Stepping Stones: What's Your Focal Point?

Transformational Tip
One of my fondest memories as a young father was taking my daughter to ballet lessons. I would stay and watch...I still see her bright face looking over at me every time she did something challenging. Smiling and raising her eyebrows saying with her face; "Did you see that Dad?" When she was being taught how to spin, I vividly remember the lesson. The teacher told the students to find a focal point, something they could look for and focus on as they completed each turn. She told them this was necessary to maintain their balance as they spin.
It seems that Satan entices us to spin our Merry-Go-Round of life faster and faster, and we get sucked into his trap. All the stress, struggle, frustration, feeling overwhelmed and disoriented. We are dizzy from the spinning! Why? Because we don't have a focal point. Just as a ballerina must keep returning her eyes to a given point to maintain her balance, we need to have a focal point to gain our balance, grounding, direction. Too often I used to turn to others, or things...but they are not fixed, secure, immutable. They fluctuate with the winds of their life or culture. They also have an agenda at times that doesn't include guiding me or not in my best interest.
Today, Make God your focal point, keep returning your focus to God to keep grounded, focused, your balance. Focus on, think of His promises, character and teachings. God understands the limitations of your human condition; He knows that you will lose sight of Him at times. The wonderful part of this...you don't have to strain to hard to look to Him, because His promise is to always be with you. A quick glance His way will bring you back to equilibrium and balance.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I feel as if I am spinning faster and faster. I try hard to regain my balance, but there always seems to be something surprising me and keeping me off balance. I regret I look to transient focal points, and I even know as I look at them that it will be a waste of time and they will disorient me more. I pray for eyes that see the truth and sharply turn to You. I look to You Lord to find my equilibrium. I want You to be my focal point. Because You remain constant, you are the perfect focal point. I pray in the immutable name of Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
For I the LORD do not change;
Malachi 3:6
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.
Hebrews 12:2
For people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation.
So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath,so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us.We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain,where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf,
Hebrews 6:16-20
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8

Stepping Stones: Relax, Cease Striving

Transformational Tip
As a kid, when I wasn't connecting, heard, or taken seriously, I would go up to my room and re-create pro basketball games in my room using a rolled up pair of socks as a ball, and a hanging lamp played the basket. Fantasy helped soothe my hurt, distract my mind from the hurt, and escape to someplace where I was important, valued, and enjoyed. When we feel misunderstood, devalued, or just simply overlooked, we turn to things that we believe will make us feel better; eating, shopping, sex, alcohol, drugs, TV, pornography, gossiping, exercise, gardening, knitting, cooking, business deal, work project, the list is endless. However, after a mild blip of satisfaction, none of these things really make us feel better over the long run. None of these idolatrous substitutes satisfies the thirst for what we truly desire; God's compassionate, unfailing love. In fact, these substitutes, take us farther away from what God offers us.
Today, identify what you turn to in these situations. Recognize your pattern. Is it really self-protective or actually self-destructive? When you are feeling misunderstood, overlooked...hungry and thirsty for satisfaction remember this; God is the Lover of your soul, understands you perfectly, and loves you eternally. Reach out to Him through prayer, the Word, and listen. Cease striving and know that He is God!

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so thankful that it is my soul that You love and not my appearance and performance. I am often dissatisfied with both of these...especially when I make them my focus. There are so many idols in this world, so many things to turn to when I want to feel better about myself, or to provide a distraction so I don't have to think about why I am hurting. Father, help me experience more fully Your unconditional love. Help me relax in Your loving presence and to always turn my focus to You. I know that You created me to know You, love You and make You the center of my life. I pray with hope in the name of Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted amongst the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
"Though the mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed" say the Lord who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10

Stepping Stones: People-Pleaser or God-Pleaser?

Transformational Tip
For many of us fear of others is so deeply ingrained in our minds and our hearts that it's woven into the daily fabrics of our life. It's a silent debilitator. This fear comes in subtle ways; typically not fear of being hurt physically (but that type of fear certainly exists), rather the fear of being rejected...left out...not accepted... looking foolish in other's eyes.... judged incompetent... or not being valued. While trying to be a "people-pleaser" may appear harmless on the surface, it can create crippling fear. Elevating their assessment to idol status, worshiping it, that is what we are really doing. People-pleasing usually requires us to compromise truthful, healthy functioning and replace it with dysfunctional behavior. Ultimately, we are choosing to please others and displease God, instead of displeasing others and pleasing God. Fear of displeasing others allows this downward spiral to accelerate and feel out of control.
Today, begin replacing the fear of displeasing others with the dread of displeasing Your Lord. Make pleasing Him your highest priority. In general, we try to please people so that they will give us want we want...approval...value... importance... hope... love...acceptance...forgiveness...destiny...safety...comfort. Turn your trust to God who is the only source of providing all these things, and so much more...everyday.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I am just beginning to realize just how fearful I am of others. I confess Father to being a "people-pleaser." I am too concerned about displeasing others and looking foolish in their eyes. Help free me of this fear Father by developing a deeper trust in You. I know that trusting in others is risky while trusting in You is safe. I know that You have everything I need...that Your riches will never run short. Father, I desire deeply to change and to eliminate my fear of others. I pray in the name of Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20
Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Then Nebuchadnezzar in furious rage commanded that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought. So they brought these men before the king.
Nebuchadnezzar answered and said to them, "Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden image that I have set up? But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?"
If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king.
But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up."
Daniel 3:13,14,17,18

Stepping Stones: Be a Kid

Transformational Tip
The most rewarding memories I have as a father were when one of my daughters would come to me with a problem. Still to this day, a call from one of my children needing help or guidance evokes in me such a sense of urgency...it becomes my highest priority. Those requests and opportunities generate such a sense of wellbeing in me for a number of reasons; it tells me they know I love them, tells me that they love me, and finally, it tells me they trust me. As children, we all believe our father has super-human power to tackle and solve any problem, and our mother can soothe and comfort any pain or suffering. Magical thinking and willingness to suspend reality and believe the impossible is possible...that limitations don't apply to our parents...that they can read our minds and make our dreams come true...a young child's mind, not yet fully contaminated by the world's hurts, failures, and letdowns, has the perfect perspective on how to view God.
Maybe this is the reason scripture tells us over and again that being "childlike" is so very important. It's more than important; it's a requirement to enter the kingdom of God. God as our supreme Father loves us beyond our human comprehension...and doesn't a loving father want only the best for his children? Satan uses our parents and the world's failures to douse the child-like supernatural expectation, understanding, and belief that God instilled and wants to see in us. God's ways are mysterious to an adult, but to a child, they make perfect sense.
Today, begin receiving the kingdom of God like a little child. Suspend your cynicism and distrust...don't put God in a box with sides determined by your past hurts, letdowns, and imperfect authority figures. Turn to your Father and ask for his help. Show him that you love and trust Him...acknowledge your awareness that He loves you. Show child-like adoration, trust, belief, and expectation. Then results happen!

