Transformational Tip
Forgiveness requires our facing the truth. The truth of Christ's forgiveness. The truth of our own need for forgiveness. The truth that if we are ever to be free, we must receive Christ's forgiveness and forgive those who have hurt us.
In order to experience true freedom in Christ, we must forgive those who have caused us harm or disappointment…even when that means forgiving ourselves.
All of us have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. But God treats us much better than we deserve…and because of Christ Jesus, when we turn to Him, He freely accepts us and sets us free from our sins.
How can we do less? Forgiven by the Lord, we have the power, the reason, and the responsibility to forgive others. Forgiveness is not a feeling we need to muster up, it is an actual choice we make. When you realize it is a choice, then you must assess, what are my options.
Door # 1: Don’t forgive, remain aloof, detached, or bitter, resentful, angry, vengeful. A terrible side effect is they still have power over you, because you need something from them…an apology, them to suffer or experience pain, a sacrifice, penance. You need to extract some payment from them…and they could withhold it as long as they want and play you like a puppet.
Door # 2: Forgive, let go of that bitterness, revenge, and entitlement. Freedom from the past and opportunity to grow something better with them or totally disconnect from them because now you don’t need anything from them to make the “transaction” complete. You have relieved them of their debt, so then cant “withhold” anything from you and string you along.
Sometimes it is hard to let go. In fact, when we have been deeply hurt, it may not be possible to forgive…on our own that is. But it is important to remember that we don't have to do it alone.
Today, If you are struggling to forgive, ask Jesus to help you. He loves you, He cares and He is able. Look at your other option. It is way more painful to not forgive than it is to forgive. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the reason and responsibility for forgiveness.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've kept these feelings of resentment and unforgiveness buried much too long. Help me to face the truth…and then to forgive myself and others. Thank you for your mercy and forgiveness. Help me to show the same to others, even those who have hurt me. I pray this and all prayers for the one who paid for my forgiveness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
Romans 3:23-24
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Stepping Stones: Wound Salve: Forgiveness
Transformational Tip
We all experience setbacks and disappointments in life. Sometimes small ones that we shrug off, learn from, and move on. But sometimes disappointments have more impact. They stay with us, causing the past to haunt our present…and future.
The setback could be anything; bankruptcy…a failed marriage…termination from a job…a poor decision…a friendship gone sour. Or it might be losing a parent at a young age. Or the death of a spouse or someone else we cared for deeply. Rejection, by parents, teachers, peers, the popular group, a crush, employers…
whether small or large…tend to inflict wounds. Unless really processed…who can really do that as a young kid…will periodically be opened and ooze when we encounter present day wounds, either in our lives or noticing them in others or in media.
A natural tendency when we have suffered a wound is to place blame. Perhaps we hold another person responsible. Sometimes we blame ourselves. We might even get angry with God. Anger is OK, bitterness, revenge, helplessness are not. These are a few signs that forgiveness hasn’t taken place.
God has promised us a future and a hope, but unforgiveness can block our ability to experience all the freedom and healing, from past wounds and their insidious ripples, that He has planned for us. As long as we are unwilling to forgive, the disappointment of the past has control over our lives, and we cannot move forward.
Today, focus on forgiving those who have hurt you…It's also time to forgive yourself. God has so don’t be so prideful to think you could never forgive yourself. It's time to open our hearts to the love and forgiveness of our heavenly Father. And then it will be time to move on to the wonderful plans he has for you.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the gift of forgiveness.
Prayer
Father, help me to truly put the past behind and look forward to what lies ahead. Thank You for forgiving my sins. Help me to walk in the gift of forgiveness…for others and myself. Help to search those past wounds with different lenses of an adult, growing in the knowledge and skills of Christ. Guide my learning from them and application to produce the good works, inside and outside that you have prepared me for, even through those past wounds. I pray this hrough the one who gave his life to have my sins forgiven, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
Acts 26:18
We all experience setbacks and disappointments in life. Sometimes small ones that we shrug off, learn from, and move on. But sometimes disappointments have more impact. They stay with us, causing the past to haunt our present…and future.
The setback could be anything; bankruptcy…a failed marriage…termination from a job…a poor decision…a friendship gone sour. Or it might be losing a parent at a young age. Or the death of a spouse or someone else we cared for deeply. Rejection, by parents, teachers, peers, the popular group, a crush, employers…
whether small or large…tend to inflict wounds. Unless really processed…who can really do that as a young kid…will periodically be opened and ooze when we encounter present day wounds, either in our lives or noticing them in others or in media.
A natural tendency when we have suffered a wound is to place blame. Perhaps we hold another person responsible. Sometimes we blame ourselves. We might even get angry with God. Anger is OK, bitterness, revenge, helplessness are not. These are a few signs that forgiveness hasn’t taken place.
God has promised us a future and a hope, but unforgiveness can block our ability to experience all the freedom and healing, from past wounds and their insidious ripples, that He has planned for us. As long as we are unwilling to forgive, the disappointment of the past has control over our lives, and we cannot move forward.
Today, focus on forgiving those who have hurt you…It's also time to forgive yourself. God has so don’t be so prideful to think you could never forgive yourself. It's time to open our hearts to the love and forgiveness of our heavenly Father. And then it will be time to move on to the wonderful plans he has for you.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the gift of forgiveness.
Prayer
Father, help me to truly put the past behind and look forward to what lies ahead. Thank You for forgiving my sins. Help me to walk in the gift of forgiveness…for others and myself. Help to search those past wounds with different lenses of an adult, growing in the knowledge and skills of Christ. Guide my learning from them and application to produce the good works, inside and outside that you have prepared me for, even through those past wounds. I pray this hrough the one who gave his life to have my sins forgiven, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
Acts 26:18
Friday, March 12, 2010
Stepping Stones: Enabling: Good Intentions Gone Wrong
Transformational Tip
When someone we love is in the grip of a harmful substance or behavior, we naturally want to help. In spite of our best intentions, our efforts are sometimes harmful rather than helpful. Enabling is good intentions gone wrong.
Enabling allows people to continue in their self-destructive behaviors without feeling the painful consequences that might convince them to stop before the problem spirals out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue a person from the consequences of his or her choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again.
This is where nagging is often born. With our kids, we don’t want them to miss the bus, so we are nagging them through the morning to keep moving, get to the next task from bed to out the door. We believe we are protecting them from the consequences of missing the bus, but we are actually interfering with their growth and development of autonomy and personal responsibility. That’s is what natural consequences build.
Do you find yourself covering up the behavior of a friend or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. And it's very easy to give them "one more chance"…over and over again. These are common examples of enabling.
A big component is our ability to tolerate those negative feelings in others or ourselves that are generated when someone is struggling and faces potential consequences.
Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved ones is to be supportive and facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix…to encourage, but not protect(within reason). We must allow them to learn from the consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping…or harming…the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God determine the consequences, not you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “good intentions gone wrong.”
Prayer
Dear God, it's so hard not try to fix my loved one's problems. But when I come to the rescue instead of letting him suffer the consequences of his actions, I do find that I have to come to the rescue again and again. Nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You…help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and their discomfort to allow the consequences and lesson You have for them play out. I pray this for the one who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19
And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18
When someone we love is in the grip of a harmful substance or behavior, we naturally want to help. In spite of our best intentions, our efforts are sometimes harmful rather than helpful. Enabling is good intentions gone wrong.
Enabling allows people to continue in their self-destructive behaviors without feeling the painful consequences that might convince them to stop before the problem spirals out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue a person from the consequences of his or her choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again.
This is where nagging is often born. With our kids, we don’t want them to miss the bus, so we are nagging them through the morning to keep moving, get to the next task from bed to out the door. We believe we are protecting them from the consequences of missing the bus, but we are actually interfering with their growth and development of autonomy and personal responsibility. That’s is what natural consequences build.
Do you find yourself covering up the behavior of a friend or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. And it's very easy to give them "one more chance"…over and over again. These are common examples of enabling.
A big component is our ability to tolerate those negative feelings in others or ourselves that are generated when someone is struggling and faces potential consequences.
Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved ones is to be supportive and facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix…to encourage, but not protect(within reason). We must allow them to learn from the consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping…or harming…the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God determine the consequences, not you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “good intentions gone wrong.”
