Stepping Stones: Put God on Speed Dial…The World on Hold

Transformational Thought

I remember a couple months ago, life got a bit ahead of me. Some situations came up and my actions were wrong. I needed to really take some time with God to reflect and figure out what happened, how to fix it, and how to avoid that trap again. But unfortunately, I actually made the decision to put God on hold until I took care of some other trivial things. I knew I needed to “get right with God” … but it seemed like such a big task that needed lots of time. Since I wanted to do it right not just rush through it, (or maybe those were excuses to avoid facing it), I decided to put it off for a bit and not get to it right away. I thought I had too many items on my “To Do” list that I was tricked into believing were more urgent.

Because of my incredible shortsightedness, I didn’t realize how much I needed Him in order to really understand how to complete those “to do’s” with joy and efficiency. Furthermore, I didn’t realize I risked more damage to myself and those around me as I bumbled forward, trying to manage alone. Unbeknownst to me, I was much more vulnerable … and actually naked and defenseless. Most of us live among people who glorify busyness … who have made time a tyrant that controls life. Even those who know Jesus as their savior, seem to continue to march to the tempo of the world, putting God on hold … putting Him in the background instead of the foreground of their lives. He is a leftover, not the main entrée.

The real distortion is our belief that we can conquer life on our own … that we are the king of our kingdom and don’t need to humble ourselves to any other authority. We believe we can generate all the power we need to overcome the struggles of this world. It’s easy to see how blatantly wrong these beliefs are. But when you actually break down some of your decisions, you will be amazed to see how often these beliefs insidiously creep in and determine your responses to what life brings your way.

Today, instead of making the choice (yes, it is always your decision and choice) to put God on hold, put the world on hold for just a few minutes. Spend some time with God. Have a conversation with Him. Bring Him your greatest concerns. Read a few pages of scripture. Pray prayers of simple thanksgiving. Then dig into a couple of your wrong decisions and be honest. See if some of the distortions we discussed are part of your lenses. You will be amazed at how the daily practice of taking all your thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ, will change your life. You will develop the Mind of Christ and maximally engage in the greatest spiritual discipline: Decision-making.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I believe that You are calling me to follow you along a solitary path. I want to make time alone with You, Lord, my highest priority so I can get the best directions for this journey, stepping stone by stepping stone … for I know it will be my deepest possible joy. Please give me eyes that see Your truth about what is really important in this world, and what is merely distraction from growing in YOU. I pray in the name of Your Son Jesus Christ who put everything on hold to serve You; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me.
Song of Solomon 2:13

And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:39-42

We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.
2 Corinthians 10:6

Stepping Stones: Think Twice – Speak Once

Transformational Thought

I am a pretty physical guy who likes working outside (when I have to), especially when the weather is really hot and I can work up a good sweat. But even though I am an engineer by training, unfortunately, and to my wife’s dismay, I am a terrible handyman. I can use the basic tools, but anything more than a hammer or screwdriver vaults me way out of my comfort zone.

Now compound that with the fact that I am an obsessive perfectionist, and each minor job turns into a major project because all the details have to be just right. Pictures exactly centered and level, mulch spread exactly even, every edge in painting has to be a straight line … you get my drift. So few things irritate me more than when I make a measurement or assessment, then cut the wood, or hammer in the nail, and then realize it was a mistake. I did that a few times as a kid and learned my lesson.

Once you cut the wood you can never take the cut back, so always make sure you’re cutting in the right spot. Thus, the all-important adage “measure twice, cut once” or “measure twice, hammer once.” As you can imagine, I have found many applications for this particular proverb throughout my life.

The basic premise is “Think before you act.” One frequent application the Bible teaches is how we talk with each other … especially with those we love. How many times have you said something hurtful that you wish you hadn’t said? How many times do you even think about what you say before you say it? Once something is said, the words can never be taken back. Yes, we can apologize and ask forgiveness, then try and make up for it, but taking words back is like un-cutting wood, un-hammering a nail, or un-ringing a bell … you just can’t undo the damage.

We all have trouble reacting without think, especially when we feel hurt, sad, anxious, rejected, or have other uncomfortable emotions we are trying to avoid, soothe, or defend against. The ability to tolerate discomfort and identify a better way to respond or react to a situation is not naturally built into us. Nor does society teach us how to handle these uncomfortable but inevitable events of life. Yet thinking before we speak, examining our hearts and motives, are the Biblical principles James and Solomon exhort us to practice and perfect.

Today, develop the discipline of decision-making, in which thinking is a vital component. We all make comments we regret. We wish we could just rewind life … have a do-over. Try to “think twice and speak once.” A few moments invested in thought will save many hours of guilt, shame, and hustling to remedy the damage. Then dig deeper, try to identify the needs, fears, or emotions that push you to speak before you think. This is actually a great spiritual exercise in heart examination that will reap much treasure. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH guides this examination and helps you use your findings for lasting life change.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess, Father, that I have been guilty of using wrong, harsh words with others. I have misused the gift of a quick mind that You have given me. I pray, Lord, that You will fill me with your Holy Spirit … and that I give Your Spirit time to respond as I speak and write. Help me be quick to listen, disciplined to think, and slow to speak … and let me see Your message in everything. I pray in the name of the one You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Colossians 4:6

…be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
James 1:19

Stepping Stones: Trusting Moment to Moment

Transformational Thought

A church bell in my neighborhood rings throughout the day, and if you’re attentive, you realize it rings not just on the hour, but every 15 minutes. Often, I’m not aware of the bells because they’ve become part of the on-going background noise of my life … a symphony of birds, jet engines, lawn equipment, road traffic, cell phone, television, and chatter in my head. It’s usually early morning or late evening, when my distractions are at their lowest, that I am able to tune in and hear those bells. This particular church tower crisply and beautifully sounds the Westminster chime, made famous by the Big Ben Tower in London. Words to accompany the melody were written by Handel: "Lord through this hour, be Thou our guide. So, by Thy power no foot shall slide."

When I was in parochial elementary school, we students were allowed to interrupt the teacher every hour, on the hour, in order to pray and “bless the hour”. To be totally frank, at the time, I didn’t “get it”. I didn’t see any value in asking God to be part of my day, let alone each hour. Instead, I welcomed it as a longed-for distraction from the daily grind. My spiritual default status was to operate like a solo pilot, relying on my own self-sufficiency and my can-do attitude. But, looking back at some of my choices, I can say there wasn’t much to be proud of.

So what has changed? As I said, I really had no sense of my need for God. But I also had no idea He actually and deeply cared about the details of my life. At a particularly low point, I cried out to God asking Him to show me who He is. When I finally understood He was always showing me who He is and I paid attention to how and what He was showing, my life changed and has never been the same. So now those chimes and that melody are a beautiful reminder of how much I need God throughout every day, and how faithfully God helps me.

How about you? Are you in tune with your need for God? Do you allow His Holy Spirit to direct your words as you interact with family, coworkers, cellmates, drivers, sales clerks, and pedestrians? Do you realize his holy word, the Bible, offers you great advice as you make decisions about your job, finances, relationships, emotions, and other details of daily life? Have you read any of His messages today? Have you shared your concerns about today’s problems with Him?

Today, in fact, right now, ask Him to be your guide for the next 60 minutes. You have a choice: You could go with the flow and not acknowledge His right to be sovereign in your life. Or you could admit that your own decisions leave something to be desired. Let the Lord of the universe take control for even a fraction of your day and see if He doesn’t prove Himself worthy of your trust. As you see God answering your prayer, your trust in Him and your relationship with Him will grow exponentially. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
O Loving God, For so long I have relied on my own thoughts and judgments, but life did not go as I planned and didn’t get any easier. I want so much to have joy and peace throughout every day. I’ve forgotten about You but I have a desire to turn that around. For these next 60 minutes, I am asking You to be my guide, to show me the way to handle the people and situations You put around me. This is a big step but I’m trusting You to guide me each step of the way. I trust You so much that I’m saying “Thank You” right now for what You are about to do for, through, and in me. I pray in the name of the One who trusted You to the very end, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
Proverbs 3:5

"Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine."
Luke 22:42

Stepping Stones: Just Say No! – But Why?

Transformational Thought

Yesterday’s devotional discussed what happens when someone approaches us and wants something. They have a request or a reasonable opportunity for us to be helpful. Instead of saying “yes” to avoid a conflict or the uneasiness of their disappointment, we sometimes need to say “no” for the right reason. One of the major obstacles we have to saying “no” rests in a major distortion embedded in our psyche. Drum roll please. The distortion: saying yes = the loving response; saying no = the mean response.

