Transformational Thought
Several phrases people frequently use just send me through the ceiling. For example, when someone inserts “to tell you the truth”, “to be totally honest” or “can I be totally frank with you?”. When I hear those words, my initiative reaction is to ask, “Does this mean that up to this point you haven’t been telling me the truth?”
Another example is beginning a sentence with “You have no idea ….” I always find that statement so presumptuous, so condescending. Well, at the risk of irritating you, let me use that phrase. “You have no idea who you really are!” There … I’ve said it! Now hear me out.
Paul tells the Corinthians they have a veil over their faces. Our faith in Christ as our Savior and our acceptance of His death for our sin takes the veil away. We are so accustomed to looking at ourselves through a veil, we find it hard to clearly see Christ’s glory in us. So, we adopt other veils to get us back into our “comfort zone”.
We have many veils, but a common one we try on is this whole Christian thing. Trying not to sin. Cleaning ourselves up on the outside. Doing good deeds. Going to church. Being nice. Putting that dollar in the collection basket. When we look in the mirror, we cannot see who we really are because of the veils that hang over our faces … veils created by us, or provided by Satan to deceive us about who we really are in Christ.
We truly have no idea who we really are as long as the veil remains. Jesus clearly says it’s about believing and receiving … it’s about healing your heart, setting it free, restoring you to the glory God intends for you. It’s about lifting that veil. I fear a religious fog has tried to veil us, placing us under some sort of spell or amnesia, to keep us from truly coming alive … to keep us from really knowing who we are and who God intends us to be. In today’s scripture reading, Paul says it is time to take that veil away.
Today, take the veil off … bringing freedom, transformation and glory to your life … “beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord.” Do some honest self-assessment. Ask yourself what interferes as you try reflecting Christ to yourself and to others. Why do you let it interfere? Identify one step you can take today to stop wearing your veil. Pick out one person you trust and tell him or her a bit more about your secret fears, needs, or past wounds. Let the light in. God will soothe, heal, and transform. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to know who I am. I want to lift the veil that distorts and blocks my vision. When I look into the mirror I want to see the reflection of Your glory. I want to see my sinfulness more clearly. I want to like … no, I want to love what I see and who I am. You are the Spirit, and where You are I know I will find liberty and freedom. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might lift the veil that hangs over my face, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say- AMEN!
The Truth
Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Corinthians 3:16-18
Showing posts with label Healing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Healing. Show all posts
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: Get Real!
Transformational Thought
Get real! That college is out of your league. Be real! That girl is way too pretty for you. Get real! You’ll never play on that team, get that part, make that band, get that job.
How many times have we heard these expressions? How many times have we said them to ourselves? How many times have we silently thought them when our children made grandiose statements or shared impossible dreams? In the past it was hard for me to see who I really was, to actually get real with myself. Why is this so hard for us to do? Why is it so hard to face ourselves?
I know one good reason … the enemy, Satan, likes it this way. The enemy tries to plant seeds of deception, pain, sinfulness … lenses of self-hate instead of acceptance of God’s love for us. His corrupt world system pushes our buttons and interferes with our ability to interpret God’s sovereignty accurately.
Another reason … it’s painful for us to see who we really are. It was for me. It was a lot easier to think I was important, talented, bright, nice, blah, blah, blah … than to see my insecurities, inadequacies and needs. It’s even harder still to face the major uphill battle to overcome issues like these. The best way for us to face ourselves … to be real with ourselves … is to remember that as Christians we are constantly clothed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness.
God knows exactly what sins, weaknesses, and blemishes we try to hide underneath the faultless garment of salvation that covers and erases all. And He rejoices over you with singing … just imagine that … God singing over you!
Today, know that your Lord and God longs for you to trust Him enough to be fully yourself with Him. Being real with your God allows Him to bring out the very best in you. When you are real, He can work on your weaknesses. Pray to Him about one thing you have never really opened up to Him. Let light into that area of your life … this pushes the darkness out, and then real healing and transformation can occur. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to grow the gifts that You planted in my soul. I want to be real with You, Lord. But this is a painful experience for me because I first have to be real with myself. It seems easier for me to ignore how I’m feeling rather than face my misery head on. I pray, Father, that You help me stop numbing my discomfort and negative feelings with my sinful diversions. Give me the courage, Father, to face myself so that I can be real with You. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the One who died so I could be real in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…
Isaiah 61:10
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
Get real! That college is out of your league. Be real! That girl is way too pretty for you. Get real! You’ll never play on that team, get that part, make that band, get that job.
How many times have we heard these expressions? How many times have we said them to ourselves? How many times have we silently thought them when our children made grandiose statements or shared impossible dreams? In the past it was hard for me to see who I really was, to actually get real with myself. Why is this so hard for us to do? Why is it so hard to face ourselves?
I know one good reason … the enemy, Satan, likes it this way. The enemy tries to plant seeds of deception, pain, sinfulness … lenses of self-hate instead of acceptance of God’s love for us. His corrupt world system pushes our buttons and interferes with our ability to interpret God’s sovereignty accurately.
Another reason … it’s painful for us to see who we really are. It was for me. It was a lot easier to think I was important, talented, bright, nice, blah, blah, blah … than to see my insecurities, inadequacies and needs. It’s even harder still to face the major uphill battle to overcome issues like these. The best way for us to face ourselves … to be real with ourselves … is to remember that as Christians we are constantly clothed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness.
God knows exactly what sins, weaknesses, and blemishes we try to hide underneath the faultless garment of salvation that covers and erases all. And He rejoices over you with singing … just imagine that … God singing over you!
Today, know that your Lord and God longs for you to trust Him enough to be fully yourself with Him. Being real with your God allows Him to bring out the very best in you. When you are real, He can work on your weaknesses. Pray to Him about one thing you have never really opened up to Him. Let light into that area of your life … this pushes the darkness out, and then real healing and transformation can occur. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to grow the gifts that You planted in my soul. I want to be real with You, Lord. But this is a painful experience for me because I first have to be real with myself. It seems easier for me to ignore how I’m feeling rather than face my misery head on. I pray, Father, that You help me stop numbing my discomfort and negative feelings with my sinful diversions. Give me the courage, Father, to face myself so that I can be real with You. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the One who died so I could be real in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…
Isaiah 61:10
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Holy Ground Here On Earth
Transformational Thought
Our society is so complex, more toys and gadgets than you can count, and so much technology at our fingertips. My two teenager daughters swear they can easily tackle a conversation, text, and watch a YouTube video … all at the same time!
I am blessed to be a pretty good multi-tasker myself. Very rarely am I doing just one thing at a time. Part of it is my addiction to productivity; part of it is enjoying activity. But there are times I have trouble multi-tasking. It especially affects me when I’m talking with another person who is in need … who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get very focused on them and what they are sharing … on what I am about to say and how I can help … and sometimes I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them.
The latent hero (or is it the egotist in me?) tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. I am just relying on myself … but trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. My usefulness in vocation and ministry dramatically improved when I realized this key reality. When people bare their souls to me, I know that I am standing on holy ground, and I need to ask for the help of the Holy Spirit to direct my response in a God-like fashion.
Satan wants us to act on our own power, to leave God out of the equation. And our natural inclination toward independence and self-direction play into this “leave God out conspiracy.” If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue someone without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. Your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain where you are standing.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you … think through you … love through you … to use you to impact others. We want eyes that see, ears that hear, and a heart that understands. These come from God and help us listen, understand, and provide answers. Everyone in this world has needs and struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe, Father, that when people bare their souls to me … it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not to play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of Yours. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow, Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
“But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.”
Acts 26:16-18
Our society is so complex, more toys and gadgets than you can count, and so much technology at our fingertips. My two teenager daughters swear they can easily tackle a conversation, text, and watch a YouTube video … all at the same time!
I am blessed to be a pretty good multi-tasker myself. Very rarely am I doing just one thing at a time. Part of it is my addiction to productivity; part of it is enjoying activity. But there are times I have trouble multi-tasking. It especially affects me when I’m talking with another person who is in need … who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get very focused on them and what they are sharing … on what I am about to say and how I can help … and sometimes I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them.
The latent hero (or is it the egotist in me?) tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. I am just relying on myself … but trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. My usefulness in vocation and ministry dramatically improved when I realized this key reality. When people bare their souls to me, I know that I am standing on holy ground, and I need to ask for the help of the Holy Spirit to direct my response in a God-like fashion.
