Transformational Thought
Many times the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence. In short, our stuff isn’t satisfying enough. We spend so much time and energy focusing on what others have, what we are missing, or both. We think having what others have will bring satisfaction, happiness, solve a problem, heal a hurt, or soothe our discomfort and uneasiness.
The tenth commandment is "thou 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.
In other words, 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 provided it for me.
We know through scripture that God loves a thankful heart. And we have so much to be thankful for. But sometimes we pray and give thanks like we are on autopilot. Don't be complacent in being thankful. This is a very important discipline that reinforces in our mind and heart who God really is, who we are, and the relationship that is really playing out in our everyday lives. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap believing God is always withholding the essentials we need for our satisfaction.
Are you a person who focuses on what you don't have? Do you get caught up in the possibilities and fantasies of your agenda to pursue 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, because your actions will flow from these decisions you make.
Today, know Your God as the Great Giver. Make lists of all that He has given you in all areas of your life ... then take time throughout your day to pray short prayers of thanksgiving. You will find giving thanks opens clear lines of communication between you and your Lord. 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
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Stepping Stones: Too Shy To Call Your Bodyguard?
Transformational Thought
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 who 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 and weak. I’m sure you have days like this, too. We all do. 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. Our bodyguard in this spiritual war is so willing and able to step in and lend us His toughness and power. Will you accept His offer?
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 seems so reasonable to strive for. But putting my confidence in myself, to meet my needs, to 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, or even about your strength. It’s all about His strength. We have so much more than a tough brother in our corner … we have our all-powerful Lord and God. Recall the times where He has protected you from the world or your own mistakes … like speeding, impulse spending, dating and sexual mistakes, words you wish you could take 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. Your decision, choose well.
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 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 stop measuring my human limitations as I face the challenges and burdens before me. The issue is not my human limitations … the focus is Your Strength, not mine. I believe that 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
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 who 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 and weak. I’m sure you have days like this, too. We all do. 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. Our bodyguard in this spiritual war is so willing and able to step in and lend us His toughness and power. Will you accept His offer?
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 seems so reasonable to strive for. But putting my confidence in myself, to meet my needs, to 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, or even about your strength. It’s all about His strength. We have so much more than a tough brother in our corner … we have our all-powerful Lord and God. Recall the times where He has protected you from the world or your own mistakes … like speeding, impulse spending, dating and sexual mistakes, words you wish you could take 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. Your decision, choose well.
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 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 stop measuring my human limitations as I face the challenges and burdens before me. The issue is not my human limitations … the focus is Your Strength, not mine. I believe that 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
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Light Do Others See In You?
Transformational Thought
I always marvel at how our kids resemble my wife and me in so many ways, and I am not just talking about physical characteristics. Making lists, the way they talk about certain situations, word choice, sense of humor and what we laugh about, and attitudes about money to name a few. Our kids often become echoes of who we are.
The one line that really gets me is when my girls say, “Dad, that is exactly what Pappy would say.” When I hear it 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 (I also realized he wasn’t as weird as I thought as a teen!).
Like it or not, the way you lead your life is 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 radar … so sensitive … picking up all the activity in our environment, whether we are consciously aware of it or not. So the big question is, “What do they ‘see’ when they see you?”
As Christians, we have a light in us that is powerful … bright … vibrant … and can truly transform our mind and behavior. But it can also be transforming for others as well. Do others see your Heavenly Father in the way you act, talk, and think? We are called to let our light shine, not hide it under a bushel. What are the ways that 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 why is that? 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 accepted, causes us to act like the captain of our ship. We don’t submit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit or follow His commands and direction.
Today, look at how you handle 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? Alternatively, think of all the blessings you have received. Think about how your destiny and life have changed since accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Let His light shine brightly through you so that 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 me 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 who remain in that pit. Let them see You through me today, and allow me to 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
I always marvel at how our kids resemble my wife and me in so many ways, and I am not just talking about physical characteristics. Making lists, the way they talk about certain situations, word choice, sense of humor and what we laugh about, and attitudes about money to name a few. Our kids often become echoes of who we are.
The one line that really gets me is when my girls say, “Dad, that is exactly what Pappy would say.” When I hear it 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 (I also realized he wasn’t as weird as I thought as a teen!).
Like it or not, the way you lead your life is 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 radar … so sensitive … picking up all the activity in our environment, whether we are consciously aware of it or not. So the big question is, “What do they ‘see’ when they see you?”
As Christians, we have a light in us that is powerful … bright … vibrant … and can truly transform our mind and behavior. But it can also be transforming for others as well. Do others see your Heavenly Father in the way you act, talk, and think? We are called to let our light shine, not hide it under a bushel. What are the ways that 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 why is that? 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 accepted, causes us to act like the captain of our ship. We don’t submit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit or follow His commands and direction.
Today, look at how you handle 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? Alternatively, think of all the blessings you have received. Think about how your destiny and life have changed since accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Let His light shine brightly through you so that 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 me 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 who remain in that pit. Let them see You through me today, and allow me to 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
Monday, June 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Problems: Our Friend or Enemy?
Transformational Thought
Easy answer, problems are definitely our enemy, right? As usual, we are not going to conform to the world’s viewpoint and 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 the model He presented 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. Discipling us! Discipline is intentional training to produce moral character or conduct, the Mind of Christ. Events are only problems when we don’t understand the discipling and disciplining processes.
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 had 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 could show my growth as a psychiatrist. A "problem" in life is really that competition or test we take to show our growth ... and show areas we still need to work on. Why? Because we need to grow or more suffering will be guaranteed.
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 resulting 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, not thankful for your problems and lack understanding of them, then look at how you are preparing for your “tests” and where you are getting your confidence. You decide what is at the center of your heart influencing the lenses you use to view your problems. As usual, it gets down to heart exam time. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am overwhelmed with life’s problems … they are mounting so much that I cannot see over them. At times I am almost paralyzed with fear. It’s hard, 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 through 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
Easy answer, problems are definitely our enemy, right? As usual, we are not going to conform to the world’s viewpoint and 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 the model He presented 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. Discipling us! Discipline is intentional training to produce moral character or conduct, the Mind of Christ. Events are only problems when we don’t understand the discipling and disciplining processes.
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 had 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 could show my growth as a psychiatrist. A "problem" in life is really that competition or test we take to show our growth ... and show areas we still need to work on. Why? Because we need to grow or more suffering will be guaranteed.
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 resulting 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, not thankful for your problems and lack understanding of them, then look at how you are preparing for your “tests” and where you are getting your confidence. You decide what is at the center of your heart influencing the lenses you use to view your problems. As usual, it gets down to heart exam time. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am overwhelmed with life’s problems … they are mounting so much that I cannot see over them. At times I am almost paralyzed with fear. It’s hard, 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 through 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
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Guilt Trip To…. Nowhere
Transformational Thought
I often hear mothers using guilt to “motivate” their children. “If you loved me, you would do your chores.” “I worked long and hard on this meal, so you better eat it.” Or other people might say, “We’ll have to cancel the event … unless you help us.” And the classic, “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 act as a result of feeling guilty. 1. I am responsible for and can control someone else’s feelings through what I do. 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. 4. Decisions should be based on self-needs and emotions, not God’s truth, facts, and reasoning … probably the worst message. Unfortunately, these distorted messages subtly seep into many people’s everyday functioning and dramatically interfere with Godly decision-making.
Many pastors and priests try to whip their congregations into Christian action by delivering guilt-inducing sermons. Whether guilting someone to say the sinner’s prayer, give money, volunteer, or stop a certain behavior, the end does not justify the means. I have personally experienced these guilt-evoking messages. And unfortunately, they undermine the very foundation of grace and love that God wants to instill 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 guilt is present. 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 his 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. Your decision, choose well.
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. Today help me remember that You delight in me more than I can ever imagine, that You see me cloaked in Your light and presence … and that there is no condemnation for those cloaked in You. Help me daily, Lord, to 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 to Your word for guidance in doing right. I pray in the name of the One who knew no guilt ‘til 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
I often hear mothers using guilt to “motivate” their children. “If you loved me, you would do your chores.” “I worked long and hard on this meal, so you better eat it.” Or other people might say, “We’ll have to cancel the event … unless you help us.” And the classic, “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 act as a result of feeling guilty. 1. I am responsible for and can control someone else’s feelings through what I do. 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. 4. Decisions should be based on self-needs and emotions, not God’s truth, facts, and reasoning … probably the worst message. Unfortunately, these distorted messages subtly seep into many people’s everyday functioning and dramatically interfere with Godly decision-making.
Many pastors and priests try to whip their congregations into Christian action by delivering guilt-inducing sermons. Whether guilting someone to say the sinner’s prayer, give money, volunteer, or stop a certain behavior, the end does not justify the means. I have personally experienced these guilt-evoking messages. And unfortunately, they undermine the very foundation of grace and love that God wants to instill 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 guilt is present. 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 his 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. Your decision, choose well.
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. Today help me remember that You delight in me more than I can ever imagine, that You see me cloaked in Your light and presence … and that there is no condemnation for those cloaked in You. Help me daily, Lord, to 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 to Your word for guidance in doing right. I pray in the name of the One who knew no guilt ‘til 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
Friday, June 24, 2011
Stepping Stones: How Will Your Movie End?
Transformational Thought
We all tend to put premature finish lines on so many situations. “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 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 is, “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? Illness, maybe death or a divorce, being 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 allow me to see the good You will bring from this bad situation.”
Our present painful circumstances are there to sharpen, grow, and show us valuable skills and information about God, life and ourselves. This isn’t the end of the movie … more scenes are yet to come. Even though it is painful at times, do what you need to do, so when God opens the door, you are ready to walk through and take advantage of it. Often times we put off 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 next 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 that this is only the early part of a great movie of restoration and healing. What do you need to do for the cool movie turnaround twist to start? God will show up and do His part. Will you? 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. You can have a front row seat to appreciate what He is doing today and what He 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 belief that You will bring good from the 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 that You will bring good from this bad. Help me, Lord, reflect Your light and hope to others who are in the midst of what appears to be an impossible situation. I pray in the name of the One who was always patiently waited 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
We all tend to put premature finish lines on so many situations. “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 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 is, “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? Illness, maybe death or a divorce, being 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 allow me to see the good You will bring from this bad situation.”
Our present painful circumstances are there to sharpen, grow, and show us valuable skills and information about God, life and ourselves. This isn’t the end of the movie … more scenes are yet to come. Even though it is painful at times, do what you need to do, so when God opens the door, you are ready to walk through and take advantage of it. Often times we put off 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 next 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 that this is only the early part of a great movie of restoration and healing. What do you need to do for the cool movie turnaround twist to start? God will show up and do His part. Will you? 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. You can have a front row seat to appreciate what He is doing today and what He 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 belief that You will bring good from the 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 that You will bring good from this bad. Help me, Lord, reflect Your light and hope to others who are in the midst of what appears to be an impossible situation. I pray in the name of the One who was always patiently waited 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
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Stepping Stones: Which Commercial Represents Your Spiritual Life?
Transformational Thought
The other day, I saw a commercial from 1972 being compared to 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. It was shorter, cluttered, avoided values, appealed to emotions, and the message blurred. Just like the world’s daily commercials intruding in our lives. The old commercial was longer and slower, appealed to your reasoning, and had values and a clear message. Just like God’s message and relationship with us.
Our society has so much stimulation from cellphones, texting, computers, WiFi, ipods, audio books, and a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities. This world throws so many things at us with a clear purpose: to interfere with our awareness of God and to interrupt our communion with God.
We need to let God train us in steadiness, then actually practice steadiness. Constant awareness of Him will help you maintain the steadiness in your walk that God desires for you. Don’t allow 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 we are facing.
