March 27, 2012
Transformational Thought
Why do people lie? That question is probably older than time itself. People seem to lie for a variety of reasons. I’ve heard people admit to lying because it was “just too complicated” to tell the truth. Letting that simple white lie out of our mouths is sometimes much easier than having to tell the truth, answer a bunch of questions about it, and perhaps commit to many minutes or hours of discussion on the topic. Why not just let out a little lie and simplify everything? Sure, it is expedient at times to lie about a situation.
Another reason people lie is that they are afraid the truth might require revealing something about themselves that they are afraid to share. We spend so much time trying to control people’s perception of us, preventing others from learning something about us that would make them think we are not all that we claim to be. Perhaps someone might learn some dark little secret about us we don’t want them to know. Again, why not just tell a little lie so we don’t have to let people get too close to who we really are? Yes, we can definitely hide our little imperfections and dark sides by conveniently lying about them.
I’ve also heard that people lie in order to control others. If I just spin this little lie, maybe I can gain an advantage over my co-worker for that promotion. Or, by telling this small lie I can appear to know something that others do not know and therefore appear to be the expert. In these situations, lying becomes a way to “get ahead in life” by making myself appear better or by making others appear worse. Why shouldn’t I be looking out for myself, right? Certainly, if I don’t look out for myself, no one will look out for me. Either way, lying is a way of controlling other people’s lives for my own benefit.
In one of my favorite movie quotes of all time, Jack Nicholson, the brash, well-decorated Colonel from “A Few Good Men” responds to defense attorney Tom Cruise’s cross examination in a surprising and memorable way. When Tom Cruise demands over and over, “I just want the truth!” Jack Nicholson replies with that famous line, “You want the truth? Well, YOU CAN’T HANDLE THE TRUTH!”
Well, in fact “you CAN handle the truth!” And not only can you handle it, but others can as well. Open, honest communication not only brings healing to relationships but it also builds bridges over chasms that have formed between individuals, organizations, and even nations. You will also find that telling the truth simplifies life and helps to build self-esteem, self-confidence, and an overall better opinion of oneself. Try it and see!
Remember when Peter lied, and denied Christ three times? Wow, how he must have felt. We know he would have wanted to rewind life and get a second chance at that decision. How about you? How many lies do you wish you could take back? How many truths?
So, today, if you find yourself in a situation where you feel the need to tell that little white lie, for whatever reason, resist that urge and just tell the truth. Be careful not to use the truth as a weapon, or to make someone feel hurt, but instead think of and behave like Jesus, the Ultimate Truth. Prayerfully seek the Father’s guidance and fully commit to a life of living like Jesus, the Ultimate Truth. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, my desire today is to live a life of honesty and integrity in my words and in my actions. I confess that I have lied, not only to myself, but to my friends and family members willingly and for reasons that I thought were valid and justified. However, today, Father, I want to turn a new page on my life and wish to live for the truth. Give me the courage I need to be honest and speak the truth in love, and allow me the wisdom and the patience to deal with the complexities this may cause. Help me always to be honest and authentic as I attempt to live like Your son, the Ultimate Truth, who lives and reigns with You in heaven now and forever. In His name I pray; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”
Ephesians 4:16-17
“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
Psalm 19:14
Showing posts with label Truth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Truth. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Stepping Stones: “I need to wait until I …”
March 24-25, 2012
Transformational Thought
True or False?
“It’s freezing! Don’t go outside without a coat. You’ll catch a cold!”
“Don’t crack your knuckles like that! You’ll get arthritis!”
“Shaving causes hair to grow back faster and thicker.”
“You only use 10% of your brain”
“The rhythm method of birth control always works.”
These are all false. Yes, many of us have believed these to be true, but they aren’t. They are common myths and life is filled with many other myths. In general, a myth is a widely held but incorrect belief. Even though Christianity is about the truth, many myths actually exist in Christianity. These beliefs actually impede or even derail healthy Christian behavior and growth.
A prevalent myth among Christians is the belief that we need to wait for something in order to further our faith. Like, wait until I … learn more … mature more … am done hurting … find the right Bible …find that great teacher who really connects with me … get done with that big work project … get the kids off to kindergarten … get the kids into college … get back from vacation … get in a good small group … just get a couple things off my plate … give up my addiction… have time … have more time…really sense God’s presence and guidance … have my next crisis … have someone to mentor me … can take a class … tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow. Get the picture?
How many of these have you used? Yeah, me too! I even have a few I’m too embarrassed to let you see. I bet you do, too. Quick reality check: do you think these reflect God’s timeline or Satan’s? And don’t say “God is in control of everything and the timeline is always His timeline.” He wants us to grow in our faith NOW. Sure, He can use our feet-dragging in powerful ways, but He calls us to grow in every circumstance, not just when we feel like it.
Today’s scripture tells us that we can do immensely more than we can imagine … according to His power that is at work within us. We don’t need to wait … in fact we can’t wait. We are already behind. People are dying each day, and even though we don’t save them, God wants to use us to advance His kingdom. Your lack of growth dims His glory and leads to your further suffering.
Today, push the myths out of your mind and take that next step toward living the life of Christ. Start to grow your faith now by doing one thing a little more than usual. Pray for an extra 3 minutes, listen to God for 2 extra minutes, or read the Holy Bible for an extra 5 minutes. Honor God in your parenting. Resist that extra cookie or drink. Cut down your coffee. Control your emotions for 5 extra seconds. A little more is possible … now. Be disciplined with this and you will definitely see the benefit quickly. Edging Forward helps you move forward one step at a time. Quit being lazy and using lame excuses (I was the master of sophisticated but lame excuses). You are only hurting yourself. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit and confess that I let so many myths and falsehoods keep me away from doing Your work … and ultimately they keep me away from You. I ask that You fill me with the Holy Spirit and the gift of discernment to help me eliminate non-productive myths. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom you sent to testify to the truth, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."
