Stepping Stones: What Tree Will You Fix Your Eyes On?

Transformational Thought

On the playground, there was a round ride that was about 15 feet in diameter, 18 inches off the ground, and you could spin it really fast. It was a lot of fun jumping on and whizzing around. But then I would get so dizzy. One day, I was told if I want to avoid getting dizzy, I should fix my eyes on a certain point (a tree was the easiest) while I was spinning around and I didn’t get dizzy anymore. It worked and then I could really enjoy the ride.

The world is changing faster than we can measure…and that’s an understatement. It is a time of instability, yet we have this yearning for stability, which usually equates with security; for that eternal, invisible reality. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It will keep us from getting distracted and then dizzy spinning around the ever faster merry-go-round of life.

A lot of times we feel stability or permanence is too predictable, expected, conventional, or even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, new, different, or unique is more desirable, exciting, stimulating and soothing. Interesting though when we go on vacation, we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need a nap, feel a little discombobulated, and then come back home and don’t feel rested. Lots of people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation. It’s because we are out of our routine. We lose site of what is steady and true.

Today, if and when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the only place where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. Seek His wisdom and principles for that situation that is making you a bit dizzy, As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy, but instead, enjoy the ride of your life.

Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change that You are the one who never changes. You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You, Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart. I pray in the name of my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.”
Revelation 21:6

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2

Stepping Stones: Divide Your Pain, Multiple Your Joy

Note: Rejoice! Today marks the mailing of our 1,000,000th Stepping Stones. We know many more have been read on websites and facebook as well as faithful readers using them in other ministries and forwarding it to bless others. Thank you so much, as God has used you to bless and encourage others and us. Let’s get after 2 million!

Transformational Thought

Most of us are so selective about which parts we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful…partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about it again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, feeling loneliness, guilt, fear – that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable part of life.

For some, they seem to believe there are degree of difficulty points (like diving) for overcoming the most hardship…for others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of their growing up, that in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, why they are there and how to dig out, that we even forget that God is actually with us and will provide help.

God really desires to heal your hurting parts. However some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.

Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting; He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is a book about suffering, our spiritual suffering, and how God loved us so much and miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller, daily sufferings we experience. Turn to the Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances as He is with you. He has a joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you He is communicating through your pain.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, that I can come to you not matter what condition I am in…just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; you already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10

Stepping Stones: Which Channel, WGOD or WORLD!

Transformational Thought

When you want to know what is going on in a school system, you go to the authority…the one who’s in charge of the programs, has the power, knows the most, and devises the policies. You don’t go to the third graders, get their reports and take them as the all encompassing views and truths of what is going on. We also don’t let e third graders determine the strategies and methods to educate our society.

The media is like the third graders in both understanding and authority. The media relentlessly proclaim bad news for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This steady diet of their fare can sicken you. Instead of focusing on their fickle, ever-changing, bad-news broadcasts, tune into the living Word – the one who is always the same. He is the authority, all-knowing one we need to pursue for explanations, comfort, and wisdom.

Because we need quick explanations, want the hurt to go away now, are too lazy to think through multiple aspects of a situation, have amnesia for occurrences of the past, and resist developing our spiritual antennae, we get sucked into letting the world and the media at is in our face, 24/7, be our guide and authority.

Today, turn the tube off early and pick up your Bible. Let the Holy Scripture saturate your mind and heart…this will help you walk steadily, step by step, along the path of life. Even though you do not know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure He is walking side by side with you and assurance of your ultimate destination. Big decision, the Bible or the TV for your peace and guidance.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am full of fear today. I am in the midst of another storm. I turn to Your Word and I find assurance. I pray that the assurance which comes from Your Word soak into my mind and heart until I overflow with Your Joy, not my fleshly fear. I know that peace is Your continual gift to me; thank You, Lord. I know that You have designed me to need You moment by moment. It is when I take my eyes off You that fear and anxiety creep into my life. I approach Your throne of grace with confidence and trust and ask for Your peace. I pray this in the name of the one who is my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:39

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

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psalm 46:2

Stepping Stones: Is Duty a Four-Letter Word?

Transformational Thought

Duty. What an interesting word. When I was a little kid, I would giggle when I heard it because we called poop, “doodies”. As a teenager, duty was a foul four letter word associated with chores or trivial work around the house that was a waste of time, but “built character.” As a young adult, duty represented activities…actually obligations…to being a better manager of my finances, husband, doctor, and civilian. Tasks with no real satisfaction now, but avoiding long-term suffering.

Your greatest calling and duty is devotion to God. This duty is such a luxury that it should feel like a “Joyous Duty.” Now, duty can be associated with opportunity, blessing, peace, connection, love, joy, holiness, and power.

The world is working hard to squeeze you into its mold, which is usually rush, rush, rush, and to crowd out any time devoted to God. The merry-go-round of life just goes faster and faster…rarely slowing down…and only stopping when you die. This world wants you to feel guilty about spending time with God. Or make you feel that everything else is more urgent and needs done now and time with God is a luxury, that doesn’t have any acute relevance or impact in the craziness of the present. Do not let this happen!

God wants to spend time with you, and wants you to spend time with Him. When we spend time with Him, it excites Him, but it also does wonders for our state of mind, well-being, and equipping for life. It’s good for us, and He knows that, that’s one of the reasons why He commands us to worship Him only. When you pick other distractions to spend your time and mental currency on, God might have to do something to those distractions to refocus your eyes and devotion on Him. Don’t wait for God to take action to redirect you, decide to take your own action now.

Today, push back the boundaries of your life to make time alone with your Lord a priority. Then actually follow through with that decision and do it today. If not, you are falling into the world’s trap we just described above. Focus on what it means to be the child of the everlasting King. Rejoice, the King always extends a special invitation to spend time, one on one, just with you.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that the ways of the world have warped my conscience…this world tries to punish me for doing the very things that please You the most. Let me hear Your voice, Lord…let me hear Your voice above the clamor of voices trying to distract me. I know that You work in perfect Harmony with Your Holy Spirit; I pray that Your Holy Spirit helps calm my mind. Help me be still and attentive in Your presence, for I know I am on holy ground. I pray this and all prayers in the most dutiful servant Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!


The Truth
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
Romans 8:15-16

"Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
Exodus 3:5

Stepping Stones: Thanks For Our Light Bulb!

Transformational Tip

My mother taught me and my siblings the power and value of having a grateful heart. I am the second oldest of 14 children, all from the same mother and father. I have a warm childhood memory of a particular lesson taught by my mother.

I grew up in the time where you got free light bulbs each time you paid your electric bill. That really was a different time and mentality on customer relations. Many times we were not able to pay the bill, so we were always short on light bulbs. I remember the times (seems like most of the time) when we only had one light bulb for the entire house. During the early evening hours that bulb would burn in the kitchen…the center of all activity.

