March 14, 2012
Transformational Thought
Spring is just right around the corner … what a fun and exciting time of year. So many activities in so many areas of life: school events, spring sports, house projects, yard work, gardening, outdoor sports and activities, church events, small group socials, retreats, work projects, ministry opportunities, college trips, activities with extended family, movies, plays, family nights, continued school work and projects, or just hanging out. Then there is the planning for summer vacations, camps, mission trips, day trips, relaxation and catching up with what we are behind in. Wow!
We have five people in our family, so multiply the above list by five. Most of the time we have different interests and opinions about what is enjoyable. Often our choices are in conflict because we have competing agendas … you know, 2 teenagers and an 11 year old, and 2 parents with personalities as opposite as can be. As the only male, father, and leader sometimes I feel like I am in the middle of a 4-way tug-of-war. Uuuuuuuuuugh!
How about you? Are you in a tug of war between your own agenda and God's plan for you?
Life can slowly separate us from intimacy with God. Today, there seem to be more options than ever to distract us from pursuing a close, personal relationship with Him. We often find we are torn between our agendas and His desires for us. Guarding that inner fire, passion for Christ, is a great challenge in the 21st century. That has been Satan’s strategic plan from the get-go ... to distract us from God and make Him look like our enemy, not our ally, in a tug-of-war to control the direction of our life’s path. God wants to give you the desires of your heart and His path is the best way to find fulfillment.
Think about it. What are some things in your life that prevent you from drawing closer to God? All-consuming distractions like being overloaded with e-mails, cell phones, and hours on the freeway? Pleasing bosses, shuttling kids, trying out new gadgets? Hours on the golf course or in front of the TV? Perhaps even serving in the church? There is nothing inherently wrong with any of these activities … unless you allow them to distract you from a personal and growing relationship with God. If you are involved in something addictive or sinful, drop the rope now, surrender, and get help. Call our helpline 877.562.2565 if you or a loved one are struggling to find the best treatment option.
Today, take an honest look at your priorities. I mean, really look with the intention of acting on your findings. Make a list of pros and cons to help prioritize. Admit to God that you have allowed busyness or other distractions to take your eyes off Him. Ask for His forgiveness and His help to make Him first in your life. You will be amazed at how nicely the rest of your life will play out. Life is your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you identify and overcome this struggle.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I sometimes let the busyness of the day interfere with my relationship with You. Sometimes I find time for everything else except my quiet time with You. Sometimes I get so focused on other things throughout the day that I forget You are right there with me. Please forgive me. Please help me make You first in my life each day. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who always made You first, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:8
Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
Showing posts with label Contentment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Contentment. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: Why Did They Get More Than ME?
Transformational Thought
Many times the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence. In short, our stuff isn’t satisfying enough. We spend so much time and energy focusing on what others have, what we are missing, or both. We think having what others have will bring satisfaction, happiness, solve a problem, heal a hurt, or soothe our discomfort and uneasiness.
The tenth commandment is "thou shall not covet". If we are not to covet what others have, then we are being told to be content with what we do have. Being content really shows we understand that God is all-powerful, fully in charge, loves us, and is at work in our lives.
In other words, He is providing exactly what we need at this moment … so let me enjoy it and be thankful for it. I don't need to covet other things, because if they were what I really needed for growth, peace, and fulfillment, God would have certainly known ahead of time and provided it for me.
We know through scripture that God loves a thankful heart. And we have so much to be thankful for. But sometimes we pray and give thanks like we are on autopilot. Don't be complacent in being thankful. This is a very important discipline that reinforces in our mind and heart who God really is, who we are, and the relationship that is really playing out in our everyday lives. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap believing God is always withholding the essentials we need for our satisfaction.
Are you a person who focuses on what you don't have? Do you get caught up in the possibilities and fantasies of your agenda to pursue your satisfaction? Or do you focus on the reality of what you actually have, being thankful for all the blessings you have, and asking God how you can be an awesome steward of them to maximize God's glory and your spiritual growth? You have to decide, many times a day, what attitude and lenses you will use, because your actions will flow from these decisions you make.
Today, know Your God as the Great Giver. Make lists of all that He has given you in all areas of your life ... then take time throughout your day to pray short prayers of thanksgiving. You will find giving thanks opens clear lines of communication between you and your Lord. You will see Him more for the loving and care-taking Father He really is.
