February 1, 2012
Transformational Thought
We have all seen a loved one make some destructive decisions. When someone we love is in the grip of a harmful pattern, we naturally want to help. In spite of our best intentions though, our efforts are sometimes actually more harmful than helpful. The psychobabble term for this is “enabling,” otherwise known as “good intentions gone wrong.”
Enabling means providing someone with the power or means to continue the very dysfunctional behavior that your action is actually trying to stop or prevent. In essence, enabling makes it a lot easier for those who are struggling to continue in their self-destructive behaviors.
A major component of our enabling behaviors is that they keep our struggling loved one from feeling the painful consequences that are important and could significantly influence them to stop their dysfunctional decisions before their problems spiral out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue people from the consequences of their choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again. We are then called a “nag” or a “martyr” when we try to “undo” the enabling and hound intrude on them about the behavior.
Here are common examples of enabling. Do you find yourself covering up or “living with” the behavior of a friend, child, or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. Are you reminding them to do certain chores or tasks so that they don’t get the consequences they deserve? Do you find yourself giving them "one more chance"… over and over again? Do you care more than they do about the consequences they might get? Do you feel you are being held hostage by their behaviors?
A big component of our enabling behavior is our inability to tolerate negative feelings in others or ourselves. These feelings are generated when someone struggles and faces potential consequences. We feel very uncomfortable when they feel sad, hurt, or have to endure a consequence, or when we anticipate their sadness or enduring consequences. So we keep nagging, threatening, or pushing them to accomplish their task, and sometimes we even do the task for them. Perhaps we do their homework or project, drive them to school after missing the bus, give them one last chance – for the third time.
Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved one is to be supportive and to facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it in their particular area of struggle. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix it, because they need to learn how to fix it. You aren’t going to be around all the time. You need to encourage them when they have made an error, but not protect them from the necessary consequences. You must allow them to learn from the natural consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping or harming the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God, not you, determine the consequences that will open their eyes, change their behavior, and hopefully, transform their heart. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, not trying to fix my loved one’s problems is so hard. My urge is to come to the rescue instead of letting her suffer the consequences. I realize now, that when I rescue her, I am actually crippling her from learning skills to rescue herself. Then I have to come to the rescue again and again … and nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You … help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and the discomfort of others. Help me to allow Your consequences and lessons for them to play out. I pray this in the name of the One who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19
And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18
Showing posts with label Confidence. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Confidence. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Stepping Stones: Untie from Your Addiction, Be Tied Together to God
January 30, 2012
Transformational Thought
According to the latest statistics, tens of millions of people in the U.S. are tormented by compulsive addictions. An addict’s primary relationship is with a drug or a behavior, not with himself or anyone else. That drug or behavior is their path to the supposed relief they so desire. Our society, in large part, denies the addiction problem as treatment centers and state hospitals close, program funding is cut, and insurance reimbursement for treatment decreases. The walking wounded are therefore usually on their own to get help for themselves and their families.
“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of a sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature.”
Galatians 5:16-17
Transformational Thought
According to the latest statistics, tens of millions of people in the U.S. are tormented by compulsive addictions. An addict’s primary relationship is with a drug or a behavior, not with himself or anyone else. That drug or behavior is their path to the supposed relief they so desire. Our society, in large part, denies the addiction problem as treatment centers and state hospitals close, program funding is cut, and insurance reimbursement for treatment decreases. The walking wounded are therefore usually on their own to get help for themselves and their families.
Physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychological disabilities brought on by addictions are rampant. The drug environment and the impurities associated with it, namely secondary infections, also cause major damage - especially with illegal drugs. Regardless of the type of addiction, this lifestyle causes a person to be only a shadow of what God intended.
There. That’s the bad news. Now the good news. Have you ever noticed what a bad rap the word ”religion” has gotten? It’s no longer regarded as the original word suggests. The Latin root of the word is “ligio,” meaning to tie or bind together. An example is a woman having her tubes tied, or a tubal ligation. To “re-ligio” means that something that was once tied became untied, and it is now re-tied or bound together again. There is no better example than the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve disobeyed God, causing the tie of perfect fellowship with God to become untied. God’s plan of salvation, through Christ’s sacrifice once and for all, re-tied us back together into relationship with God for eternity, by His grace alone. He does the work. We just need to accept His payment for our debt.
Addiction is synonymous with idolatry. When we strongly desire something as much as or more than we desire God, we have given ourselves to a false god, a weak imitation. We have become unbound from God because of our addiction. What we give our time, money, and energy to does become our god. We then become like our object of worship, a cheap imitation of what we were really meant to be. I am always amazed at what I used to pursue, and sometimes even now pursue, to soothe my discomfort. I have endured dire spiritual consequences for the sake of momentary thrills or escapes.
Today, God stands ready and willing to forgive and restore those who have been carried away by addictions. If you have an overt addiction let Him in and trust His ways, not yours. Becoming untied causes us to disintegrate, but receiving God’s gift of healing allows us to re-integrate, restoring us to what God intended us to be in the first place! If you don’t have an overt addiction, examine what you go to when you are uncomfortable. If it is God’s word and prayer, awesome. If it is anything else, then you have an addiction and need to wrestle with that. Start to look at why you turn to those other items before God. Don’t be embarrassed, just be honest. Your journey closer to God and the Mind of Christ depends on it. Life is your decision, so choose well!
There. That’s the bad news. Now the good news. Have you ever noticed what a bad rap the word ”religion” has gotten? It’s no longer regarded as the original word suggests. The Latin root of the word is “ligio,” meaning to tie or bind together. An example is a woman having her tubes tied, or a tubal ligation. To “re-ligio” means that something that was once tied became untied, and it is now re-tied or bound together again. There is no better example than the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve disobeyed God, causing the tie of perfect fellowship with God to become untied. God’s plan of salvation, through Christ’s sacrifice once and for all, re-tied us back together into relationship with God for eternity, by His grace alone. He does the work. We just need to accept His payment for our debt.
Addiction is synonymous with idolatry. When we strongly desire something as much as or more than we desire God, we have given ourselves to a false god, a weak imitation. We have become unbound from God because of our addiction. What we give our time, money, and energy to does become our god. We then become like our object of worship, a cheap imitation of what we were really meant to be. I am always amazed at what I used to pursue, and sometimes even now pursue, to soothe my discomfort. I have endured dire spiritual consequences for the sake of momentary thrills or escapes.
Today, God stands ready and willing to forgive and restore those who have been carried away by addictions. If you have an overt addiction let Him in and trust His ways, not yours. Becoming untied causes us to disintegrate, but receiving God’s gift of healing allows us to re-integrate, restoring us to what God intended us to be in the first place! If you don’t have an overt addiction, examine what you go to when you are uncomfortable. If it is God’s word and prayer, awesome. If it is anything else, then you have an addiction and need to wrestle with that. Start to look at why you turn to those other items before God. Don’t be embarrassed, just be honest. Your journey closer to God and the Mind of Christ depends on it. Life is your decision, so choose well!
Prayer
Father God, You are our source and our strength, and a very present help in time of trouble. Deliver us out of the claws of addictions and addictive behaviors. We need Your supernatural strength to overcome the self-destructive effects of mood-altering chemicals and mind injuring behaviors. Heal and restore us in body, mind, and spirit to what You intended us to be. We ask this in the powerful, comforting, and re-tying name of Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”
2 Corinthians 7:1
The Truth
“Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”
2 Corinthians 7:1
“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of a sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature.”
Galatians 5:16-17
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Stepping Stones: Check Up from the Neck Up. Do You Have Spiritual Schizophrenia?
January 28-29, 2012
Transformational Thought
What’s the one major problem that gives believers in Christ the most trouble, today, in the twenty-first century? Probably the same problem that dates back thousands of years: being double-minded. James 1:8 tells us that a “double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” But what does it really mean to be double-minded? At times I know what I should do, but later that day, I may find myself doing the exact opposite, making a poor decision. Does that ever happen to you? Do you suffer from Spiritual Schizophrenia?
The Bible is filled with many examples of Biblical studs being double-minded. Adam and Eve when they ate the apple. Abraham when he lied that Sarah was his sister and when he slept with Hagar. David, when he took Bathsheba, then killed off Uriah. Jonah when he went the opposite direction of Nineveh. Peter when he denied Christ even after being forewarned!
As believers, we are instructed by Paul, in Philippians, to have the mind of Christ. Our love, affection, and devotion are to be for our Lord first and foremost. Whenever we are Christ-centered in our beliefs, thoughts, and actions, living for Him is our single purpose. James 1:14 tells us that we are tempted when we are drawn away, or carried away by our own lust. The word lust is the strongest word we have for desire, and James warns this desire blinds us to be enticed to pursue the object of our lust to relieve or fill an emotional, psychological, and ultimately, a spiritual, need. Our minds and hearts become divided in directions other than Christ, creating a schism or split within us. Thinking we are serving God, but really serving ourselves.
Often, we find ourselves immersed in behaviors we really know are wrong. Some refer to this as cognitive dissonance, or a disharmony within that feels like a splitting or tearing inside. We develop physical or emotional symptoms of agitation, anxiety, panic, and depression. We can become derailed in our thinking and motivation. Ultimately, as James reminds us, when sin is finished, it brings forth death and separation … from God, others, and ourselves. So much for the advantages of being double-minded.
