March 5, 2012
Transformational Thought
Our childhood experiences, our biology and our spiritual history all contribute to our present makeup. In our struggle to overcome negative feelings like depression, anxiety, or anger, we need to remember that while our psychological and biogenetic past cannot be changed, the way we view it can be changed as we use the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives to change our spiritual condition. Then our psychological and biological present can also be changed, improved, and actually renewed. Thank You God!
If we draw our identity from the cluster of negativity around us … feelings of anger, helplessness, hopelessness, isolation, being overwhelmed, and perhaps even suicidal thoughts … rather than from our true identity as a "new creation in Christ Jesus," then indeed, we are continually being sucked into a black hole of despair. We are easily trapped in a self-reinforcing belief system about ourselves: I'm worthless … there is no hope … God doesn’t care or know me. And by the way, this is exactly where Satan would like us to be.
Healing can start when we recognize that our problem is not anger or childhood abuse or even "depression." Our problem is really that the lenses we use to view ourselves are based on misinterpretations and distortions we’ve developed from our past experiences and the world’s interpretation and teaching of who we are. This just re-enforces a self-identity of a worthless, inadequate, disconnected, incompetent person.
Just like en enemy trying to brainwash a POW, Satan’s plot as the Great Deceiver is to brainwash us. And he starts the day we are born. His goal is to establish strongholds of lies in our heart, and being very gullible kids, we walk easily into most of his traps. Maturity is being able to undo these lies, and insert the truth and act on it. As we all know, we all are works in progress, because the lies start early and go deep. It would be nice if we received a lobotomy or brain transplant when we were saved. But God has a “slower, but richer” process instead of the immediate, no-effort-on-our-part process that we would like.
Only when we let the power, love, and redemptive grace of the Christmas and Easter stories form our lenses will we learn our new identity based on the truth of God's Word. When our lives begin to revolve around an understanding of God, life, and our own self-identity that is based on faith and guided by the Bible’s rich instructions, we can begin to overcome depression and all the feeling states that interfere with our perspective and functioning.
Today, identify a couple lies about yourself from the old brainwashing tapes that play in your head. Instead of seeing yourself as worthless or the opposite, the master of your life, begin to view yourself as a child of God, a shining star, His chosen and beloved. The characteristics of that new self-identity are based on faith in Christ, and can include surrendering to God's purposes ... kindness ... pure love ... goodness ... reaching for truth ... courage … fortitude ... and determination to keep going based on who God is, not on who we are. Remember, life is your choice, so choose well. See our resources to help you.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me to stop focusing on the swirling symptoms of depression that surround me like debris around a black hole. Help me instead to focus on Jesus and what He has done for me. Help me to remember that I am a new creation in Him. I wish I could see clearly. Help me un-brainwash all the lies, big and small, I have absorbed from my childhood. Let me be in less of a hurry during the day, have patience and self-control, so I can see the situations You bring into my life more clearly. Please help me break this narcissism of a me-centered view instead of a God-centered view of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to give me hope, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
Philippians 1:6
About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.
Hebrews 5:11-14
Showing posts with label Anxiety. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Anxiety. Show all posts
Monday, March 5, 2012
Friday, November 11, 2011
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
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
Thursday, November 10, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
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
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
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
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
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
Monday, November 7, 2011
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
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
Saturday, November 5, 2011
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
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
Friday, November 4, 2011
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
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
Thursday, November 3, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
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
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
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Why Are We Afraid?
Transformational Thought
I have noticed lately how easy it is for people to share their shortcomings, perhaps because of the struggling economy. They readily confess that they suffer from all types of physical, material, or emotional problems. It doesn’t take much prodding to learn they have lost a job, experience financial struggles, have a bad temper, or that they are self-centered … they will even tell you they are “not that smart.”
But one thing no one wants to admit (to themselves or others) is that they are cowards. No one likes to let on that they are afraid of anything. Of all our human frailties, cowardice seems by far the least popular. Yet we all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, so we all experience small and large fears pretty regularly.
Fear gets in the way of so many things in our lives, but this is not how God wants us to live. Fear shows doubt regarding God’s sovereignty, His love for us, and His power over our problems. Remember His answer for our biggest concern: we were headed for eternal damnation because of our sin until Jesus died for us. God has an answer for every predicament, need, suffering, or anticipated suffering.