John 18:37
Transformational Thought
True or False?
“It’s freezing! Don’t go outside without a coat. You’ll catch a cold!”
“Don’t crack your knuckles like that! You’ll get arthritis!”
“Shaving causes hair to grow back faster and thicker.”
“You only use 10% of your brain”
“The rhythm method of birth control always works.”
These are all false. Yes, many of us have believed these to be true, but they aren’t. They are common myths and life is filled with many other myths. In general, a myth is a widely held but incorrect belief. Even though Christianity is about the truth, many myths actually exist in Christianity. These beliefs actually impede or even derail healthy Christian behavior and growth.
A prevalent myth among Christians is the belief that we need to wait for something in order to further our faith. Like, wait until I … learn more … mature more … am done hurting … find the right Bible …find that great teacher who really connects with me … get done with that big work project … get the kids off to kindergarten … get the kids into college … get back from vacation … get in a good small group … just get a couple things off my plate … give up my addiction… have time … have more time…really sense God’s presence and guidance … have my next crisis … have someone to mentor me … can take a class … tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow. Get the picture?
How many of these have you used? Yeah, me too! I even have a few I’m too embarrassed to let you see. I bet you do, too. Quick reality check: do you think these reflect God’s timeline or Satan’s? And don’t say “God is in control of everything and the timeline is always His timeline.” He wants us to grow in our faith NOW. Sure, He can use our feet-dragging in powerful ways, but He calls us to grow in every circumstance, not just when we feel like it.
Today’s scripture tells us that we can do immensely more than we can imagine … according to His power that is at work within us. We don’t need to wait … in fact we can’t wait. We are already behind. People are dying each day, and even though we don’t save them, God wants to use us to advance His kingdom. Your lack of growth dims His glory and leads to your further suffering.
Today, push the myths out of your mind and take that next step toward living the life of Christ. Start to grow your faith now by doing one thing a little more than usual. Pray for an extra 3 minutes, listen to God for 2 extra minutes, or read the Holy Bible for an extra 5 minutes. Honor God in your parenting. Resist that extra cookie or drink. Cut down your coffee. Control your emotions for 5 extra seconds. A little more is possible … now. Be disciplined with this and you will definitely see the benefit quickly. Edging Forward helps you move forward one step at a time. Quit being lazy and using lame excuses (I was the master of sophisticated but lame excuses). You are only hurting yourself. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit and confess that I let so many myths and falsehoods keep me away from doing Your work … and ultimately they keep me away from You. I ask that You fill me with the Holy Spirit and the gift of discernment to help me eliminate non-productive myths. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom you sent to testify to the truth, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."
John 18:37
Friday, March 23, 2012
Stepping Stones: Facing the Truth
March 23, 2012
Transformational Thought
Forgiveness requires that we face the truth: the truth that it was necessary for Christ to die to pay the price tag for our sins; the truth of our own sinful behavior and desperate need; the truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness; the truth that we need to extend the powerful gift of grace to others and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment … even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But when we confess our sin to Him, God treats us much better than we deserve. And because of Christ Jesus, He freely accepts us back and sets us free from the grip of sin. How can we do less? Are we more powerful than God? Do we have a higher standard than God? Are we more upset about sin than God is?
We have both the reason and responsibility to forgive others because we are forgiven by the Lord. Forgiveness is a choice we make. When we forgive, it shows that we understand who we are, who God is, and what He really did for us on the cross.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive … on our own. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone. With Him as our model and source of power, and having accepted His forgiveness, we can then forgive others. We can actually enjoy the freedom and blessing God has for us by forgiving them and freeing ourselves from the power they had over us before we extended forgiveness.
Our goal should be to glorify God, not to glorify ourselves. But glorifying ourselves is actually what we do when we prioritize our pride, hurt, bitterness, revenge, spite, and other feelings above God. Shift your focus to His love and power. It will be the best lenses you can wear.
Today, identify a relationship in which you need to reach out and forgive. If you are struggling to forgive that person, ask Jesus to help You. Then look at whether you really understand and have accepted who you are, the sins you have committed, what you did to deserve God’s forgiveness, and whether you realize the unfair pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for you. Hopefully, the gift of forgiveness you received will help empower you to offer the same forgiveness to others. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. I know I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness of me. Help me understand why I should offer forgiveness readily to others. Help me to face the truth. Thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One to who paid for all my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Transformational Thought
Forgiveness requires that we face the truth: the truth that it was necessary for Christ to die to pay the price tag for our sins; the truth of our own sinful behavior and desperate need; the truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness; the truth that we need to extend the powerful gift of grace to others and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment … even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But when we confess our sin to Him, God treats us much better than we deserve. And because of Christ Jesus, He freely accepts us back and sets us free from the grip of sin. How can we do less? Are we more powerful than God? Do we have a higher standard than God? Are we more upset about sin than God is?
We have both the reason and responsibility to forgive others because we are forgiven by the Lord. Forgiveness is a choice we make. When we forgive, it shows that we understand who we are, who God is, and what He really did for us on the cross.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive … on our own. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone. With Him as our model and source of power, and having accepted His forgiveness, we can then forgive others. We can actually enjoy the freedom and blessing God has for us by forgiving them and freeing ourselves from the power they had over us before we extended forgiveness.
Our goal should be to glorify God, not to glorify ourselves. But glorifying ourselves is actually what we do when we prioritize our pride, hurt, bitterness, revenge, spite, and other feelings above God. Shift your focus to His love and power. It will be the best lenses you can wear.