Today, try to remind yourself to refocus back to and talk with God once an hour. Those WWJD bracelets really can work. Anything that will prompt you to connect with God more often … a little watch alarm … your cellphone … markings in your daytimer … a bracelet or string around your wrist. Check out our Awareness Bracelets. More connection with God makes it easier to develop His lenses … then events or distractions won’t throw you 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, and car radio 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
The other day, I saw a commercial from 1972 being compared to 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. It was shorter, cluttered, avoided values, appealed to emotions, and the message blurred. Just like the world’s daily commercials intruding in our lives. The old commercial was longer and slower, appealed to your reasoning, and had values and a clear message. Just like God’s message and relationship with us.
Our society has so much stimulation from cellphones, texting, computers, WiFi, ipods, audio books, and a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities. This world throws so many things at us with a clear purpose: to interfere with our awareness of God and to interrupt our communion with God.
We need to let God train us in steadiness, then actually practice steadiness. Constant awareness of Him will help you maintain the steadiness in your walk that God desires for you. Don’t allow 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 we are facing.
Today, try to remind yourself to refocus back to and talk with God once an hour. Those WWJD bracelets really can work. Anything that will prompt you to connect with God more often … a little watch alarm … your cellphone … markings in your daytimer … a bracelet or string around your wrist. Check out our Awareness Bracelets. More connection with God makes it easier to develop His lenses … then events or distractions won’t throw you 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, and car radio 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
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Why Are We Afraid?
Transformational Thought
I have noticed lately how easy it is for people to share their shortcomings, perhaps because of the struggling economy. They readily confess that they suffer from all types of physical, material, or emotional problems. It doesn’t take much prodding to learn they have lost a job, experience 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 or 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. Yet we all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, so we all experience 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 regarding God’s sovereignty, His love for us, and His power over our problems. Remember His answer for our biggest concern: we were headed for eternal damnation because of our sin until Jesus died for us. God has an answer for 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. You see, God’s word speaks to us 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 full armor, then actually use it, bravery is an automatic outcome.
What concerns you? What do you worry about or fear? Why? What do you need to believe differently about yourself and about God for your fear to go away? Usually problems result from distorted views about what really is painful, how much pain we can handle, and the power, promises, and peace God provides when we are in pain.
Today, identify some of your vulnerable or fearful areas. 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. Your decision will either keep you captive to fear and the world … or set you free. So choose well.
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 and 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 in 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
I have noticed lately how easy it is for people to share their shortcomings, perhaps because of the struggling economy. They readily confess that they suffer from all types of physical, material, or emotional problems. It doesn’t take much prodding to learn they have lost a job, experience 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 or 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. Yet we all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, so we all experience 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 regarding God’s sovereignty, His love for us, and His power over our problems. Remember His answer for our biggest concern: we were headed for eternal damnation because of our sin until Jesus died for us. God has an answer for 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. You see, God’s word speaks to us 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 full armor, then actually use it, bravery is an automatic outcome.
What concerns you? What do you worry about or fear? Why? What do you need to believe differently about yourself and about God for your fear to go away? Usually problems result from distorted views about what really is painful, how much pain we can handle, and the power, promises, and peace God provides when we are in pain.
Today, identify some of your vulnerable or fearful areas. 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. Your decision will either keep you captive to fear and the world … or set you free. So choose well.
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 and 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 in 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
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Is On Every Street Corner of Your Life?
Transformational Thought
Starbucks on every corner. If you take into account Dunkin Donuts, WaWa, 7-11, local Starbuck wannabees, specialty coffee shops, favorite breakfast spots, different energy drinks, and church lobbyies, the real slogan is, “Caffeine on every corner.” Caffeine is harmful in many ways. Think about it. If you can’t stop using something because you with have uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms like headaches, that should send you a serious warning.
You see, we are incredibly needy people and the world is a very needy place. Looking for your boost, energy, or life from this world, well, that road ends in loneliness, frustration, and insecurity. All this world provides are temporary band-aids at best … distracting us from the true source of life and fulfillment … often harming us physiologically, psychologically, and especially spiritually. Even when the temporary fixes are ‘good’ and are provided by God, we may start to use them as primary solutions, forgetting they are intended to point us to the real solution – God.
To soothe your neediness, resist the knee-jerk impulse to reach for immediate comfort, the bargain sale item the world offers like a snake oil salesman … sucking you in for repeat sales and long-term destruction after you are hooked. Think I’m talking about heroin or crack? I’m talking about caffeine. Learn to go to your Lord and depend on Him first. When you turn to Him your weakness will be replaced with His power. Find completeness in God. Then He will provide for you and speak to you directly, or lead you to other people or things of this world to show His love and direction.
When you depend on God first, you can then help other people without using them to meet your own needs. Let God’s light shine brightly in you. Then God will shine through you to help others. The quality of your relationships with others will powerfully explode with fulfillment, and opportunities to influence others will expand greatly.
Today, consider where you first look to meet your needs. Yourself … your intellect, looks, or a personality trait … feelings like anger, self-pity, anxiety, or arrogance? Perhaps other people, kids or parents? Sometimes it may be material things, sex, food, money, toys, drugs, even caffeine. Try a detox period, spiritually called a fast, from the “drug” you use to soothe yourself and instead, “suffer well” by going to God’s Word and see what He will speak to you. Hopefully, you can “kick the habit!” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I often turn to the world for my needs, and many times what I take from the world keeps me separated from You. The merry-go-round of life seems to be spinning faster and faster. Things seem out of control. Yet I know by Your Word and by my faith that there is a calm at the center of the storms in my life. This calm is only found through a union with You. Thank You, my Father. Help me return to this center of calm … this soothing center more often, for this is where I will find completeness, Love, Joy and Peace. I pray in the name of my sustaining life-force, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:9-10
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you." As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.
Psalm 16:1-4
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.,
Galatians 5:22
No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:12
You see, we are incredibly needy people and the world is a very needy place. Looking for your boost, energy, or life from this world, well, that road ends in loneliness, frustration, and insecurity. All this world provides are temporary band-aids at best … distracting us from the true source of life and fulfillment … often harming us physiologically, psychologically, and especially spiritually. Even when the temporary fixes are ‘good’ and are provided by God, we may start to use them as primary solutions, forgetting they are intended to point us to the real solution – God.
To soothe your neediness, resist the knee-jerk impulse to reach for immediate comfort, the bargain sale item the world offers like a snake oil salesman … sucking you in for repeat sales and long-term destruction after you are hooked. Think I’m talking about heroin or crack? I’m talking about caffeine. Learn to go to your Lord and depend on Him first. When you turn to Him your weakness will be replaced with His power. Find completeness in God. Then He will provide for you and speak to you directly, or lead you to other people or things of this world to show His love and direction.
When you depend on God first, you can then help other people without using them to meet your own needs. Let God’s light shine brightly in you. Then God will shine through you to help others. The quality of your relationships with others will powerfully explode with fulfillment, and opportunities to influence others will expand greatly.
Today, consider where you first look to meet your needs. Yourself … your intellect, looks, or a personality trait … feelings like anger, self-pity, anxiety, or arrogance? Perhaps other people, kids or parents? Sometimes it may be material things, sex, food, money, toys, drugs, even caffeine. Try a detox period, spiritually called a fast, from the “drug” you use to soothe yourself and instead, “suffer well” by going to God’s Word and see what He will speak to you. Hopefully, you can “kick the habit!” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I often turn to the world for my needs, and many times what I take from the world keeps me separated from You. The merry-go-round of life seems to be spinning faster and faster. Things seem out of control. Yet I know by Your Word and by my faith that there is a calm at the center of the storms in my life. This calm is only found through a union with You. Thank You, my Father. Help me return to this center of calm … this soothing center more often, for this is where I will find completeness, Love, Joy and Peace. I pray in the name of my sustaining life-force, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:9-10
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you." As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.
Psalm 16:1-4
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.,
Galatians 5:22
No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:12
Monday, June 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: One Prayer God Guarantees To Answer “Yes”
Transformational Thought
“A Christmas Story” is a truly classic movie and a Christmas tradition in our family. You know … it’s the movie where Ralphie asks for a Red Ryder pump action BB gun with a compass in the stock. But he’s rejected numerous times with a “You’ll shoot your eye out” response. Even Santa, who always answers “YES”, pushes him down the slide with his boot and repeats the classic line.
Some people view God as the ultimate Santa Claus, sending requests north to heaven. Unfortunately, every day, all over the world, many Christian are asking the same question, “Why didn’t God answer my request?” God has many reasons for saying no to your specific prayer, but we will tackle that subject in a future devotional. Today’s devotional is about a simple, important prayer that actually has a guarantee from God. Yes, it is guaranteed to always be answered with a “yes.” Drumroll, please! That prayer is, “Lord, please forgive me.”
You see, when it comes to forgivenness for the mistakes, slips, sins, and bad things we have done, the hardest part has already been done for us. The penalty for sin is death, and that penalty must be paid by someone. Jesus Christ paid it on our behalf a long time ago. Our role in this process is really quite simple, contrary to what our flesh, the world, or Satan influence us to think.
The sooner we can grasp and believe this fact, the easier we can rid ourselves of the dysfunctional shame, guilt, remorse and accumulated emotional weight from past sins that so many of us carry around like a huge stone. So, ask for God’s forgiveness now and each time you misstep each day. Don’t let the many sins you commit accumulate, hindering your powerful relationship and direct communication with God.
Today, accept that we all have past sins that we allow to influence our present lenses and life. What past sin eats at your view of yourself … your self-esteem … or your ability to relate well with someone close? What is the effect? Why do you still let it influence you? Confess and dig into God’s word to access different lenses to see the complete forgiveness God has for you! This corrective lens surgery will truly free you. WITHIN REACH helps you dig, identify, and apply God’s word so you can see clearly.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am tired of feeling like a terrible person … I am tired of carrying the weight of guilt and shame for the things I have done … the sins I’ve committed. Lord, please forgive me. I know through Your Holy Word that Christ died to heal the brokenhearted and set the captives free. I confess my sins to you, Lord. Please forgive me and purify me from all unrighteousness. Remove the sins that block me from your blessings. Forgive my sins so that I may see with Your eyes and fill my mind with Your thoughts. Give me Your wisdom through Your Holy Spirit. And more than wisdom, give me the strength to do Your will. I pray this in the name of the one who took my place on the cross so I might be forgiven, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
John 19:28-30
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
Ephesians 1:7
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
“A Christmas Story” is a truly classic movie and a Christmas tradition in our family. You know … it’s the movie where Ralphie asks for a Red Ryder pump action BB gun with a compass in the stock. But he’s rejected numerous times with a “You’ll shoot your eye out” response. Even Santa, who always answers “YES”, pushes him down the slide with his boot and repeats the classic line.
Some people view God as the ultimate Santa Claus, sending requests north to heaven. Unfortunately, every day, all over the world, many Christian are asking the same question, “Why didn’t God answer my request?” God has many reasons for saying no to your specific prayer, but we will tackle that subject in a future devotional. Today’s devotional is about a simple, important prayer that actually has a guarantee from God. Yes, it is guaranteed to always be answered with a “yes.” Drumroll, please! That prayer is, “Lord, please forgive me.”
You see, when it comes to forgivenness for the mistakes, slips, sins, and bad things we have done, the hardest part has already been done for us. The penalty for sin is death, and that penalty must be paid by someone. Jesus Christ paid it on our behalf a long time ago. Our role in this process is really quite simple, contrary to what our flesh, the world, or Satan influence us to think.
The sooner we can grasp and believe this fact, the easier we can rid ourselves of the dysfunctional shame, guilt, remorse and accumulated emotional weight from past sins that so many of us carry around like a huge stone. So, ask for God’s forgiveness now and each time you misstep each day. Don’t let the many sins you commit accumulate, hindering your powerful relationship and direct communication with God.
