Transformational Thought
There was a big burly lumberjack who came from a long line of lumberjacks. His parents named him … Jack. He was hired to cut down 30 trees a day. For the first few days the 30 trees fell easily under his axe, since Jack was a stud. But on day 5 he only cut down 25 trees, and on day 10 only 8. On day 20, even though he was swinging that axe faster and harder than on day 1, only 3 trees fell. Jack was so confused and frustrated, not to mention very tired since he was working harder than ever.
The supervisor was worried about his best worker and came to observe why Jack’s performance had trailed off so dramatically. The supervisor saw that the lumberjack’s axe was completely dull. So he told Jack, who was huffing and puffing and on the verge of exhaustion, that he needed to sharpen his axe. Jack fearfully blurted, “I can’t. I don’t have time … I need to cut down 30 trees today and I am already behind.”
Does this describe you some days? So many of us are exhausted, worn out, and in need of true relaxation and refreshment. I don’t mean sleep … I mean real psychological and spiritual rest. We keep swinging harder and faster, but our blades, our tools, are dull and getting duller by the minute. By dull, I mean our life and decision-making skills, really our psychological and emotion management skills, just aren’t as honed as they should be or as we need them to be.
We’ve been so indoctrinated to think resting means idleness or laziness. Our insecurity and past mistakes push our need to swing furiously and often, to show that we are worthy, or to make up for our past. Jesus, who had the most to do, rested often. Resting in God has two huge benefits: first, it allows us to sharpen our axes as we clear our lenses and hone our skills; second, when we relax in His presence, we demonstrate trust in Him to take over and accomplish what we can’t. We always need to find that balance between trusting and resting in Him and being an active and good steward of what we can control.
Trust is such a rich word, filled with meaning and direction for our life. So many of us do the exact opposite of what God wants for us. We turn away from Him when we are exhausted because we associate God with duty and diligence. We wrongly believe that going to Him means we have to do more, instead of allowing Him to give us more.
Today, set aside 15 minutes to take a rest and specifically lean on, trust in, and be confident with God. Meditate on His power and His love for you. Relax in His presence. When you lean on Him for support and rest, He delights in your trusting confidence in Him. Then as you rest, listen to what He is telling you, either directly or through your circumstances. He will talk to you. Your decision, rest in Him or rely on yourself, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You depleted and worn out. I come to You, Lord, for refreshment. I know that resting in You will save me. I thank You, Father, for Your reassuring Word that You spoke through Your prophet Isaiah, telling me that coming to You in quietness and trust shall be my strength. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may lean on Your understanding, not mine. I pray this with trust and expectation, and in the name of One who rested in You perfectly, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
Proverbs 3:5
This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength
Isaiah 30:15
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: FEAR: Retreat Or Attack?
Transformational Thought
Fear … of speaking in class or giving a lecture … of blowing a test or an important performance or game … of parasailing … of taking a new job … of confrontation … of setting a healthy boundary … of having someone angry or upset with me. Wow! For so long, FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) really interrupted and crippled my life. Then came the fear about having fear. I was almost paralyzed.
Through honest reflection, self-assessment, therapy, and real examination of how and why I do things, I realized I was hiding my fear … pretending it wasn’t there. When I thought the fear couldn’t get any worse, I discovered that the fear you hide in the recesses of your heart will give birth to the fear of fear … a real monster. The danger of the second fear is that it diverts your focus off the original fear. You see, the first fear was usually planted at a very young age, when we knew little, were very gullible, and weren’t well equipped to handle much stress.
Now as adults, we have the ability to clearly see the original false evidence that restricts our lives. More importantly, we can do something different and better in these same situations. At the very least, if real anxiety exists, we can handle it much better and soothe ourselves in more healthy ways.
But we are usually too lazy, too hurried, or just don’t know how to go back and deeply re-address those old painful FEARS. But when we do re-address them, we now can access and apply the freedom Christ won for us over those FEARS. Let God’s truth into those FEARS, don’t let Satan put out that light. Freedom from FEAR is available for each one of us.
Today, acknowledge that your FEARS are flaming arrows of attack from the evil one and bring your fears out into the Light of Your Lord’s presence where you can deal with them openly. The darkness just gives them more power over you. Identify one thing that upsets, alarms, scares, or threatens you. Examine how it influences your decisions. Tell someone about it and ask them to help you identify the False Evidence that Appears Real in that issue. It can be very freeing just knowing the cycle can be broken. Click here for our powerful workshop that helps you live the life that is WITHIN REACH as you learn to apply God’s teachings to overcome your FEARS.
Prayer
Dear Beloved Father, I confess that fear has a stronghold on me. I know that most fear comes from the enemy’s arrows of attack. I thank You, Father, for Your Word that teaches me to use my shield of faith to extinguish those flaming arrows. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I might build my faith. Help me understand how to dig deep and uncover those FEARS and bathe them in truth. Help me, Father, to bring all fear to You so that we may deal with them together. I pray, Father, that by concentrating on You and being a good steward of my mind, my fearfulness will lose its foothold on me. I pray in the holy name of my Deliverer, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Ephesians 6:16
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Fear … of speaking in class or giving a lecture … of blowing a test or an important performance or game … of parasailing … of taking a new job … of confrontation … of setting a healthy boundary … of having someone angry or upset with me. Wow! For so long, FEAR (False Evidence Appearing Real) really interrupted and crippled my life. Then came the fear about having fear. I was almost paralyzed.
Through honest reflection, self-assessment, therapy, and real examination of how and why I do things, I realized I was hiding my fear … pretending it wasn’t there. When I thought the fear couldn’t get any worse, I discovered that the fear you hide in the recesses of your heart will give birth to the fear of fear … a real monster. The danger of the second fear is that it diverts your focus off the original fear. You see, the first fear was usually planted at a very young age, when we knew little, were very gullible, and weren’t well equipped to handle much stress.
Now as adults, we have the ability to clearly see the original false evidence that restricts our lives. More importantly, we can do something different and better in these same situations. At the very least, if real anxiety exists, we can handle it much better and soothe ourselves in more healthy ways.
But we are usually too lazy, too hurried, or just don’t know how to go back and deeply re-address those old painful FEARS. But when we do re-address them, we now can access and apply the freedom Christ won for us over those FEARS. Let God’s truth into those FEARS, don’t let Satan put out that light. Freedom from FEAR is available for each one of us.
Today, acknowledge that your FEARS are flaming arrows of attack from the evil one and bring your fears out into the Light of Your Lord’s presence where you can deal with them openly. The darkness just gives them more power over you. Identify one thing that upsets, alarms, scares, or threatens you. Examine how it influences your decisions. Tell someone about it and ask them to help you identify the False Evidence that Appears Real in that issue. It can be very freeing just knowing the cycle can be broken. Click here for our powerful workshop that helps you live the life that is WITHIN REACH as you learn to apply God’s teachings to overcome your FEARS.
Prayer
Dear Beloved Father, I confess that fear has a stronghold on me. I know that most fear comes from the enemy’s arrows of attack. I thank You, Father, for Your Word that teaches me to use my shield of faith to extinguish those flaming arrows. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I might build my faith. Help me understand how to dig deep and uncover those FEARS and bathe them in truth. Help me, Father, to bring all fear to You so that we may deal with them together. I pray, Father, that by concentrating on You and being a good steward of my mind, my fearfulness will lose its foothold on me. I pray in the holy name of my Deliverer, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Ephesians 6:16
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Monday, September 19, 2011
Stepping Stones: Is Your Radar On And Tuned In?
Transformational Thought
Do you feel your heart beating right now? Do you feel billion, yea, billions of brain cells firing right now, allowing you to read this and be amazed? Honest now, are you really actually feeling the love for your kids, or parents, or spouse, or other loved one, right now, the moment before I just mentioned it? Do you feel the Earth actually spinning at amazing speeds when a much slower amusement ride gets us dizzy?
I could go on with so many more examples of physical sensations from our body, or emotional sensations from our life, but I imagine you are getting my point already. Just because you don’t feel these events or dynamics right now, doesn’t mean they aren’t happening. And some of them are happening in big ways, and you aren’t even feeling it! Remember this point.
You see, as Christians, we say that even though we’ve accepted Christ as our savior, are filled with the Holy Spirit, and are in an intimate and indescribable union with God, we don’t feel tht power or emotions at times in our lives. Especially, at times, when we need to feel loved the most. Maybe we feel alone because our union with God is invisible. Remember, you are connected to God through Love-bonds that cannot be seen and that nothing, absolutely nothing, can severe.
Fighting against ability to feel these experiences, Satan is so spiteful of God and doesn’t want us to see, feel, or know how much God constantly loves us, or how determined God is in pursuing us, so we can receive God’s love. This spiritual warfare all around us, or the craziness of society, is Satan’s strategy to numb our radar that is supposed to be tuned directly to God, 24/7. Satan can’t separate you from God’s love, but as the Great Deceiver, he will try to deceive you into thinking that God’s love is not there for you.
Today, try and meditate on the fact that God is nearer than you think…He is richly present in all your moments. Be aware of His presence…Put your hand on your heart and feel your heartbeat, and say “God is really in my heart…just because I don’t feel it sometimes is not the only evidence I go on. He really is always pumping in my life!” This is not an escape from reality, it is, in fact, turning to the only and ultimate reality. He is far more real than the world you can see, hear, touch and depend on. Your choice of whether you act on reality…or the deception. Your choice will determine the whether you experience peace, joy, and fulfillment in this world.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, At times You feel so far away. Help me, Father, to open my eyes so that I may find You everywhere. Increase my spiritual radar and spiritual IQ. The more aware I am of Your presence in my life, the more secure I feel. I need You, Father. Blazing missiles of fear are flying at me day and night…the attacks from the evil one come at me without rest. Build my faith, Father, so that I may be certain of what I cannot see. I pray in the name of my always constant savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are his offspring.'
Acts 17:27-28
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1
Am I a God at hand, declares the LORD, and not a God far away? Can a man hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? declares the LORD. Do I not fill heaven and earth? declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 23:23-24
Do you feel your heart beating right now? Do you feel billion, yea, billions of brain cells firing right now, allowing you to read this and be amazed? Honest now, are you really actually feeling the love for your kids, or parents, or spouse, or other loved one, right now, the moment before I just mentioned it? Do you feel the Earth actually spinning at amazing speeds when a much slower amusement ride gets us dizzy?
I could go on with so many more examples of physical sensations from our body, or emotional sensations from our life, but I imagine you are getting my point already. Just because you don’t feel these events or dynamics right now, doesn’t mean they aren’t happening. And some of them are happening in big ways, and you aren’t even feeling it! Remember this point.
You see, as Christians, we say that even though we’ve accepted Christ as our savior, are filled with the Holy Spirit, and are in an intimate and indescribable union with God, we don’t feel tht power or emotions at times in our lives. Especially, at times, when we need to feel loved the most. Maybe we feel alone because our union with God is invisible. Remember, you are connected to God through Love-bonds that cannot be seen and that nothing, absolutely nothing, can severe.
Fighting against ability to feel these experiences, Satan is so spiteful of God and doesn’t want us to see, feel, or know how much God constantly loves us, or how determined God is in pursuing us, so we can receive God’s love. This spiritual warfare all around us, or the craziness of society, is Satan’s strategy to numb our radar that is supposed to be tuned directly to God, 24/7. Satan can’t separate you from God’s love, but as the Great Deceiver, he will try to deceive you into thinking that God’s love is not there for you.
Today, try and meditate on the fact that God is nearer than you think…He is richly present in all your moments. Be aware of His presence…Put your hand on your heart and feel your heartbeat, and say “God is really in my heart…just because I don’t feel it sometimes is not the only evidence I go on. He really is always pumping in my life!” This is not an escape from reality, it is, in fact, turning to the only and ultimate reality. He is far more real than the world you can see, hear, touch and depend on. Your choice of whether you act on reality…or the deception. Your choice will determine the whether you experience peace, joy, and fulfillment in this world.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, At times You feel so far away. Help me, Father, to open my eyes so that I may find You everywhere. Increase my spiritual radar and spiritual IQ. The more aware I am of Your presence in my life, the more secure I feel. I need You, Father. Blazing missiles of fear are flying at me day and night…the attacks from the evil one come at me without rest. Build my faith, Father, so that I may be certain of what I cannot see. I pray in the name of my always constant savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are his offspring.'
Acts 17:27-28
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1
Am I a God at hand, declares the LORD, and not a God far away? Can a man hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? declares the LORD. Do I not fill heaven and earth? declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 23:23-24
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Are You An Activist For?
Transformational Thought
We seem to be living in a me-first era, in which people exercise less restraint over their impulses, doing whatever gives immediate satisfaction without regard to the consequences of their actions. These consequences have harmful effects not only on the doer, but also on other people as well.
The positive effect of this me-first mentality is that we get to live in a time when people are activists and standing up for all sorts of causes. People stand up for the rights of dogs, dolphins, eagles, deer, elephants, and almost every animal. People stand up for trees, the ocean, deserts, the ozone, swamps, and creeks. We have people standing up for choice of religion, sexual orientation, political party, wearing clothes or going nude. We have people standing up for everything imaginable, and even willing to die for their cause.
I love my wife and kids and would fight to the death if someone were attacking them. David knew what was worth standing up for as he spent much time praying to, learning from, and trusting in God. David couldn’t stand to hear Goliath blaspheme his heavenly Father whom he loved so dearly, His true and living God. Without fear or hesitation, and with great confidence, David was ready to stand up and fight the mighty, giant warrior whom everybody, even Saul, feared. Why? Because David knew God stood up for him all the time, and later his messiah, Jesus, would make the ultimate stand for him.
Isn't it time that we, as Christians, stand up for our Creator and what He stands for? We don’t need to be belligerent or mean-spirited or put others down. Our goal is to act and speak boldly with a Christ-like heart, and to raise up God and His principles. But we can’t be worried about the consequences, even if it means our death, job loss, loss of a friendship, or even a loved one. To David, standing up for God was a no-brainer. What about you?
Today, stand up, be heard and don’t be ashamed of the truth, which is found in Christ … no matter what the consequences! Be a Lighthouse, speak the truth excitedly and boldly through your actions and attitudes. If it is a testy situation, speak calmly, revealing God’s love and compassion, but don’t be afraid to stand up clearly for our Savior and His name. Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father God, even though I don’t express my thanks and gratitude very well by my actions, thank you so much for standing up for me when you didn’t have to. Thanks for bearing my burden for me. Draw me closer to You today, and make me more passionate for those around me. Help me to love You more than myself, so I will die to myself, take up my cross, and follow You. Help me see You clearly, and not be deceived by my fear of other’s opinions. Give me the strength and the words to stand up for You. I pray in the name of the One who lay on a cross for me, my Savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
Mark 8:38
Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.
Acts 5:41
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Romans 1:16
We seem to be living in a me-first era, in which people exercise less restraint over their impulses, doing whatever gives immediate satisfaction without regard to the consequences of their actions. These consequences have harmful effects not only on the doer, but also on other people as well.
The positive effect of this me-first mentality is that we get to live in a time when people are activists and standing up for all sorts of causes. People stand up for the rights of dogs, dolphins, eagles, deer, elephants, and almost every animal. People stand up for trees, the ocean, deserts, the ozone, swamps, and creeks. We have people standing up for choice of religion, sexual orientation, political party, wearing clothes or going nude. We have people standing up for everything imaginable, and even willing to die for their cause.
