Transformational Tip
Relationships are very difficult. So many variables, two different and complex people, often-competing agendas and diverse timelines. Multiply these by a zillion when we are talking about marriage or very serious relationships.
I do know one very simple principle about my marriage. My wife really covets my thoughts…meaning she wants me focusing my thoughts and attention on her and not on other women. I am really good about not being caught up with other women as a temptation…but I am guilty in having my attention focused on my work, or ESPN, or our kids.
Even though these aren’t evil distractions, I am on a slippery slope, sliding away from my wife and toward marital damage or destruction. Keeping my wife and her needs attached to or even at the center of these and all my activities and endeavors, will lead to an enjoyable and fulfilling marriage.
Our relationship with God works on the same principle. Guard your thoughts closely. There is a fierce battle waging for your mind. Nothing angers the enemy more than your closeness to Your Lord. Missiles of deception are constantly being launched at your mind to get you on that slippery slope to spiritual destruction
Today, although it will be a struggle, fix your mind on God and make good thought choices. Include God in your activities and thoughts as this will keep Him in the center of your lenses…and heart.
Prayer
My Lord and Savior, Although I try, many times my thoughts seem totally disconnected with my will. I try to focus my thoughts on You but there are so many distractions. I want, I desperately want to focus my thoughts on You, but it’s a contact struggle…I feel like I am always swimming against a strong current. I know there are many things that impact my ability to think clearly; poor sleep, bad eating habits…my health and the health of others that I love…just the worries of the world. I ask that Your Holy Spirit enter my mind and help me with this challenge. I know that making good thought-choices will allow me to enjoy Your refreshing presence more and more. I pray this in the name the one who always kept God at the center, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN! – Amen
The Truth
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.
Acts 3:19
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
1 Peter 5:8
Friday, July 9, 2010
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Stepping Stones: Prayer Reveals Your Heart
Transformational Tip
As a psychiatrist, I see patients who often struggle with fears, issues, wounds, hurts, distortions, misinterpretations, which interfere with their opportunity and ability to achieve their God-given potential and live the abundant life Christ died for us to live.
As I work with them, these struggles are very vague and are difficult to describe. This contributes to the overwhelming and confused feelings most people experience as a result of these issues as they seem endless and never-ending.
One discipline I find really helpful and almost essential for most, at least at the start of their personal transformation process is journaling. You see, when I ask patients to journal about the struggle issue, a common response is, “I don’t know where to start,” or “I don’t have enough paper to write about the whole issue.”
Once they start writing about it, they are forced to become very concrete, practical, and methodical as they dig in to the elements of the issue. They are always amazed at the insights they get, how little paper they end up using, and how much simpler the issue really is. Journaling reveals some very deep truths and insights about us and our heart.
Prayer accomplishes the same results(and more) through the same process. As you really think about what to pray for and why, you are verbally journaling with God. God wants you to come to Him, and one reason is it makes us analyze ourself and our situations in a meaningful and deep way.
God’s word tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers your prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise; His peace will guard your heart and mind and will keep Him close to you. Pray more!
Today, pray more, and not just that rote, vague, superficial prayer we whip out. Really do some mental, even pen and pencil, journaling about what and why you pray for and about. Your eyes will be opened to see more of your heart and desires. Do they align with God’s.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And while I bring my requests and petitions to You, I know that You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that not getting my request answered as I desire does not mean no, rather that You will say yes to something better. I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with You. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinders my intimacy with You. Help me understand more of what is in my heart and really put you in the center. I pray this in the name the one who knew His heart exactly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
As I work with them, these struggles are very vague and are difficult to describe. This contributes to the overwhelming and confused feelings most people experience as a result of these issues as they seem endless and never-ending.
One discipline I find really helpful and almost essential for most, at least at the start of their personal transformation process is journaling. You see, when I ask patients to journal about the struggle issue, a common response is, “I don’t know where to start,” or “I don’t have enough paper to write about the whole issue.”
Once they start writing about it, they are forced to become very concrete, practical, and methodical as they dig in to the elements of the issue. They are always amazed at the insights they get, how little paper they end up using, and how much simpler the issue really is. Journaling reveals some very deep truths and insights about us and our heart.