Today, accept that we all have past sins that we allow to influence our present lenses and life. What past sin eats at your view of yourself … your self-esteem … or your ability to relate well with someone close? What is the effect? Why do you still let it influence you? Confess and dig into God’s word to access different lenses to see the complete forgiveness God has for you! This corrective lens surgery will truly free you. WITHIN REACH helps you dig, identify, and apply God’s word so you can see clearly.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am tired of feeling like a terrible person … I am tired of carrying the weight of guilt and shame for the things I have done … the sins I’ve committed. Lord, please forgive me. I know through Your Holy Word that Christ died to heal the brokenhearted and set the captives free. I confess my sins to you, Lord. Please forgive me and purify me from all unrighteousness. Remove the sins that block me from your blessings. Forgive my sins so that I may see with Your eyes and fill my mind with Your thoughts. Give me Your wisdom through Your Holy Spirit. And more than wisdom, give me the strength to do Your will. I pray this in the name of the one who took my place on the cross so I might be forgiven, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
John 19:28-30
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
Ephesians 1:7
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: “I Saved a Seat For You!”
Transformational Thought
When I was growing up my family moved around a lot, and I was rather shy. Middle of junior year, we moved to NJ. First day, I go to lunch, get through the line, and I’m wondering how embarrassed I will feel if I don’t see any of the several people I met at baseball practice the evening before. Like a miracle, I hear 2 girls (Debbie and Jill) I had never met call out. “Hey Karl, we saved a seat for you.” Wow, that meant so much. They were cute, too. I still remember what they did to this day.
Just think about that warm feeling we get when someone tells us they will save a place for us in line … or at the table. It sends a clear message … they care about us and our heart. Even more, they are willing to expend energy to show their feelings for us by taking action. Walking the walk.
Now think about what God’s Word says to us. Like the prodigal son, we all have taken our inheritance and gone our own way … following our me-centered desires. We say no to our Father’s plan … pushing away His protection for our self-destructive follies and pursuits. The father was ready to take his prodigal son home, give him a feast, and honor his return.
Our Father will do even more … think of the place He is holding for us. Think about His promise to bring us back from captivity. He sacrificed His only Son to secure a place at the ultimate banquet table for us. Think about His promise to give us hope and a future ... the awesome gift of enjoying eternity … in His glorious kingdom. God saved your life and He is saving a place for you at His glorious table. Accept His invitation. It’s free to you and lasts FOREVER!
Today, listen to the amazing invitation God extends to you everyday. It should warm your heart, bring a peace to your emotional turmoil, and excite your mind. Just as you feel loved when others go out of their way to give you something grand, you should feel and know the Father’s love every minute of this day. Let this assurance and gift form the lenses you use, especially when storms strike. It’s your decision how you view His invitation, so choose well.
Prayer
Father God, I believe that You have thoughts of peace and not of evil for me. I believe You have plans for me and a special future; You have given me hope. I know that when I call upon You and pray to You, You 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 for saving a place in line for me. I thank You for Jesus, my Savior, for without You, I am nothing, just lost and alone. I pray this in the name of the one who took my place on the cross so I can have a place at God’s banquet table, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – 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
And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:20-24
Just think about that warm feeling we get when someone tells us they will save a place for us in line … or at the table. It sends a clear message … they care about us and our heart. Even more, they are willing to expend energy to show their feelings for us by taking action. Walking the walk.
Now think about what God’s Word says to us. Like the prodigal son, we all have taken our inheritance and gone our own way … following our me-centered desires. We say no to our Father’s plan … pushing away His protection for our self-destructive follies and pursuits. The father was ready to take his prodigal son home, give him a feast, and honor his return.
Our Father will do even more … think of the place He is holding for us. Think about His promise to bring us back from captivity. He sacrificed His only Son to secure a place at the ultimate banquet table for us. Think about His promise to give us hope and a future ... the awesome gift of enjoying eternity … in His glorious kingdom. God saved your life and He is saving a place for you at His glorious table. Accept His invitation. It’s free to you and lasts FOREVER!
Today, listen to the amazing invitation God extends to you everyday. It should warm your heart, bring a peace to your emotional turmoil, and excite your mind. Just as you feel loved when others go out of their way to give you something grand, you should feel and know the Father’s love every minute of this day. Let this assurance and gift form the lenses you use, especially when storms strike. It’s your decision how you view His invitation, so choose well.
Prayer
Father God, I believe that You have thoughts of peace and not of evil for me. I believe You have plans for me and a special future; You have given me hope. I know that when I call upon You and pray to You, You 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 for saving a place in line for me. I thank You for Jesus, my Savior, for without You, I am nothing, just lost and alone. I pray this in the name of the one who took my place on the cross so I can have a place at God’s banquet table, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – 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
And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:20-24
Friday, June 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Can You Write A Better Instruction Manual Than God?
Transformational Thought
God created our mind, our free will, and us. Like any good “manufacturer” He included an instruction manual telling us how to properly use His creation to get the most out of it. The Holy Bible is His instruction manual, and wow, is it so powerful and life changing. Read the story below and see how one sentence of scripture can teach us so much.
There was a group of women in a Bible study on the book of Malachi. As they were studying chapter 3, they came across verse 3, which says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.”
This verse puzzled the women and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out about the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible study. That week she called up a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest in silver beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest so as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot - then she thought again about the verse, that He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver. She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. For if the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, how do you know when the silver is fully refined? He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's the easy part--when I see my image reflected in it."
What can we take away from this beautiful story?
1. Our Lord wants the impurities out of our body, soul (mind), and spirit. "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver"
2. Our Lord is with us every minute of every day as we go through the process of refinement and purification. “…he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire”
3. Our Lord knows how much we can take, and his timing is perfect because it is his timing “For if the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed” our Lord will never give us more burdens than we can manage as long as we are living according to his word.
4. Our Lord truly wants to see us grow to be like Him. "Oh, that's the easy part--when I see my image reflected in it."
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for the wisdom and guidance that comes from You Holy Word. I thank You for the depth of meaning held within each word. I pray that You will fill me with Your Spirit so that I may see more clearly the messages You intend me to take away from your Word. I pray that You will help me absorb and extract the full message from Your Word and share it with others so that they too can experience Your glory and wisdom. I pray this in the name of the Living Word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver"
Malachi 3:3
"Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4: 6-7
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
God created our mind, our free will, and us. Like any good “manufacturer” He included an instruction manual telling us how to properly use His creation to get the most out of it. The Holy Bible is His instruction manual, and wow, is it so powerful and life changing. Read the story below and see how one sentence of scripture can teach us so much.
There was a group of women in a Bible study on the book of Malachi. As they were studying chapter 3, they came across verse 3, which says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.”
This verse puzzled the women and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out about the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible study. That week she called up a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest in silver beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest so as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot - then she thought again about the verse, that He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver. She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. For if the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, how do you know when the silver is fully refined? He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's the easy part--when I see my image reflected in it."
What can we take away from this beautiful story?
1. Our Lord wants the impurities out of our body, soul (mind), and spirit. "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver"
2. Our Lord is with us every minute of every day as we go through the process of refinement and purification. “…he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire”
3. Our Lord knows how much we can take, and his timing is perfect because it is his timing “For if the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed” our Lord will never give us more burdens than we can manage as long as we are living according to his word.
4. Our Lord truly wants to see us grow to be like Him. "Oh, that's the easy part--when I see my image reflected in it."
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for the wisdom and guidance that comes from You Holy Word. I thank You for the depth of meaning held within each word. I pray that You will fill me with Your Spirit so that I may see more clearly the messages You intend me to take away from your Word. I pray that You will help me absorb and extract the full message from Your Word and share it with others so that they too can experience Your glory and wisdom. I pray this in the name of the Living Word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver"
Malachi 3:3
"Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4: 6-7
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
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Let the Holy Spirit be Your Director
Transformational Thought
So many patients come in and tell me their feelings are causing so much pain. Or their feelings and emotions are out of control. The most damaging stories evolve from letting emotions become their decision-making system, leading to incredibly destructive and life-interfering behaviors.
Now, I am not saying our “negative” emotions are always bad … they are a great warning system. But that is a discussion for a different devotional (see May 1, 2011).
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will literally begin to form your mind. But you see, God made our minds so powerful and complex, that we have many thoughts at the same time. These thoughts then compete to form the lenses our mind uses to see life’s situations. A big stumbling block is the difficulty of dealing with our emotions. Especially problematic are real or possible emotional discomfort and pain.
Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness … we often allow these to become terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate and, more often, self-destructive decisions we wish we could take back. These decisions often evolve into patterns or habits we want to change. But we feel we have no control and can’t stop.
God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our development to become more Christ-like. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of our heart. (See Spiritual Basics link and then click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess the wrong decision, make it right with God, and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne of our heart. As you attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit … let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something to you or an unexpected situation occurs. What is your first feeling? If that feeling is uncomfortable, what is your first response? Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, we all have a number of sinful decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) each day that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the path your life takes when you promote the right manager to direct your thoughts and mind.
Prayer
Dear Father of Truth, There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts … I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to my mind and infuses it with life and peace. I desire to think Your thoughts, my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain, and to get quick-fix relief and satisfaction And I know that the Evil One, the father of lies, tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank You, Lord, for all your goodness and blessings … and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray this in the name of my comfort when stressed, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8
So many patients come in and tell me their feelings are causing so much pain. Or their feelings and emotions are out of control. The most damaging stories evolve from letting emotions become their decision-making system, leading to incredibly destructive and life-interfering behaviors.
Now, I am not saying our “negative” emotions are always bad … they are a great warning system. But that is a discussion for a different devotional (see May 1, 2011).
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will literally begin to form your mind. But you see, God made our minds so powerful and complex, that we have many thoughts at the same time. These thoughts then compete to form the lenses our mind uses to see life’s situations. A big stumbling block is the difficulty of dealing with our emotions. Especially problematic are real or possible emotional discomfort and pain.
Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness … we often allow these to become terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate and, more often, self-destructive decisions we wish we could take back. These decisions often evolve into patterns or habits we want to change. But we feel we have no control and can’t stop.
God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our development to become more Christ-like. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of our heart. (See Spiritual Basics link and then click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess the wrong decision, make it right with God, and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne of our heart. As you attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit … let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something to you or an unexpected situation occurs. What is your first feeling? If that feeling is uncomfortable, what is your first response? Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, we all have a number of sinful decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) each day that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the path your life takes when you promote the right manager to direct your thoughts and mind.
Prayer
Dear Father of Truth, There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts … I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to my mind and infuses it with life and peace. I desire to think Your thoughts, my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain, and to get quick-fix relief and satisfaction And I know that the Evil One, the father of lies, tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank You, Lord, for all your goodness and blessings … and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray this in the name of my comfort when stressed, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: What’s Your Morning Pick-Me-Up?
Transformational Thought
Each morning is a powerful gift and holds unlimited opportunity for each one of us. A new day dawning. A fresh start. A chance to wipe the slate clean. A day that God and you co-author. The early bird gets the worm. Are you a morning person or are you a night owl? How well do you take advantage of this second chance? How often do you wake up on the wrong side of the bed?
I love to stay up late. I hate getting “cheated” by missing out on something or losing my relaxation time. But the latest my body allows me to sleep in is 7AM. My fresh start is a bit fuzzy ‘til I shake out the cobwebs, but after shaving and showering I’m fully awake, ready to spend time with the Lord and get a clear view of what He has planned for me that day.
