Transformational Thought
My main job is directing Lighthouse Network and consulting with some rehab facilities. I still have a psychiatry practice. Due to God’s blessing and my specialty as a Christian psychiatrist, my appointment schedule is packed and has a 2-3 month wait for an evaluation. Periodically, someone wanders into the office and wants a “drop-in” appointment. Big mistake. They usually understand, but some are amazed and say, if I went to my family doc, they would see me! You would have thought I committed some federal offense. Unfortunately, no appointment … no meeting.
Amazingly, you can “drop in” on Someone far more important and much busier than a psychiatrist during the high stress holiday … and you can be 100% confident that He will push all other business aside and focus completely on you. His undivided attention will be yours. Just imagine the Creator of heaven and earth yearning to have a personal appointment and relationship with you.
You see, when I was a kid, I believed God loved me. But by the time I experienced more of the world, I believed God was very busy with the Middle East, extreme diseases like cancer and HIV, and devastating abuses around the globe. I still knew He loved me, but somewhere deep, I thought my life was too trivial or not extreme enough for Him to allow me to drop into His office. Learning I had 24/7 access was incredibly empowering, affirming, and freeing for me.
Not only are you able to “drop in,” He actually knocks on the door of your heart … all the time. His Holy Spirit is talking to you in your spirit, and God the Father is talking to you in as He orchestrates and works on you through your circumstances. Because of His love for you, He wants to guide and protect you from life’s garbage and heartache. Unfortunately, we don’t listen to the doctor’s orders, and then wonder why the disease still impacts and hurts us.
Today, drop in to the Ultimate Healer … pray 3 extra times today. Have a conversation, not just a standard prayer you say out of habit. Actually talk to Him. Then really listen. It takes practice , so give it some time. He rejoices every time you “drop in” for a visit. The more you drop in, the better you will hear Him knocking on the door of your heart. But it’s up to you. If you don’t listen to the Great Doctor’s treatment plan, the disease will destroy you. Remember, no matter what, THE DOCTOR always has a special appointment time for you. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, that I can talk with You. I thank You for listening to my words, thoughts, and fears. I thank You, Father, for receiving even the longings in my heart, which at times I cannot put into words. Help me develop ears that hear and eyes that see the treatment plan You have prescribed for me. Give me the courage to follow Your treatment plan, which brings peace and fulfillment, and to turn away from my treatment plan, which leads to destruction. I pray in the name of the One who will always see me without an appointment, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 55:17
A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:7-15
Showing posts with label Prayer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prayer. Show all posts
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Want to Hear God’s Voice? Get Rid of the Static!
Transformational Thought
I was driving to work the other day when I turned on a local Christian radio station. This particular station is a bit smaller than many and its broadcast radius is quite limited. So, as I turned a corner in the road, the once clear voice of the Bible teacher on one station became intermingled with classical piano music and static from another station. For about a mile or two the Word of God was very difficult to make out as the words were overtaken by static, the musical notes of the piano, and the voice of the DJ. So, back and forth it went:
Bible Teacher: "Jesus said in John Chapter one, 'in the begin . . .'
Static, static, static . . . Bb7, F#m7, A, Em . . . static, static, static
Bible Teacher: "Through Him all . . . "
D.J.: "Now we'll enjoy Chopin's Nocturne in B-Flat minor"
I realized that God was showing me something. In this world, there are many enticements that compete for our attention. Some are pretenders that hinder our ability to discern God's voice (a voice that the Bible, at one point, calls a "still small voice"). As I drew nearer to the Christian radio station’s tower, the classical music faded and the words of John the Apostle came through clear as a bell:
"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
The Bible reminds us that God’s children recognize his voice. It’s a wonderful truth. But equally true is that we need to be listening. My children know my voice and can discern it from all other voices. For some reason, when they are playing a video game (in a trance-like state) my words fall on deaf ears. But when they turn off the game, and look in my eyes and listen, it seems the words sink in much better.
In Matthew Chapter 15 Jesus was teaching the crowd of followers and began his teaching with these words, "Listen and understand …." Jesus knew that hearing is more important than listening. Everyone within reach of Jesus' voice could hear him but not everyone listened.
We often say, "I wish I could hear the voice of God." But I think God showed me again this week that if I want to hear Him I need to tune out all the other static. I need to turn off the TV, the Ipod, and the computer. I need to get alone with him, spend some time in his written Word, and on my knees in prayer. Sure God can yell, as I have oftentimes found when I ignore or fail to listen, only to get a really uncomfortable wake-up call. Listening the first time turns out to be a better plan.
Today, don’t just talk to God … listen to Him as well. Make an effort to choose one thing in your life that interferes with tuning into God’s channel. Trim down the time spent on that, and give that time to receiving God’s message. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father God, Thank You for giving me spiritual ears to hear Your voice. Help me today to tune out the noises of the world and all the other voices that hinder my walk with You. Please help me to hear, and also to understand and be obedient to Your call on my life. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who makes these things possible. I pray in the name of the One who always tuned to Your frequency, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
John 10: 27-28
I was driving to work the other day when I turned on a local Christian radio station. This particular station is a bit smaller than many and its broadcast radius is quite limited. So, as I turned a corner in the road, the once clear voice of the Bible teacher on one station became intermingled with classical piano music and static from another station. For about a mile or two the Word of God was very difficult to make out as the words were overtaken by static, the musical notes of the piano, and the voice of the DJ. So, back and forth it went:
Bible Teacher: "Jesus said in John Chapter one, 'in the begin . . .'
Static, static, static . . . Bb7, F#m7, A, Em . . . static, static, static
Bible Teacher: "Through Him all . . . "
D.J.: "Now we'll enjoy Chopin's Nocturne in B-Flat minor"
I realized that God was showing me something. In this world, there are many enticements that compete for our attention. Some are pretenders that hinder our ability to discern God's voice (a voice that the Bible, at one point, calls a "still small voice"). As I drew nearer to the Christian radio station’s tower, the classical music faded and the words of John the Apostle came through clear as a bell:
"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."
The Bible reminds us that God’s children recognize his voice. It’s a wonderful truth. But equally true is that we need to be listening. My children know my voice and can discern it from all other voices. For some reason, when they are playing a video game (in a trance-like state) my words fall on deaf ears. But when they turn off the game, and look in my eyes and listen, it seems the words sink in much better.
In Matthew Chapter 15 Jesus was teaching the crowd of followers and began his teaching with these words, "Listen and understand …." Jesus knew that hearing is more important than listening. Everyone within reach of Jesus' voice could hear him but not everyone listened.
We often say, "I wish I could hear the voice of God." But I think God showed me again this week that if I want to hear Him I need to tune out all the other static. I need to turn off the TV, the Ipod, and the computer. I need to get alone with him, spend some time in his written Word, and on my knees in prayer. Sure God can yell, as I have oftentimes found when I ignore or fail to listen, only to get a really uncomfortable wake-up call. Listening the first time turns out to be a better plan.
Today, don’t just talk to God … listen to Him as well. Make an effort to choose one thing in your life that interferes with tuning into God’s channel. Trim down the time spent on that, and give that time to receiving God’s message. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Father God, Thank You for giving me spiritual ears to hear Your voice. Help me today to tune out the noises of the world and all the other voices that hinder my walk with You. Please help me to hear, and also to understand and be obedient to Your call on my life. Thank You for Your Holy Spirit who makes these things possible. I pray in the name of the One who always tuned to Your frequency, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
John 10: 27-28
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: Special Lens Cleaners: Please and Thank You
Transformational Thought
When we were little kids, going to a restaurant was a rare treat. One summer, on a road trip, there was a great greasy hamburger joint we tried. Greasy burgers, salty fries, and thick milkshakes. A kid’s dream place. But, they had this server who took our orders at the front window. Remember, this was a different era. He had an ‘annoying’ habit: he made the children say “Please” and “Thank You”. No “please”, no “thank you”…no hamburger. It was a quick and easy lesson, pretty straightforward, with lots of incentive to learn quickly.
As a kid, I always thought it was strange…having to say please and thank you to get something I actually had to pay for. But in retrospect, it really was positive reinforcement for the lessons my parents were teaching me at home. It showed me several important lessons. I am not entitled to anything. I am dependent on others for the items I need and want. And, I should always be thankful for everything I get. All accurate and valuable lenses to develop. We could use some more servers like that in the world today to reinforce these principles today. Actually, it seems like more parents need to role out this strategy with their kids.
Our interactions with God should follow and reflect these same lenses. Our prayers should always include “please” and “thank you”. You see, we often view life through very entitled lenses. We deserve no traffic on the way to work, a good job, a nice house, good health, well-behaved kids. No one close to us should be dying. These lenses just propagate the “I am King” and “My kingdom come, my will be done” mentality which virally spreads, infecting all areas of our lives. If we just keep repeating our concerns to God, with a disrespectful and entitled attitude, we will live in a state of confused tension not knowing why Santa Claus isn’t giving us what we demanded.
However, when you follow-up your request by thanking Him for the grace He has already extended to you and prayer He has already answered, your mindset becomes much more positive and in line with His sovereignty and agenda…because now you are aware of the reality of His action for you. Thankful prayers, for everything, the good and the bad, keep your focus on Him as the ultimate Authority.
Today, when you bring your prayer requests to God, say “please” and speak clearly and candidly…lay out your concerns…pour out your heart. Then immediately thank Him for the answers that He has already set in motion. More importantly, look closely for those answers, because they might not be packaged how you initially expected. If it seems like God isn’t answering your prayers, you need to re-tune your system to a different channel because God is answering with the plan that is the best fit for you right now.
Prayer
Dear Father God, This is Your world, Father. You made it and control it. I relinquish all control into Your hands…I trust You completely. I thank You, Father, for the gift of receptivity that You have planted in my heart. I thank You for the answers to my prayers that are already on their way. Please grow in me a humble and thankful attitude. Give me eyes and radar to see Your answers to every prayer request, because I know you answer, but when it’s different than what I want, I sometimes don’t see it. I pray in the name of the one in whose name we are called to pray, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2
As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me."
