Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was determined to be a pro baseball player and a psychiatrist. Never really had any other long lasting goals I would commit to. As a teen, I became committed to attending Duke University and having 5 sons to play basketball around the country against other teams. My determination to get to Duke and become a psychiatrist was significant. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as determined to be a pro baseball player although I did play at Duke. My downfall was not staying focused in my mind and being intentional and disciplined with my activities. Other self-centered needs leading to distracting activities intruded on my dreams.
In Philippians 1:20 Paul seems to be saying; “My determined purpose is to be my best for His glory.…whether by life or death”, Paul was determined to let nothing stand in his way from doing exactly what God wanted.
What will it take to for you to choose to follow God’s will? We all start off our days with the idea, resolve, and attitude that we will do the right thing. Regardless of the temptations, we will make the right decision. But somewhere during the day, we get sidetracked, our determination gets undermined. Petty and self-centered needs and agenda items start to outrank our calling and our choices become faulty. We stray from following God’s will.
I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to have determined purpose to follow God’s will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. We need these crises because we are so unresponsive to God’s numerous gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory and our maximal fulfillment, the debate within us begins. And when the crisis hits we must decide…for or against? For there is no middle ground. That moment, the moment of deciding for or against, is the greatest crossroads we face in our daily walk.
Today, when adversity comes into your life…on any front…surrender your will to God and you will find peace and freedom. This happens by asking, “what need of mine is out-trumping or competing with God’s instruction, will, promises, or character?” Then make a willful decision to follow His will and put yours on hold. This glorifies Him, and is the actually the best for you as you will actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically when you make this Godly decision. Believe it or not, your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal Your message to me in a way that I understand and can live out daily. I feel very much ashamed that I have not yielded those areas of my life that You have asked me to. I want to live a life so that in no way will I be ashamed. Help me, Lord, shut out everything that keeps me from doing my very best for Your glory. I actually find my limitations liberating when my strongest desire is to do my best for Your glory. Thank You, Lord, for the freedom this provides, for Your word tells me that where Your Spirit is, there is freedom. In Christ’s determined name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Peter 3:18
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Stepping Stones: Where Are You Looking For Your Confidence?
Transformational Thought
We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for who I was. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. Our Creator builds these yearnings and desires into us. So what are you looking for?
Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with God. God’s message, sent through His prophet Isaiah, is so simple yet so profound; “Look to me and be saved.” This certainly applies to our eternal need…but it also applies to every other need, suffering, and wayward path we need saved from.
We grow up and are pushed to learn how to take care of ourselves. From learning to hold our bottle, walking to get our toy, feeding ourselves, doing our homework, taking the SAT’s, going off to college or work… so many milestones to mark the journey of becoming an independent functioning adult.
The downside of this developmental model is we develop a habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence from GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His instruction. That’s what gives us confidence to pursue the right things…to make the Godly decisions that are sometimes hard.
When our confidence is in ourselves or other’s opinions, this is a shallow and very limited bucket. We have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, or power? Or from God?” Confidence, centered in Him, generated from Him, will save you in today’s battles and discomfort. Where do you get your confidence? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are indeed an awesome God. Who but You could be all places at all times? It amazes me to think that One as great as You actually cares about the many details of my life…but You really do. When I think about these glorious truths…and when I turn to you, I feel safe in knowing I will never be alone again. Help me, Lord, to look at You, to keep You before me always, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, then rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.”
Isaiah 45:22
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:15-17
We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for who I was. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. Our Creator builds these yearnings and desires into us. So what are you looking for?
Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with God. God’s message, sent through His prophet Isaiah, is so simple yet so profound; “Look to me and be saved.” This certainly applies to our eternal need…but it also applies to every other need, suffering, and wayward path we need saved from.
We grow up and are pushed to learn how to take care of ourselves. From learning to hold our bottle, walking to get our toy, feeding ourselves, doing our homework, taking the SAT’s, going off to college or work… so many milestones to mark the journey of becoming an independent functioning adult.
The downside of this developmental model is we develop a habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence from GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His instruction. That’s what gives us confidence to pursue the right things…to make the Godly decisions that are sometimes hard.
When our confidence is in ourselves or other’s opinions, this is a shallow and very limited bucket. We have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, or power? Or from God?” Confidence, centered in Him, generated from Him, will save you in today’s battles and discomfort. Where do you get your confidence? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are indeed an awesome God. Who but You could be all places at all times? It amazes me to think that One as great as You actually cares about the many details of my life…but You really do. When I think about these glorious truths…and when I turn to you, I feel safe in knowing I will never be alone again. Help me, Lord, to look at You, to keep You before me always, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, then rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.”
Isaiah 45:22
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:15-17
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: Look Up to Look Inside
Transformational Thought
As Christians, one of our goals must be to be fully utilized by God. To be fully utilized, we must be able to really understand who we are and why we do things we do every day. This understanding will equip us to avoid messing up God’s plans to use us in powerful ways that really fulfill our needs, wiring, and desires. You see, He is always trying to use us, setting up situations and people in our life for great things to happen, but instead of following that path, we choose a different course.
To really do some thorough and deep self-assessment, we have to allow God to show us the deep, hidden and faulty areas of our own character. Looking inward really requires lots courage. We are so quick to diagnose and judge others, what if we take that energy and time to examine ourselves.
It’s astounding how ignorant we are about who we truly are. We rarely recognize the distortions, laziness, envy, many weaknesses, and pride held within us. We must dump the idea that we understand ourselves just because we live our life…the only one who truly understands and knows us is God. He wants to show us who we are, equip, and ultimately transform us to become Christ-like by developing the Mind of Christ.
To look inwardly we need alone time with God. Then only through God’s lenses and using the perfect mirror that is The Holy Bible, can we see our misguided desires and affections. These lead to all those false idols and substitute fixes that keep us from Him. This is how we change our foundation from sand to solid rock, allowing us to become a strong, solid Lighthouse shining God’s glory.
Take some time to ask yourself, “what outranked God?…what was more important to me than pleasing God? Another way to think about it, “What fleshly desire or fear was more weighty in my decisions today than keeping the Holy Spirit on the throne of my life?”
Today, examine an area of temptation or a wrong decision you made recently. Really doing some heart diagnostics can be painful, but courageously being honest with yourself will open the door to reaping the fruit of the spirit and growing the mind of Christ. As usual, it really is your decision about how honest you will be and how much you will use God in the examination process. So choose well. WITHIN REACH was designed for this very process.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that You are God with us – constantly and eternally. This fact alone is sufficient to fill my days and nights with joy…thank You, my Lord. Sadly though, my mind slips out of focus and I begin looking outwardly at the broken world around me. I know by Your Word that I learn and grow in You best when I am alone with You. I desire this time alone with You, Lord; please help me push away all the distractions that keep me from being alone with You. When we are alone, I ask that You give me the courage to look deeply inside myself; let me be honest with myself so that I may be honest and open with You. Give me your lenses to see my core accurately. I pray to You in the name of the one who gives me courage; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
…when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
Mark 4:34
Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!
Psalm 139:23-24
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "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 1:22-23
As Christians, one of our goals must be to be fully utilized by God. To be fully utilized, we must be able to really understand who we are and why we do things we do every day. This understanding will equip us to avoid messing up God’s plans to use us in powerful ways that really fulfill our needs, wiring, and desires. You see, He is always trying to use us, setting up situations and people in our life for great things to happen, but instead of following that path, we choose a different course.
To really do some thorough and deep self-assessment, we have to allow God to show us the deep, hidden and faulty areas of our own character. Looking inward really requires lots courage. We are so quick to diagnose and judge others, what if we take that energy and time to examine ourselves.
It’s astounding how ignorant we are about who we truly are. We rarely recognize the distortions, laziness, envy, many weaknesses, and pride held within us. We must dump the idea that we understand ourselves just because we live our life…the only one who truly understands and knows us is God. He wants to show us who we are, equip, and ultimately transform us to become Christ-like by developing the Mind of Christ.
To look inwardly we need alone time with God. Then only through God’s lenses and using the perfect mirror that is The Holy Bible, can we see our misguided desires and affections. These lead to all those false idols and substitute fixes that keep us from Him. This is how we change our foundation from sand to solid rock, allowing us to become a strong, solid Lighthouse shining God’s glory.
Take some time to ask yourself, “what outranked God?…what was more important to me than pleasing God? Another way to think about it, “What fleshly desire or fear was more weighty in my decisions today than keeping the Holy Spirit on the throne of my life?”
Today, examine an area of temptation or a wrong decision you made recently. Really doing some heart diagnostics can be painful, but courageously being honest with yourself will open the door to reaping the fruit of the spirit and growing the mind of Christ. As usual, it really is your decision about how honest you will be and how much you will use God in the examination process. So choose well. WITHIN REACH was designed for this very process.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that You are God with us – constantly and eternally. This fact alone is sufficient to fill my days and nights with joy…thank You, my Lord. Sadly though, my mind slips out of focus and I begin looking outwardly at the broken world around me. I know by Your Word that I learn and grow in You best when I am alone with You. I desire this time alone with You, Lord; please help me push away all the distractions that keep me from being alone with You. When we are alone, I ask that You give me the courage to look deeply inside myself; let me be honest with myself so that I may be honest and open with You. Give me your lenses to see my core accurately. I pray to You in the name of the one who gives me courage; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
…when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
Mark 4:34
Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!
Psalm 139:23-24
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "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 1:22-23
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Waiting on God is Active, Not Passive
Transformational Thought
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss your opportunity and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful and knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our “I need it now mentality.” These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do while we actively wait and trust God will do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with Him…all day…every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar gets jammed and has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or when what you should do isn’t really clear. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond….rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones. But move toward the opportunities knowing He will do His part. Just sitting and waiting will cause you to miss out on so many blessings He has to put back on the shelf because of your lack of trust.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many shortcomings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You…for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You’ve designed for me. I know that waiting on You is active and I need to move toward You which enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss your opportunity and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful and knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our “I need it now mentality.” These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do while we actively wait and trust God will do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with Him…all day…every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar gets jammed and has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or when what you should do isn’t really clear. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond….rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones. But move toward the opportunities knowing He will do His part. Just sitting and waiting will cause you to miss out on so many blessings He has to put back on the shelf because of your lack of trust.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many shortcomings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You…for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You’ve designed for me. I know that waiting on You is active and I need to move toward You which enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: Being the Author or the Star Actor, Your Choice
Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I did love comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, great characters, exciting adventures, poppin’ graphics and all the extras. But not only was I a poor reader, I couldn’t draw even a little.
Writing a book is hard…trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate. Knowing the ending so you can pace and detail the rest of the story. That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He writes, actually prepares, each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God and the powerful parts of the great script He has written especially for us and with our needs and desires at the top of our agenda.
Just being an actor in the story is so much easier…give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don’t take the role of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, by trying to fill up the blank page of your day. Instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story. I tried that many times in the past and it always ended in frustration, anxiety, and t one point, jail.
Try to live responsively…meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty. God’s sovereignty, power, control, autonomy, and His ultimate authority over the whole multiverse (all the universes!).
Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word, The Holy Bible. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author. You aren’t equipped to be The author, have fun being the star actor in your story and follow The Author and Director’s instruction. WITHIN REACH will equip you to learn God’s will for your life and do it.
Prayer
Dear Father, You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life – discovering what You are doing and then responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know, Lord, that there is a part of me that likes to be in control…call the shots. Please teach me, Lord, the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me, Lord, form all forms of distraction that hamper my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I did love comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, great characters, exciting adventures, poppin’ graphics and all the extras. But not only was I a poor reader, I couldn’t draw even a little.
Writing a book is hard…trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate. Knowing the ending so you can pace and detail the rest of the story. That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He writes, actually prepares, each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God and the powerful parts of the great script He has written especially for us and with our needs and desires at the top of our agenda.
Just being an actor in the story is so much easier…give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don’t take the role of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, by trying to fill up the blank page of your day. Instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story. I tried that many times in the past and it always ended in frustration, anxiety, and t one point, jail.
Try to live responsively…meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty. God’s sovereignty, power, control, autonomy, and His ultimate authority over the whole multiverse (all the universes!).
Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word, The Holy Bible. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author. You aren’t equipped to be The author, have fun being the star actor in your story and follow The Author and Director’s instruction. WITHIN REACH will equip you to learn God’s will for your life and do it.
Prayer
Dear Father, You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life – discovering what You are doing and then responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know, Lord, that there is a part of me that likes to be in control…call the shots. Please teach me, Lord, the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me, Lord, form all forms of distraction that hamper my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
Monday, July 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; He poured out His life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; He poured out His life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Tree Will You Fix Your Eyes On?