I love my wife and kids and would fight to the death if someone were attacking them. David knew what was worth standing up for as he spent much time praying to, learning from, and trusting in God. David couldn’t stand to hear Goliath blaspheme his heavenly Father whom he loved so dearly, His true and living God. Without fear or hesitation, and with great confidence, David was ready to stand up and fight the mighty, giant warrior whom everybody, even Saul, feared. Why? Because David knew God stood up for him all the time, and later his messiah, Jesus, would make the ultimate stand for him.
Isn't it time that we, as Christians, stand up for our Creator and what He stands for? We don’t need to be belligerent or mean-spirited or put others down. Our goal is to act and speak boldly with a Christ-like heart, and to raise up God and His principles. But we can’t be worried about the consequences, even if it means our death, job loss, loss of a friendship, or even a loved one. To David, standing up for God was a no-brainer. What about you?
Today, stand up, be heard and don’t be ashamed of the truth, which is found in Christ … no matter what the consequences! Be a Lighthouse, speak the truth excitedly and boldly through your actions and attitudes. If it is a testy situation, speak calmly, revealing God’s love and compassion, but don’t be afraid to stand up clearly for our Savior and His name. Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father God, even though I don’t express my thanks and gratitude very well by my actions, thank you so much for standing up for me when you didn’t have to. Thanks for bearing my burden for me. Draw me closer to You today, and make me more passionate for those around me. Help me to love You more than myself, so I will die to myself, take up my cross, and follow You. Help me see You clearly, and not be deceived by my fear of other’s opinions. Give me the strength and the words to stand up for You. I pray in the name of the One who lay on a cross for me, my Savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
Mark 8:38
Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.
Acts 5:41
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Romans 1:16
Friday, September 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Really Want To Know God?
Transformational Thought
I have an engineering kind of mind, so I have never been much of a reader. English was a class I tried to avoid in high school and especially college. As a result, you probably notice many grammatical errors in these devotionals.
Literature classes would totally frustrate me, because when reading Romeo and Juliet or Julius Caesar, I often thought I would understand and be more impacted by the story if I really knew Shakespeare. You know, his personality, nuances, passions, issues, and especially the experiences of his life.
When watching the TV show Biography, I am so much more interested, intrigued, and impacted when I “know” or “interacted” with the subject. When the subject is Gilligan, Bob Barker, Ronald Reagan, or Robin Williams, as opposed to subjects that never touched my life, my depth of interest in the show and identification are much more profound.
If you were to read my personal journal, your understanding, interest, and enjoyment of my story would be dramatically impacted by whether you knew me personally or not. You see, my daughters love hearing stories about my past, but people who don’t know me could care less about the experiences that make me … me.
Well the Holy Bible, God’s journal, is the same way. The Bible is a great book, filled with life tips and stories that really reveal God’s heart and desires. But to maximize the treasure inside The Holy Bible, you really need to know and be in relationship with the author. Then it amazingly comes alive and can powerfully transform you. Get to know the Author, then He and His journal, the Word of God, will make more sense and have more authority in your life.
Our nature is to write our own journals, not to read or buy into another journal, especially one from an author asking to have authority over our lives. Get to know the author, because the book will come alive and you will find it much easier to transfer lordship of your life from self to God.
Today, ask yourself, “Does the Bible make sense to me?“, “Do I easily practice what it says?”. If you aren’t confident in your answers, ask “How much time a day do I spend relating to and getting to know the author, God?” Read a couple Psalms, or one of Paul’s letters to know God better. But more importantly, spend time in prayer and discussion.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I praise You as the Author of the big story. Thank You for making things so clear in Your word. I confess, I want to take shortcuts at times … not spend time getting to know You or spend time reading Your great storybook, journal, instruction manual. Then I wonder why I am frustrated, insecure, and lost. Thanks for Your Holy Spirit in me helping me digest Your Word and apply it to my life. Help me get out of the way and then follow the Holy Spirit’s direction for my life. I pray in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16
I have an engineering kind of mind, so I have never been much of a reader. English was a class I tried to avoid in high school and especially college. As a result, you probably notice many grammatical errors in these devotionals.
Literature classes would totally frustrate me, because when reading Romeo and Juliet or Julius Caesar, I often thought I would understand and be more impacted by the story if I really knew Shakespeare. You know, his personality, nuances, passions, issues, and especially the experiences of his life.
When watching the TV show Biography, I am so much more interested, intrigued, and impacted when I “know” or “interacted” with the subject. When the subject is Gilligan, Bob Barker, Ronald Reagan, or Robin Williams, as opposed to subjects that never touched my life, my depth of interest in the show and identification are much more profound.
If you were to read my personal journal, your understanding, interest, and enjoyment of my story would be dramatically impacted by whether you knew me personally or not. You see, my daughters love hearing stories about my past, but people who don’t know me could care less about the experiences that make me … me.
Well the Holy Bible, God’s journal, is the same way. The Bible is a great book, filled with life tips and stories that really reveal God’s heart and desires. But to maximize the treasure inside The Holy Bible, you really need to know and be in relationship with the author. Then it amazingly comes alive and can powerfully transform you. Get to know the Author, then He and His journal, the Word of God, will make more sense and have more authority in your life.
Our nature is to write our own journals, not to read or buy into another journal, especially one from an author asking to have authority over our lives. Get to know the author, because the book will come alive and you will find it much easier to transfer lordship of your life from self to God.
Today, ask yourself, “Does the Bible make sense to me?“, “Do I easily practice what it says?”. If you aren’t confident in your answers, ask “How much time a day do I spend relating to and getting to know the author, God?” Read a couple Psalms, or one of Paul’s letters to know God better. But more importantly, spend time in prayer and discussion.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I praise You as the Author of the big story. Thank You for making things so clear in Your word. I confess, I want to take shortcuts at times … not spend time getting to know You or spend time reading Your great storybook, journal, instruction manual. Then I wonder why I am frustrated, insecure, and lost. Thanks for Your Holy Spirit in me helping me digest Your Word and apply it to my life. Help me get out of the way and then follow the Holy Spirit’s direction for my life. I pray in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are Your Keys Lost, Or Are You?
Transformational Thought
As I get older, my memory just isn’t the same. I tell myself I have so much more to remember, that it takes a couple seconds longer to look through all those file cabinets in my head. But simple things seem to fall through the cracks of my mind. One of my solutions is to put small items in a special place that I would definitely be able to remember. Well, you guessed it … I forget where or what that special place is.
When I am searching for my keys, it is because my keys are not in the right place. They are lost. You see, when my family is sightseeing in Washington, DC, and we’re searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost. We are the ones who are lost!
We search for the Truth not because it is lost. We search for the Truth because we are lost. We were designed by God to search and find Him. Our search is usually for comfort, peace, love, happiness, being valued … all things God is able to give us and wants to give us. Unfortunately, instead of one-stop shopping, going to God for everything, we search in many other places and activities for the desires of our heart.
We try to find relief in work, computers, food, relationships, kids, grown-up toys, getting ahead, sex, alcohol, sleep, isolation, drugs. But we are looking in the wrong places … we search because we are lost. God isn’t lost. He is in the same place all the time. You’ll find Him in His word, through prayer, and as He orchestrates your circumstances to direct you back on track to find Him. Where is your own search leading you? Let the word of God immerse your mind and spirit: “Seek and you will find”; “I am the way, the truth and the life”.
Today, if you are searching for anything other than His Truth, it’s time for a route correction. Identify what you are searching for today. Write down the activities of your day. Are you pursuing these activities instead of God to meet your needs? Are these activities the ones God would prescribe for your treatment plan? Be honest and examine why you don’t look first to God to get unlost … you know, found … to fill some of your desires today. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I have been searching my entire life, but I have been searching in the wrong places. My searching has led me to some very bad decisions, which caused pain and suffering for me and for those I love. I thank You, Father, for the lighthouses you have brought into my life, those who have helped guide me, step by step, to You. I thank You for the new focus of my search. I search for You, Lord, for a deeper and deeper relationship with You. I pray, Father, for the Stepping Stones community that they too may focus their search toward the Truth … toward You, Father. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ whose Truth became flesh; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8
Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now by this I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is the truth.”
1 Kings 17:24
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
As I get older, my memory just isn’t the same. I tell myself I have so much more to remember, that it takes a couple seconds longer to look through all those file cabinets in my head. But simple things seem to fall through the cracks of my mind. One of my solutions is to put small items in a special place that I would definitely be able to remember. Well, you guessed it … I forget where or what that special place is.
When I am searching for my keys, it is because my keys are not in the right place. They are lost. You see, when my family is sightseeing in Washington, DC, and we’re searching for the Washington Monument, the monument isn’t lost. We are the ones who are lost!
We search for the Truth not because it is lost. We search for the Truth because we are lost. We were designed by God to search and find Him. Our search is usually for comfort, peace, love, happiness, being valued … all things God is able to give us and wants to give us. Unfortunately, instead of one-stop shopping, going to God for everything, we search in many other places and activities for the desires of our heart.
We try to find relief in work, computers, food, relationships, kids, grown-up toys, getting ahead, sex, alcohol, sleep, isolation, drugs. But we are looking in the wrong places … we search because we are lost. God isn’t lost. He is in the same place all the time. You’ll find Him in His word, through prayer, and as He orchestrates your circumstances to direct you back on track to find Him. Where is your own search leading you? Let the word of God immerse your mind and spirit: “Seek and you will find”; “I am the way, the truth and the life”.
Today, if you are searching for anything other than His Truth, it’s time for a route correction. Identify what you are searching for today. Write down the activities of your day. Are you pursuing these activities instead of God to meet your needs? Are these activities the ones God would prescribe for your treatment plan? Be honest and examine why you don’t look first to God to get unlost … you know, found … to fill some of your desires today. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I have been searching my entire life, but I have been searching in the wrong places. My searching has led me to some very bad decisions, which caused pain and suffering for me and for those I love. I thank You, Father, for the lighthouses you have brought into my life, those who have helped guide me, step by step, to You. I thank You for the new focus of my search. I search for You, Lord, for a deeper and deeper relationship with You. I pray, Father, for the Stepping Stones community that they too may focus their search toward the Truth … toward You, Father. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ whose Truth became flesh; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8
Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now by this I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD in your mouth is the truth.”
1 Kings 17:24
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Stepping Stones: Don’t Look Down!
Transformational Thought
We have seen many famous people fall from high places. Tiger Woods, Charlie Sheen, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lindsay Lohan, John and Kate plus 8, Paris Hilton, Ben Roethlisberger, Michael Vick, and politicians with extramarital or unethical wrongdoing. It’s so tempting, so easy … at times it even feels like harmless fun to look down on and judge these once mighty people. Kick them while they’re down and rub salt in their wounds.
I’ve been guilty of falling into this trap myself, making callous comments and assuming I am better than some fallen person because I am in a better place at that moment. We all have skeletons in our closets, insecurities and shameful mistakes we’ve made. To make ourselves feel better we look down on others instead of raising our level of play.
I have also felt the pain of being looked down upon … being judged by others, and as you know, there’s no fun in that. We often think that the person looking down on us is so mean for not taking time to understand the reasons we struggle. We also pledge, “I would never look down on someone like that.”
Looking down on others is drastically different than the more caring act of noticing someone’s difficulties and wanting to help them. Looking down on others really exhibits a survival of the fittest mentality … taking from someone for my advancement. This is the opposite of God’s system, which is based on love. Love means that those who are fit actually give, sacrifice, look out for others, and help people. Condemning is about pushing down, taking something from somebody, and isn’t consistent with God’s methods and plan for us.
Today, be mindful that we are called by God to be disciples, not judges. Be aware of looking down on others … for our Lord is the only one who could have looked down on you, but instead, loved you and gave His life. If you find yourself tempted to look down on someone, remember it is harmful to you and the other person, and it’s disrespectful to God. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess, Lord, that I have been guilty of judging others. I know I have fallen into this sinful pattern because it gives me the false perception that I am better than those I judge. I wrongly believe it takes the heat off me. Help me, Father, to live by your word to “judge not.”, Let me have compassion and love for those in my life who have done wrong. Instead of judging others, help me be a lighthouse to them in their time of need. Help me minister Your word so that I may comfort and guide them. Also Father, help me forgive those who judge me … and not give them authority over me by accepting their condemnation. In the name of the One who never looked down on anyone, Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?
Matthew 7:1-3
Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?
Romans 2:1-3
We have seen many famous people fall from high places. Tiger Woods, Charlie Sheen, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lindsay Lohan, John and Kate plus 8, Paris Hilton, Ben Roethlisberger, Michael Vick, and politicians with extramarital or unethical wrongdoing. It’s so tempting, so easy … at times it even feels like harmless fun to look down on and judge these once mighty people. Kick them while they’re down and rub salt in their wounds.
I’ve been guilty of falling into this trap myself, making callous comments and assuming I am better than some fallen person because I am in a better place at that moment. We all have skeletons in our closets, insecurities and shameful mistakes we’ve made. To make ourselves feel better we look down on others instead of raising our level of play.
I have also felt the pain of being looked down upon … being judged by others, and as you know, there’s no fun in that. We often think that the person looking down on us is so mean for not taking time to understand the reasons we struggle. We also pledge, “I would never look down on someone like that.”
Looking down on others is drastically different than the more caring act of noticing someone’s difficulties and wanting to help them. Looking down on others really exhibits a survival of the fittest mentality … taking from someone for my advancement. This is the opposite of God’s system, which is based on love. Love means that those who are fit actually give, sacrifice, look out for others, and help people. Condemning is about pushing down, taking something from somebody, and isn’t consistent with God’s methods and plan for us.
Today, be mindful that we are called by God to be disciples, not judges. Be aware of looking down on others … for our Lord is the only one who could have looked down on you, but instead, loved you and gave His life. If you find yourself tempted to look down on someone, remember it is harmful to you and the other person, and it’s disrespectful to God. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I confess, Lord, that I have been guilty of judging others. I know I have fallen into this sinful pattern because it gives me the false perception that I am better than those I judge. I wrongly believe it takes the heat off me. Help me, Father, to live by your word to “judge not.”, Let me have compassion and love for those in my life who have done wrong. Instead of judging others, help me be a lighthouse to them in their time of need. Help me minister Your word so that I may comfort and guide them. Also Father, help me forgive those who judge me … and not give them authority over me by accepting their condemnation. In the name of the One who never looked down on anyone, Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?
Matthew 7:1-3
Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?
Romans 2:1-3
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You An Oreo Believer?
Transformational Thought
I remember life as a teenager when everything seemed so simple. Authority was always corrupt or out of touch. Parents were always an obstacle to my pursuit of the good life. Money was the answer to having a successful life. Pink was a girl color I would never wear. Rock-n-Roll was the only music worth listening to. The popular girl would never go out with you because you weren’t cool.
With political elections on the horizon, the same black and white thinking is everywhere today. Both sides will use those “always” and “never” words making everything so extreme. One developmental milestone we all need to master is the ability to integrate good and bad in the same entity. Like an Oreo, black and white need to be seen together to “get” the whole picture, because other than God, nothing exists that doesn’t have an upside and a downside to it.
