Stepping Stones: Unresolved Anger Has Poisonous Roots!

May 9, 2012

Unresolved Anger Has Poisonous Roots!

Transformational Thought

When you feel angry with someone or something, do you express your feelings … or do you hold the anger inside? People who bury their anger usually believe they are doing the right thing by appearing calm on the outside and not blowing up. The reality, however, is that unresolved anger will fester and develop into resentment, bitterness, or even depression.

Some people respond to anger by immediately holding it in, and then releasing it or letting it go a short time later without hurting themselves or others. We can do this by playing ball or scrubbing the dishes while calming down, and then having an honest conversation with the person who upset us. When we handle our feelings like this, the results are often beneficial. But if you tend to hold your anger inside and grow resentful, ask God to help you share your angry feelings with people as they occur. We don’t want to share in a rage or with unkind words. We just want an honest but controlled expression of our feelings.

The Bible teaches that we shouldn't carry anger overnight. Get it settled before going to bed. Otherwise, it’s likely that resentment will grow. We see various Bible passages in which God and Jesus expressed their anger or displeasure, but did so with a heart, motivation, and method that were healthy and purposeful.

As we discussed yesterday, anger is just a God-given warning system … letting us know when a real or potential problem exists. Thankfully, until you actually do something about the underlying problem, your brain will continue to warn you. Not addressing the problem is what allows anger to grow, fester, and come out in harmful ways. Or it can be directed inward and lead to negative self-talk, low self-image, depression, isolation, or self-loathing. The negativity against ourselves may include cutting, excessive piercing and tattooing, addictions, or promiscuity.

Perhaps you are already experiencing bitterness because of unexpressed grievances from the past. The answer: when anger starts to warn you, acknowledge the hurt … forgive or ask for forgiveness … address and solve the original problem. You won’t have to work hard at letting go of the anger … because, when the problem is resolved, that original anger will quickly melt away.

Holding on to bitterness can damage your relationship with God, relationships with others, and your peace of mind. It even harms your health, especially your heart, blood pressure, digestive system, and brain chemistry. Being a problem solver, and forgiving and being forgiven can change all that. Ask God … He will guide and help you. Call our Helpline and we will find a therapist to equip you with Biblical skills to manage and express your anger well.

Today, if you notice that someone is angry, ask them, “You seem angry or upset. That anger is warning you about some problem. Can I help you work on or solve that problem?” Ask yourself the same question as well. WITHIN REACH helps you understand and utilize negative feelings to make great decisions. What you do with your emotions is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, forgive me and help me deal with the resentment and bitterness I have been carrying. Give me the strength and wisdom to move forward by acknowledging the hurt, controlling my anger, identifying the problem, solving the underlying issue, and forgiving. Thank You for the wonderful way You designed me. Help me understand that design better so I can be a great steward of my mind and free will. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the best mirror for my eye exam, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many

Hebrews 12:15

Kw: 

Stepping Stones: Make Anger Your Servant…Not Your Master

May 8, 2012

Make Anger Your Servant…Not Your Master

Transformational Thought

Yesterday we talked about how anger is not necessarily about doing something wrong, dysfunctional, or sinful. But we are still left with the important question, “What causes anger?” We often assume anger is caused by a situation in which we find ourselves. We might think that it’s a rude driver, an unfair criticism, or a friend's betrayal. In reality, the answer is "nothing" around us causes anger, even though these situations are usually followed by our own angry reactions. In fact, the angry feeling is actually our own doing. You see the lenses we use to view situations precipitate the feelings of anger. But we usually blame others for “making” us feel that way.

Let me give an example to help clarify. During a basketball game, if my team scores a last minute, game-winning basket, I am excited. But someone rooting for the other team who experiences the same event may actually be angry or frustrated, or have other negative emotions immediately after the shot goes in. The event, a made shot, doesn’t cause the anger. If it did, everybody experiencing the event would be angry. You see, the difference is the lenses we use as we witness or experience the event. That’s the key ingredient that determines our emotional response.

Understanding this key point is so freeing and eye-opening. Anger (or any negative feeling) is a great warning system. Anger lets us know when something is not going right or when potential danger exists. If I were in the woods and saw a tiger, I would get angry, sad, worried, and frightened. That’s an example of a good warning system letting me know something is not safe, and it pushes me to action. Without negative feelings I would probably walk merrily through the woods and get devoured by the tiger.

When someone insults us or treats us badly, we should get angry. That lets us know a problem exists in the relationship and needs to be addressed. Hopefully, we look at our options and choose how to respond. God has given us free will to control our feelings, thoughts, and actions. Will we choose unkind words or find a way to "get even"? Or will we problem-solve and forgive? It's our choice. No matter what our backgrounds or the current circumstances, we are responsible for our own behaviors and we can’t blame them on our emotions.

Unfortunately, we often let our anger rule us. It becomes the main influence on our decision-making. Anger serves us well as a warning system. But anger is a very poor master when we let it become our decision-maker in any situation. None of us express our feelings appropriately all the time. But the Bible tells us, For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need. Philippians 4:13.

Today, notice when you feel angry. Stop and thank God for a great warning system. Then look below the anger to the problem and address it. If you don’t, your warning system (anger) will keep on alerting you until the problem is resolved. Let Jesus help make anger your servant instead of your master. Follow His attitude, actions, and teachings. WITHIN REACH helps you understand your feelings, their role, how you misuse them, and how you can soothe them and then steward them to the max for your benefit and God’s glory. Your response to your anger is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, thank You so much for my anger, and all my negative feelings. It is awesome to know you gave me a warning system that alerts me to problems and danger. When I am wronged in some way, help me to choose the Godly response … the one that is pleasing to You. Teach me to control my anger, to have patience, to problem-solve, and to forgive. Thanks for Your soothing Spirit when I feel angry. Help me to allow You in when I feel this pain. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who teaches me how to handle all things well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.

Proverbs 19:11

Stepping Stones: Anger … Right or Wrong?