Satan wants us to act on our own power, to leave God out of the equation. And our natural inclination toward independence and self-direction play into this “leave God out conspiracy.” If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue someone without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. Your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain where you are standing.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you … think through you … love through you … to use you to impact others. We want eyes that see, ears that hear, and a heart that understands. These come from God and help us listen, understand, and provide answers. Everyone in this world has needs and struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe, Father, that when people bare their souls to me … it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not to play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of Yours. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow, Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
“But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.”
Acts 26:16-18
Monday, August 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: God Provides Peace, But Don’t Look In The Wrong Place
Transformational Thought
In my teenage years, I enjoyed many outward successes in sports, academics, and with peers. Unfortunately, peace was often elusive inside, and I really struggled with feeling out of control on many occasions. One of my favorite and frequent activities was sitting down and making a plan for the next 5 years of my life, one year at a time.
This planning behavior, this “soothing activity,” was my attempt to take advantage of the false belief that an orderly life on the outside would bring order to the inside of my heart. Also, with all that ordering of my outside world, my future, and my path, I thought I could plan my way to peace. I was being a “Martha” (Luke 10: 38-42) and was too busy doing.
It took me a while to learn an important truth about my brain, actually every brain. And it didn’t happen in college as a biomedical engineer, or in medical school, or even in psychiatric residency training. Actually, the Bible taught me that God did not design the human mind to figure out or plan the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability.
He did craft our minds with to engage in continual communication with Him. You won’t find peace by engaging in excessive planning and “doing”, as these are futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Look how many people get divorced, switch colleges, default on mortgage or declare bankruptcy. Planning and getting don’t guarantee peace. In fact, excessive planning and doing is actually an often-practiced form of unbelief.
Today, bring all your needs, hopes, and fears to Your Lord and God. Commit everything into His care. When uneasy, instead of planning, stop, look around at creation and your life and enjoy the moment … bask in God’s blessings, love, and amazing grace. Remember, He promises to comfort you and bring peace. But you need to look for it in the right places because it really is there. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of accepting the present and peace. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My mind spins with multiple plans. I spend so much time planning because I think it is the pathway to peace. And just when peace appears to be within my reach, it somehow eludes me. Just when I think I have prepared for all possibilities, and covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and once again pushes peace beyond my grasp throwing me into another state of confusion. Help me, Father, to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, and insecurities … I release them into Your care. For I know this is the true pathway to peace. Help me, Father, to find the next step, and the next, on this pathway of Stepping Stones. I pray to You Father in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 37:5-7
In my teenage years, I enjoyed many outward successes in sports, academics, and with peers. Unfortunately, peace was often elusive inside, and I really struggled with feeling out of control on many occasions. One of my favorite and frequent activities was sitting down and making a plan for the next 5 years of my life, one year at a time.
This planning behavior, this “soothing activity,” was my attempt to take advantage of the false belief that an orderly life on the outside would bring order to the inside of my heart. Also, with all that ordering of my outside world, my future, and my path, I thought I could plan my way to peace. I was being a “Martha” (Luke 10: 38-42) and was too busy doing.
It took me a while to learn an important truth about my brain, actually every brain. And it didn’t happen in college as a biomedical engineer, or in medical school, or even in psychiatric residency training. Actually, the Bible taught me that God did not design the human mind to figure out or plan the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability.
He did craft our minds with to engage in continual communication with Him. You won’t find peace by engaging in excessive planning and “doing”, as these are futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Look how many people get divorced, switch colleges, default on mortgage or declare bankruptcy. Planning and getting don’t guarantee peace. In fact, excessive planning and doing is actually an often-practiced form of unbelief.
Today, bring all your needs, hopes, and fears to Your Lord and God. Commit everything into His care. When uneasy, instead of planning, stop, look around at creation and your life and enjoy the moment … bask in God’s blessings, love, and amazing grace. Remember, He promises to comfort you and bring peace. But you need to look for it in the right places because it really is there. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of accepting the present and peace. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My mind spins with multiple plans. I spend so much time planning because I think it is the pathway to peace. And just when peace appears to be within my reach, it somehow eludes me. Just when I think I have prepared for all possibilities, and covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and once again pushes peace beyond my grasp throwing me into another state of confusion. Help me, Father, to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, and insecurities … I release them into Your care. For I know this is the true pathway to peace. Help me, Father, to find the next step, and the next, on this pathway of Stepping Stones. I pray to You Father in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 37:5-7
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: Today’s Homework Brings Tomorrow’s Reward!
Transformational Thought
How easy it is to “lose heart.” We have all faced storms and problems in relationships, in our jobs, and with our finances, dreams and plans. How many times have you thought about just quitting … just walking out? In the midst of Paul’s most troublesome times, and he had many, he decides to focus on his inner strength, which comes from the Holy Spirit.
Don’t let fatigue, pain, judgment and criticism from others force you off the job. Don’t forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation. You see, so many people think, “Do the right thing and suffer now for my reward in heaven” But doing the right thing now renews your mind now. That means you are strengthened psychologically, and your brain wiring actually improves. But most importantly, your relationship with God stays pure and the Holy Spirit, not your flesh, is on the throne of your heart. And the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the flesh, is what you will reap - now!
Adversity has a purpose. Someone wrote to us recently with a very simple prayer to pray while in the midst of a life storm: “Dear God, please do not let these tears be wasted.” Think of the many benefits of our human limitations and problems. They remind us of Christ suffering for us. They keep pride away. They provide the opportunity to look beyond this brief life. They allow us to demonstrate our faith to others. And they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His awesome power to and through us.
Today, think about how complacent and prideful you would be if everything went your way. Then, during a setback or struggle today, remember a school assignment, athletic training, or arts preparation you had that was difficult and painful, but that eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today’s homework or training exercise. Do it with excellence, and be excited because your perfect Teacher and Coach is training you for the greatest trophy and reward: The Mind of Christ! Your perspective is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to you today as a fearful follower. As Paul writes, I do feel as if I am wasting away … most days I feel as if I am losing heart. By reading Your word today, I see where I have been going wrong. I have been looking only at what I can see, and what I can see is only temporary. Father, help me to fix my eyes and heart today on what is deeper, for I know that what is deeper is more valuable. Help me today to see my problems as opportunities, for Your Word has taught me that when I am at my weakest, I really am at my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let today’s troubles diminish my faith in You. Please let my very weakness allow the resurrection power of Jesus Christ to strengthen me moment by moment. I pray in need and through Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Cor. 4:16–18
You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
John 13:13
He who teaches man knowledge--the LORD--knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath. Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked.
Psalm 94:10-13
How easy it is to “lose heart.” We have all faced storms and problems in relationships, in our jobs, and with our finances, dreams and plans. How many times have you thought about just quitting … just walking out? In the midst of Paul’s most troublesome times, and he had many, he decides to focus on his inner strength, which comes from the Holy Spirit.
Don’t let fatigue, pain, judgment and criticism from others force you off the job. Don’t forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation. You see, so many people think, “Do the right thing and suffer now for my reward in heaven” But doing the right thing now renews your mind now. That means you are strengthened psychologically, and your brain wiring actually improves. But most importantly, your relationship with God stays pure and the Holy Spirit, not your flesh, is on the throne of your heart. And the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the flesh, is what you will reap - now!
Adversity has a purpose. Someone wrote to us recently with a very simple prayer to pray while in the midst of a life storm: “Dear God, please do not let these tears be wasted.” Think of the many benefits of our human limitations and problems. They remind us of Christ suffering for us. They keep pride away. They provide the opportunity to look beyond this brief life. They allow us to demonstrate our faith to others. And they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His awesome power to and through us.
Today, think about how complacent and prideful you would be if everything went your way. Then, during a setback or struggle today, remember a school assignment, athletic training, or arts preparation you had that was difficult and painful, but that eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today’s homework or training exercise. Do it with excellence, and be excited because your perfect Teacher and Coach is training you for the greatest trophy and reward: The Mind of Christ! Your perspective is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to you today as a fearful follower. As Paul writes, I do feel as if I am wasting away … most days I feel as if I am losing heart. By reading Your word today, I see where I have been going wrong. I have been looking only at what I can see, and what I can see is only temporary. Father, help me to fix my eyes and heart today on what is deeper, for I know that what is deeper is more valuable. Help me today to see my problems as opportunities, for Your Word has taught me that when I am at my weakest, I really am at my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let today’s troubles diminish my faith in You. Please let my very weakness allow the resurrection power of Jesus Christ to strengthen me moment by moment. I pray in need and through Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Cor. 4:16–18
You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
John 13:13
He who teaches man knowledge--the LORD--knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath. Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked.
