Stepping Stones: Examine Your Eyes - Regularly

May 1, 2012

Examine Your Eyes - Regularly

Transformational Thought

Over the last few days we have been discussing the complicated, and seemingly contradictory instructions the Bible gives about judging others. We saw how we seem to be called not to judge, yet we are also called to judge. The major component that helps us determine whether or not to judge,  is looking at the heart of both the judger and the judged.

As we discussed yesterday, the Bible calls us to correct our children … to pick elders and church leaders … to vote for Godly leaders in government … to be a third party helping to settle a dispute between two brothers. So again, the permission to judge rests in the motivating engines of our hearts. We need to examine what drives our judgments of other people.

God does not call us to condemn, shame, mock or belittle others. Neither are we called to exalt ourselves. On the contrary, our motivation needs to be one of compassion, love, service, and encouragement to others. We are to be a lighthouse and a mouthpiece, directing others to God and His Word.

Another important issue in judging is our own motivation. In today's scripture, Jesus describes a type of hypocrisy most of us have experienced. We are quick to condemn others, but avoid examining our own lives. Often our sins actually surpass theirs.

Self-assessment, evaluation, and reflection are so difficult for us. Looking at our weaknesses and mistakes is hard work. We look for any excuse to avoid this important and necessary task for growth. Focusing on someone else’s failures and blowing them out of proportion makes you look better and takes the spotlight off you.

Jesus says that before we can help others, we need to look at our own lives. Are we involved in wrongdoing that clouds our wisdom and hampers our ability to assess and help? Our sin, baggage, and issues can distort our perceptions of their conduct. We might even wrongly judge them. We could then give poor counsel as our issues bleed into our Biblical objectivity.

Not having our own houses in order also undermines our credibility as we speak into their lives. Why would someone listen to or believe my assessment when my own life is filled with sin, dysfunction, and blind spots? What expertise or wisdom can I really share with others if I can’t even identify and address the struggles that hinder my walk with God?

The ability to look closely at our own stuff and address it, is a pretty good indicator of our level of humility … or lack thereof. Low humility indicates high pride, which doesn’t help us speak into another’s life with Godliness. Finally, our dysfunction and sin hinder our prayers for others.

Today, sit down and identify areas in your life that are broken or off-track. You know what they are. As Jesus teaches, get the plank out of your own eye. Only then will you see clearly enough to help your friends. But more importantly, cleaning up your own walk dramatically increases your credibility as you speak into their lives about their problems. Have you performed an eye exam on yourself lately? Like me, you are probably overdue! Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, I know I am sometimes quick to judge … and to condemn. Please forgive me. I know I get hypocritical at times, picking on others when I am struggling. Give me the courage to allow Your Holy Spirit to search me, teach me, and empower me to heal and transform my weaknesses. Thank You for allowing me to use what You taught me about myself, to help others grow. Grow in me a heart of compassion and not hypocrisy. Help me to extend the same grace to them that You have abundantly extended to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the best mirror for my eye exam, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

Matthew 7:3-5

Stepping Stones: How Should We “Judge” One Another?

April 30, 2012

How Should We “Judge” One Another?

Transformational Thought

In the last Stepping Stones, we opened up the topic of judging others. We saw how we are simultaneously called to judge and not to judge. We tried to differentiate between these two seemingly contradictory callings. The main element that clarifies the confusion involves looking at the heart of both the judge and the judged. You see, we are to judge others’ behaviors, but it’s impossible to judge their hearts.

So what right do we have to condemn others since we are not perfect? Jesus made this clear to the crowd condemning the woman caught in adultery (John 8:3-9). They were clamoring to stone her, but Jesus said, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." One by one, the accusers disappeared.

Condemnation is such a final judgment, and we don’t have the right, authority, or power to condemn anyone. Only God has the perfect slate and is the author who declares, and, more importantly, carries out the final judgment of “Condemned!”

But according to the Bible, we are called as parents to correct our children …  to pick elders and church leaders with certain character … to vote for Godly leaders … to be a third party helping settle a dispute between two brothers. So again, the permission we have to judge is contingent upon the motivating engines in our hearts. We need to ask what drives our actions when we engage in the tricky and dangerous role of judging another person.

God does not call us to condemn, shame, mock, belittle, or somehow, lower others. Neither are we to exalt ourselves. But isn’t this the definition of what our flesh is all about? Satan certainly does all he can to accentuate this mentality. The temptation is to fall into lazy, me-centered behavior when God grants us the responsibility to judge the behavior of others.

Instead, our motivation needs to be one of compassion, love, service, and encouragement. We are to help others avoid reaping the perilous fruit of the flesh that continuous wrong behavior produces. We are to be the instrument of God, directing others to Him and His Word for direction, healing, and transformation so they can overcome sinful behavior. We need to embrace this motivational mindset and role, and guard against Satan’s me-centered head games.

Another component to consider is how we approach the person. Since we don’t know his motivation, we need to ask questions and help him recognize the misconduct. We can lovingly help him identify the motivations, fears, and issues, and the me-centered process that led to the wrong behavior. We also want him to know God’s forgiveness, and God’s desire to receive him back into a transforming relationship.

Today, jot down on a piece of paper the names of people whose behaviors God allows you to monitor and judge. Examine your heart and motivation in this assignment. If God has put you in a special position to speak into another person’s life, do it with love and with the motivations described above. You can be a great catalyst in their spiritual walks … or a major stumbling block … depending on your heart as you handle this assignment from God and for God. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

O God, I know I am sometimes quick to judge … and even worse, to condemn. Please forgive me. Help me to really see how I can be Your partner in ministry. Help me to recognize the people in my life whom you call me to “judge”. Teach me the seriousness of this responsibility and guard my heart from my flesh and Satan. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One slow to judge, always a servant, and quick to forgive, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?" This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her." And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him.

John 8:3-9

Kw: , Character, Peace, Self-Evaluation, Judgment, Forgiveness, Relationships

Stepping Stones: To Judge Or Not To Judge

April 28-29, 2012

To Judge Or Not To Judge

Transformational Thought

Like it or not, we are judging something all the time. Someone’s clothes … hair … car … house … cleanliness … weight … attitude. Some say it is wrong to judge, and we are not to judge … that judging is up to God. He is the only one who has the right and authority to judge. So they will often quote, “judge not lest ye be judged.”

But in the Bible, we are called as parents to correct our children … to pick elders and church leaders with certain character … to vote for Godly leaders … to judge false Bible teachers … to confront gossiping, addiction, or adulterous behavior … even to be a third party helping settle a dispute between two Christian brothers.