Transformational Thought
Recess was always my favorite part of the school day, and when I wasn’t playing some ball sport, I loved some of the contraptions in the schoolyard. One of my favorites was a merry-go-round that was about 15-20 feet in diameter and 18 inches off the ground, and that spun really fast. It was a lot of fun bringing it up to speed, then jumping on and whizzing around. Some people, especially the girls, would get dizzy. But I didn’t because someone told me I should train my eyes on a fixed point (a tree or building was the easiest) while spinning. This little tip, so simple and easy to do, made a huge difference and allowed ease, fun, and peace while life was wildly moving around.
Well, the world around us is changing faster than we can even measure … and that’s an understatement. It is a time of rapid growth, over-stimulation, and economic and governmental instability. The ride is spinning so fast. Yet we yearn for calm, stability and even permanence, (which usually equates with security and peace) right now, for the near future, and for eternity. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It keeps us from getting distracted and spinning dizzily on the ever-moving merry-go-round of life.
To keep our wits about us, avoid sickness, see clearly, and walk in the right direction under adversity, we need to resist the dizzying effects of the lightning fast thrill ride we are strapped onto. There is only one way to have a fighting chance in the spiritual battle, and that is to fix our eyes on the most immoveable and permanent object that will ever exist. Keeping focused on God’s character, instruction, and promises will allow you to navigate with dramatic ease and success.
We sometimes struggle with stability and permanence, feeling it’s too predictable or conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, newness, or uniqueness is more desirable, exciting, stimulating, or soothing. Isn’t it interesting that when we go on vacation we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need to nap, feel discombobulated, and then return home without feeling rested? Many people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation! Why? Because we are out of our routine, aren’t grounded, and lose sight of what is steady and true.
We have to resist the urge to let our eyes wander and bounce from transient objects to quick fixes that come over the horizon. The world provides so many imposters for stability, you will get dizzy bouncing your gaze from one to the other.
Today, when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the steadiest object, where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable, and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. Seek His wisdom and principles for the situation that is making you a bit dizzy. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy. Instead, enjoy the ride of your life. WITHIN REACH helps you focus on Him in all your decisions.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change You are the one who never changes. You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes, the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence, I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You, Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart. I pray in the name of my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.”
Revelation 21:6
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
Recess was always my favorite part of the school day, and when I wasn’t playing some ball sport, I loved some of the contraptions in the schoolyard. One of my favorites was a merry-go-round that was about 15-20 feet in diameter and 18 inches off the ground, and that spun really fast. It was a lot of fun bringing it up to speed, then jumping on and whizzing around. Some people, especially the girls, would get dizzy. But I didn’t because someone told me I should train my eyes on a fixed point (a tree or building was the easiest) while spinning. This little tip, so simple and easy to do, made a huge difference and allowed ease, fun, and peace while life was wildly moving around.
Well, the world around us is changing faster than we can even measure … and that’s an understatement. It is a time of rapid growth, over-stimulation, and economic and governmental instability. The ride is spinning so fast. Yet we yearn for calm, stability and even permanence, (which usually equates with security and peace) right now, for the near future, and for eternity. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It keeps us from getting distracted and spinning dizzily on the ever-moving merry-go-round of life.
To keep our wits about us, avoid sickness, see clearly, and walk in the right direction under adversity, we need to resist the dizzying effects of the lightning fast thrill ride we are strapped onto. There is only one way to have a fighting chance in the spiritual battle, and that is to fix our eyes on the most immoveable and permanent object that will ever exist. Keeping focused on God’s character, instruction, and promises will allow you to navigate with dramatic ease and success.
We sometimes struggle with stability and permanence, feeling it’s too predictable or conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, newness, or uniqueness is more desirable, exciting, stimulating, or soothing. Isn’t it interesting that when we go on vacation we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need to nap, feel discombobulated, and then return home without feeling rested? Many people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation! Why? Because we are out of our routine, aren’t grounded, and lose sight of what is steady and true.
We have to resist the urge to let our eyes wander and bounce from transient objects to quick fixes that come over the horizon. The world provides so many imposters for stability, you will get dizzy bouncing your gaze from one to the other.
Today, when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the steadiest object, where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable, and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. Seek His wisdom and principles for the situation that is making you a bit dizzy. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy. Instead, enjoy the ride of your life. WITHIN REACH helps you focus on Him in all your decisions.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change You are the one who never changes. You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes, the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence, I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You, Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart. I pray in the name of my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.”
Revelation 21:6
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
Friday, July 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Divide Your Pain, Multiple Your Joy
Transformational Thought
Most of us are very selective about the parts of our lives we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful … partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about them again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, loneliness, guilt, fear, anxiety, and stress that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable and guaranteed sentence from which there is no relief.
Some seem to believe they accumulate degree-of-difficulty points (like in diving) for overcoming the most hardships and pain, commonly called the martyr syndrome or victim mentality. For others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of growing up that, in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. These people seem to sabotage success, or even go out of their way to create problems. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, we even forget God is with us and will provide help.
God really desires to heal the hurting parts of your life. However, some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting. He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is the book about suffering, especially spiritual suffering. The Bible tells how God loved us so much that He miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller daily sufferings we experience. Turn to your Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances remembering He is with you. He has joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you. He is communicating through your pain. Click here for a resource to help navigate your pain.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, grateful that I can come to you no matter what condition I am in … just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; You already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and recover sight to the blind, and to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18
Most of us are very selective about the parts of our lives we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful … partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about them again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, loneliness, guilt, fear, anxiety, and stress that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable and guaranteed sentence from which there is no relief.
Some seem to believe they accumulate degree-of-difficulty points (like in diving) for overcoming the most hardships and pain, commonly called the martyr syndrome or victim mentality. For others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of growing up that, in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. These people seem to sabotage success, or even go out of their way to create problems. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, we even forget God is with us and will provide help.
God really desires to heal the hurting parts of your life. However, some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting. He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is the book about suffering, especially spiritual suffering. The Bible tells how God loved us so much that He miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller daily sufferings we experience. Turn to your Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances remembering He is with you. He has joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you. He is communicating through your pain. Click here for a resource to help navigate your pain.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, grateful that I can come to you no matter what condition I am in … just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; You already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and recover sight to the blind, and to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Stepping Stones: Which Channel, WGOD or WORLD!
Transformational Thought
When you want to know what is going on in a school system, you go to the authority … the one who’s in charge of the programs, who has the power, knows the most, and devises the policies. You don’t go to the third graders, get their reports, believing they are the all-knowing authorities and evaluators who can decipher all that is going on in the complex system. Nor do you let the third graders determine the strategies and methods to educate themselves and society.
Most media, like TV, radio, movies, and the internet, is analogous to the third graders in both depth of understanding and true power and authority. The media is a reflection of the WORLD system, Satan’s schemes, and our fleshly desires. The WORLD relentlessly proclaims bad news for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Knee-jerk solutions to long term issues and needs abound, exalting self instead of humbling us to the true King.
This steady diet of WORLD messages and attempts at brainwashing will sicken you. Instead of focusing on their fickle, ever-changing, bad-news broadcasts, tune into the living WORD – the one who is always the same. He is the real authority and all-knowing One you need to pursue for answers, explanations, comfort, protection, instruction, power, and wisdom.
Because of our need for quick explanations and our fragility in dealing with discomfort, we want our hurt, our natural state of broken-heartedness and captivity to sin, to go away now. But, you see, we are too lazy to think through multiple aspects of a situation. We have amnesia with regard to past experiences, and we resist developing our spiritual antennae. As a result, we tune into the WORLD, and the media that is in our face 24/7 becomes our guide and authority.
Today, turn the tube off early and pick up your Bible. Let the Holy Scripture saturate your mind and heart. This will help you walk steadily, step by step, along the path of true healing and lasting transformation. Even though you do not know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure He is walking side by side with you and you have assurance of your ultimate destination forever. Big decision: the Bible or the media for your peace, guidance and freedom. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am full of fear today. I am in the midst of another storm. I turn to Your Word and I find assurance. I pray that the assurance of Your Word would soak into my mind and heart until I overflow with Your Joy, instead of my fleshly fear. I know that peace is Your continual gift to me; thank You, Lord. I know that You have designed me to need You moment by moment. It is when I take my eyes off You that fear and anxiety creep into my life. I approach Your throne of grace with confidence and trust and ask for Your peace. I pray this in the name of the One who is my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:39
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psalm 46:2
When you want to know what is going on in a school system, you go to the authority … the one who’s in charge of the programs, who has the power, knows the most, and devises the policies. You don’t go to the third graders, get their reports, believing they are the all-knowing authorities and evaluators who can decipher all that is going on in the complex system. Nor do you let the third graders determine the strategies and methods to educate themselves and society.
Most media, like TV, radio, movies, and the internet, is analogous to the third graders in both depth of understanding and true power and authority. The media is a reflection of the WORLD system, Satan’s schemes, and our fleshly desires. The WORLD relentlessly proclaims bad news for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Knee-jerk solutions to long term issues and needs abound, exalting self instead of humbling us to the true King.
This steady diet of WORLD messages and attempts at brainwashing will sicken you. Instead of focusing on their fickle, ever-changing, bad-news broadcasts, tune into the living WORD – the one who is always the same. He is the real authority and all-knowing One you need to pursue for answers, explanations, comfort, protection, instruction, power, and wisdom.
Because of our need for quick explanations and our fragility in dealing with discomfort, we want our hurt, our natural state of broken-heartedness and captivity to sin, to go away now. But, you see, we are too lazy to think through multiple aspects of a situation. We have amnesia with regard to past experiences, and we resist developing our spiritual antennae. As a result, we tune into the WORLD, and the media that is in our face 24/7 becomes our guide and authority.
Today, turn the tube off early and pick up your Bible. Let the Holy Scripture saturate your mind and heart. This will help you walk steadily, step by step, along the path of true healing and lasting transformation. Even though you do not know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure He is walking side by side with you and you have assurance of your ultimate destination forever. Big decision: the Bible or the media for your peace, guidance and freedom. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am full of fear today. I am in the midst of another storm. I turn to Your Word and I find assurance. I pray that the assurance of Your Word would soak into my mind and heart until I overflow with Your Joy, instead of my fleshly fear. I know that peace is Your continual gift to me; thank You, Lord. I know that You have designed me to need You moment by moment. It is when I take my eyes off You that fear and anxiety creep into my life. I approach Your throne of grace with confidence and trust and ask for Your peace. I pray this in the name of the One who is my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:39
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psalm 46:2
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: Is Duty a Four-Letter Word For You?
Transformational Thought
Duty. What an interesting word. When I was a little kid, I would giggle when I heard it because we called poop, “doodies.” As a teenager, duty was a foul four-letter word associated with chores or trivial work around the house that wasted time, but “built character.” As a young adult, duty represented activities, actually obligations, to be a better manager of my finances, or a better husband, doctor, or citizen. Tasks requiring sacrifice, but without real satisfaction now, and aimed at avoiding long-term suffering.
Our greatest calling and duty is devotion to God. This duty is such a luxury that it should feel like a “Joyous Duty.” Now realize, duty can be associated with opportunity, blessing, peace, connection, love, joy, holiness, and power.
The world is working hard to squeeze you into its mold, which is usually rush, rush, rush, and to crowd out any time devoted to God. The merry-go-round of life just goes faster and faster … rarely slowing down … and only stopping when you die. This world wants you to feel guilty about spending time with God, or make you feel that everything else is more urgent and needs to be done now, and that time with God is a luxury that has no acute relevance or impact in the craziness of the present. Do not let this happen! The reality is the exact opposite!
God wants to spend time with you, and wants you to spend time with Him. When we spend time with Him, it excites Him, but it also does wonders for our state of mind and our well-being. It equips us for life. It’s what renews and empowers us. And He knows that. That’s one of the reasons He commands us to worship Him only. When you spend your time and mental currency on other distractions, you lose out. In response God might have to do something to those distractions to refocus your eyes and devotion on Him. Don’t wait for God to redirect you, decide to take your own action now. Peace will replace suffering so quickly!
Today, push back the boundaries of your life to make some alone time with your Lord a priority. We all have crud in our life we can cut out to make room for more time with God. Then actually follow through with that decision. And do it today. If not, you are falling into the world’s trap we just described. Focus on what it means to be a child of the everlasting King. Rejoice, the King always extends a special invitation to spend time, one on one, just with you. In fact, it’s a royal decree to ensure you enjoy your inheritance. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that the ways of the world have warped my conscience … this world tries to punish me for doing the very things that please You the most. Let me hear Your voice, Lord … let me hear Your voice above the clamor of voices and imitations trying to distract me from You. I know that You work in perfect Harmony with Your Holy Spirit. I pray that Your Holy Spirit helps calm my mind. Help me be still and attentive in Your presence, for I know I am on holy ground. I pray this in the name of the most dutiful servant Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
Romans 8:15-16
"Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
Exodus 3:5
Duty. What an interesting word. When I was a little kid, I would giggle when I heard it because we called poop, “doodies.” As a teenager, duty was a foul four-letter word associated with chores or trivial work around the house that wasted time, but “built character.” As a young adult, duty represented activities, actually obligations, to be a better manager of my finances, or a better husband, doctor, or citizen. Tasks requiring sacrifice, but without real satisfaction now, and aimed at avoiding long-term suffering.
