March 3-4, 2012
Transformational Thought
Some mothers prepare their teenage daughters for premarital sexual activities by helping them with birth control plans. They may feel guilty asking their teenage daughters to abstain from sex outside of marriage, especially if they, as teenagers themselves, did not. Likewise, some fathers may look the other way when their teenage sons have sex, drink alcohol, or smoke pot … after all, we did it when we were teens … how can we say "no" now?
No matter what mistakes we may have made, that is history. If we have received Jesus' forgiveness, the past is past. This is today … and God is calling us right now to train our children in the way they should go ... the way that is pleasing to Him.
Because you broke rules and made mistakes does not mean that your children should follow the same pattern. It is vital that you learn from your wrongdoing and receive Christ's forgiveness. Next, God calls you to love your children enough to teach them the right way … God's way. But for your message to have real impact on them you need to do 3 things:
1. Don’t just tell them the right decision to make, but live it, be a role model.
2. Understand the reasons that those behaviors aren’t good and explain them to your child. Your explanations need to go deeper than “the Bible says so” or “because you’ll get in trouble.” You know firsthand the consequences and fruit of the flesh you reaped, both then and the ripples afterward. You need to examine what happened because God wants to use those experiences so your kids can benefit from them.
3. Start equipping your children with a concrete strategy so they can become better decision-makers. Teach them decision-making skills and the rewards and consequences they will experience physiologically (their brain chemistry is renewed), psychologically (their personality and skills mature and grow), and spiritually (their connection to and relationship with God grow more powerfully). Yes, knowing the benefits of doing the right thing will help motivate them to do the right thing.
Today, remember you don't have to do it alone. Ask God for the courage, the strength, and the wisdom to train your children in the way they should go. Today, do some self-assessment and see how you disciple and mentor those God gave to you with good decision-making skills. WITHIN REACH is a unique and valuable resource that teaches the detriments and process of poor decision-making, and how to move toward great decision-making. Life is your decision, so choose well, as many people are affected by your choices, especially your kids.
Prayer
Dear God, help me to guide and disciple my children so that they won't make the same mistakes that I did. Help me to train them in the way they should go. Help me understand how You designed me and why I make the decisions I make. Help me learn how to make Godly decisions and then teach these principles and motivations to my children. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to train me in the way I should go, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
Proverbs 22:6
The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is within your reach. Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the Lord, you will live long in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Deuteronomy 30:10-11, 19-20
Showing posts with label Parenting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Parenting. Show all posts
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Monday, October 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Obstacle Holds You Back?
Transformational Thought
Goals are powerful. Goals motivate us to accomplish tasks that don’t thrill us and we wouldn’t try if the task stood on it’s own. Earning money to pay our bills and support our family motivates us to show up at that job we aren’t wild about. Thinking about our date on Friday motivates us to be diligent during the workweek. Admission to our favorite college motivates us to study in high school. The joy of victory in athletics or applause after a performance motivates us to put forth our best effort during a boring practice session.
In today's scripture offering, Paul says that his goal was to know Christ, to be like Christ...and to be all Christ had in mind for him. This goal took all of Paul's energies. The beautiful thing about Paul’s goal, and it is the same for us…the goal is awesome, but the tasks that bring us to the goal are also awesome, powerfully engaging, and uniquely enjoyable.
The problem we all face is that Satan has infiltrated our wiring, brainwashing us early in life, and deceiving us into believing that the tasks necessary to develop the mind of Christ are dangerous, boring, costly, harmful, or unnecessary. These are some of the many roadblocks Satan uses to prevent us from relating with and becoming like Christ. I think Paul’s message is a helpful example for us as we all strive to move closer to Christ...to know Christ, actually develop the Mind of Christ that is already in us.
Remember the faith formula: (Believe > Receive > Become). Knowing Christ is the "become" part of the formula. WITHIN REACH, our unique workshop, helps you understand and identify obstacles that impede your progress, teaches you the hidden motivating benefits on all 3 spheres when you make good decisions, shows what is holding you back, and helps you achieve the life that God has just within reach for you.
Today, identify the benefits of living life God’s way, of pursuing Him, and not doing things Satan’s way. This will keep you more focused and motivated to really pursue the mind of Christ. Strive to put aside anything harmful that may distract you from being the Christian God wants you to be. Easier said than done, I know. Maybe a good start would be to ask yourself the question..."What is holding me back, why do I still do it anyway, and do I have a strategy to do life differently?” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult it leaves me drained and discouraged. I feel I am so far from being a perfect Christian and I will never be able to please You with my life. During these times when I feel discouraged, I am so thankful for Your message to me through Paul as he spoke to the Philippians. Help me today, Lord, to remember that You paid the price for my sinfulness, and remind me to forget what is behind me and to focus on winning the prize for which You have called me. I know that I am not a perfect Christian, but I also know that any progress I make to get closer to You is perfect progress. Help me, today, my God, to act on the guidance that You have already given me through Your Holy Spirit. I pray this prayer and all prayers with the authority of and in the name of Jesus; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
“For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
1 Corinthians 2:16
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus
Philippians 2:4-5
Goals are powerful. Goals motivate us to accomplish tasks that don’t thrill us and we wouldn’t try if the task stood on it’s own. Earning money to pay our bills and support our family motivates us to show up at that job we aren’t wild about. Thinking about our date on Friday motivates us to be diligent during the workweek. Admission to our favorite college motivates us to study in high school. The joy of victory in athletics or applause after a performance motivates us to put forth our best effort during a boring practice session.
In today's scripture offering, Paul says that his goal was to know Christ, to be like Christ...and to be all Christ had in mind for him. This goal took all of Paul's energies. The beautiful thing about Paul’s goal, and it is the same for us…the goal is awesome, but the tasks that bring us to the goal are also awesome, powerfully engaging, and uniquely enjoyable.
The problem we all face is that Satan has infiltrated our wiring, brainwashing us early in life, and deceiving us into believing that the tasks necessary to develop the mind of Christ are dangerous, boring, costly, harmful, or unnecessary. These are some of the many roadblocks Satan uses to prevent us from relating with and becoming like Christ. I think Paul’s message is a helpful example for us as we all strive to move closer to Christ...to know Christ, actually develop the Mind of Christ that is already in us.
Remember the faith formula: (Believe > Receive > Become). Knowing Christ is the "become" part of the formula. WITHIN REACH, our unique workshop, helps you understand and identify obstacles that impede your progress, teaches you the hidden motivating benefits on all 3 spheres when you make good decisions, shows what is holding you back, and helps you achieve the life that God has just within reach for you.
Today, identify the benefits of living life God’s way, of pursuing Him, and not doing things Satan’s way. This will keep you more focused and motivated to really pursue the mind of Christ. Strive to put aside anything harmful that may distract you from being the Christian God wants you to be. Easier said than done, I know. Maybe a good start would be to ask yourself the question..."What is holding me back, why do I still do it anyway, and do I have a strategy to do life differently?” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult it leaves me drained and discouraged. I feel I am so far from being a perfect Christian and I will never be able to please You with my life. During these times when I feel discouraged, I am so thankful for Your message to me through Paul as he spoke to the Philippians. Help me today, Lord, to remember that You paid the price for my sinfulness, and remind me to forget what is behind me and to focus on winning the prize for which You have called me. I know that I am not a perfect Christian, but I also know that any progress I make to get closer to You is perfect progress. Help me, today, my God, to act on the guidance that You have already given me through Your Holy Spirit. I pray this prayer and all prayers with the authority of and in the name of Jesus; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
“For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
1 Corinthians 2:16
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus
Philippians 2:4-5
Friday, September 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: Hope Cleans Your Lenses
Transformational Thought
Several years ago at Disney World in Florida, the world-acclaimed happiest place on Earth, I witnessed an amazing phenomenon rivaling a supernatural exorcism. I was watching a five-year-old boy. It was a typical hot and muggy Florida day, late in the afternoon, with long lines everywhere, lots of stimulation, many choices, and some probable letdowns. He was probably off schedule, hungry, and staying up late at night. This kid started having the granddaddy-of-them-all-with-a-cherry-on-top, meltdown (not my kid of course).
Then the most amazing miracle occurred. His parents said these magical words, “If you are good and can quiet down, you can have an ice cream and go swimming after dinner.”
It was like an exorcism was performed. The powerful evil forces that seemed to have such a firm grip on him dramatically retreated … after squaring off with the all-powerful ice cream sundae! Almost instantaneously, he was back to being a normal, well-behaved, and happy Magic Kingdom kid. Why? He now had hope. Hope is such a powerful emotional state. Expectation, trust, wishes, optimism, anticipation, and confident desire are potently influential dimensions of hope. You experience the same phenomena. Even when you are overwhelmed or filled with negativity and it seems like you have no control, you really do. At those times, you need to refocus on the hope you have in Christ.
The cool thing about hope is you actually believe there is a real chance of getting what you hope for. Hope can lift your perspective from weary feet to glorious views of the high road … the road to heaven. Way better than ice cream. How do you live your life? We’re talking about your daily attitude, the lenses you use to view life, your future outlook. Do your heart and daily actions display the ultimate hope that is powerfully alive in you? Or are you having a tantrum because hope is being sucked from your lenses, or seems so distant and out of reach?
Today, focus on this radiant destination, the Mind of Christ on this Earth and eternity in heaven with Confident Desire. This is real hope! When you do, whether the road ahead is rough or smooth becomes less significant. Like the boy at Disney who focused on the destination, it will be easy for you to handle the disruptions of the day. Whatever today’s obstacle is, attack it with the encompassing knowledge that you are getting double desserts … the Holy Spirit in this life, and eternity spent in the personal presence of God. Let real hope clean your lenses. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that hope is a golden cord that connects me to heaven. I feel as if my head is slumped and my feet are shuffling. Help me, Father, help me to have this cord hold my head high … even in the midst of the storms I am experiencing. Help me, Father, to hold in my heart a dual focus: Your continual Presence and the hope of heaven. These things I ask boldly, through the love and work of Christ Jesus for us, and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
Romans 12:12
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,
who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever;
Psalm 146:5-6
Several years ago at Disney World in Florida, the world-acclaimed happiest place on Earth, I witnessed an amazing phenomenon rivaling a supernatural exorcism. I was watching a five-year-old boy. It was a typical hot and muggy Florida day, late in the afternoon, with long lines everywhere, lots of stimulation, many choices, and some probable letdowns. He was probably off schedule, hungry, and staying up late at night. This kid started having the granddaddy-of-them-all-with-a-cherry-on-top, meltdown (not my kid of course).