How can we carry out these duties without judging the individuals? What a dilemma … to judge or not to judge. How do we know when to judge and when to sit tight? Sorting out these contradictory instructions and scenarios is complex, and I don’t want to oversimplify, but most can be boiled down to this: 1. What’s at the center of your heart motivating your behavior, and 2. What lenses are you using to assess the situation.

Only God can see into hearts and truly judge the full scope of an event. We can judge conduct, but only hypothesize about the motivation leading to the person’s conduct. God knows everything and judges accurately, impartially, and according to absolute truth. We are too limited to make the same quality judgments. We are called to judge conduct (our next Stepping Stones will look at that element a little more), but not to judge someone’s heart. We do need to make sure our motives for judging conduct are focused on God and our focus is to serve the person we are judging and their “targets”.

Today, try to determine whether you are judging a person’s heart or their conduct. If you are judging heart, that is a dangerous area that needs to be approached with extreme caution. If you are called to judge a person’s conduct, examine your heart and motives. Are you using me-centered agendas and lenses? Be honest with yourself. When you judge the right things for the right reasons, in the right way, a big burden will be lifted. You will be so much freer is your relationships. Once you have the judgment, then glorify God in how you present that assessment to the individual you are called to judge and serve. You are called to judge, but judging well is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, I know I am sometimes quick to judge … and to condemn. Please forgive me. Help me understand my own issues better, and resolve my needs so I don’t feel compelled to judge and ridicule others to lessen my fears, anxieties, or insecurities and inadequacies. I desire a heart that beats with Yours and wants to love and serve those You put into my life. Help me have a discerning lens to understand their struggles and lovingly and clearly show and teach them Your word. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One quickest to forgive, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Samuel 16:7

"Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;”

Luke 6:37

There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?

James 4:12

Stepping Stones: People Pleaser or God Pleaser?

April 27, 2012

People Pleaser or God Pleaser?

Transformational Thought

Who doesn’t want to see their kids happy, especially if we are the one bringing them delight? I love to please my daughters. But I also want to see them safe and healthy. So when they make unhealthy or dysfunctional requests, it is easy for me to say “NO!” … even though they aren’t pleased, and in fact, they might actually be upset, or cry because of my answer.

Need a couple of examples? What about when they ask … for their third bowl of ice cream … for the keys to the car and they’re only 13 … to stay out to midnight on a school night when they’re 14 … to camp out with a boyfriend, alone, when they are 16. All these will easily get a “no” answer from me regardless of how displeased my beloved daughters might be with my answer.

When fellow adults make dysfunctional requests, for some reason, for most of us, it is much harder to say “no”. Why is it hard to say ‘No’ to an adult? Sometimes it’s because I think they know more than I do about the particular situation … or they know what’s best for themselves more than I do … or I fear and hate being uneasy when people are mad or upset at me … or I fear their rejection … or I need their approval … or I need to  be needed or accepted. Too many “I need…” or “I fear…” lenses, based on a me-centered mentality, significantly interfere with our perspective, and lead to disrespectful, dysfunctional, or even sinful relational conduct.

When we focus on trying to please people by acting dysfunctionally, then our behavior is not serving or pleasing God. If we are truly His servants, then our primary goal will be to please Him first, not others.

When Jesus lived on earth, many who believed in Him would not admit their faith. Because these people were more concerned about personal safety and other people’s opinions rather than God’s opinion, they did not live out their faith. Likewise, when we live as people-pleasers, we are demonstrating the fact that we are more concerned about people’s approval instead of God’s … and therefore our walk with Him will always be hindered.

Today, ask yourself: What is my greatest perceived need or greatest perceived threat when someone makes a request of me … or when I feel the need to people-please in a relationship? Whom am I trying to please ... God or the person? Maybe most of your life is lived to please God, but there is still some situation … or some person … that triggers you to be a people-pleaser. God wants us to put Him first in all things … we cannot please Him by placing more importance on people’s opinions  … or our needs … over His. Pleasing God is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, I do want to please You. Forgive me for the times I let my desire to be accepted by a person outweigh my desire to please You. Thank You for Your love and for accepting me unconditionally. Help me to be a better servant, doing the right thing, not the people-pleasing thing, as I grow healthy relationships with others. Give me courage and peace to withstand the pressure I feel when others are displeased with my answers. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who was the perfect servant, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

I am not trying to please people. I want to please God. Do you think I am trying to please people? If I were doing that, I would not be a servant of Christ. 

Galatians 1:10

Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.

John 12:42-43

Kw: , Needs, People-Pleasing, Conflict

Stepping Stones: “I’ll Only Do It This One Time”

April 26, 2012

 “I’ll Only Do It This One Time”

Transformational Thought

Paul wrote the second chapter of Romans to Jewish readers who believed they had a special relationship with God because they knew, approved, and were obedient to the Law of God. Many believed this relationship made them above the Law, and so were not careful in their lifestyles. They excused behaviors that were wrong and trusted in their supposed privileged position to shield them from the consequences of their guilt.

It is never enough just to know and approve what is right. It is never enough to be a church member or to be born into a Christian family. Nothing has any meaning without a relationship with God that is alive and based solely on faith in Christ as your personal Savior. In today's scripture, Paul is speaking to religious people who lack a living relationship with God.

Religious people are prone to rationalization. They often have a strong belief system. But when their beliefs and behaviors conflict, they may resolve the internal conflict by finding excuses for themselves. Many people are pro-life, but when it comes to an unwanted pregnancy in their own home, some are able to rationalize an abortion. Many oppose pornography, but allow themselves to indulge in secret. Nobody, I repeat, nobody is immune to rationalizing and excusing sinful behaviors and attitudes.

People rationalize sins such as cheating on their taxes, lying, having temper tantrums, gossiping, being bitter, harboring a grudge, controlling others, resisting change, continuing an addiction, or having an affair. "Everyone does it." "I deserve it." "It doesn’t really hurt anyone." "I'll only do it this one time."

Just like at the Last Supper, Jesus told Peter that he would deny Christ later on. Peter adamantly proclaimed his love and loyalty by claiming he would lay down his life for Jesus, but some hours later, Peter was able to rationalize the exact opposite of what he professed he would do, and did indeed deny Christ, not once, not twice, but three times.

Perhaps you have fallen into this rationalization trap. You know God’s Word. You say you believe it. And yet when it comes right down to your personal circumstances, you find a way to rationalize behavior that the Holy Bible condemns. Hypocrisy? You bet! But don’t just pout or deny you’re in this category, learn why you are tricked into thinking that your behavior results in benefit rather than harm.