Psalm 94:10-13
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Stepping Stones: War Trophy, Our Soul; Battlefield, Our Mind
Transformational Thought
We were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great spiritual battle. Every day all the forces of good and evil, heaven and hell, God and Satan, collide. You have experienced and witnessed this warfare on an hourly basis, and sometimes, minute to minute.
Today’s scripture are words spoken by Jesus. He makes the choices so obvious, so clear. Unfortunately, few of us face this fact moment by moment. I know I’m guilty of not reminding myself each day that I’m in the middle of a monumental spiritual struggle.
Yes, there is a thief out there … he comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. And he’s not interested in taking a few things and leaving – he wants it all: your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships – your soul. Everything. Satan’s main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies, trying to affect Jesus’ decisions.
We need to focus on the second part of Jesus’ during His encounter Satan. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. The catch is, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need to face the fact … every day … that you are smack dab in the middle of a war. Jesus used THE HOLY BIBLE as His lenses and reference for accurate decision-making, and that’s just what we need to use too.
Jesus’ offer to us is life, but you had better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side, your greatest enemy, is all-in and relentless, and fights dirty. It’s not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.
Today, when tempted to stray, stop and calm yourself with God’s word and Jesus’ promise of abundant life so you don’t fall for Satan’s lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you can alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them … pray for them. The battlefield is your mind, so start guarding it diligently by making strong and Godly decisions. WITHIN REACH was developed to help this very purpose. Your decision, choose your side well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I choose life! Thank You, Father, for providing such a beautiful alternative - life. I ask for Your help, Father God. I need Your help to face the fact that I am in the middle of spiritual warfare … and to help me remember that You sent Your Son so that I may have abundant life. I have seen what this enemy is capable of, Lord, in my life and in the lives of others. I pray that You help me and the Stepping Stones praying community accept the fact that there is an enemy out there trying to steal all we have … to destroy and kill. Lord, help me as a Father to protect my children from this thief and to protect all those I love. I pray in the name of the Conqueror, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10
And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread." But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you,' and 'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’"
Matthew 4:3-10
Watch over your heart (mind) with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.
Proverbs 4:23
We were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great spiritual battle. Every day all the forces of good and evil, heaven and hell, God and Satan, collide. You have experienced and witnessed this warfare on an hourly basis, and sometimes, minute to minute.
Today’s scripture are words spoken by Jesus. He makes the choices so obvious, so clear. Unfortunately, few of us face this fact moment by moment. I know I’m guilty of not reminding myself each day that I’m in the middle of a monumental spiritual struggle.
Yes, there is a thief out there … he comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. And he’s not interested in taking a few things and leaving – he wants it all: your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships – your soul. Everything. Satan’s main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies, trying to affect Jesus’ decisions.
We need to focus on the second part of Jesus’ during His encounter Satan. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. The catch is, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need to face the fact … every day … that you are smack dab in the middle of a war. Jesus used THE HOLY BIBLE as His lenses and reference for accurate decision-making, and that’s just what we need to use too.
Jesus’ offer to us is life, but you had better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side, your greatest enemy, is all-in and relentless, and fights dirty. It’s not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.
Today, when tempted to stray, stop and calm yourself with God’s word and Jesus’ promise of abundant life so you don’t fall for Satan’s lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you can alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them … pray for them. The battlefield is your mind, so start guarding it diligently by making strong and Godly decisions. WITHIN REACH was developed to help this very purpose. Your decision, choose your side well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I choose life! Thank You, Father, for providing such a beautiful alternative - life. I ask for Your help, Father God. I need Your help to face the fact that I am in the middle of spiritual warfare … and to help me remember that You sent Your Son so that I may have abundant life. I have seen what this enemy is capable of, Lord, in my life and in the lives of others. I pray that You help me and the Stepping Stones praying community accept the fact that there is an enemy out there trying to steal all we have … to destroy and kill. Lord, help me as a Father to protect my children from this thief and to protect all those I love. I pray in the name of the Conqueror, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10
And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread." But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you,' and 'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’"
Matthew 4:3-10
Watch over your heart (mind) with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.
Proverbs 4:23
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: The Ultimate Alchemist
Transformational Thought
My little granny turned 90 years old last January. Good thing she doesn’t get the Internet or she would be angry with me sharing this embarrassing information. One thing I love about her is she still gets to the Russian Orthodox Church (where I was baptized as an infant), twice a month to crank out 6000 perogies with her gnarled hands, rheumatoid mis-shaped hands. You see, deep fried perogies is my most favorite food … followed closely by homemade ice cream.
My granny is the dough master. For you non-cooks, the dough master has the most physically grueling task when making perogies. Granny keeps waiting for some young buck to learn her secret before she dies, but none of the younger women have the stamina to do what 90 year old granny cranks out. Perogies are a classic example of the final product being way better than the sum of the ingredients, and it is because of the talent of the cook. Think about alchemy, the ancient practice of combining common, cheap substances and transforming them into something of value. One who practices Alchemy is called an Alchemist.
So many of us suffer from the belief that we have nothing of value to share with others … or with our God. We feel we are a waste. But nothing is wasted when you share it with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can turn the darkness of your worst failures into bright beauty and hope. He can glean joy out of sorrow … peace out of adversity. Your God, the Master Chef, delights in blending His love, grace and forgiveness with our pride, sin and failures. He transforms His children from sinful wretches into wonderful disciples.
Today, bring your sorrow, sadness and brokenness to God. Release them into his care and keeping. He will not only heal your brokenness … He will give you a new dream – one that is in perfect harmony with His plans for you. To do this, give up one of your “needs” and instead, depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him bringing this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content, and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence seeping into all the nooks and crannies of your life. Only your best friend, the King of Kings, could accomplish this Divine Alchemy.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am so blessed to call You my friend. I pray to You, Father, that You help me share more and more of my life with You. I believe that You, and only You, can bring beauty out of my lost dreams … out of my sorrow. I confess, Father, that as I try to bring my junk to You for transformation I get stuck in self-pity … in my brokenness and in my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You can place on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes. I know You are the Divine Alchemist. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who needed no alchemy to shine His glory, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He has sent me to bind the brokenhearted … and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:2-3
Jesus looked at them and said; “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26
My little granny turned 90 years old last January. Good thing she doesn’t get the Internet or she would be angry with me sharing this embarrassing information. One thing I love about her is she still gets to the Russian Orthodox Church (where I was baptized as an infant), twice a month to crank out 6000 perogies with her gnarled hands, rheumatoid mis-shaped hands. You see, deep fried perogies is my most favorite food … followed closely by homemade ice cream.
My granny is the dough master. For you non-cooks, the dough master has the most physically grueling task when making perogies. Granny keeps waiting for some young buck to learn her secret before she dies, but none of the younger women have the stamina to do what 90 year old granny cranks out. Perogies are a classic example of the final product being way better than the sum of the ingredients, and it is because of the talent of the cook. Think about alchemy, the ancient practice of combining common, cheap substances and transforming them into something of value. One who practices Alchemy is called an Alchemist.
So many of us suffer from the belief that we have nothing of value to share with others … or with our God. We feel we are a waste. But nothing is wasted when you share it with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can turn the darkness of your worst failures into bright beauty and hope. He can glean joy out of sorrow … peace out of adversity. Your God, the Master Chef, delights in blending His love, grace and forgiveness with our pride, sin and failures. He transforms His children from sinful wretches into wonderful disciples.
