Transformational Tip
I once watched a TV special on pythons…you know, those big snakes. They are fascinating; they actually swallow their prey whole. The TV program showed a giant python swallowing and digesting a whole calf. What I found most fascinating was the way in which the python actually killed their prey. Like most people I thought they simply “crushed” their victims…squeeze them to death. Not so. They suffocate their victims. They slowly coil around the victim, many times while the victim is sleeping. Each time the victim exhales the python gently tightens their grip. After a few exhales the snake has restricted the victim’s ability to inhale and then they suffocate.
Satan works very much like a python to destroy souls. He doesn’t crush us with one powerful squeeze, he doesn’t take us out with one blow; he slowly and gently wraps himself around our minds and souls and begins the suffocation process. Instead of depriving us of oxygen, he deprives us of God…leading to our spiritual death.
Today, be aware of Satan’s possible grip on you. Are you finding it hard to inhale? Feeling short of breath? Unlike the python, Satan is easily removed. Resist and Rebuke him and all his works, accept Jesus as you savior…and watch the enemy lose his grip. Say today’s prayer, it is a prayer of salvation. If you are a Christian, apply the reality and magnitude of the Christmas story to today’s worry.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on Satan’s slow squeeze of death.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for trying to live my life without You. I need and ask for Your forgiveness. I know I cannot save myself and need a Savior. I believe by faith and not through anything I can do, that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to be my Savior. I believe He paid the penalty for my sin for me. I believe He rose from the grave to conquer death, sin, and sin’s separation of me from You. I trust You, Jesus, as my personal Savior, receive You as my Lord, and I turn from my sinful ways. Oh God, thank You for Your grace in forgiving my sins, coming into my life, being with me forever. Now help me make You the King of my life. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.
Daniel 11:32
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Stepping Stones: When 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-interfering behaviors or life-controlling addictions. We keep placing mask over mask to hide or anesthetize what’s really going on in our hearts and minds. 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.
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 or escape those feelings by joking…or acting superior…or being silent…or employing some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter…but, we can’t escape these feelings. When the laughter ends, the grief remains.
Hiding our feelings gives them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger or fear or guilt can have a destructive influence on everything we do. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.
Today, Has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned first-hand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? 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 thoughts on being real with your feelings.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I realize that I have been wearing a mask over masks. 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 share my real feelings with You and my loved ones. Set me free, Father. I pray in the name of the one who came and died to set me free, 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
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Romans 12:14
But Hannah answered, "No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the LORD. Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation." Then Eli answered, "Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him." And she said, "Let your servant find favor in your eyes." Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.
1 Samuel 1:15-18
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-interfering behaviors or life-controlling addictions. We keep placing mask over mask to hide or anesthetize what’s really going on in our hearts and minds. 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.
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 or escape those feelings by joking…or acting superior…or being silent…or employing some other defense. We may try to cover our sadness with laughter…but, we can’t escape these feelings. When the laughter ends, the grief remains.
Hiding our feelings gives them control over our lives. Unexpressed anger or fear or guilt can have a destructive influence on everything we do. Hidden shame and sadness are roadblocks to hope and healing.
Today, Has your "cover-up" helped? Or have you learned first-hand that when the laughter ends, the grief remains? 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 thoughts on being real with your feelings.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I realize that I have been wearing a mask over masks. 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 share my real feelings with You and my loved ones. Set me free, Father. I pray in the name of the one who came and died to set me free, 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
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Romans 12:14
But Hannah answered, "No, my lord, I am a woman troubled in spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but I have been pouring out my soul before the LORD. Do not regard your servant as a worthless woman, for all along I have been speaking out of my great anxiety and vexation." Then Eli answered, "Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him." And she said, "Let your servant find favor in your eyes." Then the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad.
1 Samuel 1:15-18
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Stepping Stones: What Would Make You Happy?
Transformational Tip
Yesterday I asked three people what it would take to make them really happy. “Getting that promotion.” “Getting that new car.” “Getting my spouse off my back.” How would you answer this question?
With your answer in mind, think about this; if your ship never comes in, if your dream never comes true, if your situation never changes, could you be really happy? If not, then you need to know what you have in your God; because you already have exactly what you need in Him. You have a God who hears you, the power of His love behind you, the Holy Spirit within you, and all of heaven ahead of you. If you have God, you have forgiveness for every sin, direction for every turn, a candle for every corner, and a Lighthouse for every storm.
Today, when you have that feeling you are missing something, confess any unconfessed sin. Then, reflect on how God can meet the need youyour struggling with. He has promised you He will. Don’t let Satan deceive you that He won’t. He died for your eternal need, He will provide for you now.In him, you have everything you need. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on having everything you need.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I thank You, Lord, for providing everything I need. I confess, Father, that I am guilty of always wanting more; more things…more stuff. I know this is not the pathway to happiness. I know the only times I feel truly happy and safe is when I am in constant communication with You. I pray that my greatest worry today be about losing my connection with You. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might have everything I need, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
My God will use his wonderful riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need.
Philippians 4:19
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:7-9
Yesterday I asked three people what it would take to make them really happy. “Getting that promotion.” “Getting that new car.” “Getting my spouse off my back.” How would you answer this question?
With your answer in mind, think about this; if your ship never comes in, if your dream never comes true, if your situation never changes, could you be really happy? If not, then you need to know what you have in your God; because you already have exactly what you need in Him. You have a God who hears you, the power of His love behind you, the Holy Spirit within you, and all of heaven ahead of you. If you have God, you have forgiveness for every sin, direction for every turn, a candle for every corner, and a Lighthouse for every storm.
Today, when you have that feeling you are missing something, confess any unconfessed sin. Then, reflect on how God can meet the need youyour struggling with. He has promised you He will. Don’t let Satan deceive you that He won’t. He died for your eternal need, He will provide for you now.In him, you have everything you need. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on having everything you need.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I thank You, Lord, for providing everything I need. I confess, Father, that I am guilty of always wanting more; more things…more stuff. I know this is not the pathway to happiness. I know the only times I feel truly happy and safe is when I am in constant communication with You. I pray that my greatest worry today be about losing my connection with You. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might have everything I need, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
My God will use his wonderful riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need.
Philippians 4:19
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:7-9
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Stepping Stones: Are You Gasping For Air?
Transformational Tip
A friend recently asked me what I considered to be my most treasured memories. I was at a loss to answer his question on the spot, but the question haunted me over the following few days. Did I not have any treasured memories? That just couldn’t be. So I began flipping through the photo album of my mind and heart and a collection of my most treasured memories came rushing in. I recalled memories when I felt really special…times where I knew I was loved. I also recalled times of adventure and accomplishment…of adventure and challenge. I then reflected on how far ago those memories were. And all of a sudden I began yearning for that life…to have those moments now and often.
The Bible tells us we are meant to live in a world like that—every day. Just as our lungs are made to breathe oxygen, our souls are designed to flourish in an atmosphere rich in love and meaning, security and significance, intimacy and exploration. But most of us don’t live in that world anymore. Far from it. Though we try to resolve the dilemma by turning to materialism, illicit sex, drugs and addictions, food, excessive business, etc, to fill this desire, it doesn’t work. So we never really get what we need to truly flourish. It is the soul’s equivalent of holding our breath. Eventually, we find ourselves gasping for air.
Today, know that your Lord and God is ready to breathe true life into you. Turn away, today, from just one thing that is choking you, causing you to gasp for air…and turn toward Him that is the giver of the life you were meant to live. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on gasping for air.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I confess Father that I have been holding my spiritual breath...that I am truly gasping for air. Help me, Lord, to turn away from all things that deprive me of oxygen…that separate me from You. I rejoice in You Father, I find joy in You, the God of my salvation. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might be free to breathe and to flourish, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
Genesis 2:7
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
2 Timothy 3:16
So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.