Pray for and develop courage from God, the only true and lasting source of real and triumphant courage. Then you will free yourself from the fears that keep you from God’s peace and joy. You see, God’s word speaks to us clearly about the need to be brave and “fear not.” This message is contained in virtually every book of The Holy Bible. When we really put on the full armor, then actually use it, bravery is an automatic outcome.
What concerns you? What do you worry about or fear? Why? What do you need to believe differently about yourself and about God for your fear to go away? Usually problems result from distorted views about what really is painful, how much pain we can handle, and the power, promises, and peace God provides when we are in pain.
Today, identify some of your vulnerable or fearful areas. Take God’s promises seriously and see how it affects your vulnerable spots. Again, a decision you need to make many times a day … God’s protection or the world’s. Your decision will either keep you captive to fear and the world … or set you free. So choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, on the outside I am tough, but on the inside I am so stricken with fear. I am such a coward. God, please give me courage. I need courage in all aspects of my life. I need courage to do good and to resist all forms of evil. I need courage to follow Your commandments and to overcome my fears, both rational and irrational. Give me the courage I need, Lord, to win the struggle against neuroses and anxieties. I need Your courage to overcome my addictions and to persevere though the storms in my life. Give me courage, Lord, to give witness to Your truth and to do great things in Your name. Father, I pray that all in the Stepping Stones community gain Your courage and lose their fear. Remove their fear, Father, and give them Your peace … the peace that surpasses all human understanding. I pray in the name of my rock and refuge, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20
After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."
Genesis 15:1
Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken.
Micah 4:4
When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.”
Revelation 1:17
I have noticed lately how easy it is for people to share their shortcomings, perhaps because of the struggling economy. They readily confess that they suffer from all types of physical, material, or emotional problems. It doesn’t take much prodding to learn they have lost a job, experience financial struggles, have a bad temper, or that they are self-centered … they will even tell you they are “not that smart.”
But one thing no one wants to admit (to themselves or others) is that they are cowards. No one likes to let on that they are afraid of anything. Of all our human frailties, cowardice seems by far the least popular. Yet we all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, so we all experience small and large fears pretty regularly.
Fear gets in the way of so many things in our lives, but this is not how God wants us to live. Fear shows doubt regarding God’s sovereignty, His love for us, and His power over our problems. Remember His answer for our biggest concern: we were headed for eternal damnation because of our sin until Jesus died for us. God has an answer for every predicament, need, suffering, or anticipated suffering.
Pray for and develop courage from God, the only true and lasting source of real and triumphant courage. Then you will free yourself from the fears that keep you from God’s peace and joy. You see, God’s word speaks to us clearly about the need to be brave and “fear not.” This message is contained in virtually every book of The Holy Bible. When we really put on the full armor, then actually use it, bravery is an automatic outcome.
What concerns you? What do you worry about or fear? Why? What do you need to believe differently about yourself and about God for your fear to go away? Usually problems result from distorted views about what really is painful, how much pain we can handle, and the power, promises, and peace God provides when we are in pain.
Today, identify some of your vulnerable or fearful areas. Take God’s promises seriously and see how it affects your vulnerable spots. Again, a decision you need to make many times a day … God’s protection or the world’s. Your decision will either keep you captive to fear and the world … or set you free. So choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, on the outside I am tough, but on the inside I am so stricken with fear. I am such a coward. God, please give me courage. I need courage in all aspects of my life. I need courage to do good and to resist all forms of evil. I need courage to follow Your commandments and to overcome my fears, both rational and irrational. Give me the courage I need, Lord, to win the struggle against neuroses and anxieties. I need Your courage to overcome my addictions and to persevere though the storms in my life. Give me courage, Lord, to give witness to Your truth and to do great things in Your name. Father, I pray that all in the Stepping Stones community gain Your courage and lose their fear. Remove their fear, Father, and give them Your peace … the peace that surpasses all human understanding. I pray in the name of my rock and refuge, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20
After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."
Genesis 15:1
Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken.
Micah 4:4
When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.”
Revelation 1:17
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Stepping Stones: “Future Gazing” on Your Personal Red Carpet
Transformational Thought
Imagine seeing a beautiful red carpet being unrolled in front of an honored person as she excitedly walks forward with pride and jubilant expectation. An extravagant hairdo, head held high, all made up, and in her fanciest dress. The red carpet is her defined, honored, special, unique, and precious path … only for her ... to honor her ... and it’s designed for her maximum benefit and enjoyment.
