Transformational Tip
I remember, some time ago, actually making the decision to put God on hold until I took care of some other things. I knew I needed to “get right with God”…it seemed like such a big task, needed lots of time…wanted to do it right, but just couldn’t get to it at that time…had too much urgent items on the “To Do” list.
With such short-sidedness, I didn’t realize how much I needed Him in order to really understand, and most efficiently and joyfully, get those other ‘to do’s’, done. Furthermore, I didn’t make the connection of how much greater my risk was of trying to do it alone. How much more vulnerable I was…how truly naked I was.
Most of us live amongst people who glorify busyness…who have made time a tyrant that controls their life. Even those who know Jesus as their savior seem to continue to march to the tempo of the world; putting God on hold…put Him in the background instead of the foreground of their lives.
Today, instead of making the choice(yes, it is always your decision and a choice) to put God on hold, put the world on hold for just a few minutes and spend time with God. Have a conversation with Him, bring Him your greatest concerns, read a few pages of scripture…pray prayers of simple thanksgiving.
You will be amazed on how this daily practice will change your life. This will allow you to develop the Mind of Christ and skill you in the greatest spiritual discipline - Decision-making. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on putting the world on hold.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I believe that you are calling me to follow you along a solitary path. I want to make time alone with You, Lord, my highest priority so I can get the directions for this journey stepping stone by stepping stone…for I know it will be my deepest possible joy. Please, give me eyes that see Your truth about what is really important in this world, and what is merely distraction from growing in YOU. I pray in the name of Your Son who put everything on hold to serve You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me.
Song of Solomon 2:13
And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:39-42
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Stepping Stones: Difference between Hope and Faith
Transformational Tip
I just watched a documentary about the life of Philippe Petits, the daring tight rope walker in the 1970’s. Amongst other feats, he walked on a high wire between the World Trade Center twin towers.
Imagine, for a moment, you are standing there in the crowd, just before Philippe begins to push a wheelbarrow between the towers. He turns and asks the crowd; “do you believe I can accomplish this feat?” Knowing his reputation you would most likely say ‘yes’. In other words you have “faith” that he will succeed.
But then he turns to you and says; “If you really have faith I can do it, just hop into the wheelbarrow and take the trip with me.” Accepting his invitation would be an example of remarkable and true faith.
Would you hop in? I wouldn’t?…but why? Because my “faith” wasn’t real faith. If I were 100% confident in the promise of getting to the other side safely…real faith…I wouldn’t have any problem going for a quick and memorable ride. What I had was just hope…I hoped(wanted it to be true) he could get the wheelbarrow across safely, but I wasn’t 100% confident he was absolutely truthful.
Hope, wanting something to be true, is easier to come by than faith, knowing it to be true and then following up with action based on that faith. God has made many promises. Do you have faith, acting as if His promises are true? Or, do you just hope they are true, but you put your faith in the world or your own system.
Your actions show what you really have faith in. What do your actions show?
Today, if you truly want to be “anxious about nothing”, get into that wheelbarrow and put your life into His care. If you feel upset or worried, examine what you are putting your faith in…I bet a wheelbarrow ride it’s not God.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts hope vs. faith.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to have faith and trust you, but faith isn’t coming easily for me. I know, Lord, that it is You alone that is worthy of complete trust. I pray that You will teach me how to trust You completely…to lean on You strength and be anxious for nothing. I pray in the name of Your Son who trusted You completely, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:6
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.
Isaiah 26:3
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7,8
I just watched a documentary about the life of Philippe Petits, the daring tight rope walker in the 1970’s. Amongst other feats, he walked on a high wire between the World Trade Center twin towers.
Imagine, for a moment, you are standing there in the crowd, just before Philippe begins to push a wheelbarrow between the towers. He turns and asks the crowd; “do you believe I can accomplish this feat?” Knowing his reputation you would most likely say ‘yes’. In other words you have “faith” that he will succeed.
But then he turns to you and says; “If you really have faith I can do it, just hop into the wheelbarrow and take the trip with me.” Accepting his invitation would be an example of remarkable and true faith.
Would you hop in? I wouldn’t?…but why? Because my “faith” wasn’t real faith. If I were 100% confident in the promise of getting to the other side safely…real faith…I wouldn’t have any problem going for a quick and memorable ride. What I had was just hope…I hoped(wanted it to be true) he could get the wheelbarrow across safely, but I wasn’t 100% confident he was absolutely truthful.
Hope, wanting something to be true, is easier to come by than faith, knowing it to be true and then following up with action based on that faith. God has made many promises. Do you have faith, acting as if His promises are true? Or, do you just hope they are true, but you put your faith in the world or your own system.
Your actions show what you really have faith in. What do your actions show?
Today, if you truly want to be “anxious about nothing”, get into that wheelbarrow and put your life into His care. If you feel upset or worried, examine what you are putting your faith in…I bet a wheelbarrow ride it’s not God.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts hope vs. faith.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to have faith and trust you, but faith isn’t coming easily for me. I know, Lord, that it is You alone that is worthy of complete trust. I pray that You will teach me how to trust You completely…to lean on You strength and be anxious for nothing. I pray in the name of Your Son who trusted You completely, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:6
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.
Isaiah 26:3
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7,8
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Stepping Stones: Think Twice – Speak Once
Transformational Tip
My father was a talented carpenter and I’m thankful for the woodworking skills he passed down to me. One day he was helping me cut a beautiful 100-year-old oak beam to make a mantel for my fireplace. I measured the wood and got ready to make the cut.
Just by watching me, he knew that I was about to cut the beam in the wrong place. He stopped me and said, “once you cut the wood you can never take the cut back, so always make sure you are cutting in the right spot.” I realized he was telling me I was about to cut in the wrong place. I measured again and yep, the first measurement was wrong.
My Dad had a way of wrapping short truthful statements up with wisdom and advice…Dad had his own proverbs. When it came to making sure you cut the wood in the right place his proverb was; “measure twice-cut once.” I have found many applications for this particular proverb through-out my life.
Dad’s lesson can be applied to how we talk with each other…especially those we love. How many times have you said something hurtful that you wish you hadn’t said? Or do you even think about it before you say it. Once something is said, the words can never be taken back. Yes, we can apologize, but taking words back is like un-ringing a bell…just can’t do it.
So today, we all make comments we wish we could just rewind the tape…have a do-over. Instead, develop the discipline of Decision-making, where thinking is a most vital component. In this instance, try to “think twice and speak once.” A few moments invested in thought will save many moments of guilt, shame, and hustling for remedy the damage.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “think twice – speak once.”
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess, Father, that I have been guilty of using wrong, harsh words with others. I have misused the gift You have given me of a quick mind. I pray, Lord, that You will fill me with your Holy Spirit…and that I give Your Spirit time to respond as a speak and write. Help me be quick to listen, disciplined to think, and slow to speak…and let me see Your message in everything. I pray in the name of the one You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Colossians 4:6
…be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
James 1:19
My father was a talented carpenter and I’m thankful for the woodworking skills he passed down to me. One day he was helping me cut a beautiful 100-year-old oak beam to make a mantel for my fireplace. I measured the wood and got ready to make the cut.
Just by watching me, he knew that I was about to cut the beam in the wrong place. He stopped me and said, “once you cut the wood you can never take the cut back, so always make sure you are cutting in the right spot.” I realized he was telling me I was about to cut in the wrong place. I measured again and yep, the first measurement was wrong.
My Dad had a way of wrapping short truthful statements up with wisdom and advice…Dad had his own proverbs. When it came to making sure you cut the wood in the right place his proverb was; “measure twice-cut once.” I have found many applications for this particular proverb through-out my life.
Dad’s lesson can be applied to how we talk with each other…especially those we love. How many times have you said something hurtful that you wish you hadn’t said? Or do you even think about it before you say it. Once something is said, the words can never be taken back. Yes, we can apologize, but taking words back is like un-ringing a bell…just can’t do it.
So today, we all make comments we wish we could just rewind the tape…have a do-over. Instead, develop the discipline of Decision-making, where thinking is a most vital component. In this instance, try to “think twice and speak once.” A few moments invested in thought will save many moments of guilt, shame, and hustling for remedy the damage.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “think twice – speak once.”
Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess, Father, that I have been guilty of using wrong, harsh words with others. I have misused the gift You have given me of a quick mind. I pray, Lord, that You will fill me with your Holy Spirit…and that I give Your Spirit time to respond as a speak and write. Help me be quick to listen, disciplined to think, and slow to speak…and let me see Your message in everything. I pray in the name of the one You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Colossians 4:6
…be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
James 1:19
Monday, January 18, 2010
Stepping Stones: Just Say No! – But Why?
Transformational Tip
Yesterday’s devotional, we discussed what happens when someone approaches us with a request…even a reasonable opportunity for us to be helpful to them. Instead of saying “yes” just to avoid conflict, we need to be able to, at times, say “no”.
