Transformational Tip
My father was a wonderful man, unfortunately he suffered from extreme prejudice. I believe most of it came from his father. Thank God that I and my siblings had a mother who worked hard at eliminating prejudice in her children.
Prejudice can creep into our lives without our awareness of what is happening. Sometimes it's such a subtle thing that we don't think anything of it. We might choose one cashier's line over another because of race or dress or general appearance. In church or any public gathering, we may select seats next to people who "look like us."
Or we might assume that people with power or wealth are unapproachable to anyone not in their league. This too, is judgment based on prejudice, not fact.
People are people…no matter what our skin color, economic status, education or neighborhood. We all want to be loved and respected by other people. We all experience painful times and good times. We all want to be understood.
Prejudice is really disrespectful…saying you know a person without even hearing their unique story. It is lazy and disrespectful of yourself, but mostly it is disrespectful to God and His sovereignty. Pre-judging also puts others in a box, limiting who they are and can be…it also puts you in a box, limiting what you are able to learn and imagine about yourself and others. And most importantly, pre-judging really limits God and puts Him in a box…denying His power to really transform hearts and a person.
Have you ever experienced the brunt of prejudice? If so, you understand the hurt it can bring. Ask God to use that experience to teach you to lay aside all prejudice toward others and, when possible, take time getting to know the real person.
Let us ask God to teach us to look at the heart.
Today, stop and notice why you think or relate to someone the way you do. Is it because of pre-judging, or is it based on data this person actually revealed to you. one of the biggest reasons we don’t witness to others very much is because of prejudicial ideas about that person. Don’t prejudge, enjoy the experience of asking questions and getting to know someone God loves.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community any prejudice that you have experienced or been guilty of.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me remember that people are people. Help me not to look down on anyone…or to be intimidated by anyone. You are the great equalizer. Jesus died for every person. Every person needs forgiveness. Every person needs Jesus. In my relationships with others, help me move past the outward appearance and see the heart. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to save everyone, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart
1 Samuel 16:7
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Stepping Stones: The Sin Before the Sin
Transformational Tip
It is in our power to change a situation that will likely allow fertile circumstances for us to decide to sin…and when we choose not to act to change those circumstances, we are guilty of the sin of nearness…of getting too close. Think of it as the sin before the sin.
The sin before the sin involves the little decisions we make that set us up for temptation and the “final step” decision of the sinful act itself. If we are to overcome the strongholds in our lives that constantly pull us in the wrong direction, we have to come to a place of obedience and do everything possible to eliminate those occasions, that are in our control, that precede our sin. We all know what these occasions look like.
Failing to take appropriate actions to eliminate the stumbling blocks that lead us to sin is a serious issue for many of us. Sexual temptation has presented itself to most of us at some time in our lives. Today's scripture advises us to run from sexual sin.
The closer you get to sexual temptation the better it looks. With sexual sin, the longer we are in the presence of temptation the less likely we are to escape without sinning. It is so much better to avoid the sin before the sin…To run from the sin of nearness.
Today, take notice of the small decisions that lead up to your actual wrong decision. Draw a little map or timeline, so you can see how you had options to intervene or take a different course before you actually made the sinful decision itself. Stay in fellowship with Jesus. Turn to Him for the strength you need. With Him, you can do all things.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the sin before the sin.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me notice the many warnings and opportunities you give me to turn away from the path of sin. Help me recognize and be a better steward in the “little” decisions that lead up to the “bigger” decisions. I can only do this through submission to Your Holy Spirit guiding me in Your wisdom and empowering my action. Especially, help me to run from all temptation that may be involved in sexual sin. Help me to run from this sin and run to you. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to teach me how to resist temptation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body.
1 Corinthians 6:18
It is in our power to change a situation that will likely allow fertile circumstances for us to decide to sin…and when we choose not to act to change those circumstances, we are guilty of the sin of nearness…of getting too close. Think of it as the sin before the sin.
The sin before the sin involves the little decisions we make that set us up for temptation and the “final step” decision of the sinful act itself. If we are to overcome the strongholds in our lives that constantly pull us in the wrong direction, we have to come to a place of obedience and do everything possible to eliminate those occasions, that are in our control, that precede our sin. We all know what these occasions look like.
Failing to take appropriate actions to eliminate the stumbling blocks that lead us to sin is a serious issue for many of us. Sexual temptation has presented itself to most of us at some time in our lives. Today's scripture advises us to run from sexual sin.
The closer you get to sexual temptation the better it looks. With sexual sin, the longer we are in the presence of temptation the less likely we are to escape without sinning. It is so much better to avoid the sin before the sin…To run from the sin of nearness.
Today, take notice of the small decisions that lead up to your actual wrong decision. Draw a little map or timeline, so you can see how you had options to intervene or take a different course before you actually made the sinful decision itself. Stay in fellowship with Jesus. Turn to Him for the strength you need. With Him, you can do all things.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the sin before the sin.
Prayer
Dear Father God, help me notice the many warnings and opportunities you give me to turn away from the path of sin. Help me recognize and be a better steward in the “little” decisions that lead up to the “bigger” decisions. I can only do this through submission to Your Holy Spirit guiding me in Your wisdom and empowering my action. Especially, help me to run from all temptation that may be involved in sexual sin. Help me to run from this sin and run to you. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to teach me how to resist temptation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body.
1 Corinthians 6:18
Monday, April 5, 2010
Stepping Stones: Submission ≠ Weaker Than
Transformational Tip
In God's plan for the family, each family member has a role to fulfill. God's divine revelation for the family is mutual submission.
Each family member is first a child of God. Children of God are to submit to each other out of reverence for Christ. Each family member is called to submit to and respect their own and the other family members' God-given roles. This attitude of mutual respect and submission to God’s plan and the God-determined appointments or roles of each person should pass from generation to generation.
Important lessons about marriage are taught by the parents to the children through verbal and, especially, nonverbal communication. These lessons can have a tremendous influence…good or bad on children. For example, if a husband loves and respects his wife, his son has a better chance of understanding how to love and respect his wife, and is more likely to actually do it. And so on through the generations.
I don’t believe God views the various family positions in a hierarchy of superior to inferior. Each is given a different, but equally important role to play. As each one carries out his or her role in the way God has designed, everyone will glorify God, be blessed, and the family will flourish. Similar to the mutual submission modeled for us by the Trinity…God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
The husband is to honor and submit to his role as a servant-leader, thus serving his wife and family. He also must submit to his wife’s role…to listen to her insights and the special wisdom God has given her. The wife is called to submit to and honor her husband as the spiritual leader with responsibility and authority for the direction of the family and he answers to God.
Children are to honor and obey their parents. Parents are to submit to and honor their children…listening to the simple wisdom God has blessed them with…respecting their God-given talents and gifts and giving room and encouragement to grow in those areas…respecting their children's unique traits and helping them grow into the person God has designed them to be.
Today, identify your role in your family. Respect it and the God-given role of others in your family. That is how true family unity and synergy occurs. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on submission.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank you for Your perfect design for the family. Help our family members to understand and fulfill our roles according to Your plan. Teach us to respect and submit to each other out of reverence for Christ. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to teach me about true submission, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church. As the church submits to Christ, so you wives should submit to your husbands in everything.
For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church. And we are members of his body.
As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
Ephesians 5:21-28
In God's plan for the family, each family member has a role to fulfill. God's divine revelation for the family is mutual submission.
Each family member is first a child of God. Children of God are to submit to each other out of reverence for Christ. Each family member is called to submit to and respect their own and the other family members' God-given roles. This attitude of mutual respect and submission to God’s plan and the God-determined appointments or roles of each person should pass from generation to generation.
Important lessons about marriage are taught by the parents to the children through verbal and, especially, nonverbal communication. These lessons can have a tremendous influence…good or bad on children. For example, if a husband loves and respects his wife, his son has a better chance of understanding how to love and respect his wife, and is more likely to actually do it. And so on through the generations.
I don’t believe God views the various family positions in a hierarchy of superior to inferior. Each is given a different, but equally important role to play. As each one carries out his or her role in the way God has designed, everyone will glorify God, be blessed, and the family will flourish. Similar to the mutual submission modeled for us by the Trinity…God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
The husband is to honor and submit to his role as a servant-leader, thus serving his wife and family. He also must submit to his wife’s role…to listen to her insights and the special wisdom God has given her. The wife is called to submit to and honor her husband as the spiritual leader with responsibility and authority for the direction of the family and he answers to God.
