Transformational Thought
We hear this line all the time: “every one of us is special.” We’ve been told this by our parents, grandparents, romantic interests, aunts, uncles, Sunday School teachers, youth pastors, pastor and priests at church...and of course by all those self-help books, and gurus like Oprah, Tony Robbins, and Dr. Oz.
Yes, we all have different fingerprints, different DNA, unique brain chemistry, and so on…but does this really make each of us “special”? For most of my life, I was very cynical about spiritual clichés like this. As I began to dig in and understand Christianity a bit better, I realized that, yes, we are special as individuals. We are unique. Every one of us has extraordinary dignity simply because we are a child of God, made in His image and likeness, and redeemed by God’s Son.
Another way to envision it is by thinking we are not just human beings, rather we are wonderfully designed keys…keys that God has individually crafted to fit certain locks. You are special because the lock you are called to open will accept only one key – a key that looks distinctive and acts differently; one that has different emotions, passions, skills and shortcomings from any other key. Because of these differences, the individual lock is also a unique, wonderful, and specially designed life crafted by God and available to only one key, YOU!
Remember, in the entire world there has only been one key that has the ability to open this one particular lock…and you are that key. The lock could be anything…something big or something small…something quiet or something loud. It could be that your son or daughter is destined to do something spectacular; something they could never have done without your influence. Whatever the lock may be, one thing is sure: it will be profoundly important to God and this world, and immensely fulfilling to you personally.
Unfortunately, we waste much of our life and time on trying to fit into many counterfeit locks Satan tries to trick us with. I know I tried to live lives that weren’t designed for me, but I thought would make me more popular, accepted, in control, in charge, loved, secure, better off, and the list goes on. Trying those locks hurt, because I was trying to jam my specific key into the wrong lock. It never fit. Once I found my real fit in Christ and followed His leading, my life is so much more comfortable, because it is a perfect fit.
Today, go find the lock God designed for you. Start by taking inventory of experiences, talents, interests, contacts, and passions that stand out for you personally. You, like me, might have past wounds or mistakes that God allowed for a special purpose. Start to prayerfully mix them together as you confide in others to see what special locks God is crafting for you to magically and perfectly slide your key into and open up. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for saying yes to my existence. I took me so long to figure out what my lock looked like. I am glad I am looking through Your eyed more often as it makes finding my lock so much easier. I do believe, Lord, that You made me as a key. Help me continue to find the locks that You created for me to open. Help me find a way to communicate to others just how special they are simply because they are Your children. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Key to the multiverse, Jesus; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13
His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:21
Showing posts with label listening. Show all posts
Showing posts with label listening. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are Your Keys Lost, Or Are You?
Transformational Thought
As I get older, my memory just isn’t the same. I tell myself I have so much more to remember, that it takes a couple seconds longer to look through all those file cabinets in my head. But simple things seem to fall through the cracks of my mind. One of my solutions is to put small items in a special place that I would definitely be able to remember. Well, you guessed it … I forget where or what that special place is.
When I am searching for my keys, it is because my keys are not in the right place. They are lost. You see, when my family is sightseeing in Washington, DC, and we’re searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost. We are the ones who 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 is able to give us and wants to give us. Unfortunately, instead of one-stop shopping, going to God for everything, we search in many other places and activities for the desires of our heart.
We try to find relief in work, computers, food, relationships, kids, grown-up toys, getting ahead, sex, alcohol, sleep, isolation, drugs. 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, through prayer, and as He orchestrates your circumstances to direct you back on track to find Him. Where is your own search leading you? Let the word of God immerse 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 today. Write down the activities of your day. Are you pursuing these activities instead of God to meet your needs? Are these activities the ones God would prescribe for your treatment plan? Be honest and examine why you don’t look first to God to get unlost … you know, found … to fill some of your desires today. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I have been searching my entire life, 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, 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 say – 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
As I get older, my memory just isn’t the same. I tell myself I have so much more to remember, that it takes a couple seconds longer to look through all those file cabinets in my head. But simple things seem to fall through the cracks of my mind. One of my solutions is to put small items in a special place that I would definitely be able to remember. Well, you guessed it … I forget where or what that special place is.
When I am searching for my keys, it is because my keys are not in the right place. They are lost. You see, when my family is sightseeing in Washington, DC, and we’re searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost. We are the ones who 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 is able to give us and wants to give us. Unfortunately, instead of one-stop shopping, going to God for everything, we search in many other places and activities for the desires of our heart.
We try to find relief in work, computers, food, relationships, kids, grown-up toys, getting ahead, sex, alcohol, sleep, isolation, drugs. 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, through prayer, and as He orchestrates your circumstances to direct you back on track to find Him. Where is your own search leading you? Let the word of God immerse 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 today. Write down the activities of your day. Are you pursuing these activities instead of God to meet your needs? Are these activities the ones God would prescribe for your treatment plan? Be honest and examine why you don’t look first to God to get unlost … you know, found … to fill some of your desires today. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I have been searching my entire life, 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, 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 say – 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
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Starving At The Buffet Table of Life?
Transformational Thought
I love to eat, but I am very picky, which Martine hates. I like buffets where, for a small price, I can sample several items. Have you noticed that at a buffet, all the filler, cheaper, and less scrumptious distractions are offered first? The restaurant hopes you fill up with these and have less room and appetite for the valued items at the back end of the buffet table.
We need food, everyday, several times per day in order to live, to survive. But our country, even though well-fed and overweight, is actually starving. We’re starving spiritually!
Why? Because life operates pretty much the same way as a buffet. Many fillers and imitations of true sustenance are offered upfront, while the really fulfilling, life-sustaining selections are farther back on the table and take some patience and effort to find and swallow.
Even though the buffet of life has many options, none of them will satisfy unless your main staple is GOD and His Holy BIBLE … and unless you are applying it every day. Even though we are well fed we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, pornography, addictions, insecurity, other people’s opinions, sleeplessness, guilt, shame, indecisiveness, and … you fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal and all-powerful, able to meet all our needs all the time.
God invites us throughout Scripture to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55, God invites the thirsty. His invitation is very clear and simple. Come, then Listen, then Seek. “Come” means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat. ‘Listen’ is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart. “Seek” is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? Because if you aren’t pursuing God, you are pursuing the fillers, the counterfeits in this way, so don’t be surprised at what you are reaping, the weight you are gaining and carrying while still feeling starved.
Today, go to your Father and really listen. Go to your Father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes, seek the Lord while He is near. This is not because God will move away … but because we do things to place distance between ourselves and God. And we must not forget, don’t let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on “Salvation” if you are uncertain whether you at the correct buffet table.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You today, thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You, Father, for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my human nature, I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately … I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down, I feel distant from You … I feel like a failure. At such times, it’s almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You. I thank You that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit … and that Your Spirit will lead me to You, and that I will “…eat what is good.” I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor. Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
I love to eat, but I am very picky, which Martine hates. I like buffets where, for a small price, I can sample several items. Have you noticed that at a buffet, all the filler, cheaper, and less scrumptious distractions are offered first? The restaurant hopes you fill up with these and have less room and appetite for the valued items at the back end of the buffet table.
We need food, everyday, several times per day in order to live, to survive. But our country, even though well-fed and overweight, is actually starving. We’re starving spiritually!
Why? Because life operates pretty much the same way as a buffet. Many fillers and imitations of true sustenance are offered upfront, while the really fulfilling, life-sustaining selections are farther back on the table and take some patience and effort to find and swallow.
Even though the buffet of life has many options, none of them will satisfy unless your main staple is GOD and His Holy BIBLE … and unless you are applying it every day. Even though we are well fed we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, pornography, addictions, insecurity, other people’s opinions, sleeplessness, guilt, shame, indecisiveness, and … you fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal and all-powerful, able to meet all our needs all the time.