Today, identify a relationship in which you need to reach out and forgive. If you are struggling to forgive that person, ask Jesus to help You. Then look at whether you really understand and have accepted who you are, the sins you have committed, what you did to deserve God’s forgiveness, and whether you realize the unfair pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for you. Hopefully, the gift of forgiveness you received will help empower you to offer the same forgiveness to others. Life is your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. I know I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness of me. Help me understand why I should offer forgiveness readily to others. Help me to face the truth. Thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One to who paid for all my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Let the Holy Spirit be Your Director
Transformational Thought
So many patients come in and tell me their feelings are causing so much pain. Or their feelings and emotions are out of control. The most damaging stories evolve from letting emotions become their decision-making system, leading to incredibly destructive and life-interfering behaviors.
Now, I am not saying our “negative” emotions are always bad … they are a great warning system. But that is a discussion for a different devotional (see May 1, 2011).
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will literally begin to form your mind. But you see, God made our minds so powerful and complex, that we have many thoughts at the same time. These thoughts then compete to form the lenses our mind uses to see life’s situations. A big stumbling block is the difficulty of dealing with our emotions. Especially problematic are real or possible emotional discomfort and pain.
Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness … we often allow these to become terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate and, more often, self-destructive decisions we wish we could take back. These decisions often evolve into patterns or habits we want to change. But we feel we have no control and can’t stop.
God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our development to become more Christ-like. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of our heart. (See Spiritual Basics link and then click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess the wrong decision, make it right with God, and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne of our heart. As you attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit … let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something to you or an unexpected situation occurs. What is your first feeling? If that feeling is uncomfortable, what is your first response? Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, we all have a number of sinful decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) each day that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the path your life takes when you promote the right manager to direct your thoughts and mind.
Prayer
Dear Father of Truth, There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts … I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to my mind and infuses it with life and peace. I desire to think Your thoughts, my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain, and to get quick-fix relief and satisfaction And I know that the Evil One, the father of lies, tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank You, Lord, for all your goodness and blessings … and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray this in the name of my comfort when stressed, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8
So many patients come in and tell me their feelings are causing so much pain. Or their feelings and emotions are out of control. The most damaging stories evolve from letting emotions become their decision-making system, leading to incredibly destructive and life-interfering behaviors.
Now, I am not saying our “negative” emotions are always bad … they are a great warning system. But that is a discussion for a different devotional (see May 1, 2011).
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will literally begin to form your mind. But you see, God made our minds so powerful and complex, that we have many thoughts at the same time. These thoughts then compete to form the lenses our mind uses to see life’s situations. A big stumbling block is the difficulty of dealing with our emotions. Especially problematic are real or possible emotional discomfort and pain.
Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness … we often allow these to become terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate and, more often, self-destructive decisions we wish we could take back. These decisions often evolve into patterns or habits we want to change. But we feel we have no control and can’t stop.
God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our development to become more Christ-like. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of our heart. (See Spiritual Basics link and then click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess the wrong decision, make it right with God, and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne of our heart. As you attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit … let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something to you or an unexpected situation occurs. What is your first feeling? If that feeling is uncomfortable, what is your first response? Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, we all have a number of sinful decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) each day that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the path your life takes when you promote the right manager to direct your thoughts and mind.
Prayer
Dear Father of Truth, There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts … I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to my mind and infuses it with life and peace. I desire to think Your thoughts, my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain, and to get quick-fix relief and satisfaction And I know that the Evil One, the father of lies, tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank You, Lord, for all your goodness and blessings … and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray this in the name of my comfort when stressed, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8
Monday, March 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: “I need to wait to do something until I …”
Transformational Thought
“Don’t go outside without a coat. It’s freezing! You’ll catch a cold!”
“Don’t crack your knuckles like that! You’ll get arthritis!”
“Shaving causes hair to grow back faster and thicker.”
“You only use 10% of your brain”
True or False? These are all False. Yes, many of us have believed these to be true, but they aren’t. They are common myths. Life is filled with many myths. In general, a myth is a widely held but incorrect belief. Even though Christianity is about the truth, many myths actually exist in Christianity. These beliefs actually impede, or even derail, healthy Christian behavior and growth.
A prevalent myth among Christians is the belief that we need to wait for something in order to further our faith. Like, wait until I … learn more … mature more … am done hurting … find the right Bible … find that great teacher that really connects with me … get done with that big work project … get the kids go to kindergarten … get the kids into college … get back from vacation … get in a good small group … just get a couple things off my plate … give up my addiction … have time … have more time … really sense God’s presence and guidance … have my next crisis … have someone to mentor me … can take a class … tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow. Get the picture?
How many of these have you used? Yeah, me too. I even have a few I’m too embarrassed to let you see. I bet you do, too. Quick reality check: do you think these reflect God’s timeline or Satan’s? And don’t say “God is in control of everything and the timeline is always His timeline.” He wants us to grow in our faith NOW. Sure, He can use our feet-dragging in powerful ways, but He calls us to grow in every circumstance, not just when we feel like it.
Today’s scripture tells us that we can do immensely more than we can imagine … according to His power that is at work within us. We don’t need to wait … in fact we can’t wait. We are already behind. People are dying each day, and even though we don’t save them, God wants to use us to advance His kingdom.
Today, push the myths out of your mind and take that next step toward living the life of Christ. Start now by doing one thing a little more than usual to grow your faith. Pray for an extra 3 minutes, listen to God for 2 extra minutes, or read the Holy Bible for an extra 5 minutes. Honor God in your parenting. Resist that extra cookie or drink. A little more is possible … now. Be disciplined with this and you will definitely see the benefit quickly.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit and confess that I let so many myths and falsehoods keep me away from doing Your work … and ultimately they keep me away from You. I ask that You fill me with the Holy Spirit and the gift of discernment to help me eliminate non-productive myths. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom you sent to testify to the truth, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."
