April 8, 2012
Transformational Thought
Let’s continue our journey in time, back to that first glorious Easter morning more 2000 years ago. When Mary, Mary, Salome, and the rest of their crew visited the tomb that Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had just lost their great and charismatic leader at the end of a rollercoaster week that started on a triumphant Palm Sunday, and ended with the execution of their leader by all the powerful ruling elements in their land. Would they be rounded up to endure a mock trial, persecution, and execution? What should they do next? Remember, they didn’t have the benefit of the completed book we do. They only had a promise of something that never happened before.
So imagine their surprise when they see the stone rolled aside. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Thankfully, they met two angels who explained that Jesus was not there, but risen. But they didn’t believe and just thought the body was stolen. Then they ran to tell Peter and John, who were also perplexed (didn’t they read all the Old Testament prophecy?) and needed to come to the tomb to figure it out. Finally, inside the tomb, seeing the evidence of the wrappings, they believed. Mary had to talk to Jesus outside the tomb to really get it.
I can’t understand their stupidity, ignorance, disbelief, and nearsightedness. Jesus performed so many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that He would rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they so surprised instead of excited? Why were they fearful when they saw an empty tomb? Why weren’t they expecting it, rejoicing and happily guessing where they would see Him for the first time?
Stupid, thick, dim, mistrustful. Let’s get off our high horses. How often do we react the same way? Believing God is limited like us, thinking He's restricted to the same reality we are, we don't believe His promises and predictions either. We underestimate His power and knowledge. Well, I have no right to criticize Mary, Mary, the disciples and other followers, because I limit Jesus and God the same way they did.
My life has really changed since I realized He is bigger than me and that He will stand by His promises. Now I expect the awesome unexpected!
Don't think God is dormant in a tomb. He is at work in and around you ... expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it. Thank God the tomb is empty. I hope you aren't dismayaed in your everyday trials because God will show up. Remember, He didn’t rise from the dead immediately. He waited three days for a specific reason. Be patient.
Happy Easter from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death give you boldness and courage as you advance against whatever trials and threats you are facing. Please go and wear His power on your sleeve so all, I mean all, will see your joy and His glorious victory over despair and death. Life and joy are your decisions, so choose well.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for Christ’s death and resurrection, which has given us power over sin’s grip and Satan’s schemes. Give me a heart that will love You even 1/1000 of what You love me. Keep Your promises and character fresh in my mind, so that I don't put You in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of Your plan and power during times of uncertainty. I pray You grant the Stepping Stones readers eyes that see Your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise." But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
Showing posts with label Jesus. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jesus. Show all posts
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Friday, April 6, 2012
Stepping Stones: The Greatest Day of All Time
April 6, 2012
Transformational Thought
Let me tell you about some of the best days of my life. I was on national TV for a football competition when I was 12 years old, and again at age 13. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18. My wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th birthday party. The day I met my wife – love at first sight. Wedding day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest daughters and children a father could ever dream of. These were unbelievably great days, but amazingly, I wasn’t even alive for the greatest day of my life.
You see, almost 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man who ever lived, endured humiliation, persecution, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted peons posing as rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross … for ME! He took the punishment for all my sins, the big ones and little ones – and that is a lot of sin.
He was even willing to endure a 3-hour separation from His Father, their first separation ever, as He bore the ugliness and pain of my sins. He was willing to do that for me … and for YOU!
Because of Good, no, GREAT FRIDAY, and by accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan’s power, man’s schemes, sin’s guilt, and death’s grip. I am in God’s loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace I now experience, no matter what God allows to come into my life. He uses every experience to purify and grow me into His child and a disciple of Christ.
Today, humbly accept Christ as your Savior and Lord if you haven’t already. He died for your daily freedom and for eternal freedom too. Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours too. If you have accepted Christ, remember the elation of that day and pass this on to someone who needs to experience his or her greatest day ever. Life is your decision, and this is the biggest choice you will ever make, so choose well.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for Your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above to a dirty manger, lived as a menial carpenter in a slave family, working with 12 guys who needed a lot of help, being falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed … for me. I am sorry I stray from You. But Your love and sacrifice don’t depend on my obedience. It truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and Your redeeming act every day, and live a life of joy so others see Your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus’ great name, the name above all names; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
Transformational Thought
Let me tell you about some of the best days of my life. I was on national TV for a football competition when I was 12 years old, and again at age 13. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18. My wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th birthday party. The day I met my wife – love at first sight. Wedding day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest daughters and children a father could ever dream of. These were unbelievably great days, but amazingly, I wasn’t even alive for the greatest day of my life.
You see, almost 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man who ever lived, endured humiliation, persecution, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted peons posing as rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross … for ME! He took the punishment for all my sins, the big ones and little ones – and that is a lot of sin.
He was even willing to endure a 3-hour separation from His Father, their first separation ever, as He bore the ugliness and pain of my sins. He was willing to do that for me … and for YOU!
Because of Good, no, GREAT FRIDAY, and by accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan’s power, man’s schemes, sin’s guilt, and death’s grip. I am in God’s loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace I now experience, no matter what God allows to come into my life. He uses every experience to purify and grow me into His child and a disciple of Christ.
Today, humbly accept Christ as your Savior and Lord if you haven’t already. He died for your daily freedom and for eternal freedom too. Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours too. If you have accepted Christ, remember the elation of that day and pass this on to someone who needs to experience his or her greatest day ever. Life is your decision, and this is the biggest choice you will ever make, so choose well.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for Your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above to a dirty manger, lived as a menial carpenter in a slave family, working with 12 guys who needed a lot of help, being falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed … for me. I am sorry I stray from You. But Your love and sacrifice don’t depend on my obedience. It truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and Your redeeming act every day, and live a life of joy so others see Your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus’ great name, the name above all names; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
Friday, March 30, 2012
Stepping Stones: Step One Through Infinity is Trust
March 30, 2012
Transformational Thought
We trust in many things to save us. The strength of a chair to save us from falling. The power of a bridge to support our weight so we don’t plummet to the river below. The ability of an oncoming driver to stay on his side of the yellow line to prevent us from crashing. Trust that our parents will protect us from many dangers.
Webster defines trust as "assured reliance on the character, ability, strength or truth of someone or something." When we trust in Jesus, we believe that He is God's Son and that His sacrifice pays the price for our sin. We are relying on and trusting God’s character … and His ability to do what He has promised. Ultimately, we are trusting His character and integrity to be who He promised, and we trust His power and strength to overcome all harms. Ultimately, we trust the truth of His love for us - that He would bring all these attributes to bear for our ultimate fulfillment.
Trusting in Christ is the foundation, the first step to a relationship with God. Faith that Christ paid the penalty that was due for all our sins. Realizing nothing else could erase the barrier of sin that stands between God’s holiness and us. Saving trust is the greatest coping mechanism we can ever use, as it restores our relationship with God forever, and assures our eternal place in Heaven with Him.
Satan is working hard to get us to believe one of two things. 1 - We really aren’t that bad, don’t need a God (even if He does exist), and can earn God’s favor or become a god through self-help or by doing lots of good deeds. 2 - We are so wretched that God doesn’t love us or can’t save us from our sins, or we have to work to re-earn His favor instead of trusting in Jesus’ death for our payment. Then, if we do trust Jesus for salvation, we get complacent and start trusting other worldly elements, like ourselves, for our daily safety.
Today's scripture is one of many that explain the gospel message. We all fall short of God's standard … we all have sinned … and so none of us can have a relationship with God on our own merit or power. The good news is that God loved us enough to send his Son Jesus to make a way for us. Jesus died on the cross and paid the price for every sin committed by man … past, present and future. That is the incomparable power of the Cross. Our responsibility is to trust Jesus as our Lord and Savior. When we do this, we are made right with God and can enjoy a personal relationship with him. We cannot, nor do we need to add to the Cross. And thankfully, nothing we do can undo the power of the Cross once we have trusted in Him.
Today, ask yourself these questions: Have I trusted in Jesus? Have I received His love and His sacrifice for my sin? If I have, do I express that in my attitudes, perceptions, and actions each day? What is the evidence I trust in God and not in my intellect, bank account, friends, looks, health, etc? If I lost any or all of these things would I still trust in God? He loves you with a love you can't even begin to comprehend. And He is trustworthy. He will never leave you. He will never disappoint you. He will always love you. In this world of uncertainty, there is no hope. But in Jesus there is every hope. That, you can trust in. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I realize that I am not worthy to be in Your presence. But I believe that Jesus paid the price for my sin and that through Him I can come to You. I receive Him now as my savior. Help me make sure this is not my last step, but just the first step of my growing trust in You … for all my daily matters in this world, not just for my life in Heaven. Please forgive my sins. I want to follow and trust in Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to set me free, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.
Romans 3:22-23
Transformational Thought
We trust in many things to save us. The strength of a chair to save us from falling. The power of a bridge to support our weight so we don’t plummet to the river below. The ability of an oncoming driver to stay on his side of the yellow line to prevent us from crashing. Trust that our parents will protect us from many dangers.
Webster defines trust as "assured reliance on the character, ability, strength or truth of someone or something." When we trust in Jesus, we believe that He is God's Son and that His sacrifice pays the price for our sin. We are relying on and trusting God’s character … and His ability to do what He has promised. Ultimately, we are trusting His character and integrity to be who He promised, and we trust His power and strength to overcome all harms. Ultimately, we trust the truth of His love for us - that He would bring all these attributes to bear for our ultimate fulfillment.
Trusting in Christ is the foundation, the first step to a relationship with God. Faith that Christ paid the penalty that was due for all our sins. Realizing nothing else could erase the barrier of sin that stands between God’s holiness and us. Saving trust is the greatest coping mechanism we can ever use, as it restores our relationship with God forever, and assures our eternal place in Heaven with Him.
Satan is working hard to get us to believe one of two things. 1 - We really aren’t that bad, don’t need a God (even if He does exist), and can earn God’s favor or become a god through self-help or by doing lots of good deeds. 2 - We are so wretched that God doesn’t love us or can’t save us from our sins, or we have to work to re-earn His favor instead of trusting in Jesus’ death for our payment. Then, if we do trust Jesus for salvation, we get complacent and start trusting other worldly elements, like ourselves, for our daily safety.
Today's scripture is one of many that explain the gospel message. We all fall short of God's standard … we all have sinned … and so none of us can have a relationship with God on our own merit or power. The good news is that God loved us enough to send his Son Jesus to make a way for us. Jesus died on the cross and paid the price for every sin committed by man … past, present and future. That is the incomparable power of the Cross. Our responsibility is to trust Jesus as our Lord and Savior. When we do this, we are made right with God and can enjoy a personal relationship with him. We cannot, nor do we need to add to the Cross. And thankfully, nothing we do can undo the power of the Cross once we have trusted in Him.