Someone asks for something, humbly admits they need your help. Agreeing with them by saying “yes” … being like-minded and avoiding conflict ... are considered to be the nice response. Answering in a way that allows the requester to leave feeling “good” is what most would stamp as the loving response. As a kid, we never picture a loving mom as the one who says “no”. We always picture the loving mom as affirming, positive, nurturing, saying “yes” to requests for more attention, hugs, kisses, toys, food, or one more story before bed.

NEWS FLASH: saying “yes” is not always a loving response. Example: Say your 12 y.o. son convinces you he has great driving skills, is responsible, awesome with bumper cars and go-carts, and now wants the keys to the car to go hang out with his friends. Your loving response, regardless of how hurt, angry, sad, or belittled he feels, needs to be “NO.” Same if my 9 y.o. wants to stay up ‘til midnight on a school night. My incredibly loving response is “NO.”

We know kids make dysfunctional, shortsighted, and potentially harmful requests as they seek immediate gratification, and that they are unable to foresee long-term consequences. Realizing “no” is in their best interest and is the most loving response (even when our kids cry) is pretty easy for most parents. The problem comes when adults make requests. We assume adults know what is good for them, have thought it through, and make only healthy responsible requests. We think saying “no” to a healthy, functional adult request would be unloving, or withholding love.

BIGGER NEWS FLASH: Adults don’t always make functional requests. You must have awareness, discernment, and a view of the bigger picture to know whether it is a healthy or dysfunctional request. The cool part … after you put some thought into deciding if it is a healthy request, saying “no” to adults becomes as easy as saying “no” to the 12 y.o. requesting car keys.

So today, start developing the discipline of discerning healthy requests from others. Also, practice saying “no” to requests. Or at least say, “Maybe … let me think about it.” When someone says “no” to you, stop and think whether your request was healthy. Don’t assume you are the perfect one who makes healthy requests all the time. Most importantly, dig and find why you feel pressured to say “yes” or why you are afraid to say “no.” Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear loving God, thank You for being an example to me as You answer “yes” to my requests at the right time and answer “no” to my other requests at the right time. I ask You to continue the work You started … growing in me the mind of Christ, so I can see others’ requests through Your lenses. Give me the courage to say “no” when that is the most loving thing, and not to fear sad or angry responses, or hurt feelings or negative opinions. I pray in the name of the One You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
And a ruler asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich.
Colossians 18:18,22,23

The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone.'"
Luke 4:3,4

Stepping Stones: Turn the Other Cheek…or NOT?!

Transformational Thought

A couple weeks ago, I was asked to speak on very short notice to a Sunday School class at a neighboring church. Bubbling up in my lungs was the sound of my knee-jerk people-pleaser “yes.” But luckily, before it crossed my lips, I was able to edit it into “’Yes’ is what I want to say, but I need to look at another date a little further into the future.”

In the past, it was difficult for me to say “no”. Saying “no” to a request from somebody else rarely makes that person feel good; more often, they feel hurt or let down. Our natural tendency is to “go with the flow” or “don’t make waves.” So we become conflict avoiders … some of us a little, but some of us a lot. You see, one of the things that contributes to our feeling of discomfort is when other people feel bad as a result of our actions or behaviors.

As Christians, this usually gets amplified because we are called to be “peacekeepers” or “peacemakers.” Forgiveness is a fundamental concept and action of our faith. Jesus teaches us to turn the other cheek, love our enemies, and give our clothes to a thief. Saying “no” seems like a very un-Christian response to someone in need. However, Jesus also said “no” many times … to the Pharisees, to Satan, to the demon possessed man whom he healed, to the rich young ruler who wanted to follow him but wouldn’t give up his possessions, to the moneychangers in the temple, and to the thief on the cross.

As a psychiatrist and former church elder I have seen many burnt out Christians, both leaders and church members, who seem to think that more is better … who actually believe it is un-Christian to say “no.” Their efforts become scattered and they always seem to be out of steam. But, like that Energizer bunny, they just keep on doing.

Today, before you jump into or continue “doing” the Christian thing … by blindly saying “yes” and adding more to your plate … spend time with God. Pray that you receive both direction and empowerment consistent with His will. In order to know His will … you gotta spend time in His presence. He has a specific plan and purpose for you. You need to be more purposeful in seeking it with Him and from Him. This is not a job or a task, but rather a beautiful and peaceful privilege. Also, dig and decipher why you say “yes” when you know you should be saying “no”. Why are you afraid to say “no”? Learning this answer and correcting it will bring an amazing freedom to your interactions and life! Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Gracious and Holy God, I know that You designed a path for my life. I pray, Father, that You reveal this pathway to me … and that You give me the strength and courage to follow it. Help me seek Your approval, not the approval of those who make requests of me. Empower me, Father, and let me see that I am powered by You. Let me not focus my efforts on simply doing more, but let me focus on doing what You want and need of me. Help me today, Lord, to do what is within my ability to further Your Kingdom. I pray in the name of the One You sent to forgive, refresh, and empower me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
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

And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Mark 6:31

Stepping Stones: The Dark Dungeon of Ungratefulness

Transformational Thought

Thanksgiving Day is a great holiday and the four-day weekend ushers in a break we all appreciate. Thanksgiving seems like the eye of the storm, the calm nestled between the crazy pace of autumn, when work and school are in high gear, and the impending mad rush of the Christmas and New Year season.

It’s great to have our family all together again for the first time in over 3 months as our oldest just got home from college, like many others who journey home to be with those they love. Thanksgiving Day is filled with parades, football, family traditions, memories, and great food. Above all else … and even if none of these other things existed in our lives … Thanksgiving is a time that provides the opportunity for us to be simply thankful, a time to lift ourselves and others out of the dark dungeon of ungratefulness.

You see, we live in an age of entitlement … and it’s often difficult to be thankful when we feel “entitled” to so many things. We often focus on what we want or don’t have instead of all the blessings we do have and should be so thankful for. We need to work hard to counteract the glut of propaganda proclaiming the mantra, “We deserve more.”

Every Christmas commercial, ad, self-help book, well-meaning friend, and small voice from your flesh will scream that you deserve everything that is good or valuable. Really, we are all sinners and, news flash … the wages for sin is death. Everything we have is a tremendous gift of powerful grace that is granted to us by the one we offend, disappoint, reject, deny, and grieve … very regularly.

I hate to be a holiday downer, but you see, unless you know what you really and truly deserve, it is impossible to see how many gifts and how much unbelievable grace you actually have been granted and blessed with … every single day.

Today, when you aren’t full of thanks, ask God to open your eyes and release you from the dark dungeon of ungratefulness. Before you eat, go around the table, holding hands, and tell each other what you are thankful for. Remember, the secret of being thankful is learning to see everything from God’s perspective. Then you will truly thank Him for loving, pursuing, and giving you so much, instead of giving you what you deserve. Your decision, choose well.

The staff at Lighthouse Network wishes the Stepping Stones community a blessed Thanksgiving Day and future. We are thankful for you and your encouragement to us.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You, Father, in prayer. I ask, Father, that You set me free from the prison of ingratitude. Release me, Lord, to enjoy the pleasures of having a thankful heart. It’s easy for me, Father, to be grateful when I wake up on the right side of the bed and encounter no major problems. At other times, thankfulness feels totally unreachable. I need a perspective-lift Father; help me see things from Your viewpoint. I pray in the name of the One who is the source and reason for my thankfulness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
To open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house.
Isaiah 42:7

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Thessalonians 5:18

Stepping Stones: Do You Have All You Need For the Afterlife?

Transformational Thought

Last month, I visited a museum whose premier exhibit featured mummies from around the world. I wasn’t surprised to see teeth, but didn’t expect to see that some still had eyelashes, braided hair and fingernails. I learned about the mummification process and its effects on skin. There were even some natural mummies, people whose bodies were preserved due to the climate at the burial site. Each specimen had a story to tell, but we, the observers, could only know a fraction of the tale.

It was fascinating to see those ancient people who had been preserved for “eternity.” Some bore imprints from the weaves and dyes of fabrics that had been part of the wrapping process. Many bodies were buried along with other objects. There were amulets (small good luck charms) to help protect them from danger. Copies of The Book of the Dead were tucked in to give the person spells, hymns, and instructions to reach the ‘afterlife.’ Mummified fish, cats, and dogs had been placed alongside the bodies to be used by the dead as offerings to the gods.