Prayer
Dear God, it's so hard not try to fix my loved one's problems. But when I come to the rescue instead of letting him suffer the consequences of his actions, I do find that I have to come to the rescue again and again. Nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You…help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and their discomfort to allow the consequences and lesson You have for them play out. I pray this for the one who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19
And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Stepping Stones: Why Are You In My Life?
Transformational Tip
Do you ever wonder about the people that come into your life? All kinds…the person at the store you talk to in line…an acquaintance from some social circle…a friend from school…family members you share many experiences…a colleague at work. The numbers are amazing even for someone avoiding relationships.
Sometimes, if you are lucky…truly blessed…you have someone enter your life who will change your life forever. A special person delivering God’s, mercy, grace, and unconditional love…right to the doorstep of your heart.
Well, I was one of those lucky people. 21 years ago, when I was stuck at some significant crossroads in many areas of my life, when I least expected it, God showed up. Right in the middle of New Orleans, at a Mardi Gras party, I met and fell in love with the most beautiful person. Love at first sight!
She was, and is, incredibly beautiful on the outside…but the amazing part is who she is on the inside. When I was in such need personally and spiritually for God to show up, He showed up through my wife, Martine. Her unconditional love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and sacrifice have been so powerful to me…freeing me from my personal demons and allowing me to see God’s majesty in her and through her.
Since then, my engagement and growth with God has been unbelievable and He has transformed my life. I wish I could say I am the perfect husband…or even a good husband, but unfortunately, that is the area I still need to grow in the most. So, Happy Birthday, Honey, and thank you so much for what you have done for me. I will work at husbanding more today and this year!
Today, think about who God has put in YOUR life. Are you to profoundly influence them? Then do it. Have they been a profound influence on you? Then thank God for them and thank them, a lot. Do something special for them, ASAP. God does show up, and often it’s in the form of others. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on why God puts people in your life.
Prayer
Oh God, Thank You so much for not giving up on me even though I strayed and tried life my own way. All the grace and protection You provided still astounds and humbles me. Then to bring me an incredible gift, my Martine, I am speechless. Please strengthen me and help me have the courage to resist my selfish desires and really love and serve her…for that will honor You, her, and me. I pray this and all prayers for the one who loved perfectly and fully, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 5:20
Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you."
John 20:21
And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.
Mark 16:15
Do you ever wonder about the people that come into your life? All kinds…the person at the store you talk to in line…an acquaintance from some social circle…a friend from school…family members you share many experiences…a colleague at work. The numbers are amazing even for someone avoiding relationships.
Sometimes, if you are lucky…truly blessed…you have someone enter your life who will change your life forever. A special person delivering God’s, mercy, grace, and unconditional love…right to the doorstep of your heart.
Well, I was one of those lucky people. 21 years ago, when I was stuck at some significant crossroads in many areas of my life, when I least expected it, God showed up. Right in the middle of New Orleans, at a Mardi Gras party, I met and fell in love with the most beautiful person. Love at first sight!
She was, and is, incredibly beautiful on the outside…but the amazing part is who she is on the inside. When I was in such need personally and spiritually for God to show up, He showed up through my wife, Martine. Her unconditional love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, and sacrifice have been so powerful to me…freeing me from my personal demons and allowing me to see God’s majesty in her and through her.
Since then, my engagement and growth with God has been unbelievable and He has transformed my life. I wish I could say I am the perfect husband…or even a good husband, but unfortunately, that is the area I still need to grow in the most. So, Happy Birthday, Honey, and thank you so much for what you have done for me. I will work at husbanding more today and this year!
Today, think about who God has put in YOUR life. Are you to profoundly influence them? Then do it. Have they been a profound influence on you? Then thank God for them and thank them, a lot. Do something special for them, ASAP. God does show up, and often it’s in the form of others. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on why God puts people in your life.
Prayer
Oh God, Thank You so much for not giving up on me even though I strayed and tried life my own way. All the grace and protection You provided still astounds and humbles me. Then to bring me an incredible gift, my Martine, I am speechless. Please strengthen me and help me have the courage to resist my selfish desires and really love and serve her…for that will honor You, her, and me. I pray this and all prayers for the one who loved perfectly and fully, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 5:20
Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you."
John 20:21
And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.
Mark 16:15
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Stepping Stones: How Long, Lord?
Transformational Tip
Have you ever said these words? “How long, Lord, until my prayer is answered?” How long until things get better? How long do You want me to do this without seeing results? How long do You want me to suffer? How long do I have to “just hang in there”?
When Joseph was sold into slavery and later spent years in prison, he must have asked, "How long, Lord?" When Moses led the Israelites around and around in the wilderness, he surely thought, "How long, Lord?" When Noah was ridiculed for 100 years while he built an ark on dry land, he must have wondered, "How long, Lord?" But each one of these godly heroes trusted God. They respected Him enough to continue obeying Him even when it seemed that all hope was gone.
Perhaps you are involved in a ministry that seems to go nowhere. And yet, you know the Lord wants you there. Maybe you have been praying for an unsaved loved one for many years. Or perhaps you have a business that just doesn't come together, but the Lord has led you to continue. Be encouraged to reverence God by continuing to obey him, even though you may wonder, "How long, Lord?"
Today, be confident that God loves you. Examine your life to see what situation or area you are getting impatient…frustrated…irritable. Make sure you are doing a good job with your part of the issue. Then accept God has a different timeline than you do. Touch someone’s life or learn the lesson He is teaching. The situation is in your life to grow you…that is God’s purpose for all that comes into your life. He has a perfect plan for you, we and others just keep messing it up. His timing is always perfect because it is His timing. Keep on, as Noah did, "doing all that God commands."
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective waiting on Your Lord.
Prayer
Oh Father, Lord, help me honor You by trusting You and being willing to wait on You. Even though I get discouraged at times, help me remember that You are in control and that Your way is the best way, Your timing is the best timing. Help me be patient and show the world I am willing to wait on You, Lord. Thy kingdom come, not my kingdom come. I really don’t want to take over responsibility for the whole world, even though sometimes I act like it. I pray this and all prayers for the one who demonstrated perfect timing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I patiently waited, LORD, for you to hear my prayer. You listened and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm, and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the LORD God.
Psalm 40:1-3
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5:1-5
Have you ever said these words? “How long, Lord, until my prayer is answered?” How long until things get better? How long do You want me to do this without seeing results? How long do You want me to suffer? How long do I have to “just hang in there”?
When Joseph was sold into slavery and later spent years in prison, he must have asked, "How long, Lord?" When Moses led the Israelites around and around in the wilderness, he surely thought, "How long, Lord?" When Noah was ridiculed for 100 years while he built an ark on dry land, he must have wondered, "How long, Lord?" But each one of these godly heroes trusted God. They respected Him enough to continue obeying Him even when it seemed that all hope was gone.
Perhaps you are involved in a ministry that seems to go nowhere. And yet, you know the Lord wants you there. Maybe you have been praying for an unsaved loved one for many years. Or perhaps you have a business that just doesn't come together, but the Lord has led you to continue. Be encouraged to reverence God by continuing to obey him, even though you may wonder, "How long, Lord?"
Today, be confident that God loves you. Examine your life to see what situation or area you are getting impatient…frustrated…irritable. Make sure you are doing a good job with your part of the issue. Then accept God has a different timeline than you do. Touch someone’s life or learn the lesson He is teaching. The situation is in your life to grow you…that is God’s purpose for all that comes into your life. He has a perfect plan for you, we and others just keep messing it up. His timing is always perfect because it is His timing. Keep on, as Noah did, "doing all that God commands."
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective waiting on Your Lord.
Prayer
Oh Father, Lord, help me honor You by trusting You and being willing to wait on You. Even though I get discouraged at times, help me remember that You are in control and that Your way is the best way, Your timing is the best timing. Help me be patient and show the world I am willing to wait on You, Lord. Thy kingdom come, not my kingdom come. I really don’t want to take over responsibility for the whole world, even though sometimes I act like it. I pray this and all prayers for the one who demonstrated perfect timing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I patiently waited, LORD, for you to hear my prayer. You listened and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm, and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the LORD God.
Psalm 40:1-3
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5:1-5
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Stepping Stones: Obedience and Respect
Transformational Tip
Respect and reverence have become distasteful words in today's world, especially regarding Christianity. In some places, Christians receive disgust, animosity, and on occasion, hate and disdain. In the United States, Christians are increasingly viewed as bigots and narrow-minded people.