Prayer accomplishes the same results(and more) through the same process. As you really think about what to pray for and why, you are verbally journaling with God. God wants you to come to Him, and one reason is it makes us analyze ourself and our situations in a meaningful and deep way.
God’s word tells us repeatedly to bring our petitions to him through prayers with thanksgiving. Regardless of how He answers your prayers, each prayer transaction comes with this promise; His peace will guard your heart and mind and will keep Him close to you. Pray more!
Today, pray more, and not just that rote, vague, superficial prayer we whip out. Really do some mental, even pen and pencil, journaling about what and why you pray for and about. Your eyes will be opened to see more of your heart and desires. Do they align with God’s.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You with an open, thankful heart. And while I bring my requests and petitions to You, I know that You know exactly what I need and when I need it. Help me learn and believe that not getting my request answered as I desire does not mean no, rather that You will say yes to something better. I pray today that I may increase my intimacy with You. Please help me remove all the aspects of my life that hinders my intimacy with You. Help me understand more of what is in my heart and really put you in the center. I pray this in the name the one who knew His heart exactly, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Stepping Stones: From Turtle to God
Transformational Tip
I was at the beach last week and observed one of the coolest and most hilarious sights. We were at a Myrtle Beach high-rise with a “lazy river” you could leisurely ride around on an inner tube. Well, my 10 yo, GiGi, decorated a little turtle and entered Kevin in the turtle race in the lazy river. Twelve noon was post time and the activities director dumped about 50 decorated plastic turtles into the river…and the race was on!
The excitement of kids and parents energized everyone on this muggy 93 degree day. People were hootin’ and cheerin’, running around the river to see where their turtle was…it was hilarious. I actually shouted to another excited father, “Competition, you gotta love it!”
I’ve always loved sports, ever since I was a kid. Clear goals, structure, expectations, excitement, winning, a second chance when you lose, attention, escape from reality. I was blessed to have many successful experiences in athletics.
But you see, even though sports were a positive activity in many ways for me, I also developed a dependency on them, turning to them when I was low, insecure, lonely, felt inadequate in another area, or was confused. This really stunted my spiritual growth, as I should have been turning to God and His Holy Bible instead.
God wants you to be all His. Once you Believe and then Receive, God, through His Holy Spirit, He is constantly working to wean you off all other dependencies. A big part of Becoming is letting your security rest in Him alone; not in other things, people or circumstances.
Today, reflect on what positive activities in your life have you started to rely too much on, or you turn to before you turn to God. Work, food, spouse, kids, intellect, problem-solving skills, the list is endless. Turn to Him first today, then these other areas will fit in with more satisfaction and fulfillment when He forms the foundation of our happiness.
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank You for all that I have and I thank You for the security You provide for my life. Day by day now this physical world is becoming a more frightening place, such an insecure place. I accept You as my God and my savior, but I humbly admit to You that I am not yet weaned from other dependencies. Help me let go of them as I grasp more firmly to You. I pray this in the name the one who depended solely on You, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
James 1:17
So I became great and surpassed all who were before me in Jerusalem. Also my wisdom remained with me. And whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I kept my heart from no pleasure, for my heart found pleasure in all my toil, and this was my reward for all my toil. Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun.
Ecclesiastes 2:9-11
I was at the beach last week and observed one of the coolest and most hilarious sights. We were at a Myrtle Beach high-rise with a “lazy river” you could leisurely ride around on an inner tube. Well, my 10 yo, GiGi, decorated a little turtle and entered Kevin in the turtle race in the lazy river. Twelve noon was post time and the activities director dumped about 50 decorated plastic turtles into the river…and the race was on!
The excitement of kids and parents energized everyone on this muggy 93 degree day. People were hootin’ and cheerin’, running around the river to see where their turtle was…it was hilarious. I actually shouted to another excited father, “Competition, you gotta love it!”
I’ve always loved sports, ever since I was a kid. Clear goals, structure, expectations, excitement, winning, a second chance when you lose, attention, escape from reality. I was blessed to have many successful experiences in athletics.