There are two sides to being a believer, one of light and one of darkness. As a believer myself, I spend most of my spiritual energy on the “light” side of things: the promise of salvation, the grace and mercy of our Father, and the power of forgiveness are just a few of the “light” elements. But to be a “whole” believer we need to accept the dark side as well. We must believe that Satan, the Prince of Darkness, is as real as Jesus. It’s an ugly, scary fact. I bristle at even having to write about him. However, we need to know and believe that Satan’s primary mission is to thwart God’s plan by separating us from Christ.
Be clear. Each day, especially for believers and followers of Christ, you are embroiled in diabolical spiritual warfare. Satan not only wants your attention, your family, your job, your relationships, but he also wants your soul - more than anything. His strategy is to create constant confusion and distraction in your mind. This confusion attacks every sphere … your brain chemistry, your emotions and personality, your relationships with others. Satan’s primary goal is disrupting your relationship with God. God calls you to renew your mind, not destroy it. But your mind is where the battle is fought.
Today, become a “Whole” believer. Integrate the light and the dark by accepting and being aware that there is a never-ending war between God and Satan, and the trophy is your soul. Identify a negative thought pattern that smudges your lenses, and instead, look at Christ’s teachings for the truth. When you are stressed remember the enemy isn’t your spouse, boss, money, job, or anything else … it is always Satan. Use God’s armor to be victorious.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My focus is on You. I believe and accept Your promise. I thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, so that my sins may be forgiven. And I believe there is this diabolical creature, Satan. Your word tells us of his desire for death and destruction. I reject Satan and all his works. Help me, Father, to be aware, minute-by-minute, of this spiritual battle that wages around me. Help me remember that Satan tries to push my fleshly buttons, trying to tempt me to believe his lies about You. Thank You for the process that renews my mind, biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually: sending Jesus and giving us your instruction book, the Bible. I pray in the name of Your Son, the True Light of world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.
1 John 3:8-9
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:11-12
I remember life as a teenager when everything seemed so simple. Authority was always corrupt or out of touch. Parents were always an obstacle to my pursuit of the good life. Money was the answer to having a successful life. Pink was a girl color I would never wear. Rock-n-Roll was the only music worth listening to. The popular girl would never go out with you because you weren’t cool.
With political elections on the horizon, the same black and white thinking is everywhere today. Both sides will use those “always” and “never” words making everything so extreme. One developmental milestone we all need to master is the ability to integrate good and bad in the same entity. Like an Oreo, black and white need to be seen together to “get” the whole picture, because other than God, nothing exists that doesn’t have an upside and a downside to it.
There are two sides to being a believer, one of light and one of darkness. As a believer myself, I spend most of my spiritual energy on the “light” side of things: the promise of salvation, the grace and mercy of our Father, and the power of forgiveness are just a few of the “light” elements. But to be a “whole” believer we need to accept the dark side as well. We must believe that Satan, the Prince of Darkness, is as real as Jesus. It’s an ugly, scary fact. I bristle at even having to write about him. However, we need to know and believe that Satan’s primary mission is to thwart God’s plan by separating us from Christ.
Be clear. Each day, especially for believers and followers of Christ, you are embroiled in diabolical spiritual warfare. Satan not only wants your attention, your family, your job, your relationships, but he also wants your soul - more than anything. His strategy is to create constant confusion and distraction in your mind. This confusion attacks every sphere … your brain chemistry, your emotions and personality, your relationships with others. Satan’s primary goal is disrupting your relationship with God. God calls you to renew your mind, not destroy it. But your mind is where the battle is fought.
Today, become a “Whole” believer. Integrate the light and the dark by accepting and being aware that there is a never-ending war between God and Satan, and the trophy is your soul. Identify a negative thought pattern that smudges your lenses, and instead, look at Christ’s teachings for the truth. When you are stressed remember the enemy isn’t your spouse, boss, money, job, or anything else … it is always Satan. Use God’s armor to be victorious.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My focus is on You. I believe and accept Your promise. I thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, so that my sins may be forgiven. And I believe there is this diabolical creature, Satan. Your word tells us of his desire for death and destruction. I reject Satan and all his works. Help me, Father, to be aware, minute-by-minute, of this spiritual battle that wages around me. Help me remember that Satan tries to push my fleshly buttons, trying to tempt me to believe his lies about You. Thank You for the process that renews my mind, biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually: sending Jesus and giving us your instruction book, the Bible. I pray in the name of Your Son, the True Light of world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.
1 John 3:8-9
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:11-12
Monday, September 12, 2011
Stepping Stones: Striving For Perfection Makes Me More Imperfect
Transformational Thought
Writing these devotionals is so enjoyable and such a blessing to me in so many ways. One aspect is the comments and feedback we get from you, which are so powerfully encouraging and exciting. Why? Because we get to see, daily, what God is doing through us in your lives. That God would choose to partner with us is so exhilarating and purpose-giving. I am still amazed He would want to use us when He is so powerfully able to do it all, perfectly, on His own. Stepping Stones has also been incredibly enriching to me because it pushes me to dig deeply into God’s word regularly so I can articulate His truth to someone else.
Unfortunately, like all gifts and provisions from God in this world, there is a down side. Because of Satan’s schemes and my flesh (or me-centered nature), what God meant for good can easily get corrupted.
You see, I want to say so much in each Transformational Thought, so it’s more than a feel-good message, one that inspires you to change what you need to change to Iive the life God wants for you, that very day. Being a psychiatrist, I want to equip you with very practical tips to actually do something that day to change the faulty life patterns we all fall into and improve the strategies you use to fight against Satan’s strategies. Then I need to re-package 4 to 5 pages of content into a couple paragraphs, because people don’t read it when it gets too long!
Well, being an engineer, I am a perfectionist, and Satan uses that character flaw to try and suck the joy and excitement out of the blessing of being used by God to impact others. I’ve already written this one a couple times, wanting to be precise, impact, catchy, brief, and practical. Why? Unfortunately, at times, it’s about my issues, and not about seeking God and serving Him well. I really have to be intentional to not fall into that trap. It’s important to remember that we live in a fallen world, a world that is far from normal because it is tainted by sin. So much failure and frustration result from needing or seeking perfection in this life.
Today, remember that yearning for perfection is not a bad thing in and of itself. Know that God placed that yearning in your heart so you would search for Him. When you push for perfection, is it for your image and driven by the opinions of others, or is it really for God? Most of the time, God would be fine if you gave just 20% of your efforts to most areas of life and spent the other 80% of your time with Him. Remember Mary and Martha … which one are you? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know, Father, that my heart and soul contains many ill effects of the fall. As a result of this, I often try and achieve perfection apart from You. This sets me down a path of frustration, insecurity, inadequacy, and failure. I sadly admit, Father, that this wrong path also includes some form of idolatry in worshipping myself, other’s opinions, or even the task itself. I want to return to You Lord … to the path that leads me to You. I will do this, Lord, by seeking You first and foremost. As I seek You, Father, I know You will set my feet on the right Stepping Stone … that You will give me a firm place to stand and the guidance to take the right next step. Help my search for perfection by pointing me to You. I pray in Jesus’ perfect name; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
Psalm 40:2-3
that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
Philippians 3:11-13
Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:38-42
Writing these devotionals is so enjoyable and such a blessing to me in so many ways. One aspect is the comments and feedback we get from you, which are so powerfully encouraging and exciting. Why? Because we get to see, daily, what God is doing through us in your lives. That God would choose to partner with us is so exhilarating and purpose-giving. I am still amazed He would want to use us when He is so powerfully able to do it all, perfectly, on His own. Stepping Stones has also been incredibly enriching to me because it pushes me to dig deeply into God’s word regularly so I can articulate His truth to someone else.
Unfortunately, like all gifts and provisions from God in this world, there is a down side. Because of Satan’s schemes and my flesh (or me-centered nature), what God meant for good can easily get corrupted.
You see, I want to say so much in each Transformational Thought, so it’s more than a feel-good message, one that inspires you to change what you need to change to Iive the life God wants for you, that very day. Being a psychiatrist, I want to equip you with very practical tips to actually do something that day to change the faulty life patterns we all fall into and improve the strategies you use to fight against Satan’s strategies. Then I need to re-package 4 to 5 pages of content into a couple paragraphs, because people don’t read it when it gets too long!
Well, being an engineer, I am a perfectionist, and Satan uses that character flaw to try and suck the joy and excitement out of the blessing of being used by God to impact others. I’ve already written this one a couple times, wanting to be precise, impact, catchy, brief, and practical. Why? Unfortunately, at times, it’s about my issues, and not about seeking God and serving Him well. I really have to be intentional to not fall into that trap. It’s important to remember that we live in a fallen world, a world that is far from normal because it is tainted by sin. So much failure and frustration result from needing or seeking perfection in this life.
Today, remember that yearning for perfection is not a bad thing in and of itself. Know that God placed that yearning in your heart so you would search for Him. When you push for perfection, is it for your image and driven by the opinions of others, or is it really for God? Most of the time, God would be fine if you gave just 20% of your efforts to most areas of life and spent the other 80% of your time with Him. Remember Mary and Martha … which one are you? Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know, Father, that my heart and soul contains many ill effects of the fall. As a result of this, I often try and achieve perfection apart from You. This sets me down a path of frustration, insecurity, inadequacy, and failure. I sadly admit, Father, that this wrong path also includes some form of idolatry in worshipping myself, other’s opinions, or even the task itself. I want to return to You Lord … to the path that leads me to You. I will do this, Lord, by seeking You first and foremost. As I seek You, Father, I know You will set my feet on the right Stepping Stone … that You will give me a firm place to stand and the guidance to take the right next step. Help my search for perfection by pointing me to You. I pray in Jesus’ perfect name; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
Psalm 40:2-3
that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,
Philippians 3:11-13
Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:38-42
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You in Denial?
Transformational Thought
Early in my psychiatric career, I was caught by surprise, but learned something very important, so let me share it with you. I was called into a very difficult situation in the ER. An angry patient had a knife and threatened to hurt one of the nurses. Hospital security was there, but the situation was volatile. I was asked if I might be able to calm him down. Thankfully, we were able to have a discussion. He released the nurse and gave me his knife. We were able to treat and help his struggle.
The nurse thanked me afterward and asked, “How were you able to be so calm and clear and talk him down?” Previously I had many interactions with this nurse, but now she had a serious question. I didn’t want to seem arrogant, and replied, “This is what I was trained to do and any psychiatrist or ER doc could have done the same thing.”
I knew exactly where I get my source of happiness and joy, but I was caught off guard. So I gave her a lame answer. She didn’t push me for more and I think she sensed my uneasiness with her question, but I could tell she was disappointed in my answer. Wow, so was I. Did that really just pop out of my mouth? It was as if someone was asking me if I know Jesus, and I was denying my association with Jesus. I can’t believe I was being like Peter and denying my Lord so blatantly.
A few days following that encounter I was reading 1 Peter and came across 3:15 where we are instructed to always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. I vowed I would never again deny my Lord when asked if I know Him. Thankfully, God brought many odd and sometimes dangerous, complex life-and-death situations in which I could utilize the equipping He blessed me with.
Almost always, I was asked by staff how I was able to handle and achieve favorable outcomes. I was able, in every one of those situations, give testimony to God empowering me, giving me a peace, wisdom, and discernment, as well as the blessing of special training. The most enlightening information I tell them is that it is not my job to save or change the other person. I am just the vehicle, so I don’t feel any pressure. The pressure is on God, so I can be at rest and get a front seat to His great performance.
It’s rare for someone to ask such a direct question of us, but when they do, scripture tells us to be ready. We are more ready when we see God in all things. You see, I am trying to grow my awareness, my spiritual radar, to see God in all aspects of my life, 24/7. When we only connect with Him on Sunday, or before meals, or when we really need His help during stormy times, then we will only see Him as a small accessory in our life. In reality, He is our life and is in all facets of our life. We can’t escape Him, nor would we ever want to.
Today, think how you might respond when someone asks you the reason for the hope within you. Can you articulate to yourself the impact your faith and God’s actions have in your daily, moment-to-moment living. This is what we need to show and tell others. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a thankful heart. I recognize Your Son, Jesus Christ, as my Lord and I trust Him for the strength I so desperately need to lead a God-pleasing life. Help me, Lord, to speak when called upon to defend my faith and to spread Your message of forgiveness, faith, love and hope. Help me do so with gentleness and respect. Help me, Lord, to be a lighthouse for those in need. I pray with the authority granted to me through Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
1 Peter 3:15
Early in my psychiatric career, I was caught by surprise, but learned something very important, so let me share it with you. I was called into a very difficult situation in the ER. An angry patient had a knife and threatened to hurt one of the nurses. Hospital security was there, but the situation was volatile. I was asked if I might be able to calm him down. Thankfully, we were able to have a discussion. He released the nurse and gave me his knife. We were able to treat and help his struggle.
The nurse thanked me afterward and asked, “How were you able to be so calm and clear and talk him down?” Previously I had many interactions with this nurse, but now she had a serious question. I didn’t want to seem arrogant, and replied, “This is what I was trained to do and any psychiatrist or ER doc could have done the same thing.”
I knew exactly where I get my source of happiness and joy, but I was caught off guard. So I gave her a lame answer. She didn’t push me for more and I think she sensed my uneasiness with her question, but I could tell she was disappointed in my answer. Wow, so was I. Did that really just pop out of my mouth? It was as if someone was asking me if I know Jesus, and I was denying my association with Jesus. I can’t believe I was being like Peter and denying my Lord so blatantly.
A few days following that encounter I was reading 1 Peter and came across 3:15 where we are instructed to always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. I vowed I would never again deny my Lord when asked if I know Him. Thankfully, God brought many odd and sometimes dangerous, complex life-and-death situations in which I could utilize the equipping He blessed me with.
Almost always, I was asked by staff how I was able to handle and achieve favorable outcomes. I was able, in every one of those situations, give testimony to God empowering me, giving me a peace, wisdom, and discernment, as well as the blessing of special training. The most enlightening information I tell them is that it is not my job to save or change the other person. I am just the vehicle, so I don’t feel any pressure. The pressure is on God, so I can be at rest and get a front seat to His great performance.
It’s rare for someone to ask such a direct question of us, but when they do, scripture tells us to be ready. We are more ready when we see God in all things. You see, I am trying to grow my awareness, my spiritual radar, to see God in all aspects of my life, 24/7. When we only connect with Him on Sunday, or before meals, or when we really need His help during stormy times, then we will only see Him as a small accessory in our life. In reality, He is our life and is in all facets of our life. We can’t escape Him, nor would we ever want to.
Today, think how you might respond when someone asks you the reason for the hope within you. Can you articulate to yourself the impact your faith and God’s actions have in your daily, moment-to-moment living. This is what we need to show and tell others. Your decision, so choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a thankful heart. I recognize Your Son, Jesus Christ, as my Lord and I trust Him for the strength I so desperately need to lead a God-pleasing life. Help me, Lord, to speak when called upon to defend my faith and to spread Your message of forgiveness, faith, love and hope. Help me do so with gentleness and respect. Help me, Lord, to be a lighthouse for those in need. I pray with the authority granted to me through Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – AMEN!
The Truth
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
1 Peter 3:15
Friday, September 9, 2011
Stepping Stones: What Is Your Return On Investment?
Transformational Thought
Few things give me goose bumps like when my kids are involved in plays, recitals or sports, and I am privileged to see all their effort pay off in an amazing performance. Seeing the joy, pride, and self-confidence oozing from their faces and bodies, I will often even cry. I am always amazed at how well these youngsters perform out there in front of the big crowd with all the pressure. And they do it mostly on their own, often with minimal or no adult involvement in the final performance. How is this possible?
