Transformational Tip
Yesterday we introduced a Biblical definition and description of addiction. Today is an experiential description. If you missed yesterday’s, read it now.
Nobody caught in an addiction wanted to feel trapped by it when they first started. Sadly, that is the ultimate end for all addictive behaviors.
Addictions are complete enslavement. Some people can feel it, while others are fooled into thinking they aren’t enslaved, but the reality is, we are a slave to the object that soothes. Being “trapped” is exactly where Satan wants us. But we aren’t stupid, so we usually have addiction objects that are well disguised.
People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything. The object of desire for an addict is always staring them right in the face. For some it’s using food as a source of comfort…For others it can be substances, control, relationships, anger, money, power(think parent tactics), the list is endless.
People caught up in an addiction have replaced God with an idol. They found something that promised to give a good time, or make things better or easier to deal with. What entered into their life as an understanding friend and savior quickly became a cruel master. The problem with idols is that they are chosen because we want what we believe they can give us. We believe that they will do something for us, so we give them our devotion. But they are actually stone gods…illusions and lies that trap us.
Today, know and spread the news that for the believer, we have great hope. We are not alone in our addiction. No matter where we are, the Holy Spirit is within us, and intercedes for us before God. Today’s scripture tells us that we are “crucified with Christ, therefore we no longer live, but it is Christ who lives within us.” This is the hope that we do not struggle alone. Christ is with us, and in Him we are free. When we are focused on Him, we can find the strength we need for freedom and victory over addictions.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about stone gods. WITHIN REACH will help you break these patterns applying Bible in practical ways.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Today more than ever I need You to live up to that divine title of Savior. I need You to save me from myself, my addictions, my fears…burdens. I am so tired of trying to do it on my own. I am weary and exhausted, stressed out and alone. Come to me and save me. Free me from my fears and help me to hold on to You, so that my live, dreams, and hopes can be renewed... I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to save me, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.
John 3:18
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
Galatians 2:20
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Stepping Stones: Addictions – I Bet You Got One
Transformational Tip
If you thought this topic of addictions wasn’t for you, I am glad you are reading because…Newsflash: we are all addicts. We are all addicted to comfort. We all have a difficult time dealing with discomfort and especially pain. Even though we say “no pain, no gain”, it’s amazing how quickly we run from discomfort and pain.
You see, we are all born separated from God…that is the ultimate pain. This separation on the cross is what prompted even Jesus to ask God to have this “cup” pass from Him. As kids, we develop strategies to deal with pain. Unfortunately, we aren’t that mature and our “teachers” aren’t perfect, so developing coping mechanisms for physical, psychological, relational, emotional, and spiritual pain management are random, faulty, and short-sighted.
Solutions usually are flesh-driven options, knee-jerk reactions, immediate relievers. These “solutions” are Addiction Objects…things we go to and rely on instead of God in a repetitive way to fill needs that we should be looking to Him to fill. God might choose to provide other objects to fill them, but each time, we should look to Him first, not the object.
Addiction objects can be drugs, alcohol, food, pornography…but can also be anger(really any emotion), work, productivity, security, our intellect, kids, money, spending, martyrdom in the home, exercise, our looks/physique, sports/TV, hobbies, fighting, control, a relationship, sex…if it is something that comforts you or relieves some negative feeling, it can be an addiction object. People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything.
One of the great lies that Satan perpetrates on us…we use these addiction objects for self-protection, but the truth is they are really self-destructive. Just look at Solomon’s experiences in Ecclesiastes, as he pursues everything under the sun for comfort, leaving out God, and declares it is all vanity.
Today, let’s really do some honest reflection. When you are uneasy, lonely, stressed, etc, what do you go to first. Bingo, you found a probable addiction. Try to look to God first and see what He will prescribe for your pain.Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about addictions.
Prayer
Dear Father God, for many years I struggled with the pain of needing to be needed, accepted, valued. I turned to alcohol and drugs to soothe, but they caused more pain. You have freed me from my bondage to drugs and alcohol, but I still struggle with need for control. Help me tolerate discomfort as your grace is sufficient and help me grow the Mind of Christ to look to You as my ultimate Lighthouse of refuge and sanctuary. In Christ’s freeing name; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience-- among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Ephesians 2:1-3
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10
1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, "I have no pleasure in them";
8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.
10 The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.
13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:1,8,10,13
If you thought this topic of addictions wasn’t for you, I am glad you are reading because…Newsflash: we are all addicts. We are all addicted to comfort. We all have a difficult time dealing with discomfort and especially pain. Even though we say “no pain, no gain”, it’s amazing how quickly we run from discomfort and pain.
You see, we are all born separated from God…that is the ultimate pain. This separation on the cross is what prompted even Jesus to ask God to have this “cup” pass from Him. As kids, we develop strategies to deal with pain. Unfortunately, we aren’t that mature and our “teachers” aren’t perfect, so developing coping mechanisms for physical, psychological, relational, emotional, and spiritual pain management are random, faulty, and short-sighted.
Solutions usually are flesh-driven options, knee-jerk reactions, immediate relievers. These “solutions” are Addiction Objects…things we go to and rely on instead of God in a repetitive way to fill needs that we should be looking to Him to fill. God might choose to provide other objects to fill them, but each time, we should look to Him first, not the object.
Addiction objects can be drugs, alcohol, food, pornography…but can also be anger(really any emotion), work, productivity, security, our intellect, kids, money, spending, martyrdom in the home, exercise, our looks/physique, sports/TV, hobbies, fighting, control, a relationship, sex…if it is something that comforts you or relieves some negative feeling, it can be an addiction object. People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything.
One of the great lies that Satan perpetrates on us…we use these addiction objects for self-protection, but the truth is they are really self-destructive. Just look at Solomon’s experiences in Ecclesiastes, as he pursues everything under the sun for comfort, leaving out God, and declares it is all vanity.