Today, bring your sorrow, sadness and brokenness to God. Release them into his care and keeping. He will not only heal your brokenness … He will give you a new dream – one that is in perfect harmony with His plans for you. To do this, give up one of your “needs” and instead, depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him bringing this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content, and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence seeping into all the nooks and crannies of your life. Only your best friend, the King of Kings, could accomplish this Divine Alchemy.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am so blessed to call You my friend. I pray to You, Father, that You help me share more and more of my life with You. I believe that You, and only You, can bring beauty out of my lost dreams … out of my sorrow. I confess, Father, that as I try to bring my junk to You for transformation I get stuck in self-pity … in my brokenness and in my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You can place on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes. I know You are the Divine Alchemist. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who needed no alchemy to shine His glory, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He has sent me to bind the brokenhearted … and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:2-3
Jesus looked at them and said; “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26
Friday, July 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Divide Your Pain, Multiple Your Joy
Transformational Thought
Most of us are very selective about the parts of our lives we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful … partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about them again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, loneliness, guilt, fear, anxiety, and stress that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable and guaranteed sentence from which there is no relief.
Some seem to believe they accumulate degree-of-difficulty points (like in diving) for overcoming the most hardships and pain, commonly called the martyr syndrome or victim mentality. For others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of growing up that, in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. These people seem to sabotage success, or even go out of their way to create problems. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, we even forget God is with us and will provide help.
God really desires to heal the hurting parts of your life. However, some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting. He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is the book about suffering, especially spiritual suffering. The Bible tells how God loved us so much that He miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller daily sufferings we experience. Turn to your Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances remembering He is with you. He has joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you. He is communicating through your pain. Click here for a resource to help navigate your pain.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, grateful that I can come to you no matter what condition I am in … just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; You already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and recover sight to the blind, and to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18
Most of us are very selective about the parts of our lives we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful … partly because we actually believe He doesn’t see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about them again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, loneliness, guilt, fear, anxiety, and stress that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these problems. We assume help is not available and this pain is an unavoidable and guaranteed sentence from which there is no relief.
Some seem to believe they accumulate degree-of-difficulty points (like in diving) for overcoming the most hardships and pain, commonly called the martyr syndrome or victim mentality. For others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of growing up that, in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. These people seem to sabotage success, or even go out of their way to create problems. Sometimes, we get so preoccupied with our struggles, we even forget God is with us and will provide help.
God really desires to heal the hurting parts of your life. However, some of the pain has been with you so long, it becomes part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that it’s difficult to break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God’s healing presence will bring you long-term healing and freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting. He will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is the book about suffering, especially spiritual suffering. The Bible tells how God loved us so much that He miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller daily sufferings we experience. Turn to your Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances remembering He is with you. He has joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you. He is communicating through your pain. Click here for a resource to help navigate your pain.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so grateful to you, Lord, grateful that I can come to you no matter what condition I am in … just as I am. Thank You, Father. I am relieved that I don’t have to “clean up my act” before I come to You; You already know the worst about me. When I am hurting, I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy, I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who divides my pain and multiplies my joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, and recover sight to the blind, and to set at liberty them that are bruised,
Luke 4:18
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Stepping Stones: Which Channel, WGOD or WORLD!
Transformational Thought
When you want to know what is going on in a school system, you go to the authority … the one who’s in charge of the programs, who has the power, knows the most, and devises the policies. You don’t go to the third graders, get their reports, believing they are the all-knowing authorities and evaluators who can decipher all that is going on in the complex system. Nor do you let the third graders determine the strategies and methods to educate themselves and society.
Most media, like TV, radio, movies, and the internet, is analogous to the third graders in both depth of understanding and true power and authority. The media is a reflection of the WORLD system, Satan’s schemes, and our fleshly desires. The WORLD relentlessly proclaims bad news for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Knee-jerk solutions to long term issues and needs abound, exalting self instead of humbling us to the true King.
This steady diet of WORLD messages and attempts at brainwashing will sicken you. Instead of focusing on their fickle, ever-changing, bad-news broadcasts, tune into the living WORD – the one who is always the same. He is the real authority and all-knowing One you need to pursue for answers, explanations, comfort, protection, instruction, power, and wisdom.
Because of our need for quick explanations and our fragility in dealing with discomfort, we want our hurt, our natural state of broken-heartedness and captivity to sin, to go away now. But, you see, we are too lazy to think through multiple aspects of a situation. We have amnesia with regard to past experiences, and we resist developing our spiritual antennae. As a result, we tune into the WORLD, and the media that is in our face 24/7 becomes our guide and authority.
Today, turn the tube off early and pick up your Bible. Let the Holy Scripture saturate your mind and heart. This will help you walk steadily, step by step, along the path of true healing and lasting transformation. Even though you do not know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure He is walking side by side with you and you have assurance of your ultimate destination forever. Big decision: the Bible or the media for your peace, guidance and freedom. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am full of fear today. I am in the midst of another storm. I turn to Your Word and I find assurance. I pray that the assurance of Your Word would soak into my mind and heart until I overflow with Your Joy, instead of my fleshly fear. I know that peace is Your continual gift to me; thank You, Lord. I know that You have designed me to need You moment by moment. It is when I take my eyes off You that fear and anxiety creep into my life. I approach Your throne of grace with confidence and trust and ask for Your peace. I pray this in the name of the One who is my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:39
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psalm 46:2
When you want to know what is going on in a school system, you go to the authority … the one who’s in charge of the programs, who has the power, knows the most, and devises the policies. You don’t go to the third graders, get their reports, believing they are the all-knowing authorities and evaluators who can decipher all that is going on in the complex system. Nor do you let the third graders determine the strategies and methods to educate themselves and society.
Most media, like TV, radio, movies, and the internet, is analogous to the third graders in both depth of understanding and true power and authority. The media is a reflection of the WORLD system, Satan’s schemes, and our fleshly desires. The WORLD relentlessly proclaims bad news for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Knee-jerk solutions to long term issues and needs abound, exalting self instead of humbling us to the true King.
This steady diet of WORLD messages and attempts at brainwashing will sicken you. Instead of focusing on their fickle, ever-changing, bad-news broadcasts, tune into the living WORD – the one who is always the same. He is the real authority and all-knowing One you need to pursue for answers, explanations, comfort, protection, instruction, power, and wisdom.
Because of our need for quick explanations and our fragility in dealing with discomfort, we want our hurt, our natural state of broken-heartedness and captivity to sin, to go away now. But, you see, we are too lazy to think through multiple aspects of a situation. We have amnesia with regard to past experiences, and we resist developing our spiritual antennae. As a result, we tune into the WORLD, and the media that is in our face 24/7 becomes our guide and authority.
Today, turn the tube off early and pick up your Bible. Let the Holy Scripture saturate your mind and heart. This will help you walk steadily, step by step, along the path of true healing and lasting transformation. Even though you do not know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure He is walking side by side with you and you have assurance of your ultimate destination forever. Big decision: the Bible or the media for your peace, guidance and freedom. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am full of fear today. I am in the midst of another storm. I turn to Your Word and I find assurance. I pray that the assurance of Your Word would soak into my mind and heart until I overflow with Your Joy, instead of my fleshly fear. I know that peace is Your continual gift to me; thank You, Lord. I know that You have designed me to need You moment by moment. It is when I take my eyes off You that fear and anxiety creep into my life. I approach Your throne of grace with confidence and trust and ask for Your peace. I pray this in the name of the One who is my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:39
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psalm 46:2
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Is On Every Street Corner of Your Life?
Transformational Thought
Starbucks on every corner. If you take into account Dunkin Donuts, WaWa, 7-11, local Starbuck wannabees, specialty coffee shops, favorite breakfast spots, different energy drinks, and church lobbyies, the real slogan is, “Caffeine on every corner.” Caffeine is harmful in many ways. Think about it. If you can’t stop using something because you with have uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms like headaches, that should send you a serious warning.
You see, we are incredibly needy people and the world is a very needy place. Looking for your boost, energy, or life from this world, well, that road ends in loneliness, frustration, and insecurity. All this world provides are temporary band-aids at best … distracting us from the true source of life and fulfillment … often harming us physiologically, psychologically, and especially spiritually. Even when the temporary fixes are ‘good’ and are provided by God, we may start to use them as primary solutions, forgetting they are intended to point us to the real solution – God.
To soothe your neediness, resist the knee-jerk impulse to reach for immediate comfort, the bargain sale item the world offers like a snake oil salesman … sucking you in for repeat sales and long-term destruction after you are hooked. Think I’m talking about heroin or crack? I’m talking about caffeine. Learn to go to your Lord and depend on Him first. When you turn to Him your weakness will be replaced with His power. Find completeness in God. Then He will provide for you and speak to you directly, or lead you to other people or things of this world to show His love and direction.