The answer: They are instructed in the fundamentals of the task, then practice them over and over, in safe, non-threatening situations, ‘til the task becomes second nature. Then, after all those investments … time, effort, embarrassment, humility, trust in the coach, self-discipline, delayed gratification, dealing with mistakes, perseverance … the big night comes with pressure, potential adversity, judgment, and a lot on the line. The more deposits that were made during the preparation phase, the grander the reward when it’s showtime. That is success, with interest. In these difficult economic times, there’s no safe place to put your savings that also pays interest.
You see, you can prepare for tough days by practicing some skills during the quiet days. In the mundane, everyday situations, practice seeing God at work in your life. Practice reflecting on and trusting in His character and promises. Memorize verses or stories from the Bible that reinforce these truths. See how He is meeting your needs and caring for you every day.
Communicate with Him regularly each day. Remember, communication is praying and also listening. Then when your storms come (and they will), your trust-balance will be sufficient to see you through. In fact, you will shine brightly, like the star in a play. You will also go to Him more easily in time of need, because you’ve been regularly practicing going to Him.
Today, try making a deposit in His treasury. Pray. Listen to God. Look for Him in your daily activities. Spend time in His instruction manual, thanking Him for what you have, or describing the effects of His character on how you see and navigate your day. The list can be endless. Each time you affirm your trust in Him, it is like putting a coin into His treasury. In doing so, you build up equity you can draw against it during stormy days. He will keep safely in His heart all investments in Him … with interest compounded continually. The more you trust God, the more He will enable you to do so, and the easier it will be to trust Him during the storms. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that the only safe investment is in You. I have tried saving money in my own bank for my security but have lost it all. Help me, Father, turn to trusting You. I see now how my faith and trust in You can grow exponentially. I have seen firsthand that the more I trust You, the more You enable me to trust You even more. Thank You for this Upward-Spiral. You have given us so much revelation of who You are. Help me dig into it during the calm days, so this ‘practice’ will pay off during the stormy days. I pray with trust and confidence through my savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – Amen!
The Truth
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:3-4
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Matthew 6:20
Few things give me goose bumps like when my kids are involved in plays, recitals or sports, and I am privileged to see all their effort pay off in an amazing performance. Seeing the joy, pride, and self-confidence oozing from their faces and bodies, I will often even cry. I am always amazed at how well these youngsters perform out there in front of the big crowd with all the pressure. And they do it mostly on their own, often with minimal or no adult involvement in the final performance. How is this possible?
The answer: They are instructed in the fundamentals of the task, then practice them over and over, in safe, non-threatening situations, ‘til the task becomes second nature. Then, after all those investments … time, effort, embarrassment, humility, trust in the coach, self-discipline, delayed gratification, dealing with mistakes, perseverance … the big night comes with pressure, potential adversity, judgment, and a lot on the line. The more deposits that were made during the preparation phase, the grander the reward when it’s showtime. That is success, with interest. In these difficult economic times, there’s no safe place to put your savings that also pays interest.
You see, you can prepare for tough days by practicing some skills during the quiet days. In the mundane, everyday situations, practice seeing God at work in your life. Practice reflecting on and trusting in His character and promises. Memorize verses or stories from the Bible that reinforce these truths. See how He is meeting your needs and caring for you every day.
Communicate with Him regularly each day. Remember, communication is praying and also listening. Then when your storms come (and they will), your trust-balance will be sufficient to see you through. In fact, you will shine brightly, like the star in a play. You will also go to Him more easily in time of need, because you’ve been regularly practicing going to Him.
Today, try making a deposit in His treasury. Pray. Listen to God. Look for Him in your daily activities. Spend time in His instruction manual, thanking Him for what you have, or describing the effects of His character on how you see and navigate your day. The list can be endless. Each time you affirm your trust in Him, it is like putting a coin into His treasury. In doing so, you build up equity you can draw against it during stormy days. He will keep safely in His heart all investments in Him … with interest compounded continually. The more you trust God, the more He will enable you to do so, and the easier it will be to trust Him during the storms. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that the only safe investment is in You. I have tried saving money in my own bank for my security but have lost it all. Help me, Father, turn to trusting You. I see now how my faith and trust in You can grow exponentially. I have seen firsthand that the more I trust You, the more You enable me to trust You even more. Thank You for this Upward-Spiral. You have given us so much revelation of who You are. Help me dig into it during the calm days, so this ‘practice’ will pay off during the stormy days. I pray with trust and confidence through my savior Jesus Christ; and all God’s people say – Amen!
The Truth
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?
Psalm 56:3-4
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Matthew 6:20
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Stepping Stones: Is Your Body Coordinated
Transformational Thought
Try this little exercise … close your eyes (after you are done reading this), then put your arms straight out in front of you (just like a zombie pose). What saves you from falling on your face? Your ugly, smelly BIG TOE! We all need a big toe or we would fall on our faces.
But if our body were only big toes and we had no eyes, we wouldn’t see the couch and would stub our big toe constantly. Without a stomach or heart, our foot muscles get no nutrition to use the big toe. We need all our body parts working together in the amazing way God created. Well, God also described another body, the church, and we the believers are the body parts. Like the human body, to maximize our function, which is to glorify God, the body parts need to work together, communicating with and supporting each other. Just like physical coordination leads to athletic success, we need to have some spiritual body coordination to have spiritual impact and success.
When Stepping Stones started on Feb. 19, 2009 we sent out 925 devotionals. 31 months later, we send 1,100,000 devotionals. This morning, 3400 people will get Stepping Stones from us directly and another 7000 (possibly more) get it from emails you forward, copies you print, or use in prison ministry, small groups, rehabs units, or with patients you counsel. We then have thousands more who get it from church websites and other organizational websites, plus Facebook postings your friends see. Thank you for spreading the Word.
You send us amazing comments, which greatly encourage and enrich us, and we are so blessed to play a part in your growing relationship with God. This is how the body of believers can work more synergistically together as we help each other spiritually mature.
Today, to facilitate this community growth both in depth and numbers, we ask you to consider a couple options: 1. Click the “Stepping Stones Blog Community” link in the left margin (www.SteppingStones-LN.blogspot.com) and post a comment (anonymously if you want), read each other’s comments, and we can all benefit from collective wisdom, experiences, and perspectives, 2. Periodically forward Stepping Stones to 10 people in your life with a note about how you care for them and how Stepping Stones has impacted you. 3. Hit the Facebook icon on the top of Stepping Stones and share it on Facebook so you can bless others. Don’t be shy … we are here to build each other up as Jesus modeled and God desires. We are built for relationship and need each other to help us grow, and to spread the gospel message by working together. These are free and easy steps to be a Lighthouse to those God has strategically put in your life. Then share the cool stories that God writes in your life! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, You are amazing and an awesome creator … the way You made my body with all the intricacies of my eyeball and brain … and the simplicity of my big toe. Thank You also for the body of believers You have created, with Christ as our head. I am sorry that all the Christian churches don’t work together as one united body … it must grieve You so to see this body fractured. I thank You for this part of the church body, the Stepping Stones Community, and pray You strengthen it as we encourage, teach, and care for each other, becoming Lighthouses shining Your glory, love, and grace to all who need it, and helping each other stand firm in the waves and storms of this world. Give us courage to reach out and be open about our love for You and thankfulness for your presence in our lives. We pray for open hearts for those who will receive Stepping Stones for the first time as our community shares. In Jesus’ name as the head of our body; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Romans 12:4,5
And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
Ephesians 4:11-16
Try this little exercise … close your eyes (after you are done reading this), then put your arms straight out in front of you (just like a zombie pose). What saves you from falling on your face? Your ugly, smelly BIG TOE! We all need a big toe or we would fall on our faces.
But if our body were only big toes and we had no eyes, we wouldn’t see the couch and would stub our big toe constantly. Without a stomach or heart, our foot muscles get no nutrition to use the big toe. We need all our body parts working together in the amazing way God created. Well, God also described another body, the church, and we the believers are the body parts. Like the human body, to maximize our function, which is to glorify God, the body parts need to work together, communicating with and supporting each other. Just like physical coordination leads to athletic success, we need to have some spiritual body coordination to have spiritual impact and success.
When Stepping Stones started on Feb. 19, 2009 we sent out 925 devotionals. 31 months later, we send 1,100,000 devotionals. This morning, 3400 people will get Stepping Stones from us directly and another 7000 (possibly more) get it from emails you forward, copies you print, or use in prison ministry, small groups, rehabs units, or with patients you counsel. We then have thousands more who get it from church websites and other organizational websites, plus Facebook postings your friends see. Thank you for spreading the Word.
You send us amazing comments, which greatly encourage and enrich us, and we are so blessed to play a part in your growing relationship with God. This is how the body of believers can work more synergistically together as we help each other spiritually mature.
Today, to facilitate this community growth both in depth and numbers, we ask you to consider a couple options: 1. Click the “Stepping Stones Blog Community” link in the left margin (www.SteppingStones-LN.blogspot.com) and post a comment (anonymously if you want), read each other’s comments, and we can all benefit from collective wisdom, experiences, and perspectives, 2. Periodically forward Stepping Stones to 10 people in your life with a note about how you care for them and how Stepping Stones has impacted you. 3. Hit the Facebook icon on the top of Stepping Stones and share it on Facebook so you can bless others. Don’t be shy … we are here to build each other up as Jesus modeled and God desires. We are built for relationship and need each other to help us grow, and to spread the gospel message by working together. These are free and easy steps to be a Lighthouse to those God has strategically put in your life. Then share the cool stories that God writes in your life! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, You are amazing and an awesome creator … the way You made my body with all the intricacies of my eyeball and brain … and the simplicity of my big toe. Thank You also for the body of believers You have created, with Christ as our head. I am sorry that all the Christian churches don’t work together as one united body … it must grieve You so to see this body fractured. I thank You for this part of the church body, the Stepping Stones Community, and pray You strengthen it as we encourage, teach, and care for each other, becoming Lighthouses shining Your glory, love, and grace to all who need it, and helping each other stand firm in the waves and storms of this world. Give us courage to reach out and be open about our love for You and thankfulness for your presence in our lives. We pray for open hearts for those who will receive Stepping Stones for the first time as our community shares. In Jesus’ name as the head of our body; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Romans 12:4,5
And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
Ephesians 4:11-16
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Stepping Stones: The Big Lie Behind Envy
Transformational Thought
We’ve spent the last 3 days examining, dissecting, or as I like to call it, “deconstructing” envy. And we pray it has been helpful and eye-opening for you. Most importantly though, we really hope this series has helped you grow in your understanding of God and yourself, and moved you some stepping stones closer to your goal of Christ-likeness. Not just Christ-like in theory, but actually in the everyday workings of your heart and evidenced by your works.
Today, in our last look at envy, we reveal the destructive belief, distortion, (actually a lie) that both fuels envy and is magnified by envy. You see, when you envy someone’s possessions (we aren’t talking about envying the Godly traits or living that you see in someone else), what you’re really saying is “I am not content with what I have, I deserve more, that “fill in the blank” should be mine, not my neighbor’s.”
If God makes the decisions regarding who has what, then the core belief of envy is, drum roll please, God made a mistake! He didn’t give me what I deserve … in fact, He gave it to someone else who doesn’t deserve it as much as I do.” If God really knows me, and loves me, He would give me what I want or “need”.
These distortions and lies are all part of Satan’s plot to make it seem like God isn’t interested in us, doesn’t love us, doesn’t want to help us, or is impotent and can’t help us. The lie draws us away from God, sabotages the relationship God desires with and from us, and pushes us to rely on ourselves.
When you believe you know what you need and God doesn’t, then it’s hard to correctly make the 2nd biggest decision of your life. Is Jesus the Lord of your life, or are you lord of your own life?
Today, examine your beliefs about God. Ask yourself, “Am I envious about what others have?” “At times, do I get dissatisfied with what I have?” “Do I get mad at God for my circumstances?” “How often do I look to His instruction manual for answers to grow me so God can give me different circumstances?” Then look deeper and examine whether you truly believe God made a mistake. If you have some dissatisfaction or envy, then you believe that God made a mistake. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, Your love and grace for me are magnificent. Thank You so much for being perfect in all ways. I confess at times that I see something another person has and wonder why I don’t have that … and at times I strongly resent that I don’t have it and believe I deserve one, or even his. I regret that I sadden You as You have given me so much to be grateful for. I am blowing all those gifts off and wishing for the one I don’t have but think I need. I realize You know it isn’t yet right for me at this stage of my development. I yearn for a heart that seeks to grow, wants to change, and is willing to have the pain in order to get the gain. God, I know You will share in that pain and provide peace and comfort, so help me be brave to step one Stepping Stone closer to the life that is within reach. In Jesus’ name I find true contentment and absolution; and all God’s children say Amen – AMEN!
The Truth
O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.
Psalm 139:1-4
We’ve spent the last 3 days examining, dissecting, or as I like to call it, “deconstructing” envy. And we pray it has been helpful and eye-opening for you. Most importantly though, we really hope this series has helped you grow in your understanding of God and yourself, and moved you some stepping stones closer to your goal of Christ-likeness. Not just Christ-like in theory, but actually in the everyday workings of your heart and evidenced by your works.
Today, in our last look at envy, we reveal the destructive belief, distortion, (actually a lie) that both fuels envy and is magnified by envy. You see, when you envy someone’s possessions (we aren’t talking about envying the Godly traits or living that you see in someone else), what you’re really saying is “I am not content with what I have, I deserve more, that “fill in the blank” should be mine, not my neighbor’s.”
If God makes the decisions regarding who has what, then the core belief of envy is, drum roll please, God made a mistake! He didn’t give me what I deserve … in fact, He gave it to someone else who doesn’t deserve it as much as I do.” If God really knows me, and loves me, He would give me what I want or “need”.
These distortions and lies are all part of Satan’s plot to make it seem like God isn’t interested in us, doesn’t love us, doesn’t want to help us, or is impotent and can’t help us. The lie draws us away from God, sabotages the relationship God desires with and from us, and pushes us to rely on ourselves.
When you believe you know what you need and God doesn’t, then it’s hard to correctly make the 2nd biggest decision of your life. Is Jesus the Lord of your life, or are you lord of your own life?
Today, examine your beliefs about God. Ask yourself, “Am I envious about what others have?” “At times, do I get dissatisfied with what I have?” “Do I get mad at God for my circumstances?” “How often do I look to His instruction manual for answers to grow me so God can give me different circumstances?” Then look deeper and examine whether you truly believe God made a mistake. If you have some dissatisfaction or envy, then you believe that God made a mistake. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear God, Your love and grace for me are magnificent. Thank You so much for being perfect in all ways. I confess at times that I see something another person has and wonder why I don’t have that … and at times I strongly resent that I don’t have it and believe I deserve one, or even his. I regret that I sadden You as You have given me so much to be grateful for. I am blowing all those gifts off and wishing for the one I don’t have but think I need. I realize You know it isn’t yet right for me at this stage of my development. I yearn for a heart that seeks to grow, wants to change, and is willing to have the pain in order to get the gain. God, I know You will share in that pain and provide peace and comfort, so help me be brave to step one Stepping Stone closer to the life that is within reach. In Jesus’ name I find true contentment and absolution; and all God’s children say Amen – AMEN!
The Truth
O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.