Psalm 50:14,15
When we were little kids, going to a restaurant was a rare treat. One summer, on a road trip, there was a great greasy hamburger joint we tried. Greasy burgers, salty fries, and thick milkshakes. A kid’s dream place. But, they had this server who took our orders at the front window. Remember, this was a different era. He had an ‘annoying’ habit: he made the children say “Please” and “Thank You”. No “please”, no “thank you”…no hamburger. It was a quick and easy lesson, pretty straightforward, with lots of incentive to learn quickly.
As a kid, I always thought it was strange…having to say please and thank you to get something I actually had to pay for. But in retrospect, it really was positive reinforcement for the lessons my parents were teaching me at home. It showed me several important lessons. I am not entitled to anything. I am dependent on others for the items I need and want. And, I should always be thankful for everything I get. All accurate and valuable lenses to develop. We could use some more servers like that in the world today to reinforce these principles today. Actually, it seems like more parents need to role out this strategy with their kids.
Our interactions with God should follow and reflect these same lenses. Our prayers should always include “please” and “thank you”. You see, we often view life through very entitled lenses. We deserve no traffic on the way to work, a good job, a nice house, good health, well-behaved kids. No one close to us should be dying. These lenses just propagate the “I am King” and “My kingdom come, my will be done” mentality which virally spreads, infecting all areas of our lives. If we just keep repeating our concerns to God, with a disrespectful and entitled attitude, we will live in a state of confused tension not knowing why Santa Claus isn’t giving us what we demanded.
However, when you follow-up your request by thanking Him for the grace He has already extended to you and prayer He has already answered, your mindset becomes much more positive and in line with His sovereignty and agenda…because now you are aware of the reality of His action for you. Thankful prayers, for everything, the good and the bad, keep your focus on Him as the ultimate Authority.
Today, when you bring your prayer requests to God, say “please” and speak clearly and candidly…lay out your concerns…pour out your heart. Then immediately thank Him for the answers that He has already set in motion. More importantly, look closely for those answers, because they might not be packaged how you initially expected. If it seems like God isn’t answering your prayers, you need to re-tune your system to a different channel because God is answering with the plan that is the best fit for you right now.
Prayer
Dear Father God, This is Your world, Father. You made it and control it. I relinquish all control into Your hands…I trust You completely. I thank You, Father, for the gift of receptivity that You have planted in my heart. I thank You for the answers to my prayers that are already on their way. Please grow in me a humble and thankful attitude. Give me eyes and radar to see Your answers to every prayer request, because I know you answer, but when it’s different than what I want, I sometimes don’t see it. I pray in the name of the one in whose name we are called to pray, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2
As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me."
Psalm 50:14,15
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Prayer Life: Exciting Adventure or Sleepwalking
Transformational Thought
The other day, in between tasks, I unexpectedly bumped into a friend, who was also in between tasks. We did the superficial and obligatory greeting and banter, then went our respective ways. Not the ideal interaction, but one we both accepted based on hurriedness and other tasks preoccupying our minds. The willingness to prioritize each other? Not even an option.
In most relationships, we have a dangerous tendency to fall into patterns and routines that lead to staleness or ruts which slowly, but effectively, sabotage our growth and relational depth with ourselves and others. We start to take the other person for granted and become “me” focused … not process oriented towards what is actually happening in the relationship.
Most of us fall into this same rut with God. Our routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger: we can sleepwalk through our prayers. Just as our earthly relationships get put on autopilot sometimes, so does our relationship with God. Prayer only fulfills an obligation or tradition … saying “grace” before meals or bedtime. Then God Himself seems like an extra, an obligation, something to break out for special occasions, instead of a powerful necessary ingredient for daily enrichment and growth as we discussed yesterday.
Like we always say, you have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you – the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God. Think specifically of your words … why are you praying … what is your attitude … what is your expectation? Ultimately, see God for who He is and you will become excited and intentional, just as you would be if you were meeting your favorite person, celebrity, or athlete.
Today, spend 5 minutes before you pray, just listening to the Holy Spirit talk to you and petition for you. He will start to put in your mind and heart what you need to be praying for. At the end of your prayer, spend 5 minutes just listening for God to show up and dialogue with you. If you drift (like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God’s frequency. This will awaken your soul and powerfully enliven your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to You. I love living close to You. It satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess, Lord, that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers … and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You, Lord, with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and am able to see Your infinite newness everyday. I pray this in the name the one who never sleepwalked through any relationship, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
The other day, in between tasks, I unexpectedly bumped into a friend, who was also in between tasks. We did the superficial and obligatory greeting and banter, then went our respective ways. Not the ideal interaction, but one we both accepted based on hurriedness and other tasks preoccupying our minds. The willingness to prioritize each other? Not even an option.
In most relationships, we have a dangerous tendency to fall into patterns and routines that lead to staleness or ruts which slowly, but effectively, sabotage our growth and relational depth with ourselves and others. We start to take the other person for granted and become “me” focused … not process oriented towards what is actually happening in the relationship.
Most of us fall into this same rut with God. Our routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger: we can sleepwalk through our prayers. Just as our earthly relationships get put on autopilot sometimes, so does our relationship with God. Prayer only fulfills an obligation or tradition … saying “grace” before meals or bedtime. Then God Himself seems like an extra, an obligation, something to break out for special occasions, instead of a powerful necessary ingredient for daily enrichment and growth as we discussed yesterday.
Like we always say, you have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you – the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God. Think specifically of your words … why are you praying … what is your attitude … what is your expectation? Ultimately, see God for who He is and you will become excited and intentional, just as you would be if you were meeting your favorite person, celebrity, or athlete.
Today, spend 5 minutes before you pray, just listening to the Holy Spirit talk to you and petition for you. He will start to put in your mind and heart what you need to be praying for. At the end of your prayer, spend 5 minutes just listening for God to show up and dialogue with you. If you drift (like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God’s frequency. This will awaken your soul and powerfully enliven your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to You. I love living close to You. It satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess, Lord, that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers … and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You, Lord, with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and am able to see Your infinite newness everyday. I pray this in the name the one who never sleepwalked through any relationship, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Think You Are Breathing But Are Really Choking?
Transformational Thought
Do you ever watch people swimming like I do at the beach or the pool? Some can stay underwater for just a few seconds, and others can stay under for a long time … up to 90 seconds. I even had a friend who was an Olympic water polo player who could hold his breath for three and a half minutes! But in the end, they all desperately need air and gasp for it when they take that first breath after being underwater.
In life, so many people are slowly asphyxiating. This suffocation is manifested in feeling overwhelmed, lonely, never caught up, unimportant, I need a drink, have to have my coffee to get started, unsafe, worthless, stupid, left out, incompetent, lost in life, glass half empty, never get a break, guilty, shameful, need to eat to soothe, passed over, picked last, picked on, looks just not right, physically mushy build, and for some, flat out hopeless, helpless, and sometimes suicidal. Why? Because they are not spiritually “breathing.”
To pray is to breathe. And people are not praying, so they are spiritually dying … or maybe they have never really lived. Just as the body can’t do without oxygen, our spirit, our essence can’t do without prayer … without breathing in God. His Word is our daily bread and prayer is our daily breath.
Prayer is an opening of our hearts to God, who already dwells within us. Praying allows us further connection and understanding of His spiritual world … then our spiritual radar starts to get tuned and tweaked to God’s settings so we breathe Him in and connect more powerfully.
We then receive His communications without interference … life becomes easier and more fulfilling. We become more Christ-like as we know and follow Him more.
Have you ever experienced that scary choking feeling when something is caught in your throat? Satan wants to deceive us into think we have more important things to breathe in each day. But his elements are actually obstructing our breathing and choking us. Satan gets us to think that spending time talking to God is a waste, as if it were an obstruction we can’t afford in our day. Don’t be so easily tricked.
Today, stop and do this exercise for me. Hold your breath as long as you can. The urgency and powerful way you gasp for air, that is how much you need God every second of your life! Pray deeply, breathe easily … or pray shallowly, choke fearfully. As usual, it’s your choice. What will you do? I pray you choose well, your life depends on it.
Prayer
Dear Father, I praise and honor You, my Lord. I know You have created everything. Even though I believe in You, at times I cannot breathe. I struggle for air like a swimmer that has gone too deep and now I am rushing to the surface for that gasp of air. Today, I feel like I will not make it to the top. I am learning now that You are my only source of air, my constant source of air and of “life.” Infuse me with Your Holy Spirit, Lord. Help me regularly dedicate time to breathe You more deeply into my heart. I pray this in the name the one who fully and constantly breathed You in, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1 Corinthians 6:19
All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John 1:3-4
For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Deuteronomy 4:7
Do you ever watch people swimming like I do at the beach or the pool? Some can stay underwater for just a few seconds, and others can stay under for a long time … up to 90 seconds. I even had a friend who was an Olympic water polo player who could hold his breath for three and a half minutes! But in the end, they all desperately need air and gasp for it when they take that first breath after being underwater.
In life, so many people are slowly asphyxiating. This suffocation is manifested in feeling overwhelmed, lonely, never caught up, unimportant, I need a drink, have to have my coffee to get started, unsafe, worthless, stupid, left out, incompetent, lost in life, glass half empty, never get a break, guilty, shameful, need to eat to soothe, passed over, picked last, picked on, looks just not right, physically mushy build, and for some, flat out hopeless, helpless, and sometimes suicidal. Why? Because they are not spiritually “breathing.”
To pray is to breathe. And people are not praying, so they are spiritually dying … or maybe they have never really lived. Just as the body can’t do without oxygen, our spirit, our essence can’t do without prayer … without breathing in God. His Word is our daily bread and prayer is our daily breath.
Prayer is an opening of our hearts to God, who already dwells within us. Praying allows us further connection and understanding of His spiritual world … then our spiritual radar starts to get tuned and tweaked to God’s settings so we breathe Him in and connect more powerfully.