Prayer
Dear Father,
You are such a loving and generous Father. Thank You Lord. All glory to You Father. Like a child turns to their earthly father, I turn to You for love, wisdom, guidance... protection for all things that may bring me harm. I place my trust in Your Father...I trust You completely. With You I feel safe. Help me today and everyday to keep Your truths before me...to keep You before me always. Fill me with Your Spirit my heavenly Father so that I may grasp the magnitude of Your love for me. I pray that all those who are part of the Stepping Stones community grasp the enormity of Your love for them, Your children. I pray to You in the sacred name of my brother, Your Son Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
"I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
Luke 18:17
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.
Ephesians 5:32
Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 18:4

Stepping Stones: Wanted: Real Lighthouses

Transformational Tip
The Vision of Lighthouse Network is to equip individuals to achieve their God-given potential by spiritually, psychologically and biologically renewing their minds so they become Lighthouses that shine God's glory, stand on firm foundation in the storms of their own life, and provide guidance and sanctuary to others in stormy times. The Stepping Stones Daily Devotional is one of our several outreaches to help people navigate life and become Lighthouses.
When is a lighthouse needed? In a storm, of course! When we are caught in one of life's many storms (and they can range from a rain shower to a tsunami) it's easy for us to feel abandoned...to feel as if we are at the mercy of the winds of fate...to feel as if we don't know which step to take. The stones before us appear slippery or as stumbling blocks instead of what we need...stepping stones.
As believers we must remember that God is sovereign. He is everything. He controls the history of the world including our personal destinies...and just as Jesus did for His disciples...he can calm the storms in your life. But if God has need for a storm to rage, He will make peace and comfort available to you if you choose to see and use His Light(house) correctly and continuously. Satan has many imitation lights out there that trick us and bring us to dangerous rocks, so it is important to be in the Word and growing your communication time with God so you know which Lighthouse is real (God's)... and which is an imitation (Satan's).
Today, stop and think about how God has served as a Lighthouse throughout your life, and about the events in your life that have led you to where you are today. Reflect on some of the false lights you followed, thinking they were God's Lighthouses. What made them look so attractive....how can you recognize that imitation in the future?
If you are in a storm, God is lighting your next stepping stones....but you have to look in His direction and then trust Him to step forward. Let God be your lighthouse and harbor...your place of safety.
If you are in a stable place, think of someone near who is in a storm. How can you be a Lighthouse to them today? Not by shining your light, but rather by letting God's light shine through you.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I am once again in another storm, a downpour. I'm tired of going from storm to storm. I know I have created some of these storms through my sinful nature and the bad choices...but I also experience storms that have nothing to do with my action; the death of a loved one, losing my job because of the economy...events that are out of my control. When in the midst of a storm I feel scared and alone...and I don't know which step to take next. I need Your light, Lord, to shine on my next Stepping Stones of my path to develop the mind of Christ. Help me and all those reading this devotional walk in Your light so that we may become the daughters and sons of light. Thank Your Father. There is so much I don't know. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may understand more and more. I pray this in the name of the Light of the world, Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."
Luke 8:23-25
At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
John 12:16
Then Jesus told them, "You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going. Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light." When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them.
John 12:35-36

Stepping Stones: Don't Be a BOB!

Transformational Tip
In the middle of junior year, I moved to New Jersey to finish high school. I left behind a lot of friends that I had known for a couple years and had many great experiences with. New Jersey was different in so many ways...especially lots of temptations and a faster pace. My big dilemma, I did not know who to hang out with...the popular guys...the jocks...the heads (drugs)....the troublemakers....the punkers....the brains...the clowns.. never thought of hanging out with the Christians because they were boring. Each group had pros and cons. What I didn't realize was the group I picked would have a big influence on me.
One of the first days at my new school, I met my new baseball coach....a different guy with a mixed reputation amongst the students. On away trips he had a saying, "Don't be a BOB!" I asked my teammates what a "BOB" was and they told me: B.O.B....Back of the Bus-er. Coach knew the troublemakers always went to the back of the bus to smoke, make-out, vandalize the seats, pick on others, gossip about teammates or coaches, moon other cars, etc. I looked at who was at the back, both on the team bus and the bus to school in the morning, and I realized that he was right. BOB wasn't necessarily a geographical identifier as much as a character identifier. Are you a BOB? Do you hang out with BOBs? How do you identify a BOB now, as an adult?
Today, take a look at your character. Are you handling yourself the way you should? How could you be an anti-BOB in tough situations, thus being a Lighthouse to others? Are there BOBs you are letting influence you? Why are you going to the back of the bus if you know that's where the BOBs are? If you don't make an intentional decision to avoid the BOBs, you will gravitate to them.

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for loving me even when my character at times is questionable and I act like a BOB. Thanks for sending your son to model the character that delights you and also will bring me the most fulfillment in life. Please help me develop eyes that really see BOBs and anti-BOBs and courage to avoid the acute thrills the BOBs will bring. Help me submit to the Holy Spirit's guidance as I see who God puts in my life to guide me and model Godly character. Help me be more aware of the influence I have on my kids and family, and be a better steward of my heart and the behaviors that flow out of it. In Jesus' precious name - AMEN!

The Truth
For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;
1 Corinthians 1:26-27
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.
Titus 2:7-8

Stepping Stones: Character Reveals and Guides

Transformational Tip
During President Clinton's dark time, a news reporter tried to pull George Bush Sr. into a Clinton bashing session. Bush offered only two words that said it all: "Character Counts". Character is the set of outward facing qualities that tell our friends, our families, and the world who we really are on the inside. Character is the reflection of what is really at the center of our heart. It's not about the words we speak; it's about how we live our lives and the behaviors we model. Anybody can pretend and wear a mask to hide the true nature of what is on the inside. That is where pressure, stress, life's storms, a bit of adversity come into play. You see, it is much more difficult to put on a mask in the midst of challenging circumstances....it is often during those storms where people's true colors are more easily revealed. It's what makes us interesting and attractive (or not!).
So how do we develop Character? In Romans 5:3-4, Paul teaches us that suffering produces character. While it is admittedly difficult, try to see and be thankful for the fact that God is using life's difficulties...and Satan's attacks...to build your character.
God brings storms to 1. build character, 2. show us what is at the center of our heart, or 3. allow us to succeed, to shine His glory to others and guide them through their storms.
Today, take notice when things don't go your way, what is your behavior revealing about the character of your heart.

Prayer
Dear Father,
Thank You God for the opportunities you give through my difficulties to grow in Your strength. I pray that You help me develop character that pleases You and allows me to be an example of a child of Yours. I confess, Lord, that I spend too much time and energy on my image management. Help me shift that effort to improving my character. Suffering and difficulty seems to be the norm for me rather than the exception. Help me, Father, to use these difficulties and suffering to build perseverance...and use perseverance to build my character. With Godly character, hope will be strong and abundant. I ask in the name of our Suffering Servant, Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3-4
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
,

Stepping Stones: Forgiveness Takes Away Their Power

Transformational Tip
We have been discussing forgiveness for several days: what it is, what it isn't, and why it is important. Today, I will tell you about the aspect that pushed me to really forgive. You see, I played a lot of sports and was a very competitive person...my kids would say I still am. When I got wronged, my competitive nature (as well as some other baggage) would kick in. I wasn't going to let anybody beat me! I needed my rival to realize that I was in control of them...that I wasn't beaten...that they got hurt more than me. In order for that to happen, I needed something from them. Admit they were wrong, take responsibility for their action, feel some pain, suffer a consequence, pay a penance for their transgression, make it all better. Realize the problem? My happiness, relief, or comfort depends on the other person doing something.
Therefore, I was giving my rivals power over me, because they can withhold the "it" that I need as long as they want. Me needing that "it" from them puts me in a dependent position to them and what they do. I had trouble seeing the relationship with them clearly and moving forward because I still needed an "it" from them. Bitterness, inferiority, fear, rage, nervousness, injustice, revenge, and many other uneasy feelings would course through me when I saw or thought of my rivals. A lot of my behaviors were to try to inflict pain on them or push them to see how they wronged me. Finally, I realized how much power and influence they had over me. I realized that I don't want to give them the power, and that I don't handle the power well myself. So I decided to give the power to God. He has the power, deserves the power, and will always see that justice is administered. I just need to let God do His job and I can then follow God's instructions to me.
Today, try to identify people that have power over you, or who negatively dominate your thought world. Chances are you probably haven't really forgiven them and still need an "it" from them for you to move forward. Think why you need the "it". That is your issue. Quit pointing the finger at others. God has given you way more than you could ever need or want, so what can someone else possibly give you that you can't move on without?