Thousands of years ago, God told Noah to build an ark to save his family because He was sending a flood to destroy all life on earth. Up to this time, people had not experienced rain…only a light mist that watered the earth. And here was Noah, building a humongous ship on dry land.
Nobody understood what Noah was doing or why…and they never did as Noah had no converts. Noah took their questions, laughter, abuse and ridicule…day after day, year after year, decade after decade…for 100 years.
Did they have respect for him and his faith? None at all. The people were so evil that God would destroy all of them, so we could only imagine how evil their ridicule was and what physical persecution or sabotage they carried out on Noah, his family, and his ark as Satan undoubtedly tried to sabotage God’s plan.
But did Noah continue to respect and reverence God by obeying him? Absolutely. Day after day, Noah plugged and chugged…yes, for 100 years of building.
Today, think about how people view you. Do you reverence God enough to honor him, even in the face of ridicule? Are you hesitant to do what is right…instead falling into the trap of doing what is popular or politically correct to be accepted? Do you love God enough to share your faith as God gives you opportunity? Some Christians risk even their lives by obeying God. How far are you willing to go to maintain your stand and to honor God? What will you do today to prove it?
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on obedience and respect.
Prayer
O Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have dishonored You by not speaking up when I knew I should …or by joining in conversations and actions that were displeasing to You. Help me to always honor You by obeying You…no matter what the circumstances. Give me the power to love those who dishonor You, but the courage to stand up for Your, and the discernment to know how so I honor You and respect them. I pray this and all prayers for the One who shows us the definition of obedience and respect by embodying it, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Noah did everything just as God commanded him.
Genesis 6:22
Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, "You also were with Jesus the Galilean." But he denied it before them all, saying, "I do not know what you mean." And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth." And again he denied it with an oath: "I do not know the man." After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, "Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you." Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately the rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Matthew 26:69-75
Respect and reverence have become distasteful words in today's world, especially regarding Christianity. In some places, Christians receive disgust, animosity, and on occasion, hate and disdain. In the United States, Christians are increasingly viewed as bigots and narrow-minded people.
Thousands of years ago, God told Noah to build an ark to save his family because He was sending a flood to destroy all life on earth. Up to this time, people had not experienced rain…only a light mist that watered the earth. And here was Noah, building a humongous ship on dry land.
Nobody understood what Noah was doing or why…and they never did as Noah had no converts. Noah took their questions, laughter, abuse and ridicule…day after day, year after year, decade after decade…for 100 years.
Did they have respect for him and his faith? None at all. The people were so evil that God would destroy all of them, so we could only imagine how evil their ridicule was and what physical persecution or sabotage they carried out on Noah, his family, and his ark as Satan undoubtedly tried to sabotage God’s plan.
But did Noah continue to respect and reverence God by obeying him? Absolutely. Day after day, Noah plugged and chugged…yes, for 100 years of building.
Today, think about how people view you. Do you reverence God enough to honor him, even in the face of ridicule? Are you hesitant to do what is right…instead falling into the trap of doing what is popular or politically correct to be accepted? Do you love God enough to share your faith as God gives you opportunity? Some Christians risk even their lives by obeying God. How far are you willing to go to maintain your stand and to honor God? What will you do today to prove it?
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on obedience and respect.
Prayer
O Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have dishonored You by not speaking up when I knew I should …or by joining in conversations and actions that were displeasing to You. Help me to always honor You by obeying You…no matter what the circumstances. Give me the power to love those who dishonor You, but the courage to stand up for Your, and the discernment to know how so I honor You and respect them. I pray this and all prayers for the One who shows us the definition of obedience and respect by embodying it, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Noah did everything just as God commanded him.
Genesis 6:22
Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, "You also were with Jesus the Galilean." But he denied it before them all, saying, "I do not know what you mean." And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth." And again he denied it with an oath: "I do not know the man." After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, "Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you." Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately the rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Matthew 26:69-75
Monday, March 8, 2010
Stepping Stones: We Say…He Says
Transformational Tip
What words come to mind when asked to describe yourself? Sometimes we might define ourselves by listing our failures and our negative traits. But God has a different perspective! If we are followers of Christ, this is how God sees us...
We say: I'm a failure. I can't do anything right.
God says: You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
We say: I still feel guilty about things I've done in the past, even though I've confessed it all as sin and don't do those things anymore.
God says: I blot out your sins and hold them against you no more.
We say: Sometimes I feel so unlovable. How can God possibly keep on loving me?
God says: God says nothing can separate you from My love.
We say: I tend to be such a fearful person.
God says: The righteous are as bold as a lion.
God sees us as righteous, wise, and forgiven. He sees us as His treasures, His children. We have the mind of Christ and the Holy Spirit in us, but we have to use them and submit to them. Christ bought all this for you through his death and resurrection.
Today, search the scriptures to learn more about how God sees you…ask Him to help you see yourself through His eyes. Only then will you understand your true identity. Then you can really be all you are made to be. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on how God sees you and how you see yourself.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for clothing me in the righteousness of Christ. Help me not to think too lowly…or too highly of myself, but to see myself as You do...and for the reason You do…and to be grateful everyday for all these blessings of amazing grace You extend to me. I pray this and all prayers for the One teaches me how to see myself, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels.
Isaiah 61:19
But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3
What words come to mind when asked to describe yourself? Sometimes we might define ourselves by listing our failures and our negative traits. But God has a different perspective! If we are followers of Christ, this is how God sees us...
We say: I'm a failure. I can't do anything right.
God says: You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
We say: I still feel guilty about things I've done in the past, even though I've confessed it all as sin and don't do those things anymore.
God says: I blot out your sins and hold them against you no more.
We say: Sometimes I feel so unlovable. How can God possibly keep on loving me?
God says: God says nothing can separate you from My love.
We say: I tend to be such a fearful person.
God says: The righteous are as bold as a lion.
God sees us as righteous, wise, and forgiven. He sees us as His treasures, His children. We have the mind of Christ and the Holy Spirit in us, but we have to use them and submit to them. Christ bought all this for you through his death and resurrection.
Today, search the scriptures to learn more about how God sees you…ask Him to help you see yourself through His eyes. Only then will you understand your true identity. Then you can really be all you are made to be. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on how God sees you and how you see yourself.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for clothing me in the righteousness of Christ. Help me not to think too lowly…or too highly of myself, but to see myself as You do...and for the reason You do…and to be grateful everyday for all these blessings of amazing grace You extend to me. I pray this and all prayers for the One teaches me how to see myself, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels.
Isaiah 61:19
But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Stepping Stones: Who Are You?
Transformational Tip
When someone asks you the question, “Who are you?”, what do you reply? Most say, I am a housewife…psychiatrist(fill in your profession)…father.
Sometimes a role we play in life can become our main identity. Our world then actually revolves around this part of our life. ... and this can make us feel pretty good about ourselves.
Super mom ...world's best dad... successful career person ...accomplished musician ... popular pastor...well-known writer...politician...beloved teacher...computer whiz...
These can all be good roles to play—or, they can hinder our growth and even lead to our downfall. When we start thinking the role we play is our main identity in life…who we are…our focus on Jesus and his plan for us can diminish...and pride can set in.
As Christians, we all have the same innate identity…we are followers of Christ. He will give us a different combination of gifts, have us grow with different experiences and situations, lead us into different roles, and give us opportunities to represent Him wherever we are and whatever we do.
But the bottom line is this: We are his children. That's our main identity. That's who we are... And nothing could be better. We need to keep that mindset and focus throughout our day, as this dramatically affects how we view the circumstances we experience…everyday.
Today, think about who you view yourself as. How has this affected your course in life? If you answer the question, “follower of and ambassador for Christ”, is this an intellectual answer only, or does it determine your thoughts, feelings, and actions in your experiences today? Make it your attitude that dramatically influences your day. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “Who Are You?”
Prayer
Father, thank you for the gifts and opportunities You've given me. Help me to always remember that I am, first and foremost, Your child ... and to use these gifts and opportunities to honor You. May I never become prideful in anything I do. Help me to always remember that all good and perfect gifts come from You. I pray this and all prayers for the One who gives us our identity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
So I have reason to be enthusiastic about all Christ Jesus has done through me in my service to God. Yet I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me.
Romans 15:17-18
When someone asks you the question, “Who are you?”, what do you reply? Most say, I am a housewife…psychiatrist(fill in your profession)…father.