We then receive His communications without interference … life becomes easier and more fulfilling. We become more Christ-like as we know and follow Him more.
Have you ever experienced that scary choking feeling when something is caught in your throat? Satan wants to deceive us into think we have more important things to breathe in each day. But his elements are actually obstructing our breathing and choking us. Satan gets us to think that spending time talking to God is a waste, as if it were an obstruction we can’t afford in our day. Don’t be so easily tricked.
Today, stop and do this exercise for me. Hold your breath as long as you can. The urgency and powerful way you gasp for air, that is how much you need God every second of your life! Pray deeply, breathe easily … or pray shallowly, choke fearfully. As usual, it’s your choice. What will you do? I pray you choose well, your life depends on it.
Prayer
Dear Father, I praise and honor You, my Lord. I know You have created everything. Even though I believe in You, at times I cannot breathe. I struggle for air like a swimmer that has gone too deep and now I am rushing to the surface for that gasp of air. Today, I feel like I will not make it to the top. I am learning now that You are my only source of air, my constant source of air and of “life.” Infuse me with Your Holy Spirit, Lord. Help me regularly dedicate time to breathe You more deeply into my heart. I pray this in the name the one who fully and constantly breathed You in, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1 Corinthians 6:19
All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John 1:3-4
For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Deuteronomy 4:7
Monday, May 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: “Thank You” Therapy
Transformational Thought
Did you ever notice how hard it is for some people to say “Thank you”? Two simple yet pretty powerful words. But for some people, they don’t even exist. Saying “Thank you” gives the other person authority, leverage, power into your life. It implies you need them, owe them … that they are one up on you.
In the past, we all suffered hurts, wounds, or letdowns. Our reflexive “healing” reaction is to develop defenses that make sure we don’t get hurt again. Two of our defenses are control and independence. These make sure we … 1. have a plan, and 2. are not being dependent on other people’s plans because we know what we need and how to meet our needs way better than anyone else. How dare God have a plan different from ours?
When our plan, strategy, or agenda doesn’t play out, our choices are … 1. Be mad, anxious, fearful, hurt, frustrated, discontented, upset, frantic, overwhelmed that we didn’t get what we wanted and thought was best, or 2. Be thankful that our all-knowing, all-powerful, loving, awesome Father God had a better plan to do what is truly best for our growth and fulfillment. Thankful is not our natural me-centered response, so it’s much more difficult to summon up. But it really is a much healthier response for you to improve your relationship with GOD, others, and even yourself.
Try thanking God regularly throughout your day. For each time you thank Him, You are acknowledging that He is you Lord and Provider.
Today, when events don’t go your way, STOP! Thank God. When you pray with thanksgiving during difficult times you are truly acting like a child of God. When you find it hard to be thankful, stop and remember who your Lord really is: the Author of your life and your faith. So what will you choose today when life goes differently than you want … frustration and angst, or thankfulness and peace? As always, your decision, so choose well. It’s easier than you think … try it today.
Prayer
Dear Father God,I know I’m supposed to give thanks in all circumstances; but I confess to You that sometimes my prayers are hollow … I can say them without feeling thankful at all … especially during difficult times. I know, my Lord, that I am totally dependent on You for everything … even my next breath. I know that all good things come from You, Lord. I thank You today in the midst of my struggles, and when I thank You, I receive with thankfulness Your Joy and Peace. All glory to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name the One who always was thankful and accepted His circumstances, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.
Hebrews 12:28
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17
Did you ever notice how hard it is for some people to say “Thank you”? Two simple yet pretty powerful words. But for some people, they don’t even exist. Saying “Thank you” gives the other person authority, leverage, power into your life. It implies you need them, owe them … that they are one up on you.
In the past, we all suffered hurts, wounds, or letdowns. Our reflexive “healing” reaction is to develop defenses that make sure we don’t get hurt again. Two of our defenses are control and independence. These make sure we … 1. have a plan, and 2. are not being dependent on other people’s plans because we know what we need and how to meet our needs way better than anyone else. How dare God have a plan different from ours?
When our plan, strategy, or agenda doesn’t play out, our choices are … 1. Be mad, anxious, fearful, hurt, frustrated, discontented, upset, frantic, overwhelmed that we didn’t get what we wanted and thought was best, or 2. Be thankful that our all-knowing, all-powerful, loving, awesome Father God had a better plan to do what is truly best for our growth and fulfillment. Thankful is not our natural me-centered response, so it’s much more difficult to summon up. But it really is a much healthier response for you to improve your relationship with GOD, others, and even yourself.
Try thanking God regularly throughout your day. For each time you thank Him, You are acknowledging that He is you Lord and Provider.
Today, when events don’t go your way, STOP! Thank God. When you pray with thanksgiving during difficult times you are truly acting like a child of God. When you find it hard to be thankful, stop and remember who your Lord really is: the Author of your life and your faith. So what will you choose today when life goes differently than you want … frustration and angst, or thankfulness and peace? As always, your decision, so choose well. It’s easier than you think … try it today.
Prayer
Dear Father God,I know I’m supposed to give thanks in all circumstances; but I confess to You that sometimes my prayers are hollow … I can say them without feeling thankful at all … especially during difficult times. I know, my Lord, that I am totally dependent on You for everything … even my next breath. I know that all good things come from You, Lord. I thank You today in the midst of my struggles, and when I thank You, I receive with thankfulness Your Joy and Peace. All glory to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name the One who always was thankful and accepted His circumstances, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.
Hebrews 12:28
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17
Friday, May 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Prayer is Power Journaling
Transformational Thought
As a psychiatrist, I often see patients who struggle with fears, wounds, hurts, distortions, unresolved conflicts, and misinterpretations, which profoundly interfere with their ability to live the abundant life Christ’s death made available to us. They also miss out on achieving their God-given potential.
In the beginning of their work with me, the struggles are often very vague and difficult for them to specifically describe and put their finger on. This contributes to the overwhelming and confused feelings most people experience as a result of these struggles which seem unstructured and never-ending.
One discipline I find really helpful, actually essential for most at the start of their personal transformation process, is journaling. When I ask patients to journal about their area of struggle, a common response is, “I don’t know where to start,” or “I won’t have enough paper to write about the whole issue,” or “You’ll never have time to read all I write.”
Once they start writing about it, they are forced to be very concrete, practical, and methodical as they dig in to the elements of the issue. They are always amazed at the insights they get, how little paper they end up using, the logical progression of the issue, and how much simpler the issue really is. As a result of the process, journaling reveals some very deep truths and insights about ourselves and our hearts.
Prayer accomplishes the same results (and more) through the same process. As we really think about what to pray for and why, we are verbally journaling with God. God wants us to come to Him in prayer, and one reason is it makes us analyze our situations and ourselves in a meaningful and revealing way.
God’s Holy Bible tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to Him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers your prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise: His peace will guard your heart and mind and will keep Him close to you. How much more incentive do you need to pray more!
Today, pray more, and not just that rote, vague, superficial prayer you repeat out of habit. Do some real mental prep and inventory. Even get out a pen and paper and journal about what you pray for and why. Record God’s answers to your prayers. Watch it play out over time. You will learn so much about God, His wisdom, and what to really pray for. Your eyes will be opened to see your real heart and desires. Do they align with God’s? Why or why not?
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And when I bring my requests and petitions, You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that when you say “no” it’s because You’re planning something better for me, not because You are punishing or withholding. I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with You. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinder my intimacy with You. Help me to better understand what is in my heart and learn to put You in the center. I pray this in the name the one who knew His heart exactly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
As a psychiatrist, I often see patients who struggle with fears, wounds, hurts, distortions, unresolved conflicts, and misinterpretations, which profoundly interfere with their ability to live the abundant life Christ’s death made available to us. They also miss out on achieving their God-given potential.
In the beginning of their work with me, the struggles are often very vague and difficult for them to specifically describe and put their finger on. This contributes to the overwhelming and confused feelings most people experience as a result of these struggles which seem unstructured and never-ending.
One discipline I find really helpful, actually essential for most at the start of their personal transformation process, is journaling. When I ask patients to journal about their area of struggle, a common response is, “I don’t know where to start,” or “I won’t have enough paper to write about the whole issue,” or “You’ll never have time to read all I write.”
Once they start writing about it, they are forced to be very concrete, practical, and methodical as they dig in to the elements of the issue. They are always amazed at the insights they get, how little paper they end up using, the logical progression of the issue, and how much simpler the issue really is. As a result of the process, journaling reveals some very deep truths and insights about ourselves and our hearts.
Prayer accomplishes the same results (and more) through the same process. As we really think about what to pray for and why, we are verbally journaling with God. God wants us to come to Him in prayer, and one reason is it makes us analyze our situations and ourselves in a meaningful and revealing way.
God’s Holy Bible tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to Him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers your prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise: His peace will guard your heart and mind and will keep Him close to you. How much more incentive do you need to pray more!
Today, pray more, and not just that rote, vague, superficial prayer you repeat out of habit. Do some real mental prep and inventory. Even get out a pen and paper and journal about what you pray for and why. Record God’s answers to your prayers. Watch it play out over time. You will learn so much about God, His wisdom, and what to really pray for. Your eyes will be opened to see your real heart and desires. Do they align with God’s? Why or why not?
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And when I bring my requests and petitions, You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that when you say “no” it’s because You’re planning something better for me, not because You are punishing or withholding. I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with You. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinder my intimacy with You. Help me to better understand what is in my heart and learn to put You in the center. I pray this in the name the one who knew His heart exactly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: Good News! Somebody Does Listen and Understand
Transformational Thought
Seems like my whole teen era was filled with me screaming inside, “Nobody understands me!” Do you sometimes feel as though nobody is listening or understands what you are going through or experiencing?