Today, ask yourself these questions: Have I trusted in Jesus? Have I received His love and His sacrifice for my sin? If I have, do I express that in my attitudes, perceptions, and actions each day? What is the evidence I trust in God and not in my intellect, bank account, friends, looks, health, etc? If I lost any or all of these things would I still trust in God? He loves you with a love you can't even begin to comprehend. And He is trustworthy. He will never leave you. He will never disappoint you. He will always love you. In this world of uncertainty, there is no hope. But in Jesus there is every hope. That, you can trust in. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I realize that I am not worthy to be in Your presence. But I believe that Jesus paid the price for my sin and that through Him I can come to You. I receive Him now as my savior. Help me make sure this is not my last step, but just the first step of my growing trust in You … for all my daily matters in this world, not just for my life in Heaven. Please forgive my sins. I want to follow and trust in Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to set me free, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.
Romans 3:22-23
Monday, March 12, 2012
Stepping Stones: Ambushed by Grace!
March 12, 2012
Transformational Thought
On a May evening in 1997, Jesus ambushed me in my bedroom. Some of you might not know what an ambush is, so let me try to explain. “Ambush” is a military term that describes the process of creating an environment that appears safe, but ultimately is not. When the target of an ambush steps into this seemingly safe environment, the usual outcome is that the target’s day is pretty much ruined. Ambush is often used to describe how certain predators in the animal kingdom lie in wait, sometimes taking on the characteristics of their surroundings, so that when their unwitting prey come by, they become a very quick meal for the predator.
Well, in my personal experience, Jesus is the absolute Master of the ambush. Here is how it happened for me. I was simply going about my life working, raising our kids, and going to church on Sundays. Why was I doing all those things? Well, because they were the “right things” to be doing, and at least I was giving a good impression. I felt safe because I made my own safety net, not God’s all-powerful safety net. I didn’t realize my self-made one was really faulty. This is when the ambush occurred.
On that Sunday morning in May a life-changing event happened at the Lutheran church we were attending at the time. The pastor preached the story about Jesus washing the disciple’s feet from John 13. Remember Peter’s reaction in that story? “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” We’re not exactly sure why Peter objected to the foot washing, but I believe that it was a combination of Peter’s concern for appearance (surely Jesus shouldn’t wash my feet), and his arrogance (why do my feet need to be washed anyway?).
That was the beginning the ambush Jesus set up for me. I thought about that story all day and finally it hit me in bed that evening. I was just like Peter! All my life I was “this close” to Jesus and I never let him wash my feet. I wasn’t letting him serve me and I hadn’t fully accepted his love for me. With the trap fully set, the “Master of Ambush” awaited my response. That night, in my heart, I allowed Jesus to wash my feet for the very first time.
My wife thought I was insane because when I finally got it, I burst out in laughter. Tears of joy streamed down my face as I laughed and laughed and laughed. I didn’t understand it then, but that was a moment of profound change for me. Since that evening in May of 1997, whenever my spiritual well runs dry and I’m not sensing the presence of God in my life, I return to John chapter 13. The story helps me to remember that allowing Jesus to serve us in His way, not in our way, is the only means to glimpse His great love for us.
Today, if you are feeling that God is far away from you, or if you just need a fresh sense of his presence in your life, remember that the Master of Ambush lies in wait. He has a towel wrapped around his waist and a pot of water in hands. He is waiting for you to let Him serve you. Allow Him to wash your feet, and then respond by washing someone else’s feet, serving them as Jesus served you. This is the first step toward a renewed and strengthened faith that will result in a greater love for God and a more caring heart for people. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Gracious God, how thankful we are that You sent Your only son to Earth to love us unconditionally and to show us how to love each other. Jesus is truly the Master of Ambush and he waits patiently to capture the hearts of all the people that You chose to call to Yourself. Help each of us to understand this truth fully by placing within us the desire to allow Jesus to serve us. As we are served by Jesus, then put within us the motivation to serve others in Your name, dear Father. As I recall that amazing day that I was ambushed by Your grace, allow me and all who read this to feel Your love and Your presence in a way that draws us nearer to You so that we may be more like your Son. I pray this in the name of the One whose ambush saved my life, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
John 13:12-15
Transformational Thought
On a May evening in 1997, Jesus ambushed me in my bedroom. Some of you might not know what an ambush is, so let me try to explain. “Ambush” is a military term that describes the process of creating an environment that appears safe, but ultimately is not. When the target of an ambush steps into this seemingly safe environment, the usual outcome is that the target’s day is pretty much ruined. Ambush is often used to describe how certain predators in the animal kingdom lie in wait, sometimes taking on the characteristics of their surroundings, so that when their unwitting prey come by, they become a very quick meal for the predator.
Well, in my personal experience, Jesus is the absolute Master of the ambush. Here is how it happened for me. I was simply going about my life working, raising our kids, and going to church on Sundays. Why was I doing all those things? Well, because they were the “right things” to be doing, and at least I was giving a good impression. I felt safe because I made my own safety net, not God’s all-powerful safety net. I didn’t realize my self-made one was really faulty. This is when the ambush occurred.
On that Sunday morning in May a life-changing event happened at the Lutheran church we were attending at the time. The pastor preached the story about Jesus washing the disciple’s feet from John 13. Remember Peter’s reaction in that story? “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” We’re not exactly sure why Peter objected to the foot washing, but I believe that it was a combination of Peter’s concern for appearance (surely Jesus shouldn’t wash my feet), and his arrogance (why do my feet need to be washed anyway?).
That was the beginning the ambush Jesus set up for me. I thought about that story all day and finally it hit me in bed that evening. I was just like Peter! All my life I was “this close” to Jesus and I never let him wash my feet. I wasn’t letting him serve me and I hadn’t fully accepted his love for me. With the trap fully set, the “Master of Ambush” awaited my response. That night, in my heart, I allowed Jesus to wash my feet for the very first time.
My wife thought I was insane because when I finally got it, I burst out in laughter. Tears of joy streamed down my face as I laughed and laughed and laughed. I didn’t understand it then, but that was a moment of profound change for me. Since that evening in May of 1997, whenever my spiritual well runs dry and I’m not sensing the presence of God in my life, I return to John chapter 13. The story helps me to remember that allowing Jesus to serve us in His way, not in our way, is the only means to glimpse His great love for us.
Today, if you are feeling that God is far away from you, or if you just need a fresh sense of his presence in your life, remember that the Master of Ambush lies in wait. He has a towel wrapped around his waist and a pot of water in hands. He is waiting for you to let Him serve you. Allow Him to wash your feet, and then respond by washing someone else’s feet, serving them as Jesus served you. This is the first step toward a renewed and strengthened faith that will result in a greater love for God and a more caring heart for people. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Gracious God, how thankful we are that You sent Your only son to Earth to love us unconditionally and to show us how to love each other. Jesus is truly the Master of Ambush and he waits patiently to capture the hearts of all the people that You chose to call to Yourself. Help each of us to understand this truth fully by placing within us the desire to allow Jesus to serve us. As we are served by Jesus, then put within us the motivation to serve others in Your name, dear Father. As I recall that amazing day that I was ambushed by Your grace, allow me and all who read this to feel Your love and Your presence in a way that draws us nearer to You so that we may be more like your Son. I pray this in the name of the One whose ambush saved my life, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
John 13:12-15
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Stepping Stones: How Selective is Your Club?
February 18-19, 2012
Transformational Thought
So many clubs exist that have very specific criteria for membership … the Italian Club … civic clubs like Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis … Masons … country clubs … labor unions … political parties. Some companies are selective, as are the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. Colleges, med schools, the military … even families have criteria and selection processes for membership by marriage.
In today's world, harmony and tolerance have become goals unto themselves. Peace at any cost … All ways lead to God … Live and let live. Such "tolerant" attitudes actually lead to intolerance of anyone who claims to have the answer or truth. Religions or moral “clubs,” or groups with a certain belief seem to be treated differently. Their criteria or a selection process seems to be intolerable.
Jesus made it clear that He is the only way to God, the only way to real peace. In Isaiah 9:6 He is called the Prince of Peace. God calls us to love all people, but agreeing that other faiths can lead to God just so we can seek unity and “peace” is to deny our own faith … the teachings of God, the existence and work of Jesus, and the Holy Bible. And in doing so, we deny Jesus as our Savior. As Christians, we are not expressing Christ-like love when we accept as OK the beliefs of those who deny Christ or who live sinful lifestyles … all for the sake of unity and peace. The Bible is clear about God, Jesus, and moral issues.
The double standard for “clubs” really shows me the existence, power, and agenda of Satan, Satan wants people to believe being nice is all you need to do to be Holy, thus engaging with God by avoiding Christ. Satan wants to push the idea that we can connect with God on our own power, through our efforts. This is why we get stuck on the law and legalism, and have difficulty absorbing God’s gracious gift of forgiveness.
Today, begin expressing Jesus' love by loving people where they are, by building relationships with them and, as the Holy Spirit leads, by sharing the truths of the Gospel with them. Jesus is the only answer. Don’t let anybody guilt you into thinking Christianity is the only club with intolerant selection criteria. Show them how compassion and rigidity can co-exist.
Prayer
My Father, Help me never to deny my faith by accepting the unscriptural beliefs of others for the sake of unity and peace. Help me love others, no matter what their faith. Help me love them enough to build relationships with them. As the Holy Spirit leads, help me to share the truth of the Gospel with them … and to do so with love. Help me communicate in a manner that leads all to understand that Jesus is the only way. I pray this and all prayers through the One you sent to show us the way, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
John 14:6
Then Darius the king wrote to all the peoples, nations and men of every language who were living in all the land: “May your peace abound! I make a decree that in all the dominion of my kingdom men are to fear and tremble before the God of Daniel; For He is the living God and enduring forever, And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed, And His dominion will be forever. He delivers and rescues and performs signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, Who has also delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.”
Daniel 6:25-27
Transformational Thought
So many clubs exist that have very specific criteria for membership … the Italian Club … civic clubs like Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis … Masons … country clubs … labor unions … political parties. Some companies are selective, as are the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. Colleges, med schools, the military … even families have criteria and selection processes for membership by marriage.
In today's world, harmony and tolerance have become goals unto themselves. Peace at any cost … All ways lead to God … Live and let live. Such "tolerant" attitudes actually lead to intolerance of anyone who claims to have the answer or truth. Religions or moral “clubs,” or groups with a certain belief seem to be treated differently. Their criteria or a selection process seems to be intolerable.
Jesus made it clear that He is the only way to God, the only way to real peace. In Isaiah 9:6 He is called the Prince of Peace. God calls us to love all people, but agreeing that other faiths can lead to God just so we can seek unity and “peace” is to deny our own faith … the teachings of God, the existence and work of Jesus, and the Holy Bible. And in doing so, we deny Jesus as our Savior. As Christians, we are not expressing Christ-like love when we accept as OK the beliefs of those who deny Christ or who live sinful lifestyles … all for the sake of unity and peace. The Bible is clear about God, Jesus, and moral issues.
The double standard for “clubs” really shows me the existence, power, and agenda of Satan, Satan wants people to believe being nice is all you need to do to be Holy, thus engaging with God by avoiding Christ. Satan wants to push the idea that we can connect with God on our own power, through our efforts. This is why we get stuck on the law and legalism, and have difficulty absorbing God’s gracious gift of forgiveness.
Today, begin expressing Jesus' love by loving people where they are, by building relationships with them and, as the Holy Spirit leads, by sharing the truths of the Gospel with them. Jesus is the only answer. Don’t let anybody guilt you into thinking Christianity is the only club with intolerant selection criteria. Show them how compassion and rigidity can co-exist.
