Stepping Stones: Why Are We So Afraid?

Transformational Tip
I have found lately, maybe because of the struggling economy, how easy it is for a lot of people to share their shortcomings. They readily confess that they suffer from all types of physical, material, or emotional problems. Doesn't take much prodding to have them tell you they have a bad temper or that they are self-centered...they will even tell you they are "not that smart." But one thing no one wants to admit (to themselves or others) is that they are cowards. No one likes to let on that they are afraid of anything. Of all our human frailties, cowardice seems by far the least popular.
Fear gets in the way of so many things in our lives, this is not how God wants us to live. Fear shows doubt for God's sovereignty, love for you, and power over our problems. God has answers. Remember His answer for our biggest concern...we were headed for eternal damnation because of our sin until Jesus died for us. He has answers for your predicament, need, or suffering, or anticipated suffering. Pray for God's courage, free yourself from the fear that keeps you from God's peace and joy.
God's word speaks to us so clearly about the need to be brave and "fear not." This message is contained in virtually every book of the bible. When we really put on the armor, braveness is an automatic outcome.
Today, what concerns you?....or are you afraid of? Why? What do you need to believe differently about you and about God for your fear to go away? Take God's promises seriously and see how it effects your vulnerable spots.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so stricken with fear, I am such a coward. God, please give me courage. I need courage in all aspects of my life. I need courage to do good and to resist all forms of evil. I need courage to follow Your commandments, to overcome my fears, both rational and irrational. Give me the courage I need Lord to win the struggle against neuroses and phobias. I need Your courage to overcome my addictions and to persevere though the storms in my life. Give me courage Lord, to give witness to Your truth and to do great things in Your name. Father I pray that all those of the Stepping Stones community gain Your courage and lose their fear. Remove their fear Father and give them Your peace...the peace that surpasses all human understanding. In Christ's refuge, AMEN

The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20
After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."
Genesis 15:1
Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the LORD Almighty has spoken.
Micah 4:4
When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.
Revelation 1:17

Stepping Stones: The World Is A Needy Place

Transformational Tip
The world is a very needy place....do not go there for your sustenance. All the world can provide are temporary band-aids at best...they aren't meant to be long term or the first or prime solution. Even when these temporary solutions are good and are provided by God, we often start to use them first and forget the provision came from God....to be used after we seek Him first. Learn to go to your Lord and depend on Him first. When you turn to Him, your weakness will be replaced with His power. Find completeness in God. Then He might provide for and speak to you directly or lead you to other people or things of this world to nourish you. When you depend on God first, you can then help other people without using them for your own needs. By letting God's light, which shines so brightly in you, shine brightly into the lives of others, you help others.
What do you look to first to meet your needs? Yourself (intellect, looks, a personality trait)... your feelings (anger, self-pity, anxiety, arrogance)....others or their opinions.... material things (sex, food, money, things, caffeine). Try a detox period from this "drug" you use to soothe yourself and suffer well instead by going to God's Word and see how He will speak to you.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I confess that I often turn to the world for my needs, and many times what I take from the world keeps me separated from You. The merry-go-round of life seems to be spinning faster and faster, things seem out of control. Yet I know by Your Word and by my faith that there is a calm at the center of the storms in my life. This calm is only found through a union with You. Thank You my Father. Help me return to this center of calm...this soothing center more often, for this is where I will find completeness, Love, Joy and Peace. In Christ who met all our needs on the cross, AMEN

The Truth
The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
10 And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:9-10
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
2 I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you."
3 As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.
4 The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.
Psalm 16:1-4
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.,
Galatians 5:22
No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
1 John 4:12

Stepping Stones: A Prayer With A Guarantee

Transformational Tip
Every day, and all over the world many Christian are asking the same question; "Why didn't God answer my prayer?" There are many reasons why God would say no to your specific prayer, but we will save that subject for a future devotional. Today's devotional is about a simple, important prayer that is guaranteed to be answered with a "yes"; that prayer is "Lord, please forgive me."
When it comes to being forgiven for the bad things we have done, the hardest part has already been done for us. The penalty for sin is death, and that penalty needs to be paid by someone. Christ paid that price on our behalf a long time ago. Our role in the process is very simple. The sooner you can grasp and believe this fact the easier it will be for you to rid yourself of the shame, guilt, remorse and accumulated emotional weight from all the past sins that so many of us carry around our neck like a huge stone. So ask for God's forgiveness now and many times throughout your day. Don't let the many sins you commit, big or small, to accumulate and hinder your communication with your Lord.
We all have past sins we still let influence our present lenses and living. What past sin eats at your view of yourself...your self-esteem...or your ability to relate well with someone close? What is the effect? Why do you still let it influence you? Confess and use different lenses to see God's complete forgiveness for you!

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am tired of feeling like a terrible person...I am tired of carrying this weight of guilt and shame for the things I have done...the sins I've committed. Lord, please forgive me. I know by Your Holy Word that Christ died so that I may be free of sin. I confess my sins to you Lord, please forgive me and purify me from all unrighteousness. Remove the sins that block me from your blessings. Forgive my sins so that I may see with Your eyes and fill my mind with Your thoughts. Give me Your wisdom through Your Holy Spirit, but more than wisdom, give me the strength to do Your will.
I pray this all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ who died for my sins - AMEN

The Truth
Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
John 19:28-30
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace
Ephesians 1:7
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12

Stepping Stones: "I'll Save You A Place In Line"

Transformational Tip
Isn't it amazing how a few kinds words from someone we care about can make us feel so special? Just think about that warm feeling we get when someone tells you they will save a place for us in line...or at the table. It sends a clear message...they care about us and our well-being. Even more, they are willing to expend energy to show their feelings for us by taking action.
Now think about what God's Word says to us. Like the prodigal son, we go our own way...follow our desires...say no to our Father's plan...push away His protection for our self-destructive follies and pursuits. The prodigal was ready to take his son home, give him a feast, and honor his return. Our Father will do more....think of the place He is holding for us...think about His promise to bring us back from captivity. He sacrificed His only son to secure a place at the banquet table for us. Think about his promise to give us hope and a future...and the awesome gift of eternity...in His glorious kingdom. God saved your life and He is saving a place for you at His glorious table. Accept His invitation. It's free to you and lasts FOREVER!
Let this assurance and gift form the lenses you use today, especially when troubled.