Our greatest calling and duty is devotion to God. This duty is such a luxury that it should feel like a “Joyous Duty.” Now realize, duty can be associated with opportunity, blessing, peace, connection, love, joy, holiness, and power.
The world is working hard to squeeze you into its mold, which is usually rush, rush, rush, and to crowd out any time devoted to God. The merry-go-round of life just goes faster and faster … rarely slowing down … and only stopping when you die. This world wants you to feel guilty about spending time with God, or make you feel that everything else is more urgent and needs to be done now, and that time with God is a luxury that has no acute relevance or impact in the craziness of the present. Do not let this happen! The reality is the exact opposite!
God wants to spend time with you, and wants you to spend time with Him. When we spend time with Him, it excites Him, but it also does wonders for our state of mind and our well-being. It equips us for life. It’s what renews and empowers us. And He knows that. That’s one of the reasons He commands us to worship Him only. When you spend your time and mental currency on other distractions, you lose out. In response God might have to do something to those distractions to refocus your eyes and devotion on Him. Don’t wait for God to redirect you, decide to take your own action now. Peace will replace suffering so quickly!
Today, push back the boundaries of your life to make some alone time with your Lord a priority. We all have crud in our life we can cut out to make room for more time with God. Then actually follow through with that decision. And do it today. If not, you are falling into the world’s trap we just described. Focus on what it means to be a child of the everlasting King. Rejoice, the King always extends a special invitation to spend time, one on one, just with you. In fact, it’s a royal decree to ensure you enjoy your inheritance. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that the ways of the world have warped my conscience … this world tries to punish me for doing the very things that please You the most. Let me hear Your voice, Lord … let me hear Your voice above the clamor of voices and imitations trying to distract me from You. I know that You work in perfect Harmony with Your Holy Spirit. I pray that Your Holy Spirit helps calm my mind. Help me be still and attentive in Your presence, for I know I am on holy ground. I pray this in the name of the most dutiful servant Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
Romans 8:15-16
"Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
Exodus 3:5
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Stepping Stones: Thanks For Our Light Bulb!
Transformational Thought
I am the second oldest of 14 children, all from the same mother and father … those were the days. Not foster or adopted, not step or blended. Just good old-fashioned Catholic. My mother taught my siblings and me the power and value of having a grateful heart. I’d like to share a warm childhood memory of a special lesson my mother taught me.
I grew up in the era when you got free light bulbs each time you paid your electric bill. That really was a different mentality towards customer relations. Often we were not able to pay the bill, remember - 14 kids, so we were always short on light bulbs. I recall, seems like most of the time, when we had only one light bulb for the entire house. During the early evening hours that bulb would burn in the kitchen … the center of our family activity.
When bedtime came around, we had a ritual. My mother would reach up, and using her apron to shield her hand from that hot bulb, she would unscrew it, bring it upstairs, and put it in the hallway. As she reached up to get the bulb in the kitchen, all her little children (like chicks clinging to the mother hen) would gather around her, grabbing onto her house dress, and begin the shuffle to and up the stairs in the dark.
During the journey on the steps I vividly remember my mother teaching us how grateful we should be because we had a light bulb. She told us about all the children in the world who didn’t have one, and so that began our bed-time prayer. “Dear God, thank You for this light bulb.”
My mother had so many reasons to be sad, depressed … to complain, be frustrated or jealous. But she never complained. My siblings and I were so blessed to have a mother who believed deeply in God and taught us all from an early age that the seeds of depression will not take root in a grateful heart.
What kind of lenses do you use to see the light bulbs in your life? Are you grateful for what you have? Or do you feel entitled to more? More money, better health, bigger house, better looks, more control, less pain, less stress, more breaks. You control your lenses, but it takes discipline, practice, and intentionality. Know God more and you will have His lenses.
Today, take account. Seriously sit down and write a list of the many blessings you have … big and small. It is so easy for us to become complacent and start to take God’s care, grace, love, provision, and sacrifice for granted. Make the effort and decision to put on Godly lenses that allow you to develop and maintain a grateful heart. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so spoiled. I have everything I need and yet I always want more. I always seem to find something to complain about. Forgive me, Lord. Help me today and everyday to focus on all the blessings You’ve given me, especially for the adversities that you lovingly use to grow me. Thank You for the shelter of my home, for a bed to sleep in, and for all the light bulbs in my house. I know that gratitude enables me to perceive You more closely and more clearly, and to rejoice in our love-relationship. I know, Father, that I will never be in control of all my life’s circumstances … but I relax in the fact that You are in control … and for that I am eternally grateful. I pray this and all prayers through our brightest Light bulb, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3
I am the second oldest of 14 children, all from the same mother and father … those were the days. Not foster or adopted, not step or blended. Just good old-fashioned Catholic. My mother taught my siblings and me the power and value of having a grateful heart. I’d like to share a warm childhood memory of a special lesson my mother taught me.
I grew up in the era when you got free light bulbs each time you paid your electric bill. That really was a different mentality towards customer relations. Often we were not able to pay the bill, remember - 14 kids, so we were always short on light bulbs. I recall, seems like most of the time, when we had only one light bulb for the entire house. During the early evening hours that bulb would burn in the kitchen … the center of our family activity.
When bedtime came around, we had a ritual. My mother would reach up, and using her apron to shield her hand from that hot bulb, she would unscrew it, bring it upstairs, and put it in the hallway. As she reached up to get the bulb in the kitchen, all her little children (like chicks clinging to the mother hen) would gather around her, grabbing onto her house dress, and begin the shuffle to and up the stairs in the dark.
During the journey on the steps I vividly remember my mother teaching us how grateful we should be because we had a light bulb. She told us about all the children in the world who didn’t have one, and so that began our bed-time prayer. “Dear God, thank You for this light bulb.”
My mother had so many reasons to be sad, depressed … to complain, be frustrated or jealous. But she never complained. My siblings and I were so blessed to have a mother who believed deeply in God and taught us all from an early age that the seeds of depression will not take root in a grateful heart.
What kind of lenses do you use to see the light bulbs in your life? Are you grateful for what you have? Or do you feel entitled to more? More money, better health, bigger house, better looks, more control, less pain, less stress, more breaks. You control your lenses, but it takes discipline, practice, and intentionality. Know God more and you will have His lenses.
Today, take account. Seriously sit down and write a list of the many blessings you have … big and small. It is so easy for us to become complacent and start to take God’s care, grace, love, provision, and sacrifice for granted. Make the effort and decision to put on Godly lenses that allow you to develop and maintain a grateful heart. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so spoiled. I have everything I need and yet I always want more. I always seem to find something to complain about. Forgive me, Lord. Help me today and everyday to focus on all the blessings You’ve given me, especially for the adversities that you lovingly use to grow me. Thank You for the shelter of my home, for a bed to sleep in, and for all the light bulbs in my house. I know that gratitude enables me to perceive You more closely and more clearly, and to rejoice in our love-relationship. I know, Father, that I will never be in control of all my life’s circumstances … but I relax in the fact that You are in control … and for that I am eternally grateful. I pray this and all prayers through our brightest Light bulb, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3
Monday, July 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: Will You Act the Part or Be the Part?
Transformational Thought
When I think to my time in medical school I remember a day I had been anticipating for so many years. Instead of drawing blood on each other, it was finally time to go into the hospital and play the part of a real doctor. Working on real live patients … taking histories, performing physical exams, formulating diagnoses, ordering tests, being a part of the healing process, and really caring for patients. I even dressed the part, wearing a tie with my doctor’s white lab coat, stethoscope, reflex hammer, bags under my eyes, and ever-present bed head. So I got a crew-cut.
Not only did I dress the part, I was also taught how to act on the outside … take a history, respond with respect and professionalism, how speak to nurses and other healthcare personnel using the medical lingo you hear on TV. But you see, none of this made me a doctor on the inside. So I always felt uneasy and insecure … until I really developed the mind and expertise of a doctor. Although my external façade tried to cover up my internal inadequacies, peace erased fear and anxiety when my internal state determined my external actions.
When we became Christians, God placed the Holy Spirit in us. In doing so, He equipped us to be holy. There is a vast difference between being holy and trying to appear holy. Trying to appear holy without submitting to the Holy Spirit is truly a form of hypocrisy. The Holy Bible teaches us that God reserved some of his strongest condemnation for those who paraded their pretense of holiness whenever they had an audience. Holiness can only happen when we are letting God live through us.
Our role is to get out of the Holy Spirit’s way. How? Absorb God’s instruction, spend time with God, and then exercise discipline and training, practicing what we are learning. It’s all about decision-making and developing the mind of Christ so we can be in sync with the Holy Spirit, and not at odds with His leading and guidance. Like becoming a trained and expert physician, it doesn’t happen randomly. We are called to renew our minds daily. What is your strategy today? Are you randomly trying to develop the mind of Christ? Peace will be quite elusive if that is your strategy.
Do you want peace today? Then you have to work on your mind. Be disciplined, yes disciplined. (I love that word –training to ensure proper behavior and to build character, to make yourself do something regularly). That is how you become a disciple of Christ. One way to exercise this discipline is to STOP and think before acting in all situations, giving the Holy Spirit time and space to teach and act through us. Developing discipline is a series of decisions, so the ball is in your court. Make Godly decisions. That is what a good and faithful servant does. WITHIN REACH will help you develop these disciplines.
Prayer
Dear Father, Being holy is something I strive for, but the goal seems so elusive. It is elusive because I am in constant danger of falling prey to serious sin; especially pride and hypocrisy. I want to be holy in all my conduct because Your word gives me this very clear instruction. Help me understand that holiness really is letting You live through me. I pray, Lord, for the patience to pause before I respond so that Your Holy Spirit may take charge and give me the response that lets other see that You live through me. I pray in the holy name of the One who teaches me how to be holy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.
Romans 8:9
When I think to my time in medical school I remember a day I had been anticipating for so many years. Instead of drawing blood on each other, it was finally time to go into the hospital and play the part of a real doctor. Working on real live patients … taking histories, performing physical exams, formulating diagnoses, ordering tests, being a part of the healing process, and really caring for patients. I even dressed the part, wearing a tie with my doctor’s white lab coat, stethoscope, reflex hammer, bags under my eyes, and ever-present bed head. So I got a crew-cut.
Not only did I dress the part, I was also taught how to act on the outside … take a history, respond with respect and professionalism, how speak to nurses and other healthcare personnel using the medical lingo you hear on TV. But you see, none of this made me a doctor on the inside. So I always felt uneasy and insecure … until I really developed the mind and expertise of a doctor. Although my external façade tried to cover up my internal inadequacies, peace erased fear and anxiety when my internal state determined my external actions.
When we became Christians, God placed the Holy Spirit in us. In doing so, He equipped us to be holy. There is a vast difference between being holy and trying to appear holy. Trying to appear holy without submitting to the Holy Spirit is truly a form of hypocrisy. The Holy Bible teaches us that God reserved some of his strongest condemnation for those who paraded their pretense of holiness whenever they had an audience. Holiness can only happen when we are letting God live through us.
Our role is to get out of the Holy Spirit’s way. How? Absorb God’s instruction, spend time with God, and then exercise discipline and training, practicing what we are learning. It’s all about decision-making and developing the mind of Christ so we can be in sync with the Holy Spirit, and not at odds with His leading and guidance. Like becoming a trained and expert physician, it doesn’t happen randomly. We are called to renew our minds daily. What is your strategy today? Are you randomly trying to develop the mind of Christ? Peace will be quite elusive if that is your strategy.
Do you want peace today? Then you have to work on your mind. Be disciplined, yes disciplined. (I love that word –training to ensure proper behavior and to build character, to make yourself do something regularly). That is how you become a disciple of Christ. One way to exercise this discipline is to STOP and think before acting in all situations, giving the Holy Spirit time and space to teach and act through us. Developing discipline is a series of decisions, so the ball is in your court. Make Godly decisions. That is what a good and faithful servant does. WITHIN REACH will help you develop these disciplines.
Prayer
Dear Father, Being holy is something I strive for, but the goal seems so elusive. It is elusive because I am in constant danger of falling prey to serious sin; especially pride and hypocrisy. I want to be holy in all my conduct because Your word gives me this very clear instruction. Help me understand that holiness really is letting You live through me. I pray, Lord, for the patience to pause before I respond so that Your Holy Spirit may take charge and give me the response that lets other see that You live through me. I pray in the holy name of the One who teaches me how to be holy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.
Romans 8:9
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: “God, I’m Suffering! Where Are You?”