God invites us throughout Scripture to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55, God invites the thirsty. His invitation is very clear and simple. Come, then Listen, then Seek. “Come” means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat. ‘Listen’ is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart. “Seek” is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? Because if you aren’t pursuing God, you are pursuing the fillers, the counterfeits in this way, so don’t be surprised at what you are reaping, the weight you are gaining and carrying while still feeling starved.
Today, go to your Father and really listen. Go to your Father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes, seek the Lord while He is near. This is not because God will move away … but because we do things to place distance between ourselves and God. And we must not forget, don’t let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on “Salvation” if you are uncertain whether you at the correct buffet table.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You today, thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You, Father, for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my human nature, I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately … I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down, I feel distant from You … I feel like a failure. At such times, it’s almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You. I thank You that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit … and that Your Spirit will lead me to You, and that I will “…eat what is good.” I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor. Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
Friday, February 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: Be Strong and Courageous
Transformational Thought
When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, I was getting so excited to see her reaction. We walked in and there was a 6 foot tall Easter Bunny. Poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the 6 foot Easter Bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after being unable to console her, we left very quickly.
We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?
Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to fear or be discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.
Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see where your confidence comes from and how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for your confidence and empowerment.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers for the one who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, I was getting so excited to see her reaction. We walked in and there was a 6 foot tall Easter Bunny. Poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the 6 foot Easter Bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after being unable to console her, we left very quickly.
We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?
Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to fear or be discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.
Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.
Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see where your confidence comes from and how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for your confidence and empowerment.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers for the one who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Looking In The Right Places?
Transformational Thought
God never promised us days without pain, laughter without sorrow, or sun without rain … but He did promise strength to get through each day, comfort for the tears, and a lighthouse to guide the way. As you provide finances, care, comfort, or support for an aging parent, or a disabled spouse, child, or friend, God is the only place to turn towards for lasting strength and hope.
While at times you might not understand why you and your family are facing these challenges, if you seek God, you will find Him. He promises to hear your prayers and meet your needs. He is your source. He is the one who will make the impossible, possible. He has so much for us, but we have to look in the right places. His peace won’t be in a bar, in food, an affair, money, pornography, or anything on this Earth. Too often we look in the wrong places and wonder why we don’t find His love, comfort, peace, grace, forgiveness, or instruction.
I mistaken look at me all His provisions. My initial reaction often times is to do as much as I can…God did give me a gift of skills to help solve problems … so I get after the problem. Then when I reach the end of my resources and skills, I call on God. I have them in the wrong order. Seek God first, then attack the problem.
Too often we exhaust ourselves with our own efforts before we ask God for His help and provision for our needs. We focus on the need and become overwhelmed by it. But He will help us. He wants us to pray to Him for the strength, wisdom, and resources to accomplish His will.
Today, when you have difficult circumstances, notice whether you feel His peace and comfort. If yes, awesome. If not, then examine where you look for God’s support in times of stress. Take time to meditate on God's Word. The Bible has a great deal to say about aging and care giving concerns. You will find guidance, strength and hope. Open your Bible and spend quiet time with God every day. No matter how busy you are, determine to set aside that special time with Him. And remember that He is with you every moment of the day.
Prayer
Dear God, at times I get so weary, physically and emotionally. And sometimes I find myself turning everywhere else for help before coming to You. Help me to remember to always come to You first. I know that You are truly my source of strength. You have so many promises and are faithful to them. Help me remember that when my lenses get stressed. I want to look to You, and not to cheap imitations of peace and comfort. I pray this and all prayers for the one who is the ultimate caregiver, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:31-34
God never promised us days without pain, laughter without sorrow, or sun without rain … but He did promise strength to get through each day, comfort for the tears, and a lighthouse to guide the way. As you provide finances, care, comfort, or support for an aging parent, or a disabled spouse, child, or friend, God is the only place to turn towards for lasting strength and hope.
While at times you might not understand why you and your family are facing these challenges, if you seek God, you will find Him. He promises to hear your prayers and meet your needs. He is your source. He is the one who will make the impossible, possible. He has so much for us, but we have to look in the right places. His peace won’t be in a bar, in food, an affair, money, pornography, or anything on this Earth. Too often we look in the wrong places and wonder why we don’t find His love, comfort, peace, grace, forgiveness, or instruction.
I mistaken look at me all His provisions. My initial reaction often times is to do as much as I can…God did give me a gift of skills to help solve problems … so I get after the problem. Then when I reach the end of my resources and skills, I call on God. I have them in the wrong order. Seek God first, then attack the problem.
Too often we exhaust ourselves with our own efforts before we ask God for His help and provision for our needs. We focus on the need and become overwhelmed by it. But He will help us. He wants us to pray to Him for the strength, wisdom, and resources to accomplish His will.
Today, when you have difficult circumstances, notice whether you feel His peace and comfort. If yes, awesome. If not, then examine where you look for God’s support in times of stress. Take time to meditate on God's Word. The Bible has a great deal to say about aging and care giving concerns. You will find guidance, strength and hope. Open your Bible and spend quiet time with God every day. No matter how busy you are, determine to set aside that special time with Him. And remember that He is with you every moment of the day.
Prayer
Dear God, at times I get so weary, physically and emotionally. And sometimes I find myself turning everywhere else for help before coming to You. Help me to remember to always come to You first. I know that You are truly my source of strength. You have so many promises and are faithful to them. Help me remember that when my lenses get stressed. I want to look to You, and not to cheap imitations of peace and comfort. I pray this and all prayers for the one who is the ultimate caregiver, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:31-34
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Listening?
Transformational Thought
You all should know by now I’m big on decision-making. I have 3 great daughters, aged 18, 16, and 10 years old … really great kids. But sometimes I wonder about the decisions they make. In those wrong decision making times, they certainly weren’t listening to the advice I was giving them.
Who were they listening to other than me ... and why were they listening to that advice? That “advisor” doesn’t love them as much as I do … doesn’t know them as well as I do … doesn’t want the best for them as much as I do.
Well, what about you? When you make decisions, whose instructions are you listening to? We make between 5,000 and 10,000 decisions per day … seriously. When you make some of your decisions, which voice do you listen to? The crazy world’s … or Satan’s prodding? Your flesh and it’s ‘MY kingdom come’ agenda? Or the Holy Spirit’s still small voice and God’s instruction manual, the Holy Bible?
In today's passage, God is lamenting the fact that no one is listening. You can feel the sadness in His heart as He speaks these words. He pleads with His people: Please listen to Me!
He is speaking to you! Why? Because He loves you and wants to save you from so much hardship and its consequences ... just as our parents give us instruction and pointers for long term fulfillment and satisfaction. God actually knows more than our parents … He sees and knows the future. He created you, so He knows exactly what you need and the way you need it.
These words were directed toward Israel, but God wants all of His children to listen. Jesus said, "My sheep, listen to My voice."
Today, listen to God during your prayer time ... and throughout the day. The Holy Spirit is constantly teaching, guiding, coaching, and warning us. God wants us to talk to Him, then listen to His response. Practice being still. Clear the clutter Satan throws at you to muffle God’s voice. Open the Holy Bible and “read” His voice. It’s all about choices. Whose voice will you listen to?