Even those with the deepest faith occasionally awaken in a foggy, frazzled state of mind in the morning. And on the most demanding and trying days, they may even wake in a state of unbelief. You see, our natural state is to get caught up in the minutiae of life and the preceding couple days and lose sight of God’s much bigger picture and plan. Beginning your day with these tangled thoughts and a mind-set of subtle distortion will lead to a day of stress and poor decisions.
The foundation of good decision-making is being able to see the situation clearly … to have eyes that see the truth. That is why the truth will set you free. The trophy is your soul and Satan and God are fighting it out on the battlefield, which is your mind. Satan, the Great Deceiver, has only one weapon – deception. He is always trying to distort your lenses so you can’t see God’s truth.
Your challenge and responsibility each morning is to untangle your thoughts so that your mind is aligned with the truth in God’s Word. You might think you don’t have time … that’s what I used to think. But after wasting so much of my day with tangled thinking, I realized I must spend time with God untangling my thoughts and priorities.
Today, if you started off with Stepping Stones or a similar discipline, good for you. If not, then tomorrow, don’t reach for coffee (the Christian drug of choice), food, or the morning paper to get you going. Cast your eyes clearly on the grace that will be brought to you by the revelation of Jesus Christ. Put on the full armor so confidence, peace, joy, good decisions, and excitement to excel will replace inadequacy, fear, stress, poor decisions, and fear of failure. Focus your thoughts on Your God, Immanuel – God with you. Set aside time each morning for this vital task. Prepare for battle by putting on the Armor of God. Clear your lenses and head (See Spiritual Basics link on the left).
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that you want me to live this day cheerfully as one of Your followers. But I often wake wondering if I can make it through this day … whether I will be able to cope. I realize that this fear is a form of unbelief. Help me with my unbelief today, my Lord. I know that when I begin my day with a muddled mind, I ask myself the wrong question, “Will I be able to cope with the troubles I face today?” With You alongside me, guiding me, strengthening me, encouraging me … I can conquer anything that comes my way … even the troubles I avoid. So today Father, as I work to untangle my thoughts … thanks for providing Your armor, Your Holy Spirit, and Your son Jesus, to save me in this battle. I will focus my thoughts on who You are: Immanuel – God with me. I pray this in the name of my savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
1 Peter 1:13-15
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
Matthew 1:23
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7
Each morning is a powerful gift and holds unlimited opportunity for each one of us. A new day dawning. A fresh start. A chance to wipe the slate clean. A day that God and you co-author. The early bird gets the worm. Are you a morning person or are you a night owl? How well do you take advantage of this second chance? How often do you wake up on the wrong side of the bed?
I love to stay up late. I hate getting “cheated” by missing out on something or losing my relaxation time. But the latest my body allows me to sleep in is 7AM. My fresh start is a bit fuzzy ‘til I shake out the cobwebs, but after shaving and showering I’m fully awake, ready to spend time with the Lord and get a clear view of what He has planned for me that day.
Even those with the deepest faith occasionally awaken in a foggy, frazzled state of mind in the morning. And on the most demanding and trying days, they may even wake in a state of unbelief. You see, our natural state is to get caught up in the minutiae of life and the preceding couple days and lose sight of God’s much bigger picture and plan. Beginning your day with these tangled thoughts and a mind-set of subtle distortion will lead to a day of stress and poor decisions.
The foundation of good decision-making is being able to see the situation clearly … to have eyes that see the truth. That is why the truth will set you free. The trophy is your soul and Satan and God are fighting it out on the battlefield, which is your mind. Satan, the Great Deceiver, has only one weapon – deception. He is always trying to distort your lenses so you can’t see God’s truth.
Your challenge and responsibility each morning is to untangle your thoughts so that your mind is aligned with the truth in God’s Word. You might think you don’t have time … that’s what I used to think. But after wasting so much of my day with tangled thinking, I realized I must spend time with God untangling my thoughts and priorities.
Today, if you started off with Stepping Stones or a similar discipline, good for you. If not, then tomorrow, don’t reach for coffee (the Christian drug of choice), food, or the morning paper to get you going. Cast your eyes clearly on the grace that will be brought to you by the revelation of Jesus Christ. Put on the full armor so confidence, peace, joy, good decisions, and excitement to excel will replace inadequacy, fear, stress, poor decisions, and fear of failure. Focus your thoughts on Your God, Immanuel – God with you. Set aside time each morning for this vital task. Prepare for battle by putting on the Armor of God. Clear your lenses and head (See Spiritual Basics link on the left).
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that you want me to live this day cheerfully as one of Your followers. But I often wake wondering if I can make it through this day … whether I will be able to cope. I realize that this fear is a form of unbelief. Help me with my unbelief today, my Lord. I know that when I begin my day with a muddled mind, I ask myself the wrong question, “Will I be able to cope with the troubles I face today?” With You alongside me, guiding me, strengthening me, encouraging me … I can conquer anything that comes my way … even the troubles I avoid. So today Father, as I work to untangle my thoughts … thanks for providing Your armor, Your Holy Spirit, and Your son Jesus, to save me in this battle. I will focus my thoughts on who You are: Immanuel – God with me. I pray this in the name of my savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
1 Peter 1:13-15
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
Matthew 1:23
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Stepping Stones: Be Aware of Your Insufficiency
Transformational Thought
It’s funny to watch someone who thinks they know everything, has the situation all planned out, takes a lot of pride in being in control of the whole enchilada, and then has it all blow up in his face. I’m sure this kind of thing has never happened to you either, right?
We all occasionally have experiences when our pride and ignorance blend together to get us believing we are actually God. Acting like we know everything, can foresee the future, and have all the power to make a perfect ending play out. What are we thinking!
Do you ever forget where you put something? Make the wrong choice in a situation? How about getting accused by your kids (or parents) of not hearing very well? Have you missed an appointment? Is there even one topic you know everything about? Do you have trouble predicting the future? Recognizing the limits of our understanding is a good thing. The more we recognize and accept our limitations, the more it will enhance our relationship with God.
You see, we all have limits. But unfortunately, we don’t recognize where they are … so we live beyond our skills. Seems good, doesn’t it, getting more out of who we are? Unwittingly though, the reality is that we are putting our confidence in and getting our confidence from … Ourselves! This means I am relying on me … what I bring to the table … what I can do.
Our confidence needs to come from God. We need to put our eggs in His basket … who He is … His character … His promises … His instructions in the Bible. The assurance of God’s sovereignty, power, omniscience, reliability, love and sacrifice for us, only that will allow us to successfully grow the mind of Christ and live life abundantly. We need Him continually … beyond our daily bread and blessings. We need Him for the many (5,000-10,000) decisions we must make each day.
Today, recognize your global insufficiency, but also pay attention to your daily limits. Start to look to God to fill in the area beyond your limits. Then you will start to gain your confidence from Him and truly rest in Him. We have been designed to need Him moment by moment. Today and every day, live in joyful dependence on your Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, Lately I am becoming more aware of my need for You. I have noticed that many people around me have become increasingly confident, almost cocky about the accuracy of their opinions and confident about their decisions. However, I feel just the opposite. I feel like an iceberg: what I understand is above the water; what I don’t understand is below. I come to You, my Father, full of neediness and uncertainty. I am fully aware of Your sufficiency and that You will supply all my needs according to Your riches. I have so many decisions to make and I am doubtful about my ability to make the right decisions. I know that each decision moves me closer or further away from You. Your Word teaches me that wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction; help me pass through the small gate and walk the narrow road that leads to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who always got it right, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13-14
It’s funny to watch someone who thinks they know everything, has the situation all planned out, takes a lot of pride in being in control of the whole enchilada, and then has it all blow up in his face. I’m sure this kind of thing has never happened to you either, right?
We all occasionally have experiences when our pride and ignorance blend together to get us believing we are actually God. Acting like we know everything, can foresee the future, and have all the power to make a perfect ending play out. What are we thinking!
Do you ever forget where you put something? Make the wrong choice in a situation? How about getting accused by your kids (or parents) of not hearing very well? Have you missed an appointment? Is there even one topic you know everything about? Do you have trouble predicting the future? Recognizing the limits of our understanding is a good thing. The more we recognize and accept our limitations, the more it will enhance our relationship with God.
You see, we all have limits. But unfortunately, we don’t recognize where they are … so we live beyond our skills. Seems good, doesn’t it, getting more out of who we are? Unwittingly though, the reality is that we are putting our confidence in and getting our confidence from … Ourselves! This means I am relying on me … what I bring to the table … what I can do.
Our confidence needs to come from God. We need to put our eggs in His basket … who He is … His character … His promises … His instructions in the Bible. The assurance of God’s sovereignty, power, omniscience, reliability, love and sacrifice for us, only that will allow us to successfully grow the mind of Christ and live life abundantly. We need Him continually … beyond our daily bread and blessings. We need Him for the many (5,000-10,000) decisions we must make each day.
Today, recognize your global insufficiency, but also pay attention to your daily limits. Start to look to God to fill in the area beyond your limits. Then you will start to gain your confidence from Him and truly rest in Him. We have been designed to need Him moment by moment. Today and every day, live in joyful dependence on your Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, Lately I am becoming more aware of my need for You. I have noticed that many people around me have become increasingly confident, almost cocky about the accuracy of their opinions and confident about their decisions. However, I feel just the opposite. I feel like an iceberg: what I understand is above the water; what I don’t understand is below. I come to You, my Father, full of neediness and uncertainty. I am fully aware of Your sufficiency and that You will supply all my needs according to Your riches. I have so many decisions to make and I am doubtful about my ability to make the right decisions. I know that each decision moves me closer or further away from You. Your Word teaches me that wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction; help me pass through the small gate and walk the narrow road that leads to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who always got it right, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13-14
Monday, June 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: Heart Check Time
Transformational Thought
A friend and Christian counselor once shared with me a very powerful analogy that most of us have heard in one form or another. He said that we are all born with this vacuum tube in our core. It is empty and by its very nature, a vacuum (negative pressure), has the constant need to be filled.
That vacuum tube, that “void”, is always intended to be filled with Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. But if we don’t fill it with Him, the powerful vacuum has to suck in something, so it sucks in all the other junk lying around close by our heart. And once filled with junk, our heart has no room for our Lord and Savior. Having this junk in our core leaves us feeling empty and incomplete, so we continue letting quick-fix junk get sucked into that void to try to relieve these troubling feelings.
Until we fill that core vacuum with Him, and live close to Him, we will continue to feel empty, insecure, overwhelmed, and incomplete. What have you allowed into your core to be your “savior” when you are in a jam or struggle? Is it really saving you, or is it just contributing to your slow demise?
This impersonating savior, false hope, is Satan’s answer for your needs … to be important … loved … in control … secure … loved … appreciated … valued … included … unique ... pretty … you fill in the __________. Relying on these impersonators to save you will actually cripple you over time. Satan conveniently leaves that fact out of his sales pitch.
Today, look at your wrong decisions. Examine closely why you made that decision. That is where you will see what got sucked into the center of your heart … what is guiding your decisions. If you are honest, you will be surprised at some of the junk you allow to seep in and exert subtle, yet dramatic influence on your decisions. Dump the junk and intentionally allow God’s truth to fill you up with his loving grace and mercy … for only then will you be complete … only then will you truly be who He designed you to be. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I often feel incomplete, as if some very important part of me is missing. When I get this feeling, I often respond in unproductive and even sinful ways: foraging for food, fantasy, entertainment, control, a drink, caffeine, or prideful recognition to soothe my unrest. All the while, You are with me, patiently waiting for me to let You in. When I continue to go my own way, seeking satisfaction where there is none, I become increasingly frustrated. This agitated condition makes it seem harder and harder to turn back to You, the only One who can complete me. I cry out to You today, I cry out, “Help me, Jesus!” I pray this in the name of the Ultimate Vacuum Filler, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
James 1:4
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:7
By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
2 Timothy 1:14
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
Psalm 51:10-12
A friend and Christian counselor once shared with me a very powerful analogy that most of us have heard in one form or another. He said that we are all born with this vacuum tube in our core. It is empty and by its very nature, a vacuum (negative pressure), has the constant need to be filled.