John 18:37
“Don’t go outside without a coat. It’s freezing! You’ll catch a cold!”
“Don’t crack your knuckles like that! You’ll get arthritis!”
“Shaving causes hair to grow back faster and thicker.”
“You only use 10% of your brain”
True or False? These are all False. Yes, many of us have believed these to be true, but they aren’t. They are common myths. Life is filled with many myths. In general, a myth is a widely held but incorrect belief. Even though Christianity is about the truth, many myths actually exist in Christianity. These beliefs actually impede, or even derail, healthy Christian behavior and growth.
A prevalent myth among Christians is the belief that we need to wait for something in order to further our faith. Like, wait until I … learn more … mature more … am done hurting … find the right Bible … find that great teacher that really connects with me … get done with that big work project … get the kids go to kindergarten … get the kids into college … get back from vacation … get in a good small group … just get a couple things off my plate … give up my addiction … have time … have more time … really sense God’s presence and guidance … have my next crisis … have someone to mentor me … can take a class … tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow. Get the picture?
How many of these have you used? Yeah, me too. I even have a few I’m too embarrassed to let you see. I bet you do, too. Quick reality check: do you think these reflect God’s timeline or Satan’s? And don’t say “God is in control of everything and the timeline is always His timeline.” He wants us to grow in our faith NOW. Sure, He can use our feet-dragging in powerful ways, but He calls us to grow in every circumstance, not just when we feel like it.
Today’s scripture tells us that we can do immensely more than we can imagine … according to His power that is at work within us. We don’t need to wait … in fact we can’t wait. We are already behind. People are dying each day, and even though we don’t save them, God wants to use us to advance His kingdom.
Today, push the myths out of your mind and take that next step toward living the life of Christ. Start now by doing one thing a little more than usual to grow your faith. Pray for an extra 3 minutes, listen to God for 2 extra minutes, or read the Holy Bible for an extra 5 minutes. Honor God in your parenting. Resist that extra cookie or drink. A little more is possible … now. Be disciplined with this and you will definitely see the benefit quickly.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit and confess that I let so many myths and falsehoods keep me away from doing Your work … and ultimately they keep me away from You. I ask that You fill me with the Holy Spirit and the gift of discernment to help me eliminate non-productive myths. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One whom you sent to testify to the truth, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."
John 18:37
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Facing the Truth
Transformational Thought
Forgiveness requires that we face the truth. The truth that it was necessary for Christ to die to pay the price tag for our sins. The truth of our own sinful behavior and desperate need. The truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness. The truth that we need to extend the powerful gift of grace to others and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment … even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But when we confess our sin to Him, God treats us much better than we deserve, and because of Christ Jesus, He freely accepts us and sets us free from our sins. How can we do less? Are we more powerful than God? Do we have a higher standard than God? Are we more upset about sin than God is?
Forgiven by the Lord, we have both the reason and responsibility to forgive others. Forgiveness is a choice we make. When we forgive, it really shows that we understand who we are, who God is, and what He really did for us. On the cross.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive … on our own. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone. With Him as our model and source of power, and having accepted His forgiveness, we can then forgive others. We can actually enjoy blessing others by forgiving them and freeing ourselves from the power they had over us when we didn’t extend forgiveness.
Our goal should be to glorify God, not to glorify ourselves. But glorifying ourselves is actually what we do when we prioritize our pride, hurt, bitterness, revenge, spite, and other feelings above God.
Today, identify a relationship in which you need to reach out and forgive. If you are struggling to forgive that person, ask Jesus to help You. Then look at whether you really understand and have accepted who you are, the sins you have committed, what you did to deserve God’s forgiveness, and whether you realize the unfair pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for you. Hopefully the gift of forgiveness you received will help empower you to gift the same forgiveness to others. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. I know I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness of me, so help me understand why I shouldn’t wait for someone else to “deserve” my forgiveness before I give it to them. Help me to face the truth. Thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One to who paid for all my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Forgiveness requires that we face the truth. The truth that it was necessary for Christ to die to pay the price tag for our sins. The truth of our own sinful behavior and desperate need. The truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness. The truth that we need to extend the powerful gift of grace to others and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment … even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But when we confess our sin to Him, God treats us much better than we deserve, and because of Christ Jesus, He freely accepts us and sets us free from our sins. How can we do less? Are we more powerful than God? Do we have a higher standard than God? Are we more upset about sin than God is?
Forgiven by the Lord, we have both the reason and responsibility to forgive others. Forgiveness is a choice we make. When we forgive, it really shows that we understand who we are, who God is, and what He really did for us. On the cross.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive … on our own. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone. With Him as our model and source of power, and having accepted His forgiveness, we can then forgive others. We can actually enjoy blessing others by forgiving them and freeing ourselves from the power they had over us when we didn’t extend forgiveness.
Our goal should be to glorify God, not to glorify ourselves. But glorifying ourselves is actually what we do when we prioritize our pride, hurt, bitterness, revenge, spite, and other feelings above God.
Today, identify a relationship in which you need to reach out and forgive. If you are struggling to forgive that person, ask Jesus to help You. Then look at whether you really understand and have accepted who you are, the sins you have committed, what you did to deserve God’s forgiveness, and whether you realize the unfair pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for you. Hopefully the gift of forgiveness you received will help empower you to gift the same forgiveness to others. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. I know I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness of me, so help me understand why I shouldn’t wait for someone else to “deserve” my forgiveness before I give it to them. Help me to face the truth. Thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One to who paid for all my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Friday, July 30, 2010
Stepping Stones: Let the Holy Spirit be Your Director
Transformational Tip
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will begin to form your mind. But you see, God made our minds so powerful and complex, that we have so many thoughts competing to form the lenses our mind uses to see life’s situations. A big stumbling block is our difficulty dealing with our emotions, especially real or potential emotional discomfort or pain.
Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness…these are all terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate at best, and often self-destructive, decisions we wish we could have back. These decisions often evolve into patterns or habits we want to change.
God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our Christ-likeness development. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of our heart. (see Spiritual Basics link and then click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess our wrong decision, make right with God, and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne. As we attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit…let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something to you or an unexpected situation occurs. Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, we all have a number of decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) each day that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the direction your life takes when you have the right director directing your thoughts and mind.
Prayer
Dear Father of Truth, There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts…I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to and infuses life and peace into my mind. I desire to think Your thoughts my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain and to get quick-fix relief and satisfaction…and I know that the Evil One, the father of lies, tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank You, Lord, for all your goodness and blessings…and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray this in the name my comfort when stressed, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will begin to form your mind. But you see, God made our minds so powerful and complex, that we have so many thoughts competing to form the lenses our mind uses to see life’s situations. A big stumbling block is our difficulty dealing with our emotions, especially real or potential emotional discomfort or pain.
Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness…these are all terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate at best, and often self-destructive, decisions we wish we could have back. These decisions often evolve into patterns or habits we want to change.
God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our Christ-likeness development. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of our heart. (see Spiritual Basics link and then click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess our wrong decision, make right with God, and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne. As we attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit…let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something to you or an unexpected situation occurs. Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, we all have a number of decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) each day that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the direction your life takes when you have the right director directing your thoughts and mind.
Prayer
Dear Father of Truth, There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts…I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to and infuses life and peace into my mind. I desire to think Your thoughts my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain and to get quick-fix relief and satisfaction…and I know that the Evil One, the father of lies, tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank You, Lord, for all your goodness and blessings…and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray this in the name my comfort when stressed, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Stepping Stones: How Do You Start Your Day?
Transformational Tip
Even those with the deepest faith, at times, wake-up some mornings in a foggy, frazzled state of mind. And on the most demanding days, they may even wake in a state of unbelief in some of the basic truths that guide them. Beginning your day with tangled thoughts and a mind-set of disbelief will lead to a day of stress and poor decisions.
The crux of making good decisions is being able to see the situation clearly…eyes that see the truth. This is how the truth can set you free. The battlefield is your mind, and the Evil One is the great deceiver…trying to distort your lenses so you can’t see the truths of life and relationships clearly.
Your challenge and responsibility each morning is to untangle your thoughts so that your mind and thoughts are aligned with the truth in God’s word. Set aside time each morning for this vital task. Prepare for battle by putting on the Armor of God…clear your lenses and head (See Spiritual Basics link on the left). Pray and read scripture till your mind clears.
Today, here is what you are choosing between. Confidence, peace, joy, good decisions, and excitement to excel on one side…, or inadequacy, fear, stress, poor decisions, and avoidance for fear of failure on the other side. When you feel stressed, stop! and examine the data you are going on. You have some misinformation, so replace the distortions with the truth. Focus your thoughts on Your God, His promises, love, and character. Remember, Immanuel – God with you.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that You want me to live this day cheerfully as one of Your followers. But I often wake wondering if I can make it through this day and whether I will be able to cope. I realize that this fear is a form of unbelief…Help me with my unbelief today, my Lord. I know that when I begin my day with a muddled mind, I ask myself the wrong question; Will I be able to cope with the troubles I face today? I know that with You…that You and I can handle any circumstances that arise today. With You alongside me, guiding me, strengthening me, encouraging me…I can handle anything that comes my way…even those difficult situations I have been avoiding. So today Father, as I work to unscramble my thoughts…..Thank you for providing Your armor, Your Holy Spirit, and Your son Jesus, to save me in this battle….I will focus my thoughts on who You are: Immanuel – God with me. I pray this in the name of the Truth, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
Matthew 1:23
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7
Even those with the deepest faith, at times, wake-up some mornings in a foggy, frazzled state of mind. And on the most demanding days, they may even wake in a state of unbelief in some of the basic truths that guide them. Beginning your day with tangled thoughts and a mind-set of disbelief will lead to a day of stress and poor decisions.
The crux of making good decisions is being able to see the situation clearly…eyes that see the truth. This is how the truth can set you free. The battlefield is your mind, and the Evil One is the great deceiver…trying to distort your lenses so you can’t see the truths of life and relationships clearly.
Your challenge and responsibility each morning is to untangle your thoughts so that your mind and thoughts are aligned with the truth in God’s word. Set aside time each morning for this vital task. Prepare for battle by putting on the Armor of God…clear your lenses and head (See Spiritual Basics link on the left). Pray and read scripture till your mind clears.
Today, here is what you are choosing between. Confidence, peace, joy, good decisions, and excitement to excel on one side…, or inadequacy, fear, stress, poor decisions, and avoidance for fear of failure on the other side. When you feel stressed, stop! and examine the data you are going on. You have some misinformation, so replace the distortions with the truth. Focus your thoughts on Your God, His promises, love, and character. Remember, Immanuel – God with you.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that You want me to live this day cheerfully as one of Your followers. But I often wake wondering if I can make it through this day and whether I will be able to cope. I realize that this fear is a form of unbelief…Help me with my unbelief today, my Lord. I know that when I begin my day with a muddled mind, I ask myself the wrong question; Will I be able to cope with the troubles I face today? I know that with You…that You and I can handle any circumstances that arise today. With You alongside me, guiding me, strengthening me, encouraging me…I can handle anything that comes my way…even those difficult situations I have been avoiding. So today Father, as I work to unscramble my thoughts…..Thank you for providing Your armor, Your Holy Spirit, and Your son Jesus, to save me in this battle….I will focus my thoughts on who You are: Immanuel – God with me. I pray this in the name of the Truth, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
Matthew 1:23
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Stepping Stones: Why Can’t You See It?