Prayer
Dear Father, thanks for helping me learn to forgive. Help me desire, think, and act in such a way that you are the one I want to have power over me. Help me to really see the forgiveness you extend to me, not worry about what others will or will not do, and help me see the evil one as the enemy, not my transgressor. By the power of Jesus' forgiving blood- AMEN!

The Truth
Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.
Hebrews 10:18
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32

Stepping Stones: What Biblical Forgiveness Is and Isn't

Transformational Tip
The last couple days we have talked about persecution and forgiveness, two very important and complex topics. As a psychiatrist, I see many misunderstandings about what real Biblical forgiveness really is. 1. Forgive is forgetting, 2. forgive and start with a clean slate like nothing ever happened, 3. forgive and trust just like you did before the transgression, 4. forgive is not ever bringing the incident up again, are the common definitions or understandings of forgiveness I hear from patients.
1. God never forgets, He is omniscient.
2. God took David's and Moses' sin into account long after their sins, therefore no clean slate.
3. God only trusts us as far as our skill set and reliance on Him(spiritual maturity) as evidenced by our past track record.
4. See pt #2 above.
An example is if a husband has an affair. You can't forget it happened because there is work to be done to figure out why it happened and how to fix it. Can't act as if nothing happened as the husband obviously has some deficits and areas of temptation and needs to be safeguarded and held accountable. So if he comes home very late one night with lame excuse, the wife needs remember the past and ask the who, what, where, why, and when, to make sure he didn't stumble or not on a slippery slope. She can't trust him where trust was until he proves trustworthy. Forgiving or being forgiven doesn't elevate someone's trustability. She needs to bring it up again to have regular assessment, accountability, and growth, or if she sees some worrisome warning signs. She knows his area of temptation and stumbling so we have to keep it in mind to help him grow and avoid it.
Biblical Forgiveness has 2 key components. First, giving up the dysfunctional anger (bitterness, revenge, spite, rage, etc) you have for the transgression or the transgressor or to God for letting it happen. Second, when we have been wronged, our nature is to want, need, and demand some payment from the transgressor. We need to turn this over to God as the great judge and executioner; He is the only one who can determine what is the fair and appropriate sentence or punishment for the infraction. (just like He is for us and our many sins against others).
For more, The Choosing to Forgive Workbook, by Les Carter and Frank Minirth is great at expanding on these points with practical application.
Today, in those situations where you are struggling to forgive, or you have forgiven but it still hangs over you, think "what am I still trying to get out of them as payment?" It maybe an apology, to feel your pain, to have a consequence or punishment, some kind of material restitution, acknowledgment to others about what they did to you. If your happiness is based on getting that and they never give it, where does that leave you?

Prayer
Dear Father,
Thanks be to You Lord for Your incredible gift of forgiveness. Where would I be without it...buried under a ton of sin and shame. I am so quick to ask for Your Forgiveness Lord...but so slow to forgive others. Help me remember that forgiving others lifts a heavy burden off me...and places me back under the grace of Your forgiveness. I thank You Lord for the many examples of forgiveness demonstrated by Your Son Jesus. I seek to forgive as Jesus forgave...I seek the mind of Christ. Help me to understand I am not one to judge them and exact payment, but their transgression against me, although it hurts me, is even a greater transgression against Your holiness and You are the perfect one to hand out justice or grace, as You in Your omniscience and love for them knows is best. Grow in me a humble spirit to accept Your actions in their life and focus on my actions, thoughts and heart and not theirs. Help me Lord spread Your message about forgiveness in word, but especially in action. I pray this through Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price so that my sins may be forgiven - AMEN!

The Truth
That very day the LORD spoke to Moses,
Go up this mountain of the Abarim, Mount Nebo, which is in the land of Moab, opposite Jericho, and view the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the people of Israel for a possession.
And die on the mountain which you go up, and be gathered to your people, as Aaron your brother died in Mount Hor and was gathered to his people,
because you broke faith with me in the midst of the people of Israel at the waters of Meribah-kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin, and because you did not treat me as holy in the midst of the people of Israel.
For you shall see the land before you, but you shall not go there, into the land that I am giving to the people of Israel."
Deuteronomy 32:48-52
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
Mark 11:25
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32

Stepping Stones: A Startling Warning

Transformational Tip
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful; least understood and most commonly underused concepts included in the Bible.
Jesus gives us all a startling warning about not forgiving others; if we refuse to forgive others, God will also refuse to forgive us. (Now we know God does forgive us even though there is no way we can perfectly and totally forgive all those who have transgressed us.) Think about it - how long are you willing to go without the forgiveness of God. Great sinners are transformed into exceptional Christian all because of the power of forgiveness...the gift of forgiveness.
Give this gift to yourself and to others.
Jesus modeled forgiveness for us. Think of all those who Jesus forgave; the woman caught in adultery, Peter for denying he knew Jesus, the criminal on the cross...and those who crucified him. The giving of forgiveness brings joy and peace...the withholding of forgiveness brings bitterness.
Today don't let anything get in the way of you forgiving others. If you are withholding forgiveness you are missing a wonderful opportunity to experience joy...and spreading it to other. Make your joy grow today and gain the must-have forgiveness of your Lord for your sins.

Prayer
Dear Father,
Thanks be to You Lord for Your incredible gift of forgiveness. Where would I be without it...buried under a ton of sin and shame. I am so quick to ask for Your Forgiveness Lord...but so slow to forgive others. Help me remember that forgiving others lifts a heavy burden off me...and places me back under the grace of Your forgiveness. I thank You Lord for the many examples of forgiveness demonstrated by Your Son Jesus. I seek to forgive as Jesus forgave...I seek the mind of Christ.
Help me Lord spread Your message about forgiveness.
I pray this through Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price so that my sins may be forgiven - AMEN!