Today, let’s really do some honest reflection. When you are uneasy, lonely, stressed, etc, what do you go to first. Bingo, you found a probable addiction. Try to look to God first and see what He will prescribe for your pain.Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective about addictions.
Prayer
Dear Father God, for many years I struggled with the pain of needing to be needed, accepted, valued. I turned to alcohol and drugs to soothe, but they caused more pain. You have freed me from my bondage to drugs and alcohol, but I still struggle with need for control. Help me tolerate discomfort as your grace is sufficient and help me grow the Mind of Christ to look to You as my ultimate Lighthouse of refuge and sanctuary. In Christ’s freeing name; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience-- among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Ephesians 2:1-3
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10
1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, "I have no pleasure in them";
8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.
10 The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.
13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:1,8,10,13
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: Failures: Let God In More
Transformational Tip
The legendary basketball coach John Wooden is known for his motivational quotes. One of my favorite Wooden quotes; "Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be."
Failures in my life have led to long periods of paralysis…of doing nothing. I felt and acted as if I were defeated by my failures. Failures can really distort our lenses if we aren’t diligent in processing them properly. But looking back on some of those failures, I see that they created the greatest opportunity for growth and positive change in my life.
Have you learned from your failures or have you let your failures defeat you?
Everyone experiences failure, but God wants you to trust Him learn, and try again with His help.
When we fail, we often look at it as the last step of a situation…instead, it is just one of the many steps in a long process of growth. It is part of the refining process, letting us know where we need to work and especially where God wants us to invite Him in more to help us.
Today, assess areas where feelings of failure peek in. Ask God in, reflect what you need to work on, seek God’s instruction, be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance…most of all, don’t put that area of struggle above your relationship with God. See yourself through His lenses, one of His very own children through the blood of Christ. Don’t let a single failure continue to defeat you. As Christians, the war is won, failure isn’t a possibility. We have daily battles and He will equip us if we let Him.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about what you have learned from failure.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You know, Father, I have a string of failures…and I continue to fail each time I sin against you. I thank You, Father, for sending to me other believers to serve as guides and teachers. Help me, Father, to learn from each failure. I thank, You, for sending Jesus Christ to forgive my sins. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to give me and all believers victory, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:8,9
The legendary basketball coach John Wooden is known for his motivational quotes. One of my favorite Wooden quotes; "Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be."
Failures in my life have led to long periods of paralysis…of doing nothing. I felt and acted as if I were defeated by my failures. Failures can really distort our lenses if we aren’t diligent in processing them properly. But looking back on some of those failures, I see that they created the greatest opportunity for growth and positive change in my life.
Have you learned from your failures or have you let your failures defeat you?
Everyone experiences failure, but God wants you to trust Him learn, and try again with His help.
When we fail, we often look at it as the last step of a situation…instead, it is just one of the many steps in a long process of growth. It is part of the refining process, letting us know where we need to work and especially where God wants us to invite Him in more to help us.
Today, assess areas where feelings of failure peek in. Ask God in, reflect what you need to work on, seek God’s instruction, be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance…most of all, don’t put that area of struggle above your relationship with God. See yourself through His lenses, one of His very own children through the blood of Christ. Don’t let a single failure continue to defeat you. As Christians, the war is won, failure isn’t a possibility. We have daily battles and He will equip us if we let Him.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about what you have learned from failure.
Prayer
Dear Father God, You know, Father, I have a string of failures…and I continue to fail each time I sin against you. I thank You, Father, for sending to me other believers to serve as guides and teachers. Help me, Father, to learn from each failure. I thank, You, for sending Jesus Christ to forgive my sins. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to give me and all believers victory, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:8,9
Monday, February 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: What You Looking At?
Transformational Tip
When I was a kid, I remember seeing a cartoon and they sliced off the top of his head and threw a bunch of stuff in…like his body was a container. I always wondered what the inside of our body was like. As a physician, God has tremendously blessed me with the opportunity to study the human body.
I’m still amazed at how cool, complex, unexplainable, and interwoven our systems and human body truly is. Impossible is what comes to mind when I hear of doctors, especially psychiatrists, who don’t believe in a divine creator, after they have studied the human body and especially the mind.
After the mind, the coolest and arguably the most complex, is the eye…the lens that determines what material gets in for our mind to work on. What our eyes see, our mind follows. The bible contains many messages, some obvious and others more intricate. Then there are those passages that are so simple and profound at the same time…Truths that really do say it all in a few words and sentences. Today’s scripture reading is one such passage.
Notice God doesn’t say “look to me and you might be saved”…He says you will be saved. Can it get any simpler?
Today, take note of what you are looking at. Wake up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. No matter if there are a hundred and one things vying for your attention; push them aside and look to Him. Let Him be the filter you see everything else thru. "Look unto Me," and salvation is there, the moment you look. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about where you are looking.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I look to you, Father, for only You are my Lord and my God. There are so many forces trying to take my eyes off You, please strengthen my resolve to keep you as my focal point and my guiding light. I know You will direct me and show me the path, if I fix my gaze on You. Give me discernment to realize when Satan is mimicking You. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to be my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
Look to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.
Isaiah 45:22
And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell,
Mark 9:47
When I was a kid, I remember seeing a cartoon and they sliced off the top of his head and threw a bunch of stuff in…like his body was a container. I always wondered what the inside of our body was like. As a physician, God has tremendously blessed me with the opportunity to study the human body.
I’m still amazed at how cool, complex, unexplainable, and interwoven our systems and human body truly is. Impossible is what comes to mind when I hear of doctors, especially psychiatrists, who don’t believe in a divine creator, after they have studied the human body and especially the mind.