Your decsion, one of 10,000 today, so choose well.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I am guilty of listening to some other voice and giving it, not You, lordship over my life. Please forgive me. I know You have so much You are telling me through Your Holy Spirit in me … through Your word, the Holy Bible, and through my circumstances. Please help me open the ears of my heart, and tune my mind to Your frequency. I know Your plans for me are way better than he ones I have for myself … so in that moment of temptation, please give me eyes that see and follow You. I pray this in the name of the Your perfect listener, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Listen to me, O my people, while I give you stern warnings. O Israel, if you would only listen to me! … But no, my people wouldn’t listen … Oh, that my people would listen to me!
Psalm 81:8, 11, 13
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
John 10:27
He has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening.
Psalm 22:24
You all should know by now I’m big on decision-making. I have 3 great daughters, aged 18, 16, and 10 years old … really great kids. But sometimes I wonder about the decisions they make. In those wrong decision making times, they certainly weren’t listening to the advice I was giving them.
Who were they listening to other than me ... and why were they listening to that advice? That “advisor” doesn’t love them as much as I do … doesn’t know them as well as I do … doesn’t want the best for them as much as I do.
Well, what about you? When you make decisions, whose instructions are you listening to? We make between 5,000 and 10,000 decisions per day … seriously. When you make some of your decisions, which voice do you listen to? The crazy world’s … or Satan’s prodding? Your flesh and it’s ‘MY kingdom come’ agenda? Or the Holy Spirit’s still small voice and God’s instruction manual, the Holy Bible?
In today's passage, God is lamenting the fact that no one is listening. You can feel the sadness in His heart as He speaks these words. He pleads with His people: Please listen to Me!
He is speaking to you! Why? Because He loves you and wants to save you from so much hardship and its consequences ... just as our parents give us instruction and pointers for long term fulfillment and satisfaction. God actually knows more than our parents … He sees and knows the future. He created you, so He knows exactly what you need and the way you need it.
These words were directed toward Israel, but God wants all of His children to listen. Jesus said, "My sheep, listen to My voice."
Today, listen to God during your prayer time ... and throughout the day. The Holy Spirit is constantly teaching, guiding, coaching, and warning us. God wants us to talk to Him, then listen to His response. Practice being still. Clear the clutter Satan throws at you to muffle God’s voice. Open the Holy Bible and “read” His voice. It’s all about choices. Whose voice will you listen to?
Your decsion, one of 10,000 today, so choose well.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I am guilty of listening to some other voice and giving it, not You, lordship over my life. Please forgive me. I know You have so much You are telling me through Your Holy Spirit in me … through Your word, the Holy Bible, and through my circumstances. Please help me open the ears of my heart, and tune my mind to Your frequency. I know Your plans for me are way better than he ones I have for myself … so in that moment of temptation, please give me eyes that see and follow You. I pray this in the name of the Your perfect listener, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Listen to me, O my people, while I give you stern warnings. O Israel, if you would only listen to me! … But no, my people wouldn’t listen … Oh, that my people would listen to me!
Psalm 81:8, 11, 13
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
John 10:27
He has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening.
Psalm 22:24
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Stepping Stones: What Controls Your Attitude?
Transformational Thought
I’d just moved into a new home. After I finally got most of my stuff unpacked and situated, I spent an afternoon breaking down and cutting up all the cardboard boxes, binding them into neat bundles and placing them on the curb for the next day’s trash removal.
A few days later, I returned home from a business trip to find a plastic baggy taped to my garage door. I could see there was a note in the bag and had a feeling that it was a “welcome to the neighborhood note.” Boy was I ever wrong. It was a note with a shipping label that had come off one of the boxes I broke down a few days prior.
The note read, “Please make sure your trash is packaged in a way that doesn’t allow it to blow into your neighbor’s yard. I already have enough garbage in my life, I don’t need yours.” Wow…welcome to the neighborhood indeed! It was clear that I had contributed to making this person’s bad day even worse. I think he or she must have had many bad days, or at least was going through a tough stretch.
I am learning that no matter what you do, you will never stop life’s bad turns. Traffic jams that cause you to miss that important appointment. Not getting that job or promotion. Someone being rude to you. Someone’s trash blowing into your yard. Remember, God is the one who allows all things to happen. We don’t know why, but He does, and He has a plan.
You can live happily each day despite life’s ups and downs, but it can only be done through daily dependence on Jesus Christ and trust in God’s sovereignty and plan. The Apostle Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation; that he could do everything through Him that gives me strength.
Today, remember it’s not what happens to you that counts…but how you choose to react to each situation reflects your attitude, your heart, and is the fruit of your life. It just comes down to who’s in control of your attitude. When you feel uncomfortable today, stop and assess your reaction to the day’s events. What kind of lenses are you using, your me-centered ones, or your God-centered ones? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I invite You to be in me and at work with me. Help me grow, Father, so that I may have the same attitude and mind as Jesus Christ. I know peace doesn’t come from the outside, but comes only from You inside me. Help me look inward for peace and not wait for my circumstances to be settled to be at peace. I do not want to be ruled by the circumstances around me…I want to be ruled and guided by Your Holy Spirit. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
I’d just moved into a new home. After I finally got most of my stuff unpacked and situated, I spent an afternoon breaking down and cutting up all the cardboard boxes, binding them into neat bundles and placing them on the curb for the next day’s trash removal.
A few days later, I returned home from a business trip to find a plastic baggy taped to my garage door. I could see there was a note in the bag and had a feeling that it was a “welcome to the neighborhood note.” Boy was I ever wrong. It was a note with a shipping label that had come off one of the boxes I broke down a few days prior.
The note read, “Please make sure your trash is packaged in a way that doesn’t allow it to blow into your neighbor’s yard. I already have enough garbage in my life, I don’t need yours.” Wow…welcome to the neighborhood indeed! It was clear that I had contributed to making this person’s bad day even worse. I think he or she must have had many bad days, or at least was going through a tough stretch.
I am learning that no matter what you do, you will never stop life’s bad turns. Traffic jams that cause you to miss that important appointment. Not getting that job or promotion. Someone being rude to you. Someone’s trash blowing into your yard. Remember, God is the one who allows all things to happen. We don’t know why, but He does, and He has a plan.
You can live happily each day despite life’s ups and downs, but it can only be done through daily dependence on Jesus Christ and trust in God’s sovereignty and plan. The Apostle Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation; that he could do everything through Him that gives me strength.
Today, remember it’s not what happens to you that counts…but how you choose to react to each situation reflects your attitude, your heart, and is the fruit of your life. It just comes down to who’s in control of your attitude. When you feel uncomfortable today, stop and assess your reaction to the day’s events. What kind of lenses are you using, your me-centered ones, or your God-centered ones? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I invite You to be in me and at work with me. Help me grow, Father, so that I may have the same attitude and mind as Jesus Christ. I know peace doesn’t come from the outside, but comes only from You inside me. Help me look inward for peace and not wait for my circumstances to be settled to be at peace. I do not want to be ruled by the circumstances around me…I want to be ruled and guided by Your Holy Spirit. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
Monday, December 13, 2010
Stepping Stones: He Wasn’t Where He Should Have Been
Transformational Thought
I was driving during the holidays to visit family. With a wife and 3 girls in the car we had to take a bathroom break, upsetting my “set a travel time record” mentality. We took a break at one of the mega rest stops off the turnpike. The place was pretty crowded with holiday travelers, and I ended up sitting at a table just next to a family of 4.
Now that my children are grown or growing up, I truly enjoy the voices of young children. I can still recall clearly my daughters’ childhood voices…it’s a great source of joy for me. One of children at the table next to me was a talker. About 10 years old, she was trying hard to get her father’s attention. “Daddy, when we get home can I…Daddy, what do you want for Christmas…Daddy, Daddy...” As I was listening, I realized I wasn’t hearing any response from the dad, so I looked over and saw that he was looking completely the other way, not hearing a word his daughter was saying. He wasn’t even there…wasn’t where he needed to be. Eventually the little girl stopped trying…but she kept looking up at him with hopeful expectation that he was going to respond. But he never did.