I was a visiting preacher at a small church a few weeks ago. It was different. What do you expect when you have a psychiatrist preaching? Before prayer, people were sharing praises and requests. An older lady offered praise for an incident a week earlier when we had some terrible storms and lots of damage in the area. She had a big old tree very close to her house that wasn’t going to survive the storm. The group prayed that nobody would be hurt and that no damage would be done to the house. Sure enough, she woke up the next day, and the tree, despite the way it was leaning, fell away from the house, damaging nothing. She was happy God heard her prayers.
It is great that God prevented damage. But the dangerous assumption is: “Good” outcome means God hears our prayers; “Bad” outcome means God doesn’t hear our prayers.
Well, Good News! Someone is listening and does understand. God hears all our prayers and knows exactly what we are going through and what we need. The Bible tells us that God is compassionate. He has a sympathetic understanding of your situation and He wants to ease your burden and free you from the load you carry. He is dependable. He is always there for you. He will never leave you alone. God's love has no limits or conditions and never fails, no matter what your circumstances.
You have many challenges to face, but you don't have to face them alone. Just because we don’t get what we prayed for doesn’t mean He wasn’t listening. Remember all the things you asked for as a kid. Aren’t you glad you didn’t get some of them? In fact, you now say “No” to your kids when they ask for the same thing.
Today, talk to God about your feelings and your fears. As you spend time in the Bible, you will be comforted. You will learn that God is your refuge in your trouble. He offers strength and help. He is ever-present. He cares for you. He wants to carry your anxiety. He will give you peace.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for Your promise to be with me, no matter what. Thank You for understanding and caring. Because circumstances don’t work out the way I want them to, I mistakenly interpret that You don’t love me, don’t care, or are just too busy with more important people and issues. Help me resist this me-centered thinking and lie, and open my eyes to Your truth. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to deliver the good news, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
God is good, a hiding place in tough times. He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help, No matter how desperate the trouble.
Nahum 1:7
But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.
Psalm 59:16
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Seems like my whole teen era was filled with me screaming inside, “Nobody understands me!” Do you sometimes feel as though nobody is listening or understands what you are going through or experiencing?
I was a visiting preacher at a small church a few weeks ago. It was different. What do you expect when you have a psychiatrist preaching? Before prayer, people were sharing praises and requests. An older lady offered praise for an incident a week earlier when we had some terrible storms and lots of damage in the area. She had a big old tree very close to her house that wasn’t going to survive the storm. The group prayed that nobody would be hurt and that no damage would be done to the house. Sure enough, she woke up the next day, and the tree, despite the way it was leaning, fell away from the house, damaging nothing. She was happy God heard her prayers.
It is great that God prevented damage. But the dangerous assumption is: “Good” outcome means God hears our prayers; “Bad” outcome means God doesn’t hear our prayers.
Well, Good News! Someone is listening and does understand. God hears all our prayers and knows exactly what we are going through and what we need. The Bible tells us that God is compassionate. He has a sympathetic understanding of your situation and He wants to ease your burden and free you from the load you carry. He is dependable. He is always there for you. He will never leave you alone. God's love has no limits or conditions and never fails, no matter what your circumstances.
You have many challenges to face, but you don't have to face them alone. Just because we don’t get what we prayed for doesn’t mean He wasn’t listening. Remember all the things you asked for as a kid. Aren’t you glad you didn’t get some of them? In fact, you now say “No” to your kids when they ask for the same thing.
Today, talk to God about your feelings and your fears. As you spend time in the Bible, you will be comforted. You will learn that God is your refuge in your trouble. He offers strength and help. He is ever-present. He cares for you. He wants to carry your anxiety. He will give you peace.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for Your promise to be with me, no matter what. Thank You for understanding and caring. Because circumstances don’t work out the way I want them to, I mistakenly interpret that You don’t love me, don’t care, or are just too busy with more important people and issues. Help me resist this me-centered thinking and lie, and open my eyes to Your truth. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to deliver the good news, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
God is good, a hiding place in tough times. He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help, No matter how desperate the trouble.
Nahum 1:7
But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.
Psalm 59:16
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Friday, December 31, 2010
Stepping Stones: Only One Resolution Needed
Transformational Thought
So many of us use New Year’s Eve and Day to make resolutions…to try and “fix” our shortcomings…to focus on our failures. So many resolutions are made…and within a few days or weeks, they are broken. To keep a resolution for a whole month is virtually unheard of in our society.
Remember, the world we live in is fallen and we are part of that brokenness. In this fallen world, all our default settings are tainted by sin. Trying to “fix” yourself, by yourself, is futile. It’s like trying to put all the pieces of a broken mirror back together to get a true reflection. Only one resolution is needed…to develop the Mind of Christ. Growing closer to God, yearning for Him, then glorifying Him with your internal and external functioning.
Developing the Mind of Christ can’t happen without the Holy Spirit. If you aren’t saved, often called born again, (meaning you haven’t received God’s gift of Jesus as your personal Savior to save you from the penalty for your sins), then click here to learn how to be saved to go to heaven for eternity. If you are saved, then learning how to access the power of the Holy Spirit is the way to achieve your resolution and grow the Mind of Christ – be a better person. WITHIN REACH: Disciplines for Real Life Change is our decision-making and growth workshop that covers confession, the armor of God, biblical truths, and a strategy to understand and apply the Holy Spirit’s work in the everyday decisions of life.
To make a resolution is to make a decision with intention and determination…a decision with firmness of mind and purpose. When the Spirit is in you, and you are obeying and following Him, you will be transformed and renewed. The Holy Spirit will give you incredible motivation to follow through with your resolution.
Today, make the only resolution that can truly make a difference in your life. Decide to move closer to God and access the Holy Spirit to transform your mind and life...now and for eternity. Tomorrow, we will look closer at transformation. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, on this New Year’s Eve, I make the only resolution that counts…to move closer to You by achieving the “Mind of Christ.” In New Year’s Eves of the past, I have defaulted to try and problem solve through resolutions, always trying to find out what was wrong…and then trying to “fix” things my way. I come to You, Father, and ask for Your grace and collaboration to set me free from all my hurtful, sinful ways. I will view each moment in this New Year and all the years to come as a fresh opportunity to draw ever closer to You. I pray in the name of the one you sent to transform me and give me new life, Jesus Christ; and all the children of the world said - AMEN!
Truth
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:22-24
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
So many of us use New Year’s Eve and Day to make resolutions…to try and “fix” our shortcomings…to focus on our failures. So many resolutions are made…and within a few days or weeks, they are broken. To keep a resolution for a whole month is virtually unheard of in our society.
Remember, the world we live in is fallen and we are part of that brokenness. In this fallen world, all our default settings are tainted by sin. Trying to “fix” yourself, by yourself, is futile. It’s like trying to put all the pieces of a broken mirror back together to get a true reflection. Only one resolution is needed…to develop the Mind of Christ. Growing closer to God, yearning for Him, then glorifying Him with your internal and external functioning.
Developing the Mind of Christ can’t happen without the Holy Spirit. If you aren’t saved, often called born again, (meaning you haven’t received God’s gift of Jesus as your personal Savior to save you from the penalty for your sins), then click here to learn how to be saved to go to heaven for eternity. If you are saved, then learning how to access the power of the Holy Spirit is the way to achieve your resolution and grow the Mind of Christ – be a better person. WITHIN REACH: Disciplines for Real Life Change is our decision-making and growth workshop that covers confession, the armor of God, biblical truths, and a strategy to understand and apply the Holy Spirit’s work in the everyday decisions of life.
To make a resolution is to make a decision with intention and determination…a decision with firmness of mind and purpose. When the Spirit is in you, and you are obeying and following Him, you will be transformed and renewed. The Holy Spirit will give you incredible motivation to follow through with your resolution.
Today, make the only resolution that can truly make a difference in your life. Decide to move closer to God and access the Holy Spirit to transform your mind and life...now and for eternity. Tomorrow, we will look closer at transformation. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, on this New Year’s Eve, I make the only resolution that counts…to move closer to You by achieving the “Mind of Christ.” In New Year’s Eves of the past, I have defaulted to try and problem solve through resolutions, always trying to find out what was wrong…and then trying to “fix” things my way. I come to You, Father, and ask for Your grace and collaboration to set me free from all my hurtful, sinful ways. I will view each moment in this New Year and all the years to come as a fresh opportunity to draw ever closer to You. I pray in the name of the one you sent to transform me and give me new life, Jesus Christ; and all the children of the world said - AMEN!
Truth
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:22-24
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Stepping Stones: Go Ahead, Drop Into The Doctor’s Office
Transformational Thought
I woke up feeling very sick the other day…knew I needed to see a doctor. Instead of trying to make an appointment, I decided to just drop by my doctor’s office and try to have the receptionist “fit me in.” Big mistake. You would have thought I committed some federal offense. Regardless of my condition…no appointment, no visit.
Amazingly, you can “drop in” on someone far more important and much busier than your family doctor in the middle of flu season…and you can be 100% confident that He will push all other business aside and focus completely on you. His undivided attention will be yours. Just imagine the Creator of heaven and earth yearning to have a personal relationship with you.
You see, when I was a kid, I believed God loved me. But by the time I experienced more of the world, I believed God was very busy with the Middle East, extreme diseases like cancer, and devastating abuses around the globe. I still knew He loved me, but somewhere deep, I thought my life was too trivial or not extreme enough for Him to allow me to drop into His office. Learning I had 24/7 access was incredibly empowering and freeing for me.
Not only are you able to “drop in”, He has actually been knocking on the door of your heart…all the time. His Holy Spirit is talking to you in your spirit, and God the Father is talking to you in how He orchestrates and works on you through your circumstances. Because of His love for you, He wants to guide and protect you from life’s garbage and heartache. Unfortunately, we don’t listen to the doctor’s orders, and wonder why the disease still impacts and hurts us.