The problem: we associate saying yes = being loving, saying no = being mean.
Someone asks for something, humbles them self to admit they need our help. Agreeing with them…being like-minded…avoiding conflict are all considered to be the nice response. Answering in a way that allows the requester to leave feeling “good” is what most would stamp as loving.
News Flash: saying ‘Yes’ is not always the loving response. Example: If your 12 yo convinces you he has great driving skills, is awesome on bumper cars and go-carts, and now wants the keys to the car. Your loving response, regardless of how hurt, angry, sad, or belittled your response influences him to feel, is ‘NO’. Same if my 9 yo wants to stay up till midnight on a school night. Loving response is ‘NO’.
We know kids make dysfunctional, shortsighted, and potentially harmful requests for immediate gratification, so saying no is easy and we know is loving(even when they cry). The problem comes when adults make requests. We assume an adult knows what is good for them and only makes healthy responsible requests. So we think saying no to a healthy, functional request is unloving, or withholding love.
BIGGER NEWS FLASH: Adults don’t always make functional requests. You have to have awareness, discernment, and bigger picture view to know if it is a healthy or dysfunctional request. The cool part…when you put some thought into deciding whether it is a healthy request or not, saying ‘no’ becomes as easy as saying no to the 12 yo request for the car keys.
So today, start developing the discipline of discerning what is a healthy request from others. Also, practice saying ‘No’ to requests. When someone says ‘no’ to you, stop and think whether your request was healthy, don’t just assume you are the perfect one who only makes healthy requests all the time.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on saying ‘No’ and still being loving at the same time.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for being an example to me of answering my requests ‘yes’ at the right time and answering my other requests ‘no’ at the right time. I ask You to continue the work You started in me…to grow the mind of Christ in me, so I can see other’s requests through Your lenses. Give me the courage to say ‘No’ when that is the most loving thing and to not be afraid of their sad, angry, or hurt feelings or opinions. I pray in the name of the one You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
And a ruler asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich.
Colossians 18:18,22,23
The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone.'"
Luke 4:3,4
Yesterday’s devotional, we discussed what happens when someone approaches us with a request…even a reasonable opportunity for us to be helpful to them. Instead of saying “yes” just to avoid conflict, we need to be able to, at times, say “no”.
The problem: we associate saying yes = being loving, saying no = being mean.
Someone asks for something, humbles them self to admit they need our help. Agreeing with them…being like-minded…avoiding conflict are all considered to be the nice response. Answering in a way that allows the requester to leave feeling “good” is what most would stamp as loving.
News Flash: saying ‘Yes’ is not always the loving response. Example: If your 12 yo convinces you he has great driving skills, is awesome on bumper cars and go-carts, and now wants the keys to the car. Your loving response, regardless of how hurt, angry, sad, or belittled your response influences him to feel, is ‘NO’. Same if my 9 yo wants to stay up till midnight on a school night. Loving response is ‘NO’.
We know kids make dysfunctional, shortsighted, and potentially harmful requests for immediate gratification, so saying no is easy and we know is loving(even when they cry). The problem comes when adults make requests. We assume an adult knows what is good for them and only makes healthy responsible requests. So we think saying no to a healthy, functional request is unloving, or withholding love.
BIGGER NEWS FLASH: Adults don’t always make functional requests. You have to have awareness, discernment, and bigger picture view to know if it is a healthy or dysfunctional request. The cool part…when you put some thought into deciding whether it is a healthy request or not, saying ‘no’ becomes as easy as saying no to the 12 yo request for the car keys.
So today, start developing the discipline of discerning what is a healthy request from others. Also, practice saying ‘No’ to requests. When someone says ‘no’ to you, stop and think whether your request was healthy, don’t just assume you are the perfect one who only makes healthy requests all the time.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on saying ‘No’ and still being loving at the same time.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for being an example to me of answering my requests ‘yes’ at the right time and answering my other requests ‘no’ at the right time. I ask You to continue the work You started in me…to grow the mind of Christ in me, so I can see other’s requests through Your lenses. Give me the courage to say ‘No’ when that is the most loving thing and to not be afraid of their sad, angry, or hurt feelings or opinions. I pray in the name of the one You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
And a ruler asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich.
Colossians 18:18,22,23
The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone.'"
Luke 4:3,4
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Stepping Stones: Turn the Other Cheek…or NOT?!
Transformational Tip
A couple weeks ago, I was asked to speak to a Sunday School class at a neighboring church with very short notice. Bubbling up in my lungs was the sound of my knee-jerk “Yes”, but luckily, before crossing my lips, I was able to edit it into a “thanks for asking, but I need to look at a future date.”
In the past, it was difficult for me to say “No”. As people, our natural tendency is to ‘go with the flow’ or ‘don’t make waves’…so we become conflict avoiders…some a little, but some a lot.
As Christians, this usually gets amplified…we are called to be ‘peacekeepers’ or ‘peacemakers’. Forgiveness is fundamental to our faith. Jesus teaches us to turn the other cheek, love our enemies, and give our clothes to a thief. Saying “No” seems like a very un-Christian response to someone in need.
As a psychiatrist and former church elder, I have seen so many burnt out Christians who seem to think that more is always better…some who actually believed it un-Christian to say no. Their efforts become scattered and they always seemed to be out of steam. But like that Energizer bunny, they just keep on doing.
Today, before you jump into (or continue) “doing” the Christian thing…saying “yes” and adding more to the plate…spend time with God. Pray that you receive both direction and empowerment consistent with His will. In order to know His will…you gotta spend time in His presence. He has specific plans and purpose for you, so you need to be more purposeful in seeking it with Him. This is not a job or a task, rather a beautiful and peaceful privilege.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how receiving direction and empowerment.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that You designed a path for my life. I pray, Father, that You make known this pathway to me…and that You give me the strength and courage to follow that path. Empower me, Father, and let all see that I am powered my You. Let me not focus my efforts on simply doing more, let me focus on doing what You want and need of me. Help me today, Lord, to do what is within my ability to further Your Kingdom. I pray in the name of the one You sent to forgive, refresh and empower me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Mark 6:31
A couple weeks ago, I was asked to speak to a Sunday School class at a neighboring church with very short notice. Bubbling up in my lungs was the sound of my knee-jerk “Yes”, but luckily, before crossing my lips, I was able to edit it into a “thanks for asking, but I need to look at a future date.”
In the past, it was difficult for me to say “No”. As people, our natural tendency is to ‘go with the flow’ or ‘don’t make waves’…so we become conflict avoiders…some a little, but some a lot.
As Christians, this usually gets amplified…we are called to be ‘peacekeepers’ or ‘peacemakers’. Forgiveness is fundamental to our faith. Jesus teaches us to turn the other cheek, love our enemies, and give our clothes to a thief. Saying “No” seems like a very un-Christian response to someone in need.
As a psychiatrist and former church elder, I have seen so many burnt out Christians who seem to think that more is always better…some who actually believed it un-Christian to say no. Their efforts become scattered and they always seemed to be out of steam. But like that Energizer bunny, they just keep on doing.
Today, before you jump into (or continue) “doing” the Christian thing…saying “yes” and adding more to the plate…spend time with God. Pray that you receive both direction and empowerment consistent with His will. In order to know His will…you gotta spend time in His presence. He has specific plans and purpose for you, so you need to be more purposeful in seeking it with Him. This is not a job or a task, rather a beautiful and peaceful privilege.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how receiving direction and empowerment.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that You designed a path for my life. I pray, Father, that You make known this pathway to me…and that You give me the strength and courage to follow that path. Empower me, Father, and let all see that I am powered my You. Let me not focus my efforts on simply doing more, let me focus on doing what You want and need of me. Help me today, Lord, to do what is within my ability to further Your Kingdom. I pray in the name of the one You sent to forgive, refresh and empower me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11
And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Mark 6:31
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Stepping Stones: Hold The Press!
Transformational Tip
The computer and the World Wide Web provide phenomenal opportunities... connecting with long lost friends, childhood bosom buddies, old teammates, family on the other side of the country or ocean, people from church, and friends from mission trips is now so easy and cheap. This has warmed so many hearts and so much relational, missional, and transformational good has resulted.
But like dynamite, computers and WWW can be used for tremendous good or… tremendous evil. As a psychiatrist, whether in the ER or in my outpatient office, or running a rehab program, I hear frequently how the internet (email, chat rooms, My Space, FaceBook, Classmates, etc) has contributed to infidelity and the devastating destruction of relationships and families.
Inappropriate communication with the opposite sex, via the Internet, happens easily because of our fast pace. We have no time to calmly and with depth, share with our partners during days. Internet communication also gives us unparalleled confidence to speak freely, as there is no real contact with the other person. We can experiment, re-create ourself, mislead, not have to deal with the hard parts of real relationships.