When bedtime came around we had a ritual; my mother would reach up, using her apron to shield the heat from her hand, unscrew that light bulb, bring it upstairs, and put it in the hallway. As she would reach up to get the bulb in the kitchen, all her little children (like chicks to the mother hen) would gather around her, grabbing onto her house dress and begin the shuffle to and up the stairs in the dark.

I remember vividly during each of those journeys, my mother teaching us how grateful we should be because we had a light bulb. She told us about all the children in the world that didn’t have a light bulb, and so that began our bed-time prayer. “Dear God, thank you for this light bulb.”

My mother had so many reasons to be sad, depressed…to complain. But she never complained. My siblings and I were so blessed to have a mother who believed deeply in God. She taught us all from an early age that the seeds of depression will not take root in a grateful heart.

Today, take account, that is, seriously sit down and write a list of the many blessings you have…big and small. It is easy for us to become complacent or start to take God’s care, grace, love, provision, and sacrifice for granted. Make the effort to put on Godly lenses allowing you to develop and maintain a grateful heart.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so spoiled. I have everything I need and yet I always want more. I seemed to always find something to complain about. Forgive me, Lord. Help me today and everyday to focus on all the blessings you have given me, and especially for the adversities that you lovingly use to grow me. Thank You for the shelter of my home, a bed to sleep in…for all the light bulbs in this house. I know that gratitude enables me to perceive You more closely and clearly and to rejoice in our love-relationship. I know, Father, that I will never be in control of all my life’s circumstances…but I relax in the fact that You are in control…and for that I am eternally grateful. I pray this and all prayers through our brightest Light bulb, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39

When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3

Stepping Stones: Act the Part or Be the Part?

Transformational Thought

I remember back to my third and fourth year in medical school, I finally got to go into the hospital and play real doctor. I finally started to work on real live patients…taking histories, performing physical exams, formulating diagnoses, ordering tests, and caring for patients. I also really dressed the part with my white doctor lab coat, stethoscope, reflex hammer, bags under my eyes, and bed head. That’s why I got a crewcut.

Not just dressing, I was also taught how to act on the outside…take a history, respond with respect and professionalism, speak to nurses and other healthcare personnel, and speak the medical lingo you hear on TV. None of this made me a doctor on the inside though, and I always felt uneasy and insecure…until I really developed the mind and expertise of a doctor. Peace came when my internal state determined my external actions, not when my external façade tried to cover up my internal inadequacies.

When we become a Christian, God placed the Holy Spirit in us. In doing so He has equipped us to be holy. There is a vast difference between being holy and trying to appear holy. Trying to appear holy without submitting to the Holy Spirit is truly a form of hypocrisy. The bible teaches us that God reserved some of his strongest condemnation for those who paraded their pretense of holiness whenever they had an audience. Holiness can only happen when we are letting God live through us.

Today, make it a discipline, yes discipline (I love that word – training to ensure proper behavior, make yourself do something regularly, process by which one is discipled). One way to exercise this discipline is to pause before we respond to others in all situations, giving the Holy Spirit time and space to act through us. Developing discipline is a series of decisions, so the ball is in your court. Make Godly decisions, now and daily.

Prayer
Dear Father, Being holy is something I strive for, but the goal seems so illusive. It is illusive because I am in constant danger of falling prey to serious sin; especially pride and hypocrisy. I want to be holy because Your word gives me this very clear instruction. Help me understand that holiness really is letting You live through me. I pray, Lord, for the patience to pause before I respond to others so that Your Holy Spirit may take charge and give me the response that lets other see that You live through me. I pray in the holy name of the one who teaches me how to be holy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16

You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.
Romans 8:9

Stepping Stones: “God, I’m Suffering. Where Are You?”

Transformational Thought

Why do people suffer? Why does God let suffering happen? These are huge questions and deserve long answers, but the simple answer is that we live in a fallen world. Our first parents, Adam and Eve, started this whole mess. Their choice to ignore God’s instruction and try life their own way, left them and all their descendants exposed to the harsh elements of this fallen world.

Death, deterioration, disease, depression, weakness, loneliness, old age…and all the rest of the long list of human ills that have plagued mankind since the beginning of time. That’s why we are in such a mess today. God didn’t do anything to us – we thought we could live life without Him. If you think Adam and Eve were stupid and you never would have bitten the apple, guess what, we bite our own apple everyday. We choose our way instead of God’s on many occasions.

But we are not alone in our suffering. While God many times chooses not to remove our suffering, His word tells us that He promises to be with us through every step of our suffering. Remember that Jesus prayed to his Father the night before his death…asking him to “let this cup pass.” God did not stop the brutal death of his Son, but He did send an angel to be with and pray with Jesus.

When we are in the heaviest rain of the storms of our life, we forget to ask for God’s help, or we forget to reach out to the people that God has sent our way during the darkest days.

Today, When you are in the midst of suffering, say this simple prayer: “God, please be with me and get me through this suffering.” Then look for Him, because He is there. God always provides exactly what you need to endure the suffering. He may not tell you why you are suffering (sometimes that comes much later), but He will certainly be by your side every step of the way, and then He will use that suffering to grow you toward Christ-likeness.

Prayer
Dear Father, I am suffering today, Lord. The burdens I bear are almost too much for me to handle…I feel I am at my breaking point. Lord, please be with me…please help me through this suffering. There is so much suffering in this world; why? Those who do not believe, and who do not want me to believe, often use the world’s suffering as an example of Your non-existence. I need Your help, Your help Lord, to rebut their negativity; give me the wisdom and the words when Your detractors attack. Help me be steadfast in trusting Your promises of being my Lighthouse of guidance and sanctuary during these storms of my life. In the name of my Suffering Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 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; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Isaiah 43:1-2

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
Matthew 26:39

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
Genesis 2:16-17

Stepping Stones: Why Won’t You Trade Your Penny for Gold?

Transformational Thought

Several months ago I was working on a project…the project was stalling because a certain problem kept getting in my way. Although the solution that was right in “front of my eyes,” it was hard for me to see because I was holding onto a couple project elements way too tightly. Once I loosened my grip, that is, my dependency on those elements, the solution became crystal clear to me, and a peace quickly followed.

God’s peace is an all-encompassing peace given freely to His followers and has nothing to do with your current circumstance. Even if you lose everything, if you gain His peace, you are rich beyond measure. When we cling to other items… worldly items…receiving His precious gift of peace is hard. This is like wrapping your fingers tightly around a shiny penny, not wanting to give it up, while God is offering you an unlimited supply of gold.

To receive His gifts, you must first open your hands, and heart, to Him. By doing so, you can release your cares and concerns into His hands for perfect care and keeping. Now your hands are open to receive and grab onto the peace He has been trying to give you all along. Keep in mind today the Divine nature of this gift; it is not the world’s peace He gives…it is a powerful peace that transcends all human understanding.