When you depend on God first, you can then help other people without using them to meet your own needs. Let God’s light shine brightly in you. Then God will shine through you to help others. The quality of your relationships with others will powerfully explode with fulfillment, and opportunities to influence others will expand greatly.
Today, consider where you first look to meet your needs. Yourself … your intellect, looks, or a personality trait … feelings like anger, self-pity, anxiety, or arrogance? Perhaps other people, kids or parents? Sometimes it may be material things, sex, food, money, toys, drugs, even caffeine. Try a detox period, spiritually called a fast, from the “drug” you use to soothe yourself and instead, “suffer well” by going to God’s Word and see what He will speak to you. Hopefully, you can “kick the habit!” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I often turn to the world for my needs, and many times what I take from the world keeps me separated from You. The merry-go-round of life seems to be spinning faster and faster. Things seem out of control. Yet I know by Your Word and by my faith that there is a calm at the center of the storms in my life. This calm is only found through a union with You. Thank You, my Father. Help me return to this center of calm … this soothing center more often, for this is where I will find completeness, Love, Joy and Peace. I pray in the name of my sustaining life-force, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:9-10
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you." As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.
Psalm 16:1-4
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.,
Galatians 5:22
No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:12
You see, we are incredibly needy people and the world is a very needy place. Looking for your boost, energy, or life from this world, well, that road ends in loneliness, frustration, and insecurity. All this world provides are temporary band-aids at best … distracting us from the true source of life and fulfillment … often harming us physiologically, psychologically, and especially spiritually. Even when the temporary fixes are ‘good’ and are provided by God, we may start to use them as primary solutions, forgetting they are intended to point us to the real solution – God.
To soothe your neediness, resist the knee-jerk impulse to reach for immediate comfort, the bargain sale item the world offers like a snake oil salesman … sucking you in for repeat sales and long-term destruction after you are hooked. Think I’m talking about heroin or crack? I’m talking about caffeine. Learn to go to your Lord and depend on Him first. When you turn to Him your weakness will be replaced with His power. Find completeness in God. Then He will provide for you and speak to you directly, or lead you to other people or things of this world to show His love and direction.
When you depend on God first, you can then help other people without using them to meet your own needs. Let God’s light shine brightly in you. Then God will shine through you to help others. The quality of your relationships with others will powerfully explode with fulfillment, and opportunities to influence others will expand greatly.
Today, consider where you first look to meet your needs. Yourself … your intellect, looks, or a personality trait … feelings like anger, self-pity, anxiety, or arrogance? Perhaps other people, kids or parents? Sometimes it may be material things, sex, food, money, toys, drugs, even caffeine. Try a detox period, spiritually called a fast, from the “drug” you use to soothe yourself and instead, “suffer well” by going to God’s Word and see what He will speak to you. Hopefully, you can “kick the habit!” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I often turn to the world for my needs, and many times what I take from the world keeps me separated from You. The merry-go-round of life seems to be spinning faster and faster. Things seem out of control. Yet I know by Your Word and by my faith that there is a calm at the center of the storms in my life. This calm is only found through a union with You. Thank You, my Father. Help me return to this center of calm … this soothing center more often, for this is where I will find completeness, Love, Joy and Peace. I pray in the name of my sustaining life-force, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:9-10
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you." As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.
Psalm 16:1-4
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.,
Galatians 5:22
No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:12
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: God’s the Great Physician, So You are the Nurse Assistant
Transformational Thought
We all are injured, defective, and hurt in multiple ways. None of us are perfect in any area of our composition. Don’t we all need some form of healing? How healthy is your Mind? Your Body (including your brain chemistry)? Your Spirit? God’s word tells us that He will restore our health and heal our wounds. The scripture tells us this eternal healing does not come to us because of what we “do”. Rather it comes to us free of charge, in perfect abundance, through Jesus Christ through faith. We just need to accept it.
On the flip side, our temporal healing, the healing for the time period represented by the dash on our tombstone … 1963 – 20__ starts when we receive Christ’s death for our sins. The Holy Spirit indwells us, but then we have some responsibility for the ongoing sanctification or healing process to continue forward in our earthly lifetime. This is the abundant living Jesus spoke about.
Intentional decisions to not conform, but to be transformed, to strip off the old self and put on the new, to act boldly based on our faith in God’s character, promises, and His teachings in the Bible … that is what we control and need to master. This Spiritual Discipline of Decision-Making is powerful and nobody really talks about it with concrete depth.
Just like becoming good at a sport, music, academics, or art … daily practice of specific fundamentals is essential. Putting on the Armor of God, regular prayer and confession, and being in the Bible … God’s instruction manual … are ways to engage in spiritual training. For training to work, we have to have intentionality, self-assessment, perseverance, and strategy to get to the goal … the Mind of Christ. Discipline!
Today, ask yourself … What is my strategy? And my commitment to this strategy? How do I exercise my free will? Is it consistent with God’s instruction? Pursuing these answers will determine whether your dash will be filled with healing and peace or further injury and pain. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that I cannot earn my way to salvation, but by receiving You, I have become Your child. I believe Your word. I pray with humble confidence that You restore me to full spiritual, mental and physical health. Show me what I need to do to receive the healing in this lifetime, the renewing of my mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically in my brain chemistry. Help me to understand what Your Holy Spirit is trying to show me and tell me so I can grow and glorify You. I pray today that You protect and lift the burdens of the entire Stepping Stones community according to Your will. If it is not Your will, then show them more clearly today how to access Your peace and comfort during their struggles. You know our every need, Lord. Let the assurance of Your presence fill us with joy and peace … regardless of our circumstances and our daily trials. I pray this in the name of the Great Physician, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For I will restore health unto you and I will heal you of thy wounds saith the Lord.
Jer. 30:17
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior
Titus 3:5-6
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:1,8-13
We all are injured, defective, and hurt in multiple ways. None of us are perfect in any area of our composition. Don’t we all need some form of healing? How healthy is your Mind? Your Body (including your brain chemistry)? Your Spirit? God’s word tells us that He will restore our health and heal our wounds. The scripture tells us this eternal healing does not come to us because of what we “do”. Rather it comes to us free of charge, in perfect abundance, through Jesus Christ through faith. We just need to accept it.
On the flip side, our temporal healing, the healing for the time period represented by the dash on our tombstone … 1963 – 20__ starts when we receive Christ’s death for our sins. The Holy Spirit indwells us, but then we have some responsibility for the ongoing sanctification or healing process to continue forward in our earthly lifetime. This is the abundant living Jesus spoke about.
Intentional decisions to not conform, but to be transformed, to strip off the old self and put on the new, to act boldly based on our faith in God’s character, promises, and His teachings in the Bible … that is what we control and need to master. This Spiritual Discipline of Decision-Making is powerful and nobody really talks about it with concrete depth.
Just like becoming good at a sport, music, academics, or art … daily practice of specific fundamentals is essential. Putting on the Armor of God, regular prayer and confession, and being in the Bible … God’s instruction manual … are ways to engage in spiritual training. For training to work, we have to have intentionality, self-assessment, perseverance, and strategy to get to the goal … the Mind of Christ. Discipline!
Today, ask yourself … What is my strategy? And my commitment to this strategy? How do I exercise my free will? Is it consistent with God’s instruction? Pursuing these answers will determine whether your dash will be filled with healing and peace or further injury and pain. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that I cannot earn my way to salvation, but by receiving You, I have become Your child. I believe Your word. I pray with humble confidence that You restore me to full spiritual, mental and physical health. Show me what I need to do to receive the healing in this lifetime, the renewing of my mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically in my brain chemistry. Help me to understand what Your Holy Spirit is trying to show me and tell me so I can grow and glorify You. I pray today that You protect and lift the burdens of the entire Stepping Stones community according to Your will. If it is not Your will, then show them more clearly today how to access Your peace and comfort during their struggles. You know our every need, Lord. Let the assurance of Your presence fill us with joy and peace … regardless of our circumstances and our daily trials. I pray this in the name of the Great Physician, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For I will restore health unto you and I will heal you of thy wounds saith the Lord.
Jer. 30:17
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior
Titus 3:5-6
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:1,8-13
Monday, December 27, 2010
Stepping Stones: This is for me?