Don’t we all want to walk our own personal red carpet? We do and we are. You see, your future is safely in the hands of your Lord and He has a path … a plan … your own personal red carpet specifically and specially designed for YOU. Sounds awesome, but there is one catch … even though you get to see the end point, you don’t get to see more than just one step ahead as He reveals it, your life, moment by moment.
Our natural me-centered tendency is to look farther ahead, anticipating and wishing for future moments, neglecting the special “now” moments He designed especially for us. Unrealistic expectations lead to letdowns, worries, hurts, confusion, frustration, and impatience. They clutter the red carpet path. Instead, we should be able to rest in God’s customized and loving path, the carpet designed perfectly for us, allowing us to enjoy each moment to its fullest.
God’s wonder and joy are only accessible in the present moment. Instead of gazing into the unknown future, live each moment in the joyful awareness of His presence. Enjoying the now acknowledges that God doesn’t make mistakes, really loves you, and meets your every need. Attaining this freedom isn’t easy, because our minds often wander to “Future Gazing” at will.
Today, when you find yourself engaging in “Future Gazing,” remind yourself that you are truly roaming in a fantasy land that is filled with potholes of self-destruction not self-preservation. This will help you return to the present where you will find Him waiting for you … rolling out your honored red carpet, designed specifically and especially for you.
Prayer
Dear Lord and Savior, What a comforting thought, knowing that You are unfolding my life to me exactly as You planned it. Teach me, Lord, how to spend more time in the present with You. I know that You hold my future far ahead of me and that when I “Future Gaze”, all I am really doing is exercising my imagination. It is impossible for me to know and anticipate what my future on Earth will hold for me. Help me walk forward on Your red carpet, never setting foot on anything but the present. I step forward today with confidence. I pray this in the name the One who died for the perfect ending point of my red carpet, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?
Ecclesiastes 8:7
Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb; even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike? Those who lavish gold from the purse, and weigh out silver in the scales, hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; then they fall down and worship! They lift it to their shoulders, they carry it, they set it in its place, and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble. Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'
Isaiah 46:3-10
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:8
Imagine seeing a beautiful red carpet being unrolled in front of an honored person as she excitedly walks forward with pride and jubilant expectation. An extravagant hairdo, head held high, all made up, and in her fanciest dress. The red carpet is her defined, honored, special, unique, and precious path … only for her ... to honor her ... and it’s designed for her maximum benefit and enjoyment.
Don’t we all want to walk our own personal red carpet? We do and we are. You see, your future is safely in the hands of your Lord and He has a path … a plan … your own personal red carpet specifically and specially designed for YOU. Sounds awesome, but there is one catch … even though you get to see the end point, you don’t get to see more than just one step ahead as He reveals it, your life, moment by moment.
Our natural me-centered tendency is to look farther ahead, anticipating and wishing for future moments, neglecting the special “now” moments He designed especially for us. Unrealistic expectations lead to letdowns, worries, hurts, confusion, frustration, and impatience. They clutter the red carpet path. Instead, we should be able to rest in God’s customized and loving path, the carpet designed perfectly for us, allowing us to enjoy each moment to its fullest.
God’s wonder and joy are only accessible in the present moment. Instead of gazing into the unknown future, live each moment in the joyful awareness of His presence. Enjoying the now acknowledges that God doesn’t make mistakes, really loves you, and meets your every need. Attaining this freedom isn’t easy, because our minds often wander to “Future Gazing” at will.
Today, when you find yourself engaging in “Future Gazing,” remind yourself that you are truly roaming in a fantasy land that is filled with potholes of self-destruction not self-preservation. This will help you return to the present where you will find Him waiting for you … rolling out your honored red carpet, designed specifically and especially for you.
Prayer
Dear Lord and Savior, What a comforting thought, knowing that You are unfolding my life to me exactly as You planned it. Teach me, Lord, how to spend more time in the present with You. I know that You hold my future far ahead of me and that when I “Future Gaze”, all I am really doing is exercising my imagination. It is impossible for me to know and anticipate what my future on Earth will hold for me. Help me walk forward on Your red carpet, never setting foot on anything but the present. I step forward today with confidence. I pray this in the name the One who died for the perfect ending point of my red carpet, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?