Then the most amazing miracle occurred. His parents said these magical words, “If you are good and can quiet down, you can have an ice cream and go swimming after dinner.”
It was like an exorcism was performed. The powerful evil forces that seemed to have such a firm grip on him dramatically retreated … after squaring off with the all-powerful ice cream sundae! Almost instantaneously, he was back to being a normal, well-behaved, and happy Magic Kingdom kid. Why? He now had hope. Hope is such a powerful emotional state. Expectation, trust, wishes, optimism, anticipation, and confident desire are potently influential dimensions of hope. You experience the same phenomena. Even when you are overwhelmed or filled with negativity and it seems like you have no control, you really do. At those times, you need to refocus on the hope you have in Christ.
The cool thing about hope is you actually believe there is a real chance of getting what you hope for. Hope can lift your perspective from weary feet to glorious views of the high road … the road to heaven. Way better than ice cream. How do you live your life? We’re talking about your daily attitude, the lenses you use to view life, your future outlook. Do your heart and daily actions display the ultimate hope that is powerfully alive in you? Or are you having a tantrum because hope is being sucked from your lenses, or seems so distant and out of reach?
Today, focus on this radiant destination, the Mind of Christ on this Earth and eternity in heaven with Confident Desire. This is real hope! When you do, whether the road ahead is rough or smooth becomes less significant. Like the boy at Disney who focused on the destination, it will be easy for you to handle the disruptions of the day. Whatever today’s obstacle is, attack it with the encompassing knowledge that you are getting double desserts … the Holy Spirit in this life, and eternity spent in the personal presence of God. Let real hope clean your lenses. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that hope is a golden cord that connects me to heaven. I feel as if my head is slumped and my feet are shuffling. Help me, Father, help me to have this cord hold my head high … even in the midst of the storms I am experiencing. Help me, Father, to hold in my heart a dual focus: Your continual Presence and the hope of heaven. These things I ask boldly, through the love and work of Christ Jesus for us, and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
Romans 12:12
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,
who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever;
Psalm 146:5-6
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: FEAR: Retreat Or Attack?
Transformational Thought
Fear … of speaking in class or giving a lecture … of blowing a test or an important performance or game … of parasailing … of taking a new job … of confrontation … of setting a healthy boundary … of having someone angry or upset with me. Wow! For so long, FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) really interrupted and crippled my life. Then came the fear about having fear. I was almost paralyzed.
Through honest reflection, self-assessment, therapy, and real examination of how and why I do things, I realized I was hiding my fear … pretending it wasn’t there. When I thought the fear couldn’t get any worse, I discovered that the fear you hide in the recesses of your heart will give birth to the fear of fear … a real monster. The danger of the second fear is that it diverts your focus off the original fear. You see, the first fear was usually planted at a very young age, when we knew little, were very gullible, and weren’t well equipped to handle much stress.
Now as adults, we have the ability to clearly see the original false evidence that restricts our lives. More importantly, we can do something different and better in these same situations. At the very least, if real anxiety exists, we can handle it much better and soothe ourselves in more healthy ways.
But we are usually too lazy, too hurried, or just don’t know how to go back and deeply re-address those old painful FEARS. But when we do re-address them, we now can access and apply the freedom Christ won for us over those FEARS. Let God’s truth into those FEARS, don’t let Satan put out that light. Freedom from FEAR is available for each one of us.
Today, acknowledge that your FEARS are flaming arrows of attack from the evil one and bring your fears out into the Light of Your Lord’s presence where you can deal with them openly. The darkness just gives them more power over you. Identify one thing that upsets, alarms, scares, or threatens you. Examine how it influences your decisions. Tell someone about it and ask them to help you identify the False Evidence that Appears Real in that issue. It can be very freeing just knowing the cycle can be broken. Click here for our powerful workshop that helps you live the life that is WITHIN REACH as you learn to apply God’s teachings to overcome your FEARS.
Prayer
Dear Beloved Father, I confess that fear has a stronghold on me. I know that most fear comes from the enemy’s arrows of attack. I thank You, Father, for Your Word that teaches me to use my shield of faith to extinguish those flaming arrows. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I might build my faith. Help me understand how to dig deep and uncover those FEARS and bathe them in truth. Help me, Father, to bring all fear to You so that we may deal with them together. I pray, Father, that by concentrating on You and being a good steward of my mind, my fearfulness will lose its foothold on me. I pray in the holy name of my Deliverer, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Ephesians 6:16
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Fear … of speaking in class or giving a lecture … of blowing a test or an important performance or game … of parasailing … of taking a new job … of confrontation … of setting a healthy boundary … of having someone angry or upset with me. Wow! For so long, FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) really interrupted and crippled my life. Then came the fear about having fear. I was almost paralyzed.
Through honest reflection, self-assessment, therapy, and real examination of how and why I do things, I realized I was hiding my fear … pretending it wasn’t there. When I thought the fear couldn’t get any worse, I discovered that the fear you hide in the recesses of your heart will give birth to the fear of fear … a real monster. The danger of the second fear is that it diverts your focus off the original fear. You see, the first fear was usually planted at a very young age, when we knew little, were very gullible, and weren’t well equipped to handle much stress.
Now as adults, we have the ability to clearly see the original false evidence that restricts our lives. More importantly, we can do something different and better in these same situations. At the very least, if real anxiety exists, we can handle it much better and soothe ourselves in more healthy ways.
But we are usually too lazy, too hurried, or just don’t know how to go back and deeply re-address those old painful FEARS. But when we do re-address them, we now can access and apply the freedom Christ won for us over those FEARS. Let God’s truth into those FEARS, don’t let Satan put out that light. Freedom from FEAR is available for each one of us.
Today, acknowledge that your FEARS are flaming arrows of attack from the evil one and bring your fears out into the Light of Your Lord’s presence where you can deal with them openly. The darkness just gives them more power over you. Identify one thing that upsets, alarms, scares, or threatens you. Examine how it influences your decisions. Tell someone about it and ask them to help you identify the False Evidence that Appears Real in that issue. It can be very freeing just knowing the cycle can be broken. Click here for our powerful workshop that helps you live the life that is WITHIN REACH as you learn to apply God’s teachings to overcome your FEARS.
Prayer
Dear Beloved Father, I confess that fear has a stronghold on me. I know that most fear comes from the enemy’s arrows of attack. I thank You, Father, for Your Word that teaches me to use my shield of faith to extinguish those flaming arrows. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I might build my faith. Help me understand how to dig deep and uncover those FEARS and bathe them in truth. Help me, Father, to bring all fear to You so that we may deal with them together. I pray, Father, that by concentrating on You and being a good steward of my mind, my fearfulness will lose its foothold on me. I pray in the holy name of my Deliverer, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Ephesians 6:16
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Stepping Stones: Parenting Transition: Praying, Not Prying
Transformational Thought
We just dropped Dominique off at Pitt again. A goodbye filled with both excitement and sadness, and that was a little easier than the first time we did this. This year, she’s moving off campus to a rundown house (that Dominique, Martine, and Auntie Suzanne fixed up really nicely) with 2 other neat Christian girls. She is excited to be more on her own and we are happy with how she is maturing into a responsible adult. Wow, did our relationship with Dominique really grow this summer.
Have you crossed this Stepping Stone of evolving relationship with your child yet? If you have, it’s never too late to apply these principles, and if your kids are younger, never to early to start. The moment, that very moment you said goodbye to the child you were dropping off at college for the first time, will get burned into your mind forever, like so many other milestone moments. It is in mine.
We have taken this child from diapers to diploma … been the primary influence in her life … so many celebrations … some times of sadness and hurt … being involved in most details of her life … disappointments and punishments … thankfully, so much wonderment and fun … with many joys, fears, and surprises filling our memory banks. We want to protect our children from so many dangers and hurts … save them from the wrong turns we took back in our development. We are concerned they no longer have a protector or advocate like us around anymore. Wow, during those two decades, we have seen our child grow so much.
But now it’s your turn to change. The love for your child, when he or she leaves home, hopefully stays pretty constant … but the way you will express it and interact with your child will be significantly different. As you shift roles, be quick to listen and slow to speak. Listen instead of lecture. Begin to create a relationship that fosters communication. Listening first shows you respect them, are giving their ideas and views honor and dignity, are interested in and care for them, and understand that this particular issue is important to them. Most importantly, listening builds a bridge from your island to theirs (even though the geographical distance between your islands is growing) so you can send the important information you want them to hear when they really need it and are receptive.
Today, as you continue to make this transition, try and forget about the litany of “who, what, when” interrogation techniques you have relied on since your child became a teenager. Shift your focus now to a more faith-based approach. Try praying more. Try an inquiry with your child like, “How would you like me to be praying for you today?” Remember, they have an advocate and protector more powerful and skilled, and with better access to God than we ever could dream of doing ourselves. Your decision, choose well. It could be the difference between growing a powerful and lasting relationship with your child (and grandchildren), and growing apart and being marginal people in their busy lives.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray today for all parents who have children in college. I pray that while experiencing this loss, they take this opportunity to grow. They have focused so long on the growth and development of their child, that many times they have neglected themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. Help these parents know, Father, that their jobs as spiritual leaders within their families never ends. Give them the strength and wisdom to minister to their college children. Help them, Father, to move to a mindset of praying … not prying. Give them all your peace and joy as they experience the sadness of separation and loss so they may receive Your mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ our savior; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children live in the truth
3 John 1:4
Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
We just dropped Dominique off at Pitt again. A goodbye filled with both excitement and sadness, and that was a little easier than the first time we did this. This year, she’s moving off campus to a rundown house (that Dominique, Martine, and Auntie Suzanne fixed up really nicely) with 2 other neat Christian girls. She is excited to be more on her own and we are happy with how she is maturing into a responsible adult. Wow, did our relationship with Dominique really grow this summer.
Have you crossed this Stepping Stone of evolving relationship with your child yet? If you have, it’s never too late to apply these principles, and if your kids are younger, never to early to start. The moment, that very moment you said goodbye to the child you were dropping off at college for the first time, will get burned into your mind forever, like so many other milestone moments. It is in mine.
We have taken this child from diapers to diploma … been the primary influence in her life … so many celebrations … some times of sadness and hurt … being involved in most details of her life … disappointments and punishments … thankfully, so much wonderment and fun … with many joys, fears, and surprises filling our memory banks. We want to protect our children from so many dangers and hurts … save them from the wrong turns we took back in our development. We are concerned they no longer have a protector or advocate like us around anymore. Wow, during those two decades, we have seen our child grow so much.