May 7, 2012

Anger … Right or Wrong?

Transformational Thought

Anger: right or wrong? The answer is that anger is right … and the answer is it can also be wrong. Anger is a God-given emotional energy designed for good. But the way we use and express anger-produced energy can often be dysfunctional and lead to sin. But anger doesn’t have to lead to frustration, or worse yet, sin. With God's help, we can control the thoughts and actions that come when an event precipitates angry feelings in us. We can actually utilize our anger in a productive way for a great outcome.

The Bible tells of many times when anger was a positive force for achieving good: Moses' anger when the Israelites worshipped idols resulted in their repentance (Exodus 32:19-35); Jesus' anger motivated him to clear blasphemers and abusers from his Father's temple (Luke 19:45-48).

Actually, it seems like God is angry and jealous during half of the Old Testament, as mankind, especially the Israelites, chronically rejects God, and exalts himself to the throne doing his own thing. Remember why God sent the flood. Consider His response to the Tower of Babel. Think about the me-centered activities of Sodom and Gomorrah and God’s anger. Since we know God never sins, we know anger itself can’t be a bad or sinful thing. So then, what is anger and how can it be useful to us?

In fact, our anger can be a positive force in many daily situations. Appropriate anger in response to our children's wrong behaviors can motivate us as parents to exert firm but loving discipline. Anger against injustices and wrongdoing in our communities can motivate us to do something positive about those situations. Anger energizes and motivates us to take action when we might otherwise be passive in areas of struggle or conflict. Tomorrow, we will dig into anger’s best and most important role in our lives.

But we also need to be very careful, because our anger can also lead to sinful acts of selfishness, unkindness or even aggression. It is our responsibility to use our anger-induced energy in positive ways, even if it's just walking around the block to cool off. Satan knows that we have a lot of trouble handling our emotions, so he is always trying to push our emotional buttons. Most of the spiritual warfare is focused on deception and pushing emotions, especially negative ones. This is why alcohol and drugs, and even caffeine are so dangerous. These substances interfere with our control circuitry, and allow our feelings to surface unchecked. This is why suicides, domestic violence, sexual assaults, and physical fights often happen under the influence.

Today, if you experience anger, stop and remember that anger itself isn’t bad. It’s what you decide to do with your anger that determines a positive or negative outcome. When anger gives you energy to solve a problem, you need to figure out what the problem is … thinking with your head, not with your anger. As we find with most situations in life, how you manage your anger is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, forgive me for the times I have used my anger in sinful ways instead of as a positive force. I know I get irritated easily and for reasons that are me-centered. Help me to control my thoughts and actions and to use my anger in positive ways. Teach me to take all thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ, not to my own desires. Help me to develop eyes that see life more clearly and from a bigger perspective, Your view. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry … but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life. 

Ephesians 4:26-27

Stepping Stones: “Turn To Jesus” Means…

May 5-6, 2012

“Turn To Jesus” Means…

Transformational Thought

Can you believe all the changes since the year 2000? Computers, laptops, iPads, cell phones, texting, the internet, Netflix. And that is only a slice of communications. So how refreshing is this fact … Jesus never changes! When you climbed out of bed this morning, regardless of how you might have felt, or the subtle changes you went through last night, Jesus had not changed during the night, the last decade, or the past 2000 years … or forever. He is trustworthy and consistent, a solid rock in which to ground yourself.

            Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

No matter what your situation, you can turn to Jesus. Turn to Jesus … what does that mean? Obviously not just a physical turning, but let’s look at something more practical and powerful. First, we need to turn away from the world’s values, the world’s way of measuring success, its influences, and its decision-making strategies. It means turning away from the desires of our flesh.

What choices are you facing? In every circumstance we all make one very key decision that determines the outcome of that particular situation. That key choice is, “Which lenses will I use to view, experience, and assess this particular event God has allowed to come into my life?” Turning toward Jesus really means understanding, grabbing hold of, and using God’s instruction, forgiveness, grace, promises, and character to form the lenses I will use to view each situation God brings my way. Following Jesus means … choosing His way and His lenses, not yours … choosing to receive His love and all that goes with it … choosing to trust Him.

If you use His lenses, of course you will still have problems and challenges. Remember the trials Jesus endured? But each one of these opportunities (yes, I called them opportunities) will be easier to navigate. And even more, you will get through them in a way that grows you psychologically and spiritually, because it won’t be you who responds to the adversity. Jesus, who lives in you, will be responding. You will perceive and respond in a Christ-like way, thus actually developing the Mind of Christ.

Today, choose to turn to and trust Jesus, doing things His way. Examine your lenses, that is your attitude or worldview. Do you engage in life’s adversities with a Godly perspective, or a me-centered view? God has room to work in your life. He will help you move on past the hurt, pain, and failures of the past. He will give you hope for the future. Use lenses based on who He is and what He teaches. Don’t use those distorted lenses with all the muck you’ve accumulated from this world. Your lenses are your decision, so choose well.

Prayer

Dear Father God, I do want to trust You … not just verbalize it, but actually trust you in every circumstance. I know You love me and that Your plan for me is the best plan. Please keep me on track … show me the next step … and the next one after that. I know turning to You isn’t physical, it is all mental. Help me turn it all over to You and allow Your perspective to be my lenses. Not just in the good times, but also in the times of testing and discomfort. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one whom I choose to follow, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!

Proverbs 3:5-7

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Galatians 2:20

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

Stepping Stones: Shortcuts: Better Think Twice

May 2, 2012

Shortcuts: Better Think Twice

Transformational Thought

On a recent business trip, I was standing in line at the omelet station of a nice restaurant serving brunch. Four or 5 people were ahead on me in line. Then a well dressed, middle-age man and his teenage son walked to the front of the line to place their orders. A couple of us gave him “The Look.” You know, the “you did something wrong, but I don’t want to be verbal and embarrass you or bring more attention to you.” The man seemed oblivious. Just before an older woman was ready to blow, the chef gently told the man there was a line.