Ecclesiastes 8:7
Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb; even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike? Those who lavish gold from the purse, and weigh out silver in the scales, hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; then they fall down and worship! They lift it to their shoulders, they carry it, they set it in its place, and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble. Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'
Isaiah 46:3-10
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:8
Friday, March 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: Brainwashed, Lobotomy, or New Creation in Christ
Transformational Thought
Our childhood experiences, our biology and our spiritual history all contribute to our present makeup. In our struggle to overcome negative feelings like depression, we need to remember that while our psychological and biogenetic past cannot be changed, the way we view it can be changed as we use the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives to change our spiritual condition. Then our psychological and biological present can also be renewed. Thank You God!
If we draw our identity from the cluster of negativity around us … feelings of anger, helplessness, hopelessness, isolation, being overwhelmed, and perhaps even suicidal thoughts … rather than from our true identity as a "new creation in Christ Jesus," then indeed, we are continually being sucked into a black hole of despair. We are easily trapped in a self-reinforcing belief system about ourselves: I'm worthless … there is no hope. And by the way, this is exactly where Satan would like us to be.
Healing can start when we recognize that our problem is not anger or childhood abuse or even "depression." Our problem is really that the lenses we use to view ourselves are based on misinterpretations and distortions we’ve developed from our past experiences and the world’s system. This just re-enforces a self-identity of a worthless, inadequate, disconnected, incompetent person.
Just like en enemy trying to brainwash a POW, Satan’s plot as the Great Deceiver is to brainwash us. And he starts the day we are born. His goal is to establish strongholds of lies in our heart, and being very gullible kids, we walk easily into most of his traps. Maturity is being able to undo these lies, and insert the truth and act on it. As we all know, we all are works in progress, because the lies start early and go deep. It would be nice if we received a lobotomy or brain transplant when we were saved. But God has a “slower, but richer” process than we would like.
Only when we let the power of the Christmas and Easter stories form our lenses will we learn our new identity based on the truth of God's Word. When our lives begin to revolve around an understanding of God, life, and our own self-identity that is based on faith and guided by the Bible, we can begin to overcome depression and all the feeling states that interfere with our perspective and functioning.
Today, identify a couple lies about yourself from the old brainwashing tapes that play in your head. Instead of seeing yourself as worthless, begin to view yourself as a child of God, a shining star, His chosen and beloved. The characteristics of that new self-identity are based on faith in Christ, and can include surrendering to God's purposes ... kindness ... pure love ... goodness ... reaching for truth ... courage … fortitude ... and determination to keep going based on who God is, not on who we are.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me to stop focusing on the swirling symptoms of depression that surround me like debris around a black hole. Help me instead to focus on Jesus and what He has done for me. Help me to remember that I am a new creation in Him. Please help me break this narcissism of a me-centered view instead of a God-centered view of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to give me hope, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Our childhood experiences, our biology and our spiritual history all contribute to our present makeup. In our struggle to overcome negative feelings like depression, we need to remember that while our psychological and biogenetic past cannot be changed, the way we view it can be changed as we use the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives to change our spiritual condition. Then our psychological and biological present can also be renewed. Thank You God!
If we draw our identity from the cluster of negativity around us … feelings of anger, helplessness, hopelessness, isolation, being overwhelmed, and perhaps even suicidal thoughts … rather than from our true identity as a "new creation in Christ Jesus," then indeed, we are continually being sucked into a black hole of despair. We are easily trapped in a self-reinforcing belief system about ourselves: I'm worthless … there is no hope. And by the way, this is exactly where Satan would like us to be.
Healing can start when we recognize that our problem is not anger or childhood abuse or even "depression." Our problem is really that the lenses we use to view ourselves are based on misinterpretations and distortions we’ve developed from our past experiences and the world’s system. This just re-enforces a self-identity of a worthless, inadequate, disconnected, incompetent person.
Just like en enemy trying to brainwash a POW, Satan’s plot as the Great Deceiver is to brainwash us. And he starts the day we are born. His goal is to establish strongholds of lies in our heart, and being very gullible kids, we walk easily into most of his traps. Maturity is being able to undo these lies, and insert the truth and act on it. As we all know, we all are works in progress, because the lies start early and go deep. It would be nice if we received a lobotomy or brain transplant when we were saved. But God has a “slower, but richer” process than we would like.