Transformational Thought
Why do people suffer? Why does God let suffering happen? These are huge questions and deserve long answers, but many have told me the devotionals are long enough! The simple answer is that we live in a fallen world. Our first parents, Adam and Eve, started this whole mess. Their choice to ignore God’s instructions and try life their own way left them and all their descendants exposed to the harsh elements of this fallen world.
Death, deterioration, disease, depression, weakness, loneliness, old age … and the rest of the long list of human ills that have plagued mankind since the beginning of time. That’s why we are in such a mess today. God didn’t do anything to us – we thought we could live life without Him. If you think Adam and Eve were stupid and you never would have bitten the apple, guess what! We bite the same apple everyday. We choose our way instead of God’s on many occasions.
God protects us from so much suffering we deserve as the result of our stupid decisions. But we don’t even notice because the suffering never occurs. A small number of times, He does allow us to suffer. But we are not alone in our suffering. While God chooses not to remove our suffering, His word tells us that He promises to be with us through every step of it. Remember that Jesus prayed to His Father the night before His death … asking Him to “let this cup pass.” God did not stop the brutal death of His Son, but He did send an angel to be with and pray with Jesus.
When we are in the heaviest storms of life, we forget to ask for God’s help, or we forget to reach out to the people that God has sent our way during the darkest days.
Today, when you are in the midst of suffering, say this simple prayer: “God, please be with me and get me through this suffering.” Then look for Him, because He is there. God always provides exactly what you need to endure the suffering. He may not tell you why you are suffering (sometimes that comes much later), but He will certainly be by your side every step of the way, and then He will use that suffering to grow you toward Christ-likeness.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am suffering today, Lord. The burdens I bear are almost too much for me to handle … I feel I am at my breaking point. Lord, please be with me … please help me through this suffering. There is so much suffering in this world. Why? Those who do not believe, and who do not want me to believe often use the world’s suffering as an example of Your non-existence. I need Your help, Your help Lord, to rebut their negativity. Give me the wisdom and the words when Your detractors attack. Help me be steadfast in trusting Your promise to be my Lighthouse … guiding and providing sanctuary in every storm of my life. In the name of my Suffering Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Isaiah 43:1-2
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
Matthew 26:39
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
Genesis 2:16-17
Why do people suffer? Why does God let suffering happen? These are huge questions and deserve long answers, but many have told me the devotionals are long enough! The simple answer is that we live in a fallen world. Our first parents, Adam and Eve, started this whole mess. Their choice to ignore God’s instructions and try life their own way left them and all their descendants exposed to the harsh elements of this fallen world.
Death, deterioration, disease, depression, weakness, loneliness, old age … and the rest of the long list of human ills that have plagued mankind since the beginning of time. That’s why we are in such a mess today. God didn’t do anything to us – we thought we could live life without Him. If you think Adam and Eve were stupid and you never would have bitten the apple, guess what! We bite the same apple everyday. We choose our way instead of God’s on many occasions.
God protects us from so much suffering we deserve as the result of our stupid decisions. But we don’t even notice because the suffering never occurs. A small number of times, He does allow us to suffer. But we are not alone in our suffering. While God chooses not to remove our suffering, His word tells us that He promises to be with us through every step of it. Remember that Jesus prayed to His Father the night before His death … asking Him to “let this cup pass.” God did not stop the brutal death of His Son, but He did send an angel to be with and pray with Jesus.
When we are in the heaviest storms of life, we forget to ask for God’s help, or we forget to reach out to the people that God has sent our way during the darkest days.
Today, when you are in the midst of suffering, say this simple prayer: “God, please be with me and get me through this suffering.” Then look for Him, because He is there. God always provides exactly what you need to endure the suffering. He may not tell you why you are suffering (sometimes that comes much later), but He will certainly be by your side every step of the way, and then He will use that suffering to grow you toward Christ-likeness.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am suffering today, Lord. The burdens I bear are almost too much for me to handle … I feel I am at my breaking point. Lord, please be with me … please help me through this suffering. There is so much suffering in this world. Why? Those who do not believe, and who do not want me to believe often use the world’s suffering as an example of Your non-existence. I need Your help, Your help Lord, to rebut their negativity. Give me the wisdom and the words when Your detractors attack. Help me be steadfast in trusting Your promise to be my Lighthouse … guiding and providing sanctuary in every storm of my life. In the name of my Suffering Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Isaiah 43:1-2
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
Matthew 26:39
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
And the LORD God commanded the man, "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die."
Genesis 2:16-17
Friday, July 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: You’re Too Busy Grabbing a Penny but Missing the Gold!
Transformational Thought
Several months ago I was working on a project … but the project was stalling because a certain problem kept getting in my way. Although the solution was right in front of my eyes, it was hard for me to see because I was holding on too tightly to a couple project components. Once I loosened my grip, that is, my dependency on those elements, the solution became crystal clear to me. Then a refreshing peace quickly followed and soothed my mind.
God’s peace is all-encompassing, given freely to His followers, and has nothing to do with your current circumstances. Even if you lose everything, if you gain His peace, you are rich beyond measure. When we cling to other items … worldly and material items … receiving His precious gift of peace is hard for us to do. This is like wrapping your fingers tightly around a shiny penny, not wanting to give it up, while God is reaching out and offering you an unlimited supply of gold.
To receive His gifts, you must first open your hands, and really your heart to Him. By doing so, you can release your cares and concerns into His hands for perfect care and keeping. Once you release your grip on transient, material, worldly fixes, your hands are open to receive and grab onto the peace He has been trying to give you all along. Keep in mind today the Divine nature of this gift; it is not the world’s peace He gives … it is a powerful peace that transcends all human understanding.
You see, you have to grab the right things to find God’s peace. I know His peace isn’t everywhere. It’s not in a bottle, a drug, pornography, sex or love, work, food, thrills, sports, TV, or even our kids. But these are often the first places we look and we are amazed when they don’t deliver the peace we crave that only He can deliver. Look in the right places!
After His resurrection, the first words Jesus spoke to his disciples were, “Peace be with you.” He knew they needed His Peace … and he knows that you need His Peace today.
Today, take a look at an area of your life where you feel unsettled. Ask yourself, “What am I holding too tightly that prevents me from grabbing the peace God is offering me?” Is it my ego, control, looks, image, money, security, risk-aversion, or kids? We all have areas we exalt more highly than they deserve compared to what God offers. Allow your hand to release that thing by applying His Word, character, and promises. And then feel Him put His peace right in your hand for you to grab.
Prayer
Dear Father, I feel that there are so many aspects of my life that are out of my control. I feel I am a victim of my circumstances. But I know that in reality I am really a victim of my own thinking and decisions. Your gift of all-encompassing peace is exactly what I need. Even though Your peace is a gift, I sometimes feel unable to receive it. Perhaps it’s because I am clinging so tightly to other things … my loved ones, my possessions, my reputation … even my addictions or sources of false relief. I keep looking in the wrong places. I pray to You, my Lord, that You help me treasure and value Your Peace above all else. Help me release my grasp on other things so that I may receive Your gifts. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
Several months ago I was working on a project … but the project was stalling because a certain problem kept getting in my way. Although the solution was right in front of my eyes, it was hard for me to see because I was holding on too tightly to a couple project components. Once I loosened my grip, that is, my dependency on those elements, the solution became crystal clear to me. Then a refreshing peace quickly followed and soothed my mind.
God’s peace is all-encompassing, given freely to His followers, and has nothing to do with your current circumstances. Even if you lose everything, if you gain His peace, you are rich beyond measure. When we cling to other items … worldly and material items … receiving His precious gift of peace is hard for us to do. This is like wrapping your fingers tightly around a shiny penny, not wanting to give it up, while God is reaching out and offering you an unlimited supply of gold.
To receive His gifts, you must first open your hands, and really your heart to Him. By doing so, you can release your cares and concerns into His hands for perfect care and keeping. Once you release your grip on transient, material, worldly fixes, your hands are open to receive and grab onto the peace He has been trying to give you all along. Keep in mind today the Divine nature of this gift; it is not the world’s peace He gives … it is a powerful peace that transcends all human understanding.
You see, you have to grab the right things to find God’s peace. I know His peace isn’t everywhere. It’s not in a bottle, a drug, pornography, sex or love, work, food, thrills, sports, TV, or even our kids. But these are often the first places we look and we are amazed when they don’t deliver the peace we crave that only He can deliver. Look in the right places!
After His resurrection, the first words Jesus spoke to his disciples were, “Peace be with you.” He knew they needed His Peace … and he knows that you need His Peace today.
Today, take a look at an area of your life where you feel unsettled. Ask yourself, “What am I holding too tightly that prevents me from grabbing the peace God is offering me?” Is it my ego, control, looks, image, money, security, risk-aversion, or kids? We all have areas we exalt more highly than they deserve compared to what God offers. Allow your hand to release that thing by applying His Word, character, and promises. And then feel Him put His peace right in your hand for you to grab.
Prayer
Dear Father, I feel that there are so many aspects of my life that are out of my control. I feel I am a victim of my circumstances. But I know that in reality I am really a victim of my own thinking and decisions. Your gift of all-encompassing peace is exactly what I need. Even though Your peace is a gift, I sometimes feel unable to receive it. Perhaps it’s because I am clinging so tightly to other things … my loved ones, my possessions, my reputation … even my addictions or sources of false relief. I keep looking in the wrong places. I pray to You, my Lord, that You help me treasure and value Your Peace above all else. Help me release my grasp on other things so that I may receive Your gifts. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Stepping Stones: “Try Jesus”
Transformational Thought
Slogans are everywhere. “Just Do It,” “Got Milk,” “M’m! M’m! Good!” and “Have it your way,” to name a few. Christian slogans exist also, like “Let go, and let God” or “What Would Jesus Do?” But, it just dawned on me about how short and simple the best slogan is: “Try Jesus.”
Many times we resist trying new things because we don’t want to let go of our routine … or the old way, our good old comfort zone. We fear that by switching to the new thing we might lose something valuable that we won’t be able to get back. Or we fear looking awkward when we try something new and others judge us negatively. Or maybe we fear the amount of time and energy it will take to for us to learn and become good at the new way.
But when it comes to THE way, the way to the Promised Land, the good life, abundant living … what the heck are we thinking? Why would we ever want to go back to the old way spiritually … the way of the world … the way of conformed thinking and decision-making?
So, by “Trying Jesus” you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. And anyway, if trying Jesus isn’t what you want … Satan is always willing to take you back, and the fruit of the flesh is what you will reap: insecurity, anxiety, lust, jealousy, strife, bitterness, feeling overwhelmed, hopelessness, loneliness, frustration, disconnected, empty … wow, that’s just the beginning!
Doesn’t that thought just send shivers down your spine? I used to “try the world,” and the fruit of the flesh was what I reaped. I never want to go there again … nor would I wish it on my worst enemy. But here’s a certainty … you must serve one master or the other … Jesus or Satan. If you say that you are serving neither, then Satan has you right where he wants you.
“Try Jesus” and you just can’t lose. In fact, you win every day … and forever!
Today, pray the prayer of salvation and accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. Remember how free you were and joyful you felt the first time you tried Jesus? If He is your Savior, try Jesus as the Lord of your life, in all areas of your life. Make the decision to try Him everyday in a very concrete and intentional way. Put Him first, you will be amazed at how differently you will view life and how freely you will live apart from the bondage of this world.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith, and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separating me from you. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, I receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, and being with me forever. Now help me make You the Lord of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I need to try all day and everyday, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because I am marked out by him to give good news to the poor; he has sent me to make well those who are broken-hearted; to say that the prisoners will be let go, and the blind will see, and to make the wounded free from their chains,
Luke 4:18
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?
Mark 8:36
Slogans are everywhere. “Just Do It,” “Got Milk,” “M’m! M’m! Good!” and “Have it your way,” to name a few. Christian slogans exist also, like “Let go, and let God” or “What Would Jesus Do?” But, it just dawned on me about how short and simple the best slogan is: “Try Jesus.”
Many times we resist trying new things because we don’t want to let go of our routine … or the old way, our good old comfort zone. We fear that by switching to the new thing we might lose something valuable that we won’t be able to get back. Or we fear looking awkward when we try something new and others judge us negatively. Or maybe we fear the amount of time and energy it will take to for us to learn and become good at the new way.
But when it comes to THE way, the way to the Promised Land, the good life, abundant living … what the heck are we thinking? Why would we ever want to go back to the old way spiritually … the way of the world … the way of conformed thinking and decision-making?
So, by “Trying Jesus” you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. And anyway, if trying Jesus isn’t what you want … Satan is always willing to take you back, and the fruit of the flesh is what you will reap: insecurity, anxiety, lust, jealousy, strife, bitterness, feeling overwhelmed, hopelessness, loneliness, frustration, disconnected, empty … wow, that’s just the beginning!