Psalm 139:1-4
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Stepping Stones: Why More Isn’t Enough
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, we looked at the envy trap Satan sets to pull us away from God, derailing us off the track to Christ-likeness. We hope you have been learning to be more content with God and what He gives you each day. Today, let’s look at why we are so susceptible, over and over, to this envy trap.
I remember my first paycheck helping a roofer in middle school. It seemed like so much money … $5.00/hr. in high school, then $7.00/hr. in college. During med school I had many bills and made $16,000/yr. parking cars to pay for rent and food … and that seemed like so much. In the third and fourth years of med school, I would work 80-100 hrs/wk for NO pay. So when I started residency, I was $108,000 in debt, hadn’t had a paycheck in 2 years, moved to California with 2 suitcases of clothes to my name, and was flat broke.
That first month, I made $3000. It seemed like a zillion. I felt so rich, thought it would last forever. I believed I was in financial heaven. I was able to buy a TV and bed, and eat out occasionally. Six months later I was amazed at how little I had at the end of the month. It wasn’t enough. Residency year 2, I got a raise to $39,000/yr. Wow, I was rich again. But in 8 months, I started to get the feeling it wasn’t enough. In year 4, I was making $45,000 and moonlighting to almost double that. Again, I felt rich. But in about 10 months I needed more. How could $36,000 seem so great, yet $90,000 for the same lifestyle not be enough? Our flesh is never satisfied.
You see, once we hit our goal, our nature is to reset or recalibrate to a higher setting. We need more to get the same satisfaction. In addictions, we call it developing a tolerance, needing more of the drug to get the same effect. Needing more as time goes on happens in many areas … money… space in a kitchen or yard … alcohol or caffeine … asking for more out of marriage now than when we got engaged … job satisfaction … needing 2, 3, or 4 cars. Our amnesia regarding realistic settings and the recalibration phenomena dangerously dangle us right over the envy trap. What we really deserve … is nothing. That’s why God’s grace is so amazing.
Today, examine your needs meter. Have your settings been calibrated much higher than really necessary? Have your wants turned into needs? That is the flesh and Satan working in concert. Evaluate where God would set your needs meter, or how Jesus set His. Examine and make a plan to back off one of your wants a bit today. Replace that with some time in God’s word or prayer time talking and listening to Him. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, Thanks for meeting my needs. Help me understand the difference between real needs and desires. Teach me to be satisfied and thankful for how You provide for my needs, instead of saying “thanks, but I need more.” Help me focus on what I have and not on what I don’t have. God, You are so awesome and Your design is perfect, help me be transformed through Godly decision-making, not conformed to this world and mentality by my fleshly decisions. In Christ’s perfectly calibrated offering and name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone.’” And the devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, "To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.'" And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" And Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'"
Luke 4:3-12
But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.
Genesis 3:4-7
Yesterday, we looked at the envy trap Satan sets to pull us away from God, derailing us off the track to Christ-likeness. We hope you have been learning to be more content with God and what He gives you each day. Today, let’s look at why we are so susceptible, over and over, to this envy trap.
I remember my first paycheck helping a roofer in middle school. It seemed like so much money … $5.00/hr. in high school, then $7.00/hr. in college. During med school I had many bills and made $16,000/yr. parking cars to pay for rent and food … and that seemed like so much. In the third and fourth years of med school, I would work 80-100 hrs/wk for NO pay. So when I started residency, I was $108,000 in debt, hadn’t had a paycheck in 2 years, moved to California with 2 suitcases of clothes to my name, and was flat broke.
That first month, I made $3000. It seemed like a zillion. I felt so rich, thought it would last forever. I believed I was in financial heaven. I was able to buy a TV and bed, and eat out occasionally. Six months later I was amazed at how little I had at the end of the month. It wasn’t enough. Residency year 2, I got a raise to $39,000/yr. Wow, I was rich again. But in 8 months, I started to get the feeling it wasn’t enough. In year 4, I was making $45,000 and moonlighting to almost double that. Again, I felt rich. But in about 10 months I needed more. How could $36,000 seem so great, yet $90,000 for the same lifestyle not be enough? Our flesh is never satisfied.
You see, once we hit our goal, our nature is to reset or recalibrate to a higher setting. We need more to get the same satisfaction. In addictions, we call it developing a tolerance, needing more of the drug to get the same effect. Needing more as time goes on happens in many areas … money… space in a kitchen or yard … alcohol or caffeine … asking for more out of marriage now than when we got engaged … job satisfaction … needing 2, 3, or 4 cars. Our amnesia regarding realistic settings and the recalibration phenomena dangerously dangle us right over the envy trap. What we really deserve … is nothing. That’s why God’s grace is so amazing.
Today, examine your needs meter. Have your settings been calibrated much higher than really necessary? Have your wants turned into needs? That is the flesh and Satan working in concert. Evaluate where God would set your needs meter, or how Jesus set His. Examine and make a plan to back off one of your wants a bit today. Replace that with some time in God’s word or prayer time talking and listening to Him. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, Thanks for meeting my needs. Help me understand the difference between real needs and desires. Teach me to be satisfied and thankful for how You provide for my needs, instead of saying “thanks, but I need more.” Help me focus on what I have and not on what I don’t have. God, You are so awesome and Your design is perfect, help me be transformed through Godly decision-making, not conformed to this world and mentality by my fleshly decisions. In Christ’s perfectly calibrated offering and name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone.’” And the devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, "To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.'" And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" And Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'"
Luke 4:3-12
But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.
Genesis 3:4-7
Monday, September 5, 2011
Stepping Stones: What’s the Apple of Your Eye?
Transformational Thought
Yesterday, we introduced envy, which is wanting or craving what others have instead of getting our joy from being with God and what He provides for us. Well that is easy, but let’s dig a little deeper.
Envy is one of the traps Satan sets for us, using our pride, flesh, and our ‘satisfy-me-now’ mentality against us. Satan deceives us, actually distorts our lenses, so we believe that our fulfillment and joy in this life come from emotional, psychological, physical, or material answers. His goal is getting us to shut down our spiritual radar, turn off our spiritual antennae, and ignore spiritual or divine answers for our needs
You see, the way it’s supposed to be was in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve had this fantastic set up, enjoying direct relationship with the perfect God in the perfect setting with no adversity. But they weren’t omniscient so they were gullible (like us). Satan tricked them into believing they needed something more than utopia. He duped them into thinking they needed more power and more knowledge, and could get all that through an apple (not as appealing to me as ice cream). Instead of staying in relationship with God, relying on Him and following His instructions to not eat, they were swindled by Satan, trading eternal life with God for life on their own and separation from God. Thankfully, God provided a way back into relationship with Him through Jesus.
The trap is, if you believe your happiness and contentment are dependent on your external circumstances, or from someplace or someone else other than God, then you will always be lost, unhappy, and discontent. Those things weren’t meant to bring you what you desire, nor can they. God designed us specifically to be immune to those external things. So regardless of our circumstances, or the mistakes we make with finances, marriage, parenting, sin, etc., we still have access to a peace, comfort, and joy that is independent of who we are and what is around us.
Today, look inside and identify some of your traps … apples … that you believe will satisfy your real needs. How did you get tricked into believing they could deliver what you really desire in the deepest places of your heart? Don’t mistake momentary relief for true fulfillment. That’s Satan’s trick and trap! Your decision, choose well. More on why envy seems endless tomorrow.
Prayer
Dear God, You and only You are the source of my joy, peace, and comfort. I confess that my need to control life is often the apple I grab. Help me trust Your control in my life and not have the need to trust my inadequate abilities. Please help me. Grow in me eyes that see and ears that hear the traps Satan places in my path. Help me choose the Stepping Stone You have for my forward movement towards Christ-likeness. Through Your Spirit strengthen me to resist the temptations and impulses of my flesh. Teach me to always ask for Your forgiveness for my me-centered mistakes. And thanks for Your endless grace and forgiveness when I do fall. In Jesus’ all- providing death and resurrection I pray; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.
Genesis 3:4-7
Yesterday, we introduced envy, which is wanting or craving what others have instead of getting our joy from being with God and what He provides for us. Well that is easy, but let’s dig a little deeper.
Envy is one of the traps Satan sets for us, using our pride, flesh, and our ‘satisfy-me-now’ mentality against us. Satan deceives us, actually distorts our lenses, so we believe that our fulfillment and joy in this life come from emotional, psychological, physical, or material answers. His goal is getting us to shut down our spiritual radar, turn off our spiritual antennae, and ignore spiritual or divine answers for our needs
You see, the way it’s supposed to be was in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve had this fantastic set up, enjoying direct relationship with the perfect God in the perfect setting with no adversity. But they weren’t omniscient so they were gullible (like us). Satan tricked them into believing they needed something more than utopia. He duped them into thinking they needed more power and more knowledge, and could get all that through an apple (not as appealing to me as ice cream). Instead of staying in relationship with God, relying on Him and following His instructions to not eat, they were swindled by Satan, trading eternal life with God for life on their own and separation from God. Thankfully, God provided a way back into relationship with Him through Jesus.
The trap is, if you believe your happiness and contentment are dependent on your external circumstances, or from someplace or someone else other than God, then you will always be lost, unhappy, and discontent. Those things weren’t meant to bring you what you desire, nor can they. God designed us specifically to be immune to those external things. So regardless of our circumstances, or the mistakes we make with finances, marriage, parenting, sin, etc., we still have access to a peace, comfort, and joy that is independent of who we are and what is around us.
Today, look inside and identify some of your traps … apples … that you believe will satisfy your real needs. How did you get tricked into believing they could deliver what you really desire in the deepest places of your heart? Don’t mistake momentary relief for true fulfillment. That’s Satan’s trick and trap! Your decision, choose well. More on why envy seems endless tomorrow.
Prayer
Dear God, You and only You are the source of my joy, peace, and comfort. I confess that my need to control life is often the apple I grab. Help me trust Your control in my life and not have the need to trust my inadequate abilities. Please help me. Grow in me eyes that see and ears that hear the traps Satan places in my path. Help me choose the Stepping Stone You have for my forward movement towards Christ-likeness. Through Your Spirit strengthen me to resist the temptations and impulses of my flesh. Teach me to always ask for Your forgiveness for my me-centered mistakes. And thanks for Your endless grace and forgiveness when I do fall. In Jesus’ all- providing death and resurrection I pray; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.
Genesis 3:4-7
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Stepping Stones: If I Could Win A Million Dollars…
Transformational Thought
I am amazed by all the “Hollywood Reports” news shows on TV. All the stories are about rich celebrities, with so much going for them, but who are in some kind of trouble. Tiger Woods’ affairs, Lindsay Lohan’s arrests, Charlie Sheen’s addictions, Amy Winehouse’s overdose, Heath Ledger’s suicide and those of so many pro and prominent athletes.
Some of the world’s most miserable people are those whose external and material situations should buy them the most happiness. So as we watch people, whether world-famous or even people in our communities, we have to wonder and think about what do joy and peace have to do with our circumstances. A better job, house, status, portfolio, or spouse is all we need to “find” happiness, or so we’ve been brainwashed to think.
Time and again we see people who reach the top of the ladder by society’s standards, only to find emptiness, stress, doubt, insecurity, fear, addictions, or chaotic behavior awaiting them. How often do people say, “If I just won a million dollars, my life would be perfect”? Did you know that thirty percent of lottery winners who win more than one million dollars are dealing with divorce, financial struggle, significant health issues, legal or addiction problems, estrangement from family or kids, depression, or suicide within three year? Our flesh always wants MORE! What we want the most, happiness, security, and unconditional love can’t be bought.
God’s Holy Word tells us that we are not to set our desires on anything that belongs to others. Not only can these cravings make us miserable, they can lead us to other sins such as adultery, addiction, gossip, or theft.
True joy will never come by envying others. True joy is a byproduct of living in the presence of God. Realize He gives you exactly what you need, so focus on stewarding that well. Then you can experience true joy anywhere and in any circumstance, from palaces to prisons. Once He sees you can handle what you have, He will bless you with so much more (defined by God specifically for you) because He is a generous and loving God.
Today, be mindful of envious thoughts and desires. When you start to eye up what you don’t have, STOP! Look inside and explore why God isn’t giving it to you yet. Then look at what He has given you, and be thankful. Concentrate on staying in communication with God to understand the “whys”. No need to be envious of anyone … after all, the most precious and valuable possession is free and available to everyone: eternal life through Christ. Tune in tomorrow for more on envy’s trap.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for all the blessings and gifts You have given me. I know that You will provide everything I need. But Father, I confess being envious of others and their possessions and circumstances. Grow in me a heart and mind for the eternal kingdom and awareness of my spiritual needs … a heart less focused on my material and psychological answers that are short-sighted, quick fix solutions. Thank You for being patient with me all these years, as I am a slow learner, but excited about what You are showing me in my life these last few years. In Jesus’ all-satisfying name we pray; and all God’s children say –AMEN!
The Truth
"You shall not covet your neighbor's wife. You shall not set your desire on your neighbor's house or land, his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
Deuteronomy 5:21
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything; you may have an abundance for every good deed
2 Corinthians 9:8
I am amazed by all the “Hollywood Reports” news shows on TV. All the stories are about rich celebrities, with so much going for them, but who are in some kind of trouble. Tiger Woods’ affairs, Lindsay Lohan’s arrests, Charlie Sheen’s addictions, Amy Winehouse’s overdose, Heath Ledger’s suicide and those of so many pro and prominent athletes.
Some of the world’s most miserable people are those whose external and material situations should buy them the most happiness. So as we watch people, whether world-famous or even people in our communities, we have to wonder and think about what do joy and peace have to do with our circumstances. A better job, house, status, portfolio, or spouse is all we need to “find” happiness, or so we’ve been brainwashed to think.
Time and again we see people who reach the top of the ladder by society’s standards, only to find emptiness, stress, doubt, insecurity, fear, addictions, or chaotic behavior awaiting them. How often do people say, “If I just won a million dollars, my life would be perfect”? Did you know that thirty percent of lottery winners who win more than one million dollars are dealing with divorce, financial struggle, significant health issues, legal or addiction problems, estrangement from family or kids, depression, or suicide within three year? Our flesh always wants MORE! What we want the most, happiness, security, and unconditional love can’t be bought.
God’s Holy Word tells us that we are not to set our desires on anything that belongs to others. Not only can these cravings make us miserable, they can lead us to other sins such as adultery, addiction, gossip, or theft.
True joy will never come by envying others. True joy is a byproduct of living in the presence of God. Realize He gives you exactly what you need, so focus on stewarding that well. Then you can experience true joy anywhere and in any circumstance, from palaces to prisons. Once He sees you can handle what you have, He will bless you with so much more (defined by God specifically for you) because He is a generous and loving God.
Today, be mindful of envious thoughts and desires. When you start to eye up what you don’t have, STOP! Look inside and explore why God isn’t giving it to you yet. Then look at what He has given you, and be thankful. Concentrate on staying in communication with God to understand the “whys”. No need to be envious of anyone … after all, the most precious and valuable possession is free and available to everyone: eternal life through Christ. Tune in tomorrow for more on envy’s trap.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for all the blessings and gifts You have given me. I know that You will provide everything I need. But Father, I confess being envious of others and their possessions and circumstances. Grow in me a heart and mind for the eternal kingdom and awareness of my spiritual needs … a heart less focused on my material and psychological answers that are short-sighted, quick fix solutions. Thank You for being patient with me all these years, as I am a slow learner, but excited about what You are showing me in my life these last few years. In Jesus’ all-satisfying name we pray; and all God’s children say –AMEN!