That vacuum tube, that “void”, is always intended to be filled with Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. But if we don’t fill it with Him, the powerful vacuum has to suck in something, so it sucks in all the other junk lying around close by our heart. And once filled with junk, our heart has no room for our Lord and Savior. Having this junk in our core leaves us feeling empty and incomplete, so we continue letting quick-fix junk get sucked into that void to try to relieve these troubling feelings.
Until we fill that core vacuum with Him, and live close to Him, we will continue to feel empty, insecure, overwhelmed, and incomplete. What have you allowed into your core to be your “savior” when you are in a jam or struggle? Is it really saving you, or is it just contributing to your slow demise?
This impersonating savior, false hope, is Satan’s answer for your needs … to be important … loved … in control … secure … loved … appreciated … valued … included … unique ... pretty … you fill in the __________. Relying on these impersonators to save you will actually cripple you over time. Satan conveniently leaves that fact out of his sales pitch.
Today, look at your wrong decisions. Examine closely why you made that decision. That is where you will see what got sucked into the center of your heart … what is guiding your decisions. If you are honest, you will be surprised at some of the junk you allow to seep in and exert subtle, yet dramatic influence on your decisions. Dump the junk and intentionally allow God’s truth to fill you up with his loving grace and mercy … for only then will you be complete … only then will you truly be who He designed you to be. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I often feel incomplete, as if some very important part of me is missing. When I get this feeling, I often respond in unproductive and even sinful ways: foraging for food, fantasy, entertainment, control, a drink, caffeine, or prideful recognition to soothe my unrest. All the while, You are with me, patiently waiting for me to let You in. When I continue to go my own way, seeking satisfaction where there is none, I become increasingly frustrated. This agitated condition makes it seem harder and harder to turn back to You, the only One who can complete me. I cry out to You today, I cry out, “Help me, Jesus!” I pray this in the name of the Ultimate Vacuum Filler, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
James 1:4
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:7
By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
2 Timothy 1:14
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
Psalm 51:10-12
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: God’s the Great Physician, So You are the Nurse Assistant
Transformational Thought
We all are injured, defective, and hurt in multiple ways. None of us are perfect in any area of our composition. Don’t we all need some form of healing? How healthy is your Mind? Your Body (including your brain chemistry)? Your Spirit? God’s word tells us that He will restore our health and heal our wounds. The scripture tells us this eternal healing does not come to us because of what we “do”. Rather it comes to us free of charge, in perfect abundance, through Jesus Christ through faith. We just need to accept it.
On the flip side, our temporal healing, the healing for the time period represented by the dash on our tombstone … 1963 – 20__ starts when we receive Christ’s death for our sins. The Holy Spirit indwells us, but then we have some responsibility for the ongoing sanctification or healing process to continue forward in our earthly lifetime. This is the abundant living Jesus spoke about.
Intentional decisions to not conform, but to be transformed, to strip off the old self and put on the new, to act boldly based on our faith in God’s character, promises, and His teachings in the Bible … that is what we control and need to master. This Spiritual Discipline of Decision-Making is powerful and nobody really talks about it with concrete depth.
Just like becoming good at a sport, music, academics, or art … daily practice of specific fundamentals is essential. Putting on the Armor of God, regular prayer and confession, and being in the Bible … God’s instruction manual … are ways to engage in spiritual training. For training to work, we have to have intentionality, self-assessment, perseverance, and strategy to get to the goal … the Mind of Christ. Discipline!
Today, ask yourself … What is my strategy? And my commitment to this strategy? How do I exercise my free will? Is it consistent with God’s instruction? Pursuing these answers will determine whether your dash will be filled with healing and peace or further injury and pain. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that I cannot earn my way to salvation, but by receiving You, I have become Your child. I believe Your word. I pray with humble confidence that You restore me to full spiritual, mental and physical health. Show me what I need to do to receive the healing in this lifetime, the renewing of my mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically in my brain chemistry. Help me to understand what Your Holy Spirit is trying to show me and tell me so I can grow and glorify You. I pray today that You protect and lift the burdens of the entire Stepping Stones community according to Your will. If it is not Your will, then show them more clearly today how to access Your peace and comfort during their struggles. You know our every need, Lord. Let the assurance of Your presence fill us with joy and peace … regardless of our circumstances and our daily trials. I pray this in the name of the Great Physician, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For I will restore health unto you and I will heal you of thy wounds saith the Lord.
Jer. 30:17
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior
Titus 3:5-6
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:1,8-13
We all are injured, defective, and hurt in multiple ways. None of us are perfect in any area of our composition. Don’t we all need some form of healing? How healthy is your Mind? Your Body (including your brain chemistry)? Your Spirit? God’s word tells us that He will restore our health and heal our wounds. The scripture tells us this eternal healing does not come to us because of what we “do”. Rather it comes to us free of charge, in perfect abundance, through Jesus Christ through faith. We just need to accept it.
On the flip side, our temporal healing, the healing for the time period represented by the dash on our tombstone … 1963 – 20__ starts when we receive Christ’s death for our sins. The Holy Spirit indwells us, but then we have some responsibility for the ongoing sanctification or healing process to continue forward in our earthly lifetime. This is the abundant living Jesus spoke about.
Intentional decisions to not conform, but to be transformed, to strip off the old self and put on the new, to act boldly based on our faith in God’s character, promises, and His teachings in the Bible … that is what we control and need to master. This Spiritual Discipline of Decision-Making is powerful and nobody really talks about it with concrete depth.
Just like becoming good at a sport, music, academics, or art … daily practice of specific fundamentals is essential. Putting on the Armor of God, regular prayer and confession, and being in the Bible … God’s instruction manual … are ways to engage in spiritual training. For training to work, we have to have intentionality, self-assessment, perseverance, and strategy to get to the goal … the Mind of Christ. Discipline!
Today, ask yourself … What is my strategy? And my commitment to this strategy? How do I exercise my free will? Is it consistent with God’s instruction? Pursuing these answers will determine whether your dash will be filled with healing and peace or further injury and pain. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that I cannot earn my way to salvation, but by receiving You, I have become Your child. I believe Your word. I pray with humble confidence that You restore me to full spiritual, mental and physical health. Show me what I need to do to receive the healing in this lifetime, the renewing of my mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically in my brain chemistry. Help me to understand what Your Holy Spirit is trying to show me and tell me so I can grow and glorify You. I pray today that You protect and lift the burdens of the entire Stepping Stones community according to Your will. If it is not Your will, then show them more clearly today how to access Your peace and comfort during their struggles. You know our every need, Lord. Let the assurance of Your presence fill us with joy and peace … regardless of our circumstances and our daily trials. I pray this in the name of the Great Physician, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For I will restore health unto you and I will heal you of thy wounds saith the Lord.
Jer. 30:17
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior
Titus 3:5-6
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:1,8-13
Friday, June 10, 2011
Stepping Stones: Let the One Who Knows You, Advise You
Transformational Thought
Having someone who knows you, I mean really know you, has significant benefits, but also can have some big downsides. The fact that God knows your every thought and action can certainly be intimidating, shaming, and embarrassing. But clearly there are many of us who simply don’t make that connection. Do you really think He isn’t watching? Do you really think you can hide from Him? Sometimes we act like He isn’t looking … or He doesn’t care that our wrong actions actually hurt us. Yes, doing the wrong thing hurts others, and it really does hurt us ... a lot.
Our wrong decisions actually injure our brain chemistry (body) and interfere with the development of healthy brain wiring. Wrong decisions push our psychological development (mind) toward more immaturity. And most importantly, wrong decisions hurt our relationship with God (spirit), knock the Holy Spirit off the throne of our heart where command central for decision-making is housed. (Click “Spiritual Basics” link at left and then click Confession.) Then we have our flesh in command, and that’s when we go from the frying pan into the fire where a string of poor decisions can quickly spiral downwards!
God really wants us to avoid the pain, turmoil, frustration, and angst we experience when we deviate from His plan and His instruction book. Read today’s scripture and then meditate on the fact that God knows every move. Now this can paralyze us with fear until we remember that God sees us through eyes full of love, grace, and forgiveness. But He also wants to push us to develop the mind of Christ for His glory and your maximum fulfillment in this life, and the next.
Today, be mindful of God’s ever-present awareness of your life. Let Him be your advisor. He really wants the best for you and orchestrates your daily events and situations to deliver the best for you. So why would you listen to a different advisor? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You for understanding. You know me so much better than I know myself. I no longer fear Your intimate awareness of my life, for I know, through Your word, that You see me through eyes of grace and forgiveness. I welcome the light of Your healing presence to shine deeply into my very being, cleansing, healing, refreshing, and renewing me. Send Your healing light into the minds and hearts of the entire Stepping Stones community. I trust You enough to fully accept the total forgiveness You offer me continually. I know that this great gift, the gift that cost You Your life, is mine for all eternity. I know You will never leave or forsake me. I feel such joy when I think about how You understand me completely and love me perfectly. Let Your love overflow in me and then into the lives of other people. I pray this in the name of the revealer of my heart, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
Psalm 139: 1-4
And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 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 4:13-16
Having someone who knows you, I mean really know you, has significant benefits, but also can have some big downsides. The fact that God knows your every thought and action can certainly be intimidating, shaming, and embarrassing. But clearly there are many of us who simply don’t make that connection. Do you really think He isn’t watching? Do you really think you can hide from Him? Sometimes we act like He isn’t looking … or He doesn’t care that our wrong actions actually hurt us. Yes, doing the wrong thing hurts others, and it really does hurt us ... a lot.
Our wrong decisions actually injure our brain chemistry (body) and interfere with the development of healthy brain wiring. Wrong decisions push our psychological development (mind) toward more immaturity. And most importantly, wrong decisions hurt our relationship with God (spirit), knock the Holy Spirit off the throne of our heart where command central for decision-making is housed. (Click “Spiritual Basics” link at left and then click Confession.) Then we have our flesh in command, and that’s when we go from the frying pan into the fire where a string of poor decisions can quickly spiral downwards!
God really wants us to avoid the pain, turmoil, frustration, and angst we experience when we deviate from His plan and His instruction book. Read today’s scripture and then meditate on the fact that God knows every move. Now this can paralyze us with fear until we remember that God sees us through eyes full of love, grace, and forgiveness. But He also wants to push us to develop the mind of Christ for His glory and your maximum fulfillment in this life, and the next.
Today, be mindful of God’s ever-present awareness of your life. Let Him be your advisor. He really wants the best for you and orchestrates your daily events and situations to deliver the best for you. So why would you listen to a different advisor? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You for understanding. You know me so much better than I know myself. I no longer fear Your intimate awareness of my life, for I know, through Your word, that You see me through eyes of grace and forgiveness. I welcome the light of Your healing presence to shine deeply into my very being, cleansing, healing, refreshing, and renewing me. Send Your healing light into the minds and hearts of the entire Stepping Stones community. I trust You enough to fully accept the total forgiveness You offer me continually. I know that this great gift, the gift that cost You Your life, is mine for all eternity. I know You will never leave or forsake me. I feel such joy when I think about how You understand me completely and love me perfectly. Let Your love overflow in me and then into the lives of other people. I pray this in the name of the revealer of my heart, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
Psalm 139: 1-4
And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 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 4:13-16
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: Hearing Test Lately?
Transformational Thought
Amazing how kids don’t hear us when we say, “pick up your clothes,” but they remember when we say they might get something from the store. When kids are little, they have selective hearing. By their teens, they have truly perfected this skill, especially with iPods and other gadgets to blame. As seniors, people masterfully model and teach selective hearing skills to their grandchildren, and so this skill is wonderfully preserved through the generations. So here is the Reality Tip of the week: we all have selective hearing.