Prayer
Father God, I believe that You have thoughts of peace and not of evil for me. I believe You have plans for me and a special future; You have given me hope. I know that when I call upon You and pray to You, You will listen. I know that when I search for You, I find You for You are always there for me. I know that You, and only You, have the power to bring me out of captivity. I thank You, my Father in heaven, for Your love and Your plans and for saving a place in line for me. I thank You for Jesus, my Savior, for without Him, I am nothing; lost and alone. With love in His name I pray - AMEN

The Truth
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back from your captivity...
Jeremiah 29:11
And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.
And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'
But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet.
And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate.
For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:20-24

Stepping Stones: Let God Calm Storms In Your Life

Transformational Tip
In Mark 4, the disciples, some of them experienced fisherman, and Jesus were in a boat at sea when a storm hit. The disciples were frightened, woke Jesus up, and accused Him of not caring if they died. Jesus exerted His power and authority over everything and calmed the storm. The disciples put their confidence in themselves and their knowledge, not Jesus and His character, skills, teachings, promises. Little kids get frightened when they are in their bed and a loud thunderstorm with flashes of lightning hits. They know they have no power over the storm. When their parents come down the hall, one of two things happen. If the child has been obedient to, respectful of, and submissive to their parents authority and power over them, they are confident that their parent has the power and authority to protect them from the storm and they feel comforted and safe in their parents arms. On the other hand, if the child has disrespected, rebelled against, and overthrown the parents power and authority and call the shots regarding privileges and discipline, they aren't confident in their parents ability to protect them from the storm and are still scared and anxious.
Think about the storms in your life. Are you really trusting God's power and respectful, obedient, and submissive to His authority in all areas of your life. If so your confidence will be in Him and what he can bring to the table....you will have bold confidence, assurance, hope, and peace in the storms of your life. Dont wait till the storms to trust Him....not because He won't help you...He will help. Problem is you wont believe it because you have been ignoring Him in non-stormy times and putting your trust and confidence in yourself.
Start now, learn to trust Him in all things. Then it will be easy and natural to trust Him during stormy times!

Prayer
Father, I come to rest in your loving presence. I know this day and the days before me will bring difficulties. It is my human way to try and think my way through these trials all alone. Please remind me that you are with me...that I am not alone in the midst of this storm. I pray that you will send your peace, the peace that passes all understanding to all those praying the Stepping Stones Devotionals. My Lord, strengthen all of us and prepare us for this day...transform their fear and anxiety into confident trust in you, their God.
In Jesus name - AMEN

The Truth
...and he rose and rebuked the wind and said unto the sea; "Peace, be still" and the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39
2 my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly.
3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
4 In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:2-4
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8

Stepping Stones: Do You Dig Deep Enough?

Transformational Tip
The transformational tip for today is that there is great depth in the Word of the Lord. Read the story below and see how one sentence of scripture can teach us so much.

There was a group of women in a Bible study on the book of Malachi. As they were studying chapter three, they came across verse three which says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."
This verse puzzled the women and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out about the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible study. That week this woman called up a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest in silver beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest so as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot - then she thought again about the verse, that He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver. She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. For if the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, how do you know when the silver is fully refined? He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's the easy part--when I see my image reflected in it."

What can we take away from this beautiful story?

1. Our Lord wants the impurities out of our bodies, souls(mind), and spirits. "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver"
2. Our Lord is with us every minute of every day as we as we go through the process of refinement and purification. "...he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire"
3. Our Lord knows how much we can take, and his timing is perfect because it is his timing "For if the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed"our Lord will never give us more burden than we can manage as long as we are living according to his word.
4. Our Lord truly wants to see Him in us. "Oh, that's the easy part--when I see my image reflected in it."

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I thank you for the wisdom and guidance that comes from You Holy Word. I thank you for the depth of meaning held within each word. I pray that You will fill me with Your Spirit so that I may see more clearly the messages You intend me to take away you're your Word. I pray that You will help me absorb and extract the full message from Your Word and share it with others so that they too can experience your glory and wisdom.
In Jesus' purifying name - AMEN

The Truth
"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver"
Malachi 3:3
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4: 6-7
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Stepping Stones: Let the Holy Spirit Be Your Director

Transformational Tip
By making the decision to spend time with Your Lord, His thoughts will begin to form your mind. So many thoughts are competing to form the lenses your mind uses to see life's situations. The main stumbling block we deal with is our difficulty dealing with our emotions, especially real or potential emotional discomfort or pain. Loneliness, rejection, feeling unimportant, lack of control, competency questioned, hopelessness, helplessness, are terrible directors of our thought world. Our desire to avoid these feelings really drives many inadequate at best, self-destructive at worst, decisions we wish we could have back...patterns or habits we want to change. God gave us the Holy Spirit to be the Director of our Christ-likeness development. Godly decision-making keeps the Holy Spirit on the throne of your heart. (see Spiritual Basics link below and click Confession). When we do not make a Godly decision, we need to confess our wrong decision and get the Holy Spirit back on the throne. As you attempt to spend time with God in prayer, scripture reading, or meditation, turn this process over to the Holy Spirit...let His Spirit be the Director of this process.
Today, track your feelings, especially what you feel when people say something or an unexpected situation occurs. Also, practice confession today. Unfortunately, I bet you have a least 5 decisions (internal thoughts or external behaviors) that require confession to restore the Holy Spirit to the throne. You will be amazed the direction your life takes when you have the right director directing.

Prayer
Dear Father of Truth,
There are so many things that influence my mind and thoughts...I thank You for Your Spirit who brings order to and infuses life and peace into my mind. I desire to think Your thoughts my Holy One. I know that without the Holy Spirit directing my thought processes, my mind scrambles and searches to avoid discomfort and pain and to get relief and satisfaction...and I know that the Evil One, the father of lies tries to worm his way into my mind in the name of distraction and satisfaction. I thank you Lord for all your goodness and blessings...and I continue to pray for Your protection. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ who utterly defeated the enemy on the cross. AMEN

The Truth
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8

Stepping Stones: Untangle Your Thoughts

Transformational Tip
Even those with the deepest faith at times wake-up in the morning in a foggy, frazzled state of mind. And on the most demanding days they may even wake in a state of unbelief. Beginning your day with tangled thoughts and a mind-set of disbelief will lead to a day of stress and poor decisions. The crux of making good decisions is being able to see the situation clearly....eyes that see the truth....the truth will set you free. The battlefield is your mind, and the Evil One is the great deceiver...trying to distort your lenses so you cant see clearly.
Your challenge and responsibility each morning is to untangle your thoughts so that your mind and thoughts are aligned with the faith in your heart. Set aside time each morning for this vital task. Prepare for battle by putting on the Armor of God....clear your lenses and head(See Spiritual Basics link below). Pray and read scripture till your mind clears. When you are prepared in the full armor, confidence, peace, joy, good decisions, and excitement to excel will replace inadequacy, fear, stress, poor decisions, and avoidance for fear of failure. Focus your thought on Your God, Immanuel - God with you.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I know that you want me to live this day cheerfully as one of Your followers. But I often wake wondering if I can make it through this day and whether I will be able to cope. I realize that this fear is a form of unbelief...Help me with my unbelief today my Lord. I know that when I begin my day with a muddled mind, I ask my self the wrong question; Will I be able to cope with the troubles I face today? I know that with You...that You and I can handle any circumstances that arise today. With You along side me, guiding me, strengthening me, encouraging me...I can handle anything that comes my way...even those difficult situations I have been avoiding. So today Father, as I work to unscramble my thoughts.....Thank for providing Your armor, Your Holy Spirit, and Your son Jesus, to save me in this battle....I will focus my thoughts on who You are: Immanuel - God with me. I pray this in the name of my savior Jesus Christ - AMEN