The Truth
"You shall not covet your neighbor's wife. You shall not set your desire on your neighbor's house or land, his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
Deuteronomy 5:21
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything; you may have an abundance for every good deed
2 Corinthians 9:8
Friday, September 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Stop Reading, Start Applying
Transformational Thought
As Christians we should constantly be striving to grow in Christ … to grow in our spiritual maturity. But how do you grow spiritually? We hear great sermons, read some good books, read the Word, but then what? What kind of strategy or disciplines can be practiced daily so you will actually grow and mature in your functioning, and not just build a great spiritual library in your head?
Unfortunately, many Christians believe the answer to growth is accumulating more spiritual knowledge. But real growth comes with the application of just a little knowledge. The first area of application needs to be getting to know and experience God. We should not confuse knowledge about Him with experientially knowing Him.
My wife is an outgoing, fun, generous, and caring person to hang out with and talk to. No matter how much I increase your knowledge of her by accurately describing her, even showing you home movies of her, you still wouldn’t experientially know her. Not until you actually spend time interacting with her in person, a number of times, actually sharing experiences with her, do you really start to get to know her.
Knowing Him is so much more than storing facts and commentaries about Him in your memory bank. You must to spend time with Him to know Him. That is the bottom line. It doesn’t happen any other way. Just ask a kid separated from a parent at a young age. They might have heard stories about that parent, but really knowing that parent only comes through direct interaction.
Today, begin the process of knowing your Lord by first trusting Him. When you are uncomfortable, alone, anxious, sad, overwhelmed, frustrated … trust His promises to you. Then you will experience Him acting in your life and will really get to know Him. You have to put yourself out there a bit, just as you do in a real human relationships, when you are really trying to experience someone. Rely on your trust in Him, His promises, His character, His teachings. You’ve accumulated that knowledge of Him, now apply and act on it. Continue to live and communicate as if He is in your life, because He is! No matter what is happening, trusting Him then drawing close to Him are excellent ways to experience Him. Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are such an awesome God. Who but You could be everywhere at all times? I am humbled and amazed that someone as great as You cares about every detail of my life. Help me, Lord, to keep You always before me. Help me not just know facts about You, but to let me experience You intimately. When I feel needy, Lord, help me run to You and not to other gods and things that I have used to replace You, other things that only give me temporary relief … and many times makes things oh so much worse. I pray this in the name of the One who knew me long ago, and still died for me, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:16-19
He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:29-31
As Christians we should constantly be striving to grow in Christ … to grow in our spiritual maturity. But how do you grow spiritually? We hear great sermons, read some good books, read the Word, but then what? What kind of strategy or disciplines can be practiced daily so you will actually grow and mature in your functioning, and not just build a great spiritual library in your head?
Unfortunately, many Christians believe the answer to growth is accumulating more spiritual knowledge. But real growth comes with the application of just a little knowledge. The first area of application needs to be getting to know and experience God. We should not confuse knowledge about Him with experientially knowing Him.
My wife is an outgoing, fun, generous, and caring person to hang out with and talk to. No matter how much I increase your knowledge of her by accurately describing her, even showing you home movies of her, you still wouldn’t experientially know her. Not until you actually spend time interacting with her in person, a number of times, actually sharing experiences with her, do you really start to get to know her.
Knowing Him is so much more than storing facts and commentaries about Him in your memory bank. You must to spend time with Him to know Him. That is the bottom line. It doesn’t happen any other way. Just ask a kid separated from a parent at a young age. They might have heard stories about that parent, but really knowing that parent only comes through direct interaction.
Today, begin the process of knowing your Lord by first trusting Him. When you are uncomfortable, alone, anxious, sad, overwhelmed, frustrated … trust His promises to you. Then you will experience Him acting in your life and will really get to know Him. You have to put yourself out there a bit, just as you do in a real human relationships, when you are really trying to experience someone. Rely on your trust in Him, His promises, His character, His teachings. You’ve accumulated that knowledge of Him, now apply and act on it. Continue to live and communicate as if He is in your life, because He is! No matter what is happening, trusting Him then drawing close to Him are excellent ways to experience Him. Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are such an awesome God. Who but You could be everywhere at all times? I am humbled and amazed that someone as great as You cares about every detail of my life. Help me, Lord, to keep You always before me. Help me not just know facts about You, but to let me experience You intimately. When I feel needy, Lord, help me run to You and not to other gods and things that I have used to replace You, other things that only give me temporary relief … and many times makes things oh so much worse. I pray this in the name of the One who knew me long ago, and still died for me, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Ephesians 3:16-19
He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:29-31
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Stepping Stones: Forever: Where Will You Live?
Transformational Thought
Lately, many people seem to be dying prematurely. Whether from suicide, accidental overdose drug addiction, car accidents, or the all-too-frequent cancer victim. So many funerals … almost daily. If you believe what people say at funerals, no one ever goes to Hell. I’ve never heard anyone give a eulogy and say, “My father did many nice things, but was a handful to deal with and he will spend eternity in Hell. Where will you go? Will you live forever in Hell with my dad, or go to heaven when you die? ”
Really, that is the “for all the marbles” question. Have you ever really thought about eternity? I’ve been thinking about it ever since I was a kid and realized people actually die and leave this earth.
Many times we hear Christians talk about life on earth compared to eternity. They’ll say “it’s as quick as the blink of an eye.” While our time on earth is certainly short and fast compared to eternity, how we spend that time determines how we will spend our eternity. Yes, our time on earth is very important and is just a small stepping-stone on the path to our final intended destination, eternity.
When we don’t know Jesus, we make choices as if this life is all we have. In reality, this life is just the introduction to the biggest part of life, eternity. And how we live this brief span will actually determine our eternal state and destination. What we accumulate in this life (material things) has no value in purchasing eternal life.
Try viewing all that happens from an eternal perspective. You should find both your values and your decisions changing. If you aren’t a believer in Jesus as your Savior, you got the biggest, most life altering decision to make, the one that affects where and how you spend eternity. If you do believe in Christ as your Savior, you will be in heaven for eternity. How amazingly awesome, yet sometimes impossible for me to fathom.
However, is how you live life now helping others realize the ultimate eternity-determining decision they need to make? Sure, you might be a good person. But are your daily activities simply making this earthly life more comfortable for you … or are you out there in action and word, sharing the good news with others to affect their eternal destinations?
Today, don’t just accept Jesus as your personal Savior, but make Him the Lord of your life, of all you do and every decision you make. This is what we are called to do. God has put people in your life, today, for you to build deeper relationships, and see changes in your life when you make Jesus the Lord of your life. Be a Lighthouse! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You to praise and give You glory. I come to You confessing that I do not have the eternal perspective that I want to have or should have. I thank You for my salvation and for those You brought into my life who spoke to me about eternal things. I know Your Holy Spirit changes hearts and opens eyes. And I also know You want to use me … that I have a role to play in securing eternity in Your presence for others. Lord, please help me let go of all the things I cling to in this temporal world. As I release my grasp on those “things”, it frees my hand to reach out and take hold of Your hand as You guide me to help others understand the eternal home You have promised me and all believers. I pray, Father, that as I experience suffering and the storms of this temporal world, that You help me shift my focus to eternity … my ultimate destination. I pray this in the name of my ticket into eternity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”
Matthew 16:26
“Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:15-16
“Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light."
Luke 11:34-36
Lately, many people seem to be dying prematurely. Whether from suicide, accidental overdose drug addiction, car accidents, or the all-too-frequent cancer victim. So many funerals … almost daily. If you believe what people say at funerals, no one ever goes to Hell. I’ve never heard anyone give a eulogy and say, “My father did many nice things, but was a handful to deal with and he will spend eternity in Hell. Where will you go? Will you live forever in Hell with my dad, or go to heaven when you die? ”
Really, that is the “for all the marbles” question. Have you ever really thought about eternity? I’ve been thinking about it ever since I was a kid and realized people actually die and leave this earth.
Many times we hear Christians talk about life on earth compared to eternity. They’ll say “it’s as quick as the blink of an eye.” While our time on earth is certainly short and fast compared to eternity, how we spend that time determines how we will spend our eternity. Yes, our time on earth is very important and is just a small stepping-stone on the path to our final intended destination, eternity.
When we don’t know Jesus, we make choices as if this life is all we have. In reality, this life is just the introduction to the biggest part of life, eternity. And how we live this brief span will actually determine our eternal state and destination. What we accumulate in this life (material things) has no value in purchasing eternal life.
Try viewing all that happens from an eternal perspective. You should find both your values and your decisions changing. If you aren’t a believer in Jesus as your Savior, you got the biggest, most life altering decision to make, the one that affects where and how you spend eternity. If you do believe in Christ as your Savior, you will be in heaven for eternity. How amazingly awesome, yet sometimes impossible for me to fathom.
However, is how you live life now helping others realize the ultimate eternity-determining decision they need to make? Sure, you might be a good person. But are your daily activities simply making this earthly life more comfortable for you … or are you out there in action and word, sharing the good news with others to affect their eternal destinations?
Today, don’t just accept Jesus as your personal Savior, but make Him the Lord of your life, of all you do and every decision you make. This is what we are called to do. God has put people in your life, today, for you to build deeper relationships, and see changes in your life when you make Jesus the Lord of your life. Be a Lighthouse! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You to praise and give You glory. I come to You confessing that I do not have the eternal perspective that I want to have or should have. I thank You for my salvation and for those You brought into my life who spoke to me about eternal things. I know Your Holy Spirit changes hearts and opens eyes. And I also know You want to use me … that I have a role to play in securing eternity in Your presence for others. Lord, please help me let go of all the things I cling to in this temporal world. As I release my grasp on those “things”, it frees my hand to reach out and take hold of Your hand as You guide me to help others understand the eternal home You have promised me and all believers. I pray, Father, that as I experience suffering and the storms of this temporal world, that You help me shift my focus to eternity … my ultimate destination. I pray this in the name of my ticket into eternity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
“What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”
Matthew 16:26
“Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:15-16
“Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, your body is full of darkness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be darkness. If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright, as when a lamp with its rays gives you light."
Luke 11:34-36
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Stepping Stones: Parenting Transition: Praying, Not Prying
Transformational Thought
We just dropped Dominique off at Pitt again. A goodbye filled with both excitement and sadness, and that was a little easier than the first time we did this. This year, she’s moving off campus to a rundown house (that Dominique, Martine, and Auntie Suzanne fixed up really nicely) with 2 other neat Christian girls. She is excited to be more on her own and we are happy with how she is maturing into a responsible adult. Wow, did our relationship with Dominique really grow this summer.
Have you crossed this Stepping Stone of evolving relationship with your child yet? If you have, it’s never too late to apply these principles, and if your kids are younger, never to early to start. The moment, that very moment you said goodbye to the child you were dropping off at college for the first time, will get burned into your mind forever, like so many other milestone moments. It is in mine.
We have taken this child from diapers to diploma … been the primary influence in her life … so many celebrations … some times of sadness and hurt … being involved in most details of her life … disappointments and punishments … thankfully, so much wonderment and fun … with many joys, fears, and surprises filling our memory banks. We want to protect our children from so many dangers and hurts … save them from the wrong turns we took back in our development. We are concerned they no longer have a protector or advocate like us around anymore. Wow, during those two decades, we have seen our child grow so much.
But now it’s your turn to change. The love for your child, when he or she leaves home, hopefully stays pretty constant … but the way you will express it and interact with your child will be significantly different. As you shift roles, be quick to listen and slow to speak. Listen instead of lecture. Begin to create a relationship that fosters communication. Listening first shows you respect them, are giving their ideas and views honor and dignity, are interested in and care for them, and understand that this particular issue is important to them. Most importantly, listening builds a bridge from your island to theirs (even though the geographical distance between your islands is growing) so you can send the important information you want them to hear when they really need it and are receptive.
Today, as you continue to make this transition, try and forget about the litany of “who, what, when” interrogation techniques you have relied on since your child became a teenager. Shift your focus now to a more faith-based approach. Try praying more. Try an inquiry with your child like, “How would you like me to be praying for you today?” Remember, they have an advocate and protector more powerful and skilled, and with better access to God than we ever could dream of doing ourselves. Your decision, choose well. It could be the difference between growing a powerful and lasting relationship with your child (and grandchildren), and growing apart and being marginal people in their busy lives.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray today for all parents who have children in college. I pray that while experiencing this loss, they take this opportunity to grow. They have focused so long on the growth and development of their child, that many times they have neglected themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. Help these parents know, Father, that their jobs as spiritual leaders within their families never ends. Give them the strength and wisdom to minister to their college children. Help them, Father, to move to a mindset of praying … not prying. Give them all your peace and joy as they experience the sadness of separation and loss so they may receive Your mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ our savior; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children live in the truth
3 John 1:4
Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
We just dropped Dominique off at Pitt again. A goodbye filled with both excitement and sadness, and that was a little easier than the first time we did this. This year, she’s moving off campus to a rundown house (that Dominique, Martine, and Auntie Suzanne fixed up really nicely) with 2 other neat Christian girls. She is excited to be more on her own and we are happy with how she is maturing into a responsible adult. Wow, did our relationship with Dominique really grow this summer.
Have you crossed this Stepping Stone of evolving relationship with your child yet? If you have, it’s never too late to apply these principles, and if your kids are younger, never to early to start. The moment, that very moment you said goodbye to the child you were dropping off at college for the first time, will get burned into your mind forever, like so many other milestone moments. It is in mine.
We have taken this child from diapers to diploma … been the primary influence in her life … so many celebrations … some times of sadness and hurt … being involved in most details of her life … disappointments and punishments … thankfully, so much wonderment and fun … with many joys, fears, and surprises filling our memory banks. We want to protect our children from so many dangers and hurts … save them from the wrong turns we took back in our development. We are concerned they no longer have a protector or advocate like us around anymore. Wow, during those two decades, we have seen our child grow so much.
But now it’s your turn to change. The love for your child, when he or she leaves home, hopefully stays pretty constant … but the way you will express it and interact with your child will be significantly different. As you shift roles, be quick to listen and slow to speak. Listen instead of lecture. Begin to create a relationship that fosters communication. Listening first shows you respect them, are giving their ideas and views honor and dignity, are interested in and care for them, and understand that this particular issue is important to them. Most importantly, listening builds a bridge from your island to theirs (even though the geographical distance between your islands is growing) so you can send the important information you want them to hear when they really need it and are receptive.
Today, as you continue to make this transition, try and forget about the litany of “who, what, when” interrogation techniques you have relied on since your child became a teenager. Shift your focus now to a more faith-based approach. Try praying more. Try an inquiry with your child like, “How would you like me to be praying for you today?” Remember, they have an advocate and protector more powerful and skilled, and with better access to God than we ever could dream of doing ourselves. Your decision, choose well. It could be the difference between growing a powerful and lasting relationship with your child (and grandchildren), and growing apart and being marginal people in their busy lives.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray today for all parents who have children in college. I pray that while experiencing this loss, they take this opportunity to grow. They have focused so long on the growth and development of their child, that many times they have neglected themselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. Help these parents know, Father, that their jobs as spiritual leaders within their families never ends. Give them the strength and wisdom to minister to their college children. Help them, Father, to move to a mindset of praying … not prying. Give them all your peace and joy as they experience the sadness of separation and loss so they may receive Your mercy and find grace to help them in their time of need. I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ our savior; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children live in the truth
3 John 1:4
Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You Adequate Enough?