What struck me as I wound my way through the displays was that there was a universal concern for what comes after this life. But the time to consider that part of our future is right now. Sure, we can live to the fullest, enjoying all the world has to offer but that is no guarantee of happiness now and it certainly doesn’t ensure happiness after death. People turn to all kinds of “truth” only to find that nothing offers lasting satisfaction. King Solomon knew this oh so well and wrote a book about it called Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament.

Only the God of the Bible offers lasting truth. Only He loves us so much that He provides a way for our sin to be forgiven and forgotten. Only the Lord God sends His Son to take the punishment we deserve, and offers it to us as a free gift so that we can live forever with Him in heaven when this life is over. No good luck charms, no more sacrifices in the afterlife to woo the gods. No need to wonder if you’ll find heaven. Just accepting God’s gift of eternal life. Just believing that God will be true to his word. This promise and glorious assurance brings so much peace.

Today, ask God to show Himself to you. Then, open up his instruction book, the Bible, and read for a few minutes. (It will be easier if you read from one book of the Bible instead of jumping around.) Start in Ecclesiastes as Solomon, who had everything, tells us it is all worthless if we don’t have God. If you don’t have one at home, look for one on the web. You may think this is an exercise with no benefit. But I believe you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear King of Kings, You are the God who forgives me and who loves me. You’ve been waiting for me to turn my attention towards You and now You have it. Lord, thank You for loving me and making a way for me to be with You in heaven forever. Please help me to read and understand Your word each day. I can be forgetful and easily distracted, but I want to do this, and with Your help, I can do it. I long to know You better and I am thankful that I am learning more about You every day. I pray in the name of Your son, Jesus, who took my punishment, so I could be with You forever. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole [duty] of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:11-12

Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever!
Psalm 111:10

What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
Ecclesiastes 3:9-11

Stepping Stones: The Internet: Good or Evil

Transformational Thought

Computers and the World Wide Web provide phenomenal opportunities. Connecting with long lost friends, childhood bosom buddies, old teammates, family on the other side of the country or across the ocean, people from church and friends from mission trips is now incredibly fast, easy, and cheap. So many hearts have been warmed and so much relational, missional, and transformational good has resulted.

But like dynamite, computers and the web can be used for tremendous good or … tremendous evil. As a psychiatrist, whether in the ER, in my outpatient office, or running a rehab program, I frequently see and hear how the internet (email, chat rooms, Facebook, Classmates, texting, etc.) has contributed to hurtful communication. Cyberbullying, sexting, pornography, and especially infidelity have led to devastating destruction in relationships and families.

Inappropriate communication with the opposite sex via the internet happens so easily because of our fast pace. You see, most people have minimal time to calmly and deeply share with our partners on a daily basis. But internet communication gives us unparalleled confidence to speak freely to others because there is no real contact with the other person. We can experiment, re-create ourselves, mislead, and avoid dealing with the hard elements of real relationships.

Before you know it, you are writing things you should never write … with a false sense of privacy as you incorrectly assume that what you write will stay a secret between you and the receiver. You have probably heard the advice that you should not type anything, anywhere that you wouldn’t want published in your church bulletin … that you shouldn’t say anything to anyone of the opposite sex that you would not want your spouse to hear you say.

Unfortunately, even though internet affairs have exploded in number, other secret, old-fashioned inappropriate communication falls into the same danger zone. Real relationships are great, but they do take time and work. Taking shortcuts will not only cheat you out of the rewards of relationship, but will also lead to painful consequences.

Today, give some thought to your use of the internet and other perceived “secret” forms of communication you have with people, especially the opposite sex. Some are having communications with real people, and some with fantasy people or pornographic sites. Being secretive or sly is a warning bell that these writings or actions should stop. If you have been writing things you should not, then step back and say, “hold the press.” This isn’t just about writing, this is a real heart issue with a sure path to destruction for you and those around you. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Oh my personal God, I ask and pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit to strengthen me. Teach me, Father, to remain faithful and true to those I love. Let not the fear of being caught be the deterrent. Rather let it be the pain and suffering my indiscretions create for You, for my partner … and my own heart and brain. Above all, let it be the fear of separation from You, and my spiritual harm that direct me to the right path. I pray in the name of the one You sent to dwell in my heart, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
I pray that out of his glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love
Ephesians 3:16-17

Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103:2,5

Stepping Stones: What Activity Motivates You?

Transformational Thought

Think back to your childhood. Remember some of the activities you were involved in, like athletics, band, music or voice lessons, a play, gymnastics, dance, 4-H, or horseback riding. Maybe for you it was an academic team, cheerleading, scouts, or a church youth group or activity.

I remember how much I looked forward to my sports practices and games. As scenarios played out in my head, I would try to forecast what I would do, or what the opponents would do, and imagine the possible outcomes. I would circle dates and times, and as I imagined these events they would fill my mind and push everything else out. I had to be on my deathbed to miss a practice, let alone a game. In fact, I even missed some summer vacations to play more ball.

Part of my full commitment to athletic activities came from my love of sports, but also I showed up because my coach expected me to. He could tell within 3 minutes if I had kept my commitment to practice since last time. In a way, he held me accountable for what I committed to do and was responsible for. But the main reason I showed up was that my teacher gave me the impression that I had the ability to play with greater skill than I believed I could, and he would get me to that level. This is an incredibly powerful tool and it was always quite motivating to me.

What if you could have a daily or hourly appointment with someone who loves you … someone who accepts you just as you are, while seeing in you far more than you see in yourself? What if this ultimate teacher, coach, or parent could relieve your stress, forgive all your transgressions, and eliminate your guilt, insecurity, and especially your world-weariness? In addition, HE could equip you to lead a fulfilled, successful, and abundant life. Wouldn’t you be wildly excited to get to those appointments, practices and games? What could ever hold you back?

If such a place and person did exist, and I hope you know He does, you could be confident that your greatest enemy would not want you going to these appointments, and that he would try to talk you out of it, or hide it from you. Well, God is waiting … for you to come to Him. And your enemy is always trying to get in your way, getting in your head, steering you away from the perfect teacher, or trying to steer you to an impostor coach (or activity) that will lead you astray.

Today, identify one activity that is keeping you from life-giving practice sessions with God. Why do you let them interfere? How are you de-valuing God’s impact in these coaching sessions? Why do you place so much value on the impostor’s coaching? Instead
, allow His love and acceptance, as well as His expectation of who He is helping you to become, to motivate you. Don’t let anything interfere with your sessions, because nothing will give you more than that session with Him. Identify one activity you can shorten to go to a Place and to Someone for all you desire. Find practical ways to begin laying a path to Him. Make dates with Him and then keep those dates. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Perfect Coach and God, I know deep in my heart that spending time with You is the most important and rewarding investment of time I can make … yet, it is also the most difficult part of my daily behavior to master. I pray, Father, that You quiet the evil spirits who work so tirelessly to deceive me with intrusive thoughts and distractions. Help me submit to the Holy Spirit to master my flesh’s impulses and knee-jerk desires. I pray in the name of Your Son and my ultimate teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
Psalm 139:1-2

Stepping Stones: Time Embezzles Purpose and Peace

Transformational Thought

When I was directing a psychiatric unit in our community hospital, one of my responsibilities was to perform psychiatric consultations to other areas of the hospital. One time I was called to the ICU to help determine whether an older man was competent. He wanted to stop all treatment, and it seemed death would be only days away if treatment were stopped.

He was hooked up to so many machines, some keeping him alive … others taking measurements. There was one machine he watched frequently. After asking him why, he told me that it was the machine that monitored his heartbeat. I asked innocently what would happen if his heart stopped. The answer I expected was “An electrical shock triggers my heart to start beating again,” or “Nurses and doctors come running.” Instead, he said, “There’s a little speaker on the back of the machine and it will say ‘Good-bye.’”

While he was just trying to be funny, his comment affected me. It jolted me into the reality that his life was almost over … and that before I knew it, a speaker on the back of some machine would be telling me it’s time to say “Good-bye.”

In Psalm 90:12 Moses prayed, “Teach us to number our days right, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Thinking and knowing that our days are truly numbered should help us keep an eternal perspective, which in turn should help us make decisions and choices ranked by eternal values.

Unfortunately, I am often surprised by how much time I invest in the minutiae of this life. I act as if the hours in a week are endless when I engage in some of these activities. Now, please hear me say, we all need some pursuits that are just in-the-moment, not necessarily of eternal impact, activities that refresh and entertain us. But, really look at the number of these activities compared to the most important ones, those that build our relationship with God and each other.