As the man stepped back, I assumed he was just making an honest mistake, so I jokingly asked; “Were you trying to cut in line?” His response saddened me as he bragged in front of his son, “Absolutely … if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.”

It’s hard to measure, but it sure feels like our society is increasingly turning to shortcuts, and even cheating, to get what we want. And the guy in the omelet line was not only attempting to cheat … he even adopted a slogan to glorify it. If this is what he does in public, he must be even worse when no one is looking. He has no accountability is in place to contain his behavior. What is he teaching his young son?

Then I realized how often “I cut in line” during the day. Sleeping in … taking that extra doughnut or cookie … not confronting a situation that needs it … procrastinating on a less desirable project … judging someone before all the evidence is in … doing a task halfway … leaving a wrapper behind the garbage for someone else to pick up. And these all happened before lunch! I am too embarrassed to tell you my major “short-cuts” … otherwise known as bad habits, addictions, and dysfunctional patterns. These are the shortcuts I take away from God’s plan … how I cheat in life.

It’s unbelievable what we are willing to do to avoid a little discomfort. Then we rationalize that it’s self-protective, when actually, it is incredibly self-destructive. Our shortcuts harm our brain circuitry, our personality and psychological skill maturation. They are especially harmful to our spiritual walk: developing the Mind of Christ. You see, these shortcuts don’t renew the mind, They undermine, weaken, deceive, and brainwash our mind.

Today, examine your behaviors and actions. Are you taking shortcuts … or cheating? Why? Does it feeling “good” or avoid some discomfort worth sacrificing? When you cheat, you are actually cheating yourself. Even worse, you are cheating God out of the best you can offer. Sort of like Cain. Be mindful that even minor infractions eventually trend toward major violations. Conversely, small character- building actions truly renew your mind so you become a powerful lighthouse of good character. As always, the decision is yours … don’t harm yourself by choosing shortcuts, choose well.

Prayer

O God, I confess that I have been guilty of cheating … in small ways and in big ones. I ask for Your forgiveness, Father. I know You have protected me from the many consequences of my shortcuts. Thank You for Your amazing grace. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that He may guide me to the “right-way” … into “Your way” in all that I do. Help me to recognize that shortcuts are not beneficial to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who always avoided shortcuts with ultimate integrity and character, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.

Luke 16:10

The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.

Proverbs 29:27

Stepping Stones: I Need…..God

Transformational Thought

We just finished sweet 16 birthday parties for my middle daughter, Nicole. She even gets us to celebrate her half-birthday in April. She was blessed with nice gifts from friends and a good chunk of gift money, so we asked her if she had anything in mind to buy. She started, “Dad, I need a …” then stopped as she saw that reflexive look on my face when I hear, “I need…” And so she restated, “Dad, I would like to get an iPod touch so baldy.”

I need a ride. I need some love. I need some sleep. I need an answer. I need some money. I need a man. I need a drink. I need that part. I need my Starbucks. I need to scream. I need to take charge. I need to put my spouse/kid down. I need a job. I need a break. I need help. I need a touchdown. We were all needy…in fact, we were born very needy. We all need a ….SAVIOR. However, there are two types of people; those who are needy and recognize their real insufficiencies, and those who are needy but are totally unaware of their real inadequacies, and think they need many superficial things.

Recognizing the extent of your need for God is a blessing. Even though Satan tries to distract us from recognizing our need for God, we know we can’t meet all our needs by ourselves or through the trappings of this world. We do know, deep inside, the breadth and depth of our need. But, recognition is only half the battle. The other half is turning to Him rather than to idolatrous substitutes to fill our emptiness, to give us purpose or identity, or to soothe our hurts.

Turning to our Lord with daily intentionality will always be a challenge for us…will always be the toughest part of the battle. Why? For the first 10-20 years of our life, we were conditioned to take care of ourselves, to become independent. As adults, we are constantly bombarded and influenced by the heaviness of this fallen world. We choose immediate comfort over real and lasting sustenance. While on this earth you will have to contend with this spiritual-emotional “gravity” pulling you away from Him.

Today, when you face an “I need” moment, stop and ask God to show you whether it is a need or a want. If you are honest, the answer should be fairly clear. Next, exert some self-control over your initial comfort-driven impulse, and try to really address the underlying issue. Then look to His instruction manual to find what He has promised and provided for you. Remember, immediate answers aren’t necessary and you really can handle waiting if you will recognize His power and sovereignty. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, With each passing day, I recognize how desperately I need You. I do want You to be the center of my life…and I am trying to keep You there. But You know, Father, how easily I get distracted…how my thoughts wander away from You. I grope for You, Father; I need Your help, all the time. Help me understand those distractions as idols and help me learn how to close my ears to their falsely soothing coos. I pray these words in the name of the One who died for all my needs, Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say - AMEN!

The Truth
But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'
Matthew 4:4

So that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;
Acts 17:27

For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life, to preserve you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress. Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes; for the price of a prostitute is only a loaf of bread, but a married woman hunts down a precious life.
Proverbs 6:23-26

Stepping Stones: The Ultimate Alchemist

Transformational Thought

My little granny turned 90 years old last January. Good thing she doesn’t get the Internet or she would be angry with me sharing this embarrassing information. One thing I love about her is she still gets to the Russian Orthodox Church (where I was baptized as an infant), twice a month to crank out 6000 perogies with her gnarled hands, rheumatoid mis-shaped hands. You see, deep fried perogies is my most favorite food … followed closely by homemade ice cream.

My granny is the dough master. For you non-cooks, the dough master has the most physically grueling task when making perogies. Granny keeps waiting for some young buck to learn her secret before she dies, but none of the younger women have the stamina to do what 90 year old granny cranks out. Perogies are a classic example of the final product being way better than the sum of the ingredients, and it is because of the talent of the cook. Think about alchemy, the ancient practice of combining common, cheap substances and transforming them into something of value. One who practices Alchemy is called an Alchemist.

