answered and said to the king, "True, O king."
25 He answered and said, "But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods."
26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the burning fiery furnace; he declared, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come here!" Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire.
27 And the satraps, the prefects, the governors, and the king's counselors gathered together and saw that the fire had not had any power over the bodies of those men. The hair of their heads was not singed, their cloaks were not harmed, and no smell of fire had come upon them.
28 Nebuchadnezzar answered and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set aside the king's command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.
29 Therefore I make a decree: Any people, nation, or language that speaks anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego shall be torn limb from limb, and their houses laid in ruins, for there is no other god who is able to rescue in this way."
30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the province of Babylon.
Daniel 3:22-30
24 And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep.
25 And they went and woke him, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing."
26 And he said to them, "Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?" Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.
27 And the men marveled, saying, "What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?"
Matthew 8:24-27
Friday, April 17, 2009
Stepping Stones: A Shield Works Best In Front
Transformational Tip
Every Christian knows what it's like to feel unqualified for a task. We are all unqualified. Our strength can go just so far. That is where the Lord wants us to be, at our end... At the point where we have to look up and ask for help. When we are weak He is strong.
He is God. The Creator of all. Wow. I can't get my mind around that one. I would not want to serve a God where I totally understood every thing He did and why He did it. It is about Faith and Trust.
God doesn't need our plans and ideas; He wants our attention. He does not need our time; He wants our adoration. He does not want us to spend hours thinking up things for Him to do and bless. I am so grateful that we serve a God that is not dependent on our strength, our time, and our money. What a mess that would be.
He wants us in a place where we know that it is Him leading. He is our shield and a shield works best in front, not behind us. Our question must be; what is it you want me to do Lord? Most of us don't even know our own hearts. Our ways are not His ways. So keep that open, honest heart. Keep looking up and ask for His direction.
What are you using as your shield? Is it God?.....or is it your finances......looks..... smarts.......ability to plan......kids......ways you avoid discomfort (porn, alcohol, caffeine, shopping, fantasizing)? Why are you using that instead of God? and is it really getting you what God can deliver if you used Him as your shield? Try God, you'll be pleasantly surprised.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
Today I put You in front, not me. Thank you for the trials that can cause me to trust you...and thank You for being my shield. I pray for all those who are trying to put themselves in front and who are trying to weather life's storm's without You. Help me to always give praise to you during the really hard things in life. I know you are working all things out for your Glory.
In Jesus' name we pray, AMEN.
The Truth
After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great."
Genesis 15:1
This God--his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.
2 Samuel 22:31
The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.
Psalm 28:7
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose
Rom 8:28
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;
Ephesians 6:16
Every Christian knows what it's like to feel unqualified for a task. We are all unqualified. Our strength can go just so far. That is where the Lord wants us to be, at our end... At the point where we have to look up and ask for help. When we are weak He is strong.
He is God. The Creator of all. Wow. I can't get my mind around that one. I would not want to serve a God where I totally understood every thing He did and why He did it. It is about Faith and Trust.
God doesn't need our plans and ideas; He wants our attention. He does not need our time; He wants our adoration. He does not want us to spend hours thinking up things for Him to do and bless. I am so grateful that we serve a God that is not dependent on our strength, our time, and our money. What a mess that would be.
He wants us in a place where we know that it is Him leading. He is our shield and a shield works best in front, not behind us. Our question must be; what is it you want me to do Lord? Most of us don't even know our own hearts. Our ways are not His ways. So keep that open, honest heart. Keep looking up and ask for His direction.
What are you using as your shield? Is it God?.....or is it your finances......looks..... smarts.......ability to plan......kids......ways you avoid discomfort (porn, alcohol, caffeine, shopping, fantasizing)? Why are you using that instead of God? and is it really getting you what God can deliver if you used Him as your shield? Try God, you'll be pleasantly surprised.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
Today I put You in front, not me. Thank you for the trials that can cause me to trust you...and thank You for being my shield. I pray for all those who are trying to put themselves in front and who are trying to weather life's storm's without You. Help me to always give praise to you during the really hard things in life. I know you are working all things out for your Glory.
In Jesus' name we pray, AMEN.
The Truth
After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great."
Genesis 15:1
This God--his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.
2 Samuel 22:31
The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.
Psalm 28:7
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose
Rom 8:28
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;
Ephesians 6:16
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Stepping Stones: Thoughts of Peace, Not Of Evil
Transformational Tip
Our Lord's word can bring so much peace to believers. In Jeremiah we are told so clearly if we pray to Him He will listen. If we search for Him with all our heart we will find Him. But remember that it all begins with believing. As you get into God's Word, you will find His amazing reliability in standing by His people when they believe and obey(when they don't obey, He continues to pursue us and gives us many chances to obey). You also find amazing accuracy as it describes who we are, how and why we go astray, and what the curative process is for us in this lifetime and the everafter. No book, religion, or belief system is so accurate with as much depth as the HOLY BIBLE. It still amazes me
brain scans are now revealing the accuracy and truth of the Bible that God revealed through His humble servants 2000 - 3000 years ago. Why would you want to use anything else as your instruction book other the BIBLE (Best Instruction Book for Living Everyday or Best Instructions Before Leaving Earth). Keep in mind today the simple formula to a life that you are promised by God;
Believe > Receive > Become
Prayer
Father God, I believe that You have thoughts of peace and not of evil for me. Thank You for the clarity of Your word. I believe You have plans for me and a special future and know You have given me hope. I know that when I call upon You and pray to You, You will listen. I know that when I search for You, I find You for You are always there for me. I know that You, and only You, have the power to bring me out of captivity. I thank You, my Father in heaven, for Your love and Your plans and the future I have in You. Thank You for Jesus, my Savior, for without Him, I am nothing; lost and alone. With love in His name I pray, AMEN.
The Truth
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back from your captivity..."
Jeremiah 29:11
I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life.
I am yours; save me, for I have sought your precepts.
The wicked lie in wait to destroy me, but I consider your testimonies.
I have seen a limit to all perfection, but your commandment is exceedingly broad.
Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.
I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word.
I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me.
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119: 93-105
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Our Lord's word can bring so much peace to believers. In Jeremiah we are told so clearly if we pray to Him He will listen. If we search for Him with all our heart we will find Him. But remember that it all begins with believing. As you get into God's Word, you will find His amazing reliability in standing by His people when they believe and obey(when they don't obey, He continues to pursue us and gives us many chances to obey). You also find amazing accuracy as it describes who we are, how and why we go astray, and what the curative process is for us in this lifetime and the everafter. No book, religion, or belief system is so accurate with as much depth as the HOLY BIBLE. It still amazes me
brain scans are now revealing the accuracy and truth of the Bible that God revealed through His humble servants 2000 - 3000 years ago. Why would you want to use anything else as your instruction book other the BIBLE (Best Instruction Book for Living Everyday or Best Instructions Before Leaving Earth). Keep in mind today the simple formula to a life that you are promised by God;
Believe > Receive > Become
Prayer
Father God, I believe that You have thoughts of peace and not of evil for me. Thank You for the clarity of Your word. I believe You have plans for me and a special future and know You have given me hope. I know that when I call upon You and pray to You, You will listen. I know that when I search for You, I find You for You are always there for me. I know that You, and only You, have the power to bring me out of captivity. I thank You, my Father in heaven, for Your love and Your plans and the future I have in You. Thank You for Jesus, my Savior, for without Him, I am nothing; lost and alone. With love in His name I pray, AMEN.