Prayer
My Father, Help me never to deny my faith by accepting the unscriptural beliefs of others for the sake of unity and peace. Help me love others, no matter what their faith. Help me love them enough to build relationships with them. As the Holy Spirit leads, help me to share the truth of the Gospel with them … and to do so with love. Help me communicate in a manner that leads all to understand that Jesus is the only way. I pray this and all prayers through the One you sent to show us the way, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
John 14:6
Then Darius the king wrote to all the peoples, nations and men of every language who were living in all the land: “May your peace abound! I make a decree that in all the dominion of my kingdom men are to fear and tremble before the God of Daniel; For He is the living God and enduring forever, And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed, And His dominion will be forever. He delivers and rescues and performs signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, Who has also delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.”
Daniel 6:25-27
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Stepping Stones: What Do I Do? Try “Care-Fronting”
January 18, 2012
Transformational Thought
Every month, our incredibly compassionate and expert Care Guides take 600 calls on our National Addiction and Mental Health Helpline. We guide callers through the complex healthcare system and connect them to the best treatment options that will address all 3 spheres for their situations. Half of our calls are from the patients themselves, but the other half are from loved ones, mainly parents or spouses of the struggling individual. The loved ones need help knowing what to do. Do they walk on eggshells, try to make nicey-nice to minimize the stress and hopefully lessen dysfunction, or do they confront and risk a blow out and more dysfunction?
Issues that strongly impact life often turn into to life-taking addictions … to a substance, or a certain feeling or thinking pattern. Callers are trying to avoid the guilt they will feel from making the wrong choice if their loved one dies from suicide, overdose, or an accident from their disorder. Talking with a friend or loved one with a life-impacting problem can be like talking to a brick wall. But that wall can be broken down … brick by brick.
Does someone you love struggle with a life-interfering mindset, emotion, or behavior? When you try to talk to them about it, do your words seem to bounce back at you, as though they've hit a brick wall? Try this: picture a man behind a brick wall, becoming trapped as he continues to lay brick, building the wall higher and higher. In his mind, each brick is a way to defend himself … but in reality the wall is trapping him, not defending him. Denial has blinded this loved one to his real condition.
In his book Caring Enough to Confront, David Augsburger uses the term "care-fronting." This is a communication technique that combines love and caring with confrontation. Caring confrontation can chip away bit by bit at the wall of delusion that hides reality from your loved ones … the reality of the reason they are spiraling, and the reality that an answer does exist to turn the spiral in the other direction. When you are able to get rid of anger and replace it with caring, confronting your loved one with the truth can actually be the most loving thing you can do directly to them.
A dear friend, Connie, told me how she "care-fronted." Early in her marriage she was experiencing a marital situation that she knew could become volatile if she confronted her husband. She devised a technique that always worked. She would craft a loving letter, detailing the issue and its effect on her and the marriage, and leave it on the pillow. When he came home from the office, it was his custom to go upstairs to change his clothes. He would see it and read it in private and take it all in. He always thanked her "for the very good letter" and then worked on solutions for the situation.
The bridges through the wall are made of care and are really derived from a growing relationship with God first. From there we can shine His love and care onto our struggling loved one. As God grows in us, His forgiveness of us will melt the hurt we feel from our loved one and allow us to see that loved one through Godly lenses so that real care and real love can flow from us to them.
Today, make a commitment to confront your loved ones, to speak the truth in love … not in anger or condemnation … in order to help them tear down their walls of defense, brick by brick, until they are able to see themselves as they really are … someone made in God’s image, someone God loves and sent His son to die for. God wants to use us to deliver that message, first modeling it, and then saying it. God doesn’t give up on you … don’t give up on others. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, Lord, help me be more honest with myself and with those I care about so much. Help me look beyond their faults to their needs … and then to express the reality of the situation to them … in love. Tune me into Your Holy Spirit’s guidance so that I may speak as Christ would speak. I pray that love for You and them will make me tell the truth. I pray this in the name of the One who crushed my wall so I could be freed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.
Proverbs 12:16
Transformational Thought
Every month, our incredibly compassionate and expert Care Guides take 600 calls on our National Addiction and Mental Health Helpline. We guide callers through the complex healthcare system and connect them to the best treatment options that will address all 3 spheres for their situations. Half of our calls are from the patients themselves, but the other half are from loved ones, mainly parents or spouses of the struggling individual. The loved ones need help knowing what to do. Do they walk on eggshells, try to make nicey-nice to minimize the stress and hopefully lessen dysfunction, or do they confront and risk a blow out and more dysfunction?
Issues that strongly impact life often turn into to life-taking addictions … to a substance, or a certain feeling or thinking pattern. Callers are trying to avoid the guilt they will feel from making the wrong choice if their loved one dies from suicide, overdose, or an accident from their disorder. Talking with a friend or loved one with a life-impacting problem can be like talking to a brick wall. But that wall can be broken down … brick by brick.
Does someone you love struggle with a life-interfering mindset, emotion, or behavior? When you try to talk to them about it, do your words seem to bounce back at you, as though they've hit a brick wall? Try this: picture a man behind a brick wall, becoming trapped as he continues to lay brick, building the wall higher and higher. In his mind, each brick is a way to defend himself … but in reality the wall is trapping him, not defending him. Denial has blinded this loved one to his real condition.
In his book Caring Enough to Confront, David Augsburger uses the term "care-fronting." This is a communication technique that combines love and caring with confrontation. Caring confrontation can chip away bit by bit at the wall of delusion that hides reality from your loved ones … the reality of the reason they are spiraling, and the reality that an answer does exist to turn the spiral in the other direction. When you are able to get rid of anger and replace it with caring, confronting your loved one with the truth can actually be the most loving thing you can do directly to them.
A dear friend, Connie, told me how she "care-fronted." Early in her marriage she was experiencing a marital situation that she knew could become volatile if she confronted her husband. She devised a technique that always worked. She would craft a loving letter, detailing the issue and its effect on her and the marriage, and leave it on the pillow. When he came home from the office, it was his custom to go upstairs to change his clothes. He would see it and read it in private and take it all in. He always thanked her "for the very good letter" and then worked on solutions for the situation.
The bridges through the wall are made of care and are really derived from a growing relationship with God first. From there we can shine His love and care onto our struggling loved one. As God grows in us, His forgiveness of us will melt the hurt we feel from our loved one and allow us to see that loved one through Godly lenses so that real care and real love can flow from us to them.
Today, make a commitment to confront your loved ones, to speak the truth in love … not in anger or condemnation … in order to help them tear down their walls of defense, brick by brick, until they are able to see themselves as they really are … someone made in God’s image, someone God loves and sent His son to die for. God wants to use us to deliver that message, first modeling it, and then saying it. God doesn’t give up on you … don’t give up on others. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, Lord, help me be more honest with myself and with those I care about so much. Help me look beyond their faults to their needs … and then to express the reality of the situation to them … in love. Tune me into Your Holy Spirit’s guidance so that I may speak as Christ would speak. I pray that love for You and them will make me tell the truth. I pray this in the name of the One who crushed my wall so I could be freed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.
Proverbs 12:16
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Stepping Stones: The Antidote for Deceit: The Ultimate Instruction Book
January 17, 2012
Transformational Thought
We have talked many times about PAIN and discomfort. Whether physical or especially spiritual, emotional, psychological, or relational, pain and discomfort really motivate and determine many of our decisions in life. Unfortunately, this is where most of our knee-jerk, “help me now and I’ll deal with the consequences later” decisions and actions originate from.
The last 2 days we looked at the first 2 desert temptations of Christ, so today we will look at the third temptation: Satan using Scripture to tempt Jesus to leap from the top of the temple and land safely. Remember, Jesus is fully human and would have been seriously injured by such a fall.
Jesus could have jumped, and it would have been the job of the angels to protect him. It was not a temptation to commit an overt sin, but it was putting His Father's care to the test ... asking Father God to prove his care for Jesus. Jesus responded to Satan by quoting more Scriptures, the truth, and putting into context what Satan, the master of deceit, had quoted out of context.
We learn from Jesus' response that we should trust God and His promises, and not test His reliability for the wrong reasons. He promises to take care of us, but we shouldn't step in front of a speeding car to see what He will do. He has promised to meet our needs, but we shouldn't spend money recklessly.
In all three temptations, Jesus relied on the Scriptures for a proper understanding of what He was to do, and He quoted it in times of temptation. He did not take isolated verses out of context but balanced Scripture with an understanding of the true meaning of the verses and God’s overall plan and character. We find this to be part of the Armor of God that Paul exhorts us to use in the spiritual war we are in. Having experienced temptation, Jesus understands our condition. He is sympathetic, and He is also the perfect standard and role model.
Today, yield to the will of God. Memorize Scripture. And get a good study Bible that explains the context of these verses. Live it. Make a specific plan of how to do this more consistently as the Lord enables and pushes you. Life according to your flawed instruction book is limited and will lead you astray; so choose to use the perfect instruction book. WITHIN REACH will help you wring out all the power of God’s word to apply practically in your life.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You know I am so weak. Please help me to prepare to resist temptation by spending more time in Your Word. Teach me not just to read, but rather to live the Scripture. Please bring the right Scripture to my mind when I am facing a temptation … and also teach me to understand the whole story of Your word. I pray this in the name of the One who would never deceive me and who is the living word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, 'If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.' Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, You must not test the Lord your God.”
Luke 4:9-12
Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything. . .”
Ecclesiastes 8:5, 6a
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Transformational Thought
We have talked many times about PAIN and discomfort. Whether physical or especially spiritual, emotional, psychological, or relational, pain and discomfort really motivate and determine many of our decisions in life. Unfortunately, this is where most of our knee-jerk, “help me now and I’ll deal with the consequences later” decisions and actions originate from.
The last 2 days we looked at the first 2 desert temptations of Christ, so today we will look at the third temptation: Satan using Scripture to tempt Jesus to leap from the top of the temple and land safely. Remember, Jesus is fully human and would have been seriously injured by such a fall.
Jesus could have jumped, and it would have been the job of the angels to protect him. It was not a temptation to commit an overt sin, but it was putting His Father's care to the test ... asking Father God to prove his care for Jesus. Jesus responded to Satan by quoting more Scriptures, the truth, and putting into context what Satan, the master of deceit, had quoted out of context.
We learn from Jesus' response that we should trust God and His promises, and not test His reliability for the wrong reasons. He promises to take care of us, but we shouldn't step in front of a speeding car to see what He will do. He has promised to meet our needs, but we shouldn't spend money recklessly.
In all three temptations, Jesus relied on the Scriptures for a proper understanding of what He was to do, and He quoted it in times of temptation. He did not take isolated verses out of context but balanced Scripture with an understanding of the true meaning of the verses and God’s overall plan and character. We find this to be part of the Armor of God that Paul exhorts us to use in the spiritual war we are in. Having experienced temptation, Jesus understands our condition. He is sympathetic, and He is also the perfect standard and role model.