After the mind, the coolest and arguably the most complex, is the eye…the lens that determines what material gets in for our mind to work on. What our eyes see, our mind follows. The bible contains many messages, some obvious and others more intricate. Then there are those passages that are so simple and profound at the same time…Truths that really do say it all in a few words and sentences. Today’s scripture reading is one such passage.
Notice God doesn’t say “look to me and you might be saved”…He says you will be saved. Can it get any simpler?
Today, take note of what you are looking at. Wake up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. No matter if there are a hundred and one things vying for your attention; push them aside and look to Him. Let Him be the filter you see everything else thru. "Look unto Me," and salvation is there, the moment you look. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about where you are looking.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I look to you, Father, for only You are my Lord and my God. There are so many forces trying to take my eyes off You, please strengthen my resolve to keep you as my focal point and my guiding light. I know You will direct me and show me the path, if I fix my gaze on You. Give me discernment to realize when Satan is mimicking You. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to be my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
Look to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.
Isaiah 45:22
And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell,
Mark 9:47
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Stepping Stones: Don’t Make God Look For You!
Transformational Tip
I never cease to be amazed at how I can find time to fit something extra in my schedule…picking up one of my kids…a phone call from a pastor…talking to someone needing addiction help…checking out a decent movie…writing a devotional.
Talking to friends, their plates are full, but they add in spur-of-the-moment activities fairly regularly. We all get so busy; planning, working…doing. As children of God and believers, we of course want God in our lives, but do we make room for Him as easily as we make room for all these other less-important endeavors?
Making room for God translates to making time then expecting, actually knowing, He will come. These dates, will be in your best interest and under optimal conditions for you.
Need some motivation. If you don’t find time for God, He will definitely come looking for you, get your attention, and speak. From personal experience, there is less discomfort and more peace and fulfillment when I make regular time for Him instead of making Him chase me down…then, for my good when He has to dethrone those other things I am prioritizing above Him.
Today, focus on making some “elbow room” for God. Find a way to spend some time alone with Him. If you wait to long, He comes looking for you…and the disruptions are usually not pretty. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community why we put God second, or lower.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My life is so full with “stuff” that I often make no room for You – please forgive me, Father. I want to make room for You and expect You in my life. I know You pursue me and when I don’t pursue You, You will come looking. I know You will dethrone my other idols, even if it hurts me now because it is for my growth and protection. Give me eyes to see this care and instruction when it happens and not be hurt, resentful, and short-sighted. Guard me from Satan’s deception so I can see Your love clearly in these encounters. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to make room in me for You, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace,was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;
Galatians 1:15,16
And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.
Luke 9:23-26
I never cease to be amazed at how I can find time to fit something extra in my schedule…picking up one of my kids…a phone call from a pastor…talking to someone needing addiction help…checking out a decent movie…writing a devotional.
Talking to friends, their plates are full, but they add in spur-of-the-moment activities fairly regularly. We all get so busy; planning, working…doing. As children of God and believers, we of course want God in our lives, but do we make room for Him as easily as we make room for all these other less-important endeavors?
Making room for God translates to making time then expecting, actually knowing, He will come. These dates, will be in your best interest and under optimal conditions for you.
Need some motivation. If you don’t find time for God, He will definitely come looking for you, get your attention, and speak. From personal experience, there is less discomfort and more peace and fulfillment when I make regular time for Him instead of making Him chase me down…then, for my good when He has to dethrone those other things I am prioritizing above Him.
Today, focus on making some “elbow room” for God. Find a way to spend some time alone with Him. If you wait to long, He comes looking for you…and the disruptions are usually not pretty. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community why we put God second, or lower.
Prayer
Dear Father God, My life is so full with “stuff” that I often make no room for You – please forgive me, Father. I want to make room for You and expect You in my life. I know You pursue me and when I don’t pursue You, You will come looking. I know You will dethrone my other idols, even if it hurts me now because it is for my growth and protection. Give me eyes to see this care and instruction when it happens and not be hurt, resentful, and short-sighted. Guard me from Satan’s deception so I can see Your love clearly in these encounters. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to make room in me for You, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace,was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;
Galatians 1:15,16
And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.
Luke 9:23-26
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Stepping Stones: Flooding
Transformational Tip
Scripture holds a very clear message from Jesus: "Take no thought for your life" - "Be careful about one thing only” - “your relationship to Me."
Common sense shouts loud and says - "That is crazy, I must think about how I am going to live, I must worry about how I am going to feed and shelter myself…my family." But the message is clear and repeated…Jesus says you must not. Why?
Jesus highlights this because He knows a constant flood of worldly fears and concerns(Satan instigated and flesh induced) work hard at keeping our mind and focus off God. We are never free from the recurring tides of these violations on our thoughts.
If it’s not clothes and food, it will be money or the lack of it…of friends or lack of friends…or that current storm in our life. The worry and bad thoughts come one cup at a time, but for most of us it’s like throwing a cup of water atop an already drowning person. We will certainly drown unless we allow the Holy Spirit to raise our heads up to breathe. Satan came to devour and destroy us. God gives you a strategy, armor, and weapons to fight back. You have to use them to survive.
Today, think about the One who tells us “not to worry about our lives.” We are being told this by Jesus Christ. The One who knows our circumstances better than we ever will, and He says we must not think about these things. When there is competition for your thoughts…and you know there will be…put God first. Truly exalt His name…not just verbally, but in your mind and action…your heart.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about the flood of thoughts that keep your mind off God. Armor of God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You Father for the truth and wisdom offered within Your Holy Word. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may fully internalize the teaching of Jesus. I know my common sense works against me, help me turn from common to uncommon, Godly sense. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to teach us to live by faith, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?”