The Truth
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back from your captivity..."
Jeremiah 29:11
I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life.
I am yours; save me, for I have sought your precepts.
The wicked lie in wait to destroy me, but I consider your testimonies.
I have seen a limit to all perfection, but your commandment is exceedingly broad.
Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.
I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word.
I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me.
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119: 93-105
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Stepping Stones: There Is No Knowing, There Is Only Faith
Transformational Tip
Many times we use our lack of knowledge as an excuse for believing and receiving. We think there are things we need to know. In reality, there is so little we need to know...it's not about knowing, it's about believing.
We also live with the unnecessary burden that our faith is not strong enough. Jesus teaches us through His Word that the amount of faith we have is not as important as its genuineness. Are we genuinely living what we believe? We all have our intellectual creed, but is our behavioral creed, you know, what we actually do each day, really what we know is the right thing to do. Taking a look at what we actually do is how we assess what our beliefs actually are. If I believe time with my kids is a high priority, but I keep blowing them off to watch ESPN, read the financial reports, or take a nap, I find out the my belief really is my kids aren't a priority at all, no matter how much I say it is.
Lastly, the most important thing.....What do you put your faith in. I can have 100%, strong faith in a rock to keep me afloat. It ain't going to work. I can have 100%, strong faith in my arms to help me fly when I jump off my roof. Again, not the right thing to put my faith in to get desirable results. What do you put your faith in for your eternal destiny, and everyday life management. Instead of self, others, and things, trust in Jesus, God, and the Bible. You won't be disappointed.
Go to the "Spiritual Basics" link at the bottom of this devotional and then click on "Salvation" to learn more about what little we need to know in order to receive God's gifts.
Prayer
Dear God our Father, I take baby steps of faith, and based on this genuine faith, I am confident that You will show me what You can do. I want to know the excitement of seeing Your Work in me. All glory to you my Lord.
Through faith I receive Your Spirit. Help me get out of the way of Your Spirit today and everyday. Your Spirit empowers me to go beyond my human limitations...beyond my physical ability and strength...for without You I am so much weaker. Help me Lord to not measure my human limitations as I face the challenges and burdens before me today. Help me remember that the issue is not my human limitations...the issue is Your Strength, not mine. I believe by walking closer to you, I can better understand and accomplish Your purpose with Your strength, not mine.
I pray in the name and authority of Jesus Christ. Amen
The Truth
And the apostles said unto the lord, Increase our faith.
And the Lord said, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you."
Luke 17:5-6
6 He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
7 On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God.
8 Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah
Psalm 62:6-8
Many times we use our lack of knowledge as an excuse for believing and receiving. We think there are things we need to know. In reality, there is so little we need to know...it's not about knowing, it's about believing.
We also live with the unnecessary burden that our faith is not strong enough. Jesus teaches us through His Word that the amount of faith we have is not as important as its genuineness. Are we genuinely living what we believe? We all have our intellectual creed, but is our behavioral creed, you know, what we actually do each day, really what we know is the right thing to do. Taking a look at what we actually do is how we assess what our beliefs actually are. If I believe time with my kids is a high priority, but I keep blowing them off to watch ESPN, read the financial reports, or take a nap, I find out the my belief really is my kids aren't a priority at all, no matter how much I say it is.
Lastly, the most important thing.....What do you put your faith in. I can have 100%, strong faith in a rock to keep me afloat. It ain't going to work. I can have 100%, strong faith in my arms to help me fly when I jump off my roof. Again, not the right thing to put my faith in to get desirable results. What do you put your faith in for your eternal destiny, and everyday life management. Instead of self, others, and things, trust in Jesus, God, and the Bible. You won't be disappointed.
Go to the "Spiritual Basics" link at the bottom of this devotional and then click on "Salvation" to learn more about what little we need to know in order to receive God's gifts.
Prayer
Dear God our Father, I take baby steps of faith, and based on this genuine faith, I am confident that You will show me what You can do. I want to know the excitement of seeing Your Work in me. All glory to you my Lord.
Through faith I receive Your Spirit. Help me get out of the way of Your Spirit today and everyday. Your Spirit empowers me to go beyond my human limitations...beyond my physical ability and strength...for without You I am so much weaker. Help me Lord to not measure my human limitations as I face the challenges and burdens before me today. Help me remember that the issue is not my human limitations...the issue is Your Strength, not mine. I believe by walking closer to you, I can better understand and accomplish Your purpose with Your strength, not mine.
I pray in the name and authority of Jesus Christ. Amen
The Truth
And the apostles said unto the lord, Increase our faith.
And the Lord said, "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you."
Luke 17:5-6
6 He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
7 On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God.
8 Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah
Psalm 62:6-8
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Stepping Stones: Do You Dreams Scare You? They Should!
Transformational Tip
"If your dreams don't scare you, then you aren't really dreaming." This really impacted me when I first heard it as a young teenager in the mid 70's. I was a planner and a plodder, had some potential for a bright future, but always liked to have a game plan. For me to just wing it was a bit difficult at times, but I often admired when my friends weren't so regimented like me.
As I have grown with God, I realized God has an incredible plan for me that is truly unique and beyond my wildest dreams. Combining how God has gifted me, what He gave me a passion for, the experiences He's brought into my life, the education He gave me opportunity to receive, the supports, people, and resources He has positioned in my life produces a blend that is totally different than any one else's. So His plan for me is unique....never happened to anyone before. He wants more for me than I do and has THE perfect role for me.
I need to be able to dream and visualize something that there is no direct precedence and that should scare me a bit, make me nervous, and stretch me. If my dreams don't scare me, then I'm not really dreaming...I am just planning. The downside in planning is I put me in a box and limit me.....but, worse than that is putting the Holy Spirit and God in a box(like keeping the genie in the lamp) and limiting the amazing plans He has for me, because of my lack of vision, readiness, and lack of trust and openness to His plan instead of mine. The biggest loss is the realization that my relationship with God isn't close enough so my understanding of His direction for me is not clear enough to dream what God's perfect and all-powerful will might have for me.
After seeing the Easter miracle and the roles He had for His disciples, don't be afraid to really "dream".... envision how God has prepared you to grow in Him and then be a Lighthouse to the world. It really is OK to be scared or nervous of what you imagine He has for you.....you're probably getting closer to the role He really does have planned to bless you with. Now it's up to you to embrace it and live that life!
Prayer
Dear Perfect Father, thank you so much for all you have brought into my life to get me to this point. I know as the all powerful author of THE story, you have a specific, unique, and perfect role for me to glorify you and impact your kingdom. Give me eyes that see your plan, and a mind that can stretch to be open to your ways and path. Bring me peace when I need to throw away my will and transform me to your ways. Thanks for making us with creativity and imagination and help me use it to fantasize about Spirit driven activities and possibilities and not for sinful fantasies. Lord help those that only plan and don't dream. Show them your power and might so they can take you out of the box and see the life you have then live the life you want for us.
In Jesus' name, AMEN.
The Truth
Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you.
And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.
Gen 12:1-2
But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock.
I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him.
Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God."
And David said, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine."
1 Sam 17:34-37
And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small of stature.
So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way.
And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today."
So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully.
And when they saw it, they all grumbled, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner."
And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold."