Before you know it you are writing things you should never write…a false sense of privacy as you delusionally assume that what you write will stay a secret between you and the receiver. You have probably heard the advice that you should not type anything anywhere that you would’t want published in your church bulletin… or, you shouldn’t say anything to anyone of the opposite sex that you would not want your spouse to hear.
Unfortunately, even though Internet affairs have exploded, other secret, old-fashioned inappropriate communication falls into the same danger zone.
Today, give some thought to your use of the internet and other perceived “secret” forms of communication. You know it is writing or actions that you should stop because you are secretive or sly about them. If you have been writing things you should not, then stop and say “hold the press”. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how to avoid falling into relationship cyber-traps.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I ask and pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit to strengthen me. Teach me, Father, to remain faithful and true to those I love. Let not the fear of being caught be the deterrent, rather let it be the pain and suffering my indiscretions may create for You, my partner…and my heart, and brain. Above all, let it be the fear of separation from You and my spiritual harm that directs me to the right path. I pray in the name of the one You sent to dwell in my heart, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love.
Ephesians 3:16-17
Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103:2,5
The computer and the World Wide Web provide phenomenal opportunities... connecting with long lost friends, childhood bosom buddies, old teammates, family on the other side of the country or ocean, people from church, and friends from mission trips is now so easy and cheap. This has warmed so many hearts and so much relational, missional, and transformational good has resulted.
But like dynamite, computers and WWW can be used for tremendous good or… tremendous evil. As a psychiatrist, whether in the ER or in my outpatient office, or running a rehab program, I hear frequently how the internet (email, chat rooms, My Space, FaceBook, Classmates, etc) has contributed to infidelity and the devastating destruction of relationships and families.
Inappropriate communication with the opposite sex, via the Internet, happens easily because of our fast pace. We have no time to calmly and with depth, share with our partners during days. Internet communication also gives us unparalleled confidence to speak freely, as there is no real contact with the other person. We can experiment, re-create ourself, mislead, not have to deal with the hard parts of real relationships.
Before you know it you are writing things you should never write…a false sense of privacy as you delusionally assume that what you write will stay a secret between you and the receiver. You have probably heard the advice that you should not type anything anywhere that you would’t want published in your church bulletin… or, you shouldn’t say anything to anyone of the opposite sex that you would not want your spouse to hear.
Unfortunately, even though Internet affairs have exploded, other secret, old-fashioned inappropriate communication falls into the same danger zone.
Today, give some thought to your use of the internet and other perceived “secret” forms of communication. You know it is writing or actions that you should stop because you are secretive or sly about them. If you have been writing things you should not, then stop and say “hold the press”. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how to avoid falling into relationship cyber-traps.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I ask and pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit to strengthen me. Teach me, Father, to remain faithful and true to those I love. Let not the fear of being caught be the deterrent, rather let it be the pain and suffering my indiscretions may create for You, my partner…and my heart, and brain. Above all, let it be the fear of separation from You and my spiritual harm that directs me to the right path. I pray in the name of the one You sent to dwell in my heart, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love.
Ephesians 3:16-17
Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103:2,5
Friday, January 15, 2010
Stepping Stones: My Thoughts Defy My Will
Transformational Tip
My mother had some simple yet very effective teaching and training methods. When I was around 6 years old, I said something very inappropriate to someone who was visiting my mom. My mother excused herself and took me gently by the hand to another room. There, she told me that I must learn to hold my tongue and not always say what I was thinking. She actually made me hold my tongue with my hand for a few minutes so that the concept of “holding my tongue” would sink in. It worked.
While I have made great progress in holding my tongue since that time (thanks mom), my mind remains restless and unruly. Long after I developed the discipline to “hold my tongue”, my thoughts continue to defy my will and continue to set themselves up against me and God. This is my greatest challenge.
The battlefield for our soul really is the mind/heart…and it is no surprise that the bible really talks a lot about what goes on in our thinking world. In fact, decision-making really is the key spiritual discipline that all others are built around.
The mind is a wondrous and beautiful thing; it’s yet another example that we humans are the summit of God’s creations. And to be sure, it’s at the center of our spiritual warfare. It really is your choice as to whether you develop the Mind of Christ or not.
Today, make the decision to let the Holy Spirit guide and be the key influencer of your mind. Start by looking at some decisions from yesterday that you would like to have back. Journal a little about them, especially what was influencing your lenses? WITHIN REACH will help you hone this skill and more in developing the Mind of Christ. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts defying your will.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for the freedom you have granted me to think and to learn. Since you created us in your image, I know the ability to think wonderfully complex thoughts is a God-like privilege; setting humans above all other forms of life. Thank You Father. I open myself, Father, to Your light and presence and I ask you to take control of my mind and have my thoughts aligned with Your will. Help me use my brain to discover more and better ways to communicate with You. Help me achieve the “mind of Christ.” I pray in the name of the one whose mind I want to imitate, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Genesis 1:26-27
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
My mother had some simple yet very effective teaching and training methods. When I was around 6 years old, I said something very inappropriate to someone who was visiting my mom. My mother excused herself and took me gently by the hand to another room. There, she told me that I must learn to hold my tongue and not always say what I was thinking. She actually made me hold my tongue with my hand for a few minutes so that the concept of “holding my tongue” would sink in. It worked.
While I have made great progress in holding my tongue since that time (thanks mom), my mind remains restless and unruly. Long after I developed the discipline to “hold my tongue”, my thoughts continue to defy my will and continue to set themselves up against me and God. This is my greatest challenge.
The battlefield for our soul really is the mind/heart…and it is no surprise that the bible really talks a lot about what goes on in our thinking world. In fact, decision-making really is the key spiritual discipline that all others are built around.
The mind is a wondrous and beautiful thing; it’s yet another example that we humans are the summit of God’s creations. And to be sure, it’s at the center of our spiritual warfare. It really is your choice as to whether you develop the Mind of Christ or not.
Today, make the decision to let the Holy Spirit guide and be the key influencer of your mind. Start by looking at some decisions from yesterday that you would like to have back. Journal a little about them, especially what was influencing your lenses? WITHIN REACH will help you hone this skill and more in developing the Mind of Christ. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts defying your will.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for the freedom you have granted me to think and to learn. Since you created us in your image, I know the ability to think wonderfully complex thoughts is a God-like privilege; setting humans above all other forms of life. Thank You Father. I open myself, Father, to Your light and presence and I ask you to take control of my mind and have my thoughts aligned with Your will. Help me use my brain to discover more and better ways to communicate with You. Help me achieve the “mind of Christ.” I pray in the name of the one whose mind I want to imitate, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Genesis 1:26-27
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Romans 8:6
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Stepping Stones: The Ultimate Appointment
Transformational Tip
For years I’ve taken a weekly music lesson. It has become the highlight of my week. It’s only 30 minute, and my teacher is very talented, but also kind of grumpy…but I still really enjoy that 30 minutes. I’m notorious for cancelling appointments because of my incessant overbooking, but I rarely cancel my music lesson.
Part of it comes from my love of music, but mostly I show up because my teacher expects me to. He can tell within 5 minutes if I have kept my commitment to practice that preceding week…in a way he holds me accountable. The main reason I show up is because my teacher gives me the impression that I have the ability to play my instrument with greater skill than I believe I can.
What if you could have a daily appointment with someone who loves you…someone who accepts you just as you are, while seeing in you far more than you see in yourself? What if this person (teacher) could relieve your stress, forgive all your transgressions, eliminate your guilt and your insecurity…and especially your world-weariness? If such a place and such a person did exist, you can be confident that your greatest enemy would not want you going there…would try to talk you out of it, or hide it from you. Well, it exists and He is waiting…for you.
Today, accept and rejoice over the reality that that place and the Person are waiting for you. Identify one activity you can shorten to go someplace and to someone for all you desires. Find practical ways to begin wearing a path to Him. Make dates with Him and then keep those dates. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how best to keep your appointments with God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know deep in my heart that spending time with You is the most important and rewarding investment of time I can make…yet, it is also the most difficult part of my daily behavior to master. I pray, Father, that You quiet the evil spirits who work so tirelessly to deceive me with intrusive thoughts and distraction. Help me submit to the Holy Spirit to master my flesh’s impulses and knee-jerk wants. I pray in the name of Your Son and my ultimate teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
Psalm 139:1-2
For years I’ve taken a weekly music lesson. It has become the highlight of my week. It’s only 30 minute, and my teacher is very talented, but also kind of grumpy…but I still really enjoy that 30 minutes. I’m notorious for cancelling appointments because of my incessant overbooking, but I rarely cancel my music lesson.