I, of course, have no way of knowing his circumstances or his thoughts. And I know that there were times as a young father that I was just as guilty of not engaging with my girls when they needed me. Oh, how I long for the opportunity to go back and do it differently. I certainly am not judging that father, but it brought to mind how easily the distractions of the day and of the world can take our focus off the attention needed by our children.
Isn’t this the same way we respond to God’s voice and prompting, focusing instead on more trivial and transient distractions? Thinking the guidance of these distractions is more important than God’s guidance? This is exactly where Satan wants you, and when signals warning about danger should start sounding in your heart.
Today and every day, try to really connect with your children or loved ones. After Jesus, these people in your life are the greatest gift God gives. They are also the most important mission field most of us are ever called to. The easiest way to start showing your love, respect, and honor for them is by giving them your full attention when they are talking to you. But more importantly, when God is talking to you, stop and listen!
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that being faithful parents and guiding our children toward You is very important to You. Help me and all parents truly listen to our children and to make them feel secure and loved…and through us, get to know the security and love You are excited to give them. Give all parents the wisdom and strength for this most important task of parenting. I pray in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Mark 10:14
I was driving during the holidays to visit family. With a wife and 3 girls in the car we had to take a bathroom break, upsetting my “set a travel time record” mentality. We took a break at one of the mega rest stops off the turnpike. The place was pretty crowded with holiday travelers, and I ended up sitting at a table just next to a family of 4.
Now that my children are grown or growing up, I truly enjoy the voices of young children. I can still recall clearly my daughters’ childhood voices…it’s a great source of joy for me. One of children at the table next to me was a talker. About 10 years old, she was trying hard to get her father’s attention. “Daddy, when we get home can I…Daddy, what do you want for Christmas…Daddy, Daddy...” As I was listening, I realized I wasn’t hearing any response from the dad, so I looked over and saw that he was looking completely the other way, not hearing a word his daughter was saying. He wasn’t even there…wasn’t where he needed to be. Eventually the little girl stopped trying…but she kept looking up at him with hopeful expectation that he was going to respond. But he never did.
I, of course, have no way of knowing his circumstances or his thoughts. And I know that there were times as a young father that I was just as guilty of not engaging with my girls when they needed me. Oh, how I long for the opportunity to go back and do it differently. I certainly am not judging that father, but it brought to mind how easily the distractions of the day and of the world can take our focus off the attention needed by our children.
Isn’t this the same way we respond to God’s voice and prompting, focusing instead on more trivial and transient distractions? Thinking the guidance of these distractions is more important than God’s guidance? This is exactly where Satan wants you, and when signals warning about danger should start sounding in your heart.
Today and every day, try to really connect with your children or loved ones. After Jesus, these people in your life are the greatest gift God gives. They are also the most important mission field most of us are ever called to. The easiest way to start showing your love, respect, and honor for them is by giving them your full attention when they are talking to you. But more importantly, when God is talking to you, stop and listen!
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that being faithful parents and guiding our children toward You is very important to You. Help me and all parents truly listen to our children and to make them feel secure and loved…and through us, get to know the security and love You are excited to give them. Give all parents the wisdom and strength for this most important task of parenting. I pray in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Mark 10:14
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: He Wants Us To Travel
Transformational Thought
One of the saddest things I see in real life or on TV is when a small kid just realizes they are lost. You see the joy and excitement on their face as they are exploring, and then the disorientation and disconnection from their parent, guide, guardian sets in. Some keep that distress in, with a hidden hope that their parent is right around the corner; others let loose with a fearful shriek that lets everyone around knows the child is lost. Being lost is a disorienting struggle.
But, you see, as a kid, even though we have a home and parents, we are born lost, spiritually lost…in a terrible place…the state of insecurity, inadequacy, and isolation. We long to be in a different place…a place of peace, love, joy, security, and intimacy. To arrive at our secure destination we need to go on a trip. In today’s scripture reading, God tells us that He goes before us. God’s imagery of “going before” clearly lets us know that He desires us to go on a journey...with Him as our guide and leader…He calls us by our name.
During our journey, unfortunately, we forget to let God guide us. So we make some poor choices regarding important trip elements. The map we use is random; we use the world’s strategy; our destination is me-centered or material focused; we demand to be our own guides. Instead, we need to use the Bible’s teachings as our map and strategy, allow God to be our guide, and choose the mind of Christ as our destination. Our journey is of our mind, heart, and Spirit. The pot of gold at the end of the journey – the fruit of the Spirit through a close relationship with God!
Christian life is a dangerous pilgrimage to the Promised Land…Satan is always lurking. So, we need the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit…the power and comfort of prayer…and the protection and counter attack of the armor of God.
Today, imagine yourself standing at a crossroad with two paths before you; one is your current path, the other is the journey your Lord is inviting you to take. Through faith in His coming alongside and being the ultimate destination, take an intentional step on the next stepping stone of God’s path. Listen to His guidance and resist Satan’s deception. Your decision, choose well. If you don’t, the fruit of the flesh – anxiety, fear, loneliness, frustration, agitation – is what you will receive.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for Your gift of going before me. I like to have a map when I travel, to know exactly where I am going…how long it will take me to arrive. When I look at the road ahead that You call me to travel with You, all I see is a bend where the road disappears. Help me, Father, to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are my map and guide. Help me to encourage others to follow You on this journey. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might be free to travel Your path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, I am the God of Israel.
Isaiah 45:2-3
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalms 119:105
One of the saddest things I see in real life or on TV is when a small kid just realizes they are lost. You see the joy and excitement on their face as they are exploring, and then the disorientation and disconnection from their parent, guide, guardian sets in. Some keep that distress in, with a hidden hope that their parent is right around the corner; others let loose with a fearful shriek that lets everyone around knows the child is lost. Being lost is a disorienting struggle.
But, you see, as a kid, even though we have a home and parents, we are born lost, spiritually lost…in a terrible place…the state of insecurity, inadequacy, and isolation. We long to be in a different place…a place of peace, love, joy, security, and intimacy. To arrive at our secure destination we need to go on a trip. In today’s scripture reading, God tells us that He goes before us. God’s imagery of “going before” clearly lets us know that He desires us to go on a journey...with Him as our guide and leader…He calls us by our name.
During our journey, unfortunately, we forget to let God guide us. So we make some poor choices regarding important trip elements. The map we use is random; we use the world’s strategy; our destination is me-centered or material focused; we demand to be our own guides. Instead, we need to use the Bible’s teachings as our map and strategy, allow God to be our guide, and choose the mind of Christ as our destination. Our journey is of our mind, heart, and Spirit. The pot of gold at the end of the journey – the fruit of the Spirit through a close relationship with God!
Christian life is a dangerous pilgrimage to the Promised Land…Satan is always lurking. So, we need the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit…the power and comfort of prayer…and the protection and counter attack of the armor of God.
Today, imagine yourself standing at a crossroad with two paths before you; one is your current path, the other is the journey your Lord is inviting you to take. Through faith in His coming alongside and being the ultimate destination, take an intentional step on the next stepping stone of God’s path. Listen to His guidance and resist Satan’s deception. Your decision, choose well. If you don’t, the fruit of the flesh – anxiety, fear, loneliness, frustration, agitation – is what you will receive.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for Your gift of going before me. I like to have a map when I travel, to know exactly where I am going…how long it will take me to arrive. When I look at the road ahead that You call me to travel with You, all I see is a bend where the road disappears. Help me, Father, to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are my map and guide. Help me to encourage others to follow You on this journey. I pray in the name of the One who died so I might be free to travel Your path, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, I am the God of Israel.