Transformational Thought
Call it what you want, we all have weaknesses, issues, baggage, or shortcomings. That’s why marketing and advertising strategies are so successful. Commercials point out our problems, sometimes with humorous exaggeration, and then tell us, actually sell us, what we need to feel adequate, satisfied, whole, healed, or better in all those areas of struggle.
Actually, we are all born with an accurate sense of our extreme inadequacy. Why? Because we are separated from God and desperately need Him … in fact, we are designed to need Him. Our sin separates us from God and condemns us.
But so many of us carry the constant burden of condemnation, even after accepting Christ’s victory over our sin. We develop a false standard that embellishes those insecure and inadequate feelings we harbor in our core. These feelings keep our heads down, smiles off our faces, and our lights dimly light. Does this describe you? Does it describe others you know?
These feelings come from a lifetime of arrows constantly launched at us. Some of those arrows come from those closest to us … words and glances of disapproval from parents, friends, spouses, or kids. We are not good enough, smart enough, strong enough, pretty enough. Know that all those arrows originate from our ultimate and only true enemy, Satan. He’s the guy that hands out the arrows. He wants to capitalize on that original feeling of spiritual inadequacy, bankruptcy actually, and have us believe it will always hang around our neck and choke us. Satan is the one who wants us to be in a constant state of feeling condemned.
Remember that those who shoot the arrows are full of arrows themselves. (And admit that you too have been an archer). Remember, hurt people will hurt people. They aren’t your real enemy. But you and I and all those who are in Christ Jesus can be condemnation-free from this moment forward. Scripture tells us clearly, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Today, watch your words and actions. Don’t let Satan use you like a puppet to launch arrows at others. Guard your thoughts and words. Look to encourage and comfort first, then gently correct. If you are feeling condemned: 1. Repent by confessing your wrong doing or wrong thinking; 2. Accept God’s forgiveness; 3. Stop being so prideful thinking you need to add something to God’s power, grace, or Jesus’ death for your forgiveness. 4. Examine what baggage is still brainwashing you in this area of struggle. Receive all His grace and forgiveness. Believe it, and rejoice that our heavenly Father accepts you, the prodigal child, and can truly make you whole. Believe this good news and carry this message to those you know who suffer from inadequacy and condemnation. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I believe You have freed me from all condemnation through the death of Your Son on the cross for my sins. And while I do believe, I still struggle with feelings of condemnation … sometimes for no apparent reason. But I know my past baggage rears its ugly head in subliminal ways. Open my eyes to issues I need to work on. Help me to apply Your instruction to them. Father, I come to You with an open heart and with a thankful spirit. I ask that You help me experience the full freedom You have made possible for me. Thank You, Lord. I know that I need Your Spirit to help me, but I am unsure of how to fully engage His assistance. Show me the way, Lord. In the name of the most adequate, purifying blood of Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2
He (the devil) was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies
John 8:44
And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:19-24
Call it what you want, we all have weaknesses, issues, baggage, or shortcomings. That’s why marketing and advertising strategies are so successful. Commercials point out our problems, sometimes with humorous exaggeration, and then tell us, actually sell us, what we need to feel adequate, satisfied, whole, healed, or better in all those areas of struggle.
Actually, we are all born with an accurate sense of our extreme inadequacy. Why? Because we are separated from God and desperately need Him … in fact, we are designed to need Him. Our sin separates us from God and condemns us.
But so many of us carry the constant burden of condemnation, even after accepting Christ’s victory over our sin. We develop a false standard that embellishes those insecure and inadequate feelings we harbor in our core. These feelings keep our heads down, smiles off our faces, and our lights dimly light. Does this describe you? Does it describe others you know?
These feelings come from a lifetime of arrows constantly launched at us. Some of those arrows come from those closest to us … words and glances of disapproval from parents, friends, spouses, or kids. We are not good enough, smart enough, strong enough, pretty enough. Know that all those arrows originate from our ultimate and only true enemy, Satan. He’s the guy that hands out the arrows. He wants to capitalize on that original feeling of spiritual inadequacy, bankruptcy actually, and have us believe it will always hang around our neck and choke us. Satan is the one who wants us to be in a constant state of feeling condemned.
Remember that those who shoot the arrows are full of arrows themselves. (And admit that you too have been an archer). Remember, hurt people will hurt people. They aren’t your real enemy. But you and I and all those who are in Christ Jesus can be condemnation-free from this moment forward. Scripture tells us clearly, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Today, watch your words and actions. Don’t let Satan use you like a puppet to launch arrows at others. Guard your thoughts and words. Look to encourage and comfort first, then gently correct. If you are feeling condemned: 1. Repent by confessing your wrong doing or wrong thinking; 2. Accept God’s forgiveness; 3. Stop being so prideful thinking you need to add something to God’s power, grace, or Jesus’ death for your forgiveness. 4. Examine what baggage is still brainwashing you in this area of struggle. Receive all His grace and forgiveness. Believe it, and rejoice that our heavenly Father accepts you, the prodigal child, and can truly make you whole. Believe this good news and carry this message to those you know who suffer from inadequacy and condemnation. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I believe You have freed me from all condemnation through the death of Your Son on the cross for my sins. And while I do believe, I still struggle with feelings of condemnation … sometimes for no apparent reason. But I know my past baggage rears its ugly head in subliminal ways. Open my eyes to issues I need to work on. Help me to apply Your instruction to them. Father, I come to You with an open heart and with a thankful spirit. I ask that You help me experience the full freedom You have made possible for me. Thank You, Lord. I know that I need Your Spirit to help me, but I am unsure of how to fully engage His assistance. Show me the way, Lord. In the name of the most adequate, purifying blood of Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2
He (the devil) was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies
John 8:44
And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' But the father said to his servants, 'Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:19-24
Monday, August 29, 2011
Stepping Stones: Need Balance? Get The Right Focal Point
Transformational Thought
One of my fondest memories as a young father was taking my daughter to dance and gymnastics lessons. I would stay, and could watch forever. I still see her bright face looking over at me every time she did something challenging. Smiling and saying with her expression, “Did you see that Dad?”
Learning to spin was a foundational lesson, and I vividly remember it. The teacher told the students to find a fixed focal point, something they could look for, easily find, and focus on as they completed each turn. She told them this was the necessary secret to maintain balance as they spun around. The days of dizziness and disorientation disappeared as they practiced and mastered this quick and easy, but powerful tip.
It seems that Satan entices us to spin our Merry-Go-Round of life faster and faster, and we get sucked into the vortex of his trap. We think we are going to the Promised Land, but the ride’s destination is stress, struggle, frustration, and feelings of being overwhelmed and disoriented. We get so dizzy from the spinning! Why? Because we don’t have that unchanging focal point!
Just as a ballerina must keep returning her eyes to a given point to maintain her balance, we need to have a focal point to gain our balance, grounding, and direction. Too often, I used to turn to others, or things of the world to find my balance … but they are not fixed, secure, or immutable like God is. They fluctuate with the winds of life, opinion, and culture. And people can have agendas that don’t include guiding me … agendas that are not in my best interest.
Today, make God your focal point, by returning your focus to God to keep grounded, focused, and balanced. What should you focus on? His promises, character, and teachings. God understands the limitations of your human condition and He knows that you will lose sight of Him at times. The wonderful part of this … you don’t have to strain hard to look to Him, because His promise is to be with you always. A quick glance His way will bring you back to equilibrium and balance. But you must choose your focal point. It will determine your daily balance. WITHIN REACH is geared to help you maintain God as your minute-by-minute focal point. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I feel as if the merry-go-round of life is spinning faster and faster. I try hard to regain my balance, but there always seems to be something surprising me and keeping me off balance. I regret I look to transient focal points, and I even know as I look at them that it will be a waste of time and they will disappoint and disorient me more. I pray for eyes that see the truth and turn sharply to You. I look to You, Lord, to find my equilibrium. I want You to be my focal point. Because You remain constant, you are the perfect focal point. I pray in the immutable name of Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For I the LORD do not change;
Malachi 3:6
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.
Hebrews 12:2
For people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain,
where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf,
Hebrews 6:16-20
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:17
"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
One of my fondest memories as a young father was taking my daughter to dance and gymnastics lessons. I would stay, and could watch forever. I still see her bright face looking over at me every time she did something challenging. Smiling and saying with her expression, “Did you see that Dad?”
Learning to spin was a foundational lesson, and I vividly remember it. The teacher told the students to find a fixed focal point, something they could look for, easily find, and focus on as they completed each turn. She told them this was the necessary secret to maintain balance as they spun around. The days of dizziness and disorientation disappeared as they practiced and mastered this quick and easy, but powerful tip.
It seems that Satan entices us to spin our Merry-Go-Round of life faster and faster, and we get sucked into the vortex of his trap. We think we are going to the Promised Land, but the ride’s destination is stress, struggle, frustration, and feelings of being overwhelmed and disoriented. We get so dizzy from the spinning! Why? Because we don’t have that unchanging focal point!
Just as a ballerina must keep returning her eyes to a given point to maintain her balance, we need to have a focal point to gain our balance, grounding, and direction. Too often, I used to turn to others, or things of the world to find my balance … but they are not fixed, secure, or immutable like God is. They fluctuate with the winds of life, opinion, and culture. And people can have agendas that don’t include guiding me … agendas that are not in my best interest.
Today, make God your focal point, by returning your focus to God to keep grounded, focused, and balanced. What should you focus on? His promises, character, and teachings. God understands the limitations of your human condition and He knows that you will lose sight of Him at times. The wonderful part of this … you don’t have to strain hard to look to Him, because His promise is to be with you always. A quick glance His way will bring you back to equilibrium and balance. But you must choose your focal point. It will determine your daily balance. WITHIN REACH is geared to help you maintain God as your minute-by-minute focal point. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father, I feel as if the merry-go-round of life is spinning faster and faster. I try hard to regain my balance, but there always seems to be something surprising me and keeping me off balance. I regret I look to transient focal points, and I even know as I look at them that it will be a waste of time and they will disappoint and disorient me more. I pray for eyes that see the truth and turn sharply to You. I look to You, Lord, to find my equilibrium. I want You to be my focal point. Because You remain constant, you are the perfect focal point. I pray in the immutable name of Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
For I the LORD do not change;
Malachi 3:6
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.
Hebrews 12:2
For people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain,
where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf,
Hebrews 6:16-20
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:17
"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
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Who’s Your Best Friend?
Transformational Thought
I’ve always loved sports, especially when I was a kid. Sports really were my most loyal and consistent companion growing up. Actually, sports were my best friend and main comforter. In fact, almost everything I did revolved around sports and they rarely let me down.
When I wasn’t feeling connected, heard, or taken seriously, or I needed to feel important, I would go up to my room and re-create pro basketball games in my bedroom. It was one of my favorite activities. A rolled up pair of socks made a great ball, and a hanging lamp played the basket. I was an awesome shot and in my fantasy game I always won. My fantasy helped soothe and distract my mind from the hurt, allowing me to escape to a place where I was important, valued, and most importantly, in control … and life was enjoyable.
When we feel misunderstood, devalued, or simply overlooked, we turn to things that we believe will make us feel better: exercise, gardening, knitting, cooking, a business deal, or a work project. More harmful options include eating, gossiping, shopping, sex, alcohol, drugs, TV, and pornography. The list is endless.
However, after a mild blip of satisfaction, none of these things really makes us feel better in the long run. None of these idolatrous substitutes satisfies the thirst for what we truly desire: God’s compassionate, unfailing forgiveness … His acceptance and love. In fact, the substitutes actually take us farther away from what God offers us. Satan offers many empty substitutes, but only God offers real and lasting forgiveness, acceptance, and love.
You can change your patterns if you are getting sucked in to choosing Satan’s cheap imitations. But you have to be intentional and strategic. We never accomplish anything good without some strategy and intentionality, so don’t think you can randomly live life and expect progress to happen.
Today, identify where you turn for soothing and comfort. Recognize your pattern and strategy. Is it self-protective or self-destructive? When you are feeling misunderstood, overlooked, hungry and thirsty for satisfaction, remember this: God is the Lover of your soul. He understands you perfectly and loves you eternally. Reach out to Him in prayer and in His Word, and then listen. Cease striving and know that He is God! Take one promise of His and act like you believe it. It will transform your life. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that it is my soul that You love, and not my appearance or performance. I am often dissatisfied with both of these … especially when I make them my focus. There are so many empty substitutes in this world, so many things to turn to when I want to feel better about myself, or to provide a distraction so I don’t have to think about why I am hurting. Father, help me experience Your unconditional love more fully. Help me relax in Your loving presence and always turn my focus to You. I know that You created me to know You, love You, and make You the center of my life. I pray with hope in the name of my best friend, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted amongst the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
“Though the mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed” say the Lord who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
I’ve always loved sports, especially when I was a kid. Sports really were my most loyal and consistent companion growing up. Actually, sports were my best friend and main comforter. In fact, almost everything I did revolved around sports and they rarely let me down.
When I wasn’t feeling connected, heard, or taken seriously, or I needed to feel important, I would go up to my room and re-create pro basketball games in my bedroom. It was one of my favorite activities. A rolled up pair of socks made a great ball, and a hanging lamp played the basket. I was an awesome shot and in my fantasy game I always won. My fantasy helped soothe and distract my mind from the hurt, allowing me to escape to a place where I was important, valued, and most importantly, in control … and life was enjoyable.
When we feel misunderstood, devalued, or simply overlooked, we turn to things that we believe will make us feel better: exercise, gardening, knitting, cooking, a business deal, or a work project. More harmful options include eating, gossiping, shopping, sex, alcohol, drugs, TV, and pornography. The list is endless.
However, after a mild blip of satisfaction, none of these things really makes us feel better in the long run. None of these idolatrous substitutes satisfies the thirst for what we truly desire: God’s compassionate, unfailing forgiveness … His acceptance and love. In fact, the substitutes actually take us farther away from what God offers us. Satan offers many empty substitutes, but only God offers real and lasting forgiveness, acceptance, and love.
You can change your patterns if you are getting sucked in to choosing Satan’s cheap imitations. But you have to be intentional and strategic. We never accomplish anything good without some strategy and intentionality, so don’t think you can randomly live life and expect progress to happen.
Today, identify where you turn for soothing and comfort. Recognize your pattern and strategy. Is it self-protective or self-destructive? When you are feeling misunderstood, overlooked, hungry and thirsty for satisfaction, remember this: God is the Lover of your soul. He understands you perfectly and loves you eternally. Reach out to Him in prayer and in His Word, and then listen. Cease striving and know that He is God! Take one promise of His and act like you believe it. It will transform your life. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that it is my soul that You love, and not my appearance or performance. I am often dissatisfied with both of these … especially when I make them my focus. There are so many empty substitutes in this world, so many things to turn to when I want to feel better about myself, or to provide a distraction so I don’t have to think about why I am hurting. Father, help me experience Your unconditional love more fully. Help me relax in Your loving presence and always turn my focus to You. I know that You created me to know You, love You, and make You the center of my life. I pray with hope in the name of my best friend, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted amongst the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
“Though the mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed” say the Lord who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10
Friday, August 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You a People-Pleaser or God-Pleaser?
