Transformational Thought
During President Clinton’s dark time, a news reporter tried to pull George Bush, Sr., the previous President, into a Clinton-bashing session. Bush offered only two powerful words: “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, as anybody can say anything to mislead, pose, or evade the truth, intentionally or unintentionally. Character is about how we actually live our lives, not what we tell people we would do in a given situation. What we actually do, our outward behavior, reveals the attitudes and motivators in our heart.
Anybody can wear a mask to hide the true nature of what is on the inside. This makes it difficult to know, rely on, or trust someone. But this is where pressure, stress, life’s storms, and adversity come into play and show their value. You see, it is much more difficult to put on a mask in the midst of challenging circumstances … it’s often during those storms that people’s true colors are revealed. What’s exposed either makes us interesting and more attractive, or reveals some inner ugliness!
Pressure and adversity push what’s inside us up to the surface. Storms reveal whether our coping mechanisms are mature or immature. Most importantly, difficulties cut through all the layers to expose who is on the throne of our heart, God or self. We have talked many times about how decision-making gets very warped when me-centered propaganda is the basis of decisions, and that is a hallmark of “poor character.”
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 through the adversity, shining His glory to others to guide them through their storms. Then practice the Decision-Making skills we teach in WITHIN REACH.
Today, take notice when things don’t go your way. What does your behavior reveal about the character of your heart? What is your knee-jerk response? If you acted on the first thought that came to mind, what would you learn about your heart? You can build character, but it will take intentionality and practice. Better to practice building character, because otherwise you practice being a me-centered slug by default. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, Thank You, God, for the opportunities You give me to grow in Your strength through my difficulties. I pray that You help me develop character that pleases You and allows me to be an example of a good 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 seem to be the norm for me rather than the exception. Help me, Father, to use them 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; and all God’s children say - 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."
1 Samuel 16:7
Monday, August 22, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Giving Others Power Over You?
Transformational Thought
We have been discussing forgiveness for several days: why we avoid it, what it is, what it isn’t, and why it is important. Today, I will tell you about the aspect of forgiveness that pushed me to really forgive even though it seemed hard to. 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 would hurt more than me.
To satisfy my competitive nature, I needed something from them. For them to admit they were wrong, or take responsibility for their action, maybe feel some significant pain or suffer a consequence as penance for their transgression against me, or for them to make the hurt all better. Do you realize the problem this mindset made for me? My happiness, relief, or comfort depended on the other person doing “something.”
Therefore, I was giving my “rivals” power over me, because they could withhold the “something” that I needed as long as they wanted. My need for “something” from them made me dependent on them … what they wanted and would do. I had trouble seeing the relationship with them clearly and moving forward because I still needed “something” from them so I could be content.
Bitterness, inferiority, fear, rage, nervousness, injustice, revenge, insecurity, anxiety and many other uneasy feelings would course through me when I saw or thought of my rivals or transgressors. Many of my behaviors inflicted pain on them, pushed them to see how they wronged me, or exerted some superiority over them so I could extract my payment from them, directly or indirectly. Finally, I realized how much power and influence over me I was granting them. I figured out I didn’t want to give them that power, but also, that I don’t handle that power that well. So, I decided to give the power over 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. Then I can follow God’s instructions to me and do my job, managing myself, not others.
Today, try to identify people who have power over you, or who negatively dominate your thought world. Chances are you haven’t really forgiven some of them and still need “something” from them so you can move forward. Think why you need that “something”. 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 that you can’t move on without? WITHIN REACH will help you access the Holy Spirit so you can forgive others. Your choice whether you will give them power over you or not, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, thanks for helping me learn how 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 and not worry about what others will or will not do. Help me see the evil one as the real enemy, and not think my transgressor is the enemy. I pray in the name of Jesus and His forgiving blood; and all God’s children say - 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
We have been discussing forgiveness for several days: why we avoid it, what it is, what it isn’t, and why it is important. Today, I will tell you about the aspect of forgiveness that pushed me to really forgive even though it seemed hard to. 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 would hurt more than me.
To satisfy my competitive nature, I needed something from them. For them to admit they were wrong, or take responsibility for their action, maybe feel some significant pain or suffer a consequence as penance for their transgression against me, or for them to make the hurt all better. Do you realize the problem this mindset made for me? My happiness, relief, or comfort depended on the other person doing “something.”
Therefore, I was giving my “rivals” power over me, because they could withhold the “something” that I needed as long as they wanted. My need for “something” from them made me dependent on them … what they wanted and would do. I had trouble seeing the relationship with them clearly and moving forward because I still needed “something” from them so I could be content.
Bitterness, inferiority, fear, rage, nervousness, injustice, revenge, insecurity, anxiety and many other uneasy feelings would course through me when I saw or thought of my rivals or transgressors. Many of my behaviors inflicted pain on them, pushed them to see how they wronged me, or exerted some superiority over them so I could extract my payment from them, directly or indirectly. Finally, I realized how much power and influence over me I was granting them. I figured out I didn’t want to give them that power, but also, that I don’t handle that power that well. So, I decided to give the power over 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. Then I can follow God’s instructions to me and do my job, managing myself, not others.
Today, try to identify people who have power over you, or who negatively dominate your thought world. Chances are you haven’t really forgiven some of them and still need “something” from them so you can move forward. Think why you need that “something”. 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 that you can’t move on without? WITHIN REACH will help you access the Holy Spirit so you can forgive others. Your choice whether you will give them power over you or not, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, thanks for helping me learn how 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 and not worry about what others will or will not do. Help me see the evil one as the real enemy, and not think my transgressor is the enemy. I pray in the name of Jesus and His forgiving blood; and all God’s children say - 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
Friday, August 19, 2011
Stepping Stones: Biblical Forgiveness vs. Forgiveness Myths
Transformational Thought
The last couple days we have talked about persecution and forgiveness, two very important and complex topics. As a psychiatrist, I see many misunderstandings or myths about what Biblical forgiveness actually is. Myths like, 1. Forgiving is forgetting; 2. Forgiving is starting with a clean slate like nothing ever happened; 3. Forgiving is trusting just as you did before the transgression; 4. Forgiving is never bringing up the incident again. These are some common misconceptions about forgiveness that I hear from peers, people in ministry, and patients.
Some principles from the Bible:
1. God never forgets. He is omniscient. Myth 1 busted.
2. God took David’s and Moses’ sins into account long after their sins, therefore no clean slate. Myth 2 busted.
3. God only trusts us as far as our skill set and reliance on Him, as evidenced by our past track record (spiritual maturity) allows. Myth 3 and 4 busted.
Let’s look at an example of a husband who has an affair. It is important to not forget the incident happened because a lot of work needs to be done to figure out why it happened and how to ensure it doesn’t happen again. You can’t act as if nothing happened because the husband obviously has some deficits and areas of temptation and needs to be safeguarded and held accountable so he and the marriage can heal and grow. So, if he comes home very late one night with a lame excuse, the wife needs to remember the past. She needs to ask the who, what, where, why, and when, with the right attitude and motivation, to make sure he didn’t stumble or isn’t on a slippery slope. She can’t jump into a pre-affair level of trust until he proves trustworthy based on present behavior. That would be unfair and unhealthy for her … and for him.
Forgiving or being forgiven doesn’t elevate someone’s trustworthiness. When she sees worrisome warning signs she needs to bring up the past transgression to facilitate regular assessment, accountability, and growth in him. She knows his area of temptation and stumbling better than most, so she has to keep it in mind to help him grow and avoid it.
Biblical Forgiveness has 2 key components. First, giving up the dysfunctional anger like bitterness, revenge, spite, rage, self-contempt, etc. you have for the transgression, or the transgressor, or toward God for letting the hurtful event happen. Second, when we have been wronged, our nature is to want, need, and demand some payment from the transgressor. We really need to turn this over to God as the great judge and executioner. He is the only one who can determine the fair and appropriate punishment for the infraction, just as He does for us and our many sins against others. The Choosing to Forgive Workbook by Les Carter and Frank Minirth, M.D. is great at expanding on these points with practical application.
Today, when you are struggling to forgive, or you have forgiven but it still hangs over you, ask, “What am I still trying to get out of them as payment?” It may be you need an apology from them, or you need them to feel your pain. Maybe you need to see their consequence, punishment, payment of restitution, or public 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? Quit giving them power over you. Forgive, and let God extract whatever payment He judges necessary for their growth. Your choice, choose well.
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 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. Although their transgression against me hurts, it is an even greater transgression against Your holiness. You are the perfect one to hand out justice or grace. In Your omniscience and love for them, you know best. Grow in me a humble spirit to focus on my actions, thoughts, and heart, and to accept Your actions in theirs. Help me, Lord, to spread Your message about forgiveness in word, and especially in action. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, who loved and sacrificed so much for my forgiveness; and all God’s children say - 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
The last couple days we have talked about persecution and forgiveness, two very important and complex topics. As a psychiatrist, I see many misunderstandings or myths about what Biblical forgiveness actually is. Myths like, 1. Forgiving is forgetting; 2. Forgiving is starting with a clean slate like nothing ever happened; 3. Forgiving is trusting just as you did before the transgression; 4. Forgiving is never bringing up the incident again. These are some common misconceptions about forgiveness that I hear from peers, people in ministry, and patients.
Some principles from the Bible:
1. God never forgets. He is omniscient. Myth 1 busted.
2. God took David’s and Moses’ sins into account long after their sins, therefore no clean slate. Myth 2 busted.
3. God only trusts us as far as our skill set and reliance on Him, as evidenced by our past track record (spiritual maturity) allows. Myth 3 and 4 busted.
Let’s look at an example of a husband who has an affair. It is important to not forget the incident happened because a lot of work needs to be done to figure out why it happened and how to ensure it doesn’t happen again. You can’t act as if nothing happened because the husband obviously has some deficits and areas of temptation and needs to be safeguarded and held accountable so he and the marriage can heal and grow. So, if he comes home very late one night with a lame excuse, the wife needs to remember the past. She needs to ask the who, what, where, why, and when, with the right attitude and motivation, to make sure he didn’t stumble or isn’t on a slippery slope. She can’t jump into a pre-affair level of trust until he proves trustworthy based on present behavior. That would be unfair and unhealthy for her … and for him.