You see, double-mindedness comes from the brainwashing and deception of Satan. He wants to distort your lenses, as perception is the most important of the 6 components in every decision you make, everyday. We have to be diligent in all our decisions, slowing our mind down, taking every thought captive, and maintaining focus on reality and the truth. Then single-mindedness becomes rather simple, I am serious.
Today, submit to a checkup. Examine whether you are trying to serve 2 masters, God and yourself. Thankfully, God has provided the remedy through his Son, Jesus. As Oswald Chambers frequently taught, God has done for us what we could not do for ourselves. He saves, justifies, sanctifies, and empowers us with His Spirit to live for Him. But God will never do for us what we can do for ourselves, namely, build our character by making our choices for us. In choosing to live Godly, we must have Christ’s mind and purpose. Life is your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH is a workshop to help you apply the power of the Holy Spirit as you exercise your free will in making these daily decisions.
Prayer
Father God, thank You that you voluntarily assumed human nature and took on the limitations as a man; yet, You remained one hundred percent Divine. You lived a sinless life knowing that we could not, but counted us as righteous if we would trust and believe You died and rose again for us. Help us to live today for You, so we prevent the condition of being double-minded. We ask this in the strong name of Jesus. And all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
Psalm 42:5
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
I Peter 1:3
Transformational Thought
What’s the one major problem that gives believers in Christ the most trouble, today, in the twenty-first century? Probably the same problem that dates back thousands of years: being double-minded. James 1:8 tells us that a “double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” But what does it really mean to be double-minded? At times I know what I should do, but later that day, I may find myself doing the exact opposite, making a poor decision. Does that ever happen to you? Do you suffer from Spiritual Schizophrenia?
The Bible is filled with many examples of Biblical studs being double-minded. Adam and Eve when they ate the apple. Abraham when he lied that Sarah was his sister and when he slept with Hagar. David, when he took Bathsheba, then killed off Uriah. Jonah when he went the opposite direction of Nineveh. Peter when he denied Christ even after being forewarned!
As believers, we are instructed by Paul, in Philippians, to have the mind of Christ. Our love, affection, and devotion are to be for our Lord first and foremost. Whenever we are Christ-centered in our beliefs, thoughts, and actions, living for Him is our single purpose. James 1:14 tells us that we are tempted when we are drawn away, or carried away by our own lust. The word lust is the strongest word we have for desire, and James warns this desire blinds us to be enticed to pursue the object of our lust to relieve or fill an emotional, psychological, and ultimately, a spiritual, need. Our minds and hearts become divided in directions other than Christ, creating a schism or split within us. Thinking we are serving God, but really serving ourselves.
Often, we find ourselves immersed in behaviors we really know are wrong. Some refer to this as cognitive dissonance, or a disharmony within that feels like a splitting or tearing inside. We develop physical or emotional symptoms of agitation, anxiety, panic, and depression. We can become derailed in our thinking and motivation. Ultimately, as James reminds us, when sin is finished, it brings forth death and separation … from God, others, and ourselves. So much for the advantages of being double-minded.
You see, double-mindedness comes from the brainwashing and deception of Satan. He wants to distort your lenses, as perception is the most important of the 6 components in every decision you make, everyday. We have to be diligent in all our decisions, slowing our mind down, taking every thought captive, and maintaining focus on reality and the truth. Then single-mindedness becomes rather simple, I am serious.
Today, submit to a checkup. Examine whether you are trying to serve 2 masters, God and yourself. Thankfully, God has provided the remedy through his Son, Jesus. As Oswald Chambers frequently taught, God has done for us what we could not do for ourselves. He saves, justifies, sanctifies, and empowers us with His Spirit to live for Him. But God will never do for us what we can do for ourselves, namely, build our character by making our choices for us. In choosing to live Godly, we must have Christ’s mind and purpose. Life is your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH is a workshop to help you apply the power of the Holy Spirit as you exercise your free will in making these daily decisions.
Prayer
Father God, thank You that you voluntarily assumed human nature and took on the limitations as a man; yet, You remained one hundred percent Divine. You lived a sinless life knowing that we could not, but counted us as righteous if we would trust and believe You died and rose again for us. Help us to live today for You, so we prevent the condition of being double-minded. We ask this in the strong name of Jesus. And all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
Psalm 42:5
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
I Peter 1:3
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Stepping Stones: Divorce: Despair or Trust?
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
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
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
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: See What Is Invisible
Transformational Thought
God is not like us. He’s not flesh and blood, and that can make Him seem so far away from us. Even without the problem of sin, the idea of really knowing God is impossible for our finite minds. He is spirit only; we have a spirit confined in our body. He is infinite; we are limited. He is perfect; we are flawed.
So how can we know Him? Well, God has designed us with one key purpose in mind: relationship with Him. And He builds us for relationship with Him through the use of “analogy,” that is, through making us in His “image and likeness.”
Think of it this way. When we’re trying to explain a difficult concept, we create a word picture of some sort. We might use images from nature. The classic is using ‘The Birds and Bees’ to explain where babies come from. Or we’ll refer to a common experience: “Do you remember the scene in ‘The Wizard of Oz’’ where Dorothy…”, or “Do you remember that road trip we took to California?” We use analogies all the time. The reason we do it is to communicate our ideas clearly by identifying a situation the other person has interacted with and can easily identify and process.
“That which is known about God is evident … for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen …” (Romans 1:19-20). The clear expression of God’s invisible attributes is this two-pronged analogy of His authority and holiness in our delegated authority and morality. God uses analogy for the same reason we do: so that we can understand His communication with us. Satan is always trying to distort God’s analogies so that we get lost and easily confused.
Today, remember you were designed for something far better than just “getting by.” But if you feel like that’s all you’re doing, perhaps you’re not listening to God as He seeks a close and mentoring relationship with you. Stop and ask, “Why am I not spending more time with the One who knows me best and knows what I need the most?” He is calling to you and His message is clear. WITHIN REACH will help you hear Him better and apply His teaching directly to your life.
Prayer
Dear Father, You built us for relationship with You. And You have been seeking to win us back since You called out to Adam and Eve in the garden, “Where are you?” Many times I hear you call for me, “Karl, where are you?” I confess, I hide behind some pretty transparent animal skins. I don’t even understand why I am hiding sometimes, but I want to. Thank You for Your recent working in my life to push me back into Your arms. Let me consistently desire the greatest thing of all, to be in relationship with You, O Father, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord, and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
Romans 1:19-20
But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
John 4:23
God is not like us. He’s not flesh and blood, and that can make Him seem so far away from us. Even without the problem of sin, the idea of really knowing God is impossible for our finite minds. He is spirit only; we have a spirit confined in our body. He is infinite; we are limited. He is perfect; we are flawed.
So how can we know Him? Well, God has designed us with one key purpose in mind: relationship with Him. And He builds us for relationship with Him through the use of “analogy,” that is, through making us in His “image and likeness.”
Think of it this way. When we’re trying to explain a difficult concept, we create a word picture of some sort. We might use images from nature. The classic is using ‘The Birds and Bees’ to explain where babies come from. Or we’ll refer to a common experience: “Do you remember the scene in ‘The Wizard of Oz’’ where Dorothy…”, or “Do you remember that road trip we took to California?” We use analogies all the time. The reason we do it is to communicate our ideas clearly by identifying a situation the other person has interacted with and can easily identify and process.
“That which is known about God is evident … for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen …” (Romans 1:19-20). The clear expression of God’s invisible attributes is this two-pronged analogy of His authority and holiness in our delegated authority and morality. God uses analogy for the same reason we do: so that we can understand His communication with us. Satan is always trying to distort God’s analogies so that we get lost and easily confused.
Today, remember you were designed for something far better than just “getting by.” But if you feel like that’s all you’re doing, perhaps you’re not listening to God as He seeks a close and mentoring relationship with you. Stop and ask, “Why am I not spending more time with the One who knows me best and knows what I need the most?” He is calling to you and His message is clear. WITHIN REACH will help you hear Him better and apply His teaching directly to your life.
Prayer
Dear Father, You built us for relationship with You. And You have been seeking to win us back since You called out to Adam and Eve in the garden, “Where are you?” Many times I hear you call for me, “Karl, where are you?” I confess, I hide behind some pretty transparent animal skins. I don’t even understand why I am hiding sometimes, but I want to. Thank You for Your recent working in my life to push me back into Your arms. Let me consistently desire the greatest thing of all, to be in relationship with You, O Father, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord, and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
Romans 1:19-20
But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
John 4:23
Monday, September 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: God Promotes You, Now What?
Transformational Thought
It’s fun watching our girls get excited about babysitting opportunities. Our pride oozes when we hear our friends rave at how mature and skillful our girls are in this new role. You see, authority is being delegated to them, and then they exercise good moral judgment while ruling over the kids they have responsibility for. These are 2 key characteristics God designed in us. They represent broad analogies of His own attributes. First, He promotes us above all creation and delegates authority to us, and second, He gives us morality.
In regards to the first characteristic, He gave Adam and Eve (and therefore all humans) authority over creation. We don’t create out of nothing as God can, but we are creative. We don’t command the nature as He does, but we understand what it is to tame animals, or bring the elements under our authority in metalwork, or in cultivating crops.
As for the second characteristic, God built into us a sense of right and wrong, as well as the responsibility to choose right over wrong. Consider this … we’re the only creatures who understand the concept of shame, because we’re the only creatures who understand what it is to break rules or to do the wrong thing. Birds don’t apologize; cats don’t get embarrassed; dogs don’t have law courts.