Isaiah 45:2-3
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalms 119:105
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Stepping Stones: You Are The Key, Now Find The Lock
Transformational Thought
We hear this all the time: “every one of us is special.” We’ve been told this by our parents, grandparents, romantic interests, aunts, uncles, Sunday School teachers, youth pastor, pastor and priest at church...and of course by all those self-help books, and gurus like Oprah and Tony Robbins.
Yeah, we all have different fingerprints, different DNA, unique brain chemistry, and so on…but does this really make each of us “special”? For most of my life I was very cynical about spiritual clichés like this. As I began to dig in and understand Christianity a bit better, I realized that, yes, we are special as individuals. We are unique. Every one of us has extraordinary dignity simply because we are a child of God, made in His image and likeness, and redeemed by God’s Son.
We are not just human beings, rather we are keys…keys that God has individually crafted to fit certain locks. You are special because the lock you are called to open will accept only one key – a key that looks different and acts differently; one that has different emotions, passions, skills and shortcomings from any other key. Because of these differences, the individual lock is also a unique, wonderful, and special life designed by God and available to only one key, YOU!
Remember, in the entire world there has only been one key that has the ability to open this one particular lock…and you are that key. The lock could be anything…something big or something small…something quiet or something loud. It could be that your son or daughter is destined to do something spectacular; something they could never have done without your influence. Whatever the lock may be, one thing is sure: it will be profoundly important to God and this world, and immensely fulfilling to you personally. Stop wasting time on counterfeit locks Satan tricks you with.
Today, go find the lock God designed for you. Start by taking inventory of experiences, talents, interests, contacts, and passions that stand out for you personally. You, like me, might have past wounds or mistakes that God allowed for a special purpose. Start to prayerfully mix them together as you confide in others to see what special locks God is crafting for you as the key to magically and perfectly slide into and open up.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for saying yes to my existence. I have not yet figured out why I am here, but I do believe, Lord, that You made me as a key. Help me find the locks that You created for me to open. Help me find a way to communicate to others just how special they are simply because they are Your children. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Key to the multiverse, Jesus; and all God’s children said, – Amen!
The Truth
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13
His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:21
We hear this all the time: “every one of us is special.” We’ve been told this by our parents, grandparents, romantic interests, aunts, uncles, Sunday School teachers, youth pastor, pastor and priest at church...and of course by all those self-help books, and gurus like Oprah and Tony Robbins.
Yeah, we all have different fingerprints, different DNA, unique brain chemistry, and so on…but does this really make each of us “special”? For most of my life I was very cynical about spiritual clichés like this. As I began to dig in and understand Christianity a bit better, I realized that, yes, we are special as individuals. We are unique. Every one of us has extraordinary dignity simply because we are a child of God, made in His image and likeness, and redeemed by God’s Son.
We are not just human beings, rather we are keys…keys that God has individually crafted to fit certain locks. You are special because the lock you are called to open will accept only one key – a key that looks different and acts differently; one that has different emotions, passions, skills and shortcomings from any other key. Because of these differences, the individual lock is also a unique, wonderful, and special life designed by God and available to only one key, YOU!
Remember, in the entire world there has only been one key that has the ability to open this one particular lock…and you are that key. The lock could be anything…something big or something small…something quiet or something loud. It could be that your son or daughter is destined to do something spectacular; something they could never have done without your influence. Whatever the lock may be, one thing is sure: it will be profoundly important to God and this world, and immensely fulfilling to you personally. Stop wasting time on counterfeit locks Satan tricks you with.
Today, go find the lock God designed for you. Start by taking inventory of experiences, talents, interests, contacts, and passions that stand out for you personally. You, like me, might have past wounds or mistakes that God allowed for a special purpose. Start to prayerfully mix them together as you confide in others to see what special locks God is crafting for you as the key to magically and perfectly slide into and open up.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for saying yes to my existence. I have not yet figured out why I am here, but I do believe, Lord, that You made me as a key. Help me find the locks that You created for me to open. Help me find a way to communicate to others just how special they are simply because they are Your children. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Key to the multiverse, Jesus; and all God’s children said, – Amen!
The Truth
For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13
His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Matthew 25:21
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are Your Keys Lost, Or Are You?
Transformational Thought
As I get older, my memory just isn’t the same. Sure I have so much more to remember, but simple little things seem to fall through the cracks of my mind. One of my solutions is to put small items in a special place that I would definitely be able to remember. Well, you guessed it, I forget what that special place is.
When I am searching for my keys, it is because my keys are not in the right place, they are lost. When our family is in Washington, DC, and we are searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost, we are the ones that 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 activities for the desires of our heart.
We try to find relief in our 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 by Him orchestrating your circumstances to direct you back on track to find 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 today. Write down the activities of your day. Are any of these activities where are you looking to try and find it? Be honest and examine why you aren’t looking to God first to fill some of your desires today.
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
Monday, September 20, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You Starving At The Buffet?
Transformational Thought
We buy and eat food, lots of it and all the time. We must though in order to live, to survive. But, actually, our country is well-fed, overweight even, yet we are still starving. We’re starving spiritually!
Even though we are well fed with all this food, supplements, restaurants, and microwaves, we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, pornography, addictions, insecurity, other people’s opinions, sleeplessness, and fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal and all powerful to meet all our needs, all the time.
God invites us, throughout Scripture, to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55, God invites the thirsty and His invitation is very clear and simple. Come, then Listen, then Seek. Come means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat. Listen is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart. Seek is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? Because if you aren’t pursuing God, you are pursuing the counterfeit in this way, so don’t be surprised with what you are reaping.
Today, go to your Father and really listen. Go to your Father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes, seek the Lord while He is near. This is not because God will move away…but we do things to place distance between God and us. And we must not forget, don’t let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on “Salvation.”
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you today, thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You, Father, for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my humanness, I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately…I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down, I feel distant from You…I feel like a failure. At such times, it’s almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You. I thank you that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit…and that Your Spirit will lead me to You, and that I will “…eat what is good.” I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David.
See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor.
Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You Listening?
Transformational Tip
I have 3 great daughters, but sometimes I wonder about some of the decisions they make. Certainly, they weren’t listening to the advice I had given them. Who are they listening to?... and why were they listening to that advice. That “advisor” didn’t love them as much as I do…doesn’t know them as well as I do…doesn’t want the best for them as much as I do.
Well, what about you?...who are you listening to? We make between 5,000 and 10,000 decisions per day…seriously. When you make some of your decisions, which voice do you listen to?...the world and Satan’s prodding?...your flesh and my kingdom come agenda?...or God’s and the Holy Spirit’s still small voice and instruction manual, the Holy Bible?
In today's passage, God is lamenting the fact that no one is listening. You can feel the sadness in His heart as He speaks these words. He pleads with His people: Please listen to Me!
He is speaking to you!
These words were directed toward Israel, but God wants all of His children to listen. Jesus said, "My sheep listen to My voice."
Today, listen to God during your prayer time...and throughout the day. The Holy Spirit is constantly teaching, guiding, coaching, and warning us. God wants us to talk to Him. Practice being still. Clear the clutter Satan throws at you to muffle God’s voice. Open the Holy Bible and “read” His voice. It’s all about choices, whose voice will you listen to? Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on listening to God.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I am guilty of listening to some other voice and giving it lordship over my life…instead of You. Please forgive me. I know You have so much You are telling me through Your holy Spirit in me…through Your word, the Holy Bible, and through my circumstances. Please help me open the ears of my heart, my mind to Your frequency. I know Your plans for me are way better than those for myself…so in that moment of temptation, please give me eyes that see and follow you. I pray this in the name of the perfect listener, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Listen to me, O my people, while I give you stern warnings. O Israel, if you would only listen to me!…But no, my people wouldn’t listen…Oh, that my people would listen to me!
