March 10-11, 2012
Transformational Thought
I once heard intelligence simply defined as the “ability to learn.” Now, some might say they have this ability and others might not think they don’t or that learning is hard. Regardless of whether we have the “ability” to learn or not, we should all strive to develop the following specific trait in our lives … having a desire to learn.
Contrary to the old saying, ignorance is not bliss. Ignorance of God's Word can bring about serious mistakes and heartache. Learning the Word of God provides us with power, peace, and strategies for success in this life as well as in eternity. When we do follow His word, we glorify God, which is our purpose in life. And it comes with a bonus: following the Word of God improves our life.
Learning from God's Word should be our priority, but we can also learn from books, Bible study groups, Sunday school, small group discussions and one-on-one discussion with Christians God has placed on our pathway. Ask God to guide you on your exciting path of transformation.
Satan knows the power of the Bible. He wants to keep you far away from it, whether through the busyness of life or false teachers or interfering with applying God’s Word to your life. We end up questioning God’s Word. Satan want us to believe we can write our own instruction manual, and that it will be better than God’s. Sounds silly when you read it, but we get sucked into this mentality at least 20 times per day if we are honest with ourselves.
Today, make a commitment to learn more from the Bible. You could begin by setting up a plan of regular reading if you don't already have one. Even if you are already reading the Word faithfully, perhaps some of these suggestions will help:
Read reflectively. It's true that we gain valuable information from the Bible, but the key is for the information to become a part of us bringing about transformation in our lives. Read while specifically focusing on the content and what it reveals about what is going on inside you and how or why you are making your daily decisions as you do.
Read for powerful transformation. Be more concerned about quality of reading than quantity. Take time to think about what you are reading and let the Holy Spirit speak to you. After your reading, ask yourself how you see God, yourself, or your life differently. Then ask how will you use that information in some of your areas of struggle. Then plan, yes, plan to use it. Then practice it. Application of the Bible is paramount for transformation. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me to truly turn my heart to wisdom and apply my heart to understanding and learning. I don’t want to be just a well-stocked spiritual library, filled with more knowledge and minimal application. Help me be open to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and teaching of how to apply this knowledge towards Godly living. Help me be disciplined, intentional, and strategic in the day’s battles. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
Proverbs 2:1-5
Then you will again obey the Lord and keep all his commands that I am giving you today. “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors. The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is within your reach.
Deuteronomy 30:8-11
Showing posts with label Freedom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Freedom. Show all posts
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Monday, July 4, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Really Free?
Transformational Thought
Even though I’m an adult, I love fireworks, and today, for the first time, I’ll be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rocket’s red glare … bombs bursting in air … mystery, drama, wonder … and celebration. To let your mind swim back through the years to those courageous days of our forefathers. The lights, colors and sound on the outside; all the feelings and goose bumps on the inside. Just a really cool experience.
All over America today, we celebrate our country’s birthday with festivities, and commemorate winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling … a state (like Maine or Virginia) of mind, and privilege. I taught in Kenya after the bombing of the U.S. embassy, in Uganda while civil war and the Lord’s Army were active, and in Iraq during our present war there in 2007. Until I visited and lived with people in oppressed areas, I really didn’t understand the magnitude and insidious ramifications of persecution and the meaning of freedom.
The bad news, the sobering reality, is we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We will always be serving a master. One choice is God, whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules are perfect. God is the real, ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call the universe. The other option is Satan, leader of the rebel party, trying to overthrow God’s benevolent all-caring regime, feeding our fleshly agendas, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing we don’t need God, and getting us to believe that destructive ways and me-centered intentions are actually in our best interest. That we can rule ourselves.
Now the good news, we are free in this most important aspect: we are free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes grave responsibility. You see, if you aren't actively choosing God, moment by moment, your passive, natural inclination is rejecting God, letting your flesh rule your mind and decisions, thus voting Satan and his policies into office. Satan lets us do the ‘get pleasure now’ activities we crave.
Today, enjoy the festivities, but above all else, exercise your freedom to choose your master. Your daily growth and fulfillment, and your eternal destiny depend on it. Only one master genuinely cares for you, is willing to die for you (He actually did), and wants to let you live in His royal palace forever to inherit eternal riches beyond your most fantastic imaginings! My life changed when I chose Jesus to be not just my Savior, but also the Lord of my life. Now it’s Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf in Your kingdom, me. Help me choose You. Help me to be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others will see You in me. Thanks for the blessings I have in the U.S. including the freedom to worship you. I pray your protection and comfort for my brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than any other master can. I pray in the name of the one who died for my freedom, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Even though I’m an adult, I love fireworks, and today, for the first time, I’ll be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rocket’s red glare … bombs bursting in air … mystery, drama, wonder … and celebration. To let your mind swim back through the years to those courageous days of our forefathers. The lights, colors and sound on the outside; all the feelings and goose bumps on the inside. Just a really cool experience.
All over America today, we celebrate our country’s birthday with festivities, and commemorate winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling … a state (like Maine or Virginia) of mind, and privilege. I taught in Kenya after the bombing of the U.S. embassy, in Uganda while civil war and the Lord’s Army were active, and in Iraq during our present war there in 2007. Until I visited and lived with people in oppressed areas, I really didn’t understand the magnitude and insidious ramifications of persecution and the meaning of freedom.
The bad news, the sobering reality, is we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We will always be serving a master. One choice is God, whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules are perfect. God is the real, ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call the universe. The other option is Satan, leader of the rebel party, trying to overthrow God’s benevolent all-caring regime, feeding our fleshly agendas, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing we don’t need God, and getting us to believe that destructive ways and me-centered intentions are actually in our best interest. That we can rule ourselves.
Now the good news, we are free in this most important aspect: we are free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes grave responsibility. You see, if you aren't actively choosing God, moment by moment, your passive, natural inclination is rejecting God, letting your flesh rule your mind and decisions, thus voting Satan and his policies into office. Satan lets us do the ‘get pleasure now’ activities we crave.
Today, enjoy the festivities, but above all else, exercise your freedom to choose your master. Your daily growth and fulfillment, and your eternal destiny depend on it. Only one master genuinely cares for you, is willing to die for you (He actually did), and wants to let you live in His royal palace forever to inherit eternal riches beyond your most fantastic imaginings! My life changed when I chose Jesus to be not just my Savior, but also the Lord of my life. Now it’s Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf in Your kingdom, me. Help me choose You. Help me to be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others will see You in me. Thanks for the blessings I have in the U.S. including the freedom to worship you. I pray your protection and comfort for my brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than any other master can. I pray in the name of the one who died for my freedom, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Monday, May 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: Thankfully, The Story Doesn’t End There
Transformational Thought
This might sound a bit shocking to most of you, but put yourself in these shoes and bear with me. What if you were a murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester … all terribly atrocious, sinful identities. Then you get caught, have a trial, and are found guilty. Your sentence is proclaimed – DEATH! You now anxiously await execution.
Just as they are getting your humane, but very lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything just in the nick of time. He lets you know of a true and amazing miracle … no one has ever seen anything like it.
He excitedly explains what just happened starting with the basics. The penalty for your crime is death. The accuser (Satan) and justice demand a price to be paid, namely, death. Satan wants it to be you. A perfect person (Jesus), who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed in your place. You are now free to go and live. Your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day.
But if that were the end of the story, it wouldn’t really be that great. You see, who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester? We all we judge, avoid, are fearful of, and attack these sinners. Your life, although spared, would be a walking death of isolation, ridicule, obstacles, loneliness, and never-ending effort to prove yourself worthy of a second chance.
This is where the even more amazing, second blessing comes from above. The King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything actually wants to hang out with you, date you, and even marry you forever. He trusts you with His kids, and His valuable possessions. Most of all, He really loves you above all things and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of your sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. How much different could your life be? Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He deserves for all the grace and double blessing He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Accept His instruction and I guarantee, actually, He guarantees, your life will be grander beyond compare. Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, and rejoice in His second blessing of imputed righteousness.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for Your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for relentlessly pursuing me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity. I now realize You were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals whom You also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid for me, died for me, and pursued me, Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
This might sound a bit shocking to most of you, but put yourself in these shoes and bear with me. What if you were a murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester … all terribly atrocious, sinful identities. Then you get caught, have a trial, and are found guilty. Your sentence is proclaimed – DEATH! You now anxiously await execution.