Forgiving or being forgiven doesn’t elevate someone’s trustworthiness. When she sees worrisome warning signs she needs to bring up the past transgression to facilitate regular assessment, accountability, and growth in him. She knows his area of temptation and stumbling better than most, so she has to keep it in mind to help him grow and avoid it.
Biblical Forgiveness has 2 key components. First, giving up the dysfunctional anger like bitterness, revenge, spite, rage, self-contempt, etc. you have for the transgression, or the transgressor, or toward God for letting the hurtful event happen. Second, when we have been wronged, our nature is to want, need, and demand some payment from the transgressor. We really need to turn this over to God as the great judge and executioner. He is the only one who can determine the fair and appropriate punishment for the infraction, just as He does for us and our many sins against others. The Choosing to Forgive Workbook by Les Carter and Frank Minirth, M.D. is great at expanding on these points with practical application.
Today, when you are struggling to forgive, or you have forgiven but it still hangs over you, ask, “What am I still trying to get out of them as payment?” It may be you need an apology from them, or you need them to feel your pain. Maybe you need to see their consequence, punishment, payment of restitution, or public 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? Quit giving them power over you. Forgive, and let God extract whatever payment He judges necessary for their growth. Your choice, choose well.
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 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. Although their transgression against me hurts, it is an even greater transgression against Your holiness. You are the perfect one to hand out justice or grace. In Your omniscience and love for them, you know best. Grow in me a humble spirit to focus on my actions, thoughts, and heart, and to accept Your actions in theirs. Help me, Lord, to spread Your message about forgiveness in word, and especially in action. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, who loved and sacrificed so much for my forgiveness; and all God’s children say - 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
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: Forgive Them Instead of Giving Them More Power
Transformational Thought
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful, least understood and most underused concept taught in the Bible. Wow, Satan is so diabolically deceitful.
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. But think about it – how long are you willing to go without the forgiveness of God? Great sinners are transformed, today and eternally, into exceptional Christians, all because of the power of forgiveness … the gift of forgiveness.
You see, when someone hurts us, our pride is wounded. We feel various pains, some inflicted on us and some from past wounds, that we blame on the other person. We have a great need to see that person experience hurt and pain to make the “score” even. But we then become dependent on seeing our attacker experience pain, and we aren’t “healed” unless they do. Unknowingly, that gives the other person ongoing control and power over us. They can always interfere with and control the timeline of their apology, experiencing consequences, or receiving justice for their offenses.
Give the gift of forgiveness to others, and especially to yourself. Free your offender and yourself. Allow God to come heal and teach you both how to grow the Mind of Christ.
Jesus modeled forgiveness perfectly for us. Think of all those whom Jesus forgave: the woman caught in adultery, Peter who denied he knew Jesus, the criminal on the cross … and those who crucified Him. Giving forgiveness brings joy and peace … withholding forgiveness brings bitterness, victimization, the need see the offender to suffer and experience revenge.
Today, don’t let your pride get in the way of forgiving others. If you are withholding forgiveness, you are missing a wonderful opportunity to experience joy … and spread it to others. Make your joy grow today and gain the must-have forgiveness of your Lord for your sins. Remember, forgiveness is a gift, not for others, but really for you, and will be very pleasing to God. Your decision, choose well.
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. Lord, help me spread Your message about forgiveness. I pray this through Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price so that my sins may be forgiven; and all God’s children say - 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
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful, least understood and most underused concept taught in the Bible. Wow, Satan is so diabolically deceitful.
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. But think about it – how long are you willing to go without the forgiveness of God? Great sinners are transformed, today and eternally, into exceptional Christians, all because of the power of forgiveness … the gift of forgiveness.
You see, when someone hurts us, our pride is wounded. We feel various pains, some inflicted on us and some from past wounds, that we blame on the other person. We have a great need to see that person experience hurt and pain to make the “score” even. But we then become dependent on seeing our attacker experience pain, and we aren’t “healed” unless they do. Unknowingly, that gives the other person ongoing control and power over us. They can always interfere with and control the timeline of their apology, experiencing consequences, or receiving justice for their offenses.
Give the gift of forgiveness to others, and especially to yourself. Free your offender and yourself. Allow God to come heal and teach you both how to grow the Mind of Christ.
Jesus modeled forgiveness perfectly for us. Think of all those whom Jesus forgave: the woman caught in adultery, Peter who denied he knew Jesus, the criminal on the cross … and those who crucified Him. Giving forgiveness brings joy and peace … withholding forgiveness brings bitterness, victimization, the need see the offender to suffer and experience revenge.
Today, don’t let your pride get in the way of forgiving others. If you are withholding forgiveness, you are missing a wonderful opportunity to experience joy … and spread it to others. Make your joy grow today and gain the must-have forgiveness of your Lord for your sins. Remember, forgiveness is a gift, not for others, but really for you, and will be very pleasing to God. Your decision, choose well.
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. Lord, help me spread Your message about forgiveness. I pray this through Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price so that my sins may be forgiven; and all God’s children say - 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
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Revenge Is Too Draining
Transformational Thought
I’ve always been a sensitive person, especially as a child. God placed me in a home where negativity and judgment were common, and frequent emotional manipulation strained my brain. I would get so angry and much of my energy … physical, emotional, and psychological … was wasted on dealing with these situations. Fighting back in various ways, trying to understand why and where all these situations were coming from, attempting to avoid them, persisting in a “why me” attitude … all these sucked so much life out of me. Enjoying my childhood was actually a difficult task.
Many of us have people in our lives who have hurt or want to hurt us. It ranges from a few hurtful words or subtle manipulation, to lies, cruelty, and vindictiveness, all the way to physical or sexual abuse. The obvious questions we ask ourselves is “Why me?” “How do I make them stop?” “Why does someone do that?”
Dealing with such people extracts huge amounts of energy in either trying to defend ourselves, recovering from the attack, or plotting and engaging in possible counter attack and retaliation … efforts to “get even.”
Much of my healing began when I realized a few facts and principles. 1. Don’t take it personally as it’s not about me, it’s their issue. 2. God is sovereign over all, and He is allowing this for a grand purpose, so put on those lenses. 3. Remember, the real enemy is Satan, not the person attacking you. They are just getting used by Satan, like you are at times. Pray for them and be on guard … put on the armor for the real battle. I don’t need to retaliate. I do need to set healthy limits and boundaries. But the bitterness and revenge factor are wasted time and effort. God will take care of them as He determines.
Today, let God deal with your enemies. We do have a stewardship role and a responsibility to address our enemies, but we often go overboard in our mind. 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. If you know someone who is being mistreated, slandered or attacked by others, send them this devotional. Spread the Word of God to give hope and peace to those in need. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, 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 natural human reaction is to take revenge … to get 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, to distort my lenses, and sidetrack me with stinky thinking. Help me see myself through Your eyes. I pray in the name of the one who teaches me to love my enemies, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
I’ve always been a sensitive person, especially as a child. God placed me in a home where negativity and judgment were common, and frequent emotional manipulation strained my brain. I would get so angry and much of my energy … physical, emotional, and psychological … was wasted on dealing with these situations. Fighting back in various ways, trying to understand why and where all these situations were coming from, attempting to avoid them, persisting in a “why me” attitude … all these sucked so much life out of me. Enjoying my childhood was actually a difficult task.
Many of us have people in our lives who have hurt or want to hurt us. It ranges from a few hurtful words or subtle manipulation, to lies, cruelty, and vindictiveness, all the way to physical or sexual abuse. The obvious questions we ask ourselves is “Why me?” “How do I make them stop?” “Why does someone do that?”
Dealing with such people extracts huge amounts of energy in either trying to defend ourselves, recovering from the attack, or plotting and engaging in possible counter attack and retaliation … efforts to “get even.”
Much of my healing began when I realized a few facts and principles. 1. Don’t take it personally as it’s not about me, it’s their issue. 2. God is sovereign over all, and He is allowing this for a grand purpose, so put on those lenses. 3. Remember, the real enemy is Satan, not the person attacking you. They are just getting used by Satan, like you are at times. Pray for them and be on guard … put on the armor for the real battle. I don’t need to retaliate. I do need to set healthy limits and boundaries. But the bitterness and revenge factor are wasted time and effort. God will take care of them as He determines.
Today, let God deal with your enemies. We do have a stewardship role and a responsibility to address our enemies, but we often go overboard in our mind. 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. If you know someone who is being mistreated, slandered or attacked by others, send them this devotional. Spread the Word of God to give hope and peace to those in need. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, 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 natural human reaction is to take revenge … to get 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, to distort my lenses, and sidetrack me with stinky thinking. Help me see myself through Your eyes. I pray in the name of the one who teaches me to love my enemies, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Starving At The Buffet Table of Life?
Transformational Thought
I love to eat, but I am very picky, which Martine hates. I like buffets where, for a small price, I can sample several items. Have you noticed that at a buffet, all the filler, cheaper, and less scrumptious distractions are offered first? The restaurant hopes you fill up with these and have less room and appetite for the valued items at the back end of the buffet table.
We need food, everyday, several times per day in order to live, to survive. But our country, even though well-fed and overweight, is actually starving. We’re starving spiritually!
Why? Because life operates pretty much the same way as a buffet. Many fillers and imitations of true sustenance are offered upfront, while the really fulfilling, life-sustaining selections are farther back on the table and take some patience and effort to find and swallow.
Even though the buffet of life has many options, none of them will satisfy unless your main staple is GOD and His Holy BIBLE … and unless you are applying it every day. Even though we are well fed we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, pornography, addictions, insecurity, other people’s opinions, sleeplessness, guilt, shame, indecisiveness, and … you fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal and all-powerful, able to meet all our needs all the time.