The Truth
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Matthew 6:14-15
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
Mark 11:25
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32

Stepping Stones: Persecution is Draining

Transformational Tip
I grew up in a home with a lot of negativity, judgment, and frequent efforts of emotional manipulation. I would get so angry and so much energy....physically, emotionally, psychologically... went into and was wasted on dealing with these situations. Fighting back in various ways, trying to understand why and where it was coming from, attempts to avoid it, "why me" attitude, all sucked so much life out of me that enjoying childhood was a difficult task for me. Many of us have people in our lives who have or want to hurt us. It ranges from a few hurtful words, manipulation, to lies, cruelty, vindictiveness, and all the way to physical abuse or worse. You have to ask yourself the questions...why me?, how do I make them stop?, what drives them? who are they serving?...who are they trying to make happy? Dealing with such people extracts huge amounts of energy in trying to defend ourselves and/or possible counter attack and retaliation or "getting even" efforts.Today, let God deal with your enemies. We do have a stewardship role and responsibility to address our enemies, but we go overboard. God promises to help the persecuted and bring judgment on those who treat others with cruelty. So focus your energy on what is going on in your heart and mind regarding your enemy. Remember, Satan is the real enemy, not the person. They are just getting used like you are at times by Satan. Pray for them and be on guard... put on the armor for the real battle. If you know someone who is being mistreated, slandered and being attacked by others, send them this devotional. Spread the Word of God to give hope and peace to those in need.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I come to You, Father, in need. I have people in my life who are hurting me, trying to do me harm. My anger rages at the injustice of this. My human natural reaction is for revenge...for getting even. I know this is wrong and against Your Word. I release my enemies into Your care. I pray as David did to "make my enemies be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away"Help me Lord to remember that it is not the opinion of others that I must focus on. Give me strength in the battle against the evil one who wants to use this persecution to pull me away from you, distort my lenses, and sidetrack me with stinky thinking. Help me see myself through Your eyes. I pray in the name of Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. Take up shield and buckler; arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to my soul, "I am your salvation." May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay. May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the LORD driving them away; may their path be dark and slippery, with the angel of the LORD pursuing them.
Psalm 35:1-6
But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
Matthew 5:44

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

Stepping Stones: You Cannot Plan Your Way to Peace

Transformational Tip
My teenage years were not peaceful...I really struggled inside...feeling out of control. One of my favorite and frequent activities was sitting down and making a plan for the next 5 years of my life, one year at a time. Order my outside world, my future, my path...I could plan my way to peace. It took me a while to learn(not in college, medical school, or psychiatry training) this important truth about the brain. God did not design the human mind to figure out the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability. He crafted our minds for continual communication with Him. You will not find peace by engaging in excessive planning and "doing", with futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Excessive planning and doing is a too often practiced form of unbelief.
Today bring all your needs, your hopes and your fears to Your Lord and God. Commit everything into His care. When uneasy, instead of planning, stop, look around at creation and your life and enjoy the moment...bask in God's blessings, love, and amazing grace. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of peace.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
My mind spins with multiple plans. I spend so much time planning because I think it is the pathway to peace. And just when peace appears to be within my reach, it somehow eludes me. Just when I think I have prepared for all possibilities, covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and pushes peace once again beyond my grasp and throws me into another state of confusion.
Help me Father to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, insecurities...I release them into Your care; for I know this is the true pathway to peace. Help me Father to find the next step, and the next, on this pathway of Stepping Stones. I pray to You Father in the name of the Prince of Peace - AMEN!

The Truth
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this:
He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 37:5-7

Stepping Stones: Complaining? Time For A Motive Check!

Transformational Tip
I was in restaurant the other day, the tables were close to each other...it was easy to hear (yes, eavesdrop on) the various groups talking. As I listened I realized there was a distinct pattern across the conversation - complaining. Everyone was complaining about something.
No one wins when you complain. You get all worked up, you keep pulling the scabs off of the sores that need to heal...and your complaining is almost always unwelcomed from those you are complaining to. Complaining to others puts you on dangerous ground. It actually opens the door to deadly sins such as pride, duplicity, laziness, self-pity, lack of forgiveness, bitterness, and rage.
When you look at the past, the goal needs to bring hope to the future. Complaining is not constructive remembering, it is destructive remembering.
Today, if you feel like complaining, talk with God about the difficult path you are on - He understands better than anyone else the stresses and strains that are affecting you. Talking it out with God will temper your thoughts, soothe your feelings, clear your perspective, and help you begin seeing things from His perspective. If you are complaining or listening to complaining, stop and take time to check your motives. Always remember where each of us came from, a sinner saved by grace... and there is a list of people with complaints about you, too.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I have been on a long, uphill journey and my energy is almost depleted. In this state of mind I find myself all too quick to complain to others. I want to live by Your Word Lord...and Your Word teaches me to do everything without complaining. Help me Lord to bring my complaints only to You. Help to not ridicule others by complaining about them. Help me Lord to develop and maintain a thankful heart. I pray Lord that You help me send the message to others, in a gentle loving way, that complaining is wasteful and counterproductive. Help me lead them to You. I pray in Jesus' name - AMEN!

The Truth
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe
Philippians 2:14-15
I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint
Jeremiah 31:25

Stepping Stones: Do Fish Need Love?

Transformational Tip
Most of mankind's misery stems from one condition; feeling unloved. Many of our dysfunctional behaviors are geared to get love, numb or escape the hurt of not being loved, substitute for the love we don't feel by "loving" ourselves (pride), or loving other things(sports, work, sex, food, shopping, insert your vice) to vicariously feel or try to get love. In the midst of our storms, we tend to feel that somehow love has been withdrawn and that we have been forsaken...and this is exactly where Satan, the Great Deceiver, wants us. This feeling of abandonment is often worse than the storm itself. Love to us is like water to fish; we need it to surround us... we need it to navigate life...we need it to feed us.... We need it to breathe....we need it to LIVE! Have you ever seen a fish out of water? Floundering, flapping, gasping.
When you feel unloved, abandoned; turn to God's Holy Scripture. Today's Scripture reading is what I believe to be the most comforting promise in all of scripture. It assures us that we will never be alone; "Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God." Who do you believe, Satan's lies or God's promise?
Today, be aware of God's love for you imagining the love in the best fairy tale you can remember (yes guys, you can do this, too). If you are struggling, or doing well, remember that fairy tale, and look around to see and feel God's love for YOU! Tell someone today who is close to you that you love them...and that God loves them more.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I come to You today with such a thankful heart. Thankful for Your love and for Your promise and assurance that nothing can separate me from Your love. I pray Lord that You let this divine assurance trickle through my mind, body and spirit...to trickle into my heart and soul. In this action-addicted world, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find time alone with You, but when I do, I feel Your love. Help this day bring awareness to those that I love...even to strangers...that they are loved.
In the name of love personified, Jesus Christ, AMEN!

The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
...which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
Ephesians 1:20-21
Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
Psalm 63:3

Stepping Stones: Todays Homework Brings Tomorrows Reward!

Transformational Tip
How easy it is to "lose heart." We have all faced storms and problems; in relationships, in our jobs...how many times have you thought about just quitting...just walking off the job? In the midst of Paul's most troublesome times he decides to focus on his inner strength which comes from the Holy Spirit.
Don't let fatigue, pain, judgment and criticism from others force you off the job.
Today renew your commitment to serving Christ. Don't forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation.
Think of your problems as having purpose. Someone wrote to us recently with a very simple prayer to pray while in the midst of a life storm; "Dear God, please do not let these tears be wasted." Think of the many benefits of our human limitations and problems; they remind us of Christ suffering for us; they keep pride away; they provide the opportunity to look beyond this brief life; they allow us to demonstrate our faith to others...and they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His awesome power.
Today, think about how complacent and prideful you would be if everything went your way. Then, during a setback or struggle today, remember a school assignment, athletic training, or arts preparation you had that was difficult and painful, but eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today's homework or training exercise, do it with excellence, and be excited for our perfect Teacher/Coach is training us for the coolest trophy and reward!