Today, don’t rationalize or hide. Stop posing. Jesus died so you could lead a transformed life. That is the only place in which the peace and joy we all desire can be found. Faith in Christ sets us free from sin, but we must exercise and apply that faith to life’s situations. It isn't enough to know what the Bible says. God calls us into a close relationship that causes us to want to please Him. We will all stumble and fall along the way, but a close walk with the Lord should encourage us to repent and get back on the right path … to restore our relationship with Him. Knowing and speaking the Word isn't enough … we must live it. Act on what you believe, it’s your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, forgive me for reading Your Word but then going my own way. I pray that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Word will become a living part of me and that I will live to please You. Help me apply Your instruction clearly in my life. I pray that my relationship with You will grow stronger and my desire to please You will grow. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who lived His Father’s Word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

For merely listening to the law doesn't make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in his sight.

Romans 2:13

Jesus said to him, "Truly, I say to you, this very night, before the cock crows, you will deny me three times." Peter said to him, "Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you." And so said all the disciples.

Matthew 26:34-35

And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, “This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.” And again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the man.” And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, “Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee.” Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, “I know not the man.” And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, “Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.” And he went out, and wept bitterly.

Matthew 26:71-75

Stepping Stones: What Are You Hiding From?

March 2, 2012

Transformational Thought

For about 10 years, I had many insecurities and fears that led to numerous sinful decisions and behaviors. I made multiple excuses to myself, others, and God to avoid or deny the feelings, shame, and reality of my mistakes. My hole got deeper and deeper until I ended up in jail and finally had to be honest because I had no other excuses to give or places to hide.

Today's Scripture is much more lengthy than usual, but it expresses so beautifully the despair that so many of us experience … the despair that comes with hiding our sins from God. But it also reveals the great freedom we experience when we finally stop trying to hide our guilt, confess our sinful decisions to the Lord, and receive His loving forgiveness.

Even though painful feelings are unpleasant to experience, facing them honestly and dealing with their cause is essential to our ability to function and to feel fulfilled. If we want to be the person God has called us to be … if we want to stop hurting others and ourselves … if we want to experience the freedom and peace in our lives that Christ died for … we must face the truth and ask God for His forgiveness and His help. That is the first major decision. The second is to be good stewards of His help and instructions through Godly decision-making.

Jesus understands the damage that occurs when unpleasant feelings resulting from sins are ignored and pushed below the surface. He encourages us to approach Him like a little child … quick to be vulnerable … willing to share our feelings with Him … trusting that He will heal us, not rub salt in our wounds or take advantage of our vulnerability.

In childhood, there were times when we opened up, trusted, made ourselves vulnerable, and were then hurt. We weren’t stupid, so we figured the only way to avoid further hurt or let down anymore was to hold it all in, not open up, be skeptical of others, not share our mistakes, questions or insecurities. Satan wants us to keep our wrongs in the dark because He knows the Light will allow truth in, and let healing prevail.

Today, think about sin in your life that you may be hiding … especially from yourself. God loves you and is ready for you to come to Him. He is your loving Father. Come to Him as the psalmist did. Then you can join the psalmist in rejoicing: "Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, 'I will confess my rebellion to the LORD.' And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone." Develop the Spiritual Discipline of confession. Look at our Spiritual Basics link. It reconnects you to God and puts Him back on the throne of your heart so healing can begin. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess my rebellion and my sins. Forgive me for trying to hide it for so long. Thank You for Your unconditional love, for Your forgiveness, and for the peace that only You can give. Empower me with trust to come to You and be vulnerable when I am afraid of experiencing old wounds. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to teach me about unconditional love, honesty, and humility, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty! When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long. Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me. My Strength evaporated like water in the heat. Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD." Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory.
Psalm 32:1-7

Stepping Stones: The Invisible Walls of Prejudice

February 29, 2012

Transformational Thought

I have been blessed to travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Iraq. When I preached in Kenya, I was the only white person in a church of 500! And this summer I will lead a team of 6, including two of my daughters, into Uganda. These unique mission trips have been some of the Super Bowl highlights of my life. Why is this so surprising? Because I grew up surrounded by prejudice and was a mega-bigot. Evidence of God’s power is His ability to transform my sinful attitude so that now I can actually connect with and help my African and Middle Eastern brothers and sisters overcome their prejudices and conflicts.

Yesterday, we opened up the topic of prejudice and discussed some of the causes and harmful effects of prejudicial thinking and decisions. Most of us tend to pre-judge people based on how they look or dress, what their family members are like, how they talk, stereotypes built by the media of particular social, economic or ethnic groups, and on many other superficial and erroneous characteristics.

There is danger in rejecting or misjudging someone because they are different from us. First of all, the Bible tells us that prejudice is a sin, one that blocks our ability to love others as God wants us to. We could even miss blessings from God, both in this world and in the eternal one, by rejecting strangers due to prejudice. People made this same mistake when they rejected Jesus as the promised Messiah and King. Because Jesus did not come in the way they expected a king to come, they erroneously judged Him as a liar and heretic, and they crucified Him.

We can also miss an opportunity to bless others, or to be blessed by them and God when we allow walls of prejudice, even subtle ones, to build. We may overlook an opportunity to help someone find Jesus. We ourselves may lose an opportunity to find Jesus more clearly or to know Him on a deeper level. Don’t put the other person, yourself, or especially God in a box that limits capabilities and impact.

These walls are made from our bricks of ignorance, insecurity, and lack of trust in God … lacking trust in His power and sovereignty. Allowing God into these areas will clean our prejudicial lenses, allowing us to see people as God truly sees them.

Today, ask God to help you identify the walls you have built around yourself and recognize how they interfere with your ability to see and engage with people the way God wants you to. Examine yourself and your heart. What are some of the wounds and fears that smudge your lenses as God brings different people into your life? You can begin removing those barriers between yourself and others. Ask Him to help you look on the inside and see people as He does. Only then can the love of Jesus flow freely through you to everyone He brings your way. WITHIN REACH will help you search yourself and your past to identify and heal those wounds and distortions. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
O Gracious God, I do want the love of Jesus to flow freely through me to every person You place in my life. Forgive me for sometimes blocking this flow when I judge others by outward appearances. I know I have wounds and distorted lenses. Give me courage to overcome my fears and insecurities. Help me see myself through Your lenses so I don’t need to look down on others to feel important in this world. Help me clear my vision so I can see each individual as You do and respond to them with Your love. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who sees all the best in me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
James 2:8-9

Stepping Stones: Prejudice Means to “Pre-Judge”

February 28, 2012

Transformational Thought

Once when my oldest daughters were about 7 and 5, we went on our monthly Saturday morning date to McDonalds. After sitting down, a tattooed, pierced girl, heavy with make-up and funky colored hair, and wearing a McDonald’s uni and cap jumped into our booth right next to my girls. Their eyes popped out and their jaws dropped. The girl then loudly cried, “Dr. Benzio, look at me. I’m off drugs, I got a job, I’m back in school, and I broke up with that loser boyfriend you warned me about. Thank you so much for giving my life back to me!” Then she smiled at the girls and asked, “Are these yours? They are so lucky.” Needless to say, they didn’t feel lucky because they were so scared. Why? Because they pre-judged.