God invites us throughout Scripture to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55, God invites the thirsty. His invitation is very clear and simple. Come, then Listen, then Seek. “Come” means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat. ‘Listen’ is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart. “Seek” is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? Because if you aren’t pursuing God, you are pursuing the fillers, the counterfeits in this way, so don’t be surprised at what you are reaping, the weight you are gaining and carrying while still feeling starved.
Today, go to your Father and really listen. Go to your Father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes, seek the Lord while He is near. This is not because God will move away … but because we do things to place distance between ourselves and God. And we must not forget, don’t let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on “Salvation” if you are uncertain whether you at the correct buffet table.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You today, thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You, Father, for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my human nature, I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately … I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down, I feel distant from You … I feel like a failure. At such times, it’s almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You. I thank You that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit … and that Your Spirit will lead me to You, and that I will “…eat what is good.” I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor. Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
I love to eat, but I am very picky, which Martine hates. I like buffets where, for a small price, I can sample several items. Have you noticed that at a buffet, all the filler, cheaper, and less scrumptious distractions are offered first? The restaurant hopes you fill up with these and have less room and appetite for the valued items at the back end of the buffet table.
We need food, everyday, several times per day in order to live, to survive. But our country, even though well-fed and overweight, is actually starving. We’re starving spiritually!
Why? Because life operates pretty much the same way as a buffet. Many fillers and imitations of true sustenance are offered upfront, while the really fulfilling, life-sustaining selections are farther back on the table and take some patience and effort to find and swallow.
Even though the buffet of life has many options, none of them will satisfy unless your main staple is GOD and His Holy BIBLE … and unless you are applying it every day. Even though we are well fed we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, pornography, addictions, insecurity, other people’s opinions, sleeplessness, guilt, shame, indecisiveness, and … you fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal and all-powerful, able to meet all our needs all the time.
God invites us throughout Scripture to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55, God invites the thirsty. His invitation is very clear and simple. Come, then Listen, then Seek. “Come” means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat. ‘Listen’ is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart. “Seek” is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.
Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? Because if you aren’t pursuing God, you are pursuing the fillers, the counterfeits in this way, so don’t be surprised at what you are reaping, the weight you are gaining and carrying while still feeling starved.
Today, go to your Father and really listen. Go to your Father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes, seek the Lord while He is near. This is not because God will move away … but because we do things to place distance between ourselves and God. And we must not forget, don’t let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on “Salvation” if you are uncertain whether you at the correct buffet table.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You today, thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You, Father, for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my human nature, I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately … I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down, I feel distant from You … I feel like a failure. At such times, it’s almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You. I thank You that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit … and that Your Spirit will lead me to You, and that I will “…eat what is good.” I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor. Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6
Monday, August 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: God Provides Peace, But Don’t Look In The Wrong Place
Transformational Thought
In my teenage years, I enjoyed many outward successes in sports, academics, and with peers. Unfortunately, peace was often elusive inside, and I really struggled with feeling out of control on many occasions. 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.
This planning behavior, this “soothing activity,” was my attempt to take advantage of the false belief that an orderly life on the outside would bring order to the inside of my heart. Also, with all that ordering of my outside world, my future, and my path, I thought I could plan my way to peace. I was being a “Martha” (Luke 10: 38-42) and was too busy doing.
It took me a while to learn an important truth about my brain, actually every brain. And it didn’t happen in college as a biomedical engineer, or in medical school, or even in psychiatric residency training. Actually, the Bible taught me that God did not design the human mind to figure out or plan the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability.
He did craft our minds with to engage in continual communication with Him. You won’t find peace by engaging in excessive planning and “doing”, as these are futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Look how many people get divorced, switch colleges, default on mortgage or declare bankruptcy. Planning and getting don’t guarantee peace. In fact, excessive planning and doing is actually an often-practiced form of unbelief.
Today, bring all your needs, hopes, and 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. Remember, He promises to comfort you and bring peace. But you need to look for it in the right places because it really is there. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of accepting the present and peace. Your decision, choose well.
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, and covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and once again pushes peace beyond my grasp throwing me into another state of confusion. Help me, Father, to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, and 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, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
In my teenage years, I enjoyed many outward successes in sports, academics, and with peers. Unfortunately, peace was often elusive inside, and I really struggled with feeling out of control on many occasions. 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.
This planning behavior, this “soothing activity,” was my attempt to take advantage of the false belief that an orderly life on the outside would bring order to the inside of my heart. Also, with all that ordering of my outside world, my future, and my path, I thought I could plan my way to peace. I was being a “Martha” (Luke 10: 38-42) and was too busy doing.
It took me a while to learn an important truth about my brain, actually every brain. And it didn’t happen in college as a biomedical engineer, or in medical school, or even in psychiatric residency training. Actually, the Bible taught me that God did not design the human mind to figure out or plan the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability.
He did craft our minds with to engage in continual communication with Him. You won’t find peace by engaging in excessive planning and “doing”, as these are futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Look how many people get divorced, switch colleges, default on mortgage or declare bankruptcy. Planning and getting don’t guarantee peace. In fact, excessive planning and doing is actually an often-practiced form of unbelief.
Today, bring all your needs, hopes, and 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. Remember, He promises to comfort you and bring peace. But you need to look for it in the right places because it really is there. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of accepting the present and peace. Your decision, choose well.
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, and covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and once again pushes peace beyond my grasp throwing me into another state of confusion. Help me, Father, to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, and 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, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: You Complaining? Motive Check Time
Transformational Thought
I was in a restaurant the other day and the tables were close to each other, so 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. Whoa - I just realized, even I am complaining about all the other people’s complaining!
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 unwelcome by those who are on the listening end. Complaining to others actually puts you on a dangerous, slippery slope to deadly sins such as pride, duplicity, laziness, self-pity, bitterness, rage, or an unforgiving heart.
Why do we complain so much? We don’t like discomfort. It is uncomfortable for us to feel inferior to others, so we try to make ourselves look better, picking at issues and putting others down, which then allows us to “rank” in a better position than them. Another reason for complaining is our pride in thinking we know exactly how situations should go. When these events don’t turn out as planned, we complain about the alternative reality that God deals us. Thirdly, discomfort at not getting our way, not being in control, or just being discontented will get us complaining about anything in our sights to try to pump ourselves back up.
We do need to look at the past, as that is an important part of growing in maturity. But when we remember and look at the what’s happened in the past, our goal needs to be bringing hope for what the future holds. Complaining is not constructive remembering, it is destructive remembering. When processing negative events, and I am certainly advocating that we need to do this, we have to be careful about our real motive for reviewing these negative events. Our motive needs to be one of helping ourselves and others grow with the hope of having a more Godly and fulfilling future as the result of us looking at past events.
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 remember there is a list of people with complaints about you too. To complain, or to not complain; your decision, choose well.
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 me not to 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 the name of the one who refreshes me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
I was in a restaurant the other day and the tables were close to each other, so 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. Whoa - I just realized, even I am complaining about all the other people’s complaining!
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 unwelcome by those who are on the listening end. Complaining to others actually puts you on a dangerous, slippery slope to deadly sins such as pride, duplicity, laziness, self-pity, bitterness, rage, or an unforgiving heart.
Why do we complain so much? We don’t like discomfort. It is uncomfortable for us to feel inferior to others, so we try to make ourselves look better, picking at issues and putting others down, which then allows us to “rank” in a better position than them. Another reason for complaining is our pride in thinking we know exactly how situations should go. When these events don’t turn out as planned, we complain about the alternative reality that God deals us. Thirdly, discomfort at not getting our way, not being in control, or just being discontented will get us complaining about anything in our sights to try to pump ourselves back up.
We do need to look at the past, as that is an important part of growing in maturity. But when we remember and look at the what’s happened in the past, our goal needs to be bringing hope for what the future holds. Complaining is not constructive remembering, it is destructive remembering. When processing negative events, and I am certainly advocating that we need to do this, we have to be careful about our real motive for reviewing these negative events. Our motive needs to be one of helping ourselves and others grow with the hope of having a more Godly and fulfilling future as the result of us looking at past events.
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 remember there is a list of people with complaints about you too. To complain, or to not complain; your decision, choose well.
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 me not to 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 the name of the one who refreshes me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Friday, August 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You a Fish Out of Water?
Transformational Thought
Most of mankind’s misery stems from the condition of feeling unloved, unwanted, or unimportant. As a result, we develop many dysfunctional activities to soothe this misery. To vicariously feel love or try to get love we pursue quick love, try to numb or escape the hurt of not being loved, substitute for the love we don’t feel by overly “loving” ourselves (pride), or love other things (sports, work, sex, food, shopping, insert your vice). In the midst of our storms, we tend to feel that somehow love has been withheld and that we have been forsaken … and this is exactly what Satan, the Great Deceiver, wants us to think and feel.
This feeling of abandonment is often worse than the actual storm itself. To us, love is like water to fish; we need it to surround us … we need it to navigate life … we need it to feed us. In fact, we need it to breathe. Most importantly, we need it to LIVE! Have you ever seen a fish out of water … floundering, flapping, struggling? Isn’t that how we feel a lot of times? Emotionally, psychologically, and especially spiritually? God is love, and we need a relationship with Him to receive His love. But just like any relationship, we have to receive His perfect and unconditional love and not always walk away or look in other places.
When you feel unloved or 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 or unloved, “Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God.” What do you believe, Satan’s lies or God’s promise? Your own insecure flesh, or the great instruction book of life? What will you be influenced by - the message of our fallen world, or the power of Jesus’ death on the cross for you?
Today, be aware of God’s love for you by 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! Also, tell someone today who is close to you that you love them … and that God loves them even more. Your decision regarding whether you believe Satan or God, so choose well!
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; and all God’s children say - 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
Most of mankind’s misery stems from the condition of feeling unloved, unwanted, or unimportant. As a result, we develop many dysfunctional activities to soothe this misery. To vicariously feel love or try to get love we pursue quick love, try to numb or escape the hurt of not being loved, substitute for the love we don’t feel by overly “loving” ourselves (pride), or love other things (sports, work, sex, food, shopping, insert your vice). In the midst of our storms, we tend to feel that somehow love has been withheld and that we have been forsaken … and this is exactly what Satan, the Great Deceiver, wants us to think and feel.