Today, yield to the will of God. Memorize Scripture. And get a good study Bible that explains the context of these verses. Live it. Make a specific plan of how to do this more consistently as the Lord enables and pushes you. Life according to your flawed instruction book is limited and will lead you astray; so choose to use the perfect instruction book. WITHIN REACH will help you wring out all the power of God’s word to apply practically in your life.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You know I am so weak. Please help me to prepare to resist temptation by spending more time in Your Word. Teach me not just to read, but rather to live the Scripture. Please bring the right Scripture to my mind when I am facing a temptation … and also teach me to understand the whole story of Your word. I pray this in the name of the One who would never deceive me and who is the living word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, 'If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.' Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, You must not test the Lord your God.”
Luke 4:9-12
Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything. . .”
Ecclesiastes 8:5, 6a
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Born To Die
December 22, 2011
Transformational Thought
Our family was blessed with a new baby girl this year. As her grandmother, I began to dream (as we all do) about her life and the wonderful possibilities that would be available to her as she grows up through the different stages of life. Wow, I realized, she was born to live!
Then it made me think of the One whose purpose in life was being born to die! But as Eternal God, He could not die. So on that first Christmas over 2,000 years ago, He became the unique God-man when He entered human history as a babe in a manger. He knew when he left the splendors of Heaven to come down to earth, becoming once and forever a member of the human race, that He was born to die! Our Heavenly Father gives us a glimpse of that truth through Jesus’ physical birth in that humble stable in Bethlehem. This powerful reality was made so evident through the simple “swaddling clothes” in which He was wrapped - clothes set apart for burial of the dead!
The overwhelming truth of this is that He was willing to die. He was not forced or coerced. Scripture tells us that …”who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man.” (Philippians 2:6-7)
It’s Christmas again, and for me that means Jesus, simply Jesus! And despite man’s attempt to distort and destroy it in ever way possible, the old, old story has never changed. The simple truth is that man was lost in sin, separated from God, without hope … without eternal life, and then JESUS CAME! Imagine that! Into this troubled world came an event that changed everything! God entered human history. God became a man!
Jesus left heaven for one reason, to die on a cross at Calvary to reconcile to God everyone who would believe in Him. The sinless, spotless Lamb of God gave Himself so that we might have eternal life. Born to die! What love! What sacrifice! Darkness pierced with light! Never has there been a greater need for the Savior of the world! In this dark hour of history, Jesus shines more brightly than ever as the “Light of the World!” It was in the “fullness of time” that He came and when the time is right He will fulfill His promise to return and take us home. That is the Christmas message! That is our assured hope!
Today, think of your destiny. What would you die for? Would you have chosen to be born if your knew your main role was to die a violent, premature death? For the Christian, everyday is Christmas! But in this season that we set apart to commemorate the unique event of the Incarnation of our Lord, Satan will use everything he can to take our eyes off of Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas … that He was BORN TO DIE! FOR YOU! May you make your Christmas one that will fill your heart with this truth. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I can never begin to thank You enough for sending our Lord Jesus to die for my sins and every sin ever committed in the human race. Thank You for His willingness to fulfill Your plan to reconcile man back to You. I can never begin to understand such love. I am humbled and overwhelmed when I think that Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, left Heaven to identify himself with the filth of this world of sin. Oh Father, purify my life so that I may be obedient to You, live the life that is pleasing to You, and bring honor and glory to Him. I pray this in the name of the One who was born to die, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
Transformational Thought
Our family was blessed with a new baby girl this year. As her grandmother, I began to dream (as we all do) about her life and the wonderful possibilities that would be available to her as she grows up through the different stages of life. Wow, I realized, she was born to live!
Then it made me think of the One whose purpose in life was being born to die! But as Eternal God, He could not die. So on that first Christmas over 2,000 years ago, He became the unique God-man when He entered human history as a babe in a manger. He knew when he left the splendors of Heaven to come down to earth, becoming once and forever a member of the human race, that He was born to die! Our Heavenly Father gives us a glimpse of that truth through Jesus’ physical birth in that humble stable in Bethlehem. This powerful reality was made so evident through the simple “swaddling clothes” in which He was wrapped - clothes set apart for burial of the dead!
The overwhelming truth of this is that He was willing to die. He was not forced or coerced. Scripture tells us that …”who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man.” (Philippians 2:6-7)
It’s Christmas again, and for me that means Jesus, simply Jesus! And despite man’s attempt to distort and destroy it in ever way possible, the old, old story has never changed. The simple truth is that man was lost in sin, separated from God, without hope … without eternal life, and then JESUS CAME! Imagine that! Into this troubled world came an event that changed everything! God entered human history. God became a man!
Jesus left heaven for one reason, to die on a cross at Calvary to reconcile to God everyone who would believe in Him. The sinless, spotless Lamb of God gave Himself so that we might have eternal life. Born to die! What love! What sacrifice! Darkness pierced with light! Never has there been a greater need for the Savior of the world! In this dark hour of history, Jesus shines more brightly than ever as the “Light of the World!” It was in the “fullness of time” that He came and when the time is right He will fulfill His promise to return and take us home. That is the Christmas message! That is our assured hope!
Today, think of your destiny. What would you die for? Would you have chosen to be born if your knew your main role was to die a violent, premature death? For the Christian, everyday is Christmas! But in this season that we set apart to commemorate the unique event of the Incarnation of our Lord, Satan will use everything he can to take our eyes off of Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas … that He was BORN TO DIE! FOR YOU! May you make your Christmas one that will fill your heart with this truth. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I can never begin to thank You enough for sending our Lord Jesus to die for my sins and every sin ever committed in the human race. Thank You for His willingness to fulfill Your plan to reconcile man back to You. I can never begin to understand such love. I am humbled and overwhelmed when I think that Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, left Heaven to identify himself with the filth of this world of sin. Oh Father, purify my life so that I may be obedient to You, live the life that is pleasing to You, and bring honor and glory to Him. I pray this in the name of the One who was born to die, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: The Cost of Free Money
Transformational Thought
If you found $5 on a deserted street, no one to give it back to, I bet you would pocket it. I know I would. But if you saw that money falling from someone’s pocket, would you respond the same way? Here’s another scenario. I had a phone call from my credit card company this week. A large purchase I made wasn’t processed correctly. I was told to return to the store, present my receipt, and pay for the items “again”.
I did just that and the sales clerks started thanking me profusely. They were amazed and said they had never experienced anything like this – ever. The store had no idea the problem had occurred. They wondered why anyone would come back and pay for items that they could vae kept for free. Good question.
Please know I’m not sharing this to blow my own horn. I share it as a reminder that situations like this are opportunities to impact the world, and more specifically to be salt and light in other people’s everyday lives. Since they asked me, instead of giving the “aw shucks, anybody would have done it, it’s just the right thing to do” line, I had a chance to tell them the reasons for my choice: the Bible says don’t steal, and I want to follow God’s commandments. I trust God to take care of all my needs, and that includes financial ones. If I steal, I’m telling God He’s not very good at His job, and I know how to do His job better than He does.
Satan will sabotage us at every opportunity if we let him. He’ll tell us we don’t need to take responsibility for a mistake, that we deserve a free ride, that no one will ever know, that this makes up for the times we got ‘cheated,’ or even that God has forgotten about us and our needs. We get to choose whether to take home stationery supplies from work, to copy music and movies illegally, to use pirated software, to pocket a pack of gum, or to keep library books. The heart of each decision we make is to worship and bring glory to God - or not.
Today, take a look at the little things that are part of your life. Do areas exist where you are trusting in yourself and not God to meet your needs? You know, cheating? Hopefully, you’ve learned to make better choices, walking what you’re preaching and expecting from others. But if not, are you willing to admit to making a poor choice? Will you confess, and un-do some choices? Remember that the God who loves you is the God who forgives you. He promises to supply all your needs. His promises are good and trustworthy; they never fail. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH is a great resource to help you apply God’s promises to your daily decisions.
Prayer
Dear God, You know me well. You know it’s sometimes hard for me to talk about you to others. Any boldness I have really does come from the Holy Spirit. Without Your Spirit in me, I would be unable to share who You are and what You’ve done for me. With Your help I’m learning. So I thank You for teaching and encouraging me. Please give me more opportunities to talk about You. I want to make You the biggest and best thing in my life. I pray in the name of Jesus, who was all about bringing glory to You. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Give glory to the LORD. In the lands beyond the sea, praise the name of the LORD, the God of Israel.
Isaiah 24:15
Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness!
Psalm 150: 2
I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O Lord, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 26:6-7
If you found $5 on a deserted street, no one to give it back to, I bet you would pocket it. I know I would. But if you saw that money falling from someone’s pocket, would you respond the same way? Here’s another scenario. I had a phone call from my credit card company this week. A large purchase I made wasn’t processed correctly. I was told to return to the store, present my receipt, and pay for the items “again”.
I did just that and the sales clerks started thanking me profusely. They were amazed and said they had never experienced anything like this – ever. The store had no idea the problem had occurred. They wondered why anyone would come back and pay for items that they could vae kept for free. Good question.
Please know I’m not sharing this to blow my own horn. I share it as a reminder that situations like this are opportunities to impact the world, and more specifically to be salt and light in other people’s everyday lives. Since they asked me, instead of giving the “aw shucks, anybody would have done it, it’s just the right thing to do” line, I had a chance to tell them the reasons for my choice: the Bible says don’t steal, and I want to follow God’s commandments. I trust God to take care of all my needs, and that includes financial ones. If I steal, I’m telling God He’s not very good at His job, and I know how to do His job better than He does.
Satan will sabotage us at every opportunity if we let him. He’ll tell us we don’t need to take responsibility for a mistake, that we deserve a free ride, that no one will ever know, that this makes up for the times we got ‘cheated,’ or even that God has forgotten about us and our needs. We get to choose whether to take home stationery supplies from work, to copy music and movies illegally, to use pirated software, to pocket a pack of gum, or to keep library books. The heart of each decision we make is to worship and bring glory to God - or not.
Today, take a look at the little things that are part of your life. Do areas exist where you are trusting in yourself and not God to meet your needs? You know, cheating? Hopefully, you’ve learned to make better choices, walking what you’re preaching and expecting from others. But if not, are you willing to admit to making a poor choice? Will you confess, and un-do some choices? Remember that the God who loves you is the God who forgives you. He promises to supply all your needs. His promises are good and trustworthy; they never fail. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH is a great resource to help you apply God’s promises to your daily decisions.
Prayer
Dear God, You know me well. You know it’s sometimes hard for me to talk about you to others. Any boldness I have really does come from the Holy Spirit. Without Your Spirit in me, I would be unable to share who You are and what You’ve done for me. With Your help I’m learning. So I thank You for teaching and encouraging me. Please give me more opportunities to talk about You. I want to make You the biggest and best thing in my life. I pray in the name of Jesus, who was all about bringing glory to You. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Give glory to the LORD. In the lands beyond the sea, praise the name of the LORD, the God of Israel.
Isaiah 24:15
Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness!
Psalm 150: 2
I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O Lord, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 26:6-7
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: Love Him 100%…Then Exercise Free Will
Transformational Thought
My mother was a great teacher of many things. Piano, Easter egg decorating the Ukranian way, knitting, music, cooking, and negotiating the lowest price with any salesperson. But she was also a great Bible teacher for her children and all those around her. She would simplify complex concepts for us. When it came to the question of obedience to God vs. our independence and “free-will”, we would often go round and round. Even now, with my daughters and nieces, the issues of tattoos, length and cut of dresses and skirts, piercings, watching movies, college decisions, all lead to some controversy.