God wants you to bring creation under His authority through the exercise of your authority. Your family, your job, and your recreation, just to name a few, are facets of the creation that He has entrusted to your care. You have free will, so these aspects are yours to do with as you decide: either for His glory (which is also to your benefit, satisfaction, and growth), or to ultimate destruction. There is no middle ground.
Every longing of your heart, every desire, or impulse to act, create, manage, control, or fix is actually a reflection of the impulse to exercise the authority He has delegated to you, and to exercise your sense of right and wrong.
Today, when you have impulses submit those regarding authority and morality to Him. That is, exercise self-control over each impulse and then ask, “What Would Jesus Do?” We are not animals that react instinctively. God gave each of us a great mind and a sense of morality to maximize our responses, thus glorifying Him and fulfilling ourselves at the same time. Your decision, so choose well … and you’ll find two things becoming increasingly true: you’ll love Him more AND suffer discomfort a lot less.
Prayer
Holy Father, Mighty God: In You we live, and move, and have our entire being. From You we receive the authority to order our lives as we please: either for our good and Your glory, or for our own glory and pain-filled living. Please have mercy on us, that we may increasingly understand that the best authority is that which is exercised according to Your word, and the best morality is that which resonates with Your will. This we ask, through the sacrifice of Christ, and all God’s children say, – AMEN!
The Truth
“Let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
Genesis 1:26-28
Then the LORD God took the man and put him into the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it. The LORD God commanded the man, saying, “From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die.”
Genesis 2:15-17
It’s fun watching our girls get excited about babysitting opportunities. Our pride oozes when we hear our friends rave at how mature and skillful our girls are in this new role. You see, authority is being delegated to them, and then they exercise good moral judgment while ruling over the kids they have responsibility for. These are 2 key characteristics God designed in us. They represent broad analogies of His own attributes. First, He promotes us above all creation and delegates authority to us, and second, He gives us morality.
In regards to the first characteristic, He gave Adam and Eve (and therefore all humans) authority over creation. We don’t create out of nothing as God can, but we are creative. We don’t command the nature as He does, but we understand what it is to tame animals, or bring the elements under our authority in metalwork, or in cultivating crops.
As for the second characteristic, God built into us a sense of right and wrong, as well as the responsibility to choose right over wrong. Consider this … we’re the only creatures who understand the concept of shame, because we’re the only creatures who understand what it is to break rules or to do the wrong thing. Birds don’t apologize; cats don’t get embarrassed; dogs don’t have law courts.
God wants you to bring creation under His authority through the exercise of your authority. Your family, your job, and your recreation, just to name a few, are facets of the creation that He has entrusted to your care. You have free will, so these aspects are yours to do with as you decide: either for His glory (which is also to your benefit, satisfaction, and growth), or to ultimate destruction. There is no middle ground.
Every longing of your heart, every desire, or impulse to act, create, manage, control, or fix is actually a reflection of the impulse to exercise the authority He has delegated to you, and to exercise your sense of right and wrong.
Today, when you have impulses submit those regarding authority and morality to Him. That is, exercise self-control over each impulse and then ask, “What Would Jesus Do?” We are not animals that react instinctively. God gave each of us a great mind and a sense of morality to maximize our responses, thus glorifying Him and fulfilling ourselves at the same time. Your decision, so choose well … and you’ll find two things becoming increasingly true: you’ll love Him more AND suffer discomfort a lot less.
Prayer
Holy Father, Mighty God: In You we live, and move, and have our entire being. From You we receive the authority to order our lives as we please: either for our good and Your glory, or for our own glory and pain-filled living. Please have mercy on us, that we may increasingly understand that the best authority is that which is exercised according to Your word, and the best morality is that which resonates with Your will. This we ask, through the sacrifice of Christ, and all God’s children say, – AMEN!
The Truth
“Let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
Genesis 1:26-28
Then the LORD God took the man and put him into the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it. The LORD God commanded the man, saying, “From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die.”
Genesis 2:15-17
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Stepping Stones: How Much Do You Resemble Your Father?
Transformational Thought
In every child there is evidence of the parents’ contributions to the child’s makeup. They have their father’s eyes or their mother’s nose. Whose intelligence or stubbornness they have is often up for debate! What we often forget is that we, too, bear an image, an imprint of our designer – our Father’s image and likeness.
God is not like us, yet He designed us to understand who He is, so that we can be in a wondrous relationship with Him. For this reason, He gives us a likeness or analogy of His infinite and perfect attributes and character. For example, in a limited way we understand His greatness, power, knowledge, authority, creativity, sacrifice, love, and other attributes. He gives us a sense of time and eternity. He imprints us with an ability to grasp right and wrong … good, better, and best.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are attributes and characteristics that we find in God. This means that every encouragement to obey God is not just a rule, law, or helpful hint about life. Yes, it’s those, but it is also so much more. It’s a call to be what we were ultimately made to be. Becoming holy isn’t so much about “being good” as it is about “being human”… not the human of this world, but instead, the human God created us to become, through the blood of Jesus and the power and leading of the Holy Spirit.
When we try to do life our own way, according to our own instruction manual, we get so frustrated, because we aren’t being used for the purpose for which we were designed. It’s like using a paintbrush to change a diaper, or a hammer to eat dinner. When something is serving its designer’s intent, then effectiveness, impact, peace, and fulfillment are plentiful.
Today, whatever your situation is, look at the Scriptures to consider the Designer’s intent for your life. Know that He really is calling you to “be all that you can be.” Write down what you need to believe differently about God or yourself so you can become all that He designed you to be. Write down what stops you from actually believing it. Usually, a distortion about God or our self is what interferes with our believing. So start to unpack the lie you believe that holds you back from walking into the part God has written for you! WITHIN REACH helps you identify and overcome those obstacles.
Prayer
Dear Father, Teach us to know that You have designed us for better things. Teach us to understand that obedience to You is not burdensome, but that obedience is a return to our original glorious design. By the power of your Spirit, make us to be more and more the image of Christ, who bears Your image perfectly and fully. Help me to get out of Your way and understand better my role in Your work of growing me. These things we ask boldly, through the love and work of Christ Jesus for us, and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
Genesis 1:26-27
But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their heart; but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 3:15-18
In every child there is evidence of the parents’ contributions to the child’s makeup. They have their father’s eyes or their mother’s nose. Whose intelligence or stubbornness they have is often up for debate! What we often forget is that we, too, bear an image, an imprint of our designer – our Father’s image and likeness.
God is not like us, yet He designed us to understand who He is, so that we can be in a wondrous relationship with Him. For this reason, He gives us a likeness or analogy of His infinite and perfect attributes and character. For example, in a limited way we understand His greatness, power, knowledge, authority, creativity, sacrifice, love, and other attributes. He gives us a sense of time and eternity. He imprints us with an ability to grasp right and wrong … good, better, and best.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are attributes and characteristics that we find in God. This means that every encouragement to obey God is not just a rule, law, or helpful hint about life. Yes, it’s those, but it is also so much more. It’s a call to be what we were ultimately made to be. Becoming holy isn’t so much about “being good” as it is about “being human”… not the human of this world, but instead, the human God created us to become, through the blood of Jesus and the power and leading of the Holy Spirit.
When we try to do life our own way, according to our own instruction manual, we get so frustrated, because we aren’t being used for the purpose for which we were designed. It’s like using a paintbrush to change a diaper, or a hammer to eat dinner. When something is serving its designer’s intent, then effectiveness, impact, peace, and fulfillment are plentiful.
Today, whatever your situation is, look at the Scriptures to consider the Designer’s intent for your life. Know that He really is calling you to “be all that you can be.” Write down what you need to believe differently about God or yourself so you can become all that He designed you to be. Write down what stops you from actually believing it. Usually, a distortion about God or our self is what interferes with our believing. So start to unpack the lie you believe that holds you back from walking into the part God has written for you! WITHIN REACH helps you identify and overcome those obstacles.
Prayer
Dear Father, Teach us to know that You have designed us for better things. Teach us to understand that obedience to You is not burdensome, but that obedience is a return to our original glorious design. By the power of your Spirit, make us to be more and more the image of Christ, who bears Your image perfectly and fully. Help me to get out of Your way and understand better my role in Your work of growing me. These things we ask boldly, through the love and work of Christ Jesus for us, and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
Genesis 1:26-27
But to this day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their heart; but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 3:15-18
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Really Have Determined Purpose?
Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was determined to be a pro baseball player and a psychiatrist. Never really had any other long lasting goals I would commit to. As a teen, I became committed to attending Duke University and having 5 sons to play basketball around the country against other teams. My determination to get to Duke and become a psychiatrist was significant. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as determined to be a pro baseball player although I did play at Duke. My downfall was not staying focused in my mind and being intentional and disciplined with my activities. Other self-centered needs leading to distracting activities intruded on my dreams.
In Philippians 1:20 Paul seems to be saying; “My determined purpose is to be my best for His glory.…whether by life or death”, Paul was determined to let nothing stand in his way from doing exactly what God wanted.
What will it take to for you to choose to follow God’s will? We all start off our days with the idea, resolve, and attitude that we will do the right thing. Regardless of the temptations, we will make the right decision. But somewhere during the day, we get sidetracked, our determination gets undermined. Petty and self-centered needs and agenda items start to outrank our calling and our choices become faulty. We stray from following God’s will.
I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to have determined purpose to follow God’s will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. We need these crises because we are so unresponsive to God’s numerous gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory and our maximal fulfillment, the debate within us begins. And when the crisis hits we must decide…for or against? For there is no middle ground. That moment, the moment of deciding for or against, is the greatest crossroads we face in our daily walk.