But now it’s your turn to change. The love for your child, when he or she leaves home, hopefully stays pretty constant … but the way you will express it and interact with your child will be significantly different. As you shift roles, be quick to listen and slow to speak. Listen instead of lecture. Begin to create a relationship that fosters communication. Listening first shows you respect them, are giving their ideas and views honor and dignity, are interested in and care for them, and understand that this particular issue is important to them. Most importantly, listening builds a bridge from your island to theirs (even though the geographical distance between your islands is growing) so you can send the important information you want them to hear when they really need it and are receptive.
Today, as you continue to make this transition, try and forget about the litany of “who, what, when” interrogation techniques you have relied on since your child became a teenager. Shift your focus now to a more faith-based approach. Try praying more. Try an inquiry with your child like, “How would you like me to be praying for you today?” Remember, they have an advocate and protector more powerful and skilled, and with better access to God than we ever could dream of doing ourselves. Your decision, choose well. It could be the difference between growing a powerful and lasting relationship with your child (and grandchildren), and growing apart and being marginal people in their busy lives.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray today for all parents who have children in college. I pray that while experiencing this loss, they take this opportunity to grow. They have focused so long on the growth and development of their child, that many times they have neglected themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. Help these parents know, Father, that their jobs as spiritual leaders within their families never ends. Give them the strength and wisdom to minister to their college children. Help them, Father, to move to a mindset of praying … not prying. Give them all your peace and joy as they experience the sadness of separation and loss so they may receive Your mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ our savior; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children live in the truth
3 John 1:4
Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
Monday, July 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; He poured out His life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; He poured out His life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Stepping Stones: Thanks For Our Light Bulb!
Transformational Thought
I am the second oldest of 14 children, all from the same mother and father … those were the days. Not foster or adopted, not step or blended. Just good old-fashioned Catholic. My mother taught my siblings and me the power and value of having a grateful heart. I’d like to share a warm childhood memory of a special lesson my mother taught me.
I grew up in the era when you got free light bulbs each time you paid your electric bill. That really was a different mentality towards customer relations. Often we were not able to pay the bill, remember - 14 kids, so we were always short on light bulbs. I recall, seems like most of the time, when we had only one light bulb for the entire house. During the early evening hours that bulb would burn in the kitchen … the center of our family activity.
When bedtime came around, we had a ritual. My mother would reach up, and using her apron to shield her hand from that hot bulb, she would unscrew it, bring it upstairs, and put it in the hallway. As she reached up to get the bulb in the kitchen, all her little children (like chicks clinging to the mother hen) would gather around her, grabbing onto her house dress, and begin the shuffle to and up the stairs in the dark.
During the journey on the steps I vividly remember my mother teaching us how grateful we should be because we had a light bulb. She told us about all the children in the world who didn’t have one, and so that began our bed-time prayer. “Dear God, thank You for this light bulb.”
My mother had so many reasons to be sad, depressed … to complain, be frustrated or jealous. But she never complained. My siblings and I were so blessed to have a mother who believed deeply in God and taught us all from an early age that the seeds of depression will not take root in a grateful heart.
What kind of lenses do you use to see the light bulbs in your life? Are you grateful for what you have? Or do you feel entitled to more? More money, better health, bigger house, better looks, more control, less pain, less stress, more breaks. You control your lenses, but it takes discipline, practice, and intentionality. Know God more and you will have His lenses.
Today, take account. Seriously sit down and write a list of the many blessings you have … big and small. It is so easy for us to become complacent and start to take God’s care, grace, love, provision, and sacrifice for granted. Make the effort and decision to put on Godly lenses that allow you to develop and maintain a grateful heart. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so spoiled. I have everything I need and yet I always want more. I always seem to find something to complain about. Forgive me, Lord. Help me today and everyday to focus on all the blessings You’ve given me, especially for the adversities that you lovingly use to grow me. Thank You for the shelter of my home, for a bed to sleep in, and for all the light bulbs in my house. I know that gratitude enables me to perceive You more closely and more clearly, and to rejoice in our love-relationship. I know, Father, that I will never be in control of all my life’s circumstances … but I relax in the fact that You are in control … and for that I am eternally grateful. I pray this and all prayers through our brightest Light bulb, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3
I am the second oldest of 14 children, all from the same mother and father … those were the days. Not foster or adopted, not step or blended. Just good old-fashioned Catholic. My mother taught my siblings and me the power and value of having a grateful heart. I’d like to share a warm childhood memory of a special lesson my mother taught me.
I grew up in the era when you got free light bulbs each time you paid your electric bill. That really was a different mentality towards customer relations. Often we were not able to pay the bill, remember - 14 kids, so we were always short on light bulbs. I recall, seems like most of the time, when we had only one light bulb for the entire house. During the early evening hours that bulb would burn in the kitchen … the center of our family activity.
When bedtime came around, we had a ritual. My mother would reach up, and using her apron to shield her hand from that hot bulb, she would unscrew it, bring it upstairs, and put it in the hallway. As she reached up to get the bulb in the kitchen, all her little children (like chicks clinging to the mother hen) would gather around her, grabbing onto her house dress, and begin the shuffle to and up the stairs in the dark.
During the journey on the steps I vividly remember my mother teaching us how grateful we should be because we had a light bulb. She told us about all the children in the world who didn’t have one, and so that began our bed-time prayer. “Dear God, thank You for this light bulb.”
My mother had so many reasons to be sad, depressed … to complain, be frustrated or jealous. But she never complained. My siblings and I were so blessed to have a mother who believed deeply in God and taught us all from an early age that the seeds of depression will not take root in a grateful heart.
What kind of lenses do you use to see the light bulbs in your life? Are you grateful for what you have? Or do you feel entitled to more? More money, better health, bigger house, better looks, more control, less pain, less stress, more breaks. You control your lenses, but it takes discipline, practice, and intentionality. Know God more and you will have His lenses.
Today, take account. Seriously sit down and write a list of the many blessings you have … big and small. It is so easy for us to become complacent and start to take God’s care, grace, love, provision, and sacrifice for granted. Make the effort and decision to put on Godly lenses that allow you to develop and maintain a grateful heart. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so spoiled. I have everything I need and yet I always want more. I always seem to find something to complain about. Forgive me, Lord. Help me today and everyday to focus on all the blessings You’ve given me, especially for the adversities that you lovingly use to grow me. Thank You for the shelter of my home, for a bed to sleep in, and for all the light bulbs in my house. I know that gratitude enables me to perceive You more closely and more clearly, and to rejoice in our love-relationship. I know, Father, that I will never be in control of all my life’s circumstances … but I relax in the fact that You are in control … and for that I am eternally grateful. I pray this and all prayers through our brightest Light bulb, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: Learn to Linger
Transformational Thought
If we are so busy that we neglect our time of lingering around with God, then we are definitely too busy. When we are so busy, usually our responsibilities are the heaviest, and that’s when we need God the most. So something needs to change. But where do we start?
We can learn from Jesus. During the time He walked on earth, His responsibility was greater than any of us could imagine, while He also knew His time was extremely limited. But He never let all the "doing" He had on His plate interfere with His time with His Father. As we can see in today's scripture, He left the crowds…and even the disciples…to spend time alone with His Father, our Father. He lingered in prayer.
When we think we are too busy to spend quality time with God…praying and meditating on His Word…we are really fooling ourselves. The amazing paradox is that only when we linger with the Father will everything else in our life can actually fall into place. It is only when we spend time with Him that we can overcome our hurry sickness we discussed yesterday.
How busy are you? Do you have days when you feel you can barely "keep your head above water"? How has the busyness affected your personal relationship with God? Have you put your time with Him on the back burner…an after thought to take care of when you get a chance? Or worse yet, are you neglecting quiet time with God altogether?
During one of Jesus' visits to the home of Mary and Martha, Mary lingered at the feet of Jesus while Martha worked frantically in the kitchen, trying to prepare a meal that was just right. She complained to Jesus that Mary wasn't helping her and urged Him to send Mary into the kitchen to help. Here is how Jesus responded:
But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42
Martha was letting the details of doing everything just right control her. Mary had learned to linger at the feet of Jesus.
Today, learn to just be with God! Linger with Him, even though you might think you need to move on to the next activity of life. Think about what Jesus did for you and why. What can your response be to His love and sacrifice for you? Don’t get so caught up with the minutiae of the world and your need for satisfaction now. Spend time getting to know who He is and why He died for you. Then listen to Him. WITHIN REACH helps motivate you to spend time with and pay attention to God’s instructions and will.
Prayer
Father, I know I've been neglecting my quiet time with You. I realize now that the more I have neglected You, the more I've let the busy details of everyday living control me. My priorities have been out of order, and I have become more and more frustrated. Please forgive me and help me learn to linger before You. Give me clearer lenses to view how great You are and how little and unimportant everything else in this world is. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone.
Matthew 14:23
If we are so busy that we neglect our time of lingering around with God, then we are definitely too busy. When we are so busy, usually our responsibilities are the heaviest, and that’s when we need God the most. So something needs to change. But where do we start?
We can learn from Jesus. During the time He walked on earth, His responsibility was greater than any of us could imagine, while He also knew His time was extremely limited. But He never let all the "doing" He had on His plate interfere with His time with His Father. As we can see in today's scripture, He left the crowds…and even the disciples…to spend time alone with His Father, our Father. He lingered in prayer.
When we think we are too busy to spend quality time with God…praying and meditating on His Word…we are really fooling ourselves. The amazing paradox is that only when we linger with the Father will everything else in our life can actually fall into place. It is only when we spend time with Him that we can overcome our hurry sickness we discussed yesterday.
How busy are you? Do you have days when you feel you can barely "keep your head above water"? How has the busyness affected your personal relationship with God? Have you put your time with Him on the back burner…an after thought to take care of when you get a chance? Or worse yet, are you neglecting quiet time with God altogether?
During one of Jesus' visits to the home of Mary and Martha, Mary lingered at the feet of Jesus while Martha worked frantically in the kitchen, trying to prepare a meal that was just right. She complained to Jesus that Mary wasn't helping her and urged Him to send Mary into the kitchen to help. Here is how Jesus responded:
But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42
Martha was letting the details of doing everything just right control her. Mary had learned to linger at the feet of Jesus.
Today, learn to just be with God! Linger with Him, even though you might think you need to move on to the next activity of life. Think about what Jesus did for you and why. What can your response be to His love and sacrifice for you? Don’t get so caught up with the minutiae of the world and your need for satisfaction now. Spend time getting to know who He is and why He died for you. Then listen to Him. WITHIN REACH helps motivate you to spend time with and pay attention to God’s instructions and will.