We talk a lot about Obedience vs. Relationship, because so many people struggle with these concepts, which sometimes seem mutually exclusive or contradictory. One way to sum it up is “Just love God with all you have … then do whatever you want. For if you truly love God, you will do nothing to hurt Him.”
As I read today’s scripture the order seems pretty clear. Love God, then we will obey Him. Our Lord never insists on obedience for eternal life. In fact, he stresses relationship. He pursues us across the multiverse, desiring fellowship and union with us even when we are disobedient, in fact, because we were disobedient. He even died for us to provide reconciliation, restoration and relationship, not to make us obedient.
If He wanted to motivate obedience, He would offer heaven only to the obedient, or threaten to send the disobedient to hell, or give you extreme consequences every time you disobey. God does none of these. Instead, He rewards us based on the status of our relationship … where we are on the relationship growth curve with Him.
God very clearly stresses what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We find, and He desires, that we will obey Him out of love for Him and the knowledge that what He instructs us to do is actually the best thing for us to do … period. Notice that when Jesus spoke about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If," clearly telling us we have a choice. When we are in relationship with Him and really love Him, we will obey. If we are truly wise, we will follow His guidance … if we really want comfort, we will trust His direction.
Today, focus on growing your love for God. Focus less on the do’s and don’ts and more on simply getting to know God and all He has done for you. You can’t help but love Him and then want to please Him, just as we are motivated to do for any one we love. When you have a choice, ask yourself, “Why am a choosing this option?” Hopefully, you answer, “Because I love God,” not “Because I need to do what is right.” For if you truly love Him, you will be less prone to do anything to hurt Him. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for the freedom to choose. I thank You, Father, for the clarity of the messages from Your Son, Jesus. Help me, Father, to grow my relationship and love for You … and then let that love guide all my decisions and actions. I pray, Father, that You protect me from all evil influences that may impact my decisions. I pray in the name of my savior and model, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"If you love me, you will obey what I command.”
John 14:15
"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23
My mother was a great teacher of many things. Piano, Easter egg decorating the Ukranian way, knitting, music, cooking, and negotiating the lowest price with any salesperson. But she was also a great Bible teacher for her children and all those around her. She would simplify complex concepts for us. When it came to the question of obedience to God vs. our independence and “free-will”, we would often go round and round. Even now, with my daughters and nieces, the issues of tattoos, length and cut of dresses and skirts, piercings, watching movies, college decisions, all lead to some controversy.
We talk a lot about Obedience vs. Relationship, because so many people struggle with these concepts, which sometimes seem mutually exclusive or contradictory. One way to sum it up is “Just love God with all you have … then do whatever you want. For if you truly love God, you will do nothing to hurt Him.”
As I read today’s scripture the order seems pretty clear. Love God, then we will obey Him. Our Lord never insists on obedience for eternal life. In fact, he stresses relationship. He pursues us across the multiverse, desiring fellowship and union with us even when we are disobedient, in fact, because we were disobedient. He even died for us to provide reconciliation, restoration and relationship, not to make us obedient.
If He wanted to motivate obedience, He would offer heaven only to the obedient, or threaten to send the disobedient to hell, or give you extreme consequences every time you disobey. God does none of these. Instead, He rewards us based on the status of our relationship … where we are on the relationship growth curve with Him.
God very clearly stresses what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We find, and He desires, that we will obey Him out of love for Him and the knowledge that what He instructs us to do is actually the best thing for us to do … period. Notice that when Jesus spoke about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If," clearly telling us we have a choice. When we are in relationship with Him and really love Him, we will obey. If we are truly wise, we will follow His guidance … if we really want comfort, we will trust His direction.
Today, focus on growing your love for God. Focus less on the do’s and don’ts and more on simply getting to know God and all He has done for you. You can’t help but love Him and then want to please Him, just as we are motivated to do for any one we love. When you have a choice, ask yourself, “Why am a choosing this option?” Hopefully, you answer, “Because I love God,” not “Because I need to do what is right.” For if you truly love Him, you will be less prone to do anything to hurt Him. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for the freedom to choose. I thank You, Father, for the clarity of the messages from Your Son, Jesus. Help me, Father, to grow my relationship and love for You … and then let that love guide all my decisions and actions. I pray, Father, that You protect me from all evil influences that may impact my decisions. I pray in the name of my savior and model, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"If you love me, you will obey what I command.”
John 14:15
"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23
Monday, October 31, 2011
Stepping Stones: Trick or Treat, For All The Marbles
Transformational Thought
Trick or Treat? What does that mean? As a kid, I never really understood what that actually meant. I was the one saying “trick or treat”, but was I asking them whether they wanted a trick or a treat from me? Was I asking the house owner to choose whether they would trick me or give me candy? Was I offering to perform a trick for them so they would give me candy based on how good my trick was? Was I to do a trick for my treat, like a dog? Who really was supposed to be doing the trick? Was I supposed to give them a treat from my bag if they didn’t like my trick? I hoped I was the one getting a treat, but why was I asking the adult, “Trick or Treat?”
As I went from house to house, in my pursuit of the perfect blend of Reese’s, Sweet-Tarts, real coins, a big candy bar, or the grandest house of them all, put in my hand and choose for myself, were they giving me a choice to accept a trick or treat from them? Nobody could ever explain it to me. It seemed like the person answering the door was giving me a treat and no tricks were happening. Confusing!
Halloween is about pretending to be someone you’re not. Then a stranger gives you a small “fun” size treat, a cheap imitation of the real king size candy bar you are longing for. Or like Charlie Brown’s letdown when he realizes, “I got a rock.” Isn’t this just like Satan’s plan? In the real story, God wants us to come with no costume, no hiding behind a mask, just baring our soul to Him. We don’t have to be nervous about a trick or treat, or who is doing which one. We don’t need to be frightened as we approach His door. In fact, He comes to our door. God isn’t a stranger we only see once a year, but our loving and dear Father and friend who loves us more than anything. He has all the treats, and we don’t need to perform any tricks, other than accepting His son’s sacrifice for all our sins.
Best of all, our hearts aren’t filled with cheap imitations of the real treat. We are getting the King of Kings to come into our heart, our lives, and sharing His royal inheritance. All He has is ours. The best thing is the cost … it requires no trick from us. In fact, Jesus did the trick. He died on the cross so you can enjoy all the treats His Father, your Father, can infinitely give you above and beyond your heart’s desires.
Today, Halloween is controversial. But as you think back on past Halloweens, or take your kids around for fun and candy, or give out candy to other excited kids, be thankful for the treat your Father gave you. Express some real gratitude to God and be gleeful, just like a child finding a dream candy bar in the bag. Also, take time to think of who needs this treat and show them how to go “trick or treating” for all the marbles.
Prayer
Dear Father God, you are so amazing. I am so glad I don’t have to pretend to be someone else with you. Just as I am you shower me with so many treats. Help me see and appreciate the many treats you bring into my life everyday, treats that I often overlook, take for granted, or feel entitled to. Give me courage to share with others the treats you have for them too. I pray in the name of the grandest gift, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.
Micah 7:19
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1
Trick or Treat? What does that mean? As a kid, I never really understood what that actually meant. I was the one saying “trick or treat”, but was I asking them whether they wanted a trick or a treat from me? Was I asking the house owner to choose whether they would trick me or give me candy? Was I offering to perform a trick for them so they would give me candy based on how good my trick was? Was I to do a trick for my treat, like a dog? Who really was supposed to be doing the trick? Was I supposed to give them a treat from my bag if they didn’t like my trick? I hoped I was the one getting a treat, but why was I asking the adult, “Trick or Treat?”
As I went from house to house, in my pursuit of the perfect blend of Reese’s, Sweet-Tarts, real coins, a big candy bar, or the grandest house of them all, put in my hand and choose for myself, were they giving me a choice to accept a trick or treat from them? Nobody could ever explain it to me. It seemed like the person answering the door was giving me a treat and no tricks were happening. Confusing!
Halloween is about pretending to be someone you’re not. Then a stranger gives you a small “fun” size treat, a cheap imitation of the real king size candy bar you are longing for. Or like Charlie Brown’s letdown when he realizes, “I got a rock.” Isn’t this just like Satan’s plan? In the real story, God wants us to come with no costume, no hiding behind a mask, just baring our soul to Him. We don’t have to be nervous about a trick or treat, or who is doing which one. We don’t need to be frightened as we approach His door. In fact, He comes to our door. God isn’t a stranger we only see once a year, but our loving and dear Father and friend who loves us more than anything. He has all the treats, and we don’t need to perform any tricks, other than accepting His son’s sacrifice for all our sins.
Best of all, our hearts aren’t filled with cheap imitations of the real treat. We are getting the King of Kings to come into our heart, our lives, and sharing His royal inheritance. All He has is ours. The best thing is the cost … it requires no trick from us. In fact, Jesus did the trick. He died on the cross so you can enjoy all the treats His Father, your Father, can infinitely give you above and beyond your heart’s desires.
Today, Halloween is controversial. But as you think back on past Halloweens, or take your kids around for fun and candy, or give out candy to other excited kids, be thankful for the treat your Father gave you. Express some real gratitude to God and be gleeful, just like a child finding a dream candy bar in the bag. Also, take time to think of who needs this treat and show them how to go “trick or treating” for all the marbles.
Prayer
Dear Father God, you are so amazing. I am so glad I don’t have to pretend to be someone else with you. Just as I am you shower me with so many treats. Help me see and appreciate the many treats you bring into my life everyday, treats that I often overlook, take for granted, or feel entitled to. Give me courage to share with others the treats you have for them too. I pray in the name of the grandest gift, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.
Micah 7:19
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Stepping Stones: “Try Jesus”
Transformational Thought
Slogans are everywhere. “Just Do It,” “Got Milk,” “M’m! M’m! Good!” and “Have it your way,” to name a few. Christian slogans exist also, like “Let go, and let God” or “What Would Jesus Do?” But, it just dawned on me about how short and simple the best slogan is: “Try Jesus.”
Many times we resist trying new things because we don’t want to let go of our routine … or the old way, our good old comfort zone. We fear that by switching to the new thing we might lose something valuable that we won’t be able to get back. Or we fear looking awkward when we try something new and others judge us negatively. Or maybe we fear the amount of time and energy it will take to for us to learn and become good at the new way.
But when it comes to THE way, the way to the Promised Land, the good life, abundant living … what the heck are we thinking? Why would we ever want to go back to the old way spiritually … the way of the world … the way of conformed thinking and decision-making?
So, by “Trying Jesus” you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. And anyway, if trying Jesus isn’t what you want … Satan is always willing to take you back, and the fruit of the flesh is what you will reap: insecurity, anxiety, lust, jealousy, strife, bitterness, feeling overwhelmed, hopelessness, loneliness, frustration, disconnected, empty … wow, that’s just the beginning!
Doesn’t that thought just send shivers down your spine? I used to “try the world,” and the fruit of the flesh was what I reaped. I never want to go there again … nor would I wish it on my worst enemy. But here’s a certainty … you must serve one master or the other … Jesus or Satan. If you say that you are serving neither, then Satan has you right where he wants you.