Children are to honor and obey their parents. Parents are to submit to and honor their children…listening to the simple wisdom God has blessed them with…respecting their God-given talents and gifts and giving room and encouragement to grow in those areas…respecting their children's unique traits and helping them grow into the person God has designed them to be.
Today, identify your role in your family. Respect it and the God-given role of others in your family. That is how true family unity and synergy occurs. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on submission.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank you for Your perfect design for the family. Help our family members to understand and fulfill our roles according to Your plan. Teach us to respect and submit to each other out of reverence for Christ. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to teach me about true submission, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church. As the church submits to Christ, so you wives should submit to your husbands in everything.
For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word. He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself. No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church. And we are members of his body.
As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
Ephesians 5:21-28
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Stepping Stones: Do You Keep God In A Box/Tomb?
Transformational Tip
When Mary, Mary, Salome, and the rest visited the tomb on Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Jesus performed many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that He will rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they surprised and not excited to see an empty tomb. Seems like they would be rejoicing and looking for where He would appear to them.
How often do we react the same way...believe God is as limited as us, think He's restricted to the same reality we are, don't believe His promises and predictions, and underestimate His power.
My life has really changed since I realized He is bigger than me, I believe what He promises, and expect the unexpected!
Don't expect God to be dormant in a Tomb. He is at work in and around you... expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it. Thank God the tomb is empty, but why were they surprised. I hope you aren't surprised in your everyday trials. God will show up.
Happy Easter! from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death embolden and encourage your advancement against whatever trials and threats you are facing.
Prayer
Thank you, Father, for Your power You give us by Christ's death, resurrection, and through Your Holy Spirit to be free of sin's grip and Satan's schemes. Give me a heart that will love You even 1/1000 of what You love me. Keep fresh in my mind Your promises and character, so in times of uncertainty, I don't put You in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of Your plan and power. I pray You grant the Stepping Stones readers eyes that see your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise." But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
When Mary, Mary, Salome, and the rest visited the tomb on Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Jesus performed many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that He will rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they surprised and not excited to see an empty tomb. Seems like they would be rejoicing and looking for where He would appear to them.
How often do we react the same way...believe God is as limited as us, think He's restricted to the same reality we are, don't believe His promises and predictions, and underestimate His power.
My life has really changed since I realized He is bigger than me, I believe what He promises, and expect the unexpected!
Don't expect God to be dormant in a Tomb. He is at work in and around you... expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it. Thank God the tomb is empty, but why were they surprised. I hope you aren't surprised in your everyday trials. God will show up.
Happy Easter! from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death embolden and encourage your advancement against whatever trials and threats you are facing.
Prayer
Thank you, Father, for Your power You give us by Christ's death, resurrection, and through Your Holy Spirit to be free of sin's grip and Satan's schemes. Give me a heart that will love You even 1/1000 of what You love me. Keep fresh in my mind Your promises and character, so in times of uncertainty, I don't put You in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of Your plan and power. I pray You grant the Stepping Stones readers eyes that see your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise." But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Stepping Stone: Are You A Judas or a Peter?
Transformational Tip
When we know the outcome, hindsight in 20:20. Well, 2000 years ago, on that day between Christ's crucifixion and resurrection (sorry to spoil the surprise), the disciples must have been in disarray, discouraged, bewildered, afraid for their lives, etc. Most affected, I think, would be Judas who betrayed Jesus for a little money (on the surface), and "ever faithful" Peter, who denied Jesus 3 times, even after Jesus told Peter he would, and Peter, in disbelief, said he wouldn't deny Christ.
Both Judas and Peter screwed up and rejected Christ...now they have a major DECISION to make. Receive God's forgiveness, victory over sin, and love, and put your trust and confidence in Him and His Son who died for us, and joyously rejoice...... Or, let sin defeat them, wallow in guilt, and self pity, be miserable, and kill himself, whether literally like Judas or emotionally, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually, like so many of us do.
Judas relied on his own abilities and resources, realized how flawed and impotent those are to deal with his act, and decided to kill himself. Peter relied on God's abilities and resources, realized how perfect and omnipotent they are to deal with his act, and chose to glorify God and live a victorious life.
We face this decision regularly, as we are sinners and sin a bunch....rejecting or betraying Jesus when we choose “my will be done” instead of “thy will be done.”
Today, Choose to side with our victorious Savior, don't be faked out by Satan as he wants you to believe your situation is bleak, your actions are irreparable, and Jesus is not victorious.
Judas killed himself....Peter become the rock of the early church that revolutionized the world. What will you decide? And don't let it be one and done, but make it an intentional, daily, decision. Whether you achieve your God-given potential and attain the love, joy and peace you strive for depends on it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective being a Judas or a Peter.
Prayer
O gracious Father. I confess that even though I intellectually have you on the throne of my heart and mind, in reality, I reject your kingship and put my selfish desires, agendas, and need to avoid discomfort on the throne. Thank you so much for your forgiveness that you extend to me, unconditionally, even when I reject you big-time, or for a long time. Like the incredible father who received his prodigal son, you have your arms open for me every time I return. Then you have a feast and bless me beyond my dreams. Help the amazement of your greatness and goodness energize me daily. Grow me to be as gracious to others as you have been to me. I pray in the name of the One who stood up for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Luke 22:61,62
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1:1-3
Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself." And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5
When we know the outcome, hindsight in 20:20. Well, 2000 years ago, on that day between Christ's crucifixion and resurrection (sorry to spoil the surprise), the disciples must have been in disarray, discouraged, bewildered, afraid for their lives, etc. Most affected, I think, would be Judas who betrayed Jesus for a little money (on the surface), and "ever faithful" Peter, who denied Jesus 3 times, even after Jesus told Peter he would, and Peter, in disbelief, said he wouldn't deny Christ.
Both Judas and Peter screwed up and rejected Christ...now they have a major DECISION to make. Receive God's forgiveness, victory over sin, and love, and put your trust and confidence in Him and His Son who died for us, and joyously rejoice...... Or, let sin defeat them, wallow in guilt, and self pity, be miserable, and kill himself, whether literally like Judas or emotionally, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually, like so many of us do.
Judas relied on his own abilities and resources, realized how flawed and impotent those are to deal with his act, and decided to kill himself. Peter relied on God's abilities and resources, realized how perfect and omnipotent they are to deal with his act, and chose to glorify God and live a victorious life.
We face this decision regularly, as we are sinners and sin a bunch....rejecting or betraying Jesus when we choose “my will be done” instead of “thy will be done.”
Today, Choose to side with our victorious Savior, don't be faked out by Satan as he wants you to believe your situation is bleak, your actions are irreparable, and Jesus is not victorious.
Judas killed himself....Peter become the rock of the early church that revolutionized the world. What will you decide? And don't let it be one and done, but make it an intentional, daily, decision. Whether you achieve your God-given potential and attain the love, joy and peace you strive for depends on it. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective being a Judas or a Peter.
Prayer
O gracious Father. I confess that even though I intellectually have you on the throne of my heart and mind, in reality, I reject your kingship and put my selfish desires, agendas, and need to avoid discomfort on the throne. Thank you so much for your forgiveness that you extend to me, unconditionally, even when I reject you big-time, or for a long time. Like the incredible father who received his prodigal son, you have your arms open for me every time I return. Then you have a feast and bless me beyond my dreams. Help the amazement of your greatness and goodness energize me daily. Grow me to be as gracious to others as you have been to me. I pray in the name of the One who stood up for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Luke 22:61,62
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1:1-3
Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself." And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5
Friday, April 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: Greatest Day of All Time
Transformational Tip
I was on national TV when I was 12 and 13. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18, and my wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th. The day I met my wife – love at first sight. Wedding Day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest girls a father could have. These were great days, but amazingly, I wasn’t even alive for the greatest day of my life.
About 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man ever, endured humiliation, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross…for ME! He took my punishment for all (that is a lot) of my sins(big ones and little ones).
He was even willing to endure the 3 hour separation from His Father as He bore our sins. He was willing to do that for Me…and YOU!