Sometimes a role we play in life can become our main identity. Our world then actually revolves around this part of our life. ... and this can make us feel pretty good about ourselves.
Super mom ...world's best dad... successful career person ...accomplished musician ... popular pastor...well-known writer...politician...beloved teacher...computer whiz...
These can all be good roles to play—or, they can hinder our growth and even lead to our downfall. When we start thinking the role we play is our main identity in life…who we are…our focus on Jesus and his plan for us can diminish...and pride can set in.
As Christians, we all have the same innate identity…we are followers of Christ. He will give us a different combination of gifts, have us grow with different experiences and situations, lead us into different roles, and give us opportunities to represent Him wherever we are and whatever we do.
But the bottom line is this: We are his children. That's our main identity. That's who we are... And nothing could be better. We need to keep that mindset and focus throughout our day, as this dramatically affects how we view the circumstances we experience…everyday.
Today, think about who you view yourself as. How has this affected your course in life? If you answer the question, “follower of and ambassador for Christ”, is this an intellectual answer only, or does it determine your thoughts, feelings, and actions in your experiences today? Make it your attitude that dramatically influences your day. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “Who Are You?”
Prayer
Father, thank you for the gifts and opportunities You've given me. Help me to always remember that I am, first and foremost, Your child ... and to use these gifts and opportunities to honor You. May I never become prideful in anything I do. Help me to always remember that all good and perfect gifts come from You. I pray this and all prayers for the One who gives us our identity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
So I have reason to be enthusiastic about all Christ Jesus has done through me in my service to God. Yet I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me.
Romans 15:17-18
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Stepping Stones: When The Laughter Ends…
Transformational Tip
Most of us have some degree of trouble admitting our true feelings and being able to express them…especially if we are struggling with life-controlling problems. But throughout the Bible, God encourages us to know our feelings and not keep them hidden inside. Jesus set an example for us: He had emotions and he expressed them. He cried. He got angry. He was sad. He was concerned and sweat blood in the garden.
We often hide the way we feel behind a defense to keep our real self from showing through. Inside we may feel fearful or angry or sad, but we hide those feelings by joking…or acting superior…or being silent…deflecting attention to something else…anesthetizing it with substances or food…or employing some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter, but when the laughter ends, the grief remains. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.
Hiding our feelings gives them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger, fear, or guilt will have a destructive influence on everything we do. We only have a small box inside to keep these feelings in…it overflows quickly. When it overflows, those feelings will come out into our real everyday functioning…that is a fact.
Your choice is very simple: Express your feelings as they happen in ways that are controllable, functional, measured, and useful to you while they match the situation…or instead, while you are trying to hold them in your feelings start to overflow that little container inside and ooze out in ways that are uncontrollable, dysfunctional, random, and sabotage your efforts to move forward.
Today, ask yourself the question; has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned first-hand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? Your suppressed feelings are coming back to undermine your happiness and relationships. Admitting your feelings can be a turning point. Be honest with yourself…And with God…And then with a friend. Being real will open the door for healing. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective “when the laughter ends”.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been hiding my feelings for a long time, but I know now it's time to be honest. Help me to be real. Help me to have better awareness of my feelings and more control in expressing them. Soothe me and increase my awareness of Your soothing. Help me to share my real feelings with my loved ones. Set me free from their grip. I pray in the name of the One who You sent to be my perfect emotional role model, Jesus Christ. And all God’s children said AMEN!
The Truth
Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, but when laughter ends, the grief remains. "
Proverbs 14:13
Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
and give no opportunity to the devil.
Ephesians 4:26,27
Most of us have some degree of trouble admitting our true feelings and being able to express them…especially if we are struggling with life-controlling problems. But throughout the Bible, God encourages us to know our feelings and not keep them hidden inside. Jesus set an example for us: He had emotions and he expressed them. He cried. He got angry. He was sad. He was concerned and sweat blood in the garden.
We often hide the way we feel behind a defense to keep our real self from showing through. Inside we may feel fearful or angry or sad, but we hide those feelings by joking…or acting superior…or being silent…deflecting attention to something else…anesthetizing it with substances or food…or employing some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter, but when the laughter ends, the grief remains. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.
Hiding our feelings gives them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger, fear, or guilt will have a destructive influence on everything we do. We only have a small box inside to keep these feelings in…it overflows quickly. When it overflows, those feelings will come out into our real everyday functioning…that is a fact.
Your choice is very simple: Express your feelings as they happen in ways that are controllable, functional, measured, and useful to you while they match the situation…or instead, while you are trying to hold them in your feelings start to overflow that little container inside and ooze out in ways that are uncontrollable, dysfunctional, random, and sabotage your efforts to move forward.
Today, ask yourself the question; has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned first-hand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? Your suppressed feelings are coming back to undermine your happiness and relationships. Admitting your feelings can be a turning point. Be honest with yourself…And with God…And then with a friend. Being real will open the door for healing. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective “when the laughter ends”.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been hiding my feelings for a long time, but I know now it's time to be honest. Help me to be real. Help me to have better awareness of my feelings and more control in expressing them. Soothe me and increase my awareness of Your soothing. Help me to share my real feelings with my loved ones. Set me free from their grip. I pray in the name of the One who You sent to be my perfect emotional role model, Jesus Christ. And all God’s children said AMEN!
The Truth
Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, but when laughter ends, the grief remains. "
Proverbs 14:13
Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
and give no opportunity to the devil.
Ephesians 4:26,27
Friday, March 5, 2010
Stepping Stones: Divorce: Despair or Trust?
Transformational Tip
Divorce is the ultimate relationship loss. When marriage problems end in separation and divorce, the loss is experienced by the entire family. Divorce can leave the family in suspended animation and battles usually rage long after the initial disruption.
Recovering from divorce involves working through a grieving process, much like when a spouse has died. It also involves making choices. You might not have had a choice in getting a divorce, but you do have choices in your response. Will you hold on to bitterness and anger…or will you forgive? Will you give up and give into despair…or will you trust Jesus to help you rebuild your life? Will you walk in fear …or will you be courageous to face the future God wants for you? Who do you trust, you or God?
Divorce can bring one of the most intense pains possible into a person's life. But you don't have to go through it alone. Jesus loves you and wants to help you. If you will commit your ways to Him, He will guide you in making those choices…He will give you the courage you need…and He will restore your hope. With Him all things are possible.
Today, if you are thinking about divorce, STOP! This is not God’s ideal plan, and therefore will be a nightmare for you and a lot of loss for many. If you are a child from divorced parents, really examine the lies that divorce embeds in your mind about you, your parents, and relationships. If you know people in these situations, be there to really help them heal and see God and life more clearly, because Satan really uses divorce to suck the soul out of people and make them his puppets.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the devastation of divorce and recovery.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the poor choices in the past. Right now I have to make so many decisions. I need your help. Help me to choose the right path…the one that is right for my family, for me, and most of all the one that is pleasing to You. I pray this and all prayers for the One who shows us what step to take next, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
Psalm 25:12
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3
Divorce is the ultimate relationship loss. When marriage problems end in separation and divorce, the loss is experienced by the entire family. Divorce can leave the family in suspended animation and battles usually rage long after the initial disruption.
Recovering from divorce involves working through a grieving process, much like when a spouse has died. It also involves making choices. You might not have had a choice in getting a divorce, but you do have choices in your response. Will you hold on to bitterness and anger…or will you forgive? Will you give up and give into despair…or will you trust Jesus to help you rebuild your life? Will you walk in fear …or will you be courageous to face the future God wants for you? Who do you trust, you or God?
Divorce can bring one of the most intense pains possible into a person's life. But you don't have to go through it alone. Jesus loves you and wants to help you. If you will commit your ways to Him, He will guide you in making those choices…He will give you the courage you need…and He will restore your hope. With Him all things are possible.
Today, if you are thinking about divorce, STOP! This is not God’s ideal plan, and therefore will be a nightmare for you and a lot of loss for many. If you are a child from divorced parents, really examine the lies that divorce embeds in your mind about you, your parents, and relationships. If you know people in these situations, be there to really help them heal and see God and life more clearly, because Satan really uses divorce to suck the soul out of people and make them his puppets.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the devastation of divorce and recovery.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the poor choices in the past. Right now I have to make so many decisions. I need your help. Help me to choose the right path…the one that is right for my family, for me, and most of all the one that is pleasing to You. I pray this and all prayers for the One who shows us what step to take next, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
Psalm 25:12
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Stepping Stones: What’s Your Body Image?