Prejudice can creep into our lives without our awareness of what is happening. Sometimes it's so subtle, we don't recognize it. We might choose one cashier's line over another because of race, a tattoo, clothes, or general appearance. In church or any public gathering, we may select seats next to people who "look like us." The flip side can also happen, like assuming that people with power or wealth are unapproachable by anyone not in their league. But this, too, is judgment based on prejudice, not on fact.

Prejudice shows a lack of respect for another person. You see, based on one general characteristic, you are saying you know a person without ever hearing their unique story. You are rejecting them based on that one attribute. It is lazy and disrespectful to yourself as well, but mostly it is disrespectful to God and His sovereignty. Pre-judging puts others in a box, limiting who they are … who they can become. It also puts you in a box, limiting what you are able to be, to learn, or imagine about yourself. And most importantly, pre-judging really limits God and puts Him in a box … denying His power to fully transform hearts and individuals. You are telling God you can predict the other person’s character and future … saying God has no plan for them.

People are people … no matter what their skin color, economic status, education, style, nationality or neighborhood. We all want to be loved and respected by others. We all experience painful times and good times. We all want to be understood. But because of our insecurities … our need to be important … we put others down to give the perception that we are better than we really are. Instead, we need to look to God to grow us see ourselves as equal heirs in His kingdom.

Have you ever experienced the brunt of prejudice? If so, you understand the hurt it can bring. Ask God to use that experience to teach you to lay aside all prejudice towards others and, when possible, take time getting to know the real person in front of you. Let’s ask God to teach us to look at their heart.

Today, stop and notice why you think or relate to someone the way you do. Is it because you pre-judged, or is it based on data this person actually revealed to you? One of the biggest reasons we don’t witness to others very much is our prejudicial ideas about that person. Don’t prejudge. Enjoy the experience of asking questions and getting to know someone God loves, someone He put into your life for a reason. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Help me remember that people are people. Help me not to look down on anyone … or to be intimidated by anyone. You are the great equalizer. Jesus died for every person. Every person needs forgiveness. Every person needs Jesus. In my relationships with others, help me move past the outward appearance and see the heart. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to save everyone, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart
1 Samuel 16:7

And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And He said to him, “What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?” And he answered, “YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH, AND ALL YOUR MIND; AND YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” And He said to him, “You have answered correctly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” But wishing to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied and said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among robbers, and they stripped him and beat him, and went away leaving him half dead. “And by chance a priest was going down on that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. “Likewise a Levite also, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. “But a Samaritan, who was on a journey, came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion, and came to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them; and he put him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn and took care of him. “On the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper and said, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I return I will repay you.’ “Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?” And he said, “The one who showed mercy toward him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do the same.”
Luke 25-37
(I love this story so I put the whole passage! This is what Lighthouse Network strives to do daily)

Stepping Stones: Let HIM Take That Huge Stone Off Your Back

Transformational Thought

Yesterday, someone questioned me about the theology in a past devotional. My first reaction was that clearly I must have made a mistake and I felt bad that I let so many people down and misinformed them. Upon further review, thankfully, I didn’t make a mistake and we processed his possible interpretations about what I wrote and how he read it. It was great for both of us.

But, try as I may, I find that my brokenness and past sin are sometimes like a huge stone hanging around my neck. Carrying that stone causes guilt, shame, weakness, and at times, causes me to avoid certain opportunities and experiences. I know and believe I have been forgiven, but I struggle with laying down that stone and walking away from it. Many people share this struggle, do you?

Our yesterdays hold broken and irreversible experiences for us. It is true that we have lost opportunities that will never return, but God can transform those mistakes and sins, the destructive guilt and anxiety, into constructive thought and hope for a transformed and transforming future. We don’t have to hold onto distorted lenses from past wounds and mistakes. But we do have to look back and re-examine them through Godly lenses, letting God into and heal our past so we can have clear lenses to see Him, ourselves, and daily experiences that He brings into our life today.

Trusting God’s forgiveness is a big and difficult stretch … for most, myself included, really receiving God’s forgiveness takes time. For me, I had to work up to this huge step of trust by practicing, implementing, and applying trust in much smaller areas of life and in my relationship with God. Then I was able to absorb His forgiveness in the bigger areas of my life. You can, too.

Trusting Him when there is an illness … a flat tire … change of plans … someone else is in charge … a deadline is changed … a random bill comes into your life … protection for your children is needed … feeling unloved or valueless. Like any skill, starting small, practicing, and then stretching it can lead to powerful capabilities. Trust is the same way. Trusting in His power of forgiveness is one of the richest skills you can develop. Let the past rest, but let it rest in the sweet embrace of Jesus Christ.

Today, leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into your invincible future with Him. Start by trusting Him, His agenda, promises, character, and instruction in 3 small situations today. You probably already do, but acknowledge and identify it so you can apply it to bigger, tougher areas tomorrow. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Mighty and Forgiving God, I can easily become paralyzed with shame, guilt, and fear over my past. I have hurt You … and I know I have hurt others. I am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness – Thank You, Lord. I ask You, Father, to help me lay down the heavy stone of my past that I have been carrying. Let me remember and be accountable for my past brokenness and sin … but let it not keep me from moving toward You with freedom. I pray in the name of the one whom You sent to lift the burdens of my past, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the LORD will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.
Isaiah 52:12


If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

I will cleanse them from all the guilt of their sin against me, and I will forgive all the guilt of their sin and rebellion against me.
Jeremiah 33:8

Stepping Stones: This Pressure Cooker Called Life

Transformational Thought

I remember my grandmother using a pressure cooker to preserve the fruits and vegetables that she grew and picked from her own garden. She would spend hot summer days in a steamy kitchen pouring home-grown goodness into glass jars, and then plunge them into boiling water in a pressure cooker. That pressure cooker was an essential tool to her work for two reasons. It ensured that the food was safe to eat, and it shortened the time needed to accomplish the work. A pressure cooker can be used for everyday meals, too. But using it comes with a few downsides: meats are ready fast, but they’re tough; vegetables keep their nutrients, but they lose flavor.