After His resurrection the first words Jesus spoke to his disciples were; “Peace be with you.” He knew they needed His Peace…he knows that you need His Peace today.

Today, take a look at an area of your life where you feel unsettled. Ask yourself, “What am I holding too tightly that is interfering with me grabbing the peace He offers me?” Is it my ego, control, looks, image, money, security, afraid to take a risk, our kids. We all have areas we exalt more than they are actually worth compared to what God offers. Let go of that thing by applying His Word, character, and promises and feel Him put the peace right in your hand for you to grab.

Prayer
Dear Father, I feel that there are so many aspects of my life that are out of my control; I feel I am a victim of my circumstances, but I know I am really a victim of my own thinking and decisions. Your gift of all encompassing peace is exactly what I need. Even though Your peace is a gift, I sometimes feel unable to receive it. Perhaps it’s because I am clinging so tightly to other things; my loved ones, my possessions, my reputation. Or even my addictions or turning to false sources of relief. I pray to You, my Lord, that You help me treasure and value Your Peace above all else. Help me release my grasp on other things so that I may receive Your gifts. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

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

Stepping Stones: Wishing or Living?

Transformational Thought

The other day, we hit a glitch with a particular hire we were pursuing. For a moment, I started wishing I was running an organization like a friend’s that was older, more established, and had more cash flow to expand our staff.

How much time do you spend "wishing" for different circumstances, or even a different life? What if you got your wish and were able to switch places with someone or have the life you often dream of? What makes you think you would handle those circumstances any better than you are managing your present real life? Pretty arrogant to think you would do a great job with someone else’s life, when you have struggles with yours.

Wishing and daydreaming is actually such a waste of time. We know one thing for sure: time and energy are extremely limited. God knows exactly the best circumstances for us now so we can reach our desired destination...peace, contentment, joy, control, power, impact, connection, passion, energy. And the most awesome destination, Christ-likeness with a close and intimate relationship with God.

Try to accept each day as a precious gift from God and trust Him enough to yield to His design and purpose. The situations we find ourselves in, He brought specifically to take you one stepping stone closer in developing the mind of Christ and drawing you closer to Him.

Today, instead of longing for what is not, invest that energy and time in trusting Your Lord, praising your Lord. Take a look at your situation and ask yourself, "what is God showing me or want to grow in me?" and "He brought this in my life today for a purpose, so how do I do it well?" Daydreaming will leave you hungry, lost, and discontent. Trusting and praising God then acting on the opportunities He gives you each day will draw you closer to His joyful presence.

Prayer
Dear Father, I know that I need to take more control over my thoughts. I find I am always yearning for different circumstances. More money, different job, better house, more sexual satisfaction, fitter body. When it's hot I wish it were cooler...when it's cold I want it to be warm. I find I am always rejecting the current day's circumstances and wishing for something different. When I stop and think about this habit I feel foolish and arrogant...but left to itself, without Your wisdom, this is how my brain works. I pray, Lord, that You help me accept each day as it comes, to not wish it away. Let me remember that this is the day You have made for me and to let me be glad. I yield myself to You and Your Holy Spirit. Help me be a better steward of these daily opportunities so I can grow and You can trust me with greater things. I pray in Jesus' name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!


The Truth
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:24

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16

Stepping Stones: "Try Jesus"

Transformational Thought

Slogans are everywhere. “Just Do It” “Got Milk” “M’m! M’m! Good!” and “Have it your way” to name a few. But, it just dawned on me about how simple the best slogan is: “Try Jesus”.

Many times we resist trying new things because we don’t want to let go of the current way…or the old way, our good old comfort zone. We fear that by switching to the new thing we might lose something that we won’t be able to get back. What the heck are we thinking, why would we ever want to go back to the old way…the way of the world.

So by “Trying Jesus”, you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. And anyway, if Jesus doesn’t work out for you…the devil will always be willing to take you back.

Doesn’t that thought just send shivers down your spine. But here’s a certainty…you must be serving one or the other…Jesus or satan. If you say that you are serving neither, then satan has you right where he wants you.

“Try Jesus” and you just can’t lose. In fact, you win…forever!

Today, pray the prayer of salvation and accept or renew you acceptance of Jesus Christ as your savior. Remember how freeing and joyful you were and felt the first time you tried Jesus. Make the decision to try Him everyday in a very concrete and intentional way.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I need a Savior and know I cannot save myself. I believe by faith and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separating me from you. I trust you, Jesus, as my personal Savior, receive you as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank you for your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, and being with me forever. Now help me make you the King of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I need to try everyday and all day, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22,23

For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?
Mark 8:36

Stepping Stones: Learn to Linger

Transformational Thought

When we are so busy that we neglect our time of lingering with God, we are too busy. When our responsibilities are the heaviest, that’s when we need Him the most.

We can learn from Jesus. During the time He walked on earth, His responsibility was greater than any of us could imagine, and He knew His time was extremely limited. But He never let all the "doing" He had to get to interfere with His time with His Father. As we can see in today's scripture, He left the crowds…and even the disciples…to spend time alone with Our Father. He lingered in prayer.

When we think we are too busy to spend quality time with God…praying and meditating on His Word…we are fooling ourselves. It is only when we linger with the Father that everything else in our life can actually fall into place. It is only when we spend time with Him that we can overcome our hurry sickness we discussed yesterday.

How busy are you? Do you have days when you feel you can barely "keep your head above water"? How has the busyness affected your personal relationship with God? Have you put your time with Him on the back burner…something to take care of when you get a chance? Or are you neglecting that quiet time altogether?

During one of Jesus' visits to the home of Mary and Martha, Mary lingered at the feet of Jesus while Martha worked frantically in the kitchen, trying to prepare a meal that was just right. She complained to Jesus that Mary wasn't helping her and urged Him to send Mary into the kitchen to help. Here is how Jesus responded:

But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42 NLT

Martha was letting the details of doing everything just right control her. Mary had learned to linger at the feet of Jesus.

Today, learn to with God! Think about what Jesus did for you and why. What can your response be to His love and sacrifice for you? Don’t get so caught up with the minutiae of the world and your need for satisfaction now. Spend time listening to Him.

Prayer
Father, I know I've been neglecting my quiet time with you. I realize now that the more I have neglected You, the more I've let the busy details of everyday living control me. My priorities have been out of order, and I have become more and more frustrated. Please forgive me and help me learn to linger before You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone.
Matthew 14:23

Stepping Stones: Hurry Sickness

Transformational Thought

Just before my dad died, he had the opportunity to speak privately with each of his 14 children. He offered his last bits of advice to each of us. Some of my siblings got some heavy messages…but mine was simple. My dad told me that I needed to slow down, to not always be in such a hurry.