This feeling of abandonment is often worse than the actual storm itself. To us, love is like water to fish; we need it to surround us … we need it to navigate life … we need it to feed us. In fact, we need it to breathe. Most importantly, we need it to LIVE! Have you ever seen a fish out of water … floundering, flapping, struggling? Isn’t that how we feel a lot of times? Emotionally, psychologically, and especially spiritually? God is love, and we need a relationship with Him to receive His love. But just like any relationship, we have to receive His perfect and unconditional love and not always walk away or look in other places.
When you feel unloved or 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 or unloved, “Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God.” What do you believe, Satan’s lies or God’s promise? Your own insecure flesh, or the great instruction book of life? What will you be influenced by - the message of our fallen world, or the power of Jesus’ death on the cross for you?
Today, be aware of God’s love for you by 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! Also, tell someone today who is close to you that you love them … and that God loves them even more. Your decision regarding whether you believe Satan or God, so choose well!
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; and all God’s children say - 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
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Stepping Stones: Today’s Homework Brings Tomorrow’s Reward!
Transformational Thought
How easy it is to “lose heart.” We have all faced storms and problems in relationships, in our jobs, and with our finances, dreams and plans. How many times have you thought about just quitting … just walking out? In the midst of Paul’s most troublesome times, and he had many, 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. Don’t forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation. You see, so many people think, “Do the right thing and suffer now for my reward in heaven” But doing the right thing now renews your mind now. That means you are strengthened psychologically, and your brain wiring actually improves. But most importantly, your relationship with God stays pure and the Holy Spirit, not your flesh, is on the throne of your heart. And the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the flesh, is what you will reap - now!
Adversity has a 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 to and through us.
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 that eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today’s homework or training exercise. Do it with excellence, and be excited because your perfect Teacher and Coach is training you for the greatest trophy and reward: The Mind of Christ! Your perspective is your decision, so choose well.
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 I feel as if I am losing 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 to fix my eyes and heart today on what is deeper, for I know that what is deeper is more valuable. 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 at my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let today’s troubles 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; and all God’s children say - 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
How easy it is to “lose heart.” We have all faced storms and problems in relationships, in our jobs, and with our finances, dreams and plans. How many times have you thought about just quitting … just walking out? In the midst of Paul’s most troublesome times, and he had many, 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. Don’t forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation. You see, so many people think, “Do the right thing and suffer now for my reward in heaven” But doing the right thing now renews your mind now. That means you are strengthened psychologically, and your brain wiring actually improves. But most importantly, your relationship with God stays pure and the Holy Spirit, not your flesh, is on the throne of your heart. And the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the flesh, is what you will reap - now!
Adversity has a 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 to and through us.
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 that eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today’s homework or training exercise. Do it with excellence, and be excited because your perfect Teacher and Coach is training you for the greatest trophy and reward: The Mind of Christ! Your perspective is your decision, so choose well.
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 I feel as if I am losing 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 to fix my eyes and heart today on what is deeper, for I know that what is deeper is more valuable. 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 at my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let today’s troubles 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; and all God’s children say - 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
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Stepping Stones: War Trophy, Our Soul; Battlefield, Our Mind
Transformational Thought
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 on an hourly basis, and sometimes, minute to minute.
Today’s scripture are words spoken by Jesus. He makes the choices so obvious, so clear. Unfortunately, few of us face this fact moment by moment. I know I’m guilty of not reminding myself each day that I’m in the middle of a monumental spiritual struggle.
Yes, there is a thief out there … he comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. And he’s not interested in taking a few things and leaving – he wants it all: your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships – your soul. Everything. Satan’s main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies, trying to affect Jesus’ decisions.
We need to focus on the second part of Jesus’ during His encounter Satan. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. The catch is, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need to face the fact … every day … that you are smack dab in the middle of a war. Jesus used THE HOLY BIBLE as His lenses and reference for accurate decision-making, and that’s just what we need to use too.
Jesus’ offer to us is life, but you had better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side, your greatest enemy, is all-in and relentless, and fights dirty. It’s not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.
Today, when tempted to stray, stop and calm yourself with God’s word and Jesus’ promise of abundant life so you don’t fall for Satan’s lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you can alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them … pray for them. The battlefield is your mind, so start guarding it diligently by making strong and Godly decisions. WITHIN REACH was developed to help this very purpose. Your decision, choose your side well.
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 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 of, 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. Lord, help me as a Father to protect my children from this thief and to protect all those I love. I pray in the name of the Conqueror, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Watch over your heart (mind) with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.
Proverbs 4:23
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 on an hourly basis, and sometimes, minute to minute.
Today’s scripture are words spoken by Jesus. He makes the choices so obvious, so clear. Unfortunately, few of us face this fact moment by moment. I know I’m guilty of not reminding myself each day that I’m in the middle of a monumental spiritual struggle.
Yes, there is a thief out there … he comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. And he’s not interested in taking a few things and leaving – he wants it all: your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships – your soul. Everything. Satan’s main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies, trying to affect Jesus’ decisions.
We need to focus on the second part of Jesus’ during His encounter Satan. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. The catch is, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need to face the fact … every day … that you are smack dab in the middle of a war. Jesus used THE HOLY BIBLE as His lenses and reference for accurate decision-making, and that’s just what we need to use too.
Jesus’ offer to us is life, but you had better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side, your greatest enemy, is all-in and relentless, and fights dirty. It’s not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.
Today, when tempted to stray, stop and calm yourself with God’s word and Jesus’ promise of abundant life so you don’t fall for Satan’s lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you can alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them … pray for them. The battlefield is your mind, so start guarding it diligently by making strong and Godly decisions. WITHIN REACH was developed to help this very purpose. Your decision, choose your side well.
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 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 of, 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. Lord, help me as a Father to protect my children from this thief and to protect all those I love. I pray in the name of the Conqueror, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Watch over your heart (mind) with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.
Proverbs 4:23
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: The Ultimate Alchemist
Transformational Thought
My little granny turned 90 years old last January. Good thing she doesn’t get the Internet or she would be angry with me sharing this embarrassing information. One thing I love about her is she still gets to the Russian Orthodox Church (where I was baptized as an infant), twice a month to crank out 6000 perogies with her gnarled hands, rheumatoid mis-shaped hands. You see, deep fried perogies is my most favorite food … followed closely by homemade ice cream.
My granny is the dough master. For you non-cooks, the dough master has the most physically grueling task when making perogies. Granny keeps waiting for some young buck to learn her secret before she dies, but none of the younger women have the stamina to do what 90 year old granny cranks out. Perogies are a classic example of the final product being way better than the sum of the ingredients, and it is because of the talent of the cook. Think about alchemy, the 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 we are a waste. But nothing is wasted when you share it with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can turn the darkness of your worst failures into bright beauty and hope. He can glean joy out of sorrow … peace out of adversity. Your God, the Master Chef, delights in blending His love, grace and forgiveness with our pride, sin and failures. He transforms His children from sinful wretches into wonderful disciples.
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, depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him bringing this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content, and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence seeping into all the nooks and crannies of your life. Only your best friend, 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 that You, and only You, can bring beauty out of my lost dreams … out of my sorrow. I confess, Father, that as I try to bring my junk to You for transformation I get stuck in self-pity … in my brokenness and in my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You can 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 the One who needed no alchemy to shine His glory, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
My little granny turned 90 years old last January. Good thing she doesn’t get the Internet or she would be angry with me sharing this embarrassing information. One thing I love about her is she still gets to the Russian Orthodox Church (where I was baptized as an infant), twice a month to crank out 6000 perogies with her gnarled hands, rheumatoid mis-shaped hands. You see, deep fried perogies is my most favorite food … followed closely by homemade ice cream.
My granny is the dough master. For you non-cooks, the dough master has the most physically grueling task when making perogies. Granny keeps waiting for some young buck to learn her secret before she dies, but none of the younger women have the stamina to do what 90 year old granny cranks out. Perogies are a classic example of the final product being way better than the sum of the ingredients, and it is because of the talent of the cook. Think about alchemy, the 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 we are a waste. But nothing is wasted when you share it with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can turn the darkness of your worst failures into bright beauty and hope. He can glean joy out of sorrow … peace out of adversity. Your God, the Master Chef, delights in blending His love, grace and forgiveness with our pride, sin and failures. He transforms His children from sinful wretches into wonderful disciples.
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, depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him bringing this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content, and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence seeping into all the nooks and crannies of your life. Only your best friend, 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 that You, and only You, can bring beauty out of my lost dreams … out of my sorrow. I confess, Father, that as I try to bring my junk to You for transformation I get stuck in self-pity … in my brokenness and in my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You can 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 the One who needed no alchemy to shine His glory, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Monday, August 8, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Recognize The Darkness?
Transformational Thought
What is darkness? You know, gloom and doom? We all have really bright and shiny days when everything goes great and we feel on top of the world. But those darker days, they are a lot tougher to describe and identify. You might be thinking, “What is he talking about? I know the dark days and can identify them pretty easily.”
Well, dark days can also be ones that are “neutral”, as these are often the seeds for future dark days. Nothing great or earth-shattering, nothing memorable. Satan starts to play with our head, getting us to think or believe we are nothing special, that God doesn’t really love us … that God isn’t interested in our wellbeing … that God is sitting on His throne with a scorecard, keeping track of our mistakes.
Why do we fall for Satan’s tricks? It’s because, at our core we are insecure. We feel inadequate and have a constant need for approval. We need to be important in this world or to someone. We want to be noticed. To make our mark on each day. Neutral days highlight these fears, accelerating the negative-thought-merry-go-round we willingly jump on.