Prayer
Father, I know I've been neglecting my quiet time with You. I realize now that the more I have neglected You, the more I've let the busy details of everyday living control me. My priorities have been out of order, and I have become more and more frustrated. Please forgive me and help me learn to linger before You. Give me clearer lenses to view how great You are and how little and unimportant everything else in this world is. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone.
Matthew 14:23
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: Hurry Sickness
Transformational Thought
Just before my dad died, he had the opportunity to speak privately with each of his 14 children. He offered his last bits of advice to each of us. Some of my siblings got some heavy messages … but mine was really pretty short and simple. My dad told me that I needed to slow down, not always be in such a hurry. Although simple for him to say, and simple for me to understand, it isn’t so simple to do. (Don’t a lot of aspects of life fall into that category?)
At a business conference last week, I actually saw a man walking down the hallway with two cell phones … one in each ear. Do you ever find yourself texting several people at once, talking to two or three people at a time on the phone, and all-the-while Googling something on your computer? And then we demand instant results. Faster internet. Faster food. Faster answers. We want it … and we want it now! SO HURRY!
We juggle careers, marriage, family responsibilities, social obligations, hobbies, church and volunteer activities. While we constantly hurry to fit in more and more, we are teaching our kids to do the same. School kids fall in bed exhausted after homework, sports, dance, and a myriad of activities. Often times, they never got a chance to just relax and play.
Why do we speed up the merry-go-round? Our insecurity and the fear of missing something, falling behind, or being found out to be less than we want others to see us, or our pride in wanting our will be done, and then not resting because someone else’s plan will control us. So Satan gives us an answer: Hurry! One of the biggest enemies to our spiritual maturity is hurry. We are so busy, so distracted, and so preoccupied that we settle for something less than the authentic Christian life. In our fast-paced culture, there is an epidemic of “hurry sickness”.
If you feel you are always running behind and wish your day could be 30 hours long, you are suffering from hurry sickness. The results? Constant stress. Frustration. Fatigue. Strained relationships. Feelings of incompetence. Mixed-up priorities. And most important … neglecting time with God. That neglect can rob you of the rest and peace He wants to give you.
In today's scripture, God calls us to cease striving and know that He is God. In other words, stop trying so hard to do it all in your time and your own way. Stop fighting and struggling. Remember that He is God … and you are not. We need to spend quiet time with Him. We need to remember that He is in control. He wants us to put Him first and to rest in Him ... to lean on Him for help. We need to let Him guide us in order to find balance for our lives.
Today, when you are in a hurry, STOP! Ask yourself, “Why?” “Is this situation really life-and- death?” “I am so rushed and frenzied, have I really even examined why I am doing this task?” Focus on Him and His plan … not our own. Only then will we be able to step off the treadmill of hurry and onto the path of Christ-likeness and experience His peace. Your decision, choose wisely!
Prayer
Father, I am tired of being overly busy. I have so much going on. I know I am neglecting some of the most important things. At the top of that list is my time with You. Please forgive me. Help me to get my life and time in balance. Help me to remember to focus on You and to depend on Your strength. Please heal me of this hurry sickness. Help me tolerate the discomfort that is the engine for my hurry and instead turn to You for comfort, rest, and answers. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Cease striving and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
Just before my dad died, he had the opportunity to speak privately with each of his 14 children. He offered his last bits of advice to each of us. Some of my siblings got some heavy messages … but mine was really pretty short and simple. My dad told me that I needed to slow down, not always be in such a hurry. Although simple for him to say, and simple for me to understand, it isn’t so simple to do. (Don’t a lot of aspects of life fall into that category?)
At a business conference last week, I actually saw a man walking down the hallway with two cell phones … one in each ear. Do you ever find yourself texting several people at once, talking to two or three people at a time on the phone, and all-the-while Googling something on your computer? And then we demand instant results. Faster internet. Faster food. Faster answers. We want it … and we want it now! SO HURRY!
We juggle careers, marriage, family responsibilities, social obligations, hobbies, church and volunteer activities. While we constantly hurry to fit in more and more, we are teaching our kids to do the same. School kids fall in bed exhausted after homework, sports, dance, and a myriad of activities. Often times, they never got a chance to just relax and play.
Why do we speed up the merry-go-round? Our insecurity and the fear of missing something, falling behind, or being found out to be less than we want others to see us, or our pride in wanting our will be done, and then not resting because someone else’s plan will control us. So Satan gives us an answer: Hurry! One of the biggest enemies to our spiritual maturity is hurry. We are so busy, so distracted, and so preoccupied that we settle for something less than the authentic Christian life. In our fast-paced culture, there is an epidemic of “hurry sickness”.
If you feel you are always running behind and wish your day could be 30 hours long, you are suffering from hurry sickness. The results? Constant stress. Frustration. Fatigue. Strained relationships. Feelings of incompetence. Mixed-up priorities. And most important … neglecting time with God. That neglect can rob you of the rest and peace He wants to give you.
In today's scripture, God calls us to cease striving and know that He is God. In other words, stop trying so hard to do it all in your time and your own way. Stop fighting and struggling. Remember that He is God … and you are not. We need to spend quiet time with Him. We need to remember that He is in control. He wants us to put Him first and to rest in Him ... to lean on Him for help. We need to let Him guide us in order to find balance for our lives.
Today, when you are in a hurry, STOP! Ask yourself, “Why?” “Is this situation really life-and- death?” “I am so rushed and frenzied, have I really even examined why I am doing this task?” Focus on Him and His plan … not our own. Only then will we be able to step off the treadmill of hurry and onto the path of Christ-likeness and experience His peace. Your decision, choose wisely!
Prayer
Father, I am tired of being overly busy. I have so much going on. I know I am neglecting some of the most important things. At the top of that list is my time with You. Please forgive me. Help me to get my life and time in balance. Help me to remember to focus on You and to depend on Your strength. Please heal me of this hurry sickness. Help me tolerate the discomfort that is the engine for my hurry and instead turn to You for comfort, rest, and answers. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Cease striving and know that I am God."
Psalm 46:10
Monday, July 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: Shoulda…Woulda…Coulda!
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, my wife was being very helpful and kind to friends and their daughter after a sleepover with our daughter. The girls had a great time, and my wife was happy for them, so she offered another playdate for the next day. She did so many good things in those moments with such a great attitude and heart. Instead of praising her I said, “You should have looked at our schedule before over-scheduling our day.”
Striving for perfection, solely by human effort, is a frustrating task. We tend to load ourselves down with “should's” and “should have's.” I should do this or should have decided that. I should have done it this way. I should read my Bible more. I should be more loving …
We can also project this focus onto others: He should be more sensitive. She should be more respectful. They should be more open. That person should pay more attention to what I do. They should do what I want and need them to do.
When our focus, or worse yet, our need, is human perfection, we will feel frustrated … and that frustration usually leads to guilt or resentment. Resentment can contribute to a critical and judgmental attitude toward others and ourselves. This mind-set can lead to bitterness, making forgiveness difficult to give and accept … not a pretty picture.
You see, taking stock of our shortcomings is important and necessary, but we have to look at our goal and how are we going to use that data. If we are objective and use it to move forward, get better at life, and give hope to the future, then that’s great. If we are using the data to beat ourselves up, hold ourselves back, become fearful of trying again, and sucking hope from the future, well that’s the trap we often fall into. Do you engage in constant should's and should have's? Second-guessing what you have done and wishing you could do better? Do you focus on how imperfect you are? And how about your attitude toward others? Do you tend to be a judge?
We often want to hold onto our opinions about how the world should be and to get everyone else in line ourselves … with our way. But Jesus wants us to conform ourselves to His example. This is the one “should” we ought to do. We should follow Him and work toward the Mind and Actions of Christ.
Today, evaluate the areas in your life where your wrong “should haves” are enslaving you or others to a distorted reality and are becoming an idol. Examine the areas in your life where you find it difficult to let go of your way and follow Jesus' example. Jesus promises that if you will trade your agenda for His, you will find true, refreshing, and everlasting life.
Prayer
Father, I know I tend to think my way is the only right way. I try to make myself perfect by my standards. I judge others because I expect them to be perfect … by my standards. Help me to conform to your standards. Help me to follow Your example. Help me to walk in love, not unrealistic expectations. I pray in the name of the One I will follow; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever is bent on saving his life shall lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake shall find it.”
Matthew 16:24-25
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Yesterday, my wife was being very helpful and kind to friends and their daughter after a sleepover with our daughter. The girls had a great time, and my wife was happy for them, so she offered another playdate for the next day. She did so many good things in those moments with such a great attitude and heart. Instead of praising her I said, “You should have looked at our schedule before over-scheduling our day.”
Striving for perfection, solely by human effort, is a frustrating task. We tend to load ourselves down with “should's” and “should have's.” I should do this or should have decided that. I should have done it this way. I should read my Bible more. I should be more loving …
We can also project this focus onto others: He should be more sensitive. She should be more respectful. They should be more open. That person should pay more attention to what I do. They should do what I want and need them to do.
When our focus, or worse yet, our need, is human perfection, we will feel frustrated … and that frustration usually leads to guilt or resentment. Resentment can contribute to a critical and judgmental attitude toward others and ourselves. This mind-set can lead to bitterness, making forgiveness difficult to give and accept … not a pretty picture.
You see, taking stock of our shortcomings is important and necessary, but we have to look at our goal and how are we going to use that data. If we are objective and use it to move forward, get better at life, and give hope to the future, then that’s great. If we are using the data to beat ourselves up, hold ourselves back, become fearful of trying again, and sucking hope from the future, well that’s the trap we often fall into. Do you engage in constant should's and should have's? Second-guessing what you have done and wishing you could do better? Do you focus on how imperfect you are? And how about your attitude toward others? Do you tend to be a judge?
We often want to hold onto our opinions about how the world should be and to get everyone else in line ourselves … with our way. But Jesus wants us to conform ourselves to His example. This is the one “should” we ought to do. We should follow Him and work toward the Mind and Actions of Christ.
Today, evaluate the areas in your life where your wrong “should haves” are enslaving you or others to a distorted reality and are becoming an idol. Examine the areas in your life where you find it difficult to let go of your way and follow Jesus' example. Jesus promises that if you will trade your agenda for His, you will find true, refreshing, and everlasting life.