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I come to you today as a fearful follower. As Paul writes, I do feel as if I am wasting away...most days lately I feel as if I am loosing heart. By reading Your word today I see where I have been going wrong; I have been looking only at what I can see, and what I can see is only temporary. Father, help me today fix my eyes and heart on what is unseen, for I know that what is unseen is eternal. Help me today to see my problems as opportunities, for Your Word has taught me that when I am at my weakest, I really am my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let my troubles today diminish my faith in You. Please let my very weakness allow the resurrection power of Jesus Christ to strengthen me moment by moment.
I pray in need and through Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Cor. 4:16-18
You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
John 13:13
He who teaches man knowledge--the LORD--knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath. Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked.
Psalm 94:10-13

Stepping Stones: The Battlefield Is Our Mind

Transformational Tip
We were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great spiritual battle. Every day all the forces of good and evil, heaven and hell, God and Satan collide. You have experienced and witnessed this warfare.
Today's scripture are words spoken by Jesus...he makes the choices so obvious, so clear. So few of us face this fact; I know I'm guilty of not reminding myself each day that I'm in the middle of spiritual warfare.
Yes, there is a thief out there...he comes only to steal and destroy. And he's not interesting in taking a few things and be gone - he wants it all; your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships - everything. Satan's main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies and trying to affect Jesus' decisions.
But it's the second part of Jesus' sentence we need to focus on. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. However, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need face into the fact...every day...that you are smack dab in the middle of this war. Just like Jesus used the BIBLE to be His lenses and the reference for accurate decision-making, that's what we need to use.
Jesus' offer to us is life, but you better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side is your greatest enemy.
It's not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.
Today, stop yourself when tempted to stray and calm yourself with God's word and Jesus' promise of abundant life so you don't take Satan's lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you want to alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them...pray for them.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I choose life! Thank You Father for providing such a beautiful alternative; life. I ask for Your help Father God, I need Your help to face into the fact that I am in the middle of spiritual warfare...and to help me remember that You sent Your son so that I may have abundant life. I have seen what this enemy is capable Lord; in my life and in the lives of others. I pray that You help me and the Stepping Stones praying community accept the fact that there is an enemy out there trying to steal all we have...to destroy and kill. Help me Lord as a father to protect my children from this theif; to protect all those I love.
I pray in need and through Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
John 10:10
And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread."
But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple
and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'"
Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'"
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.
And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me."
Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, "'You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.'"
Matthew 4:3-10
My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
Proverbs 1:10

Stepping Stones: The Divine Alchemist

Transformational Tip
Alchemy is an ancient practice of combining common, cheap substances and transforming them into something of value. One who practices Alchemy is called an Alchemist. So many of us suffer from the belief that we have nothing of value to share with others...or with our God. We feel it is a waste.
Nothing is wasted when it is shared with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can glean joy out of sorrow...peace out of adversity. Your God delights in transforming His Children.
Today bring your sorrow, sadness and brokenness to God. Release them into his care and keeping. He will not only heal your brokenness...He will give you a new dream - one that is in perfect harmony with His plans for you. To do this, give up one of your needs and instead, turn to depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him to bring this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence.
Only your best friend and the King of Kings could accomplish this Divine Alchemy.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I am so blessed to call you my friend. I pray to You Father that you help me share more and more of my life with You. I believe You and only You can bring beauty out of my lost dreams...out of my sorrow. I confess Father that as I try and bring my junk to you for transformation - I get stuck in my self-pity; my brokenness and my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You place on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes. I know You are the Divine Alchemist.
I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ - AMEN

The Truth
He has sent me to bind the brokenhearted...and provide for those who grieve in Zion - to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:2-3
Jesus looked at them and said; "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Matthew 19:26

Stepping Stones: His Light Shines Brightest In the Dark

Transformational Tip
Growing in God's grace is all about trusting Him above all else; and particularly in the darkness. When you are in the dark, reach for His hand with confidence. Turn to Him; not to hollow earthly solutions and addictions. Reaching for His hand in the dark is a display of magnificent trust and greatly weakens spiritual forces of evil, the very forces that have created your darkness in the first place.
When your world is dark and you trust God, His light will shine brightly through you for all to see...for His light shines brightest in the dark.
Today, If you are in the dark and feel on the brink of giving up, cry out for His assistance and pray: "Help me Holy Spirit." Really look for the hand that is reaching out for you....it is there. This brief prayer is a beautiful display of trust and a simple way to tap into His vast power.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I am completely in the dark today - scared, disoriented - don't know which way to turn. Help me God, help me Holy Spirit. You have designed me to seek light...I crave all kind of light; sunlight, even artificial light...but especially the light of Your holy presence. I want to walk in Your light Father. It is easy for me to trust You when there is plenty of light in my world. But trusting You in my darkness is another matter. But I am desperate Lord, I am reaching for You in the dark. I know Lord that Your light shines brightest in the dark. I pray that even in times when I cannot see the illumination of Your light, that Your light shining through me is visible to those around me. I pray in need through Your Son - AMEN!

The Truth
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin
1 John 1:7
Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.
Psalm 139:10

Stepping Stones: What Is In Your Vessel?

Transformational Tip
A banner add came across my screen yesterday as I was using the internet; "10 ways to be happier in 2 minutes or less." Wow, what a deal. I would really like to know how many people clicked onto that add in search of the quick-hit happiness.
Why is happiness so fleeting? When we do find it...why does it leave us so quickly? Scripture tells us that God created us as earthen vessels; but I believe I am such a leaky container that I can never really get filled and stay filled; I need to be filled over and over again.
While we are earthen vessels, God designed us to fill our vessel with heavenly content...to fill our vessels with Him.
Where do you go to "fill-up?" What do you put in your vessel?
Today, remain in the presence of Your God. He is anxious and ready to fill you with His Glory-gifts. But this takes time...do not rush this process. Do not rush in and grab cheap sale items in the bin in the front of the store and make a quick exit. Go to the back of the store where the valuable items that take more commitment to "buy" are kept and patiently pursue quality that lasts. Stay with Him awhile today and experience the awesome privilege of communing with Your Lord and King.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
Without You my emptiness is profound. I know that I am an earthen vessel...and a leaky one at that. I need to be filled and refilled with You my Father. Please fill me with Your love, joy and peace. Because Your gifts leak out of me, I need your continual presence...I need You endlessly for renewal.
I have been empty for so long Father...for as long as I can remember. I always knew that I was a leaky vessel. I saw myself as a defect...a mistake. But I rejoice in the awareness that I am not a mistake...that this is exactly how You made me...to keep me looking at You, coming to You for renewal. Thank You Father. All praise and glory be to You.
I pray father that You also fill me with Your Holy Spirit...the most precious treasure of all. Fill me with Your holy scripture. As You fill me with Your gifts, let Your beautiful light shine through me like a Lighthouse to other people's lives. Let me do Your work today Lord, in ways that I don't even understand. I pray in need and through Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
However, we possess this precious treasure (the divine light of the Gospel) in (frail, human) vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves.
2 Corinthians 4:7
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven
Matthew 5:16

Stepping Stones: Through Grandma's Eyes, or God's?