Prayer
Dear Gracious Father - You are my Giver. You give me hope when I feel despair. You give me acceptance when I feel unloved. You give me forgiveness when I fail. You give me purpose beyond anything I could imagine in this life. Thank You for the gift of brothers and sisters in Christ who have become part of the Stepping Stone prayer community. Thank you for using me to minister to others as you accept me with my weaknesses and inadequacies. Thank You for working everything out for our good and for Your glory. I pray in the name of the one who gave everything, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:32
“You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's."
Exodus 20:17
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Many times the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence. In short, our stuff isn’t satisfying enough. We spend so much time and energy focusing on what others have, what we are missing, or both. We think having what others have will bring satisfaction, happiness, solve a problem, heal a hurt, or soothe our discomfort and uneasiness.
The tenth commandment is "thou shall not covet". If we are not to covet what others have, then we are being told to be content with what we do have. Being content really shows we understand that God is all-powerful, fully in charge, loves us, and is at work in our lives.
In other words, He is providing exactly what we need at this moment … so let me enjoy it and be thankful for it. I don't need to covet other things, because if they were what I really needed for growth, peace, and fulfillment, God would have certainly known ahead of time and provided it for me.
We know through scripture that God loves a thankful heart. And we have so much to be thankful for. But sometimes we pray and give thanks like we are on autopilot. Don't be complacent in being thankful. This is a very important discipline that reinforces in our mind and heart who God really is, who we are, and the relationship that is really playing out in our everyday lives. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap believing God is always withholding the essentials we need for our satisfaction.
Are you a person who focuses on what you don't have? Do you get caught up in the possibilities and fantasies of your agenda to pursue your satisfaction? Or do you focus on the reality of what you actually have, being thankful for all the blessings you have, and asking God how you can be an awesome steward of them to maximize God's glory and your spiritual growth? You have to decide, many times a day, what attitude and lenses you will use, because your actions will flow from these decisions you make.
Today, know Your God as the Great Giver. Make lists of all that He has given you in all areas of your life ... then take time throughout your day to pray short prayers of thanksgiving. You will find giving thanks opens clear lines of communication between you and your Lord. You will see Him more for the loving and care-taking Father He really is.
Prayer
Dear Gracious Father - You are my Giver. You give me hope when I feel despair. You give me acceptance when I feel unloved. You give me forgiveness when I fail. You give me purpose beyond anything I could imagine in this life. Thank You for the gift of brothers and sisters in Christ who have become part of the Stepping Stone prayer community. Thank you for using me to minister to others as you accept me with my weaknesses and inadequacies. Thank You for working everything out for our good and for Your glory. I pray in the name of the one who gave everything, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:32
“You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's."
Exodus 20:17
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Friday, March 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: A Tug-of-War You Need to Lose
Transformational Thought
Spring is approaching … what a fun and exciting time of year. So many activities in so many areas of life: school events, spring sports, house projects, yard work, gardening, outdoor sports and activities, church events, small group socials, retreats, work projects, ministry opportunities, usual activities with extended family, movies, plays, family night, or just hanging out. Then there is the planning for summer vacations, camps, mission trips, day trips, relaxation and catching up with what we are behind in. Wow!
We have five people in our family, so multiply the above list by five. Most of the time we have different likes and interests. Often our choices are in conflict because we have competing agendas … you know, 2 teenagers and a 10 yo. As the father and leader, sometimes I feel like I am in the middle of a 4-way tug-of-war.
How about you? Are you in a tug of war between your own agenda and God's plan for you?
Life can slowly separate us from intimacy with God. Today, there seem to be more options than ever to distract us from pursuing a close, personal relationship with Him. We often find ourselves torn between our agenda and His desires for us. Guarding the inner fire, passion for Christ, is a great challenge in the twenty-first century. That has been Satan’s strategic plan from the get-go ... distract us from God … make God look like the enemy in a tug-of-war.
Think about it. What are some things in your life that prevent you from drawing closer to God? All-consuming distractions like being overloaded with e-mails, cell phones, and hours on the freeway? Pleasing bosses, shuttling kids, trying out new gadgets? Hours on the golf course or in front of the TV? Perhaps even serving in the church? There is nothing inherently wrong with any of these activities … unless we allow them to distract us from a personal and growing relationship with God. If you are involved in something addicting or sinful, drop the rope now, surrender, and get help.