Psalm 81:8, 11, 13
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
John 10:27
He has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening.
Psalm 22:24
I have 3 great daughters, but sometimes I wonder about some of the decisions they make. Certainly, they weren’t listening to the advice I had given them. Who are they listening to?... and why were they listening to that advice. That “advisor” didn’t love them as much as I do…doesn’t know them as well as I do…doesn’t want the best for them as much as I do.
Well, what about you?...who are you listening to? We make between 5,000 and 10,000 decisions per day…seriously. When you make some of your decisions, which voice do you listen to?...the world and Satan’s prodding?...your flesh and my kingdom come agenda?...or God’s and the Holy Spirit’s still small voice and instruction manual, the Holy Bible?
In today's passage, God is lamenting the fact that no one is listening. You can feel the sadness in His heart as He speaks these words. He pleads with His people: Please listen to Me!
He is speaking to you!
These words were directed toward Israel, but God wants all of His children to listen. Jesus said, "My sheep listen to My voice."
Today, listen to God during your prayer time...and throughout the day. The Holy Spirit is constantly teaching, guiding, coaching, and warning us. God wants us to talk to Him. Practice being still. Clear the clutter Satan throws at you to muffle God’s voice. Open the Holy Bible and “read” His voice. It’s all about choices, whose voice will you listen to? Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on listening to God.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I am guilty of listening to some other voice and giving it lordship over my life…instead of You. Please forgive me. I know You have so much You are telling me through Your holy Spirit in me…through Your word, the Holy Bible, and through my circumstances. Please help me open the ears of my heart, my mind to Your frequency. I know Your plans for me are way better than those for myself…so in that moment of temptation, please give me eyes that see and follow you. I pray this in the name of the perfect listener, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Listen to me, O my people, while I give you stern warnings. O Israel, if you would only listen to me!…But no, my people wouldn’t listen…Oh, that my people would listen to me!
Psalm 81:8, 11, 13
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
John 10:27
He has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening.
Psalm 22:24
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Stepping Stones: Is Your Growth Optional?
Transformational Tip
Few men and women of God have become extraordinary people of faith without the influence of mentors. A mentor is one who takes responsibility for the care and, especially, growth…physical, psychological, emotional, relational, academic, and spiritual…of another. For growth to happen, commitment is required from both the teacher and the student.
I have been privileged to have had many mentors throughout my spiritual life and walk. In each stage of my progressing in maturity from newly born again to present, God brought new and specific mentors who had unique gifts that the previous mentor did not have. God has grown in me the hunger to desire a double portion of those positive attributes of my mentors. This desire, I believe, is sorely missing amongst many today. I fail to see the hunger for many who could be used greatly in the Kingdom. Instead, the cares of this world distract them. It is an attitude of a la carte vs. an attitude of pressing in to the full measure of what God might have for them. To maximize mentoring, you need to be humble, to be all in.
Today, ask God if there is someone He would have you mentor or be mentored by. Ask yourself these questions: Who are the people of God He has placed in your life? Are you learning from them? Are you seeking a double portion of their anointing? What prevents you from gaining from their wisdom and experience? God may have brought them into your life to prepare you to be a man or woman of God…to train you to be a mentor. However, there is a time of training and waiting to prove out your own faith. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experiences regarding spiritual mentoring.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for the men you have brought into my life as mentors. I pray for wisdom, patience, biblical values and ethics, integrity, and everything spiritual mentors need, to be effective and carry out their responsibilities in a manner that is pleasing to You and beneficial for those being mentored. I pray for Your special touch on Christian mentors, and for their protection from all harm and evil. Thank You, God. In the name of the perfect mentor, Jesus; and all God’s children said – AMEN!
The Truth
...Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.
Zechariah 8:23
Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
Titus 2:3-5
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses,
entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
2 Tim. 2:2
Few men and women of God have become extraordinary people of faith without the influence of mentors. A mentor is one who takes responsibility for the care and, especially, growth…physical, psychological, emotional, relational, academic, and spiritual…of another. For growth to happen, commitment is required from both the teacher and the student.
I have been privileged to have had many mentors throughout my spiritual life and walk. In each stage of my progressing in maturity from newly born again to present, God brought new and specific mentors who had unique gifts that the previous mentor did not have. God has grown in me the hunger to desire a double portion of those positive attributes of my mentors. This desire, I believe, is sorely missing amongst many today. I fail to see the hunger for many who could be used greatly in the Kingdom. Instead, the cares of this world distract them. It is an attitude of a la carte vs. an attitude of pressing in to the full measure of what God might have for them. To maximize mentoring, you need to be humble, to be all in.
Today, ask God if there is someone He would have you mentor or be mentored by. Ask yourself these questions: Who are the people of God He has placed in your life? Are you learning from them? Are you seeking a double portion of their anointing? What prevents you from gaining from their wisdom and experience? God may have brought them into your life to prepare you to be a man or woman of God…to train you to be a mentor. However, there is a time of training and waiting to prove out your own faith. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experiences regarding spiritual mentoring.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for the men you have brought into my life as mentors. I pray for wisdom, patience, biblical values and ethics, integrity, and everything spiritual mentors need, to be effective and carry out their responsibilities in a manner that is pleasing to You and beneficial for those being mentored. I pray for Your special touch on Christian mentors, and for their protection from all harm and evil. Thank You, God. In the name of the perfect mentor, Jesus; and all God’s children said – AMEN!
The Truth
...Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.
Zechariah 8:23
Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
Titus 2:3-5
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses,
entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
2 Tim. 2:2
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Stepping Stones: Holy Ground Here On Earth
Transformational Tip
I have trouble multitasking. I can do one think well at a time, but add on one or two extra things and…too distracting! I have found this particularly limiting and really impacting me when I’m talking with another person who is in need…who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get so focused on them and what they are saying…then what I am about to say…that I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them. The latent hero(or egotist) in me tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. Relying on myself…trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. When someone opens their souls to you, know that you are standing on holy ground and ask the help of the Holy Spirit to respond in a God-like fashion. If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue them without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. In a way your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain you are standing on.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you…think through you…love through you…to use you to impact others. Everyone in this world has needs and is experiencing struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on multitasking while on holy ground.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe Father that when people bare their souls to me…it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'
Acts 26:16-18
I have trouble multitasking. I can do one think well at a time, but add on one or two extra things and…too distracting! I have found this particularly limiting and really impacting me when I’m talking with another person who is in need…who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get so focused on them and what they are saying…then what I am about to say…that I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them. The latent hero(or egotist) in me tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. Relying on myself…trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. When someone opens their souls to you, know that you are standing on holy ground and ask the help of the Holy Spirit to respond in a God-like fashion. If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue them without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. In a way your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain you are standing on.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you…think through you…love through you…to use you to impact others. Everyone in this world has needs and is experiencing struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on multitasking while on holy ground.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe Father that when people bare their souls to me…it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'
Acts 26:16-18
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Stepping Stones: He's Still Searching
Transformational Tip
God is not like us and that can make Him feel far away. He is spirit only, we have a body…He is infinite, we are limited…He is perfect, we are flawed. Even without the problem of sin, the idea of really knowing God can seem impossible.
So how can we know Him? God has designed us with one key purpose in mind: relationship. And He builds us for relationship with Him through the use of “analogy,” that is, through making us in His “image and likeness.”