Today, when adversity comes into your life…on any front…surrender your will to God and you will find peace and freedom. This happens by asking, “what need of mine is out-trumping or competing with God’s instruction, will, promises, or character?” Then make a willful decision to follow His will and put yours on hold. This glorifies Him, and is the actually the best for you as you will actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically when you make this Godly decision. Believe it or not, your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal Your message to me in a way that I understand and can live out daily. I feel very much ashamed that I have not yielded those areas of my life that You have asked me to. I want to live a life so that in no way will I be ashamed. Help me, Lord, shut out everything that keeps me from doing my very best for Your glory. I actually find my limitations liberating when my strongest desire is to do my best for Your glory. Thank You, Lord, for the freedom this provides, for Your word tells me that where Your Spirit is, there is freedom. In Christ’s determined name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Peter 3:18
As a kid, I was determined to be a pro baseball player and a psychiatrist. Never really had any other long lasting goals I would commit to. As a teen, I became committed to attending Duke University and having 5 sons to play basketball around the country against other teams. My determination to get to Duke and become a psychiatrist was significant. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as determined to be a pro baseball player although I did play at Duke. My downfall was not staying focused in my mind and being intentional and disciplined with my activities. Other self-centered needs leading to distracting activities intruded on my dreams.
In Philippians 1:20 Paul seems to be saying; “My determined purpose is to be my best for His glory.…whether by life or death”, Paul was determined to let nothing stand in his way from doing exactly what God wanted.
What will it take to for you to choose to follow God’s will? We all start off our days with the idea, resolve, and attitude that we will do the right thing. Regardless of the temptations, we will make the right decision. But somewhere during the day, we get sidetracked, our determination gets undermined. Petty and self-centered needs and agenda items start to outrank our calling and our choices become faulty. We stray from following God’s will.
I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to have determined purpose to follow God’s will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. We need these crises because we are so unresponsive to God’s numerous gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory and our maximal fulfillment, the debate within us begins. And when the crisis hits we must decide…for or against? For there is no middle ground. That moment, the moment of deciding for or against, is the greatest crossroads we face in our daily walk.
Today, when adversity comes into your life…on any front…surrender your will to God and you will find peace and freedom. This happens by asking, “what need of mine is out-trumping or competing with God’s instruction, will, promises, or character?” Then make a willful decision to follow His will and put yours on hold. This glorifies Him, and is the actually the best for you as you will actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically when you make this Godly decision. Believe it or not, your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal Your message to me in a way that I understand and can live out daily. I feel very much ashamed that I have not yielded those areas of my life that You have asked me to. I want to live a life so that in no way will I be ashamed. Help me, Lord, shut out everything that keeps me from doing my very best for Your glory. I actually find my limitations liberating when my strongest desire is to do my best for Your glory. Thank You, Lord, for the freedom this provides, for Your word tells me that where Your Spirit is, there is freedom. In Christ’s determined name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Peter 3:18
Friday, July 29, 2011
Stepping Stones: Where Are You Looking For Your Confidence?
Transformational Thought
We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for who I was. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. Our Creator builds these yearnings and desires into us. So what are you looking for?
Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with God. God’s message, sent through His prophet Isaiah, is so simple yet so profound; “Look to me and be saved.” This certainly applies to our eternal need…but it also applies to every other need, suffering, and wayward path we need saved from.
We grow up and are pushed to learn how to take care of ourselves. From learning to hold our bottle, walking to get our toy, feeding ourselves, doing our homework, taking the SAT’s, going off to college or work… so many milestones to mark the journey of becoming an independent functioning adult.
The downside of this developmental model is we develop a habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence from GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His instruction. That’s what gives us confidence to pursue the right things…to make the Godly decisions that are sometimes hard.
When our confidence is in ourselves or other’s opinions, this is a shallow and very limited bucket. We have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, or power? Or from God?” Confidence, centered in Him, generated from Him, will save you in today’s battles and discomfort. Where do you get your confidence? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are indeed an awesome God. Who but You could be all places at all times? It amazes me to think that One as great as You actually cares about the many details of my life…but You really do. When I think about these glorious truths…and when I turn to you, I feel safe in knowing I will never be alone again. Help me, Lord, to look at You, to keep You before me always, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, then rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.”
Isaiah 45:22
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:15-17
We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for who I was. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. Our Creator builds these yearnings and desires into us. So what are you looking for?
Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with God. God’s message, sent through His prophet Isaiah, is so simple yet so profound; “Look to me and be saved.” This certainly applies to our eternal need…but it also applies to every other need, suffering, and wayward path we need saved from.
We grow up and are pushed to learn how to take care of ourselves. From learning to hold our bottle, walking to get our toy, feeding ourselves, doing our homework, taking the SAT’s, going off to college or work… so many milestones to mark the journey of becoming an independent functioning adult.
The downside of this developmental model is we develop a habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence from GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His instruction. That’s what gives us confidence to pursue the right things…to make the Godly decisions that are sometimes hard.
When our confidence is in ourselves or other’s opinions, this is a shallow and very limited bucket. We have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, or power? Or from God?” Confidence, centered in Him, generated from Him, will save you in today’s battles and discomfort. Where do you get your confidence? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are indeed an awesome God. Who but You could be all places at all times? It amazes me to think that One as great as You actually cares about the many details of my life…but You really do. When I think about these glorious truths…and when I turn to you, I feel safe in knowing I will never be alone again. Help me, Lord, to look at You, to keep You before me always, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, then rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.”
Isaiah 45:22
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:15-17
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Stepping Stones: Would You Rather Have a Flashlight or a Lighthouse?
Transformational Thought
We all experience storms in our lives. Maybe you are currently in the midst of a storm...maybe multiple storms. Unfortunately, storms are a certainty in life and we often have little control over that. But we do have all the power over how we react to these storms, with peace or panic. Even though uncomfortable, scary, and potentially dangerous, storms are tremendous opportunities to learn a lot about ourselves.
One key lesson is, "where do I get my confidence, guidance, or hope from?" Put another way, "When I am in a storm at sea, do I want a small flashlight, or do I want the brightest Lighthouse? When we get upset in a difficult situation, it is because we are usually getting our confidence from ourselves, or sometimes from others. A constant battle goes on inside our heart. We strive to be independent, master of our destiny, take care of our own needs, and not be reliant on anyone else. This protects us from being hurt, let down by others, and just seems more efficient to cut others out of the loop when I need something. But this strategy breeds a false sense of confidence, a reliance on myself, my abilities, my assets, or what I can use from others.
You see, my skills are like a flashlight, God is a Lighthouse. Instead of getting my confidence from me and relying on myself, God desires me to turn to Him, accept His protection and provision for me, and let Him grow us. He will grow us quicker, more efficiently, and with less pain than we can grow ourselves. We really need to get our confidence to handle the many everyday situations from knowing who God is, what His promises are, and what His word teaches. When we see situations and act based on our confidence in God, life, and especially storms, are so much easier to handle and actually become tremendous growth experiences.
Looking back, I see the major storms in my life actually changed my direction, pushing me onto a better path of becoming Christ-like and helping me develop the Mind of Christ. More importantly, these storms provided the opportunity to look for and find God as my Lighthouse, where the only real and ultimate safety and guidance is for me, and all of us.
Today, as a believer you will find that your ultimate Lighthouse, God, will not only show you your path forward step by step, but God will also lead you to a place of refuge, a place of shelter to endure your storm. Meet today's storm...or your next storm (for surely they will come) with peace, not panic. Take the opportunity to look for your personal Lighthouse of guidance and sanctuary in His perfect and infinite promises and character, not in your own finite and imperfect resources.
Prayer
Father God, when I meet the storms of life, help me to go through them with peace, not panic. I know that to get to where You want to take me, I must go through certain storms. In Your wisdom, You designed the storms to push me to You, to know You and Your loving provision, shelter, and calm. It is not in the calms of life where I realize that I will not go under, but during the storms. Allow me to get my confidence, hope, and assurance from You, and not me, because I know I am limited, weak, and not capable of controlling everything like You can. Thank You for being my Lighthouse during the storms. Thank You that during all of life's storms there is a perfect place of refuge...a fortress of Divine grace to see me through. I pray in the name of the one endured the greatest storm so I could have eternal safety, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver me.
Psalm 91:1-3
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4
as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
We all experience storms in our lives. Maybe you are currently in the midst of a storm...maybe multiple storms. Unfortunately, storms are a certainty in life and we often have little control over that. But we do have all the power over how we react to these storms, with peace or panic. Even though uncomfortable, scary, and potentially dangerous, storms are tremendous opportunities to learn a lot about ourselves.
One key lesson is, "where do I get my confidence, guidance, or hope from?" Put another way, "When I am in a storm at sea, do I want a small flashlight, or do I want the brightest Lighthouse? When we get upset in a difficult situation, it is because we are usually getting our confidence from ourselves, or sometimes from others. A constant battle goes on inside our heart. We strive to be independent, master of our destiny, take care of our own needs, and not be reliant on anyone else. This protects us from being hurt, let down by others, and just seems more efficient to cut others out of the loop when I need something. But this strategy breeds a false sense of confidence, a reliance on myself, my abilities, my assets, or what I can use from others.