So many of us suffer from the belief that we have nothing of value to share with others … or with our God. We feel we are a waste. But nothing is wasted when you share it with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can turn the darkness of your worst failures into bright beauty and hope. He can glean joy out of sorrow … peace out of adversity. Your God, the Master Chef, delights in blending His love, grace and forgiveness with our pride, sin and failures. He transforms His children from sinful wretches into wonderful disciples.

Today, bring your sorrow, sadness and brokenness to God. Release them into his care and keeping. He will not only heal your brokenness … He will give you a new dream – one that is in perfect harmony with His plans for you. To do this, give up one of your “needs” and instead, depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him bringing this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content, and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence seeping into all the nooks and crannies of your life. Only your best friend, the King of Kings, could accomplish this Divine Alchemy.

Prayer
Dear Father, I am so blessed to call You my friend. I pray to You, Father, that You help me share more and more of my life with You. I believe that You, and only You, can bring beauty out of my lost dreams … out of my sorrow. I confess, Father, that as I try to bring my junk to You for transformation I get stuck in self-pity … in my brokenness and in my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You can place on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes. I know You are the Divine Alchemist. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who needed no alchemy to shine His glory, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
He has sent me to bind the brokenhearted … and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:2-3

Jesus looked at them and said; “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26

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

Stepping Stones: What Is On Every Street Corner of Your Life?

Transformational Thought

Starbucks on every corner. If you take into account Dunkin Donuts, WaWa, 7-11, local Starbuck wannabees, specialty coffee shops, favorite breakfast spots, different energy drinks, and church lobbyies, the real slogan is, “Caffeine on every corner.” Caffeine is harmful in many ways. Think about it. If you can’t stop using something because you with have uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms like headaches, that should send you a serious warning.

You see, we are incredibly needy people and the world is a very needy place. Looking for your boost, energy, or life from this world, well, that road ends in loneliness, frustration, and insecurity. All this world provides are temporary band-aids at best … distracting us from the true source of life and fulfillment … often harming us physiologically, psychologically, and especially spiritually. Even when the temporary fixes are ‘good’ and are provided by God, we may start to use them as primary solutions, forgetting they are intended to point us to the real solution – God.

To soothe your neediness, resist the knee-jerk impulse to reach for immediate comfort, the bargain sale item the world offers like a snake oil salesman … sucking you in for repeat sales and long-term destruction after you are hooked. Think I’m talking about heroin or crack? I’m talking about caffeine. Learn to go to your Lord and depend on Him first. When you turn to Him your weakness will be replaced with His power. Find completeness in God. Then He will provide for you and speak to you directly, or lead you to other people or things of this world to show His love and direction.

When you depend on God first, you can then help other people without using them to meet your own needs. Let God’s light shine brightly in you. Then God will shine through you to help others. The quality of your relationships with others will powerfully explode with fulfillment, and opportunities to influence others will expand greatly.

Today, consider where you first look to meet your needs. Yourself … your intellect, looks, or a personality trait … feelings like anger, self-pity, anxiety, or arrogance? Perhaps other people, kids or parents? Sometimes it may be material things, sex, food, money, toys, drugs, even caffeine. Try a detox period, spiritually called a fast, from the “drug” you use to soothe yourself and instead, “suffer well” by going to God’s Word and see what He will speak to you. Hopefully, you can “kick the habit!” Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I often turn to the world for my needs, and many times what I take from the world keeps me separated from You. The merry-go-round of life seems to be spinning faster and faster. Things seem out of control. Yet I know by Your Word and by my faith that there is a calm at the center of the storms in my life. This calm is only found through a union with You. Thank You, my Father. Help me return to this center of calm … this soothing center more often, for this is where I will find completeness, Love, Joy and Peace. I pray in the name of my sustaining life-force, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:9-10

Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you." As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight. The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.
Psalm 16:1-4

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.,
Galatians 5:22

No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:12

Stepping Stones: How far are you willing to pedal to church?

Transformational Thought

Early one Sunday morning, I was shopping at the local food store. As I approached the checkout line, I noticed a young man in front of me with a bicycle helmet still on his head; he was carrying two large vegetable platters. I asked him; “Are you planning on carrying all that on your bike?” He tapped his ear letting me know he was deaf. I watched as he double and triple bagged his purchase. As I was checking out I saw him leave the parking lot. He had two bags on one handle grip and one bag on the other. He was in a hurry.

On my way home, about three miles from the store, I saw the young man struggling to ride his bike in a straight line. The handles on one of the plastic bags had broken…and he was trying to hold it in his arm while steering the bike with the other hand. I pulled over to help; when he saw me he was thrilled. With no words spoken he quickly opened the passenger door and placed the vegetable trays on the seat. He pulled out a small pad of paper and wrote the cross streets of his destination. We were headed to his church which was another three miles away.

Met him at the church. He jumped off his bike and ran to get the pastor. It was a church for the deaf and he wanted the pastor to interpret his sign language for me. His name was Tony. He thanked me repeatedly and told me that when the handle broke, he knew God would send help. The church was having a luncheon following worship and the vegetable trays were Tony’s contribution. The pastor told me that Tony lived 12 miles from the church.

I left the church filled with happiness and thankfulness for the experience God had placed in front of me that Sunday morning. I had moved to that new town just one month prior to meeting Tony. I had not attended a worship service since arriving there. Laziness was only excuse. We often put our wants above our real needs, especially our spiritual needs. Then we wonder why we aren’t getting what we need and act so surprised!

A few months following that experience, I met Tony again at a local coffee shop. When he recognized me he gave me a big hug, grabbed my hand and took me to the store window. He pointed to a late model car parked at the curb and then pointed back at himself … Tony had his first car and he was filled with pride and joy.

Today, think about how much effort you put forth to praise God with others. Do you find time for God with only minimal effort, or when it fits into your schedule? Or do you sacrifice some of your “wants” to make regular time with God? How important is it to you to make it to church? How far would you pedal? What are you willing to endure to worship God and meet Him each day?