Just as they are getting your humane, but very lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything just in the nick of time. He lets you know of a true and amazing miracle … no one has ever seen anything like it.
He excitedly explains what just happened starting with the basics. The penalty for your crime is death. The accuser (Satan) and justice demand a price to be paid, namely, death. Satan wants it to be you. A perfect person (Jesus), who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed in your place. You are now free to go and live. Your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day.
But if that were the end of the story, it wouldn’t really be that great. You see, who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester? We all we judge, avoid, are fearful of, and attack these sinners. Your life, although spared, would be a walking death of isolation, ridicule, obstacles, loneliness, and never-ending effort to prove yourself worthy of a second chance.
This is where the even more amazing, second blessing comes from above. The King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything actually wants to hang out with you, date you, and even marry you forever. He trusts you with His kids, and His valuable possessions. Most of all, He really loves you above all things and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of your sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. How much different could your life be? Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He deserves for all the grace and double blessing He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Accept His instruction and I guarantee, actually, He guarantees, your life will be grander beyond compare. Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, and rejoice in His second blessing of imputed righteousness.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for Your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for relentlessly pursuing me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity. I now realize You were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals whom You also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid for me, died for me, and pursued me, Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Truth Is Bliss
Transformational Thought
I once heard a simple definition of intelligence as the “ability to learn.” Regardless of whether you have the “ability” to learn, we should all strive to develop this specific trait in our lives … having a desire to learn. Contrary to the old saying, ignorance is not bliss. Ignorance of God's Word can bring about serious mistakes and heartache. Learning the Word of God provides us with power, peace, and principles to live by. When we do, we glorify God and that is our purpose in life. Bonus: following the Word of God improves our life.
Today, make a commitment to learn more from the Bible. You could begin by setting up a plan of regular reading if you don't already have one. Even if you are already reading the Word regularly, perhaps some of these suggestions will help:
Read reflectively. It's true that we gain valuable information from the Bible, but the key is for the information to become a part of us and bring about transformation in our lives. Read while specifically focusing on the content and what it reveals about what is going on inside you and how or why you are making your daily decisions.
Read for power transformation. Be more concerned about quality of reading than quantity. Take time to think about what you are reading and let the Holy Spirit speak to you. After your reading, ask yourself how will you see God, yourself, or your life differently. Then ask how will you use that in some of your areas of struggle. Then plan, yes, plan to use it. Then practice it. Application of the Bible is paramount for transformation.
Learning from God's Word should be our priority, but we can also learn from books, Bible study groups, Sunday school, small group discussions and one on one discussion with Christians God has placed on our pathway. Ask God to guide you on your exciting path of transformation.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me to truly turn my heart to wisdom and apply my heart to understanding and learning. I don’t just want to be a cool spiritual library, filled with more knowledge. Help me be open to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and teaching of how to apply this knowledge towards Godly living. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
Proverbs 2:1-5
Then you will again obey the Lord and keep all his commands that I am giving you today. “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors. The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is within your reach.
Deuteronomy 30:8-11
I once heard a simple definition of intelligence as the “ability to learn.” Regardless of whether you have the “ability” to learn, we should all strive to develop this specific trait in our lives … having a desire to learn. Contrary to the old saying, ignorance is not bliss. Ignorance of God's Word can bring about serious mistakes and heartache. Learning the Word of God provides us with power, peace, and principles to live by. When we do, we glorify God and that is our purpose in life. Bonus: following the Word of God improves our life.
Today, make a commitment to learn more from the Bible. You could begin by setting up a plan of regular reading if you don't already have one. Even if you are already reading the Word regularly, perhaps some of these suggestions will help:
Read reflectively. It's true that we gain valuable information from the Bible, but the key is for the information to become a part of us and bring about transformation in our lives. Read while specifically focusing on the content and what it reveals about what is going on inside you and how or why you are making your daily decisions.
Read for power transformation. Be more concerned about quality of reading than quantity. Take time to think about what you are reading and let the Holy Spirit speak to you. After your reading, ask yourself how will you see God, yourself, or your life differently. Then ask how will you use that in some of your areas of struggle. Then plan, yes, plan to use it. Then practice it. Application of the Bible is paramount for transformation.
Learning from God's Word should be our priority, but we can also learn from books, Bible study groups, Sunday school, small group discussions and one on one discussion with Christians God has placed on our pathway. Ask God to guide you on your exciting path of transformation.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me to truly turn my heart to wisdom and apply my heart to understanding and learning. I don’t just want to be a cool spiritual library, filled with more knowledge. Help me be open to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and teaching of how to apply this knowledge towards Godly living. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
Proverbs 2:1-5
Then you will again obey the Lord and keep all his commands that I am giving you today. “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors. The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is within your reach.
Deuteronomy 30:8-11
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: Taking Inventory, or Just Winging It
Transformational Thought
Business is often complicated and messy. Always in a rush … scurrying around … solving problems … putting out fires … personnel issues … contracts and deals. Good business owners slow life down, sort the pieces, and then count them. They take regular inventory of their stock. These inventories are a useful business-planning tool that can reveal growth or decline in productivity and show possible obstacles to growth. Most importantly, they guide and assist business owners in making changes for a better future.
The merry-go-round of life constantly accelerates, often moving faster than business, ‘til we hit the retirement home. Taking a regular inventory of our lives is mandatory. It helps us answer questions about the directions our lives take. Are we growing or declining in character development … in spiritual maturity? Are we moving toward our life goals, or do obstacles hinder our progress? Are we growing in our relationship with God? What changes do we need to make to move ahead more effectively? What strategies, if any, have we been using and are they working?
You see, we are lazy and don’t want to look back at our mistakes. Our strategy for growth is just to randomly “wing it today to get by, and come up with a better plan tomorrow.” Satan obviously wants to distract you from applying any of God’s teaching into a strategy for growth. When I sat and took a serious and brutally honest inventory of my life, I realized the Instruction Book of Life according to Karl really wasn’t working and I was my biggest obstacle. I then made a decision to follow God’s instruction book … and WOW!
Know that God loves you and He wants to help you eliminate the things in your life that may be hurting you and others. But before He can help you, you must face up to the fact that these problems exist. Remember … Jesus is with you. He will not disappoint you in your time of personal searching. Open your heart and challenge Him; He will reveal.
Today, be determined to take inventory of your life. Consider your relationships with God, your self, family, church, and your friends. Be honest. Ask God to help you see things as they really are … to face any obstacles, either in you or outside of you … without making excuses. In WITHIN REACH, we call this step Summary Thought. It is a powerful step in transformation.
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess I make mistakes. Instead of trying to sweep them under the carpet, help me take a good, honest look at myself. Help me see what is pleasing to You … and what is disappointing to You. Help me understand a concrete plan to begin moving forward in areas of my life in which I am struggling. Help me to reorder my life under You and according to Your will. I want to develop a disciplined strategy and not just wing it everyday. I pray this in the name of Your Son who always searched Himself well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD
Lamentations 3:40
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
Romans 12:3
Business is often complicated and messy. Always in a rush … scurrying around … solving problems … putting out fires … personnel issues … contracts and deals. Good business owners slow life down, sort the pieces, and then count them. They take regular inventory of their stock. These inventories are a useful business-planning tool that can reveal growth or decline in productivity and show possible obstacles to growth. Most importantly, they guide and assist business owners in making changes for a better future.
The merry-go-round of life constantly accelerates, often moving faster than business, ‘til we hit the retirement home. Taking a regular inventory of our lives is mandatory. It helps us answer questions about the directions our lives take. Are we growing or declining in character development … in spiritual maturity? Are we moving toward our life goals, or do obstacles hinder our progress? Are we growing in our relationship with God? What changes do we need to make to move ahead more effectively? What strategies, if any, have we been using and are they working?
You see, we are lazy and don’t want to look back at our mistakes. Our strategy for growth is just to randomly “wing it today to get by, and come up with a better plan tomorrow.” Satan obviously wants to distract you from applying any of God’s teaching into a strategy for growth. When I sat and took a serious and brutally honest inventory of my life, I realized the Instruction Book of Life according to Karl really wasn’t working and I was my biggest obstacle. I then made a decision to follow God’s instruction book … and WOW!
Know that God loves you and He wants to help you eliminate the things in your life that may be hurting you and others. But before He can help you, you must face up to the fact that these problems exist. Remember … Jesus is with you. He will not disappoint you in your time of personal searching. Open your heart and challenge Him; He will reveal.
