January 21-22, 2012
Transformational Thought
Divorce is the ultimate relationship wound and loss. When marriage problems end in separation and then divorce, the loss is deeply experienced not only by the couple, but also by the entire family. It even impacts friends and often the coworkers of that family. Divorce can leave the family in suspended animation as battles usually rage for many years after.
Recovering from divorce involves working through a grieving process, much like when a spouse has died. It also involves making decisions. You might not have had a choice in getting a divorce, but you do have choices in your response. Will you hold on to bitterness and anger … or will you forgive? Will you give up and give in to despair …or will you trust Jesus to help you rebuild your life on Him and not on your marriage or your spouse? Will you walk in fear … or will you be courageous to face the future God has for you? Do you trust you, marriage, your ex-, or God?
Satan and your flesh, filled with insecurities and hurt, will try to influence your me-centered focus to give up, to feel like a failure, to feel no hope is possible, and that you’ve lost everything. You have to resist these lies and distortions. Remember, Satan is the Great Deceiver. This is the only character trait he has to present and relate to the truth.
Divorce can bring one of the most intense pains possible into a person's life. But you don't have to go through it alone. Jesus loves you and wants to help you. If you will commit your ways to Him, the Holy Spirit will guide you in making those hard decisions … He will give you the courage and peace you need to be clear-minded … and He will restore your hope. With God, all things are possible.
Today, if you are thinking about divorce, STOP! Get some wise counsel as this is not God’s plan, (but sometimes acceptable) and therefore will be a nightmare for you and a lot of loss for many. If you are divorced, dive into the Bible and get to a church based Divorce Recovery group so you can process and heal using Biblical truths and lenses. If you are a child from divorced parents, really examine the lies that divorce embeds in your mind about you, your parents, and relationships. If you know people in these situations, be there to help them genuinely heal and see God and life more clearly, because Satan really uses divorce to suck the soul out of people and make them his puppets. If you are married, commit to grow your marriage and express your love to your spouse. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the poor decisions I have made in the past. I know divorce saddens You. My hurt and loss seem unbearable at times. Please help me access the strength, power, peace, and comfort You provide to overcome. I know that through You, I will not just overcome, but even thrive as a result of learning through these experiences to put all my eggs in Your basket alone. Right now I have to make so many decisions. I need your help. Help me to choose the right path … the one that is right for my family and for me, and most of all the path that pleases You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who shows us what step to take next, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
Psalm 25:12
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3
So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.
Matthew 19:6
Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24
Showing posts with label Comfort. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Comfort. Show all posts
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
Stepping Stones: Eat To Live or Live to Eat?
January 20, 2012
Transformational Thought
We need God. We won’t enjoy life, be fulfilled in life, or attain our God-given potential without closeness to Him. God desires it as well. Unfortunately, so many factors and forces keep us from this closeness to God. Eating disorders, unfortunately, are one of those forces. 30-35% of our society struggle with significant eating issues that disrupt their lives. Coming from a long line of Italian women, this really hits home with me.
“Eating Disorder” basically means unhealthy habits of restricting nutritional intake, overeating (yes, this is a large part of our American society), or being obsessed with or spending too much time focusing on or actually worshipping elements, rituals, or the results of eating. It really becomes an addiction. People tend to get so preoccupied with body image, and what others think, that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns, or lack of concerns, about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their health, relationships, and their ability to function in day-to-day life.
Like almost everything in life, God gave us food to use in moderation. Too much isn’t good, but not enough isn’t good either. Our body is a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in and God wants us to be good stewards of our body and health. But more importantly, we need to look at the psychological and spiritual aspects of our eating habits. If you are struggling with food or weight, determine not to let your focus on your body or food keeps you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy: pursuing the "perfect" image or the comfort that food brings, or focusing on your spiritual growth and your real personal and interpersonal needs.
The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees? Society changes its view of what is beautiful ... styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your distorted thoughts and feelings about your body and food, and keeping God's view in mind is essential to accepting yourself and your body. We all have feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Don’t let food or your body image be your soothing mechanism. Let God and His grace and love bring you the peace you really are hungry for and crave. He is one buffet where you may eat all you can without consequences! Indulge to your true heart’s content!
Today, as you approach food and eat meals, examine the importance you put on these elements. What do you get out of it? Are food and your eating habits a coping mechanism for you? Are you getting healthier, or are you harming your health? Remember, your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you do. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth. Your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you access soothing and value God’s way.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about food or used it to comfort me that I've ignored You … and relationships with others I care about have suffered as well. Please help me begin thinking more clearly ... to see things from Your point of view. I know I need to eat to live, but I don’t want to live to eat. Help me turn control over to you, and not be controlled by the next meal I think about. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7
Transformational Thought
We need God. We won’t enjoy life, be fulfilled in life, or attain our God-given potential without closeness to Him. God desires it as well. Unfortunately, so many factors and forces keep us from this closeness to God. Eating disorders, unfortunately, are one of those forces. 30-35% of our society struggle with significant eating issues that disrupt their lives. Coming from a long line of Italian women, this really hits home with me.
“Eating Disorder” basically means unhealthy habits of restricting nutritional intake, overeating (yes, this is a large part of our American society), or being obsessed with or spending too much time focusing on or actually worshipping elements, rituals, or the results of eating. It really becomes an addiction. People tend to get so preoccupied with body image, and what others think, that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns, or lack of concerns, about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their health, relationships, and their ability to function in day-to-day life.
Like almost everything in life, God gave us food to use in moderation. Too much isn’t good, but not enough isn’t good either. Our body is a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in and God wants us to be good stewards of our body and health. But more importantly, we need to look at the psychological and spiritual aspects of our eating habits. If you are struggling with food or weight, determine not to let your focus on your body or food keeps you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy: pursuing the "perfect" image or the comfort that food brings, or focusing on your spiritual growth and your real personal and interpersonal needs.
The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees? Society changes its view of what is beautiful ... styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your distorted thoughts and feelings about your body and food, and keeping God's view in mind is essential to accepting yourself and your body. We all have feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Don’t let food or your body image be your soothing mechanism. Let God and His grace and love bring you the peace you really are hungry for and crave. He is one buffet where you may eat all you can without consequences! Indulge to your true heart’s content!
Today, as you approach food and eat meals, examine the importance you put on these elements. What do you get out of it? Are food and your eating habits a coping mechanism for you? Are you getting healthier, or are you harming your health? Remember, your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you do. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth. Your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you access soothing and value God’s way.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about food or used it to comfort me that I've ignored You … and relationships with others I care about have suffered as well. Please help me begin thinking more clearly ... to see things from Your point of view. I know I need to eat to live, but I don’t want to live to eat. Help me turn control over to you, and not be controlled by the next meal I think about. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Who’s Your Best Friend?