Ezekiel 37:10
Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3:17-19
A friend recently asked me what I considered to be my most treasured memories. I was at a loss to answer his question on the spot, but the question haunted me over the following few days. Did I not have any treasured memories? That just couldn’t be. So I began flipping through the photo album of my mind and heart and a collection of my most treasured memories came rushing in. I recalled memories when I felt really special…times where I knew I was loved. I also recalled times of adventure and accomplishment…of adventure and challenge. I then reflected on how far ago those memories were. And all of a sudden I began yearning for that life…to have those moments now and often.
The Bible tells us we are meant to live in a world like that—every day. Just as our lungs are made to breathe oxygen, our souls are designed to flourish in an atmosphere rich in love and meaning, security and significance, intimacy and exploration. But most of us don’t live in that world anymore. Far from it. Though we try to resolve the dilemma by turning to materialism, illicit sex, drugs and addictions, food, excessive business, etc, to fill this desire, it doesn’t work. So we never really get what we need to truly flourish. It is the soul’s equivalent of holding our breath. Eventually, we find ourselves gasping for air.
Today, know that your Lord and God is ready to breathe true life into you. Turn away, today, from just one thing that is choking you, causing you to gasp for air…and turn toward Him that is the giver of the life you were meant to live. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on gasping for air.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I confess Father that I have been holding my spiritual breath...that I am truly gasping for air. Help me, Lord, to turn away from all things that deprive me of oxygen…that separate me from You. I rejoice in You Father, I find joy in You, the God of my salvation. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might be free to breathe and to flourish, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
Genesis 2:7
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
2 Timothy 3:16
So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.
Ezekiel 37:10
Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3:17-19
Friday, December 4, 2009
Stepping Stones: He Wants Us to Travel
Transformational Tip
We are born lost, spiritually lost…in a terrible place…the state of insecurity, inadequacy, isolation, overwhelmed. We long to be in a different place…peace, love, joy, security, intimacy. We need to go on a trip. In today’s scripture reading, God tells us that He goes before us. God’s imagery of going before us clearly lets us know that He desires us to go on a journey...with Him as our guide and leader…He calls us by our name.
For our journey, unfortunately, we make some poor choices regarding some important elements. Our map is random, we use the world’s strategy, our destination is me-centered or material, and we demand to be our own guide. Instead, we need to use the Bible as for our map and strategy, God to be our guide, and the mind of Christ as our destination. Our journey is of our mind, heart and Spirit. The pot of gold at the end of the journey – the fruit of the Spirit!
But, the Christian life is a dangerous pilgrimage to the Promised Land…Satan is always lurking. So, we need the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit…the power and comfort of prayer…and the protection and counter attack of the armor of God.
Today, imagine yourself standing at a crossroad with two paths before you; one is your current path, the other is the journey your Lord is inviting you to take. Take and intentional step on the next stepping stone on God’s path, listen to His guidance, and resist Satan’s deception. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “traveling.”
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for Your gift of going before me. I like to have a map when I travel, to know exactly where I am going…how long it will take me to get there. When I look at the road ahead that You call me to travel with You, all I see is a bend in the road with the road disappearing. Help me, Father, to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are my map and guide. Help me to encourage others to following You on this journey. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might be free to travel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, I am the God of Israel.
Isaiah 45:2-3
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalms 119:105
We are born lost, spiritually lost…in a terrible place…the state of insecurity, inadequacy, isolation, overwhelmed. We long to be in a different place…peace, love, joy, security, intimacy. We need to go on a trip. In today’s scripture reading, God tells us that He goes before us. God’s imagery of going before us clearly lets us know that He desires us to go on a journey...with Him as our guide and leader…He calls us by our name.
For our journey, unfortunately, we make some poor choices regarding some important elements. Our map is random, we use the world’s strategy, our destination is me-centered or material, and we demand to be our own guide. Instead, we need to use the Bible as for our map and strategy, God to be our guide, and the mind of Christ as our destination. Our journey is of our mind, heart and Spirit. The pot of gold at the end of the journey – the fruit of the Spirit!
But, the Christian life is a dangerous pilgrimage to the Promised Land…Satan is always lurking. So, we need the power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit…the power and comfort of prayer…and the protection and counter attack of the armor of God.
Today, imagine yourself standing at a crossroad with two paths before you; one is your current path, the other is the journey your Lord is inviting you to take. Take and intentional step on the next stepping stone on God’s path, listen to His guidance, and resist Satan’s deception. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “traveling.”
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for Your gift of going before me. I like to have a map when I travel, to know exactly where I am going…how long it will take me to get there. When I look at the road ahead that You call me to travel with You, all I see is a bend in the road with the road disappearing. Help me, Father, to keep my eyes on You, knowing that You are my map and guide. Help me to encourage others to following You on this journey. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might be free to travel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron. I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the LORD, Who call you by your name, I am the God of Israel.
Isaiah 45:2-3
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalms 119:105
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Stepping Stones: Diagnosis: Dehydration, Cure: Living Water
Transformational Tip
I’ve been hearing a lot lately about the benefits of drinking enough water. The benefits are huge. The experts say that if you become thirsty, you are most likely already dehydrated. Another recent report title said it all; “You are not sick…you are just thirsty.” All the medical experts agree on this one; we need to continually drink water throughout our day.
We were born spiritually thirsty…empty…dry. All of our “sickness” is due to being spiritually dehydrated. You see, we thirst for God…His love, acceptance, security. Only He can fill our needs…our neediness for everything. Only through Him do we have purpose, fulfillment, contentment, connection, engagement, passion, competence, peace, joy…and especially, pure and true love. We are constantly using “spoiled” water…even poisoned water, to substitute for the true living water that only God, through Jesus, is. This leads to depression, anxiety, addictions, hopelessness, anger, brokenness, and frustration.
Today, commit to taking sips…short prayers, confessing a sin immediately, stopping to thank Him for a blessing you take for granted, asking His advice on and issue, telling someone why God makes a difference in your life…throughout the day from the river of living waters offered by Your Lord and God. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on being thirsty.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so thirsty Lord, and I know this means I am spiritually dehydrated. Help me Father to drink and eat only what is good for me so that my soul may delight itself in Your abundance. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might drink from the living waters, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:37-38
Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; and you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come; buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance.
Isaiah 55:1-2
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:10, 11,13-15
I’ve been hearing a lot lately about the benefits of drinking enough water. The benefits are huge. The experts say that if you become thirsty, you are most likely already dehydrated. Another recent report title said it all; “You are not sick…you are just thirsty.” All the medical experts agree on this one; we need to continually drink water throughout our day.
We were born spiritually thirsty…empty…dry. All of our “sickness” is due to being spiritually dehydrated. You see, we thirst for God…His love, acceptance, security. Only He can fill our needs…our neediness for everything. Only through Him do we have purpose, fulfillment, contentment, connection, engagement, passion, competence, peace, joy…and especially, pure and true love. We are constantly using “spoiled” water…even poisoned water, to substitute for the true living water that only God, through Jesus, is. This leads to depression, anxiety, addictions, hopelessness, anger, brokenness, and frustration.
Today, commit to taking sips…short prayers, confessing a sin immediately, stopping to thank Him for a blessing you take for granted, asking His advice on and issue, telling someone why God makes a difference in your life…throughout the day from the river of living waters offered by Your Lord and God. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on being thirsty.
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I am so thirsty Lord, and I know this means I am spiritually dehydrated. Help me Father to drink and eat only what is good for me so that my soul may delight itself in Your abundance. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might drink from the living waters, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
John 7:37-38
Everyone who thirsts, Come to the waters; and you who have no money, Come, buy and eat. Yes, come; buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance.
Isaiah 55:1-2
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:10, 11,13-15
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Stepping Stones: "You Have No Idea..."
Transformational Tip
Several phrases people frequently use just send me through the ceiling. As an example; when someone inserts “to tell you the truth”, “to be totally honest…”, or “can I be totally frank with you?” My initiative reaction is to ask; “so does this mean that up to this point you haven’t been telling me the truth?” Another example is when someone begins a sentence with “You have no idea…” I always find that statement so presumptuous, so condescending. At the risk of irritating you, let me use this phrase; “You have no idea who you really are!” There…I’ve said it! Now hear me out.