You see, my skills are like a flashlight, God is a Lighthouse. Instead of getting my confidence from me and relying on myself, God desires me to turn to Him, accept His protection and provision for me, and let Him grow us. He will grow us quicker, more efficiently, and with less pain than we can grow ourselves. We really need to get our confidence to handle the many everyday situations from knowing who God is, what His promises are, and what His word teaches. When we see situations and act based on our confidence in God, life, and especially storms, are so much easier to handle and actually become tremendous growth experiences.
Looking back, I see the major storms in my life actually changed my direction, pushing me onto a better path of becoming Christ-like and helping me develop the Mind of Christ. More importantly, these storms provided the opportunity to look for and find God as my Lighthouse, where the only real and ultimate safety and guidance is for me, and all of us.
Today, as a believer you will find that your ultimate Lighthouse, God, will not only show you your path forward step by step, but God will also lead you to a place of refuge, a place of shelter to endure your storm. Meet today's storm...or your next storm (for surely they will come) with peace, not panic. Take the opportunity to look for your personal Lighthouse of guidance and sanctuary in His perfect and infinite promises and character, not in your own finite and imperfect resources.
Prayer
Father God, when I meet the storms of life, help me to go through them with peace, not panic. I know that to get to where You want to take me, I must go through certain storms. In Your wisdom, You designed the storms to push me to You, to know You and Your loving provision, shelter, and calm. It is not in the calms of life where I realize that I will not go under, but during the storms. Allow me to get my confidence, hope, and assurance from You, and not me, because I know I am limited, weak, and not capable of controlling everything like You can. Thank You for being my Lighthouse during the storms. Thank You that during all of life's storms there is a perfect place of refuge...a fortress of Divine grace to see me through. I pray in the name of the one endured the greatest storm so I could have eternal safety, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver me.
Psalm 91:1-3
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:2-4
as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Let God Calm the Storms in Your Life
Transformational Thought
Remember back to when you were a small 5 year old. Dark, eerie night. Wind blowing and making mysterious noises. Booming thunder! Bright flashes of Lightning! Scary thunderstorms frighten little kids who know they have no power over these awesome events. When their parents come down the hall, one of two things happens.
If the child has been obedient to, respectful of, and submissive to a parent’s authority and power over them, the child is confident that the parent has the power and authority to protect him from the storm. The parent’s words and actions will soothe, and the child will feel comforted and safe in the parent’s arms.
On the other hand, if the child has disrespected, rebelled against, and overthrown the parent’s power and authority, and the child is the one calling the shots regarding privileges and discipline, then he isn’t confident in his parent’s ability to protect. Even though the parents come through the door to save him, the child is still scared and anxious. The child thinks, I have more power than you, so go back and bring someone more powerful than me and this storm to protect me.
In Mark 4, the disciples and Jesus were hanging out in a boat at sea. A powerful storm hit. So powerful that even these experienced fisherman were frightened for their lives. They woke up Jesus and accused Him of not caring if they died. Jesus exerted His power and authority over everything … and calmed the storm. The disciples were putting their confidence in themselves and their own knowledge, not in Jesus and His character, skills, teachings, and promises. They ranked their own power above that of Jesus!
Think about the storms in your life. Do you really trust God’s power … are you respectful, obedient, and submissive to His authority in all areas of your life? If so, your confidence will come from and be in Him. You will have bold confidence, assurance, hope, and peace in the storms of your life. Don’t wait for the storms to trust Him … not because He won’t help you … He will help. The problem is, you won’t believe it because you have been ignoring Him in non-stormy times and putting your trust and confidence in yourself.
Today, examine the source of your confidence, even in the little events of daily life. Is your confidence in the elements that are about you, or in Him? Begin to trust Him in all things. Get your confidence from Him. Then it will be easy and natural to trust Him during stormy times, and your ability to navigate life’s storms will truly be miraculous. Your choice … Please choose well.
Prayer
Father, I come to rest in Your loving presence. I know that today and the days before me will bring difficulties. It is my human way to try and think my way through these trials all alone. Please remind me that You are with me … that I am not alone in the midst of these storms. I pray that You will send your peace, the peace that passes all understanding to all those praying and growing with the Stepping Stones Devotionals. My Lord, strengthen all of us and prepare us for this day … transform all our fears and anxieties into confident trust in you, our Lord and God. I pray this in the name my source of confidence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
…and he rose and rebuked the wind and said unto the sea; “Peace, be still” and the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39
my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:2-4
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Remember back to when you were a small 5 year old. Dark, eerie night. Wind blowing and making mysterious noises. Booming thunder! Bright flashes of Lightning! Scary thunderstorms frighten little kids who know they have no power over these awesome events. When their parents come down the hall, one of two things happens.
If the child has been obedient to, respectful of, and submissive to a parent’s authority and power over them, the child is confident that the parent has the power and authority to protect him from the storm. The parent’s words and actions will soothe, and the child will feel comforted and safe in the parent’s arms.
On the other hand, if the child has disrespected, rebelled against, and overthrown the parent’s power and authority, and the child is the one calling the shots regarding privileges and discipline, then he isn’t confident in his parent’s ability to protect. Even though the parents come through the door to save him, the child is still scared and anxious. The child thinks, I have more power than you, so go back and bring someone more powerful than me and this storm to protect me.
In Mark 4, the disciples and Jesus were hanging out in a boat at sea. A powerful storm hit. So powerful that even these experienced fisherman were frightened for their lives. They woke up Jesus and accused Him of not caring if they died. Jesus exerted His power and authority over everything … and calmed the storm. The disciples were putting their confidence in themselves and their own knowledge, not in Jesus and His character, skills, teachings, and promises. They ranked their own power above that of Jesus!
Think about the storms in your life. Do you really trust God’s power … are you respectful, obedient, and submissive to His authority in all areas of your life? If so, your confidence will come from and be in Him. You will have bold confidence, assurance, hope, and peace in the storms of your life. Don’t wait for the storms to trust Him … not because He won’t help you … He will help. The problem is, you won’t believe it because you have been ignoring Him in non-stormy times and putting your trust and confidence in yourself.
Today, examine the source of your confidence, even in the little events of daily life. Is your confidence in the elements that are about you, or in Him? Begin to trust Him in all things. Get your confidence from Him. Then it will be easy and natural to trust Him during stormy times, and your ability to navigate life’s storms will truly be miraculous. Your choice … Please choose well.
Prayer
Father, I come to rest in Your loving presence. I know that today and the days before me will bring difficulties. It is my human way to try and think my way through these trials all alone. Please remind me that You are with me … that I am not alone in the midst of these storms. I pray that You will send your peace, the peace that passes all understanding to all those praying and growing with the Stepping Stones Devotionals. My Lord, strengthen all of us and prepare us for this day … transform all our fears and anxieties into confident trust in you, our Lord and God. I pray this in the name my source of confidence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
…and he rose and rebuked the wind and said unto the sea; “Peace, be still” and the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39
my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:2-4
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Stepping Stones: Be Aware of Your Insufficiency
Transformational Thought
It’s funny to watch someone who thinks they know everything, has the situation all planned out, takes a lot of pride in being in control of the whole enchilada, and then has it all blow up in his face. I’m sure this kind of thing has never happened to you either, right?
We all occasionally have experiences when our pride and ignorance blend together to get us believing we are actually God. Acting like we know everything, can foresee the future, and have all the power to make a perfect ending play out. What are we thinking!
Do you ever forget where you put something? Make the wrong choice in a situation? How about getting accused by your kids (or parents) of not hearing very well? Have you missed an appointment? Is there even one topic you know everything about? Do you have trouble predicting the future? Recognizing the limits of our understanding is a good thing. The more we recognize and accept our limitations, the more it will enhance our relationship with God.
You see, we all have limits. But unfortunately, we don’t recognize where they are … so we live beyond our skills. Seems good, doesn’t it, getting more out of who we are? Unwittingly though, the reality is that we are putting our confidence in and getting our confidence from … Ourselves! This means I am relying on me … what I bring to the table … what I can do.
Our confidence needs to come from God. We need to put our eggs in His basket … who He is … His character … His promises … His instructions in the Bible. The assurance of God’s sovereignty, power, omniscience, reliability, love and sacrifice for us, only that will allow us to successfully grow the mind of Christ and live life abundantly. We need Him continually … beyond our daily bread and blessings. We need Him for the many (5,000-10,000) decisions we must make each day.
Today, recognize your global insufficiency, but also pay attention to your daily limits. Start to look to God to fill in the area beyond your limits. Then you will start to gain your confidence from Him and truly rest in Him. We have been designed to need Him moment by moment. Today and every day, live in joyful dependence on your Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, Lately I am becoming more aware of my need for You. I have noticed that many people around me have become increasingly confident, almost cocky about the accuracy of their opinions and confident about their decisions. However, I feel just the opposite. I feel like an iceberg: what I understand is above the water; what I don’t understand is below. I come to You, my Father, full of neediness and uncertainty. I am fully aware of Your sufficiency and that You will supply all my needs according to Your riches. I have so many decisions to make and I am doubtful about my ability to make the right decisions. I know that each decision moves me closer or further away from You. Your Word teaches me that wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction; help me pass through the small gate and walk the narrow road that leads to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who always got it right, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13-14
It’s funny to watch someone who thinks they know everything, has the situation all planned out, takes a lot of pride in being in control of the whole enchilada, and then has it all blow up in his face. I’m sure this kind of thing has never happened to you either, right?
We all occasionally have experiences when our pride and ignorance blend together to get us believing we are actually God. Acting like we know everything, can foresee the future, and have all the power to make a perfect ending play out. What are we thinking!