Satan certainly throws many distractions our way and the world system gets us thinking these distractions are more life-sustaining and fulfilling than the activities God wants us to pursue. Once in this trap, you might have to chew off a big part of yourself to save your soul. Our identity, purpose, peace, and joy get sucked out of us while we’re trapped.

Today, start keeping a journal or daytimer to document the activities of your day. Put a (+) next to activities that help you engage God or others in a positive way. Put a (–) if they keep you from engaging with God or others. Begin thinking about time as an embezzler, covertly sneaking in to steal days, weeks, and even years from you. Try to remember to use each day for your God as if it were your last … for all too soon the little speaker will say, “Good-bye.” Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I thank You, Father, for this day and every day of life You give me. I know that each day is a gift from You. Help me, Lord, to live with eternity always in view. I know sometimes the activities you have in my schedule seem burdensome or tiring to me. But strengthen me to see them as You do and to take part in them. By following Your will, I will be lifted up, and enjoy peace and fulfillment that are indescribable in a devotional. I pray in the name of the One who gave His every minute for mankind and me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
James 4:14

Stepping Stones: What Controls Your Attitude?

Transformational Thought

Do you ever have one of those weeks? You know, where life seems to always be one step ahead of you. You can never catch your breath and feel like you are constantly choking. No break in sight. Just when it seems like life can’t get any worse … it does.

I recently had one of those weeks. My wife and I weren’t connecting and tension was in the air. Discussions about the upcoming holidays were pending. The kids’ attitudes were affected by household chores and difficulties at school and with peers. At work there was one curveball after another. Accounts weren’t paid on time, some contractors gave us some bad news, others weren’t producing, friends were really struggling, plans for a mission trip were not going smoothly. Then, with so much work to catch up on, a storm blew in and we lost power for 48 hours.

In the past, these kinds of weeks would have caused so much distress, prompting poor decisions that would have led to even worse circumstances and consequences. This vicious cycle would spiral so quickly and last longer because of the poor way I handled a set of circumstances.

My life took a dramatic turn when I learned that no matter what you do, you will never stop life’s bad turns. We are all going to be tested, to be sifted, purified, and refined. Traffic jams will cause you to miss that important appointment. You’ll lose a job or promotion. Someone will be rude or hurtful, or cheat on you. Regardless of the situation, remember, God is the one who allows all things to happen. We don’t know why, but He does, and He has a plan.

You can live happily each day despite life’s ups and downs, but it can only be done through daily dependence on Jesus Christ and trust in God’s sovereignty and plan. The Apostle Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation: that he could do everything through Him that gives me strength.

Today, remember it’s not what happens to you that counts. How you choose to react to each situation reflects your attitude, your heart, and is the fruit of your life. It just comes down to who’s in control of your attitude. When you feel uncomfortable today, stop and assess your reaction to the day’s events. What kind of lenses are you using, your me-centered ones, or your God-centered ones? Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I invite You to be in me and at work with me. Help me grow, Father, so that I may have the same attitude and mind as Jesus Christ. I know peace doesn’t come from the outside, but comes only from You inside me. Help me look inward for peace and not wait for my circumstances to settle down for me to be at peace. I do not want to be ruled by the circumstances around me … I want to be ruled and guided by Your Holy Spirit. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13

Stepping Stones: Don’t Leave At Intermission!

Transformational Thought

Some children take off sooner and faster than others. My little (6’ 6”) brother is 13 years younger than me. One of the bigger regrets I have is not playing a larger role during his young years. I was a teenager, totally focused on my own struggles, issues, and needs, and saw him as a toy or a mascot to use as needed. My brother had many ups and downs, almost from the get-go as he got kicked out of Catholic school in kindergarten on Ash Wednesday because he didn’t want dirt on his head. My parents tried to raise him to greater heights, but nothing seemed to work. If the race had ended in his mid twenties, in jail and on his way to rehab, he would have been judged a loser … a failure.

Are you a parent of a low-flying child? Let me pass on a word of encouragement. That brother made a shift in his late twenties and is now, by anyone’s standards, a high-flying success. Husband in a healthy marriage, father of a great family, master’s degree, teacher and mentor to disadvantaged teens, successful high school football coach, and get this, an inner-city high school disciplinarian. Yes, God has a great sense of humor. Most importantly, he is a man of deep faith who always finds time to let the Lord’s light shine onto those around him. At 36 years of age, he holds the admiration and praise of all those who know him.

Too often, we put premature finish lines on situations … judging them before all the data is in. God isn’t bound by time; He is incredibly patient and all-powerful, and has a flair for the dramatic, especially where timing is concerned. Our nature is one of impatience, impulsivity, and I need to know now. We don’t tolerate the uncomfortable feelings and want solutions and pain-free living now. We reach for quick but destructive solutions. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap of judging yourself, others, circumstances, or especially God, prematurely. You will be disappointed and lose out on many “miracles” of life.

Today, if you feel like a failure, or are disappointed, anxious, sad or fearful, examine whether you are imposing a premature finish line on a situation. This puts God in a box and closes the curtain on the play at intermission. Realize there is more of the show, game, path, or race left and seek God’s guidance for the next phase of the situation. If you follow Him, trust Him, and practice patience, He will reveal a glorious second act in the drama you were ready to leave prematurely. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray that all parents reading this devotional receive from You wisdom and patience as they raise their children. Help them to trust Your providence and grace, and to let go of their timelines for their children’s lives. Help us all use Your Son as an example as You patiently waited for His time to come. Father, help us listen to You and obey You in this great calling of being a parent. Then in all areas, help us grow in patience. Help us to see Your big picture, not to prematurely judge the small picture of our life and bail on You and Your plan for us. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
“My time has not yet come."
John 2:4

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:30,31

Stepping Stones: Think You Don’t Need A Counselor? Think Again!

Transformational Thought

The other day, I got into an argument with my wife. As usual, it was a pretty trivial spark that started a much bigger fire. If someone had run that same situation by me in the morning, I could have easily described the ideal solution to manage the situation. My theoretical solution would have been beneficial to my wife and me, and God-honoring. But in the moment, I was governed by my insecurities, so I blew it.

We all have so many unanswered questions about ourselves. Am I really a good person? Am I truly lovable? Why do I do the things I do? Why do I feel the way I feel? Why do I make the same mistakes as I used to? Can I ever change? Will I ever be fully in control of all areas of my life? We struggle to answer these questions for and by ourselves, and it’s difficult to get to the core answers without a true counselor.

The combination of our arrogance and pride—I don’t need any therapy, thank you very much—and the fact that it’s become a profession with a stigma attached—mental illness, Freud, Prozac and all that—has kept most of us from realizing that we do need counseling. All of us. What athlete thinks they don’t need a coach anymore? What student ever really knows it all? Your doctor continues to study and get more education ‘till he retires. In the most complicated activity, life, we never know it all. As Christians, thankfully, we have the best counselor living right inside us.

The Bible tells us Jesus sends us his Spirit as a Counselor … that ought to make it clear. And apparently, we need quite a lot of counsel—the Spirit isn’t just stopping in to give us a tune-up; not even an annual checkup. He has come to stay and give us a complete makeover … from the inside out. Now we just need to figure out how to “hear” His counsel and quit sabotaging His efforts in our lives. This might sound blasphemous, but unfortunately, we need more than the Holy Spirit, which is why we listen to sermons and need to study the Bible.

Today, confess your sins, then talk to God about a struggle in your life. Open His word, read the Christmas and Easter story, and then listen for His counsel. If you have trouble following the counsel, or continue to sabotage His efforts, consider getting someone to help show you how to listen and follow His counsel. WITHIN REACH is a great resource we developed for the purpose of helping you hear God, follow His direction in your every day life situations, and be a Godly decision-maker in all you do. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I thank You for sending me the ultimate Counselor, Your Holy Spirit. Help me recognize the daily need for guiding advice and for the Spirit of truth. Help me listen and heed Your advice. Help me gain wisdom and courage to follow Your guidance, and humility to set aside my agenda. Thy kingdom, not my kingdom come. Give me humility to seek out and listen to Godly advisors so I can overcome my areas of struggle. I pray in the name of the One who asked You to send another Counselor, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth”
John 14:16–17

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
Hebrews 4:12-14

Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices. For the simple are killed by their turning away, and the complacency of fools destroys them; but whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster."
Proverbs 1:29-33

Stepping Stones: The Cost of Free Money

Transformational Thought
If you found $5 on a deserted street, no one to give it back to, I bet you would pocket it. I know I would. But if you saw that money falling from someone’s pocket, would you respond the same way? Here’s another scenario. I had a phone call from my credit card company this week. A large purchase I made wasn’t processed correctly. I was told to return to the store, present my receipt, and pay for the items “again”.