Today, drop in on Him…pray 3 extra times today. Have a conversation, not just a standard prayer you say out of habit. Talk to Him. Then really listen. It takes practice so give it some time. He rejoices every time you “drop in” for a visit. The more you drop in, the better you will hear Him knocking on the door of your heart. But it’s up to you. If you don’t listen to the Great Doctor’s treatment plan, the disease will destroy you. Remember, no matter how busy, THE DOCTOR always has time for you. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, that I can talk with You. I thank you for listening to my words, thoughts, and fears. I thank You, Father, for receiving even the longings in my heart, which at times I cannot put into words. Help me develop ears that hear and eyes that see the treatment plan You have prescribed for me. Give me the courage to turn from my treatment plan that leads to destruction and follow Yours, which brings peace and fulfillment. I pray in the name of the one who will always see me without an appointment, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 55:17
A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:7-15
I woke up feeling very sick the other day…knew I needed to see a doctor. Instead of trying to make an appointment, I decided to just drop by my doctor’s office and try to have the receptionist “fit me in.” Big mistake. You would have thought I committed some federal offense. Regardless of my condition…no appointment, no visit.
Amazingly, you can “drop in” on someone far more important and much busier than your family doctor in the middle of flu season…and you can be 100% confident that He will push all other business aside and focus completely on you. His undivided attention will be yours. Just imagine the Creator of heaven and earth yearning to have a personal relationship with you.
You see, when I was a kid, I believed God loved me. But by the time I experienced more of the world, I believed God was very busy with the Middle East, extreme diseases like cancer, and devastating abuses around the globe. I still knew He loved me, but somewhere deep, I thought my life was too trivial or not extreme enough for Him to allow me to drop into His office. Learning I had 24/7 access was incredibly empowering and freeing for me.
Not only are you able to “drop in”, He has actually been knocking on the door of your heart…all the time. His Holy Spirit is talking to you in your spirit, and God the Father is talking to you in how He orchestrates and works on you through your circumstances. Because of His love for you, He wants to guide and protect you from life’s garbage and heartache. Unfortunately, we don’t listen to the doctor’s orders, and wonder why the disease still impacts and hurts us.
Today, drop in on Him…pray 3 extra times today. Have a conversation, not just a standard prayer you say out of habit. Talk to Him. Then really listen. It takes practice so give it some time. He rejoices every time you “drop in” for a visit. The more you drop in, the better you will hear Him knocking on the door of your heart. But it’s up to you. If you don’t listen to the Great Doctor’s treatment plan, the disease will destroy you. Remember, no matter how busy, THE DOCTOR always has time for you. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, that I can talk with You. I thank you for listening to my words, thoughts, and fears. I thank You, Father, for receiving even the longings in my heart, which at times I cannot put into words. Help me develop ears that hear and eyes that see the treatment plan You have prescribed for me. Give me the courage to turn from my treatment plan that leads to destruction and follow Yours, which brings peace and fulfillment. I pray in the name of the one who will always see me without an appointment, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 55:17
A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:7-15
Monday, November 22, 2010
Stepping Stones: Special Lens Cleaners: Please and Thank You
Transformational Thought
When we were kids, there was a great greasy hamburger joint that we all loved to visit called the Rainbow Inn. The owner, Oliver, ran the place and he took our orders at the front window. Oliver had an annoying habit: he always made the children say “Please” and “Thank You”. No “please”, no “thank you”…no hamburger. It was a quick and easy lesson, pretty straightforward with lots of incentive to learn quickly.
I always thought it was strange…having to say please and thank you to get something I actually had to pay for. But in retrospect, it really was positive reinforcement for the lessons my mother was teaching at home. It showed me that I am not entitled to anything, am dependent on others for the items I need and want, and should always be thankful for everything I get, all accurate and valuable lenses to develop. We could use some more Olivers in the world to reinforce these principles today.
Our prayers should always include “please” and “thank you”. You see, we often view life through very entitled lenses. We deserve no traffic on the way to work, a good job, a nice house, good health, well-behaved kids. No one close to us should be dying. These lenses just propagate the “I am King” and “My kingdom come, my will be done” mentality which virally spreads, infecting all areas of our lives. If we just keep repeating our concerns, we will live in a state of tension.
However, when you follow-up your request by thanking Him for how he is already answering your prayer, your mindset becomes much more positive and in line with His sovereignty and agenda…because you are aware of the reality of His action for you. Thankful prayers keep your focus on Him as the ultimate Authority.
Today, when you bring your prayer requests to God, say “please” and speak clearly and candidly…lay out your concerns…pour out your heart. Then immediately thank Him for the answers that He has already set in motion. When those same requests come to mind again, continue thanking God for the answers that are on their way.
Prayer
Dear Father God, This is Your world, Father. You made it and control it. I relinquish all control into Your hands…I trust You completely. I thank You, Father, for the gift of receptivity that You have planted in my heart. I thank You for the answers to my prayers that are already on their way. I pray in the name of the one in whose name we are called to pray, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2
As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me."
Psalm 50:14,15
When we were kids, there was a great greasy hamburger joint that we all loved to visit called the Rainbow Inn. The owner, Oliver, ran the place and he took our orders at the front window. Oliver had an annoying habit: he always made the children say “Please” and “Thank You”. No “please”, no “thank you”…no hamburger. It was a quick and easy lesson, pretty straightforward with lots of incentive to learn quickly.
I always thought it was strange…having to say please and thank you to get something I actually had to pay for. But in retrospect, it really was positive reinforcement for the lessons my mother was teaching at home. It showed me that I am not entitled to anything, am dependent on others for the items I need and want, and should always be thankful for everything I get, all accurate and valuable lenses to develop. We could use some more Olivers in the world to reinforce these principles today.
Our prayers should always include “please” and “thank you”. You see, we often view life through very entitled lenses. We deserve no traffic on the way to work, a good job, a nice house, good health, well-behaved kids. No one close to us should be dying. These lenses just propagate the “I am King” and “My kingdom come, my will be done” mentality which virally spreads, infecting all areas of our lives. If we just keep repeating our concerns, we will live in a state of tension.
However, when you follow-up your request by thanking Him for how he is already answering your prayer, your mindset becomes much more positive and in line with His sovereignty and agenda…because you are aware of the reality of His action for you. Thankful prayers keep your focus on Him as the ultimate Authority.
Today, when you bring your prayer requests to God, say “please” and speak clearly and candidly…lay out your concerns…pour out your heart. Then immediately thank Him for the answers that He has already set in motion. When those same requests come to mind again, continue thanking God for the answers that are on their way.
Prayer
Dear Father God, This is Your world, Father. You made it and control it. I relinquish all control into Your hands…I trust You completely. I thank You, Father, for the gift of receptivity that You have planted in my heart. I thank You for the answers to my prayers that are already on their way. I pray in the name of the one in whose name we are called to pray, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2
As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me."
Psalm 50:14,15
Friday, October 15, 2010
Stepping Stones: Illness Throws Us Off Track
Transformational Thought
About four years ago I lost my brother Allen to cancer. Long before his illness, Allen worked daily to achieve the mind of Christ. Directly following his diagnosis a massive prayer effort developed. A daily prayer with relevant scripture was sent via email to thousands…this internet prayer movement was the forerunner to the current Stepping Stones Daily devotional.
When a loved one falls gravely ill, it’s a natural response to pray for their healing…at times, I almost demanded his healing from God, citing scripture about Jesus the healer…about “ask and you shall receive”. For the entire 22 months he battled this awful disease, Allen and his family believed he would be healed. We were pounding prayers to heaven requesting and often demanding Allen’s healing.
I know we missed the mark with our prayers for Allen.
How presumptuous we were. We actually believed we could change God’s mind and plan for Allen. I believe now, based on my learning, growth, and the perspective of other Christians, we should have been praying to align ourselves with the will of God. To pray that God’s wisdom, comfort, and peace are received by Allen and his family…and for us , too. And ultimately, to pray that we lessen our grip on needing Allen to be cured and strengthen our grip on being close to our Lord. This allows us to release Allen into God’s care, keeping, timing, and plan.
While Allen agonized over leaving his wife and 5 children here on earth, in the end, Allen was excited about meeting his Lord and God. In fact, he was ready, as he certainly was as prepared as anyone could be to meet his Father, our Creator.
The prayer movement took on a life of it’s own. Bringing prayer and the Word of God to so many who had never prayed before, as it truly changed many lives. People actually came to accept Christ as their Savior as God worked on their heart through these prayers. Allen would love to read the responses that came in from the prayer group, and he said before he died; “If somehow my illness delivers even one soul to God…it’s all been worth it.”
Today, think about yourself or someone who is ill now or was in the past. What did you pray for and what should you be praying for? It is so hard for us, when we are in pain or see others in pain, to still keep our eyes fixed on God and obedient to His plan. Ask yourself, “How, through this stressor, can I see the opportunity God has presented for me to see Him more clearly, and for others to see Him through me more clearly?” That question should guide some of your prayers through that trying time.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray today for all the sick and injured loved ones and friends of this Stepping Stones prayer community. I pray that you infuse the sick with Your Holy Spirit to give them hope and strength. I ask Your peace and comfort You offer to them to be received in full. , that they might have spiritual and psychological relief during their physical struggle. I pray, Father, that they seek to understand and align their thoughts and prayers with Your Will and Your timing…for Your timing is perfect, Father. I pray that You will reveal to those suffering, as well as their caregivers, the meaning and purpose of these trials. I pray, Father, that You guide the minds and hands of all the medical professionals so that they do Your work as they apply their skills to the sick and injured. Help those who are terminally ill to understand that Your healing for them may in fact be delivered on the other side of this temporal life. Help them and all of us believe in You so that we will see Your glory. I pray this in the name of our healing savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
John 11:40
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
About four years ago I lost my brother Allen to cancer. Long before his illness, Allen worked daily to achieve the mind of Christ. Directly following his diagnosis a massive prayer effort developed. A daily prayer with relevant scripture was sent via email to thousands…this internet prayer movement was the forerunner to the current Stepping Stones Daily devotional.
When a loved one falls gravely ill, it’s a natural response to pray for their healing…at times, I almost demanded his healing from God, citing scripture about Jesus the healer…about “ask and you shall receive”. For the entire 22 months he battled this awful disease, Allen and his family believed he would be healed. We were pounding prayers to heaven requesting and often demanding Allen’s healing.