At a business conference last week, I actually saw a man walking down the hallway with two cell phones…one in each ear. Do you ever find yourself texting several people at once, talking to two or three people at a time on the phone, and all-the-while Googling something on your computer? And then we demand instant results. Faster Internet. Faster food. Faster answers. We want it…and we want it now! Hurry!

We juggle careers, family responsibilities, social obligations, church and volunteer activities. We hurry to fit more and more in. And we are teaching our kids to do the same. School kids fall in bed exhausted after homework, sports, and a myriad of activities.

Why? Either our insecurity and fear of missing something, falling behind, or being found out to be lesser than we want others to see, or our pride in wanting our will be done and not resting because then someone else’s plan will be done. So Satan gives us an answer: Hurry! One of the biggest enemies of our spirituality is hurry. We are so busy, so distracted, and so preoccupied that we settle for something less than the authentic Christian life. In our fast-paced culture, there is an epidemic of “hurry sickness”.

If you feel as though you are always running behind and wish that your day could be 36 hours long, you are probably suffering from hurry sickness. The results? Constant stress. Frustration. Fatigue. Strained relationships. Mixed-up priorities. And most important… neglecting time with God. That neglect can rob you of the rest and peace He wants to give you.

In today's scripture, God calls us to cease striving and know that He is God. In other words, stop trying so hard to do it all. Stop trying to do it on your own. Stop struggling. Remember that He is God. We need to spend quiet time with Him. We need to remember that He is in control. He wants us to put Him first and to rest in Him. To lean on Him for help. We need to let Him guide us in balancing our lives.

Today, the next time you are in a hurry, STOP! Ask yourself “why?” “Is this really life and death?” “Have I really even examined why I am doing this task I am so rushed and frenzied about?” Focus on Him and His plan…not our own. Only then will we be able to step off the treadmill of hurry and experience His peace. Your choice, choose wisely!

Prayer
Father, I am so tired of being so busy. I have so much going on, I know I am neglecting some of the most important things. At the top of that list is my time with You. Please forgive me. Help me to get my life and time in balance. Help me to remember to focus on you and to depend on your strength. Please heal me of this hurry sickness. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
"Cease striving and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10

Stepping Stones: Shoulda…Woulda…Coulda!

Transformational Thought

Yesterday, my wife was being very helpful and kind to a friend and their daughter after a sleepover with our daughter. They had a great time, and my wife was happy for them so she offered another playdate for the next day. She did so many good things in those moments with such a great attitude and heart. Instead of praising her, I said, “You should have looked at our schedule before over-scheduling our day.”

Striving for perfection, solely by human effort can be a frustrating endeavor. We tend to load ourselves down with “should's” and “should have's.” I should do this or should have decided that. I should have done it this way. I should read my Bible more. I should be more loving…

We can also project this focus onto others: He should be more sensitive. She should be more respectful. They should be more open. That person should pay more attention to what I do. They should do what I want.

When our focus, or even our need, is on human perfection, we will feel frustrated…and that frustration can build into resentment. Resentment can contribute to a critical and judgmental attitude toward others and ourself. This attitude can lead to bitterness, making forgiveness difficult to give and accept…not a pretty picture.

Do you engage in constant should's and should have's? Second-guessing what you have done and wishing you could do better? Do you focus on how imperfect you are? And how about your attitude toward others? Do you tend to be a judger?

We often want to hold onto our opinions about how the world should be and to get ourselves and everyone else in line with our way. But Jesus wants us to conform ourselves to His example. This is the one “should” we should do. We should follow Him.

Today, evaluate the areas in your life where your wrong “should haves” are enslaving you or others to a distorted reality and idol. Examine the areas in your life where you find it difficult to let go of your way and follow Jesus' example. Jesus promises if you will trade your agenda for His, you will find true life.

Prayer
Father, I know I tend to think my way is the only right way. I try to make myself perfect by my standards. I judge others because I expect them to be perfect…by my standards. Help me to conform to your standards. Help me to follow Your example. Help me to walk in love, not unrealistic expectations. I pray in the name of the one I will follow; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever is bent on saving his life shall lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake shall find it .
Matthew 16:24-25

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

Stepping Stones: Do You Chase the Right Goals?

Transformational Thought

We all like goals. Happiness, satisfaction, pay the bills on time, play with the kids after work, get my work done so I can watch the ballgame, help people navigate life better. Some goals are simple and some goals are complex.

Looking back on my life, a lot of my goals didn’t really emerge from a well thought-out process. Rarely did I look at the whole picture. They were usually me oriented and “fixed” one problem, but led to other problems. The danger is, once I set a goal, I almost become single-minded to achieve it. I head off going about it “my way.” Evaluating my life to determine a healthy and God-honoring goal has to be the starting point if I want to be successful and enjoy life.

We are taught to be self-sufficient and to solve our own problems. Mix that with wanting to avoid past mistakes and their associated pain. Blend that with so many things happening to me quickly that it is hard to step back and get on overall big picture strategy in place. This is the blend Satan desires so we make short term, me-centered goals, that we accomplish based on our own strength, and by way of knee-jerk decisions. Wow, sounds like a teenager. But how many of us, deep inside, really grow out of those kind of goals and strategies.

Today, before going after your next goal (or maybe you are in the midst of achieving a goal) talk with God about it directly through prayer and listen (as He speaks to your spirit, through friends and family, and through circumstances). Ask for God’s discernment to help you decide if that goal is according to His will… for you… right now. If the answer is yes, then you pursue that goal with even more confidence. When that goal is reached, thank God for his help and guidance. Rejoice in what He has accomplished in you.

Prayer
Dear Father, Pursuing goals comes so naturally to me, it’s almost like second nature. I confess that when a goal grabs my attention, my instinct is to “go for it” without talking it over with you. I realize now that many of my goals are so superficial and have nothing to do with pleasing You or doing Your work. I know, Lord, that when I take time to discuss matters with You, my life becomes so much more satisfying. I pray, Lord, that You help me develop goals that are according to Your will…that You become my captain in all the tasks I need to accomplish the goal... and grow my humility to accept your direction, will, and timing. I pray that You shine the light of Your presence on all my goals. I pray in the name of the one modeled the ultimate goal, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21

Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16

Stepping Stones: Lost and Need a GPS?

Transformational Thought

Our GPS is awesome. We just got back from a family vacation. Typical road trip down south with several destinations to the beach. No maps, no pulling over to figure out where we are, no arguments with my wife whether we are lost or not, no nagging from the kids that they are sick of my “shortcuts”! We just kept plugging addresses in to the GPS and we always got to the right spot.

Even though the GPS was always right, and easy to use after a while, it wasn’t so easy in the beginning and I it took me awhile to really trust it…especially when an alternative route looked inviting. But I humbled myself, decided I didn’t have to be the one in control, and accepted direction from our sweet-talking GPS.