Prayer
Father, I know I tend to think my way is the only right way. I try to make myself perfect by my standards. I judge others because I expect them to be perfect … by my standards. Help me to conform to your standards. Help me to follow Your example. Help me to walk in love, not unrealistic expectations. I pray in the name of the One I will follow; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to be My disciple, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever is bent on saving his life shall lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake shall find it.”
Matthew 16:24-25
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: Judging Others … Or Exposing Yourself?
Transformational Thought
We are all so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses ... not lawyers and judges. So, as we understand our calling more fully, we will become more patient and understanding with others.
When we take the role of judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, or making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our own heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of our insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affect the lenses we use to see life, others, and ultimately God.
When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess, instead of being quick to speak. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that causes your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.
During this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy ... whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, or sadness. Whatever the feeling that prompts you to judge, trust God to comfort you and give you power to prevent the emotion from ruling you. Then exercise that power, settle yourself, and examine with your mouth shut.
Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak ... and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God, not as a judge. Let the judging happen in your own heart first, then disciple others next. Self-reflection will clear the smudge off your lenses and the truth will free you from carrying so much baggage. WITHIN REACH helps you do this. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become impatient with others ... especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding, I become judgmental and angry ... saying things I wish I didn’t. Help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Help me to see others as You see them ... tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness ... not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be as patient toward others as You are with me. Help me to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to show me about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today. I pray in the name of the one who was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
We are all so quick to judge. And as judges, we can be impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses ... not lawyers and judges. So, as we understand our calling more fully, we will become more patient and understanding with others.
When we take the role of judge without the intent to love and grow the other person, we are really revealing our own failures. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, or making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our own heart. This harsh attitude reveals some of our insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affect the lenses we use to see life, others, and ultimately God.
When you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess, instead of being quick to speak. Do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that causes your view of others, yourself, and God to orbit around it. The time you spend in self-assessment can be incredibly revealing and relieving.
During this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy ... whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, or sadness. Whatever the feeling that prompts you to judge, trust God to comfort you and give you power to prevent the emotion from ruling you. Then exercise that power, settle yourself, and examine with your mouth shut.
Today, be quick to listen and slow to speak ... and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God, not as a judge. Let the judging happen in your own heart first, then disciple others next. Self-reflection will clear the smudge off your lenses and the truth will free you from carrying so much baggage. WITHIN REACH helps you do this. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, I confess to You, my Lord, that I have become impatient with others ... especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding, I become judgmental and angry ... saying things I wish I didn’t. Help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Help me to see others as You see them ... tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness ... not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be as patient toward others as You are with me. Help me to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to show me about my own heart. Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today. I pray in the name of the one who was judged for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Light Do Others See In You?
Transformational Thought
I always marvel at how our kids resemble my wife and me in so many ways, and I am not just talking about physical characteristics. Making lists, the way they talk about certain situations, word choice, sense of humor and what we laugh about, and attitudes about money to name a few. Our kids often become echoes of who we are.
The one line that really gets me is when my girls say, “Dad, that is exactly what Pappy would say.” When I hear it I realize, 1. They are really watching and noticing what I do, and 2. As a teen, I vowed I would be different than my dad, but I am probably more similar than dissimilar because I was observing him (I also realized he wasn’t as weird as I thought as a teen!).
Like it or not, the way you lead your life is an example to many: your children, spouse, family, friends, co-workers. People are watching, and they can’t help it. Our mind is so powerful … it is like radar … so sensitive … picking up all the activity in our environment, whether we are consciously aware of it or not. So the big question is, “What do they ‘see’ when they see you?”
As Christians, we have a light in us that is powerful … bright … vibrant … and can truly transform our mind and behavior. But it can also be transforming for others as well. Do others see your Heavenly Father in the way you act, talk, and think? We are called to let our light shine, not hide it under a bushel. What are the ways that we hide it?
We know the Holy Spirit is powerful and perfect. But we aren’t perfect and don’t shine His pure light. So why is that? We hide our light by actually getting in the way of the Holy Spirit and His work in our life. Our past, with the distortions and lies Satan has presented to us and we have accepted, causes us to act like the captain of our ship. We don’t submit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit or follow His commands and direction.
Today, look at how you handle adversity. Are you following the Holy Spirit’s teaching and direction or ignoring Him and doing it your way? How much light are you shining to the world? Alternatively, think of all the blessings you have received. Think about how your destiny and life have changed since accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Let His light shine brightly through you so that as the scripture tells us, Many will see you and put their trust in the Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, You have performed so many miracles for me and through me. Thank You, Lord. All Glory to You, Lord. You have truly lifted me out of the pit of destruction. Help me get out of Your way as You work through me and in me. Give me a humble spirit that accepts You as my captain. I pray, Lord, that You will use me today to further Your Kingdom; that You will use me in ways that I don’t even understand. I have close family members and friends who remain in that pit. Let them see You through me today, and allow me to help them to put their trust in You. I pray in the name of the Light of the world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He lifted me out of a pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, and he set my feet upon a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; Many shall see and put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:1-3
Oh Lord my God, You have done many miracles for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds I could never come to the end of them.
Psalm 40:5
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16
No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a bushel, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light."
Luke 11:33-36
I always marvel at how our kids resemble my wife and me in so many ways, and I am not just talking about physical characteristics. Making lists, the way they talk about certain situations, word choice, sense of humor and what we laugh about, and attitudes about money to name a few. Our kids often become echoes of who we are.
The one line that really gets me is when my girls say, “Dad, that is exactly what Pappy would say.” When I hear it I realize, 1. They are really watching and noticing what I do, and 2. As a teen, I vowed I would be different than my dad, but I am probably more similar than dissimilar because I was observing him (I also realized he wasn’t as weird as I thought as a teen!).
Like it or not, the way you lead your life is an example to many: your children, spouse, family, friends, co-workers. People are watching, and they can’t help it. Our mind is so powerful … it is like radar … so sensitive … picking up all the activity in our environment, whether we are consciously aware of it or not. So the big question is, “What do they ‘see’ when they see you?”
As Christians, we have a light in us that is powerful … bright … vibrant … and can truly transform our mind and behavior. But it can also be transforming for others as well. Do others see your Heavenly Father in the way you act, talk, and think? We are called to let our light shine, not hide it under a bushel. What are the ways that we hide it?
We know the Holy Spirit is powerful and perfect. But we aren’t perfect and don’t shine His pure light. So why is that? We hide our light by actually getting in the way of the Holy Spirit and His work in our life. Our past, with the distortions and lies Satan has presented to us and we have accepted, causes us to act like the captain of our ship. We don’t submit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit or follow His commands and direction.
Today, look at how you handle adversity. Are you following the Holy Spirit’s teaching and direction or ignoring Him and doing it your way? How much light are you shining to the world? Alternatively, think of all the blessings you have received. Think about how your destiny and life have changed since accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Let His light shine brightly through you so that as the scripture tells us, Many will see you and put their trust in the Lord.
Prayer
Dear Father, You have performed so many miracles for me and through me. Thank You, Lord. All Glory to You, Lord. You have truly lifted me out of the pit of destruction. Help me get out of Your way as You work through me and in me. Give me a humble spirit that accepts You as my captain. I pray, Lord, that You will use me today to further Your Kingdom; that You will use me in ways that I don’t even understand. I have close family members and friends who remain in that pit. Let them see You through me today, and allow me to help them to put their trust in You. I pray in the name of the Light of the world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He lifted me out of a pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, and he set my feet upon a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; Many shall see and put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:1-3
Oh Lord my God, You have done many miracles for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds I could never come to the end of them.
Psalm 40:5
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16
No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or under a bushel, but on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light."
Luke 11:33-36
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: People Pleaser or God Pleaser?
Transformational Thought
I love to please my daughters. Who doesn’t want to see their kids happy, especially if we are the one bringing them delight? But I also want to see them safe and healthy. So when they make unhealthy or dysfunctional requests, it is easy for me to say “NO!” … even though they aren’t pleased, or are actually upset, or cry because of my answer.
Don’t believe me? What about when they ask … for their third bowl of ice cream … for the keys to the car and they’re only 13 … to stay out to midnight on a school night when they are 14 … to camp out with a boyfriend, alone, when they are 16. All these will easily get a “no” answer from me regardless of how displeased my beloved daughters are.
When fellow adults make dysfunctional requests, for some reason, for most of us, it is harder to say “no”. Whether I think they know more than I do about the particular situation … or they know what’s best for themselves more than I do … or I fear and hate being uneasy when people are mad or upset at me … or I fear their rejection … or I need their approval … or I need to be needed or accepted. Many “I need…” or “I fear…” lenses, based on a me-centered mentality, significantly interfere with our perspective, and lead to disrespectful, dysfunctional, or even sinful relational conduct.
When we focus on trying to please people by acting dysfunctionally, we are not serving God. If we are truly His servants, then our primary goal will be to please Him first, not others.
When Jesus lived on earth, many who believed in Him would not admit their faith. Because these people were more concerned about personal safety and other people’s opinions rather than God’s opinion, they did not live out their faith. Likewise, when we live as people-pleasers, we are demonstrating the fact that we are more concerned about people’s approval instead of God’s … and therefore our walk with Him will always be hindered.
Today, ask yourself: What is my greatest perceived need or greatest perceived threat when someone makes a request of me … or when I feel the need to people-please in a relationship? Whom am I trying to please ... God or the person? Maybe most of your life is lived to please God, but there is still some situation … or some person … that sparks you to be a people-pleaser. God wants us to put Him first in all things … we cannot please Him by placing more importance on people’s opinions … or our needs … over His.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to please You. Forgive me for the times I let my desire to be accepted by a person outweigh my desire to please You. Thank You for Your love and for accepting me unconditionally. Help me to be a better servant, doing the right thing, not the people-pleasing thing, as I grow healthy relationships with others. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who was the perfect servant, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I am not trying to please people. I want to please God. Do you think I am trying to please people? If I were doing that, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Galatians 1:10
Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.
John 12:42-43
I love to please my daughters. Who doesn’t want to see their kids happy, especially if we are the one bringing them delight? But I also want to see them safe and healthy. So when they make unhealthy or dysfunctional requests, it is easy for me to say “NO!” … even though they aren’t pleased, or are actually upset, or cry because of my answer.
Don’t believe me? What about when they ask … for their third bowl of ice cream … for the keys to the car and they’re only 13 … to stay out to midnight on a school night when they are 14 … to camp out with a boyfriend, alone, when they are 16. All these will easily get a “no” answer from me regardless of how displeased my beloved daughters are.