“Try Jesus” and you just can’t lose. In fact, you win every day … and forever!
Today, pray the prayer of salvation and accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. Remember how free you were and joyful you felt the first time you tried Jesus? If He is your Savior, try Jesus as the Lord of your life, in all areas of your life. Make the decision to try Him everyday in a very concrete and intentional way. Put Him first, you will be amazed at how differently you will view life and how freely you will live apart from the bondage of this world.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith, and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separating me from you. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, I receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, and being with me forever. Now help me make You the Lord of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I need to try all day and everyday, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because I am marked out by him to give good news to the poor; he has sent me to make well those who are broken-hearted; to say that the prisoners will be let go, and the blind will see, and to make the wounded free from their chains,
Luke 4:18
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?
Mark 8:36
Slogans are everywhere. “Just Do It,” “Got Milk,” “M’m! M’m! Good!” and “Have it your way,” to name a few. Christian slogans exist also, like “Let go, and let God” or “What Would Jesus Do?” But, it just dawned on me about how short and simple the best slogan is: “Try Jesus.”
Many times we resist trying new things because we don’t want to let go of our routine … or the old way, our good old comfort zone. We fear that by switching to the new thing we might lose something valuable that we won’t be able to get back. Or we fear looking awkward when we try something new and others judge us negatively. Or maybe we fear the amount of time and energy it will take to for us to learn and become good at the new way.
But when it comes to THE way, the way to the Promised Land, the good life, abundant living … what the heck are we thinking? Why would we ever want to go back to the old way spiritually … the way of the world … the way of conformed thinking and decision-making?
So, by “Trying Jesus” you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. And anyway, if trying Jesus isn’t what you want … Satan is always willing to take you back, and the fruit of the flesh is what you will reap: insecurity, anxiety, lust, jealousy, strife, bitterness, feeling overwhelmed, hopelessness, loneliness, frustration, disconnected, empty … wow, that’s just the beginning!
Doesn’t that thought just send shivers down your spine? I used to “try the world,” and the fruit of the flesh was what I reaped. I never want to go there again … nor would I wish it on my worst enemy. But here’s a certainty … you must serve one master or the other … Jesus or Satan. If you say that you are serving neither, then Satan has you right where he wants you.
“Try Jesus” and you just can’t lose. In fact, you win every day … and forever!
Today, pray the prayer of salvation and accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. Remember how free you were and joyful you felt the first time you tried Jesus? If He is your Savior, try Jesus as the Lord of your life, in all areas of your life. Make the decision to try Him everyday in a very concrete and intentional way. Put Him first, you will be amazed at how differently you will view life and how freely you will live apart from the bondage of this world.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith, and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separating me from you. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, I receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, and being with me forever. Now help me make You the Lord of my life. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I need to try all day and everyday, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because I am marked out by him to give good news to the poor; he has sent me to make well those who are broken-hearted; to say that the prisoners will be let go, and the blind will see, and to make the wounded free from their chains,
Luke 4:18
For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?
Mark 8:36
Monday, June 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: One Prayer God Guarantees To Answer “Yes”
Transformational Thought
“A Christmas Story” is a truly classic movie and a Christmas tradition in our family. You know … it’s the movie where Ralphie asks for a Red Ryder pump action BB gun with a compass in the stock. But he’s rejected numerous times with a “You’ll shoot your eye out” response. Even Santa, who always answers “YES”, pushes him down the slide with his boot and repeats the classic line.
Some people view God as the ultimate Santa Claus, sending requests north to heaven. Unfortunately, every day, all over the world, many Christian are asking the same question, “Why didn’t God answer my request?” God has many reasons for saying no to your specific prayer, but we will tackle that subject in a future devotional. Today’s devotional is about a simple, important prayer that actually has a guarantee from God. Yes, it is guaranteed to always be answered with a “yes.” Drumroll, please! That prayer is, “Lord, please forgive me.”
You see, when it comes to forgivenness for the mistakes, slips, sins, and bad things we have done, the hardest part has already been done for us. The penalty for sin is death, and that penalty must be paid by someone. Jesus Christ paid it on our behalf a long time ago. Our role in this process is really quite simple, contrary to what our flesh, the world, or Satan influence us to think.
The sooner we can grasp and believe this fact, the easier we can rid ourselves of the dysfunctional shame, guilt, remorse and accumulated emotional weight from past sins that so many of us carry around like a huge stone. So, ask for God’s forgiveness now and each time you misstep each day. Don’t let the many sins you commit accumulate, hindering your powerful relationship and direct communication with God.
Today, accept that we all have past sins that we allow to influence our present lenses and life. What past sin eats at your view of yourself … your self-esteem … or your ability to relate well with someone close? What is the effect? Why do you still let it influence you? Confess and dig into God’s word to access different lenses to see the complete forgiveness God has for you! This corrective lens surgery will truly free you. WITHIN REACH helps you dig, identify, and apply God’s word so you can see clearly.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am tired of feeling like a terrible person … I am tired of carrying the weight of guilt and shame for the things I have done … the sins I’ve committed. Lord, please forgive me. I know through Your Holy Word that Christ died to heal the brokenhearted and set the captives free. I confess my sins to you, Lord. Please forgive me and purify me from all unrighteousness. Remove the sins that block me from your blessings. Forgive my sins so that I may see with Your eyes and fill my mind with Your thoughts. Give me Your wisdom through Your Holy Spirit. And more than wisdom, give me the strength to do Your will. I pray this in the name of the one who took my place on the cross so I might be forgiven, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
John 19:28-30
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
Ephesians 1:7
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
“A Christmas Story” is a truly classic movie and a Christmas tradition in our family. You know … it’s the movie where Ralphie asks for a Red Ryder pump action BB gun with a compass in the stock. But he’s rejected numerous times with a “You’ll shoot your eye out” response. Even Santa, who always answers “YES”, pushes him down the slide with his boot and repeats the classic line.
Some people view God as the ultimate Santa Claus, sending requests north to heaven. Unfortunately, every day, all over the world, many Christian are asking the same question, “Why didn’t God answer my request?” God has many reasons for saying no to your specific prayer, but we will tackle that subject in a future devotional. Today’s devotional is about a simple, important prayer that actually has a guarantee from God. Yes, it is guaranteed to always be answered with a “yes.” Drumroll, please! That prayer is, “Lord, please forgive me.”
You see, when it comes to forgivenness for the mistakes, slips, sins, and bad things we have done, the hardest part has already been done for us. The penalty for sin is death, and that penalty must be paid by someone. Jesus Christ paid it on our behalf a long time ago. Our role in this process is really quite simple, contrary to what our flesh, the world, or Satan influence us to think.
The sooner we can grasp and believe this fact, the easier we can rid ourselves of the dysfunctional shame, guilt, remorse and accumulated emotional weight from past sins that so many of us carry around like a huge stone. So, ask for God’s forgiveness now and each time you misstep each day. Don’t let the many sins you commit accumulate, hindering your powerful relationship and direct communication with God.
Today, accept that we all have past sins that we allow to influence our present lenses and life. What past sin eats at your view of yourself … your self-esteem … or your ability to relate well with someone close? What is the effect? Why do you still let it influence you? Confess and dig into God’s word to access different lenses to see the complete forgiveness God has for you! This corrective lens surgery will truly free you. WITHIN REACH helps you dig, identify, and apply God’s word so you can see clearly.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am tired of feeling like a terrible person … I am tired of carrying the weight of guilt and shame for the things I have done … the sins I’ve committed. Lord, please forgive me. I know through Your Holy Word that Christ died to heal the brokenhearted and set the captives free. I confess my sins to you, Lord. Please forgive me and purify me from all unrighteousness. Remove the sins that block me from your blessings. Forgive my sins so that I may see with Your eyes and fill my mind with Your thoughts. Give me Your wisdom through Your Holy Spirit. And more than wisdom, give me the strength to do Your will. I pray this in the name of the one who took my place on the cross so I might be forgiven, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
John 19:28-30
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
Ephesians 1:7
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
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
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Thirsty? Beware What You Drink
Transformational Thought
Our family was at the beach last week with my parents, brother and sister, and their families. We had a great time in the ocean and enjoyed various activities in the area. But one of our favorite activities in the evening, after a belly-busting dinner and some family devotions, is playing some board games or cards together. Stories of our childhood entertain our kids, and we all have funny comments or observations about our different perspectives and little secrets of growing up in our “interesting” family.
By the end of the night though, I was so bloated. Why? Because I drank so much limeade and soda. I hardly ever drink very much, so why now? After playing and sweating on the beach and being in the salt water all day, then eating a bunch of salty snacks and a huge salty dinner, I was dehydrated and didn’t even know it. Being so thirsty, over the course of a couple hours, I progressively and unintentionally guzzled so much that I was actually uncomfortable.
This is how our spiritual life often plays out. The world around us is so active, always speeding up and filled with options. As we get older, the activities are more complex and require more time, attention, and energy, and have more pressure associated with them. We become so engaged in them that both the enjoyable and the unpleasant activities alike can be draining.
As a result, without realizing it, we get spiritually thirsty for purpose, value, connection, attention, achievement, peace, love, and direction among other things. Unfortunately, this world offers more distractions than you can fit into one lifetime. We are thirsty, and at times, because of those distractions, we don’t even realize we are dehydrated. So, to unknowingly quench this thirst we start to unconsciously look to the world’s nectar and juices … idols. These idols provide some temporary relief … we get bloated and uncomfortable. Yet the thirst remains because the idol will never fulfill the need.
Today, try to understand that your deepest desire and drive is for a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. His joy and peace is the only way to satisfy your thirst. Take a look at some of the attitudes or objects you turn to … food, alcohol, attention, gossip, isolation, control, anger, shopping, status, money … when you are “thirsty” and need something. You are drinking for sure, but drinking the wrong thing will bring so much pain. Drinking the Living Water will bring all you will ever desire.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thirsty … my soul is thirsty. At times I confuse this thirst with just being tired or stressed out. So I start searching for relief, or at least for some distractions. I know that all the while You are standing next to me … ready to quench my thirst. My soul thirsts for You, Lord. Allow Your gifts of Joy and Peace to enhance my awareness of You. I pray this in the name the only one who can quench my thirst, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah
Psalm 143:6
As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
Psalm 42:1-2
Jesus said to her, "Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
John 4:13-14
Our family was at the beach last week with my parents, brother and sister, and their families. We had a great time in the ocean and enjoyed various activities in the area. But one of our favorite activities in the evening, after a belly-busting dinner and some family devotions, is playing some board games or cards together. Stories of our childhood entertain our kids, and we all have funny comments or observations about our different perspectives and little secrets of growing up in our “interesting” family.
By the end of the night though, I was so bloated. Why? Because I drank so much limeade and soda. I hardly ever drink very much, so why now? After playing and sweating on the beach and being in the salt water all day, then eating a bunch of salty snacks and a huge salty dinner, I was dehydrated and didn’t even know it. Being so thirsty, over the course of a couple hours, I progressively and unintentionally guzzled so much that I was actually uncomfortable.
This is how our spiritual life often plays out. The world around us is so active, always speeding up and filled with options. As we get older, the activities are more complex and require more time, attention, and energy, and have more pressure associated with them. We become so engaged in them that both the enjoyable and the unpleasant activities alike can be draining.