Have you ever been in “pressure-cooker” situations, dealing with non-stop stress, multiple priorities, constant interruptions, or emotionally charged situations? What happens to the brain when we’re under pressure like that? Our circuitry, the hardware necessary to get the best decision-making and spiritual worship out of the computer that is YOU, is dramatically affected by stress. God gave us a great brain to respond to acute and short periods of stress, but longer episodes of stress are actually destructive to the brain, and thus all the areas of our life our brain touches. Satan knows that and cranks up the pressure, the stress of life, to push us to a conforming mind.

Ongoing stress causes excessive action by our immune system and endocrine system, producing cortisol and adrenaline. Prolonged activation injures brain cells, even killing some, and disrupts circuitry in our emotion, memory, and relationship centers of the brain. This is why we have trouble thinking of God’s promises, character, or past provision, trouble remembering Bible passages that soothe, or trouble connecting to God’s love, peace, comfort, and grace when we are under continual pressure or stress.

Everyone responds to stress differently. Some people just walk away. Maybe you’re competent to accomplish a task, but instead do just enough to make it work. Possibly you fall into making knee-jerk reactions, or you respond to what is urgent while avoiding what is important. It’s easy to go for the quick fix, relying on yourself but forgetting to ask God for His guidance and wisdom. That’s exactly where Satan wants you to be. But there’s another way.

Today, when you are under pressure at work, at home, or on the street, just stop. Consider that you get to make a choice. Call on God and tell Him you need His help. This is exactly where we all need to be, “on our knees” in a position of dependence. God is delighted when we rely on His goodness, mercy and power. He has promised that He will always be with us. He will never leave us or forsake us. You can decide to let the pressure get to you … or to rely on the God who loves you. When you stop and rely on Him, you are actually rewiring that damaged circuitry, healing damaged brain cells, and literally growing new ones that will allow you to function better. Your decision … choose well as it is your spiritual act of worship!

Prayer
Dear God, When I consider all the pressures and demands on my life today, it feels overwhelming. It’s so hard to know what to do or even where to start. I don’t want to just get by. I want to live a full life, the abundant life Jesus talked about, that pleases You in every way. I can’t do this alone. I need and want Your help. As I call out to You. I trust You alone to give me wisdom, guidance and energy for my situation. I pray to You in the name of Your Son Jesus who had perfect brain chemistry and triumphed through the most extreme pressure cooker. And all God’s children say, “AMEN!”

The Truth
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
Matthew 6:13

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual act of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2

Stepping Stones: Move out of Your Comfort Zone: “I don’t feel like it!”

Transformational Thought

I was recently challenged to step out and take on a task that was new to me, out of my comfort zone. I’m often asked to do just that … by my boss, a family member, or friend. Sometimes, I say yes because of an obligation I feel towards the person proposing the idea or because of my close relationship to that person. Or even because part of me knows it’s the right thing to do. But this time, I made excuses. The skill was out of my comfort zone. I believed I didn’t have what it took to accomplish the task. And mostly importantly, in my mind … I didn’t feel like doing it.

Sound familiar? How often do we use that excuse as a fall-back position, “I don’t feel like it!” Looking at those words in print, even I can see now that it’s lame. In fact, it’s the type of statement I might call to someone’s attention by saying, “And how often have your feelings led you to a sound decision?” If it were up to my feelings, I wouldn’t get out of bed till 10:00 everyday, and would never eat a vegetable. What was I thinking? Why did my feelings become the default mode for my decision? My faulty reasoning was the result of a trap, a trick, a deceit. And for a short time, I actually bought into it.

Eventually I actually did complete the task. What turned around the situation? Prayer ... a conversation with God in which I asked Him what to do. His answer came as I was reading about Abraham in the Bible. God told Abraham to leave his hometown and go to a place he didn’t know, and Abraham did it. As soon as my eyes passed over those words I stopped reading. I knew I was to leave my comfort zone and take on the task. I felt comforted. I told God I would do it.

Just as the Lord was with Abraham, you can trust Him to be with you and guide you. The God who knows and loves you won’t hang you out to dry. His words and promises are solid; He’s faithful and true. Unlike human feelings, He doesn’t change … ever. So the question is, “Will you choose to trust His call to follow Him out of your comfort zone?”

Today, God is actually calling you out of your comfort zone. Identify one area of your life in which He is stretching you. Now try to really dig inside yourself and examine why you won’t follow. You see, the real truth is, your comfort zone is the least comfortable spot compared to the spot God calls you to that is outside your “comfort zone.” Follow Him to the land of milk and honey, it’s your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Thank You, God, for hearing and answering my prayer. Thank You that You are a God who is holy and who does not change. I am so glad that You, the all-powerful God of the universe, are also the God who cares about the details of my life. Help me overcome my fear of the unknown, to overcome my reliance on feelings to determine what You desire for me. I trust You to be with me and to guide my steps. Teach me to call out to You, to listen for Your answers, and to rely on them. I pray in the name of the One who went way out of His comfort zone for me, Jesus Christ, and all God’s children say, Amen!

The Truth
The LORD had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you.”
Genesis 12:1

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.
Hebrews 11:8

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1Peter 5:7

Stepping Stones: Life Abundant: Pain Relief and Healing

Transformational Thought

I cut my finger the other day, but I didn’t give it the care it needed at the time. Just threw a bandage on it to stop the bleeding so it wouldn’t mess up anything. A couple days later, an infection set in and the injury got my attention. I went to buy an antibiotic ointment to aid the healing and found a leading brand ointment that had an interesting claim; “Healing and pain relief.” The cut was creating some discomfort for me, so I chose the product that offered more than just healing. I wanted pain relief as well.

Holy Scripture tells us that Christ’s mission in coming to earth was to forgive and to save … to provide “eternity” for us. He came to deliver oh so much more than just our redemption. He brought us eternal freedom, fulfillment, peace and joy. Healing is now available for us.

You see, often times, we have a hard time believing the healing He brings is actually available for us here on earth. I know that not all our physical and psychological illnesses will be made whole now. But even though we struggle, His peace and comfort can melt away pain and renew our mind in powerful ways. Our biggest illness is spiritual, so connecting with Him and maximally absorbing Him will have a powerful impact on our other ills.