Paul tells the Corinthians we have a veil over our face. Our faith in Christ as our Savior and acceptance of His death for our sin, takes that veil away. But, we are so accustomed to looking at ourselves through a veil, we find it hard to clearly see Christ’s glory in us. So, we adopt other veils to get us back in our “comfort zone”. One of those veils we try is this whole Christian thing. Trying not to sin. Cleaning ourselves up on the outside. Doing good deeds. Going to church. Being nice…putting that dollar in the collection basket. When we look in the mirror, we cannot see who we really are because of these veils that hangs over our faces…created by us, or provided by Satan to deceive us about who we really are in Christ. We truly have no idea who we really are. But this veil remains. Jesus says it so clearly; it’s about believing and receiving…it is about healing your heart, setting it free, restoring you to the glory God intends for you. It’s about lifting that veil. I fear a religious fog has tried to veil us, placing us under some sort of spell or amnesia, to keep us from truly coming alive…to keep us from really knowing who we are and who God intends us to be. In today’s scripture reading, Paul said it is time to take that veil away.
Today, take the veil off…bringing freedom, transformation and glory to your life … “beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord.” Ask yourself what is interfering with you reflecting Christ to yourself and to others. Why? Identify one step you can take today to stop wearing your veil. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “You have no idea…”
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I want to know who I am. I want to lift the veil that distorts and blocks my vision. I want to see the reflection of Your glory when I look into the mirror. I want to see my sinfulness more clearly. I want to like…no, I want to love what I see and who I am. You are the Spirit, and where You are I know I will find liberty and freedom. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might lift the veil that hangs over my face, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Corinthians 3:16-18
Several phrases people frequently use just send me through the ceiling. As an example; when someone inserts “to tell you the truth”, “to be totally honest…”, or “can I be totally frank with you?” My initiative reaction is to ask; “so does this mean that up to this point you haven’t been telling me the truth?” Another example is when someone begins a sentence with “You have no idea…” I always find that statement so presumptuous, so condescending. At the risk of irritating you, let me use this phrase; “You have no idea who you really are!” There…I’ve said it! Now hear me out.
Paul tells the Corinthians we have a veil over our face. Our faith in Christ as our Savior and acceptance of His death for our sin, takes that veil away. But, we are so accustomed to looking at ourselves through a veil, we find it hard to clearly see Christ’s glory in us. So, we adopt other veils to get us back in our “comfort zone”. One of those veils we try is this whole Christian thing. Trying not to sin. Cleaning ourselves up on the outside. Doing good deeds. Going to church. Being nice…putting that dollar in the collection basket. When we look in the mirror, we cannot see who we really are because of these veils that hangs over our faces…created by us, or provided by Satan to deceive us about who we really are in Christ. We truly have no idea who we really are. But this veil remains. Jesus says it so clearly; it’s about believing and receiving…it is about healing your heart, setting it free, restoring you to the glory God intends for you. It’s about lifting that veil. I fear a religious fog has tried to veil us, placing us under some sort of spell or amnesia, to keep us from truly coming alive…to keep us from really knowing who we are and who God intends us to be. In today’s scripture reading, Paul said it is time to take that veil away.
Today, take the veil off…bringing freedom, transformation and glory to your life … “beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord.” Ask yourself what is interfering with you reflecting Christ to yourself and to others. Why? Identify one step you can take today to stop wearing your veil. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “You have no idea…”
Prayer
Dear Father God,
I want to know who I am. I want to lift the veil that distorts and blocks my vision. I want to see the reflection of Your glory when I look into the mirror. I want to see my sinfulness more clearly. I want to like…no, I want to love what I see and who I am. You are the Spirit, and where You are I know I will find liberty and freedom. I pray in the name of the one who died so I might lift the veil that hangs over my face, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Corinthians 3:16-18
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Stepping Stones: He Deserves Exclusivity
Transformational Tip
To me, our minds are the most powerful creation of God…and the coolest! Just thinking about a past celebration brings a good feeling. If I tell you that next Saturday you will get your most exciting day to live all over again, you’d feel great. Just thinking about these events, and so many other experiences of life, affect your brain chemistry, personality, relationships, and even your spiritual life in powerful ways. Your thoughts have another special quality…you see, what goes on in your mind is invisible…undetectable to other people. But, know that God continually reads your thoughts your motivations, and thus anticipating your behaviors; searching for evidence that you depend on, trust, and love Him. He rejoices when your mind turns toward Him. What occupies your mind the most reveals what is really important to you…what you are letting guide your life…what is at the center of your universe and causing everything else in your life to orbit around it. What occupies your mind, pushing other more eternal matters out, is really your god and master. Worries, if indulged, turn into idols. Worry and anxiety so quickly gain a life of their own…distracting you and infesting your mind. This does not happen by chance…this is the goal of the enemy; a combination of distraction and deception. Doesn’t He deserve exclusivity? At least pre-eminence after He put you first and died for you?
Today, guard your thoughts diligently…you are what you think. Develop a system…a tool…a method to monitor your thought world. Good thought choices will keep you close to your Lord. This isn’t about thinking of Snow White, prince charming, Happily ever after stuff. This is about using a healthy, Godly view of thinking and processing life. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on the difficulties and beauty of turning your mind toward God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I try to worship You, only. Help me, Father, to continually focus on You as I go through this day. Help me break this bondage of worry and anxiety, for this gives me the exact opposite of what I desire; closeness with You. thanks for a powerful mind, but I pray for help in being a better steward of what goes on inside it. Thank You, Father, for people that are trained in how the mind works and how your word really meshes with the science You gave us. I pray in the name of Him whose mind you will grow me toward, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
2 Corinthians 10:5
To me, our minds are the most powerful creation of God…and the coolest! Just thinking about a past celebration brings a good feeling. If I tell you that next Saturday you will get your most exciting day to live all over again, you’d feel great. Just thinking about these events, and so many other experiences of life, affect your brain chemistry, personality, relationships, and even your spiritual life in powerful ways. Your thoughts have another special quality…you see, what goes on in your mind is invisible…undetectable to other people. But, know that God continually reads your thoughts your motivations, and thus anticipating your behaviors; searching for evidence that you depend on, trust, and love Him. He rejoices when your mind turns toward Him. What occupies your mind the most reveals what is really important to you…what you are letting guide your life…what is at the center of your universe and causing everything else in your life to orbit around it. What occupies your mind, pushing other more eternal matters out, is really your god and master. Worries, if indulged, turn into idols. Worry and anxiety so quickly gain a life of their own…distracting you and infesting your mind. This does not happen by chance…this is the goal of the enemy; a combination of distraction and deception. Doesn’t He deserve exclusivity? At least pre-eminence after He put you first and died for you?
Today, guard your thoughts diligently…you are what you think. Develop a system…a tool…a method to monitor your thought world. Good thought choices will keep you close to your Lord. This isn’t about thinking of Snow White, prince charming, Happily ever after stuff. This is about using a healthy, Godly view of thinking and processing life. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on the difficulties and beauty of turning your mind toward God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I try to worship You, only. Help me, Father, to continually focus on You as I go through this day. Help me break this bondage of worry and anxiety, for this gives me the exact opposite of what I desire; closeness with You. thanks for a powerful mind, but I pray for help in being a better steward of what goes on inside it. Thank You, Father, for people that are trained in how the mind works and how your word really meshes with the science You gave us. I pray in the name of Him whose mind you will grow me toward, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:7
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
2 Corinthians 10:5
Monday, November 30, 2009
Stepping Stones: Be Real With Yourself
Transformational Tip
Get real! That college is out of your league. Be real! That girl is way to pretty for you. Get real! You’re never play on that team, get that part, make that band, get that job. How many times have we heard these expressions? How many times have we used them ourselves? It was hard for me, for so many years, to see who I really was. Why is this so hard to do? Why is it so hard to face ourselves? One reason…The enemy, Satan, likes it this way. The enemy tries to plant seeds of deceptions, pain, sinfulness…of self hate instead of acceptance of God’s love for us. Another reason…it’s painful for us to see who we really are. It was for me. It was a lot easier to think I was important, talented, bright, nice, blah, blah, blah… than to see my insecurities, inadequacies, and needs, let alone address them. The best way for us to face ourselves…to be real with ourselves…is to remember, as Christians, we are constantly clothed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness. God knows exactly what sins, weaknesses, and blemishes we try to hide underneath that faultless garment of salvation that covers and erases all. And He rejoices over you with singing…just imagine that…God singing over you!