But you see, even though sports were a positive activity in many ways for me, I also developed a dependency on them, turning to them when I was low, insecure, lonely, felt inadequate in another area, or was confused. This really stunted my spiritual growth, as I should have been turning to God and His Holy Bible instead.
God wants you to be all His. Once you Believe and then Receive, God, through His Holy Spirit, He is constantly working to wean you off all other dependencies. A big part of Becoming is letting your security rest in Him alone; not in other things, people or circumstances.
Today, reflect on what positive activities in your life have you started to rely too much on, or you turn to before you turn to God. Work, food, spouse, kids, intellect, problem-solving skills, the list is endless. Turn to Him first today, then these other areas will fit in with more satisfaction and fulfillment when He forms the foundation of our happiness.
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank You for all that I have and I thank You for the security You provide for my life. Day by day now this physical world is becoming a more frightening place, such an insecure place. I accept You as my God and my savior, but I humbly admit to You that I am not yet weaned from other dependencies. Help me let go of them as I grasp more firmly to You. I pray this in the name the one who depended solely on You, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
James 1:17
So I became great and surpassed all who were before me in Jerusalem. Also my wisdom remained with me. And whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I kept my heart from no pleasure, for my heart found pleasure in all my toil, and this was my reward for all my toil. Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun.
Ecclesiastes 2:9-11
Monday, July 5, 2010
Stepping Stones: Are You the Sour Apple on Your Family Tree?
Transformational Tip
Everybody has those couple of sour apples on their family tree…you know, the ones that are grumpy no matter what the circumstances. Sure, they are cranky and negative when facing adversity or stressful situations. But some people are grumpy even when the situation is neutral or positive.
Why do we get grumpy? Usually because situations, people, things, life, aren’t going the way we planned. We feel hurt…have to accept a different plan or agenda…are disrupted, get uncomfortable. Amazing how we subliminally develop such a sense of entitlement…that events or our day should always go our way…that all our wishes and demands, get granted. How dare God not grant all our wishes?
So why then do we respond with negativity, nastiness, and grumpiness? How is that going to help improve the situation? That will just push people away and increase their negativity toward you. We often get so enamored with our need to immediately feel better, and in some odd, weird way, being grumpy gives us a sense of control, power, and attention. In reality, what we think is self-protective, is actually self-destructive.
Today, if you feel nastiness coming on, when you are tempted to grumble, try this; Try going to God and talking it out. Ask Him to reveal to you why He gave you something different than what you expected or wanted. Get in His word and seek Him. As you open up to Him, He will put His thoughts in Your mind and His song in your heart. The key…open up to Him!
Prayer
Dear Father, I grumble and complain more than I like to admit. There are so many things that tick me off…so many things I want to be different in me, in others, and in the world. I realize it is my natural tendency to brood over these things and take it out on others that are close to me. I see now that the longer I focus on these things the more likely I am to grumble. Even when I get control of my spoken words, my thoughts are full of complaints. Help me talk with You about these matters. I thank You, Lord, for listening and caring. Even if You choose not to change my circumstance, my communion with you alone will but Your song in my heart. I pray this in the name the one who graciously accepted all you brought into His life, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.
Psalm40:3
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Acts 2:28
Everybody has those couple of sour apples on their family tree…you know, the ones that are grumpy no matter what the circumstances. Sure, they are cranky and negative when facing adversity or stressful situations. But some people are grumpy even when the situation is neutral or positive.
Why do we get grumpy? Usually because situations, people, things, life, aren’t going the way we planned. We feel hurt…have to accept a different plan or agenda…are disrupted, get uncomfortable. Amazing how we subliminally develop such a sense of entitlement…that events or our day should always go our way…that all our wishes and demands, get granted. How dare God not grant all our wishes?
So why then do we respond with negativity, nastiness, and grumpiness? How is that going to help improve the situation? That will just push people away and increase their negativity toward you. We often get so enamored with our need to immediately feel better, and in some odd, weird way, being grumpy gives us a sense of control, power, and attention. In reality, what we think is self-protective, is actually self-destructive.