Transformational Thought
Each year on Christmas Eve Day, I have a tradition of delivering a small gift to the people who provide a service to me throughout the year. The postman, butcher, coffee-shop owner, etc. I’ve been doing it for years. The gifts are always received with such happiness and delight.
This year, as I was walking toward the coffee shop to deliver a bottle of wine, I stopped into a local oriental rug store to pick up a rug I had ordered the week before. The owner of the store greeted me when I walked in. He’s been in that same location for 25 years now. He’s a wheeler-dealer, an all-business kind of guy…he rarely smiles. He and I had a fairly intense negotiation session over the rug I purchased the previous week.
As I reached to shake his hand he noticed the gift-wrapped bottle of wine I was carrying (the coffee-shop owner’s gift, remember). Mistakenly assuming the gift was for him, he reached for it with his other hand and said, “This is for me?,” and then began thanking me profusely. His face lit up, almost in shock, and he started searching for something to give me in return. He also sells imported tea in his shop…so he grabbed a box containing a selection of exotic teas and gave it to me with pride and joy.
I was struck by how a simple act of (unintended) kindness brought such happiness to this man. For a few minutes that gift transformed this man’s life. We talked a bit more and then I left with my rug; the smile remained on his face the entire time. Based on his reaction it’s fair to say this man was in desperate need of some attention and kindness.
We all are beaten down by this world at times. It’s hard to notice how God wants to work through us to touch others and address their needs. Sometimes God is reaching out to us. But if our head is down in self-pity, frustration, or resignation we won’t see who God brought into our life and is speaking through.
Today, think of one or two people whose lives you might change even for a few minutes by delivering some unexpected kindness. There are so many people around us who live in quiet desperation. I doubt you will have to look far…maybe one of those people lives in your own h ome. Be a Lighthouse and shine God’s love on others. If you are struggling, look up and pay attention. God is reaching out to you, but to receive His grace and comfort you have to be looking for them. Look for the Lighthouse He puts in your life.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for leading me to this man who was in need of some kindness. I confess Lord that I am much too focused on myself…on my issues and needs. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and guide me to those in need of love and attention. Let them need see Your radiant light shining through me and onto them. I pray in the name of the one You sent to transform me though forgiveness and love, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31
"You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."
Matthew 5:13,14
Each year on Christmas Eve Day, I have a tradition of delivering a small gift to the people who provide a service to me throughout the year. The postman, butcher, coffee-shop owner, etc. I’ve been doing it for years. The gifts are always received with such happiness and delight.
This year, as I was walking toward the coffee shop to deliver a bottle of wine, I stopped into a local oriental rug store to pick up a rug I had ordered the week before. The owner of the store greeted me when I walked in. He’s been in that same location for 25 years now. He’s a wheeler-dealer, an all-business kind of guy…he rarely smiles. He and I had a fairly intense negotiation session over the rug I purchased the previous week.
As I reached to shake his hand he noticed the gift-wrapped bottle of wine I was carrying (the coffee-shop owner’s gift, remember). Mistakenly assuming the gift was for him, he reached for it with his other hand and said, “This is for me?,” and then began thanking me profusely. His face lit up, almost in shock, and he started searching for something to give me in return. He also sells imported tea in his shop…so he grabbed a box containing a selection of exotic teas and gave it to me with pride and joy.
I was struck by how a simple act of (unintended) kindness brought such happiness to this man. For a few minutes that gift transformed this man’s life. We talked a bit more and then I left with my rug; the smile remained on his face the entire time. Based on his reaction it’s fair to say this man was in desperate need of some attention and kindness.
We all are beaten down by this world at times. It’s hard to notice how God wants to work through us to touch others and address their needs. Sometimes God is reaching out to us. But if our head is down in self-pity, frustration, or resignation we won’t see who God brought into our life and is speaking through.
Today, think of one or two people whose lives you might change even for a few minutes by delivering some unexpected kindness. There are so many people around us who live in quiet desperation. I doubt you will have to look far…maybe one of those people lives in your own h ome. Be a Lighthouse and shine God’s love on others. If you are struggling, look up and pay attention. God is reaching out to you, but to receive His grace and comfort you have to be looking for them. Look for the Lighthouse He puts in your life.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for leading me to this man who was in need of some kindness. I confess Lord that I am much too focused on myself…on my issues and needs. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and guide me to those in need of love and attention. Let them need see Your radiant light shining through me and onto them. I pray in the name of the one You sent to transform me though forgiveness and love, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31
"You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."
Matthew 5:13,14
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Stepping Stones: Called Alongside to Help
Transformational Thought
While the Christmas holidays are a time of joy and excitement for some, it’s also the most painful and lonely time of year for others. Missing a loved one, stressing about the lack of enough money for gifts, not getting the gifts we expect, being estranged from someone we love…so many factors have the potential to bring us down. These struggles are amplified just after Christmas, when Christmas expectations go unmet and the foreboding empty days of winter lie ahead. Many people really suffer.
This time of year is when encouraging others can an impact more powerful than you could ever imagine. The Greek translation of the word encouragement is “parakletos”, which means “called alongside to help.” Encouragement can be offering an uplifting word, but it can also be so much more than that, such as an opportunity to come alongside and help.
Showing someone they have value and dignity, and offering respect as you take action…doing something for them…this has an amazing influence on others’ thoughts and feelings. Show them they matter to you and to God by putting aside your needs in favor of theirs. The idea of being created in God’s image and having value, so much so that God sacrificed His Son for them, needs to be brought tangibly to them. You are the vehicle God will use to get them this life-saving, actually, life-transforming message.
Today, think of someone who needs you “alongside” them to help. Your spouse, parent, child, neighbor, work colleague, or friend. When you stand alongside and offer help, you become a powerful vessel through which God supplies courage, hope and happiness. You have the Holy Spirit in you and will directly bring Him to them. What better gift do you have to give than this? God will even bring people to you. So be alert and step up to the plate.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for sending Jesus to encourage me. I thank You for Your Holy Word that offers encouragement each time I open the Bible. I thank You for making it possible for me to encourage others. I pray, Lord, that You help me become an expert in this area. I pray in the name of the one You sent to encourage me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
But encourage one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Hebrews 3:13
The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.
Acts 11:22-24
While the Christmas holidays are a time of joy and excitement for some, it’s also the most painful and lonely time of year for others. Missing a loved one, stressing about the lack of enough money for gifts, not getting the gifts we expect, being estranged from someone we love…so many factors have the potential to bring us down. These struggles are amplified just after Christmas, when Christmas expectations go unmet and the foreboding empty days of winter lie ahead. Many people really suffer.
This time of year is when encouraging others can an impact more powerful than you could ever imagine. The Greek translation of the word encouragement is “parakletos”, which means “called alongside to help.” Encouragement can be offering an uplifting word, but it can also be so much more than that, such as an opportunity to come alongside and help.
Showing someone they have value and dignity, and offering respect as you take action…doing something for them…this has an amazing influence on others’ thoughts and feelings. Show them they matter to you and to God by putting aside your needs in favor of theirs. The idea of being created in God’s image and having value, so much so that God sacrificed His Son for them, needs to be brought tangibly to them. You are the vehicle God will use to get them this life-saving, actually, life-transforming message.
Today, think of someone who needs you “alongside” them to help. Your spouse, parent, child, neighbor, work colleague, or friend. When you stand alongside and offer help, you become a powerful vessel through which God supplies courage, hope and happiness. You have the Holy Spirit in you and will directly bring Him to them. What better gift do you have to give than this? God will even bring people to you. So be alert and step up to the plate.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for sending Jesus to encourage me. I thank You for Your Holy Word that offers encouragement each time I open the Bible. I thank You for making it possible for me to encourage others. I pray, Lord, that You help me become an expert in this area. I pray in the name of the one You sent to encourage me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
But encourage one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Hebrews 3:13
The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.
Acts 11:22-24
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Stepping Stones: Get Real!
Transformational Thought
Get real! That college is out of your league. Be real! That girl is way too pretty for you. Get real! You’ll never play on that team, get that part, make that band, get that job.
How many times have we heard these expressions? How many times have we used them ourselves directed towards ourselves? It was hard for me, for so many years, to see who I really was. Why is this so hard for us to do? Why is it so hard to face ourselves?
I know one good reason…the enemy, Satan, likes it this way. The enemy tries to plant seeds of deception, pain, sinfulness…lenses of self-hate instead of acceptance of God’s love for us.