Sometimes our life pathway is fuzzy, we don’t know which direction or step to take next. But as a child of God, our guiding Lighthouse, our personalized GPS, He promises to always guide us. Remember the 3 wise men. Just plug in the destination – Mind of Christ – then humble yourself to His directions!

The first and most important step is to admit you have lost your way and need a more expert, all-knowing guide. Even when we drift just slightly from following His lead, we are at great risk. Going your way and even veering off course a just a few degrees will ultimately, in just a short time, take you far from your Lord.

Today, look for that guiding star in your life. Stop a couple decisions today, and before you execute them, ask yourself one question. “What GPS am I using, God’s or mine?” Look at your motivations in the decision at hand and whether your action is consistent with God’s instruction, character, and promises. Thinking before you act never hurts. Be willing to follow wherever He leads you. He is the light from on high that will guide you, step by step onto into the way of peace. Like always, Your choice – God’s GPS or yours?

Prayer
Dear Father, Today I feel confused. At times I don’t know which way to go. I confess ,Lord, that I swerve off course in my own wrong direction. I desire with all my heart to walk Your way…to walk in the way of peace. My life is one storm after another. Please Father, shine Your light on me. I need Your light; I live in a cold dark world. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Word will enlighten my mind and heart and will empower me to stay on the right path. I have an open, seeking heart Lord. Help me trust your GPS for my life and not be so tempted with flashy looking dead-ends. I pray in the name of the one who walked the perfect path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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

because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.
Luke 1:78-79

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105

"Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Matthew 2:2,9-10

Stepping Stones: Do You Really Care For You?

Transformational Thought

I saw these words on the sign of an SPCA building. “Neglect is Abuse.” And it struck me just how profound those words are. Of course the intention was focused on animals…but what about us humans?

Neglectful isn’t a word we usually use to describe ourselves, people, or our society in this day and age. In fact, the opposite is usually what we hear, the ME generation, self-indulgent…spoiled….immediate gratification…everybody gets a trophy for playing…welfare or socialistic state. But think about it. Are we really paying attention, I mean real attention, to our own inner needs, struggles, or God placed longings?

Few perform this honest self-assessment, but when you assess, do you then go about addressing what you find in the most healthy, fulfilling, and life-giving way. Not self-assessing or then not significantly and thoroughly addressing what you find, is neglect.

Neglect is prevalent in our society. We neglect ourselves, we neglect those we love, we neglect those in need…but most importantly, we neglect our Lord. You see, God is the answer for struggles that derail us…obstacles holding us back….wounds that aren’t healed…patterns we struggle to break….emotions that rule us. By neglecting God, we are going to continue to also neglect ourselves and others.

Today, stop and think about areas in your life you are neglecting…pushing under the carpet…avoiding or suppressing…or hoping nobody notices. Think about struggles you have identified, but have had trouble correcting or freeing yourself from their burden. Now trade the word abuse for neglect. In the dictionary, neglect is a synonym for abuse. Just maybe this simple switching of words will help us to neglect less; to take care of ourselves in the true sense as God called us to do. Put on the armor of God and attack those strongholds specifically today.

Prayer
Dear Father in heaven, I come to you with a guilty heart. I have been guilty of neglecting You. Forgive me, Father. I have been guilty of neglecting those I love and that I have a responsibility to care for. Replacing the word abuse for neglect makes it all seem so much worse. I ask Your forgiveness for the abuse of my body. Help me this day and forever to be aware of those who need my care and attention. Also, help those who I have abused to forgive me. I pray, Lord, that You working through me will end my neglect of others. I realize now with a sad heart that others too have neglected me, so help me forgive them, Lord, as You forgive me. Help them also be aware that neglect is abuse. I pray in the name of the one was abused for my ultimate nurturing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message
1 Timothy 4:14

Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.
Psalm 55:10

Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'
The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31

Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst”.
John 6:35

Stepping Stones: Your Ultimate Lighthouse

Transformational Thought

We all experience storms in our lives. Maybe you are currently in the midst of a storm...maybe multiple storms. Storms are a certainty. How do you react to the storms? With peace or panic? Even though uncomfortable, storms are tremendous opportunities to learn a lot about ourselves.

One key lesson is, "where do I get my confidence, guidance, or hope from?" Put another way, "Who is going to be my Lighthouse - me, the world, another person, or God?" When we get upset in a difficult situation, we are usually getting our confidence from ourselves, and sometimes from others. A constant battle goes on inside our heart. We strive to be independent, master of our destiny, take care of our own needs, and not be reliant on anyone else. This protects us from being hurt, let down by others, and just seems more efficient to cut others out of the loop when I need something. This breeds a false sense of confidence, a reliance on myself, my abilities, my assets, or what I can get from others.

Instead of getting my confidence from me and relying on myself, God desires me to turn to Him, accept His protection and provision for me, and let Him grow us. He will grow us quicker, more efficiently, and with less pain than we will grow us. We really need to get our confidence to handle the many everyday situations from knowing who God is, what His promises are, and what His word teaches. When we see situations and act based on our confidence in God, life and especially storms, are easier and actually growing experiences.

Looking back I see the major storms in my life actually changed my direction pushing me onto a better path of becoming Christ-like and developing the Mind of Christ. More importantly, these storms provided the opportunity to look for and find God as my Lighthouse, where the best and ultimate safety and guidance is for me.

Today, as a believer you will find that your ultimate Lighthouse, God, will not only show you your path forward step by step, but God will also lead you to a place of refuge, a place of shelter to endure your storm. Meet today's storm...or your next storm (for surely they will come) with peace not panic. Take the opportunity to look for your personal Lighthouse of guidance and sanctuary in His promises and character.

Prayer
Father God, when I meet the storms of life, help me to go through them with peace, not panic. I know that to get to where You want to take me, I must go through certain storms. In Your wisdom, You designed the storms to push me to You, I come to know You and Your loving provision, shelter, and calm. It is not in the calms of life where I realize that I will not go under, but during the storms. Allow me to get my confidence, hope, and assurance from You and not me, because I know I am limited, weak, and not capable of controlling everything like You can. Thank You for being my Lighthouse during the storms. Thank You that during all of life's storms there is a perfect place of refuge...a fortress of Divine grace to see me through. I pray in the name of the one endured the greatest storm so I could have eternal safety, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver me.
Psalm 91:1-3

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4

as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20

Stepping Stones: Judging Others…Or Really Yourself?

Transformational Thought

We are so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses...not lawyers and judges. When we understand our calling, we will become more patient and understanding with others.

When we take the role as a judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of the insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affecting the lenses we look through to see life, others, and ultimately God.

When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, instead of being quick to speak, be quick to self-assess. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that is causing your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.

For this exercise to happen, during this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy...whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, sadness....whatever the feeling that is prompting the urge for you to judge, trust God to comfort you and not let the emotion rule you.

Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak...and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God and not as a judge. Let the judging happen as you judge your own heart first, then disciple others next.

Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become so impatient with others...especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding I become judgmental and angry...saying things I wish I had not said. Help me to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Help me to see others as You see them...tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness...not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be patient toward others as You are with me, for it is Your power that works in me. Help to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to get me to see about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today and pray in the Spirit always. I pray in the name of the one was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22

Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32

Stepping Stones: Why Did They Get More Than ME?

Transformational Thought

Many times, the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence, that is, our stuff isn’t satisfying enough. We spend so much time and energy focusing on what others have or missing what we don't have. We think having those other things will bring happiness, solve a problem, heal a hurt, or soothe our discomfort or uneasiness.

The tenth commandment is "that shall not covet". If we are not to covet what others have, then we are being told to be content with what we do have. Being content really shows we understand that God is all-powerful, fully in charge, loves us, and is at work in our lives. He is providing exactly what we need at this moment…so let me enjoy it and be thankful for it.

I don't need to covet other things, because if they were what I really needed for growth, peace, and fulfillment, God would have certainly known ahead of time and be providing it for me.

We know through scripture that God loves a thankful heart. And we have so much to be thankful for. Sometimes we pray and give thanks like on autopilot. Don't be complacent in being thankful. This is a very important discipline that reinforces in our mind and heart who God is, who we are, and the story that is really playing out in our everyday lives.

Are you a person who focuses on what you don't have? You get caught up in the possibilities and fantasies of your agenda for your satisfaction? Or do you focus on the reality of what you actually have, being thankful for all the blessings you have, and asking God how you can be an awesome steward of them to maximize God's glory and your spiritual growth? You have to decide, many times a day what attitude and lenses you will use, and your actions will flow according to the decision you make.

Today, know Your God as the Great Giver. Pray lists of all that He has given you...take time throughout your day for short prayers of thanksgiving. You will find this thanksgiving more clearly opens the line of communication between you and your Lord and you will see Him more for the loving and care-taking Father He really is.

Prayer

Dear Gracious Father - You are my Giver. You give me hope when I feel despair. You give me acceptance when I feel unloved. You give me forgiveness when I fail. You give me purpose beyond anything I could imagine in this life. Thank You for the gift of brothers and sisters in Christ who have become part of the Stepping Stone prayer community. Thank you for using me to minister to others as you accept me with my weaknesses and inadequacies. Thank You for working everything out for our good and for Your glory. I pray in the name of the one who gave everything, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all-how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:32

You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's."
Exodus 20:17

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19

Stepping Stones: Too Shy To Call Your Bodyguard?

Transformational Tip

I grew up in a rough part of town, and all boys were clearly measured by their ability to fight…to be tough. I wasn’t that tough, but I had an older brother that was by far the toughest boy in town. So as Jamie’s brother, I was never measured by my physical weakness or limitations…I carried with me my big brother’s strength; for all knew to fight me was to ultimately fight my brother Jamie…and no one wanted to do that.

Some days I feel so limited, so inept…so clumsy. I’m sure you have days like this. On days like these remember that, thankfully, we need not be measured by our human limitations. We have a big brother, an advocate, a protector to step in and lend us His toughness and power.

As a kid, it wasn’t all about just me, because my brother was always there to protect me. Satan wants us to think it is all about us…depends on us…and nobody is there to help us. Depending or relying on any one else is really hard, especially for men. Self-sufficiency is what we’ve been brainwashed and trained to practice, and it does seem so reasonable to strive for. But putting my confidence in me, to meet my needs, solve everything and to soothe me, wow, what a set up for failure and loss.

So today, remember that it’s not about your human limitations…it’s about His strength, not yours. We have so much more than a tough brother in our corner…we have our Lord and God. Recall the times where He has protected you from the world or your own mistakes…like speeding, financial impulses, dating and sexual mistakes, words you wish you could have taken back. When you have some struggle today, put on the armor, trust in God’s power and promises and put your confidence in His track record, not yours.

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. I am thankful for seeing Your work in this Stepping Stones community of believers. All glory to you, my Lord. Through faith, I receive Your Spirit. Give me 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. I pray that I not measure my human limitations as I face the challenges and burdens before me. 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 of the One who is my Big Protector, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Stepping Stones: What Light Do Others See In You?

Transformational Thought

I always marvel at how our kids resemble my wife and I in so many ways, and I am not talking just physical characteristics. Making lists, the way they talk about certain situations, word choice, or attitudes about money to name a few. Our kids often become echoes of who we are.

The one line that really gets me, “Dad, that is exactly what Pappy would say.” I realize, 1. they are really watching and noticing what I do, and 2. As a teen, I vowed I would be different than my dad, but I am probably more similar than dissimilar because I was observing him.

Like it or not, you are an example to many; your children, spouse, family, friends, co-workers. People are watching, and they can’t help it. Our mind is so powerful, it is like a radar that is so sensitive and picks up all the activity in our environment, whether we are consciously aware of it or not. What do they “see” when they see you?

As Christians, we have a light in us that is powerful…bright…vibrant…and can truly be transforming of our mind and behaviors. But it can also be transforming for others as well. We are called to let our light shine, not hide it under a bushel. How do we hide it?

We know the Holy Spirit is powerful and perfect. But, we aren’t perfect and don’t shine His pure light, so what is really happening? We hide our light by actually getting in the way of the Holy Spirit and His work in our life. Our past, with the distortions and lies Satan has presented to us and we have bought into, is contributing to us acting as the captain of our ship. We are not submitting to the Holy Spirit being our captain and then following His commands and direction.

Today, look at how you handle some adversity. Are you following the Holy Spirit’s teaching and direction or ignoring Him and doing it your way? How much light are you shining to the world? Also, think of all the blessings you have received. Think about how your destiny and life has changed since accepting Him as your Lord and Savior. Let His light shine brightly through you today so as the scripture tells us; Many will see you and put their trust in the Lord.

Prayer
Dear Father, You have performed so many miracles for and through me. Thank You, Lord. All Glory to You, Lord. You have truly lifted me out of the pit of destruction. Help me get out of Your way as You work through me and in me. Give me a humble spirit that accepts You as my captain. I pray, Lord, that You will use me today to further Your Kingdom; that You will use me in ways that I don’t even understand. I have close family members and friends that remain in that pit. Let them see You through me today, let them see You today and help me help them to put their trust in You. I pray in the name of the Light of the world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I waited patiently for the Lord;
And He inclined unto me, and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of a pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,
And he set my feet upon a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;
Many shall see and put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:1-3

Oh Lord my God, You have done many miracles for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds I could never come to the end of them.
Psalm 40:5

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16

No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a bushel, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness.
Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light."
Luke 11:33-36

Stepping Stones: Problems: Friend or Enemy?