The Truth
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"-which means, "God with us."
Matthew 1:23
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7

Stepping Stones: Be Aware of Your Insufficiency

Transformational Tip
Recognizing the limits of your understanding is a good thing. The more you recognize and accept your limitations, the more it will enhance your relationship with God. We all have limits, but unfortunately, we don't recognize where they are....so we live beyond our skills. Seems good, getting more out of who we are. Unwittingly though, the reality is, we are putting our confidence in, and getting our confidence from.... Ourselves! This means I are relying on me....what I bring to the table....can do. Our confidence needs to come from God. We need to put our eggs in His basket....who He is...His character...His promises...His instruction in the Bible. The assurance of God's sovereignty, power, omniscience, reliance, love and sacrifice for us, that's what allows us to successfully grow the mind of Christ and live life abundantly. We need Him continually...beyond your daily bread and blessings....We need Him for the many(2000-5000) decisions you must make each day. Recognize our global insufficiency, but also heed your daily limits, so you will gain confidence from and rest in Him.
We have been designed to need Him moment by moment. Today and every day, live in joyful dependence on your Lord.

Prayer
Dear Father, Lately I am becoming more aware of my neediness for You. I have noticed that many people around me have become increasingly confident, almost cocky about the accuracy of their opinions and confident about their decisions. However I feel just the opposite; I feel like an iceberg: what I understand is above the water, what I don't understand is below. I come to You my Father full of neediness and uncertainty. I am fully aware of Your sufficiency and that You will supply all my needs according to Your riches.
I have so many decisions to make and I am doubtful about my ability to make the right decisions. I know that each decision moves me closer or further away from You. Your Word teaches me that wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction; help me pass through the small gate and walk the narrow road that leads to You my Lord. I pray this in the name of Your Son Jesus - AMEN

The Truth
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that
leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13-14

Stepping Stones: What Fills Your Heart?

Transformational Tip
A friend and Christian counselor and close friend once shared with me a very powerful analogy: He said that we are all born with this vacuum tube in our core. It is empty and by the very nature of being under a vacuum (negative pressure), it has the constant need to be filled. That vacuum tube, that "void" was always intended to be filled with Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. But if we don't fill it with Him, junk gets sucked into the vacuum tube...and once filled with junk, there is no room for our Lord and Savior. We continue to feel empty and incomplete, so we continue letting junk be sucked into our vacuum tube.
Until we fill ourselves with Him, and live close to Him, we will continue to feel empty and incomplete. What have you let get sucked into your core and let be your savior? Is it really saving you?...or just contributing to your slow demise? That impersonator, giving false hope, is Satan's answer for your needs...to be important...loved...in control... secure...loved....appreciated...valued....included...unique....pretty....__________. Relying on these things to save you will eventually cripple you. Dump the junk out of that tube today and let your natural vacuum pull in God to fill you up with his loving grace and mercy...for only then will you feel complete...only then will you truly be who He designed you to be.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I often feel incomplete, as if some very important part of me is missing. When I get this feeling I many times respond in unproductive and even sinful ways; foraging for food, fantasy, entertainment, and prideful recognition. All the while You are with me, patiently waiting for me to let You in. When I continue to go my own way, seeking satisfaction where there is none, I become increasingly frustrated. This agitated condition makes it harder and harder to turn back to You, the only one that can complete me. I cry out to You today, I cry out, "Help me Jesus!"
I pray this in Jesus' cleansing name - AMEN

The Truth
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
James 1:4
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.
James 4:7
By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.
2 Timothy 1:14
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
Psalm 51:10-12

Stepping Stones: Embrace Your Weakness

Transformational Tip
God's Word tells us that when we are at our weakest, He is at His strongest. We pray for and expect strength in times of weakness...we pray for and expect God's healing power. I recently went through a time of extreme weakness, brokenness. It doesn't feel good, no one wants to be there. Through the guidance of Christian friends, I learned to accept my weakness as a gift by having created the need and opportunity to experience the beauty of living in total dependence on God.
What is your area of weakness? What situations gives you the most fear or worry? We all blink to protect our eye from damage or pain, or help lessen existing pain. What is your blink that is really self-destructive more than self-protective? Trust God to grow and comfort you without you reflexively doing something harmful. Practice self-control today and think before you react when uncomfortable.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I am learning to recognize my weakness. Acknowledging and accepting my weakness keeps me looking to You...You are my strength. As I witness Your presence within those around me, I am learning that abundant life is not wealth. Abundant life is living in continual dependence on You. Instead of trying to fit my day into a preconceived idea of what it should be, I am learning to relax and to be constantly on the lookout for what You are doing within me and those around me. This approach frees me to enjoy You and to find out what plan You have for me today. This works so much better than trying to make everything work according to my own plan.
I pray this and all prayers in Jesus' name - AMEN

The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
...And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:13 and 19
And Asa cried to the LORD his God, "O LORD, there is none like you to help, between the mighty and the weak. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this multitude. O LORD, you are our God; let not man prevail against you."
2 Chronicles 14:11
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Stepping Stones: Healing: God's the Physician, You're the Nurse?

Transformational Tip
Don't we all need some form of healing? How healthy is your Mind? Body? Spirit? God's word tells us that He will restore our health and heal our wounds. The scripture tells us this eternal healing does not come to us because of what we "do", rather it comes to us free of charge and in perfect abundance through Jesus Christ through faith. On the flip side, our temporal healing, the healing for the time period represented by the dash on our tombstone...1963 - 20?...starts with receiving Christ's gift, then the Holy Spirit, but then we have a some responsibility for the ongoing sanctification or healing process to continue in this lifetime.
Intentional decisions to not conform, but to be transformed, to put off the old self and put on the new, to act boldly based on our faith in God's character, promises, and His teachings in the Bible...that is what we control and need to master. Just like becoming good at a sport, music, academics, art....daily practice of specific fundamentals is essential. Putting on the Armor of God, regular prayer and confession, and being in the Bible....God's instruction manual...are ways to engage in spiritual training. For training to work, you have to have intentionality, self-assessment, perseverance, and strategy to get to your goal...the Mind of Christ.
What is your strategy?..... and your commitment to these things?...this will determine whether your dash will be filled with healing and peace or further injury and pain.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I know that I cannot earn my way to salvation; that I and all those who believe in You and have received You have already become children of God. It is with this power, which You have granted me that I ask, through faith, for the healing of my body, mind and spirit. You tell me in Jer.30:17 "I will restore health unto you and I will heal thy wounds..." I believe Your word. I trust You God. I pray with humble confidence that You restore me to full spiritual, mental and physical health. Show me what I need to do to receive the healing in this lifetime, the renewing of my mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically in my brain chemistry. Help me to understand what Your Holy Spirit is trying to show me and tell me so I can grow and glorify You.
I pray today that You protect and lift the burdens of the entire Stepping Stones community according to Your will. If it is not Your will, then show them more clearly today how to access Your peace and comfort during their struggles. You know our every need Lord. Let us all remember that once we have trusted You as our Savior, You never distance Yourself from us. Let the assurance of Your presence fill us with joy and peace...regardless of our circumstances and our daily trials.
In Jesus steadfast name - AMEN