Transformation Tip
When I go to grandma's house, she pinches my cheeks, calls me junior, makes me 2 huge sandwiches, and buys me sugar pops for breakfast....she sees me like I am 8 yo still. It is very hard to see myself accurately, as a 46 you adult professional husband and father when I am getting 8 yo feedback and lenses that are being placed over my eyes. How do you see yourself? If you are looking through your own eyes, chances are you will not like what you see. Satan, the Great Deceiver, wants us to see ourselves as alone, unloved, unwanted, unable to tolerate pain, needing his quick fix for our problems. Try seeing yourself through the clearest, most accurate lenses of all, the eyes of God...see yourself as someone who is deeply loved and protected. Healing, comfort, and peace our abundantly provided. Immerse yourself in God's word and see just how much he loves you. He offers us more love, peace, wisdom and protection than we can get from Satan's world system.
Today, look in the mirror and compare your base, knee-jerk view of yourself. Then, while in the bathroom, read Luke 1:26 - 2:21(the Christmas Story) and John 18, 19 20(Easter story)... don't say "I know these stories, I can skip the reading"...read them, it is short. Use this to see yourself thru God's lenses.

Prayer
Dear Father, You are the peak of all my desires and all my hopes. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last: who is, and was, and is to come. You have brought so many pleasures and blessings into my life. Thank You Jesus. I receive Your gifts with open arms, but help me my God to not cling to these gifts. At times I cling to the gifts and am fearful that I might lose them, but what a peaceful thought to know that the only thing I absolutely need is the one thing I can never lose: Your presence in me. Thank You Jesus.
Today I try to see myself through Your eyes my God. Through Your eyes I see myself as someone who is deeply loved and protected by Your presence which safely shields me from all evil. I pray in Jesus' Holy name - AMEN!

The Truth
"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."
Revelation 1:8
Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
Psalm 62:5-8

Stepping Stones: Where Is Your Brain Remote Control?

Transformational Tip
I was a Star Trek maniac as a kid...just the original...Kirk and Spock were the dynamic duo of the universe. Well that's a future devotional. I loved the episodes where they went back in time and did something that affected the future...their present... usually messing up their lives or the world. Then they had to figure out how to go back and make everything right again so their present and future would be OK. So often we're like that, spending a lot of time thinking about what we could change about our past so our lives would be better now. Forget what is behind you and focus on what is ahead. Take the stepping stones, one at a time toward the prize which has already been won for you. Remember that even in this imperfect world, any progress in moving toward a Christ-like life is perfect progress.
Today, when a derogatory thought, generated by your past comes up, grab the remote control for your brain and switch to the channel broadcasting Jesus' victory over sin and death, and the freedom His resurrection brings you now and in the future. Do you know where your brain remote control is?

Prayer
Dear God my Father,
Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves me drained and discouraged. I feel that I am so far from being a perfect Christian that I will never be able to please You with my life. During these times when I feel discouraged I am so thankful for Your message to me through Paul as he spoke to the Philippians. Help me today Lord to remember that You paid the price for my sinfulness, and remind me to forget what is behind me and to focus on grabbing the prize that's within reach for which You have called me. I know that I am not a perfect Christian, but I also know that any progress I make to get closer to You is perfect progress. Help me today my God to act on the guidance that you have already given me through the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' victorious name I pray - AMEN!

The Truth
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
The path of life leads upward for the prudent, that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.
Proverbs 15:24

Stepping Stones: Are You Waking Up?

Transformational Tip
When you set out to know your God more intimately, He rejoices but he is not surprised. If you are waking up, it's because He has awakened in your heart the strong desire for you to know Him. While this longing burns brightly in your heart, remember it originated in Him. Know that God has been pursuing you long before your quest began. If you think it is your spiritual discipline that keeps you close to God, you are at risk. If you depend on your own efforts to stay close to God you will for sure to find times where you are distant from Him. But if you rely on Him - what he has done and what he is doing - you know His love for you will be always pursuing and ever assured.
Today, Thank your Lord for awakening in your heart the strong desire for Him. Take 2 separate breaks and search your heart, looking for what God is asking you to loosen your grip on so you can grab the hand He extends to you. The weight on your shoulders will tangibly lighten.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
Thank You for awakening me and placing in my heart this strong desire for You. Before You woke me I tried to find life in so many different places. I tried so hard to fill the void - and many times I filled it with sinful ways. Forgive me Lord. I realize now that I have thirsted for You as far back in time as I can remember. I know now that my desire for a closer walk with You grew out of all the work You have done in me. I know You have initiated this longing I have for You...and I know my response now pleases You. Help me Lord set aside time and use the remote control for my mind each day to engage with You, my living God. In Jesus' ultimate awakening - AMEN!

The Truth
My soul thirst for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?
Psalm 42:2
I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:5

Stepping Stones: Do Not Fear His Will

Transformational Tip
I have admitted to myself recently that I actually fear the will of God. I have a fear that totally aligning my life with the will of God will actually cause me pain. And then I realized my mistake; my fear response was a natural response and many times natural responses are not the best. One of Satan's greatest lies is getting us to believe God's way is costly and Satan's or our natural, fleshly way is on sale, cheaper, less costly. Satan's ways will always and immediately result in spiritual, psychological, and physiological(actual brain and heart) damage.
The Word of God continually calls us to transcend living...to go beyond what is natural to what is supernatural. God's will is so much deeper than our understanding. And though His will may entail sacrifice and pain, remember that His will not only does what is good for us...it does what is best for us.
Through God's will He will accomplish what is best for you.
Today, practice submission to authority. Stop at every stop sign, don't go over the speed limit, pass up that cookie or extra serving, go to bed at the right time, don't look at the cleavage, hold your tongue, look to serve your spouse, and write a thank you letter to the King of the Universe who is giving you and your life special attention, guidance, and instruction. Take a deep breath and dive into the depths of absolute trust in Him. Live by faith...not by sight.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I confess Father that while I pray for Your Will to be done, I am often afraid at what this will actually entail. I know that at times Your Will includes discomfort and sometimes even pain. When I am hurting; physically, emotionally, spiritually - I search for ways to relieve or escape my pain. The escape becomes my focus as I obsess about how I will relieve the pain, and not how do I connect with you and receive Your answers to my problems. I pray to You Father to help me really believe that Your way is perfect. In Your perfect son's name, JESUS CHRIST - AMEN!

The Truth
As for God, his way is perfect...He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
2 Samuel 22:31
We live by faith, not by sight
2 Corinthians 5:7
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Proverbs 3:5-8

Stepping Stones: Spiritual Surgury

Transformational Tip
We live in an age of entitlement; everyone thinks they deserve more. You must constantly counteract the barrage of propaganda telling you you need more...deserve more. A good way of leaning against such lies and to be more thankful is to learn to see everything from God's perspective. Let this world become your classroom. Let His Word become a lamp to your feet and a light for your path.
It's almost impossible to have a thankful heart when you are in a constant state of wanting. A way to reverse this is to saturate your mind with Scripture: read it, think about it, and memorize portions of it. This will allow you to see things from His perspective.
Today, make a list of all the blessings you really do have in your life. To help spur thought, think of those that are disabled, in third world situations, are oppressed, or have gone through serious events. Then list why you deserve...I mean actually deserve... that blessing. Give thanks for the blessings and go to the His word to cut deep to your entitlement. Remember that His word is sharper than any double edged sword. Let Him use it to do spiritual surgery on the thoughts and attitudes of your mind and soul.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I ask that You set me free from the prison of ingratitude that I have created for myself. Release me from this prison so that I may enjoy the pleasures of a thankful heart. You allowed Your Son to enter this world as an infant...knowing the price he would have to pay. Thank You Father. I understand why You sent Your Son Jesus to us...You sent Him to"to open the eyes of the blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness." Open my eyes Lord. I pray that Your Holy Spirit fill me with the gift to understand and spread You Holy Word. Give me a perspective-lift today; help me to see things from Your perspective. I pray to You with confidence in the name of Your Son and my savior Jesus Christ.