Transformational Tip
There are so many factors and forces that keep us from the closeness to God that we need…and that He desires. Eating disorders is a clear example of one of those forces.
People with eating disorders…restricting or overeating…tend to get so preoccupied with their body image (and what others think of them) that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their relationships and their ability to function in day-to-day life.
If you are in this situation, determine not to let your obsession with your body keep you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy; pursuing the "perfect" image?...Or focusing on your spiritual growth and your personal and interpersonal needs.
The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees. Society changes its view of what is beautiful ... styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your negative thoughts and feelings about your body and keeping God's view in mind are essential to accepting yourself and your body.
Today, remember that your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you accomplish. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Reach out to Him today. Receive his love and forgiveness. And thank Him for making you just the way you are. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on body image as a distraction.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about how I look that I've ignored You…and relationships with others I care about have suffered. Please help me begin thinking more clearly ... to see things from your point of view. Thank You for loving me just the way I am. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7
There are so many factors and forces that keep us from the closeness to God that we need…and that He desires. Eating disorders is a clear example of one of those forces.
People with eating disorders…restricting or overeating…tend to get so preoccupied with their body image (and what others think of them) that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their relationships and their ability to function in day-to-day life.
If you are in this situation, determine not to let your obsession with your body keep you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy; pursuing the "perfect" image?...Or focusing on your spiritual growth and your personal and interpersonal needs.
The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees. Society changes its view of what is beautiful ... styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your negative thoughts and feelings about your body and keeping God's view in mind are essential to accepting yourself and your body.
Today, remember that your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you accomplish. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Reach out to Him today. Receive his love and forgiveness. And thank Him for making you just the way you are. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on body image as a distraction.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about how I look that I've ignored You…and relationships with others I care about have suffered. Please help me begin thinking more clearly ... to see things from your point of view. Thank You for loving me just the way I am. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Stepping Stones: Do You Feel Alone?
Transformational Tip
20% of the US population…millions…suffer from clinical depression. Most people suffering from chronic depression feel so utterly unlovable, that they cannot bear the pain of even trying to experience love in a relationship with God, self, or others. They feel like a failure and anyone who disagrees with that assessment just doesn't understand. Even if you are not suffering from chronic depression, you may experience feelings like this from time to time…most people do.
If you are feeling this way, think about this good news: God knows you better than you know yourself, and He still loves you. He knows you are not perfect, but He loves you anyway…unconditionally. He loves you so much that He sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sins because He wanted to provide a way that you could be with Him…for eternity…no matter how sinful or worthless you think you are.
God loves you so much, He has promised never to leave you. The Bible tells us that He is full of compassion for you…takes pleasure in you...loves you and gives you honor…You are precious in his sight. He promises He will love you forever.
Today, if you suffer from depression, seek professional help. But, also help yourself by reading each day the short bible passages below. Let His message sink deeply into you. The Bible says, Jesus loves you so much that He seeks after you. You are never alone. Right this very moment you may feel alone, but you are not. Jesus is there with you. Seeking to help you. Say yes. Yes to his love. Yes to his help. Yes to Jesus. The Holy Bible is true, you can believe it.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about feeling alone and God’s pursuit of you.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for loving me no matter what. Thank You for promising to be with me…always…and honoring that promise, even though I don’t sense it sometime. Help my radar tune in stronger to know You are always there. Thank You for showing me reminders each day of Your presence, and help me not to overlook them. When I start to feel alone, help me rely on Your instruction book and not my own. I pray this and all prayers in the name the one who bled every drop of His blood for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'
Hebrews 13:5-6
The LORD is gracious and compassionate; slow to anger and rich in love.
Psalm 145:8
For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.
Psalm 149:4
Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you, and people in exchange for your life.
Isaiah 43:4
The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.”
Jeremiah 31:3
20% of the US population…millions…suffer from clinical depression. Most people suffering from chronic depression feel so utterly unlovable, that they cannot bear the pain of even trying to experience love in a relationship with God, self, or others. They feel like a failure and anyone who disagrees with that assessment just doesn't understand. Even if you are not suffering from chronic depression, you may experience feelings like this from time to time…most people do.
If you are feeling this way, think about this good news: God knows you better than you know yourself, and He still loves you. He knows you are not perfect, but He loves you anyway…unconditionally. He loves you so much that He sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sins because He wanted to provide a way that you could be with Him…for eternity…no matter how sinful or worthless you think you are.
God loves you so much, He has promised never to leave you. The Bible tells us that He is full of compassion for you…takes pleasure in you...loves you and gives you honor…You are precious in his sight. He promises He will love you forever.
Today, if you suffer from depression, seek professional help. But, also help yourself by reading each day the short bible passages below. Let His message sink deeply into you. The Bible says, Jesus loves you so much that He seeks after you. You are never alone. Right this very moment you may feel alone, but you are not. Jesus is there with you. Seeking to help you. Say yes. Yes to his love. Yes to his help. Yes to Jesus. The Holy Bible is true, you can believe it.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about feeling alone and God’s pursuit of you.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for loving me no matter what. Thank You for promising to be with me…always…and honoring that promise, even though I don’t sense it sometime. Help my radar tune in stronger to know You are always there. Thank You for showing me reminders each day of Your presence, and help me not to overlook them. When I start to feel alone, help me rely on Your instruction book and not my own. I pray this and all prayers in the name the one who bled every drop of His blood for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'
Hebrews 13:5-6
The LORD is gracious and compassionate; slow to anger and rich in love.
Psalm 145:8
For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.
Psalm 149:4
Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you, and people in exchange for your life.
Isaiah 43:4
The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.”
Jeremiah 31:3
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: “Care-Fronting”
Transformational Tip
I have two brothers with drug addictions; one is in recovery, the second brother died from an overdose. Life-controlling problems so often turn to life-taking addictions. Each day I live with the guilt of not having done more to help the brother I lost.
Talking with a friend or loved one with a life-controlling problem can be like talking to a brick wall. But that wall can be broken down … brick by brick.
Does someone you love struggle with a life-impacting mindset or behavior? When you try to talk to him or her about it, do your words seem to bounce back at you, as though they've hit a brick wall?
Try this; picture a person behind a brick wall, becoming trapped but continuing to lay brick, building the wall higher and higher. In his/her mind, each brick is a way to defend themselves…but in reality, the wall is trapping, not defending him. Denial has blinded this loved one to his real condition.
David Augsburger in his book Caring Enough to Confront uses the term "care-fronting." This is a communication technique that combines love and caring with confrontation. Caring confrontation can chip away, bit by bit, the wall of delusion that hides reality from your loved one…the reality of the reason they are spiraling and the reality that an answer does exist to turn the spiral the other direction. When you are able to get rid of anger and replace it with caring, confronting your loved one with the truth can actually be the most loving thing you can do.
The bridges thru the wall are made of care and really are derived by us growing our relationship with God first to shine His love and care to our trapped loved one. As God grows in us, His forgiveness of us will melt our hurt we feel from our loved one and allow us to see him through Godly lenses so real care…love can happen.
So today, make a commitment to confront your loved one, to speak the truth in love…not in anger or condemnation…in order to help him tear down his wall of defenses, brick by brick, until he is able to see himself as he really is…someone made in God’s image, who God loves and sent His son to die for. God wants to use us to deliver that message, first modeling it, then saying it. Never give up.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “Care-fronting”.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Lord, help me be more honest with myself and with this person I care about so much. Help me look beyond his fault to his need … and then to express the reality of his situation to him…in love. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may speak as Christ would speak. I pray that love will make me tell the truth. I pray this in the name of the One who took my wall down, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.
Proverbs 12:16
I have two brothers with drug addictions; one is in recovery, the second brother died from an overdose. Life-controlling problems so often turn to life-taking addictions. Each day I live with the guilt of not having done more to help the brother I lost.
Talking with a friend or loved one with a life-controlling problem can be like talking to a brick wall. But that wall can be broken down … brick by brick.
Does someone you love struggle with a life-impacting mindset or behavior? When you try to talk to him or her about it, do your words seem to bounce back at you, as though they've hit a brick wall?