Growing in God’s grace is all about trusting Him above all else, especially when we find ourselves in the darkness. Always trust God, whether it’s a for-all-the-marbles darkness, or the neutral days that set you up on the slippery slope for a bigger darkness. When you are in the dark, reach for His hand with confidence. Turn to Him. Resist hollow earthly solutions and addictions. Reaching for His hand in the dark is a display of magnificent trust and greatly weakens the spiritual forces of evil, the very forces that have tricked you to pursue the dark solutions.
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 darkness.
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. Learn to recognize the lies that take you from a neutral day to a dark day. Resist them and counter the lies with the truth and hope of God’s love, power, and sovereignty. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am completely in the dark today – scared and disoriented – I 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 and 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. 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 Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
What is darkness? You know, gloom and doom? We all have really bright and shiny days when everything goes great and we feel on top of the world. But those darker days, they are a lot tougher to describe and identify. You might be thinking, “What is he talking about? I know the dark days and can identify them pretty easily.”
Well, dark days can also be ones that are “neutral”, as these are often the seeds for future dark days. Nothing great or earth-shattering, nothing memorable. Satan starts to play with our head, getting us to think or believe we are nothing special, that God doesn’t really love us … that God isn’t interested in our wellbeing … that God is sitting on His throne with a scorecard, keeping track of our mistakes.
Why do we fall for Satan’s tricks? It’s because, at our core we are insecure. We feel inadequate and have a constant need for approval. We need to be important in this world or to someone. We want to be noticed. To make our mark on each day. Neutral days highlight these fears, accelerating the negative-thought-merry-go-round we willingly jump on.
Growing in God’s grace is all about trusting Him above all else, especially when we find ourselves in the darkness. Always trust God, whether it’s a for-all-the-marbles darkness, or the neutral days that set you up on the slippery slope for a bigger darkness. When you are in the dark, reach for His hand with confidence. Turn to Him. Resist hollow earthly solutions and addictions. Reaching for His hand in the dark is a display of magnificent trust and greatly weakens the spiritual forces of evil, the very forces that have tricked you to pursue the dark solutions.
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 darkness.
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. Learn to recognize the lies that take you from a neutral day to a dark day. Resist them and counter the lies with the truth and hope of God’s love, power, and sovereignty. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am completely in the dark today – scared and disoriented – I 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 and 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. 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 Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Stepping Stones: How Do You Fill Your Vessel?
Transformational Thought
This banner ad came across my screen yesterday as I was on the Internet: “10 ways to be happier in 2 minutes or less.” Wow, what a deal! I would even splurge and give 10 minutes. Be honest with yourself, would you have clicked on the link? I would really like to know how many people clicked in search of quick-hit happiness. I’m even more curious to see how many Christians clicked.
Why is happiness, true lasting happiness, regardless of circumstances, so hard to “find”? And when we do find happiness … 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. Our fleshly lenses are so me-oriented. We want more to soothe us; we focus on our discomforts and what we don’t have. It makes happiness so elusive. Our selfish need to have more makes happiness very short-lived.
I need my vessel to be filled over and over because I get empty so quickly. But while we are earthen vessels, God designed us to be filled with heavenly content that can’t leak out … to fill our vessels with Him and His wisdom. Whether we choose to use this full vessel, or just pour it out and replace it with other stuff that easily leaks out, is the million-dollar decision that is up to us.
So where do you go to “fill-up?” What do you put in your vessel? When you put the right God-gifts in your vessel, do you use and re-use them and enjoy the happiness they bring? Or do you pour them out and replace them with a cheap substitute? Do you go to the dollar store to grab items that break easily, causing you to revisit frequently without ever being satisfied? Go to the quality store where the valuable items that take more commitment to “buy” and patiently pursue quality that lasts.
Today, remain in the presence of Your God. He is excited and proud to fill you with His Glory-gifts. But this takes time … do not rush the process. Examine some truths you already know and see if you can apply them to a couple more small areas of your life over and over, instead of applying cheap imitations from the world or your past. This is how you use and re-use the Glory-gifts in your vessel. Where you look for happiness is your decision. Choose well.
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 You made me to allow the world’s stuff to leak out and to hold in your glory-gifts. This keeps me looking at You and coming to You for renewal. Thank You, Father. All praise and glory be to You. I also pray, Father, that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit … the most precious treasure of all. Fill me with Your holy scripture. And as You fill me with Your gifts, let Your beautiful light shine through me like a Lighthouse into other people’s lives. Let me do Your work today, Lord, in ways that I don’t even understand. I pray in need of and through the perfect filling for my vessel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
This banner ad came across my screen yesterday as I was on the Internet: “10 ways to be happier in 2 minutes or less.” Wow, what a deal! I would even splurge and give 10 minutes. Be honest with yourself, would you have clicked on the link? I would really like to know how many people clicked in search of quick-hit happiness. I’m even more curious to see how many Christians clicked.
Why is happiness, true lasting happiness, regardless of circumstances, so hard to “find”? And when we do find happiness … 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. Our fleshly lenses are so me-oriented. We want more to soothe us; we focus on our discomforts and what we don’t have. It makes happiness so elusive. Our selfish need to have more makes happiness very short-lived.
I need my vessel to be filled over and over because I get empty so quickly. But while we are earthen vessels, God designed us to be filled with heavenly content that can’t leak out … to fill our vessels with Him and His wisdom. Whether we choose to use this full vessel, or just pour it out and replace it with other stuff that easily leaks out, is the million-dollar decision that is up to us.
So where do you go to “fill-up?” What do you put in your vessel? When you put the right God-gifts in your vessel, do you use and re-use them and enjoy the happiness they bring? Or do you pour them out and replace them with a cheap substitute? Do you go to the dollar store to grab items that break easily, causing you to revisit frequently without ever being satisfied? Go to the quality store where the valuable items that take more commitment to “buy” and patiently pursue quality that lasts.
Today, remain in the presence of Your God. He is excited and proud to fill you with His Glory-gifts. But this takes time … do not rush the process. Examine some truths you already know and see if you can apply them to a couple more small areas of your life over and over, instead of applying cheap imitations from the world or your past. This is how you use and re-use the Glory-gifts in your vessel. Where you look for happiness is your decision. Choose well.
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 You made me to allow the world’s stuff to leak out and to hold in your glory-gifts. This keeps me looking at You and coming to You for renewal. Thank You, Father. All praise and glory be to You. I also pray, Father, that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit … the most precious treasure of all. Fill me with Your holy scripture. And as You fill me with Your gifts, let Your beautiful light shine through me like a Lighthouse into other people’s lives. Let me do Your work today, Lord, in ways that I don’t even understand. I pray in need of and through the perfect filling for my vessel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Friday, August 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: Grandma’s Vision Ain’t So Good
Transformational Thought
Dominique, my oldest daughter is moving into a house just off campus at University of Pittsburgh. She’s already had enough of dorm partying and is moving in with two Christian girls. She and Martine are leaving tonight to take some furniture and clean up. They will stay with my cousin, Chuckie. Pitt is 45 minutes from where my parents and I were born. I haven’t lived there in almost 40 years, but I still have many relatives there. It has been great staying with my cousin Chuckie and catching up with some other relatives that I see sporadically over the years.
One stop is always to my little Granny Guzy’s house. Wow! So many memories as I ride up the hill to her house above the Monongahela River. She pinches my cheeks, calls me junior, (ever since I can remember she never called me Karl), makes me 2 huge sandwiches or perogies, and buys me sugar pops for breakfast. She sees me like I am still 8 years old. And it’s very hard to see myself accurately - as a 48 y.o. adult, a professional, a husband and father - when I’m being perceived through lenses that portray me as an 8 y.o.
So, 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, and needing his quick fix for our problems. Sometimes our fleshly lenses skew our self-evaluation to the other end of the spectrum and we see ourselves as King of our world, much better than we really are, entitled to way more than we really deserve. You know the mentality, “My kingdom come, My will be done.”
Try seeing yourself through the clearest, most accurate lenses of all, the eyes of God … see yourself as someone who is deeply loved and valued. Healing, comfort, protection, and peace are abundantly provided, but we need to seek them and steward them well. Immerse yourself in God’s Holy Bible, a tremendous story about God’s love for you. Read and see just how much He loves you. He offers you more love, peace, wisdom, and protection than you could ever get from Satan’s world system.
Today, look in the mirror and evaluate your base, knee-jerk view of yourself. Then, perhaps while in the bathroom, read Luke 1:26 – 2:21 (the Christmas Story) and John 18, 19 & 20 (the Easter story). Don’t say, “I know these stories, I can skip the reading” … READ THEM. They are short. Use this time to see yourself thru God’s lenses. You will clear your eyes and head quickly. Your decision, your lenses or God’s. Choose well!
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. Through Your eyes I see myself as someone who is deeply loved and protected by Your presence, which shields me from all evil. I pray in Jesus’ never-ending name; and all God’s children say - 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
Dominique, my oldest daughter is moving into a house just off campus at University of Pittsburgh. She’s already had enough of dorm partying and is moving in with two Christian girls. She and Martine are leaving tonight to take some furniture and clean up. They will stay with my cousin, Chuckie. Pitt is 45 minutes from where my parents and I were born. I haven’t lived there in almost 40 years, but I still have many relatives there. It has been great staying with my cousin Chuckie and catching up with some other relatives that I see sporadically over the years.
One stop is always to my little Granny Guzy’s house. Wow! So many memories as I ride up the hill to her house above the Monongahela River. She pinches my cheeks, calls me junior, (ever since I can remember she never called me Karl), makes me 2 huge sandwiches or perogies, and buys me sugar pops for breakfast. She sees me like I am still 8 years old. And it’s very hard to see myself accurately - as a 48 y.o. adult, a professional, a husband and father - when I’m being perceived through lenses that portray me as an 8 y.o.
So, 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, and needing his quick fix for our problems. Sometimes our fleshly lenses skew our self-evaluation to the other end of the spectrum and we see ourselves as King of our world, much better than we really are, entitled to way more than we really deserve. You know the mentality, “My kingdom come, My will be done.”