When fellow adults make dysfunctional requests, for some reason, for most of us, it is harder to say “no”. Whether I think they know more than I do about the particular situation … or they know what’s best for themselves more than I do … or I fear and hate being uneasy when people are mad or upset at me … or I fear their rejection … or I need their approval … or I need to be needed or accepted. Many “I need…” or “I fear…” lenses, based on a me-centered mentality, significantly interfere with our perspective, and lead to disrespectful, dysfunctional, or even sinful relational conduct.
When we focus on trying to please people by acting dysfunctionally, we are not serving God. If we are truly His servants, then our primary goal will be to please Him first, not others.
When Jesus lived on earth, many who believed in Him would not admit their faith. Because these people were more concerned about personal safety and other people’s opinions rather than God’s opinion, they did not live out their faith. Likewise, when we live as people-pleasers, we are demonstrating the fact that we are more concerned about people’s approval instead of God’s … and therefore our walk with Him will always be hindered.
Today, ask yourself: What is my greatest perceived need or greatest perceived threat when someone makes a request of me … or when I feel the need to people-please in a relationship? Whom am I trying to please ... God or the person? Maybe most of your life is lived to please God, but there is still some situation … or some person … that sparks you to be a people-pleaser. God wants us to put Him first in all things … we cannot please Him by placing more importance on people’s opinions … or our needs … over His.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to please You. Forgive me for the times I let my desire to be accepted by a person outweigh my desire to please You. Thank You for Your love and for accepting me unconditionally. Help me to be a better servant, doing the right thing, not the people-pleasing thing, as I grow healthy relationships with others. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who was the perfect servant, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I am not trying to please people. I want to please God. Do you think I am trying to please people? If I were doing that, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Galatians 1:10
Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.
John 12:42-43
Monday, April 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: You Didn’t Get a Brain Transplant?
Transformational Thought
As we come to Jesus and begin to understand who we are in Him, it is time to learn from our past, put it behind, and move on ahead. Paul makes it clear in today’s scripture that he is on a journey. He knows he is not perfect, but he determines to forget what used to motivate him … to forget his past achievements. He reaches forward … to become all Jesus wants him to be. He is moving in the right direction, toward Jesus … and he is not turning back.
That’s where we need to be too, on a journey toward Jesus, to accomplish His purpose for us. In the verse for today, Paul talks about forgetting, but what does he really mean? He is not talking about having amnesia about the past. Some Christians will tell you, “You are a new creation, don’t look at your past, only look forward.”
Now, listen closely as this is a very important point. It seems clear and silly when I say it, but it is a powerful point with many ramifications that clarify the process of journeying for the prize. When we accepted Christ as our personal savior, we didn’t get a brain transplant. If we were totally transformed at that point of salvation, we would never have sinned again. How sad, that as believers, we do still sin. So there must be something we have to do to allow the Holy Spirit to complete His task job in us.
In order to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us, one thing we need to do is look at how our past adversely influences present decision-making. We need to forget the old motivations, goals, and pursuits we once had … and stop conforming to the world’s system.
Our past is what God allowed in our lives so we would draw close to Him. Another outcome is to prepare us for the good works He has planned for us. Many items from life prior to my commitment to Christ are used by God in my ministry to others. This is what God intended. Forgetting my past would cause me to miss opportunities to turn what Satan intended for bad into something God can use for His glory.
But when we look at our past, we do need to process it with a very specific focus on Jesus and God’s plans and goals. That will transform the lenses so we can take every thought captive and allow God to come in to those old areas of hurt. Then healing can occur … and truth will replace the ripples of distortion that Satan wants fogging our lenses.
Today, don’t ruminate about the past, but don’t ignore it as if you had a brain transplant. Your past is affecting your decisions now, so examine your decisions today to understand how your past affects them. This will show you what is at the center of your heart. Your past will reveal why, in certain situations, other things are at the center of your heart, instead of God. WITHIN REACH is our curriculum that helps you examine and understand your decision-making process, and become a Godly decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear God, Thank You for Your healing and forgiveness. Help me to use my past hurts for my growth. Do not allow them to interfere with the growth You have for me. Show me how to keep my eyes on Jesus as I move forward along the path You have for me. Help me to practice this skill regularly. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has made everything right, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
As we come to Jesus and begin to understand who we are in Him, it is time to learn from our past, put it behind, and move on ahead. Paul makes it clear in today’s scripture that he is on a journey. He knows he is not perfect, but he determines to forget what used to motivate him … to forget his past achievements. He reaches forward … to become all Jesus wants him to be. He is moving in the right direction, toward Jesus … and he is not turning back.
That’s where we need to be too, on a journey toward Jesus, to accomplish His purpose for us. In the verse for today, Paul talks about forgetting, but what does he really mean? He is not talking about having amnesia about the past. Some Christians will tell you, “You are a new creation, don’t look at your past, only look forward.”
Now, listen closely as this is a very important point. It seems clear and silly when I say it, but it is a powerful point with many ramifications that clarify the process of journeying for the prize. When we accepted Christ as our personal savior, we didn’t get a brain transplant. If we were totally transformed at that point of salvation, we would never have sinned again. How sad, that as believers, we do still sin. So there must be something we have to do to allow the Holy Spirit to complete His task job in us.
In order to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us, one thing we need to do is look at how our past adversely influences present decision-making. We need to forget the old motivations, goals, and pursuits we once had … and stop conforming to the world’s system.
Our past is what God allowed in our lives so we would draw close to Him. Another outcome is to prepare us for the good works He has planned for us. Many items from life prior to my commitment to Christ are used by God in my ministry to others. This is what God intended. Forgetting my past would cause me to miss opportunities to turn what Satan intended for bad into something God can use for His glory.
But when we look at our past, we do need to process it with a very specific focus on Jesus and God’s plans and goals. That will transform the lenses so we can take every thought captive and allow God to come in to those old areas of hurt. Then healing can occur … and truth will replace the ripples of distortion that Satan wants fogging our lenses.
Today, don’t ruminate about the past, but don’t ignore it as if you had a brain transplant. Your past is affecting your decisions now, so examine your decisions today to understand how your past affects them. This will show you what is at the center of your heart. Your past will reveal why, in certain situations, other things are at the center of your heart, instead of God. WITHIN REACH is our curriculum that helps you examine and understand your decision-making process, and become a Godly decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear God, Thank You for Your healing and forgiveness. Help me to use my past hurts for my growth. Do not allow them to interfere with the growth You have for me. Show me how to keep my eyes on Jesus as I move forward along the path You have for me. Help me to practice this skill regularly. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has made everything right, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Claim The Victory, It’s Already Won!
Transformational Thought
Sometimes in the midst of a great day, all of a sudden, I will feel a cold, wet blanket come over me. A memory from my past creeps into my mind … then it feels like all the goodness is gone. Shame, guilt, and regret instantly flood my mind and seek to control my heart.
Perhaps you have suffered abuse from a parent or spouse or another “trusted” person. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic personal loss. Or perhaps you have made some poor choices in the past and are suffering the consequences. It doesn’t have to be a “major” trauma either. Most hurts for a 6 y.o. are somewhat “traumatic” since we usually don’t have very good interpreters putting the hurt in proper context for us.
Read today’s scripture carefully. God promises that despite all these obstacles of life, you can have overwhelming victory through Christ. Come to Him for help … and forgiveness. If you let Christ in, nothing … absolutely nothing … can separate you from His love. No reason all that stuff from the past should steal another minute of your joy and happiness. A victory doesn’t just mean to win … it means a decisive win … a win that leaves no doubt.
It is easy to look at scriptures about God’s love and think, “Yes, God loves all people.” But in our innermost being we don’t include ourselves in the “all people.” We think, “I’m different … I’m just not good enough…That’s alright for other people, but I’ve made too many mistakes. I’ve got special circumstances. It’s too late for me.” We need to examine and search for the lies that keep us feeling defeated with no chance of winning in this life on Earth.
God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that you are included. No matter what you have done. No matter what other people say or think about you. No matter what you think about yourself. God loves you. Jesus died for you. Nothing will ever separate you from His love.
Today, stop when you struggle. Tell yourself “God loves me and He proved it.” Then consider how that changes your view of the moment. Walk with Jesus and you can have overwhelming victory over every problem and obstacle in your life. The problems might still be there … the obstacles may still come. But you won’t have to face them alone or have a defeated attitude and perspective. God will empower you to overcome.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You that these promises are not just for other people … but they are really for me. Thank You for your unconditional love. Thank You that no matter what happened in the past or comes my way in the future, I can walk in victory through Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who made my victory possible, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I know that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow … not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below … indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39
Sometimes in the midst of a great day, all of a sudden, I will feel a cold, wet blanket come over me. A memory from my past creeps into my mind … then it feels like all the goodness is gone. Shame, guilt, and regret instantly flood my mind and seek to control my heart.
Perhaps you have suffered abuse from a parent or spouse or another “trusted” person. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic personal loss. Or perhaps you have made some poor choices in the past and are suffering the consequences. It doesn’t have to be a “major” trauma either. Most hurts for a 6 y.o. are somewhat “traumatic” since we usually don’t have very good interpreters putting the hurt in proper context for us.
Read today’s scripture carefully. God promises that despite all these obstacles of life, you can have overwhelming victory through Christ. Come to Him for help … and forgiveness. If you let Christ in, nothing … absolutely nothing … can separate you from His love. No reason all that stuff from the past should steal another minute of your joy and happiness. A victory doesn’t just mean to win … it means a decisive win … a win that leaves no doubt.
It is easy to look at scriptures about God’s love and think, “Yes, God loves all people.” But in our innermost being we don’t include ourselves in the “all people.” We think, “I’m different … I’m just not good enough…That’s alright for other people, but I’ve made too many mistakes. I’ve got special circumstances. It’s too late for me.” We need to examine and search for the lies that keep us feeling defeated with no chance of winning in this life on Earth.
God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that you are included. No matter what you have done. No matter what other people say or think about you. No matter what you think about yourself. God loves you. Jesus died for you. Nothing will ever separate you from His love.
Today, stop when you struggle. Tell yourself “God loves me and He proved it.” Then consider how that changes your view of the moment. Walk with Jesus and you can have overwhelming victory over every problem and obstacle in your life. The problems might still be there … the obstacles may still come. But you won’t have to face them alone or have a defeated attitude and perspective. God will empower you to overcome.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You that these promises are not just for other people … but they are really for me. Thank You for your unconditional love. Thank You that no matter what happened in the past or comes my way in the future, I can walk in victory through Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who made my victory possible, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I know that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow … not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below … indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: How Do You See Yourself?