Try this; picture a person behind a brick wall, becoming trapped but continuing to lay brick, building the wall higher and higher. In his/her mind, each brick is a way to defend themselves…but in reality, the wall is trapping, not defending him. Denial has blinded this loved one to his real condition.
David Augsburger in his book Caring Enough to Confront uses the term "care-fronting." This is a communication technique that combines love and caring with confrontation. Caring confrontation can chip away, bit by bit, the wall of delusion that hides reality from your loved one…the reality of the reason they are spiraling and the reality that an answer does exist to turn the spiral the other direction. When you are able to get rid of anger and replace it with caring, confronting your loved one with the truth can actually be the most loving thing you can do.
The bridges thru the wall are made of care and really are derived by us growing our relationship with God first to shine His love and care to our trapped loved one. As God grows in us, His forgiveness of us will melt our hurt we feel from our loved one and allow us to see him through Godly lenses so real care…love can happen.
So today, make a commitment to confront your loved one, to speak the truth in love…not in anger or condemnation…in order to help him tear down his wall of defenses, brick by brick, until he is able to see himself as he really is…someone made in God’s image, who God loves and sent His son to die for. God wants to use us to deliver that message, first modeling it, then saying it. Never give up.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “Care-fronting”.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Lord, help me be more honest with myself and with this person I care about so much. Help me look beyond his fault to his need … and then to express the reality of his situation to him…in love. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may speak as Christ would speak. I pray that love will make me tell the truth. I pray this in the name of the One who took my wall down, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.
Proverbs 12:16
Monday, March 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: Satan, The Master of Deceit
Transformational Tip
The last 2 days, for this Lenten season, we looked at the first 2 desert temptations of Christ, so today we will look at the third temptation: Satan using Scripture to tempt Jesus to leap from the temple and land safely.
Again, Jesus could have done it, and it would have been the job of the angels to protect him. It was not a temptation to do an overt sin, but it was a test of the Father's care. It was a call to have Father God prove his care for Jesus.
Jesus responded by quoting other Scriptures and putting into context what Satan, the master of deceit, had quoted out of context.
We learn from Jesus' response that we should trust God and His promises, and not test his reliability. He promises to take care of us, but we shouldn't step in front of a speeding car to see what He will do. He has promised to meet our needs, but we shouldn't spend money recklessly.
In all three temptations, Jesus relied on the Scriptures to give Him a proper understanding of what He was to do, and He quoted it in times of temptation. He did not take isolated verses out of context but balanced Scripture with an understanding of the true meaning of the verses. We find this to be part of the Armor of God that Paul exhorts us to use in this spiritual war we are in.
Having experienced temptation, Jesus understands our condition. He is sympathetic, but He is also the perfect standard.
Today, yield to the will of God. Memorize Scripture. But get a good study Bible which explains the context of these verses. Live it. Make a specific plan of how to do this more consistently as the Lord enables and pushes you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on where you go for truth…Satan and the world…or the HOLY BIBLE.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You know I am so weak, please help me to better prepare to resist temptation by spending more time in your Word. Teach me to not just read, but rather to live the Scripture. Please bring the right Scripture to my mind when I am facing a temptation…but also to understand the whole story of Your word. I pray this in the name of the One who would never deceive me and is the living word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, 'If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.' Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, You must not test the Lord your God.”
Luke 4:9-12
Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything. . .”
Ecclesiastes 8:5, 6a
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
The last 2 days, for this Lenten season, we looked at the first 2 desert temptations of Christ, so today we will look at the third temptation: Satan using Scripture to tempt Jesus to leap from the temple and land safely.
Again, Jesus could have done it, and it would have been the job of the angels to protect him. It was not a temptation to do an overt sin, but it was a test of the Father's care. It was a call to have Father God prove his care for Jesus.
Jesus responded by quoting other Scriptures and putting into context what Satan, the master of deceit, had quoted out of context.
We learn from Jesus' response that we should trust God and His promises, and not test his reliability. He promises to take care of us, but we shouldn't step in front of a speeding car to see what He will do. He has promised to meet our needs, but we shouldn't spend money recklessly.
In all three temptations, Jesus relied on the Scriptures to give Him a proper understanding of what He was to do, and He quoted it in times of temptation. He did not take isolated verses out of context but balanced Scripture with an understanding of the true meaning of the verses. We find this to be part of the Armor of God that Paul exhorts us to use in this spiritual war we are in.
Having experienced temptation, Jesus understands our condition. He is sympathetic, but He is also the perfect standard.
Today, yield to the will of God. Memorize Scripture. But get a good study Bible which explains the context of these verses. Live it. Make a specific plan of how to do this more consistently as the Lord enables and pushes you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on where you go for truth…Satan and the world…or the HOLY BIBLE.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You know I am so weak, please help me to better prepare to resist temptation by spending more time in your Word. Teach me to not just read, but rather to live the Scripture. Please bring the right Scripture to my mind when I am facing a temptation…but also to understand the whole story of Your word. I pray this in the name of the One who would never deceive me and is the living word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, 'If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.' Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, You must not test the Lord your God.”
Luke 4:9-12
Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything. . .”
Ecclesiastes 8:5, 6a
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Stepping Stones: Who Do You Bow To?
Transformational Tip
In this Lenten season, yesterday, we looked at Jesus being tempted during His time of fasting in the desert. The second temptation consisted of Satan promising Jesus all the kingdoms of the world if Jesus would worship him.
Both Jesus and his tempter knew that Jesus would eventually gain these kingdoms anyway. So Satan was tempting Jesus to take something that is rightfully His, but by wrong means…give it to him sooner…to avoid pain and suffering…to avoid the cross. And in the process, Jesus would have to bow down and worship the devil…Call Satan lord of His life. Blowing off God’s timeline for Satan’s. Do you really believe Satan would have honored his part of the agreement anyway?
Once again, Jesus refused to give in to the temptation. And again, he quoted the Scriptures, revealing the root of the temptation by showing the right form of worship. His Father has the perfect agenda and timeline and is the only worthy one for us to worship.
We live in a time of instant gratification. Our fast-paced world and never-ending flow of instant responses via cell phones, Internet, etc. have molded us to want and expect instant gratification. We want it NOW, if not yesterday.
Sometimes we may know in our hearts that God has a plan to take care of a situation, but we don't want to wait. We want the solution now. And so, instead of waiting for God's plan to unfold, we manipulate and make it happen now. My will vs. Thy will.
And be very clear about this; in rejecting God's plan, we are bowing down to Satan. Who do you want to bow to?
Today, let us learn from the example Jesus has set for us. Let us choose God's way, God's timing—always the best way and the best timing. Learn patience and perseverance, it comes from trusting God’s love for and provision for you is better than what our feeble minds and plans can come up with. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on who you bow to.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I bow to You Father. All glory to You my Lord. Forgive me for the times I have not been willing to wait and do things the right way…Your way, but have taken a shortcut. Help me be willing to wait. Teach me to trust you more and to choose your way and your timing, I know Your timing is the perfect timing. I pray this in the name of the One who teaches us how to worship You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, 'I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours.' Jesus answered, “It is written: Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.”
Luke 4:5-8
If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.
He said, "Look! I see four men loosed and walking about in the midst of the fire without harm, and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods!"
Nebuchadnezzar responded and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, who has sent His angel and delivered His servants who put their trust in Him, violating the king's command, and yielded up their bodies so as not to serve or worship any god except their own God.
Daniel 3:17,18,25,28
In this Lenten season, yesterday, we looked at Jesus being tempted during His time of fasting in the desert. The second temptation consisted of Satan promising Jesus all the kingdoms of the world if Jesus would worship him.
Both Jesus and his tempter knew that Jesus would eventually gain these kingdoms anyway. So Satan was tempting Jesus to take something that is rightfully His, but by wrong means…give it to him sooner…to avoid pain and suffering…to avoid the cross. And in the process, Jesus would have to bow down and worship the devil…Call Satan lord of His life. Blowing off God’s timeline for Satan’s. Do you really believe Satan would have honored his part of the agreement anyway?
Once again, Jesus refused to give in to the temptation. And again, he quoted the Scriptures, revealing the root of the temptation by showing the right form of worship. His Father has the perfect agenda and timeline and is the only worthy one for us to worship.
We live in a time of instant gratification. Our fast-paced world and never-ending flow of instant responses via cell phones, Internet, etc. have molded us to want and expect instant gratification. We want it NOW, if not yesterday.