Transformational Thought
I’ve always loved sports, especially when I was a kid. Sports really were my most loyal and consistent companion growing up. Actually, sports were my best friend and main comforter. In fact, almost everything I did revolved around sports and they rarely let me down.
When I wasn’t feeling connected, heard, or taken seriously, or I needed to feel important, I would go up to my room and re-create pro basketball games in my bedroom. It was one of my favorite activities. A rolled up pair of socks made a great ball, and a hanging lamp played the basket. I was an awesome shot and in my fantasy game I always won. My fantasy helped soothe and distract my mind from the hurt, allowing me to escape to a place where I was important, valued, and most importantly, in control … and life was enjoyable.
When we feel misunderstood, devalued, or simply overlooked, we turn to things that we believe will make us feel better: exercise, gardening, knitting, cooking, a business deal, or a work project. More harmful options include eating, gossiping, shopping, sex, alcohol, drugs, TV, and pornography. The list is endless.
However, after a mild blip of satisfaction, none of these things really makes us feel better in the long run. None of these idolatrous substitutes satisfies the thirst for what we truly desire: God’s compassionate, unfailing forgiveness … His acceptance and love. In fact, the substitutes actually take us farther away from what God offers us. Satan offers many empty substitutes, but only God offers real and lasting forgiveness, acceptance, and love.
You can change your patterns if you are getting sucked in to choosing Satan’s cheap imitations. But you have to be intentional and strategic. We never accomplish anything good without some strategy and intentionality, so don’t think you can randomly live life and expect progress to happen.
Today, identify where you turn for soothing and comfort. Recognize your pattern and strategy. Is it self-protective or self-destructive? When you are feeling misunderstood, overlooked, hungry and thirsty for satisfaction, remember this: God is the Lover of your soul. He understands you perfectly and loves you eternally. Reach out to Him in prayer and in His Word, and then listen. Cease striving and know that He is God! Take one promise of His and act like you believe it. It will transform your life. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that it is my soul that You love, and not my appearance or performance. I am often dissatisfied with both of these … especially when I make them my focus. There are so many empty substitutes in this world, so many things to turn to when I want to feel better about myself, or to provide a distraction so I don’t have to think about why I am hurting. Father, help me experience Your unconditional love more fully. Help me relax in Your loving presence and always turn my focus to You. I know that You created me to know You, love You, and make You the center of my life. I pray with hope in the name of my best friend, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted amongst the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
“Though the mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed” say the Lord who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
I’ve always loved sports, especially when I was a kid. Sports really were my most loyal and consistent companion growing up. Actually, sports were my best friend and main comforter. In fact, almost everything I did revolved around sports and they rarely let me down.
When I wasn’t feeling connected, heard, or taken seriously, or I needed to feel important, I would go up to my room and re-create pro basketball games in my bedroom. It was one of my favorite activities. A rolled up pair of socks made a great ball, and a hanging lamp played the basket. I was an awesome shot and in my fantasy game I always won. My fantasy helped soothe and distract my mind from the hurt, allowing me to escape to a place where I was important, valued, and most importantly, in control … and life was enjoyable.
When we feel misunderstood, devalued, or simply overlooked, we turn to things that we believe will make us feel better: exercise, gardening, knitting, cooking, a business deal, or a work project. More harmful options include eating, gossiping, shopping, sex, alcohol, drugs, TV, and pornography. The list is endless.
However, after a mild blip of satisfaction, none of these things really makes us feel better in the long run. None of these idolatrous substitutes satisfies the thirst for what we truly desire: God’s compassionate, unfailing forgiveness … His acceptance and love. In fact, the substitutes actually take us farther away from what God offers us. Satan offers many empty substitutes, but only God offers real and lasting forgiveness, acceptance, and love.
You can change your patterns if you are getting sucked in to choosing Satan’s cheap imitations. But you have to be intentional and strategic. We never accomplish anything good without some strategy and intentionality, so don’t think you can randomly live life and expect progress to happen.
Today, identify where you turn for soothing and comfort. Recognize your pattern and strategy. Is it self-protective or self-destructive? When you are feeling misunderstood, overlooked, hungry and thirsty for satisfaction, remember this: God is the Lover of your soul. He understands you perfectly and loves you eternally. Reach out to Him in prayer and in His Word, and then listen. Cease striving and know that He is God! Take one promise of His and act like you believe it. It will transform your life. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that it is my soul that You love, and not my appearance or performance. I am often dissatisfied with both of these … especially when I make them my focus. There are so many empty substitutes in this world, so many things to turn to when I want to feel better about myself, or to provide a distraction so I don’t have to think about why I am hurting. Father, help me experience Your unconditional love more fully. Help me relax in Your loving presence and always turn my focus to You. I know that You created me to know You, love You, and make You the center of my life. I pray with hope in the name of my best friend, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted amongst the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
“Though the mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed” say the Lord who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Waiting on God is Active, Not Passive
Transformational Thought
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss your opportunity and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful and knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our “I need it now mentality.” These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do while we actively wait and trust God will do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with Him…all day…every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar gets jammed and has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or when what you should do isn’t really clear. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond….rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones. But move toward the opportunities knowing He will do His part. Just sitting and waiting will cause you to miss out on so many blessings He has to put back on the shelf because of your lack of trust.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many shortcomings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You…for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You’ve designed for me. I know that waiting on You is active and I need to move toward You which enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss your opportunity and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful and knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our “I need it now mentality.” These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do while we actively wait and trust God will do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with Him…all day…every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar gets jammed and has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or when what you should do isn’t really clear. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond….rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones. But move toward the opportunities knowing He will do His part. Just sitting and waiting will cause you to miss out on so many blessings He has to put back on the shelf because of your lack of trust.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many shortcomings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You…for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You’ve designed for me. I know that waiting on You is active and I need to move toward You which enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: Being the Author or the Star Actor, Your Choice
Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I did love comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, great characters, exciting adventures, poppin’ graphics and all the extras. But not only was I a poor reader, I couldn’t draw even a little.
Writing a book is hard…trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate. Knowing the ending so you can pace and detail the rest of the story. That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He writes, actually prepares, each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God and the powerful parts of the great script He has written especially for us and with our needs and desires at the top of our agenda.
Just being an actor in the story is so much easier…give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don’t take the role of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, by trying to fill up the blank page of your day. Instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story. I tried that many times in the past and it always ended in frustration, anxiety, and t one point, jail.
Try to live responsively…meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty. God’s sovereignty, power, control, autonomy, and His ultimate authority over the whole multiverse (all the universes!).
Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word, The Holy Bible. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author. You aren’t equipped to be The author, have fun being the star actor in your story and follow The Author and Director’s instruction. WITHIN REACH will equip you to learn God’s will for your life and do it.
Prayer
Dear Father, You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life – discovering what You are doing and then responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know, Lord, that there is a part of me that likes to be in control…call the shots. Please teach me, Lord, the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me, Lord, form all forms of distraction that hamper my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I did love comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, great characters, exciting adventures, poppin’ graphics and all the extras. But not only was I a poor reader, I couldn’t draw even a little.