The Truth
For I will restore health unto you and I will heal you of thy wounds saith the Lord.
Jer. 30:17
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior
Titus 3:5-6
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons.
Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live?
For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.
For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees,
and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:1,8-13

Stepping Stones: Do You Really Think You Can Hide?

Transformational Tip
The fact that God knows your every thought and action can certainly be intimidating, shaming, and embarrassing. But clearly there are many of us that simply don't make that connection. Do you think He really isn't watching? Do you really think you can hide from Him? Sometimes we act like He isn't looking....or that He doesn't care that our wrong actions actually hurt us. Yes, doing the wrong thing does hurt us. Wrong decisions injure our brain chemistry....adversely impact us psychologically in many ways...and most importantly, wrong decisions hurt our relationship with God, knocking the Holy Spirit off the throne of our heart...command central for decision-making. (See "Spiritual Basics" link and click Confession) Then we have the flesh in command, that's when I go from the frying pan into the fire and mess up the most! God really wants us to avoid the pain, turmoil, frustration, angst we experience when we deviate from His plan and His instruction book. Read today's scripture and then meditate on the fact that God knows every move. Now this can paralyze us with fear until we remember that God sees you through eyes of the perfect parent full of grace and forgiveness....but also wanting to push you to develop the mind of Christ for Hiss glory and your fulfillment.
Be mindful today of God's ever-present awareness of your life. How does this affect your responses today?

Prayer
Dear Father - teach us how to pray:
I come to You for understanding. You know me so much better than I know myself. No part of my life is hidden from you. I no longer fear Your intimate awareness of my life, for I know through Your word that You see me through eyes of grace and forgiveness. I welcome the light of Your healing presence to shine deeply into my very being; cleansing, healing, refreshing and renewing me. Send Your healing light into the minds and hearts of the entire Stepping Stones community.
I trust You my Lord, I trust You enough to fully accept the total forgiveness You offer me continually. I know that this great gift, the gift that cost You Your life, is mine for all eternity. Thank You Jesus. I know that forgiveness is at the core of Your presence. I know You will never leave or forsake me.
I feel such joy when I think about how You understand me completely and love me perfectly. Fill me today with Your love. Let Your love overflow in me so that it flows into the lives of other people.
I Jesus' redeeming name I pray - AMEN

The Truth
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
Psalm 139: 1-4
And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:13-16

Stepping Stones: Will You Accept His Invitation?

Transformational Tip
It is written in scripture, that Jesus predicted that not all will respond to His invitation. That only those seeds that fall on fertile soil will produce fruit. He tells us in that same parable in Mathew 13 that "He who has ears, let him hear." Will you answer his call? Do you have ears that hear? Many times the seed God offers to plant in us does not take root because we are asking the wrong question. Many times those respond to the invitation by asking the question: "What shall I do?" The question you should be asking yourself is; "How shall I be?"...."Am I fertile?"...."Do I have ears that hear?". If I am not responding well in life and "doing", then I am not really hearing correctly.
Remember, in John 15 we are told we do not choose God, He chooses us. Some accept God's invitation, some do not...may the seed He plants in you bear His fruit.
What is interfering with you being fertile soil to God's calling today?.... fear, pride, busyness.... hurts, lack of forgiveness, guilt....lack of contentment with what you have.... entitlement for more....your ________. How has holding on to these been working for you?

Prayer
Dear Father,
I accept Your invitation, I desire to follow You, and I want to do the right thing. I know that You and only You can make the impossible possible.
How humble I feel when I read Your word and know that Jesus calls me His friend. He calls me friend because He has told me everything through the scriptures that He has heard from You, His Father. I Pray Father that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may have eyes that see, ears that hear, and a discerning heart that responds.
I pray this in the name of my Savior and friend, Jesus - AMEN

The Truth
That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop-a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. He who has ears, let him hear."
Matthew 13:1-9

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 15:15-16

Stepping Stones: God Is The Timeless Present

Transformational Tip
It's very tempting to live in the past. Most of us do. We replay old scenes in our minds; we fight old battles; and most of all we find ourselves spending so much energy reliving old scenes over and over again. And here's the sad part....the past is over. The second most common place for our minds to linger is in the future. Our minds are filled with hopes, fantasies, and fears for the future.
Like the shadows of the past, the visions of the future are not real. Both the pains of our past and the fears of our future (even tomorrow) take up huge amounts of our time and mind-space. We become prisoners of our own selves. Most importantly, these images take us away from the place where we can have an effect on reality: the present. How foolish are we to squander our only opportunity to affect reality, the present, by spending too much effort on our useless fears of the future and old hurts from the past. I am not saying we don't remember and study the past, or don't plan for the future, but those activities should be to help us focus on and maximize what we do in the present.
One of the most important spiritual exercises is to live in the present, which is to live in reality. The only place we can face and commune with God is in the present...find a way to stay there. Remember that God actually defined himself with the statement; "I AM"
This statement tells us that God is the timeless Present.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I come to you in thanksgiving for the wisdom of Your scripture. I'm guilty of constantly escaping the present and wasting so much time and energy on the past. Help me release and let go of the past. Help me once and for all forgive those who have hurt me, for I know it is the lack of my final forgiveness that keeps my mind locked in the past. Help me heal Lord, help me stop scratching at old sores. Help me stop seeking relief by fantasizing about the future. I stop my mind from wandering and I focus on You my Lord, for You are my true revealer of my reality and I know it is only in the present that I can find you. I pray this in Jesus' cleansing name - AMEN

The Truth
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34
God said to Moses, "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: "I AM has sent me to you."
Exodus 3:14

Stepping Stones: Faltering Faith Is Not Failure

Transformational Tip
Even the most evolved Christian's faith falters at times; this must not be thought of as failure. None of us are perfect...have the total mind of Christ. We will be fully sanctified when we are with Him in heaven. Until then, we will stumble at times...not always believing the truths we intellectually know are true. Peter's faith faltered even in the presence of the Lord. When your faith does falter, do as Peter did, reach for Your Lords hand. Peter was able to use these situations as opportunities to draw closer to God...to use God's lenses to examine His heart....to see what he was believing in instead of God's teachings, promises, and character.
So to, when you put your faith or confidence in something other than God...others' opinions...your finances or possessions....skills or intellect...looks or status...you will falter. Confess your sin...another false god. Receive God's forgiveness and instruction. Examine how life would be if you put your confidence/faith in God instead. Growth, peace, and awesome worship of God will be your reward when you seize this opportunity instead of wallowing in shame, self-pity, and wasting God's power.