Transformational Tip
How did you enjoy yesterday’s devotional? Not the second one we sent out, but the first one @ 5:00 AM. If you didn’t open it yet, go ahead and open it. You probably thought it was your computer or Internet not working correctly, because Lighthouse never makes mistakes. Then you remember that Lighthouse does make tons of mistakes…spelling errors, incorrect grammar, late in mailing some days…so the reason why the text area is blank is because Lighthouse forgot to write one today, or forgot to paste today’s devotional into the template and sent Stepping Stones out prematurely.
Well, we were just testing you to prove a point. Actually, there was text in the white area of yesterday’s Stepping Stones…don’t believe me. Go back to yesterday’s Stepping Stones and highlight the text area. What do you see? The text appears, because we gave you special lenses. The decoding secret: the font color of the text was white.
You see, God is performing amazing miracles, providing for us, saving us, protecting us, loving us, standing beside us, calling and pursuing us…but we don’t see it. Why don’t we see it? We aren’t understanding the key to clear up our lenses. Just like you couldn’t see the text until I gave you the proper lenses to view it, viewing our lives and all the activities around us is impossible unless we have the right spiritual lenses. That is what God’s word, The Holy Bible, is all about.
We need to get to know God through spending time alone with Him and learning of Him through His Word…which reveals God, His plan, His Son, and His instructions to us.
Today, do you conform to the lenses of this world and try to see all God does through distorted lenses? Or are you transforming your lenses, developing eyes that can see God working in all areas of your life. Peace, power, and joy come when we can see the white text instead of the fear and anxiety of thinking something is wrong or you missed out. Click here to share your perspective on what you first thought when you saw the blank text yesterday.
Editor’s Note: we really did make a mistake yesterday and the white text wasn’t intentional, but God was able to use our mistake as a great lesson to understand Him.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for using the crappy lenses of this world. I want to see You in all things. Help me release my dependency on this world and seek first Your kingdom. When I do see Your way, especially in stressful situations, my spirit is lifted and I am empowered to act in ways contrary to the world’s expectations…honoring You and growing me. Peace and joy readily follow. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who opens my eyes, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And he said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, "To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that "they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven."
Mark 4:9-12
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
How did you enjoy yesterday’s devotional? Not the second one we sent out, but the first one @ 5:00 AM. If you didn’t open it yet, go ahead and open it. You probably thought it was your computer or Internet not working correctly, because Lighthouse never makes mistakes. Then you remember that Lighthouse does make tons of mistakes…spelling errors, incorrect grammar, late in mailing some days…so the reason why the text area is blank is because Lighthouse forgot to write one today, or forgot to paste today’s devotional into the template and sent Stepping Stones out prematurely.
Well, we were just testing you to prove a point. Actually, there was text in the white area of yesterday’s Stepping Stones…don’t believe me. Go back to yesterday’s Stepping Stones and highlight the text area. What do you see? The text appears, because we gave you special lenses. The decoding secret: the font color of the text was white.
You see, God is performing amazing miracles, providing for us, saving us, protecting us, loving us, standing beside us, calling and pursuing us…but we don’t see it. Why don’t we see it? We aren’t understanding the key to clear up our lenses. Just like you couldn’t see the text until I gave you the proper lenses to view it, viewing our lives and all the activities around us is impossible unless we have the right spiritual lenses. That is what God’s word, The Holy Bible, is all about.
We need to get to know God through spending time alone with Him and learning of Him through His Word…which reveals God, His plan, His Son, and His instructions to us.
Today, do you conform to the lenses of this world and try to see all God does through distorted lenses? Or are you transforming your lenses, developing eyes that can see God working in all areas of your life. Peace, power, and joy come when we can see the white text instead of the fear and anxiety of thinking something is wrong or you missed out. Click here to share your perspective on what you first thought when you saw the blank text yesterday.
Editor’s Note: we really did make a mistake yesterday and the white text wasn’t intentional, but God was able to use our mistake as a great lesson to understand Him.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for using the crappy lenses of this world. I want to see You in all things. Help me release my dependency on this world and seek first Your kingdom. When I do see Your way, especially in stressful situations, my spirit is lifted and I am empowered to act in ways contrary to the world’s expectations…honoring You and growing me. Peace and joy readily follow. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who opens my eyes, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And he said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, "To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that "they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven."
Mark 4:9-12
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Stepping Stones: Facing the Truth
Transformational Tip
Forgiveness requires our facing the truth; The truth of Christ's death to pay our price forgiveness. The truth of our own sin and desperate need. The truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness. The truth that we need to extend that powerful gift of grace to others and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment…even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But God treats us much better than we deserve, and because of Christ Jesus, He freely accepts us and sets us free from our sins. How can we do less? Are we more powerful than God? Do we have a higher standard than God. Are we more upset about sin than God is?
Forgiven by the Lord, we have both the reason and responsibility to forgive others. Forgiveness is a choice we make. When we forgive, it really shows that we understand who we are, who God is, and what He really did for us. On the cross.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive…on our own. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone. With Him as our model and empowering us, as well as truly accepting His forgiveness, we can forgive…and actually enjoy blessing others as well as freeing ourselves.