Prayer
Father God, I thank You for the little and not so little reminders and lessons you place before me for the taking. Today, I have a renewed thankfulness for my ability to see … to hear … to speak. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I may use all my senses to give you glory and to praise You … to further Your Kingdom here on earth even in ways that I do not understand. I pray this in the name of my savior and teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
1 John 1:7

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all
2 Corinthians 13:14

Stepping Stones: Make Anger Your Servant…Not Your Master

May 1, 2011


Transformational Thought
Yesterday we talked about how anger isn’t necessarily wrong, dysfunctional, or sinful. But what causes anger? In reality, the answer could be "nothing" around us. We might think that it’s a rude driver, an unfair criticism, or a friend's betrayal. These situations are usually followed by an angry reaction in us. But the anger is actually our own doing. It is actually our own lenses, how we view situations, that precipitate the feeling of anger. And we usually blame others for “making” us feel that way.

During a basketball game, if my team scores a last minute, game-winning basket, I am excited. Someone rooting for the other team experiences the same event, but instead of being excited, will actually be angry, frustrated, and have other negative emotions as well.

The event, a made shot, doesn’t cause the anger. If it did everybody experiencing the event would be angry. You see, the difference, the key ingredient is the lenses we use as we witness or experience the event.

Anger (and all negative feelings) is a great warning system. Anger let’s us know when something is not going right or when potential danger exists. If I am in the woods and see a tiger, I should get angry, sad, worried, frightened. That is a good warning system letting me know something is not safe or right.

When someone insults us or treats us badly, we should get angry. That lets us know a problem exists in this relationship and needs to be addressed. We can choose how to respond. God has given us free will to control our feelings, thoughts, and actions. Will we choose unkind words, or find a way to "get even" … or will we problem-solve and forgive? It's our choice. No matter what our background or the current circumstances, we are responsible for our own behavior and we can’t blame it on our emotions. Unfortunately, we often let our anger rule us, allowing it to become our main decision-making influence. Anger serves us well as a warning system. But anger is a very poor master when we let it become our decision-maker in testy situations.

None of us express our feelings appropriately all the time. But the Bible tells us, For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need. Philippians 4:13.

Today, notice when you are angry. Stop and thank God for a great warning system. Then look below the anger to the problem and address it. If you don’t, your warning system (anger) will keep on alerting you ‘til the problem is resolved. Let Jesus help you make anger your servant instead of your master by following His attitude, actions, and teachings. WITHIN REACH helps you understand your feelings, their role, how we misuse them, how we can soothe them, and then maximally steward them to our benefit and God’s glory.

Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You so much for my anger, and all my negative feelings. It is awesome to have a warning system to alert me to problems and danger. When I am wronged in some way, help me to choose the Godly response … the one that is pleasing to You. Teach me to control my anger, have patience, problem-solve, and forgive. Thanks for Your soothing Spirit when I am angry. Help me to alllow You in when I feel this pain. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who teaches me how to handle all things well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.
Proverbs 19:11

Stepping Stones: Anger…Right or Wrong?

Transformational Thought

Anger: right or wrong? The answer is that anger is right … but it can also be wrong. Anger is a God-given emotional energy designed for good. But the way we use and express anger-produced energy can often be dysfunctional and lead to sin … though it doesn't have to. With God's help, we can control the thoughts and actions that come after an event precipitates some angry feelings in us.

The Bible tells of many times when anger was a positive force for achieving good: Moses' anger when the Israelites worshipped idols resulted in their repentance (Exodus 32:19-35); Jesus' anger motivated him to clear blasphemers and abusers from his Father's temple (Luke 19:45-48).

Actually, it seems like God is angry and jealous during half of the Old Testament, as man chronically rejects Him to do his own thing, especially the Israelites. Remember the flood, Tower of Babel, and Sodom and Gomorrah? We know God never sins, so anger itself can’t be a bad thing.

In fact, our anger can be a positive force in many daily situations. Appropriate anger in response to our children's wrong behaviors can motivate us as parents to exert firm but loving discipline. Anger against injustices and wrongdoing in our communities can motivate us to do something positive about the situation. Anger energizes and motivates us to take action when we might be reluctant or passive in areas of struggle or conflict. Tomorrow, we will dig into anger’s best and main role in our lives.

But our anger can also lead to sinful acts of selfishness, unkindness or even aggression. It is our responsibility to use our anger-induced energy in positive ways, even if it's just walking around the block to cool off.

Today, if you experience anger, stop and remember that anger itself isn’t bad. It’s what you decide to do with your anger that will determine a positive or negative outcome. As we find with most situations in life: It's your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the times I have used my anger in sinful ways instead of as a positive force. I know I get irritated easily and for reasons that are me-centered. Help me to control my thoughts and actions and to use my anger in positive ways. Help me to develop eyes that see life more clearly and from a bigger picture view. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry … but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.
Ephesians 4:26-27

Stepping Stones: “Turn To Jesus” Means…

Transformational Thought

How refreshing is this fact … Jesus never changes! When you climbed out of bed this morning, regardless of how you might have felt, or the subtle changes you went through, He had not changed during the night. He is trustworthy and consistent.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

No matter what your situation, you can turn to Jesus. Turn to Jesus … what does that mean? Obviously not just a physical turning, but something more practical and powerful. Turning our back on the world’s values, ways of measuring success, influences, and decision-making strategies. Turning away from the desires of our flesh.

What choices are you facing? We all make one very key decision in every circumstance we face that determines the outcome of that particular situation … the choice of the lenses I will use to view, experience, and assess this particular event God has allowed to come into my life. Turning toward, understanding, grabbing hold of, and using God’s instruction, forgiveness, grace, promises, and character to form the lenses I use to view each situation God brings my way. This is what I mean by turning toward Jesus. Following Jesus … choosing His way and His lenses, not yours … choosing to receive His love … choosing to trust Him.