Because Good, no, GREAT FRIDAY, in accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan’s power, man’s schemes, or sin’s guilt. I am in God’s loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace, no matter what God allows to come into my life.
Today, if you haven’t already, humbly accept Christ as your Savior and King….. He died for your daily and eternal freedom, too. Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours, too. If you have accepted Christ, remember your elation and pass this on to someone who needs to experience the greatest day ever.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above, to a dirty manger, lived as a menial carpenter’s life in a slave family, worked with 12 guys that needed a lot of help, was falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed…..for me. I am sorry I stray from you, but your love and sacrifice doesn’t depend on my obedience, it truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and your redeeming act every day, and live a rejoicing life so other’s see your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus’ great and humble name above all names. Amen.
The Truth
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
About 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man ever, endured humiliation, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross…for ME! He took my punishment for all (that is a lot) of my sins(big ones and little ones).
He was even willing to endure the 3 hour separation from His Father as He bore our sins. He was willing to do that for Me…and YOU!
Because Good, no, GREAT FRIDAY, in accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan’s power, man’s schemes, or sin’s guilt. I am in God’s loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace, no matter what God allows to come into my life.
Today, if you haven’t already, humbly accept Christ as your Savior and King….. He died for your daily and eternal freedom, too. Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours, too. If you have accepted Christ, remember your elation and pass this on to someone who needs to experience the greatest day ever.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above, to a dirty manger, lived as a menial carpenter’s life in a slave family, worked with 12 guys that needed a lot of help, was falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed…..for me. I am sorry I stray from you, but your love and sacrifice doesn’t depend on my obedience, it truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and your redeeming act every day, and live a rejoicing life so other’s see your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus’ great and humble name above all names. Amen.
The Truth
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: Is Marriage For Fools?
Transformational Tip
My 9 yo asked me, “Dad, what is National Atheist Day?” I was thinking hard as I hate looking dumb in front of my girls, especially my 9 yo. I was also thinking, how did the atheists get a day…was it part of the healthcare reform zillion page bill? I gave up and asked for the answer. “April 1…April Fools Day.” She is a little character.
We will tackle marriage today as only fools fall in love. Becoming one in Christ is God's plan for husbands and wives. This spiritual, psychological, and physical union is a special miracle of God. It seems so elusive and frustrating to attain that you almost have to be a fool to even try.
Today's scripture states that a man leaves his father and mother to be joined to his wife. The "leaving behind" is often difficult for the man and the woman when it comes to baggage…like unhealthy behavior patterns, hurt feelings, wounds, neglect, abuse, fears, need for control, and lack of role models for skill development.
In many cases, individuals bring this kind of baggage to the marriage, counting on their new relationship to "fix" the hurt. But there must be openness and real unconditional love for each other with God, Jesus, and the Bible at the center of the relationship. When these are left out, bringing this kind of baggage to the marriage will hurt the relationship and hinder the process of truly becoming one.
Today, turn to Jesus for healing from these kinds of problems. Are there areas of baggage that you need to allow God to help you with in the process of "becoming one"? Are you ready to let Him help? Remember your wedding vows. Why have you broken your covenant to God, your spouse, and loved ones. We all break them, but be intentional about being “foolish” to the world’s way of doing marriage and choose God’s way.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on becoming one with the help of God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I brought some things into my marriage that I should have dealt with before getting married. I guess I really did think that this marriage…and my spouse…would change everything. But I realize now that my answer can only be found in Jesus. Forgive me for waiting until now to turn to You. Thank You for loving me. Help me through this process of healing. Help my spouse and me grow in our relationship and to truly be one in Christ. I pray this and all prayers through your Son and my Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
As the Scriptures say, a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.
Ephesians 5:31
If a man vows a vow to the LORD, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.
Numbers 30:2
My 9 yo asked me, “Dad, what is National Atheist Day?” I was thinking hard as I hate looking dumb in front of my girls, especially my 9 yo. I was also thinking, how did the atheists get a day…was it part of the healthcare reform zillion page bill? I gave up and asked for the answer. “April 1…April Fools Day.” She is a little character.
We will tackle marriage today as only fools fall in love. Becoming one in Christ is God's plan for husbands and wives. This spiritual, psychological, and physical union is a special miracle of God. It seems so elusive and frustrating to attain that you almost have to be a fool to even try.
Today's scripture states that a man leaves his father and mother to be joined to his wife. The "leaving behind" is often difficult for the man and the woman when it comes to baggage…like unhealthy behavior patterns, hurt feelings, wounds, neglect, abuse, fears, need for control, and lack of role models for skill development.
In many cases, individuals bring this kind of baggage to the marriage, counting on their new relationship to "fix" the hurt. But there must be openness and real unconditional love for each other with God, Jesus, and the Bible at the center of the relationship. When these are left out, bringing this kind of baggage to the marriage will hurt the relationship and hinder the process of truly becoming one.
Today, turn to Jesus for healing from these kinds of problems. Are there areas of baggage that you need to allow God to help you with in the process of "becoming one"? Are you ready to let Him help? Remember your wedding vows. Why have you broken your covenant to God, your spouse, and loved ones. We all break them, but be intentional about being “foolish” to the world’s way of doing marriage and choose God’s way.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on becoming one with the help of God.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I brought some things into my marriage that I should have dealt with before getting married. I guess I really did think that this marriage…and my spouse…would change everything. But I realize now that my answer can only be found in Jesus. Forgive me for waiting until now to turn to You. Thank You for loving me. Help me through this process of healing. Help my spouse and me grow in our relationship and to truly be one in Christ. I pray this and all prayers through your Son and my Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
As the Scriptures say, a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.
Ephesians 5:31
If a man vows a vow to the LORD, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.
Numbers 30:2
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Stepping Stones: Why Did I Do That?
Transformational Tip
Often, we are ruled by our feelings…like animals, more often than we like to admit. Instead of letting our actions be determined by our feelings (which easily distorts our lenses…think, love is blind), we need to base our actions on the facts, what is certain and true.
We need to grow in our knowledge of God, the Holy Bible, and of Jesus. We need to understand what Jesus did for us on the cross and the way God sees us. You see, the more our biological science of the brain develops, science is actually proving the Bible is so accurate in diagnosing the human condition and devising a treatment plan. It is only as we do this that we open the door to receive more and more grace and peace from God.
How do we grow in our knowledge? The answer is really very basic. We need to prayerfully study the Bible because that tells us who God is and what He instructs. But you also need to study yourself, so you know how to deeply apply Bible to your life situations. Only then can we begin to live based on our knowledge of who we are through faith in Jesus Christ.
We also need to realize that this is a lifetime process. Every day we have decisions and choices to make. Are we going to base our actions on feelings of fear, insecurity, hopelessness, grief, lack of control, etc…or based on God?
Your feelings may be telling you that you are worthless, but in Christ you are redeemed (paid for at great cost)…you are valuable!
Today, make choices based on God’s truth (word)…not your feelings. When you feel you are being ruled by negative feelings, remember what God's Word says in Ephesians 1:7; that you are forgiven, clean, and that all your sins have been wiped from God's sight. Amen
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “why did I do that?!”
Prayer
Dear Father God, Help me to grow every day in my knowledge of You. Help me today to make choices based on Your truth, rather than my feelings. I thank You that Jesus died for my sins, that I am forgiven and that I am valuable to You. I pray this and all prayers through the One who words will never delude me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.
2 Peter 1:2
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
“Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.
Deuteronomy 30:15,16
Often, we are ruled by our feelings…like animals, more often than we like to admit. Instead of letting our actions be determined by our feelings (which easily distorts our lenses…think, love is blind), we need to base our actions on the facts, what is certain and true.
We need to grow in our knowledge of God, the Holy Bible, and of Jesus. We need to understand what Jesus did for us on the cross and the way God sees us. You see, the more our biological science of the brain develops, science is actually proving the Bible is so accurate in diagnosing the human condition and devising a treatment plan. It is only as we do this that we open the door to receive more and more grace and peace from God.
How do we grow in our knowledge? The answer is really very basic. We need to prayerfully study the Bible because that tells us who God is and what He instructs. But you also need to study yourself, so you know how to deeply apply Bible to your life situations. Only then can we begin to live based on our knowledge of who we are through faith in Jesus Christ.