I know we missed the mark with our prayers for Allen.
How presumptuous we were. We actually believed we could change God’s mind and plan for Allen. I believe now, based on my learning, growth, and the perspective of other Christians, we should have been praying to align ourselves with the will of God. To pray that God’s wisdom, comfort, and peace are received by Allen and his family…and for us , too. And ultimately, to pray that we lessen our grip on needing Allen to be cured and strengthen our grip on being close to our Lord. This allows us to release Allen into God’s care, keeping, timing, and plan.
While Allen agonized over leaving his wife and 5 children here on earth, in the end, Allen was excited about meeting his Lord and God. In fact, he was ready, as he certainly was as prepared as anyone could be to meet his Father, our Creator.
The prayer movement took on a life of it’s own. Bringing prayer and the Word of God to so many who had never prayed before, as it truly changed many lives. People actually came to accept Christ as their Savior as God worked on their heart through these prayers. Allen would love to read the responses that came in from the prayer group, and he said before he died; “If somehow my illness delivers even one soul to God…it’s all been worth it.”
Today, think about yourself or someone who is ill now or was in the past. What did you pray for and what should you be praying for? It is so hard for us, when we are in pain or see others in pain, to still keep our eyes fixed on God and obedient to His plan. Ask yourself, “How, through this stressor, can I see the opportunity God has presented for me to see Him more clearly, and for others to see Him through me more clearly?” That question should guide some of your prayers through that trying time.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray today for all the sick and injured loved ones and friends of this Stepping Stones prayer community. I pray that you infuse the sick with Your Holy Spirit to give them hope and strength. I ask Your peace and comfort You offer to them to be received in full. , that they might have spiritual and psychological relief during their physical struggle. I pray, Father, that they seek to understand and align their thoughts and prayers with Your Will and Your timing…for Your timing is perfect, Father. I pray that You will reveal to those suffering, as well as their caregivers, the meaning and purpose of these trials. I pray, Father, that You guide the minds and hands of all the medical professionals so that they do Your work as they apply their skills to the sick and injured. Help those who are terminally ill to understand that Your healing for them may in fact be delivered on the other side of this temporal life. Help them and all of us believe in You so that we will see Your glory. I pray this in the name of our healing savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
John 11:40
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
Monday, October 11, 2010
Stepping Stones: What Is Your Return On Investment?
Transformational Thought
Few things give me goosebumps like when my kids are involved in plays, recitals, or sports, and I see all their effort pay off in that amazing performance. With joy, pride, and self-confidence oozing from their faces and bodies, I will often even cry. I am always amazed at how well these youngsters perform out there in front of the big crowd with all the pressure. And they do it mostly on their own, often with minimal or no adult involvement. How is this possible?
The answer: They are instructed in the fundamentals of the task, then practice them over and over, in safe, nonthreatening situations, till the task becomes second nature. Then, after all those investments…of time, effort, embarrassment, humility, trust in the coach, self-discipline, delayed gratification, dealing with mistakes, perseverance…the big night comes with pressure, potential adversity, judgment, and a lot on the line. The more deposits that were made during the preparation phase, the grander the reward when it’s showtime. That is success, with interest. In these difficult economic times, there’s no safe place to put your savings, that also pays interest.
Practice trusting in Your Lord during the quiet days. In the mundane, everyday situations, see God at work, trust in His character and promises, see how He is meeting your needs and caring for you, and communicate with Him regularly. Remember, communication is praying and listening. Then when your storms come (and they will), your trust-balance will be sufficient to see you through. In fact, you will shine brightly, like the star in a play. You will also go to Him more easily in time of need, because you’ve been regularly practicing.
Today, try making a deposit in His treasury. Praying, listening to God, looking for Him in your daily activities, spending time in His instruction manual, thanking Him for what you have, or describing His character and how those attributes affect how you see and navigate your day. The list can be endless. Each time you affirm your trust in Him, it is like putting a coin into His treasury. In doing so you build up equity to be able to draw against it stormy days. He will keep safely in His heart all investments in Him…with interest compounded continuously. The more you trust in God, the more He will enable you to do so, and the easier it will be to trust Him during the storms.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that the only safe investment is in You. I have tried saving money for security but have lost it all. Help me, Father, turn to trusting You. I see now how my faith and trust in you can grow exponentially. I have seen firsthand that the more I trust You, the more You enable me to trust you even more. Thank you for this Upward-Spiral. I pray with trust and confidence through my savior Jesus Christ, and all God’s people said – Amen!
The Truth
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:3-4
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Matthew 6:20
Few things give me goosebumps like when my kids are involved in plays, recitals, or sports, and I see all their effort pay off in that amazing performance. With joy, pride, and self-confidence oozing from their faces and bodies, I will often even cry. I am always amazed at how well these youngsters perform out there in front of the big crowd with all the pressure. And they do it mostly on their own, often with minimal or no adult involvement. How is this possible?
The answer: They are instructed in the fundamentals of the task, then practice them over and over, in safe, nonthreatening situations, till the task becomes second nature. Then, after all those investments…of time, effort, embarrassment, humility, trust in the coach, self-discipline, delayed gratification, dealing with mistakes, perseverance…the big night comes with pressure, potential adversity, judgment, and a lot on the line. The more deposits that were made during the preparation phase, the grander the reward when it’s showtime. That is success, with interest. In these difficult economic times, there’s no safe place to put your savings, that also pays interest.
Practice trusting in Your Lord during the quiet days. In the mundane, everyday situations, see God at work, trust in His character and promises, see how He is meeting your needs and caring for you, and communicate with Him regularly. Remember, communication is praying and listening. Then when your storms come (and they will), your trust-balance will be sufficient to see you through. In fact, you will shine brightly, like the star in a play. You will also go to Him more easily in time of need, because you’ve been regularly practicing.
Today, try making a deposit in His treasury. Praying, listening to God, looking for Him in your daily activities, spending time in His instruction manual, thanking Him for what you have, or describing His character and how those attributes affect how you see and navigate your day. The list can be endless. Each time you affirm your trust in Him, it is like putting a coin into His treasury. In doing so you build up equity to be able to draw against it stormy days. He will keep safely in His heart all investments in Him…with interest compounded continuously. The more you trust in God, the more He will enable you to do so, and the easier it will be to trust Him during the storms.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that the only safe investment is in You. I have tried saving money for security but have lost it all. Help me, Father, turn to trusting You. I see now how my faith and trust in you can grow exponentially. I have seen firsthand that the more I trust You, the more You enable me to trust you even more. Thank you for this Upward-Spiral. I pray with trust and confidence through my savior Jesus Christ, and all God’s people said – Amen!
The Truth
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:3-4
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Matthew 6:20
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Stepping Stones: Prayer Life: Exciting Adventure or Sleepwalking
Transformational Tip
The other day, in between tasks, I unexpectedly bumped into a friend, who was also in between tasks. We did our superficial and obligatory greeting and banter, then went our respective ways. Not the ideal interaction, but one we both accepted based on the rushed timeline and other items preoccupying our mind.
In most relationships, a dangerous tendency to fall into patterns and routines that then lead to staleness or ruts can dangerously sabotage our growth and relational depth.
Your routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger; you can sleepwalk through your prayers. Just like our earthly relationships get put on autopilot sometimes, so does our relationship with God.
We start to take the other person for granted and become “me” focused…not process oriented for what is actually happening in the relationship. Prayer then is only to fulfill an obligation or tradition….saying “grace” before meals or bedtime. Then God Himself seems like an extra, obligation, something to break out for special occasions, and not a daily enrichment to our life.
Like we always say - You have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you – the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God…think specifically of your words…why are you praying…what is your attitude…your expectation. Ultimately, really see God for who He is and you will be excited and intentional, just like if you had the chance to meet your favorite person, celebrity, or athlete.
Today, spend 5 minutes at the end of your prayer just listening. If you drift (like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God’s frequency. This will awaken your soul and enliven your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to You.
I love living close to You, it satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess Lord that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers…and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You, Lord, with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and able to see Your infinite newness everyday. I pray this in the name the one who never sleepwalked through any relationship, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
The other day, in between tasks, I unexpectedly bumped into a friend, who was also in between tasks. We did our superficial and obligatory greeting and banter, then went our respective ways. Not the ideal interaction, but one we both accepted based on the rushed timeline and other items preoccupying our mind.
In most relationships, a dangerous tendency to fall into patterns and routines that then lead to staleness or ruts can dangerously sabotage our growth and relational depth.
Your routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger; you can sleepwalk through your prayers. Just like our earthly relationships get put on autopilot sometimes, so does our relationship with God.
We start to take the other person for granted and become “me” focused…not process oriented for what is actually happening in the relationship. Prayer then is only to fulfill an obligation or tradition….saying “grace” before meals or bedtime. Then God Himself seems like an extra, obligation, something to break out for special occasions, and not a daily enrichment to our life.
Like we always say - You have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you – the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God…think specifically of your words…why are you praying…what is your attitude…your expectation. Ultimately, really see God for who He is and you will be excited and intentional, just like if you had the chance to meet your favorite person, celebrity, or athlete.
Today, spend 5 minutes at the end of your prayer just listening. If you drift (like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God’s frequency. This will awaken your soul and enliven your relationship with Him.
Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to You.
I love living close to You, it satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess Lord that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers…and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You, Lord, with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and able to see Your infinite newness everyday. I pray this in the name the one who never sleepwalked through any relationship, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Stepping Stones: Prayer is Breathing
Transformational Tip
I was at the beach recently and got to see a bunch of people swimming. Some can stay underwater for just a few seconds, and others can stay under for a long time…up to 90 seconds. But in the end, they all desperately need air and gasp for it when they take that first breath after being underwater.
In life, so many people are slowly asphyxiating…they are suffocating. Why? Because they are not spiritually “breathing.”