Matthew 6:25
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me
2 Corinthians 12:9
Scripture holds a very clear message from Jesus: "Take no thought for your life" - "Be careful about one thing only” - “your relationship to Me."
Common sense shouts loud and says - "That is crazy, I must think about how I am going to live, I must worry about how I am going to feed and shelter myself…my family." But the message is clear and repeated…Jesus says you must not. Why?
Jesus highlights this because He knows a constant flood of worldly fears and concerns(Satan instigated and flesh induced) work hard at keeping our mind and focus off God. We are never free from the recurring tides of these violations on our thoughts.
If it’s not clothes and food, it will be money or the lack of it…of friends or lack of friends…or that current storm in our life. The worry and bad thoughts come one cup at a time, but for most of us it’s like throwing a cup of water atop an already drowning person. We will certainly drown unless we allow the Holy Spirit to raise our heads up to breathe. Satan came to devour and destroy us. God gives you a strategy, armor, and weapons to fight back. You have to use them to survive.
Today, think about the One who tells us “not to worry about our lives.” We are being told this by Jesus Christ. The One who knows our circumstances better than we ever will, and He says we must not think about these things. When there is competition for your thoughts…and you know there will be…put God first. Truly exalt His name…not just verbally, but in your mind and action…your heart.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about the flood of thoughts that keep your mind off God. Armor of God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You Father for the truth and wisdom offered within Your Holy Word. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may fully internalize the teaching of Jesus. I know my common sense works against me, help me turn from common to uncommon, Godly sense. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to teach us to live by faith, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?”
Matthew 6:25
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me
2 Corinthians 12:9
Friday, January 29, 2010
Stepping Stones: It's All Connected
Transformational Tip
In Europe, they got this particle accelerator doing funky things. The goal is trying to replicate the conditions that must have existed at the time of the “Big Bang”. I am not sure how exactly the heavens and earth and everything in it were formed, but I do know the true and living God of the Bible “Banged” it into existence.
Most people tend to think that chance governs the universe; that events seem to occur randomly…with little or no meaning. Living this way has no comfort, is random, and makes little sense…it can be very scary viewpoint.
Those who think of the world in this way are missing one extremely important fact; the limitations of our human thinking. What we know of the world we inhabit is miniscule…only the very tip of an enormous iceberg. Below the water surface are interconnected mysteries too vast for any human to understand. This is why Holy Scripture tells us we must “Live by faith and not by sight.”
Today, relax in the face of uncertainty. Apply His plan to you. Since He made everything and you, He has a vested interest in how you turn out, just like we do with our kids…and He will do all in His power to complete us. Reject the concept that all is up for grabs in this chaotic and fallen world, and know that God is wonderfully close to You, working on your behalf. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about all things connected.
Prayer
I know, Father, that it was You who laid the earth’s foundation, who marked off it’s dimensions and set it’s cornerstone. I pray, Father, for increased faith that You are in control of these seemingly random events in my life…for I have been called according to Your purpose. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to teach us to live by faith, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
We live by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation?
Tell me, if you understand.
Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!
Who stretched a measuring line across it?
On what were its footings set,
or who laid its cornerstone - while the morning stars sang together
and all the angels shouted for joy?
Job 38:4-7
In Europe, they got this particle accelerator doing funky things. The goal is trying to replicate the conditions that must have existed at the time of the “Big Bang”. I am not sure how exactly the heavens and earth and everything in it were formed, but I do know the true and living God of the Bible “Banged” it into existence.
Most people tend to think that chance governs the universe; that events seem to occur randomly…with little or no meaning. Living this way has no comfort, is random, and makes little sense…it can be very scary viewpoint.
Those who think of the world in this way are missing one extremely important fact; the limitations of our human thinking. What we know of the world we inhabit is miniscule…only the very tip of an enormous iceberg. Below the water surface are interconnected mysteries too vast for any human to understand. This is why Holy Scripture tells us we must “Live by faith and not by sight.”
Today, relax in the face of uncertainty. Apply His plan to you. Since He made everything and you, He has a vested interest in how you turn out, just like we do with our kids…and He will do all in His power to complete us. Reject the concept that all is up for grabs in this chaotic and fallen world, and know that God is wonderfully close to You, working on your behalf. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about all things connected.
Prayer
I know, Father, that it was You who laid the earth’s foundation, who marked off it’s dimensions and set it’s cornerstone. I pray, Father, for increased faith that You are in control of these seemingly random events in my life…for I have been called according to Your purpose. I pray this in the name of the one who You sent to teach us to live by faith, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
We live by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation?
Tell me, if you understand.
Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!
Who stretched a measuring line across it?
On what were its footings set,
or who laid its cornerstone - while the morning stars sang together
and all the angels shouted for joy?
Job 38:4-7
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Stepping Stones: Don’t Wait…Do It Now!
Transformational Tip
When faced with difficulties or discomfort, our natural reactions are to either ignore it and hope it goes away, or react in a knee-jerk way that sometimes brings immediate relief, but guarantees more damage. Both options never work, but being addicted to comfort, we continue to whip them out when God allows adversity to enter our day.
I have learned…no, I continue to learn the hard way that not dealing with an adversity immediately, compounds the pain and suffering inflicted by that adversity. Waiting, ignoring, hiding never makes it better.
Using this losing strategy really exposes my lack of faith in God’s promises, track record, character, sovereignty and plan for my life…my kingdom come, my will be done mentality instead of…Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done.
In the scripture reading for today, Jesus Christ lays down for us a very important principle; do what you must do now. Do it quickly. If you do not act immediately, if you do not pay the price to settle the adversity, an inevitable process begins…and that process will not stop until you have “paid the last penny.”