If you use His lenses, of course you will still have problems and challenges. Remember the trials Jesus endured? But each one of these opportunities (yes, I called them opportunities) will be easier to navigate in a way that grows you psychologically and spiritually, because it won’t be you who is responding to the adversity. It will be Jesus who lives in you, who will be responding. You will be perceiving and responding in a Christ-like way, having the Mind of Christ.

Today, choose to trust Jesus and do things His way. God has room to work in your life. He will help you move on past the hurt, pain, or failures of the past. He will give you hope for the future. Use lenses based on who He is and what He teaches. Don’t use those distorted lenses with all the muck we’ve accumulated from this world.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to trust You … not just verbalize it, but actually do it in every circumstance. I know You love me and that Your plan for me is the best plan. Please keep me on track … show me the next step … and the next one after that. I know turning to You isn’t physical, it is all mental. Help me turn it all over to You and allow Your perspective to be my lenses. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who I choose to follow, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!
Proverbs 3:5-7

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11

Stepping Stones: Shortcuts: Better Think Twice

Transformational Thought

Yesterday I was standing in line at the omelet making station of a nice restaurant serving brunch … there were 4 or 5 people ahead on me in line. A well-dressed, middle-age man with his teenage son walked in front of the line in an attempt to place their omelet orders. The chef making the omelets gently told the man there was a line.

As the man stepped back, I assumed he was just making an honest mistake, so I jokingly asked; “Were you trying to cut in line?” His response surprised … and saddened me. He said, “Absolutely … if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.”

It’s a hard element to measure, but it sure feels like our society is increasingly turning to shortcuts and even cheating to get what they want. And the guy in the omelet line was not only attempting to cheat … he even adapted a slogan to glorify it. If this is what he openly does in public, he must even be worse when no one is looking, when no accountability is in place to contain him. What is he teaching his young son?

Then I realized how often “I cut in line” in my day. Sleeping in … taking that extra doughnut or cookie … not confronting a situation that needs it … procrastinating a less desirable task or project … judging someone before all the evidence is in … doing a task halfway … leaving that wrapper behind the garbage for someone else to pick up. And these all happened before lunch! I am too embarrassed to tell you my major “short-cuts” … otherwise labeled bad habits, addictions, or dysfunctional patterns of cheating in life.

It’s unbelievable what we are willing to do to avoid a little discomfort … rationalizing it so we believe it is self-protective, when actually, it is self-destructive. Our shortcuts harm our brain circuitry, our personality and psychological skill maturation, and they are especially harmful to our spiritual walk in developing the Mind of Christ. You see, these shortcuts don’t renew the mind, they undermine, weaken, and deceive or brainwash the mind.

Today, examine your behavior and actions. Are you taking shortcuts or cheating? Why? Is feeling “good” or avoiding some discomfort worth sacrificing yourself so much? Be mindful that even minor infractions eventually trend toward major violations. However, minor character- building actions truly renew your mind so you become a powerful lighthouse of character. As always, the choice is yours … don’t harm yourself, choose well.

Prayer
O God, I confess that I have been guilty of cheating … in small and in big ways. I ask Your forgiveness, Father. I know You have protected me from many consequences of my shortcuts … thank You for Your amazing grace. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that He may guide me to the “right-way” … into “Your way” in all that I do. Help me not to be deceived into believing the shortcuts are beneficial to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who always avoided shortcuts with ultimate integrity and character, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.
Luke 16:10

The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.
Proverbs 29:27

Stepping Stones: How far are you willing to pedal to church?

Transformational Thought

Early one Sunday morning, I was shopping at the local food store. As I approached the checkout line, I noticed a young man in front of me with a bicycle helmet still on his head; he was carrying two large vegetable platters. I asked him; “Are you planning on carrying all that on your bike?” He tapped his ear letting me know he was deaf. I watched as he double and triple bagged his purchase. As I was checking out I saw him leave the parking lot. He had two bags on one handle grip and one bag on the other. He was in a hurry.

On my way home, about three miles from the store, I saw the young man struggling to ride his bike in a straight line. The handles on one of the plastic bags had broken…and he was trying to hold it in his arm while steering the bike with the other hand. I pulled over to help; when he saw me he was thrilled. With no words spoken he quickly opened the passenger door and placed the vegetable trays on the seat. He pulled out a small pad of paper and wrote the cross streets of his destination. We were headed to his church which was another three miles away.

Met him at the church. He jumped off his bike and ran to get the pastor. It was a church for the deaf and he wanted the pastor to interpret his sign language for me. His name was Tony. He thanked me repeatedly and told me that when the handle broke, he knew God would send help. The church was having a luncheon following worship and the vegetable trays were Tony’s contribution. The pastor told me that Tony lived 12 miles from the church.

I left the church filled with happiness and thankfulness for the experience God had placed in front of me that Sunday morning. I had moved to that new town just one month prior to meeting Tony. I had not attended a worship service since arriving there. Laziness was only excuse. We often put our wants above our real needs, especially our spiritual needs. Then we wonder why we aren’t getting what we need and act so surprised!

A few months following that experience, I met Tony again at a local coffee shop. When he recognized me he gave me a big hug, grabbed my hand and took me to the store window. He pointed to a late model car parked at the curb and then pointed back at himself … Tony had his first car and he was filled with pride and joy.

Today, think about how much effort you put forth to praise God with others. Do you find time for God with only minimal effort, or when it fits into your schedule? Or do you sacrifice some of your “wants” to make regular time with God? How important is it to you to make it to church? How far would you pedal? What are you willing to endure to worship God and meet Him each day?

Prayer
Father God, I thank You for the little and not so little reminders and lessons you place before me for the taking. Today, I have a renewed thankfulness for my ability to see … to hear … to speak. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I may use all my senses to give you glory and to praise You … to further Your Kingdom here on earth even in ways that I do not understand. I pray this in the name of my savior and teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
1 John 1:7

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all
2 Corinthians 13:14

Stepping Stones: Enabling: Good Intentions Gone Wrong

Transformational Thought

We have all seen a loved one make some destructive decisions. When someone we love is in the grip of a harmful pattern, we naturally want to help. In spite of our best intentions, our efforts are sometimes actually more harmful instead of helpful. We call this enabling, otherwise known as good intentions gone wrong.