Transformational Thought

Easy, problems are definitely our enemy, right? As usual, we are not going to conform to the world’s answer. Instead, even though making friends with your problems sounds so trite, even silly, it's actually the truth and really works! Though many things may feel random and messed up because of all your problems, stop for a moment and remember this. Your God is sovereign over everything...and He can "fit everything into a pattern of good".

God would rather teach us without suffering, heartache, and challenge. That is what He tried in the Garden of Eden. Unfortunately, we do not learn as much as we need to that way. So God has to use other methods to catch our attention, change our focus or path, or show us what is destructive to us. To Disciple us!

Our problems are opportunities to show what we have learned. After I practiced in baseball a lot, I wanted to go against good competition to show how much I learned and how good I was. Same in medical school, as I assessed and worked up a patient and studied the illness, I was excited to present to the attending and let him grill me so I can show my growth as a psychiatrist. A "problem" in life is really that better competition or test we take to show our growth....and show areas we still need to work on.

The best way to befriend your problems is to thank God for His care for you as He gives you an opportunity to show the work you have put in and your resultant growth in Him... or His willingness to show you areas where He wants to grow and equip you. This simple act will open your mind to having God's benefits.... Developing the Mind of Christ and intimate relationship with God...flow from your problems.

Today, look at your problems. If you are thankful and handling them, then you are preparing well...putting on the armor, getting your confidence from God, and letting the Lord lead you into battle. If you are struggling and not thankful for or understanding of your problems, then look at how you are preparing for your “tests” and where you are getting your confidence. Your decision about what is at the center of your heart influencing the lenses you use to view your problems. It’s heart exam time.

Prayer
Dear Father, I am overwhelmed with life’s problems…they are mounting such that I cannot see over them…at times I am almost paralyzed with fear. It’s hard at times, but I want to thank You for these problems. I do not expect You to remove these problems, Lord…but I do pray that You strengthen me though them and that You make good come from these problems. Let each problem teach me something, Lord…transforming me little by little into the masterpiece You have created me to be…drawing me closer to You. I pray in the name of the One who knew no guilt till He bore all mine, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
1 Corinthians 1:23-24

Stepping Stones: Road Closed! How Do You React?

Transformational Thought

This morning, I was driving into Philly for a meeting. I usually don’t go into Philly, but when I do I try to avoid rush hour. An exciting meeting with Cardone, a Christian owned company, convertible top down, voicemail cleared, morning devotions were good, then boom. Road closed!

For someone like me…organized, engineer, planner, methodical…that’s a sign that used to create some immediate stress for me. I needed my agenda, my plan to happen, because who could ever be as smart, organized, prepared as me. Who read situations, apply past experiences and predict and know the future better than me.

Finding a new route was irritating, and making sure I was going to be on time was now a mild concern, but the real issue for me was…I want to be in control of all things and I want events to go my way.

God knows the route ahead of you, and yes, those detours in your day are from God. When He says “Road Closed!” He has a better route to your destination to the “Mind of Christ. You might not think you know, but you really don’t know all the details of your life, the future, and what the rest of the world will do over the next 5 minutes, let alone the next 30 years.

Today, when God closes the road ahead of you, sending you on what you think is a detour; quickly accept this is actually your real path. Examine why you don’t want to accept His path and are still demanding that yours is better. Enjoy and be thankful that He put you on even a better path than the one you were already excited about. This is one of the big decisions in your life each day…do I trust and give thanks for the new path God directs me to or do I get angry and whine that I didn’t get the path I planned or anticipated and prepared for?

Prayer
Dear God, my Father, Today I persevere along the path that You have prepared for me, depending on Your strength to sustain me for I am too weak to proceed on my own. The storms in my life are making me weak. I am learning to not fear my weakness, for I am beginning to understand that my weakness is the stage on which Your Power and Glory perform most brilliantly. As I walk this path I wait with anticipation and faith for Your miracles to unfold before me. I know that all miracles cannot be seen by the eye, but those who live by faith can see them clearly. Help me, Lord, live by faith and not by sight, help me to see You in all Your Glory. I pray in the name of the One who accepted the most dreadful path for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
Psalm 63:2

We live by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7

Stepping Stones: Guilt Trip To Nowhere

Transformational Thought

I often hear many mothers really use guilt to “motivate” their children. “If you love me, you would do your chores.” “I worked long and hard on this meal, so you better eat it.” Or others might say, “we’ll have to cancel the event…unless you help us.” “Look at these starving kids in Africa and all the food you throw away. Please send money.”

Guilt is an incredible motivator, but that’s not really the correct role and use of guilt. I am all for pointing out injustices and needs and then allowing people to step into their role to help these situations. The issue I am trying to separate from these examples is this, we shouldn’t try to use guilt as a tool to motivate people.

Several subliminal distorted messages can unwontedly occur when people are guilted into action. 1. I am responsible for and therefore can control someone else’s feelings, 2. The other person won’t feel better unless I act the way they want, 3. When you want to get someone to do something for you, it is OK to lay a guilt trip on them, and probably the worst distorted message, 4. Decisions should be based on self-needs and emotions, not facts and reasoning. Unfortunately, these messages subtly seep into many people’s everyday functioning.

Many pastors and priests try to whip their congregations into Christian action by delivering guilt inducing sermons. They try to get their people to “work harder”, but the end does not justify the means. I have personally experienced these guilt-evoking messages…they can unfortunately undermine the very foundation of grace in a believer’s heart.

Today, take notice if you are feeling guilty about something, or if you are inducing guilt in someone else. Stop and examine why. Examine the relationship that the guilt is part of. Let the guilt warn you a problem exists, but don’t let it be your decision-maker. Let reason and the Bible direct your heart and actions. Confess, repent, apologize, and ask forgiveness. You are responsible for your feelings and happiness; the other person is responsible for their own. Above all else, be mindful that God does not measure and judge you by the amount of good works you do; rather He looks into your heart.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I do not want to be stressed out about not “doing enough” to be a good Christian. I know that You want me to relax in the assurance of Your perfect love. Help me today remember that You delight in me more than I can ever imagine and that You see me cloaked in Your light and presence…and that there is no condemnation for those cloaked in You. Help me, Lord, to each day come closer to having the Mind of Christ. Help me make decisions based on Your word, not my feelings. Help me feel convicted and guilty about my wrongs, but then look to You for forgiveness and your word for guidance in doing right. I pray in the name of the One who knew no guilt till He bore all mine, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
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, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest.
Isaiah 61:10

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Romans 8:1-2

Stepping Stones: How Will Your Movie End?

Transformational Thought

We put such a premature finish line on so many situations. Like, “I will never talk to him again,” “Nobody will ever love me,” “if I don’t get any money by the end of the month to pay my bills, I am a failure.” I know so many people who have lost all happiness in their lives…they wonder if they will ever have joy again. Their unhappiness is usually an outcome of being in a very bad situation, so my prayer for them; God, please bring some good out of this bad situation.