Try seeing yourself through the clearest, most accurate lenses of all, the eyes of God … see yourself as someone who is deeply loved and valued. Healing, comfort, protection, and peace are abundantly provided, but we need to seek them and steward them well. Immerse yourself in God’s Holy Bible, a tremendous story about God’s love for you. Read and see just how much He loves you. He offers you more love, peace, wisdom, and protection than you could ever get from Satan’s world system.
Today, look in the mirror and evaluate your base, knee-jerk view of yourself. Then, perhaps while in the bathroom, read Luke 1:26 – 2:21 (the Christmas Story) and John 18, 19 & 20 (the Easter story). Don’t say, “I know these stories, I can skip the reading” … READ THEM. They are short. Use this time to see yourself thru God’s lenses. You will clear your eyes and head quickly. Your decision, your lenses or God’s. Choose well!
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. Through Your eyes I see myself as someone who is deeply loved and protected by Your presence, which shields me from all evil. I pray in Jesus’ never-ending name; and all God’s children say - 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
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Stepping Stones: What If You Could Change the Past?
Transformational Thought
I was a Star Trek maniac as a kid and still am as an adult … just the original though, with Kirk and Spock. To me, they were the best dynamic duo, hero and sidekick, ever created. In every episode they would take on challenges and enemies from around the multiverse as well as demons from within themselves. Kirk and Spock would beat them in less than 60 minutes, every time!
I especially loved the episodes where Kirk and Spock went back in time and did something (usually something good) that would significantly affect the future, which was Spock and Kirk’s present before they went back in time. The ripples of their actions usually messed up their “present time” lives and often threw everything off balance, wrecking the whole world. Then they had to figure out how to go back in the past, undo what they thought was a good deed, so their present and future would be OK.
Our own selfish desires, limited knowledge, and continuous need to avoid pain and discomfort can lead us into the same trap as Kirk and Spock. We can spend lots of time thinking about what we would like to change from our past so life could be better now. Of course, none of us can go back. Even if you could, you don’t know how much damage that would create. So, forget what is behind you and focus on what you need to do now.
God forgave you when you accepted Christ’s death for your mistakes and sins. Walk your personal stepping-stones, one at a time, toward the prize that has already been won for you. Remember that even in this imperfect world, every step toward a Christ-like life is awesome progress in God’s eyes.
Today, when a derogatory thought, generated by your past, comes to your mind, 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. Do you know where the remote control for your brain is? Your remote control is your decision-making skills. That’s why we focus so much on the spiritual discipline of decision-making. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, my Father, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it can leave 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. Remind me to be immune to the destruction of what is behind me and to focus on grabbing the prize that’s within reach, the life to 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 amazing progress. Help me today, my God, to act on the guidance that You have already given me through the Holy Spirit. In the name of the one with the perfect brain, Jesus’ victorious name, I pray; and all God’s children say - 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
I was a Star Trek maniac as a kid and still am as an adult … just the original though, with Kirk and Spock. To me, they were the best dynamic duo, hero and sidekick, ever created. In every episode they would take on challenges and enemies from around the multiverse as well as demons from within themselves. Kirk and Spock would beat them in less than 60 minutes, every time!
I especially loved the episodes where Kirk and Spock went back in time and did something (usually something good) that would significantly affect the future, which was Spock and Kirk’s present before they went back in time. The ripples of their actions usually messed up their “present time” lives and often threw everything off balance, wrecking the whole world. Then they had to figure out how to go back in the past, undo what they thought was a good deed, so their present and future would be OK.
Our own selfish desires, limited knowledge, and continuous need to avoid pain and discomfort can lead us into the same trap as Kirk and Spock. We can spend lots of time thinking about what we would like to change from our past so life could be better now. Of course, none of us can go back. Even if you could, you don’t know how much damage that would create. So, forget what is behind you and focus on what you need to do now.
God forgave you when you accepted Christ’s death for your mistakes and sins. Walk your personal stepping-stones, one at a time, toward the prize that has already been won for you. Remember that even in this imperfect world, every step toward a Christ-like life is awesome progress in God’s eyes.
Today, when a derogatory thought, generated by your past, comes to your mind, 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. Do you know where the remote control for your brain is? Your remote control is your decision-making skills. That’s why we focus so much on the spiritual discipline of decision-making. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, my Father, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it can leave 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. Remind me to be immune to the destruction of what is behind me and to focus on grabbing the prize that’s within reach, the life to 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 amazing progress. Help me today, my God, to act on the guidance that You have already given me through the Holy Spirit. In the name of the one with the perfect brain, Jesus’ victorious name, I pray; and all God’s children say - 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
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Stepping Stones: God’s Wakeup Call: Will You Answer or Hit Snooze?
Transformational Thought
We love our children. Nothing in this world is more precious. As a parent, I really get excited when my kids pursue me. The best is when they do it even though they don’t need anything ... but because they simply love me and want to hang out with me. What they don’t realize is, I have been pursuing them all along, whether they liked it or not, whether they wanted me or not, and I pursued them even before they were born! If you are a parent, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
You see, we all come to a life-changing and eternity-determining fork in the road on our life journey. Whether it is trying to figure out where we came from, what happens when we die, what our purpose is or life path will be, or whether we can do it all on our own, these kinds of questions and ponderings bring us to the all important fork. At that junction, you have two options, whether you will answer these questions by pursuing God, or ignore God and make yourself the center of these important answers.
Some arrive at the fork at age 4, others as a teen, and some when as an adult. Even if we take the wrong path, we get to circle back many times in life. But when we choose the correct path, setting out to know our God more intimately, He certainly rejoices, but He is not surprised. If you are waking up and finally starting to pursue Him harder, it’s because He has been pursuing you and you are finally realizing your need to acknowledge that call and respond.
While this longing for Him burns brightly in your heart, remember it originates from Him. Know, just like parents do, God has been pursuing you long before your quest for Him began. If you think your spiritual discipline keeps you close to God, you are at risk. If you are depending solely on your own efforts to stay close to God, you will surely find times where you are distant from Him. But if you put His love and pursuit of you as the first step, you will understand the bigger story of His love, sovereignty and sacrifice, your need for all He has, and your responsibility to steward your free will faithfully. To me, this is reassuring and freeing in many powerful ways.
Today, thank your Lord for awakening in your heart the strong desire for Him. Even before you were born, He loved, planned, and pursued you. Take 2 separate breaks today and search your heart, looking for what God is asking you cut back on, so you can answer His wake-up call and not hit the snooze button again. Carrying less will actually ease the burden you carry. It’s your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for awakening me and placing in my heart this strong desire for You. Before I realized Your consistent effort to wake me up, I took the wrong fork to find answers in so many different places. I tried so hard to fill the void – and many times I filled it in 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; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
My soul thirsts 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
We love our children. Nothing in this world is more precious. As a parent, I really get excited when my kids pursue me. The best is when they do it even though they don’t need anything ... but because they simply love me and want to hang out with me. What they don’t realize is, I have been pursuing them all along, whether they liked it or not, whether they wanted me or not, and I pursued them even before they were born! If you are a parent, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
You see, we all come to a life-changing and eternity-determining fork in the road on our life journey. Whether it is trying to figure out where we came from, what happens when we die, what our purpose is or life path will be, or whether we can do it all on our own, these kinds of questions and ponderings bring us to the all important fork. At that junction, you have two options, whether you will answer these questions by pursuing God, or ignore God and make yourself the center of these important answers.
Some arrive at the fork at age 4, others as a teen, and some when as an adult. Even if we take the wrong path, we get to circle back many times in life. But when we choose the correct path, setting out to know our God more intimately, He certainly rejoices, but He is not surprised. If you are waking up and finally starting to pursue Him harder, it’s because He has been pursuing you and you are finally realizing your need to acknowledge that call and respond.
While this longing for Him burns brightly in your heart, remember it originates from Him. Know, just like parents do, God has been pursuing you long before your quest for Him began. If you think your spiritual discipline keeps you close to God, you are at risk. If you are depending solely on your own efforts to stay close to God, you will surely find times where you are distant from Him. But if you put His love and pursuit of you as the first step, you will understand the bigger story of His love, sovereignty and sacrifice, your need for all He has, and your responsibility to steward your free will faithfully. To me, this is reassuring and freeing in many powerful ways.
Today, thank your Lord for awakening in your heart the strong desire for Him. Even before you were born, He loved, planned, and pursued you. Take 2 separate breaks today and search your heart, looking for what God is asking you cut back on, so you can answer His wake-up call and not hit the snooze button again. Carrying less will actually ease the burden you carry. It’s your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for awakening me and placing in my heart this strong desire for You. Before I realized Your consistent effort to wake me up, I took the wrong fork to find answers in so many different places. I tried so hard to fill the void – and many times I filled it in 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; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
My soul thirsts 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
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Avoid God’s Will Because It Hurts?
Transformational Thought
I was recently in a situation in which a close friend revealed some information that was quite surprising. After absorbing it, I knew what God wanted me to do. But it was uncomfortable for me to deliver that Godly response, and I knew it would be really uncomfortable for my friend to hear. Actually, I was, and still am concerned, that if I shared what God put on my heart, the friendship might end. Well I said it. And, thankfully, I know we are both better because I did. I know you’ve been in that kind of situation too. How did you feel?
Incidents like this in the past really pushed me to examine myself, and I had to admit that at times, 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. Then I realized my mistake. My fear was an emotional response. Emotions are great warning signs of potential trouble or danger. But God never intended that we make decisions based on our emotions.
One of Satan's greatest lies is getting us to believe God's way is costly … that Satan's way (or our fleshly way) is on-sale, cheaper, better and less costly. Satan's ways will always result in immediate spiritual, psychological, and physiological (actual brain) damage. The enemy’s solutions also result in long-term damage in these 3 spheres of spirit, mind, and body.