Doesn’t that thought just send shivers down your spine? I used to “try the world,” and the fruit of the flesh was what I reaped. I never want to go there again … nor would I wish it on my worst enemy. But here’s a certainty … you must serve one master or the other … Jesus or Satan. If you say that you are serving neither, then Satan has you right where he wants you.
“Try Jesus” and you just can’t lose. In fact, you win every day … and forever!
Today, pray the prayer of salvation and accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. Remember how free you were and joyful you felt the first time you tried Jesus? If He is your Savior, try Jesus as the Lord of your life, in all areas of your life. Make the decision to try Him everyday in a very concrete and intentional way. Put Him first, you will be amazed at how differently you will view life and how freely you will live apart from the bondage of this world.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith, and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separating me from you. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, I receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, and being with me forever. Now help me make You the Lord of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I need to try all day and everyday, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because I am marked out by him to give good news to the poor; he has sent me to make well those who are broken-hearted; to say that the prisoners will be let go, and the blind will see, and to make the wounded free from their chains,
Luke 4:18
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?
Mark 8:36
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: Learn to Linger
Transformational Thought
If we are so busy that we neglect our time of lingering around with God, then we are definitely too busy. When we are so busy, usually our responsibilities are the heaviest, and that’s when we need God the most. So something needs to change. But where do we start?
We can learn from Jesus. During the time He walked on earth, His responsibility was greater than any of us could imagine, while He also knew His time was extremely limited. But He never let all the "doing" He had on His plate interfere with His time with His Father. As we can see in today's scripture, He left the crowds…and even the disciples…to spend time alone with His Father, our Father. He lingered in prayer.
When we think we are too busy to spend quality time with God…praying and meditating on His Word…we are really fooling ourselves. The amazing paradox is that only when we linger with the Father will everything else in our life can actually fall into place. It is only when we spend time with Him that we can overcome our hurry sickness we discussed yesterday.
How busy are you? Do you have days when you feel you can barely "keep your head above water"? How has the busyness affected your personal relationship with God? Have you put your time with Him on the back burner…an after thought to take care of when you get a chance? Or worse yet, are you neglecting quiet time with God altogether?
During one of Jesus' visits to the home of Mary and Martha, Mary lingered at the feet of Jesus while Martha worked frantically in the kitchen, trying to prepare a meal that was just right. She complained to Jesus that Mary wasn't helping her and urged Him to send Mary into the kitchen to help. Here is how Jesus responded:
But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42
Martha was letting the details of doing everything just right control her. Mary had learned to linger at the feet of Jesus.
Today, learn to just be with God! Linger with Him, even though you might think you need to move on to the next activity of life. Think about what Jesus did for you and why. What can your response be to His love and sacrifice for you? Don’t get so caught up with the minutiae of the world and your need for satisfaction now. Spend time getting to know who He is and why He died for you. Then listen to Him. WITHIN REACH helps motivate you to spend time with and pay attention to God’s instructions and will.
Prayer
Father, I know I've been neglecting my quiet time with You. I realize now that the more I have neglected You, the more I've let the busy details of everyday living control me. My priorities have been out of order, and I have become more and more frustrated. Please forgive me and help me learn to linger before You. Give me clearer lenses to view how great You are and how little and unimportant everything else in this world is. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone.
Matthew 14:23
If we are so busy that we neglect our time of lingering around with God, then we are definitely too busy. When we are so busy, usually our responsibilities are the heaviest, and that’s when we need God the most. So something needs to change. But where do we start?
We can learn from Jesus. During the time He walked on earth, His responsibility was greater than any of us could imagine, while He also knew His time was extremely limited. But He never let all the "doing" He had on His plate interfere with His time with His Father. As we can see in today's scripture, He left the crowds…and even the disciples…to spend time alone with His Father, our Father. He lingered in prayer.
When we think we are too busy to spend quality time with God…praying and meditating on His Word…we are really fooling ourselves. The amazing paradox is that only when we linger with the Father will everything else in our life can actually fall into place. It is only when we spend time with Him that we can overcome our hurry sickness we discussed yesterday.
How busy are you? Do you have days when you feel you can barely "keep your head above water"? How has the busyness affected your personal relationship with God? Have you put your time with Him on the back burner…an after thought to take care of when you get a chance? Or worse yet, are you neglecting quiet time with God altogether?
During one of Jesus' visits to the home of Mary and Martha, Mary lingered at the feet of Jesus while Martha worked frantically in the kitchen, trying to prepare a meal that was just right. She complained to Jesus that Mary wasn't helping her and urged Him to send Mary into the kitchen to help. Here is how Jesus responded:
But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42
Martha was letting the details of doing everything just right control her. Mary had learned to linger at the feet of Jesus.
Today, learn to just be with God! Linger with Him, even though you might think you need to move on to the next activity of life. Think about what Jesus did for you and why. What can your response be to His love and sacrifice for you? Don’t get so caught up with the minutiae of the world and your need for satisfaction now. Spend time getting to know who He is and why He died for you. Then listen to Him. WITHIN REACH helps motivate you to spend time with and pay attention to God’s instructions and will.
Prayer
Father, I know I've been neglecting my quiet time with You. I realize now that the more I have neglected You, the more I've let the busy details of everyday living control me. My priorities have been out of order, and I have become more and more frustrated. Please forgive me and help me learn to linger before You. Give me clearer lenses to view how great You are and how little and unimportant everything else in this world is. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone.
Matthew 14:23
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: Hurry Sickness
Transformational Thought
Just before my dad died, he had the opportunity to speak privately with each of his 14 children. He offered his last bits of advice to each of us. Some of my siblings got some heavy messages … but mine was really pretty short and simple. My dad told me that I needed to slow down, not always be in such a hurry. Although simple for him to say, and simple for me to understand, it isn’t so simple to do. (Don’t a lot of aspects of life fall into that category?)
At a business conference last week, I actually saw a man walking down the hallway with two cell phones … one in each ear. Do you ever find yourself texting several people at once, talking to two or three people at a time on the phone, and all-the-while Googling something on your computer? And then we demand instant results. Faster internet. Faster food. Faster answers. We want it … and we want it now! SO HURRY!
We juggle careers, marriage, family responsibilities, social obligations, hobbies, church and volunteer activities. While we constantly hurry to fit in more and more, we are teaching our kids to do the same. School kids fall in bed exhausted after homework, sports, dance, and a myriad of activities. Often times, they never got a chance to just relax and play.
Why do we speed up the merry-go-round? Our insecurity and the fear of missing something, falling behind, or being found out to be less than we want others to see us, or our pride in wanting our will be done, and then not resting because someone else’s plan will control us. So Satan gives us an answer: Hurry! One of the biggest enemies to our spiritual maturity is hurry. We are so busy, so distracted, and so preoccupied that we settle for something less than the authentic Christian life. In our fast-paced culture, there is an epidemic of “hurry sickness”.
If you feel you are always running behind and wish your day could be 30 hours long, you are suffering from hurry sickness. The results? Constant stress. Frustration. Fatigue. Strained relationships. Feelings of incompetence. Mixed-up priorities. And most important … neglecting time with God. That neglect can rob you of the rest and peace He wants to give you.
In today's scripture, God calls us to cease striving and know that He is God. In other words, stop trying so hard to do it all in your time and your own way. Stop fighting and struggling. Remember that He is God … and you are not. We need to spend quiet time with Him. We need to remember that He is in control. He wants us to put Him first and to rest in Him ... to lean on Him for help. We need to let Him guide us in order to find balance for our lives.
Today, when you are in a hurry, STOP! Ask yourself, “Why?” “Is this situation really life-and- death?” “I am so rushed and frenzied, have I really even examined why I am doing this task?” Focus on Him and His plan … not our own. Only then will we be able to step off the treadmill of hurry and onto the path of Christ-likeness and experience His peace. Your decision, choose wisely!
Prayer
Father, I am tired of being overly busy. I have so much going on. I know I am neglecting some of the most important things. At the top of that list is my time with You. Please forgive me. Help me to get my life and time in balance. Help me to remember to focus on You and to depend on Your strength. Please heal me of this hurry sickness. Help me tolerate the discomfort that is the engine for my hurry and instead turn to You for comfort, rest, and answers. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Cease striving and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
Just before my dad died, he had the opportunity to speak privately with each of his 14 children. He offered his last bits of advice to each of us. Some of my siblings got some heavy messages … but mine was really pretty short and simple. My dad told me that I needed to slow down, not always be in such a hurry. Although simple for him to say, and simple for me to understand, it isn’t so simple to do. (Don’t a lot of aspects of life fall into that category?)
At a business conference last week, I actually saw a man walking down the hallway with two cell phones … one in each ear. Do you ever find yourself texting several people at once, talking to two or three people at a time on the phone, and all-the-while Googling something on your computer? And then we demand instant results. Faster internet. Faster food. Faster answers. We want it … and we want it now! SO HURRY!
We juggle careers, marriage, family responsibilities, social obligations, hobbies, church and volunteer activities. While we constantly hurry to fit in more and more, we are teaching our kids to do the same. School kids fall in bed exhausted after homework, sports, dance, and a myriad of activities. Often times, they never got a chance to just relax and play.
Why do we speed up the merry-go-round? Our insecurity and the fear of missing something, falling behind, or being found out to be less than we want others to see us, or our pride in wanting our will be done, and then not resting because someone else’s plan will control us. So Satan gives us an answer: Hurry! One of the biggest enemies to our spiritual maturity is hurry. We are so busy, so distracted, and so preoccupied that we settle for something less than the authentic Christian life. In our fast-paced culture, there is an epidemic of “hurry sickness”.
If you feel you are always running behind and wish your day could be 30 hours long, you are suffering from hurry sickness. The results? Constant stress. Frustration. Fatigue. Strained relationships. Feelings of incompetence. Mixed-up priorities. And most important … neglecting time with God. That neglect can rob you of the rest and peace He wants to give you.
In today's scripture, God calls us to cease striving and know that He is God. In other words, stop trying so hard to do it all in your time and your own way. Stop fighting and struggling. Remember that He is God … and you are not. We need to spend quiet time with Him. We need to remember that He is in control. He wants us to put Him first and to rest in Him ... to lean on Him for help. We need to let Him guide us in order to find balance for our lives.
Today, when you are in a hurry, STOP! Ask yourself, “Why?” “Is this situation really life-and- death?” “I am so rushed and frenzied, have I really even examined why I am doing this task?” Focus on Him and His plan … not our own. Only then will we be able to step off the treadmill of hurry and onto the path of Christ-likeness and experience His peace. Your decision, choose wisely!
Prayer
Father, I am tired of being overly busy. I have so much going on. I know I am neglecting some of the most important things. At the top of that list is my time with You. Please forgive me. Help me to get my life and time in balance. Help me to remember to focus on You and to depend on Your strength. Please heal me of this hurry sickness. Help me tolerate the discomfort that is the engine for my hurry and instead turn to You for comfort, rest, and answers. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Cease striving and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
Monday, July 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: Shoulda…Woulda…Coulda!
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, my wife was being very helpful and kind to friends and their daughter after a sleepover with our daughter. The girls had a great time, and my wife was happy for them, so she offered another playdate for the next day. She did so many good things in those moments with such a great attitude and heart. Instead of praising her I said, “You should have looked at our schedule before over-scheduling our day.”
Striving for perfection, solely by human effort, is a frustrating task. We tend to load ourselves down with “should's” and “should have's.” I should do this or should have decided that. I should have done it this way. I should read my Bible more. I should be more loving …
We can also project this focus onto others: He should be more sensitive. She should be more respectful. They should be more open. That person should pay more attention to what I do. They should do what I want and need them to do.
When our focus, or worse yet, our need, is human perfection, we will feel frustrated … and that frustration usually leads to guilt or resentment. Resentment can contribute to a critical and judgmental attitude toward others and ourselves. This mind-set can lead to bitterness, making forgiveness difficult to give and accept … not a pretty picture.
You see, taking stock of our shortcomings is important and necessary, but we have to look at our goal and how are we going to use that data. If we are objective and use it to move forward, get better at life, and give hope to the future, then that’s great. If we are using the data to beat ourselves up, hold ourselves back, become fearful of trying again, and sucking hope from the future, well that’s the trap we often fall into. Do you engage in constant should's and should have's? Second-guessing what you have done and wishing you could do better? Do you focus on how imperfect you are? And how about your attitude toward others? Do you tend to be a judge?
We often want to hold onto our opinions about how the world should be and to get everyone else in line ourselves … with our way. But Jesus wants us to conform ourselves to His example. This is the one “should” we ought to do. We should follow Him and work toward the Mind and Actions of Christ.
Today, evaluate the areas in your life where your wrong “should haves” are enslaving you or others to a distorted reality and are becoming an idol. Examine the areas in your life where you find it difficult to let go of your way and follow Jesus' example. Jesus promises that if you will trade your agenda for His, you will find true, refreshing, and everlasting life.