Part of it comes from my love of music, but mostly I show up because my teacher expects me to. He can tell within 5 minutes if I have kept my commitment to practice that preceding week…in a way he holds me accountable. The main reason I show up is because my teacher gives me the impression that I have the ability to play my instrument with greater skill than I believe I can.
What if you could have a daily appointment with someone who loves you…someone who accepts you just as you are, while seeing in you far more than you see in yourself? What if this person (teacher) could relieve your stress, forgive all your transgressions, eliminate your guilt and your insecurity…and especially your world-weariness? If such a place and such a person did exist, you can be confident that your greatest enemy would not want you going there…would try to talk you out of it, or hide it from you. Well, it exists and He is waiting…for you.
Today, accept and rejoice over the reality that that place and the Person are waiting for you. Identify one activity you can shorten to go someplace and to someone for all you desires. Find practical ways to begin wearing a path to Him. Make dates with Him and then keep those dates. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on how best to keep your appointments with God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know deep in my heart that spending time with You is the most important and rewarding investment of time I can make…yet, it is also the most difficult part of my daily behavior to master. I pray, Father, that You quiet the evil spirits who work so tirelessly to deceive me with intrusive thoughts and distraction. Help me submit to the Holy Spirit to master my flesh’s impulses and knee-jerk wants. I pray in the name of Your Son and my ultimate teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
Psalm 139:1-2
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Stepping Stones: Try to Relax
Transformational Tip
I hate very few things…but I do hate the dentist chair. I recently had a root canal. As I look back at that debacle, I remember sitting in that chair…wow, I was so tense and anxious. The dentist must have picked-up on my facial expressions and body language and said, “it’s going to be OK, try and relax”.
His words sounded almost foolish to me. “Try to Relax”. I started thinking about how difficult it is to try (which requires effort and exertion) and relax (which requires an absence of effort and exertion) at the same time. See my point?
I got to thinking of how the words ‘Try’ and ‘Relax’ just don’t seem to fit together. And then I thought a bit further…how this doesn’t only apply to the dentist chair —but to my spiritual life as well.
In my relationship with Christ, I find myself pressing for God’s purposes, to understand what He wants from and of me…but my own interests seem to always creep into my thoughts. In those moments, the hardest thing for me to do is “try to relax”, and genuinely trust God for the outcome…especially during one of life’s storms. But that is where our level of faith is assessed and tested. Easy to tell others to “try to relax”, but how are you at application?
Today, during times when your heart becomes anxious, put into practice Psalm 46:10…rest confidently in His care. “Be still”…stop your efforts, look at the big picture…God’s perspective. “Know”…His love, sovereignty, omnipotence…His promises…His instruction. Know doesn’t only mean intellectual data accumulation, but real life intertwining of our life and His instruction. Like “Adam knew Eve”…they became as one flesh. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “try to relax” vs. “be still and know”.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that true rest can be found only in You. Help me to end my striving and to trust that You will provide. In Your loving arms I will find rest. Help me learn my confidence needs to come from who You are, what You do, Your character, promises, and instruction…and not from anything that is based on me or this world. Then after I am still and know, I listen to Your prompting and respond with great stewardship of my mind and body, doing Your will, not mine
I pray in the name of the ultimate “be still and know”, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
Psalm 46:10
I hate very few things…but I do hate the dentist chair. I recently had a root canal. As I look back at that debacle, I remember sitting in that chair…wow, I was so tense and anxious. The dentist must have picked-up on my facial expressions and body language and said, “it’s going to be OK, try and relax”.
His words sounded almost foolish to me. “Try to Relax”. I started thinking about how difficult it is to try (which requires effort and exertion) and relax (which requires an absence of effort and exertion) at the same time. See my point?
I got to thinking of how the words ‘Try’ and ‘Relax’ just don’t seem to fit together. And then I thought a bit further…how this doesn’t only apply to the dentist chair —but to my spiritual life as well.
In my relationship with Christ, I find myself pressing for God’s purposes, to understand what He wants from and of me…but my own interests seem to always creep into my thoughts. In those moments, the hardest thing for me to do is “try to relax”, and genuinely trust God for the outcome…especially during one of life’s storms. But that is where our level of faith is assessed and tested. Easy to tell others to “try to relax”, but how are you at application?
Today, during times when your heart becomes anxious, put into practice Psalm 46:10…rest confidently in His care. “Be still”…stop your efforts, look at the big picture…God’s perspective. “Know”…His love, sovereignty, omnipotence…His promises…His instruction. Know doesn’t only mean intellectual data accumulation, but real life intertwining of our life and His instruction. Like “Adam knew Eve”…they became as one flesh. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “try to relax” vs. “be still and know”.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that true rest can be found only in You. Help me to end my striving and to trust that You will provide. In Your loving arms I will find rest. Help me learn my confidence needs to come from who You are, what You do, Your character, promises, and instruction…and not from anything that is based on me or this world. Then after I am still and know, I listen to Your prompting and respond with great stewardship of my mind and body, doing Your will, not mine
I pray in the name of the ultimate “be still and know”, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”
Psalm 46:10
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Stepping Stones: Time Is An Embezzler
Transformational Tip
I was visiting my father in the intensive care unit a few days before his death. He was hooked up to so many machines; some keeping him alive…others taking measurements. There was one machine my dad watched most often. After asking him why, he told me that it was a machine that monitors his heart beat. I asked innocently what happened if his heart stops. The answer I expected was “an electrical shock triggers my heart to start beating again” or “nurses and doctors come running”. Instead my dad said, “there’s a little speaker on the back of the machine and it will say ‘good-bye Paul’ ”.
While he was just trying to be funny, his comment shocked me. It gave me a jolt of reality that my dad’s life was almost over…and before I know it, a speaker on the back of some machine will be telling me, “Good-Bye.”
In Psalm 90:12 Moses prayed; “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Thinking and knowing that our days are truly numbered should help us keep an eternal perspective, which in turn should help us make decisions and choices rank by eternal values.
Give some thought about time as an embezzler…coming in at night to steal days, weeks, even years of energy that could be used for more valuable kingdom pursuits that will fulfill you and glorify God. Try to remember to use each day for your God as if it were your last…for in the blink of an eye, it will be.
Today, examine the activities of your day. Are they kingdom focused? Even in doing the laundry, having the attitude of gratitude that you have clothes to wash, a machine to wash them in, and service to your family as an opportunity from God, will allow you to take a “mundane” task, and give it eternal perspective. If the task isn’t directly kingdom advancing, or indirectly as in the laundry example, you have to think about cutting it out, as it is an embezzler. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on time as an embezzler.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for this day and every day of life You give me. I know that each day is a gift from You. Help me, Lord, to live with eternity always in view. Even as I go to work, help look at the people in the office or clients, or vendors as eternal treasures and not just random “shmoes” in my life. Help me to develop the mind of Christ and have your eternal viewpoint of my life. I ask for the courage to cut out the pleasurable but embezzling pursuits I cling to…they are a waste of time, sometimes sinful, and show my lack of trust in your instruction and love. I pray in the name of the one who secured eternity for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
James 4:14
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.
Psalm 119:37
I was visiting my father in the intensive care unit a few days before his death. He was hooked up to so many machines; some keeping him alive…others taking measurements. There was one machine my dad watched most often. After asking him why, he told me that it was a machine that monitors his heart beat. I asked innocently what happened if his heart stops. The answer I expected was “an electrical shock triggers my heart to start beating again” or “nurses and doctors come running”. Instead my dad said, “there’s a little speaker on the back of the machine and it will say ‘good-bye Paul’ ”.
While he was just trying to be funny, his comment shocked me. It gave me a jolt of reality that my dad’s life was almost over…and before I know it, a speaker on the back of some machine will be telling me, “Good-Bye.”
In Psalm 90:12 Moses prayed; “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Thinking and knowing that our days are truly numbered should help us keep an eternal perspective, which in turn should help us make decisions and choices rank by eternal values.
Give some thought about time as an embezzler…coming in at night to steal days, weeks, even years of energy that could be used for more valuable kingdom pursuits that will fulfill you and glorify God. Try to remember to use each day for your God as if it were your last…for in the blink of an eye, it will be.
Today, examine the activities of your day. Are they kingdom focused? Even in doing the laundry, having the attitude of gratitude that you have clothes to wash, a machine to wash them in, and service to your family as an opportunity from God, will allow you to take a “mundane” task, and give it eternal perspective. If the task isn’t directly kingdom advancing, or indirectly as in the laundry example, you have to think about cutting it out, as it is an embezzler. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on time as an embezzler.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for this day and every day of life You give me. I know that each day is a gift from You. Help me, Lord, to live with eternity always in view. Even as I go to work, help look at the people in the office or clients, or vendors as eternal treasures and not just random “shmoes” in my life. Help me to develop the mind of Christ and have your eternal viewpoint of my life. I ask for the courage to cut out the pleasurable but embezzling pursuits I cling to…they are a waste of time, sometimes sinful, and show my lack of trust in your instruction and love. I pray in the name of the one who secured eternity for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
James 4:14
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.