The Word of God continually calls us to transcend living ... to go beyond what is natural and to do what is supernatural. God's will is so much deeper than our understanding. And though His will may entail sacrifice and pain, remember, His will not only does what is good for us ... it does what is the best for us. Following God's will accomplishes what is best for you and those around 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, 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. Do the right thing regardless of how uncomfortable it makes you or how the other person might feel. Live by faith ... not by sight. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess that while I pray for Your Will to be done, I am often afraid of the discomfort this will actually cause. I know that at times Your Will includes pain. When I am hurting physically, emotionally, or spiritually … I search for ways to relieve or escape my pain. The escape becomes my focus as I obsess about how I will solve my problems. I pray to You, Father, to help me really believe that Your way is perfect. Help me to rely on your peace and comfort. I pray in the name of the One who always followed Your will, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
I was recently in a situation in which a close friend revealed some information that was quite surprising. After absorbing it, I knew what God wanted me to do. But it was uncomfortable for me to deliver that Godly response, and I knew it would be really uncomfortable for my friend to hear. Actually, I was, and still am concerned, that if I shared what God put on my heart, the friendship might end. Well I said it. And, thankfully, I know we are both better because I did. I know you’ve been in that kind of situation too. How did you feel?
Incidents like this in the past really pushed me to examine myself, and I had to admit that at times, 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. Then I realized my mistake. My fear was an emotional response. Emotions are great warning signs of potential trouble or danger. But God never intended that we make decisions based on our emotions.
One of Satan's greatest lies is getting us to believe God's way is costly … that Satan's way (or our fleshly way) is on-sale, cheaper, better and less costly. Satan's ways will always result in immediate spiritual, psychological, and physiological (actual brain) damage. The enemy’s solutions also result in long-term damage in these 3 spheres of spirit, mind, and body.
The Word of God continually calls us to transcend living ... to go beyond what is natural and to do what is supernatural. God's will is so much deeper than our understanding. And though His will may entail sacrifice and pain, remember, His will not only does what is good for us ... it does what is the best for us. Following God's will accomplishes what is best for you and those around 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, 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. Do the right thing regardless of how uncomfortable it makes you or how the other person might feel. Live by faith ... not by sight. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess that while I pray for Your Will to be done, I am often afraid of the discomfort this will actually cause. I know that at times Your Will includes pain. When I am hurting physically, emotionally, or spiritually … I search for ways to relieve or escape my pain. The escape becomes my focus as I obsess about how I will solve my problems. I pray to You, Father, to help me really believe that Your way is perfect. Help me to rely on your peace and comfort. I pray in the name of the One who always followed Your will, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Monday, August 1, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You More Spoiled Than You Think?
Transformational Thought
Spoiled brats! I don’t hear people today using that phrase as much as I did back in the 70’s and 80’s. Today, the term is more likely to be used when referring to Brittany Spears, Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan or others with plenty of money who make self-destructive decisions.
We often think a spoiled brat refers to children or teens who have a sense of entitlement. They believe that anything they want is theirs without having to wait, that all good things will happen to them, that nothing painful will happen or will be quickly removed and all made better.
But notice today how many times others or even you yourself act entitled. This includes people who think they and their loved ones should have good health, more money than necessary, an easy job, everyone to like them, a smooth daily plan, an agenda that works out perfectly with extra time to spare, and no one around them making mistakes. Do you see some of yourself in these entitled examples?
We live in an age of entitlement. Everyone thinks they deserve more good stuff. This mindset has led to zillion dollar national debt, loads of foreclosures, and personal debt at record highs. You must constantly counteract the barrage of propaganda telling you that you need more … deserve more. A good way of fighting against the lie of deserving more is by learning to see everything from God’s perspective. Let this world become your classroom. Notice all the blessings you take for granted each day. 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 constantly demand more. 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 God’s perspective.
Today, make a list of all the blessings you do have in your life. To help spur thought, think of those that are disabled, people in third world situations, the oppressed, those who have gone through serious events and losses. Then list why you deserve ... I mean actually deserve... your positive blessings. Give thanks for your blessings, regardless of how small they are. Allow His word to cut deep into 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 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 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 the One who can provide my every need; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
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
Spoiled brats! I don’t hear people today using that phrase as much as I did back in the 70’s and 80’s. Today, the term is more likely to be used when referring to Brittany Spears, Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan or others with plenty of money who make self-destructive decisions.
We often think a spoiled brat refers to children or teens who have a sense of entitlement. They believe that anything they want is theirs without having to wait, that all good things will happen to them, that nothing painful will happen or will be quickly removed and all made better.
But notice today how many times others or even you yourself act entitled. This includes people who think they and their loved ones should have good health, more money than necessary, an easy job, everyone to like them, a smooth daily plan, an agenda that works out perfectly with extra time to spare, and no one around them making mistakes. Do you see some of yourself in these entitled examples?
We live in an age of entitlement. Everyone thinks they deserve more good stuff. This mindset has led to zillion dollar national debt, loads of foreclosures, and personal debt at record highs. You must constantly counteract the barrage of propaganda telling you that you need more … deserve more. A good way of fighting against the lie of deserving more is by learning to see everything from God’s perspective. Let this world become your classroom. Notice all the blessings you take for granted each day. 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 constantly demand more. 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 God’s perspective.
Today, make a list of all the blessings you do have in your life. To help spur thought, think of those that are disabled, people in third world situations, the oppressed, those who have gone through serious events and losses. Then list why you deserve ... I mean actually deserve... your positive blessings. Give thanks for your blessings, regardless of how small they are. Allow His word to cut deep into 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 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 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 the One who can provide my every need; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
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
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Really Have Determined Purpose?
Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was determined to be a pro baseball player and a psychiatrist. Never really had any other long lasting goals I would commit to. As a teen, I became committed to attending Duke University and having 5 sons to play basketball around the country against other teams. My determination to get to Duke and become a psychiatrist was significant. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as determined to be a pro baseball player although I did play at Duke. My downfall was not staying focused in my mind and being intentional and disciplined with my activities. Other self-centered needs leading to distracting activities intruded on my dreams.
In Philippians 1:20 Paul seems to be 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? We all start off our days with the idea, resolve, and attitude that we will do the right thing. Regardless of the temptations, we will make the right decision. But somewhere during the day, we get sidetracked, our determination gets undermined. Petty and self-centered needs and agenda items start to outrank our calling and our choices become faulty. We stray from following God’s will.
I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to have determined purpose to follow God’s will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. We need these crises because we are so unresponsive to God’s numerous gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory and our maximal fulfillment, 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 walk.
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, or character?” Then make a willful decision to follow His will and put yours on hold. This glorifies Him, and is the actually the best for you as you will actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically when you make this Godly decision. Believe it or not, your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal Your 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 me to. I want to live a life so that in no way will I be 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 Your Spirit is, there is freedom. In Christ’s determined name; and all God’s children say - 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
As a kid, I was determined to be a pro baseball player and a psychiatrist. Never really had any other long lasting goals I would commit to. As a teen, I became committed to attending Duke University and having 5 sons to play basketball around the country against other teams. My determination to get to Duke and become a psychiatrist was significant. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as determined to be a pro baseball player although I did play at Duke. My downfall was not staying focused in my mind and being intentional and disciplined with my activities. Other self-centered needs leading to distracting activities intruded on my dreams.
In Philippians 1:20 Paul seems to be 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? We all start off our days with the idea, resolve, and attitude that we will do the right thing. Regardless of the temptations, we will make the right decision. But somewhere during the day, we get sidetracked, our determination gets undermined. Petty and self-centered needs and agenda items start to outrank our calling and our choices become faulty. We stray from following God’s will.
I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to have determined purpose to follow God’s will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. We need these crises because we are so unresponsive to God’s numerous gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory and our maximal fulfillment, 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 walk.
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, or character?” Then make a willful decision to follow His will and put yours on hold. This glorifies Him, and is the actually the best for you as you will actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically when you make this Godly decision. Believe it or not, your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal Your 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 me to. I want to live a life so that in no way will I be 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 Your Spirit is, there is freedom. In Christ’s determined name; and all God’s children say - 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
Friday, July 29, 2011
Stepping Stones: Where Are You Looking For Your Confidence?
Transformational Thought
We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for who I was. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. Our Creator builds these yearnings and desires into us. So what are you looking for?
Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with 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 need, suffering, and wayward path we need saved from.
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 off to college or work… so many milestones to mark the journey of becoming an independent functioning adult.
The downside of this developmental model is we develop a habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence from GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His 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 other’s opinions, this is a shallow and very limited bucket. We have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, or power? Or from God?” Confidence, centered in Him, generated from Him, will save you in today’s battles and discomfort. Where do you get your confidence? Your decision, choose well.
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 actually cares about the many details of my life…but You really 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, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, then rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - 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
We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for who I was. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. Our Creator builds these yearnings and desires into us. So what are you looking for?
Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with 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 need, suffering, and wayward path we need saved from.
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 off to college or work… so many milestones to mark the journey of becoming an independent functioning adult.
The downside of this developmental model is we develop a habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence from GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His 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 other’s opinions, this is a shallow and very limited bucket. We have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.
Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, or power? Or from God?” Confidence, centered in Him, generated from Him, will save you in today’s battles and discomfort. Where do you get your confidence? Your decision, choose well.
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 actually cares about the many details of my life…but You really 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, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, then rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - 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
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: Look Up to Look Inside
Transformational Thought
As Christians, one of our goals must be to be fully utilized by God. To be fully utilized, we must be able to really understand who we are and why we do things we do every day. This understanding will equip us to avoid messing up God’s plans to use us in powerful ways that really fulfill our needs, wiring, and desires. You see, He is always trying to use us, setting up situations and people in our life for great things to happen, but instead of following that path, we choose a different course.
To really do some thorough and deep self-assessment, we have to allow God to show us the deep, hidden and faulty areas of our own character. Looking inward really requires lots courage. We are so quick to diagnose and judge others, what if we take that energy and time to examine ourselves.
It’s astounding how ignorant we are about who we truly are. We rarely recognize the distortions, laziness, envy, many weaknesses, and pride held within us. We must dump the idea that we understand ourselves just because we live our life…the only one who truly understands and knows us is God. He wants to show us who we are, equip, and ultimately transform us to become Christ-like by developing the Mind of Christ.