Today, be determined to take inventory of your life. Consider your relationships with God, your self, family, church, and your friends. Be honest. Ask God to help you see things as they really are … to face any obstacles, either in you or outside of you … without making excuses. In WITHIN REACH, we call this step Summary Thought. It is a powerful step in transformation.
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess I make mistakes. Instead of trying to sweep them under the carpet, help me take a good, honest look at myself. Help me see what is pleasing to You … and what is disappointing to You. Help me understand a concrete plan to begin moving forward in areas of my life in which I am struggling. Help me to reorder my life under You and according to Your will. I want to develop a disciplined strategy and not just wing it everyday. I pray this in the name of Your Son who always searched Himself well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD
Lamentations 3:40
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
Romans 12:3
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
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: When Life “Just Ain’t Fair”
Transformational Thought
Life isn’t fair. You aren’t being fair. I just want what’s fair. That is such a double standard. We all have heard these statements at various times, right?
There are two primary perspectives regarding fairness. First, on a human level we are often out for “number one.” We don’t get mad, we get even. But this approach never leads to peace or contentment. In fact, the outcome is that we become covetous, cynical, bitter, and even hostile. Second, there is the divine level. God misses absolutely nothing (1 Peter 3: 12). He is completely aware of what we think, say, and do before it ever takes place. But we ask, “What about all the evil in the world?” Interestingly, God doesn’t operate in time as we do; we can be assured that justice will be served (Rom. 8:28).
1 Peter 3:13 tells us that honest people usually don’t suffer harm. For example, we pay our debts, and usually we don’t suffer financial trouble. If we lead a healthy lifestyle we usually live longer, and even better. This verse shows us that when we seek to do good, no one can effectively harm us.
When life is not fair, and when we suffer, the very next verse (14) promises that we can consider ourselves “blessed” if we suffer for righteous reasons. Obviously, we can also make decisions that carry unpleasant consequences when we violate God’s principles. But the Phillips translation of James 1:2 gives us comfort: “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your life, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!”
Today, several insightful techniques can help us as we deal with suffering and life’s unfairness. First, we are called to patiently endure unfairness, so that we can know we are fulfilling God’s plan for us. Second, one day we’ll be rewarded for enduring these undeserved trials (James 1:12). Third, don’t panic and don’t worry (1 Peter 3:14). Fear comes from the Greek word “phobos” which means being seized with terror and running to take flight. God wants to give us calmness in our spirit. Fourth, acknowledge Christ as Lord over this event. In the book of Acts Stephen forgives his attackers, giving us an example of not reflecting back hatred and bitterness. Fifth, be ready to give a good witness (v. 15). We must know what we believe, and be able to be reasonable, intelligent, and gentle in giving our defense. And, sixth, keep a good conscience (v. 16). Integrity will silence and shame your slanderers. Job’s example shows that unjust suffering is always better than deserved punishment. These are all decision-making skills you can learn, practice, and excel in. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father God, thank You that You are full of compassion and are fully in control of all that You created. When we are allowed to suffer, let us not feel agitated and worried, but count it all joy, knowing that endurance will result in a crown of life. When we are slandered, let us not be crushed by others’ opinions, but help us live in such a way that no one would believe it! Help us to remember who we are and Whose we are. We ask this in the soothing name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to live at peace with him.”
Proverbs 16:7
“Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
James 5:11
Life isn’t fair. You aren’t being fair. I just want what’s fair. That is such a double standard. We all have heard these statements at various times, right?
There are two primary perspectives regarding fairness. First, on a human level we are often out for “number one.” We don’t get mad, we get even. But this approach never leads to peace or contentment. In fact, the outcome is that we become covetous, cynical, bitter, and even hostile. Second, there is the divine level. God misses absolutely nothing (1 Peter 3: 12). He is completely aware of what we think, say, and do before it ever takes place. But we ask, “What about all the evil in the world?” Interestingly, God doesn’t operate in time as we do; we can be assured that justice will be served (Rom. 8:28).
1 Peter 3:13 tells us that honest people usually don’t suffer harm. For example, we pay our debts, and usually we don’t suffer financial trouble. If we lead a healthy lifestyle we usually live longer, and even better. This verse shows us that when we seek to do good, no one can effectively harm us.
When life is not fair, and when we suffer, the very next verse (14) promises that we can consider ourselves “blessed” if we suffer for righteous reasons. Obviously, we can also make decisions that carry unpleasant consequences when we violate God’s principles. But the Phillips translation of James 1:2 gives us comfort: “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your life, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!”
Today, several insightful techniques can help us as we deal with suffering and life’s unfairness. First, we are called to patiently endure unfairness, so that we can know we are fulfilling God’s plan for us. Second, one day we’ll be rewarded for enduring these undeserved trials (James 1:12). Third, don’t panic and don’t worry (1 Peter 3:14). Fear comes from the Greek word “phobos” which means being seized with terror and running to take flight. God wants to give us calmness in our spirit. Fourth, acknowledge Christ as Lord over this event. In the book of Acts Stephen forgives his attackers, giving us an example of not reflecting back hatred and bitterness. Fifth, be ready to give a good witness (v. 15). We must know what we believe, and be able to be reasonable, intelligent, and gentle in giving our defense. And, sixth, keep a good conscience (v. 16). Integrity will silence and shame your slanderers. Job’s example shows that unjust suffering is always better than deserved punishment. These are all decision-making skills you can learn, practice, and excel in. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father God, thank You that You are full of compassion and are fully in control of all that You created. When we are allowed to suffer, let us not feel agitated and worried, but count it all joy, knowing that endurance will result in a crown of life. When we are slandered, let us not be crushed by others’ opinions, but help us live in such a way that no one would believe it! Help us to remember who we are and Whose we are. We ask this in the soothing name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to live at peace with him.”
Proverbs 16:7
“Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
James 5:11
Friday, February 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: Tie Together – Again?
Transformational Thought
Tens of millions of people in the U.S. are tormented by compulsive addictions according to the latest statistics regarding substance abuse and compulsive-addictive behaviors. An addict’s primary relationship is with a drug or a behavior, not with himself. Our society, in large part, denies the addiction problem. Treatment centers and state hospitals are closing, program funding is being cut, and insurance reimbursement for treatment is decreasing. The walking wounded are, therefore, on their own to get help for themselves and their families.
Physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychological disabilities brought on by addictions are rampant. Major damage caused by drugs also includes the drug environment and the impurities associated with it, namely, secondary infections, especially with illegal drugs. This lifestyle, regardless of the type of addiction, 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 doesn’t seem to be regarded today as the original word suggests. The root word is “ligio” (Latin) meaning to tie or bind together. For example, in a tubal ligation a woman has her tubes tied. “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 where Adam and Eve disobeyed God, causing 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.
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. People have become unbound with God through their addictions. What we give our time, money, and energy to becomes our god. We become like our object of worship. It’s amazing to consider what we pursue to soothe our discomfort, and the dire spiritual consequences we choose to endure for a momentary thrill.
Today, if you have an overt addiction, know that God stands ready and willing to forgive and restore everyone who has been carried away by addictions. Let Him in. Trust His ways, and 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 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 first.
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 effects of mood-altering chemicals and behaviors that are self-destructive. Heal and restore us in body, mind, and spirit to what You intended us to be. We ask this in the powerful and comforting 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
“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
Physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychological disabilities brought on by addictions are rampant. Major damage caused by drugs also includes the drug environment and the impurities associated with it, namely, secondary infections, especially with illegal drugs. This lifestyle, regardless of the type of addiction, 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 doesn’t seem to be regarded today as the original word suggests. The root word is “ligio” (Latin) meaning to tie or bind together. For example, in a tubal ligation a woman has her tubes tied. “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 where Adam and Eve disobeyed God, causing 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.
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. People have become unbound with God through their addictions. What we give our time, money, and energy to becomes our god. We become like our object of worship. It’s amazing to consider what we pursue to soothe our discomfort, and the dire spiritual consequences we choose to endure for a momentary thrill.
Today, if you have an overt addiction, know that God stands ready and willing to forgive and restore everyone who has been carried away by addictions. Let Him in. Trust His ways, and 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 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 first.