I did just that and the sales clerks started thanking me profusely. They were amazed and said they had never experienced anything like this – ever. The store had no idea the problem had occurred. They wondered why anyone would come back and pay for items that they could vae kept for free. Good question.

Please know I’m not sharing this to blow my own horn. I share it as a reminder that situations like this are opportunities to impact the world, and more specifically to be salt and light in other people’s everyday lives. Since they asked me, instead of giving the “aw shucks, anybody would have done it, it’s just the right thing to do” line, I had a chance to tell them the reasons for my choice: the Bible says don’t steal, and I want to follow God’s commandments. I trust God to take care of all my needs, and that includes financial ones. If I steal, I’m telling God He’s not very good at His job, and I know how to do His job better than He does.

Satan will sabotage us at every opportunity if we let him. He’ll tell us we don’t need to take responsibility for a mistake, that we deserve a free ride, that no one will ever know, that this makes up for the times we got ‘cheated,’ or even that God has forgotten about us and our needs. We get to choose whether to take home stationery supplies from work, to copy music and movies illegally, to use pirated software, to pocket a pack of gum, or to keep library books. The heart of each decision we make is to worship and bring glory to God - or not.

Today, take a look at the little things that are part of your life. Do areas exist where you are trusting in yourself and not God to meet your needs? You know, cheating? Hopefully, you’ve learned to make better choices, walking what you’re preaching and expecting from others. But if not, are you willing to admit to making a poor choice? Will you confess, and un-do some choices? Remember that the God who loves you is the God who forgives you. He promises to supply all your needs. His promises are good and trustworthy; they never fail. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH is a great resource to help you apply God’s promises to your daily decisions.

Prayer
Dear God, You know me well. You know it’s sometimes hard for me to talk about you to others. Any boldness I have really does come from the Holy Spirit. Without Your Spirit in me, I would be unable to share who You are and what You’ve done for me. With Your help I’m learning. So I thank You for teaching and encouraging me. Please give me more opportunities to talk about You. I want to make You the biggest and best thing in my life. I pray in the name of Jesus, who was all about bringing glory to You. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Give glory to the LORD. In the lands beyond the sea, praise the name of the LORD, the God of Israel.
Isaiah 24:15

Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness!
Psalm 150: 2

I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O Lord, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 26:6-7

Stepping Stones: Born Again: Vibrant Growth or Stunted?

Transformational Thought

Several little babies have come into our life that past year, and while females and proud parents gush about how pretty, perfect, innocent, and sweet these newborns are, I really don’t get all the fuss about their “goodness.” You see, Scripture repeatedly tells us that we are born with a sinful nature, inherently unholy, and lost.

To experience deep and lasting love and life, we must face the truth about this standing before God. It is this sin problem that keeps us from life…life as intended for us by God. Unresolved sin will block even our most focused efforts at living. This is because the undeniable outcomes of sin are losing the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit and then becoming enslaved to our very worst impulses from that core sin nature.

But thankfully, God provided a wonderful solution. We can reach out today, in faith, to truly begin living. Reach out today to receive your free gift of new life. Here are the words Jesus used to communicate this good news; “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16)

If you have taken this step already, then Hallelujah! You have eternal victory over the sin nature that resides in all of us. But it gets a little complicated because there are 2 types of victory. The First Victory is the eternal victory over the separation from God, death, and eternal damnation. We will be with God forever. We call this being saved or Born Again. The Second Victory is the victory over the daily impulses, fleshly desires, and sinful ways of this earthly life. This is where Christians have trouble with ongoing sinning even though we are a new creation. The reason is because we didn’t get a brain transplant when we were born again. Our baggage weighs on us.

Satan is not going down without a fight. He will deceive us into thinking we aren’t really victorious over our sinful ways, and will try to tempt, trap, attack and even have us doubt our eternal security. Regardless of Satan’s attempts, we have the power and resources to be victorious in this life, but we have to trust and use these spiritual resources, the Armor of God, God has given us to defend against Satan and skillfully counterattack.

Today, if you do not already know Jesus Christ in this intimate way, say the prayer below. For every human who invites Jesus into her or his heart…it is the moment when real life begins, the birthday that counts. If you have already accepted His death to pay the penalty for your sin, and committed your life to Christ, ask yourself what you’re being tricked into trusting instead of God and His promises. That is what keeps you from truly being victorious in this life on earth. WITHIN REACH will help you apply Jesus’ victory to your daily walk. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit that I am a sinner and that I need You. Please forgive my sins. There is no way I can live right or have any hope for eternal life on my own merits. I have been trying to do it all alone and I am tired. I believe that Jesus is Your only Son and that You sent Him to die in my place and set me free from sin. Let my spiritual life begin at this very moment. Thank You, Father, for accepting Jesus’ death to pay for my sins. I pray in the name of my personal savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 3:23

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1,2

Stepping Stones: Love Him 100%…Then Exercise Free Will

Transformational Thought

My mother was a great teacher of many things. Piano, Easter egg decorating the Ukranian way, knitting, music, cooking, and negotiating the lowest price with any salesperson. But she was also a great Bible teacher for her children and all those around her. She would simplify complex concepts for us. When it came to the question of obedience to God vs. our independence and “free-will”, we would often go round and round. Even now, with my daughters and nieces, the issues of tattoos, length and cut of dresses and skirts, piercings, watching movies, college decisions, all lead to some controversy.

We talk a lot about Obedience vs. Relationship, because so many people struggle with these concepts, which sometimes seem mutually exclusive or contradictory. One way to sum it up is “Just love God with all you have … then do whatever you want. For if you truly love God, you will do nothing to hurt Him.”

As I read today’s scripture the order seems pretty clear. Love God, then we will obey Him. Our Lord never insists on obedience for eternal life. In fact, he stresses relationship. He pursues us across the multiverse, desiring fellowship and union with us even when we are disobedient, in fact, because we were disobedient. He even died for us to provide reconciliation, restoration and relationship, not to make us obedient.

If He wanted to motivate obedience, He would offer heaven only to the obedient, or threaten to send the disobedient to hell, or give you extreme consequences every time you disobey. God does none of these. Instead, He rewards us based on the status of our relationship … where we are on the relationship growth curve with Him.

God very clearly stresses what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We find, and He desires, that we will obey Him out of love for Him and the knowledge that what He instructs us to do is actually the best thing for us to do … period. Notice that when Jesus spoke about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If," clearly telling us we have a choice. When we are in relationship with Him and really love Him, we will obey. If we are truly wise, we will follow His guidance … if we really want comfort, we will trust His direction.

Today, focus on growing your love for God. Focus less on the do’s and don’ts and more on simply getting to know God and all He has done for you. You can’t help but love Him and then want to please Him, just as we are motivated to do for any one we love. When you have a choice, ask yourself, “Why am a choosing this option?” Hopefully, you answer, “Because I love God,” not “Because I need to do what is right.” For if you truly love Him, you will be less prone to do anything to hurt Him. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for the freedom to choose. I thank You, Father, for the clarity of the messages from Your Son, Jesus. Help me, Father, to grow my relationship and love for You … and then let that love guide all my decisions and actions. I pray, Father, that You protect me from all evil influences that may impact my decisions. I pray in the name of my savior and model, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
"If you love me, you will obey what I command.”
John 14:15

"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23

Stepping Stones: Let HIM Take That Huge Stone Off Your Back

Transformational Thought

Yesterday, someone questioned me about the theology in a past devotional. My first reaction was that clearly I must have made a mistake and I felt bad that I let so many people down and misinformed them. Upon further review, thankfully, I didn’t make a mistake and we processed his possible interpretations about what I wrote and how he read it. It was great for both of us.

But, try as I may, I find that my brokenness and past sin are sometimes like a huge stone hanging around my neck. Carrying that stone causes guilt, shame, weakness, and at times, causes me to avoid certain opportunities and experiences. I know and believe I have been forgiven, but I struggle with laying down that stone and walking away from it. Many people share this struggle, do you?