To look inwardly we need alone time with God. Then only through God’s lenses and using the perfect mirror that is The Holy Bible, can we see our misguided desires and affections. These lead to all those false idols and substitute fixes that keep us from Him. This is how we change our foundation from sand to solid rock, allowing us to become a strong, solid Lighthouse shining God’s glory.
Take some time to ask yourself, “what outranked God?…what was more important to me than pleasing God? Another way to think about it, “What fleshly desire or fear was more weighty in my decisions today than keeping the Holy Spirit on the throne of my life?”
Today, examine an area of temptation or a wrong decision you made recently. Really doing some 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. As usual, it really is your decision about how honest you will be and how much you will use God in the examination process. So choose well. WITHIN REACH was designed for this very process.
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 the one who gives me courage; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
As Christians, one of our goals must be to be fully utilized by God. To be fully utilized, we must be able to really understand who we are and why we do things we do every day. This understanding will equip us to avoid messing up God’s plans to use us in powerful ways that really fulfill our needs, wiring, and desires. You see, He is always trying to use us, setting up situations and people in our life for great things to happen, but instead of following that path, we choose a different course.
To really do some thorough and deep self-assessment, we have to allow God to show us the deep, hidden and faulty areas of our own character. Looking inward really requires lots courage. We are so quick to diagnose and judge others, what if we take that energy and time to examine ourselves.
It’s astounding how ignorant we are about who we truly are. We rarely recognize the distortions, laziness, envy, many weaknesses, and pride held within us. We must dump the idea that we understand ourselves just because we live our life…the only one who truly understands and knows us is God. He wants to show us who we are, equip, and ultimately transform us to become Christ-like by developing the Mind of Christ.
To look inwardly we need alone time with God. Then only through God’s lenses and using the perfect mirror that is The Holy Bible, can we see our misguided desires and affections. These lead to all those false idols and substitute fixes that keep us from Him. This is how we change our foundation from sand to solid rock, allowing us to become a strong, solid Lighthouse shining God’s glory.
Take some time to ask yourself, “what outranked God?…what was more important to me than pleasing God? Another way to think about it, “What fleshly desire or fear was more weighty in my decisions today than keeping the Holy Spirit on the throne of my life?”
Today, examine an area of temptation or a wrong decision you made recently. Really doing some 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. As usual, it really is your decision about how honest you will be and how much you will use God in the examination process. So choose well. WITHIN REACH was designed for this very process.
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 the one who gives me courage; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Waiting on God is Active, Not Passive
Transformational Thought
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss your opportunity and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful and knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our “I need it now mentality.” These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do while we actively wait and trust God will do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with 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 gets jammed and has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or when what you should do isn’t really clear. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and 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. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones. But move toward the opportunities knowing He will do His part. Just sitting and waiting will cause you to miss out on so many blessings He has to put back on the shelf because of your lack of trust.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many shortcomings 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 is active and I need to move toward You which 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; and all God’s children say - 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
Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.
The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss your opportunity and get crushed.”
Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful and knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our “I need it now mentality.” These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do while we actively wait and trust God will do His thing.
God has designed you to interact with 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 gets jammed and has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.
Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.
Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or when what you should do isn’t really clear. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and 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. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones. But move toward the opportunities knowing He will do His part. Just sitting and waiting will cause you to miss out on so many blessings He has to put back on the shelf because of your lack of trust.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many shortcomings 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 is active and I need to move toward You which 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; and all God’s children say - 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
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: Being the Author or the Star Actor, Your Choice
Transformational Thought
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I did love comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, great characters, exciting adventures, poppin’ graphics and all the extras. But not only was I a poor reader, I couldn’t draw even a little.
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. Knowing the ending so you can pace and detail the rest of the story. That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He writes, actually 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 and the powerful parts of the great script He has written especially for us and with our needs and desires at the top of our agenda.
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 of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, 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 day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story. I tried that many times in the past and it always ended in frustration, anxiety, and t one point, jail.
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, and His ultimate authority over the whole multiverse (all the universes!).
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 for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word, The Holy Bible. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author. You aren’t equipped to be The author, have fun being the star actor in your story and follow The Author and Director’s instruction. WITHIN REACH will equip you to learn God’s will for your life and do it.
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 then 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 hamper my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I did love comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, great characters, exciting adventures, poppin’ graphics and all the extras. But not only was I a poor reader, I couldn’t draw even a little.
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. Knowing the ending so you can pace and detail the rest of the story. That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!
If you trust in God, then you should believe that He writes, actually 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 and the powerful parts of the great script He has written especially for us and with our needs and desires at the top of our agenda.
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 of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, 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 day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story. I tried that many times in the past and it always ended in frustration, anxiety, and t one point, jail.
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, and His ultimate authority over the whole multiverse (all the universes!).
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 for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word, The Holy Bible. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author. You aren’t equipped to be The author, have fun being the star actor in your story and follow The Author and Director’s instruction. WITHIN REACH will equip you to learn God’s will for your life and do it.
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 then 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 hamper my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Monday, July 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…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, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
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; so 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 Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often these days. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife came into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.
As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you, where you’ve been either the ignorer or the ignored?
We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are key. The first is a willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person. The second is attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.
God desires to overwhelm those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure with an abundant life…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, or instruction. Why? Usually it’s because you are holding onto something too tightly. So what would you have to give up to let Him in for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness. Your decision, choose well.
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; so 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 Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Tree Will You Fix Your Eyes On?
Transformational Thought
Recess was always my favorite part of the school day, and when I wasn’t playing some ball sport, I loved some of the contraptions in the schoolyard. One of my favorites was a merry-go-round that was about 15-20 feet in diameter and 18 inches off the ground, and that spun really fast. It was a lot of fun bringing it up to speed, then jumping on and whizzing around. Some people, especially the girls, would get dizzy. But I didn’t because someone told me I should train my eyes on a fixed point (a tree or building was the easiest) while spinning. This little tip, so simple and easy to do, made a huge difference and allowed ease, fun, and peace while life was wildly moving around.
Well, the world around us is changing faster than we can even measure … and that’s an understatement. It is a time of rapid growth, over-stimulation, and economic and governmental instability. The ride is spinning so fast. Yet we yearn for calm, stability and even permanence, (which usually equates with security and peace) right now, for the near future, and for eternity. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It keeps us from getting distracted and spinning dizzily on the ever-moving merry-go-round of life.
To keep our wits about us, avoid sickness, see clearly, and walk in the right direction under adversity, we need to resist the dizzying effects of the lightning fast thrill ride we are strapped onto. There is only one way to have a fighting chance in the spiritual battle, and that is to fix our eyes on the most immoveable and permanent object that will ever exist. Keeping focused on God’s character, instruction, and promises will allow you to navigate with dramatic ease and success.
We sometimes struggle with stability and permanence, feeling it’s too predictable or conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, newness, or uniqueness is more desirable, exciting, stimulating, or soothing. Isn’t it interesting that when we go on vacation we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need to nap, feel discombobulated, and then return home without feeling rested? Many people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation! Why? Because we are out of our routine, aren’t grounded, and lose sight of what is steady and true.
We have to resist the urge to let our eyes wander and bounce from transient objects to quick fixes that come over the horizon. The world provides so many imposters for stability, you will get dizzy bouncing your gaze from one to the other.
Today, when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the steadiest object, 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. Seek His wisdom and principles for the situation that is making you a bit dizzy. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy. Instead, enjoy the ride of your life. WITHIN REACH helps you focus on Him in all your decisions.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change 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 my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
Recess was always my favorite part of the school day, and when I wasn’t playing some ball sport, I loved some of the contraptions in the schoolyard. One of my favorites was a merry-go-round that was about 15-20 feet in diameter and 18 inches off the ground, and that spun really fast. It was a lot of fun bringing it up to speed, then jumping on and whizzing around. Some people, especially the girls, would get dizzy. But I didn’t because someone told me I should train my eyes on a fixed point (a tree or building was the easiest) while spinning. This little tip, so simple and easy to do, made a huge difference and allowed ease, fun, and peace while life was wildly moving around.
Well, the world around us is changing faster than we can even measure … and that’s an understatement. It is a time of rapid growth, over-stimulation, and economic and governmental instability. The ride is spinning so fast. Yet we yearn for calm, stability and even permanence, (which usually equates with security and peace) right now, for the near future, and for eternity. Yearning for permanence is a good thing. It keeps us from getting distracted and spinning dizzily on the ever-moving merry-go-round of life.
To keep our wits about us, avoid sickness, see clearly, and walk in the right direction under adversity, we need to resist the dizzying effects of the lightning fast thrill ride we are strapped onto. There is only one way to have a fighting chance in the spiritual battle, and that is to fix our eyes on the most immoveable and permanent object that will ever exist. Keeping focused on God’s character, instruction, and promises will allow you to navigate with dramatic ease and success.
We sometimes struggle with stability and permanence, feeling it’s too predictable or conventional, even boring. We think spontaneity, surprise, newness, or uniqueness is more desirable, exciting, stimulating, or soothing. Isn’t it interesting that when we go on vacation we don’t sleep as well, have some stomach upset with diarrhea or constipation, need to nap, feel discombobulated, and then return home without feeling rested? Many people bring sleeping pills, Tums, Advil or other meds to help get them through vacation! Why? Because we are out of our routine, aren’t grounded, and lose sight of what is steady and true.
We have to resist the urge to let our eyes wander and bounce from transient objects to quick fixes that come over the horizon. The world provides so many imposters for stability, you will get dizzy bouncing your gaze from one to the other.
Today, when you feel you are on wobbly ground, turn to the steadiest object, 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. Seek His wisdom and principles for the situation that is making you a bit dizzy. As you stand on the foundation He has provided, you can watch the world change with an entirely different perspective. Choose Him to be the Lighthouse you focus on and you will not get dizzy. Instead, enjoy the ride of your life. WITHIN REACH helps you focus on Him in all your decisions.
Prayer
Dear Father, I know that in this time of unrelenting change 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 my Guiding Light, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - 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
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