Today, think of an adversity that continues to drain you. Settle that score today.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about the value of facing into an adversity.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know Father that I have stayed away from Your light for fear that my bad deeds, sins, and adversities will be exposed. I no longer want to live in darkness. I pray, Father, that You will help me live by Your Truth and in Your Light so that all can see what I do I do through You. Help me, Lord, to learn to deal with my adversities immediately so that they won’t fester and grow. I pray in the name of the one you sent to teach us truth, Jesus Christ, and all God’s children said – AMEN!
The Truth
Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth; you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Matthew 5:25,26
This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.
John 3:19-21
When faced with difficulties or discomfort, our natural reactions are to either ignore it and hope it goes away, or react in a knee-jerk way that sometimes brings immediate relief, but guarantees more damage. Both options never work, but being addicted to comfort, we continue to whip them out when God allows adversity to enter our day.
I have learned…no, I continue to learn the hard way that not dealing with an adversity immediately, compounds the pain and suffering inflicted by that adversity. Waiting, ignoring, hiding never makes it better.
Using this losing strategy really exposes my lack of faith in God’s promises, track record, character, sovereignty and plan for my life…my kingdom come, my will be done mentality instead of…Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done.
In the scripture reading for today, Jesus Christ lays down for us a very important principle; do what you must do now. Do it quickly. If you do not act immediately, if you do not pay the price to settle the adversity, an inevitable process begins…and that process will not stop until you have “paid the last penny.”
Today, think of an adversity that continues to drain you. Settle that score today.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about the value of facing into an adversity.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know Father that I have stayed away from Your light for fear that my bad deeds, sins, and adversities will be exposed. I no longer want to live in darkness. I pray, Father, that You will help me live by Your Truth and in Your Light so that all can see what I do I do through You. Help me, Lord, to learn to deal with my adversities immediately so that they won’t fester and grow. I pray in the name of the one you sent to teach us truth, Jesus Christ, and all God’s children said – AMEN!
The Truth
Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth; you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Matthew 5:25,26
This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.
John 3:19-21
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Stepping Stones: What Do You Have To Renounce?
Transformational Tip
Wow, I’m so glad I got that off my chest…Talking about it doesn’t hurt as much as I thought it would…I feel better now that the cat’s out of the bag…I couldn’t keep that in any longer, one more minute and I was going to blow.
We hear statements like this a lot…I’ve even said it myself, and you probably have too(or at least thought these statements to your self). We periodically struggle with insecurity and inadequacy, so our natural tendency is to hide our faults. We keep our skeletons in the closet…fearing the opinions, judgment, ridicule, or rejection we fear would come if someone saw our inner activities broadcast on the big screen for others to see.
In the dark, away from God’s light, these wounds, faults, dysfunctions seem even scarier and more dangerous. Satan tricks us into thinking that isolating them will kill them, but what will transform them is the Light…Jesus, and all Jesus came to do for us and in us.
Are there any thoughts that you have that you do not want brought out into the light? Thoughts that your ‘sense of honor’, pride, shame, or guilt keep hidden away in secret places of your heart and mind? These shameful thoughts hidden in secret places directly and indirectly take their toll on our daily lives. The greatest penalty; these issues make it impossible to have clear lenses to see God through, and derail our pursuit of the Mind of Christ.
Today, examine your thoughts from God’s perspective and renounce the hidden things of shame in your life. Bring that trash up from the basement and throw it out once and for all. Let someone trusted know about your secret files. Ask their advice…ask them for Biblical backup for the advice…then do it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about renouncing secret and shameful ways.
Prayer
Dear Father God – teach me how to pray. I confess Father that I am full of shameful and secret things…things I try to push down into my sub-consciousness. I know, Lord, that these things work hard at keeping my thoughts away from you, so I denounce these thoughts of envy, anger, lust, regret and any thoughts that I have kept in secret. Show me who I can trust to bring these issues into Your Light. I pray this in the name of the one who shines perfect light on all my shame and sin, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
2 Corinthians 4:2
I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness.
Romans 6:19
Wow, I’m so glad I got that off my chest…Talking about it doesn’t hurt as much as I thought it would…I feel better now that the cat’s out of the bag…I couldn’t keep that in any longer, one more minute and I was going to blow.
We hear statements like this a lot…I’ve even said it myself, and you probably have too(or at least thought these statements to your self). We periodically struggle with insecurity and inadequacy, so our natural tendency is to hide our faults. We keep our skeletons in the closet…fearing the opinions, judgment, ridicule, or rejection we fear would come if someone saw our inner activities broadcast on the big screen for others to see.
In the dark, away from God’s light, these wounds, faults, dysfunctions seem even scarier and more dangerous. Satan tricks us into thinking that isolating them will kill them, but what will transform them is the Light…Jesus, and all Jesus came to do for us and in us.
Are there any thoughts that you have that you do not want brought out into the light? Thoughts that your ‘sense of honor’, pride, shame, or guilt keep hidden away in secret places of your heart and mind? These shameful thoughts hidden in secret places directly and indirectly take their toll on our daily lives. The greatest penalty; these issues make it impossible to have clear lenses to see God through, and derail our pursuit of the Mind of Christ.
Today, examine your thoughts from God’s perspective and renounce the hidden things of shame in your life. Bring that trash up from the basement and throw it out once and for all. Let someone trusted know about your secret files. Ask their advice…ask them for Biblical backup for the advice…then do it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about renouncing secret and shameful ways.
Prayer
Dear Father God – teach me how to pray. I confess Father that I am full of shameful and secret things…things I try to push down into my sub-consciousness. I know, Lord, that these things work hard at keeping my thoughts away from you, so I denounce these thoughts of envy, anger, lust, regret and any thoughts that I have kept in secret. Show me who I can trust to bring these issues into Your Light. I pray this in the name of the one who shines perfect light on all my shame and sin, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!
The Truth
Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.
2 Corinthians 4:2
I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness.