Writing a book is hard…trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate. Knowing the ending so you can pace and detail the rest of the story. That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He writes, actually prepares, each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God and the powerful parts of the great script He has written especially for us and with our needs and desires at the top of our agenda.
Just being an actor in the story is so much easier…give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don’t take the role of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, by trying to fill up the blank page of your day. Instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story. I tried that many times in the past and it always ended in frustration, anxiety, and t one point, jail.
Try to live responsively…meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty. God’s sovereignty, power, control, autonomy, and His ultimate authority over the whole multiverse (all the universes!).
Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word, The Holy Bible. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author. You aren’t equipped to be The author, have fun being the star actor in your story and follow The Author and Director’s instruction. WITHIN REACH will equip you to learn God’s will for your life and do it.
Prayer
Dear Father, You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life – discovering what You are doing and then responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know, Lord, that there is a part of me that likes to be in control…call the shots. Please teach me, Lord, the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me, Lord, form all forms of distraction that hamper my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
Monday, July 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; He poured out His life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; He poured out His life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Tree Will You Fix Your Eyes On?
Transformational Thought
Recess was always my favorite part of the school day, and when I wasn’t playing some ball sport, I loved some of the contraptions in the schoolyard. One of my favorites was a merry-go-round that was about 15-20 feet in diameter and 18 inches off the ground, and that spun really fast. It was a lot of fun bringing it up to speed, then jumping on and whizzing around. Some people, especially the girls, would get dizzy. But I didn’t because someone told me I should train my eyes on a fixed point (a tree or building was the easiest) while spinning. This little tip, so simple and easy to do, made a huge difference and allowed ease, fun, and peace while life was wildly moving around.
Well, the world around us is changing faster than we can even measure … and that’s an understatement. It is a time of rapid growth, over-stimulation, and economic and governmental instability. The ride is spinning so fast. Yet we yearn for calm, stability and even permanence, (which usually equates with security and peace) right now, for the near future, and for eternity. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It keeps us from getting distracted and spinning dizzily on the ever-moving merry-go-round of life.
To keep our wits about us, avoid sickness, see clearly, and walk in the right direction under adversity, we need to resist the dizzying effects of the lightning fast thrill ride we are strapped onto. There is only one way to have a fighting chance in the spiritual battle, and that is to fix our eyes on the most immoveable and permanent object that will ever exist. Keeping focused on God’s character, instruction, and promises will allow you to navigate with dramatic ease and success.
We sometimes struggle with stability and permanence, feeling it’s too predictable or conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, newness, or uniqueness is more desirable, exciting, stimulating, or soothing. Isn’t it interesting that when we go on vacation we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need to nap, feel discombobulated, and then return home without feeling rested? Many people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation! Why? Because we are out of our routine, aren’t grounded, and lose sight of what is steady and true.
We have to resist the urge to let our eyes wander and bounce from transient objects to quick fixes that come over the horizon. The world provides so many imposters for stability, you will get dizzy bouncing your gaze from one to the other.
Today, when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the steadiest object, where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable, and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. Seek His wisdom and principles for the situation that is making you a bit dizzy. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy. Instead, enjoy the ride of your life. WITHIN REACH helps you focus on Him in all your decisions.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change You are the one who never changes. You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes, the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence, I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You, Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart. I pray in the name of my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.”
Revelation 21:6
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
Recess was always my favorite part of the school day, and when I wasn’t playing some ball sport, I loved some of the contraptions in the schoolyard. One of my favorites was a merry-go-round that was about 15-20 feet in diameter and 18 inches off the ground, and that spun really fast. It was a lot of fun bringing it up to speed, then jumping on and whizzing around. Some people, especially the girls, would get dizzy. But I didn’t because someone told me I should train my eyes on a fixed point (a tree or building was the easiest) while spinning. This little tip, so simple and easy to do, made a huge difference and allowed ease, fun, and peace while life was wildly moving around.
Well, the world around us is changing faster than we can even measure … and that’s an understatement. It is a time of rapid growth, over-stimulation, and economic and governmental instability. The ride is spinning so fast. Yet we yearn for calm, stability and even permanence, (which usually equates with security and peace) right now, for the near future, and for eternity. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It keeps us from getting distracted and spinning dizzily on the ever-moving merry-go-round of life.
To keep our wits about us, avoid sickness, see clearly, and walk in the right direction under adversity, we need to resist the dizzying effects of the lightning fast thrill ride we are strapped onto. There is only one way to have a fighting chance in the spiritual battle, and that is to fix our eyes on the most immoveable and permanent object that will ever exist. Keeping focused on God’s character, instruction, and promises will allow you to navigate with dramatic ease and success.
We sometimes struggle with stability and permanence, feeling it’s too predictable or conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, newness, or uniqueness is more desirable, exciting, stimulating, or soothing. Isn’t it interesting that when we go on vacation we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need to nap, feel discombobulated, and then return home without feeling rested? Many people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation! Why? Because we are out of our routine, aren’t grounded, and lose sight of what is steady and true.
We have to resist the urge to let our eyes wander and bounce from transient objects to quick fixes that come over the horizon. The world provides so many imposters for stability, you will get dizzy bouncing your gaze from one to the other.
Today, when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the steadiest object, where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable, and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. Seek His wisdom and principles for the situation that is making you a bit dizzy. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy. Instead, enjoy the ride of your life. WITHIN REACH helps you focus on Him in all your decisions.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change You are the one who never changes. You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes, the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence, I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You, Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart. I pray in the name of my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.”
Revelation 21:6
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
Friday, July 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Divide Your Pain, Multiple Your Joy
Transformational Thought
Most of us are very selective about the parts of our lives we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful … partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about them again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, loneliness, guilt, fear, anxiety, and stress that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable and guaranteed sentence from which there is no relief.
Some seem to believe they accumulate degree-of-difficulty points (like in diving) for overcoming the most hardships and pain, commonly called the martyr syndrome or victim mentality. For others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of growing up that, in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. These people seem to sabotage success, or even go out of their way to create problems. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, we even forget God is with us and will provide help.
God really desires to heal the hurting parts of your life. However, some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting. He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is the book about suffering, especially spiritual suffering. The Bible tells how God loved us so much that He miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller daily sufferings we experience. Turn to your Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances remembering He is with you. He has joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you. He is communicating through your pain. Click here for a resource to help navigate your pain.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, grateful that I can come to you no matter what condition I am in … just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; You already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and recover sight to the blind, and to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18
Most of us are very selective about the parts of our lives we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful … partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about them again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, loneliness, guilt, fear, anxiety, and stress that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable and guaranteed sentence from which there is no relief.