Our yesterdays hold broken and irreversible experiences for us. It is true that we have lost opportunities that will never return, but God can transform those mistakes and sins, the destructive guilt and anxiety, into constructive thought and hope for a transformed and transforming future. We don’t have to hold onto distorted lenses from past wounds and mistakes. But we do have to look back and re-examine them through Godly lenses, letting God into and heal our past so we can have clear lenses to see Him, ourselves, and daily experiences that He brings into our life today.

Trusting God’s forgiveness is a big and difficult stretch … for most, myself included, really receiving God’s forgiveness takes time. For me, I had to work up to this huge step of trust by practicing, implementing, and applying trust in much smaller areas of life and in my relationship with God. Then I was able to absorb His forgiveness in the bigger areas of my life. You can, too.

Trusting Him when there is an illness … a flat tire … change of plans … someone else is in charge … a deadline is changed … a random bill comes into your life … protection for your children is needed … feeling unloved or valueless. Like any skill, starting small, practicing, and then stretching it can lead to powerful capabilities. Trust is the same way. Trusting in His power of forgiveness is one of the richest skills you can develop. Let the past rest, but let it rest in the sweet embrace of Jesus Christ.

Today, leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into your invincible future with Him. Start by trusting Him, His agenda, promises, character, and instruction in 3 small situations today. You probably already do, but acknowledge and identify it so you can apply it to bigger, tougher areas tomorrow. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Mighty and Forgiving God, I can easily become paralyzed with shame, guilt, and fear over my past. I have hurt You … and I know I have hurt others. I am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness – Thank You, Lord. I ask You, Father, to help me lay down the heavy stone of my past that I have been carrying. Let me remember and be accountable for my past brokenness and sin … but let it not keep me from moving toward You with freedom. I pray in the name of the one whom You sent to lift the burdens of my past, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the LORD will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.
Isaiah 52:12


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

I will cleanse them from all the guilt of their sin against me, and I will forgive all the guilt of their sin and rebellion against me.
Jeremiah 33:8

Stepping Stones: This Pressure Cooker Called Life

Transformational Thought

I remember my grandmother using a pressure cooker to preserve the fruits and vegetables that she grew and picked from her own garden. She would spend hot summer days in a steamy kitchen pouring home-grown goodness into glass jars, and then plunge them into boiling water in a pressure cooker. That pressure cooker was an essential tool to her work for two reasons. It ensured that the food was safe to eat, and it shortened the time needed to accomplish the work. A pressure cooker can be used for everyday meals, too. But using it comes with a few downsides: meats are ready fast, but they’re tough; vegetables keep their nutrients, but they lose flavor.

Have you ever been in “pressure-cooker” situations, dealing with non-stop stress, multiple priorities, constant interruptions, or emotionally charged situations? What happens to the brain when we’re under pressure like that? Our circuitry, the hardware necessary to get the best decision-making and spiritual worship out of the computer that is YOU, is dramatically affected by stress. God gave us a great brain to respond to acute and short periods of stress, but longer episodes of stress are actually destructive to the brain, and thus all the areas of our life our brain touches. Satan knows that and cranks up the pressure, the stress of life, to push us to a conforming mind.

Ongoing stress causes excessive action by our immune system and endocrine system, producing cortisol and adrenaline. Prolonged activation injures brain cells, even killing some, and disrupts circuitry in our emotion, memory, and relationship centers of the brain. This is why we have trouble thinking of God’s promises, character, or past provision, trouble remembering Bible passages that soothe, or trouble connecting to God’s love, peace, comfort, and grace when we are under continual pressure or stress.

Everyone responds to stress differently. Some people just walk away. Maybe you’re competent to accomplish a task, but instead do just enough to make it work. Possibly you fall into making knee-jerk reactions, or you respond to what is urgent while avoiding what is important. It’s easy to go for the quick fix, relying on yourself but forgetting to ask God for His guidance and wisdom. That’s exactly where Satan wants you to be. But there’s another way.

Today, when you are under pressure at work, at home, or on the street, just stop. Consider that you get to make a choice. Call on God and tell Him you need His help. This is exactly where we all need to be, “on our knees” in a position of dependence. God is delighted when we rely on His goodness, mercy and power. He has promised that He will always be with us. He will never leave us or forsake us. You can decide to let the pressure get to you … or to rely on the God who loves you. When you stop and rely on Him, you are actually rewiring that damaged circuitry, healing damaged brain cells, and literally growing new ones that will allow you to function better. Your decision … choose well as it is your spiritual act of worship!

Prayer
Dear God, When I consider all the pressures and demands on my life today, it feels overwhelming. It’s so hard to know what to do or even where to start. I don’t want to just get by. I want to live a full life, the abundant life Jesus talked about, that pleases You in every way. I can’t do this alone. I need and want Your help. As I call out to You. I trust You alone to give me wisdom, guidance and energy for my situation. I pray to You in the name of Your Son Jesus who had perfect brain chemistry and triumphed through the most extreme pressure cooker. And all God’s children say, “AMEN!”

The Truth
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
Matthew 6:13

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual act of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2

Stepping Stones: Move out of Your Comfort Zone: “I don’t feel like it!”

Transformational Thought

I was recently challenged to step out and take on a task that was new to me, out of my comfort zone. I’m often asked to do just that … by my boss, a family member, or friend. Sometimes, I say yes because of an obligation I feel towards the person proposing the idea or because of my close relationship to that person. Or even because part of me knows it’s the right thing to do. But this time, I made excuses. The skill was out of my comfort zone. I believed I didn’t have what it took to accomplish the task. And mostly importantly, in my mind … I didn’t feel like doing it.

Sound familiar? How often do we use that excuse as a fall-back position, “I don’t feel like it!” Looking at those words in print, even I can see now that it’s lame. In fact, it’s the type of statement I might call to someone’s attention by saying, “And how often have your feelings led you to a sound decision?” If it were up to my feelings, I wouldn’t get out of bed till 10:00 everyday, and would never eat a vegetable. What was I thinking? Why did my feelings become the default mode for my decision? My faulty reasoning was the result of a trap, a trick, a deceit. And for a short time, I actually bought into it.

Eventually I actually did complete the task. What turned around the situation? Prayer ... a conversation with God in which I asked Him what to do. His answer came as I was reading about Abraham in the Bible. God told Abraham to leave his hometown and go to a place he didn’t know, and Abraham did it. As soon as my eyes passed over those words I stopped reading. I knew I was to leave my comfort zone and take on the task. I felt comforted. I told God I would do it.

Just as the Lord was with Abraham, you can trust Him to be with you and guide you. The God who knows and loves you won’t hang you out to dry. His words and promises are solid; He’s faithful and true. Unlike human feelings, He doesn’t change … ever. So the question is, “Will you choose to trust His call to follow Him out of your comfort zone?”

Today, God is actually calling you out of your comfort zone. Identify one area of your life in which He is stretching you. Now try to really dig inside yourself and examine why you won’t follow. You see, the real truth is, your comfort zone is the least comfortable spot compared to the spot God calls you to that is outside your “comfort zone.” Follow Him to the land of milk and honey, it’s your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Thank You, God, for hearing and answering my prayer. Thank You that You are a God who is holy and who does not change. I am so glad that You, the all-powerful God of the universe, are also the God who cares about the details of my life. Help me overcome my fear of the unknown, to overcome my reliance on feelings to determine what You desire for me. I trust You to be with me and to guide my steps. Teach me to call out to You, to listen for Your answers, and to rely on them. I pray in the name of the One who went way out of His comfort zone for me, Jesus Christ, and all God’s children say, Amen!

The Truth
The LORD had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.”
Genesis 12:1

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
Hebrews 11:8

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1Peter 5:7

Stepping Stones: Life Abundant: Pain Relief and Healing

Transformational Thought

I cut my finger the other day, but I didn’t give it the care it needed at the time. Just threw a bandage on it to stop the bleeding so it wouldn’t mess up anything. A couple days later, an infection set in and the injury got my attention. I went to buy an antibiotic ointment to aid the healing and found a leading brand ointment that had an interesting claim; “Healing and pain relief.” The cut was creating some discomfort for me, so I chose the product that offered more than just healing. I wanted pain relief as well.

Holy Scripture tells us that Christ’s mission in coming to earth was to forgive and to save … to provide “eternity” for us. He came to deliver oh so much more than just our redemption. He brought us eternal freedom, fulfillment, peace and joy. Healing is now available for us.

You see, often times, we have a hard time believing the healing He brings is actually available for us here on earth. I know that not all our physical and psychological illnesses will be made whole now. But even though we struggle, His peace and comfort can melt away pain and renew our mind in powerful ways. Our biggest illness is spiritual, so connecting with Him and maximally absorbing Him will have a powerful impact on our other ills.