We also need to realize that this is a lifetime process. Every day we have decisions and choices to make. Are we going to base our actions on feelings of fear, insecurity, hopelessness, grief, lack of control, etc…or based on God?
Your feelings may be telling you that you are worthless, but in Christ you are redeemed (paid for at great cost)…you are valuable!
Today, make choices based on God’s truth (word)…not your feelings. When you feel you are being ruled by negative feelings, remember what God's Word says in Ephesians 1:7; that you are forgiven, clean, and that all your sins have been wiped from God's sight. Amen
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on “why did I do that?!”
Prayer
Dear Father God, Help me to grow every day in my knowledge of You. Help me today to make choices based on Your truth, rather than my feelings. I thank You that Jesus died for my sins, that I am forgiven and that I am valuable to You. I pray this and all prayers through the One who words will never delude me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
May God give you more and more grace and peace as you grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.
2 Peter 1:2
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
“Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.
Deuteronomy 30:15,16
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Stepping Stones: I Just Don’t Have What It Takes…
Transformational Tip
When we are dealing with a life-controlling problem…whether it is a behavior, thought pattern, or feeling state…we may begin to think, "What's the use? I'll never overcome this. I've tried…and failed…again and again. I just don't have what it takes to get things right." Or “I’ve tried so many times and never get anywhere. I guess this is the way God made me and I am stuck like this. This is the way I was born and no escaping it.”
And you know what? We would be right. We probably don't have what it takes. But we know someone who does: Jesus. And the Bible promises us that we can do all things…through Christ. If we are willing to commit our lives to Him, He will give us the strength we need to do what is right. He will guide us on the right path. And He will often send other people to help us.
In order to receive this strength from Christ, we first need to admit that we need help. We need to be honest with ourselves, with Him, and with others. We need to take off our mask of self-sufficiency and get real. Quit using your own instruction manual and start using His for all of your life situations. Start seeing life through the Godly lenses of His Holy Bible. That is what transformed my life and can also transform yours.
Today, if you dealing with a problem right now that seems hopeless…take the first step: Admit you need help. Then, ask God for his plan. Ask him for strength through Christ. Admit to safe/caring people that you need help. WITHIN REACH: Disciplines for Real Life Change is a great resource giving you a concrete strategy to apply the Bible to daily living. VOX Accountability is also a great resource to help you quickly turn your life around.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community what it takes to achieve your God-given potential that is just WITHIN REACH.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been trying everything I know to overcome my problem, but nothing seems to work for the long run. I need…and desire…Your strength and guidance. Help me to be honest about my need with others You send to help me. Help me remember that I can succeed…through Christ, but I need to know how to apply that. Help me lean apply Your word to my life, minute by minute, instead of using my own understanding. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to compensate for all my shortcomings, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Proverbs 3:5-8
When we are dealing with a life-controlling problem…whether it is a behavior, thought pattern, or feeling state…we may begin to think, "What's the use? I'll never overcome this. I've tried…and failed…again and again. I just don't have what it takes to get things right." Or “I’ve tried so many times and never get anywhere. I guess this is the way God made me and I am stuck like this. This is the way I was born and no escaping it.”
And you know what? We would be right. We probably don't have what it takes. But we know someone who does: Jesus. And the Bible promises us that we can do all things…through Christ. If we are willing to commit our lives to Him, He will give us the strength we need to do what is right. He will guide us on the right path. And He will often send other people to help us.
In order to receive this strength from Christ, we first need to admit that we need help. We need to be honest with ourselves, with Him, and with others. We need to take off our mask of self-sufficiency and get real. Quit using your own instruction manual and start using His for all of your life situations. Start seeing life through the Godly lenses of His Holy Bible. That is what transformed my life and can also transform yours.
Today, if you dealing with a problem right now that seems hopeless…take the first step: Admit you need help. Then, ask God for his plan. Ask him for strength through Christ. Admit to safe/caring people that you need help. WITHIN REACH: Disciplines for Real Life Change is a great resource giving you a concrete strategy to apply the Bible to daily living. VOX Accountability is also a great resource to help you quickly turn your life around.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community what it takes to achieve your God-given potential that is just WITHIN REACH.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been trying everything I know to overcome my problem, but nothing seems to work for the long run. I need…and desire…Your strength and guidance. Help me to be honest about my need with others You send to help me. Help me remember that I can succeed…through Christ, but I need to know how to apply that. Help me lean apply Your word to my life, minute by minute, instead of using my own understanding. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to compensate for all my shortcomings, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
Proverbs 3:5-8
Monday, March 29, 2010
Stepping Stones: Time to Take Down the Walls!
Transformational Tip
Have you ever tried to hold an inflated toy under water? That can be hard work. And yet, we often work even harder to keep our true feelings out of view. When we stuff our feelings, we build walls around our real selves and around any problems we may be struggling with.
We often think of walls as protection, but some walls can be destructive to our spiritual growth pursuits.
These self-constructed walls cause us to isolate ourselves from other people…and even from God. They cause us to hide from the truth about a problem that has a hold on us. These walls we build are called defenses. Defenses can take many forms: rationalization, humor, blaming, denying. Have you said something like "What I did isn't so bad" or "You don't understand the pressure I'm under" or “It isn’t so bad” or “It’s in the past, let’s move on.” Sound familiar? We've all used defenses like these to cover the truth.
When we are hiding behind the defenses, we are attempting to hide the truth about ourselves and our situation…from God, from other people, and even from ourselves. We are also blinding ourselves from the truth of God's Word. And yet our only answer is in the truth…because the truth will set us free.
Today, stop and assess if you have built any walls around yourself? Walls that you hoped would defend you. Walls that in reality are blocking the road to freedom. It is important to recognize those walls and begin to tear them down. But remember, you can't tear them down all at once. Building them was a process, and so is tearing them down. It's done by being honest with God, with yourself, and with others(but in a Godly way). It's done by learning to trust the truth of the Bible more than your feelings.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the walls you have built.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I realize I've been trying to hide the truth by building walls around myself. I've rationalized. I've pointed the finger at others. I've denied. But the truth is that I need Your help. Help me to be honest with You, with others … and with myself. Help me to depend on the truth of Your Word more than on my feelings. Help me to tear down the walls. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to help me remove my defenses, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without protection.
Proverbs 25:28
Have you ever tried to hold an inflated toy under water? That can be hard work. And yet, we often work even harder to keep our true feelings out of view. When we stuff our feelings, we build walls around our real selves and around any problems we may be struggling with.
We often think of walls as protection, but some walls can be destructive to our spiritual growth pursuits.
These self-constructed walls cause us to isolate ourselves from other people…and even from God. They cause us to hide from the truth about a problem that has a hold on us. These walls we build are called defenses. Defenses can take many forms: rationalization, humor, blaming, denying. Have you said something like "What I did isn't so bad" or "You don't understand the pressure I'm under" or “It isn’t so bad” or “It’s in the past, let’s move on.” Sound familiar? We've all used defenses like these to cover the truth.
When we are hiding behind the defenses, we are attempting to hide the truth about ourselves and our situation…from God, from other people, and even from ourselves. We are also blinding ourselves from the truth of God's Word. And yet our only answer is in the truth…because the truth will set us free.
Today, stop and assess if you have built any walls around yourself? Walls that you hoped would defend you. Walls that in reality are blocking the road to freedom. It is important to recognize those walls and begin to tear them down. But remember, you can't tear them down all at once. Building them was a process, and so is tearing them down. It's done by being honest with God, with yourself, and with others(but in a Godly way). It's done by learning to trust the truth of the Bible more than your feelings.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the walls you have built.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I realize I've been trying to hide the truth by building walls around myself. I've rationalized. I've pointed the finger at others. I've denied. But the truth is that I need Your help. Help me to be honest with You, with others … and with myself. Help me to depend on the truth of Your Word more than on my feelings. Help me to tear down the walls. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to help me remove my defenses, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
John 8:32
A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without protection.
Proverbs 25:28
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Stepping Stones: Do You Know Who You Are?
Transformational Tip
I have learned recently that I have spent most of my life building and hiding behind defenses, which gave me an illusion of control.
When we hide behind self-built defenses, we may have a sense that we are in control. We tell ourselves that we're holding our feelings under control. But in reality we are not in control at all…our problems are at the wheel… We've pushed away the people who really care about us, the ones who could help us.