The Truth
To open the eyes of the blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness
Isaiah 42:7
Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path
Psalm 119:105
For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Stepping Stones: My Best For His Glory

Transformational Tip
In Philippians 1:20 it is like Paul is saying; "My determined purpose is to be my best for His glory. "...whether by life or death", Paul was determined to let nothing stand in his way from doing exactly what God wanted.
What will it take to for you to choose to follow God's will?
I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to follow God's will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. Maybe this happens because we are so unresponsive to God's gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory, the debate within us begins. And when the crisis hits we must decide...for or against? For there is no middle ground. That moment, the moment of deciding for or against is the greatest crossroads we face in our daily battles.
Today, when adversity comes into your life...on any front...surrender your will to God and you will find peace and freedom. This happens by asking, "what need of mine is out trumping or competing with God's instruction, will, promises, character?" then make a willful decision to follow His will. This glorifies Him, and is best for you as you actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically...your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal You message to me in a way that I understand and can live out daily. I feel very much ashamed that I have not yielded those areas of my life that You have asked of me. I want to live a life so that in no way I am ashamed. Help me Lord shut out everything that keeps me from doing my very best for Your glory. I actually find my limitations liberating when my strongest desire is to do my best for Your glory. Thank You Lord for the freedom this provides, for Your word tells me that where the Your Spirit is, there is freedom.
In Christ's glorious name, AMEN!

The Truth
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Peter 3:18

Stepping Stones: Where Are You Looking?

Transformational Tip
What are you looking for? More important question is, "Where are you looking?"
You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking at God. God's message sent through His prophet Isaiah is so simple yet so profound; "Look to me and be saved." This certainly applies to our eternal need...but it also applies to every other suffering, need, or wayward path we take. We grow up and are pushed to learn how to take care of ourselves. From learning to hold our bottle, walking to get our toy, feeding ourselves, doing our homework, taking the SAT's, going out to college or work... so many milestones to become an independent functioning adult. The downside is we develop the habit of putting our confidence in ourselves or others opinions of how we are doing, rather than GOD. Looking to God, His character, promises, instruction...that's what gives us confidence to pursue the right things...to make the Godly decisions that are sometimes hard. When our confidence is in ourselves or others opinions, the power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts/pains is minimal and patterns of struggle in our lives will result.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, "where am I getting the confidence from to make that decision or soothe the pain?"
Is confidence coming from your skills, insights, intellect, attributes, power? Or from God? Confidence centered in Him will save you in today's battles and discomfort.
Look to God and salvation is yours.
Click on the "Spiritual Basic" link below...and then click on "Salvation"

Prayer
Dear Father God,
You are indeed an awesome God. Who but You could be all places at all times? It amazes me to think that One as great as You care about the many details of my life...but You do. When I think about these glorious truths...and when I turn to you I feel safe in knowing I will never be alone again. Help me Lord to look at You, to keep You before me always, to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise I fall back into my default mode of straining as if all outcomes were totally up to me, and rested on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that works, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ's name - AMEN!

The Truth
"Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other."
Isaiah 45:22
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16
which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:15-17

Stepping Stones: Look Inwardly With Courage

Transformational Tip
As Christians, our goal must be to be fully utilized by God. This can only happen after we allow Him to show us the deep, hidden areas of our own character. To do so requires the courage to look inwardly. We are so quick to diagnose and judge others...let us take that energy and time to examine ourselves. It's astounding how ignorant we are about our true selves. We rarely recognize the distortions, laziness, envy, and pride held within us. We must dump the idea that we understand ourselves...the only one who truly understands and knows us is God.
To look inwardly you need alone time with God. When only through God's lenses, can you see your misguided desires and affections...and all those things that keep you from Him.
Today, take some time to ask yourself, "what outranked God... what was more important to me than pleasing God, than keeping the Holy Spirit on the throne of my life?" when you examine an area of temptation or a wrong decision you made today or recently. Really doing heart diagnostics can be painful, but courageously being honest with yourself will open the door to reaping the fruit of the spirit and growing the mind of Christ.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so thankful that You are God with us - constantly and eternally. This fact alone is sufficient to fill my days and nights with joy...thank You my Lord. Sadly though my mind slips out of focus and I begin looking outwardly at the broken world around me. I know by Your Word that I learn and grow in You best when I am alone with You. I desire this time alone with You Lord; please help me push away all the distractions that keep me from being alone with You. When we are alone, I ask that You give me the courage to look deeply inside myself; let me be honest with myself so that I may be honest and open with You. Give me your lenses to see my core accurately. I pray to You in the name of Your Son Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
...when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
Mark 4:34
Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!
Psalm 139:23-24
All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "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 1:22-23

Stepping Stones: Keep A Constant Look-Out

Transformational Tip
If you trust in God, then you should believe that he prepares each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God.
Writing a book is hard...trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate. That's a lot of pressure and responsibility! Just being an actor in the story is so much easier...give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don't take the role -headaches and stress - of author by trying to fill up the blank page of your day, instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God...do it on their own, be in charge of our story. Try to live responsively...meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty; God's sovereignty (power, control, autonomy, authority) over the universe.
Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look out for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises.

Prayer
Dear Father,
You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life - discovering what You are doing and responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know Lord that there is a part of me that likes to be in control...call the shots. Please teach me Lord the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me Lord form all forms of distraction that hampers my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence through Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5

Stepping Stones: Intimacy Needs Receptivity and Attentiveness

Transformational Tip
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them....by blood, marriage or spiritually. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically, means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are willingness to open up and share our core, everything, be vulnerable with the other, and also openness and awareness of what the other is communicating to us. God searches for those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure...those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God's abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part... opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it's our turn.
Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven't been receptive to God's grace, love, forgiveness, instruction. Why? What would you have to give up to let Him in that area and for you to change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Try and focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
You are truly a God who gives and gives and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; he poured out his life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; thank You Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness...knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire.
I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17
I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3

Stepping Stones: Waiting On Him, He'll Speak

Transformational Tip
To wait on God means directing your attention to Him in hopeful, knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with ever part of your being instead of trying to figure out things on your own. God has designed you to wait on Him...all day...every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar has trouble tuning in to His communication to us.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs, or it isn't clear what you should do. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him, read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond....rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. His holy Word tells us that He will make known to you the path of life. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I confess that one of my many short comings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You...for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You've designed for me. I know that waiting on You enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26
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
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11

Stepping Stones: Does the World Make You Dizzy?

Transformational Tip

On the playground, there was a ride that was a bout 15 feet in diameter and you could spin it really fast. It was a lot of fun whizzing around, but then I would be really dizzy. One day, I was told to fix my eyes on a certain point(a tree was easiest) while you are spinning around and I didn't get dizzy anymore. The world is changing faster than we can measure...that's an understatement. It is a time of instability, yet we have this yearning for permanence; for that eternal, invisible reality. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It will keep us from getting distracted then dizzy spinning around the merry-go-round of life. A lot of times we feel permanence is too predictable, expected, conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, new, different, unique is more desirable, exciting and soothing. Interesting though when we go on vacation, we don't sleep as well, have some GI upset, need a nap, feel a little discombobulated, and then come back home and don't feel rested. Lots of people bring sleeping pills, tums, or other GI meds to help get them through vacation. It's because we are out of our routine. We lose site of what is steady and true.
Today, if and when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the only place where you will find a firm place to stand. Know He has stood the test of time, is dependable and wants to stabilize your mind and heart. Turn to the one who never changes, your Lord. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective.