As a result, without realizing it, we get spiritually thirsty for purpose, value, connection, attention, achievement, peace, love, and direction among other things. Unfortunately, this world offers more distractions than you can fit into one lifetime. We are thirsty, and at times, because of those distractions, we don’t even realize we are dehydrated. So, to unknowingly quench this thirst we start to unconsciously look to the world’s nectar and juices … idols. These idols provide some temporary relief … we get bloated and uncomfortable. Yet the thirst remains because the idol will never fulfill the need.
Today, try to understand that your deepest desire and drive is for a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. His joy and peace is the only way to satisfy your thirst. Take a look at some of the attitudes or objects you turn to … food, alcohol, attention, gossip, isolation, control, anger, shopping, status, money … when you are “thirsty” and need something. You are drinking for sure, but drinking the wrong thing will bring so much pain. Drinking the Living Water will bring all you will ever desire.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thirsty … my soul is thirsty. At times I confuse this thirst with just being tired or stressed out. So I start searching for relief, or at least for some distractions. I know that all the while You are standing next to me … ready to quench my thirst. My soul thirsts for You, Lord. Allow Your gifts of Joy and Peace to enhance my awareness of You. I pray this in the name the only one who can quench my thirst, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah
Psalm 143:6
As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
Psalm 42:1-2
Jesus said to her, "Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
John 4:13-14
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Stepping Stones: Even in Darkness, Light Dawns
Transformational Thought
How many of us believe, deep down, that we deserve a trouble-free life? And even if we don’t feel we actually deserve it, we certainly desire and feel entitled to that problem-free life anyway. What do we really deserve? The wages of sin is death. Just trying to keep things real and be straight with you.
The consequences of Eve and Adam’s sin resulted from choosing “self” over God, and so they experienced separation from God, shame, pain in child birth (and child-rearing), and toiling in the field. Our own sins bring consequences to ourselves and others. We are constantly paying for our sins. Actually, when we sin, we deserve death.
Everything we get in this life ... breathing, walking, thinking, house, family, heat, food, ability to read or listen to this devotional … is all way more than we deserve. What we receive in life is given totally from God; it is His amazing grace. It’s unbelievable that we feel so entitled … that we feel we deserve all the blessings we get. And on top of that, we actually believe we deserve more than we already get.
Instead of being happy about the 38 cancer-free years we enjoyed, we are bitter, believing we “deserve” better. Instead of being happy about the 8 years we had with our son, we ruminate and believe we are entitled to more time with him when he dies. I know this sounds harsh, but we have to get over our level of entitlement, thinking we are the almighty Oz who knows and sees everything. Just because we had something yesterday, we feel entitled to have it again today (job, finances, college, friendship, health, etc). Jesus tells us clearly in John 16:33 that we will have trouble in this world, and that we will only find peace in Him. No pain, no gain.
Today, let go of the illusion of the trouble-free life and begin turning your focus toward your Lord during the dark times, for “Even in darkness light dawns.” Show God you trust His prescription and provision for your life more than your own plan. WITHIN REACH will help you deal with the pain that drives your troubled and regrettable behaviors.
Prayer
Dear Father, Please help me give up the belief that I deserve a problem-free life. I remain constantly hungry for solutions for all the difficulties in my life. I know now that this is false hope. You tell me through Your word that in this world I will have trouble. Help me focus my energy on seeking You … the only perfect One … instead of seeking perfection in this fallen world. I know and believe that it is possible to enjoy You and glorify You in the midst of adverse situations and circumstances. In fact, You have taught me that Your light shines most brightly through believers who trust You while they are in the dark. I thank You, Lord, for the Christians you have placed in my life. The kind of trust I see them having in You is clearly supernatural … only possible by Your Spirit living within them. It’s so beautiful and encouraging to see their hearts so steadfast, trusting in You Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who was perfect and really deserved the trouble free-life, but who instead suffered for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:4 and 7
How many of us believe, deep down, that we deserve a trouble-free life? And even if we don’t feel we actually deserve it, we certainly desire and feel entitled to that problem-free life anyway. What do we really deserve? The wages of sin is death. Just trying to keep things real and be straight with you.
The consequences of Eve and Adam’s sin resulted from choosing “self” over God, and so they experienced separation from God, shame, pain in child birth (and child-rearing), and toiling in the field. Our own sins bring consequences to ourselves and others. We are constantly paying for our sins. Actually, when we sin, we deserve death.
Everything we get in this life ... breathing, walking, thinking, house, family, heat, food, ability to read or listen to this devotional … is all way more than we deserve. What we receive in life is given totally from God; it is His amazing grace. It’s unbelievable that we feel so entitled … that we feel we deserve all the blessings we get. And on top of that, we actually believe we deserve more than we already get.
Instead of being happy about the 38 cancer-free years we enjoyed, we are bitter, believing we “deserve” better. Instead of being happy about the 8 years we had with our son, we ruminate and believe we are entitled to more time with him when he dies. I know this sounds harsh, but we have to get over our level of entitlement, thinking we are the almighty Oz who knows and sees everything. Just because we had something yesterday, we feel entitled to have it again today (job, finances, college, friendship, health, etc). Jesus tells us clearly in John 16:33 that we will have trouble in this world, and that we will only find peace in Him. No pain, no gain.
Today, let go of the illusion of the trouble-free life and begin turning your focus toward your Lord during the dark times, for “Even in darkness light dawns.” Show God you trust His prescription and provision for your life more than your own plan. WITHIN REACH will help you deal with the pain that drives your troubled and regrettable behaviors.
Prayer
Dear Father, Please help me give up the belief that I deserve a problem-free life. I remain constantly hungry for solutions for all the difficulties in my life. I know now that this is false hope. You tell me through Your word that in this world I will have trouble. Help me focus my energy on seeking You … the only perfect One … instead of seeking perfection in this fallen world. I know and believe that it is possible to enjoy You and glorify You in the midst of adverse situations and circumstances. In fact, You have taught me that Your light shines most brightly through believers who trust You while they are in the dark. I thank You, Lord, for the Christians you have placed in my life. The kind of trust I see them having in You is clearly supernatural … only possible by Your Spirit living within them. It’s so beautiful and encouraging to see their hearts so steadfast, trusting in You Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who was perfect and really deserved the trouble free-life, but who instead suffered for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:4 and 7
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Stepping Stones: Prevenient Pursuit and Grace
Transformational Thought
Most kids don’t come into the world in a totally random way. Most people have been thinking since their childhood about how many kids they will have, how they will parent them, whether they will get an apartment or house with extra bedrooms, plan a nursery, even planning their sexual activity. All before the pregnancy even starts.
Did you know the work of God is present in our lives “before” we are even aware of it? In fact, millennia before we were even born, God knew who we were going to be. He was preparing the circumstances that would have the most influence and impact on us to show us our need for Him. He then is with us from conception to the end of time if we choose to be with Him during this lifetime in which the impact of some key decisions will last forever.
The word prevenient means “to come before.” Think about this for a moment: God has always been there, planning for us, and waiting for us, in anticipation of the loving relationship He desires to have specifically with each one of us. God pursues this relationship … He actively “courts” us through love and grace. It’s unassuming … and never forced.
He is there wooing us, hoping we will accept His amazing offer. His offer is free to us, and saves us so much pain and struggle in this world. He offers an incredible, eternal life in heaven after this one. We were created to have this beautiful romance with God. Without it, we will forever feel emptiness as we turn to ungodly substitutes to attain what we are missing.
Today, take a look at what you are pursuing instead of God. What hollow and harmful substitutes are you letting Satan entice you with? To what are you turning for your needs ... to soothe you … to bring you comfort … to help you escape your troubles? Anything other than God himself or what He provides is a dangerous counterfeit. Know that the Lord is seeking you and has been for thousands of years. Are you ready to receive the love and gifts He offers? When you do, you will be humbled and empowered beyond your dreams. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a humble, yet thankful heart. It’s always so amazing to know that in spite of my wrong choices, Your love and grace continue to flow to me. What an awesome thought: You have been there waiting for me even before I was born ... waiting with Your ever-present offer of a personal romance with me. I thank You for the love You give me. My Lord and God, please help me seek You as You seek me. I know now that my acceptance of You changes everything. You said “yes” to me at creation and again at the cross when You sent Your only Son to die for my sins. I say “yes” to You, Lord. I say “yes” to the greatest gift anyone could imagine. I pray this surrounded by Your grace and mercy and through Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Genesis 1:27
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
Most kids don’t come into the world in a totally random way. Most people have been thinking since their childhood about how many kids they will have, how they will parent them, whether they will get an apartment or house with extra bedrooms, plan a nursery, even planning their sexual activity. All before the pregnancy even starts.
Did you know the work of God is present in our lives “before” we are even aware of it? In fact, millennia before we were even born, God knew who we were going to be. He was preparing the circumstances that would have the most influence and impact on us to show us our need for Him. He then is with us from conception to the end of time if we choose to be with Him during this lifetime in which the impact of some key decisions will last forever.
The word prevenient means “to come before.” Think about this for a moment: God has always been there, planning for us, and waiting for us, in anticipation of the loving relationship He desires to have specifically with each one of us. God pursues this relationship … He actively “courts” us through love and grace. It’s unassuming … and never forced.
He is there wooing us, hoping we will accept His amazing offer. His offer is free to us, and saves us so much pain and struggle in this world. He offers an incredible, eternal life in heaven after this one. We were created to have this beautiful romance with God. Without it, we will forever feel emptiness as we turn to ungodly substitutes to attain what we are missing.
Today, take a look at what you are pursuing instead of God. What hollow and harmful substitutes are you letting Satan entice you with? To what are you turning for your needs ... to soothe you … to bring you comfort … to help you escape your troubles? Anything other than God himself or what He provides is a dangerous counterfeit. Know that the Lord is seeking you and has been for thousands of years. Are you ready to receive the love and gifts He offers? When you do, you will be humbled and empowered beyond your dreams. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a humble, yet thankful heart. It’s always so amazing to know that in spite of my wrong choices, Your love and grace continue to flow to me. What an awesome thought: You have been there waiting for me even before I was born ... waiting with Your ever-present offer of a personal romance with me. I thank You for the love You give me. My Lord and God, please help me seek You as You seek me. I know now that my acceptance of You changes everything. You said “yes” to me at creation and again at the cross when You sent Your only Son to die for my sins. I say “yes” to You, Lord. I say “yes” to the greatest gift anyone could imagine. I pray this surrounded by Your grace and mercy and through Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Genesis 1:27
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
Monday, May 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: Thankfully, The Story Doesn’t End There
Transformational Thought
This might sound a bit shocking to most of you, but put yourself in these shoes and bear with me. What if you were a murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester … all terribly atrocious, sinful identities. Then you get caught, have a trial, and are found guilty. Your sentence is proclaimed – DEATH! You now anxiously await execution.
Just as they are getting your humane, but very lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything just in the nick of time. He lets you know of a true and amazing miracle … no one has ever seen anything like it.
He excitedly explains what just happened starting with the basics. The penalty for your crime is death. The accuser (Satan) and justice demand a price to be paid, namely, death. Satan wants it to be you. A perfect person (Jesus), who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed in your place. You are now free to go and live. Your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day.