Romans 6:19
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Stepping Stones: Noticing The Unnoticed
Transformational Tip
Yesterday, as I was walking through our small town, I noticed a friend standing across the street. We saw each other at the same time and offered a big wave ‘hello’. Standing just a few feet in front of my friend was an elderly man, who wrongly assumed I was waving at him.
As I crossed the street to talk with my friend, the stranger thought I was coming to speak with him. I could see the excitement in his face as I approached him. I thanked him for such a hearty wave, and then told him I was actually waving at the person behind him.
As I began talking with my friend, the old man excitedly joined in the conversation. It was a bit surprising, but comfortable. I don’t know his story, but it was clear that he was lonely and needed some company…he needed to be noticed.
I “noticed” this stranger by mistake, but it was clear that this simple interaction with two people he had never met before, however brief, brought this man some happiness. I was thankful and proud that my friend showed immediate kindness to this stranger. This many influenced my thoughts for the balance of the day.
There are so many people around us that go unnoticed…so many who live in quiet desperation, just waiting for someone to notice them. Thankfully, while we were desperate and insignificant, the King of Kings did way more for us than just notice, say something nice, then move on…He died for us.
Today, create your own little ministry of the unnoticed. Touch someone’s life with beauty and freshness. Say hello…ask someone a question…be interested in them for 5 minutes…show them a glimpse of how important they are to God...just as the Lord touches you.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about noticing the unnoticed.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I yield to You, my Lord and God. I thank You for the opportunity to see Jesus at work when he produces in the commonplace something that is so inspiring. Help me, Father, to notice those that you bring onto one of the Stepping Stones on my pathway to developing the Mind of Christ. I pray that out of my mind/heart will flow rivers of living water. I pray in the name of Your Son and my Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 5:3
“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."
John 7:38
Yesterday, as I was walking through our small town, I noticed a friend standing across the street. We saw each other at the same time and offered a big wave ‘hello’. Standing just a few feet in front of my friend was an elderly man, who wrongly assumed I was waving at him.
As I crossed the street to talk with my friend, the stranger thought I was coming to speak with him. I could see the excitement in his face as I approached him. I thanked him for such a hearty wave, and then told him I was actually waving at the person behind him.
As I began talking with my friend, the old man excitedly joined in the conversation. It was a bit surprising, but comfortable. I don’t know his story, but it was clear that he was lonely and needed some company…he needed to be noticed.
I “noticed” this stranger by mistake, but it was clear that this simple interaction with two people he had never met before, however brief, brought this man some happiness. I was thankful and proud that my friend showed immediate kindness to this stranger. This many influenced my thoughts for the balance of the day.
There are so many people around us that go unnoticed…so many who live in quiet desperation, just waiting for someone to notice them. Thankfully, while we were desperate and insignificant, the King of Kings did way more for us than just notice, say something nice, then move on…He died for us.
Today, create your own little ministry of the unnoticed. Touch someone’s life with beauty and freshness. Say hello…ask someone a question…be interested in them for 5 minutes…show them a glimpse of how important they are to God...just as the Lord touches you.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about noticing the unnoticed.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I yield to You, my Lord and God. I thank You for the opportunity to see Jesus at work when he produces in the commonplace something that is so inspiring. Help me, Father, to notice those that you bring onto one of the Stepping Stones on my pathway to developing the Mind of Christ. I pray that out of my mind/heart will flow rivers of living water. I pray in the name of Your Son and my Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 5:3
“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."
John 7:38
Monday, January 25, 2010
Stepping Stones: Delivered in…not from Adversity?
Transformational Tip
I have written regularly about the lessons that I learned from my mom. She deliberately took time, thought ahead, and cut life up into small, understandable chunks…so I could understand life, and especially God, better. But I believe her greatest teachings (both deliberate and through example) were about adversity…the storms of our lives.
Mom was no stranger to adversity…mother of fourteen children who lived on the cusp of poverty most of her child-rearing years, she experience enough adversity to break the spirits of 10 people. But through each of the many tribulations, she maintained a calm and peace that was simply beyond belief.
Mom often talked of the misconception of most Christians; that Christian life means being delivered from all adversity. She would explain her view very clearly; that we are not delivered from, but rather IN, adversity.
She quoted scripture which taught us that we should expect adversity…but that there was nothing to fear if you were a child of God. She believed that the strain of life is what builds our strength…that facing into the strain actually gives strength…that God does not give us an overcoming life, but He gives us life as we overcome.
Today, give some thought to the adversity you are facing. Try to think if you ever got better or stronger at anything without work, effort, pain, or adversity. I know I haven’t. Read the scripture below and be mindful that Jesus told us that we would have trouble, but also to “take heart” for He has overcome the world.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about growing through adversity. Click here for past devo on adversity.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know, Father, that Your Holy Spirit’s work in my life offers deep and lasting peace. Thank You, Lord. Unlike worldly peace which is defined by lack of adversity; Your peace offers confident assurance in all situations. Fill me with more of Your Spirit, Father, to help me to restrain the hostile forces of sin, fear, doubt…uncertainty. I pray in the name of the one You sent to deliver me IN my biggest and most dangerous adversity, eternal separation from You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
John 16:33
…to him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:7
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 have written regularly about the lessons that I learned from my mom. She deliberately took time, thought ahead, and cut life up into small, understandable chunks…so I could understand life, and especially God, better. But I believe her greatest teachings (both deliberate and through example) were about adversity…the storms of our lives.
Mom was no stranger to adversity…mother of fourteen children who lived on the cusp of poverty most of her child-rearing years, she experience enough adversity to break the spirits of 10 people. But through each of the many tribulations, she maintained a calm and peace that was simply beyond belief.