Do you ever forget where you put something? Make the wrong choice in a situation? How about getting accused by your kids (or parents) of not hearing very well? Have you missed an appointment? Is there even one topic you know everything about? Do you have trouble predicting the future? Recognizing the limits of our understanding is a good thing. The more we recognize and accept our limitations, the more it will enhance our relationship with God.
You see, we all have limits. But unfortunately, we don’t recognize where they are … so we live beyond our skills. Seems good, doesn’t it, getting more out of who we are? Unwittingly though, the reality is that we are putting our confidence in and getting our confidence from … Ourselves! This means I am relying on me … what I bring to the table … what I can do.
Our confidence needs to come from God. We need to put our eggs in His basket … who He is … His character … His promises … His instructions in the Bible. The assurance of God’s sovereignty, power, omniscience, reliability, love and sacrifice for us, only that will allow us to successfully grow the mind of Christ and live life abundantly. We need Him continually … beyond our daily bread and blessings. We need Him for the many (5,000-10,000) decisions we must make each day.
Today, recognize your global insufficiency, but also pay attention to your daily limits. Start to look to God to fill in the area beyond your limits. Then you will start to gain your confidence from Him and truly rest in Him. We have been designed to need Him moment by moment. Today and every day, live in joyful dependence on your Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, Lately I am becoming more aware of my need for You. I have noticed that many people around me have become increasingly confident, almost cocky about the accuracy of their opinions and confident about their decisions. However, I feel just the opposite. I feel like an iceberg: what I understand is above the water; what I don’t understand is below. I come to You, my Father, full of neediness and uncertainty. I am fully aware of Your sufficiency and that You will supply all my needs according to Your riches. I have so many decisions to make and I am doubtful about my ability to make the right decisions. I know that each decision moves me closer or further away from You. Your Word teaches me that wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction; help me pass through the small gate and walk the narrow road that leads to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who always got it right, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13-14
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: Self-Deception Traps Your Thinking
Transformational Thought
What is a hypocrite? According to Webster, a hypocrite is a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion, a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. In other words, hypocrites pretend to be someone or something that they aren’t. The definition doesn’t distinguish between an intentional or a subconscious (unintentional) deception.
The Bible teaches that a hypocrite is one who pretends to put God first in all things without really being pious … one who talks the talk without walking the walk. Jesus confronted hypocrites vigorously in His earthly ministry. These confrontations of truth against their self-deception fueled the Pharisee’s desire to kill Jesus.
A hypocrite knows what is right but makes elaborate excuses for doing wrong, and rationalizes why his behavior is allowable. He weaves a web of self-deception that eventually traps his thinking and keeps him from seeing the truth. He makes himself king and writes his own rules to declare and stamp his conduct as permissible. My kingdom come, my will be done mentality, all the while proclaiming that Jesus is the Lord of his life.
We all tend to condemn other people's wrong actions and attitudes. At the same time, we are prone to excuse the same or worse behaviors in ourselves. We put on a good front and try to hide our real attitudes and feelings. We try to convince others … and even ourselves … that we are OK. We might be able to fool others. We might even delude ourselves for a while. But God knows our hearts. He is not impressed by our outward displays of "being religious" or following the rules. He considers what we are inside ... our motivations, desires, and fears.
Today, objectively examine whether you are putting up a good front while harboring sin in your life. Maybe the sin is something you are doing … participating in pornography, an adulterous relationship, angry outbursts, sharp words, over-eating, or some other wrong behavior. Maybe it's hidden inside … fear, anxiety, insecurity, bitterness, envy, lack of forgiveness. Remember that whatever it is … God already knows. He loves you and wants to help you overcome. You can start on the path to ending the sinful behavior by admitting your guilt to yourself … and to Him. WITHIN REACH can then help you take the next steps of applying the Bible and allowing God into those deep places in your heart and life and truly transform your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I've been living a lie. I also know that You see the real me--You see my heart. Please forgive my sin and give me the strength to overcome. Help me to be honest with You, with myself, and with others. Open my eyes to the truth, and give me the courage to take one stepping stone at a time to follow Your guidance. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts.”
Luke 16:15
"You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy … full of greed and wickedness!"
Luke 11:39
What is a hypocrite? According to Webster, a hypocrite is a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion, a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. In other words, hypocrites pretend to be someone or something that they aren’t. The definition doesn’t distinguish between an intentional or a subconscious (unintentional) deception.
The Bible teaches that a hypocrite is one who pretends to put God first in all things without really being pious … one who talks the talk without walking the walk. Jesus confronted hypocrites vigorously in His earthly ministry. These confrontations of truth against their self-deception fueled the Pharisee’s desire to kill Jesus.
A hypocrite knows what is right but makes elaborate excuses for doing wrong, and rationalizes why his behavior is allowable. He weaves a web of self-deception that eventually traps his thinking and keeps him from seeing the truth. He makes himself king and writes his own rules to declare and stamp his conduct as permissible. My kingdom come, my will be done mentality, all the while proclaiming that Jesus is the Lord of his life.
We all tend to condemn other people's wrong actions and attitudes. At the same time, we are prone to excuse the same or worse behaviors in ourselves. We put on a good front and try to hide our real attitudes and feelings. We try to convince others … and even ourselves … that we are OK. We might be able to fool others. We might even delude ourselves for a while. But God knows our hearts. He is not impressed by our outward displays of "being religious" or following the rules. He considers what we are inside ... our motivations, desires, and fears.
Today, objectively examine whether you are putting up a good front while harboring sin in your life. Maybe the sin is something you are doing … participating in pornography, an adulterous relationship, angry outbursts, sharp words, over-eating, or some other wrong behavior. Maybe it's hidden inside … fear, anxiety, insecurity, bitterness, envy, lack of forgiveness. Remember that whatever it is … God already knows. He loves you and wants to help you overcome. You can start on the path to ending the sinful behavior by admitting your guilt to yourself … and to Him. WITHIN REACH can then help you take the next steps of applying the Bible and allowing God into those deep places in your heart and life and truly transform your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I've been living a lie. I also know that You see the real me--You see my heart. Please forgive my sin and give me the strength to overcome. Help me to be honest with You, with myself, and with others. Open my eyes to the truth, and give me the courage to take one stepping stone at a time to follow Your guidance. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts.”
Luke 16:15
"You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy … full of greed and wickedness!"
Luke 11:39
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Stepping Stones: Whose Instruction Book Do You Use?
Transformational Thought
God loves us so much that He gives us the freedom to make choices. Some are of little consequence, but others are life-changing. This freedom of choice dates back to Adam and Eve. They made one choice that went against God’s instruction book and sin has dramatically affected the lives and events of all mankind ever since.
The freedom to make choices is great, but brings grave responsibility. We have all made poor choices at times and have suffered the consequences. The good news is that no matter what choices we have made in the past, there is always hope for a better future. God knew that we would make some bad choices, but He loves us so much that He sent Jesus. And Jesus willingly, His free-will choice, paid the price for our sin to provide a way to restore our relationship with God.
Some people go through life carrying the load of some wrong choices they’ve made in the past. They believe they’ve messed up so badly that nothing good can ever come of their lives. Do you ever feel this way? Good news! If you want to be set free from the past, Jesus is the answer. He has already paid the price for your sin … for every wrong choice you’ve ever made.
Make a good decision right now by accepting His payment for your sin. This could be the first time (becoming saved) or part of the regular practice of confession, which is a powerful coping skill. God has always wanted to forgive you and help you make better choices. That is why He sent His Son, gave us the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us, and spelled it all out in His instruction book, The Holy Bible.
Many decisions are tough and it’s a great benefit to have a guidebook for our journey. Now it’s up to us … what decision will we make? To follow the greatest instruction book of all time, or to continually write and follow our own very flawed instruction book. I know where “Life According to the Book of Karl” gets me. Although it seemed cool when I was writing it, it truly was hell to live at times. Thank You God for Your amazing grace!
Today, when you make a mistake, stop and look at whose instruction book are you using, yours or God’s. Next time you are in a tough situation, choose to use God’s instruction book instead of the knee-jerk response from your own or society’s instruction book. Document how different the results will be as you develop the spiritual radar of tuning into God’s frequency. Remember, you are very special to God and He loves you no matter what you’ve done. He wants you to put the past behind so that you can become all He has designed you to be. It’s never to late to make good decisions. Learn from your mistakes … and look forward to a future filled with hope. WITHIN REACH is designed to help you practically use God’s instruction manual in all the daily decisions that are your walk.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for forgiving my sins. I’ve made so many wrong choices. Help me now to put them behind and to look forward to the future You have planned for me … one filled with hope. Show me how to use Your instructions from Your Holy Bible. Thanks for creating me then giving me the instruction book so I can function well and glorify You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has secured my future, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14
For the word of God is living and full of power, and is sharper than any two-edged sword, cutting through and making a division even of the soul and the spirit, the bones and the muscles, and quick to see the thoughts and purposes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
God loves us so much that He gives us the freedom to make choices. Some are of little consequence, but others are life-changing. This freedom of choice dates back to Adam and Eve. They made one choice that went against God’s instruction book and sin has dramatically affected the lives and events of all mankind ever since.
The freedom to make choices is great, but brings grave responsibility. We have all made poor choices at times and have suffered the consequences. The good news is that no matter what choices we have made in the past, there is always hope for a better future. God knew that we would make some bad choices, but He loves us so much that He sent Jesus. And Jesus willingly, His free-will choice, paid the price for our sin to provide a way to restore our relationship with God.