And we've allowed our problem, our situation, to take control. It’s the proverbial “slippery slope.” This is exactly where Satan wants us. His lie…these “self-protective” defenses are really self-destructive, both acutely and chronically.
Only when we allow the defensive walls to crumble, and start living and choosing and acting on the basis of who we are in Christ…and on all the strength and guidance and wisdom God has promised and will provide…can we begin to practice true self-control.
Because of Christ…
You are redeemed; paid for at a great price. (Ephesians 1:7) You are forgiven; your sin as far as condemnation has been forgotten. (Psalm 103:12) You are strong and capable; and can do everything through Christ. (Philippians 4:13) You are a conqueror: an overcomer. (Romans 8:37)
Today, examine your areas of stress. Do you let circumstances or your feelings control you? Do your defenses, your coping mechanisms, help you or do they just act as knee-jerk bridges to the next stressor. Build your defenses on Biblical principles to not just escape the stressor, but to shine and be strengthened by it. Know yourself and be seen as God sees you…The Bible makes it clear.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on who you are.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Help me to stop hiding behind my self-built, self destructive defenses. Help me to see myself as You do because of Christ; redeemed, forgiven, strong, capable, an overcomer. Help me to always remember what a great price was paid at the cross so that I could have this new identity. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to give me my new identity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
In everything we have won more than a victory because of Christ who loves us.
Romans 8:37
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20
I have learned recently that I have spent most of my life building and hiding behind defenses, which gave me an illusion of control.
When we hide behind self-built defenses, we may have a sense that we are in control. We tell ourselves that we're holding our feelings under control. But in reality we are not in control at all…our problems are at the wheel… We've pushed away the people who really care about us, the ones who could help us.
And we've allowed our problem, our situation, to take control. It’s the proverbial “slippery slope.” This is exactly where Satan wants us. His lie…these “self-protective” defenses are really self-destructive, both acutely and chronically.
Only when we allow the defensive walls to crumble, and start living and choosing and acting on the basis of who we are in Christ…and on all the strength and guidance and wisdom God has promised and will provide…can we begin to practice true self-control.
Because of Christ…
You are redeemed; paid for at a great price. (Ephesians 1:7) You are forgiven; your sin as far as condemnation has been forgotten. (Psalm 103:12) You are strong and capable; and can do everything through Christ. (Philippians 4:13) You are a conqueror: an overcomer. (Romans 8:37)
Today, examine your areas of stress. Do you let circumstances or your feelings control you? Do your defenses, your coping mechanisms, help you or do they just act as knee-jerk bridges to the next stressor. Build your defenses on Biblical principles to not just escape the stressor, but to shine and be strengthened by it. Know yourself and be seen as God sees you…The Bible makes it clear.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on who you are.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Help me to stop hiding behind my self-built, self destructive defenses. Help me to see myself as You do because of Christ; redeemed, forgiven, strong, capable, an overcomer. Help me to always remember what a great price was paid at the cross so that I could have this new identity. I pray this and all prayers through the One who You sent to give me my new identity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
In everything we have won more than a victory because of Christ who loves us.
Romans 8:37
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Stepping Stones: What Does Your T-Shirt Say?
Transformational Tip
“No Fear” printed across t-shirts. Bumper stickers that question authority. Television programs flaunting rebellion. Movies that trivialize God. More drastic signs of rebellion…abortion, physician-assisted suicide, euthanasia. Sadly, these are all signs of our times.
We have gotten so caught up in our need to be in charge, to be the all-knowing one, to protect our needs and comfort above all else, that we have lost sight of the real authority that is worthy of respect and reverance.
Respect, reverence, and fear have become offensive words in our society. A lack of concern or respect for each other or for anyone in authority has led to rebellion, hatred, and even bloodshed. A lack of respect for mankind and other distorted attitudes can be traced to a lack of reverence toward God. To reverence the Lord means to treat God and his message with awe.
What are some ways we can show our respect and reverence to God? Noah did it by persevering in obedience, for 100 years building as ark, even in very difficult circumstances. Joseph and Daniel have great testimonies of revering and respecting God above all things.
Today, begin to put God first in your live…to have regular devotional times with Him…to live your day-to-day lives in a way that honors him. In the activities of your day, today, are you respecting and honoring God’s authority and His instruction for your life? People who don't know Jesus often judge Him by what they see in His followers. What do they learn about Jesus from your life? What’s on your t-shirt?
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community what’s on your t-shirt.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, It is my desire and goal to please You in everything I do. I know I have fallen short of this goal. Please help me to consistently live in such a way that others will sense Your love and will honor You and want to know You. Help them see me honor Your way and experience the blessings and fruit it brings me and for them to yearn for You. I pray this and all prayers through your Son and my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
“No Fear” printed across t-shirts. Bumper stickers that question authority. Television programs flaunting rebellion. Movies that trivialize God. More drastic signs of rebellion…abortion, physician-assisted suicide, euthanasia. Sadly, these are all signs of our times.
We have gotten so caught up in our need to be in charge, to be the all-knowing one, to protect our needs and comfort above all else, that we have lost sight of the real authority that is worthy of respect and reverance.
Respect, reverence, and fear have become offensive words in our society. A lack of concern or respect for each other or for anyone in authority has led to rebellion, hatred, and even bloodshed. A lack of respect for mankind and other distorted attitudes can be traced to a lack of reverence toward God. To reverence the Lord means to treat God and his message with awe.
What are some ways we can show our respect and reverence to God? Noah did it by persevering in obedience, for 100 years building as ark, even in very difficult circumstances. Joseph and Daniel have great testimonies of revering and respecting God above all things.
Today, begin to put God first in your live…to have regular devotional times with Him…to live your day-to-day lives in a way that honors him. In the activities of your day, today, are you respecting and honoring God’s authority and His instruction for your life? People who don't know Jesus often judge Him by what they see in His followers. What do they learn about Jesus from your life? What’s on your t-shirt?
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community what’s on your t-shirt.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, It is my desire and goal to please You in everything I do. I know I have fallen short of this goal. Please help me to consistently live in such a way that others will sense Your love and will honor You and want to know You. Help them see me honor Your way and experience the blessings and fruit it brings me and for them to yearn for You. I pray this and all prayers through your Son and my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Friday, March 26, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You Building a Tower?
Transformational Tip
Yesterday we talked about unity. Where there is unity, there is much strength… even if people are unified for the wrong reason.
After the flood in Genesis, the world had only one language. The people decided to build a great city with a tower that would go to the heavens. Why? Not to honor God, but to make a name for themselves, and to prevent being scattered over the face of the whole earth. Knowing that this would be an ongoing temptation for man, God confused the language of the people and scattered them all over the earth.
Unity in and of itself is not necessarily good...it is the object or cause that unifies that is important. We need to make sure we are pursuing Godly causes with Godly motives. The oneness we should seek must be in Christ, which honors our Savior.
These people were united, but their purpose was prideful and offensive to the holiness of God. They were seeking equality with God and divine acceptance through human effort.
If we unite to seek power or success, focusing solely on human effort, for human rewards, from human motivations, we displease God…and are destined to ultimately fail. This especially holds true for the church; we must be focused on Christ, not on the organization.
Today, take a look at who you are uniting with…for what goal…and with what motivation. Where is Jesus and the gospel in this pursuit? Be focused on honoring God, not yourself. Always recognize our total dependence on Him. Let us stand together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on building towers.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Forgive me for the times that I've united with others to accomplish something, focusing on selfish ambition and desires rather than honoring You and accomplishing Your will. Help me to always focus on You more than any organization or ambition. It is my desire and goal to honor You in all I do. I pray this and all prayers for the One teaches about true unity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.
Philippians 1:27
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Ephesians 4:12,13
Yesterday we talked about unity. Where there is unity, there is much strength… even if people are unified for the wrong reason.
After the flood in Genesis, the world had only one language. The people decided to build a great city with a tower that would go to the heavens. Why? Not to honor God, but to make a name for themselves, and to prevent being scattered over the face of the whole earth. Knowing that this would be an ongoing temptation for man, God confused the language of the people and scattered them all over the earth.
Unity in and of itself is not necessarily good...it is the object or cause that unifies that is important. We need to make sure we are pursuing Godly causes with Godly motives. The oneness we should seek must be in Christ, which honors our Savior.