Some seem to believe they accumulate degree-of-difficulty points (like in diving) for overcoming the most hardships and pain, commonly called the martyr syndrome or victim mentality. For others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of growing up that, in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. These people seem to sabotage success, or even go out of their way to create problems. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, we even forget God is with us and will provide help.
God really desires to heal the hurting parts of your life. However, some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting. He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is the book about suffering, especially spiritual suffering. The Bible tells how God loved us so much that He miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller daily sufferings we experience. Turn to your Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances remembering He is with you. He has joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you. He is communicating through your pain. Click here for a resource to help navigate your pain.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, grateful that I can come to you no matter what condition I am in … just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; You already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and recover sight to the blind, and to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Chasing the Right Goals?
Transformational Thought
We all like goals. Happiness, satisfaction, paying the bills on time, playing with the kids after work, getting my work done so I can watch the ballgame, helping people navigate life better. Some goals are quick and simple and some are a bit more complex.
Looking back on my life, many of my accomplishments didn’t really emerge from a well thought-out strategy or process. In fact, I rarely looked at the whole picture before pursuing my “goals.” My goals as a teen and young adult were usually me-oriented and “fixed” one problem, but ultimately gave birth to new problems. The danger was, once I set a goal, I almost become single-minded in my focus to achieve it. I headed off going about it “my way.” I realized that if I wanted to be successful and enjoy life, I really needed to change my strategy. Evaluating my goals to determine if they were healthy and God-honoring had to be the starting point. The second step was developing a new strategy to achieve these new and other more fulfilling goals.
Sounds easy. But we have so many issues working against us. To start, we are taught to be self-sufficient and to solve our own problems, because “we have all the answers.” Mix in our desire to avoid repeating past mistakes, and our fragility in handling any pain or discomfort. Blend in the fact that life happens so quickly that it is hard to step back and get an overall big-picture assessment and strategy in place. This is the recipe that Satan desires. It leads us to make short term, me-centered goals, accomplished in our own strength, and by way of knee-jerk decisions. Wow, sounds like method a teenager uses. The stark reality is that many of us adults do the same thing, and never grow out of this immature way of setting goals and developing strategies.
Today, before going after your next goal (or maybe you are in the midst of pursuing a goal) talk with God about it directly through prayer. Listen as He speaks to your spirit, through friends, family, and circumstances. Ask God for discernment to help you decide if that goal is part of His will … for you … right now. If the answer is yes, then you can pursue that goal with even more confidence. And when you reach that goal, thank God for his help and guidance. Rejoice in what He has accomplished in you. But if the answer is no, let the Holy Spirit search you as you journey. Look honestly at who you are inside and what keeps you from accomplishing goals that are Godly.
Prayer
Dear Father, Pursuing goals comes so naturally to me, it’s almost like second nature. I confess that when a goal grabs my attention, my instinct is to “go for it” without talking it over with You. I realize now that many of my goals are superficial and have nothing to do with pleasing You or doing Your work. I know, Lord, that when I take time to discuss matters with You, my life becomes so much more satisfying. I pray, Lord, that You help me develop goals that are according to Your will … that You become my captain in all the tasks I undertake to accomplish the goal. Help me grow my humility and accept Your direction, will, and timing. I pray that You shine the light of Your presence on all my goals. I pray in the name of the one modeled the ultimate goal, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16
We all like goals. Happiness, satisfaction, paying the bills on time, playing with the kids after work, getting my work done so I can watch the ballgame, helping people navigate life better. Some goals are quick and simple and some are a bit more complex.
Looking back on my life, many of my accomplishments didn’t really emerge from a well thought-out strategy or process. In fact, I rarely looked at the whole picture before pursuing my “goals.” My goals as a teen and young adult were usually me-oriented and “fixed” one problem, but ultimately gave birth to new problems. The danger was, once I set a goal, I almost become single-minded in my focus to achieve it. I headed off going about it “my way.” I realized that if I wanted to be successful and enjoy life, I really needed to change my strategy. Evaluating my goals to determine if they were healthy and God-honoring had to be the starting point. The second step was developing a new strategy to achieve these new and other more fulfilling goals.
Sounds easy. But we have so many issues working against us. To start, we are taught to be self-sufficient and to solve our own problems, because “we have all the answers.” Mix in our desire to avoid repeating past mistakes, and our fragility in handling any pain or discomfort. Blend in the fact that life happens so quickly that it is hard to step back and get an overall big-picture assessment and strategy in place. This is the recipe that Satan desires. It leads us to make short term, me-centered goals, accomplished in our own strength, and by way of knee-jerk decisions. Wow, sounds like method a teenager uses. The stark reality is that many of us adults do the same thing, and never grow out of this immature way of setting goals and developing strategies.
Today, before going after your next goal (or maybe you are in the midst of pursuing a goal) talk with God about it directly through prayer. Listen as He speaks to your spirit, through friends, family, and circumstances. Ask God for discernment to help you decide if that goal is part of His will … for you … right now. If the answer is yes, then you can pursue that goal with even more confidence. And when you reach that goal, thank God for his help and guidance. Rejoice in what He has accomplished in you. But if the answer is no, let the Holy Spirit search you as you journey. Look honestly at who you are inside and what keeps you from accomplishing goals that are Godly.
Prayer
Dear Father, Pursuing goals comes so naturally to me, it’s almost like second nature. I confess that when a goal grabs my attention, my instinct is to “go for it” without talking it over with You. I realize now that many of my goals are superficial and have nothing to do with pleasing You or doing Your work. I know, Lord, that when I take time to discuss matters with You, my life becomes so much more satisfying. I pray, Lord, that You help me develop goals that are according to Your will … that You become my captain in all the tasks I undertake to accomplish the goal. Help me grow my humility and accept Your direction, will, and timing. I pray that You shine the light of Your presence on all my goals. I pray in the name of the one modeled the ultimate goal, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Really Care For You?
Transformational Thought
I saw this message on the sign of an SPCA building, “Neglect is Abuse,” and it struck me just how profound those words are. Of course, the intention was focused on animals … but what about us humans?
Neglect isn’t a word we usually use to describe ourselves, or our society in this day and age, especially in the U.S. In fact, the opposite is usually what we hear, the ‘ME’ generation, self-indulgent … spoiled … immediate gratification … everybody gets a trophy for playing … welfare or handout state … let’s go out of our way for everybody to get attention. But think about it, are we really aware of the true inner needs, struggles, or God-placed longings in our heart? How about you? Are you paying attention and doing something constructive about your own internal needs, struggles, and longings? If you answer honestly, 98% of you will say “No.”
Few perform this honest self-assessment. But when you do assess, do you then go about addressing what you find in the most healthy, fulfilling, and life-giving way? Not self-assessing and not significantly and thoroughly addressing what you find, is self-neglect.