It is written in scripture, that Jesus predicted that not all would respond to His invitation. That only those seeds that fall on fertile soil will produce fruit. He tells us in that same parable in Mathew 13, “He who has ears, let him hear.” How selective has your hearing been? We aren’t just talking about His call to you for salvation, but also the ongoing call to grow with Him and do His will, daily. Do you have ears that hear? Will you answer his call?
Many times, the seed God offers to plant in us does not take root because we are asking the wrong question. Many times we respond to the invitation by asking the question: “What shall I do?” The questions you should be asking yourself are: “How shall I be?” “Am I fertile?” ”Do I have ears that hear?” If I am not responding well in life and “doing,” then I am not really hearing His call correctly.
You see, our natural inclination is to be fertile soil for our needs and desires, what we in our distorted and shortsighted view have tagged as the agenda of the day. You know, a “my kingdom come, my will be done” attitude and strategy. God, our perfect parent, knows what is best for us, so selective hearing that blocks His voice and calling will destroy our peace.
Remember, in John 15 we are told we do not choose God, He chooses us. Some accept God’s invitation; some do not. May the seed He plants in you bear His fruit.
Today, ask yourself the question, “What is interfering with me being fertile soil for God’s calling today? ... fear, pride, busyness … hurts, lack of forgiveness, guilt … lack of contentment with what you have … entitlement to more … your need for ________? How has holding on to these been working for you? Be fertile soil, not resistant soil. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father,I accept Your invitation. I desire to follow You, and I want to do the right thing. I know that You and only You can make the impossible possible. How humble I feel when I read Your word and know that Jesus calls me His friend. He calls me friend because He has told me everything through the scriptures that He has heard from You, His Father. I pray, Father, that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may have eyes that see, ears that hear, and a discerning heart that responds. I pray this in the name of the One who came to clean my eyes and ears, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. He who has ears, let him hear."
Matthew 13:1-9
I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 15:15-16
It is written in scripture, that Jesus predicted that not all would respond to His invitation. That only those seeds that fall on fertile soil will produce fruit. He tells us in that same parable in Mathew 13, “He who has ears, let him hear.” How selective has your hearing been? We aren’t just talking about His call to you for salvation, but also the ongoing call to grow with Him and do His will, daily. Do you have ears that hear? Will you answer his call?
Many times, the seed God offers to plant in us does not take root because we are asking the wrong question. Many times we respond to the invitation by asking the question: “What shall I do?” The questions you should be asking yourself are: “How shall I be?” “Am I fertile?” ”Do I have ears that hear?” If I am not responding well in life and “doing,” then I am not really hearing His call correctly.
You see, our natural inclination is to be fertile soil for our needs and desires, what we in our distorted and shortsighted view have tagged as the agenda of the day. You know, a “my kingdom come, my will be done” attitude and strategy. God, our perfect parent, knows what is best for us, so selective hearing that blocks His voice and calling will destroy our peace.
Remember, in John 15 we are told we do not choose God, He chooses us. Some accept God’s invitation; some do not. May the seed He plants in you bear His fruit.
Today, ask yourself the question, “What is interfering with me being fertile soil for God’s calling today? ... fear, pride, busyness … hurts, lack of forgiveness, guilt … lack of contentment with what you have … entitlement to more … your need for ________? How has holding on to these been working for you? Be fertile soil, not resistant soil. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father,I accept Your invitation. I desire to follow You, and I want to do the right thing. I know that You and only You can make the impossible possible. How humble I feel when I read Your word and know that Jesus calls me His friend. He calls me friend because He has told me everything through the scriptures that He has heard from You, His Father. I pray, Father, that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may have eyes that see, ears that hear, and a discerning heart that responds. I pray this in the name of the One who came to clean my eyes and ears, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. He who has ears, let him hear."
Matthew 13:1-9
I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 15:15-16
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Part of Your Timeline Do You Live in?
Transformational Thought
Music is so powerful. When I hear a song, it brings memories of people and events from the past. The lyrics can also take me to past experiences, some good and some bad. When I listen to praise music, my past sins and mistakes often play in my head, but Jesus’ sacrifice often brings tears to my eyes at the same time.
It’s very tempting for us to live in the past. Most of us do … replaying old scenes in our minds, fighting old battles, holding grudges for past hurts, limiting ourselves because of past mistakes. But most of all, we find ourselves spending so much energy reliving past scenarios, again and again. Here’s the sad part … the past is over.
The second most common place for our minds to linger … is the future. Our minds are filled with hopes, fantasies … and fears for the future. Like the shadows of the past, the visions of the future are not real. Both the pains of our past and the fears of our future (even tomorrow) take up huge amounts of our time and mind-space. We become prisoners of our own selves. Most importantly, these images take us away from the place where we can have the greatest effect on our reality: the present.
How foolish we are to squander our only opportunity to affect reality, the present, by spending so much effort on our useless fears of the future, and old wounds and scars from the past. I am not saying we don’t remember and study the past, or don’t plan for the future. But those activities should help us focus on and maximize what we do in the present. If you are looking back realistically to become a good steward of your mind and decisions in the present, perfect. If you are looking back and letting the past distort your view of God, yourself, or your present circumstances, you’ll find that is where Satan wants you, and he will eat you for dinner.
Today, when your mind drifts forward or backward on your personal timeline, examine the motivation and return of that endeavor. Usually, you need to find a way to get back to the present. Remember that God actually defined himself with the statement, “I AM.” This statement tells us that God is the timeless Present. One of the most important spiritual exercises is to live in the present, which is to live in reality.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You in thanksgiving for the wisdom of Your scripture. I’m guilty of constantly escaping the present and wasting time and energy on the past. Help me release and let go of the past. Help me, once and for all, forgive those who have hurt me, for I know it is the lack of my final forgiveness that keeps my mind locked in the past. Help me heal, Lord; help me stop scratching at old sores; help me stop seeking relief by fantasizing about the future. I stop my mind from wandering and I focus on You, my Lord, for You are the true revealer of my reality, and I know it is only in the present that I can find You. I pray this in the name of my reality foundation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34
God said to Moses, "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: “I AM has sent me to you."
Exodus 3:14
Music is so powerful. When I hear a song, it brings memories of people and events from the past. The lyrics can also take me to past experiences, some good and some bad. When I listen to praise music, my past sins and mistakes often play in my head, but Jesus’ sacrifice often brings tears to my eyes at the same time.
It’s very tempting for us to live in the past. Most of us do … replaying old scenes in our minds, fighting old battles, holding grudges for past hurts, limiting ourselves because of past mistakes. But most of all, we find ourselves spending so much energy reliving past scenarios, again and again. Here’s the sad part … the past is over.
The second most common place for our minds to linger … is the future. Our minds are filled with hopes, fantasies … and fears for the future. Like the shadows of the past, the visions of the future are not real. Both the pains of our past and the fears of our future (even tomorrow) take up huge amounts of our time and mind-space. We become prisoners of our own selves. Most importantly, these images take us away from the place where we can have the greatest effect on our reality: the present.
How foolish we are to squander our only opportunity to affect reality, the present, by spending so much effort on our useless fears of the future, and old wounds and scars from the past. I am not saying we don’t remember and study the past, or don’t plan for the future. But those activities should help us focus on and maximize what we do in the present. If you are looking back realistically to become a good steward of your mind and decisions in the present, perfect. If you are looking back and letting the past distort your view of God, yourself, or your present circumstances, you’ll find that is where Satan wants you, and he will eat you for dinner.
Today, when your mind drifts forward or backward on your personal timeline, examine the motivation and return of that endeavor. Usually, you need to find a way to get back to the present. Remember that God actually defined himself with the statement, “I AM.” This statement tells us that God is the timeless Present. One of the most important spiritual exercises is to live in the present, which is to live in reality.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You in thanksgiving for the wisdom of Your scripture. I’m guilty of constantly escaping the present and wasting time and energy on the past. Help me release and let go of the past. Help me, once and for all, forgive those who have hurt me, for I know it is the lack of my final forgiveness that keeps my mind locked in the past. Help me heal, Lord; help me stop scratching at old sores; help me stop seeking relief by fantasizing about the future. I stop my mind from wandering and I focus on You, my Lord, for You are the true revealer of my reality, and I know it is only in the present that I can find You. I pray this in the name of my reality foundation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34
God said to Moses, "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: “I AM has sent me to you."
Exodus 3:14
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Stepping Stones: Which Category Are You?
Transformational Thought
I can’t remember a time in my life when I didn’t play and love sports. A great appeal of sports to me is, even though athletics are very physical, they are still 90% mental. Very early you realize all athletes fall into one of 2 categories. Since every athlete makes mistakes regularly, the categories are: 1. Make a mistake, get down on yourself, follow it up with another mistake, don’t learn from either mistake, continue in a minimal growth process imposing a glass ceiling on your potential; 2. Make a mistake, follow it with corrective or atoning action, then learn from your mistake to improve and grow yourself and your skills, and achieve your maximal God-given potential.
Even the most mature Christian’s faith falters at times … we all make mistakes. But this must not be thought of as failure. None of us are perfect … we don’t have the total functioning mind of Christ now. We will be fully sanctified when we are with Him in heaven. Until then, we will stumble at times … not always believing and acting on the truths we intellectually know are true.
Peter’s faith faltered when he was walking on water, even in the presence of the Lord. When your faith does falter, do as Peter did, reach for Your Lord’s hand. Peter was able to use that situation as an opportunity to draw closer to God … to use God’s lenses to examine his heart … to see where he mistakenly placed his trust instead of in God’s teachings, promises, and character.
So too, when you put your faith or confidence in something other than God … like others’ opinions or approval … your finances or possessions … skills or intellect … looks or status … you will falter. Confess your sin … that in that moment you are worshipping another false god.
Today, receive God’s forgiveness and instruction. Examine how life would be if you put your confidence and faith in God instead of yourself or the things of this world. Growth, peace, and awesome worship of God will be your reward when you seize this opportunity instead of wallowing in shame, self-pity, and wasting God’s power to transform your life. When your faith falters, don’t follow it up with another mistake. Instead, confess your mistake and learn why your faith was in yourself or this world. WITHIN REACH helps you use God’s guidance to search your heart and pursue His will. Your choice, so why choose to struggle if you don’t have to?
Prayer
Father God, my Lord, when my faith falters, remind me that I have not totally failed. When Peter’s faith faltered, he reached out to You, Lord, the only One who could save him. When I am afraid, I look to You, my Savior. I take Your hand as You reach out to save me. Thank You, Jesus. Help me remember each second that You are the only one who can really help. I pray that You touch me with Your healing power. Help me, Lord, to maintain my faith when situations are difficult. Help me keep my eyes on Your healing power rather than on my inadequacies or Satan’s masquerading idols. I pray this in the name of my safety net when I stumble, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt”
Matthew 14:30-31
looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Hebrews 12:2-3
I can’t remember a time in my life when I didn’t play and love sports. A great appeal of sports to me is, even though athletics are very physical, they are still 90% mental. Very early you realize all athletes fall into one of 2 categories. Since every athlete makes mistakes regularly, the categories are: 1. Make a mistake, get down on yourself, follow it up with another mistake, don’t learn from either mistake, continue in a minimal growth process imposing a glass ceiling on your potential; 2. Make a mistake, follow it with corrective or atoning action, then learn from your mistake to improve and grow yourself and your skills, and achieve your maximal God-given potential.
Even the most mature Christian’s faith falters at times … we all make mistakes. But this must not be thought of as failure. None of us are perfect … we don’t have the total functioning mind of Christ now. We will be fully sanctified when we are with Him in heaven. Until then, we will stumble at times … not always believing and acting on the truths we intellectually know are true.