Today, know that your Lord and God longs for you to trust Him enough to be fully yourself with Him. Being real with Your God, you are allowing him to bring out the very best in you. Pray to Him about one thing you have never really opened up to Him about. Let light into that area of your life…this pushes the darkness out. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts of being real with God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to grow the gifts that you planted in my soul. I want to be real with You Lord, but this is a painful experience for me because this means I first have to be real with myself. It seems easier for me to ignore how I’m feeling rather than face my misery head on. I pray, Father, that You help me stop numbing my discomfort, or negative feelings, with my sinful diversions. Give me the courage Father to face myself so that I can be real with You. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the one who died so I could be real in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…
Isaiah 61:10
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
Get real! That college is out of your league. Be real! That girl is way to pretty for you. Get real! You’re never play on that team, get that part, make that band, get that job. How many times have we heard these expressions? How many times have we used them ourselves? It was hard for me, for so many years, to see who I really was. Why is this so hard to do? Why is it so hard to face ourselves? One reason…The enemy, Satan, likes it this way. The enemy tries to plant seeds of deceptions, pain, sinfulness…of self hate instead of acceptance of God’s love for us. Another reason…it’s painful for us to see who we really are. It was for me. It was a lot easier to think I was important, talented, bright, nice, blah, blah, blah… than to see my insecurities, inadequacies, and needs, let alone address them. The best way for us to face ourselves…to be real with ourselves…is to remember, as Christians, we are constantly clothed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness. God knows exactly what sins, weaknesses, and blemishes we try to hide underneath that faultless garment of salvation that covers and erases all. And He rejoices over you with singing…just imagine that…God singing over you!
Today, know that your Lord and God longs for you to trust Him enough to be fully yourself with Him. Being real with Your God, you are allowing him to bring out the very best in you. Pray to Him about one thing you have never really opened up to Him about. Let light into that area of your life…this pushes the darkness out. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts of being real with God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to grow the gifts that you planted in my soul. I want to be real with You Lord, but this is a painful experience for me because this means I first have to be real with myself. It seems easier for me to ignore how I’m feeling rather than face my misery head on. I pray, Father, that You help me stop numbing my discomfort, or negative feelings, with my sinful diversions. Give me the courage Father to face myself so that I can be real with You. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the one who died so I could be real in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…
Isaiah 61:10
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Stepping Stones: Clean Shaven
Transformational Tip
I’ve had the blessing of spending this Thanksgiving holiday with my daughter and her family, which includes my first and only grandchild. A beautiful 7 month old baby girl…what indescribable joy. Seven months, a perfect age. Learning new things each day, so expressive. Her mom has just taught her how to give kisses. Yesterday she turned to me, grabbed my big face in her small hands and came at me to give me a kiss. My heart raced…was this really happening? Was I gonna get one of those priceless kisses? Yes I did. But my mustache must have pricked her tiny lips and she instantly began screaming. My heart sank. I went immediately and shaved off that mustache…wasn’t going to let anything in my control hurt her… or keep my granddaughter from giving me kisses. We all have “mustaches”, things in our life that interfere with our relationship with God and the blessings He has for us. Unconfessed sin is a big mustache. Continued sin patterns, like addictions, affairs, eating issues, anger management problems, pride, lack of communication with God…all these put distance between us and God. Think about what might be keeping you from receiving connection, blessings, and grace from your Lord. What are the things that keep you from having a close relationship Him? What’s keeping you from getting those kisses we all long for? Today, Just identify one thing that is within your control…and then eliminate it. If you can’t eliminate it, get treatment. WITHIN REACH will help you eliminate behaviors. If you need addictions treatment, we know the best Christian addictions treatment options for you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on what’s keeping you from God’s grace.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You, Father, for the opportunity to spend time with those I love. I ask for you to keep them in Your protective loving care. Please let nothing but goodness and love come between us. Help me, Father, to remove any obstacles that keep me from Your loving presence. I confess my sins and am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the one who died so I could be in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
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
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1,2
I’ve had the blessing of spending this Thanksgiving holiday with my daughter and her family, which includes my first and only grandchild. A beautiful 7 month old baby girl…what indescribable joy. Seven months, a perfect age. Learning new things each day, so expressive. Her mom has just taught her how to give kisses. Yesterday she turned to me, grabbed my big face in her small hands and came at me to give me a kiss. My heart raced…was this really happening? Was I gonna get one of those priceless kisses? Yes I did. But my mustache must have pricked her tiny lips and she instantly began screaming. My heart sank. I went immediately and shaved off that mustache…wasn’t going to let anything in my control hurt her… or keep my granddaughter from giving me kisses. We all have “mustaches”, things in our life that interfere with our relationship with God and the blessings He has for us. Unconfessed sin is a big mustache. Continued sin patterns, like addictions, affairs, eating issues, anger management problems, pride, lack of communication with God…all these put distance between us and God. Think about what might be keeping you from receiving connection, blessings, and grace from your Lord. What are the things that keep you from having a close relationship Him? What’s keeping you from getting those kisses we all long for? Today, Just identify one thing that is within your control…and then eliminate it. If you can’t eliminate it, get treatment. WITHIN REACH will help you eliminate behaviors. If you need addictions treatment, we know the best Christian addictions treatment options for you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on what’s keeping you from God’s grace.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You, Father, for the opportunity to spend time with those I love. I ask for you to keep them in Your protective loving care. Please let nothing but goodness and love come between us. Help me, Father, to remove any obstacles that keep me from Your loving presence. I confess my sins and am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of the one who died so I could be in Your presence, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
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
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1,2
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Stepping Stones: Dreams: Mystery to Reality
Transformational Tip
As a kid, I had a dream of understanding and helping people with decision-making skills…later learned that was the role of a psychiatrist. I know, not the usual dream most of you had as a kid. My family will tell you I’m “different.” I didn’t know exactly how to make becoming a psychiatrist happen, didn’t even know a doctor…so I watched Newhart and Sidney on MASH. I then put my dream into the hands of others who new reality and the big picture better than I did…teachers, coaches, parents, professors, advisors, mentors. The very nature of dreams is that they are beyond our control…out of our reach. If things are out of our control, then whose control do they fall under? Little did I know, I turned my dream over to God, then listened to His guidance. Bring you dreams into God’s light where they can be gradually transformed into reality. He sparked the “right” dreams, so He will affirm, grow, and fulfill them. Some of our “dreams”…more like nightmares…are not in the plans God has for you. He wants to remove these from your heart…if you let Him. Other dreams He will approve of, and will open doors and encourage you to work prayerfully toward turning those into reality. And some dreams will remain veiled in mystery. He will neither remove them from your heart nor will He show you a pathway to their reality. This will keep you waiting on Him…enjoying the benefits of His presence. When the time is right He will transform your long-held hopes into delightful reality.
Today, evaluate some of your real dreams. How are you turning those over to God for His approval or rejection? Are you listening to His feedback or just moving forward on with the advice of lesser advisors or on your own. The quickest ways to our dreams is God’s way. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experiences on turning your dreams over to God.