Psalm 119:37
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Stepping Stones: Who Controls Your Attitude?
Transformational Tip
I’d just moved into a new home. Spent the afternoon breaking down and cutting up all the cardboard boxes and binding them into neat bundles…then placed them on the curb for the next day’s trash removal.
A few days later, I returned home to find a plastic baggy tapped to my garage door. I could see there was a note in the bag and had a feeling that it was a “welcome to the neighborhood note.” I was wrong. It was a note with a shipping label that had come off one of the boxes I broke down a few days prior.
The note read; “Please make sure your trash is packaged in a way that doesn’t allow it to blow into your neighbor’s yard. I already have enough garbage in my life, I don’t need yours.” Wow…welcome to the neighborhood, indeed!
It was clear that I had contributed to making this person’s bad day even worse. I think he or she may have had many bad days.
I am learning that no matter what you do, you will never stops life’s bad turns. Traffic jams that cause you to miss that important appointment. Not getting that job or promotion. Someone being rude to you…someone’s trash blowing into your yard. Remember, God is the one who allows all things to happen. We don’t know why, but He does, and He has a plan.
You can live happily each day despite life’s ups and downs, but it can only be done through a dependence on Jesus Christ and a trust in God’s sovereignty and plan. The Apostle Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation; that he can do everything through Him that gives me strength.
Today, remember it’s not what happens to you that counts…it’s how you choose to react to that situation that reflects your attitude, your heart, and is the fruit of your life. It just comes down to whose is in control of your attitude. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “who’s in control?”
Prayer
Dear Father God, I invite You to be in me and at work with me. Help me grow, Father, so that I may have the same attitude and mind as Jesus Christ. I do not want to be ruled by the circumstance around me…I want to be ruled and guided by Your Holy Spirit. I pray in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
I’d just moved into a new home. Spent the afternoon breaking down and cutting up all the cardboard boxes and binding them into neat bundles…then placed them on the curb for the next day’s trash removal.
A few days later, I returned home to find a plastic baggy tapped to my garage door. I could see there was a note in the bag and had a feeling that it was a “welcome to the neighborhood note.” I was wrong. It was a note with a shipping label that had come off one of the boxes I broke down a few days prior.
The note read; “Please make sure your trash is packaged in a way that doesn’t allow it to blow into your neighbor’s yard. I already have enough garbage in my life, I don’t need yours.” Wow…welcome to the neighborhood, indeed!
It was clear that I had contributed to making this person’s bad day even worse. I think he or she may have had many bad days.
I am learning that no matter what you do, you will never stops life’s bad turns. Traffic jams that cause you to miss that important appointment. Not getting that job or promotion. Someone being rude to you…someone’s trash blowing into your yard. Remember, God is the one who allows all things to happen. We don’t know why, but He does, and He has a plan.
You can live happily each day despite life’s ups and downs, but it can only be done through a dependence on Jesus Christ and a trust in God’s sovereignty and plan. The Apostle Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation; that he can do everything through Him that gives me strength.
Today, remember it’s not what happens to you that counts…it’s how you choose to react to that situation that reflects your attitude, your heart, and is the fruit of your life. It just comes down to whose is in control of your attitude. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “who’s in control?”
Prayer
Dear Father God, I invite You to be in me and at work with me. Help me grow, Father, so that I may have the same attitude and mind as Jesus Christ. I do not want to be ruled by the circumstance around me…I want to be ruled and guided by Your Holy Spirit. I pray in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Stepping Stones: He Wasn’t Where He Should Have Been
Transformational Tip
I was driving over the holidays to visit family…stopped for a break at one of the mega rest stops off the turnpike. The place was crowded with holiday travelers…I ended up sitting at a table just next to a family of 4.
With my children grown, I still so much enjoy the voices of young children. I can still recall so clearly my daughters’ childhood voices…it’s a great source of joy for me.
One of children at the table next to me was a talker. About 10 years old, she was trying hard to get her father’s attention. “Daddy, when we get home can I…Daddy, what was your favorite Christmas gift…Daddy, Daddy...” As I was listening I realized I wasn’t hearing any response from dad, so I looked over and saw that he was looking completely the other way, not hearing a word his daughter was saying. He wasn’t even there…wasn’t where he needed to be. Eventually the little girls stopped trying…but she kept looking up at him with hopeful expectation that he was going to respond. He never did.
I, of course, have no way of knowing his circumstances or his thoughts, and I know that there were times as a young father that I was just as guilty of not engaging with my girls when they needed me…oh, how I long for the opportunity to go back and do it differently. I certainly am not judging that father, but it brought to mind how easily the distractions of the day and of the world can take our focus off the attention needed by our children.
Today, and everyday, try to really connect with your children or loved ones. After Jesus, these people in your life are the greatest gift God gives us. They are also the most important mission field most are ever called to. The easiest way to start showing your love, respect, and honor for them is giving them your full attention when they are talking to you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on being where you need to be as parents(or loved ones).
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that being faithful parents and guiding our children to You is very important to You. Help me and all parents truly listen to our children and to make them feel secure and loved…and through us, get to know the security and love You are excited to give them. Give all parents the wisdom and strength for this most important task of parenting. I pray in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Mark 10:14
I was driving over the holidays to visit family…stopped for a break at one of the mega rest stops off the turnpike. The place was crowded with holiday travelers…I ended up sitting at a table just next to a family of 4.
With my children grown, I still so much enjoy the voices of young children. I can still recall so clearly my daughters’ childhood voices…it’s a great source of joy for me.
One of children at the table next to me was a talker. About 10 years old, she was trying hard to get her father’s attention. “Daddy, when we get home can I…Daddy, what was your favorite Christmas gift…Daddy, Daddy...” As I was listening I realized I wasn’t hearing any response from dad, so I looked over and saw that he was looking completely the other way, not hearing a word his daughter was saying. He wasn’t even there…wasn’t where he needed to be. Eventually the little girls stopped trying…but she kept looking up at him with hopeful expectation that he was going to respond. He never did.
I, of course, have no way of knowing his circumstances or his thoughts, and I know that there were times as a young father that I was just as guilty of not engaging with my girls when they needed me…oh, how I long for the opportunity to go back and do it differently. I certainly am not judging that father, but it brought to mind how easily the distractions of the day and of the world can take our focus off the attention needed by our children.
Today, and everyday, try to really connect with your children or loved ones. After Jesus, these people in your life are the greatest gift God gives us. They are also the most important mission field most are ever called to. The easiest way to start showing your love, respect, and honor for them is giving them your full attention when they are talking to you. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on being where you need to be as parents(or loved ones).
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that being faithful parents and guiding our children to You is very important to You. Help me and all parents truly listen to our children and to make them feel secure and loved…and through us, get to know the security and love You are excited to give them. Give all parents the wisdom and strength for this most important task of parenting. I pray in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Mark 10:14
Friday, January 8, 2010
Stepping Stones: “Do you think you will eat all that?”
Transformational Tip
I was recently on a business trip to Miami. Got in the night before my meeting and decided to have dinner at an outdoor café. It was late; I was the only customer there. I ordered what I thought was an appetizer and dinner, but when the food came it was apparent that I ordered two full dinners. The waiter left and I began picking and choosing the best of the two plates.
Just then a homeless man quickly came to my table side and asked in a very polite manner; “Do you think you will eat all that?” The restaurant manager came to shoo the man away…but I told him that I had invited the man as my guest. The homeless man (dirty, a bit scary and a little drunk) took off his hat, brushed back his hair and took a seat across from me with the pride and excitement of being invited to join a royal feast.
We had a great meal together. I actually had to talk him into coffee and dessert. He confessed that alcoholism was the reason he was homeless. He gave me an open invitation to ask any questions I’d like. He was a gentle, smart man. It was one of the most interesting conversations I have ever had.
When the meal came to an end I asked Bill; “If I give you $20, can you promise me that you will use it for food?” After giving the offer some thought he said that he could not make that commitment to me…and that he didn’t want to lie to me…said he would most likely use it for whiskey. After a few minutes of silence he said; “I’ll make you a deal, I’ll use half for food and half for booze” and then stuck out his hand to shake on the deal.
As he got up to leave he asked; “do you think God sent you to me?” His question almost blew my off my chair. Then and now, I really don’t know who God sent to whom.
Today, instead of judging, try to help in some way. Remember, we are most like Christ when showing compassion and generosity to someone less fortunate. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on generosity.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open heart…I invite You into my life in an ever-increasing way. I pray, Father, that Your over-generous love will flow through me each day and touch those around me. I ask that You show me how to serve others, help others, and to give to others without expecting anything in return. I know Lord that there is no way I can out-give You, for You have already given me so much. I pray in the name of my teacher and Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
Matthew 25:40
I was recently on a business trip to Miami. Got in the night before my meeting and decided to have dinner at an outdoor café. It was late; I was the only customer there. I ordered what I thought was an appetizer and dinner, but when the food came it was apparent that I ordered two full dinners. The waiter left and I began picking and choosing the best of the two plates.