Think of it this way. We use analogies all the time. When we’re trying to explain a difficult concept, we’ll create a word picture of some sort. We might use images from nature: “Actually, it’s just like how the elephant …” Or we’ll refer to a common experience: “Do you remember the scene in ‘The Matrix’ where Neo …” or “do you remember that road trip we took to California?” We do this all the time. The reason we do it is to better communicate our ideas.
“That which is known about God is evident … for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen …” (Romans 1.19-20) The clear expression of God’s invisible attributes is this two-pronged analogy of His authority and holiness in our delegated authority and morality. And God uses analogy for the same reason we do: so that we can be sure we understand His communication with us.
Today, You were designed for something far better than just “getting by.” But if you feel like that’s all you’re doing, perhaps you’re not listening to God as He seeks relationship with you. Stop and ask, why am I not spending more time with the One who knows me best and what I need the most. He is calling to you and His message is clear. Click here for a resource to help you hear Him better and apply His teaching directly to your life. Click here to share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on finding and hearing God.
Prayer
Dear Father, You built us for relationship with You. And You have been seeking to win us back since You called out to Adam and Eve in the garden: “Where are you?” Let us desire the greatest thing of all, to be in relationship with You, O Father, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
Romans 1:19-20
But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
John 4:23
God is not like us and that can make Him feel far away. He is spirit only, we have a body…He is infinite, we are limited…He is perfect, we are flawed. Even without the problem of sin, the idea of really knowing God can seem impossible.
So how can we know Him? God has designed us with one key purpose in mind: relationship. And He builds us for relationship with Him through the use of “analogy,” that is, through making us in His “image and likeness.”
Think of it this way. We use analogies all the time. When we’re trying to explain a difficult concept, we’ll create a word picture of some sort. We might use images from nature: “Actually, it’s just like how the elephant …” Or we’ll refer to a common experience: “Do you remember the scene in ‘The Matrix’ where Neo …” or “do you remember that road trip we took to California?” We do this all the time. The reason we do it is to better communicate our ideas.
“That which is known about God is evident … for since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen …” (Romans 1.19-20) The clear expression of God’s invisible attributes is this two-pronged analogy of His authority and holiness in our delegated authority and morality. And God uses analogy for the same reason we do: so that we can be sure we understand His communication with us.
Today, You were designed for something far better than just “getting by.” But if you feel like that’s all you’re doing, perhaps you’re not listening to God as He seeks relationship with you. Stop and ask, why am I not spending more time with the One who knows me best and what I need the most. He is calling to you and His message is clear. Click here for a resource to help you hear Him better and apply His teaching directly to your life. Click here to share with the Stepping Stone community your thoughts on finding and hearing God.
Prayer
Dear Father, You built us for relationship with You. And You have been seeking to win us back since You called out to Adam and Eve in the garden: “Where are you?” Let us desire the greatest thing of all, to be in relationship with You, O Father, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord, and all God’s children said, – AMEN!
The Truth
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
Romans 1:19-20
But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
John 4:23
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Stepping Stones: "I'm fine, you?"
Transformational Tip
"How are you?" "Great, how are you?" "Yea, I'm good, too." Every Sunday morning, interchanges like this are spoken a zillion (indescribably large number) times. Unfortunately, a lot of times, things aren't "great, good, or fine." I've spoken to many people who told me they were afraid to talk to anyone at church for several years as a problem escalated until the details couldn't be hidden anymore. Unfortunately, problems only get worse when unattended. It's amazing to me how often we hide the truth from each other, especially since the people we're hiding from might be able to pray, listen, guide, or connect us to services or care to help our situation. So many times, someone has opened up to me in church, not knowing I am a psychiatrist, and I was able to care for or connect them to care for their troubled situation. Other times someone else in the church that they opened up to, referred them to me. Embarrassment, shame, pride, fear...that's what Satan uses to keep the body from uniting and working together. Don't let this happen to you. We weren't made to handle and accomplish everything on our own...we were made to work on teams...marriage, family, employers, church, community, extended family, etc.
Today, think about how you will respond tomorrow (and every Sunday/day in church). If you are the one asking "how are you?" then really be an attentive listener to allow the person a place to be open. If you are the recipient of the question, maybe something like, "well, the week has been a little tough, can I vent a little to you, or can you direct me to someone who can listen and help?"
If you are in a church that will not be compassionate toward your issue and will judge and avoid you, get out of that church to one that will care for you. If what you are doing is wrong, don't look for the church to condone it, but they should be able to love, care for, and support you to help you make better choices. Click here to share your experiences and perspective with other readers on this issue of transparency at Church.
Prayer
Dear Father, thank you so much for your unconditional love and forgiveness for all my problems and actions. Please help me speak up and share my burden with others and open my ears to the guidance and wisdom you provide through your humble and wise servants. Help me discern good counsel and follow it. I want connection and help, but I choke at the opportunity to speak up. Encourage me thru Your Spirit to not be ashamed or afraid to expose and ask for help. I pray in Christ's all revealing name and work, and all God's people said, AMEN!
The Truth
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,
so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Romans 12:3-5
Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.
Proverbs 27:9
"How are you?" "Great, how are you?" "Yea, I'm good, too." Every Sunday morning, interchanges like this are spoken a zillion (indescribably large number) times. Unfortunately, a lot of times, things aren't "great, good, or fine." I've spoken to many people who told me they were afraid to talk to anyone at church for several years as a problem escalated until the details couldn't be hidden anymore. Unfortunately, problems only get worse when unattended. It's amazing to me how often we hide the truth from each other, especially since the people we're hiding from might be able to pray, listen, guide, or connect us to services or care to help our situation. So many times, someone has opened up to me in church, not knowing I am a psychiatrist, and I was able to care for or connect them to care for their troubled situation. Other times someone else in the church that they opened up to, referred them to me. Embarrassment, shame, pride, fear...that's what Satan uses to keep the body from uniting and working together. Don't let this happen to you. We weren't made to handle and accomplish everything on our own...we were made to work on teams...marriage, family, employers, church, community, extended family, etc.
Today, think about how you will respond tomorrow (and every Sunday/day in church). If you are the one asking "how are you?" then really be an attentive listener to allow the person a place to be open. If you are the recipient of the question, maybe something like, "well, the week has been a little tough, can I vent a little to you, or can you direct me to someone who can listen and help?"
If you are in a church that will not be compassionate toward your issue and will judge and avoid you, get out of that church to one that will care for you. If what you are doing is wrong, don't look for the church to condone it, but they should be able to love, care for, and support you to help you make better choices. Click here to share your experiences and perspective with other readers on this issue of transparency at Church.
Prayer
Dear Father, thank you so much for your unconditional love and forgiveness for all my problems and actions. Please help me speak up and share my burden with others and open my ears to the guidance and wisdom you provide through your humble and wise servants. Help me discern good counsel and follow it. I want connection and help, but I choke at the opportunity to speak up. Encourage me thru Your Spirit to not be ashamed or afraid to expose and ask for help. I pray in Christ's all revealing name and work, and all God's people said, AMEN!
The Truth
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,
so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Romans 12:3-5
Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.
Proverbs 27:9
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Stepping Stones: God Sings Your Tune!
Transformational Tip
What do you sing about? Who do you sing about? Who would sing about you? You can bet that strong, good, positive feelings are involved if someone is rejoicing with song over you. I am not a singer, but the people I happily sing about are Jesus, the Steelers, my children, and certainly my wife. When God sees YOU, and you look back at Him, you will not see any condemnation in His eyes – only love and delight. You see, living in the grace of God, devoting time to praising Him, learning through God’s word, and communicating with Him is meant to be peaceful, easy, not stressful. There is no need for you to “work” for God’s love. He gives it abundantly and freely. Let today’s scripture reading penetrate your mind, body and spirit.