Mom often talked of the misconception of most Christians; that Christian life means being delivered from all adversity. She would explain her view very clearly; that we are not delivered from, but rather IN, adversity.
She quoted scripture which taught us that we should expect adversity…but that there was nothing to fear if you were a child of God. She believed that the strain of life is what builds our strength…that facing into the strain actually gives strength…that God does not give us an overcoming life, but He gives us life as we overcome.
Today, give some thought to the adversity you are facing. Try to think if you ever got better or stronger at anything without work, effort, pain, or adversity. I know I haven’t. Read the scripture below and be mindful that Jesus told us that we would have trouble, but also to “take heart” for He has overcome the world.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about growing through adversity. Click here for past devo on adversity.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know, Father, that Your Holy Spirit’s work in my life offers deep and lasting peace. Thank You, Lord. Unlike worldly peace which is defined by lack of adversity; Your peace offers confident assurance in all situations. Fill me with more of Your Spirit, Father, to help me to restrain the hostile forces of sin, fear, doubt…uncertainty. I pray in the name of the one You sent to deliver me IN my biggest and most dangerous adversity, eternal separation from You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
John 16:33
…to him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:7
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
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Stepping Stones: Thinking about enlisting?
Transformational Tip
I know many people don’t like billboards…they mess up the landscape, or they have trashy or ridiculous messages…but I enjoy them. Not all billboards of course...just the ones that make me laugh, challenge me to think a little deeper.
Saw one today that excited me to think. A young Marine standing at attention in full dress; he was staring out into the future. The caption read:
“Are you ready to commit to something greater than yourself?”
I’m sure this advertisement has persuaded many young men and women to enlist, it’s very impactful. While I’m decades beyond the age limit, I was energized and influenced to drive to the nearest recruiting station and enlist.
There is no doubt; we were created by God with a divine longing to commit to something greater than ourselves…to Him. We were born with an emptiness and desire for what John Eldridge calls the Sacred Romance, the title of one of his books. It is this desire-gone-bad that’s at the root of so many sinful ways and addictions. Satan has sent us so many impostor suitors, that look good on the outside, maybe have a fast start, but fizzle when it starts to count.
Today, ask yourself the question; what have I committed to…really? You will be amazed at how many of your real commitments, I mean ongoing commitments, are all about you at the end of the day. Are you ready to commit to something greater than yourself? With that enlistment will come both peace, purpose, power over the crap of this world, and a divine appointment with the King of Kings.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about committing to a power greater than yourself.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I commit myself to You, the power not only greater than myself, but greater than all the anything in the multi-verse. There are so many forces working against me. Thank You, Father, for you Holy Words that promise Your peace and “rest on every side”. I pray in the name of the one You sent to recruit and free me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
They took an oath to the LORD with loud acclamation, with shouting and with trumpets and horns. All Judah rejoiced about the oath because they had sworn it wholeheartedly. They sought God eagerly, and he was found by them. So the LORD gave them rest on every side.
2 Chronicles 15:14-15
I know many people don’t like billboards…they mess up the landscape, or they have trashy or ridiculous messages…but I enjoy them. Not all billboards of course...just the ones that make me laugh, challenge me to think a little deeper.
Saw one today that excited me to think. A young Marine standing at attention in full dress; he was staring out into the future. The caption read:
“Are you ready to commit to something greater than yourself?”
I’m sure this advertisement has persuaded many young men and women to enlist, it’s very impactful. While I’m decades beyond the age limit, I was energized and influenced to drive to the nearest recruiting station and enlist.
There is no doubt; we were created by God with a divine longing to commit to something greater than ourselves…to Him. We were born with an emptiness and desire for what John Eldridge calls the Sacred Romance, the title of one of his books. It is this desire-gone-bad that’s at the root of so many sinful ways and addictions. Satan has sent us so many impostor suitors, that look good on the outside, maybe have a fast start, but fizzle when it starts to count.
Today, ask yourself the question; what have I committed to…really? You will be amazed at how many of your real commitments, I mean ongoing commitments, are all about you at the end of the day. Are you ready to commit to something greater than yourself? With that enlistment will come both peace, purpose, power over the crap of this world, and a divine appointment with the King of Kings.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about committing to a power greater than yourself.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I commit myself to You, the power not only greater than myself, but greater than all the anything in the multi-verse. There are so many forces working against me. Thank You, Father, for you Holy Words that promise Your peace and “rest on every side”. I pray in the name of the one You sent to recruit and free me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
They took an oath to the LORD with loud acclamation, with shouting and with trumpets and horns. All Judah rejoiced about the oath because they had sworn it wholeheartedly. They sought God eagerly, and he was found by them. So the LORD gave them rest on every side.
2 Chronicles 15:14-15
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You a Storm-Chaser?
Transformational Tip
Storm-chasing was a topic made popular by the movie, Tornado, where it depicted people, professionals and amateurs alike, who literally chased life-endangering storms. These types of people are actually drawn to the storms. Most do it to take once in a lifetime photos…others do it for the thrill and the danger…adrenaline junkies
As writers for Stepping Stones Devotionals we often reference “storms” in our lives. Times of turbulence, anxiety, darkness and pending doom. The general connotation is that storms come out of nowhere and hit us when we least expect them…that we have no storm early-warning system.
There is a certain group of people (I have been one myself in the past) that actually create and chase life’s storms. They make conscience choices that lead them right into the eye of a storm…and they repeatedly make those same bad choices. Not only do they create storms for themselves, they create storms for all those around them.
It’s my belief that some storms arrive without warning that we cannot avoid; catastrophic sickness, a car accident, a fallen economy impacting our jobs. But there are also storms created by our bad decisions. Of course we know that the enemy is constantly trying to influence us to make bad, life and soul damaging, choices; but we must also accept that we were created with this beautiful thing called free will…we always have choices.