Enabling allows those who are struggling to continue in their self-destructive behaviors. It keeps them from feeling the painful consequences that would have significant influence in convincing them to stop before their problem spirals out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue a person from the consequences of his or her choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again. We are then called a “nag” or a “martyr.”

Here are common examples of enabling. Do you find yourself covering up or “living with” the behavior of a friend, child, or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. Are you reminding them to do certain chores or tasks so that they don’t get the consequences they deserve? Do you find yourself giving them "one more chance" … over and over again? Do you care more than they do about the consequences they might get?

A big component of our enabling behavior is our inability to tolerate negative feelings in others or ourselves. These feelings are generated when someone struggles and faces potential consequences. We feel very uncomfortable when they feel sad or hurt, or have to endure a consequence. So we keep nagging, threatening, or pushing them to accomplish their task, and sometimes we even do the test for them.

Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved one is to be supportive and to facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it in their particular area of struggle. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix it, because they need to learn how to fix it. You aren’t going to be around all the time. You need to encourage them when they have made an error, but not protect them from the necessary consequences. You must allow them to learn from the consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping or harming the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God, not you determine the consequences that will open their eyes, change their behavior, and hopefully, transform their heart.

Prayer
Dear God, not fixing my loved one’s problems is so hard. My urge is to come to the rescue instead of letting her suffer the consequences. I realize I have to come to the rescue again and again … that nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You … help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and their discomfort. Help me to allow Your consequences and lessons for them play out. I pray this in the name of the one who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19

And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18

Stepping Stones: When Life “Just Ain’t Fair”

Transformational Thought

Life isn’t fair. You aren’t being fair. I just want what’s fair. That is such a double standard. We all have heard these statements at various times, right?

There are two primary perspectives regarding fairness. First, on a human level we are often out for “number one.” We don’t get mad, we get even. But this approach never leads to peace or contentment. In fact, the outcome is that we become covetous, cynical, bitter, and even hostile. Second, there is the divine level. God misses absolutely nothing (1 Peter 3: 12). He is completely aware of what we think, say, and do before it ever takes place. But we ask, “What about all the evil in the world?” Interestingly, God doesn’t operate in time as we do; we can be assured that justice will be served (Rom. 8:28).

1 Peter 3:13 tells us that honest people usually don’t suffer harm. For example, we pay our debts, and usually we don’t suffer financial trouble. If we lead a healthy lifestyle we usually live longer, and even better. This verse shows us that when we seek to do good, no one can effectively harm us.

When life is not fair, and when we suffer, the very next verse (14) promises that we can consider ourselves “blessed” if we suffer for righteous reasons. Obviously, we can also make decisions that carry unpleasant consequences when we violate God’s principles. But the Phillips translation of James 1:2 gives us comfort: “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your life, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!”

Today, several insightful techniques can help us as we deal with suffering and life’s unfairness. First, we are called to patiently endure unfairness, so that we can know we are fulfilling God’s plan for us. Second, one day we’ll be rewarded for enduring these undeserved trials (James 1:12). Third, don’t panic and don’t worry (1 Peter 3:14). Fear comes from the Greek word “phobos” which means being seized with terror and running to take flight. God wants to give us calmness in our spirit. Fourth, acknowledge Christ as Lord over this event. In the book of Acts Stephen forgives his attackers, giving us an example of not reflecting back hatred and bitterness. Fifth, be ready to give a good witness (v. 15). We must know what we believe, and be able to be reasonable, intelligent, and gentle in giving our defense. And, sixth, keep a good conscience (v. 16). Integrity will silence and shame your slanderers. Job’s example shows that unjust suffering is always better than deserved punishment. These are all decision-making skills you can learn, practice, and excel in. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Father God, thank You that You are full of compassion and are fully in control of all that You created. When we are allowed to suffer, let us not feel agitated and worried, but count it all joy, knowing that endurance will result in a crown of life. When we are slandered, let us not be crushed by others’ opinions, but help us live in such a way that no one would believe it! Help us to remember who we are and Whose we are. We ask this in the soothing name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
“When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to live at peace with him.”
Proverbs 16:7

“Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
James 5:11

Stepping Stones: How Long, Lord?

Transformational Thought

I am so impatient when I watch TV. Can’t stand to watch commercials, not even Super Bowl commercials. How long till the game starts again? Have you ever said those words, “How long?” As in, “How long, Lord, until my prayer is answered? How long until life gets better? How long do You want me to do this without seeing results? How long do You want me to suffer? How long do I have to ‘just hang in there?’ How long ‘til my kids get along? How long ‘til my loved one stops drinking?”

When Joseph was sold into slavery and later spent years in prison, he must have asked, "How long, Lord?" When Moses led the Israelites around and around in the wilderness, he surely thought, "How long, Lord?" When Noah was ridiculed for 100 years while he built an ark on dry land, he must have wondered, "How long, Lord?" The Israelites have been wondering for centuries, “How long until the Messiah comes?” But each one of these trusted God. They respected Him enough to continue obeying Him even when it seemed that all hope was gone.

Perhaps you are involved in a ministry that seems to go nowhere. Yet, you know the Lord wants you there. Maybe you have been praying for an unsaved loved one for many years. Or perhaps you have a business that just doesn't come together, but the Lord has led you to continue. Be encouraged to revere God by continuing to obey him, even though you may wonder, "How long, Lord?"

Our nature is to want our agenda now. No waiting. Nobody else calls the shots. We avoid discomfort, and demand what we want when we want it. My kingdom come, my will be done. But waiting and patience are powerful teachers of many truths. This is how character and many psychological skills are developed. God knows the right timing. Bend to His timeline and your peace and growth will be unbelievable.