The prophet Isaiah tells us the Messiah will come to bind up and heal, to release and set free (while we are here on earth). Jesus Himself referenced this passage as captured in Luke 4:17. Think about this: Christ came not only to forgive you, but to restore and release you. This is the central passage in the entire Bible about Jesus. He fulfilled every prophesy, testifying to the truth and then dying for us, bringing ultimate healing and shalom to our lives and His relationship with us.

Today, take Jesus Christ at his word … as the healer of all the broken pieces within you … Who unites them into one whole and healed heart. Think what life would be like if you believed that promise. What keeps you from believing His promise? What do you believe in more strongly than His promise and the incredible body of evidence He has compiled? Why do you believe something else? It’s your decision regarding what you will believe: Jesus’ promises and teachings, or your own theory. Choose well. Your life depends on it.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray and ask You to release me from all bondage and captivity, as You promised to do. Take all my broken pieces and give me an all-receiving heart … make me whole. I know, Father, that You will not do this at a distance, so I desire to be as close to You as I possibly can be … show me the way to You, my Lord, and Savior. I pray in the name of the one You sent to forgive me, save me, and heal me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.
Isaiah 61:1

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

Stepping Stones: Do You Want to Hear God’s Voice? Get Rid of the Static!

Transformational Thought

I was driving to work the other day when I turned on a local Christian radio station. This particular station is a bit smaller than many and its broadcast radius is quite limited. So, as I turned a corner in the road, the once clear voice of the Bible teacher on one station became intermingled with classical piano music and static from another station. For about a mile or two the Word of God was very difficult to make out as the words were overtaken by static, the musical notes of the piano, and the voice of the DJ. So, back and forth it went:

Bible Teacher: "Jesus said in John Chapter one, 'in the begin . . .'
Static, static, static . . . Bb7, F#m7, A, Em . . . static, static, static
Bible Teacher: "Through Him all . . . "
D.J.: "Now we'll enjoy Chopin's Nocturne in B-Flat minor"

I realized that God was showing me something. In this world, there are many enticements that compete for our attention. Some are pretenders that hinder our ability to discern God's voice (a voice that the Bible, at one point, calls a "still small voice"). As I drew nearer to the Christian radio station’s tower, the classical music faded and the words of John the Apostle came through clear as a bell:

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

The Bible reminds us that God’s children recognize his voice. It’s a wonderful truth. But equally true is that we need to be listening. My children know my voice and can discern it from all other voices. For some reason, when they are playing a video game (in a trance-like state) my words fall on deaf ears. But when they turn off the game, and look in my eyes and listen, it seems the words sink in much better.

In Matthew Chapter 15 Jesus was teaching the crowd of followers and began his teaching with these words, "Listen and understand …." Jesus knew that hearing is more important than listening. Everyone within reach of Jesus' voice could hear him but not everyone listened.

We often say, "I wish I could hear the voice of God." But I think God showed me again this week that if I want to hear Him I need to tune out all the other static. I need to turn off the TV, the Ipod, and the computer. I need to get alone with him, spend some time in his written Word, and on my knees in prayer. Sure God can yell, as I have oftentimes found when I ignore or fail to listen, only to get a really uncomfortable wake-up call. Listening the first time turns out to be a better plan.

Today, don’t just talk to God … listen to Him as well. Make an effort to choose one thing in your life that interferes with tuning into God’s channel. Trim down the time spent on that, and give that time to receiving God’s message. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Father God, Thank You for giving me spiritual ears to hear Your voice. Help me today to tune out the noises of the world and all the other voices that hinder my walk with You. Please help me to hear, and also to understand and be obedient to Your call on my life. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who makes these things possible. I pray in the name of the One who always tuned to Your frequency, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
John 10: 27-28

Stepping Stones: Diagnosis: Worry, Cure: Perspective

Transformational Thought
A pretty interesting book was written about ten years ago titled The Knowing-Doing Gap. It highlighted an everyday phenomenon we see all around us and even in our own lives. The bottom line is, in general, we all know what we should and should not do, but there is a huge gap between knowing it and actually doing it. We shouldn’t smoke…but we do. We shouldn’t overeat…but we do. We shouldn’t worry…but we do.

At Lighthouse Network, we call this our Intellectual Creed vs. our Behavioral Creed. Our Intellectual Creed is what we know we should do, or more exactly, what we know the Bible teaches us to do. Our Behavioral Creed is what we actually do in a given situation. Maturity, growth, and transformation are measured by how much our Behavioral Creed becomes more and more like our Intellectual Creed.

Our Intellectual Creed: we shouldn’t worry, no matter what the adversity because God is sovereign and in control of all things. Our Behavioral Creed: we end up worrying about events or the opinions of others, or many other things that are out of our control. But they aren’t out of God’s control. Worrying really interferes with everything in our life from our relationship with God, our interactions with our self and others, and even injures our brain chemistry. In fact, for many, trying not to worry is like trying not to think about something; the more we try, the more anxious we become. So, we even begin to worry about worrying. Trying to fight this battle alone gets to be so counterproductive.

Perspective…how we view ourselves, God, and the circumstances He allows in our lives…is the key to good decision-making. Decision-making is knowing what the right thing to do is, then actually doing it. Will you have God’s perspective or your own? Big difference. Sometimes it is hard to have God’s perspective, but the more time you spend with Him, getting to know Him, the clearer His perspective becomes to you. Stop focusing on worry and put your energy into communicating with God. This strategy will help you achieve freedom from all sorts of negative behavior, including worrying. The idea is simple: replace hurtful, self-defeating tendencies with something wonderfully positive – communicating with your Creator and Savior.

Today, don’t just talk to God…listen to Him as well. He speaks to you through His Holy Word, His Holy Spirit, through other believers, and constantly through the circumstances He allows in your life. As you give yourself over more and more to communicating with Him, you will find your worry-time evaporates and the knowing-doing gap closes. Your Behavioral Creed will match your Intellectual Creed. WITHIN REACH will help you develop those Godly lenses and do what you know is right. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You in prayer with a thankful and penitent heart. I confess that I struggle to find the time to communicate with You…yet I seem to always find the time to worry about so many things that are out of my control. I have battled this worry-beast for years and have made little progress. Help me, Father, to focus more on You and less on worrying. Help me both speak and listen to You. I pray in the name of the One whose Intellectual Creed was His Behavioral Creed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest?
Luke 12:25-26

Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.
Psalm 25:4-5

Stepping Stones: What You Gonna Blame It On Today?