Only when we let the power of the Christmas and Easter stories form our lenses will we learn our new identity based on the truth of God's Word. When our lives begin to revolve around an understanding of God, life, and our own self-identity that is based on faith and guided by the Bible, we can begin to overcome depression and all the feeling states that interfere with our perspective and functioning.
Today, identify a couple lies about yourself from the old brainwashing tapes that play in your head. Instead of seeing yourself as worthless, begin to view yourself as a child of God, a shining star, His chosen and beloved. The characteristics of that new self-identity are based on faith in Christ, and can include surrendering to God's purposes ... kindness ... pure love ... goodness ... reaching for truth ... courage … fortitude ... and determination to keep going based on who God is, not on who we are.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me to stop focusing on the swirling symptoms of depression that surround me like debris around a black hole. Help me instead to focus on Jesus and what He has done for me. Help me to remember that I am a new creation in Him. Please help me break this narcissism of a me-centered view instead of a God-centered view of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to give me hope, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: Carsick on Your Spiritual Journey?
Transformational Thought
We were driving from the Isle of Skye to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. Beautiful scenery, driving through the Highlands and seeing some waterfalls and lush green landscape alongside the windy, scenic roads. Stopping for fish and chips at a small fishing town. Everything on this 7-hour trip was going great until we added a PB&J snack. Nine year old Dominique got so carsick she vomited all over the back seat and on Nicole. First time she ever threw up.
Have you ever been carsick? Weird feeling. The primary reason for carsickness is that as the car races along, passengers are not able to focus on a solid object. But who is the one person in a car that never gets sick? The driver. Why are drivers protected? They are focused on the road ahead, looking intently at the solid objects outside the car that aren't bouncing and turning. They have a good sense of where the horizon is. Their vision, their perspective, their worldview is grounded in something unchanging – the horizon.
In carsickness, the main problem is the conflicting data between our eyes, our inner ear motion receptors, and the motion receptors throughout our body in the tissues below our skin. When we intentionally walk, all 3 of these areas are in sync and focused on a common motion task, therefore, motion sickness doesn’t exist.
The key is in the word focus. When we are focused … intentionally walking forward and not distracted in several different directions … not confusing our inner systems, no motion sickness occurs. Are we focusing on Christ … who never changes … or are we focusing on the circumstances that keep turning and swirling, and change with each wind that blows? Focusing on Jesus will bring much-needed direction and get rid of some of the motion sickness we experience on our spiritual journey.
Today, when you are faced with adversity, on what truths or principles will you focus? Are they from the grounded, tested truths of the Bible? Or are they flimsy, vacillating, imitations from this world? Are you focusing too much on external circumstances instead of your inner relationship with God? Feeling carsick on your spiritual journey is a warning sign that you aren’t focused on the absolute truth. Re-orient and focus back on the cross and God’s promises, and bring this focus to those trouble areas. WITHIN REACH will teach you skills and self-assessment tools to keep you focused on God in all your everyday activities and decisions.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I know I have been focusing too much on problems instead of on Jesus. And as the circumstances around me change, I have become confused and discouraged … I am almost constanly “car sick.” I am bouncing from one crutch to another, looking for answers in so many wrong places. Help me fix my eyes on Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who focused only on You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
We were driving from the Isle of Skye to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. Beautiful scenery, driving through the Highlands and seeing some waterfalls and lush green landscape alongside the windy, scenic roads. Stopping for fish and chips at a small fishing town. Everything on this 7-hour trip was going great until we added a PB&J snack. Nine year old Dominique got so carsick she vomited all over the back seat and on Nicole. First time she ever threw up.
Have you ever been carsick? Weird feeling. The primary reason for carsickness is that as the car races along, passengers are not able to focus on a solid object. But who is the one person in a car that never gets sick? The driver. Why are drivers protected? They are focused on the road ahead, looking intently at the solid objects outside the car that aren't bouncing and turning. They have a good sense of where the horizon is. Their vision, their perspective, their worldview is grounded in something unchanging – the horizon.
In carsickness, the main problem is the conflicting data between our eyes, our inner ear motion receptors, and the motion receptors throughout our body in the tissues below our skin. When we intentionally walk, all 3 of these areas are in sync and focused on a common motion task, therefore, motion sickness doesn’t exist.
The key is in the word focus. When we are focused … intentionally walking forward and not distracted in several different directions … not confusing our inner systems, no motion sickness occurs. Are we focusing on Christ … who never changes … or are we focusing on the circumstances that keep turning and swirling, and change with each wind that blows? Focusing on Jesus will bring much-needed direction and get rid of some of the motion sickness we experience on our spiritual journey.