Peter’s faith faltered when he was walking on water, even in the presence of the Lord. When your faith does falter, do as Peter did, reach for Your Lord’s hand. Peter was able to use that situation as an opportunity to draw closer to God … to use God’s lenses to examine his heart … to see where he mistakenly placed his trust instead of in God’s teachings, promises, and character.
So too, when you put your faith or confidence in something other than God … like others’ opinions or approval … your finances or possessions … skills or intellect … looks or status … you will falter. Confess your sin … that in that moment you are worshipping another false god.
Today, receive God’s forgiveness and instruction. Examine how life would be if you put your confidence and faith in God instead of yourself or the things of this world. Growth, peace, and awesome worship of God will be your reward when you seize this opportunity instead of wallowing in shame, self-pity, and wasting God’s power to transform your life. When your faith falters, don’t follow it up with another mistake. Instead, confess your mistake and learn why your faith was in yourself or this world. WITHIN REACH helps you use God’s guidance to search your heart and pursue His will. Your choice, so why choose to struggle if you don’t have to?
Prayer
Father God, my Lord, when my faith falters, remind me that I have not totally failed. When Peter’s faith faltered, he reached out to You, Lord, the only One who could save him. When I am afraid, I look to You, my Savior. I take Your hand as You reach out to save me. Thank You, Jesus. Help me remember each second that You are the only one who can really help. I pray that You touch me with Your healing power. Help me, Lord, to maintain my faith when situations are difficult. Help me keep my eyes on Your healing power rather than on my inadequacies or Satan’s masquerading idols. I pray this in the name of my safety net when I stumble, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt”
Matthew 14:30-31
looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Hebrews 12:2-3
Monday, June 6, 2011
Stepping Stones: Run Less, Go Farther
Transformational Thought
When I first started Lighthouse Network, I had a clear goal of what Lighthouse would develop to uniquely help people. My vision of the tactical path to get to that goal was less clear. I asked God to show me the path and so many opportunities, directions, and possibilities came my way. I pursued a lot of them, not knowing which ones would pan out as I was trying to get the ministry off the ground financially and logistically.
Sometimes, I would do so much in a day I really amazed myself. In fact, I would get on a roll for several weeks, thinking, “I’m on fire.” Then a month later, I’d look back and realize, some of that activity was wasted because nothing really resulted from some of those frantic startup efforts.
Getting the most out of what we do … being efficient … makes life so much easier. Ideally, if we only knew now how the future would play out, we would know exactly where to invest – or not invest - our time and energy today.
So the big question is, “How do we know the future … the secret to high efficiency … so we won’t waste effort … but we will maximize our God-given potential?” Answer: Spend time with God and ask Him to show You His will and especially His timeline. He will give you rest and will restore your sense of direction. As you spend more time with God, His peace will settle over your mind, body, and spirit … and the path before you will clear and open up. When you follow His direction, you will save great amounts of time and energy. and ultimately do less but accomplish way more.
Today, take some honest inventory regarding your recent activities. Are you in line with God’s goals and timeline or are you working hard but going on detours and hitting dead ends? Realizing that He knows where He wants me is a great reminder and comfort to me. Take off the conforming lenses of this world, step outside of yourself, and look at yourself as God sees you. What do you see in you? What future does He have for you? What fears or concerns get in the way of pursuing His future for you? Weigh that fear against the angst of not pursuing His will for you. This realization was a major turning point in my life; I think it will affect yours as well. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, There are so many paths and detours to navigate through each day that I easily lose my sense of direction. And when I lose my sense of direction, I begin spinning in circles as my thoughts flit from one thing to the next. I know my time and energy are precious gifts from You. Help me use them wisely, my Lord. Draw me closer to You … to know Your view of me, the world, and what You have planned for me, so I can do it well and please You. I pray this in the name of my ultimate model and guide, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
Proverbs 16:3
And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.
Exodus 33:14
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10
When I first started Lighthouse Network, I had a clear goal of what Lighthouse would develop to uniquely help people. My vision of the tactical path to get to that goal was less clear. I asked God to show me the path and so many opportunities, directions, and possibilities came my way. I pursued a lot of them, not knowing which ones would pan out as I was trying to get the ministry off the ground financially and logistically.
Sometimes, I would do so much in a day I really amazed myself. In fact, I would get on a roll for several weeks, thinking, “I’m on fire.” Then a month later, I’d look back and realize, some of that activity was wasted because nothing really resulted from some of those frantic startup efforts.
Getting the most out of what we do … being efficient … makes life so much easier. Ideally, if we only knew now how the future would play out, we would know exactly where to invest – or not invest - our time and energy today.
So the big question is, “How do we know the future … the secret to high efficiency … so we won’t waste effort … but we will maximize our God-given potential?” Answer: Spend time with God and ask Him to show You His will and especially His timeline. He will give you rest and will restore your sense of direction. As you spend more time with God, His peace will settle over your mind, body, and spirit … and the path before you will clear and open up. When you follow His direction, you will save great amounts of time and energy. and ultimately do less but accomplish way more.
Today, take some honest inventory regarding your recent activities. Are you in line with God’s goals and timeline or are you working hard but going on detours and hitting dead ends? Realizing that He knows where He wants me is a great reminder and comfort to me. Take off the conforming lenses of this world, step outside of yourself, and look at yourself as God sees you. What do you see in you? What future does He have for you? What fears or concerns get in the way of pursuing His future for you? Weigh that fear against the angst of not pursuing His will for you. This realization was a major turning point in my life; I think it will affect yours as well. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, There are so many paths and detours to navigate through each day that I easily lose my sense of direction. And when I lose my sense of direction, I begin spinning in circles as my thoughts flit from one thing to the next. I know my time and energy are precious gifts from You. Help me use them wisely, my Lord. Draw me closer to You … to know Your view of me, the world, and what You have planned for me, so I can do it well and please You. I pray this in the name of my ultimate model and guide, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
Proverbs 16:3
And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.
Exodus 33:14
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: Opportunity In Every Adversity
Transformational Thought
Going out of Business Sale … Clearance Sale … Half Off Sale … Buy One Get One Free … Outlets! These are all items that grab our attention. The reason … opportunity is knocking. Here’s another, even richer, opportunity that separates the really successful investor from the person struggling to get by check-to-check. In the middle of a pretty good day, something happens and your day gets messy … a deviation from your agenda … an unplanned adversity … something a bit painful occurs.
You see, anyone can have peace when everything is going OK. Most people’s peace is dependent upon their external circumstances. Here’s where the next level of abundant living happens. The inner calm graciously offered by God need not be shaken by what is going on around you. What God offers to His children is radically different … peace when life gets messy or difficult … peace that comes from within and is independent of circumstances.
The best thing to do when the messy days disrupt your peace is to stop what you are doing, take a “time-out” and ask for God’s assistance. Try turning to and trusting in God in the midst of a messy day. He allowed it to happen for a specific purpose for your powerful development.
The disruption to your peace comes from within you … not from outside of you. Usually it is pain or discomfort you are experiencing and you don’t understand how God is using it to show you, grow you, or prepare you to develop the mind of Christ.
Today, try slowly whispering “Jesus.” Just His name alone is a strong tower. Believing in His love, sacrifice, and power will bring you security. So take a time-out when adversity strikes, and perform some self-examination. If you are having trouble applying the armor of God, trusting God’s promises and character, and believing Jesus’ work for you, the great opportunity God dropped in your lap is to find what false belief you are believing in more than God, Jesus, and the Holy Bible. With practice, prayerful digging will reveal where you really are really putting your trust when adversity strikes. Your decision, choose well.
See the “Spiritual Basics” link at left, then the “Armor of God” link on that page.
Prayer
Dear Father, This day feels very “messy” to me. Many things feel out of control, but I am trying my best to trust You to provide exactly what I need. I confess that my inner calm is easily shaken by what is happening around me. My knee-jerk tendency is to restore order to my little world to ease my pain. And when I do this, I mistakenly look outward to other physical things … to substitutes. I know that Your peace is available to me, but today I am having trouble accessing it. Help me understand, Lord, that I am not in an emergency and help me give myself permission to slow down. Let this slower pace make it easier for me to stay focused on You and really learn what I am trusting more than You when I face adversity. I pray this in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10
My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:2
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Going out of Business Sale … Clearance Sale … Half Off Sale … Buy One Get One Free … Outlets! These are all items that grab our attention. The reason … opportunity is knocking. Here’s another, even richer, opportunity that separates the really successful investor from the person struggling to get by check-to-check. In the middle of a pretty good day, something happens and your day gets messy … a deviation from your agenda … an unplanned adversity … something a bit painful occurs.
You see, anyone can have peace when everything is going OK. Most people’s peace is dependent upon their external circumstances. Here’s where the next level of abundant living happens. The inner calm graciously offered by God need not be shaken by what is going on around you. What God offers to His children is radically different … peace when life gets messy or difficult … peace that comes from within and is independent of circumstances.
The best thing to do when the messy days disrupt your peace is to stop what you are doing, take a “time-out” and ask for God’s assistance. Try turning to and trusting in God in the midst of a messy day. He allowed it to happen for a specific purpose for your powerful development.
The disruption to your peace comes from within you … not from outside of you. Usually it is pain or discomfort you are experiencing and you don’t understand how God is using it to show you, grow you, or prepare you to develop the mind of Christ.
Today, try slowly whispering “Jesus.” Just His name alone is a strong tower. Believing in His love, sacrifice, and power will bring you security. So take a time-out when adversity strikes, and perform some self-examination. If you are having trouble applying the armor of God, trusting God’s promises and character, and believing Jesus’ work for you, the great opportunity God dropped in your lap is to find what false belief you are believing in more than God, Jesus, and the Holy Bible. With practice, prayerful digging will reveal where you really are really putting your trust when adversity strikes. Your decision, choose well.
See the “Spiritual Basics” link at left, then the “Armor of God” link on that page.
Prayer
Dear Father, This day feels very “messy” to me. Many things feel out of control, but I am trying my best to trust You to provide exactly what I need. I confess that my inner calm is easily shaken by what is happening around me. My knee-jerk tendency is to restore order to my little world to ease my pain. And when I do this, I mistakenly look outward to other physical things … to substitutes. I know that Your peace is available to me, but today I am having trouble accessing it. Help me understand, Lord, that I am not in an emergency and help me give myself permission to slow down. Let this slower pace make it easier for me to stay focused on You and really learn what I am trusting more than You when I face adversity. I pray this in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10
My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:2
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Stepping Stones: What’s Love Got to Do With It? Everything!
Transformational Thought
A rather unnecessary and heated debate came about during a Bible study the other day. The question that created some division in the group was whether or not we had to “earn” God’s love.
In our world system, and in every relationship we are involved in, it is so hard to comprehend truly unconditional and perfect love. First, it doesn’t exist, and second, we are self-centered and either think we need to do something to “earn” it, or the flip side, we are never worthy enough to receive it. As parents, we love almost unconditionally (especially if we have good kids), but never even close to perfectly … but it is conditional, because the condition is, they are our kids.
God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are the only ones who can give unconditional and perfect love. It still really is humbling … brings actual tears to my eyes (not much does) … knowing the King of the universe loved me enough to actually give up His throne, suffer, be humiliated, limit His power, be tortured and mocked, and not only die for me, but be separated from His Father for the first time ever. All for me … and I didn’t do anything to “earn” it. Actually, I sinned a lot to “unearn” it. Romans 8:39 ended the debate.