Transformational Thought
In high school, I knew laughing at a dirty joke was wrong, but I did, and would even follow it up with another dirty joke. Why? To be funny? Because I was sexually pre-occupied? No! Because I feared the rejection of my peers. I didn’t want to be left out of their popular group, or be laughed at for being too straight-laced. Although good at many activities, I was still insecure and needed people’s approval.
For many of us, fear of people’s opinions is so deeply ingrained in our minds and our hearts that it’s woven into the daily fabric of our life and decision-making. Fear debilitates us in so many relationships in so many ways. Fear of bodily harm is blatantly impacting. But while common when we are children, it is fairly uncommon for most adults relationships, except for the tragedy of domestic violence.
For most adults though, fear of others creeps up on us in more subtle ways. Like the fear of being rejected …or being left out … maybe not being accepted … or looking foolish in another person’s eye. Fear could be someone judging you as incompetent or just not being valued. We never set out to be afraid of these things, but due to past hurts or mistakes, these anxieties secretively, but powerfully, warp our relational lenses. This can affect our relationships with those very close to us like our spouses, and also affect how we act in front of total strangers.
While trying to be a “people-pleaser” may appear harmless on the surface, it can create crippling fear. Elevating other’s assessment of us to idol status, worshipping it, is what we are actually doing. People-pleasing usually requires us to compromise truthful, healthy functioning and replace it with dysfunctional, distorted processing and behavior. Often, we ultimately choose to please others and displease God, instead of displeasing others to please God. Fear of displeasing others allows this downward spiral to accelerate and we then feel out of control, because we have given control and power of our life-steering mechanism to the people whose positive opinions we crave.
Today, watch you interactions with others. How much of your conduct is shaped by wanting to please them? Do you think about what God wants from you in that situation? Begin replacing the fear of displeasing others with the sadness of displeasing the One who faced total rejection and death for you, Your Lord. Make pleasing Him your highest priority. In general, we try to please people so that they will give us what we want … approval, value, importance, hope, love, acceptance, forgiveness, destiny, safety, or comfort. Turn your trust to God who is the only source of providing all these things, and so much more … everyday.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am just beginning to realize just how fearful I am of others. I confess, Father, to being a “people-pleaser.” I am too concerned about displeasing others and looking foolish in their eyes. Help free me of this fear, Father, by developing a deeper trust in You. I know that trusting in others is risky while trusting in You is safe. I know that You have everything I need … that Your riches will never run short. Father, I desire deeply to change and to eliminate my fear of others. I pray in the name of the one who died for me, Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20
Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Then Nebuchadnezzar in furious rage commanded that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought. So they brought these men before the king. Nebuchadnezzar answered and said to them, "Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden image that I have set up? But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?"
If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king.
But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.
Daniel 3:13,14,17,18
In high school, I knew laughing at a dirty joke was wrong, but I did, and would even follow it up with another dirty joke. Why? To be funny? Because I was sexually pre-occupied? No! Because I feared the rejection of my peers. I didn’t want to be left out of their popular group, or be laughed at for being too straight-laced. Although good at many activities, I was still insecure and needed people’s approval.
For many of us, fear of people’s opinions is so deeply ingrained in our minds and our hearts that it’s woven into the daily fabric of our life and decision-making. Fear debilitates us in so many relationships in so many ways. Fear of bodily harm is blatantly impacting. But while common when we are children, it is fairly uncommon for most adults relationships, except for the tragedy of domestic violence.
For most adults though, fear of others creeps up on us in more subtle ways. Like the fear of being rejected …or being left out … maybe not being accepted … or looking foolish in another person’s eye. Fear could be someone judging you as incompetent or just not being valued. We never set out to be afraid of these things, but due to past hurts or mistakes, these anxieties secretively, but powerfully, warp our relational lenses. This can affect our relationships with those very close to us like our spouses, and also affect how we act in front of total strangers.
While trying to be a “people-pleaser” may appear harmless on the surface, it can create crippling fear. Elevating other’s assessment of us to idol status, worshipping it, is what we are actually doing. People-pleasing usually requires us to compromise truthful, healthy functioning and replace it with dysfunctional, distorted processing and behavior. Often, we ultimately choose to please others and displease God, instead of displeasing others to please God. Fear of displeasing others allows this downward spiral to accelerate and we then feel out of control, because we have given control and power of our life-steering mechanism to the people whose positive opinions we crave.
Today, watch you interactions with others. How much of your conduct is shaped by wanting to please them? Do you think about what God wants from you in that situation? Begin replacing the fear of displeasing others with the sadness of displeasing the One who faced total rejection and death for you, Your Lord. Make pleasing Him your highest priority. In general, we try to please people so that they will give us what we want … approval, value, importance, hope, love, acceptance, forgiveness, destiny, safety, or comfort. Turn your trust to God who is the only source of providing all these things, and so much more … everyday.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am just beginning to realize just how fearful I am of others. I confess, Father, to being a “people-pleaser.” I am too concerned about displeasing others and looking foolish in their eyes. Help free me of this fear, Father, by developing a deeper trust in You. I know that trusting in others is risky while trusting in You is safe. I know that You have everything I need … that Your riches will never run short. Father, I desire deeply to change and to eliminate my fear of others. I pray in the name of the one who died for me, Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."
John 6:20
Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.
Proverbs 29:25
Then Nebuchadnezzar in furious rage commanded that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought. So they brought these men before the king. Nebuchadnezzar answered and said to them, "Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden image that I have set up? But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?"
If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king.
But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.
Daniel 3:13,14,17,18
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Be a Kid!
Transformational Thought
The most rewarding memories I have as a father were when one of my daughters would come to me with a problem. Still to this day, a call from one of my children needing help or guidance evokes such a sense of urgency in me …helping them becomes my highest priority.
My girl’s requests and my opportunities to help generate a sense of wellbeing in me for a number of reasons; it tells me they know I love them, tells me that they love me, and finally, it tells me they trust me. As children, we all start off believing our father has super-human power to tackle and solve any problem, and our mother can soothe and comfort any pain or suffering.
Magical thinking and willingness to suspend reality to believe the impossible, is possible…Examples of magical thinking like, limitations don’t apply to our parents…our parents can read our minds…parents can make our dreams come true.
This is the same mindset we need, a young child’s mind. A mind not yet fully contaminated by the world’s hurts, failures, and letdowns, to have a perfect model on how to view God. Maybe this is the reason scripture tells us over and again that being “childlike” is so very important. It’s more than important; Jesus even states it is a requirement to enter the kingdom of God.
God, as our supreme Father, loves us beyond our human comprehension. And doesn’t a loving father want only the best for his children? Satan uses our parents and the world’s failures to douse this awesome child-like supernatural expectation, understanding, and belief that God instilled and wants to see in us. God’s ways are mysterious to an adult, but to a child, they make perfect sense.
Today, begin receiving the kingdom of God like a little child. Take a confusing or frustrating situation in your day today, and suspend your cynicism and distrust…don’t put God in a box with walls determined by your past hurts, letdowns, and imperfect authority figures. Turn to your Father and ask for His help. Show Him that you love and trust Him…acknowledge your awareness that He loves you. Show child-like adoration, trust, belief, and expectation. Then results happen! Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father, You are such a loving and generous Father. Thank You, Lord. All glory to You, Father. Like a child turns to their earthly father, I turn to You for love, wisdom, guidance…and especially protection from all things that may bring me harm. I place my trust in You, Father…I trust You completely. With You, I feel safe. Help me today, and everyday, to keep Your truths before me…to keep You before me always. Fill me with Your Spirit, my heavenly Father, so that I may grasp the magnitude of Your love for me. I pray that all those who are part of the Stepping Stones community grasp the enormity of Your love for them, Your children. I pray to You in the sacred name of my Lord and brother, Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
Luke 18:17
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.
Ephesians 5:32
Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 18:4
The most rewarding memories I have as a father were when one of my daughters would come to me with a problem. Still to this day, a call from one of my children needing help or guidance evokes such a sense of urgency in me …helping them becomes my highest priority.
My girl’s requests and my opportunities to help generate a sense of wellbeing in me for a number of reasons; it tells me they know I love them, tells me that they love me, and finally, it tells me they trust me. As children, we all start off believing our father has super-human power to tackle and solve any problem, and our mother can soothe and comfort any pain or suffering.
Magical thinking and willingness to suspend reality to believe the impossible, is possible…Examples of magical thinking like, limitations don’t apply to our parents…our parents can read our minds…parents can make our dreams come true.
This is the same mindset we need, a young child’s mind. A mind not yet fully contaminated by the world’s hurts, failures, and letdowns, to have a perfect model on how to view God. Maybe this is the reason scripture tells us over and again that being “childlike” is so very important. It’s more than important; Jesus even states it is a requirement to enter the kingdom of God.
God, as our supreme Father, loves us beyond our human comprehension. And doesn’t a loving father want only the best for his children? Satan uses our parents and the world’s failures to douse this awesome child-like supernatural expectation, understanding, and belief that God instilled and wants to see in us. God’s ways are mysterious to an adult, but to a child, they make perfect sense.
Today, begin receiving the kingdom of God like a little child. Take a confusing or frustrating situation in your day today, and suspend your cynicism and distrust…don’t put God in a box with walls determined by your past hurts, letdowns, and imperfect authority figures. Turn to your Father and ask for His help. Show Him that you love and trust Him…acknowledge your awareness that He loves you. Show child-like adoration, trust, belief, and expectation. Then results happen! Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father, You are such a loving and generous Father. Thank You, Lord. All glory to You, Father. Like a child turns to their earthly father, I turn to You for love, wisdom, guidance…and especially protection from all things that may bring me harm. I place my trust in You, Father…I trust You completely. With You, I feel safe. Help me today, and everyday, to keep Your truths before me…to keep You before me always. Fill me with Your Spirit, my heavenly Father, so that I may grasp the magnitude of Your love for me. I pray that all those who are part of the Stepping Stones community grasp the enormity of Your love for them, Your children. I pray to You in the sacred name of my Lord and brother, Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
Luke 18:17
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.
Ephesians 5:32
Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 18:4
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Stepping Stones: Walk Toward the Light, the Real Light
Transformational Thought
Our Vision at Lighthouse Network is equipping individuals to achieve their God-given potential by spiritually, psychologically and even biologically renewing their minds. They then become Lighthouses who shine God’s glory and gospel story, stand on firm foundation in the storms of their own lives, and provide guidance and sanctuary to others in stormy times. Stepping Stones Daily Devotional is one of several outreaches to help people navigate life, today and eternally and become Lighthouses, emulating the true Light of the world, Jesus Christ.
When is a lighthouse most needed? In a storm, of course! When we are caught in one of life’s many storms, which can range from a rain shower to a tsunami, it’s easy for us to feel abandoned … as if we are at the mercy of the winds of fate … as if we don’t know which step to take next. The stones before us appear slippery or as stumbling blocks instead of what we need … solid, helpful Stepping Stones.
As believers, we must remember that God is sovereign over everything and all-powerful. He controls the history of the world including our personal destinies. And just as Jesus did for His disciples, He can easily calm the storms in your life. But if God allows a storm to rage in your life, He makes peace and comfort available to you if you choose to see and use His Light(house) correctly and continuously. Satan has many imitation lighthouses out there that trick us and bring us toward dangerous rocks, so it is important to be in the Word and growing your communication time with God so you know which Lighthouse is real (God’s) … and which is an imitation (Satan’s).
Today, stop and think about how God has served as a Lighthouse throughout your life. Think about the events in your life that have led you to where you are today. Reflect on some of the false lights you followed, thinking they were God’s Lighthouses. What made them look so attractive? How can you recognize that imitation in the future?
If you are in a storm, God is lighting your next Stepping Stones, but you have to look in His direction and then trust Him to step forward. Let God be your lighthouse and harbor, your place of safety. It’s your decision which Light you pursue, God’s or Satan’s, so choose well!
If you are in a stable place, think of someone nearby who is in a storm. How can you be a Lighthouse to them today? Not by shining your light, but rather by letting God’s light shine through you. Help them turn from imitation lighthouses to the real Light.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am once again in another storm, a downpour. I’m tired of going from storm to storm. I know I have created some of these storms through my sinful nature and bad choices … but I also experience storms that have nothing to do with my actions, like the death of a loved one, losing my job because of the economy, events that are out of my control. In the midst of storms I feel scared and alone … and I don’t know which step to take next. I need Your light, Lord, to shine on the next Stepping Stones of my path to develop the mind of Christ. Help me and all those reading this devotional to walk in Your light so that we may become the daughters and sons of light. There is so much I don’t know. But I do know You will continue to reveal more to me. I pray this in the name of the Light of the world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."
Luke 8:23-25
At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
John 12:16
Then Jesus told them, "You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going. Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light." When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them.
John 12:35-36
Our Vision at Lighthouse Network is equipping individuals to achieve their God-given potential by spiritually, psychologically and even biologically renewing their minds. They then become Lighthouses who shine God’s glory and gospel story, stand on firm foundation in the storms of their own lives, and provide guidance and sanctuary to others in stormy times. Stepping Stones Daily Devotional is one of several outreaches to help people navigate life, today and eternally and become Lighthouses, emulating the true Light of the world, Jesus Christ.
When is a lighthouse most needed? In a storm, of course! When we are caught in one of life’s many storms, which can range from a rain shower to a tsunami, it’s easy for us to feel abandoned … as if we are at the mercy of the winds of fate … as if we don’t know which step to take next. The stones before us appear slippery or as stumbling blocks instead of what we need … solid, helpful Stepping Stones.
As believers, we must remember that God is sovereign over everything and all-powerful. He controls the history of the world including our personal destinies. And just as Jesus did for His disciples, He can easily calm the storms in your life. But if God allows a storm to rage in your life, He makes peace and comfort available to you if you choose to see and use His Light(house) correctly and continuously. Satan has many imitation lighthouses out there that trick us and bring us toward dangerous rocks, so it is important to be in the Word and growing your communication time with God so you know which Lighthouse is real (God’s) … and which is an imitation (Satan’s).
Today, stop and think about how God has served as a Lighthouse throughout your life. Think about the events in your life that have led you to where you are today. Reflect on some of the false lights you followed, thinking they were God’s Lighthouses. What made them look so attractive? How can you recognize that imitation in the future?
If you are in a storm, God is lighting your next Stepping Stones, but you have to look in His direction and then trust Him to step forward. Let God be your lighthouse and harbor, your place of safety. It’s your decision which Light you pursue, God’s or Satan’s, so choose well!
If you are in a stable place, think of someone nearby who is in a storm. How can you be a Lighthouse to them today? Not by shining your light, but rather by letting God’s light shine through you. Help them turn from imitation lighthouses to the real Light.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am once again in another storm, a downpour. I’m tired of going from storm to storm. I know I have created some of these storms through my sinful nature and bad choices … but I also experience storms that have nothing to do with my actions, like the death of a loved one, losing my job because of the economy, events that are out of my control. In the midst of storms I feel scared and alone … and I don’t know which step to take next. I need Your light, Lord, to shine on the next Stepping Stones of my path to develop the mind of Christ. Help me and all those reading this devotional to walk in Your light so that we may become the daughters and sons of light. There is so much I don’t know. But I do know You will continue to reveal more to me. I pray this in the name of the Light of the world, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."
Luke 8:23-25
At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.
John 12:16
Then Jesus told them, "You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going. Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light." When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them.
John 12:35-36
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