To pray is to breathe, and people are not praying, so they are spiritually dying…or maybe they have never really lived. Just like the body can’t do without oxygen, our spirit, our essence can’t do without prayer…without breathing in God.
Prayer is an opening of our hearts to God, who already dwells within us. Praying allows us further connection and understanding of the spiritual world….then our spiritual radar starts to get tuned and tweaked to God’s settings.
We then receive His communications without so much clutter and interference…life becomes easier and more fulfilling…we become more Christ-like as we know and follow Him more.
Today, hold your breath as long as you can. The urgency and powerful way you need air, that is how much you need God. Pray deeply, breathe easily…or pray shallow, choke fearfully. As usual, it’s your choice. What will you do?
Prayer
Dear Father, I praise and honor You, my Lord. I know You have created and are creating everything. Even though I believe in You, at times I cannot breathe. I struggle for air like a swimmer that has gone too deep and now I am rushing to the surface for that gasp of air. Today ,I feel like I will not make it to the top. I am learning now that You are my only source of air, my constant source of air…of “life.” Infuse me with Your Holy Spirit, Lord, help me regularly dedicate time to breathe You more deeply into my heart. I pray this in the name the one who fully breathed you in constantly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1 Corinthians 6:19
All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John 1:3-4
For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Deuteronomy 4:7
I was at the beach recently and got to see a bunch of people swimming. Some can stay underwater for just a few seconds, and others can stay under for a long time…up to 90 seconds. But in the end, they all desperately need air and gasp for it when they take that first breath after being underwater.
In life, so many people are slowly asphyxiating…they are suffocating. Why? Because they are not spiritually “breathing.”
To pray is to breathe, and people are not praying, so they are spiritually dying…or maybe they have never really lived. Just like the body can’t do without oxygen, our spirit, our essence can’t do without prayer…without breathing in God.
Prayer is an opening of our hearts to God, who already dwells within us. Praying allows us further connection and understanding of the spiritual world….then our spiritual radar starts to get tuned and tweaked to God’s settings.
We then receive His communications without so much clutter and interference…life becomes easier and more fulfilling…we become more Christ-like as we know and follow Him more.
Today, hold your breath as long as you can. The urgency and powerful way you need air, that is how much you need God. Pray deeply, breathe easily…or pray shallow, choke fearfully. As usual, it’s your choice. What will you do?
Prayer
Dear Father, I praise and honor You, my Lord. I know You have created and are creating everything. Even though I believe in You, at times I cannot breathe. I struggle for air like a swimmer that has gone too deep and now I am rushing to the surface for that gasp of air. Today ,I feel like I will not make it to the top. I am learning now that You are my only source of air, my constant source of air…of “life.” Infuse me with Your Holy Spirit, Lord, help me regularly dedicate time to breathe You more deeply into my heart. I pray this in the name the one who fully breathed you in constantly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1 Corinthians 6:19
All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John 1:3-4
For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Deuteronomy 4:7
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Stepping Stones: Prayer Reveals Your Heart
Transformational Tip
As a psychiatrist, I see patients who often struggle with fears, issues, wounds, hurts, distortions, misinterpretations, which interfere with their opportunity and ability to achieve their God-given potential and live the abundant life Christ died for us to live.
As I work with them, these struggles are very vague and are difficult to describe. This contributes to the overwhelming and confused feelings most people experience as a result of these issues as they seem endless and never-ending.
One discipline I find really helpful and almost essential for most, at least at the start of their personal transformation process is journaling. You see, when I ask patients to journal about the struggle issue, a common response is, “I don’t know where to start,” or “I don’t have enough paper to write about the whole issue.”
Once they start writing about it, they are forced to become very concrete, practical, and methodical as they dig in to the elements of the issue. They are always amazed at the insights they get, how little paper they end up using, and how much simpler the issue really is. Journaling reveals some very deep truths and insights about us and our heart.
Prayer accomplishes the same results(and more) through the same process. As you really think about what to pray for and why, you are verbally journaling with God. God wants you to come to Him, and one reason is it makes us analyze ourself and our situations in a meaningful and deep way.
God’s word tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers your prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise; His peace will guard your heart and mind and will keep Him close to you. Pray more!
Today, pray more, and not just that rote, vague, superficial prayer we whip out. Really do some mental, even pen and pencil, journaling about what and why you pray for and about. Your eyes will be opened to see more of your heart and desires. Do they align with God’s.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And while I bring my requests and petitions to You, I know that You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that not getting my request answered as I desire does not mean no, rather that You will say yes to something better. I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with You. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinders my intimacy with You. Help me understand more of what is in my heart and really put you in the center. I pray this in the name the one who knew His heart exactly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
As I work with them, these struggles are very vague and are difficult to describe. This contributes to the overwhelming and confused feelings most people experience as a result of these issues as they seem endless and never-ending.
One discipline I find really helpful and almost essential for most, at least at the start of their personal transformation process is journaling. You see, when I ask patients to journal about the struggle issue, a common response is, “I don’t know where to start,” or “I don’t have enough paper to write about the whole issue.”
Once they start writing about it, they are forced to become very concrete, practical, and methodical as they dig in to the elements of the issue. They are always amazed at the insights they get, how little paper they end up using, and how much simpler the issue really is. Journaling reveals some very deep truths and insights about us and our heart.
Prayer accomplishes the same results(and more) through the same process. As you really think about what to pray for and why, you are verbally journaling with God. God wants you to come to Him, and one reason is it makes us analyze ourself and our situations in a meaningful and deep way.
God’s word tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers your prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise; His peace will guard your heart and mind and will keep Him close to you. Pray more!
Today, pray more, and not just that rote, vague, superficial prayer we whip out. Really do some mental, even pen and pencil, journaling about what and why you pray for and about. Your eyes will be opened to see more of your heart and desires. Do they align with God’s.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And while I bring my requests and petitions to You, I know that You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that not getting my request answered as I desire does not mean no, rather that You will say yes to something better. I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with You. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinders my intimacy with You. Help me understand more of what is in my heart and really put you in the center. I pray this in the name the one who knew His heart exactly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
Friday, April 16, 2010
Stepping Stones: Good News! Somebody Does Listen and Understand
Transformational Tip
Do you sometimes feel as though nobody is listening or understands what you are experiencing?
I was at a church a few weeks ago the church was discussing praises and prayer requests. An older lady offered a praise from a week early when we had some terrible storms and lots of damage in the area. She had a big, old tree very close to her house that wasn’t going to last the storm. The group prayed for nobody to be hurt anad no damage to the house. Sure enough she woke up the next day and the tree, against the odds of the way it was leaning, fell away from the house, damaging nothing. She was happy God heard her prayers.
It is great that God prevented damage, but the dangerous assumption is: “Good” outcome means God hears our prayers, “Bad” outcome means God didn’t hear our prayer.
Good news! Someone is listening and does understand. God hears all our prayers and knows exactly what we are going through and need. The Bible tells us that God is compassionate. He has a sympathetic understanding of what you are going through and he wants to ease your burden and free you from the load you carry. He is dependable. He is always there for you. He will never leave you alone. God's love has no limit or conditions and never fails, no matter what your circumstances.
You have many challenges to face, but you don't have to face them alone.
Today, talk to God about your feelings and your fears. As you spend time in the Bible, you will be comforted. You will learn that God is your refuge in your trouble. He offers strength and help. He is ever-present. He cares for you. He wants to carry your anxiety. He will give you peace.
Click here to share your perspective with the Stepping Stones community.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for Your promise to be with me, no matter what. Thank You for understanding and caring. Because circumstances don’t work out the way I want them to, I mistakenly interpret that You don’t love me, don’t care, or are just too busy with more important people and issues. Help me resist this me centered thinking and lie, and open my eyes to Your truth. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to deliver the good news, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
God is good, a hiding place in tough times. He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help, No matter how desperate the trouble.
Nahum 1:7
But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.
Psalm 59:16
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Do you sometimes feel as though nobody is listening or understands what you are experiencing?
I was at a church a few weeks ago the church was discussing praises and prayer requests. An older lady offered a praise from a week early when we had some terrible storms and lots of damage in the area. She had a big, old tree very close to her house that wasn’t going to last the storm. The group prayed for nobody to be hurt anad no damage to the house. Sure enough she woke up the next day and the tree, against the odds of the way it was leaning, fell away from the house, damaging nothing. She was happy God heard her prayers.
It is great that God prevented damage, but the dangerous assumption is: “Good” outcome means God hears our prayers, “Bad” outcome means God didn’t hear our prayer.
Good news! Someone is listening and does understand. God hears all our prayers and knows exactly what we are going through and need. The Bible tells us that God is compassionate. He has a sympathetic understanding of what you are going through and he wants to ease your burden and free you from the load you carry. He is dependable. He is always there for you. He will never leave you alone. God's love has no limit or conditions and never fails, no matter what your circumstances.
You have many challenges to face, but you don't have to face them alone.
Today, talk to God about your feelings and your fears. As you spend time in the Bible, you will be comforted. You will learn that God is your refuge in your trouble. He offers strength and help. He is ever-present. He cares for you. He wants to carry your anxiety. He will give you peace.
Click here to share your perspective with the Stepping Stones community.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for Your promise to be with me, no matter what. Thank You for understanding and caring. Because circumstances don’t work out the way I want them to, I mistakenly interpret that You don’t love me, don’t care, or are just too busy with more important people and issues. Help me resist this me centered thinking and lie, and open my eyes to Your truth. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One you sent to deliver the good news, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
God is good, a hiding place in tough times. He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help, No matter how desperate the trouble.
Nahum 1:7
But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.
Psalm 59:16
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Stepping Stones: The Burning Question
Transformational Tip
Yes, you have accepted Jesus as your savior... but have you asked yourself the next tburning question?
Three years back I lost my younger brother to cancer. Thankfully, Allen knew Christ and was ready to move onto eternity for complete and ultimate healing. Allen was a loving and dedicated husband and father…my neighbor and best friend. While deep sadness from his loss remains, what God taught those of us close to Allen during his fight has changed our lives. Here’s just one example.