But if that were the end of the story, it wouldn’t really be that great. You see, who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester? We all we judge, avoid, are fearful of, and attack these sinners. Your life, although spared, would be a walking death of isolation, ridicule, obstacles, loneliness, and never-ending effort to prove yourself worthy of a second chance.
This is where the even more amazing, second blessing comes from above. The King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything actually wants to hang out with you, date you, and even marry you forever. He trusts you with His kids, and His valuable possessions. Most of all, He really loves you above all things and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of your sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. How much different could your life be? Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He deserves for all the grace and double blessing He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Accept His instruction and I guarantee, actually, He guarantees, your life will be grander beyond compare. Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, and rejoice in His second blessing of imputed righteousness.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for Your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for relentlessly pursuing me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity. I now realize You were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals whom You also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid for me, died for me, and pursued me, Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
This might sound a bit shocking to most of you, but put yourself in these shoes and bear with me. What if you were a murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester … all terribly atrocious, sinful identities. Then you get caught, have a trial, and are found guilty. Your sentence is proclaimed – DEATH! You now anxiously await execution.
Just as they are getting your humane, but very lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything just in the nick of time. He lets you know of a true and amazing miracle … no one has ever seen anything like it.
He excitedly explains what just happened starting with the basics. The penalty for your crime is death. The accuser (Satan) and justice demand a price to be paid, namely, death. Satan wants it to be you. A perfect person (Jesus), who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed in your place. You are now free to go and live. Your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day.
But if that were the end of the story, it wouldn’t really be that great. You see, who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, or child molester? We all we judge, avoid, are fearful of, and attack these sinners. Your life, although spared, would be a walking death of isolation, ridicule, obstacles, loneliness, and never-ending effort to prove yourself worthy of a second chance.
This is where the even more amazing, second blessing comes from above. The King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything actually wants to hang out with you, date you, and even marry you forever. He trusts you with His kids, and His valuable possessions. Most of all, He really loves you above all things and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of your sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. How much different could your life be? Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He deserves for all the grace and double blessing He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Accept His instruction and I guarantee, actually, He guarantees, your life will be grander beyond compare. Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, and rejoice in His second blessing of imputed righteousness.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for Your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for relentlessly pursuing me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity. I now realize You were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals whom You also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid for me, died for me, and pursued me, Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Stepping Stones: God’s Great Puzzle
Transformational Thought
I was blessed to be born into a family of 14 children. After 60 years my brothers and sisters remain my teachers, accountability partners … and my best friends.
When her children where raised and living all across the country, my mother would cherish the times when we could all be together in her home. She prepared meals for days prior to the gatherings. She was in her glory when she took a head count and confirmed all were present.
At one such gathering, I had traveled 800 miles with my four young daughters to be part of this reunion. I noticed on this day that my mother appeared a bit “down”, so I asked her if everything was OK. She reminded me that my brother Jamie wasn’t able to join this gathering. I said flippantly, "What’s the big deal? You've got 13 other children here. Why aren't you satisfied with that?” And then came one of mom’s many treasured lessons.
She said that one missing piece is important because without all the pieces of the puzzle, the picture is incomplete … it ruins the beauty of putting the puzzle on display. She went on, as she always did, to link it to God and his Word.
She explained that like a puzzle, the body of Christ consists of many parts, which together make a complete picture. God has equipped each believer with the particular gifts needed to do what God has called him or her to do. When that person is missing or not following up with their role, an important part of God's plan is missing. The picture is incomplete. Not only does that person miss out on being part of God’s great puzzle, but all the other pieces are affected too and won’t connect as a whole.
Remember, that God has a perfect plan for His body of believers … including you! Like the pieces of a puzzle, each one of us has a specific place, a specific task to do. When every piece is in its God-designed place, the picture is perfect. But when a piece … even one … is missing, the body is incomplete.
Today, take ownership of your place in the puzzle. Are you absent … a piece that dropped off the table? Are some of your edges worn down or jagged … not fitting smoothly into the other pieces? Ask for feedback today from 2 people who are close to you. How can you fit better into God’s puzzle? Your decisions can sabotage God’s perfect fit, so align your decisions with God’s ways. Stop working against God. Working with your God-designed fit will lead to a pleasurable and easier life. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father God, Thank You, Father, for letting me know that I am an important part of Your Grand puzzle. And thank You, Father, for equipping each member of Christ's body, the church, to do what You have called him or her to do. Help me to be aware and sensitive as You lead me to do my part. And help me encourage others to fulfill what You have called them to do. I ask this in the name of the ultimate picture on the puzzle box, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.
Romans 12:4-5
I was blessed to be born into a family of 14 children. After 60 years my brothers and sisters remain my teachers, accountability partners … and my best friends.
When her children where raised and living all across the country, my mother would cherish the times when we could all be together in her home. She prepared meals for days prior to the gatherings. She was in her glory when she took a head count and confirmed all were present.
At one such gathering, I had traveled 800 miles with my four young daughters to be part of this reunion. I noticed on this day that my mother appeared a bit “down”, so I asked her if everything was OK. She reminded me that my brother Jamie wasn’t able to join this gathering. I said flippantly, "What’s the big deal? You've got 13 other children here. Why aren't you satisfied with that?” And then came one of mom’s many treasured lessons.
She said that one missing piece is important because without all the pieces of the puzzle, the picture is incomplete … it ruins the beauty of putting the puzzle on display. She went on, as she always did, to link it to God and his Word.
She explained that like a puzzle, the body of Christ consists of many parts, which together make a complete picture. God has equipped each believer with the particular gifts needed to do what God has called him or her to do. When that person is missing or not following up with their role, an important part of God's plan is missing. The picture is incomplete. Not only does that person miss out on being part of God’s great puzzle, but all the other pieces are affected too and won’t connect as a whole.
Remember, that God has a perfect plan for His body of believers … including you! Like the pieces of a puzzle, each one of us has a specific place, a specific task to do. When every piece is in its God-designed place, the picture is perfect. But when a piece … even one … is missing, the body is incomplete.
Today, take ownership of your place in the puzzle. Are you absent … a piece that dropped off the table? Are some of your edges worn down or jagged … not fitting smoothly into the other pieces? Ask for feedback today from 2 people who are close to you. How can you fit better into God’s puzzle? Your decisions can sabotage God’s perfect fit, so align your decisions with God’s ways. Stop working against God. Working with your God-designed fit will lead to a pleasurable and easier life. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father God, Thank You, Father, for letting me know that I am an important part of Your Grand puzzle. And thank You, Father, for equipping each member of Christ's body, the church, to do what You have called him or her to do. Help me to be aware and sensitive as You lead me to do my part. And help me encourage others to fulfill what You have called them to do. I ask this in the name of the ultimate picture on the puzzle box, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.
Romans 12:4-5
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Stepping Stones: “By their fruit you will know them”
Transformational Thought
I suffer from slight claustrophobia. On a recent business flight I got stuck in a middle seat. I’d rather be in a dentist chair than sit in a middle seat on an airplane. And while I haven’t taken my tape measure with me, I am quite sure the airlines take an inch of seat width away from us each year.
While already feeling cramped, this tall gentleman sits in the aisle seat next to me and spreads out … his knee and elbow infringing into my small space. I’m thinking this is going to be a very long flight. I struggle with whether I should confront him about seat etiquette, but as I prayed about it for a moment, and started assessing my options, a much better choice surfaced. Better options do surface when we prayerfully apply self-control to a situation.
I decided to talk with him. He was such a joy to talk with, that I forgot all about being in a middle seat. He was filled with kindness and peace. It’s such a beautiful thing to see God in the face of others. We went back and forth so effortlessly that our flight seemed about 10 minutes long. I never even noticed a hint of physical discomfort even though my physical circumstances were unchanged from my initial assessment.
Our natural inclination to see life from a me-centered perspective in which we constantly need or feel entitled to comfort can lead to a poor, unsettled attitude. That perspective keeps us from opportunities to experience God in ourselves or thru others.
A lot of different religious groups will give you all sorts of ways to know whether or not you have the Holy Spirit. Jesus has one simple answer: "by their fruit you will know them." Paul gives us the definition of holy fruit: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS, SELF-CONTROL.
Today, say the holy fruit out loud and ask the Lord to make it true in you. Then take the next step, confess any sin in your life since your last confession. You can even use the “and I confess all my unknown sins and seek to turn from those activities.” Then the Holy Spirit is back on the throne of your heart opening your ears to His voice and guidance. As you follow, this amazing fruit will be yours to taste and enjoy. It will satisfy the desires of your heart. The alternative route, the fruit of the flesh, will rot in your belly and destroy you as well.
Prayer
Father God, Thank You for Your constant presence … thank You for Your answers to my prayers. And thank You, Father, for the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is through the Spirit I call upon you. Please fill me more with Your Holy Spirit and the all the character You possess. I want to exhibit the qualities of that man You seated next to me on that flight … I want to be like Your child, Jesus, in whose name I pray; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
Galatians 5:16-25
Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.
Psalm 37:4-5
I suffer from slight claustrophobia. On a recent business flight I got stuck in a middle seat. I’d rather be in a dentist chair than sit in a middle seat on an airplane. And while I haven’t taken my tape measure with me, I am quite sure the airlines take an inch of seat width away from us each year.
While already feeling cramped, this tall gentleman sits in the aisle seat next to me and spreads out … his knee and elbow infringing into my small space. I’m thinking this is going to be a very long flight. I struggle with whether I should confront him about seat etiquette, but as I prayed about it for a moment, and started assessing my options, a much better choice surfaced. Better options do surface when we prayerfully apply self-control to a situation.
I decided to talk with him. He was such a joy to talk with, that I forgot all about being in a middle seat. He was filled with kindness and peace. It’s such a beautiful thing to see God in the face of others. We went back and forth so effortlessly that our flight seemed about 10 minutes long. I never even noticed a hint of physical discomfort even though my physical circumstances were unchanged from my initial assessment.
Our natural inclination to see life from a me-centered perspective in which we constantly need or feel entitled to comfort can lead to a poor, unsettled attitude. That perspective keeps us from opportunities to experience God in ourselves or thru others.
A lot of different religious groups will give you all sorts of ways to know whether or not you have the Holy Spirit. Jesus has one simple answer: "by their fruit you will know them." Paul gives us the definition of holy fruit: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, GENTLENESS, SELF-CONTROL.
Today, say the holy fruit out loud and ask the Lord to make it true in you. Then take the next step, confess any sin in your life since your last confession. You can even use the “and I confess all my unknown sins and seek to turn from those activities.” Then the Holy Spirit is back on the throne of your heart opening your ears to His voice and guidance. As you follow, this amazing fruit will be yours to taste and enjoy. It will satisfy the desires of your heart. The alternative route, the fruit of the flesh, will rot in your belly and destroy you as well.
Prayer
Father God, Thank You for Your constant presence … thank You for Your answers to my prayers. And thank You, Father, for the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is through the Spirit I call upon you. Please fill me more with Your Holy Spirit and the all the character You possess. I want to exhibit the qualities of that man You seated next to me on that flight … I want to be like Your child, Jesus, in whose name I pray; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
Galatians 5:16-25
Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.
Psalm 37:4-5
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