Prayer
Father, I know I tend to think my way is the only right way. I try to make myself perfect by my standards. I judge others because I expect them to be perfect … by my standards. Help me to conform to your standards. Help me to follow Your example. Help me to walk in love, not unrealistic expectations. I pray in the name of the One I will follow; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever is bent on saving his life shall lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake shall find it.”
Matthew 16:24-25
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Yesterday, my wife was being very helpful and kind to friends and their daughter after a sleepover with our daughter. The girls had a great time, and my wife was happy for them, so she offered another playdate for the next day. She did so many good things in those moments with such a great attitude and heart. Instead of praising her I said, “You should have looked at our schedule before over-scheduling our day.”
Striving for perfection, solely by human effort, is a frustrating task. We tend to load ourselves down with “should's” and “should have's.” I should do this or should have decided that. I should have done it this way. I should read my Bible more. I should be more loving …
We can also project this focus onto others: He should be more sensitive. She should be more respectful. They should be more open. That person should pay more attention to what I do. They should do what I want and need them to do.
When our focus, or worse yet, our need, is human perfection, we will feel frustrated … and that frustration usually leads to guilt or resentment. Resentment can contribute to a critical and judgmental attitude toward others and ourselves. This mind-set can lead to bitterness, making forgiveness difficult to give and accept … not a pretty picture.
You see, taking stock of our shortcomings is important and necessary, but we have to look at our goal and how are we going to use that data. If we are objective and use it to move forward, get better at life, and give hope to the future, then that’s great. If we are using the data to beat ourselves up, hold ourselves back, become fearful of trying again, and sucking hope from the future, well that’s the trap we often fall into. Do you engage in constant should's and should have's? Second-guessing what you have done and wishing you could do better? Do you focus on how imperfect you are? And how about your attitude toward others? Do you tend to be a judge?
We often want to hold onto our opinions about how the world should be and to get everyone else in line ourselves … with our way. But Jesus wants us to conform ourselves to His example. This is the one “should” we ought to do. We should follow Him and work toward the Mind and Actions of Christ.
Today, evaluate the areas in your life where your wrong “should haves” are enslaving you or others to a distorted reality and are becoming an idol. Examine the areas in your life where you find it difficult to let go of your way and follow Jesus' example. Jesus promises that if you will trade your agenda for His, you will find true, refreshing, and everlasting life.
Prayer
Father, I know I tend to think my way is the only right way. I try to make myself perfect by my standards. I judge others because I expect them to be perfect … by my standards. Help me to conform to your standards. Help me to follow Your example. Help me to walk in love, not unrealistic expectations. I pray in the name of the One I will follow; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever is bent on saving his life shall lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake shall find it.”
Matthew 16:24-25
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Chasing the Right Goals?
Transformational Thought
We all like goals. Happiness, satisfaction, paying the bills on time, playing with the kids after work, getting my work done so I can watch the ballgame, helping people navigate life better. Some goals are quick and simple and some are a bit more complex.
Looking back on my life, many of my accomplishments didn’t really emerge from a well thought-out strategy or process. In fact, I rarely looked at the whole picture before pursuing my “goals.” My goals as a teen and young adult were usually me-oriented and “fixed” one problem, but ultimately gave birth to new problems. The danger was, once I set a goal, I almost become single-minded in my focus to achieve it. I headed off going about it “my way.” I realized that if I wanted to be successful and enjoy life, I really needed to change my strategy. Evaluating my goals to determine if they were healthy and God-honoring had to be the starting point. The second step was developing a new strategy to achieve these new and other more fulfilling goals.
Sounds easy. But we have so many issues working against us. To start, we are taught to be self-sufficient and to solve our own problems, because “we have all the answers.” Mix in our desire to avoid repeating past mistakes, and our fragility in handling any pain or discomfort. Blend in the fact that life happens so quickly that it is hard to step back and get an overall big-picture assessment and strategy in place. This is the recipe that Satan desires. It leads us to make short term, me-centered goals, accomplished in our own strength, and by way of knee-jerk decisions. Wow, sounds like method a teenager uses. The stark reality is that many of us adults do the same thing, and never grow out of this immature way of setting goals and developing strategies.
Today, before going after your next goal (or maybe you are in the midst of pursuing a goal) talk with God about it directly through prayer. Listen as He speaks to your spirit, through friends, family, and circumstances. Ask God for discernment to help you decide if that goal is part of His will … for you … right now. If the answer is yes, then you can pursue that goal with even more confidence. And when you reach that goal, thank God for his help and guidance. Rejoice in what He has accomplished in you. But if the answer is no, let the Holy Spirit search you as you journey. Look honestly at who you are inside and what keeps you from accomplishing goals that are Godly.
Prayer
Dear Father, Pursuing goals comes so naturally to me, it’s almost like second nature. I confess that when a goal grabs my attention, my instinct is to “go for it” without talking it over with You. I realize now that many of my goals are superficial and have nothing to do with pleasing You or doing Your work. I know, Lord, that when I take time to discuss matters with You, my life becomes so much more satisfying. I pray, Lord, that You help me develop goals that are according to Your will … that You become my captain in all the tasks I undertake to accomplish the goal. Help me grow my humility and accept Your direction, will, and timing. I pray that You shine the light of Your presence on all my goals. I pray in the name of the one modeled the ultimate goal, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16
We all like goals. Happiness, satisfaction, paying the bills on time, playing with the kids after work, getting my work done so I can watch the ballgame, helping people navigate life better. Some goals are quick and simple and some are a bit more complex.
Looking back on my life, many of my accomplishments didn’t really emerge from a well thought-out strategy or process. In fact, I rarely looked at the whole picture before pursuing my “goals.” My goals as a teen and young adult were usually me-oriented and “fixed” one problem, but ultimately gave birth to new problems. The danger was, once I set a goal, I almost become single-minded in my focus to achieve it. I headed off going about it “my way.” I realized that if I wanted to be successful and enjoy life, I really needed to change my strategy. Evaluating my goals to determine if they were healthy and God-honoring had to be the starting point. The second step was developing a new strategy to achieve these new and other more fulfilling goals.
Sounds easy. But we have so many issues working against us. To start, we are taught to be self-sufficient and to solve our own problems, because “we have all the answers.” Mix in our desire to avoid repeating past mistakes, and our fragility in handling any pain or discomfort. Blend in the fact that life happens so quickly that it is hard to step back and get an overall big-picture assessment and strategy in place. This is the recipe that Satan desires. It leads us to make short term, me-centered goals, accomplished in our own strength, and by way of knee-jerk decisions. Wow, sounds like method a teenager uses. The stark reality is that many of us adults do the same thing, and never grow out of this immature way of setting goals and developing strategies.
Today, before going after your next goal (or maybe you are in the midst of pursuing a goal) talk with God about it directly through prayer. Listen as He speaks to your spirit, through friends, family, and circumstances. Ask God for discernment to help you decide if that goal is part of His will … for you … right now. If the answer is yes, then you can pursue that goal with even more confidence. And when you reach that goal, thank God for his help and guidance. Rejoice in what He has accomplished in you. But if the answer is no, let the Holy Spirit search you as you journey. Look honestly at who you are inside and what keeps you from accomplishing goals that are Godly.
Prayer
Dear Father, Pursuing goals comes so naturally to me, it’s almost like second nature. I confess that when a goal grabs my attention, my instinct is to “go for it” without talking it over with You. I realize now that many of my goals are superficial and have nothing to do with pleasing You or doing Your work. I know, Lord, that when I take time to discuss matters with You, my life becomes so much more satisfying. I pray, Lord, that You help me develop goals that are according to Your will … that You become my captain in all the tasks I undertake to accomplish the goal. Help me grow my humility and accept Your direction, will, and timing. I pray that You shine the light of Your presence on all my goals. I pray in the name of the one modeled the ultimate goal, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16
Friday, July 8, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Do You Use For Your GPS?
Transformational Thought
Our GPS is so awesome. We just got back from our annual family vacation down south, a road trip to the beach with several stops on the way. No maps, no pulling over to figure out where we were, no arguments with my wife about whether or not we were lost, no nagging from the kids that they were sick of my “shortcuts”! We just kept plugging addresses in to the GPS and we always got to the right spot.
Even though the GPS was always right, and very easy to use after a while, it wasn’t so easy in the beginning. My biggest obstacle was that it took me a while to really trust it … especially when a different route looked quicker. But I humbled myself, decided I didn’t have to be the one in control, and accepted directions from our sweet-talking GPS.
You see, sometimes the path for our life is fuzzy. We don’t know which direction to go or what step to take next. But God, who is our guiding Lighthouse and personalized GPS, promises to always guide us, his children. Remember the 3 wise men? God took them right to the spot and then back home away from trouble. For you, just plug in the destination – Mind of Christ – then humble yourself to His directions! Stop trying to take short cuts that just get you more lost.
The first and most important step is to admit you have lost your way and need an expert, all-knowing guide. Even when we drift just slightly from following His lead, we are at great risk. Going your way and even veering off course a just a few degrees will quickly take you far from your destination and your Lord.
Today, look for that guiding star in your life. Stop while contemplating a couple decisions today. Before you execute them, ask yourself one question, “Whose GPS am I using, God’s or mine?”. Look at your motivations in the decision at hand and consider whether your action is consistent with God’s instruction, character, and promises. Thinking before acting never hurts. Be willing to follow wherever He leads you. He is the light from on high that will guide you, step by step into the way of peace. As always, Your decision – God’s GPS or yours? Choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, Today I feel confused. At times I don’t know which way to go. I confess, Lord, that I swerve off course in my own wrong direction. I desire with all my heart to walk Your way … the way of peace. My life is one storm after another. Please, Father, shine Your light on me. I need Your light; I live in a cold, dark world. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Word enlightens my mind and heart. Let it empower me to stay on the right path. I have an open, seeking heart, Lord. Help me trust your GPS for my life and not be so tempted with flashy looking dead-ends. I pray in the name of the one who walked the perfect path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.
Luke 1:78-79
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105
"Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Matthew 2:2,9-10
Our GPS is so awesome. We just got back from our annual family vacation down south, a road trip to the beach with several stops on the way. No maps, no pulling over to figure out where we were, no arguments with my wife about whether or not we were lost, no nagging from the kids that they were sick of my “shortcuts”! We just kept plugging addresses in to the GPS and we always got to the right spot.
Even though the GPS was always right, and very easy to use after a while, it wasn’t so easy in the beginning. My biggest obstacle was that it took me a while to really trust it … especially when a different route looked quicker. But I humbled myself, decided I didn’t have to be the one in control, and accepted directions from our sweet-talking GPS.
You see, sometimes the path for our life is fuzzy. We don’t know which direction to go or what step to take next. But God, who is our guiding Lighthouse and personalized GPS, promises to always guide us, his children. Remember the 3 wise men? God took them right to the spot and then back home away from trouble. For you, just plug in the destination – Mind of Christ – then humble yourself to His directions! Stop trying to take short cuts that just get you more lost.
The first and most important step is to admit you have lost your way and need an expert, all-knowing guide. Even when we drift just slightly from following His lead, we are at great risk. Going your way and even veering off course a just a few degrees will quickly take you far from your destination and your Lord.
Today, look for that guiding star in your life. Stop while contemplating a couple decisions today. Before you execute them, ask yourself one question, “Whose GPS am I using, God’s or mine?”. Look at your motivations in the decision at hand and consider whether your action is consistent with God’s instruction, character, and promises. Thinking before acting never hurts. Be willing to follow wherever He leads you. He is the light from on high that will guide you, step by step into the way of peace. As always, Your decision – God’s GPS or yours? Choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, Today I feel confused. At times I don’t know which way to go. I confess, Lord, that I swerve off course in my own wrong direction. I desire with all my heart to walk Your way … the way of peace. My life is one storm after another. Please, Father, shine Your light on me. I need Your light; I live in a cold, dark world. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Word enlightens my mind and heart. Let it empower me to stay on the right path. I have an open, seeking heart, Lord. Help me trust your GPS for my life and not be so tempted with flashy looking dead-ends. I pray in the name of the one who walked the perfect path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.
Luke 1:78-79
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105
"Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Matthew 2:2,9-10
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Really Care For You?
Transformational Thought
I saw this message on the sign of an SPCA building, “Neglect is Abuse,” and it struck me just how profound those words are. Of course, the intention was focused on animals … but what about us humans?
Neglect isn’t a word we usually use to describe ourselves, or our society in this day and age, especially in the U.S. In fact, the opposite is usually what we hear, the ‘ME’ generation, self-indulgent … spoiled … immediate gratification … everybody gets a trophy for playing … welfare or handout state … let’s go out of our way for everybody to get attention. But think about it, are we really aware of the true inner needs, struggles, or God-placed longings in our heart? How about you? Are you paying attention and doing something constructive about your own internal needs, struggles, and longings? If you answer honestly, 98% of you will say “No.”