Today, if you are struggling to forgive, ask Jesus to help You. Then look at whether you really understand and have accepted who you are, the sins you have committed, what you did to deserve God’s forgiveness, and whther you realize the unfair pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for you.
Click here to share your perspective about forgiving…when it’s hard.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. I know I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness of me, so help me understand I cant wait for someone else to “deserve” my forgiveness before I give it. Help me to face the truth. Thank you for your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One to who paid for all my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Forgiveness requires our facing the truth; The truth of Christ's death to pay our price forgiveness. The truth of our own sin and desperate need. The truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness. The truth that we need to extend that powerful gift of grace to others and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment…even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But God treats us much better than we deserve, and because of Christ Jesus, He freely accepts us and sets us free from our sins. How can we do less? Are we more powerful than God? Do we have a higher standard than God. Are we more upset about sin than God is?
Forgiven by the Lord, we have both the reason and responsibility to forgive others. Forgiveness is a choice we make. When we forgive, it really shows that we understand who we are, who God is, and what He really did for us. On the cross.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive…on our own. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone. With Him as our model and empowering us, as well as truly accepting His forgiveness, we can forgive…and actually enjoy blessing others as well as freeing ourselves.
Today, if you are struggling to forgive, ask Jesus to help You. Then look at whether you really understand and have accepted who you are, the sins you have committed, what you did to deserve God’s forgiveness, and whther you realize the unfair pain and sacrifice Jesus endured for you.
Click here to share your perspective about forgiving…when it’s hard.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. I know I didn’t deserve Your forgiveness of me, so help me understand I cant wait for someone else to “deserve” my forgiveness before I give it. Help me to face the truth. Thank you for your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One to who paid for all my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Stepping Stones: “I need to wait to do something until I …”
Transformational Tip
“Don’t go outside without a coat. Its Freezing! You’ll Catch A Cold!”
“Don’t crack your knuckles like that! You’ll get arthritis!”
“Shaving causes hair to grow back faster or coarser.”
“You only use 10% of your brain”
True or False? These are all False. Yes, many of us have believed them to be true, but they aren’t. They are common myths. Life is filled with many myths. A myth is, in general, a widely held but mistaken belief.
Even though Christianity is about the truth, many myths actually exist in Christianity. These beliefs actually impede, or even derail, healthy Christian behavior and growth.
A prevalent myth amongst Christians is the belief that we need to wait to further our faith until…we learn more…grow more… are done hurting…find the right Bible …find that great teacher that I really connect with…give up my addiction…have more time…really sense God’s presence…have my next crisis…have time to…tomorrow…I have someone to mentor me…I can take a class. Get the picture.
Today’s scripture tells us that we can do immensely more than we can imagine…according to His power that is at work within us. We don’t need to wait…in fact we can’t wait. We are already behind.
Today, push the myths out of your mind and take that next step toward living the life of Christ. Start today by doing one thing a little more than usual to grow your faith. Pray for an extra 3 minutes, listen to God for 2 extra minutes, or read the Holy Bible for an extra 5 minutes. A little more is possible…now. You will definitely see the benefit quickly. Click here to share your perspective about Christian myths.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit and confess that I let so many myths and falsehoods keep me away from doing Your work…and keep me away from You. I ask that You fill me with the Holy Spirit and the gift of discernment to help me eliminate non-productive myths. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who you sent to testify to the truth, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."
John 18:37
“Don’t go outside without a coat. Its Freezing! You’ll Catch A Cold!”
“Don’t crack your knuckles like that! You’ll get arthritis!”
“Shaving causes hair to grow back faster or coarser.”
“You only use 10% of your brain”
True or False? These are all False. Yes, many of us have believed them to be true, but they aren’t. They are common myths. Life is filled with many myths. A myth is, in general, a widely held but mistaken belief.
Even though Christianity is about the truth, many myths actually exist in Christianity. These beliefs actually impede, or even derail, healthy Christian behavior and growth.
A prevalent myth amongst Christians is the belief that we need to wait to further our faith until…we learn more…grow more… are done hurting…find the right Bible …find that great teacher that I really connect with…give up my addiction…have more time…really sense God’s presence…have my next crisis…have time to…tomorrow…I have someone to mentor me…I can take a class. Get the picture.
Today’s scripture tells us that we can do immensely more than we can imagine…according to His power that is at work within us. We don’t need to wait…in fact we can’t wait. We are already behind.
Today, push the myths out of your mind and take that next step toward living the life of Christ. Start today by doing one thing a little more than usual to grow your faith. Pray for an extra 3 minutes, listen to God for 2 extra minutes, or read the Holy Bible for an extra 5 minutes. A little more is possible…now. You will definitely see the benefit quickly. Click here to share your perspective about Christian myths.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit and confess that I let so many myths and falsehoods keep me away from doing Your work…and keep me away from You. I ask that You fill me with the Holy Spirit and the gift of discernment to help me eliminate non-productive myths. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who you sent to testify to the truth, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."
John 18:37
Friday, November 6, 2009
Stepping Stones: Don't Agree With Him
Transformational Tip
The evil one is lying to us, seeking our agreement…every single day. He doesn’t just plant the thought in our head and hearts; he keeps hammering away until we agree with him. Jesus called Satan the “Father of Lies”. One of his all time favorite lie is - You do not really love Jesus…that you are only pretending…that you are only deceiving yourself. You really wouldn’t be thinking these thoughts…doing these things, if you really loved Jesus with all your heart. This ranks right up there as some of the worse news he could deliver to you? He’s hoping we’ll buy into whatever he’s saying, offering, insinuating. Our first parents bought into it, and look what disaster came of it. Stand firm on the truth. Do not agree with him!