And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham.
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
Luke 19:3-10
"If your dreams don't scare you, then you aren't really dreaming." This really impacted me when I first heard it as a young teenager in the mid 70's. I was a planner and a plodder, had some potential for a bright future, but always liked to have a game plan. For me to just wing it was a bit difficult at times, but I often admired when my friends weren't so regimented like me.
As I have grown with God, I realized God has an incredible plan for me that is truly unique and beyond my wildest dreams. Combining how God has gifted me, what He gave me a passion for, the experiences He's brought into my life, the education He gave me opportunity to receive, the supports, people, and resources He has positioned in my life produces a blend that is totally different than any one else's. So His plan for me is unique....never happened to anyone before. He wants more for me than I do and has THE perfect role for me.
I need to be able to dream and visualize something that there is no direct precedence and that should scare me a bit, make me nervous, and stretch me. If my dreams don't scare me, then I'm not really dreaming...I am just planning. The downside in planning is I put me in a box and limit me.....but, worse than that is putting the Holy Spirit and God in a box(like keeping the genie in the lamp) and limiting the amazing plans He has for me, because of my lack of vision, readiness, and lack of trust and openness to His plan instead of mine. The biggest loss is the realization that my relationship with God isn't close enough so my understanding of His direction for me is not clear enough to dream what God's perfect and all-powerful will might have for me.
After seeing the Easter miracle and the roles He had for His disciples, don't be afraid to really "dream".... envision how God has prepared you to grow in Him and then be a Lighthouse to the world. It really is OK to be scared or nervous of what you imagine He has for you.....you're probably getting closer to the role He really does have planned to bless you with. Now it's up to you to embrace it and live that life!
Prayer
Dear Perfect Father, thank you so much for all you have brought into my life to get me to this point. I know as the all powerful author of THE story, you have a specific, unique, and perfect role for me to glorify you and impact your kingdom. Give me eyes that see your plan, and a mind that can stretch to be open to your ways and path. Bring me peace when I need to throw away my will and transform me to your ways. Thanks for making us with creativity and imagination and help me use it to fantasize about Spirit driven activities and possibilities and not for sinful fantasies. Lord help those that only plan and don't dream. Show them your power and might so they can take you out of the box and see the life you have then live the life you want for us.
In Jesus' name, AMEN.
The Truth
Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you.
And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.
Gen 12:1-2
But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father. And when there came a lion, or a bear, and took a lamb from the flock.
I went after him and struck him and delivered it out of his mouth. And if he arose against me, I caught him by his beard and struck him and killed him.
Your servant has struck down both lions and bears, and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God."
And David said, "The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine."
1 Sam 17:34-37
And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small of stature.
So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way.
And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today."
So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully.
And when they saw it, they all grumbled, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner."
And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold."
And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham.
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
Luke 19:3-10
Monday, April 13, 2009
Stepping Stones: Mission Impossible - The Original
Transformational Tip
Did Jesus really die on the cross for my sins? How about come back to life? Then ascend into heaven? These all seem literally unbelievable. Yet here is one reason why I believe them to be true.
From that first Easter Sunday till now, the world is radically different and the spread of Christianity and it's impact is profound. Our calendar is based on Christ, the Bible is still the best seller every year by landslide. We use God's name in everyday language to curse things(I am not advocating) or bless them.
Mission Impossible: Change the world by starting with an "illegitimate" birth to teenage parents in an animal stable in a manger..... in a small occupied outpost of the Roman Empire to a conquered, poor, and rejected people. A socioeconomically lowly carpenter, uneducated, would then pick 12 odd, relative marginal guys from societal standards, and wander around a nowhere land, teaching in the hills and a very small geographic area in the Middle East. Jesus' 12 disciples didn't even get most of the stuff He was teaching and had a hard time applying it as they were still fighting about who Jesus loved the most and who would be at His right hand when He overpowered the ruling powers.
For this Impossible Mission to succeed from this meager beginning, something miraculous had to occur 2000 some years ago because, that day after Christ's death on the Cross the future seemed pretty bleak for the band of 12 disciples and their immediate circle. They were afraid they could be the next to be executed and their leader was humiliatingly and convincingly defeated without a fight.
Only His resurrection and ascension to heaven could ignite, clarify, focus, and convince, this unlikely group of now revolutionary generals/church leaders to engineer the true kingdom revolution that continues today.
Do you believe in miracles? We are no different than the disciples and Mary Magdalene and the rest. God could do the impossible without us, but through His love for us, He longs to include us in doing the impossible. Make yourself available to be part of the impossble and exciting missions God has for you. Don't be afraid or limit yourself or God. He is amazing as we have seen these last 2000 years from that Saturday after Jesus' death.
Prayer
Dear Father, you are so powerful and loving. Thanks for wanting to work with and through us to carry out your plans. I confess I often have my eyes on my agenda, my will, and not yours and miss out on opportunities to have a front row seat and be part of the miracles you are performing or have to abort because of me. Please grow my faith and belief in the impossible and trust you when you don't perform miracles, that your will and timeline are perfect and mine aren't. In Jesus' Holy name and through His miraculous work, AMEN.
The Truth
4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, "you heard from me;
5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
6 So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?"
7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Acts 1:4-8
1 Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!
2 Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works!
3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!
4 Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!
5 Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered,
Psalm 105:1-5
Did Jesus really die on the cross for my sins? How about come back to life? Then ascend into heaven? These all seem literally unbelievable. Yet here is one reason why I believe them to be true.
From that first Easter Sunday till now, the world is radically different and the spread of Christianity and it's impact is profound. Our calendar is based on Christ, the Bible is still the best seller every year by landslide. We use God's name in everyday language to curse things(I am not advocating) or bless them.
Mission Impossible: Change the world by starting with an "illegitimate" birth to teenage parents in an animal stable in a manger..... in a small occupied outpost of the Roman Empire to a conquered, poor, and rejected people. A socioeconomically lowly carpenter, uneducated, would then pick 12 odd, relative marginal guys from societal standards, and wander around a nowhere land, teaching in the hills and a very small geographic area in the Middle East. Jesus' 12 disciples didn't even get most of the stuff He was teaching and had a hard time applying it as they were still fighting about who Jesus loved the most and who would be at His right hand when He overpowered the ruling powers.
For this Impossible Mission to succeed from this meager beginning, something miraculous had to occur 2000 some years ago because, that day after Christ's death on the Cross the future seemed pretty bleak for the band of 12 disciples and their immediate circle. They were afraid they could be the next to be executed and their leader was humiliatingly and convincingly defeated without a fight.
Only His resurrection and ascension to heaven could ignite, clarify, focus, and convince, this unlikely group of now revolutionary generals/church leaders to engineer the true kingdom revolution that continues today.
Do you believe in miracles? We are no different than the disciples and Mary Magdalene and the rest. God could do the impossible without us, but through His love for us, He longs to include us in doing the impossible. Make yourself available to be part of the impossble and exciting missions God has for you. Don't be afraid or limit yourself or God. He is amazing as we have seen these last 2000 years from that Saturday after Jesus' death.
Prayer
Dear Father, you are so powerful and loving. Thanks for wanting to work with and through us to carry out your plans. I confess I often have my eyes on my agenda, my will, and not yours and miss out on opportunities to have a front row seat and be part of the miracles you are performing or have to abort because of me. Please grow my faith and belief in the impossible and trust you when you don't perform miracles, that your will and timeline are perfect and mine aren't. In Jesus' Holy name and through His miraculous work, AMEN.