The prophet Isaiah tells us the Messiah will come to bind up and heal, to release and set free (while we are here on earth). Jesus Himself referenced this passage as captured in Luke 4:17. Think about this: Christ came not only to forgive you, but to restore and release you. This is the central passage in the entire Bible about Jesus. He fulfilled every prophesy, testifying to the truth and then dying for us, bringing ultimate healing and shalom to our lives and His relationship with us.

Today, take Jesus Christ at his word … as the healer of all the broken pieces within you … Who unites them into one whole and healed heart. Think what life would be like if you believed that promise. What keeps you from believing His promise? What do you believe in more strongly than His promise and the incredible body of evidence He has compiled? Why do you believe something else? It’s your decision regarding what you will believe: Jesus’ promises and teachings, or your own theory. Choose well. Your life depends on it.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray and ask You to release me from all bondage and captivity, as You promised to do. Take all my broken pieces and give me an all-receiving heart … make me whole. I know, Father, that You will not do this at a distance, so I desire to be as close to You as I possibly can be … show me the way to You, my Lord, and Savior. I pray in the name of the one You sent to forgive me, save me, and heal me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.
Isaiah 61:1

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

Stepping Stones: Do You Want to Hear God’s Voice? Get Rid of the Static!

Transformational Thought

I was driving to work the other day when I turned on a local Christian radio station. This particular station is a bit smaller than many and its broadcast radius is quite limited. So, as I turned a corner in the road, the once clear voice of the Bible teacher on one station became intermingled with classical piano music and static from another station. For about a mile or two the Word of God was very difficult to make out as the words were overtaken by static, the musical notes of the piano, and the voice of the DJ. So, back and forth it went:

Bible Teacher: "Jesus said in John Chapter one, 'in the begin . . .'
Static, static, static . . . Bb7, F#m7, A, Em . . . static, static, static
Bible Teacher: "Through Him all . . . "
D.J.: "Now we'll enjoy Chopin's Nocturne in B-Flat minor"

I realized that God was showing me something. In this world, there are many enticements that compete for our attention. Some are pretenders that hinder our ability to discern God's voice (a voice that the Bible, at one point, calls a "still small voice"). As I drew nearer to the Christian radio station’s tower, the classical music faded and the words of John the Apostle came through clear as a bell:

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

The Bible reminds us that God’s children recognize his voice. It’s a wonderful truth. But equally true is that we need to be listening. My children know my voice and can discern it from all other voices. For some reason, when they are playing a video game (in a trance-like state) my words fall on deaf ears. But when they turn off the game, and look in my eyes and listen, it seems the words sink in much better.

In Matthew Chapter 15 Jesus was teaching the crowd of followers and began his teaching with these words, "Listen and understand …." Jesus knew that hearing is more important than listening. Everyone within reach of Jesus' voice could hear him but not everyone listened.

We often say, "I wish I could hear the voice of God." But I think God showed me again this week that if I want to hear Him I need to tune out all the other static. I need to turn off the TV, the Ipod, and the computer. I need to get alone with him, spend some time in his written Word, and on my knees in prayer. Sure God can yell, as I have oftentimes found when I ignore or fail to listen, only to get a really uncomfortable wake-up call. Listening the first time turns out to be a better plan.

Today, don’t just talk to God … listen to Him as well. Make an effort to choose one thing in your life that interferes with tuning into God’s channel. Trim down the time spent on that, and give that time to receiving God’s message. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Father God, Thank You for giving me spiritual ears to hear Your voice. Help me today to tune out the noises of the world and all the other voices that hinder my walk with You. Please help me to hear, and also to understand and be obedient to Your call on my life. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who makes these things possible. I pray in the name of the One who always tuned to Your frequency, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
John 10: 27-28

Stepping Stones: Diagnosis: Worry, Cure: Perspective

Transformational Thought
A pretty interesting book was written about ten years ago titled The Knowing-Doing Gap. It highlighted an everyday phenomenon we see all around us and even in our own lives. The bottom line is, in general, we all know what we should and should not do, but there is a huge gap between knowing it and actually doing it. We shouldn’t smoke…but we do. We shouldn’t overeat…but we do. We shouldn’t worry…but we do.

At Lighthouse Network, we call this our Intellectual Creed vs. our Behavioral Creed. Our Intellectual Creed is what we know we should do, or more exactly, what we know the Bible teaches us to do. Our Behavioral Creed is what we actually do in a given situation. Maturity, growth, and transformation are measured by how much our Behavioral Creed becomes more and more like our Intellectual Creed.

Our Intellectual Creed: we shouldn’t worry, no matter what the adversity because God is sovereign and in control of all things. Our Behavioral Creed: we end up worrying about events or the opinions of others, or many other things that are out of our control. But they aren’t out of God’s control. Worrying really interferes with everything in our life from our relationship with God, our interactions with our self and others, and even injures our brain chemistry. In fact, for many, trying not to worry is like trying not to think about something; the more we try, the more anxious we become. So, we even begin to worry about worrying. Trying to fight this battle alone gets to be so counterproductive.

Perspective…how we view ourselves, God, and the circumstances He allows in our lives…is the key to good decision-making. Decision-making is knowing what the right thing to do is, then actually doing it. Will you have God’s perspective or your own? Big difference. Sometimes it is hard to have God’s perspective, but the more time you spend with Him, getting to know Him, the clearer His perspective becomes to you. Stop focusing on worry and put your energy into communicating with God. This strategy will help you achieve freedom from all sorts of negative behavior, including worrying. The idea is simple: replace hurtful, self-defeating tendencies with something wonderfully positive – communicating with your Creator and Savior.

Today, don’t just talk to God…listen to Him as well. He speaks to you through His Holy Word, His Holy Spirit, through other believers, and constantly through the circumstances He allows in your life. As you give yourself over more and more to communicating with Him, you will find your worry-time evaporates and the knowing-doing gap closes. Your Behavioral Creed will match your Intellectual Creed. WITHIN REACH will help you develop those Godly lenses and do what you know is right. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You in prayer with a thankful and penitent heart. I confess that I struggle to find the time to communicate with You…yet I seem to always find the time to worry about so many things that are out of my control. I have battled this worry-beast for years and have made little progress. Help me, Father, to focus more on You and less on worrying. Help me both speak and listen to You. I pray in the name of the One whose Intellectual Creed was His Behavioral Creed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest?
Luke 12:25-26

Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.
Psalm 25:4-5

Stepping Stones: What You Gonna Blame It On Today?

Transformational Thought

I’ve noticed many unhappy people cross my path every day. They all have a common trait. They are all quick to blame their unhappiness on things that are out of their control: the economy, the government, their circumstances, boss, family, parents, kids, spouse, job, alcohol, food, money, or a lack of time.

All these outside factors can rob us of joy and happiness. But there is another list of objectives and desires that are within our control: a close relationship with God, a clear purpose in life, a commitment to help someone in greater need than ourselves, and maybe, clearer lenses to view our circumstances, management of our feelings and behaviors. But if we really want to get serious and personal, the heart of what we need to be pursuing are a deeper commitment to understanding and practicing our faith.

These are all honorable desires and are all things we as individuals can do something about … without outside human help. No stimulus package or government program will assist here, and tough economic times cannot steal these ideals. These life goals are achieved as we allow God’s Word to rule in our hearts and receive the Spirit’s strength to build up the inner man. Then true joy will ooze out of our pores, in every life situation, to impact those around us.

In our complicated world, it’s tempting to put the pursuit of our desires into the hands of others—to expect an outside entity to fulfill them. It is true we sometimes need help from others and we cannot live in isolation. But the outside sources of this world cannot really provide true happiness. That must come from your spirit engaging with God. He is always reaching out to you. So it is up to you. Only you can decide. You control the switch … will you shine brightly or switch your light off?

Today, remember that blaming your unhappiness on things that are out of your control is an excuse, a very weak attempt to avoid responsibility. Change your lenses, change your life. Ask 2 people who are close to you to give you Godly advice about your area of struggle. Ask them to be very specific and to break it down to it’s smallest piece. We aren’t looking for “have more faith” or “stop drinking/eating so much.” These are way too vague. We need more specific insights and steps to move forward to the next stepping stone. Then consider following that feedback today. The direction is up to you, nobody else steers your ship. Which way will you steer your life? Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, even though I hate when people play the victim card and blame others for their predicament, I confess that I have been guilty of having that “victim mentality.” I have been so quick to blame circumstances beyond my control for my unhappiness. I pray, Father, that You help turn my mind to those things that I can control. Help me, Father, to remember that You are the one and only true source of sustainable happiness. I pray in the name of the One source who gave me the freedom to control my happiness, Your greatest gift, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man.
Ephesians 3:16

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled
1 Thessalonians 5:6

Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the LORD shall inherit the land.
Psalm 37:3-9

Stepping Stones: Are You Choking Yourself?