Few perform this honest self-assessment. But when you do assess, do you then go about addressing what you find in the most healthy, fulfilling, and life-giving way? Not self-assessing and not significantly and thoroughly addressing what you find, is self-neglect.
Neglect is prevalent in our society. We neglect ourselves, those we love, those in need … but most importantly, we also neglect our Lord. You see, God is the answer for the struggles that derail us … obstacles that hold us back … wounds that aren’t healed … patterns we struggle to break … emotions that rule us. By neglecting God, we also neglect ourselves and others.
Today, stop and think about areas in your life you are neglecting … pushing under the carpet … avoiding … suppressing … hoping nobody notices. Think about struggles you have identified, but have had trouble correcting or freeing yourself from their burden. Now trade the word abuse for neglect. In the dictionary, neglect is a synonym for abuse. Perhaps this simple word switch will help us to neglect less and start taking care of ourselves in the true sense as God called us to do. Put on the armor of God and specifically attack those strongholds today.
Prayer
Dear Father in heaven, I come to you with a guilty heart. I have been guilty of neglecting You. Forgive me, Father. I have been guilty of neglecting those I love and that I have a responsibility to care for. Replacing the word abuse for neglect makes it all seem so much worse. I ask Your forgiveness for the abuse of my body. Help me to be aware every day of those who need my care and attention. Also, help those whom I have abused to forgive me. I pray, Lord, that You working through me will end my neglect of others. With a sad heart I also realize now that others have neglected me, so help me forgive them, Lord, as You forgive me. Help them be aware that neglect is abuse. I pray in the name of the one was abused for my ultimate nurturing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message
1 Timothy 4:14
Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.
Psalm 55:10
Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 'The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst”.
John 6:35
Neglect isn’t a word we usually use to describe ourselves, or our society in this day and age, especially in the U.S. In fact, the opposite is usually what we hear, the ‘ME’ generation, self-indulgent … spoiled … immediate gratification … everybody gets a trophy for playing … welfare or handout state … let’s go out of our way for everybody to get attention. But think about it, are we really aware of the true inner needs, struggles, or God-placed longings in our heart? How about you? Are you paying attention and doing something constructive about your own internal needs, struggles, and longings? If you answer honestly, 98% of you will say “No.”
Few perform this honest self-assessment. But when you do assess, do you then go about addressing what you find in the most healthy, fulfilling, and life-giving way? Not self-assessing and not significantly and thoroughly addressing what you find, is self-neglect.
Neglect is prevalent in our society. We neglect ourselves, those we love, those in need … but most importantly, we also neglect our Lord. You see, God is the answer for the struggles that derail us … obstacles that hold us back … wounds that aren’t healed … patterns we struggle to break … emotions that rule us. By neglecting God, we also neglect ourselves and others.
Today, stop and think about areas in your life you are neglecting … pushing under the carpet … avoiding … suppressing … hoping nobody notices. Think about struggles you have identified, but have had trouble correcting or freeing yourself from their burden. Now trade the word abuse for neglect. In the dictionary, neglect is a synonym for abuse. Perhaps this simple word switch will help us to neglect less and start taking care of ourselves in the true sense as God called us to do. Put on the armor of God and specifically attack those strongholds today.
Prayer
Dear Father in heaven, I come to you with a guilty heart. I have been guilty of neglecting You. Forgive me, Father. I have been guilty of neglecting those I love and that I have a responsibility to care for. Replacing the word abuse for neglect makes it all seem so much worse. I ask Your forgiveness for the abuse of my body. Help me to be aware every day of those who need my care and attention. Also, help those whom I have abused to forgive me. I pray, Lord, that You working through me will end my neglect of others. With a sad heart I also realize now that others have neglected me, so help me forgive them, Lord, as You forgive me. Help them be aware that neglect is abuse. I pray in the name of the one was abused for my ultimate nurturing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message
1 Timothy 4:14
Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.
Psalm 55:10
Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 'The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst”.
John 6:35
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Stepping Stones: Would You Rather Have a Flashlight or a Lighthouse?
Transformational Thought
We all experience storms in our lives. Maybe you are currently in the midst of a storm...maybe multiple storms. Unfortunately, storms are a certainty in life and we often have little control over that. But we do have all the power over how we react to these storms, with peace or panic. Even though uncomfortable, scary, and potentially dangerous, storms are tremendous opportunities to learn a lot about ourselves.
One key lesson is, "where do I get my confidence, guidance, or hope from?" Put another way, "When I am in a storm at sea, do I want a small flashlight, or do I want the brightest Lighthouse? When we get upset in a difficult situation, it is because we are usually getting our confidence from ourselves, or sometimes from others. A constant battle goes on inside our heart. We strive to be independent, master of our destiny, take care of our own needs, and not be reliant on anyone else. This protects us from being hurt, let down by others, and just seems more efficient to cut others out of the loop when I need something. But this strategy breeds a false sense of confidence, a reliance on myself, my abilities, my assets, or what I can use from others.
You see, my skills are like a flashlight, God is a Lighthouse. Instead of getting my confidence from me and relying on myself, God desires me to turn to Him, accept His protection and provision for me, and let Him grow us. He will grow us quicker, more efficiently, and with less pain than we can grow ourselves. We really need to get our confidence to handle the many everyday situations from knowing who God is, what His promises are, and what His word teaches. When we see situations and act based on our confidence in God, life, and especially storms, are so much easier to handle and actually become tremendous growth experiences.
Looking back, I see the major storms in my life actually changed my direction, pushing me onto a better path of becoming Christ-like and helping me develop the Mind of Christ. More importantly, these storms provided the opportunity to look for and find God as my Lighthouse, where the only real and ultimate safety and guidance is for me, and all of us.
Today, as a believer you will find that your ultimate Lighthouse, God, will not only show you your path forward step by step, but God will also lead you to a place of refuge, a place of shelter to endure your storm. Meet today's storm...or your next storm (for surely they will come) with peace, not panic. Take the opportunity to look for your personal Lighthouse of guidance and sanctuary in His perfect and infinite promises and character, not in your own finite and imperfect resources.
Prayer
Father God, when I meet the storms of life, help me to go through them with peace, not panic. I know that to get to where You want to take me, I must go through certain storms. In Your wisdom, You designed the storms to push me to You, to know You and Your loving provision, shelter, and calm. It is not in the calms of life where I realize that I will not go under, but during the storms. Allow me to get my confidence, hope, and assurance from You, and not me, because I know I am limited, weak, and not capable of controlling everything like You can. Thank You for being my Lighthouse during the storms. Thank You that during all of life's storms there is a perfect place of refuge...a fortress of Divine grace to see me through. I pray in the name of the one endured the greatest storm so I could have eternal safety, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver me.
Psalm 91:1-3
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4
as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
We all experience storms in our lives. Maybe you are currently in the midst of a storm...maybe multiple storms. Unfortunately, storms are a certainty in life and we often have little control over that. But we do have all the power over how we react to these storms, with peace or panic. Even though uncomfortable, scary, and potentially dangerous, storms are tremendous opportunities to learn a lot about ourselves.
One key lesson is, "where do I get my confidence, guidance, or hope from?" Put another way, "When I am in a storm at sea, do I want a small flashlight, or do I want the brightest Lighthouse? When we get upset in a difficult situation, it is because we are usually getting our confidence from ourselves, or sometimes from others. A constant battle goes on inside our heart. We strive to be independent, master of our destiny, take care of our own needs, and not be reliant on anyone else. This protects us from being hurt, let down by others, and just seems more efficient to cut others out of the loop when I need something. But this strategy breeds a false sense of confidence, a reliance on myself, my abilities, my assets, or what I can use from others.
You see, my skills are like a flashlight, God is a Lighthouse. Instead of getting my confidence from me and relying on myself, God desires me to turn to Him, accept His protection and provision for me, and let Him grow us. He will grow us quicker, more efficiently, and with less pain than we can grow ourselves. We really need to get our confidence to handle the many everyday situations from knowing who God is, what His promises are, and what His word teaches. When we see situations and act based on our confidence in God, life, and especially storms, are so much easier to handle and actually become tremendous growth experiences.
Looking back, I see the major storms in my life actually changed my direction, pushing me onto a better path of becoming Christ-like and helping me develop the Mind of Christ. More importantly, these storms provided the opportunity to look for and find God as my Lighthouse, where the only real and ultimate safety and guidance is for me, and all of us.
Today, as a believer you will find that your ultimate Lighthouse, God, will not only show you your path forward step by step, but God will also lead you to a place of refuge, a place of shelter to endure your storm. Meet today's storm...or your next storm (for surely they will come) with peace, not panic. Take the opportunity to look for your personal Lighthouse of guidance and sanctuary in His perfect and infinite promises and character, not in your own finite and imperfect resources.
Prayer
Father God, when I meet the storms of life, help me to go through them with peace, not panic. I know that to get to where You want to take me, I must go through certain storms. In Your wisdom, You designed the storms to push me to You, to know You and Your loving provision, shelter, and calm. It is not in the calms of life where I realize that I will not go under, but during the storms. Allow me to get my confidence, hope, and assurance from You, and not me, because I know I am limited, weak, and not capable of controlling everything like You can. Thank You for being my Lighthouse during the storms. Thank You that during all of life's storms there is a perfect place of refuge...a fortress of Divine grace to see me through. I pray in the name of the one endured the greatest storm so I could have eternal safety, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver me.
Psalm 91:1-3
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4
as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: Judging Others … Or Exposing Yourself?
Transformational Thought
We are all so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses ... not lawyers and judges. So, as we understand our calling more fully, we will become more patient and understanding with others.
When we take the role of judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, or making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our own heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of our insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affect the lenses we use to see life, others, and ultimately God.
When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess, instead of being quick to speak. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that causes your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.
During this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy ... whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, or sadness. Whatever the feeling that prompts you to judge, trust God to comfort you and give you power to prevent the emotion from ruling you. Then exercise that power, settle yourself, and examine with your mouth shut.
Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak ... and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God, not as a judge. Let the judging happen in your own heart first, then disciple others next. Self-reflection will clear the smudge off your lenses and the truth will free you from carrying so much baggage. WITHIN REACH helps you do this. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become impatient with others ... especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding, I become judgmental and angry ... saying things I wish I didn’t. Help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Help me to see others as You see them ... tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness ... not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be as patient toward others as You are with me. Help me to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to show me about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today. I pray in the name of the one who was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
We are all so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses ... not lawyers and judges. So, as we understand our calling more fully, we will become more patient and understanding with others.
When we take the role of judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, or making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our own heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of our insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affect the lenses we use to see life, others, and ultimately God.
When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess, instead of being quick to speak. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that causes your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.
During this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy ... whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, or sadness. Whatever the feeling that prompts you to judge, trust God to comfort you and give you power to prevent the emotion from ruling you. Then exercise that power, settle yourself, and examine with your mouth shut.
Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak ... and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God, not as a judge. Let the judging happen in your own heart first, then disciple others next. Self-reflection will clear the smudge off your lenses and the truth will free you from carrying so much baggage. WITHIN REACH helps you do this. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become impatient with others ... especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding, I become judgmental and angry ... saying things I wish I didn’t. Help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Help me to see others as You see them ... tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness ... not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be as patient toward others as You are with me. Help me to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to show me about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today. I pray in the name of the one who was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
Monday, July 4, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Really Free?
Transformational Thought
Even though I’m an adult, I love fireworks, and today, for the first time, I’ll be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rocket’s red glare … bombs bursting in air … mystery, drama, wonder … and celebration. To let your mind swim back through the years to those courageous days of our forefathers. The lights, colors and sound on the outside; all the feelings and goose bumps on the inside. Just a really cool experience.
All over America today, we celebrate our country’s birthday with festivities, and commemorate winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling … a state (like Maine or Virginia) of mind, and privilege. I taught in Kenya after the bombing of the U.S. embassy, in Uganda while civil war and the Lord’s Army were active, and in Iraq during our present war there in 2007. Until I visited and lived with people in oppressed areas, I really didn’t understand the magnitude and insidious ramifications of persecution and the meaning of freedom.
The bad news, the sobering reality, is we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We will always be serving a master. One choice is God, whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules are perfect. God is the real, ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call the universe. The other option is Satan, leader of the rebel party, trying to overthrow God’s benevolent all-caring regime, feeding our fleshly agendas, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing we don’t need God, and getting us to believe that destructive ways and me-centered intentions are actually in our best interest. That we can rule ourselves.
Now the good news, we are free in this most important aspect: we are free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes grave responsibility. You see, if you aren't actively choosing God, moment by moment, your passive, natural inclination is rejecting God, letting your flesh rule your mind and decisions, thus voting Satan and his policies into office. Satan lets us do the ‘get pleasure now’ activities we crave.