Today, be confident that God loves you. Examine your life to see what situation or area makes you impatient … frustrated … irritable. Make sure you are doing a good job with your part of the issue. Then accept that God has a different timeline than you do. Learn the lesson He is teaching. The situation is in your life to grow you … that is God’s purpose for all that comes into your life. He has a perfect plan for us. We (and others) just keep messing it up. His timing is always perfect because it is His timing. As Noah did, keep on "doing all that God commands."

Prayer
Oh Father, Lord, help me honor You by trusting You and being willing to wait on You. Even though I get discouraged at times, help me remember that You are in control and that Your way is the best way. Your timing is the best timing. Help me be patient so I can show the world I am willing to wait on You, Lord. Thy kingdom come, not my kingdom come. I really don’t want to take over responsibility for the whole world, even though sometimes I act like it. I pray this and all prayers for the one who demonstrated perfect timing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I patiently waited, LORD, for you to hear my prayer. You listened and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm, and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the LORD God.
Psalm 40:1-3

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5:1-5

Stepping Stones: Obedience and Respect

Transformational Thought

Respect and reverence have become negative and, at times, distasteful words in today's world, especially regarding Christianity. In some places, Christians receive disgust, animosity, and on occasion, hate and disdain. In the United States, Christians are increasingly viewed as opinionated bigots and narrow-minded people.

Thousands of years ago, God told Noah to build an ark to save his family because He was sending a flood to destroy all life on earth. Up to this time, people had not experienced rain…only a light mist that watered the earth. And here was Noah, building a humongous ship on dry land.

Nobody understood what Noah was doing or why…and actually, they never did until the rain started to fall as Noah had zero converts. Noah took their questions, laughter, abuse and ridicule…day after day, year after year, decade after decade…for 100 years.

Did they have respect for him and his faith? Not at all. The people were so evil that God would destroy all of them, so we could only imagine how evil their ridicule was and what physical persecution or sabotage they carried out on Noah, his family, and his ark as Satan undoubtedly tried to sabotage God’s plan. Hiding Noah’s hammer, spraying graffiti on the ark, vandalizing the ark, stealing supplies for their own use, throwing rocks at them while they worked. Think of the most violent labor dispute and picket line.

But did Noah continue to respect and reverence God by obeying him? Absolutely. Day after day, Noah plugged and chugged…yes, for 100 years of building.

Today, think about how people view you. Do you reverence God enough to honor Him, even in the face of ridicule? Are you hesitant to do what is right…instead falling into the trap of doing what is popular or politically correct, just to be accepted or avoid rejection? Do you love God enough to share your faith as God gives you opportunity? Some Christians risk even their lives by obeying God. How far are you willing to go to maintain your stand and to honor God? What will you do today to prove it? Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH can help.

Prayer
O Heavenly Father, forgive me for my decisions to dishonor You by not speaking up when I knew I should …or by joining in conversations and actions that were displeasing to You. Help me to always honor You by making obedient decisions to follow You…no matter what the circumstances or consequences. Thanks for the examples of Noah, Joseph, Daniel, Shadrach, Meschach, and Abendego, and ultimately, Jesus. Give me the power to love those who dishonor You, but the courage to stand up for You, and the discernment to know how so I honor You and respect them. I pray this and all prayers for the One who shows us the definition of obedience and respect by embodying it, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Noah did everything just as God commanded him.
Genesis 6:22

Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, "You also were with Jesus the Galilean." But he denied it before them all, saying, "I do not know what you mean." And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth." And again he denied it with an oath: "I do not know the man." After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, "Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you." Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately the rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Matthew 26:69-75

Stepping Stones: I Need…..God

Transformational Thought

We just finished sweet 16 birthday parties for my middle daughter, Nicole. She even has us celebrating her half-birthday in April. She was blessed with nice gifts from friends and a good chunk of gift money, so we asked her if she had anything in mind to buy. She started, “Dad, I need a …” then stopped as she saw that reflexive look on my face when I hear, “I need…” And so she restated, “Dad, I would like to get an iPod touch so baldy.”

I need a ride. I need some love. I need some sleep. I need an answer. I need some money. I need a man. I need a drink. I need my Starbucks. I need a job. I need a break. I need help. We were all needy…in fact, we were born very needy. We all needed a SAVIOR. However, there are two types of people; those who are needy and recognize their insufficiencies, and those who are needy but are totally unaware of their inadequacies.

Recognizing the extent of your neediness for God is a blessing. Even though Satan tries to distract us from recognizing our need for God, we know we can’t meet all our needs by ourselves. We do know, deep inside, the breadth and depth of our need. Recognition is only half the battle, though. The other half is turning to Him rather than to idolatrous substitutes to fill our emptiness, to give us purpose or identity, or to soothe our hurts. Turning to our Lord with daily intentionality will always be the challenge…will always be the toughest part of the battle. Why? Because we are constantly bombarded and influenced by the heaviness of this fallen world. We choose immediate comfort over real sustenance. While on this earth you will have to contend with this spiritual-emotional “gravity” pulling you away from Him.

Today, when you face an “I need” moment, stop and ask God to show you whether it is a need or a want. If you are honest, the answer should be fairly clear. Next, exert some self-control over your initial comfort-driven impulse, and try to really address the underlying issue. Then look to His instruction manual to find what He has promised and provided for you. Remember, immediate answers aren’t necessary and you really can handle waiting if you will recognize His power and sovereignty.

Prayer
Dear Father God, With each passing day I recognize how desperately I need You. I do want You to be the center of my life…and I am trying to keep You there. But You know, Father, how easily I get distracted…how my thoughts wander away from You. I grope for You Father; I need Your help all the time. Help me understand those distractions as idols and help me learn how to close my ears to their falsely soothing coos. I pray these words in the name of the One who died for all my needs, Jesus Christ; and all God’s people said, - AMEN!

The Truth
But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'
Matthew 4:4

So that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us;
Acts 17:27

For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life, to preserve you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress. Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes; for the price of a prostitute is only a loaf of bread, but a married woman hunts down a precious life.
Proverbs 6:23-26