Sometimes we may know in our hearts that God has a plan to take care of a situation, but we don't want to wait. We want the solution now. And so, instead of waiting for God's plan to unfold, we manipulate and make it happen now. My will vs. Thy will.
And be very clear about this; in rejecting God's plan, we are bowing down to Satan. Who do you want to bow to?
Today, let us learn from the example Jesus has set for us. Let us choose God's way, God's timing—always the best way and the best timing. Learn patience and perseverance, it comes from trusting God’s love for and provision for you is better than what our feeble minds and plans can come up with. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on who you bow to.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I bow to You Father. All glory to You my Lord. Forgive me for the times I have not been willing to wait and do things the right way…Your way, but have taken a shortcut. Help me be willing to wait. Teach me to trust you more and to choose your way and your timing, I know Your timing is the perfect timing. I pray this in the name of the One who teaches us how to worship You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, 'I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours.' Jesus answered, “It is written: Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.”
Luke 4:5-8
If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.
He said, "Look! I see four men loosed and walking about in the midst of the fire without harm, and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods!"
Nebuchadnezzar responded and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, who has sent His angel and delivered His servants who put their trust in Him, violating the king's command, and yielded up their bodies so as not to serve or worship any god except their own God.
Daniel 3:17,18,25,28
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Stepping Stones: It’s All About Priorities
Transformational Tip
The Holy Spirit led Jesus to the desert, where he fasted for 40 days. The Bible says, Satan tempted him for the duration of those 40 days. Then Jesus faced a significant temptation of hunger, a realistic physical need.
Is eating to satisfy our hunger wrong? Of course not. But Jesus had been led by the Spirit and had made a commitment to fast during this time period. To break the fast by putting his desire for food above his commitment to the Father would have been sin.
There are many desires we experience throughout each day that are normal and good. To succeed on a job. To dress nicely. To make or listen to music. To prosper financially. To enjoy shopping. To commit to a relationship. Participating in a ministry. And the list goes on. These things are not wrong in themselves, but they are wrong if they take priority over our relationship with the Lord. God's plan and God's leading must always come first.
Jesus responded to the temptation by quoting Scripture. "Man shall not live and be sustained by bread alone, but by every word and expression of God." In other words, spiritual matters and faithfulness to God are life sustaining and more important than physical resources to meet our needs.
Today, take a moment to think about your life. Is there an area that is taking priority that should not be…that takes up mind space pushing God and other important Earthly responsibilities out. That is causing you to slide in your relationship with God? That is tempting you to make wrong choices? If so, now is the time to get back on track. As Jesus taught us, turn to God's Word. Say no to the temptation. Develop a concrete strategy to break that hold on your heart.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective making God your priority.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess there are areas in my life that are causing me to slide in my relationship with you. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I seek and better understand your Holy Bible and allow it to guide me as it guided Jesus. Please help me put your word into action, not just let it be part of my spiritual intellectual library, rarely visited for practical living. I pray this in the name of the one who always honored His ultimate priority, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then the devil said to Him, If You are the Son of God, order this stone to turn into a loaf of bread. And Jesus replied to him, “It is written, Man shall not live and be sustained by (on) bread alone [but by every word and expression of God."
Luke 4:3-4
No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
1 Corinthians 10:13,14
The Holy Spirit led Jesus to the desert, where he fasted for 40 days. The Bible says, Satan tempted him for the duration of those 40 days. Then Jesus faced a significant temptation of hunger, a realistic physical need.
Is eating to satisfy our hunger wrong? Of course not. But Jesus had been led by the Spirit and had made a commitment to fast during this time period. To break the fast by putting his desire for food above his commitment to the Father would have been sin.
There are many desires we experience throughout each day that are normal and good. To succeed on a job. To dress nicely. To make or listen to music. To prosper financially. To enjoy shopping. To commit to a relationship. Participating in a ministry. And the list goes on. These things are not wrong in themselves, but they are wrong if they take priority over our relationship with the Lord. God's plan and God's leading must always come first.
Jesus responded to the temptation by quoting Scripture. "Man shall not live and be sustained by bread alone, but by every word and expression of God." In other words, spiritual matters and faithfulness to God are life sustaining and more important than physical resources to meet our needs.
Today, take a moment to think about your life. Is there an area that is taking priority that should not be…that takes up mind space pushing God and other important Earthly responsibilities out. That is causing you to slide in your relationship with God? That is tempting you to make wrong choices? If so, now is the time to get back on track. As Jesus taught us, turn to God's Word. Say no to the temptation. Develop a concrete strategy to break that hold on your heart.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective making God your priority.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess there are areas in my life that are causing me to slide in my relationship with you. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I seek and better understand your Holy Bible and allow it to guide me as it guided Jesus. Please help me put your word into action, not just let it be part of my spiritual intellectual library, rarely visited for practical living. I pray this in the name of the one who always honored His ultimate priority, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then the devil said to Him, If You are the Son of God, order this stone to turn into a loaf of bread. And Jesus replied to him, “It is written, Man shall not live and be sustained by (on) bread alone [but by every word and expression of God."
Luke 4:3-4
No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
1 Corinthians 10:13,14
Friday, February 26, 2010
Stepping Stones: Embrace Your Singleness
Transformational Tip
According to the 2000 census, more than 93 million people in the United States are single. About 20 million are divorced, another 13.5 million widowed, and 60 million have never been married.
Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, society often looks on them as rejects. “You are single because nobody wants you” or “even that person has someone, why can’t you?” are the tapes that plays over and over.
If you are single, you can choose to make excuses or blame someone else. These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more positive and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your singleness.
Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as more time and mind space available for you to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single.
Today, if you know someone single, examine how you view them and can help them. If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are his workmanship, and his workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on embracing singleness.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Father, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I fit into Your plans for me. Help me focus on you and accomplish your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a
According to the 2000 census, more than 93 million people in the United States are single. About 20 million are divorced, another 13.5 million widowed, and 60 million have never been married.
Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, society often looks on them as rejects. “You are single because nobody wants you” or “even that person has someone, why can’t you?” are the tapes that plays over and over.
If you are single, you can choose to make excuses or blame someone else. These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more positive and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your singleness.
Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as more time and mind space available for you to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single.
Today, if you know someone single, examine how you view them and can help them. If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are his workmanship, and his workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on embracing singleness.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Father, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I fit into Your plans for me. Help me focus on you and accomplish your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Stepping Stones: Bad News/Good News
Transformational Tip
Do you sometimes find it difficult to manage your thoughts, attitudes, behaviors or emotions? Are you continuing in a destructive habit even though you know you are hurting yourself and those you love?
If you answered "yes" to either of these questions, you are not alone. Many of us have operated in a self-destruct mode at some time in our lives…for some of us it’s been this way most of our adult lives. Perhaps you have tried to do right…to change. For a while, things might be better and then you find yourself right back where you started.
Some bad news and some good news. The bad news; you can't make this kind of change by yourself. The good news; that's OK because you don't have to do it by yourself. God is standing by to help you. He is inviting you to turn your problem over to Him. He wants you to know this is not a person-size problem…it is a God-size problem. He loves you and He wants to help you.
Today, take the beginning steps to overcoming any destructive pattern in your life; admit you have the problem, admit you cannot correct the problem by yourself, tell God you are sorry for what you have been doing and that you truly want to change. And then trust Him to help you. Seek guidance about how to incorporate Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Bible into your everyday decision –making. WITHIN REACH(look on the Lighthouse Network website) has accomplished this for this writer, and can for you to.
Things may not change overnight, but you know you will be moving in the right direction. And God will be with you throughout the process.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of God-size problems and what to do about them.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Sometimes I feel so alone and helpless. Please bring Your Holy Word to my mind at those times. Help me remember that you are always with me and that with you, all things are possible. Your instruction in the Holy Bible is so powerful…it can actually renew my mind, and set me free. Help me to apply it’s teachings and trust your promises, instead of trusting my understanding and self-made instruction book. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to always be with me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
Psalm 16:8
With him, all things are possible
Philippians 4:13
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding
Proverbs 3:5
Do you sometimes find it difficult to manage your thoughts, attitudes, behaviors or emotions? Are you continuing in a destructive habit even though you know you are hurting yourself and those you love?