Prayer
Dear Father,
I know that in this time of unrelenting change that You are the one who never changes...You are the Alpha and the Omega. Sometimes my head spins with all the changes in the world going on around me. The more I focus on the changes the more unsteady I become. While I long for stability and permanence I know I will not find it in this world. I turn to You Father. I know only You can give me a firm place to stand. Draw near to me and my seeking heart.
I pray in the name of the Rock of my Salvation, Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life."
Revelation 21:6
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2

Stepping Stones: Divide Your Pain, Multiply Your Joy

Transformational Tip
Most of us are so selective about which parts we bring to God. We hesitate to bring traits that we consider shameful....partly because we actually believe He doesn't see them, and partly because we are ashamed to even think about it again. Some of us are so used to living with pain, feeling loneliness, guilt, fear - that it never occurs to us to ask for help in dealing with these things. We assume help is not available and that pain is an unavoidable part of life. For some, they seem to believe there are degree of difficulty points(like diving) for overcoming the most hardship...for others, pain of some kind has been such an integral part of their growing up, that in a weird way, it is hard for them to navigate life without the pain. We get so preoccupied with our struggles, why they are there, and how to dig out, that we forget that God is even there and can provide help.
There are hurting parts of you that God desires to heal. However some of them have been with you so long they have become part of your identity. Sometimes you are so addicted to certain painful patterns that you cannot break free from them. Only repeatedly exposing them to God's healing presence will bring you long term freedom.
Today, turn to your Lord when you are hurting; he will share and reduce your pain. Remember, the Bible is a book about suffering, our spiritual suffering, and how God loved us so much and miraculously provided a way for ultimate healing. He also has many promises for the smaller sufferings we experience. Turn to the Lord when you are in pain and rejoice in these circumstances as He is with you and has a joy, peace, and comfort, as well as a message for you He is communicating through the pain.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so grateful to you Lord that I can come to you not matter what condition I am in...just as I am. Thank You Father. I am relieved that I don't have to "clean up my act" before I come to You; you already know the worst about me. When I am hurting I want to be with someone who understands me without condemning me. When I am happy I delight in being with someone who loves me enough to celebrate with me. I pray that You help me bring more and more of myself to You.
I pray this and all prayers in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
Psalm 126:3
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Romans 8:1
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10

Stepping Stones: Change the Channel, Tune to WGOD!

Transformational Tip
When you want to know what is going on in a school system, you go to the authority... the one who's in charge of the programs and devise the policies. You don't go to the third graders, get their reports and take them as the all encompassing views and truths of what is going on. We also don't let them determine the strategies and methods to educate our society. The media is like the third graders in both understanding and authority. The media relentlessly proclaim bad news for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This steady diet of their fare can sicken you. Instead of focusing on their fickle, ever-changing bad-news broadcasts, tune into the living Word - the one who is always the same. He is the authority, all-knowing one we need to pursue for explanations, comfort, and wisdom.
Turn the tube off early tonight and pick up your Bible. Let the Holy Scripture saturate your mind and heart...this will help you walk steadily, step by step along the path of life. Even though you do not know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure He is walking side by side with you and of your ultimate destination.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am full of fear today. I am in the midst of another storm. I turn to Your Word and I find assurance. I pray that the assurance which comes from Your Word soak into my mind and heart until I overflow with Your Joy, not my fleshly fear. I know that peace is Your continual gift to me; thank You Lord. I know that You have designed me to need You moment by moment. It is when I take my eyes off You that fear and anxiety creep into my life. I approach Your throne of grace with confidence and trust and ask for Your peace. AMEN

The Truth
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:39
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
Psalm 46:2

Stepping Stones: Joyous Duty

Transformational Tip
Your greatest calling and duty is devotion to God. This duty is such a luxury that it should feel like a "Joyous Duty." The world is working hard to squeeze you into it's mold and to crowd out any time devoted to God. The merry-go-round of life just goes faster and faster...rarely slowing down... never stopping. This world wants you to feel guilty about spending time with God. Do not let that happen! God wants to spend time with you, and wants you to spend time with Him. When we spend time with Him, it excites Him and also does wonders for our state of mind, well-being, and understanding of life. It's good for us, and He knows that, that's one of the reasons why He commands us to worship Him only. When you pick other distractions to spend your time and mental currency on, God might have to do something to those distractions to refocus your eyes and devotion on Him. Don't wait for God to take action to redirect you, take action now.
Today, push back the boundaries of your life to make time alone with your Lord and focus on what it means to be the child of the everlasting King. Rejoice, the King always has a special invitation to spend time, one on one, just with you.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I confess that the ways of the world have warped my conscience...this world tries to punish me for doing the very things that please You the most. Let me hear Your voice Lord...let me hear Your voice above the clamor of voices trying to distract me. I know that You work in perfect Harmony with Your Holy Spirit; I pray that Your Holy Spirit helps calm my mind. Help me be still and attentive in Your presence, for I know I am on holy ground.

The Truth
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.
Romans 8:15-16

"Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
Exodus 3:5

Stepping Stones: We Have A Light Bulb!

Transformational Tip
My mother taught me and my siblings the power and value of having a grateful heart. I am the second oldest of 14 children, all from the same mother and father. I have a warm childhood memory of a particular lesson taught by my mother.
I grew up in the time where you got free light bulbs each time you paid your electric bill. Many times we were not able to pay the bill, so we were always short on light bulbs. I remember the times (seems like most of the time) when we only had one light bulb for the entire house. During the early evening hours that bulb would burn in the kitchen...the center of all activity. When bedtime came around we had a ritual; my mother would reach up, using her apron to shield the heat from her hand, unscrew that light bulb and bring it upstairs and put it in the hallway. As she would reach up to get the bulb in the kitchen, all her little children (like chicks to the mother hen) would gather around her, grabbing onto her house dress and begin the shuffle to and up the stairs in the dark. I remember vividly during each of those journeys my mother teaching us how grateful we should be because we had a light bulb. She told us about all the children in the world that didn't have a light bulb, and so that began our bed-time prayer. "Dear God, thank you for this light bulb."
My mother had so many reasons to be sad, depressed...to complain. But she never complained. I and my siblings were so blessed to have a mother who believed deeply in God. She taught us all from an early age that the seeds of depression will not take root in a grateful heart.
For the next few days take account of the many blessings you have...big and small. It is easy for us to become complacent or start to take God's care, love, provision, and sacrifice for granted. Make the effort to put on Godly lenses allowing you to develop and maintain a grateful heart.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so spoiled. I have everything I need and yet I always want more. I seemed to always find something to complain about. For give me Lord.
Help me today and everyday to focus on all the blessings you have given me, and especially for the adversities that you lovingly use to grow me. Thank You for the shelter of my home, a bed to sleep in...for all the light bulbs in this house. I know that gratitude enables me to perceive You more closely and clearly and to rejoice in our love-relationship.
I know Father that I will never be in control of all my life's circumstances...but I relax in the fact that You are in control...and for that I am eternally grateful.
I pray this and all prayers through my savior, Your son Jesus Christ - AMEN

The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Psalm 56:3