Prayer
O Dear God, I bring all my dreams before You, Father…for only You can breathe life into them. I wait on You, Lord, to turn my dreams into reality. Many times I get tired of waiting for my dreams to come true. Help me to wait patiently in Your loving presence to do what is impossible for me to do. I pray for discernment…understanding when You are affirming and growing my dream and when false feedback is trying to trick me. Please help me kill those self-serving dreams, the ones that will hurt me, You, and others so much both now and in the future. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
Isaiah 30:18
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
James 1:5,6
As a kid, I had a dream of understanding and helping people with decision-making skills…later learned that was the role of a psychiatrist. I know, not the usual dream most of you had as a kid. My family will tell you I’m “different.” I didn’t know exactly how to make becoming a psychiatrist happen, didn’t even know a doctor…so I watched Newhart and Sidney on MASH. I then put my dream into the hands of others who new reality and the big picture better than I did…teachers, coaches, parents, professors, advisors, mentors. The very nature of dreams is that they are beyond our control…out of our reach. If things are out of our control, then whose control do they fall under? Little did I know, I turned my dream over to God, then listened to His guidance. Bring you dreams into God’s light where they can be gradually transformed into reality. He sparked the “right” dreams, so He will affirm, grow, and fulfill them. Some of our “dreams”…more like nightmares…are not in the plans God has for you. He wants to remove these from your heart…if you let Him. Other dreams He will approve of, and will open doors and encourage you to work prayerfully toward turning those into reality. And some dreams will remain veiled in mystery. He will neither remove them from your heart nor will He show you a pathway to their reality. This will keep you waiting on Him…enjoying the benefits of His presence. When the time is right He will transform your long-held hopes into delightful reality.
Today, evaluate some of your real dreams. How are you turning those over to God for His approval or rejection? Are you listening to His feedback or just moving forward on with the advice of lesser advisors or on your own. The quickest ways to our dreams is God’s way. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experiences on turning your dreams over to God.
Prayer
O Dear God, I bring all my dreams before You, Father…for only You can breathe life into them. I wait on You, Lord, to turn my dreams into reality. Many times I get tired of waiting for my dreams to come true. Help me to wait patiently in Your loving presence to do what is impossible for me to do. I pray for discernment…understanding when You are affirming and growing my dream and when false feedback is trying to trick me. Please help me kill those self-serving dreams, the ones that will hurt me, You, and others so much both now and in the future. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
Isaiah 30:18
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
James 1:5,6
Friday, November 27, 2009
Stepping Stones: Feeding Frenzy to Fasting
Transformational Tip
Hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving turkey and traditions yesterday…because today, we are looking at the opposite of the Thanksgiving feeding frenzy. For health reasons, I recently underwent a period of fasting. While fasting, I found my ability to pray with focus and clarity dramatically improved. Searching the Bible for some reference and guidance, I found a number of helpful passages. While the original purpose for the fast was for physical benefit, I found overwhelming spiritual value. I have listed some information and tips you may find helpful in the event you have an interest in combining prayer and fasting.
1) Why should we fast?...because Jesus did. He also was tempted by Satan during His fast. When we begin to let God know we are serious about prayer and fasting, the devil tries to get our mind off the fast. Expect spiritual confrontation from the evil one; he will try to get your mind off prayer and on food.
2) You may choose a Total Fast or a Partial Fast. Total Fast: the denial of all solid food for a period of time. I suggest one day per month to start with. Partial Fast: Leaving out part of a meal. Just have salad and not the rest of the meal.
3) Keep it as private as possible. Only let those who need to know. Family in your house will need to know why you are not eating. The check out person at the gas station does not need to know. The Bible says to not let your face show you are fasting. The act of fasting is between you and God.
4) Ask God to tell you what to do. How long to fast. Stay hydrated: juice and water is a must. Spend the time you would normally be eating in prayer, read the bible, and ask God to speak to you.
5) Find a private place to pray while fasting. Pray for yourself and your relationship with Jesus. Confess your sins and ask forgiveness. The Lord loves a contrite heart. Ask God to search your heart and show you the things that you need to pray about and ask for his help to change.
6) God does not need us to fast. Fasting is for us to draw closer to Him. He is always close to us. Fasting is a time of great spiritual intimacy with your Creator.
7) After your fast, don't eat a lot. Spend as much time coming off the fast equal to the length of the fast. One day fast - one day slowly getting back to regular eating. Don't try to make up for the food you did not eat.
Today, pray and ask God if fasting is a discipline He can use to help your growth. If so, make a plan to try it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experience on fasting and prayer.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You father for this opportunity to take my mind off food and to focus more on You. I confess, Father, that food has taken on too much importance in my life. Help me to view and use food to sustain and grow a healthy body and mind. Help me Father to focus more on You. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
Matthew 6:16
"Even now," declares the LORD, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning."
Joel 2:12
Hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving turkey and traditions yesterday…because today, we are looking at the opposite of the Thanksgiving feeding frenzy. For health reasons, I recently underwent a period of fasting. While fasting, I found my ability to pray with focus and clarity dramatically improved. Searching the Bible for some reference and guidance, I found a number of helpful passages. While the original purpose for the fast was for physical benefit, I found overwhelming spiritual value. I have listed some information and tips you may find helpful in the event you have an interest in combining prayer and fasting.
1) Why should we fast?...because Jesus did. He also was tempted by Satan during His fast. When we begin to let God know we are serious about prayer and fasting, the devil tries to get our mind off the fast. Expect spiritual confrontation from the evil one; he will try to get your mind off prayer and on food.
2) You may choose a Total Fast or a Partial Fast. Total Fast: the denial of all solid food for a period of time. I suggest one day per month to start with. Partial Fast: Leaving out part of a meal. Just have salad and not the rest of the meal.
3) Keep it as private as possible. Only let those who need to know. Family in your house will need to know why you are not eating. The check out person at the gas station does not need to know. The Bible says to not let your face show you are fasting. The act of fasting is between you and God.
4) Ask God to tell you what to do. How long to fast. Stay hydrated: juice and water is a must. Spend the time you would normally be eating in prayer, read the bible, and ask God to speak to you.
5) Find a private place to pray while fasting. Pray for yourself and your relationship with Jesus. Confess your sins and ask forgiveness. The Lord loves a contrite heart. Ask God to search your heart and show you the things that you need to pray about and ask for his help to change.
6) God does not need us to fast. Fasting is for us to draw closer to Him. He is always close to us. Fasting is a time of great spiritual intimacy with your Creator.
7) After your fast, don't eat a lot. Spend as much time coming off the fast equal to the length of the fast. One day fast - one day slowly getting back to regular eating. Don't try to make up for the food you did not eat.
Today, pray and ask God if fasting is a discipline He can use to help your growth. If so, make a plan to try it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experience on fasting and prayer.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You father for this opportunity to take my mind off food and to focus more on You. I confess, Father, that food has taken on too much importance in my life. Help me to view and use food to sustain and grow a healthy body and mind. Help me Father to focus more on You. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
Matthew 6:16
"Even now," declares the LORD, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning."
Joel 2:12
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Stepping Stones: The Dark Dungeon of Ungratefulness
Transformational Tip
Thanksgiving Day is a great holiday. A four-day weekend helps, but it’s the day on which mostly everyone tries to journey home…or to be with those they love. Thanksgiving Day is filled with parades, football, family traditions, memories, and great food. Above all else…and even if none of these other things exist in our lives…Thanksgiving is a time that provides the opportunity for us to be, yes, thankful…to lift ourselves and others out of the dungeon of ungratefulness.
We live in an age of entitlement…and it’s difficult to be thankful when you feel “entitled” to all things. We focus on what we want and don’t have vs. all the blessings we should be so thankful for. We need to work hard to counteract the glut of propaganda proclaiming we deserve more. Every Christmas commercial, ad, self-help book, well-meaning friend, and small voice from your flesh will scream to you that you deserve everything. Really, we are all sinners, and the wages for sin is death. Everything more than death…all that we have…is such a tremendous gift of powerful grace that is granted to us by the one we offend, disappoint, reject, deny, and grieve on a very regular basis. You see, I hate to be a downer, but unless you really know what you really deserve, it is impossible to see how any gifts and unbelievable grace you really have.
Today, when you are feeling thankless, ask God to open your eyes and release you from the dark dungeon of ungratefulness. Before you eat, go around the table, holding hands, and tell each other what you are thankful for and ask for something bigger than you or for someone else. Remember that the secret of being thankful is learning to see everything from God’s perspective. Then you will truly thank Him for loving, pursuing, and giving you so much. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your Thanksgiving thoughts.