Neglect is prevalent in our society. We neglect ourselves, those we love, those in need … but most importantly, we also neglect our Lord. You see, God is the answer for the struggles that derail us … obstacles that hold us back … wounds that aren’t healed … patterns we struggle to break … emotions that rule us. By neglecting God, we also neglect ourselves and others.
Today, stop and think about areas in your life you are neglecting … pushing under the carpet … avoiding … suppressing … hoping nobody notices. Think about struggles you have identified, but have had trouble correcting or freeing yourself from their burden. Now trade the word abuse for neglect. In the dictionary, neglect is a synonym for abuse. Perhaps this simple word switch will help us to neglect less and start taking care of ourselves in the true sense as God called us to do. Put on the armor of God and specifically attack those strongholds today.
Prayer
Dear Father in heaven, I come to you with a guilty heart. I have been guilty of neglecting You. Forgive me, Father. I have been guilty of neglecting those I love and that I have a responsibility to care for. Replacing the word abuse for neglect makes it all seem so much worse. I ask Your forgiveness for the abuse of my body. Help me to be aware every day of those who need my care and attention. Also, help those whom I have abused to forgive me. I pray, Lord, that You working through me will end my neglect of others. With a sad heart I also realize now that others have neglected me, so help me forgive them, Lord, as You forgive me. Help them be aware that neglect is abuse. I pray in the name of the one was abused for my ultimate nurturing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message
1 Timothy 4:14
Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.
Psalm 55:10
Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 'The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst”.
John 6:35
Neglect isn’t a word we usually use to describe ourselves, or our society in this day and age, especially in the U.S. In fact, the opposite is usually what we hear, the ‘ME’ generation, self-indulgent … spoiled … immediate gratification … everybody gets a trophy for playing … welfare or handout state … let’s go out of our way for everybody to get attention. But think about it, are we really aware of the true inner needs, struggles, or God-placed longings in our heart? How about you? Are you paying attention and doing something constructive about your own internal needs, struggles, and longings? If you answer honestly, 98% of you will say “No.”
Few perform this honest self-assessment. But when you do assess, do you then go about addressing what you find in the most healthy, fulfilling, and life-giving way? Not self-assessing and not significantly and thoroughly addressing what you find, is self-neglect.
Neglect is prevalent in our society. We neglect ourselves, those we love, those in need … but most importantly, we also neglect our Lord. You see, God is the answer for the struggles that derail us … obstacles that hold us back … wounds that aren’t healed … patterns we struggle to break … emotions that rule us. By neglecting God, we also neglect ourselves and others.
Today, stop and think about areas in your life you are neglecting … pushing under the carpet … avoiding … suppressing … hoping nobody notices. Think about struggles you have identified, but have had trouble correcting or freeing yourself from their burden. Now trade the word abuse for neglect. In the dictionary, neglect is a synonym for abuse. Perhaps this simple word switch will help us to neglect less and start taking care of ourselves in the true sense as God called us to do. Put on the armor of God and specifically attack those strongholds today.
Prayer
Dear Father in heaven, I come to you with a guilty heart. I have been guilty of neglecting You. Forgive me, Father. I have been guilty of neglecting those I love and that I have a responsibility to care for. Replacing the word abuse for neglect makes it all seem so much worse. I ask Your forgiveness for the abuse of my body. Help me to be aware every day of those who need my care and attention. Also, help those whom I have abused to forgive me. I pray, Lord, that You working through me will end my neglect of others. With a sad heart I also realize now that others have neglected me, so help me forgive them, Lord, as You forgive me. Help them be aware that neglect is abuse. I pray in the name of the one was abused for my ultimate nurturing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message
1 Timothy 4:14
Day and night they prowl about on its walls; malice and abuse are within it.
Psalm 55:10
Jesus answered, "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 'The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst”.
John 6:35
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: Judging Others … Or Exposing Yourself?
Transformational Thought
We are all so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses ... not lawyers and judges. So, as we understand our calling more fully, we will become more patient and understanding with others.
When we take the role of judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, or making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our own heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of our insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affect the lenses we use to see life, others, and ultimately God.
When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess, instead of being quick to speak. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that causes your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.
During this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy ... whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, or sadness. Whatever the feeling that prompts you to judge, trust God to comfort you and give you power to prevent the emotion from ruling you. Then exercise that power, settle yourself, and examine with your mouth shut.
Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak ... and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God, not as a judge. Let the judging happen in your own heart first, then disciple others next. Self-reflection will clear the smudge off your lenses and the truth will free you from carrying so much baggage. WITHIN REACH helps you do this. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become impatient with others ... especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding, I become judgmental and angry ... saying things I wish I didn’t. Help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Help me to see others as You see them ... tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness ... not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be as patient toward others as You are with me. Help me to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to show me about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today. I pray in the name of the one who was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
We are all so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses ... not lawyers and judges. So, as we understand our calling more fully, we will become more patient and understanding with others.
When we take the role of judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, or making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our own heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of our insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affect the lenses we use to see life, others, and ultimately God.
When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess, instead of being quick to speak. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that causes your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.
During this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy ... whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, or sadness. Whatever the feeling that prompts you to judge, trust God to comfort you and give you power to prevent the emotion from ruling you. Then exercise that power, settle yourself, and examine with your mouth shut.
Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak ... and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God, not as a judge. Let the judging happen in your own heart first, then disciple others next. Self-reflection will clear the smudge off your lenses and the truth will free you from carrying so much baggage. WITHIN REACH helps you do this. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become impatient with others ... especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding, I become judgmental and angry ... saying things I wish I didn’t. Help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Help me to see others as You see them ... tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness ... not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be as patient toward others as You are with me. Help me to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to show me about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today. I pray in the name of the one who was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Thirsty? Beware What You Drink
Transformational Thought
Our family was at the beach last week with my parents, brother and sister, and their families. We had a great time in the ocean and enjoyed various activities in the area. But one of our favorite activities in the evening, after a belly-busting dinner and some family devotions, is playing some board games or cards together. Stories of our childhood entertain our kids, and we all have funny comments or observations about our different perspectives and little secrets of growing up in our “interesting” family.
By the end of the night though, I was so bloated. Why? Because I drank so much limeade and soda. I hardly ever drink very much, so why now? After playing and sweating on the beach and being in the salt water all day, then eating a bunch of salty snacks and a huge salty dinner, I was dehydrated and didn’t even know it. Being so thirsty, over the course of a couple hours, I progressively and unintentionally guzzled so much that I was actually uncomfortable.
This is how our spiritual life often plays out. The world around us is so active, always speeding up and filled with options. As we get older, the activities are more complex and require more time, attention, and energy, and have more pressure associated with them. We become so engaged in them that both the enjoyable and the unpleasant activities alike can be draining.