Prayer
Father, teach me how to pray.
God my Lord, when my faith falters, remind me that I have not failed. When Peter's faith faltered he reached out to You Lord, the only one who could save him. When I am afraid I look to You my Savior. I take Your hand as You reach to save me. Thank You Jesus. Help me remember each second that You are the only one who can really help. I pray that You reach and touch me with Your healing power. Help me Lord maintain my faith when situations are difficult. Help me keep my eyes on Your healing power rather than on my inadequacies or Satan's masquerading idols. I pray in Jesus' faithful name - AMEN

The Truth
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt"
Matthew 14:30-31
looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Hebrews 12:2-3

Stepping Stones: Do Less But Accomplish More

Transformational Tip
Getting the most out of what we do...efficiency...makes life easier. If we only knew ahead of time how the future would play out, we would know exactly what relationships, activities, and situations, to invest or not invest our time and energy into. How do we know the future... the secret to high efficiency....how to not waste effort...maximize our God-given potential.
Answer: Spend time with God and He will give you rest and will restore your sense of direction. As you spend more time with God, His peace will settle over your mind, body and soul...and the path before you will be more clear and open up. When you follow His directions, you will save great amounts of time and energy and ultimately do less but accomplish way more.
Today, spend time with God...rest in His power and that He knows where He wants you. Step outside of you and look at yourself as God sees you. What do you see in you? ....your future?

Prayer
Dear Father,
There are so many paths and detours to navigate through each day that I easily lose my sense of direction. When I lose my sense of direction I begin spinning in circles while my thoughts flit from one thing to the next. I know my time and energy are precious gifts from You; help me use them wisely my Lord. Draw me closer to You... to know Your view of me, the world, and what You have planned for me, so I can do it well and please you. I pray this in the guiding name of Jesus - AMEN

The Truth
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
Proverbs 16:3
And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.
Exodus 33:14
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10

Stepping Stones: Where Are You the Safest?

Transformational Tip
David was out on the battlefield...mono et mono....face to face against a world champion giant....seems like a dangerous place to me. Actually, it was the best place for him to be because that is where God wanted him....and David knew it. Be willing to go out on a limb if that is where God leads you. If He is leading you there, it is by far the safest place to be. Overly familiar surroundings may feel safe, but they can also lull you into a sleepy, yet dangerous, self-reliance. When out on a limb with your Lord you will stay alert, communicating with Him continually, holding onto His hand in trusting dependence. Follow God wherever He may lead you...and let the shelter of His presence keep you safe. Remember, He knows what the future holds, not you.
Today, ask yourself, "where is God pushing me and I am resisting?" follow it with, "how is that working for me?". Does he want me to...forgive someone...reach out to someone...give up something or someone...be content with something I already have...say something I am afraid to.
Go where He leads, it is the safest place...try it...TODAY!

Prayer
Dear Father God,
You know Lord that I really am not a risk taker...I like to play it safe. However, it is my heartfelt desire to stay close to you...even if that means going out on a limb with and for You. When I feel more self reliant, I confess that these are the times when I tend to forget about You. I pray Lord, that You will help me follow You with confidence.
In Jesus' saving name I pray - AMEN

The Truth
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 31:20
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2

Stepping Stones: In the Midst of a Messy Day

Transformational Tip
Try turning to and trusting in God in the midst of a messy day. The inner calm offered by your relationship with God need not be shaken by what is going on around you. Any one can have peace when everything is going OK around them. What God offers to His children is radically different...peace when life gets messy or difficult....a peace that comes from within and is independent of circumstances. The best thing to do when the messy days disrupt your peace is to stop what you are doing, take a "time-out" and ask for God's assistance. Try slowly whispering "Jesus." Just His name alone is a strong tower. Believing in His love, sacrifice, and power will bring you security.
The disruption to your peace comes from within you...not from the outside, so use that time-out, and perform some self-examination. Usually it is a pain or discomfort you are experiencing and you are not understanding how God is using it to show you, grow you, or prepare you to grow the mind of Christ.
See the "Spiritual Basics" link below, then the "Armor of God" link. see shoes of gospel of peace.

Prayer
Dear Father,
This day feels very "messy" to me. Many things feel out of control, but I am trying my best to trust You to provide exactly what I need. I confess that my inner calm is easily shaken by what is happening around me. My knee jerk tendency is to restore order to my little world to ease my pain, and when I do this, I mistakenly look outward to other physical things...to substitutes. I know that Your peace is available to me but today I am having trouble accessing it. Help me understand Lord that I am not in an emergency and help me give myself permission to slow down. Let this slower pace make it easier for me to stay focused on You. I pray this in Jesus' cleansing name - AMEN

The Truth
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10
My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:2
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

Stepping Stones: Nothing You Can Do Or Not Do

Transformational Tip
A rather unnecessary and heated debate came about during a Bible study the other day. The question that created some division in the group was whether or not we had to "earn" God's love. In our world system, and in every relationship we are involved in, it is so hard to comprehend true unconditional and perfect love, because it doesn't exist. As parents, we love almost unconditionally(especially if they are good kids), but never even close to perfectly...just look at our marriages. God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are the only ones who can give unconditional and perfect love. It still really is humbling...brings a tear to my eye (not much does)...knowing the King of the universe loved me enough to actually give up His throne, suffer, be humiliated, limit His power, be tortured and mocked, and not only die for me, but be separated from His father for the first time ever. All for me...and I didn't do anything to "earn" it. Actually, I sinned a lot to "unearn" it. Romans 8:39 ended the debate. Remember today and always that there is nothing you can do or not do that would separate God's love from you. So don't be afraid you will screw up and lose it...live in the freedom of God's forgiveness and love and show your gratitude...today and everyday.

Prayer
At times, actually all the time I feel so unworthy of Your love and grace. I do so little in Your name. I am so thankful for the truth of Your Word. What a comfort to know that You will let nothing separate me from Your love, the love that you revealed through Your Son Jesus Christ. I ask that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may step by step achieve the "mind of Christ." This is my desire and my goal. Help me understand, and then help others to understand that the heavy lifting has been done for us....there is nothing we can do or not do that will turn You away from us. Help me this day Lord remember the simple path to everlasting life; Believe>Receive>Become.
I pray this and all prayers in the name of love personified, Jesus Christ - AMEN

The Truth
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered."
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers,
nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:39
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12
For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.
But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:3-7

Stepping Stones: Is God's Will My Will?