Today, when you are faced with adversity, on what truths or principles will you focus? Are they from the grounded, tested truths of the Bible? Or are they flimsy, vacillating, imitations from this world? Are you focusing too much on external circumstances instead of your inner relationship with God? Feeling carsick on your spiritual journey is a warning sign that you aren’t focused on the absolute truth. Re-orient and focus back on the cross and God’s promises, and bring this focus to those trouble areas. WITHIN REACH will teach you skills and self-assessment tools to keep you focused on God in all your everyday activities and decisions.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I know I have been focusing too much on problems instead of on Jesus. And as the circumstances around me change, I have become confused and discouraged … I am almost constanly “car sick.” I am bouncing from one crutch to another, looking for answers in so many wrong places. Help me fix my eyes on Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who focused only on You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
Friday, February 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: Be Strong and Courageous
Transformational Thought
When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, I was getting so excited to see her reaction. We walked in and there was a 6 foot tall Easter Bunny. Poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the 6 foot Easter Bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after being unable to console her, we left very quickly.
We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?
Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to fear or be discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.
Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see where your confidence comes from and how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for your confidence and empowerment.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers for the one who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, I was getting so excited to see her reaction. We walked in and there was a 6 foot tall Easter Bunny. Poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the 6 foot Easter Bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after being unable to console her, we left very quickly.
We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?
Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to fear or be discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.
Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see where your confidence comes from and how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for your confidence and empowerment.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers for the one who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Looking In The Right Places?
Transformational Thought
God never promised us days without pain, laughter without sorrow, or sun without rain … but He did promise strength to get through each day, comfort for the tears, and a lighthouse to guide the way. As you provide finances, care, comfort, or support for an aging parent, or a disabled spouse, child, or friend, God is the only place to turn towards for lasting strength and hope.
While at times you might not understand why you and your family are facing these challenges, if you seek God, you will find Him. He promises to hear your prayers and meet your needs. He is your source. He is the one who will make the impossible, possible. He has so much for us, but we have to look in the right places. His peace won’t be in a bar, in food, an affair, money, pornography, or anything on this Earth. Too often we look in the wrong places and wonder why we don’t find His love, comfort, peace, grace, forgiveness, or instruction.
I mistaken look at me all His provisions. My initial reaction often times is to do as much as I can…God did give me a gift of skills to help solve problems … so I get after the problem. Then when I reach the end of my resources and skills, I call on God. I have them in the wrong order. Seek God first, then attack the problem.
Too often we exhaust ourselves with our own efforts before we ask God for His help and provision for our needs. We focus on the need and become overwhelmed by it. But He will help us. He wants us to pray to Him for the strength, wisdom, and resources to accomplish His will.
Today, when you have difficult circumstances, notice whether you feel His peace and comfort. If yes, awesome. If not, then examine where you look for God’s support in times of stress. Take time to meditate on God's Word. The Bible has a great deal to say about aging and care giving concerns. You will find guidance, strength and hope. Open your Bible and spend quiet time with God every day. No matter how busy you are, determine to set aside that special time with Him. And remember that He is with you every moment of the day.
Prayer
Dear God, at times I get so weary, physically and emotionally. And sometimes I find myself turning everywhere else for help before coming to You. Help me to remember to always come to You first. I know that You are truly my source of strength. You have so many promises and are faithful to them. Help me remember that when my lenses get stressed. I want to look to You, and not to cheap imitations of peace and comfort. I pray this and all prayers for the one who is the ultimate caregiver, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:31-34
God never promised us days without pain, laughter without sorrow, or sun without rain … but He did promise strength to get through each day, comfort for the tears, and a lighthouse to guide the way. As you provide finances, care, comfort, or support for an aging parent, or a disabled spouse, child, or friend, God is the only place to turn towards for lasting strength and hope.
While at times you might not understand why you and your family are facing these challenges, if you seek God, you will find Him. He promises to hear your prayers and meet your needs. He is your source. He is the one who will make the impossible, possible. He has so much for us, but we have to look in the right places. His peace won’t be in a bar, in food, an affair, money, pornography, or anything on this Earth. Too often we look in the wrong places and wonder why we don’t find His love, comfort, peace, grace, forgiveness, or instruction.