As a result, without realizing it, we get spiritually thirsty for purpose, value, connection, attention, achievement, peace, love, and direction among other things. Unfortunately, this world offers more distractions than you can fit into one lifetime. We are thirsty, and at times, because of those distractions, we don’t even realize we are dehydrated. So, to unknowingly quench this thirst we start to unconsciously look to the world’s nectar and juices … idols. These idols provide some temporary relief … we get bloated and uncomfortable. Yet the thirst remains because the idol will never fulfill the need.
Today, try to understand that your deepest desire and drive is for a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. His joy and peace is the only way to satisfy your thirst. Take a look at some of the attitudes or objects you turn to … food, alcohol, attention, gossip, isolation, control, anger, shopping, status, money … when you are “thirsty” and need something. You are drinking for sure, but drinking the wrong thing will bring so much pain. Drinking the Living Water will bring all you will ever desire.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thirsty … my soul is thirsty. At times I confuse this thirst with just being tired or stressed out. So I start searching for relief, or at least for some distractions. I know that all the while You are standing next to me … ready to quench my thirst. My soul thirsts for You, Lord. Allow Your gifts of Joy and Peace to enhance my awareness of You. I pray this in the name the only one who can quench my thirst, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah
Psalm 143:6
As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
Psalm 42:1-2
Jesus said to her, "Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
John 4:13-14
Our family was at the beach last week with my parents, brother and sister, and their families. We had a great time in the ocean and enjoyed various activities in the area. But one of our favorite activities in the evening, after a belly-busting dinner and some family devotions, is playing some board games or cards together. Stories of our childhood entertain our kids, and we all have funny comments or observations about our different perspectives and little secrets of growing up in our “interesting” family.
By the end of the night though, I was so bloated. Why? Because I drank so much limeade and soda. I hardly ever drink very much, so why now? After playing and sweating on the beach and being in the salt water all day, then eating a bunch of salty snacks and a huge salty dinner, I was dehydrated and didn’t even know it. Being so thirsty, over the course of a couple hours, I progressively and unintentionally guzzled so much that I was actually uncomfortable.
This is how our spiritual life often plays out. The world around us is so active, always speeding up and filled with options. As we get older, the activities are more complex and require more time, attention, and energy, and have more pressure associated with them. We become so engaged in them that both the enjoyable and the unpleasant activities alike can be draining.
As a result, without realizing it, we get spiritually thirsty for purpose, value, connection, attention, achievement, peace, love, and direction among other things. Unfortunately, this world offers more distractions than you can fit into one lifetime. We are thirsty, and at times, because of those distractions, we don’t even realize we are dehydrated. So, to unknowingly quench this thirst we start to unconsciously look to the world’s nectar and juices … idols. These idols provide some temporary relief … we get bloated and uncomfortable. Yet the thirst remains because the idol will never fulfill the need.
Today, try to understand that your deepest desire and drive is for a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. His joy and peace is the only way to satisfy your thirst. Take a look at some of the attitudes or objects you turn to … food, alcohol, attention, gossip, isolation, control, anger, shopping, status, money … when you are “thirsty” and need something. You are drinking for sure, but drinking the wrong thing will bring so much pain. Drinking the Living Water will bring all you will ever desire.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thirsty … my soul is thirsty. At times I confuse this thirst with just being tired or stressed out. So I start searching for relief, or at least for some distractions. I know that all the while You are standing next to me … ready to quench my thirst. My soul thirsts for You, Lord. Allow Your gifts of Joy and Peace to enhance my awareness of You. I pray this in the name the only one who can quench my thirst, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah
Psalm 143:6
As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
Psalm 42:1-2
Jesus said to her, "Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
John 4:13-14
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: When The Laughter Ends…
Transformational Thought
Most of us have some degree of trouble admitting our true feelings or being able to express them, especially if we are struggling with life-interfering problems. But throughout the Bible, God encourages us to be in touch with our feelings and to know them. Then He doesn’t want us to keep them hidden inside. Jesus set an example for us: He had emotions and he expressed them. He cried. He got angry. He was sad. He was concerned and sweated blood in the garden.
We often hide the way we feel behind a defense to keep our real selves from showing through. Inside we may feel angry, or fearful or sad, but we hide those feelings by joking…or acting superior or looking important…using sarcastic comments…being silent…deflecting attention to something else…anesthetizing it with substances or food…isolating or employing some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter, but when the laughter ends, the hurt or loss remains. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.
Hiding our feelings gives them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger, fear, unforgiveness, or guilt will have a destructive influence on everything we do. We only have a small box inside to keep these feelings in…it overflows quickly. And when it overflows, those feelings will come out into our real everyday functioning…that is a fact.
Your choice is very simple. Express your feelings as they happen in ways that are controllable, functional, measured, healthy, respectful, and useful to you while they match the situation. Or instead, while you are trying to hold in your feelings they will start to overflow from that little container inside and ooze out in ways that are uncontrollable, dysfunctional, random, sabotaging your efforts to deal with the situation at hand and move forward. This is what usually happens and why we are so afraid of our feelings or other people’s feelings.
Today, ask yourself this question: has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned first-hand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? Your suppressed feelings are coming back to undermine your happiness and relationships. Admitting your feelings can be a turning point. Be honest with yourself…and with God…and then with a friend. Being real will open the door for healing. Journaling your feelings as they come up is a good step towards better commanding your emotions.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been hiding my feelings for a long time, but I know now it's time to be honest. Help me to be real. Help me to have better awareness of my feelings and more control in expressing them. Set me free from their grip. Soothe me and increase my awareness of Your soothing. Help me to share my real feelings with my loved ones. I pray in the name of the One whom You sent to be my perfect emotional role model, Jesus Christ - and all God’s children said AMEN!
The Truth
Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, but when laughter ends, the grief remains.
Proverbs 14:13
Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
and give no opportunity to the devil.
Ephesians 4:26,27
Most of us have some degree of trouble admitting our true feelings or being able to express them, especially if we are struggling with life-interfering problems. But throughout the Bible, God encourages us to be in touch with our feelings and to know them. Then He doesn’t want us to keep them hidden inside. Jesus set an example for us: He had emotions and he expressed them. He cried. He got angry. He was sad. He was concerned and sweated blood in the garden.
We often hide the way we feel behind a defense to keep our real selves from showing through. Inside we may feel angry, or fearful or sad, but we hide those feelings by joking…or acting superior or looking important…using sarcastic comments…being silent…deflecting attention to something else…anesthetizing it with substances or food…isolating or employing some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter, but when the laughter ends, the hurt or loss remains. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.
Hiding our feelings gives them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger, fear, unforgiveness, or guilt will have a destructive influence on everything we do. We only have a small box inside to keep these feelings in…it overflows quickly. And when it overflows, those feelings will come out into our real everyday functioning…that is a fact.
Your choice is very simple. Express your feelings as they happen in ways that are controllable, functional, measured, healthy, respectful, and useful to you while they match the situation. Or instead, while you are trying to hold in your feelings they will start to overflow from that little container inside and ooze out in ways that are uncontrollable, dysfunctional, random, sabotaging your efforts to deal with the situation at hand and move forward. This is what usually happens and why we are so afraid of our feelings or other people’s feelings.