During Allen’s final days he was an inpatient at a cancer treatment center. In addition to the medical staff, there were a team of ministers, priest, nuns and others constantly available for support, prayer, questions for the patients and their families. One of those was an 82-year-old nun…a retired missionary who spent her days visiting with the patients. Allen and Sister became friends.
On this particular day, Allen had received yet more devastating news about the spreading of his cancer. As he was sharing the news with me, Sister stopped in for her daily visit with Allen. Allen told her the news; Sister calmly asked Allen; “What can I do for you?”
Allen told her that he had this question that was plaguing him; he didn’t know if he should be praying for the healing promised in God’s Word…of if he should be praying to align his fate and future with the will of God…whatever that may be. Sister said; “Let me ask you the burning question Allen, have you given yourself totally to God? Do that and He will answer your question.”
Today, ask yourself that burning question, “Have you given yourself totally to God?” If the answer is no, then ask yourself why not and to whom/what have you given yourself? Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about that burning question.
Prayer
Dear Father God, It is so beautiful and rewarding to see Your work even in difficult circumstances. Help me look to You, Father, during these and all other times. I want to live a life that is close to you. I ask You, Father, to remove all obstacles that prevent me from totally giving myself to Your. I pray this in the name of the one who gave himself totally, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;
Romans 8:26
Yes, you have accepted Jesus as your savior... but have you asked yourself the next tburning question?
Three years back I lost my younger brother to cancer. Thankfully, Allen knew Christ and was ready to move onto eternity for complete and ultimate healing. Allen was a loving and dedicated husband and father…my neighbor and best friend. While deep sadness from his loss remains, what God taught those of us close to Allen during his fight has changed our lives. Here’s just one example.
During Allen’s final days he was an inpatient at a cancer treatment center. In addition to the medical staff, there were a team of ministers, priest, nuns and others constantly available for support, prayer, questions for the patients and their families. One of those was an 82-year-old nun…a retired missionary who spent her days visiting with the patients. Allen and Sister became friends.
On this particular day, Allen had received yet more devastating news about the spreading of his cancer. As he was sharing the news with me, Sister stopped in for her daily visit with Allen. Allen told her the news; Sister calmly asked Allen; “What can I do for you?”
Allen told her that he had this question that was plaguing him; he didn’t know if he should be praying for the healing promised in God’s Word…of if he should be praying to align his fate and future with the will of God…whatever that may be. Sister said; “Let me ask you the burning question Allen, have you given yourself totally to God? Do that and He will answer your question.”
Today, ask yourself that burning question, “Have you given yourself totally to God?” If the answer is no, then ask yourself why not and to whom/what have you given yourself? Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about that burning question.
Prayer
Dear Father God, It is so beautiful and rewarding to see Your work even in difficult circumstances. Help me look to You, Father, during these and all other times. I want to live a life that is close to you. I ask You, Father, to remove all obstacles that prevent me from totally giving myself to Your. I pray this in the name of the one who gave himself totally, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;
Romans 8:26
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Stepping Stones: Go Ahead, Drop In
Transformational Tip
Woke up feeling very sick the other day…knew I needed to see a doctor. Instead of trying to make an appointment, I decided to just drop by my doctor’s office and try to have the receptionist “fit me in.” Big mistake. You would have thought I committed some federal offense. Regardless of my condition…no appointment, no visit.
Amazingly, you can “drop in” on someone far more important and much busier than your family doctor, in the middle of flu season…and you can be 100% confident that He will push all other business aside and focus completely on you. His undivided attention will be yours. Just imagine the Creator of heaven and earth yearning to have a personal relationship with you.
Not only are you able to “drop in”, but He has actually been knocking on the door of your heart…all the time. His Holy Spirit is talking to you in your spirit, and God the Father is talking to you in how He manipulates your circumstances. Because of His love for you, He wants to guide and protect you from so much garbage and heartache…unfortunately, we don’t listen to the doctor’s orders and wonder why the disease still affects us.
Today, drop in on Him…pray 3 extra times today. He rejoices every time you “drop in” for a visit. The more you drop in, the better you will hear His knocking on the door of your heart. But it’s up to you, if you don’t listen to the Great Doctor’s treatment plan, the disease will destroy you. Remember, no matter how busy, THE DOCTOR always has time for you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on dropping in without an appointment.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, that I can talk with You. I thank you for listening to my words, thoughts, fears. I thank You, Father, for receiving even the longings in my heart, which at times I cannot put into words. Help me develop ears that hear and eyes that see the treatment plan You have prescribed for me. Give me courage to turn from my treatment plan that leads to destruction and follow Yours that brings peace and fulfillment. I pray in the name of the one who will always sees me without an appointment, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 55:17
A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink."
The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:7-15
Woke up feeling very sick the other day…knew I needed to see a doctor. Instead of trying to make an appointment, I decided to just drop by my doctor’s office and try to have the receptionist “fit me in.” Big mistake. You would have thought I committed some federal offense. Regardless of my condition…no appointment, no visit.
Amazingly, you can “drop in” on someone far more important and much busier than your family doctor, in the middle of flu season…and you can be 100% confident that He will push all other business aside and focus completely on you. His undivided attention will be yours. Just imagine the Creator of heaven and earth yearning to have a personal relationship with you.
Not only are you able to “drop in”, but He has actually been knocking on the door of your heart…all the time. His Holy Spirit is talking to you in your spirit, and God the Father is talking to you in how He manipulates your circumstances. Because of His love for you, He wants to guide and protect you from so much garbage and heartache…unfortunately, we don’t listen to the doctor’s orders and wonder why the disease still affects us.
Today, drop in on Him…pray 3 extra times today. He rejoices every time you “drop in” for a visit. The more you drop in, the better you will hear His knocking on the door of your heart. But it’s up to you, if you don’t listen to the Great Doctor’s treatment plan, the disease will destroy you. Remember, no matter how busy, THE DOCTOR always has time for you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on dropping in without an appointment.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, that I can talk with You. I thank you for listening to my words, thoughts, fears. I thank You, Father, for receiving even the longings in my heart, which at times I cannot put into words. Help me develop ears that hear and eyes that see the treatment plan You have prescribed for me. Give me courage to turn from my treatment plan that leads to destruction and follow Yours that brings peace and fulfillment. I pray in the name of the one who will always sees me without an appointment, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 55:17
A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink."
The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:7-15
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Stepping Stones: Glorious Reunions
Transformational Tip
When I was a young father, my job required that I travel abroad. At times, I would have to be away for up to a whole week…away from my little girls. I recall the separation from my four young daughters as being almost unbearable. I also remember the “catch-my-breath” moments when I would see their beautiful little faces looking out the window as I pulled up the driveway returning home from those seemingly endless business trips. Each reunion was glorious...melting my heart with love, joy, and excitement. They didn’t forget me, they loved me, and they were wanting more of me.
I’m thinking, each time we turn toward God in prayer, after a time away from Him, that He feels the way I felt when reuniting with my children after time away from them. Glorious reunions. But the difference is… we are the one leaving our Father. He is always there, pursuing us with joyous anticipation and hopeful expectation of that glorious reunion.
In this world, finding and getting something so awesome usually takes a lot of work, effort, time, and/or resources. But this glorious reunion is so easy to be part of…God sent His son, Jesus, to open the door to this glorious reunion. We just need to claim it through faith in Christ as our Savior, and continue it through confession, prayer, and putting on the His armor for Godly living.
Today, examine your heart and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what diverts you from reuniting with God on a more regular basis throughout the day. Reading Stepping Stones daily is a great start, but we need to have many glorious reunions everyday. our goal is to have one day that is a continuous glorious reunion with Hom all day long. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how you feel when you are apart from those you love.
Prayer
Dear Father God, please teach me how to pray. I desire a rich prayer conversation with You, I need it to know and hear You better…to love You more deeply. I confess, I get caught up in pitiful reunions with such trivial pursuits instead of pursuing you and having the most glorious reunions with You. Help me understand why You are the answer to all my needs instead of those fakes Satan fools me with. I pray in the name of the one You sent to unite me to You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
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. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants."' And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate.
Luke 15:16-23
When I was a young father, my job required that I travel abroad. At times, I would have to be away for up to a whole week…away from my little girls. I recall the separation from my four young daughters as being almost unbearable. I also remember the “catch-my-breath” moments when I would see their beautiful little faces looking out the window as I pulled up the driveway returning home from those seemingly endless business trips. Each reunion was glorious...melting my heart with love, joy, and excitement. They didn’t forget me, they loved me, and they were wanting more of me.
I’m thinking, each time we turn toward God in prayer, after a time away from Him, that He feels the way I felt when reuniting with my children after time away from them. Glorious reunions. But the difference is… we are the one leaving our Father. He is always there, pursuing us with joyous anticipation and hopeful expectation of that glorious reunion.
In this world, finding and getting something so awesome usually takes a lot of work, effort, time, and/or resources. But this glorious reunion is so easy to be part of…God sent His son, Jesus, to open the door to this glorious reunion. We just need to claim it through faith in Christ as our Savior, and continue it through confession, prayer, and putting on the His armor for Godly living.
Today, examine your heart and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what diverts you from reuniting with God on a more regular basis throughout the day. Reading Stepping Stones daily is a great start, but we need to have many glorious reunions everyday. our goal is to have one day that is a continuous glorious reunion with Hom all day long. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how you feel when you are apart from those you love.
Prayer
Dear Father God, please teach me how to pray. I desire a rich prayer conversation with You, I need it to know and hear You better…to love You more deeply. I confess, I get caught up in pitiful reunions with such trivial pursuits instead of pursuing you and having the most glorious reunions with You. Help me understand why You are the answer to all my needs instead of those fakes Satan fools me with. I pray in the name of the one You sent to unite me to You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
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. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants."' And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate.
Luke 15:16-23
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