I mistaken look at me all His provisions. My initial reaction often times is to do as much as I can…God did give me a gift of skills to help solve problems … so I get after the problem. Then when I reach the end of my resources and skills, I call on God. I have them in the wrong order. Seek God first, then attack the problem.
Too often we exhaust ourselves with our own efforts before we ask God for His help and provision for our needs. We focus on the need and become overwhelmed by it. But He will help us. He wants us to pray to Him for the strength, wisdom, and resources to accomplish His will.
Today, when you have difficult circumstances, notice whether you feel His peace and comfort. If yes, awesome. If not, then examine where you look for God’s support in times of stress. Take time to meditate on God's Word. The Bible has a great deal to say about aging and care giving concerns. You will find guidance, strength and hope. Open your Bible and spend quiet time with God every day. No matter how busy you are, determine to set aside that special time with Him. And remember that He is with you every moment of the day.
Prayer
Dear God, at times I get so weary, physically and emotionally. And sometimes I find myself turning everywhere else for help before coming to You. Help me to remember to always come to You first. I know that You are truly my source of strength. You have so many promises and are faithful to them. Help me remember that when my lenses get stressed. I want to look to You, and not to cheap imitations of peace and comfort. I pray this and all prayers for the one who is the ultimate caregiver, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:31-34
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You Choking Yourself?
Transformational Thought
A friend recently asked me what I considered to be my most treasured memories. 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.
So, I began flipping through the photo album of my mind and heart and a collection of treasured memories came rushing in. I recalled moments when I felt really special…times when I knew I was loved. I also recalled times of adventure and accomplishment…of adversity and challenge…excitement and anticipation…of connection and fulfillment. I then reflected on how long ago those memories were created. And all of a sudden I began yearning for that life…to have moments like those now and 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.
Though we try to resolve the dilemma by turning to materialism, illicit sex, drugs, food, sports, excessive business, buying, gossiping, caffeine, and many other quick and shallow fixes to fill this desire, it doesn’t work. We never really get what we need to truly flourish. It is the soul’s equivalent of holding our breath or getting choked by some obstruction in our throat. Eventually, we find ourselves gasping for air.
Today, know that your Lord and God is ready to breathe true life into you. Identify one of these 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…and turn toward Him who is the giver of the life you were meant to live. 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…that separate me from You. 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 said - 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
A friend recently asked me what I considered to be my most treasured memories. 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.
So, I began flipping through the photo album of my mind and heart and a collection of treasured memories came rushing in. I recalled moments when I felt really special…times when I knew I was loved. I also recalled times of adventure and accomplishment…of adversity and challenge…excitement and anticipation…of connection and fulfillment. I then reflected on how long ago those memories were created. And all of a sudden I began yearning for that life…to have moments like those now and 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.
Though we try to resolve the dilemma by turning to materialism, illicit sex, drugs, food, sports, excessive business, buying, gossiping, caffeine, and many other quick and shallow fixes to fill this desire, it doesn’t work. We never really get what we need to truly flourish. It is the soul’s equivalent of holding our breath or getting choked by some obstruction in our throat. Eventually, we find ourselves gasping for air.
Today, know that your Lord and God is ready to breathe true life into you. Identify one of these 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…and turn toward Him who is the giver of the life you were meant to live. 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…that separate me from You. 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 said - 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
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
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 or butter was 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.
Everywhere I go nowadays, I see water bottles. I still have a hard time paying for water, but we 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 continually drink water throughout our day. Seems like we are all dehydrated.
Not only are we physically thirsty, 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 our 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. This leads to depression, anxiety, addictions, hopelessness, anger, brokenness, stress, agitation, loneliness, and frustration.
Today, commit to taking sips…short prayers. Confessing a sin immediately, stopping to thank Him for a blessing you take for granted, asking His advice on an issue, telling 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. You don’t have to be dehydrated. 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. 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 said - 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
When I was a kid, people weren’t obsessed about health. Fitness clubs didn’t exist, nobody ran unless they had to, grease or butter was 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.
Everywhere I go nowadays, I see water bottles. I still have a hard time paying for water, but we 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 continually drink water throughout our day. Seems like we are all dehydrated.
Not only are we physically thirsty, 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 our 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. This leads to depression, anxiety, addictions, hopelessness, anger, brokenness, stress, agitation, loneliness, and frustration.