Some people go through life carrying the load of some wrong choices they’ve made in the past. They believe they’ve messed up so badly that nothing good can ever come of their lives. Do you ever feel this way? Good news! If you want to be set free from the past, Jesus is the answer. He has already paid the price for your sin … for every wrong choice you’ve ever made.
Make a good decision right now by accepting His payment for your sin. This could be the first time (becoming saved) or part of the regular practice of confession, which is a powerful coping skill. God has always wanted to forgive you and help you make better choices. That is why He sent His Son, gave us the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us, and spelled it all out in His instruction book, The Holy Bible.
Many decisions are tough and it’s a great benefit to have a guidebook for our journey. Now it’s up to us … what decision will we make? To follow the greatest instruction book of all time, or to continually write and follow our own very flawed instruction book. I know where “Life According to the Book of Karl” gets me. Although it seemed cool when I was writing it, it truly was hell to live at times. Thank You God for Your amazing grace!
Today, when you make a mistake, stop and look at whose instruction book are you using, yours or God’s. Next time you are in a tough situation, choose to use God’s instruction book instead of the knee-jerk response from your own or society’s instruction book. Document how different the results will be as you develop the spiritual radar of tuning into God’s frequency. Remember, you are very special to God and He loves you no matter what you’ve done. He wants you to put the past behind so that you can become all He has designed you to be. It’s never to late to make good decisions. Learn from your mistakes … and look forward to a future filled with hope. WITHIN REACH is designed to help you practically use God’s instruction manual in all the daily decisions that are your walk.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for forgiving my sins. I’ve made so many wrong choices. Help me now to put them behind and to look forward to the future You have planned for me … one filled with hope. Show me how to use Your instructions from Your Holy Bible. Thanks for creating me then giving me the instruction book so I can function well and glorify You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has secured my future, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14
For the word of God is living and full of power, and is sharper than any two-edged sword, cutting through and making a division even of the soul and the spirit, the bones and the muscles, and quick to see the thoughts and purposes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Monday, April 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: You Didn’t Get a Brain Transplant?
Transformational Thought
As we come to Jesus and begin to understand who we are in Him, it is time to learn from our past, put it behind, and move on ahead. Paul makes it clear in today’s scripture that he is on a journey. He knows he is not perfect, but he determines to forget what used to motivate him … to forget his past achievements. He reaches forward … to become all Jesus wants him to be. He is moving in the right direction, toward Jesus … and he is not turning back.
That’s where we need to be too, on a journey toward Jesus, to accomplish His purpose for us. In the verse for today, Paul talks about forgetting, but what does he really mean? He is not talking about having amnesia about the past. Some Christians will tell you, “You are a new creation, don’t look at your past, only look forward.”
Now, listen closely as this is a very important point. It seems clear and silly when I say it, but it is a powerful point with many ramifications that clarify the process of journeying for the prize. When we accepted Christ as our personal savior, we didn’t get a brain transplant. If we were totally transformed at that point of salvation, we would never have sinned again. How sad, that as believers, we do still sin. So there must be something we have to do to allow the Holy Spirit to complete His task job in us.
In order to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us, one thing we need to do is look at how our past adversely influences present decision-making. We need to forget the old motivations, goals, and pursuits we once had … and stop conforming to the world’s system.
Our past is what God allowed in our lives so we would draw close to Him. Another outcome is to prepare us for the good works He has planned for us. Many items from life prior to my commitment to Christ are used by God in my ministry to others. This is what God intended. Forgetting my past would cause me to miss opportunities to turn what Satan intended for bad into something God can use for His glory.
But when we look at our past, we do need to process it with a very specific focus on Jesus and God’s plans and goals. That will transform the lenses so we can take every thought captive and allow God to come in to those old areas of hurt. Then healing can occur … and truth will replace the ripples of distortion that Satan wants fogging our lenses.
Today, don’t ruminate about the past, but don’t ignore it as if you had a brain transplant. Your past is affecting your decisions now, so examine your decisions today to understand how your past affects them. This will show you what is at the center of your heart. Your past will reveal why, in certain situations, other things are at the center of your heart, instead of God. WITHIN REACH is our curriculum that helps you examine and understand your decision-making process, and become a Godly decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear God, Thank You for Your healing and forgiveness. Help me to use my past hurts for my growth. Do not allow them to interfere with the growth You have for me. Show me how to keep my eyes on Jesus as I move forward along the path You have for me. Help me to practice this skill regularly. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has made everything right, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
As we come to Jesus and begin to understand who we are in Him, it is time to learn from our past, put it behind, and move on ahead. Paul makes it clear in today’s scripture that he is on a journey. He knows he is not perfect, but he determines to forget what used to motivate him … to forget his past achievements. He reaches forward … to become all Jesus wants him to be. He is moving in the right direction, toward Jesus … and he is not turning back.
That’s where we need to be too, on a journey toward Jesus, to accomplish His purpose for us. In the verse for today, Paul talks about forgetting, but what does he really mean? He is not talking about having amnesia about the past. Some Christians will tell you, “You are a new creation, don’t look at your past, only look forward.”
Now, listen closely as this is a very important point. It seems clear and silly when I say it, but it is a powerful point with many ramifications that clarify the process of journeying for the prize. When we accepted Christ as our personal savior, we didn’t get a brain transplant. If we were totally transformed at that point of salvation, we would never have sinned again. How sad, that as believers, we do still sin. So there must be something we have to do to allow the Holy Spirit to complete His task job in us.
In order to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us, one thing we need to do is look at how our past adversely influences present decision-making. We need to forget the old motivations, goals, and pursuits we once had … and stop conforming to the world’s system.
Our past is what God allowed in our lives so we would draw close to Him. Another outcome is to prepare us for the good works He has planned for us. Many items from life prior to my commitment to Christ are used by God in my ministry to others. This is what God intended. Forgetting my past would cause me to miss opportunities to turn what Satan intended for bad into something God can use for His glory.
But when we look at our past, we do need to process it with a very specific focus on Jesus and God’s plans and goals. That will transform the lenses so we can take every thought captive and allow God to come in to those old areas of hurt. Then healing can occur … and truth will replace the ripples of distortion that Satan wants fogging our lenses.
Today, don’t ruminate about the past, but don’t ignore it as if you had a brain transplant. Your past is affecting your decisions now, so examine your decisions today to understand how your past affects them. This will show you what is at the center of your heart. Your past will reveal why, in certain situations, other things are at the center of your heart, instead of God. WITHIN REACH is our curriculum that helps you examine and understand your decision-making process, and become a Godly decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear God, Thank You for Your healing and forgiveness. Help me to use my past hurts for my growth. Do not allow them to interfere with the growth You have for me. Show me how to keep my eyes on Jesus as I move forward along the path You have for me. Help me to practice this skill regularly. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has made everything right, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Claim The Victory, It’s Already Won!
Transformational Thought
Sometimes in the midst of a great day, all of a sudden, I will feel a cold, wet blanket come over me. A memory from my past creeps into my mind … then it feels like all the goodness is gone. Shame, guilt, and regret instantly flood my mind and seek to control my heart.
Perhaps you have suffered abuse from a parent or spouse or another “trusted” person. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic personal loss. Or perhaps you have made some poor choices in the past and are suffering the consequences. It doesn’t have to be a “major” trauma either. Most hurts for a 6 y.o. are somewhat “traumatic” since we usually don’t have very good interpreters putting the hurt in proper context for us.
Read today’s scripture carefully. God promises that despite all these obstacles of life, you can have overwhelming victory through Christ. Come to Him for help … and forgiveness. If you let Christ in, nothing … absolutely nothing … can separate you from His love. No reason all that stuff from the past should steal another minute of your joy and happiness. A victory doesn’t just mean to win … it means a decisive win … a win that leaves no doubt.
It is easy to look at scriptures about God’s love and think, “Yes, God loves all people.” But in our innermost being we don’t include ourselves in the “all people.” We think, “I’m different … I’m just not good enough…That’s alright for other people, but I’ve made too many mistakes. I’ve got special circumstances. It’s too late for me.” We need to examine and search for the lies that keep us feeling defeated with no chance of winning in this life on Earth.
God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that you are included. No matter what you have done. No matter what other people say or think about you. No matter what you think about yourself. God loves you. Jesus died for you. Nothing will ever separate you from His love.
Today, stop when you struggle. Tell yourself “God loves me and He proved it.” Then consider how that changes your view of the moment. Walk with Jesus and you can have overwhelming victory over every problem and obstacle in your life. The problems might still be there … the obstacles may still come. But you won’t have to face them alone or have a defeated attitude and perspective. God will empower you to overcome.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You that these promises are not just for other people … but they are really for me. Thank You for your unconditional love. Thank You that no matter what happened in the past or comes my way in the future, I can walk in victory through Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who made my victory possible, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I know that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow … not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below … indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39
Sometimes in the midst of a great day, all of a sudden, I will feel a cold, wet blanket come over me. A memory from my past creeps into my mind … then it feels like all the goodness is gone. Shame, guilt, and regret instantly flood my mind and seek to control my heart.
Perhaps you have suffered abuse from a parent or spouse or another “trusted” person. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic personal loss. Or perhaps you have made some poor choices in the past and are suffering the consequences. It doesn’t have to be a “major” trauma either. Most hurts for a 6 y.o. are somewhat “traumatic” since we usually don’t have very good interpreters putting the hurt in proper context for us.