Today, examine yourself. Explore whether or not that you are a storm-chaser. Do you make choices that yet again place you smack in the eye of a storm? Think what choices you might want to make to avoid a storm…think how you might create your own great weather. WITHIN REACH will help you examine your decisions, helping you make great weather, not storms in your life.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about chasing storms.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I humble myself under Your almighty hand. As I truthfully examine my past actions, I am guilty of creating and chasing storms. I no longer want to seek storms, but know that You are my lighthouse in the storm I cannot avoid. Help me Lord to stop chasing storms and chase You instead…Help me run away from storms by constantly setting my compass toward You. I pray in the name of my early-warning system, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
As writers for Stepping Stones Devotionals we often reference “storms” in our lives. Times of turbulence, anxiety, darkness and pending doom. The general connotation is that storms come out of nowhere and hit us when we least expect them…that we have no storm early-warning system.
There is a certain group of people (I have been one myself in the past) that actually create and chase life’s storms. They make conscience choices that lead them right into the eye of a storm…and they repeatedly make those same bad choices. Not only do they create storms for themselves, they create storms for all those around them.
It’s my belief that some storms arrive without warning that we cannot avoid; catastrophic sickness, a car accident, a fallen economy impacting our jobs. But there are also storms created by our bad decisions. Of course we know that the enemy is constantly trying to influence us to make bad, life and soul damaging, choices; but we must also accept that we were created with this beautiful thing called free will…we always have choices.
Today, examine yourself. Explore whether or not that you are a storm-chaser. Do you make choices that yet again place you smack in the eye of a storm? Think what choices you might want to make to avoid a storm…think how you might create your own great weather. WITHIN REACH will help you examine your decisions, helping you make great weather, not storms in your life.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about chasing storms.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I humble myself under Your almighty hand. As I truthfully examine my past actions, I am guilty of creating and chasing storms. I no longer want to seek storms, but know that You are my lighthouse in the storm I cannot avoid. Help me Lord to stop chasing storms and chase You instead…Help me run away from storms by constantly setting my compass toward You. I pray in the name of my early-warning system, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
Friday, January 22, 2010
Stepping Stones: What is Your Instrument Panel?
Transformational Tip
During a recent Trans Atlantic flight I had the experience of flying through a violent storm; it lasted about an hour. Pilot told the passengers the storm was so large that there was no way to go around it.
I had the chance to talk with the pilot after we landed. I asked him if he felt flying through a storm was dangerous. He said; “No, but as any pilot will tell you, the danger comes in giving into the temptation to fly by your instincts vs using the instrument panel.” He went on to explain how easy it is to become disoriented if you rely on instincts (thinking the plane is going up when it’s actually going down), but thankfully the instrument panel is set to magnetic north and can be trusted every time. He said that letting the instruments guide you…even when it feels wrong…ensures safety in the storm.
We all face storms that threaten to confuse and disorient us. A call from the doctor’s office, the betrayal of a loved one or a friend…a shattered dream. Those are the times to be especially careful. When you are blinded by life’s disappointments, don’t trust your instincts. Flying by the seat of your pants in the storms of life can lead to despair, confusion, and vengeful responses that make matters worse…and this is exactly where Satan wants you to be. God wants to guide you, and His Word is packed with wisdom and insights for living. You have to trust something to guide you. So, what is your instrument panel? Go to your Bible, and trust God to guide you.
In today’s storms, make the decision to use God as your instrument panel during the storms in your life. If you are experiencing a conflict, examine what you are leaning on then compare it to the power and track record of God and His word. You definitely want to follow where His instrument panel guides you.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on what you use as your instrument panel.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I seemed to spend most of my life in storms…worse yet, I get disoriented easily. I turn now to You, God, to help me know what is up and what is down. You are my instrument panel and my lighthouse…teach me how to develop antennae for Your signals, then how to follow Your tracking signal. I pray in the name of the ultimate instrument panel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
Psalm 32:8
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105
During a recent Trans Atlantic flight I had the experience of flying through a violent storm; it lasted about an hour. Pilot told the passengers the storm was so large that there was no way to go around it.
I had the chance to talk with the pilot after we landed. I asked him if he felt flying through a storm was dangerous. He said; “No, but as any pilot will tell you, the danger comes in giving into the temptation to fly by your instincts vs using the instrument panel.” He went on to explain how easy it is to become disoriented if you rely on instincts (thinking the plane is going up when it’s actually going down), but thankfully the instrument panel is set to magnetic north and can be trusted every time. He said that letting the instruments guide you…even when it feels wrong…ensures safety in the storm.
We all face storms that threaten to confuse and disorient us. A call from the doctor’s office, the betrayal of a loved one or a friend…a shattered dream. Those are the times to be especially careful. When you are blinded by life’s disappointments, don’t trust your instincts. Flying by the seat of your pants in the storms of life can lead to despair, confusion, and vengeful responses that make matters worse…and this is exactly where Satan wants you to be. God wants to guide you, and His Word is packed with wisdom and insights for living. You have to trust something to guide you. So, what is your instrument panel? Go to your Bible, and trust God to guide you.
In today’s storms, make the decision to use God as your instrument panel during the storms in your life. If you are experiencing a conflict, examine what you are leaning on then compare it to the power and track record of God and His word. You definitely want to follow where His instrument panel guides you.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts on what you use as your instrument panel.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I seemed to spend most of my life in storms…worse yet, I get disoriented easily. I turn now to You, God, to help me know what is up and what is down. You are my instrument panel and my lighthouse…teach me how to develop antennae for Your signals, then how to follow Your tracking signal. I pray in the name of the ultimate instrument panel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!
The Truth
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
Psalm 32:8
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Stepping Stones: Put God on Speed Dial…World on Hold
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
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
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
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