Today, ask yourself this question: has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned first-hand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? Your suppressed feelings are coming back to undermine your happiness and relationships. Admitting your feelings can be a turning point. Be honest with yourself…and with God…and then with a friend. Being real will open the door for healing. Journaling your feelings as they come up is a good step towards better commanding your emotions.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been hiding my feelings for a long time, but I know now it's time to be honest. Help me to be real. Help me to have better awareness of my feelings and more control in expressing them. Set me free from their grip. Soothe me and increase my awareness of Your soothing. Help me to share my real feelings with my loved ones. I pray in the name of the One whom You sent to be my perfect emotional role model, Jesus Christ - and all God’s children said AMEN!
The Truth
Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, but when laughter ends, the grief remains.
Proverbs 14:13
Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
and give no opportunity to the devil.
Ephesians 4:26,27
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Divorce: Despair or Trust?
Transformational Thought
Divorce is the ultimate relationship wound and loss. When marriage problems end in separation and then divorce, the loss is deeply experienced not only by the couple, but also by the entire family. It even impacts friends and often the coworkers of that family. Divorce can leave the family in suspended animation and battles usually rage for many years after.
Recovering from divorce involves working through a grieving process, much like when a spouse has died. It also involves making choices. You might not have had a choice in getting a divorce, but you do have choices in your response. Will you hold on to bitterness and anger…or will you forgive? Will you give up and give in to despair…or will you trust Jesus to help you rebuild your life on Him and not on your marriage or your spouse? Will you walk in fear…or will you be courageous to face the future God has for you? Do you trust you, marriage, your ex-, or God?
Satan and your flesh, filled with insecurities and hurt, will try to influence your me-centered focus to give up, to feel like a failure, to feel no hope is possible, and that you’ve lost everything. You have to resist these lies and distortions. Remember, Satan is the Great Deceiver. He has no other character trait to relate to the truth.
Divorce can bring one of the most intense pains possible into a person's life. But you don't have to go through it alone. Jesus loves you and wants to help you. If you will commit your ways to Him, the Holy Spirit will guide you in making those choices…He will give you the courage you need…and He will restore your hope. With God, all things are possible.
Today, if you are thinking about divorce, STOP! This is not God’s plan, and therefore will be a nightmare for you and a lot of loss for many. If you are divorced, dive into the Bible and get to a church based Divorce Recovery group so you can process and heal using Biblical truths and lenses. If you are a child from divorced parents, really examine the lies that divorce embeds in your mind about you, your parents, and relationships. If you know people in these situations, be there to help them genuinely heal and see God and life more clearly, because Satan really uses divorce to suck the soul out of people and make them his puppets.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the poor choices I have made in the past. I know divorce saddens You. My hurt and loss seem unbearable at times. Please help me access the strength, power, peace, and comfort You provide to overcome. I know that through You I will not just overcome, but even thrive as a result of learning through these experiences to put all my eggs in Your basket alone. Right now I have to make so many decisions. I need your help. Help me to choose the right path…the one that is right for my family and for me, and most of all the path that pleases You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who shows us what step to take next, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
Psalm 25:12
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3
So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.
Matthew 19:6
Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24
Divorce is the ultimate relationship wound and loss. When marriage problems end in separation and then divorce, the loss is deeply experienced not only by the couple, but also by the entire family. It even impacts friends and often the coworkers of that family. Divorce can leave the family in suspended animation and battles usually rage for many years after.
Recovering from divorce involves working through a grieving process, much like when a spouse has died. It also involves making choices. You might not have had a choice in getting a divorce, but you do have choices in your response. Will you hold on to bitterness and anger…or will you forgive? Will you give up and give in to despair…or will you trust Jesus to help you rebuild your life on Him and not on your marriage or your spouse? Will you walk in fear…or will you be courageous to face the future God has for you? Do you trust you, marriage, your ex-, or God?
Satan and your flesh, filled with insecurities and hurt, will try to influence your me-centered focus to give up, to feel like a failure, to feel no hope is possible, and that you’ve lost everything. You have to resist these lies and distortions. Remember, Satan is the Great Deceiver. He has no other character trait to relate to the truth.
Divorce can bring one of the most intense pains possible into a person's life. But you don't have to go through it alone. Jesus loves you and wants to help you. If you will commit your ways to Him, the Holy Spirit will guide you in making those choices…He will give you the courage you need…and He will restore your hope. With God, all things are possible.
Today, if you are thinking about divorce, STOP! This is not God’s plan, and therefore will be a nightmare for you and a lot of loss for many. If you are divorced, dive into the Bible and get to a church based Divorce Recovery group so you can process and heal using Biblical truths and lenses. If you are a child from divorced parents, really examine the lies that divorce embeds in your mind about you, your parents, and relationships. If you know people in these situations, be there to help them genuinely heal and see God and life more clearly, because Satan really uses divorce to suck the soul out of people and make them his puppets.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the poor choices I have made in the past. I know divorce saddens You. My hurt and loss seem unbearable at times. Please help me access the strength, power, peace, and comfort You provide to overcome. I know that through You I will not just overcome, but even thrive as a result of learning through these experiences to put all my eggs in Your basket alone. Right now I have to make so many decisions. I need your help. Help me to choose the right path…the one that is right for my family and for me, and most of all the path that pleases You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who shows us what step to take next, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
Psalm 25:12
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3
So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.
Matthew 19:6
Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Stepping Stones: What’s Your Body Image?
Transformational Thought
We need God. We won’t enjoy life, be fulfilled in life, or attain our God-given potential without closeness to Him. God desires it as well. Unfortunately, so many factors and forces keep us from this closeness to God. Eating disorders are one of those forces. 30-35% of our society struggle with significant eating issues that disrupt their lives.
“Eating Disorder” basically means unhealthy habits of restricting nutritional intake, overeating (yes, this is a large part of our American society), or being obsessed with or spending too much time focusing on or actually worshipping elements, rituals, or the results of eating. It really becomes an addiction. People tend to get so preoccupied with body image, and what others think, that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns, or lack of concerns, about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their health, relationships, and their ability to function in day-to-day life.
Like almost everything in life, God gave us food to use in moderation. Too much isn’t good, but not enough isn’t good either. Our body is a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in and God wants us to be good stewards of our body and health. But more importantly, we need to look at the psychological and spiritual aspects of our eating habits. If you are in this situation, determine not to let your focus on your body or food keep you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy: pursuing the "perfect" image, or focusing on your spiritual growth and your personal and interpersonal needs.
The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees. Society changes its view of what is beautiful...styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your distorted thoughts and feelings about your body and food, and keeping God's view in mind are essential to accepting yourself and your body. We all have feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Don’t let food or your body image be your soothing mechanism. Let God and His grace and love bring you the peace you really are hungry for and crave. He is one buffet where you may eat all you can without consequences!