These people were united, but their purpose was prideful and offensive to the holiness of God. They were seeking equality with God and divine acceptance through human effort.
If we unite to seek power or success, focusing solely on human effort, for human rewards, from human motivations, we displease God…and are destined to ultimately fail. This especially holds true for the church; we must be focused on Christ, not on the organization.
Today, take a look at who you are uniting with…for what goal…and with what motivation. Where is Jesus and the gospel in this pursuit? Be focused on honoring God, not yourself. Always recognize our total dependence on Him. Let us stand together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on building towers.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Forgive me for the times that I've united with others to accomplish something, focusing on selfish ambition and desires rather than honoring You and accomplishing Your will. Help me to always focus on You more than any organization or ambition. It is my desire and goal to honor You in all I do. I pray this and all prayers for the One teaches about true unity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.
Philippians 1:27
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Ephesians 4:12,13
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Stepping Stones: How Selective is Your Club?
Transformational Tip
So many clubs exist which have very specific criteria for membership…the Italian Club…civic clubs like Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis…Masons…Country Clubs…Labor Unions…Political Parties. Different companies are selective as are the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. Colleges, med schools, the military…even families have criteria and selection processes for membership.
In today's world, harmony and tolerance have become goals within themselves. Peace at any cost…All ways lead to God… Live and let live. Such "tolerant" attitudes actually lead to intolerance of anyone who claims to have the answer.
Religions or moral “clubs”, or groups with a certain belief, seem to be treated differently. Having criteria, or a selection process seem to not be tolerated.
Jesus made it clear that He is the only way to God, the only way to real peace. In Isaiah 9:6 he is called the Prince of Peace. God calls us to love all people, but agreeing that other faiths can lead to God for us to seek unity and peace by is to deny our own faith…the teachings of God, Jesus, and the Holy Bible…and in doing so, we deny Jesus.
As Christians, we are not expressing Christ-like love when we are willing to accept the beliefs of those who deny Christ or live sinful lifestyles as OK…all for the sake of unity and peace. The Bible is clear about God, Jesus, and moral issues.
For such a double standard for “clubs” to exist, to me , this really shows the existence, power, and agenda of Satan, who wants people to believe being nice is all you need to be Holy…and engage with God by avoiding Christ.
Today, begin expressing Jesus' love by loving people where they are, by building relationships with them and…as the Holy Spirit leads; by sharing the truths of the Gospel with them. Jesus is the only answer. Don’t let anybody guilt you into thinking Christianity is the only club with selection criteria. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on expressing Christ-like love and recruiting new “club” members.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Help me to never deny my faith by accepting, for the sake of unity and peace, unscriptural beliefs by others. Help me love others, no matter what their faith. Help me love them enough to build relationships with them and, as the Holy Spirit leads, to share the truth of the Gospel with them…and to do so with love. Help me communicate in a way that all understand that Jesus is the only way. I pray this and all prayers through the One you sent to show us the way, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
John 14:6
So many clubs exist which have very specific criteria for membership…the Italian Club…civic clubs like Rotary, Lions, and Kiwanis…Masons…Country Clubs…Labor Unions…Political Parties. Different companies are selective as are the Pittsburgh Steelers or the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders. Colleges, med schools, the military…even families have criteria and selection processes for membership.
In today's world, harmony and tolerance have become goals within themselves. Peace at any cost…All ways lead to God… Live and let live. Such "tolerant" attitudes actually lead to intolerance of anyone who claims to have the answer.
Religions or moral “clubs”, or groups with a certain belief, seem to be treated differently. Having criteria, or a selection process seem to not be tolerated.
Jesus made it clear that He is the only way to God, the only way to real peace. In Isaiah 9:6 he is called the Prince of Peace. God calls us to love all people, but agreeing that other faiths can lead to God for us to seek unity and peace by is to deny our own faith…the teachings of God, Jesus, and the Holy Bible…and in doing so, we deny Jesus.
As Christians, we are not expressing Christ-like love when we are willing to accept the beliefs of those who deny Christ or live sinful lifestyles as OK…all for the sake of unity and peace. The Bible is clear about God, Jesus, and moral issues.
For such a double standard for “clubs” to exist, to me , this really shows the existence, power, and agenda of Satan, who wants people to believe being nice is all you need to be Holy…and engage with God by avoiding Christ.
Today, begin expressing Jesus' love by loving people where they are, by building relationships with them and…as the Holy Spirit leads; by sharing the truths of the Gospel with them. Jesus is the only answer. Don’t let anybody guilt you into thinking Christianity is the only club with selection criteria. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on expressing Christ-like love and recruiting new “club” members.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Help me to never deny my faith by accepting, for the sake of unity and peace, unscriptural beliefs by others. Help me love others, no matter what their faith. Help me love them enough to build relationships with them and, as the Holy Spirit leads, to share the truth of the Gospel with them…and to do so with love. Help me communicate in a way that all understand that Jesus is the only way. I pray this and all prayers through the One you sent to show us the way, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."
John 14:6
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Stepping Stones: One Step at a Time…It’s a Journey
Transformational Tip
Some days are so busy…hectic…actually, crazy. The world keeps on coming at me…phone calls, requests, glitches in the plan, mail…these never seem to slow down. In fact, as I get older, the demands on me come faster. Feelings and perspective of being so far behind easily wrap their fingers around my neck…slowly choking me.
For some people there are occasional days, that the grip is so tight, things seem hopeless. For others, it’s an endless string of helpless or hopeless days. The end to these feelings or days is hard to visualize and experience.
Some of the problem is how we measure “behind” or “ahead”. We often get sucked into the world’s standard or metrics. We have limited control over some of the demands coming our way so how can we actually measure something we don’t control to determine progress. What we do control is how we respond to what comes our way…and that’s how we should measure progress.
The answer…measure how well your response to the demands and twists of life is rooted in being focused on God. He will bring peace, comfort, answers, and walk with you through the busyness and demands. He promises to be our guide along the journey, so measure how well you follow your guide.
Ask God to clear your thinking and remove any obstacles that may exist in your relationship with him. Perhaps you have made some poor decisions or used bad judgment. God is there to forgive you and help you get back on track.
Today and every day, remind that life is a journey…a series of steps. Remember that you can create the environment for change, but God does the changing. And the Bible assures us that with Him, all things are possible. Let Him be your guide.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of how you grade progress on your journey.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank you for being my constant guide. Help me be sensitive…and obedient…to your guidance. Give me eyes that see and ears that hear Your leading…Your nudging…Your encouragement. Also, when I am off course and in dangerous detours, let me be open to Your need to redirect me back on track even if You need to forcibly push me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to teach us, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For that is what God is like. He is our God forever and ever, and he will guide us until we die."
Psalm 48:14
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Matthew 19:26
Some days are so busy…hectic…actually, crazy. The world keeps on coming at me…phone calls, requests, glitches in the plan, mail…these never seem to slow down. In fact, as I get older, the demands on me come faster. Feelings and perspective of being so far behind easily wrap their fingers around my neck…slowly choking me.
For some people there are occasional days, that the grip is so tight, things seem hopeless. For others, it’s an endless string of helpless or hopeless days. The end to these feelings or days is hard to visualize and experience.
Some of the problem is how we measure “behind” or “ahead”. We often get sucked into the world’s standard or metrics. We have limited control over some of the demands coming our way so how can we actually measure something we don’t control to determine progress. What we do control is how we respond to what comes our way…and that’s how we should measure progress.
The answer…measure how well your response to the demands and twists of life is rooted in being focused on God. He will bring peace, comfort, answers, and walk with you through the busyness and demands. He promises to be our guide along the journey, so measure how well you follow your guide.
Ask God to clear your thinking and remove any obstacles that may exist in your relationship with him. Perhaps you have made some poor decisions or used bad judgment. God is there to forgive you and help you get back on track.
Today and every day, remind that life is a journey…a series of steps. Remember that you can create the environment for change, but God does the changing. And the Bible assures us that with Him, all things are possible. Let Him be your guide.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective of how you grade progress on your journey.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank you for being my constant guide. Help me be sensitive…and obedient…to your guidance. Give me eyes that see and ears that hear Your leading…Your nudging…Your encouragement. Also, when I am off course and in dangerous detours, let me be open to Your need to redirect me back on track even if You need to forcibly push me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One You sent to teach us, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For that is what God is like. He is our God forever and ever, and he will guide us until we die."