Just then a homeless man quickly came to my table side and asked in a very polite manner; “Do you think you will eat all that?” The restaurant manager came to shoo the man away…but I told him that I had invited the man as my guest. The homeless man (dirty, a bit scary and a little drunk) took off his hat, brushed back his hair and took a seat across from me with the pride and excitement of being invited to join a royal feast.
We had a great meal together. I actually had to talk him into coffee and dessert. He confessed that alcoholism was the reason he was homeless. He gave me an open invitation to ask any questions I’d like. He was a gentle, smart man. It was one of the most interesting conversations I have ever had.
When the meal came to an end I asked Bill; “If I give you $20, can you promise me that you will use it for food?” After giving the offer some thought he said that he could not make that commitment to me…and that he didn’t want to lie to me…said he would most likely use it for whiskey. After a few minutes of silence he said; “I’ll make you a deal, I’ll use half for food and half for booze” and then stuck out his hand to shake on the deal.
As he got up to leave he asked; “do you think God sent you to me?” His question almost blew my off my chair. Then and now, I really don’t know who God sent to whom.
Today, instead of judging, try to help in some way. Remember, we are most like Christ when showing compassion and generosity to someone less fortunate. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on generosity.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open heart…I invite You into my life in an ever-increasing way. I pray, Father, that Your over-generous love will flow through me each day and touch those around me. I ask that You show me how to serve others, help others, and to give to others without expecting anything in return. I know Lord that there is no way I can out-give You, for You have already given me so much. I pray in the name of my teacher and Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
Matthew 25:40
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Stepping Stones: Don’t Impose a Premature Finish Line
Transformational Tip
Some children take off sooner and faster than others.
I come from a very large family…my siblings were all very different from each other. But I particularly recall the trouble my eldest brother had in getting off the ground. Poor grades…dropped out of school a number of times…a street fighter…always in some type of significant trouble. My parents tried as they may to raise him to greater heights, but nothing seemed to work. If we ended the race then, he would have been judged a failure.
Are you a parent of a low-flying child? Let me pass on a word of encouragement. That brother made a shift in his early twenties and now, by anyone’s standards, is a highflying success. Husband in a healthy marriage, father of a great family, master’s degree, and business owner. Most importantly, he is a man of deep faith who always finds time to let the Lord’s light shine from him onto those around him. At 60 years of age, he holds the admiration and praise of all his siblings.
Too often, we put premature finish lines on situations…judging them before all the data is in. God isn’t bound by time, is incredibly patient, is omnipotent, and has a flair for the dramatic, especially with timing. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap of judging yourself, others, circumstances, and especially God, too prematurely. You will be disappointed and lose out on many “miracles” of life.
Today, if you feel disappointed, anxious, sad, fearful, or like a failure, examine whether you are imposing a premature finish line on a situation. This puts God in a box and closes the curtain on the play at intermission. Realize, there is more of the show, game, course, left and seek God’s guidance for the next phase. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “late blooming” situations.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray that all parents reading this devotional receive from You wisdom and patience as they raise their children. Help them trust Your providence and grace, and to let go of their timelines for their children’s lives. Help us all use Your Son as an example as You patiently waited for His time to come. Help them, Father, listen to and obey You in this great calling of being a parent. I pray in the name of your son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
“My time has not yet come."
John 2:4
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12
Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:30,31
Some children take off sooner and faster than others.
I come from a very large family…my siblings were all very different from each other. But I particularly recall the trouble my eldest brother had in getting off the ground. Poor grades…dropped out of school a number of times…a street fighter…always in some type of significant trouble. My parents tried as they may to raise him to greater heights, but nothing seemed to work. If we ended the race then, he would have been judged a failure.
Are you a parent of a low-flying child? Let me pass on a word of encouragement. That brother made a shift in his early twenties and now, by anyone’s standards, is a highflying success. Husband in a healthy marriage, father of a great family, master’s degree, and business owner. Most importantly, he is a man of deep faith who always finds time to let the Lord’s light shine from him onto those around him. At 60 years of age, he holds the admiration and praise of all his siblings.
Too often, we put premature finish lines on situations…judging them before all the data is in. God isn’t bound by time, is incredibly patient, is omnipotent, and has a flair for the dramatic, especially with timing. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap of judging yourself, others, circumstances, and especially God, too prematurely. You will be disappointed and lose out on many “miracles” of life.
Today, if you feel disappointed, anxious, sad, fearful, or like a failure, examine whether you are imposing a premature finish line on a situation. This puts God in a box and closes the curtain on the play at intermission. Realize, there is more of the show, game, course, left and seek God’s guidance for the next phase. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on “late blooming” situations.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray that all parents reading this devotional receive from You wisdom and patience as they raise their children. Help them trust Your providence and grace, and to let go of their timelines for their children’s lives. Help us all use Your Son as an example as You patiently waited for His time to come. Help them, Father, listen to and obey You in this great calling of being a parent. I pray in the name of your son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
“My time has not yet come."
John 2:4
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12
Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:30,31
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Stepping Stones: Let Life Begin!
Transformational Tip
If you really want to experience love and life…then you must face the truth about your standing before God. Scripture repeatedly tells us that we are born with a sinful nature. It is this sin problem that keeps us from life…life as intended for us by God. Whether as an individual…or as a couple…unresolved sin will block even our most focused efforts at living. This is because the undeniable outcome of sin is slavery to our very worst impulses.
But thankfully, we have a wonderful alternative. You can reach out today in faith to truly begin living. Reach out today to receive your free gift of new life. Here are the words Jesus used to communicate this good news; “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that who-ever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16)
If you have taken this step already, then you have victory over this sin nature. It is complicated because there are 2 types of victory. First, there is the victory over the separation from God, death, and eternal damnation. Second, is the victory over the impulses, fleshly desires, and sinful ways of this earthly life.
Satan, however, is not going down without a fight. He will deceive you into thinking you aren’t victorious over your sinful ways, and will try to tempt, trap, attack, and have you even doubt your eternal security. You have the power and resources to be victorious in this life, but you have to trust them and use them.
Today, if you do not already know Jesus Christ in this intimate way, say the prayer below. For every human who invites Jesus into her or his heart…that is the moment when real life begins. For Christians, ask yourself what your’re being tricked into choosing to trust instead of God and His promises…this is what keeps you from truly being victorious in this life on earth. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on when life truly began for you. WITHIN REACH will help you apply Jesus’ victory to your daily walk.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit that I am a sinner and that I need You. Please forgive my sins. There is no way I can live right or have any hope for eternal life on my own. I have been trying to do it all alone and I am tired. I believe that Jesus is Your only Son and that You sent Him to die in my place and set me free from sin. Let my life begin at this very moment. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of my personal savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 3:23
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
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
If you really want to experience love and life…then you must face the truth about your standing before God. Scripture repeatedly tells us that we are born with a sinful nature. It is this sin problem that keeps us from life…life as intended for us by God. Whether as an individual…or as a couple…unresolved sin will block even our most focused efforts at living. This is because the undeniable outcome of sin is slavery to our very worst impulses.
But thankfully, we have a wonderful alternative. You can reach out today in faith to truly begin living. Reach out today to receive your free gift of new life. Here are the words Jesus used to communicate this good news; “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that who-ever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16)
If you have taken this step already, then you have victory over this sin nature. It is complicated because there are 2 types of victory. First, there is the victory over the separation from God, death, and eternal damnation. Second, is the victory over the impulses, fleshly desires, and sinful ways of this earthly life.
Satan, however, is not going down without a fight. He will deceive you into thinking you aren’t victorious over your sinful ways, and will try to tempt, trap, attack, and have you even doubt your eternal security. You have the power and resources to be victorious in this life, but you have to trust them and use them.
Today, if you do not already know Jesus Christ in this intimate way, say the prayer below. For every human who invites Jesus into her or his heart…that is the moment when real life begins. For Christians, ask yourself what your’re being tricked into choosing to trust instead of God and His promises…this is what keeps you from truly being victorious in this life on earth. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on when life truly began for you. WITHIN REACH will help you apply Jesus’ victory to your daily walk.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit that I am a sinner and that I need You. Please forgive my sins. There is no way I can live right or have any hope for eternal life on my own. I have been trying to do it all alone and I am tired. I believe that Jesus is Your only Son and that You sent Him to die in my place and set me free from sin. Let my life begin at this very moment. Thank You, Father. I pray in the name of my personal savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 3:23
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
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
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Stepping Stones: Love Him…Then Do What You Want
Transformational Tip
My mother was a great teacher…a great spiritual leader for her children and all those around her. She would simplify complex concepts for us. When it came to the question of obedience to God vs. our independence and “free-will” she made the message simple. She would always say “just love God with all you have…then do whatever you want. For if you truly love God, you will do nothing to hurt him.”