Read today’s scripture carefully. God promises that despite all these obstacles of life, you can have overwhelming victory through Christ. Come to Him for help … and forgiveness. If you let Christ in, nothing … absolutely nothing … can separate you from His love. No reason all that stuff from the past should steal another minute of your joy and happiness. A victory doesn’t just mean to win … it means a decisive win … a win that leaves no doubt.
It is easy to look at scriptures about God’s love and think, “Yes, God loves all people.” But in our innermost being we don’t include ourselves in the “all people.” We think, “I’m different … I’m just not good enough…That’s alright for other people, but I’ve made too many mistakes. I’ve got special circumstances. It’s too late for me.” We need to examine and search for the lies that keep us feeling defeated with no chance of winning in this life on Earth.
God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that you are included. No matter what you have done. No matter what other people say or think about you. No matter what you think about yourself. God loves you. Jesus died for you. Nothing will ever separate you from His love.
Today, stop when you struggle. Tell yourself “God loves me and He proved it.” Then consider how that changes your view of the moment. Walk with Jesus and you can have overwhelming victory over every problem and obstacle in your life. The problems might still be there … the obstacles may still come. But you won’t have to face them alone or have a defeated attitude and perspective. God will empower you to overcome.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You that these promises are not just for other people … but they are really for me. Thank You for your unconditional love. Thank You that no matter what happened in the past or comes my way in the future, I can walk in victory through Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who made my victory possible, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I know that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow … not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below … indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: How Do You See Yourself?
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Transformational Thought
Throughout her high school years, my daughter volunteered at a shelter for abused women and their children. Through her work there, I was exposed to how prevalent and devastating domestic abuse is in America. It cripples not only the direct victim, but also abuser and the people who witness it, usually the kids.
Abuse takes many forms … but it is almost always debilitating. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million women are battered each year by their husbands or partners. Three million reports of child abuse are made every year just in the United States. But experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is three times greater than reported. Many children are suffering from this hidden epidemic. While these are U.S. figures, these problems exist around the world, and in most places at much higher rates.
Abuse is a sin that dishonors God and disrespects His creation of life. Obviously, physical danger exists. Whether the abuse is psychological, physical or verbal, the most chronic damage is that it distorts the lenses we need to see life accurately, from God’s perspective. We need eyes that see the truth, and abuse does the exact opposite.
Abuse erodes confidence and self-esteem. We begin believing what we are told about ourselves; we think that anyone treated violently and abusively must deserve it. These beliefs are often accepted early in life and become part of the initial lenses through which we see and process all information. Even if abuse occurs when we are older, the intensity of the experience makes it a formidable opponent to seeing ourselves as God sees us, our God-image.
Abuse communicates “I am worthless”… “I am an object to be used by you whenever you want” … “dignity, respect, and honor are not for me”… “I don’t deserve or accomplish anything in life”. These distortions and interpretations form part of the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives.
Today, ask, “How do I see myself?” “Is my self-image based on other people’s words and actions toward me? Or is it based on the truth of God’s Word, a God-image?” God knew you before you were even born. He created you … and His works are wonderful. Let Jesus help take your eyes off yourself and begin the process of putting your eyes on Him. He is able to heal our eyes, to see ourselves as He sees us.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for this reminder that You formed me and made me … and that Your works are wonderful. I must admit, though, sometimes I don’t feel as though I’m wonderful at all. In fact, sometimes I feel as though I don’t deserve anything good. Help me to really grasp what Jesus did for me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
Matthew 13:15,16
Transformational Thought
Throughout her high school years, my daughter volunteered at a shelter for abused women and their children. Through her work there, I was exposed to how prevalent and devastating domestic abuse is in America. It cripples not only the direct victim, but also abuser and the people who witness it, usually the kids.
Abuse takes many forms … but it is almost always debilitating. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million women are battered each year by their husbands or partners. Three million reports of child abuse are made every year just in the United States. But experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is three times greater than reported. Many children are suffering from this hidden epidemic. While these are U.S. figures, these problems exist around the world, and in most places at much higher rates.
Abuse is a sin that dishonors God and disrespects His creation of life. Obviously, physical danger exists. Whether the abuse is psychological, physical or verbal, the most chronic damage is that it distorts the lenses we need to see life accurately, from God’s perspective. We need eyes that see the truth, and abuse does the exact opposite.
Abuse erodes confidence and self-esteem. We begin believing what we are told about ourselves; we think that anyone treated violently and abusively must deserve it. These beliefs are often accepted early in life and become part of the initial lenses through which we see and process all information. Even if abuse occurs when we are older, the intensity of the experience makes it a formidable opponent to seeing ourselves as God sees us, our God-image.
Abuse communicates “I am worthless”… “I am an object to be used by you whenever you want” … “dignity, respect, and honor are not for me”… “I don’t deserve or accomplish anything in life”. These distortions and interpretations form part of the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives.
Today, ask, “How do I see myself?” “Is my self-image based on other people’s words and actions toward me? Or is it based on the truth of God’s Word, a God-image?” God knew you before you were even born. He created you … and His works are wonderful. Let Jesus help take your eyes off yourself and begin the process of putting your eyes on Him. He is able to heal our eyes, to see ourselves as He sees us.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for this reminder that You formed me and made me … and that Your works are wonderful. I must admit, though, sometimes I don’t feel as though I’m wonderful at all. In fact, sometimes I feel as though I don’t deserve anything good. Help me to really grasp what Jesus did for me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
Matthew 13:15,16
Friday, February 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: Be Strong and Courageous
Transformational Thought
When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, I was getting so excited to see her reaction. We walked in and there was a 6 foot tall Easter Bunny. Poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the 6 foot Easter Bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after being unable to console her, we left very quickly.
We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?
Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to fear or be discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.
Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see where your confidence comes from and how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for your confidence and empowerment.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers for the one who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, I was getting so excited to see her reaction. We walked in and there was a 6 foot tall Easter Bunny. Poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the 6 foot Easter Bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after being unable to console her, we left very quickly.
We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?
Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to fear or be discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.
Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see where your confidence comes from and how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for your confidence and empowerment.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers for the one who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: Enabling: Good Intentions Gone Wrong
Transformational Thought
We have all seen a loved one make some destructive decisions. When someone we love is in the grip of a harmful pattern, we naturally want to help. In spite of our best intentions, our efforts are sometimes actually more harmful instead of helpful. We call this enabling, otherwise known as good intentions gone wrong.
Enabling allows those who are struggling to continue in their self-destructive behaviors. It keeps them from feeling the painful consequences that would have significant influence in convincing them to stop before their problem spirals out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue a person from the consequences of his or her choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again. We are then called a “nag” or a “martyr.”
Here are common examples of enabling. Do you find yourself covering up or “living with” the behavior of a friend, child, or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. Are you reminding them to do certain chores or tasks so that they don’t get the consequences they deserve? Do you find yourself giving them "one more chance" … over and over again? Do you care more than they do about the consequences they might get?
A big component of our enabling behavior is our inability to tolerate negative feelings in others or ourselves. These feelings are generated when someone struggles and faces potential consequences. We feel very uncomfortable when they feel sad or hurt, or have to endure a consequence. So we keep nagging, threatening, or pushing them to accomplish their task, and sometimes we even do the test for them.
Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved one is to be supportive and to facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it in their particular area of struggle. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix it, because they need to learn how to fix it. You aren’t going to be around all the time. You need to encourage them when they have made an error, but not protect them from the necessary consequences. You must allow them to learn from the consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping or harming the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God, not you determine the consequences that will open their eyes, change their behavior, and hopefully, transform their heart.
Prayer
Dear God, not fixing my loved one’s problems is so hard. My urge is to come to the rescue instead of letting her suffer the consequences. I realize I have to come to the rescue again and again … that nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You … help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and their discomfort. Help me to allow Your consequences and lessons for them play out. I pray this in the name of the one who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19
And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18
Enabling allows those who are struggling to continue in their self-destructive behaviors. It keeps them from feeling the painful consequences that would have significant influence in convincing them to stop before their problem spirals out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue a person from the consequences of his or her choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again. We are then called a “nag” or a “martyr.”
Here are common examples of enabling. Do you find yourself covering up or “living with” the behavior of a friend, child, or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. Are you reminding them to do certain chores or tasks so that they don’t get the consequences they deserve? Do you find yourself giving them "one more chance" … over and over again? Do you care more than they do about the consequences they might get?
A big component of our enabling behavior is our inability to tolerate negative feelings in others or ourselves. These feelings are generated when someone struggles and faces potential consequences. We feel very uncomfortable when they feel sad or hurt, or have to endure a consequence. So we keep nagging, threatening, or pushing them to accomplish their task, and sometimes we even do the test for them.
Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved one is to be supportive and to facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it in their particular area of struggle. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix it, because they need to learn how to fix it. You aren’t going to be around all the time. You need to encourage them when they have made an error, but not protect them from the necessary consequences. You must allow them to learn from the consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping or harming the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God, not you determine the consequences that will open their eyes, change their behavior, and hopefully, transform their heart.
Prayer
Dear God, not fixing my loved one’s problems is so hard. My urge is to come to the rescue instead of letting her suffer the consequences. I realize I have to come to the rescue again and again … that nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You … help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and their discomfort. Help me to allow Your consequences and lessons for them play out. I pray this in the name of the one who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19
And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18
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