Today, take an honest look at your priorities. I mean, really look with the intention of taking action on your findings. Make a pro/con list for better prioritization. Admit to God that you have allowed busyness or other distractions to take your eyes off Him. Ask for His forgiveness and His help in making Him first in your life. You will be amazed at how nicely the rest of your life will play out. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you identify and overcome this struggle.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I sometimes let the busyness of the day interfere in my relationship with you. Sometimes I find time for everything else except my quiet time with you. Sometimes I get so focused on other things throughout the day that I forget you are right there with me. Please forgive me. Please help me make you first in my life each day. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:8
Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
Spring is approaching … what a fun and exciting time of year. So many activities in so many areas of life: school events, spring sports, house projects, yard work, gardening, outdoor sports and activities, church events, small group socials, retreats, work projects, ministry opportunities, usual activities with extended family, movies, plays, family night, or just hanging out. Then there is the planning for summer vacations, camps, mission trips, day trips, relaxation and catching up with what we are behind in. Wow!
We have five people in our family, so multiply the above list by five. Most of the time we have different likes and interests. Often our choices are in conflict because we have competing agendas … you know, 2 teenagers and a 10 yo. As the father and leader, sometimes I feel like I am in the middle of a 4-way tug-of-war.
How about you? Are you in a tug of war between your own agenda and God's plan for you?
Life can slowly separate us from intimacy with God. Today, there seem to be more options than ever to distract us from pursuing a close, personal relationship with Him. We often find ourselves torn between our agenda and His desires for us. Guarding the inner fire, passion for Christ, is a great challenge in the twenty-first century. That has been Satan’s strategic plan from the get-go ... distract us from God … make God look like the enemy in a tug-of-war.
Think about it. What are some things in your life that prevent you from drawing closer to God? All-consuming distractions like being overloaded with e-mails, cell phones, and hours on the freeway? Pleasing bosses, shuttling kids, trying out new gadgets? Hours on the golf course or in front of the TV? Perhaps even serving in the church? There is nothing inherently wrong with any of these activities … unless we allow them to distract us from a personal and growing relationship with God. If you are involved in something addicting or sinful, drop the rope now, surrender, and get help.
Today, take an honest look at your priorities. I mean, really look with the intention of taking action on your findings. Make a pro/con list for better prioritization. Admit to God that you have allowed busyness or other distractions to take your eyes off Him. Ask for His forgiveness and His help in making Him first in your life. You will be amazed at how nicely the rest of your life will play out. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you identify and overcome this struggle.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I sometimes let the busyness of the day interfere in my relationship with you. Sometimes I find time for everything else except my quiet time with you. Sometimes I get so focused on other things throughout the day that I forget you are right there with me. Please forgive me. Please help me make you first in my life each day. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:8
Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: Embrace Your Singleness
Transformational Thought
According to the 2000 census, more than 93 million people in the United States are single. About 20 million are divorced, another 13.5 million widowed, and 60 million have never been married.
Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, society often looks on them as rejects. “You are single because nobody wants you” or “Even that person has someone, why don’t you?” are the tapes that play over and over.
If you are single, sometimes the natural tendency is to choose to make excuses or blame someone else. These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more realistic, positive, and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life right now. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your present circumstances of singleness.
Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as more time and mind space available for you to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single. But your singleness must be managed based on God’s will and plan for moral and healthy relational conduct.
Today, if you know some singles, examine how you view them. Are you judging them or are you helping them manage some of the stressors and temptations of their singleness? If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are His workmanship, and His workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I fit into Your plan and purpose for me. I know I have made many mistakes in past relationships and dishonored You and others when I was single. Help me focus on You and accomplish Your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a
According to the 2000 census, more than 93 million people in the United States are single. About 20 million are divorced, another 13.5 million widowed, and 60 million have never been married.
Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, society often looks on them as rejects. “You are single because nobody wants you” or “Even that person has someone, why don’t you?” are the tapes that play over and over.
If you are single, sometimes the natural tendency is to choose to make excuses or blame someone else. These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more realistic, positive, and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life right now. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your present circumstances of singleness.
Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as more time and mind space available for you to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single. But your singleness must be managed based on God’s will and plan for moral and healthy relational conduct.