As I read today’s scripture I recall my mother’s teachings. Our Lord never insists on obedience. In fact, he stresses relationship. He pursues us across the multiverse, desiring fellowship and union with us even when we are disobedient. He even died for us to provide reconciliation, restoration and…relationship. Not to make us obedient.
If He wanted to motivate obedience, He would offer heaven to the obedient, or threaten to send the disobedient to hell. God does neither. Instead, He rewards or consequents us based on whether we are in relationship with Him or not.
God stresses very definitely what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We find that we will obey Him out of love. Notice that when Jesus speaks about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If," clearly telling us we have a choice. When we are in relationship with and really love Him, we will obey. If we are truly wise, we will follow His guidance…if we really want comfort, we will trust His direction.
Today, focus on growing your love for God. Focus less on the dos and don’ts and more on simply loving God. When you have a choice, ask yourself, “Why am a choosing this option?” hopefully you answer, “because I love God”, not because I need to do what is right. For if you truly love Him, you will be less prone to do anything to hurt him. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on obedience vs. love.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for the freedom to choose. I thank You, Father, for the clarity of the messages from Your Son, Jesus. Help me, Father, to grow my love for You…and then let that love guide all my decisions and actions. I pray, Father, that You protect me from all evil influences impacting my decisions. I pray in the name of my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
"If you love me, you will obey what I command.”
John 14:15
"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23
My mother was a great teacher…a great spiritual leader for her children and all those around her. She would simplify complex concepts for us. When it came to the question of obedience to God vs. our independence and “free-will” she made the message simple. She would always say “just love God with all you have…then do whatever you want. For if you truly love God, you will do nothing to hurt him.”
As I read today’s scripture I recall my mother’s teachings. Our Lord never insists on obedience. In fact, he stresses relationship. He pursues us across the multiverse, desiring fellowship and union with us even when we are disobedient. He even died for us to provide reconciliation, restoration and…relationship. Not to make us obedient.
If He wanted to motivate obedience, He would offer heaven to the obedient, or threaten to send the disobedient to hell. God does neither. Instead, He rewards or consequents us based on whether we are in relationship with Him or not.
God stresses very definitely what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We find that we will obey Him out of love. Notice that when Jesus speaks about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If," clearly telling us we have a choice. When we are in relationship with and really love Him, we will obey. If we are truly wise, we will follow His guidance…if we really want comfort, we will trust His direction.
Today, focus on growing your love for God. Focus less on the dos and don’ts and more on simply loving God. When you have a choice, ask yourself, “Why am a choosing this option?” hopefully you answer, “because I love God”, not because I need to do what is right. For if you truly love Him, you will be less prone to do anything to hurt him. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on obedience vs. love.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for the freedom to choose. I thank You, Father, for the clarity of the messages from Your Son, Jesus. Help me, Father, to grow my love for You…and then let that love guide all my decisions and actions. I pray, Father, that You protect me from all evil influences impacting my decisions. I pray in the name of my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
"If you love me, you will obey what I command.”
John 14:15
"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23
Monday, January 4, 2010
Stepping Stones: Battery Acid for the Soul
Transformational Tip
Christmas reminds or teaches us many principles related to God and us. Jesus was sent to bring peace on Earth…peace between God and us…for reconciliation. God is Holy, we are sinners. Our sin brings tremendous conflict and is a grievous transgression against God. We need forgiveness…that’s where Jesus enters.
Forgiveness is powerful, and is incredibly modeled to us throughout the Bible. We are involved in conflict in all of our relationships…even with ourselves. God commands to forgive those who transgress us…it glorifies Him.
There are two other reasons why we must act on the Scripture’s instructions to forgive. First, withholding forgiveness is harmful for us. It brings on bitterness, anger, resentment, isolation, depression, health problems, struggles with addictions…and so many more ugly things. Neal T. Anderson wrote that it’s like “battery acid for the soul.”
The second reason is maybe even more distressing. Scripture tells us that if we withhold forgiveness from one another, the Father will withhold forgiveness from us.
Today, in ’10, choose to forgive more. Forgive someone from whom you have been withholding forgiveness. It’s not my kingdom come…it’s “Thy kingdom come.” Then trust God to bring healing to your feelings and memories once we choose to forgive. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on purging the acid from your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I find it so hard, so painful to forgive. But then I think of the pain and suffering Your son Jesus endured to forgive my sins. I hear what Your word tells me about forgiveness and the consequences of withholding forgiveness. Help me to hear You more clearly and obey Your command to forgive. Bless me, Father, with quickness to forgive in all situations. I trust in You, Lord, that once I forgive, You will provide me with Your healing power. I pray in the name of the one You sent to die for my forgiveness and to teach me to forgive, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Matthew 18:21-22
"Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
Matthew 18:32-35
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
Mark 11:25
Christmas reminds or teaches us many principles related to God and us. Jesus was sent to bring peace on Earth…peace between God and us…for reconciliation. God is Holy, we are sinners. Our sin brings tremendous conflict and is a grievous transgression against God. We need forgiveness…that’s where Jesus enters.
Forgiveness is powerful, and is incredibly modeled to us throughout the Bible. We are involved in conflict in all of our relationships…even with ourselves. God commands to forgive those who transgress us…it glorifies Him.
There are two other reasons why we must act on the Scripture’s instructions to forgive. First, withholding forgiveness is harmful for us. It brings on bitterness, anger, resentment, isolation, depression, health problems, struggles with addictions…and so many more ugly things. Neal T. Anderson wrote that it’s like “battery acid for the soul.”
The second reason is maybe even more distressing. Scripture tells us that if we withhold forgiveness from one another, the Father will withhold forgiveness from us.
Today, in ’10, choose to forgive more. Forgive someone from whom you have been withholding forgiveness. It’s not my kingdom come…it’s “Thy kingdom come.” Then trust God to bring healing to your feelings and memories once we choose to forgive. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on purging the acid from your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I find it so hard, so painful to forgive. But then I think of the pain and suffering Your son Jesus endured to forgive my sins. I hear what Your word tells me about forgiveness and the consequences of withholding forgiveness. Help me to hear You more clearly and obey Your command to forgive. Bless me, Father, with quickness to forgive in all situations. I trust in You, Lord, that once I forgive, You will provide me with Your healing power. I pray in the name of the one You sent to die for my forgiveness and to teach me to forgive, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Matthew 18:21-22
"Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
Matthew 18:32-35
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
Mark 11:25
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Stepping Stones: Lay That Stone Down
Transformational Tip
Try as I may, I find that my brokenness and sin of the past is like huge stone hanging around my neck. Carrying that stone brings guilt, shame and weakness. I know and believe I have been forgiven, but I struggle with laying that stone down and walking away from it.
Our yesterdays hold broken and irreversible things for us. It is true that we have lost opportunities that will never return, but God can transform this destructive guilt and anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness and hope for a transforming future.
Trusting God’s forgiveness is a big and difficult stretch…for most, myself included, really receiving God’s forgiveness takes time. For me, I had to work up to this huge step of trust by practicing, implementing, and applying trust in much smaller areas of life and my relationship with God.
Trusting Him when…there is an illness…a flat tire…change of my plans…someone else is in charge…a deadline is changed…a random bill comes into the mix… protection for my children is needed…I don’t feel loved or valued. Like any skill, starting small, practicing, then stretching it, can lead to powerful skills. Trust is the same way. Trusting in His power of forgiveness is one of the richest skills you can develop. Let the past rest, but let it rest in the sweet embrace of Jesus Christ.
Today, leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into the invincible future with Him. Start by trusting Him, His agenda, promises, character, and instruction in 5 situations today. You already do, but learn that it is trusting in God so you can grow it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on letting the past rest with Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I can easily become paralyzed with shame, guilt, and fear over my past. I have hurt You…and I know I have hurt others. I am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness – Thank You, Lord. I ask You, Father, to help me lay down this heavy stone of my past that I have been carrying. Let me remember and be accountable for my past brokenness and sin…but let it not keep me from moving toward you with freedom. I pray in the name of the one who You sent to lift the burdens of my past, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the LORD will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.
Isaiah 52:12
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 will cleanse them from all the guilt of their sin against me, and I will forgive all the guilt of their sin and rebellion against me.
Jeremiah 33:8
Try as I may, I find that my brokenness and sin of the past is like huge stone hanging around my neck. Carrying that stone brings guilt, shame and weakness. I know and believe I have been forgiven, but I struggle with laying that stone down and walking away from it.