Psalm 48:14
Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Matthew 19:26
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Stepping Stones: Accomplishments and Failures…or Jesus?
Transformational Tip
We all have done things we wish we could take back. Maybe we've lived a sinful lifestyle, been selfish and unkind, or just experienced a lot of failure in our life. Maybe we still struggle in relationships, anxieties, guilt, shame, and “what ifs”.
But on the other hand, maybe we've lived a pretty good life and achieved a high level of success. We really like being defined by that. We like feeling good about what we've done. We like the praise and admiration of others.
But you know what? Our accomplishments aren't really that impressive to God. He sees our hearts. He knows that they are not always pure. Praise God that he doesn't define us by what we've done…regardless of how good or bad it’s been…but He judges us by whether we accept what Christ did for us. He knows that we need Jesus. We need to know that, too.
He died on the cross so that our sins could be forgiven. And when we believe and accept the sacrifice he made for us, we are cleansed. Then God sees us as though we have never sinned! And that's our new identity ... a follower of Christ, clothed in his righteousness.
We are defined not by our accomplishments or failures, but by who we are in Christ. All the accomplishments in the world don't mean a thing when it comes to getting right with God and spending eternity with him. We just can't do enough to earn our way…that's why we need Jesus.
Today, if you are not a fully committed follower of Christ, you can make that decision right now. No matter what your past ... no matter how good or bad your behavior...you need Jesus. He loves you and is reaching out to you right now. Do you want to meet Him? Just tell Him that you know you need Him...and that you want to follow Him. Why wouldn’t you want Jesus in your life? He is ready ... are you?
If you are a Christian, rejoice in that like you did the day you accepted Jesus in your life. Send this to someone you love who needs Jesus, and follow it with a phone call to discuss sending this blessing. Click here for more information on accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I believe that your Son died for my sins. Please forgive me for all my past. I'm ready for a change. I want to follow You... and do things Your way. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who died so that I may have eternity with the only God, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.
Romans 3:23-24
We all have done things we wish we could take back. Maybe we've lived a sinful lifestyle, been selfish and unkind, or just experienced a lot of failure in our life. Maybe we still struggle in relationships, anxieties, guilt, shame, and “what ifs”.
But on the other hand, maybe we've lived a pretty good life and achieved a high level of success. We really like being defined by that. We like feeling good about what we've done. We like the praise and admiration of others.
But you know what? Our accomplishments aren't really that impressive to God. He sees our hearts. He knows that they are not always pure. Praise God that he doesn't define us by what we've done…regardless of how good or bad it’s been…but He judges us by whether we accept what Christ did for us. He knows that we need Jesus. We need to know that, too.
He died on the cross so that our sins could be forgiven. And when we believe and accept the sacrifice he made for us, we are cleansed. Then God sees us as though we have never sinned! And that's our new identity ... a follower of Christ, clothed in his righteousness.
We are defined not by our accomplishments or failures, but by who we are in Christ. All the accomplishments in the world don't mean a thing when it comes to getting right with God and spending eternity with him. We just can't do enough to earn our way…that's why we need Jesus.
Today, if you are not a fully committed follower of Christ, you can make that decision right now. No matter what your past ... no matter how good or bad your behavior...you need Jesus. He loves you and is reaching out to you right now. Do you want to meet Him? Just tell Him that you know you need Him...and that you want to follow Him. Why wouldn’t you want Jesus in your life? He is ready ... are you?
If you are a Christian, rejoice in that like you did the day you accepted Jesus in your life. Send this to someone you love who needs Jesus, and follow it with a phone call to discuss sending this blessing. Click here for more information on accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I believe that your Son died for my sins. Please forgive me for all my past. I'm ready for a change. I want to follow You... and do things Your way. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who died so that I may have eternity with the only God, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.
Romans 3:23-24
Monday, March 22, 2010
Stepping Stones: Friends or Fools?
Transformational Tip
As I look back over my childhood, I recall my mother paying close attention to who I selected as friends. If she saw me making friends with someone she thought was not a healthy relationship, she would gently wean me away from that person. She would tell me that God would always provide two new great friends for every not-so-good-friend that I lost.
Today's scripture makes it clear that our choice of friends plays a vital role in our lives. This is especially true for teenagers. They are no longer a child, but they are not yet an adult. To fit in, feel valued, develop their “own” identity separate from their parents, or try to figure out who they are, teens tend to pick up many of the values, as well as characteristics, of their friends.
This is a difficult age for teens. They don't understand their limitations and underestimate or not recognize many dangers. Parents can allow them to make many more independent decisions than in the past, but must enforce boundaries where there are activities or relationships that could cause them harm.
Recognize the peer pressure that will be placed on your teen, and offer alternative answers. Do not "put down" your child's friends, but rather encourage godly relationships.
Church attendance is very important and should not be optional. Church youth groups can be invaluable sources of godly friends and activities. Encourage your teen to take part in these. Strongly encourage involvement in extra-curricular activities. Sports, band, specialty clubs, dance or music lessons are all possibilities for healthy involvement.
Today, focus on being involved as a family in Godly activities with Godly people having kids the same age as your teenager. Don't have ungodly relationships yourself…your teen will perceive the hypocrisy. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the importance of Godly relationships for our children.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Lead my children, regardless of their age, into relationships that will influence them in a positive way. Give me wisdom to guide them and courage to protect them. Help me love the friends of whom I do not approve and remember to pray for them also. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.
Proverbs 13:20
Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble.
1 John 2:9,10
As I look back over my childhood, I recall my mother paying close attention to who I selected as friends. If she saw me making friends with someone she thought was not a healthy relationship, she would gently wean me away from that person. She would tell me that God would always provide two new great friends for every not-so-good-friend that I lost.
Today's scripture makes it clear that our choice of friends plays a vital role in our lives. This is especially true for teenagers. They are no longer a child, but they are not yet an adult. To fit in, feel valued, develop their “own” identity separate from their parents, or try to figure out who they are, teens tend to pick up many of the values, as well as characteristics, of their friends.
This is a difficult age for teens. They don't understand their limitations and underestimate or not recognize many dangers. Parents can allow them to make many more independent decisions than in the past, but must enforce boundaries where there are activities or relationships that could cause them harm.
Recognize the peer pressure that will be placed on your teen, and offer alternative answers. Do not "put down" your child's friends, but rather encourage godly relationships.
Church attendance is very important and should not be optional. Church youth groups can be invaluable sources of godly friends and activities. Encourage your teen to take part in these. Strongly encourage involvement in extra-curricular activities. Sports, band, specialty clubs, dance or music lessons are all possibilities for healthy involvement.
Today, focus on being involved as a family in Godly activities with Godly people having kids the same age as your teenager. Don't have ungodly relationships yourself…your teen will perceive the hypocrisy. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on the importance of Godly relationships for our children.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Lead my children, regardless of their age, into relationships that will influence them in a positive way. Give me wisdom to guide them and courage to protect them. Help me love the friends of whom I do not approve and remember to pray for them also. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.
Proverbs 13:20
Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble.
1 John 2:9,10
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Stepping Stones: Great and Abundant is His Stability
Transformational Tip
Life is filled with many kinds of losses. All losses hurt, whether they are big ones or little ones. We recover quickly from some losses…others take months, even years to absorb. Some losses are temporary while others are permanent.
In today's environment of business closings and downsizing, many are facing the loss of their job. This kind of loss can be devastating to anyone, especially the breadwinner of a family. Even if it is a second job, it may represent a threat to survival.
Job loss can produce many emotions, but fear is usually at the root of any response. Will I lose my home? My child is leaving for college this fall—will I have to break the news that it will be impossible? We have built up credit card debt trying to keep our heads above water… what now? Who will respect me?
These and many other concerns are very real and can seem extremely threatening. If we keep our eyes on the waves of hardship, we will sink into despair and hopelessness. This is a time when it is difficult…but imperative…to focus on Jesus, not on the problems. This is a time to remember that He, not our job, is our source of value, peace, security, comfort, redemption, abundance.
We may go through some real challenges. We may have to tighten our belts and make some sacrifices. These struggles are not easy, but with Jesus we can find hope. Our job may be gone. The economy may be falling apart. But God has not changed. It is because of his mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed.