Another reason…it’s painful for us to see who we really are. It was for me. It was a lot easier to think I was important, talented, bright, nice, blah, blah, blah…than to see my insecurities, inadequacies and needs, let alone address them. The best way for us to face ourselves…to be real with ourselves…is to remember, as Christians, we are constantly clothed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness.
God knows exactly what sins, weaknesses, and blemishes we try to hide underneath the faultless garment of salvation that covers and erases all. And He rejoices over you with singing…just imagine that…God singing over you!
Today, know that your Lord and God longs for you to trust Him enough to be fully yourself with Him. Being real with your God allows him to bring out the very best in you and work on your weaknesses. Pray to Him about one thing you have never really opened up to Him about. Let light into that area of your life…this pushes the darkness out and real healing and transformation can occur.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to grow the gifts that you planted in my soul. I want to be real with You, Lord, but this is a painful experience for me because I first have to be real with myself. It seems easier for me to ignore how I’m feeling rather than face my misery head on. I pray, Father, that You help me stop numbing my discomfort or negative feelings with my sinful diversions. Give me the courage, Father, to face myself so that I can be real with You. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the one who died so I could be real in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…
Isaiah 61:10
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
How many times have we heard these expressions? How many times have we used them ourselves directed towards ourselves? It was hard for me, for so many years, to see who I really was. Why is this so hard for us to do? Why is it so hard to face ourselves?
I know one good reason…the enemy, Satan, likes it this way. The enemy tries to plant seeds of deception, pain, sinfulness…lenses of self-hate instead of acceptance of God’s love for us.
Another reason…it’s painful for us to see who we really are. It was for me. It was a lot easier to think I was important, talented, bright, nice, blah, blah, blah…than to see my insecurities, inadequacies and needs, let alone address them. The best way for us to face ourselves…to be real with ourselves…is to remember, as Christians, we are constantly clothed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness.
God knows exactly what sins, weaknesses, and blemishes we try to hide underneath the faultless garment of salvation that covers and erases all. And He rejoices over you with singing…just imagine that…God singing over you!
Today, know that your Lord and God longs for you to trust Him enough to be fully yourself with Him. Being real with your God allows him to bring out the very best in you and work on your weaknesses. Pray to Him about one thing you have never really opened up to Him about. Let light into that area of your life…this pushes the darkness out and real healing and transformation can occur.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to grow the gifts that you planted in my soul. I want to be real with You, Lord, but this is a painful experience for me because I first have to be real with myself. It seems easier for me to ignore how I’m feeling rather than face my misery head on. I pray, Father, that You help me stop numbing my discomfort or negative feelings with my sinful diversions. Give me the courage, Father, to face myself so that I can be real with You. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the one who died so I could be real in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…
Isaiah 61:10
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Stepping Stones: Holy Ground Here On Earth
Transformational Thought
Sometimes I have trouble multitasking. I can do one thing at a time pretty well, but add on one or two extra things and…whoa, too distracting! I have found this particularly limiting. It really impacts me when I’m talking with another person who is in need…who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get so focused on them and what they are sharing…and what I am about to say…that I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them.
The latent hero (or is it the egotist in me?) tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. I am just relying on myself…but trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. When someone opens their soul to you, know that you are standing on holy ground and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit to direct your response in a God-like fashion.
Satan wants us to act on our own power, to leave God out of the equation. And our natural inclinations toward independence and self-direction play into this “leave God out conspiracy.” If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue someone without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. In a way your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain you are standing on.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you…think through you…love through you…to use you to impact others. We want eyes that see, ears that hear, and a heart that understands. These come from God and help us listen, understand, and provide answers. Everyone in this world has needs and is experiencing struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe, Father, that when people bare their souls to me…it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow, Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
“But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.”
Acts 26:16-18
Sometimes I have trouble multitasking. I can do one thing at a time pretty well, but add on one or two extra things and…whoa, too distracting! I have found this particularly limiting. It really impacts me when I’m talking with another person who is in need…who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get so focused on them and what they are sharing…and what I am about to say…that I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them.
The latent hero (or is it the egotist in me?) tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. I am just relying on myself…but trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. When someone opens their soul to you, know that you are standing on holy ground and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit to direct your response in a God-like fashion.
Satan wants us to act on our own power, to leave God out of the equation. And our natural inclinations toward independence and self-direction play into this “leave God out conspiracy.” If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue someone without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. In a way your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain you are standing on.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you…think through you…love through you…to use you to impact others. We want eyes that see, ears that hear, and a heart that understands. These come from God and help us listen, understand, and provide answers. Everyone in this world has needs and is experiencing struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe, Father, that when people bare their souls to me…it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow, Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
“But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.”
Acts 26:16-18
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Stepping Stones: Out On A Limb
Transformational Thought
As a young boy, I always had a fascination with climbing trees; especially apple trees. I’d climb up, pick the apples, and then throw them down to my brothers. However, I couldn’t get the really good apples, for they always seemed to be hanging out on a limb. I would never go out on a limb…always played it safe. Fear of falling stole my chance to grab the really choice apples out on the edge of the limb.
I think sometimes God asks us to go out on that limb. Just like on the apple tree, the juiciest rewards in life are on the end of the limb. Playing it “safe,” not going out on a limb, is sometimes how Satan wants you to engage with life. So keep your eyes on your Lord as you step out in faith. Grab His hand tightly as you edge your way, following Him out onto that limb.
Since He goes before you, you can keep your eyes on Him as you step out in faith. Soon you will arrive at a resting place. While gripping His hand, look toward the horizon. Enjoy the view from this tree-top perspective. You are actually safer here…out on this limb with your Lord…than you would be hugging the trunk or even standing on the ground.
Overly familiar surroundings feel safer, but they also may lull you into a kind of sleepy self-reliance; and that’s when we tend to forget about the need for our Father.
Just remember the story of Abraham, waiting over 20 years for God to give him a son. Then God asks Abraham to go out on a limb and sacrifice his son, to actually kill Isaac. The juicy living Abraham was rewarded with…..truly amazing, and would never have happened without Abraham following God out to the very edge of the limb.
Today, when doing the right thing feels risky or uncomfortable, envision the scenario you just read, and enjoy the activity and view it in a new way. In this new and challenging situation (out on a limb), you will be more alert and not so quick to let go of His hand.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are the author and finisher of my faith. I want to follow You wherever You lead me…even if it’s out on a limb. I pray, Father, that You will help me follow You with confidence rather than with fear; for I know, Father, that wherever You lead me is the safest place I could be. I bring all my fears to You, Father, for I now know that fears not dealt with tend to grow and magnify themselves. I pray in the name of my Ultimate Life Guide and Protector, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 31:20
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
As a young boy, I always had a fascination with climbing trees; especially apple trees. I’d climb up, pick the apples, and then throw them down to my brothers. However, I couldn’t get the really good apples, for they always seemed to be hanging out on a limb. I would never go out on a limb…always played it safe. Fear of falling stole my chance to grab the really choice apples out on the edge of the limb.
I think sometimes God asks us to go out on that limb. Just like on the apple tree, the juiciest rewards in life are on the end of the limb. Playing it “safe,” not going out on a limb, is sometimes how Satan wants you to engage with life. So keep your eyes on your Lord as you step out in faith. Grab His hand tightly as you edge your way, following Him out onto that limb.
Since He goes before you, you can keep your eyes on Him as you step out in faith. Soon you will arrive at a resting place. While gripping His hand, look toward the horizon. Enjoy the view from this tree-top perspective. You are actually safer here…out on this limb with your Lord…than you would be hugging the trunk or even standing on the ground.
Overly familiar surroundings feel safer, but they also may lull you into a kind of sleepy self-reliance; and that’s when we tend to forget about the need for our Father.
Just remember the story of Abraham, waiting over 20 years for God to give him a son. Then God asks Abraham to go out on a limb and sacrifice his son, to actually kill Isaac. The juicy living Abraham was rewarded with…..truly amazing, and would never have happened without Abraham following God out to the very edge of the limb.