The staff at Lighthouse Network wishes the Stepping Stones community a blessed Thanksgiving Day and future.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You Father in prayer. I ask You Father that You set me free from the prison of ingratitude. Release me, Lord, to enjoy the pleasures of having a thankful heart. It’s easy for me, Father, to be grateful when I wake up on the right side of the bed and encounter no major problems. At other times, thankfulness feels totally unreachable. I need a perspective-lift Father; help me see things from Your viewpoint. I pray in the name of the one who is the source and reason for my thankfulness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
To open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house.
Isaiah 42:7
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Thessalonians 5:18
Thanksgiving Day is a great holiday. A four-day weekend helps, but it’s the day on which mostly everyone tries to journey home…or to be with those they love. Thanksgiving Day is filled with parades, football, family traditions, memories, and great food. Above all else…and even if none of these other things exist in our lives…Thanksgiving is a time that provides the opportunity for us to be, yes, thankful…to lift ourselves and others out of the dungeon of ungratefulness.
We live in an age of entitlement…and it’s difficult to be thankful when you feel “entitled” to all things. We focus on what we want and don’t have vs. all the blessings we should be so thankful for. We need to work hard to counteract the glut of propaganda proclaiming we deserve more. Every Christmas commercial, ad, self-help book, well-meaning friend, and small voice from your flesh will scream to you that you deserve everything. Really, we are all sinners, and the wages for sin is death. Everything more than death…all that we have…is such a tremendous gift of powerful grace that is granted to us by the one we offend, disappoint, reject, deny, and grieve on a very regular basis. You see, I hate to be a downer, but unless you really know what you really deserve, it is impossible to see how any gifts and unbelievable grace you really have.
Today, when you are feeling thankless, ask God to open your eyes and release you from the dark dungeon of ungratefulness. Before you eat, go around the table, holding hands, and tell each other what you are thankful for and ask for something bigger than you or for someone else. Remember that the secret of being thankful is learning to see everything from God’s perspective. Then you will truly thank Him for loving, pursuing, and giving you so much. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your Thanksgiving thoughts.
The staff at Lighthouse Network wishes the Stepping Stones community a blessed Thanksgiving Day and future.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You Father in prayer. I ask You Father that You set me free from the prison of ingratitude. Release me, Lord, to enjoy the pleasures of having a thankful heart. It’s easy for me, Father, to be grateful when I wake up on the right side of the bed and encounter no major problems. At other times, thankfulness feels totally unreachable. I need a perspective-lift Father; help me see things from Your viewpoint. I pray in the name of the one who is the source and reason for my thankfulness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
To open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house.
Isaiah 42:7
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Thessalonians 5:18
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Stepping Stones: Is Your Growth Optional?
Transformational Tip
Few men and women of God have become extraordinary people of faith without the influence of mentors. A mentor is one who takes responsibility for the care and, especially, growth…physical, psychological, emotional, relational, academic, and spiritual…of another. For growth to happen, commitment is required from both the teacher and the student.
I have been privileged to have had many mentors throughout my spiritual life and walk. In each stage of my progressing in maturity from newly born again to present, God brought new and specific mentors who had unique gifts that the previous mentor did not have. God has grown in me the hunger to desire a double portion of those positive attributes of my mentors. This desire, I believe, is sorely missing amongst many today. I fail to see the hunger for many who could be used greatly in the Kingdom. Instead, the cares of this world distract them. It is an attitude of a la carte vs. an attitude of pressing in to the full measure of what God might have for them. To maximize mentoring, you need to be humble, to be all in.
Today, ask God if there is someone He would have you mentor or be mentored by. Ask yourself these questions: Who are the people of God He has placed in your life? Are you learning from them? Are you seeking a double portion of their anointing? What prevents you from gaining from their wisdom and experience? God may have brought them into your life to prepare you to be a man or woman of God…to train you to be a mentor. However, there is a time of training and waiting to prove out your own faith. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experiences regarding spiritual mentoring.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for the men you have brought into my life as mentors. I pray for wisdom, patience, biblical values and ethics, integrity, and everything spiritual mentors need, to be effective and carry out their responsibilities in a manner that is pleasing to You and beneficial for those being mentored. I pray for Your special touch on Christian mentors, and for their protection from all harm and evil. Thank You, God. In the name of the perfect mentor, Jesus; and all God’s children said – AMEN!
The Truth
...Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.
Zechariah 8:23
Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
Titus 2:3-5
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses,
entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
2 Tim. 2:2
Few men and women of God have become extraordinary people of faith without the influence of mentors. A mentor is one who takes responsibility for the care and, especially, growth…physical, psychological, emotional, relational, academic, and spiritual…of another. For growth to happen, commitment is required from both the teacher and the student.
I have been privileged to have had many mentors throughout my spiritual life and walk. In each stage of my progressing in maturity from newly born again to present, God brought new and specific mentors who had unique gifts that the previous mentor did not have. God has grown in me the hunger to desire a double portion of those positive attributes of my mentors. This desire, I believe, is sorely missing amongst many today. I fail to see the hunger for many who could be used greatly in the Kingdom. Instead, the cares of this world distract them. It is an attitude of a la carte vs. an attitude of pressing in to the full measure of what God might have for them. To maximize mentoring, you need to be humble, to be all in.
Today, ask God if there is someone He would have you mentor or be mentored by. Ask yourself these questions: Who are the people of God He has placed in your life? Are you learning from them? Are you seeking a double portion of their anointing? What prevents you from gaining from their wisdom and experience? God may have brought them into your life to prepare you to be a man or woman of God…to train you to be a mentor. However, there is a time of training and waiting to prove out your own faith. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and experiences regarding spiritual mentoring.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You Father for the men you have brought into my life as mentors. I pray for wisdom, patience, biblical values and ethics, integrity, and everything spiritual mentors need, to be effective and carry out their responsibilities in a manner that is pleasing to You and beneficial for those being mentored. I pray for Your special touch on Christian mentors, and for their protection from all harm and evil. Thank You, God. In the name of the perfect mentor, Jesus; and all God’s children said – AMEN!
The Truth
...Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.
Zechariah 8:23
Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
Titus 2:3-5
The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses,
entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
2 Tim. 2:2
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Stepping Stones: Holy Ground Here On Earth
Transformational Tip
I have trouble multitasking. I can do one think well at a time, but add on one or two extra things and…too distracting! I have found this particularly limiting and really impacting me when I’m talking with another person who is in need…who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get so focused on them and what they are saying…then what I am about to say…that I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them. The latent hero(or egotist) in me tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. Relying on myself…trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. When someone opens their souls to you, know that you are standing on holy ground and ask the help of the Holy Spirit to respond in a God-like fashion. If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue them without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. In a way your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain you are standing on.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you…think through you…love through you…to use you to impact others. Everyone in this world has needs and is experiencing struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on multitasking while on holy ground.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe Father that when people bare their souls to me…it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'
Acts 26:16-18
I have trouble multitasking. I can do one think well at a time, but add on one or two extra things and…too distracting! I have found this particularly limiting and really impacting me when I’m talking with another person who is in need…who is opening up and seeking support or advice. I get so focused on them and what they are saying…then what I am about to say…that I forget to listen to what God wants me to communicate to them. The latent hero(or egotist) in me tries to take charge and “rescue” the person. Relying on myself…trusting my limited abilities is so ineffective. When someone opens their souls to you, know that you are standing on holy ground and ask the help of the Holy Spirit to respond in a God-like fashion. If you jump in with both feet trying to rescue them without first asking for God’s help and guidance, you have missed the mark and spoiled a splendid opportunity. In a way your muddy footprints are polluting the holy terrain you are standing on.
Today, as you relate to people, first ask God to listen through you…think through you…love through you…to use you to impact others. Everyone in this world has needs and is experiencing struggles in some way. Remember that your main purpose is to direct the person toward God and His limitless resources. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on multitasking while on holy ground.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know and believe Father that when people bare their souls to me…it is You that has sent them to me. Help me not play the role of the hero; rather help me be a better instrument of You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I say exactly what You want them to hear. Help me remember that at that very time, I am standing on holy ground. This is an area where I want and need to grow. Help me grow Father. I pray in the name of the one who empowers me to hear Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.