Today, if you know some singles, examine how you view them. Are you judging them or are you helping them manage some of the stressors and temptations of their singleness? If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are His workmanship, and His workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I fit into Your plan and purpose for me. I know I have made many mistakes in past relationships and dishonored You and others when I was single. Help me focus on You and accomplish Your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a
Friday, February 26, 2010
Stepping Stones: Embrace Your Singleness
Transformational Tip
According to the 2000 census, more than 93 million people in the United States are single. About 20 million are divorced, another 13.5 million widowed, and 60 million have never been married.
Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, society often looks on them as rejects. “You are single because nobody wants you” or “even that person has someone, why can’t you?” are the tapes that plays over and over.
If you are single, you can choose to make excuses or blame someone else. These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more positive and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your singleness.
Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as more time and mind space available for you to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single.
Today, if you know someone single, examine how you view them and can help them. If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are his workmanship, and his workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on embracing singleness.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Father, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I fit into Your plans for me. Help me focus on you and accomplish your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a
According to the 2000 census, more than 93 million people in the United States are single. About 20 million are divorced, another 13.5 million widowed, and 60 million have never been married.
Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, society often looks on them as rejects. “You are single because nobody wants you” or “even that person has someone, why can’t you?” are the tapes that plays over and over.
If you are single, you can choose to make excuses or blame someone else. These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more positive and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your singleness.
Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as more time and mind space available for you to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single.
Today, if you know someone single, examine how you view them and can help them. If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are his workmanship, and his workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on embracing singleness.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Father, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I fit into Your plans for me. Help me focus on you and accomplish your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Stepping Stones: Let’s Talk About Real Security
Transformational Tip
I have been rich and I have been poor. I have been well fed and I have been hungry. And I am learning the secret of being content in any situation.
Many of my friends have, and continue to experience, severe financial loss in the current economic climate. Stock market woes…Investment values plummeting… Retirement funds disappearing. Even without job loss, this downhill slide can be frightening. Coupled with job loss, it can be devastating…but it doesn't have to be.
In today's scripture the apostle Paul tells us that he has experienced both riches and poverty, but that he has reached a point where his joy and his well-being don't depend on the security of his bank account. No matter what he is going through, he knows that God will give him the strength to make it through.
God has and will continue to do the same for you.
As human beings, we all have a tendency to place our confidence in things we can see or control. Looking at a solid report on our investments…our kids doing well…status at work, church or community can give us a feeling of security. But it’s based on what is happening all around us, we are being reminded all too clearly that these things are not secure, that they can disappear in a moment.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, remember that Jesus is with you. He will give you the strength you need. As you lean on, and trust in, and obey Him, He will make a way. Really, what other options can you turn to that have the power, character, and track record than the all powerful creator of all things?
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of what gives you security.
Prayer
Dear Father, help me remember that even if all my investments fail and my retirement fund collapses, marriage struggles, or kids falter…You haven't changed. I know that Your love for me will never change and that with you I can make it…no matter what. Thank You Father. All glory to You my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to secure my place in eternity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"
Mark 4:37-41
I have been rich and I have been poor. I have been well fed and I have been hungry. And I am learning the secret of being content in any situation.
Many of my friends have, and continue to experience, severe financial loss in the current economic climate. Stock market woes…Investment values plummeting… Retirement funds disappearing. Even without job loss, this downhill slide can be frightening. Coupled with job loss, it can be devastating…but it doesn't have to be.
In today's scripture the apostle Paul tells us that he has experienced both riches and poverty, but that he has reached a point where his joy and his well-being don't depend on the security of his bank account. No matter what he is going through, he knows that God will give him the strength to make it through.
God has and will continue to do the same for you.
As human beings, we all have a tendency to place our confidence in things we can see or control. Looking at a solid report on our investments…our kids doing well…status at work, church or community can give us a feeling of security. But it’s based on what is happening all around us, we are being reminded all too clearly that these things are not secure, that they can disappear in a moment.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, remember that Jesus is with you. He will give you the strength you need. As you lean on, and trust in, and obey Him, He will make a way. Really, what other options can you turn to that have the power, character, and track record than the all powerful creator of all things?
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of what gives you security.
Prayer
Dear Father, help me remember that even if all my investments fail and my retirement fund collapses, marriage struggles, or kids falter…You haven't changed. I know that Your love for me will never change and that with you I can make it…no matter what. Thank You Father. All glory to You my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to secure my place in eternity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?"
Mark 4:37-41
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