Today, enjoy the festivities, but above all else, exercise your freedom to choose your master. Your daily growth and fulfillment, and your eternal destiny depend on it. Only one master genuinely cares for you, is willing to die for you (He actually did), and wants to let you live in His royal palace forever to inherit eternal riches beyond your most fantastic imaginings! My life changed when I chose Jesus to be not just my Savior, but also the Lord of my life. Now it’s Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf in Your kingdom, me. Help me choose You. Help me to be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others will see You in me. Thanks for the blessings I have in the U.S. including the freedom to worship you. I pray your protection and comfort for my brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than any other master can. I pray in the name of the one who died for my freedom, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Even though I’m an adult, I love fireworks, and today, for the first time, I’ll be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rocket’s red glare … bombs bursting in air … mystery, drama, wonder … and celebration. To let your mind swim back through the years to those courageous days of our forefathers. The lights, colors and sound on the outside; all the feelings and goose bumps on the inside. Just a really cool experience.
All over America today, we celebrate our country’s birthday with festivities, and commemorate winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling … a state (like Maine or Virginia) of mind, and privilege. I taught in Kenya after the bombing of the U.S. embassy, in Uganda while civil war and the Lord’s Army were active, and in Iraq during our present war there in 2007. Until I visited and lived with people in oppressed areas, I really didn’t understand the magnitude and insidious ramifications of persecution and the meaning of freedom.
The bad news, the sobering reality, is we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We will always be serving a master. One choice is God, whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules are perfect. God is the real, ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call the universe. The other option is Satan, leader of the rebel party, trying to overthrow God’s benevolent all-caring regime, feeding our fleshly agendas, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing we don’t need God, and getting us to believe that destructive ways and me-centered intentions are actually in our best interest. That we can rule ourselves.
Now the good news, we are free in this most important aspect: we are free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes grave responsibility. You see, if you aren't actively choosing God, moment by moment, your passive, natural inclination is rejecting God, letting your flesh rule your mind and decisions, thus voting Satan and his policies into office. Satan lets us do the ‘get pleasure now’ activities we crave.
Today, enjoy the festivities, but above all else, exercise your freedom to choose your master. Your daily growth and fulfillment, and your eternal destiny depend on it. Only one master genuinely cares for you, is willing to die for you (He actually did), and wants to let you live in His royal palace forever to inherit eternal riches beyond your most fantastic imaginings! My life changed when I chose Jesus to be not just my Savior, but also the Lord of my life. Now it’s Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf in Your kingdom, me. Help me choose You. Help me to be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others will see You in me. Thanks for the blessings I have in the U.S. including the freedom to worship you. I pray your protection and comfort for my brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than any other master can. I pray in the name of the one who died for my freedom, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Let God Calm the Storms in Your Life
Transformational Thought
Remember back to when you were a small 5 year old. Dark, eerie night. Wind blowing and making mysterious noises. Booming thunder! Bright flashes of Lightning! Scary thunderstorms frighten little kids who know they have no power over these awesome events. When their parents come down the hall, one of two things happens.
If the child has been obedient to, respectful of, and submissive to a parent’s authority and power over them, the child is confident that the parent has the power and authority to protect him from the storm. The parent’s words and actions will soothe, and the child will feel comforted and safe in the parent’s arms.
On the other hand, if the child has disrespected, rebelled against, and overthrown the parent’s power and authority, and the child is the one calling the shots regarding privileges and discipline, then he isn’t confident in his parent’s ability to protect. Even though the parents come through the door to save him, the child is still scared and anxious. The child thinks, I have more power than you, so go back and bring someone more powerful than me and this storm to protect me.
In Mark 4, the disciples and Jesus were hanging out in a boat at sea. A powerful storm hit. So powerful that even these experienced fisherman were frightened for their lives. They woke up Jesus and accused Him of not caring if they died. Jesus exerted His power and authority over everything … and calmed the storm. The disciples were putting their confidence in themselves and their own knowledge, not in Jesus and His character, skills, teachings, and promises. They ranked their own power above that of Jesus!
Think about the storms in your life. Do you really trust God’s power … are you respectful, obedient, and submissive to His authority in all areas of your life? If so, your confidence will come from and be in Him. You will have bold confidence, assurance, hope, and peace in the storms of your life. Don’t wait for the storms to trust Him … not because He won’t help you … He will help. The problem is, you won’t believe it because you have been ignoring Him in non-stormy times and putting your trust and confidence in yourself.
Today, examine the source of your confidence, even in the little events of daily life. Is your confidence in the elements that are about you, or in Him? Begin to trust Him in all things. Get your confidence from Him. Then it will be easy and natural to trust Him during stormy times, and your ability to navigate life’s storms will truly be miraculous. Your choice … Please choose well.
Prayer
Father, I come to rest in Your loving presence. I know that today and the days before me will bring difficulties. It is my human way to try and think my way through these trials all alone. Please remind me that You are with me … that I am not alone in the midst of these storms. I pray that You will send your peace, the peace that passes all understanding to all those praying and growing with the Stepping Stones Devotionals. My Lord, strengthen all of us and prepare us for this day … transform all our fears and anxieties into confident trust in you, our Lord and God. I pray this in the name my source of confidence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
…and he rose and rebuked the wind and said unto the sea; “Peace, be still” and the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39
my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:2-4
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Remember back to when you were a small 5 year old. Dark, eerie night. Wind blowing and making mysterious noises. Booming thunder! Bright flashes of Lightning! Scary thunderstorms frighten little kids who know they have no power over these awesome events. When their parents come down the hall, one of two things happens.
If the child has been obedient to, respectful of, and submissive to a parent’s authority and power over them, the child is confident that the parent has the power and authority to protect him from the storm. The parent’s words and actions will soothe, and the child will feel comforted and safe in the parent’s arms.
On the other hand, if the child has disrespected, rebelled against, and overthrown the parent’s power and authority, and the child is the one calling the shots regarding privileges and discipline, then he isn’t confident in his parent’s ability to protect. Even though the parents come through the door to save him, the child is still scared and anxious. The child thinks, I have more power than you, so go back and bring someone more powerful than me and this storm to protect me.
In Mark 4, the disciples and Jesus were hanging out in a boat at sea. A powerful storm hit. So powerful that even these experienced fisherman were frightened for their lives. They woke up Jesus and accused Him of not caring if they died. Jesus exerted His power and authority over everything … and calmed the storm. The disciples were putting their confidence in themselves and their own knowledge, not in Jesus and His character, skills, teachings, and promises. They ranked their own power above that of Jesus!
Think about the storms in your life. Do you really trust God’s power … are you respectful, obedient, and submissive to His authority in all areas of your life? If so, your confidence will come from and be in Him. You will have bold confidence, assurance, hope, and peace in the storms of your life. Don’t wait for the storms to trust Him … not because He won’t help you … He will help. The problem is, you won’t believe it because you have been ignoring Him in non-stormy times and putting your trust and confidence in yourself.
Today, examine the source of your confidence, even in the little events of daily life. Is your confidence in the elements that are about you, or in Him? Begin to trust Him in all things. Get your confidence from Him. Then it will be easy and natural to trust Him during stormy times, and your ability to navigate life’s storms will truly be miraculous. Your choice … Please choose well.
Prayer
Father, I come to rest in Your loving presence. I know that today and the days before me will bring difficulties. It is my human way to try and think my way through these trials all alone. Please remind me that You are with me … that I am not alone in the midst of these storms. I pray that You will send your peace, the peace that passes all understanding to all those praying and growing with the Stepping Stones Devotionals. My Lord, strengthen all of us and prepare us for this day … transform all our fears and anxieties into confident trust in you, our Lord and God. I pray this in the name my source of confidence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
…and he rose and rebuked the wind and said unto the sea; “Peace, be still” and the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39
my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:2-4
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Friday, July 1, 2011
Stepping Stones: You Need Skateboard Camp!
Transformational Thought
My eleven-year-old daughter, GiGi, is learning to skateboard. She is just starting and is weak regarding the basic techniques and skills, so she keeps falling. I went to watch her at the last day of skateboard camp yesterday and she was allowing the instructor to hold her hands and guide her down a high ramp. I was so proud of her great progress.
Because of her weakness and her excitement and motivation to grow, she was open, actually very excited, to go to camp and expose her weaknesses to other campers and submit to the instruction of expert camp counselors. By the end of the week, after lots of sweat, bruises, lumps and falls, she was going down high ramps and on the brink of landing the difficult “drop in”!
God’s Word tells us that when we are at our weakest, He is at His strongest. We pray for and expect strength in times of weakness … we pray for and expect God’s healing power.
I recently went through a time of extreme weakness and brokenness. It didn’t feel good; no one wants to be there. Through the guidance of Christian friends, I learned to accept my weakness (but not my behavior) as a gift … a great opportunity, because it created the need and situation to experience the beauty of living in total dependence on God.
What is your area of weakness? What situations give you the most fear or worry? We all blink to protect our eye from damage or pain, or help lessen existing pain. Can you identify a blink of yours that is really self-destructive rather than self-protective? We need to be motivated and excited to change. Don’t blink and cover-up. Reach out to God and others for help and guidance. Next comes the most important decision, following His guidance and the Godly guidance of others, like GiGi did.
Today, trust God to grow and comfort you in your weak areas without reflexively doing something harmful. Look at areas of struggle or wrong decisions you make. These are prime areas for God’s strength to shine through. Will you humble yourself and admit your self-instruction isn’t enough? Practice self-control today when you are uncomfortable and think before you react when. GiGi is doing more tricks, rarely falls, really enjoys ‘boarding, and loves her counselor. You can experience success in your weak area with your perfect Counselor, God. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH helps you do this.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am learning to recognize my weaknesses. Acknowledging and accepting my them keeps me looking to You … You are my strength. As I witness Your presence within those around me, I am learning that abundant life is not wealth. Abundant life is living in continual dependence on You. Instead of trying to fit my day into a preconceived idea of what it should be, I am learning to relax and to be constantly on the lookout for what You are doing within me, and those around me. This approach frees me to enjoy You and to find out what plan You have for me today. This works so much better than trying to make everything work according to my own plan. I pray this in the name of my Rock and Counselor, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.… And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:13 and 19
And Asa cried to the LORD his God, "O LORD, there is none like you to help, between the mighty and the weak. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this multitude. O LORD, you are our God; let not man prevail against you."
2 Chronicles 14:11
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
My eleven-year-old daughter, GiGi, is learning to skateboard. She is just starting and is weak regarding the basic techniques and skills, so she keeps falling. I went to watch her at the last day of skateboard camp yesterday and she was allowing the instructor to hold her hands and guide her down a high ramp. I was so proud of her great progress.
Because of her weakness and her excitement and motivation to grow, she was open, actually very excited, to go to camp and expose her weaknesses to other campers and submit to the instruction of expert camp counselors. By the end of the week, after lots of sweat, bruises, lumps and falls, she was going down high ramps and on the brink of landing the difficult “drop in”!
God’s Word tells us that when we are at our weakest, He is at His strongest. We pray for and expect strength in times of weakness … we pray for and expect God’s healing power.
I recently went through a time of extreme weakness and brokenness. It didn’t feel good; no one wants to be there. Through the guidance of Christian friends, I learned to accept my weakness (but not my behavior) as a gift … a great opportunity, because it created the need and situation to experience the beauty of living in total dependence on God.
What is your area of weakness? What situations give you the most fear or worry? We all blink to protect our eye from damage or pain, or help lessen existing pain. Can you identify a blink of yours that is really self-destructive rather than self-protective? We need to be motivated and excited to change. Don’t blink and cover-up. Reach out to God and others for help and guidance. Next comes the most important decision, following His guidance and the Godly guidance of others, like GiGi did.
Today, trust God to grow and comfort you in your weak areas without reflexively doing something harmful. Look at areas of struggle or wrong decisions you make. These are prime areas for God’s strength to shine through. Will you humble yourself and admit your self-instruction isn’t enough? Practice self-control today when you are uncomfortable and think before you react when. GiGi is doing more tricks, rarely falls, really enjoys ‘boarding, and loves her counselor. You can experience success in your weak area with your perfect Counselor, God. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH helps you do this.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am learning to recognize my weaknesses. Acknowledging and accepting my them keeps me looking to You … You are my strength. As I witness Your presence within those around me, I am learning that abundant life is not wealth. Abundant life is living in continual dependence on You. Instead of trying to fit my day into a preconceived idea of what it should be, I am learning to relax and to be constantly on the lookout for what You are doing within me, and those around me. This approach frees me to enjoy You and to find out what plan You have for me today. This works so much better than trying to make everything work according to my own plan. I pray this in the name of my Rock and Counselor, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.… And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:13 and 19
And Asa cried to the LORD his God, "O LORD, there is none like you to help, between the mighty and the weak. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this multitude. O LORD, you are our God; let not man prevail against you."
2 Chronicles 14:11
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
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