Psalm 143:8
Then He said, “Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.”
Exodus 3:5
But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles--to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'
Acts 26:16-18
Monday, November 23, 2009
Stepping Stones: Eyes in the Back of Her Head
Transformational Tip
Up till about age 10 my mother truly had me believing that she knew everything I did, whether good or bad…had me believing that she really did have eyes in the back of her head. In fact, I believed she even knew what I was thinking. When I got to an age to challenge her on her “super powers”, she admitted that no, she really didn’t know my every move and thought. But that’s when her teaching began…that God knows everything I would do and think, way before I thought it and the events happened. This truth was impossible for me to rebut. For some reason, it is easier for me to believe that my mother could know all my thought and actions, but God doesn’t. This truth was hard for me to believe, but impossible to rebut. Satan and our flesh get us thinking God’s knowledge is a disadvantage to us…but just like mom “knowing” all about us is an advantage, so is God’s knowledge of us an advantage for us. God knows what goes on in our heart far better than we do. He knows when we feel thankful and when we don’t.
Today, when you struggle to be thankful, stop and remember who He is: the Author of your life and your faith. When you thank God today, especially if it is a difficult day, you are assuming the proper stance for a believer…a child of God. Every time you thank God, you are acknowledging that He is your Lord and Provider. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and struggles of maintaining a thankful heart.
Prayer
O Father God, I know that I am truly dependent on You for everything…including my next breath. Every good gift is from, You, my Lord. Thank You, Father. All glory to you my Lord. Help me feel thankful for Your knowledge and guidance, not embarrassed, shamed, and wanting to flee Your presence, forgiveness, and protection. Thank You, Father, for the Holy Spirit You give me to help manage my thoughts. I pray in the name of the Your Son who You sent to die for my eternal salvation and temporal relief, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 139:13-16
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
Hebrews 12:28
Up till about age 10 my mother truly had me believing that she knew everything I did, whether good or bad…had me believing that she really did have eyes in the back of her head. In fact, I believed she even knew what I was thinking. When I got to an age to challenge her on her “super powers”, she admitted that no, she really didn’t know my every move and thought. But that’s when her teaching began…that God knows everything I would do and think, way before I thought it and the events happened. This truth was impossible for me to rebut. For some reason, it is easier for me to believe that my mother could know all my thought and actions, but God doesn’t. This truth was hard for me to believe, but impossible to rebut. Satan and our flesh get us thinking God’s knowledge is a disadvantage to us…but just like mom “knowing” all about us is an advantage, so is God’s knowledge of us an advantage for us. God knows what goes on in our heart far better than we do. He knows when we feel thankful and when we don’t.
Today, when you struggle to be thankful, stop and remember who He is: the Author of your life and your faith. When you thank God today, especially if it is a difficult day, you are assuming the proper stance for a believer…a child of God. Every time you thank God, you are acknowledging that He is your Lord and Provider. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts and struggles of maintaining a thankful heart.
Prayer
O Father God, I know that I am truly dependent on You for everything…including my next breath. Every good gift is from, You, my Lord. Thank You, Father. All glory to you my Lord. Help me feel thankful for Your knowledge and guidance, not embarrassed, shamed, and wanting to flee Your presence, forgiveness, and protection. Thank You, Father, for the Holy Spirit You give me to help manage my thoughts. I pray in the name of the Your Son who You sent to die for my eternal salvation and temporal relief, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Psalm 139:13-16
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
Hebrews 12:28
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Stepping Stones: Out On A Limb
Transformational Tip
As a young boy I always had a fascination with climbing trees; especially apple trees. I’d climb up, pick the apples, and then throw them down to my brothers. However I could never get the really good apples, for they always seemed to be hanging out on a limb. I would never go out on a limb, always played it safe. Fear of falling kept me off the limbs. I think sometimes God asks us to go out on that limb. Just like the apple tree, juiciest rewards in life are out on the end of the limb. Playing it “safe,” not going out on a limb, is sometimes how Satan wants you to engage life. So keep your eyes on your Lord as you step out in faith. Grab His hand tightly as you edge your way, following Him out onto that limb. Since He goes before you, you can keep your eyes on Him as you step out in faith. Soon you will arrive at a resting place. While gripping His hand, look toward the horizon. Enjoy the view from this tree-top perspective. You are actually safer here…out on this limb with your Lord…than you would be on the ground. Overly familiar surroundings feel safer, but they also may lull you into a kind of sleepy self-reliance; and that’s when we tend to forget about the need for our Father.
Today, when doing the right thing feels uncomfortable, envision the scenario you just read and enjoy the activity and view in a new way. In this new challenging environment (out on a limb), you will be more alert and not so quick to let go of His hand. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on going out on the limb.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are the author and finisher of my faith. I want to follow You wherever You lead me…even if it’s out on a limb. I pray, Father, that You will help me follow You with confidence rather than with fear; for I know Father that wherever You lead me is the safest place I could be. I bring all my fears to You, Father, for I now know that fears not dealt with tend to grow and magnify themselves. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Life Guide and Protector, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 31:20
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
As a young boy I always had a fascination with climbing trees; especially apple trees. I’d climb up, pick the apples, and then throw them down to my brothers. However I could never get the really good apples, for they always seemed to be hanging out on a limb. I would never go out on a limb, always played it safe. Fear of falling kept me off the limbs. I think sometimes God asks us to go out on that limb. Just like the apple tree, juiciest rewards in life are out on the end of the limb. Playing it “safe,” not going out on a limb, is sometimes how Satan wants you to engage life. So keep your eyes on your Lord as you step out in faith. Grab His hand tightly as you edge your way, following Him out onto that limb. Since He goes before you, you can keep your eyes on Him as you step out in faith. Soon you will arrive at a resting place. While gripping His hand, look toward the horizon. Enjoy the view from this tree-top perspective. You are actually safer here…out on this limb with your Lord…than you would be on the ground. Overly familiar surroundings feel safer, but they also may lull you into a kind of sleepy self-reliance; and that’s when we tend to forget about the need for our Father.
Today, when doing the right thing feels uncomfortable, envision the scenario you just read and enjoy the activity and view in a new way. In this new challenging environment (out on a limb), you will be more alert and not so quick to let go of His hand. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on going out on the limb.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are the author and finisher of my faith. I want to follow You wherever You lead me…even if it’s out on a limb. I pray, Father, that You will help me follow You with confidence rather than with fear; for I know Father that wherever You lead me is the safest place I could be. I bring all my fears to You, Father, for I now know that fears not dealt with tend to grow and magnify themselves. I pray in the name of the Ultimate Life Guide and Protector, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 31:20
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Stepping Stones: Idiots or “Sons of Thunder”
Transformational Tip
I’m always so quick to judge others. Anyone who is outspoken, has a controversial point of view…or an opinion that is markedly different from mine…I think or say under my breath; “Idiot”. I’m not proud of this terrible behavior and have been working hard on taking that word out of my vocabulary. I read something about Jesus’ disciples, James and John, that was very helpful in changing this behavior. These were the guys who tried to talk Jesus into giving them the esteemed seats to the immediate right and left of His throne in Heaven. They were the two guys who wanted Jesus to call down fire from heaven and destroy a village that wouldn’t give them a place to sleep. Their buddies called them Idiots…Jesus called them “Sons of Thunder.” Jesus saw who they really were. They looked like crazy fisherman out of work…they were actually “Sons of Thunder.” God has uniquely and incredibly created all of us with gifts, passions, and personalities to be different on purpose. Others don’t always wisely utilize God’s design…but neither do you. Maybe part of your design and purpose is to help them grow, and by judging them…calling them an idiot…you are being the idiot.
Today, as you encounter people that may annoy you…see them as they really are. Look beyond the behavior and see the person God has created. Think of how you can be God’s instrument and serve them for their growth. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts, Idiots vs. Sons of Thunder.