The Truth
4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, "you heard from me;
5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
6 So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?"
7 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Acts 1:4-8
1 Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!
2 Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works!
3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!
4 Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!
5 Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered,
Psalm 105:1-5
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Stepping Stones: Do You Keep God In A Box/Tomb?
Transformational Tip
When the Mary, Mary, Peter, and the rest visited the tomb on Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Jesus performed many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that he will rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they surprised and not excited to see an empty tomb. Seems like they would be rejoicing and looking for where he would appear to them.
How often do we react the same way...... believe God is as limited as us, think He's restricted to the same reality we are, don't believe His promises and predictions, and underestimate His power.
My life has really changed when I realized he is bigger than me and I believe what He promises and expect the unexpected!
Don't expect God to be dormant in a Tomb. He is at work in and around you.... expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it.
Thank God the tomb is empty, but why were they surprised. I hope you aren't in your everyday trials.
Happy Easter from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death bolden and encourage your advancement against whatever trials and threats you are facing.
Prayer
Thank you Father for your power you give us by Christ's death and resurrection and through your Holy Spirit to be free of sin's grip and Satan's schemes. Give me a heart that will love you even 1/1000 of what you love me. Keep fresh in my mind your promises and character, so in times of uncertainty, I don't put you in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of your plan and power. I pray you grant our readers eyes that see your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name, AMEN!
The Truth
40 For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise."
32 But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
20 The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
When the Mary, Mary, Peter, and the rest visited the tomb on Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Jesus performed many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that he will rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they surprised and not excited to see an empty tomb. Seems like they would be rejoicing and looking for where he would appear to them.
How often do we react the same way...... believe God is as limited as us, think He's restricted to the same reality we are, don't believe His promises and predictions, and underestimate His power.
My life has really changed when I realized he is bigger than me and I believe what He promises and expect the unexpected!
Don't expect God to be dormant in a Tomb. He is at work in and around you.... expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it.
Thank God the tomb is empty, but why were they surprised. I hope you aren't in your everyday trials.
Happy Easter from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death bolden and encourage your advancement against whatever trials and threats you are facing.
Prayer
Thank you Father for your power you give us by Christ's death and resurrection and through your Holy Spirit to be free of sin's grip and Satan's schemes. Give me a heart that will love you even 1/1000 of what you love me. Keep fresh in my mind your promises and character, so in times of uncertainty, I don't put you in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of your plan and power. I pray you grant our readers eyes that see your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name, AMEN!
The Truth
40 For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise."
32 But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
20 The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Stepping Stones: Are You A Judas Or A Peter?
Transformational Tip
When we know the outcome, hindsight in 20:20. Well, 2000 years ago, on that day between Christ's crucifixion and resurrection(sorry to spoil the surprise), the disciples must have been in disarray, discouraged, bewildered, afraid for their lives, etc. Most affected I think would be Judas who betrayed Jesus for a little money(on the surface), and "ever faithful" Peter, who denied Jesus 3 times, even after Jesus told Peter he would and Peter, in disbelief, said he wouldn't deny Christ.
Both Judas and Peter screwed up and rejected Christ....now they have a major DECISION to make. Receive God's forgiveness, victory over sin, and love, and put your trust and confidence in Him and His Son who died for us and joyously rejoice...... Or let sin defeat them, wallow in guilt, and self pity, be miserable, and kill ourselves, whether literally like Judas or emotionally, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually, like so many of us do. Judas relied on his own abilities and resources, realized how flawed and impotent those are to deal with his act, and decided to kill himself. Peter relied on God's abilities and resources, realized how perfect and omnipotent they are to deal with his act, and chose to glorify God and live a victorious life.
We face this decision regularly, as we are sinners and sin a bunch....rejecting Jesus when we choose my will be done instead of thy will be done.
Choose to side with our victorious Savior, don't be faked out by Satan as he wants you to believe your situation is bleak, your actions are irreparable, and Jesus is not victorious.
Judas killed himself....Peter become the rock of the early church that revolutionized the world.
What will you decide? And don't let it be one and done, but make it an intentional, daily, decision. Whether you achieve your God-given potential and attain the love, joy and peace you strive for depends on it.
Prayer
O gracious Father. I confess that even though I intellectually have you on the throne of my heart and mind, in reality, I reject your kingship and put my selfish desires, agendas, and need to avoid discomfort on the throne. Thank you so much for your forgiveness that you extend to me, unconditionally, even when I reject you big-time, or for a long time. Like the incredible father who received his prodigal son, you have your arms open for me every time I return. Then you have a feast and bless me beyond my dreams. Help the amazement of your greatness and goodness energize me daily. Grow me to be as gracious to others as you have been to me. In Jesus' sacrificial name. AMEN.
The Truth
2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples.
3 So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons.
4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, "Whom do you seek?"
5 They answered him, "Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus said to them, "I am he." Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them.
John 18:2-5
56 Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the light and looking closely at him, said, "This man also was with him."
57 But he denied it, saying, "Woman, I do not know him."
58 And a little later someone else saw him and said, "You also are one of them." But Peter said, "Man, I am not."
59 And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, "Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean."
60 But Peter said, "Man, I do not know what you are talking about." And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times."
62 And he went out and wept bitterly.
Luke 22:56-62
3 Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders,
4 saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself."
5 And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5
1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
1Peter 1:1-3
19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, "Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, 'A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me'?
20 Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.
21 When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.
22 So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
John 16:19-22
When we know the outcome, hindsight in 20:20. Well, 2000 years ago, on that day between Christ's crucifixion and resurrection(sorry to spoil the surprise), the disciples must have been in disarray, discouraged, bewildered, afraid for their lives, etc. Most affected I think would be Judas who betrayed Jesus for a little money(on the surface), and "ever faithful" Peter, who denied Jesus 3 times, even after Jesus told Peter he would and Peter, in disbelief, said he wouldn't deny Christ.
Both Judas and Peter screwed up and rejected Christ....now they have a major DECISION to make. Receive God's forgiveness, victory over sin, and love, and put your trust and confidence in Him and His Son who died for us and joyously rejoice...... Or let sin defeat them, wallow in guilt, and self pity, be miserable, and kill ourselves, whether literally like Judas or emotionally, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually, like so many of us do. Judas relied on his own abilities and resources, realized how flawed and impotent those are to deal with his act, and decided to kill himself. Peter relied on God's abilities and resources, realized how perfect and omnipotent they are to deal with his act, and chose to glorify God and live a victorious life.
We face this decision regularly, as we are sinners and sin a bunch....rejecting Jesus when we choose my will be done instead of thy will be done.
Choose to side with our victorious Savior, don't be faked out by Satan as he wants you to believe your situation is bleak, your actions are irreparable, and Jesus is not victorious.
Judas killed himself....Peter become the rock of the early church that revolutionized the world.
What will you decide? And don't let it be one and done, but make it an intentional, daily, decision. Whether you achieve your God-given potential and attain the love, joy and peace you strive for depends on it.