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 effects of mood-altering chemicals and behaviors that are self-destructive. Heal and restore us in body, mind, and spirit to what You intended us to be. We ask this in the powerful and comforting 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
“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
Friday, November 19, 2010
Stepping Stones: Fear Sucks Joy From Today
Transformational Thought
As a kid I was blessed to have much success in sports…team championships, great personal performances, lots of cheers and adulation from peers and fans. But amazingly, I remember very little of any of it. I have a small number of vague, blurred memories with only a few very specific pictures in my head. Why can’t I remember? Well, I was anxious and afraid of failure, so I was always living in the future…wondering what would happen if I didn’t perform well. “Today’s success is history and I am only as good as my next performance,” was the mentality that drove me to succeed but robbed me of the joy of reveling in the moment.
I never really enjoyed the great things that were happening in the moment and it continued as an adult. I would be at an amusement park with my kids…whipping around on a fun ride. But while I was riding I was thinking about the future…which would be the best ride to get to next, where would the shortest line be, when should we eat lunch to avoid the long lines, what ride could we do next so the kids would have fun? Then the ride would end and I wouldn’t even remember it or have enjoyed it as much as I could have.
If you try to carry tomorrow’s trouble today, you will stagger under the load and eventually fall flat. Focusing on tomorrow’s troubles is not only escapist…it’s irresponsible. Each day of your life is a gift from God. What does it say to God when you squander His gifts? Of course you cannot stop thinking about tomorrow altogether…that, too, would be irresponsible. The real question is: where do you live most of the time – in the present or in the future? Thankfully, I have learned to live more in the present and my memory banks are full of great experiences.
Today, when you feel stressed, anxious, or angry – STOP. Ask yourself, “Am I living in the future, playing out worst case scenarios…or am I living and enjoying God’s amazing grace in the present?” Freedom comes from accepting His gifts and living them, everyday. Focus on the present and why God has you where you are. Enjoy His blessings, and yes, they are all blessings, and enjoy them now. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I rejoice in You, Father, and Your great gift to me of Your Son, my savior and sovereign Lord. It is through You that I will go to great heights…transcending all the troubles of yesterday and tomorrow. Help me, Father, to keep my focus on today, even though at times this is very difficult for me. I try to focus on tomorrow’s problems to avoid facing today’s. I know You see my every thought, Father, so you know how many of them are future-oriented. I pray that You will help me break this deeply ingrained habit. I pray in the name of my savior, Jesus; and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3:19
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:34
As a kid I was blessed to have much success in sports…team championships, great personal performances, lots of cheers and adulation from peers and fans. But amazingly, I remember very little of any of it. I have a small number of vague, blurred memories with only a few very specific pictures in my head. Why can’t I remember? Well, I was anxious and afraid of failure, so I was always living in the future…wondering what would happen if I didn’t perform well. “Today’s success is history and I am only as good as my next performance,” was the mentality that drove me to succeed but robbed me of the joy of reveling in the moment.
I never really enjoyed the great things that were happening in the moment and it continued as an adult. I would be at an amusement park with my kids…whipping around on a fun ride. But while I was riding I was thinking about the future…which would be the best ride to get to next, where would the shortest line be, when should we eat lunch to avoid the long lines, what ride could we do next so the kids would have fun? Then the ride would end and I wouldn’t even remember it or have enjoyed it as much as I could have.
If you try to carry tomorrow’s trouble today, you will stagger under the load and eventually fall flat. Focusing on tomorrow’s troubles is not only escapist…it’s irresponsible. Each day of your life is a gift from God. What does it say to God when you squander His gifts? Of course you cannot stop thinking about tomorrow altogether…that, too, would be irresponsible. The real question is: where do you live most of the time – in the present or in the future? Thankfully, I have learned to live more in the present and my memory banks are full of great experiences.
Today, when you feel stressed, anxious, or angry – STOP. Ask yourself, “Am I living in the future, playing out worst case scenarios…or am I living and enjoying God’s amazing grace in the present?” Freedom comes from accepting His gifts and living them, everyday. Focus on the present and why God has you where you are. Enjoy His blessings, and yes, they are all blessings, and enjoy them now. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I rejoice in You, Father, and Your great gift to me of Your Son, my savior and sovereign Lord. It is through You that I will go to great heights…transcending all the troubles of yesterday and tomorrow. Help me, Father, to keep my focus on today, even though at times this is very difficult for me. I try to focus on tomorrow’s problems to avoid facing today’s. I know You see my every thought, Father, so you know how many of them are future-oriented. I pray that You will help me break this deeply ingrained habit. I pray in the name of my savior, Jesus; and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3:19
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:34
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You in Denial?
Transformational Thought
A while back, I was caught by surprise, but learned something very important, so let me share it with you. I was shopping at my favorite butcher shop when the butcher asked: “could I ask you a personal question?” I have always exchanged pleasantries with this guy, but now he had a serious question. I said “sure.” He asked; “Where do you get your source of happiness…you are always smiling.”
I knew exactly where I get my source of happiness and joy, but I was caught off guard. So I gave him a lame answer; “Happiness is a choice…I choose to be happy.” I could tell he was disappointed in my answer.
Wow, so was I. Did that really just pop out of my mouth? It was as if someone was asking me if I know Jesus, and I was denying my association with Jesus. I can’t believe I was being like Peter and denying my Lord so blatantly.
A few days following that encounter I was reading 1 Peter and came across 3:15 where we are instructed to always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. I went back to the butcher the next day and told him that I didn’t give him the quality response that his question deserved. I told him in front of listening customers that my happiness and joy comes from living within the hope and promise of salvation…the salvation made possible by Jesus Christ. I told him I was a struggling Christian, and then I asked him about his relationship with God.
It’s rare for someone to ask such a direct question of us, but when they do, scripture tells us to be ready. We are more ready when we see God in all things. You see I am trying to grow my awareness, my spiritual radar, to see God in all aspects of my life, 24/7. When we only connect with Him on Sunday, or before meals, or when we really need His help during stormy times, then we will only see Him as a small accessory in our life. The reality, He is our life and in all facets of our life. We can’t escape Him, nor would we ever want to.
Today, think how you might respond when someone asks you the reason for the hope within you. Can you articulate to yourself the impact your faith and God’s actions have in your daily, moment-to-moment living. This is what we need to show and tell others. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you with a thankful heart. I recognize Your Son, Jesus Christ, as my Lord and I trust Him for the strength I so desperately need to lead a God-pleasing life. Help me, Lord, to not be speechless when called upon to defend my faith and to spread Your message of forgiveness, faith, love and hope. Help me do so with gentleness and respect. Help me, Lord, to be a lighthouse for those in need. I pray with the authority granted to me through Jesus Christ; and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
1 Peter 3:15
A while back, I was caught by surprise, but learned something very important, so let me share it with you. I was shopping at my favorite butcher shop when the butcher asked: “could I ask you a personal question?” I have always exchanged pleasantries with this guy, but now he had a serious question. I said “sure.” He asked; “Where do you get your source of happiness…you are always smiling.”
I knew exactly where I get my source of happiness and joy, but I was caught off guard. So I gave him a lame answer; “Happiness is a choice…I choose to be happy.” I could tell he was disappointed in my answer.
Wow, so was I. Did that really just pop out of my mouth? It was as if someone was asking me if I know Jesus, and I was denying my association with Jesus. I can’t believe I was being like Peter and denying my Lord so blatantly.
A few days following that encounter I was reading 1 Peter and came across 3:15 where we are instructed to always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. I went back to the butcher the next day and told him that I didn’t give him the quality response that his question deserved. I told him in front of listening customers that my happiness and joy comes from living within the hope and promise of salvation…the salvation made possible by Jesus Christ. I told him I was a struggling Christian, and then I asked him about his relationship with God.
It’s rare for someone to ask such a direct question of us, but when they do, scripture tells us to be ready. We are more ready when we see God in all things. You see I am trying to grow my awareness, my spiritual radar, to see God in all aspects of my life, 24/7. When we only connect with Him on Sunday, or before meals, or when we really need His help during stormy times, then we will only see Him as a small accessory in our life. The reality, He is our life and in all facets of our life. We can’t escape Him, nor would we ever want to.