Transformational Thought

I’ve noticed many unhappy people cross my path every day. They all have a common trait. They are all quick to blame their unhappiness on things that are out of their control: the economy, the government, their circumstances, boss, family, parents, kids, spouse, job, alcohol, food, money, or a lack of time.

All these outside factors can rob us of joy and happiness. But there is another list of objectives and desires that are within our control: a close relationship with God, a clear purpose in life, a commitment to help someone in greater need than ourselves, and maybe, clearer lenses to view our circumstances, management of our feelings and behaviors. But if we really want to get serious and personal, the heart of what we need to be pursuing are a deeper commitment to understanding and practicing our faith.

These are all honorable desires and are all things we as individuals can do something about … without outside human help. No stimulus package or government program will assist here, and tough economic times cannot steal these ideals. These life goals are achieved as we allow God’s Word to rule in our hearts and receive the Spirit’s strength to build up the inner man. Then true joy will ooze out of our pores, in every life situation, to impact those around us.

In our complicated world, it’s tempting to put the pursuit of our desires into the hands of others—to expect an outside entity to fulfill them. It is true we sometimes need help from others and we cannot live in isolation. But the outside sources of this world cannot really provide true happiness. That must come from your spirit engaging with God. He is always reaching out to you. So it is up to you. Only you can decide. You control the switch … will you shine brightly or switch your light off?

Today, remember that blaming your unhappiness on things that are out of your control is an excuse, a very weak attempt to avoid responsibility. Change your lenses, change your life. Ask 2 people who are close to you to give you Godly advice about your area of struggle. Ask them to be very specific and to break it down to it’s smallest piece. We aren’t looking for “have more faith” or “stop drinking/eating so much.” These are way too vague. We need more specific insights and steps to move forward to the next stepping stone. Then consider following that feedback today. The direction is up to you, nobody else steers your ship. Which way will you steer your life? Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, even though I hate when people play the victim card and blame others for their predicament, I confess that I have been guilty of having that “victim mentality.” I have been so quick to blame circumstances beyond my control for my unhappiness. I pray, Father, that You help turn my mind to those things that I can control. Help me, Father, to remember that You are the one and only true source of sustainable happiness. I pray in the name of the One source who gave me the freedom to control my happiness, Your greatest gift, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man.
Ephesians 3:16

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled
1 Thessalonians 5:6

Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the LORD shall inherit the land.
Psalm 37:3-9

Stepping Stones: Are You Choking Yourself?

Transformational Thought

A friend recently asked about my most treasured memories. Besides the natural answers, my wedding day and the births of my 3 daughters, I was at a lost to answer his question on the spot. But the question haunted me over the following few days. Did I not have any treasured memories? That just couldn’t be.

I began flipping through the photo album of my mind and heart, and a collection of treasured memories started to crystallize. I recalled moments when I felt really special … times when I knew I was loved. I also recalled times of adventure, various accomplishments, and challenging episodes in which God used adversity for valuable reflection and growth. There were times of excitement and anticipation … of connection and fulfillment. I was reflecting on how long ago some of those memories were created. All of a sudden I began yearning for that life … yearning to have moments like those more often.

The Bible tells us we are meant to live in a world like that—every day. Just as our lungs are made to breathe oxygen, our souls are designed to flourish in an atmosphere rich in love and meaning, security and significance, intimacy and exploration. But most of us don’t live in that world anymore. Far from it.

We try to resolve the dilemma by turning to materialism, illicit sex, drugs, food, sports, excessive busyness, buying, gossiping, caffeine, our kids, money, our looks, health, and many other quick and shallow fixes. But they don’t work. We never really get what we need to truly flourish. It is the soul’s equivalent of holding your breath or choking on an obstruction in your throat. Eventually, you find yourself gasping for air.

Turning from some of those quick fixes isn’t easy. Believe me, I know. That life was so tiring and life-sucking for me. But what finally helped set me free was this: the right way isn’t easy, but the wrong way is a lot harder. Look at the turmoil and consequences, the fruit of the flesh you are reaping now. At the end of each day it’s a net loss. The right way is hard but yields a huge net gain at the end of the day - the fruit of the spirit and the benefits of growing closer to God.

Today, know that your Lord and God is ready to breathe true life into you. Identify one of the quick but shallow fixes in your life. Turn away today from just one thing that is obstructing the windpipe of your soul and causing you to gasp for air. Now turn toward Him, the giver of the life you were meant to live. It’s not easy, but the old way is really harder. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess, Father, that I have been holding my spiritual breath ... sometimes even choking myself with self-imposed impediments to breathing in Your life. I am truly gasping for air. Help me, Lord, to turn away from all things that deprive me of oxygen and separate me from You. Help me recognize the things I choke on. Do not even let them come close to my mouth. I rejoice in You, Father, I find joy in You, the God of my salvation. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might be free to breathe and to flourish, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
Genesis 2:7

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness
2 Timothy 3:16

So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.
Ezekiel 37:10

Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3:17-19

Stepping Stones: God Wants Us To Travel

Transformational Thought

One of the saddest things I see in real life or on TV is when a small kid just realizes he are lost. You see the initial joy and excitement on his face as he is exploring fresh territory with newfound independence. Then disorientation and disconnection from their parent, guide, or guardian sets in. Some keep that distress in, anticipating that their parent is right around the corner; others let loose a fearful shriek that lets everyone around know they are lost. Being lost is such a fearful and disorienting struggle.

But you see, even though we have a home and parents, we are born lost, spiritually lost, in a terrible place … a state of insecurity, inadequacy, and isolation. We long to be in a different place … one of peace, love, joy, security, and intimacy. To arrive at this secure destination we need to go on an excursion. In today’s scripture reading, God tells us that He goes before us. God’s imagery of “going before” clearly lets us know that He desires us to go on a journey ... with Him as our guide and leader … He even calls us by our name.

Even before we get started on our exciting adventure, we have problems. Unfortunately, we forget to let God prepare and guide us. We make many poor choices regarding important elements of the trip. The map we use to chart our journey and avoid obstacles is our own random one. We use the world’s distorted strategy. Our destination is a self-centered goal. We demand to be our own guides, thinking we can see everything and know the future.

Instead, we need to use the Bible’s teachings as both our map and our strategy. Allow all-powerful and all-knowing God to be your guide. Choose the mind of Christ as your destination. The journey is of your mind, heart, and Spirit. The pot of gold at the end of the journey – the fruit of the Spirit that only comes as the result of a close relationship with God! It all happens through Godly decision-making. WITHIN REACH shows you how.