Transformational Thought

A friend recently asked about my most treasured memories. Besides the natural answers, my wedding day and the births of my 3 daughters, I was at a lost to answer his question on the spot. But the question haunted me over the following few days. Did I not have any treasured memories? That just couldn’t be.

I began flipping through the photo album of my mind and heart, and a collection of treasured memories started to crystallize. I recalled moments when I felt really special … times when I knew I was loved. I also recalled times of adventure, various accomplishments, and challenging episodes in which God used adversity for valuable reflection and growth. There were times of excitement and anticipation … of connection and fulfillment. I was reflecting on how long ago some of those memories were created. All of a sudden I began yearning for that life … yearning to have moments like those more often.

The Bible tells us we are meant to live in a world like that—every day. Just as our lungs are made to breathe oxygen, our souls are designed to flourish in an atmosphere rich in love and meaning, security and significance, intimacy and exploration. But most of us don’t live in that world anymore. Far from it.

We try to resolve the dilemma by turning to materialism, illicit sex, drugs, food, sports, excessive busyness, buying, gossiping, caffeine, our kids, money, our looks, health, and many other quick and shallow fixes. But they don’t work. We never really get what we need to truly flourish. It is the soul’s equivalent of holding your breath or choking on an obstruction in your throat. Eventually, you find yourself gasping for air.

Turning from some of those quick fixes isn’t easy. Believe me, I know. That life was so tiring and life-sucking for me. But what finally helped set me free was this: the right way isn’t easy, but the wrong way is a lot harder. Look at the turmoil and consequences, the fruit of the flesh you are reaping now. At the end of each day it’s a net loss. The right way is hard but yields a huge net gain at the end of the day - the fruit of the spirit and the benefits of growing closer to God.

Today, know that your Lord and God is ready to breathe true life into you. Identify one of the quick but shallow fixes in your life. Turn away today from just one thing that is obstructing the windpipe of your soul and causing you to gasp for air. Now turn toward Him, the giver of the life you were meant to live. It’s not easy, but the old way is really harder. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess, Father, that I have been holding my spiritual breath ... sometimes even choking myself with self-imposed impediments to breathing in Your life. I am truly gasping for air. Help me, Lord, to turn away from all things that deprive me of oxygen and separate me from You. Help me recognize the things I choke on. Do not even let them come close to my mouth. I rejoice in You, Father, I find joy in You, the God of my salvation. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might be free to breathe and to flourish, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
Genesis 2:7

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness
2 Timothy 3:16

So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.
Ezekiel 37:10

Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3:17-19

Stepping Stones: God Wants Us To Travel

Transformational Thought

One of the saddest things I see in real life or on TV is when a small kid just realizes he are lost. You see the initial joy and excitement on his face as he is exploring fresh territory with newfound independence. Then disorientation and disconnection from their parent, guide, or guardian sets in. Some keep that distress in, anticipating that their parent is right around the corner; others let loose a fearful shriek that lets everyone around know they are lost. Being lost is such a fearful and disorienting struggle.

But you see, even though we have a home and parents, we are born lost, spiritually lost, in a terrible place … a state of insecurity, inadequacy, and isolation. We long to be in a different place … one of peace, love, joy, security, and intimacy. To arrive at this secure destination we need to go on an excursion. In today’s scripture reading, God tells us that He goes before us. God’s imagery of “going before” clearly lets us know that He desires us to go on a journey ... with Him as our guide and leader … He even calls us by our name.

Even before we get started on our exciting adventure, we have problems. Unfortunately, we forget to let God prepare and guide us. We make many poor choices regarding important elements of the trip. The map we use to chart our journey and avoid obstacles is our own random one. We use the world’s distorted strategy. Our destination is a self-centered goal. We demand to be our own guides, thinking we can see everything and know the future.

Instead, we need to use the Bible’s teachings as both our map and our strategy. Allow all-powerful and all-knowing God to be your guide. Choose the mind of Christ as your destination. The journey is of your mind, heart, and Spirit. The pot of gold at the end of the journey – the fruit of the Spirit that only comes as the result of a close relationship with God! It all happens through Godly decision-making. WITHIN REACH shows you how.

Christian life is a dangerous pilgrimage to the Promised Land … Satan is always lurking. So, we need the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit … the power and comfort of prayer … and the protection and counter attack of the armor of God. All these start with the decisions you make right now.

Today, imagine yourself standing at a fork in the road. One option looks enticing but you are your own guide. The other is the journey your Lord invites you to take. Believing He is your ultimate destination, and having faith He will come alongside you, take an intentional step on the next Stepping Stone of God’s path. Listen to His guidance and resist Satan’s deception. Your decision, choose well. If you don’t, the fruit of the flesh will detour you into anxiety, fear, loneliness, frustration, agitation, and impulsivity.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for going before me. What a gift! I like to have a map when I travel, to know exactly where I am going, and how long it will take me to arrive. When I look at the road ahead that You call me to travel with You, all I see is a bend where the road disappears. Help me, Father, to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are my map and guide. Thank You for not forgetting about me when I do take the wrong fork in the road. Thank You for Your constant willingness to take my hand and guide me back to Your path. Help me to encourage others to follow You on this journey. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might be free to travel Your path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, I am the God of Israel.
Isaiah 45:2-3

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

Stepping Stones: Diagnosis: Dehydration, Cure: Living Water

Transformational Thought

When I was a kid, people weren’t obsessed about health. Fitness clubs didn’t exist, nobody ran unless they had to, grease and butter were part of an actual food group, fast food was the new Utopia, and cigarettes were just a smelly habit. Now my wife says my Fruit Loops aren’t healthy and keeps putting vegetables on my plate even though my favorite vegetable is french fries.

Everywhere I go nowadays, I see water bottles. I still have a hard time paying for water, but we do have water bottles all over the house. Martine and my girls tell me water is healthy for me and that I don’t drink enough. The experts say that if you become thirsty, you are most likely already dehydrated. A recent report title said it all; “You are not sick … you are just thirsty.” All the medical experts agree on this one; we need to drink water continually throughout our day. Seems like we are all dehydrated.

Not only are we physically thirsty, but we are born spiritually thirsty as well … empty … dry. All of our “sickness” is actually due to our spiritual dehydration. You see, we constantly thirst for God … His love, acceptance, and security. Only He can fill these essential needs … our neediness for everything. Only through Him do we find purpose, fulfillment, contentment, connection, engagement, passion, competence, peace, joy … and especially, pure and true love.

But we are constantly using “spoiled,” even poisoned, water to substitute for the true living water that only God, through Jesus, is. Satan is sharp. He doesn’t put the poisoned water in a bottle with a big ‘X’ on it. He doesn’t place a ‘Poison Warning’ or a skull and crossbones on the label. No, Satan packages this poison in an attractive, fancy bottle, with an enticing ad with promises on the label. Drinking this contaminated water leads to depression, anxiety, addictions, hopelessness, anger, brokenness, stress, agitation, loneliness, and frustration.

Sounds easy to avoid, but why do we still drink the poisoned water? One reason is that we don’t drink regularly and when we are dehydrated. Out of desperation we just grab any bottle thinking some water is better than none. That is like drinking salt water when you are thirsty. Instead of making the situation better, the situation actually becomes dangerous.

Today, commit to taking sips, short prayers, of living water. Confes a sin immediately, stop to thank Him for a blessing you take for granted, ask His advice on an issue, tell someone why God makes a difference in your life. Take sips throughout the day from the river of living waters offered by Your Lord and God. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thirsty, Lord, and I know this means I am spiritually dehydrated. Daily, my tank is low and I thirst for more. Please give me wisdom to avoid contaminated water. Help me, Father, to drink and eat only what is good for me so that my soul may delight itself in Your abundance. Help me not to be complacent, and instead, to talk to you and recognize you more often in my day. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might drink from the living waters, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:37-38

Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; and you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come; buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance.
Isaiah 55:1-2

Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water?” Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:10, 11,13-15