Today, close your eyes and imagine God singing for you. What a beautiful image. Feel His face shining radiantly on you…bringing you peace and rest. As one of His children, You can relax because you don’t have to work any more for His favor. Click here to go to the Stepping Stones blog and “comment” your feelings about whether you “hear” God singing for you…or what God’s revealing in your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I feel at times as if I have been climbing up hill my entire life. I’m tired, lonely and scared. It seems like such hard work…I confess Father, that even my devotion to You sometimes feels like just another form of work. I need rest Lord, I need peace. I know God that you have designed me to live in union with you. Help me Father find fulfillment and peace by living close to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Holy Word fills my heart and penetrates this tired mind. Transform me Father more and more into the one You have designed me to be. I pray with thanksgiving and hope in the name of my savior Jesus Christ, and all God’s people said – AMEN!
What do you sing about? Who do you sing about? Who would sing about you? You can bet that strong, good, positive feelings are involved if someone is rejoicing with song over you. I am not a singer, but the people I happily sing about are Jesus, the Steelers, my children, and certainly my wife. When God sees YOU, and you look back at Him, you will not see any condemnation in His eyes – only love and delight. You see, living in the grace of God, devoting time to praising Him, learning through God’s word, and communicating with Him is meant to be peaceful, easy, not stressful. There is no need for you to “work” for God’s love. He gives it abundantly and freely. Let today’s scripture reading penetrate your mind, body and spirit.
Today, close your eyes and imagine God singing for you. What a beautiful image. Feel His face shining radiantly on you…bringing you peace and rest. As one of His children, You can relax because you don’t have to work any more for His favor. Click here to go to the Stepping Stones blog and “comment” your feelings about whether you “hear” God singing for you…or what God’s revealing in your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I feel at times as if I have been climbing up hill my entire life. I’m tired, lonely and scared. It seems like such hard work…I confess Father, that even my devotion to You sometimes feels like just another form of work. I need rest Lord, I need peace. I know God that you have designed me to live in union with you. Help me Father find fulfillment and peace by living close to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Holy Word fills my heart and penetrates this tired mind. Transform me Father more and more into the one You have designed me to be. I pray with thanksgiving and hope in the name of my savior Jesus Christ, and all God’s people said – AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:25-26
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:25-26
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
Monday, August 3, 2009
Stepping Stones: Come-Listen-Seek
Transformational Tip
We buy and eat food. We must to live...to survive. But our country is well-fed, overweight even, yet we still are starving for spiritual nourishment. With all this food, supplements, restaurants, microwaves, we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, porn, addictions, insecurity, other people's opinions, sleeplessness, fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal, and powerful to meet all needs.
God invites us throughout Scripture to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55 God invites the thirsty and his invitation is very clear and simple; Come>Listen>Seek.
Come means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat.
Listen is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart.
Seek is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? If you aren't, you are pursuingthe counterfeit that way and getting what you sow.
Today, go to your Father and listen. Go to your father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes; seek the Lord while he is near. This is not because God will move away...but we do things to place distance between God and us. And we must not forget...Don't let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on "Salvation"
Prayer
Dear Father,
I come to you today thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You Father for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my humanness I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately...I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down I feel distant from You...I feel like a failure. At such times it's almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You.
I thanks you that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit...and that Your Spirit will lead me to You and that I will "...eat what is good."
I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David.
See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor.
Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
We buy and eat food. We must to live...to survive. But our country is well-fed, overweight even, yet we still are starving for spiritual nourishment. With all this food, supplements, restaurants, microwaves, we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, porn, addictions, insecurity, other people's opinions, sleeplessness, fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal, and powerful to meet all needs.
God invites us throughout Scripture to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55 God invites the thirsty and his invitation is very clear and simple; Come>Listen>Seek.
Come means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat.
Listen is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart.
Seek is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? If you aren't, you are pursuingthe counterfeit that way and getting what you sow.
Today, go to your Father and listen. Go to your father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes; seek the Lord while he is near. This is not because God will move away...but we do things to place distance between God and us. And we must not forget...Don't let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on "Salvation"
Prayer
Dear Father,
I come to you today thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You Father for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my humanness I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately...I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down I feel distant from You...I feel like a failure. At such times it's almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You.
I thanks you that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit...and that Your Spirit will lead me to You and that I will "...eat what is good."
I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David.
See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor.
Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Stepping Stones: Disciples or Judges?
Transformational Tip
We are so quick to judge. And as judges we can become impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses...not lawyers and judges. Understanding our calling will help us become more patient and understanding with others. When we take the role as a judge we are setting ourselves up for failure. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our heart. Revealed to us are some of the insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affecting the lenses we see life, others, and ultimately God, through. Instead of being quick to speak when you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess...do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that is causing your view of others, yourself, and God orbit around it. The time you spend in this activity can be incredibly revealing and relieving. For this exercise to happen, during this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy...whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, sadness....whatever the feeling that is prompting the urge for you to respond, trust God to comfort you and not let the emotion rule you.
Today be quick to listen and slow to speak...and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God and not as a judge. Let the judging happen as you judge your own heart first, then disciple others next.
Prayer
Father in Heaven,
I confess to You my Lord that I have become so impatient with others...especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding I become judgmental and angry...saying things I wish I had not said. Help me to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. Help me to see others as you see them...tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness...not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be patient toward others as You are with me, for it is Your power that works in me. Help to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to get me to see about my own heart..Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today and pray in the Spirit always.
In Jesus' revealing name - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
We are so quick to judge. And as judges we can become impatient and hurtful, especially to those we love. We are called to be disciples and witnesses...not lawyers and judges. Understanding our calling will help us become more patient and understanding with others. When we take the role as a judge we are setting ourselves up for failure. Who are we to judge others? Do we like being judged? When we are judging, being sarcastic, making a critical comment, we get a glimpse into our heart. Revealed to us are some of the insecurities, hurts, baggage, and issues, that are still unresolved and affecting the lenses we see life, others, and ultimately God, through. Instead of being quick to speak when you have that urge to judge, critique, belittle, or exalt yourself above another, be quick to self-assess...do some heart analysis and see what is at the center of your heart that is causing your view of others, yourself, and God orbit around it. The time you spend in this activity can be incredibly revealing and relieving. For this exercise to happen, during this time of heart diagnostics, be confident that God can take care of you while you are feeling uneasy...whether it be anger, hurt, guilt, revenge, bitterness, anxiety, sadness....whatever the feeling that is prompting the urge for you to respond, trust God to comfort you and not let the emotion rule you.
Today be quick to listen and slow to speak...and when you do speak, speak as a disciple of God and not as a judge. Let the judging happen as you judge your own heart first, then disciple others next.
Prayer
Father in Heaven,
I confess to You my Lord that I have become so impatient with others...especially those I love. And through my lack of patience and understanding I become judgmental and angry...saying things I wish I had not said. Help me to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. Help me to see others as you see them...tired, lonely, fearful, and lost. Help me be a witness...not a judge. Thank You that I can speak Your word and offer encouragement to those in need. Help me to be patient toward others as You are with me, for it is Your power that works in me. Help to judge myself more accurately and be open to what the Holy Spirit is trying to get me to see about my own heart..Help me to recognize and honor Your Spirit today and pray in the Spirit always.
In Jesus' revealing name - AMEN!
The Truth
I sat among them for seven days - overwhelmed. At the end of seven days the word of the Lord came to me.
Ezekiel 3:15-16
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Galatians 5:22
Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself.
That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died.
But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged.
But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died.
But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged.
But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:28-32
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