Transformational Tip
There is no question that it is God's will to sanctify you. His word tells us that "This is the will of God, your sanctification.." The real question; is it your will? Are you willing to let God do everything in you that has been made possible through the atonement of the Cross of Christ? Are you willing to let His life be exhibit through your flesh? Growing up, we yielded to the will of teachers, athletic coaches, instructors for dance, acting, instruments...enduring struggles with homework, physical strain, long practice sessions, final exams, learning tough musical pieces, many frustrating feelings of incompetence and insecurity. But we stuck with it, trusted those leaders, had faith that they willed something good for us, and their goal became our goal. God is the greatest coach, teacher, parent....ever. His will is more than you could imagine for you, so make it yours. Try this day to align your will with the one who created you and knows you better than you know yourself.

Prayer
Thank You Father for making it possible that Your will be my will. Thank You Father for uniting me through Jesus Christ to You...for Jesus making us pure and holy...and freeing us from the death grip of sin. How freeing it is to know that there is nothing in this universe that can separate me from Your love. Help me absorb Your love... to see how much you really care for me...and melt my resistance to Your will. Show me how to get out of Your way in how You work on me and with me through Your Holy Spirit.
In Jesus' loving and restoring name, AMEN.

The Truth
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."
Jeremiah 1:5
God's will is for you to be holy...
1 Thessalonians 4:3
God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin.
1 Corinthians 1:30

Stepping Stones: Don't Sleepwalk Through Your Prayers

Transformational Tip
Your routine prayers can cover a lot of praises and petitions. But that efficiency carries with it a danger; you can sleepwalk through your prayers. In most relationships, our tendency to fall into patterns and routines that then lead staleness or ruts dangerously sabotage our growth and relational depth. We start to take the other person for granted and become "me" focused...not process oriented for what is actually happening in the relationship. Prayer then is only to fulfill an obligation or tradition....saying "grace" before meals. Then God Himself seems like an extra, obligation, something to break out for special occasions, and not a daily enrichment to our life.
You have a choice! Make use of the massive power source within you - the Holy Spirit. Invite him to empower your prayers with life. Seek fresh ways to pray and commune with God...think specifically of your words...why are you praying...what is your attitude...your expectation. Then spend 5 minutes today at the end of your prayer just listening. If you drift(like I do at times), give it another try. This is how you develop your spiritual radar for God's frequency. This will awaken your soul and enliven your relationship with Him.

Prayer
Dear Father, teach me how to pray to you.
I love living close to You, it satisfies such deep longings in me. I live close to You through prayer. However, I confess Lord that I have fallen into a routine with my prayers...and I struggle between being faithful and constant vs. being creative in my communication with You. Because my mind is both fallen and finite, I feel I have such limited ability to be creative in my prayers. I come to You Lord with thanksgiving for Your Holy Spirit. Let Your Spirit teach me how to pray in such a way that I get increasingly closer to You and able to see Your infinite newness everyday.
In Jesus' renewing and exciting name, AMEN.

The Truth
And pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18
For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.
Psalm 57:10-11
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

Stepping Stones: To Pray Is To Breathe

Transformational Tip
So many people are slowly asphyxiating...they are suffocating. Why? Because they are not "breathing." To pray is to breathe, and people are not praying, so they are spiritually dying...or maybe they have never really lived. No more can the body do without oxygen can the soul do without prayer...without breathing in God's life. Prayer is an opening of our hearts to God who already dwells within us. Praying allows us further connection and understanding of the spiritual world....then our spiritual radar starts to get tuned and tweaked to God's settings. We then receive His communications without so much clutter and interference...life becomes easier and more fulfilling...we become more Christ-like as we know and follow Him more.
Pray deeply, breathe easily. Pray shallow, choke fearfully. Your choice.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I praise and honor You my Lord. I know You have created and are creating everything. Even though I believe in You, at times I cannot breathe. I struggle for air like a swimmer that has gone too deep and now I am rushing to the surface for that gasp of air. Today I feel like I will not make it to the top. I am learning now that You are my only source of air, my constant source of air...of "life." Infuse me with Your Holy Spirit Lord, help me regularly dedicate time to breathe You more deeply into my heart. Amen

The Truth
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1 Corinthians 6:19
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
John 1:3-4
For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
Deuteronomy 4:7

Stepping Stones: What Do You Remember For Freedom?

Transformational Tip
In January 2006, I was privileged and honored to be invited by Dr Zryan, the Minister of Health in Kurdistan, Iraq, to lead the first mental health team (3 of us went, all Christians) into post-Sadam Iraq to train Iraqi healthcare personnel on various issues. Incredible experience! Unfortunately, I saw and heard first hand the suffering and persecution people endured religiously, especially Christians, who wanted to gather, pray, or worship God. Other basics, like heat, electricity, trust, safety, respect, being valued, and getting health care were also scarce. I really appreciated the basics we have here in the US. Today, Memorial Day, is when we remember all those who served so we could enjoy living in the greatest country ever....enjoy freedom in so many areas of life...in Iraq they have minimal vocational choice as the system puts them on a path in elementary or middle school. Most importantly, we have the freedom to choose who our God is. In 1776, this was rare, and why our forefathers left their homes in Europe and why they sacrificed all they had and fought to the death to preserve....Free will to decide for life(eternal life), liberty(freedom from the bondage of sin and death), and the pursuit of happiness(real personal relationship with God).
Take time today to remember the greatest sacrifice for our most important freedom...the greatest soldier, 2000 years ago, paid the ultimate price...leaving His home in heaven, going to a far away land, becoming embedded in the foreign culture, and fighting for not Himself, but for us....Jesus died spiritually freeing us from the bondage of sin and the sentence of death we were destined for without His ultimate sacrifice..
From the Battle Hymn of the Republic:
"With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me:
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free;"
Please take time to specially remember and thank God for being your ultimate warrior.
Also, please pray for those are serving and their families....but please continue to pray for those who have served as they struggle with higher levels of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, and family and marital problems worsened by the strain of their service for our comforts.
Enjoy your Holyday.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
Thank you so much for loving me before I even knew You.... even though I spurn You and go my own way, You relentlessly pursue me and still love me. I confess I take much of Your grace and blessings for granted.... especially your love and forgiveness. Help me be more aware of how I hurt you when I stray... keep in my mind everyday, not just today and Easter and Christmas, how you suffered and died for me...a king would die for putsy me...still unbelievable.
Please be with those in the military, who are sacrificing for others' freedom....make Your peace and comfort known to them and bring other Christians into their life to be Your tangible hands of love, compassion, and encouragement. Also be with those who have served and point them to Your Son, the Light to show them the way to Your arms of comfort.
I pray this prayer in Jesus' ultimate and precious name - AMEN.