Today, dig into the areas where you struggle. What is the fear at the bottom of that? Infuse Jesus’ teachings into your fear, then re-evaluate your struggle. Remember that great and abundant is His stability and faithfulness. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community where you find your stability.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, This job loss has left me feeling angry and fearful. Help me to regroup…to remember that You are here, that You love me and my family, and that You have a plan. Help me remember that You have not been taken by surprise and that You have already made a way for us. Thank You that Your compassion never fails and that Your stability and faithfulness are abundant. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the who provides my stability, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
Life is filled with many kinds of losses. All losses hurt, whether they are big ones or little ones. We recover quickly from some losses…others take months, even years to absorb. Some losses are temporary while others are permanent.
In today's environment of business closings and downsizing, many are facing the loss of their job. This kind of loss can be devastating to anyone, especially the breadwinner of a family. Even if it is a second job, it may represent a threat to survival.
Job loss can produce many emotions, but fear is usually at the root of any response. Will I lose my home? My child is leaving for college this fall—will I have to break the news that it will be impossible? We have built up credit card debt trying to keep our heads above water… what now? Who will respect me?
These and many other concerns are very real and can seem extremely threatening. If we keep our eyes on the waves of hardship, we will sink into despair and hopelessness. This is a time when it is difficult…but imperative…to focus on Jesus, not on the problems. This is a time to remember that He, not our job, is our source of value, peace, security, comfort, redemption, abundance.
We may go through some real challenges. We may have to tighten our belts and make some sacrifices. These struggles are not easy, but with Jesus we can find hope. Our job may be gone. The economy may be falling apart. But God has not changed. It is because of his mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed.
Today, dig into the areas where you struggle. What is the fear at the bottom of that? Infuse Jesus’ teachings into your fear, then re-evaluate your struggle. Remember that great and abundant is His stability and faithfulness. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community where you find your stability.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, This job loss has left me feeling angry and fearful. Help me to regroup…to remember that You are here, that You love me and my family, and that You have a plan. Help me remember that You have not been taken by surprise and that You have already made a way for us. Thank You that Your compassion never fails and that Your stability and faithfulness are abundant. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the who provides my stability, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Stepping Stones: Carsick on Your Spiritual Journey?
Transformational Tip
Have you ever been carsick? The primary reason for car sickness is because as the car races along, passengers are not able to focus on a solid object. The one person in a car who almost never gets sick is the driver. Why?
The driver is focused on the road ahead, looking intently at the solid objects outside the car that aren't bouncing and turning. He or she has a good sense of where the horizon is.
The main problem is the conflicting data between our eyes, our inner ear motion receptors, and the motion receptors throughout our body in the tissues below our skin. When we intentionally walk, all these 3 areas are in sinc and focused on a common motion task, therefore motion sickness doesn’t exist.
The key is in the word focus. When we are focused…intentionally walking forward and not distracted in several different directions…or not confusing our inner systems, no motion sickness will occur. Are we focusing on Christ…who never changes…or are we focusing on the circumstances that keep turning and swirling and change with each wind that blows? Focusing on Jesus will bring much-needed direction and get rid of some of the motion sickness we experience on our spiritual journey.
Today, are you focusing on circumstances? Have you become a caretaker of another person's problem? What about how your time is spent? Your priorities in life? Your daily schedule? Your health? Your time alone with God? Your involvement at church? Your friendships? Has your value system been compromised? Is your life out of balance? Re-orient and focus back on the cross and God’s promises, bring these lenses to those trouble areas. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on spiritual carsickness.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I know I have been focusing too much on problems instead of on Jesus. And as the circumstances around me change, I have become confused and discouraged…I am almost constanly “car sick.” Help me fix my eyes on Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who focused only on You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
Have you ever been carsick? The primary reason for car sickness is because as the car races along, passengers are not able to focus on a solid object. The one person in a car who almost never gets sick is the driver. Why?
The driver is focused on the road ahead, looking intently at the solid objects outside the car that aren't bouncing and turning. He or she has a good sense of where the horizon is.
The main problem is the conflicting data between our eyes, our inner ear motion receptors, and the motion receptors throughout our body in the tissues below our skin. When we intentionally walk, all these 3 areas are in sinc and focused on a common motion task, therefore motion sickness doesn’t exist.
The key is in the word focus. When we are focused…intentionally walking forward and not distracted in several different directions…or not confusing our inner systems, no motion sickness will occur. Are we focusing on Christ…who never changes…or are we focusing on the circumstances that keep turning and swirling and change with each wind that blows? Focusing on Jesus will bring much-needed direction and get rid of some of the motion sickness we experience on our spiritual journey.
Today, are you focusing on circumstances? Have you become a caretaker of another person's problem? What about how your time is spent? Your priorities in life? Your daily schedule? Your health? Your time alone with God? Your involvement at church? Your friendships? Has your value system been compromised? Is your life out of balance? Re-orient and focus back on the cross and God’s promises, bring these lenses to those trouble areas. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on spiritual carsickness.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I know I have been focusing too much on problems instead of on Jesus. And as the circumstances around me change, I have become confused and discouraged…I am almost constanly “car sick.” Help me fix my eyes on Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who focused only on You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2
Friday, March 19, 2010
Stepping Stones: Loving One Another
Transformational Tip:
Conflict, such a powerful word…conjuring up many different feelings and tapes in our head. In today’s scripture, Paul exhorts believers to agree with one another, to love each other and to work together with one mind and purpose.
Jesus’ last instructions, moments before he ascended to heaven, leave no doubt what the church is to be doing: “And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
If we are to be effective witnesses, as Christians, we need to work together with one mind and purpose (the mind of Christ). Our witness can be hurt…and even destroyed…if we are involved in pride, bickering, gossip and other habits that can only lead to strife and division. We need to set aside personality conflicts, social differences, cliquishness and anything else that divides us and keeps us from accomplishing God’s purpose for us and those we are to minister to on His behalf.
Conflict is more complex than this, but attitude and focus…my kingdom come, my will be done or Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done mentality is what steers the process to a fleshly demise or a God-glorifying experience.
Today, think of an area in your life in which you are experiencing division with a sister or brother in Christ. Are you putting Christ in the center…your greatest need should be to please God and honor Him, not ease your own discomfort. Acknowledge specifically an incident or situation where you have failed in the area of relationship. Prayerfully examine how pride might be playing a role in the division.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on witnessing.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Please forgive me for sometimes allowing pride or other wrongful attitudes to lead to division with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me to do my part in walking in unity so that we all might be more effective witnesses for Jesus and accomplish what You have called us to do. Help me build courage to withstand the pain, hurt, or anger I sometimes feel in conflicts, knowing You can provide more to me in that pain than in the good times. I pray this and all prayers for the one was the perfect witness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
Philippians 2:2
Conflict, such a powerful word…conjuring up many different feelings and tapes in our head. In today’s scripture, Paul exhorts believers to agree with one another, to love each other and to work together with one mind and purpose.
Jesus’ last instructions, moments before he ascended to heaven, leave no doubt what the church is to be doing: “And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
If we are to be effective witnesses, as Christians, we need to work together with one mind and purpose (the mind of Christ). Our witness can be hurt…and even destroyed…if we are involved in pride, bickering, gossip and other habits that can only lead to strife and division. We need to set aside personality conflicts, social differences, cliquishness and anything else that divides us and keeps us from accomplishing God’s purpose for us and those we are to minister to on His behalf.
Conflict is more complex than this, but attitude and focus…my kingdom come, my will be done or Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done mentality is what steers the process to a fleshly demise or a God-glorifying experience.
Today, think of an area in your life in which you are experiencing division with a sister or brother in Christ. Are you putting Christ in the center…your greatest need should be to please God and honor Him, not ease your own discomfort. Acknowledge specifically an incident or situation where you have failed in the area of relationship. Prayerfully examine how pride might be playing a role in the division.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your perspective on witnessing.
Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Please forgive me for sometimes allowing pride or other wrongful attitudes to lead to division with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me to do my part in walking in unity so that we all might be more effective witnesses for Jesus and accomplish what You have called us to do. Help me build courage to withstand the pain, hurt, or anger I sometimes feel in conflicts, knowing You can provide more to me in that pain than in the good times. I pray this and all prayers for the one was the perfect witness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
Philippians 2:2
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