Today, think how you might respond when someone asks you the reason for the hope within you. Can you articulate to yourself the impact your faith and God’s actions have in your daily, moment-to-moment living. This is what we need to show and tell others. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you with a thankful heart. I recognize Your Son, Jesus Christ, as my Lord and I trust Him for the strength I so desperately need to lead a God-pleasing life. Help me, Lord, to not be speechless when called upon to defend my faith and to spread Your message of forgiveness, faith, love and hope. Help me do so with gentleness and respect. Help me, Lord, to be a lighthouse for those in need. I pray with the authority granted to me through Jesus Christ; and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
1 Peter 3:15
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Stepping Stones: Thankfully, The Story Doesn’t End There
Transformational Tip
What if you were a murder, rapist, thief, child molester…all terrible, sinful things. Then you were caught and found guilty. Sentence pronounced – DEATH!. Just as they are getting the lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything and lets you know the amazing wonderful news.
He reluctantly(because he, Satan, wants to see you destroyed) explains, the penalty for your crime is death. A perfect person, who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed for you. You are free to go as your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day, but if that was the end of the story, it wouldn’t be that great. Who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry, a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, child molester.
This is the even more amazing second blessing…the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything wants to date you, marry you, hang out with you. He trusts you with His kids, possessions…and really loves and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of our sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, but rejoice in His second blessing.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for Your relentless pursuit of me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity, I now realize, you were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals that you also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid the died for me and pursued me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
What if you were a murder, rapist, thief, child molester…all terrible, sinful things. Then you were caught and found guilty. Sentence pronounced – DEATH!. Just as they are getting the lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything and lets you know the amazing wonderful news.
He reluctantly(because he, Satan, wants to see you destroyed) explains, the penalty for your crime is death. A perfect person, who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed for you. You are free to go as your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day, but if that was the end of the story, it wouldn’t be that great. Who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry, a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, child molester.
This is the even more amazing second blessing…the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything wants to date you, marry you, hang out with you. He trusts you with His kids, possessions…and really loves and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of our sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, but rejoice in His second blessing.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for Your relentless pursuit of me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity, I now realize, you were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals that you also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid the died for me and pursued me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Stepping Stone: Love and Grace vs. Guilt
Transformational Tip
Guilt is an emotion that we take on early in life, especially if we grow up surrounded by violent behavior and abuse. Even though we are powerless to stop the violence, we feel responsible for what is happening.
A man recently told me this story:
When he was 12 years old, he was caught stealing a chrome oil cap for one of his friend’s car. After picking him up at the police station, his father lined up all his brothers and sisters in the kitchen to witness the punishment. He asked the child what hand he used to steal the oil cap. His father took that hand and placed in directly into gas burner on the stove. He told me he hasn’t stolen anything since that day. He received 3rd degree burns. As a 55 year old man, he still carries that guilt around his neck like a large stone.
You see, guilt feels terrible…we all know that. But a bigger problem is how this ongoing guilt really distorts our view of ourselves and what we were made for, who God wants and is working for us to become. The worst problem is how this ongoing, gnawing guilt really distorts and limits our view of God…makes Him seem impotent to free us…constantly judgmental and angry at us for our transgressions…or demanding perfection and us to constantly work our way back into His “graces”.
We can take our guilt, real or imagined, to the cross. Jesus paid the price in full to set us free from condemnation. The things we did do wrong have consequences, but we can be set free from real or imagined guilt as we receive the wonderful grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Today, bring your pain and guilt to the cross. Really look at who the God of the Bible is and how His cup of forgiveness always runneth over for you. Let the love and grace of Jesus cleanse you and set you free. Click here to share your perspective on the guilt in your life.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for Your love and grace. I bring my failures and my guilt to You and ask forgiveness. I know that some of the guilt is imagined, but it still haunts me. Help me to leave it at the foot of the cross. Help me to clearly see You and me and respond accordingly, as You designed. Thanks for always giving me second chances. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to forgive my sins and erase my guilt, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Guilt is an emotion that we take on early in life, especially if we grow up surrounded by violent behavior and abuse. Even though we are powerless to stop the violence, we feel responsible for what is happening.
A man recently told me this story:
When he was 12 years old, he was caught stealing a chrome oil cap for one of his friend’s car. After picking him up at the police station, his father lined up all his brothers and sisters in the kitchen to witness the punishment. He asked the child what hand he used to steal the oil cap. His father took that hand and placed in directly into gas burner on the stove. He told me he hasn’t stolen anything since that day. He received 3rd degree burns. As a 55 year old man, he still carries that guilt around his neck like a large stone.
You see, guilt feels terrible…we all know that. But a bigger problem is how this ongoing guilt really distorts our view of ourselves and what we were made for, who God wants and is working for us to become. The worst problem is how this ongoing, gnawing guilt really distorts and limits our view of God…makes Him seem impotent to free us…constantly judgmental and angry at us for our transgressions…or demanding perfection and us to constantly work our way back into His “graces”.
We can take our guilt, real or imagined, to the cross. Jesus paid the price in full to set us free from condemnation. The things we did do wrong have consequences, but we can be set free from real or imagined guilt as we receive the wonderful grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Today, bring your pain and guilt to the cross. Really look at who the God of the Bible is and how His cup of forgiveness always runneth over for you. Let the love and grace of Jesus cleanse you and set you free. Click here to share your perspective on the guilt in your life.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for Your love and grace. I bring my failures and my guilt to You and ask forgiveness. I know that some of the guilt is imagined, but it still haunts me. Help me to leave it at the foot of the cross. Help me to clearly see You and me and respond accordingly, as You designed. Thanks for always giving me second chances. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to forgive my sins and erase my guilt, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Stepping Stones: Addictions – I Bet You Got One
Transformational Tip
If you thought this topic of addictions wasn’t for you, I am glad you are reading because…Newsflash: we are all addicts. We are all addicted to comfort. We all have a difficult time dealing with discomfort and especially pain. Even though we say “no pain, no gain”, it’s amazing how quickly we run from discomfort and pain.
You see, we are all born separated from God…that is the ultimate pain. This separation on the cross is what prompted even Jesus to ask God to have this “cup” pass from Him. As kids, we develop strategies to deal with pain. Unfortunately, we aren’t that mature and our “teachers” aren’t perfect, so developing coping mechanisms for physical, psychological, relational, emotional, and spiritual pain management are random, faulty, and short-sighted.
Solutions usually are flesh-driven options, knee-jerk reactions, immediate relievers. These “solutions” are Addiction Objects…things we go to and rely on instead of God in a repetitive way to fill needs that we should be looking to Him to fill. God might choose to provide other objects to fill them, but each time, we should look to Him first, not the object.
Addiction objects can be drugs, alcohol, food, pornography…but can also be anger(really any emotion), work, productivity, security, our intellect, kids, money, spending, martyrdom in the home, exercise, our looks/physique, sports/TV, hobbies, fighting, control, a relationship, sex…if it is something that comforts you or relieves some negative feeling, it can be an addiction object. People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything.
One of the great lies that Satan perpetrates on us…we use these addiction objects for self-protection, but the truth is they are really self-destructive. Just look at Solomon’s experiences in Ecclesiastes, as he pursues everything under the sun for comfort, leaving out God, and declares it is all vanity.
Today, let’s really do some honest reflection. When you are uneasy, lonely, stressed, etc, what do you go to first. Bingo, you found a probable addiction. Try to look to God first and see what He will prescribe for your pain.Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about addictions.
Prayer
Dear Father God, for many years I struggled with the pain of needing to be needed, accepted, valued. I turned to alcohol and drugs to soothe, but they caused more pain. You have freed me from my bondage to drugs and alcohol, but I still struggle with need for control. Help me tolerate discomfort as your grace is sufficient and help me grow the Mind of Christ to look to You as my ultimate Lighthouse of refuge and sanctuary. In Christ’s freeing name; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience-- among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Ephesians 2:1-3
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10
1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, "I have no pleasure in them";
8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.
10 The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.
13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:1,8,10,13
If you thought this topic of addictions wasn’t for you, I am glad you are reading because…Newsflash: we are all addicts. We are all addicted to comfort. We all have a difficult time dealing with discomfort and especially pain. Even though we say “no pain, no gain”, it’s amazing how quickly we run from discomfort and pain.
You see, we are all born separated from God…that is the ultimate pain. This separation on the cross is what prompted even Jesus to ask God to have this “cup” pass from Him. As kids, we develop strategies to deal with pain. Unfortunately, we aren’t that mature and our “teachers” aren’t perfect, so developing coping mechanisms for physical, psychological, relational, emotional, and spiritual pain management are random, faulty, and short-sighted.