The Truth
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1
Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
1 Peter 2:16
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:31-32
Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.
The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
Psalm 118:5-9

Stepping Stones: Avoid "Future-Gazing"

Transformational Tip
The wonder and joy of God's is only accessible to you in the present moment. Instead of gazing into the unknown future, live each moment in the joyful awareness of His presence.
Imagine seeing a beautiful red carpet being unrolled in front of an honored person as she walks forward with her head up. The red carpet is her defined, honored, special, unique, and precious path... only for her.... to honor her....and for her maximum benefit and enjoyment. Know that your future is safely in the hands of your Lord and He has a path, a plan...your own personal red carpet specially designed for YOU. The catch is that He reveals it, your life, to you moment by moment. Armed with this understanding allows me to enjoy each moment instead of getting ahead and wishing for or anticipating future moments and neglecting the special "now" moments He designed for me. Enjoying the now acknowledges that God doesn't make mistakes, really loves me, and meets my every need. Attaining this freedom wasn't easy, because my mind wonders to "Future Gazing" at will. When you find yourself engaging in "Future Gazing", remind yourself that you are truly roaming in a fantasy land that is really about self-destruction and not self-preservation. This will help you return to the present where you will find Him waiting for you, rolling out your honored red carpet.

Prayer
Dear Lord and Savior,
What a comforting thought, knowing that You are unfolding my life to me exactly as You planned it. Teach me Lord how to spend more time in the present with You. I know that You hold my future far ahead of me and that when I "Future Gaze", all I am really doing is exercising my imagination, because it is impossible for me to know and anticipate what the future will hold for me . Help me walk forward on Your red carpet, never setting foot on anything but the present. I step forward today with confidence.
I pray in the name of Your Son Jesus - AMEN

The Truth
For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?
Ecclesiastes 8:7
Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.
Psalm 32:10
Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb;
even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.
To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike?
Those who lavish gold from the purse, and weigh out silver in the scales, hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; then they fall down and worship!
They lift it to their shoulders, they carry it, they set it in its place, and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble.
Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors,
remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me,
declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,'
Isaiah 46:3-10
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Revelation 1:8

Stepping Stones: Receive with Thanksgiving

Transformational Tip
Try thanking God regularly throughout your day; for each time you thank Him, You are acknowledging that He is you Lord and Provider. In our past, we suffered hurts, wounds, or letdowns...our "healing"reaction is developing defenses to make sure we don't get hurt again. One of our defenses is independence and control...making sure we have a plan and not dependent on others plans because we know better what we need and how to meet our needs way better than anyone else. How dare God have a different plan than ours. Our choices...1. Be mad, anxious, fearful, hurt, frustrated, discontented, upset, frantic, overwhelmed, because our plan didn't happen, or 2. Be thankful that our all-knowing, all-powerful, loving, awesome God had a better plan to really do what is truly best for us. Thankful might seem more difficult, but really is much better for you in your relationship with GOD, others, and yourself. When you pray with thanksgiving during difficult times you are truly acting like a child of God. When you find it hard to be thankful, stop and remember who your Lord really is; the Author of your life and your faith. So what do you choose today when life goes different than you want....frustration and angst or thankfulness. It's easier than you think...try it.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I know I'm supposed to give thanks in all circumstances; but I confess to you that sometimes my prayers are hollow, I can say them without feeling thankful at all...especially during difficult times. I know my Lord that I am totally dependent on You for everything...even my next breath. I know that all good things come from You Lord. I thank You today in the midst of my struggles, and when I thank You, I receive with thankfulness Your Joy and Peace. All glory to You my Lord.
I pray this prayer in Jesus' precious name - AMEN.

The Truth
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.
Hebrews 12:28
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17

Stepping Stones: Which Child Do You Want

Transformational Tip
Martha is great at completing all her homework on time, gets pretty good grades, does all her chores without whining or being nagged, is respectful and courteous, and follows the house rules. But Martha doesn't like you, isn't interested in you, your opinion is irrelevant and worthless to her, doesn't care what excites or bothers you, isn't interested in cheering you up when you are sad, doesn't want to hang out with you, and when you ask her to go on an errand, she says "No".
Mary isn't so good about her homework assignments, underachieves at school at times, needs reminders to do her chores, is occasionally sassy, and at times violates some house rules. Mary, though, really loves you, cares about you, values you opinion, wisdom, and input, is interested in your life, your heart, what makes you happy or sad....she hurts when you hurt, and celebrates when you are happy. Mary, loves to spend time with you sharing her heart, dreams, ideas, and loves to do any activity with you. When you ask her to go on an errand with you, she says, "Love to, cause I wanted to get your opinions about this new CD I just got but I am not sure about." Which child would you choose? Glorifying and enjoying God should be the highest priority in you life. God would love our obedience and intimate relationship....but if it was one or the other, He chooses relationship. Remember, keeping all the commandments but not having a relationship with God thru Jesus, sentences us to eternal suffering. Messing up the commandments, but receiving Christ's death as atonement for those sins, allows us eternal relationship with God and a place in His kingdom forever.
Maintaining a tidy, structured life should not be your priority. Give up trying to keep everything under control and keeping everyone happy. These are impossible tasks and waste your precious energy. Pursue your relationship with Him and the obedience will follow out of gratitude for His amazing grace.

Prayer
I declare to You my Lord that glorifying You is a much higher priority than maintaining order in my life. I know if I focus on You, I will have the appropriate order. While I make this commitment to You, I confess I do spend too much energy on keeping things under control. When I do this, I lose sight of You. I want my life to display the deep desire I have in my heart; to glorify You in carefree cheerfulness.
In Jesus' redeeming name, AMEN

The Truth
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house.
And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching.
But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me."
But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,
but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:38-42
I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.
And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
John 17:4-5
O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar
Psalm 139: 1-2
One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?
And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong."
And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Luke 23:39-43

Stepping Stones: Closer Than The Air You Breathe

Transformational Tip
You need never feel lonely again. Your God is closer to you than you dare believe. He is not sitting up in heaven at the control panel...he is intimately close to you. Reflect back on the worst situations you endured. Imagine if everyday was like those horrific days. They weren't and aren't because He is with us.... protecting and extending mercy. He gave up so much to being a God in heaven to a frail, weak, human baby on Earth.... endured so much trying to teach us, being mocked, ridiculed, tortured, and killed, and enduring extreme pain of separation from His father who He was intimately connected to for a zillion years. He went thru all this just to relate closely with us. Imagine you are a kid again in a dark, spooky house....filled with danger...you are frightened and know and feel totally alone. Then the lights come on and you see the bravest powerful warrior and the most loving protector both on each side of you. Imagine how wonderful, safe, protected, at peace, hopeful, and excited you would feel. Quick, flick on the light in your head, get out of the deceitful darkness and see who really is at you side....now and forever. (see Spiritual Basics link below - Salvation)
Today try and be mindful of the direct connection and distinction between loneliness and lack of awareness of how close God is to you.