Today, as you approach food and eat meals, examine the importance you put on these elements. What do you get out of it? Are food and your eating habits a coping mechanism for you? Are you getting healthier, or are you harming your health? Remember, your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you do. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH can help.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about food or used it to comfort me that I've ignored You…and relationships with others I care about have suffered. Please help me begin thinking more clearly...to see things from Your point of view. Thank You for loving me just the way I am. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7
We need God. We won’t enjoy life, be fulfilled in life, or attain our God-given potential without closeness to Him. God desires it as well. Unfortunately, so many factors and forces keep us from this closeness to God. Eating disorders are one of those forces. 30-35% of our society struggle with significant eating issues that disrupt their lives.
“Eating Disorder” basically means unhealthy habits of restricting nutritional intake, overeating (yes, this is a large part of our American society), or being obsessed with or spending too much time focusing on or actually worshipping elements, rituals, or the results of eating. It really becomes an addiction. People tend to get so preoccupied with body image, and what others think, that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns, or lack of concerns, about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their health, relationships, and their ability to function in day-to-day life.
Like almost everything in life, God gave us food to use in moderation. Too much isn’t good, but not enough isn’t good either. Our body is a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in and God wants us to be good stewards of our body and health. But more importantly, we need to look at the psychological and spiritual aspects of our eating habits. If you are in this situation, determine not to let your focus on your body or food keep you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy: pursuing the "perfect" image, or focusing on your spiritual growth and your personal and interpersonal needs.
The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees. Society changes its view of what is beautiful...styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your distorted thoughts and feelings about your body and food, and keeping God's view in mind are essential to accepting yourself and your body. We all have feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Don’t let food or your body image be your soothing mechanism. Let God and His grace and love bring you the peace you really are hungry for and crave. He is one buffet where you may eat all you can without consequences!
Today, as you approach food and eat meals, examine the importance you put on these elements. What do you get out of it? Are food and your eating habits a coping mechanism for you? Are you getting healthier, or are you harming your health? Remember, your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you do. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH can help.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about food or used it to comfort me that I've ignored You…and relationships with others I care about have suffered. Please help me begin thinking more clearly...to see things from Your point of view. Thank You for loving me just the way I am. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Stepping Stones: Who’s Your Best Friend?
Transformational Thought
I love sports, especially when I was a kid. Sports really were my most loyal and consistent companion growing up. Actually, sports were my best friend and main comforter while growing up, in fact, almost everything I did revolved around sports.
One favorite activity, when I wasn’t feeling connected, heard, or taken seriously, I would go up to my room and re-create pro basketball games in my bedroom. A rolled up pair of socks made a great ball, and a hanging lamp played the basket. I was an awesome shot and in my fantasy game, I always won. My fantasy helped soothe and distract my mind from the hurt, and escape to someplace where I was important, valued, and life was enjoyable.
When we feel misunderstood, devalued, or even just simply overlooked, we turn to things that we believe will make us feel better; eating, shopping, sex, alcohol, drugs, TV, pornography, gossiping, exercise, gardening, knitting, cooking, a business deal, or a work project. The list is endless.
However, after a mild blip of satisfaction, none of these things really make us feel better over the long run. None of these idolatrous substitutes satisfies the thirst for what we truly desire; God’s compassionate, unfailing love. In fact, these substitutes, take us farther away from what God offers us. Satan offers many empty substitutes, only God offers real and lasting love, comfort, and peace.
Today, identify what you turn to for soothing and comfort. Recognize your pattern and strategy. Is it really self-protective or is it actually self-destructive? When you are feeling misunderstood, overlooked…hungry and thirsty for satisfaction, remember this; God is the Lover of your soul, and He understands you perfectly, and loves you eternally. Reach out to Him through prayer, the Word, and listen. Cease striving and know that He is God! Take one promise you know of His and act like you believe it. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that it is my soul that You love, and not my appearance or performance. I am often dissatisfied with both of these…especially when I make them my focus. There are so many empty substitutes in this world, so many things to turn to when I want to feel better about myself, or to provide a distraction so I don’t have to think about why I am hurting. Father, help me experience more fully Your unconditional love. Help me relax in Your loving presence and to always turn my focus to You. I know that You created me to know You, love You, and make You the center of my life. I pray with hope in the name of my best friend, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted amongst the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
“Though the mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed” say the Lord who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
Friday, September 3, 2010
Stepping Stones: Waiting on God is Active, Not Passive
Transformational Thought
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss it and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful, knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our I “need” it now mentality. These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do, as we actively wait and trust God do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with Him…all day…every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or it isn’t clear what you should do in. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond….rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many short comings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You…for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You’ve designed for me. I know that waiting on You enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness
Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I loved comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, but not only was poor reader, I couldn’t draw.
Writing a book is hard…trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate.
That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He write, actually prepares, each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God and parts of the great script He has written especially for us.
Just being an actor in the story is so much easier…give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don’t take the role of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, by trying to fill up the blank page of your day. Instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story.
Try to live responsively…meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty. God’s sovereignty, power, control, autonomy, authority over the universe.
Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author.
Prayer
Dear Father, You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life – discovering what You are doing and responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know, Lord, that there is a part of me that likes to be in control…call the shots. Please teach me, Lord, the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me, Lord, form all forms of distraction that hampers my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife come into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you where you’ve been the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person, and also attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God searches for those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? There is something you are holding onto too tightly, so what would you have to give up to let Him in that area for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Again, you must decide. Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; he poured out his life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Stepping Stones: What Tree Will You Fix Your Eyes On?
Transformational Thought
On the playground, there was a round ride that was about 15 feet in diameter, 18 inches off the ground, and you could spin it really fast. It was a lot of fun jumping on and whizzing around. But then I would get so dizzy. One day, I was told if I want to avoid getting dizzy, I should fix my eyes on a certain point (a tree was the easiest) while I was spinning around and I didn’t get dizzy anymore. It worked and then I could really enjoy the ride.
The world is changing faster than we can measure…and that’s an understatement. It is a time of instability, yet we have this yearning for stability, which usually equates with security; for that eternal, invisible reality. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It will keep us from getting distracted and then dizzy spinning around the ever faster merry-go-round of life.
A lot of times we feel stability or permanence is too predictable, expected, conventional, or even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, new, different, or unique is more desirable, exciting, stimulating and soothing. Interesting though when we go on vacation, we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need a nap, feel a little discombobulated, and then come back home and don’t feel rested. Lots of people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation. It’s because we are out of our routine. We lose site of what is steady and true.
Today, if and when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the only place where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. Seek His wisdom and principles for that situation that is making you a bit dizzy, As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy, but instead, enjoy the ride of your life.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change that You are the one who never changes. You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You, Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart. I pray in the name of my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.”
Revelation 21:6
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
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