Today, and always, when you are feeling unloved, devalued, unappreciated, forgotten, lonely, or isolated, remember there is nothing you can do or fail to do that would separate God’s love from you. Don’t let Satan’s lies or your own flesh or baggage get in the way of His truth. Stop walking around afraid that you will screw up and lose His love. Live in the freedom of God’s forgiveness and love … and show your gratitude … today and everyday. Notice how these truths, when repeated over and over, will start to alter the lenses you use to see your everyday life.
Prayer
Dear Loving Father, At times, actually all the time, I feel so unworthy of Your love and grace. I do so little in Your name. I am so thankful for the truth of Your Word. What a comfort to know that You will let nothing separate me from Your love, the love that You revealed through Your Son Jesus Christ. I ask that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may, step by step, achieve the “mind of Christ.” This is my desire and my goal. Help me understand, and then help others to understand that the heavy lifting has been done for us … there is nothing we can do or fail to do that will turn You away from us. Help me this day, Lord, remember the simple path to everlasting life: Believe>Receive>Become. I pray this in the name of love personified, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:35-39
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 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 3:3-7
A rather unnecessary and heated debate came about during a Bible study the other day. The question that created some division in the group was whether or not we had to “earn” God’s love.
In our world system, and in every relationship we are involved in, it is so hard to comprehend truly unconditional and perfect love. First, it doesn’t exist, and second, we are self-centered and either think we need to do something to “earn” it, or the flip side, we are never worthy enough to receive it. As parents, we love almost unconditionally (especially if we have good kids), but never even close to perfectly … but it is conditional, because the condition is, they are our kids.
God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are the only ones who can give unconditional and perfect love. It still really is humbling … brings actual tears to my eyes (not much does) … knowing the King of the universe loved me enough to actually give up His throne, suffer, be humiliated, limit His power, be tortured and mocked, and not only die for me, but be separated from His Father for the first time ever. All for me … and I didn’t do anything to “earn” it. Actually, I sinned a lot to “unearn” it. Romans 8:39 ended the debate.
Today, and always, when you are feeling unloved, devalued, unappreciated, forgotten, lonely, or isolated, remember there is nothing you can do or fail to do that would separate God’s love from you. Don’t let Satan’s lies or your own flesh or baggage get in the way of His truth. Stop walking around afraid that you will screw up and lose His love. Live in the freedom of God’s forgiveness and love … and show your gratitude … today and everyday. Notice how these truths, when repeated over and over, will start to alter the lenses you use to see your everyday life.
Prayer
Dear Loving Father, At times, actually all the time, I feel so unworthy of Your love and grace. I do so little in Your name. I am so thankful for the truth of Your Word. What a comfort to know that You will let nothing separate me from Your love, the love that You revealed through Your Son Jesus Christ. I ask that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may, step by step, achieve the “mind of Christ.” This is my desire and my goal. Help me understand, and then help others to understand that the heavy lifting has been done for us … there is nothing we can do or fail to do that will turn You away from us. Help me this day, Lord, remember the simple path to everlasting life: Believe>Receive>Become. I pray this in the name of love personified, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:35-39
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 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 3:3-7
Friday, June 3, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Really Want the Promised Land?
Transformational Thought
As a father, my goal is to raise my daughters to be fulfilled, content, and independent (able to function on their own financially, psychologically, emotionally, and relationally), and to be Godly decision-makers. To me, that is the Promised Land living Moses described in Deuteronomy 30. We would all admit this is a great goal for our kids. Thankfully, our teenagers now realize this is a great goal for them to strive for as well.
However, when they were smaller kids (sometimes last week) … and they wanted too stay up late … have ice cream for dinner every night … sleep in all day in the summer … leave their chores for their mom to do … just rush through their homework … really any short cut in life … having that great goal in mind, or at least a healthy strategy to achieve it, was the farthest thing from their mind.
There is no question that it is God’s will to bless you by sanctifying you. His word tells us, “This is the will of God, your sanctification….” The real question: Is it your will?
Are you willing to let God do everything in you that has been made possible through the atonement of the Cross of Christ? Are you willing to let His life be exhibited through your flesh? Growing up, we yielded to the will of teachers, athletic coaches, instructors for dance, acting, instruments … enduring struggles with homework, physical strain, long practice sessions, final exams, learning tough musical pieces, or enduring the frustrating feelings of incompetence and insecurity. But we stuck with it, trusted those leaders, and had faith that they willed something good and desirable for us. So their goal became our goal.
God is the greatest coach, teacher, parent … ever. His will for you is grander and closer to you than you could ever imagine, so make it yours. But you have to submit to His coaching and parenting.
Today, examine whether you really want the best for your life. If you answered, “yes”, are you following God’s plan and using His instruction book as your guide? Or are you getting in His way, and being your own worst enemy? Align your will with the One who created you and who knows you better than you know yourself. It’s your choice … don’t act like a child selling out the chance for life’s great rewards in order to have a little comfort and self-centeredness now. WITHIN REACH can help you get out of God’s way and understand how to use His leading.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for making it possible that Your will be my will. Thank You, for uniting me through Jesus Christ to You … for Jesus making me pure and holy … and freeing me from the death grip of sin. How liberating it is to know that there is nothing in this universe that can separate me from Your love. Help me absorb Your love … see how much You really care for me, and melt my resistance to Your will. Show me how to get out of Your way as You work on me and with me through Your Holy Spirit. I pray this in the name the one who always submitted to Your will, even above His own, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."
Jeremiah 1:5
God’s will is for you to be holy…
1 Thessalonians 4:3
The LORD your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all the work of your hand, in the fruit of your womb and in the fruit of your cattle and in the fruit of your ground. For the LORD will again take delight in prospering you, as he took delight in your fathers, when you obey the voice of the LORD your God, to keep his commandments and his statutes that are written in this Book of the Law, when you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. "For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, it is within your reach.
Deuteronomy 30:9-11
As a father, my goal is to raise my daughters to be fulfilled, content, and independent (able to function on their own financially, psychologically, emotionally, and relationally), and to be Godly decision-makers. To me, that is the Promised Land living Moses described in Deuteronomy 30. We would all admit this is a great goal for our kids. Thankfully, our teenagers now realize this is a great goal for them to strive for as well.
However, when they were smaller kids (sometimes last week) … and they wanted too stay up late … have ice cream for dinner every night … sleep in all day in the summer … leave their chores for their mom to do … just rush through their homework … really any short cut in life … having that great goal in mind, or at least a healthy strategy to achieve it, was the farthest thing from their mind.
There is no question that it is God’s will to bless you by sanctifying you. His word tells us, “This is the will of God, your sanctification….” The real question: Is it your will?
Are you willing to let God do everything in you that has been made possible through the atonement of the Cross of Christ? Are you willing to let His life be exhibited through your flesh? Growing up, we yielded to the will of teachers, athletic coaches, instructors for dance, acting, instruments … enduring struggles with homework, physical strain, long practice sessions, final exams, learning tough musical pieces, or enduring the frustrating feelings of incompetence and insecurity. But we stuck with it, trusted those leaders, and had faith that they willed something good and desirable for us. So their goal became our goal.
God is the greatest coach, teacher, parent … ever. His will for you is grander and closer to you than you could ever imagine, so make it yours. But you have to submit to His coaching and parenting.
Today, examine whether you really want the best for your life. If you answered, “yes”, are you following God’s plan and using His instruction book as your guide? Or are you getting in His way, and being your own worst enemy? Align your will with the One who created you and who knows you better than you know yourself. It’s your choice … don’t act like a child selling out the chance for life’s great rewards in order to have a little comfort and self-centeredness now. WITHIN REACH can help you get out of God’s way and understand how to use His leading.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for making it possible that Your will be my will. Thank You, for uniting me through Jesus Christ to You … for Jesus making me pure and holy … and freeing me from the death grip of sin. How liberating it is to know that there is nothing in this universe that can separate me from Your love. Help me absorb Your love … see how much You really care for me, and melt my resistance to Your will. Show me how to get out of Your way as You work on me and with me through Your Holy Spirit. I pray this in the name the one who always submitted to Your will, even above His own, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."
Jeremiah 1:5
God’s will is for you to be holy…
1 Thessalonians 4:3
The LORD your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all the work of your hand, in the fruit of your womb and in the fruit of your cattle and in the fruit of your ground. For the LORD will again take delight in prospering you, as he took delight in your fathers, when you obey the voice of the LORD your God, to keep his commandments and his statutes that are written in this Book of the Law, when you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. "For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, it is within your reach.
Deuteronomy 30:9-11
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Prayer Life: Exciting Adventure or Sleepwalking
Transformational Thought
The other day, in between tasks, I unexpectedly bumped into a friend, who was also in between tasks. We did the superficial and obligatory greeting and banter, then went our respective ways. Not the ideal interaction, but one we both accepted based on hurriedness and other tasks preoccupying our minds. The willingness to prioritize each other? Not even an option.
In most relationships, we have a dangerous tendency to fall into patterns and routines that lead to staleness or ruts which slowly, but effectively, sabotage our growth and relational depth with ourselves and others. We start to take the other person for granted and become “me” focused … not process oriented towards what is actually happening in the relationship.
Most of us fall into this same rut with God. Our routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger: we can sleepwalk through our prayers. Just as our earthly relationships get put on autopilot sometimes, so does our relationship with God. Prayer only fulfills an obligation or tradition … saying “grace” before meals or bedtime. Then God Himself seems like an extra, an obligation, something to break out for special occasions, instead of a powerful necessary ingredient for daily enrichment and growth as we discussed yesterday.
Like we always say, you have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you – the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God. Think specifically of your words … why are you praying … what is your attitude … what is your expectation? Ultimately, see God for who He is and you will become excited and intentional, just as you would be if you were meeting your favorite person, celebrity, or athlete.
Today, spend 5 minutes before you pray, just listening to the Holy Spirit talk to you and petition for you. He will start to put in your mind and heart what you need to be praying for. At the end of your prayer, spend 5 minutes just listening for God to show up and dialogue with you. If you drift (like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God’s frequency. This will awaken your soul and powerfully enliven your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to You. I love living close to You. It satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess, Lord, that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers … and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You, Lord, with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and am able to see Your infinite newness everyday. I pray this in the name the one who never sleepwalked through any relationship, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
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
The other day, in between tasks, I unexpectedly bumped into a friend, who was also in between tasks. We did the superficial and obligatory greeting and banter, then went our respective ways. Not the ideal interaction, but one we both accepted based on hurriedness and other tasks preoccupying our minds. The willingness to prioritize each other? Not even an option.
In most relationships, we have a dangerous tendency to fall into patterns and routines that lead to staleness or ruts which slowly, but effectively, sabotage our growth and relational depth with ourselves and others. We start to take the other person for granted and become “me” focused … not process oriented towards what is actually happening in the relationship.
Most of us fall into this same rut with God. Our routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger: we can sleepwalk through our prayers. Just as our earthly relationships get put on autopilot sometimes, so does our relationship with God. Prayer only fulfills an obligation or tradition … saying “grace” before meals or bedtime. Then God Himself seems like an extra, an obligation, something to break out for special occasions, instead of a powerful necessary ingredient for daily enrichment and growth as we discussed yesterday.
Like we always say, you have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you – the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God. Think specifically of your words … why are you praying … what is your attitude … what is your expectation? Ultimately, see God for who He is and you will become excited and intentional, just as you would be if you were meeting your favorite person, celebrity, or athlete.
Today, spend 5 minutes before you pray, just listening to the Holy Spirit talk to you and petition for you. He will start to put in your mind and heart what you need to be praying for. At the end of your prayer, spend 5 minutes just listening for God to show up and dialogue with you. If you drift (like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God’s frequency. This will awaken your soul and powerfully enliven your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to You. I love living close to You. It satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess, Lord, that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers … and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You, Lord, with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and am able to see Your infinite newness everyday. I pray this in the name the one who never sleepwalked through any relationship, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
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
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