Solutions usually are flesh-driven options, knee-jerk reactions, immediate relievers. These “solutions” are Addiction Objects…things we go to and rely on instead of God in a repetitive way to fill needs that we should be looking to Him to fill. God might choose to provide other objects to fill them, but each time, we should look to Him first, not the object.
Addiction objects can be drugs, alcohol, food, pornography…but can also be anger(really any emotion), work, productivity, security, our intellect, kids, money, spending, martyrdom in the home, exercise, our looks/physique, sports/TV, hobbies, fighting, control, a relationship, sex…if it is something that comforts you or relieves some negative feeling, it can be an addiction object. People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything.
One of the great lies that Satan perpetrates on us…we use these addiction objects for self-protection, but the truth is they are really self-destructive. Just look at Solomon’s experiences in Ecclesiastes, as he pursues everything under the sun for comfort, leaving out God, and declares it is all vanity.
Today, let’s really do some honest reflection. When you are uneasy, lonely, stressed, etc, what do you go to first. Bingo, you found a probable addiction. Try to look to God first and see what He will prescribe for your pain.Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about addictions.
Prayer
Dear Father God, for many years I struggled with the pain of needing to be needed, accepted, valued. I turned to alcohol and drugs to soothe, but they caused more pain. You have freed me from my bondage to drugs and alcohol, but I still struggle with need for control. Help me tolerate discomfort as your grace is sufficient and help me grow the Mind of Christ to look to You as my ultimate Lighthouse of refuge and sanctuary. In Christ’s freeing name; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience-- among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Ephesians 2:1-3
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10
1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, "I have no pleasure in them";
8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.
10 The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.
13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:1,8,10,13
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Stepping Stones: The Slow Squeeze of Death
Transformational Tip
I once watched a TV special on pythons…you know, those big snakes. They are fascinating; they actually swallow their prey whole. The TV program showed a giant python swallowing and digesting a whole calf. What I found most fascinating was the way in which the python actually killed their prey. Like most people I thought they simply “crushed” their victims…squeeze them to death. Not so. They suffocate their victims. They slowly coil around the victim, many times while the victim is sleeping. Each time the victim exhales the python gently tightens their grip. After a few exhales the snake has restricted the victim’s ability to inhale and then they suffocate.
Satan works very much like a python to destroy souls. He doesn’t crush us with one powerful squeeze, he doesn’t take us out with one blow; he slowly and gently wraps himself around our minds and souls and begins the suffocation process. Instead of depriving us of oxygen, he deprives us of God…leading to our spiritual death.
Today, be aware of Satan’s possible grip on you. Are you finding it hard to inhale? Feeling short of breath? Unlike the python, Satan is easily removed. Resist and Rebuke him and all his works, accept Jesus as you savior…and watch the enemy lose his grip. Say today’s prayer, it is a prayer of salvation. If you are a Christian, apply the reality and magnitude of the Christmas story to today’s worry.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on Satan’s slow squeeze of death.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separation of me from You. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, being with me forever. Now help me make You the King of my life. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.
Daniel 11:32
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7
I once watched a TV special on pythons…you know, those big snakes. They are fascinating; they actually swallow their prey whole. The TV program showed a giant python swallowing and digesting a whole calf. What I found most fascinating was the way in which the python actually killed their prey. Like most people I thought they simply “crushed” their victims…squeeze them to death. Not so. They suffocate their victims. They slowly coil around the victim, many times while the victim is sleeping. Each time the victim exhales the python gently tightens their grip. After a few exhales the snake has restricted the victim’s ability to inhale and then they suffocate.
Satan works very much like a python to destroy souls. He doesn’t crush us with one powerful squeeze, he doesn’t take us out with one blow; he slowly and gently wraps himself around our minds and souls and begins the suffocation process. Instead of depriving us of oxygen, he deprives us of God…leading to our spiritual death.
Today, be aware of Satan’s possible grip on you. Are you finding it hard to inhale? Feeling short of breath? Unlike the python, Satan is easily removed. Resist and Rebuke him and all his works, accept Jesus as you savior…and watch the enemy lose his grip. Say today’s prayer, it is a prayer of salvation. If you are a Christian, apply the reality and magnitude of the Christmas story to today’s worry.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on Satan’s slow squeeze of death.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separation of me from You. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, being with me forever. Now help me make You the King of my life. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.
Daniel 11:32
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7
Friday, November 6, 2009
Stepping Stones: Don't Agree With Him
Transformational Tip
The evil one is lying to us, seeking our agreement…every single day. He doesn’t just plant the thought in our head and hearts; he keeps hammering away until we agree with him. Jesus called Satan the “Father of Lies”. One of his all time favorite lie is - You do not really love Jesus…that you are only pretending…that you are only deceiving yourself. You really wouldn’t be thinking these thoughts…doing these things, if you really loved Jesus with all your heart. This ranks right up there as some of the worse news he could deliver to you? He’s hoping we’ll buy into whatever he’s saying, offering, insinuating. Our first parents bought into it, and look what disaster came of it. Stand firm on the truth. Do not agree with him!
Today, try and hang onto this fact; Your heart matters to God. Try to hold this up for even a day. My heart matters to God. You will be amazed at how much accusation you live under. I’m such a lousy parent, I’m such a bad spouse, I’m such a weak Christian, I have no will power. And slowly another agreement is made. Satan will take any small victory he can get. It moves from you did a bad thing to you are bad. After a while it just becomes a cloud we live under, accept as normal. Do not agree with him. There is a reason why Jesus said, “the truth will set you free.” Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on the accusation and lies you live under.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for Your Holy Word that warns us about Satan’s lies. I am so tired of living under this cloud of accusation and lies. I pray Lord that You will help me remember today and everyday that You made me in Your image…and that my heart matters to you. Help me, Father, to avoid agreeing with the enemy. I pray in the name of the truth, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
“and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:32
(Jesus speaking about satan)“He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”
John 8:44
I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel."
Genesis 3:15
The evil one is lying to us, seeking our agreement…every single day. He doesn’t just plant the thought in our head and hearts; he keeps hammering away until we agree with him. Jesus called Satan the “Father of Lies”. One of his all time favorite lie is - You do not really love Jesus…that you are only pretending…that you are only deceiving yourself. You really wouldn’t be thinking these thoughts…doing these things, if you really loved Jesus with all your heart. This ranks right up there as some of the worse news he could deliver to you? He’s hoping we’ll buy into whatever he’s saying, offering, insinuating. Our first parents bought into it, and look what disaster came of it. Stand firm on the truth. Do not agree with him!
Today, try and hang onto this fact; Your heart matters to God. Try to hold this up for even a day. My heart matters to God. You will be amazed at how much accusation you live under. I’m such a lousy parent, I’m such a bad spouse, I’m such a weak Christian, I have no will power. And slowly another agreement is made. Satan will take any small victory he can get. It moves from you did a bad thing to you are bad. After a while it just becomes a cloud we live under, accept as normal. Do not agree with him. There is a reason why Jesus said, “the truth will set you free.” Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on the accusation and lies you live under.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for Your Holy Word that warns us about Satan’s lies. I am so tired of living under this cloud of accusation and lies. I pray Lord that You will help me remember today and everyday that You made me in Your image…and that my heart matters to you. Help me, Father, to avoid agreeing with the enemy. I pray in the name of the truth, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
“and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:32
(Jesus speaking about satan)“He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”
John 8:44
I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel."
Genesis 3:15
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Stepping Stones: Become Free by Being Controlled
Transformational Tip
I know, this sounds impossible, like a contradiction; “Be free by becoming controlled.” But this is a lesson we see clearly and learn so often in life. Submitting to your teachers, their instruction and strategy, allows greater freedom to choose a vocation you want. Submitting to your coaches allows you more freedom from anxiety, pressure, and fear when you face a difficult opponent. Submitting to a theatre director or music teacher produces great freedom to explore the art, maximize your expressiveness, and freely become the art form. The same is true spiritually, as you submit to the Holy Spirit, stop fighting the way of God, really put on the armor everyday (more on Armor of God), let the Holy Spirit control your mind and actions, you become free from the world and supernaturally empowered by God. You will become increasingly released and free to become the one He created you to be.