Prayer
Dear God,
I come to you to thank You for Your mercy and grace. I deeply desire to experience Your closeness and presence in my life. When I am aware of your nearness I am not lonely...I feel peaceful and content. When I fail to recognize you I feel frightened, vulnerable and lonely. Let my feelings of loneliness be a constant reminder that I need to seek Your face...and to know that the only think I should fear is losing my connection with You. I come to You Lord with my ever-so-human emptiness...fill me with Your divine presence. Fill me with life to the fullest. In Christ's name, AMEN.

The Truth
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
John 10:10
And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever.
Psalm 41:12
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
John 14:16, 26

Stepping Stones: Good Thought-Choices Will Keep You Close To God

Transformational Tip
Guard your thought closely. There is a fierce battle waging for your mind. Nothing angers the enemy more than your closeness to Your Lord. Missiles of deception are constantly being launched at your mind. Although it will be a struggle, fix your mind on God and make good thought choice today.

Prayer
My Lord and Savior,
Although I try, many times my thoughts seem totally disconnected with my will. I try to focus my thoughts on you but there are so many distractions. I want, I desperately want to focus my thoughts on You, but it's a contact struggle...I feel like I am always swimming against a strong current. I know there are many things that impact my ability to think clearly; poor sleep, bad eating habits...my health and the health of others that I love...just the worries of the world. I ask that Your Holy Spirit enter my mind and help me with this challenge. I know that making good thought-choice will alow me to enjoy Your refreshing presence more and more.
I pray with confidence in the name of Jesus - Amen

The Truth
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.
Acts 3:19
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
1 Peter 5:8

Stepping Stones: Each Prayer Comes With A Promise

Transformational Tip
God's word tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to Him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers our prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise; His peace will guard our heart and mind and will keep Him close to us. You see, going to Him when we are in need, shows us our recognition that He has more power and authority over our circumstances and ourselves than we do. If we are patient and develop our radar for the intangible...the psychological and especially the spiritual world... we will be amazed at His answers to our prayers. Remember, He answers two ways....Yes.... or No, because I have something better for you. Patience and radar to see His love and provision for us. Once we experience and really see this reality of our needs being met, His peace will be abundant and you will be a Lighthouse standing strong in your own storms, but also be a sanctuary and guide to others caught in storms.
So Pray more and watch the results of our powerful and loving Father!

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And while I bring my requests and petitions to You, I know that You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that not getting my request answered as I desire does not mean no, rather that You will say yes in a better way.
I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with you. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinders my intimacy with you.
Father, fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may internalize and absorb Your Words in the scripture reading below.
In Jesus' name - AMEN

The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.
Psalm 69:13

Stepping Stones: Let Him Wean You

Transformational Tip
God wants you to be all His. Once you Believe and then Receive, God, through His Holy Spirit is constantly working to wean you off all other dependencies. Especially as men we are raised to become independent, so becoming dependent on someone goes against our indoctrination and experiences. As women, we have been hurt and let down when we have depended on others to lead and protect, that we guard against total submission and dependence....fearing more letdown and hurt. What we fail to realize is that we are always dependent on someone... if it isn't another, then I am depending on me. Wow, that is when my life fell apart the most...when I relied on my understanding, abilities, power, "love" for me, methods, and willingness to sacrifice for my own growth. A big part of Becoming is letting your security rest in Him alone; not in other things, people or circumstances. He will detox you from you, because you have been a false substitute for HIM.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I thank You for all that I have and I thank You for the security You provide for my life. Day by day now this physical world is becoming a more frightening place, such an insecure place. I accept You as my God and my savior, but I humbly admit to You that I am not yet weaned from other dependencies. Help me let go of them as I grasp more firmly to You.
I don't want to depend on me anymore. I know You have way more input in my life than I realize, so pen my eyes to Your grace when You meet my needs and protect me more clearly, so I can really grow confident in to shift my dependency from me, a hollow limited substitute, to YOU. In Jesus' life sustaining name, AMEN.

The Truth
But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.
Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully-grown brings forth death.
Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:14-17
Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin.
Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel?
For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord GOD; so turn, and live."
Ezekiel 18:30-32

Stepping Stones: The World's Idols Leave You Thirsty

Transformational Tip
This world offers more distractions than you can fit into one lifetime. We are thirsty, and at times we don't even realize we are dehydrated. So to quench this thirst we look to the world's idols. Those idols provide some temporary relief...but the thirst remains. Satan's greatest trick is masquerading empty, destructive options as really fulfilling answers to our thirst. We blindly drink expecting relief, which we sometimes get immediate resolution of the discomfort (like drinking saltwater when we are thirsty), but get battered by other immediate, intermediate, and long-term consequences. Try to understand that our deepest desire is for a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. All our other needs are met through relating with Him and following His teachings. His joy and peace is the only way to satisfy your thirst. So hang out with Him today, get to know Him thru prayer(talking and LISTENING) and the Bible. You won't thirst anymore.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so thirsty...my soul is thirsty. At times I confuse this thirst as just being tired or stressed out, so I start searching for relief, or at least for some distractions. I know that all this while you are standing next to me...ready to quench my thirst. My soul thirsts for you Lord. Allow Your gifts of Joy and Peace to enhance my awareness of You, the only one who can ultimately quench my thirst.
I pray this is Jesus' precious name, AMEN.

The Truth
I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah
Psalm 143:6
As the deer panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
Psalm 42:1-2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.
They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat.
For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
Revelation 7:15-17

Stepping Stones: Is Being Grumpy Working For You?

Transformational Tip
Why do we get grumpy? Usually because situations, people, things, life, aren't going the way we planned. We feel hurt...have to accept a different plan, agenda...are disrupted, uncomfortable. Why respond with negativity, nastiness, grumpiness? How is that going to help improve the situation? When you feel nastiness coming on, when you are tempted to grumble, try this; Try going to God and talking it out. Ask Him to reveal to you why He gave you something different than what you expected or wanted. Get in His word and seek Him. As you open up to Him, He will put His thoughts in Your mind and His song in your heart. The key...open up to Him!

Prayer
Dear Father,
I grumble and complain more than I like to admit. There are so many things that tick me off...so many things I want to be different in me, in others, in the world. I realize it is my natural tendency to brood over these things and take them out on others that are close to me. I see now that the longer I focus on these things the more likely I am to grumble. Even when I get control of my spoken words, my thoughts are full of complaints. Help me talk with You about these matters. I thank You Lord for listening and caring. Even if You choose not to change my circumstance, my communion with you alone will but Your song in my heart. In Jesus' name I pray - AMEN

The Truth
And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.
Psalm40:3
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Acts 2:28