If you answered "yes" to either of these questions, you are not alone. Many of us have operated in a self-destruct mode at some time in our lives…for some of us it’s been this way most of our adult lives. Perhaps you have tried to do right…to change. For a while, things might be better and then you find yourself right back where you started.
Some bad news and some good news. The bad news; you can't make this kind of change by yourself. The good news; that's OK because you don't have to do it by yourself. God is standing by to help you. He is inviting you to turn your problem over to Him. He wants you to know this is not a person-size problem…it is a God-size problem. He loves you and He wants to help you.
Today, take the beginning steps to overcoming any destructive pattern in your life; admit you have the problem, admit you cannot correct the problem by yourself, tell God you are sorry for what you have been doing and that you truly want to change. And then trust Him to help you. Seek guidance about how to incorporate Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Bible into your everyday decision –making. WITHIN REACH(look on the Lighthouse Network website) has accomplished this for this writer, and can for you to.
Things may not change overnight, but you know you will be moving in the right direction. And God will be with you throughout the process.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of God-size problems and what to do about them.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Sometimes I feel so alone and helpless. Please bring Your Holy Word to my mind at those times. Help me remember that you are always with me and that with you, all things are possible. Your instruction in the Holy Bible is so powerful…it can actually renew my mind, and set me free. Help me to apply it’s teachings and trust your promises, instead of trusting my understanding and self-made instruction book. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to always be with me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
Psalm 16:8
With him, all things are possible
Philippians 4:13
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding
Proverbs 3:5
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Stepping Stones: “I Can’t Stand This…”
Transformational Tip
One key to controlling our temper is to have realistic expectations, especially of others. Examples…no one is ever wrong or right all the time…it’s wrong to expect others to always be happy and helpful…none of us are "up" all the time…we all have times that we are sick, stressed, or just plain tired.
Right or wrong, all these vulnerabilities affect moods, attitudes, and behaviors…ours and those who anger us. They may have acceptable reasons for their seemingly rude behavior as they might not be just selfish or thoughtless. We need to avoid getting offended every time people don't respond or act the way we think they should. They might just be having a bad day…stressors of magnitude higher in importance than their interaction with you.
We also need to remember that everyone and everything do not exist for our convenience or purpose. We will control anger better if we do not say things like "I can't stand this …" or "They better never …" These statements lock us into emotionalizing rather than thinking. I mean, seriously…look at most of the events that anger you. In the overall scheme of life and the spiritual battle we are waging against Satan and his evil forces, is that other person really evil and our enemy.
Today, try to align yourself with reality. Don't let everything bother you to the point that you "lose it" over other people's failures. Show them the same kind of understanding you would like to have on your challenging days. Get mad at the behavior and look for a way to help the person see reality more clearly. At the very least, be thankful to God you don’t have their shortcoming and are blessed in that area of functioning. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on having realistic expectations of others.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me not to expect others to be perfect or to always do things my way. Make me willing to overlook offenses, to see people's hearts, and be sensitive to their needs. Help me, Father, to see You in them, and for them to see You in me. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to teach us, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Proverbs 19:11
they said to him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?" This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her." And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground.
John 8:4-7
One key to controlling our temper is to have realistic expectations, especially of others. Examples…no one is ever wrong or right all the time…it’s wrong to expect others to always be happy and helpful…none of us are "up" all the time…we all have times that we are sick, stressed, or just plain tired.
Right or wrong, all these vulnerabilities affect moods, attitudes, and behaviors…ours and those who anger us. They may have acceptable reasons for their seemingly rude behavior as they might not be just selfish or thoughtless. We need to avoid getting offended every time people don't respond or act the way we think they should. They might just be having a bad day…stressors of magnitude higher in importance than their interaction with you.
We also need to remember that everyone and everything do not exist for our convenience or purpose. We will control anger better if we do not say things like "I can't stand this …" or "They better never …" These statements lock us into emotionalizing rather than thinking. I mean, seriously…look at most of the events that anger you. In the overall scheme of life and the spiritual battle we are waging against Satan and his evil forces, is that other person really evil and our enemy.
Today, try to align yourself with reality. Don't let everything bother you to the point that you "lose it" over other people's failures. Show them the same kind of understanding you would like to have on your challenging days. Get mad at the behavior and look for a way to help the person see reality more clearly. At the very least, be thankful to God you don’t have their shortcoming and are blessed in that area of functioning. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on having realistic expectations of others.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help me not to expect others to be perfect or to always do things my way. Make me willing to overlook offenses, to see people's hearts, and be sensitive to their needs. Help me, Father, to see You in them, and for them to see You in me. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to teach us, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Proverbs 19:11
they said to him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?" This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her." And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground.
John 8:4-7
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Stepping Stones: From Cover-up to Recovery
Transformational Tip
Defenses are behaviors we use to cover up or avoid uncomfortable feelings or discomfort; hiding them from others, and worse yet…from ourselves. Common defenses include suppressing, blaming, rationalizing, or hiding behind a smile.
Denial is one of the most common defenses. In the case of a loved one struggling with a life controlling, addiction problem, we demonstrate denial when we feel the need to protect or cover up their behavior. Or, we may be struggling with our own problems, but denying them…even to ourselves…or underestimating their gravity and damage to others and us. We deny the truth to keep our loved ones or ourselves “safe.” But in reality, denial doesn’t allow solutions and only leads to more problems. Denial is distorted thinking, leading to destruction, helplessness.
One reason we develop dysfunctional defenses is our lack of confidence in and inability to handle discomfort. Some of the most common negative feelings you may experience include anger, anxiety, sadness, fear, guilt, loneliness, and shame. Are you struggling with any of these feelings or similar ones? Are you smiling your way through each day while the struggle inside you rages?
Today, return to the place of honestly acknowledging you true feelings and dealing with them. Your first step out of the struggle is to admit the feelings to yourself, to God, and to others you know you can trust. No pain, No Gain. God will provide and equip. Act as if these 2 statements are true…and see miraculous growth happen for you and in your relationship with God. Only then can you begin the road out of the cover-up and into recovery.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of dealing with your discomfort on your own or with God’s guidance and power.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I have tried to convince myself that if I don't admit to these problems, if I deny them, then I'll be safe from them. I realize now I've been deceiving myself. I am struggling and I need your help. Help me, Father, to move from cover-up to recovery. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to remove the cover-up by covering me with His blood, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You boast, "We have entered into a covenant with death, with the grave we have made an agreement. When an overwhelming scourge sweeps by, it cannot touch us, for we have made a lie our refuge and falsehood our hiding place."
Isaiah 28:15
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
Defenses are behaviors we use to cover up or avoid uncomfortable feelings or discomfort; hiding them from others, and worse yet…from ourselves. Common defenses include suppressing, blaming, rationalizing, or hiding behind a smile.
Denial is one of the most common defenses. In the case of a loved one struggling with a life controlling, addiction problem, we demonstrate denial when we feel the need to protect or cover up their behavior. Or, we may be struggling with our own problems, but denying them…even to ourselves…or underestimating their gravity and damage to others and us. We deny the truth to keep our loved ones or ourselves “safe.” But in reality, denial doesn’t allow solutions and only leads to more problems. Denial is distorted thinking, leading to destruction, helplessness.
One reason we develop dysfunctional defenses is our lack of confidence in and inability to handle discomfort. Some of the most common negative feelings you may experience include anger, anxiety, sadness, fear, guilt, loneliness, and shame. Are you struggling with any of these feelings or similar ones? Are you smiling your way through each day while the struggle inside you rages?
Today, return to the place of honestly acknowledging you true feelings and dealing with them. Your first step out of the struggle is to admit the feelings to yourself, to God, and to others you know you can trust. No pain, No Gain. God will provide and equip. Act as if these 2 statements are true…and see miraculous growth happen for you and in your relationship with God. Only then can you begin the road out of the cover-up and into recovery.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of dealing with your discomfort on your own or with God’s guidance and power.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I have tried to convince myself that if I don't admit to these problems, if I deny them, then I'll be safe from them. I realize now I've been deceiving myself. I am struggling and I need your help. Help me, Father, to move from cover-up to recovery. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to remove the cover-up by covering me with His blood, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You boast, "We have entered into a covenant with death, with the grave we have made an agreement. When an overwhelming scourge sweeps by, it cannot touch us, for we have made a lie our refuge and falsehood our hiding place."
Isaiah 28:15
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
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