Today, when you sin, confess it immediately. This gets the Holy Spirit back on the throne of your life. In an important decision today, invite the Holy Spirit to guide you and really submit to His guidance and see how it plays out. Let Him live in the depths of your spirit. His work in you can liberate you to be completely who God intended you to be, the life that is WITHIN REACH. Click here to share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on submitting, being controlled, or living free.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
My desire to be in control is constantly getting in the way…by doing things my way I am continually sabotaging myself. I know that when Your Holy Spirit is controlling my thinking and behavior I feel more alive…more real. I am freer to live how You want and designed me to. I pray for humility to allow the Holy Spirit to think through me, live through me, love through me. I pray this in the freeing name my savior Jesus Christ, and all God’s people said, – AMEN!
The Truth
For to be carnally minded is death, but to be controlled by the Spirit is life and
peace.
Romans 8:6
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:2
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
I know, this sounds impossible, like a contradiction; “Be free by becoming controlled.” But this is a lesson we see clearly and learn so often in life. Submitting to your teachers, their instruction and strategy, allows greater freedom to choose a vocation you want. Submitting to your coaches allows you more freedom from anxiety, pressure, and fear when you face a difficult opponent. Submitting to a theatre director or music teacher produces great freedom to explore the art, maximize your expressiveness, and freely become the art form. The same is true spiritually, as you submit to the Holy Spirit, stop fighting the way of God, really put on the armor everyday (more on Armor of God), let the Holy Spirit control your mind and actions, you become free from the world and supernaturally empowered by God. You will become increasingly released and free to become the one He created you to be.
Today, when you sin, confess it immediately. This gets the Holy Spirit back on the throne of your life. In an important decision today, invite the Holy Spirit to guide you and really submit to His guidance and see how it plays out. Let Him live in the depths of your spirit. His work in you can liberate you to be completely who God intended you to be, the life that is WITHIN REACH. Click here to share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on submitting, being controlled, or living free.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
My desire to be in control is constantly getting in the way…by doing things my way I am continually sabotaging myself. I know that when Your Holy Spirit is controlling my thinking and behavior I feel more alive…more real. I am freer to live how You want and designed me to. I pray for humility to allow the Holy Spirit to think through me, live through me, love through me. I pray this in the freeing name my savior Jesus Christ, and all God’s people said, – AMEN!
The Truth
For to be carnally minded is death, but to be controlled by the Spirit is life and
peace.
Romans 8:6
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:2
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
Friday, October 23, 2009
Stepping Stones: Freedom: 100% Mental
Transformational Tip
They say sports are 90% mental, meaning, what’s between their ears…their intellectual, psychological, relational, emotional skills…really determine if they will maximize their physical abilities. Yes, we are all so very blessed to live in a country that provides the opportunity to be free. Freedom of speech…freedom to choose the vocation we want…freedom to practice any religion. But how free are we? How many of us are prisoners of our own heart/mind? How many of us are “driven” to be something we are not…or sabotage the path designed specifically for us. In an odd paradox, freedom really comes from having only one Master…the only one qualified to be the Master. Most of our troubles come from trying to blend masters(self, world, others, God) for our life…implementing our own game plan and ignoring His. You will maximize your abilities and life, achieve your God-given potential, when you realize your life is 100% mental and you humbly let God be your master.
Today, find freedom through seeking to please God above all else. Concentrate on staying close to Him at all times and humbling yourself to His instructions for your conduct. To develop practical skills to strengthen your mind and put God on the throne of your heart in your decisions, click here. To share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on being authentic and the freedom that grants you, Click here.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I come to Your with a thankful yet penitent heart. I confess, Lord, that I have let worship of others’ and my own expectations drive me, scattering my energy and focus. My desire to “look good’ in the eyes of others is also draining my energy. Help me Lord to focus on You. I know that this is the only way to achieve true freedom. Help me focus on serving the one and only Master, You. Help me Father to not focus of the good deeds I do to impress others. I pray Father that today and always I will let You direct my next step so that I will be free to enjoy You and to look forward to what You have prepared for me this day. These things I ask boldly, through the love and work of Christ Jesus for us, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.
Ephesians 5:8-10
And I will lead the blind in a way that they do not know, in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I do, and I do not forsake them.
Isaiah 42:16
They say sports are 90% mental, meaning, what’s between their ears…their intellectual, psychological, relational, emotional skills…really determine if they will maximize their physical abilities. Yes, we are all so very blessed to live in a country that provides the opportunity to be free. Freedom of speech…freedom to choose the vocation we want…freedom to practice any religion. But how free are we? How many of us are prisoners of our own heart/mind? How many of us are “driven” to be something we are not…or sabotage the path designed specifically for us. In an odd paradox, freedom really comes from having only one Master…the only one qualified to be the Master. Most of our troubles come from trying to blend masters(self, world, others, God) for our life…implementing our own game plan and ignoring His. You will maximize your abilities and life, achieve your God-given potential, when you realize your life is 100% mental and you humbly let God be your master.
Today, find freedom through seeking to please God above all else. Concentrate on staying close to Him at all times and humbling yourself to His instructions for your conduct. To develop practical skills to strengthen your mind and put God on the throne of your heart in your decisions, click here. To share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on being authentic and the freedom that grants you, Click here.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I come to Your with a thankful yet penitent heart. I confess, Lord, that I have let worship of others’ and my own expectations drive me, scattering my energy and focus. My desire to “look good’ in the eyes of others is also draining my energy. Help me Lord to focus on You. I know that this is the only way to achieve true freedom. Help me focus on serving the one and only Master, You. Help me Father to not focus of the good deeds I do to impress others. I pray Father that today and always I will let You direct my next step so that I will be free to enjoy You and to look forward to what You have prepared for me this day. These things I ask boldly, through the love and work of Christ Jesus for us, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.
Ephesians 5:8-10
And I will lead the blind in a way that they do not know, in paths that they have not known I will guide them. I will turn the darkness before them into light, the rough places into level ground. These are the things I do, and I do not forsake them.
Isaiah 42:16
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Stepping Stones: Are You Really Free?
Transformational Tip
Even though I am an adult, I love fireworks and today, for the first time, I will be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rockets red glare, bombs bursting in air, mystery, drama, wonder, and celebration. Just really cool. All over America today, festivities celebrate our countries birthday, and commemorating winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling, state of mind, and privilege. The sobering reality is, we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We still have a master, someone whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules we are subject to. God is the real ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call universe. Satan and our flesh are the rebel party trying to overthrow the benevolent regime, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing their destructive ways and intentions are actually in our best interest.
We are free, free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes responsibility. If you aren't actively choosing God, our natural inclination is to reject God, let our flesh rule, and vote Satan's policies to guide us.
Today, exercise your freedom to choose and choose wisely. Only one master really genuinely cares for you, is willing(He actually did) die for you, and wants to let you live in the royal palace forever!
Enjoy your festivities and be safe!
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf, me, on Your kingdom. Help me choose You and be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others would see You in me. Thanks for Your blessings I have and the freedom to worship you in the US. I pray your protection and comfort for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than I can and do. In Jesus freeing name and sacrifice-AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Even though I am an adult, I love fireworks and today, for the first time, I will be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rockets red glare, bombs bursting in air, mystery, drama, wonder, and celebration. Just really cool. All over America today, festivities celebrate our countries birthday, and commemorating winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling, state of mind, and privilege. The sobering reality is, we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We still have a master, someone whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules we are subject to. God is the real ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call universe. Satan and our flesh are the rebel party trying to overthrow the benevolent regime, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing their destructive ways and intentions are actually in our best interest.
We are free, free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes responsibility. If you aren't actively choosing God, our natural inclination is to reject God, let our flesh rule, and vote Satan's policies to guide us.
Today, exercise your freedom to choose and choose wisely. Only one master really genuinely cares for you, is willing(He actually did) die for you, and wants to let you live in the royal palace forever!
Enjoy your festivities and be safe!
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf, me, on Your kingdom. Help me choose You and be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others would see You in me. Thanks for Your blessings I have and the freedom to worship you in the US. I pray your protection and comfort for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than I can and do. In Jesus freeing name and sacrifice-AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Monday, May 25, 2009
Stepping Stones: What Do You Remember For Freedom?