Prayer
O gracious Father. I confess that even though I intellectually have you on the throne of my heart and mind, in reality, I reject your kingship and put my selfish desires, agendas, and need to avoid discomfort on the throne. Thank you so much for your forgiveness that you extend to me, unconditionally, even when I reject you big-time, or for a long time. Like the incredible father who received his prodigal son, you have your arms open for me every time I return. Then you have a feast and bless me beyond my dreams. Help the amazement of your greatness and goodness energize me daily. Grow me to be as gracious to others as you have been to me. In Jesus' sacrificial name. AMEN.
The Truth
2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples.
3 So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons.
4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, "Whom do you seek?"
5 They answered him, "Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus said to them, "I am he." Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them.
John 18:2-5
56 Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the light and looking closely at him, said, "This man also was with him."
57 But he denied it, saying, "Woman, I do not know him."
58 And a little later someone else saw him and said, "You also are one of them." But Peter said, "Man, I am not."
59 And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, "Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean."
60 But Peter said, "Man, I do not know what you are talking about." And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.
61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times."
62 And he went out and wept bitterly.
Luke 22:56-62
3 Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders,
4 saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself."
5 And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5
1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
1Peter 1:1-3
19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, "Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, 'A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me'?
20 Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.
21 When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.
22 So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
John 16:19-22
Friday, April 10, 2009
Stepping Stones: The Greatest Day of All Time
Transformational Tip
I was on national TV when I was 12 and 13. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18, and my wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th. The day I met my wife - love at first sight. Wedding Day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest girls a father could have. These were great days, but amazingly, I wasn't even alive for the greatest day of my life.
About 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man ever, endured humiliation, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross for ME! He took my punishment for all(that is a lot) my sins(big ones and little ones). He was even willing to endure the 3 hour separation from His Father as He bore our sins. He was willing to do that for Me and YOU!
Because of that GREAT FRIDAY, in accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan's power, man's schemes, or sin's guilt. I am in God's loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace, no matter what God allows to come into my life.
Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours too, just humbly accept Christ as your Savior and King..... He died for your daily and eternal freedom, too.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above, to a dirty manger, lived as a menial carpenter's life in a slave family, worked with 12 guys that needed a lot of help, was falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed.....for me. I am sorry I stray from you, but your love and sacrifice doesn't depend on my obedience, it truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and your redeeming act every day, and live a rejoicing life so other's see your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus' great and humble name above all names. Amen.
The Truth
34 And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments.
35 And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!"
36 The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine
37 and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!"
38 There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews."
39 One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
40 But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?
41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong."
42 And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
43 And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
44 It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour,
45 while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.
46 Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last.
47 Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
I was on national TV when I was 12 and 13. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18, and my wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th. The day I met my wife - love at first sight. Wedding Day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest girls a father could have. These were great days, but amazingly, I wasn't even alive for the greatest day of my life.
About 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man ever, endured humiliation, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross for ME! He took my punishment for all(that is a lot) my sins(big ones and little ones). He was even willing to endure the 3 hour separation from His Father as He bore our sins. He was willing to do that for Me and YOU!
Because of that GREAT FRIDAY, in accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan's power, man's schemes, or sin's guilt. I am in God's loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace, no matter what God allows to come into my life.
Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours too, just humbly accept Christ as your Savior and King..... He died for your daily and eternal freedom, too.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above, to a dirty manger, lived as a menial carpenter's life in a slave family, worked with 12 guys that needed a lot of help, was falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed.....for me. I am sorry I stray from you, but your love and sacrifice doesn't depend on my obedience, it truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and your redeeming act every day, and live a rejoicing life so other's see your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus' great and humble name above all names. Amen.
The Truth
34 And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments.
35 And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!"
36 The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine
37 and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!"
38 There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews."
39 One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
40 But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?
41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong."
42 And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
43 And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
44 It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour,
45 while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two.
46 Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last.
47 Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Stepping Stones: Thy Kingdom, Thy Will or My Kingdom, My Will
Transformational Tip
Trying to control circumstances, details, events, and even people is a mirage I lustfully pursue at times. Avoiding the possibility of discomfort, uneasiness, uncertainty, or pain usually drives my controlling tendencies. I think my plan better serves my needs, and since I am a nice guy, my plan will benefit others also.
Even Jesus, when anticipating that immense pain just before that Good Friday 2000 years ago, wondered for a moment if He had a better plan than God..... but knew that God's plan really was the perfect plan. So Jesus who was perfect, all powerful, and all knowing, was willing to trust His Father's will and agenda instead of his own.
We are ignorant, know nothing of the future, have minimal power over ourselves, let alone others, events, and circumstances. Yet we try, even demand to control and manipulate to avoid minor discomfort. When other things happen anyways because we can't control much at all, we dare doubt God's plan and wish our will occurred instead of the circumstances our Loving and Omnipotent God willed into our life.
Who died and left you king of your kingdom? Actually Jesus died for you to show you He has the power and authority to be the king of your life.
If Jesus could be a servant in God's kingdom, we should be grateful and happy to be a servant to the King of Kings.
In today's decisions, compare your will to His, please choose His. Life is better that way.........mine certainly is!
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess that I am impatient at times and want my will to have immediate gratification and answers. Thank you for your patience with me, and the grace you grant me, daily, in protecting me from my will, and helping me see your love and wisdom in your ways. Continue to open my eyes so I can get out of the Holy Spirit's way in teaching me humility and openness to your authority and will in and for my life. Continue to transform my heart to conform to your desires and not my own. Thanks for sending Jesus to die for me, so I could join your Kingdom forever. In my Savior's name, Amen.
The Truth
And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
Luke 22:41-44
I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."
Psalm 40:8
Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.
John 4:34
Trying to control circumstances, details, events, and even people is a mirage I lustfully pursue at times. Avoiding the possibility of discomfort, uneasiness, uncertainty, or pain usually drives my controlling tendencies. I think my plan better serves my needs, and since I am a nice guy, my plan will benefit others also.
Even Jesus, when anticipating that immense pain just before that Good Friday 2000 years ago, wondered for a moment if He had a better plan than God..... but knew that God's plan really was the perfect plan. So Jesus who was perfect, all powerful, and all knowing, was willing to trust His Father's will and agenda instead of his own.
We are ignorant, know nothing of the future, have minimal power over ourselves, let alone others, events, and circumstances. Yet we try, even demand to control and manipulate to avoid minor discomfort. When other things happen anyways because we can't control much at all, we dare doubt God's plan and wish our will occurred instead of the circumstances our Loving and Omnipotent God willed into our life.
Who died and left you king of your kingdom? Actually Jesus died for you to show you He has the power and authority to be the king of your life.
If Jesus could be a servant in God's kingdom, we should be grateful and happy to be a servant to the King of Kings.
In today's decisions, compare your will to His, please choose His. Life is better that way.........mine certainly is!
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess that I am impatient at times and want my will to have immediate gratification and answers. Thank you for your patience with me, and the grace you grant me, daily, in protecting me from my will, and helping me see your love and wisdom in your ways. Continue to open my eyes so I can get out of the Holy Spirit's way in teaching me humility and openness to your authority and will in and for my life. Continue to transform my heart to conform to your desires and not my own. Thanks for sending Jesus to die for me, so I could join your Kingdom forever. In my Savior's name, Amen.
The Truth
And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
Luke 22:41-44
I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart."
Psalm 40:8
Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.
John 4:34
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Stepping Stones: Do You Have Eyes That Really See?