Why is this prayer always so difficult to pray when you are in the midst of a horrible situation? An illness for yourself or a loved one, death, divorce, in the grasp of an addiction, financial trouble…the list goes on and on. So many reasons to be unhappy.

We typically don’t ask God to make good from the bad because we are in the midst of suffering. It’s almost impossible to consider all the wonderful outcomes that God could have in store for us. So for those of you who have lost all hope for happiness and are in the midst of a storm, pray this simple prayer; Dear Father, please bring good out of this bad situation.

These present painful circumstances are there to sharpen, grow, and show us valuable skills and information about us, God, and life. This isn’t the end of the movie….more scenes are yet to come. Do what you need to do, even though it is painful at times, so when God opens the door, you are ready to walk through and take advantage of it. Often times we procrastinate away the “studying or training time” in a task or hardship. So we don’t learn the important skills, process, or information we need to be successful when the opportunity to shine on the test, performance, or event is Within Reach.

Today, don’t believe the struggle you are in is over. The end of the movie is not now. Accept this is only the early part of a great movie of restoration and healing. What do you need to do for the rest of the movie to go that way, because God will show up and do His part. Follow Him, do the training now so you can manage the experience and have peace, comfort, and success in the adversity/opportunity that is at hand. So you can have a front row seat to appreciate what He is doing today and will do tomorrow in your life. Again, your decision to make!

Prayer

Dear Father God, I know that bad does not come from You, but that You have the power to make good come from a bad situation. I pray, Father, that you give me the strength to endure this storm and to build my faith that You will bring good from this bad. Most days I feel like I will never be happy again. I pray that You replace this sadness and hopelessness with Your joy and hope. I confess that I have made choices that have created this bad; forgive me, Lord. But there are also bad circumstances that are out of my control and that I do not understand. I accept, Lord, that my ability to understand is so limited, but I trust in You that You will bring good from this bad. Help me Lord reflect Your light and hope to those I come in contact with who are in the midst of what appears to be an impossible situation. I pray in the name of the One who was always patient on You while enduring persecution, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

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!"
I make a decree, that in all my royal dominion people are to tremble and fear before the God of Daniel, for he is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues; he works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions."
Daniel 6:16, 26-27

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4

Stepping Stones: Which Commercial Represents Your Spiritual Life?

Transformational Thought

The other day, I saw a commercial from 1972 and one from today. What an incredible difference. Today’s had so much stimulation, faster action, brighter colors, more faces, multiple activities, quicker scene transitions, and graphics popping in and out.

Our society has so much stimulation with cellphones, texting, computers, WiiFii everywhere, ipods, audio books, and a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities. This world throws so many things at us with this one clear goal: to interfere with our awareness of and interrupt our communion with, God.

The old commercial was longer, slower, had values, appealed to your reasoning, and the message was clear. Just like God’s message and relationship with us. The new one was shorter, faster, cluttered, avoided values, appealed to your emotions, and the message blurred. Just like the world’s.

We need to let God train us in steadiness, then actually practice steadiness. Don’t let unexpected events and random stimulation throw you off course. Rather, respond calmly and confidently knowing that God is with you. As soon as something grabs your attention, get into the habit of talking to God about it. Today’s scripture tells us clearly that we are not alone. God is there to help us cope with whatever circumstances you are facing. Your constant awareness of Him will help you maintain the steadiness in your walk that God desires for you.

Today, try to remind yourself to refocus back to and talk with God once an hour. Those WWJD bracelets really can work. A little watch alarm…your cellphone…markings in your daytimer…a bracelet or string around your wrist. Check out our Awareness Bracelets Anything that will prompt you to connect with God more often.

More connection with God makes it easier to develop His lenses…then you won’t get thrown by events or distractions so easily. Thinking instead of reacting will be easier, and you will be one step closer to the Mind of Christ.

Prayer

Dear Father God, I feel so unsteady today, I feel as if I have no footing and that I am ready to fall. I ask for Your continual presence in my life. I know, Lord, that when I reach and grasp for Your hand, I must let go of the other things I am holding tightly to. I know You have designed me to need You moment by moment. As my awareness of my neediness for You increases I become more steady. I seek Your face, Father, and I approach you with a teachable spirit. Help me build a discipline of connecting with you daily just like I use my computer, cell phone, texting, TV, radio, and phone regularly.
I pray in the name of the One who was never distracted from God, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isaiah 6:3

We live by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7

Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.
Matthew 7:24-25

August 4, 2010 Stepping Stones

Stepping Stones: Why Are We Afraid?

Transformational Thought

I have found lately, maybe because of the struggling economy, how easy it is for a lot of people to share their shortcomings. They readily confess that they suffer from all types of physical, material, or emotional problems. Doesn’t take much prodding to have them tell you they have lost a job, experiencing financial struggles, have a bad temper, or that they are self-centered…they will even tell you they are “not that smart.”

But one thing no one wants to admit (to themselves of others) is that they are cowards. No one likes to let on that they are afraid of anything. Of all our human frailties, cowardice seems by far the least popular. But yet we all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, so we all have small and large fears pretty regularly.

Fear gets in the way of so many things in our lives, but this is not how God wants us to live. Fear shows doubt for God’s sovereignty, His love for you, and His power over our problems. God does have answers. Remember His answer for our biggest concern…we were headed for eternal damnation because of our sin until Jesus died for us. He has answers for your every predicament, need, suffering, or anticipated suffering.

Pray for and develop courage from God, the only true and lasting source of real and triumphant courage. Then you will free yourself from the fears that keep you from God’s peace and joy.

God’s word speaks to us so clearly about the need to be brave and “fear not.” This message is contained in virtually every book of The Holy Bible. When we really put on the armor, braveness is an automatic outcome.

Today, what concerns you?....what do you worry about or are afraid of? Why? What do you need to believe differently about you and about God for your fear to go away? Usually our problem is some distorted views about what really is painful, how much pain we can handle, and the power and peace God provides when we are in pain. Take God’s promises seriously and see how it affects your vulnerable spots. Again, a decision you need to make, many times a day…God’s protection or the world’s. You choose.

Prayer
Dear Father God, on the outside I am tough, but on the inside I am so stricken with fear, I am such a coward. God, please give me courage. I need courage in all aspects of my life. I need courage to do good and to resist all forms of evil. I need courage to follow Your commandments, to overcome my fears, both rational and irrational. Give me the courage I need, Lord, to win the struggle against neuroses and anxieties. I need Your courage to overcome my addictions and to persevere though the storms in my life. Give me courage, Lord, to give witness to Your truth and to do great things in Your name. Father, I pray that all those of the Stepping Stones community gain Your courage and lose their fear. Remove their fear Father and give them Your peace…the peace that surpasses all human understanding. . I pray in the name of my rock and refuge, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20

After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."
Genesis 15:1

Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken.
Micah 4:4

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.
Revelation 1:17