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Transformational Thought
Throughout her high school years, my daughter volunteered at a shelter for abused women and their children. Through her work there, I was exposed to how prevalent and devastating domestic abuse is in America. It cripples not only the direct victim, but also abuser and the people who witness it, usually the kids.
Abuse takes many forms … but it is almost always debilitating. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million women are battered each year by their husbands or partners. Three million reports of child abuse are made every year just in the United States. But experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is three times greater than reported. Many children are suffering from this hidden epidemic. While these are U.S. figures, these problems exist around the world, and in most places at much higher rates.
Abuse is a sin that dishonors God and disrespects His creation of life. Obviously, physical danger exists. Whether the abuse is psychological, physical or verbal, the most chronic damage is that it distorts the lenses we need to see life accurately, from God’s perspective. We need eyes that see the truth, and abuse does the exact opposite.
Abuse erodes confidence and self-esteem. We begin believing what we are told about ourselves; we think that anyone treated violently and abusively must deserve it. These beliefs are often accepted early in life and become part of the initial lenses through which we see and process all information. Even if abuse occurs when we are older, the intensity of the experience makes it a formidable opponent to seeing ourselves as God sees us, our God-image.
Abuse communicates “I am worthless”… “I am an object to be used by you whenever you want” … “dignity, respect, and honor are not for me”… “I don’t deserve or accomplish anything in life”. These distortions and interpretations form part of the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives.
Today, ask, “How do I see myself?” “Is my self-image based on other people’s words and actions toward me? Or is it based on the truth of God’s Word, a God-image?” God knew you before you were even born. He created you … and His works are wonderful. Let Jesus help take your eyes off yourself and begin the process of putting your eyes on Him. He is able to heal our eyes, to see ourselves as He sees us.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for this reminder that You formed me and made me … and that Your works are wonderful. I must admit, though, sometimes I don’t feel as though I’m wonderful at all. In fact, sometimes I feel as though I don’t deserve anything good. Help me to really grasp what Jesus did for me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
Matthew 13:15,16
Transformational Thought
Throughout her high school years, my daughter volunteered at a shelter for abused women and their children. Through her work there, I was exposed to how prevalent and devastating domestic abuse is in America. It cripples not only the direct victim, but also abuser and the people who witness it, usually the kids.
Abuse takes many forms … but it is almost always debilitating. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million women are battered each year by their husbands or partners. Three million reports of child abuse are made every year just in the United States. But experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is three times greater than reported. Many children are suffering from this hidden epidemic. While these are U.S. figures, these problems exist around the world, and in most places at much higher rates.
Abuse is a sin that dishonors God and disrespects His creation of life. Obviously, physical danger exists. Whether the abuse is psychological, physical or verbal, the most chronic damage is that it distorts the lenses we need to see life accurately, from God’s perspective. We need eyes that see the truth, and abuse does the exact opposite.
Abuse erodes confidence and self-esteem. We begin believing what we are told about ourselves; we think that anyone treated violently and abusively must deserve it. These beliefs are often accepted early in life and become part of the initial lenses through which we see and process all information. Even if abuse occurs when we are older, the intensity of the experience makes it a formidable opponent to seeing ourselves as God sees us, our God-image.
Abuse communicates “I am worthless”… “I am an object to be used by you whenever you want” … “dignity, respect, and honor are not for me”… “I don’t deserve or accomplish anything in life”. These distortions and interpretations form part of the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives.
Today, ask, “How do I see myself?” “Is my self-image based on other people’s words and actions toward me? Or is it based on the truth of God’s Word, a God-image?” God knew you before you were even born. He created you … and His works are wonderful. Let Jesus help take your eyes off yourself and begin the process of putting your eyes on Him. He is able to heal our eyes, to see ourselves as He sees us.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for this reminder that You formed me and made me … and that Your works are wonderful. I must admit, though, sometimes I don’t feel as though I’m wonderful at all. In fact, sometimes I feel as though I don’t deserve anything good. Help me to really grasp what Jesus did for me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
Matthew 13:15,16
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: Comfort Zone: Letting Go of Old Identities
Transformational Thought
Sometimes I like to ask people, “Who are you?” It’s interesting to hear what they say. Some give their name … others give their occupation. Another answer is a role the person fills in their family or organization. Not many share their real identity, what makes them, them…uniquely, the one deep inside.
I have a close friend who years ago moved out of a lesbian lifestyle and into a walk with God. She tells her story, "If you had asked me if I was born gay, I would have given you a resounding 'yes.' Now, I realize I was not born gay, and I am not defined by the fact that I lived as a homosexual. When I came to God, He redefined me as a follower of Christ."
Often we define ourselves by a lifestyle, a role we play, or some of our personal characteristics. Whether these definitions are joyful or painful, good or bad, represent success or failure … they are comfort zones. And even when we come to Jesus, we might be reluctant to let go of them.
People being in or coming from a homosexual lifestyle might consider the gay world a safe place. People caught in a workaholic mode base their worth on their own accomplishments and success. Being a mother, a church leader, an indispensable worker, a good friend … we feel more in control as we develop our earthly identity. But when we come to Jesus, it is vital to let go of those identities and come to recognize who we are in Christ.
You see, we have only 2 identity options. Our identity is based on who we are under our own power and personality. Or our identity comes from who Christ is and what He has done for us, then how we respond to that. The former has lots of limitations and is heavily weighted by our inadequacies, failures, and fears. The latter has unlimited potential, opportunity, and joy. A pretty easy choice I would say.
Today, even though you may still be struggling with old habits, be encouraged to let go of the old definitions and know that your most important identity is in Christ. Take a paper and make 3 columns: one titled “old Identity,” the next “new identity,” and third, “what would I believe differently about myself if I believed I were this new person?” write in 5 elements of the old identity and fill in the next 2 columns for each. You are a new creation! God has a great plan for your life and He is worthy of your trust.
Prayer
Dear Mighty Creator of Everything, I thank You for transforming me into a new creation when I became a follower of Christ. I still tend to see myself as "the old me." Please help me to see myself through Your eyes - cleansed and made new. The more I believe it, the more I will practice it, and the more I practice, the more I believe. And help me remember that no matter what other roles I play in life, my number one identity is always "a follower of Christ." I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I follow, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Sometimes I like to ask people, “Who are you?” It’s interesting to hear what they say. Some give their name … others give their occupation. Another answer is a role the person fills in their family or organization. Not many share their real identity, what makes them, them…uniquely, the one deep inside.
I have a close friend who years ago moved out of a lesbian lifestyle and into a walk with God. She tells her story, "If you had asked me if I was born gay, I would have given you a resounding 'yes.' Now, I realize I was not born gay, and I am not defined by the fact that I lived as a homosexual. When I came to God, He redefined me as a follower of Christ."
Often we define ourselves by a lifestyle, a role we play, or some of our personal characteristics. Whether these definitions are joyful or painful, good or bad, represent success or failure … they are comfort zones. And even when we come to Jesus, we might be reluctant to let go of them.
People being in or coming from a homosexual lifestyle might consider the gay world a safe place. People caught in a workaholic mode base their worth on their own accomplishments and success. Being a mother, a church leader, an indispensable worker, a good friend … we feel more in control as we develop our earthly identity. But when we come to Jesus, it is vital to let go of those identities and come to recognize who we are in Christ.
You see, we have only 2 identity options. Our identity is based on who we are under our own power and personality. Or our identity comes from who Christ is and what He has done for us, then how we respond to that. The former has lots of limitations and is heavily weighted by our inadequacies, failures, and fears. The latter has unlimited potential, opportunity, and joy. A pretty easy choice I would say.
Today, even though you may still be struggling with old habits, be encouraged to let go of the old definitions and know that your most important identity is in Christ. Take a paper and make 3 columns: one titled “old Identity,” the next “new identity,” and third, “what would I believe differently about myself if I believed I were this new person?” write in 5 elements of the old identity and fill in the next 2 columns for each. You are a new creation! God has a great plan for your life and He is worthy of your trust.
Prayer
Dear Mighty Creator of Everything, I thank You for transforming me into a new creation when I became a follower of Christ. I still tend to see myself as "the old me." Please help me to see myself through Your eyes - cleansed and made new. The more I believe it, the more I will practice it, and the more I practice, the more I believe. And help me remember that no matter what other roles I play in life, my number one identity is always "a follower of Christ." I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One I follow, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Stepping Stones: “You Did It, Why Can’t I”
Transformational Thought
Some mothers prepare their teenage daughters for premarital sexual activities by helping them with birth control plans. They may feel guilty asking their teenage daughters to abstain from sex outside of marriage, especially if they, as teenagers themselves, did not. Likewise, some fathers may allow their teenage sons to drink alcohol … after all, they did when they were teens … how can they say "no" now?
No matter what mistakes we may have made, that is history. If we have received Jesus' forgiveness, the past is past. This is today … and God is calling us today to train our children in the way they should go. The way that is pleasing to Him.
Because you broke rules and made mistakes does not mean that your children should follow the same pattern. It is vital that you learn from your wrongdoing and receive Christ's forgiveness. Then God calls you to love your children enough to teach them the right way … God's way.
But for your message to have real impact on them you need to do 3 things:
1. Don’t just tell them the right decision to make, but live it, role model it.
2. Understand the reasons that those behaviors aren’t good and explain them to your child. Your explanations need to go deeper than “the bible says so” or “because you’ll get in trouble”.
3. Start equipping them with a concrete strategy so they can become better decision-makers. Teach them decision-making skills and the rewards and consequences they will experience physiologically (their brain chemistry), psychologically (their personality), and spiritually (their connection to and relationship with God). Knowing the benefits of doing the right thing will help motivate them to do the right thing.
Today, remember you don't have to do it alone. Ask God for the courage, the strength, and the wisdom to train your children in the way they should go. Today, do some self-assessment and see how you disciple those God gave to you to mentor with decision-making skills. WITHIN REACH is a unique and valuable resource to teach the detriments and process of poor decision-making and how to move toward great decision-making skills.
Prayer
Dear God, help me to guide and disciple my children so that they won't make the same mistakes that I did. Help me to train them in the way they should go. Help me understand how You designed me and why I make the decisions I make. Help me learn how to make Godly decisions and teach these principles and motivations to my children. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to train me in the way I should go, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
Proverbs 22:6
The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is within your reach. Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the Lord, you will live long in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Deuteronomy 30:10-11, 19-20
Some mothers prepare their teenage daughters for premarital sexual activities by helping them with birth control plans. They may feel guilty asking their teenage daughters to abstain from sex outside of marriage, especially if they, as teenagers themselves, did not. Likewise, some fathers may allow their teenage sons to drink alcohol … after all, they did when they were teens … how can they say "no" now?