Transformational Tip
Why do we believe lies? Some of us spend our lives convincing ourselves that certain things about us and others are true, when in fact, we're deceiving ourselves. We begin this as a defense mechanism stemming from a survival instinct, and as children, it may be the only way we can cope with difficult situations.
At what point do we begin to face reality? For some of us, we never do and spend our lives making excuses for those who mistreat us and putting up with it because of feeling unworthy of respect, fear of their rejection, or perhaps, fearing their reaction if we stand up to them. But God calls us His children who are worthy of respect because of our relationship with Him. We must begin to believe this truth and act on it.
Today, stop and think about a couple of your decisions. Analyze the information about yourself and others that you are using to make that decision. Run the info by a couple close friends to see if your information is accurate, or better yet, compare it to the Bible's truth. Sometimes you'll be amazed at the cracks(distortions) in our foundations, hindering our (and the Holy Spirit's) efforts to become strong Lighthouses as we face life's storms.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, I thank You for calling me your child and drawing me into Your arms where I will find comfort and peace. Your forgiveness toward me is more than I deserve, yet You give it freely out of Your great love for me. Though I don't understand why You do it, I accept Your mercy and grace, and cling to You as my source of dignity, strength and acceptance. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The Truth
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you...when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned...For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you..."
Isaiah 43:1-4
"...If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free."
John 8:31-32
You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.
Psalm 51:6
Why do we believe lies? Some of us spend our lives convincing ourselves that certain things about us and others are true, when in fact, we're deceiving ourselves. We begin this as a defense mechanism stemming from a survival instinct, and as children, it may be the only way we can cope with difficult situations.
At what point do we begin to face reality? For some of us, we never do and spend our lives making excuses for those who mistreat us and putting up with it because of feeling unworthy of respect, fear of their rejection, or perhaps, fearing their reaction if we stand up to them. But God calls us His children who are worthy of respect because of our relationship with Him. We must begin to believe this truth and act on it.
Today, stop and think about a couple of your decisions. Analyze the information about yourself and others that you are using to make that decision. Run the info by a couple close friends to see if your information is accurate, or better yet, compare it to the Bible's truth. Sometimes you'll be amazed at the cracks(distortions) in our foundations, hindering our (and the Holy Spirit's) efforts to become strong Lighthouses as we face life's storms.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, I thank You for calling me your child and drawing me into Your arms where I will find comfort and peace. Your forgiveness toward me is more than I deserve, yet You give it freely out of Your great love for me. Though I don't understand why You do it, I accept Your mercy and grace, and cling to You as my source of dignity, strength and acceptance. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The Truth
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you...when you walk through the fire, you will not be burned...For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you..."
Isaiah 43:1-4
"...If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free."
John 8:31-32
You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.
Psalm 51:6
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Stepping Stone: "Certain Woman", Armors Up for Victory
Transformational Tip
I am thinking about the "certain woman" in Mark who has spent all of her money on many doctors for 12 years to cure her hemorrhaging sickness, all to no avail. When she heard Jesus was coming, she said, "If I could just touch His clothes, I would be cured." How did she know that? How did she know she wouldn't have to ask, beg, or even look at Him? The answer is simply this....she was a woman who knew the Word of God!
She knew her Old Testament scripture. Jesus was a rabbi and therefore wore a rabbi's garment, which had a "fringe" around the bottom, the hem, which was called the "wings" of the garment. She knew that Malachi 4:2 tells us that His omnipotence was such that it permeated His clothes, thus there was healing in His "wings". This woman put on the Armor of God - the Belt of Truth, the Sword of the Spirit, and the Shield of Faith in particular.
(see the link to Spiritual Basics and then click on "Armor of God")
Prayer
O Father, how wonderful is your Word that enlightens us and stabilizes our soul/mind in this troubled world. Help me to be a woman of the Word like this "certain woman" whose confidence and trust was rooted in the truth of Your Word and your faithfulness in abiding by Your promises. "I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your loving-kindness and for Your truth's sake; for You have magnified Your Word above all Your name."(Psalm 138:2)
In Jesus' Holy name, AMEN!
The Truth
And a certain woman who had had an issue of blood twelve years, and had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and had not been bettered any, but rather came to worse, having heard about Jesus, she came in the press behind and touched His garment. For she said, If I may but touch only His clothes, I will be cured. And instantly the fountain of her blood dried up. And she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. And knowing instantly within Himself that power had gone out of Him, Jesus turned Himself around in the press and said, Who touched My clothes? And His disciples said to Him, You see the crowd pressing on You, and do You say, Who touched Me? And He looked around to see her who had done this thing. But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had been done in her, came and fell down before Him and told Him all the truth. And He said to her, Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be whole from your plague.
Mark 5:25-34
And they begged Him that they might only touch the hem of His robe. And as many as touched were made perfectly whole.
Matthew 14:36
But to you who fear My name, the Sun of Righteousness shall arise, and healing will be on His wings.
Malachi 4:2
I am thinking about the "certain woman" in Mark who has spent all of her money on many doctors for 12 years to cure her hemorrhaging sickness, all to no avail. When she heard Jesus was coming, she said, "If I could just touch His clothes, I would be cured." How did she know that? How did she know she wouldn't have to ask, beg, or even look at Him? The answer is simply this....she was a woman who knew the Word of God!
She knew her Old Testament scripture. Jesus was a rabbi and therefore wore a rabbi's garment, which had a "fringe" around the bottom, the hem, which was called the "wings" of the garment. She knew that Malachi 4:2 tells us that His omnipotence was such that it permeated His clothes, thus there was healing in His "wings". This woman put on the Armor of God - the Belt of Truth, the Sword of the Spirit, and the Shield of Faith in particular.
(see the link to Spiritual Basics and then click on "Armor of God")
Prayer
O Father, how wonderful is your Word that enlightens us and stabilizes our soul/mind in this troubled world. Help me to be a woman of the Word like this "certain woman" whose confidence and trust was rooted in the truth of Your Word and your faithfulness in abiding by Your promises. "I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your loving-kindness and for Your truth's sake; for You have magnified Your Word above all Your name."(Psalm 138:2)
In Jesus' Holy name, AMEN!
The Truth
And a certain woman who had had an issue of blood twelve years, and had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and had not been bettered any, but rather came to worse, having heard about Jesus, she came in the press behind and touched His garment. For she said, If I may but touch only His clothes, I will be cured. And instantly the fountain of her blood dried up. And she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. And knowing instantly within Himself that power had gone out of Him, Jesus turned Himself around in the press and said, Who touched My clothes? And His disciples said to Him, You see the crowd pressing on You, and do You say, Who touched Me? And He looked around to see her who had done this thing. But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had been done in her, came and fell down before Him and told Him all the truth. And He said to her, Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be whole from your plague.
Mark 5:25-34
And they begged Him that they might only touch the hem of His robe. And as many as touched were made perfectly whole.
Matthew 14:36
But to you who fear My name, the Sun of Righteousness shall arise, and healing will be on His wings.