Today, commit to taking sips…short prayers. Confessing a sin immediately, stopping to thank Him for a blessing you take for granted, asking His advice on an issue, telling 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. You don’t have to be dehydrated. 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. 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 said - 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
Friday, November 12, 2010
Stepping Stones: Who’s Stronger, A Tiger or Man?
Transformational Thought
Got a quick quiz for you. Who is stronger, a tiger or a man? You know, physically stronger? Correct, a tiger. Who is locked up in a cage, a tiger or a man? Tiger, correct again. Well, if a tiger is physically stronger, why is the tiger the one locked up in a cage? Here is a hint…what does the man have that the tiger doesn’t? Gun, trap, tranquilizers, and usually some kind of strategy.
You see, all these things the man brings to the fight come from his brain. If man uses his intelligence, he can control the tiger. If he doesn’t use his intelligence, the tiger will devour him. The tiger represents our emotions. If you don’t use your intelligence by thinking and strategizing your way through an issue, your emotions kill you.
Whether your emotions get you in trouble with poor judgment, raise your blood pressure, give you heartburn, or interfere with your awareness of God and applying His instruction in a troubling situation, your emotions, left unchecked or supervised, will destroy you.
On the flip side, we don’t want to annihilate our emotions. Just like we lock up the tiger for entertainment, education, edification, or admiration, we want to keep our emotions around because they do have a significant purpose. Our emotions are a tremendous gift from God, even our “negative” feelings, but that’s a devotional for another day. Satan wants to push our emotional buttons so it is easier prey on and devour us. Drugs and alcohol bring emotions to the surface leading to many disastrous decisions.
Today, when you are experiencing some negative feelings, stop and think. Thinking before reacting is always helpful. Ask yourself, “are my feelings controlling my thinking, or is my intelligence controlling my feelings?” Take a deep breath and think about the real problem and a solution. When you are able to think through your emotional states, your level of success during adversity will be dramatically improved. Click here for WITHIN REACH to help you understand how to manage your feelings better.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thanks so much for giving me my intelligence and my emotions. I confess that I don’t think sometimes and I let my feelings devour my brains, and wow, the damage to others, You, and me is so embarrassing to face sometimes. Help me control my feelings better, and improve my ability to take “every thought captive.” I pray in the name of the perfect role model, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
2 Corinthians 10:5
Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly. A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.
Proverbs 14:29,30
Got a quick quiz for you. Who is stronger, a tiger or a man? You know, physically stronger? Correct, a tiger. Who is locked up in a cage, a tiger or a man? Tiger, correct again. Well, if a tiger is physically stronger, why is the tiger the one locked up in a cage? Here is a hint…what does the man have that the tiger doesn’t? Gun, trap, tranquilizers, and usually some kind of strategy.
You see, all these things the man brings to the fight come from his brain. If man uses his intelligence, he can control the tiger. If he doesn’t use his intelligence, the tiger will devour him. The tiger represents our emotions. If you don’t use your intelligence by thinking and strategizing your way through an issue, your emotions kill you.
Whether your emotions get you in trouble with poor judgment, raise your blood pressure, give you heartburn, or interfere with your awareness of God and applying His instruction in a troubling situation, your emotions, left unchecked or supervised, will destroy you.
On the flip side, we don’t want to annihilate our emotions. Just like we lock up the tiger for entertainment, education, edification, or admiration, we want to keep our emotions around because they do have a significant purpose. Our emotions are a tremendous gift from God, even our “negative” feelings, but that’s a devotional for another day. Satan wants to push our emotional buttons so it is easier prey on and devour us. Drugs and alcohol bring emotions to the surface leading to many disastrous decisions.
Today, when you are experiencing some negative feelings, stop and think. Thinking before reacting is always helpful. Ask yourself, “are my feelings controlling my thinking, or is my intelligence controlling my feelings?” Take a deep breath and think about the real problem and a solution. When you are able to think through your emotional states, your level of success during adversity will be dramatically improved. Click here for WITHIN REACH to help you understand how to manage your feelings better.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thanks so much for giving me my intelligence and my emotions. I confess that I don’t think sometimes and I let my feelings devour my brains, and wow, the damage to others, You, and me is so embarrassing to face sometimes. Help me control my feelings better, and improve my ability to take “every thought captive.” I pray in the name of the perfect role model, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
2 Corinthians 10:5
Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly. A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.
Proverbs 14:29,30
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