Today, when doing the right thing feels risky or uncomfortable, envision the scenario you just read, and enjoy the activity and view it in a new way. In this new and challenging situation (out on a limb), you will be more alert and not so quick to let go of His hand.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are the author and finisher of my faith. I want to follow You wherever You lead me…even if it’s out on a limb. I pray, Father, that You will help me follow You with confidence rather than with fear; for I know, Father, that wherever You lead me is the safest place I could be. I bring all my fears to You, Father, for I now know that fears not dealt with tend to grow and magnify themselves. I pray in the name of my Ultimate Life Guide and Protector, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 31:20
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
Monday, October 4, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You Living For Today Or For Eternity?
Transformational Thought
A few years ago I lost my brother and best friend to cancer. Thankfully he had dedicated his life to following Christ years before his illness. Just before his death he looked at me as if he were looking right into my soul and asked me a very simple question: Have you ever really thought about eternity? I’ve been thinking about it ever since.
Many times we will hear Christians talk about life on earth compared to eternity. They would say “It’s as quick as the blink of an eye.” While our time on earth is certainly short and fast compared to eternity, how we spend that time determines how we will spend our eternity. Yes, our time on earth is very important and is just a small stepping stone on our path to our final destination, eternity.
When we don’t know Jesus, we make choices as if this life is all we have. In reality, this life is just the introduction the biggest part of life, eternity. And how we live this brief span will actually determine our eternal state and destination. What we accumulate in this life (material things) has no value in purchasing eternal life.
Today, try viewing all that happens from an eternal perspective. You should find both your values and your decisions changing. If you aren’t a believer in Jesus as your Savior, you got the biggest and most life altering decision to make that affects where and how you spend eternity. If you do believe in Christ, you will be in heaven for eternity. How amazing is awesome and impossible for me to fathom.
But, is how your living life now helping others realize the ultimate eternity determining decision they need to make. Sure, you might be a good person, but are your daily activities just making this earthly life more comfortable for you….or are you out there, in action and word, sharing the good news with others to affect eternal destinations.
This is what we are called to do, and God has put people in your life, today, for you to build deeper relationship with, ask more personal questions to, and today or soon, help them know their eternal options rest in Jesus. Be a Lighthouse! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You to praise You and give You glory. I come to You confessing that I do not have the eternal perspective that I want to have or should have. I thank You for my salvation and those You brought into my life who spoke to me about eternal things. I know Your Holy Spirit changes hearts and opens eyes, but I know You want to use me and I have a role to play in securing eternity in Your presence for others. Lord, please help me let go of all those things I cling to in this temporal world. As I release my grasp on those “things”, it frees my hand to reach out and take hold of Your hand as You guide me to help others understand the eternal home You have promised me and all believers. I pray, Father, that as I experience suffering and as I experience the storms of this temporal world, that You help me shift my focus to eternity…my ultimate destination. I pray this in the name of my ticket into eternity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:26
Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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 5:15-16
Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light."
Luke 11:34-36
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Stepping Stones: Peace Is There, But Don’t Look In The Wrong Place
Transformational Thought
In my teenage years, I enjoyed had many outward successes in sports, academics, and with peers. But inside, unfortunately, peace was often elusive, and I really struggled inside, as I felt out of control on many occasions. One of my favorite and frequent activities was sitting down and making a plan for the next 5 years of my life, one year at a time.
This planning behavior, this “soothing activity,” was my attempt to act out the false belief that an orderly life on the outside would bring order on the inside of my heart. Also, with all that ordering of my outside world, my future, my path, I thought I could plan my way to peace.
It took me a while to learn this important truth about the brain, and it wasn’t in undergrad as a biomedical engineer, or medical school, or in psychiatry training. The Bible actually taught me that God did not design the human mind to figure out the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability.
He crafted our minds for continual communication with Him. You will not find peace by engaging in excessive planning and “doing”, with futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Excessive planning and doing is actually a often practiced form of unbelief.
Today, bring all your needs, your hopes and your fears to Your Lord and God. Commit everything into His care. When uneasy, instead of planning, stop, look around at creation and your life and enjoy the moment…bask in God’s blessings, love, and amazing grace. Remember He promises to comfort you and bring a peace. Look in the right places for it because it is there. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of peace.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My mind spins with multiple plans. I spend so much time planning because I think it is the pathway to peace. And just when peace appears to be within my reach, it somehow eludes me. Just when I think I have prepared for all possibilities, covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and pushes peace once again beyond my grasp and throws me into another state of confusion. Help me, Father, to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, and insecurities…I release them into Your care. For I know this is the true pathway to peace. Help me, Father, to find the next step, and the next, on this pathway of Stepping Stones. I pray to You Father in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 37:5-7
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Stepping Stones: Today’s Homework Brings Tomorrow’s Reward!
Transformational Thought
How easy it is to “lose heart.” We have all faced storms and problems in relationships, in our jobs, with our finances, not having our dreams or plans work out. How many times have you thought about just quitting…just walking off the job? In the midst of Paul’s most troublesome times, he decides to focus on his inner strength, which comes from the Holy Spirit.
Don’t let fatigue, pain, judgment and criticism from others force you off the job. Don’t forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation. You see, so many people think, “do the right thing now for my reward in heaven, but it gets me suffering now.” But do the right thing now renews your mind. That means you are strengthened psychologically, and your brain wiring actually improves. But most importantly, your relationship with God stays pure and the Holy Spirit, not your flesh, is on the throne of your heart and the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the flesh is what you will reap.
Adversity has a purpose. Someone wrote to us recently with a very simple prayer to pray while in the midst of a life storm; “Dear God, please do not let these tears be wasted.” Think of the many benefits of our human limitations and problems; they remind us of Christ suffering for us; they keep pride away; they provide the opportunity to look beyond this brief life; they allow us to demonstrate our faith to others…and they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His awesome power.
Today, think about how complacent and prideful you would be if everything went your way. Then, during a setback or struggle today, remember a school assignment, athletic training, or arts preparation you had that was difficult and painful, but eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today’s homework or training exercise. Do it with excellence, and be excited for our perfect Teacher or Coach is training us for the greatest trophy and reward! Your perspective is your choice, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to you today as a fearful follower. As Paul writes, I do feel as if I am wasting away…most days lately I feel as if I am losing heart. By reading Your word today, I see where I have been going wrong. I have been looking only at what I can see, and what I can see is only temporary. Father, help me today fix my eyes and heart on what is deeper, for I know that what is deeper more valuable. Help me today to see my problems as opportunities, for Your Word has taught me that when I am at my weakest, I really am my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let my troubles today diminish my faith in You. Please let my very weakness allow the resurrection power of Jesus Christ to strengthen me moment by moment. I pray in need and through Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Cor. 4:16–18
You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
John 13:13
He who teaches man knowledge--the LORD--knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath. Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked.
Psalm 94:10-13
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Stepping Stones: Battlefield is Our Mind
Transformational Thought
We were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great spiritual battle. Every day all the forces of good and evil, heaven and hell, God and Satan, collide. You have experienced and witnessed this warfare.
Today’s scripture are words spoken by Jesus…he makes the choices so obvious, so clear. So few of us face this fact; I know I’m guilty of not reminding myself each day that I’m in the middle of spiritual warfare.
Yes, there is a thief out there…he comes only to steal and destroy. And he’s not interesting in taking a few things and be gone – he wants it all; your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships – everything. Satan’s main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies and trying to affect Jesus’ decisions.
But it’s the second part of Jesus’ sentence we need to focus on. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. However, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need to face the fact…every day…that you are smack dab in the middle of this war. Just like Jesus used the BIBLE to be His lenses and the reference for accurate decision-making, that’s what we need to use.
Jesus’ offer to us is life, but you better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side is your greatest enemy. It’s not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.
Today, stop yourself when tempted to stray and calm yourself with God’s word and Jesus’ promise of abundant life so you don’t take Satan’s lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you want to alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them…pray for them.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I choose life! Thank You, Father, for providing such a beautiful alternative - life. I ask for Your help, Father God, I need Your help to face into the fact that I am in the middle of spiritual warfare…and to help me remember that You sent Your son so that I may have abundant life. I have seen what this enemy is capable of, Lord; in my life and in the lives of others. I pray that You help me and the Stepping Stones praying community accept the fact that there is an enemy out there trying to steal all we have…to destroy and kill. Help me, Lord, as a Father to protect my children from this thief; to protect all those I love. I pray in the name of the Conqueror, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10
And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread." But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, "You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve."
Matthew 4:3-10
My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
Proverbs 1:10
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