Malachi 4:2
Monday, April 6, 2009
Stepping Stones: Your Future Secured
Transformational Tip
Knowing that your future is absolutely secured can free you to live abundantly today. Know that your Lord has prepared this day for you with the highest concern imaginable. When I was playing a game that we were heavy favorites, or taking a practice test, or giving a presentation that wasn't graded, I was so free to experiment and try knew ways to be better without fear of punishment, embarrassment, or failure. As a Christian, the war is won and we are victors through Christ. Do we go into each day with a victors' attitude and fearlessness, or are we hesitant and worried about the outcome. Instead of approaching the day as a blank page that you need to fill up, try living in an ever responsive mode....celebrating His victory and the spiritual spoils and blessings He promises us.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I take refuge in You. I come to you with a deep level of trust. This trust is not always easy for me, but I try to remember that Your way is the perfect way. I know by Your Word that nothing can deny me my promised inheritance in heaven. Thank You Lord. I know that even if I falter as I go through this day, this life, You will never let go of my hand. Thank you for defeating Satan, sin, and death, and for taking my penalty. Please help me live out of the freedom of your victory and the gratitude of your love, sacrifice, and perfect provision for my all my needs. Thank You Father. In Jesus' name, AMEN.
The Truth
The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
This God-his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.
Psalm 18:30
Knowing that your future is absolutely secured can free you to live abundantly today. Know that your Lord has prepared this day for you with the highest concern imaginable. When I was playing a game that we were heavy favorites, or taking a practice test, or giving a presentation that wasn't graded, I was so free to experiment and try knew ways to be better without fear of punishment, embarrassment, or failure. As a Christian, the war is won and we are victors through Christ. Do we go into each day with a victors' attitude and fearlessness, or are we hesitant and worried about the outcome. Instead of approaching the day as a blank page that you need to fill up, try living in an ever responsive mode....celebrating His victory and the spiritual spoils and blessings He promises us.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I take refuge in You. I come to you with a deep level of trust. This trust is not always easy for me, but I try to remember that Your way is the perfect way. I know by Your Word that nothing can deny me my promised inheritance in heaven. Thank You Lord. I know that even if I falter as I go through this day, this life, You will never let go of my hand. Thank you for defeating Satan, sin, and death, and for taking my penalty. Please help me live out of the freedom of your victory and the gratitude of your love, sacrifice, and perfect provision for my all my needs. Thank You Father. In Jesus' name, AMEN.
The Truth
The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
This God-his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.
Psalm 18:30
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Stepping Stones: What Are You? A Carrot, Egg, or Coffee Bean?
Transformational Tip
A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee... Believe me, you will never look at a cup of coffee, or adversity the same way again.
A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life, and how things were so hard for her. She said she did not know how she was going to make it, and felt like she just wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling... It seemed as if when one problem was solved, a new one arose. Her mother calmly took her into the kitchen. She filled three pots with water, and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to a boil.
In the first pot, her mother placed carrots; in the second, she placed eggs; and in the last, she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil, without saying a word. In about 20 minutes, she turned off the burners. She then fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them into a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.
Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see?" "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.
Her mother brought her over closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee... The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.
The daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"
Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the exact same adversity ... boiling water. And each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak, more pliable. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid-like interior, but after sitting in the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.
"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"
Think of this: 'Which am I?'
Am I the carrot that seems strong... but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit... but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship, or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same... but on the inside am I bitter and tough, with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?
Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water... the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor.
If you ARE like the bean... when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you.
When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest... do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity?
Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Count your blessings, not your problems...
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess that I often let adversity affect me before I seek You and use Your lenses to see my circumstances and situations more clearly. Thank you for not giving up on me, even though I stray from your ways. Thank you for protecting me from situations that would only be harmful and no benefit could come from them. Please help me be humble to your plan for me and your strategy to grow me, so I can see all the situations you bring into my life as opportunities for my growth and to glorify your name. Strengthen me to step up and accept the challenge and let the power of the Holy Spirit flow through me, and not to cringe back and get in the way of Your Spirit. I give thanks for all things You bring in my life.
In Jesus' name, all God's people say, AMEN.
The Truth
And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
Gen 45:5-8
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Phil 4:6-7
A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee... Believe me, you will never look at a cup of coffee, or adversity the same way again.
A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life, and how things were so hard for her. She said she did not know how she was going to make it, and felt like she just wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling... It seemed as if when one problem was solved, a new one arose. Her mother calmly took her into the kitchen. She filled three pots with water, and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to a boil.
In the first pot, her mother placed carrots; in the second, she placed eggs; and in the last, she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil, without saying a word. In about 20 minutes, she turned off the burners. She then fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them into a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.
Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see?" "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.
Her mother brought her over closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee... The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.
The daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"
Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the exact same adversity ... boiling water. And each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak, more pliable. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid-like interior, but after sitting in the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.
"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"
Think of this: 'Which am I?'
Am I the carrot that seems strong... but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit... but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship, or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same... but on the inside am I bitter and tough, with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?
Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water... the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor.
If you ARE like the bean... when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you.
When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest... do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity?
Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?
Count your blessings, not your problems...
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess that I often let adversity affect me before I seek You and use Your lenses to see my circumstances and situations more clearly. Thank you for not giving up on me, even though I stray from your ways. Thank you for protecting me from situations that would only be harmful and no benefit could come from them. Please help me be humble to your plan for me and your strategy to grow me, so I can see all the situations you bring into my life as opportunities for my growth and to glorify your name. Strengthen me to step up and accept the challenge and let the power of the Holy Spirit flow through me, and not to cringe back and get in the way of Your Spirit. I give thanks for all things You bring in my life.
In Jesus' name, all God's people say, AMEN.
The Truth
And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God. He has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
Gen 45:5-8
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Phil 4:6-7
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Stepping Stones: Delivered Within vs. From Adversity
Transformational Tip
Many mistakenly view Christian life as being delivered from all adversity. But what Christian life really means is to be delivered in adversity. My freshman basketball coach made us run for the first week of practice. No shooting, just running.... I was a shooter, not a track star. We thought he was crazy while we were puking and thinking of quitting. Coach told us, "you will be better players, just trust me." He was right, I had a great year scoring, and our team was better prepared than almost any other opponent. Our coach had overcome these adversities in the past and we needed to trust his plan. Jesus tells us not to be surprised when adversity strikes, but to take heart for..."I have overcome the world". You can trust His plan, laid out in the Bible, for His track record of overcoming adversity is perfect!
Prayer
Dear God,
I am learning to thank You in all things. At time this is very difficult for me, but I am learning that it is through adversity and strain that I build strength. I do not ask for strength for tomorrow Lord, I ask for strength for the adversity that faces me today. What a comfort I feel when I read the Word of Jesus telling us He has overcome this world.
The Truth
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
No evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent.
Psalm 91:1, 10
Many mistakenly view Christian life as being delivered from all adversity. But what Christian life really means is to be delivered in adversity. My freshman basketball coach made us run for the first week of practice. No shooting, just running.... I was a shooter, not a track star. We thought he was crazy while we were puking and thinking of quitting. Coach told us, "you will be better players, just trust me." He was right, I had a great year scoring, and our team was better prepared than almost any other opponent. Our coach had overcome these adversities in the past and we needed to trust his plan. Jesus tells us not to be surprised when adversity strikes, but to take heart for..."I have overcome the world". You can trust His plan, laid out in the Bible, for His track record of overcoming adversity is perfect!
Prayer
Dear God,
I am learning to thank You in all things. At time this is very difficult for me, but I am learning that it is through adversity and strain that I build strength. I do not ask for strength for tomorrow Lord, I ask for strength for the adversity that faces me today. What a comfort I feel when I read the Word of Jesus telling us He has overcome this world.