Prayer
O Father God, I come to You my Lord with a humble and thankful heart. I confess Father that I am too judgmental of others…too intolerant to opinions that are different than mine. I thank You, Lord, for Your Word that once again provides wisdom and guidance to improve my thinking and behavior, and ultimately, transform my heart. Help me see all people as You have made them. Help me see the potential “thunder” in those with an outspoken point of view. I pray in the name of the one whose ultimate humility empowers me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He (Jesus) gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”
Mark 3:17
And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10:35a,37,41-45
I’m always so quick to judge others. Anyone who is outspoken, has a controversial point of view…or an opinion that is markedly different from mine…I think or say under my breath; “Idiot”. I’m not proud of this terrible behavior and have been working hard on taking that word out of my vocabulary. I read something about Jesus’ disciples, James and John, that was very helpful in changing this behavior. These were the guys who tried to talk Jesus into giving them the esteemed seats to the immediate right and left of His throne in Heaven. They were the two guys who wanted Jesus to call down fire from heaven and destroy a village that wouldn’t give them a place to sleep. Their buddies called them Idiots…Jesus called them “Sons of Thunder.” Jesus saw who they really were. They looked like crazy fisherman out of work…they were actually “Sons of Thunder.” God has uniquely and incredibly created all of us with gifts, passions, and personalities to be different on purpose. Others don’t always wisely utilize God’s design…but neither do you. Maybe part of your design and purpose is to help them grow, and by judging them…calling them an idiot…you are being the idiot.
Today, as you encounter people that may annoy you…see them as they really are. Look beyond the behavior and see the person God has created. Think of how you can be God’s instrument and serve them for their growth. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts, Idiots vs. Sons of Thunder.
Prayer
O Father God, I come to You my Lord with a humble and thankful heart. I confess Father that I am too judgmental of others…too intolerant to opinions that are different than mine. I thank You, Lord, for Your Word that once again provides wisdom and guidance to improve my thinking and behavior, and ultimately, transform my heart. Help me see all people as You have made them. Help me see the potential “thunder” in those with an outspoken point of view. I pray in the name of the one whose ultimate humility empowers me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He (Jesus) gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”
Mark 3:17
And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10:35a,37,41-45
Friday, November 20, 2009
Stepping Stones: Please and Thank You
Transformational Tip
There was a hamburger joint that we all loved to visit as kids; the Rainbow Inn. The owner, Oliver, ran the place and was the one who took the orders at the front window. Oliver had an annoying habit; he always made the children say Please and Thank You. No “please”, no “thank you”…no hamburger. I always thought it was strange having to say please and thank you for getting stuff I had to actually pay for. In retrospect, it was positive reinforcement for the lessons I was learning at home. Showing me that I am not entitled to anything, am dependent on others for the items I need and want, and should always be thankful for anything I get. We could use some more Olivers in the world to reinforce these principles today.
Our prayers should also include “please” and “thank you”.
Today, when you bring your prayer requests to God, speak clearly and candidly… lay out your concerns. Pour your heart out. Then immediately thank Him for the answers that He has already set in motion. When your requests come to mind again, continue thanking God for the answers that are on their way. If you keep just repeating your concerns you will live in a state of tension. When you followup your request by thanking Him for how he is already answering your prayer, your mindset becomes much more positive…because you are aware of the reality of His action for you. Thankful prayers keep your focus on Him. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on prayers including please and thank you.
Prayer
Dear Father God, This is Your world Father. You made it and control it. I relinquish all control into Your hands…I trust You completely. I thank You Father for the gift of receptivity that You have planted in my heart. I thank You for the answers to my prayers that are already on their way. I pray in the name of the one whose name we are called to pray, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2
As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me."
Psalm 50:14,15
There was a hamburger joint that we all loved to visit as kids; the Rainbow Inn. The owner, Oliver, ran the place and was the one who took the orders at the front window. Oliver had an annoying habit; he always made the children say Please and Thank You. No “please”, no “thank you”…no hamburger. I always thought it was strange having to say please and thank you for getting stuff I had to actually pay for. In retrospect, it was positive reinforcement for the lessons I was learning at home. Showing me that I am not entitled to anything, am dependent on others for the items I need and want, and should always be thankful for anything I get. We could use some more Olivers in the world to reinforce these principles today.
Our prayers should also include “please” and “thank you”.
Today, when you bring your prayer requests to God, speak clearly and candidly… lay out your concerns. Pour your heart out. Then immediately thank Him for the answers that He has already set in motion. When your requests come to mind again, continue thanking God for the answers that are on their way. If you keep just repeating your concerns you will live in a state of tension. When you followup your request by thanking Him for how he is already answering your prayer, your mindset becomes much more positive…because you are aware of the reality of His action for you. Thankful prayers keep your focus on Him. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on prayers including please and thank you.
Prayer
Dear Father God, This is Your world Father. You made it and control it. I relinquish all control into Your hands…I trust You completely. I thank You Father for the gift of receptivity that You have planted in my heart. I thank You for the answers to my prayers that are already on their way. I pray in the name of the one whose name we are called to pray, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2
As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me."
Psalm 50:14,15
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Stepping Stones: Your Steering, God’s Traction Control
Transformational Tip
There was an amazing breakthrough about 10 years ago in automotive technology. Generically, it’s called traction control. A computer onboard your car measures the amount of grip or traction of each wheel over a thousand times a second, and then applies more or less power to that particular wheel to make sure the car moves forward under control…in the desired direction. Amazing! It’s automatic…nothing we have to do to get this power. Our only responsibility… steer in the correct direction. I believe this is the same way God blesses us with His power; the more challenging your day, the more of His power he places at your disposal, without us even asking…it’s automatic. But, you need to steer towards God, the power is wasted if you don’t steer in His direction. Don’t fall prey to the false roads, the detours, the counterfeit destinations Satan and your old self want you to find. You control the steering wheel, God will do the rest. As you are challenged, so shall you be strengthened. Amazing!
Today, know that a simple glance and fllowing of your Lord, made in faith, is enough to connect you to the ultimate source of power and traction control. When you struggle, and you don’t sense His power, check your steering. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts getting God’s power or your steering. WITHIN REACH will help your steering, check it out.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I look to You, Father, with faith and thankfulness. Today my strength seems so insufficient for the demands I am facing. I look to You, Lord, for the strength sufficient to handle the challenges of this day. Thank You Lord. All glory be to You! I also ask for wisdom as I steer. Give me courage and patience to see and follow Your direction and avoid the traps set for me. In the name of the one who’s death gives me power over death, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Your sandals shall be iron and bronze; As your days, so shall your strength be.
Deuteronomy 33:25
Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His face evermore!
Psalm 105:4
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10
There was an amazing breakthrough about 10 years ago in automotive technology. Generically, it’s called traction control. A computer onboard your car measures the amount of grip or traction of each wheel over a thousand times a second, and then applies more or less power to that particular wheel to make sure the car moves forward under control…in the desired direction. Amazing! It’s automatic…nothing we have to do to get this power. Our only responsibility… steer in the correct direction. I believe this is the same way God blesses us with His power; the more challenging your day, the more of His power he places at your disposal, without us even asking…it’s automatic. But, you need to steer towards God, the power is wasted if you don’t steer in His direction. Don’t fall prey to the false roads, the detours, the counterfeit destinations Satan and your old self want you to find. You control the steering wheel, God will do the rest. As you are challenged, so shall you be strengthened. Amazing!
Today, know that a simple glance and fllowing of your Lord, made in faith, is enough to connect you to the ultimate source of power and traction control. When you struggle, and you don’t sense His power, check your steering. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts getting God’s power or your steering. WITHIN REACH will help your steering, check it out.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I look to You, Father, with faith and thankfulness. Today my strength seems so insufficient for the demands I am facing. I look to You, Lord, for the strength sufficient to handle the challenges of this day. Thank You Lord. All glory be to You! I also ask for wisdom as I steer. Give me courage and patience to see and follow Your direction and avoid the traps set for me. In the name of the one who’s death gives me power over death, Christ Jesus; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Your sandals shall be iron and bronze; As your days, so shall your strength be.
Deuteronomy 33:25
Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His face evermore!
Psalm 105:4
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10
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