Transformational Tip
In January 2006, I was privileged and honored to be invited by Dr Zryan, the Minister of Health in Kurdistan, Iraq, to lead the first mental health team (3 of us went, all Christians) into post-Sadam Iraq to train Iraqi healthcare personnel on various issues. Incredible experience! Unfortunately, I saw and heard first hand the suffering and persecution people endured religiously, especially Christians, who wanted to gather, pray, or worship God. Other basics, like heat, electricity, trust, safety, respect, being valued, and getting health care were also scarce. I really appreciated the basics we have here in the US. Today, Memorial Day, is when we remember all those who served so we could enjoy living in the greatest country ever....enjoy freedom in so many areas of life...in Iraq they have minimal vocational choice as the system puts them on a path in elementary or middle school. Most importantly, we have the freedom to choose who our God is. In 1776, this was rare, and why our forefathers left their homes in Europe and why they sacrificed all they had and fought to the death to preserve....Free will to decide for life(eternal life), liberty(freedom from the bondage of sin and death), and the pursuit of happiness(real personal relationship with God).
Take time today to remember the greatest sacrifice for our most important freedom...the greatest soldier, 2000 years ago, paid the ultimate price...leaving His home in heaven, going to a far away land, becoming embedded in the foreign culture, and fighting for not Himself, but for us....Jesus died spiritually freeing us from the bondage of sin and the sentence of death we were destined for without His ultimate sacrifice..
From the Battle Hymn of the Republic:
"With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me:
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free;"
Please take time to specially remember and thank God for being your ultimate warrior.
Also, please pray for those are serving and their families....but please continue to pray for those who have served as they struggle with higher levels of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, and family and marital problems worsened by the strain of their service for our comforts.
Enjoy your Holyday.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
Thank you so much for loving me before I even knew You.... even though I spurn You and go my own way, You relentlessly pursue me and still love me. I confess I take much of Your grace and blessings for granted.... especially your love and forgiveness. Help me be more aware of how I hurt you when I stray... keep in my mind everyday, not just today and Easter and Christmas, how you suffered and died for me...a king would die for putsy me...still unbelievable.
Please be with those in the military, who are sacrificing for others' freedom....make Your peace and comfort known to them and bring other Christians into their life to be Your tangible hands of love, compassion, and encouragement. Also be with those who have served and point them to Your Son, the Light to show them the way to Your arms of comfort.
I pray this prayer in Jesus' ultimate and precious name - AMEN.
The Truth
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1
Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
1 Peter 2:16
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:31-32
Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.
The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
Psalm 118:5-9
In January 2006, I was privileged and honored to be invited by Dr Zryan, the Minister of Health in Kurdistan, Iraq, to lead the first mental health team (3 of us went, all Christians) into post-Sadam Iraq to train Iraqi healthcare personnel on various issues. Incredible experience! Unfortunately, I saw and heard first hand the suffering and persecution people endured religiously, especially Christians, who wanted to gather, pray, or worship God. Other basics, like heat, electricity, trust, safety, respect, being valued, and getting health care were also scarce. I really appreciated the basics we have here in the US. Today, Memorial Day, is when we remember all those who served so we could enjoy living in the greatest country ever....enjoy freedom in so many areas of life...in Iraq they have minimal vocational choice as the system puts them on a path in elementary or middle school. Most importantly, we have the freedom to choose who our God is. In 1776, this was rare, and why our forefathers left their homes in Europe and why they sacrificed all they had and fought to the death to preserve....Free will to decide for life(eternal life), liberty(freedom from the bondage of sin and death), and the pursuit of happiness(real personal relationship with God).
Take time today to remember the greatest sacrifice for our most important freedom...the greatest soldier, 2000 years ago, paid the ultimate price...leaving His home in heaven, going to a far away land, becoming embedded in the foreign culture, and fighting for not Himself, but for us....Jesus died spiritually freeing us from the bondage of sin and the sentence of death we were destined for without His ultimate sacrifice..
From the Battle Hymn of the Republic:
"With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me:
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free;"
Please take time to specially remember and thank God for being your ultimate warrior.
Also, please pray for those are serving and their families....but please continue to pray for those who have served as they struggle with higher levels of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, and family and marital problems worsened by the strain of their service for our comforts.
Enjoy your Holyday.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
Thank you so much for loving me before I even knew You.... even though I spurn You and go my own way, You relentlessly pursue me and still love me. I confess I take much of Your grace and blessings for granted.... especially your love and forgiveness. Help me be more aware of how I hurt you when I stray... keep in my mind everyday, not just today and Easter and Christmas, how you suffered and died for me...a king would die for putsy me...still unbelievable.
Please be with those in the military, who are sacrificing for others' freedom....make Your peace and comfort known to them and bring other Christians into their life to be Your tangible hands of love, compassion, and encouragement. Also be with those who have served and point them to Your Son, the Light to show them the way to Your arms of comfort.
I pray this prayer in Jesus' ultimate and precious name - AMEN.
The Truth
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1
Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
1 Peter 2:16
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:31-32
Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.
The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
Psalm 118:5-9
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Stepping Stones: Avoid "Future-Gazing"
Transformational Tip
The wonder and joy of God's is only accessible to you in the present moment. Instead of gazing into the unknown future, live each moment in the joyful awareness of His presence.
Imagine seeing a beautiful red carpet being unrolled in front of an honored person as she walks forward with her head up. The red carpet is her defined, honored, special, unique, and precious path... only for her.... to honor her....and for her maximum benefit and enjoyment. Know that your future is safely in the hands of your Lord and He has a path, a plan...your own personal red carpet specially designed for YOU. The catch is that He reveals it, your life, to you moment by moment. Armed with this understanding allows me to enjoy each moment instead of getting ahead and wishing for or anticipating future moments and neglecting the special "now" moments He designed for me. Enjoying the now acknowledges that God doesn't make mistakes, really loves me, and meets my every need. Attaining this freedom wasn't easy, because my mind wonders to "Future Gazing" at will. When you find yourself engaging in "Future Gazing", remind yourself that you are truly roaming in a fantasy land that is really about self-destruction and not self-preservation. This will help you return to the present where you will find Him waiting for you, rolling out your honored red carpet.
Prayer
Dear Lord and Savior,
What a comforting thought, knowing that You are unfolding my life to me exactly as You planned it. Teach me Lord how to spend more time in the present with You. I know that You hold my future far ahead of me and that when I "Future Gaze", all I am really doing is exercising my imagination, because it is impossible for me to know and anticipate what the future will hold for me . Help me walk forward on Your red carpet, never setting foot on anything but the present. I step forward today with confidence.
I pray in the name of Your Son Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?
Ecclesiastes 8:7
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.
Psalm 32:10
Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb;
even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.
To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike?
Those who lavish gold from the purse, and weigh out silver in the scales, hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; then they fall down and worship!
They lift it to their shoulders, they carry it, they set it in its place, and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble.
Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors,
remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me,
declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'
Isaiah 46:3-10
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:8
The wonder and joy of God's is only accessible to you in the present moment. Instead of gazing into the unknown future, live each moment in the joyful awareness of His presence.
Imagine seeing a beautiful red carpet being unrolled in front of an honored person as she walks forward with her head up. The red carpet is her defined, honored, special, unique, and precious path... only for her.... to honor her....and for her maximum benefit and enjoyment. Know that your future is safely in the hands of your Lord and He has a path, a plan...your own personal red carpet specially designed for YOU. The catch is that He reveals it, your life, to you moment by moment. Armed with this understanding allows me to enjoy each moment instead of getting ahead and wishing for or anticipating future moments and neglecting the special "now" moments He designed for me. Enjoying the now acknowledges that God doesn't make mistakes, really loves me, and meets my every need. Attaining this freedom wasn't easy, because my mind wonders to "Future Gazing" at will. When you find yourself engaging in "Future Gazing", remind yourself that you are truly roaming in a fantasy land that is really about self-destruction and not self-preservation. This will help you return to the present where you will find Him waiting for you, rolling out your honored red carpet.
Prayer
Dear Lord and Savior,
What a comforting thought, knowing that You are unfolding my life to me exactly as You planned it. Teach me Lord how to spend more time in the present with You. I know that You hold my future far ahead of me and that when I "Future Gaze", all I am really doing is exercising my imagination, because it is impossible for me to know and anticipate what the future will hold for me . Help me walk forward on Your red carpet, never setting foot on anything but the present. I step forward today with confidence.
I pray in the name of Your Son Jesus - AMEN
The Truth
For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?
Ecclesiastes 8:7
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.
Psalm 32:10
Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb;
even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.
To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike?
Those who lavish gold from the purse, and weigh out silver in the scales, hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; then they fall down and worship!
They lift it to their shoulders, they carry it, they set it in its place, and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble.
Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors,
remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me,
declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'
Isaiah 46:3-10
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:8
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