The Truth
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
No evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent.
Psalm 91:1, 10
Friday, April 3, 2009
Stepping Stones: The Call of God
Transformational Tip
God called on Jesus to do what can be defined as "absoluter disaster". And Jesus called upon his disciples to actually see Him put to death...and to a place where there hearts were broken. Any observer would say this was all an absolute failure at the time. But we all know now that it was a beautiful triumph from God's standpoint, because God's purpose is never the same as man's purpose. Do you place a premature finish line on God's plan....judging the outcome before the whole plan has a chance to play out. You don't judge or quit a sports game, court case, movie, romance, or book half way through because you will miss a lot, so don't judge or quit on God's plans prematurely either or you will miss out on miracles!
Prayer
My Lord and God,
Thank You Lord for Your Word. I pray that through You Holy Spirit that I will gain the knowledge and wisdom to understand that Your plans are perfect plans...even though I do not always "..grasp what was said"
I pray this day for fellowship and oneness with You God, and for awareness that You are taking me into Your purpose. Help me increasingly understand that it is Your compelling purpose that lies behind everything in life.
The Truth
And taking the twelve, he said to them, "See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. For He will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging Him, they will kill Him, and on the third day He will rise." But they understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.
Luke 18:31-34
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 131:13-16
God called on Jesus to do what can be defined as "absoluter disaster". And Jesus called upon his disciples to actually see Him put to death...and to a place where there hearts were broken. Any observer would say this was all an absolute failure at the time. But we all know now that it was a beautiful triumph from God's standpoint, because God's purpose is never the same as man's purpose. Do you place a premature finish line on God's plan....judging the outcome before the whole plan has a chance to play out. You don't judge or quit a sports game, court case, movie, romance, or book half way through because you will miss a lot, so don't judge or quit on God's plans prematurely either or you will miss out on miracles!
Prayer
My Lord and God,
Thank You Lord for Your Word. I pray that through You Holy Spirit that I will gain the knowledge and wisdom to understand that Your plans are perfect plans...even though I do not always "..grasp what was said"
I pray this day for fellowship and oneness with You God, and for awareness that You are taking me into Your purpose. Help me increasingly understand that it is Your compelling purpose that lies behind everything in life.
The Truth
And taking the twelve, he said to them, "See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. For He will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging Him, they will kill Him, and on the third day He will rise." But they understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.
Luke 18:31-34
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 131:13-16
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Stepping Stones: Are You Going To Heaven?
Transformational Tip
A good friend just died a few days ago. She knew she was going to heaven because of what the Bible promises. Can you say for certain that when you die you will go to Heaven? A lot of people have the misconception that being "good" and believing there is a God is enough. Being good? Who is without sin? The Bible says no one. Believing that God exists will not get you to Heaven either. Even Satan is certain there is a God. You must be born again. There is a certain man in the Bible (Nicodemus) who loves the Lord and is confused by God's Words so he asks "How can I be born again when I am already born of my mother?" The answer is you must be born in Spirit also. Jesus is the only bridge that will get us to The Father. You must admit you are a sinner. The bible says even a bad thought is sin. You must ask forgiveness and have a personal relationship with the Lord. You can't earn it, you can't buy it and you will never be good enough to get to Heaven on your own. So it is up to each of us to choose. Heaven or hell? (For more, see the Spiritual Basics link below then click "Salvation" at the top of the next page.)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, my prayer is for my family, my friends, people I have yet to meet and even my enemy's to all go to Heaven one day. I feel a quickening in my heart to pray salvation for everyone. As Your Word says, You are not a respecter of persons. I want and pray that whoever is reading this knows God is especially fond of you. I know in my heart it is true. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross so that we may have the choice of Heaven or hell. God bless You Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen...
The Truth
The son of man came to find lost people and save them.
Luke 19: 10
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3: 16
A good friend just died a few days ago. She knew she was going to heaven because of what the Bible promises. Can you say for certain that when you die you will go to Heaven? A lot of people have the misconception that being "good" and believing there is a God is enough. Being good? Who is without sin? The Bible says no one. Believing that God exists will not get you to Heaven either. Even Satan is certain there is a God. You must be born again. There is a certain man in the Bible (Nicodemus) who loves the Lord and is confused by God's Words so he asks "How can I be born again when I am already born of my mother?" The answer is you must be born in Spirit also. Jesus is the only bridge that will get us to The Father. You must admit you are a sinner. The bible says even a bad thought is sin. You must ask forgiveness and have a personal relationship with the Lord. You can't earn it, you can't buy it and you will never be good enough to get to Heaven on your own. So it is up to each of us to choose. Heaven or hell? (For more, see the Spiritual Basics link below then click "Salvation" at the top of the next page.)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, my prayer is for my family, my friends, people I have yet to meet and even my enemy's to all go to Heaven one day. I feel a quickening in my heart to pray salvation for everyone. As Your Word says, You are not a respecter of persons. I want and pray that whoever is reading this knows God is especially fond of you. I know in my heart it is true. Thank you Jesus for dying on the cross so that we may have the choice of Heaven or hell. God bless You Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen...
The Truth
The son of man came to find lost people and save them.
Luke 19: 10
For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3: 16
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Stepping Stones: How Do You Look At Women?
Transformational Tip
The headline in the news read "Miss America". The article described how beautiful she was. It even gave her measurements. The measure of success by which the world rates women is their looks. Just look at the glamour magazines. We seem to learn nothing of people's hearts. No talk of their honesty, faith, convictions or even if they know the Love of God. Sadly, the world teaches young women, all women that they are measured by what they look like. What do you value in others?...yourself? Do you get your confidence (or lack of) from your looks or some other material item? Value what God values and be confident because of who HE is and what He will do in and for you.
Prayer
Father God, I pray for all the women [including myself] that get caught up in this hype of beauty, fame and fortune. I don't want the world's measure of success. I desire the things of the heart like love, wisdom and spirituality. Even older women are bombarded with looking younger. We see advertisements of facelifts and plastic surgery everyday. Help me to grow old gracefully. I repent of any thoughts of outside beauty. I do know beauty comes from the inside and somehow I let my own thoughts go to the outside. I want my values to measure up to You Father and not the world. I am Yours. I ask this in Jesus Name. Amen.
The Truth
Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute and if anything is worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.
Phil 4:8
The headline in the news read "Miss America". The article described how beautiful she was. It even gave her measurements. The measure of success by which the world rates women is their looks. Just look at the glamour magazines. We seem to learn nothing of people's hearts. No talk of their honesty, faith, convictions or even if they know the Love of God. Sadly, the world teaches young women, all women that they are measured by what they look like. What do you value in others?...yourself? Do you get your confidence (or lack of) from your looks or some other material item? Value what God values and be confident because of who HE is and what He will do in and for you.
Prayer
Father God, I pray for all the women [including myself] that get caught up in this hype of beauty, fame and fortune. I don't want the world's measure of success. I desire the things of the heart like love, wisdom and spirituality. Even older women are bombarded with looking younger. We see advertisements of facelifts and plastic surgery everyday. Help me to grow old gracefully. I repent of any thoughts of outside beauty. I do know beauty comes from the inside and somehow I let my own thoughts go to the outside. I want my values to measure up to You Father and not the world. I am Yours. I ask this in Jesus Name. Amen.
The Truth
Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute and if anything is worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.
Phil 4:8
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