Christian life is a dangerous pilgrimage to the Promised Land … Satan is always lurking. So, we need the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit … the power and comfort of prayer … and the protection and counter attack of the armor of God. All these start with the decisions you make right now.

Today, imagine yourself standing at a fork in the road. One option looks enticing but you are your own guide. The other is the journey your Lord invites you to take. Believing He is your ultimate destination, and having faith He will come alongside you, take an intentional step on the next Stepping Stone of God’s path. Listen to His guidance and resist Satan’s deception. Your decision, choose well. If you don’t, the fruit of the flesh will detour you into anxiety, fear, loneliness, frustration, agitation, and impulsivity.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for going before me. What a gift! I like to have a map when I travel, to know exactly where I am going, and how long it will take me to arrive. When I look at the road ahead that You call me to travel with You, all I see is a bend where the road disappears. Help me, Father, to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are my map and guide. Thank You for not forgetting about me when I do take the wrong fork in the road. Thank You for Your constant willingness to take my hand and guide me back to Your path. Help me to encourage others to follow You on this journey. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might be free to travel Your path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, I am the God of Israel.
Isaiah 45:2-3

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalms 119:105

Stepping Stones: Diagnosis: Dehydration, Cure: Living Water

Transformational Thought

When I was a kid, people weren’t obsessed about health. Fitness clubs didn’t exist, nobody ran unless they had to, grease and butter were part of an actual food group, fast food was the new Utopia, and cigarettes were just a smelly habit. Now my wife says my Fruit Loops aren’t healthy and keeps putting vegetables on my plate even though my favorite vegetable is french fries.

Everywhere I go nowadays, I see water bottles. I still have a hard time paying for water, but we do have water bottles all over the house. Martine and my girls tell me water is healthy for me and that I don’t drink enough. The experts say that if you become thirsty, you are most likely already dehydrated. A recent report title said it all; “You are not sick … you are just thirsty.” All the medical experts agree on this one; we need to drink water continually throughout our day. Seems like we are all dehydrated.

Not only are we physically thirsty, but we are born spiritually thirsty as well … empty … dry. All of our “sickness” is actually due to our spiritual dehydration. You see, we constantly thirst for God … His love, acceptance, and security. Only He can fill these essential needs … our neediness for everything. Only through Him do we find purpose, fulfillment, contentment, connection, engagement, passion, competence, peace, joy … and especially, pure and true love.

But we are constantly using “spoiled,” even poisoned, water to substitute for the true living water that only God, through Jesus, is. Satan is sharp. He doesn’t put the poisoned water in a bottle with a big ‘X’ on it. He doesn’t place a ‘Poison Warning’ or a skull and crossbones on the label. No, Satan packages this poison in an attractive, fancy bottle, with an enticing ad with promises on the label. Drinking this contaminated water leads to depression, anxiety, addictions, hopelessness, anger, brokenness, stress, agitation, loneliness, and frustration.

Sounds easy to avoid, but why do we still drink the poisoned water? One reason is that we don’t drink regularly and when we are dehydrated. Out of desperation we just grab any bottle thinking some water is better than none. That is like drinking salt water when you are thirsty. Instead of making the situation better, the situation actually becomes dangerous.

Today, commit to taking sips, short prayers, of living water. Confes a sin immediately, stop to thank Him for a blessing you take for granted, ask His advice on an issue, tell someone why God makes a difference in your life. Take sips throughout the day from the river of living waters offered by Your Lord and God. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thirsty, Lord, and I know this means I am spiritually dehydrated. Daily, my tank is low and I thirst for more. Please give me wisdom to avoid contaminated water. Help me, Father, to drink and eat only what is good for me so that my soul may delight itself in Your abundance. Help me not to be complacent, and instead, to talk to you and recognize you more often in my day. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might drink from the living waters, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:37-38

Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; and you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come; buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance.
Isaiah 55:1-2

Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water?” Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:10, 11,13-15

Stepping Stones: Rely On Yourself, Or Rest In Him?

Transformational Thought

There was a big burly lumberjack who came from a long line of lumberjacks. His parents named him … Jack. He was hired to cut down 30 trees a day. For the first few days the 30 trees fell easily under his axe, since Jack was a stud. But on day 5 he only cut down 25 trees, and on day 10 only 8. On day 20, even though he was swinging that axe faster and harder than on day 1, only 3 trees fell. Jack was so confused and frustrated, not to mention very tired since he was working harder than ever.

The supervisor was worried about his best worker and came to observe why Jack’s performance had trailed off so dramatically. The supervisor saw that the lumberjack’s axe was completely dull. So he told Jack, who was huffing and puffing and on the verge of exhaustion, that he needed to sharpen his axe. Jack fearfully blurted, “I can’t. I don’t have time … I need to cut down 30 trees today and I am already behind.”

Does this describe you some days? So many of us are exhausted, worn out, and in need of true relaxation and refreshment. I don’t mean sleep … I mean real psychological and spiritual rest. We keep swinging harder and faster, but our blades, our tools, are dull and getting duller by the minute. By dull, I mean our life and decision-making skills, really our psychological and emotion management skills, just aren’t as honed as they should be or as we need them to be.

We’ve been so indoctrinated to think resting means idleness or laziness. Our insecurity and past mistakes push our need to swing furiously and often, to show that we are worthy, or to make up for our past. Jesus, who had the most to do, rested often. Resting in God has two huge benefits: first, it allows us to sharpen our axes as we clear our lenses and hone our skills; second, when we relax in His presence, we demonstrate trust in Him to take over and accomplish what we can’t. We always need to find that balance between trusting and resting in Him and being an active and good steward of what we can control.

Trust is such a rich word, filled with meaning and direction for our life. So many of us do the exact opposite of what God wants for us. We turn away from Him when we are exhausted because we associate God with duty and diligence. We wrongly believe that going to Him means we have to do more, instead of allowing Him to give us more.

Today, set aside 15 minutes to take a rest and specifically lean on, trust in, and be confident with God. Meditate on His power and His love for you. Relax in His presence. When you lean on Him for support and rest, He delights in your trusting confidence in Him. Then as you rest, listen to what He is telling you, either directly or through your circumstances. He will talk to you. Your decision, rest in Him or rely on yourself, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You depleted and worn out. I come to You, Lord, for refreshment. I know that resting in You will save me. I thank You, Father, for Your reassuring Word that You spoke through Your prophet Isaiah, telling me that coming to You in quietness and trust shall be my strength. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may lean on Your understanding, not mine. I pray this with trust and expectation, and in the name of One who rested in You perfectly, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
Proverbs 3:5

This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength
Isaiah 30:15