Today, try and hang onto this fact; Your heart matters to God. Try to hold this up for even a day. My heart matters to God. You will be amazed at how much accusation you live under. I’m such a lousy parent, I’m such a bad spouse, I’m such a weak Christian, I have no will power. And slowly another agreement is made. Satan will take any small victory he can get. It moves from you did a bad thing to you are bad. After a while it just becomes a cloud we live under, accept as normal. Do not agree with him. There is a reason why Jesus said, “the truth will set you free.” Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on the accusation and lies you live under.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for Your Holy Word that warns us about Satan’s lies. I am so tired of living under this cloud of accusation and lies. I pray Lord that You will help me remember today and everyday that You made me in Your image…and that my heart matters to you. Help me, Father, to avoid agreeing with the enemy. I pray in the name of the truth, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
“and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:32
(Jesus speaking about satan)“He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”
John 8:44
I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel."
Genesis 3:15
The evil one is lying to us, seeking our agreement…every single day. He doesn’t just plant the thought in our head and hearts; he keeps hammering away until we agree with him. Jesus called Satan the “Father of Lies”. One of his all time favorite lie is - You do not really love Jesus…that you are only pretending…that you are only deceiving yourself. You really wouldn’t be thinking these thoughts…doing these things, if you really loved Jesus with all your heart. This ranks right up there as some of the worse news he could deliver to you? He’s hoping we’ll buy into whatever he’s saying, offering, insinuating. Our first parents bought into it, and look what disaster came of it. Stand firm on the truth. Do not agree with him!
Today, try and hang onto this fact; Your heart matters to God. Try to hold this up for even a day. My heart matters to God. You will be amazed at how much accusation you live under. I’m such a lousy parent, I’m such a bad spouse, I’m such a weak Christian, I have no will power. And slowly another agreement is made. Satan will take any small victory he can get. It moves from you did a bad thing to you are bad. After a while it just becomes a cloud we live under, accept as normal. Do not agree with him. There is a reason why Jesus said, “the truth will set you free.” Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on the accusation and lies you live under.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for Your Holy Word that warns us about Satan’s lies. I am so tired of living under this cloud of accusation and lies. I pray Lord that You will help me remember today and everyday that You made me in Your image…and that my heart matters to you. Help me, Father, to avoid agreeing with the enemy. I pray in the name of the truth, Christ Jesus, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
“and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:32
(Jesus speaking about satan)“He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”
John 8:44
I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel."
Genesis 3:15
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Stepping Stones: Why We Search
Transformational Tip
When you are searching for your keys, it is because they are not in the right place…lost. When we are in Washington, DC and searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost, we are lost. We search for the Truth not because it is lost, we search for the Truth because we are lost. We were designed by God to search and find Him. Our search is usually for comfort, peace, love, happiness, being valued…all things God can and wants to give us. Unfortunately, instead of one-stop shopping, going to God for everything, we search in many other places and things for the desires of our heart. We try to find relief at work, computer, food, relationships, kids, our grown-up toys, getting ahead, but we are looking in the wrong places.…we search because we are lost. God isn’t lost, He is in the same place all the time…you’ll find Him in His word, thru prayer, and orchestrating your circumstances to direct you back on track to Him. Where is your searching leading you? Let the word of God be submerged into your mind and spirit; “Seek and you will find” “I am the way, the truth and the life”
Today, If you are searching for anything other than His Truth…it’s time for a route correction. Identify what you are searching for, and where instead of God you are trying to find it. Click here to share how searching for God’s Truth has changed your life...or with questions on how to improve your search.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I have been searching my entire life Lord…but I have been searching in the wrong places. My searching has led me to some very bad decisions which caused pain and suffering for me and for those I love. I thank You Father for the lighthouses you have brought into my life. For those who have helped guide me step by step to You. I thank You for the new focus of my search. I search for You Lord, for a deeper and deeper relationship with You. I pray Father for the Stepping Stones community that they too may focus their search toward the Truth…toward You Father. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ whose Truth became flesh, and all God’s people said, – AMEN!
The Truth
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8
Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now by this I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is the truth.”
1 Kings 17:24
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
When you are searching for your keys, it is because they are not in the right place…lost. When we are in Washington, DC and searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost, we are lost. We search for the Truth not because it is lost, we search for the Truth because we are lost. We were designed by God to search and find Him. Our search is usually for comfort, peace, love, happiness, being valued…all things God can and wants to give us. Unfortunately, instead of one-stop shopping, going to God for everything, we search in many other places and things for the desires of our heart. We try to find relief at work, computer, food, relationships, kids, our grown-up toys, getting ahead, but we are looking in the wrong places.…we search because we are lost. God isn’t lost, He is in the same place all the time…you’ll find Him in His word, thru prayer, and orchestrating your circumstances to direct you back on track to Him. Where is your searching leading you? Let the word of God be submerged into your mind and spirit; “Seek and you will find” “I am the way, the truth and the life”
Today, If you are searching for anything other than His Truth…it’s time for a route correction. Identify what you are searching for, and where instead of God you are trying to find it. Click here to share how searching for God’s Truth has changed your life...or with questions on how to improve your search.
Prayer
Dear Father,
I have been searching my entire life Lord…but I have been searching in the wrong places. My searching has led me to some very bad decisions which caused pain and suffering for me and for those I love. I thank You Father for the lighthouses you have brought into my life. For those who have helped guide me step by step to You. I thank You for the new focus of my search. I search for You Lord, for a deeper and deeper relationship with You. I pray Father for the Stepping Stones community that they too may focus their search toward the Truth…toward You Father. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ whose Truth became flesh, and all God’s people said, – AMEN!
The Truth
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8
Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now by this I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is the truth.”
1 Kings 17:24
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