Our yesterdays hold broken and irreversible things for us. It is true that we have lost opportunities that will never return, but God can transform this destructive guilt and anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness and hope for a transforming future.
Trusting God’s forgiveness is a big and difficult stretch…for most, myself included, really receiving God’s forgiveness takes time. For me, I had to work up to this huge step of trust by practicing, implementing, and applying trust in much smaller areas of life and my relationship with God.
Trusting Him when…there is an illness…a flat tire…change of my plans…someone else is in charge…a deadline is changed…a random bill comes into the mix… protection for my children is needed…I don’t feel loved or valued. Like any skill, starting small, practicing, then stretching it, can lead to powerful skills. Trust is the same way. Trusting in His power of forgiveness is one of the richest skills you can develop. Let the past rest, but let it rest in the sweet embrace of Jesus Christ.
Today, leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into the invincible future with Him. Start by trusting Him, His agenda, promises, character, and instruction in 5 situations today. You already do, but learn that it is trusting in God so you can grow it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on letting the past rest with Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I can easily become paralyzed with shame, guilt, and fear over my past. I have hurt You…and I know I have hurt others. I am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness – Thank You, Lord. I ask You, Father, to help me lay down this heavy stone of my past that I have been carrying. Let me remember and be accountable for my past brokenness and sin…but let it not keep me from moving toward you with freedom. I pray in the name of the one who You sent to lift the burdens of my past, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the LORD will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.
Isaiah 52:12
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 will cleanse them from all the guilt of their sin against me, and I will forgive all the guilt of their sin and rebellion against me.
Jeremiah 33:8
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: Smaller Steps Achieves Bigger Goals
Transformational Tip
At this time of year, I feel as if I need to make progress in leaps and bounds…to take big steps toward my goals. Then I begin worrying about all the obstacles of tomorrow and the days ahead. So I have to keep reminding myself of the value of breaking the journey down into small steps.
Trying to jump to the top of the mountain all in one leap never works. We try several times, hitting halfway up the mountain each time, then slide down…being tired, our next several attempts hit 40% of the way up the mountain, then slide down. Eventually, we get tired of trying and just quit.
The need to climb the mountain one step at a time and establish base camps, so in case we slide down a little bit, we can re-group at our last base camp, assess why we slid, and power back up the mountain…again, in small, doable steps.
Jesus encouraged us not to worry about tomorrow since today has enough of its own problems. In the weakness of turbulent and unsteady emotions, we may need to settle for smaller steps to allow us to reach our goals. The wisdom of the moment provided by God, and the ever-present reassurance of the One who says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” provide the breeze for our sails.
Our Stepping Stones provides tips to help you assess yourself, understand a strategy for transformation, and offer possible smaller steps you might want to take…then to support those tips with scripture and prayer. It is our hope, beyond providing daily scripture and prayer, that you may find true “stepping stones” in your journey to obtain the “Mind of Christ.”
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on breaking the journey into smaller steps.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for reminding me that small steps will get me there. I pray that You will guide me to the step I need to take today, and help me not worry about the steps I need to take tomorrow and beyond. I pray in the name of the one who You send to show me the path forward, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
Hebrews 13:5
At this time of year, I feel as if I need to make progress in leaps and bounds…to take big steps toward my goals. Then I begin worrying about all the obstacles of tomorrow and the days ahead. So I have to keep reminding myself of the value of breaking the journey down into small steps.
Trying to jump to the top of the mountain all in one leap never works. We try several times, hitting halfway up the mountain each time, then slide down…being tired, our next several attempts hit 40% of the way up the mountain, then slide down. Eventually, we get tired of trying and just quit.
The need to climb the mountain one step at a time and establish base camps, so in case we slide down a little bit, we can re-group at our last base camp, assess why we slid, and power back up the mountain…again, in small, doable steps.
Jesus encouraged us not to worry about tomorrow since today has enough of its own problems. In the weakness of turbulent and unsteady emotions, we may need to settle for smaller steps to allow us to reach our goals. The wisdom of the moment provided by God, and the ever-present reassurance of the One who says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” provide the breeze for our sails.
Our Stepping Stones provides tips to help you assess yourself, understand a strategy for transformation, and offer possible smaller steps you might want to take…then to support those tips with scripture and prayer. It is our hope, beyond providing daily scripture and prayer, that you may find true “stepping stones” in your journey to obtain the “Mind of Christ.”
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on breaking the journey into smaller steps.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for reminding me that small steps will get me there. I pray that You will guide me to the step I need to take today, and help me not worry about the steps I need to take tomorrow and beyond. I pray in the name of the one who You send to show me the path forward, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:34
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
James 1:5
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
Hebrews 13:5
Friday, January 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: Guarantee: Time Passes – What Will You Do?
Transformational Tip
Happy New Year! Seems like last year was Y2K and all the commotion about street lights going crazy…retirement funds being depleted…financial chaos on Wall Street…no water and food being available…people reserving generators over one year in advance. Then 9/11/01 and the economy crashing. Wow! This decade has blown by quickly.
I’ve never met anyone who thinks time has passed slowly. Really, the only thing we are guaranteed in life (assuming the Rapture doesn’t occur), is this…Time Passes! Unless you die, time passes, and as we’ve noted…time passes, quickly.
So here’s my point…Putting the above observations together, we are guaranteed that Jan 1, 2011, will be here very quickly. Just preparing you. The question you need to ask yourself, “Do I want to be in the same positions, shoes, state of mind, level of maturity, degree of impact on family and friends, as I am now?…or do I want more from myself!” We all want to grow. In fact, God commands us to mature, to go from milk to solid food. If you aren’t going forward, then you are going backward. Life is much easier and more fulfilling when we are growing.
Growth starts with setting a goal…then realizing where you are now, and developing a strategy to navigate life from where you are now to progress to your goal. To make growth happen, self-reflection and assessment are key. 12/31 is a time most look back and assess, but it is hard to assess one year in a just a few minutes. That’s just lazy and shortsighted. You didn’t get this way overnight and you don’t assess it in a few hours.
Today, write down who you want to be on 1/1/11. Be very descriptive about your spiritual, emotional, thinking, and relational world. Then commit to 15-30 minutes per day of some serious self-reflection/assessment. The return on this small investment will be life-changing. WITHIN REACH will give you a unique and powerful strategy to bring dramatic growth in all areas of your life. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on 1/1/11.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are so Holy and amazing, I am in awe. Thank You for not giving up on me a sinner, and actually wanting to come along side me, bear my yoke, be my Counselor, and grow me to be Christ-like. I know You want to finish the work You started and have promised You will. Show me how to use your Holy Spirit, instruction, and understanding of who You are, to transform my mind and life. I pray in the name of the one who who started this tansformational revolution, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
Ephesians 4:1
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
James 1:23-25
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16,17
Happy New Year! Seems like last year was Y2K and all the commotion about street lights going crazy…retirement funds being depleted…financial chaos on Wall Street…no water and food being available…people reserving generators over one year in advance. Then 9/11/01 and the economy crashing. Wow! This decade has blown by quickly.
I’ve never met anyone who thinks time has passed slowly. Really, the only thing we are guaranteed in life (assuming the Rapture doesn’t occur), is this…Time Passes! Unless you die, time passes, and as we’ve noted…time passes, quickly.
So here’s my point…Putting the above observations together, we are guaranteed that Jan 1, 2011, will be here very quickly. Just preparing you. The question you need to ask yourself, “Do I want to be in the same positions, shoes, state of mind, level of maturity, degree of impact on family and friends, as I am now?…or do I want more from myself!” We all want to grow. In fact, God commands us to mature, to go from milk to solid food. If you aren’t going forward, then you are going backward. Life is much easier and more fulfilling when we are growing.
Growth starts with setting a goal…then realizing where you are now, and developing a strategy to navigate life from where you are now to progress to your goal. To make growth happen, self-reflection and assessment are key. 12/31 is a time most look back and assess, but it is hard to assess one year in a just a few minutes. That’s just lazy and shortsighted. You didn’t get this way overnight and you don’t assess it in a few hours.
Today, write down who you want to be on 1/1/11. Be very descriptive about your spiritual, emotional, thinking, and relational world. Then commit to 15-30 minutes per day of some serious self-reflection/assessment. The return on this small investment will be life-changing. WITHIN REACH will give you a unique and powerful strategy to bring dramatic growth in all areas of your life. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on 1/1/11.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You are so Holy and amazing, I am in awe. Thank You for not giving up on me a sinner, and actually wanting to come along side me, bear my yoke, be my Counselor, and grow me to be Christ-like. I know You want to finish the work You started and have promised You will. Show me how to use your Holy Spirit, instruction, and understanding of who You are, to transform my mind and life. I pray in the name of the one who who started this tansformational revolution, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6
I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
Ephesians 4:1
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
James 1:23-25
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16,17
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