No matter what mistakes we may have made, that is history. If we have received Jesus' forgiveness, the past is past. This is today … and God is calling us today to train our children in the way they should go. The way that is pleasing to Him.
Because you broke rules and made mistakes does not mean that your children should follow the same pattern. It is vital that you learn from your wrongdoing and receive Christ's forgiveness. Then God calls you to love your children enough to teach them the right way … God's way.
But for your message to have real impact on them you need to do 3 things:
1. Don’t just tell them the right decision to make, but live it, role model it.
2. Understand the reasons that those behaviors aren’t good and explain them to your child. Your explanations need to go deeper than “the bible says so” or “because you’ll get in trouble”.
3. Start equipping them with a concrete strategy so they can become better decision-makers. Teach them decision-making skills and the rewards and consequences they will experience physiologically (their brain chemistry), psychologically (their personality), and spiritually (their connection to and relationship with God). Knowing the benefits of doing the right thing will help motivate them to do the right thing.
Today, remember you don't have to do it alone. Ask God for the courage, the strength, and the wisdom to train your children in the way they should go. Today, do some self-assessment and see how you disciple those God gave to you to mentor with decision-making skills. WITHIN REACH is a unique and valuable resource to teach the detriments and process of poor decision-making and how to move toward great decision-making skills.
Prayer
Dear God, help me to guide and disciple my children so that they won't make the same mistakes that I did. Help me to train them in the way they should go. Help me understand how You designed me and why I make the decisions I make. Help me learn how to make Godly decisions and teach these principles and motivations to my children. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to train me in the way I should go, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
Proverbs 22:6
The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is within your reach. Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the Lord, you will live long in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Deuteronomy 30:10-11, 19-20
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Stepping Stones: You Are The Key, Now Find The Lock
Transformational Thought
We hear this all the time: “every one of us is special.” We’ve been told this by our parents, grandparents, romantic interests, aunts, uncles, Sunday School teachers, youth pastor, pastor and priest at church...and of course by all those self-help books, and gurus like Oprah and Tony Robbins.
Yeah, we all have different fingerprints, different DNA, unique brain chemistry, and so on…but does this really make each of us “special”? For most of my life I was very cynical about spiritual clichés like this. As I began to dig in and understand Christianity a bit better, I realized that, yes, we are special as individuals. We are unique. Every one of us has extraordinary dignity simply because we are a child of God, made in His image and likeness, and redeemed by God’s Son.
We are not just human beings, rather we are keys…keys that God has individually crafted to fit certain locks. You are special because the lock you are called to open will accept only one key – a key that looks different and acts differently; one that has different emotions, passions, skills and shortcomings from any other key. Because of these differences, the individual lock is also a unique, wonderful, and special life designed by God and available to only one key, YOU!
Remember, in the entire world there has only been one key that has the ability to open this one particular lock…and you are that key. The lock could be anything…something big or something small…something quiet or something loud. It could be that your son or daughter is destined to do something spectacular; something they could never have done without your influence. Whatever the lock may be, one thing is sure: it will be profoundly important to God and this world, and immensely fulfilling to you personally. Stop wasting time on counterfeit locks Satan tricks you with.
Today, go find the lock God designed for you. Start by taking inventory of experiences, talents, interests, contacts, and passions that stand out for you personally. You, like me, might have past wounds or mistakes that God allowed for a special purpose. Start to prayerfully mix them together as you confide in others to see what special locks God is crafting for you as the key to magically and perfectly slide into and open up.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for saying yes to my existence. I have not yet figured out why I am here, but I do believe, Lord, that You made me as a key. Help me find the locks that You created for me to open. Help me find a way to communicate to others just how special they are simply because they are Your children. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Key to the multiverse, Jesus; and all God’s children said, – Amen!
The Truth
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13
His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:21
We hear this all the time: “every one of us is special.” We’ve been told this by our parents, grandparents, romantic interests, aunts, uncles, Sunday School teachers, youth pastor, pastor and priest at church...and of course by all those self-help books, and gurus like Oprah and Tony Robbins.
Yeah, we all have different fingerprints, different DNA, unique brain chemistry, and so on…but does this really make each of us “special”? For most of my life I was very cynical about spiritual clichés like this. As I began to dig in and understand Christianity a bit better, I realized that, yes, we are special as individuals. We are unique. Every one of us has extraordinary dignity simply because we are a child of God, made in His image and likeness, and redeemed by God’s Son.
We are not just human beings, rather we are keys…keys that God has individually crafted to fit certain locks. You are special because the lock you are called to open will accept only one key – a key that looks different and acts differently; one that has different emotions, passions, skills and shortcomings from any other key. Because of these differences, the individual lock is also a unique, wonderful, and special life designed by God and available to only one key, YOU!
Remember, in the entire world there has only been one key that has the ability to open this one particular lock…and you are that key. The lock could be anything…something big or something small…something quiet or something loud. It could be that your son or daughter is destined to do something spectacular; something they could never have done without your influence. Whatever the lock may be, one thing is sure: it will be profoundly important to God and this world, and immensely fulfilling to you personally. Stop wasting time on counterfeit locks Satan tricks you with.
Today, go find the lock God designed for you. Start by taking inventory of experiences, talents, interests, contacts, and passions that stand out for you personally. You, like me, might have past wounds or mistakes that God allowed for a special purpose. Start to prayerfully mix them together as you confide in others to see what special locks God is crafting for you as the key to magically and perfectly slide into and open up.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for saying yes to my existence. I have not yet figured out why I am here, but I do believe, Lord, that You made me as a key. Help me find the locks that You created for me to open. Help me find a way to communicate to others just how special they are simply because they are Your children. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Key to the multiverse, Jesus; and all God’s children said, – Amen!
The Truth
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13
His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:21
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Stepping Stones: What Obstacle Holds You Back?
Transformational Thought
Goals are powerful. Goals motivate us to accomplish tasks that don’t thrill us. Money to pay our bills and support our family motivates us to go to that job we aren’t wild about. Thinking about our date on Friday motivates us to be diligent during the workweek. Admission to our favorite college motivates us to study in high school. The joy of victory in athletics or applause after a performance motivates us to practice.
In today's scripture offering, Paul says that his goal was to know Christ, to be like Christ...and to be all Christ had in mind for him. This goal took all of Paul's energies. The beautiful thing about Paul’s goal, and it is the same for us…the goal is awesome, but the tasks that bring us to the goal are also awesome, and powerfully engaging and enjoyable.
The problem we all face is that Satan has infiltrated our wiring, brainwashing us early in life, and deceiving us into believing that the tasks necessary to develop the mind of Christ are dangerous, boring, costly, harmful, or unnecessary. These are some of the many roadblocks Satan uses to prevent us from relating with and becoming like Christ. I think Paul’s message is a helpful example for us as we all strive to move closer to Christ...to know Christ.
Remember the faith formula: (Believe > Receive > Become). Knowing Christ is the "become" part of the formula. WITHIN REACH, our unique workshop, helps you understand and identify obstacles, teaches you the hidden motivating benefits of making good decisions on all 3 spheres, shows what is holding you back, and helps you achieve the life that God has just within reach.
Today, identify the benefits of living life God’s way, of pursuing Him, and not doing things Satan’s way. This will keep you more focused and motivated to really pursue the mind of Christ. Strive to put aside anything harmful that may distract you from being the Christian God wants you to be. Easier said than done, I know. Maybe a good start would be to ask yourself the question..."What is holding me back and why do I still do it anyway?” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves me drained and discouraged. I feel that I am so far from being a perfect Christian that I will never be able to please You with my life. During these times when I feel discouraged I am so thankful for Your message to me through Paul as he spoke to the Philippians. Help me today, Lord, to remember that you paid the price for my sinfulness, and remind me to forget what is behind me and to focus on winning the prize for which You have called me. I know that I am not a perfect Christian, but I also know that any progress I make to get closer to You is perfect progress. Help me, today, my God, to act on the guidance that You have already given me through Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord. I pray this prayer and all prayers with the authority of and in the name of Jesus; and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
Goals are powerful. Goals motivate us to accomplish tasks that don’t thrill us. Money to pay our bills and support our family motivates us to go to that job we aren’t wild about. Thinking about our date on Friday motivates us to be diligent during the workweek. Admission to our favorite college motivates us to study in high school. The joy of victory in athletics or applause after a performance motivates us to practice.
In today's scripture offering, Paul says that his goal was to know Christ, to be like Christ...and to be all Christ had in mind for him. This goal took all of Paul's energies. The beautiful thing about Paul’s goal, and it is the same for us…the goal is awesome, but the tasks that bring us to the goal are also awesome, and powerfully engaging and enjoyable.
The problem we all face is that Satan has infiltrated our wiring, brainwashing us early in life, and deceiving us into believing that the tasks necessary to develop the mind of Christ are dangerous, boring, costly, harmful, or unnecessary. These are some of the many roadblocks Satan uses to prevent us from relating with and becoming like Christ. I think Paul’s message is a helpful example for us as we all strive to move closer to Christ...to know Christ.
Remember the faith formula: (Believe > Receive > Become). Knowing Christ is the "become" part of the formula. WITHIN REACH, our unique workshop, helps you understand and identify obstacles, teaches you the hidden motivating benefits of making good decisions on all 3 spheres, shows what is holding you back, and helps you achieve the life that God has just within reach.
Today, identify the benefits of living life God’s way, of pursuing Him, and not doing things Satan’s way. This will keep you more focused and motivated to really pursue the mind of Christ. Strive to put aside anything harmful that may distract you from being the Christian God wants you to be. Easier said than done, I know. Maybe a good start would be to ask yourself the question..."What is holding me back and why do I still do it anyway?” Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves me drained and discouraged. I feel that I am so far from being a perfect Christian that I will never be able to please You with my life. During these times when I feel discouraged I am so thankful for Your message to me through Paul as he spoke to the Philippians. Help me today, Lord, to remember that you paid the price for my sinfulness, and remind me to forget what is behind me and to focus on winning the prize for which You have called me. I know that I am not a perfect Christian, but I also know that any progress I make to get closer to You is perfect progress. Help me, today, my God, to act on the guidance that You have already given me through Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Lord. I pray this prayer and all prayers with the authority of and in the name of Jesus; and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
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