Today, if you feel nastiness coming on, when you are tempted to grumble, try this; Try going to God and talking it out. Ask Him to reveal to you why He gave you something different than what you expected or wanted. Get in His word and seek Him. As you open up to Him, He will put His thoughts in Your mind and His song in your heart. The key…open up to Him!
Prayer
Dear Father, I grumble and complain more than I like to admit. There are so many things that tick me off…so many things I want to be different in me, in others, and in the world. I realize it is my natural tendency to brood over these things and take it out on others that are close to me. I see now that the longer I focus on these things the more likely I am to grumble. Even when I get control of my spoken words, my thoughts are full of complaints. Help me talk with You about these matters. I thank You, Lord, for listening and caring. Even if You choose not to change my circumstance, my communion with you alone will but Your song in my heart. I pray this in the name the one who graciously accepted all you brought into His life, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.
Psalm40:3
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Acts 2:28
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Stepping Stones: Freedom or Special Slave?
Transformational Tip
Even though I am an adult, I love fireworks, and today, for the first time, I will be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rockets red glare…bombs bursting in air…mystery, drama, wonder…and celebration. Just really cool.
All over America today, festivities celebrate our countries birthday, and commemorate us winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling…state(like Maine or Virginia) of mind, and privilege. The sobering reality is, we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We still have a master, someone whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules we are subject to.
God is the real, ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call universe. Satan and our flesh are the rebel party trying to overthrow the benevolent all-caring regime, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing their destructive ways and intentions are actually in our best interest.
We are free in one very important respect, free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes grave responsibility. You see, If you aren't actively choosing God, our passive and natural inclination is to reject God, let our flesh rule, and vote Satan and his policies into office to guide us.
Today, exercise your freedom to choose and choose wisely. Only one master really genuinely cares for you, is willing (He actually did) to die for you, and wants to let you live in the royal palace forever with eternal riches to inherit beyond your fantastic imaginations!
Enjoy your festivities but don’t sell your hard fought freedom to the enemy for a couple magic beans.
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf, me, in Your kingdom. Help me choose You and be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others would see You in me. Thanks for the blessings I have and the freedom to worship you in the US. I pray your protection and comfort for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than I can and do. I pray this in the name the one who died for my freedom, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them
day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Even though I am an adult, I love fireworks, and today, for the first time, I will be watching fireworks at our nation's capital. I always wanted to see them there, as it seems the most fitting place for fireworks and all they represent to me. Rockets red glare…bombs bursting in air…mystery, drama, wonder…and celebration. Just really cool.
All over America today, festivities celebrate our countries birthday, and commemorate us winning our freedom from England. Freedom is a wonderful feeling…state(like Maine or Virginia) of mind, and privilege. The sobering reality is, we aren't really free. It's just a trick. We still have a master, someone whose orders, commands, wishes, desires, authority, agenda, policies, and rules we are subject to.
God is the real, ideal, loving King of the Kingdom we call universe. Satan and our flesh are the rebel party trying to overthrow the benevolent all-caring regime, vying for our loyalty by tricking us into believing their destructive ways and intentions are actually in our best interest.
We are free in one very important respect, free to choose which master we will follow and obey. With freedom comes grave responsibility. You see, If you aren't actively choosing God, our passive and natural inclination is to reject God, let our flesh rule, and vote Satan and his policies into office to guide us.
Today, exercise your freedom to choose and choose wisely. Only one master really genuinely cares for you, is willing (He actually did) to die for you, and wants to let you live in the royal palace forever with eternal riches to inherit beyond your fantastic imaginations!
Enjoy your festivities but don’t sell your hard fought freedom to the enemy for a couple magic beans.
Prayer
Dear King of Kings, Thanks for being a king who gave it all for the lowest serf, me, in Your kingdom. Help me choose You and be a faithful ambassador for You in this fallen world, so others would see You in me. Thanks for the blessings I have and the freedom to worship you in the US. I pray your protection and comfort for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being harmed because of their commitment to You. Give me a humble spirit to yield to Your rule every minute, because You provide all I need way better than I can and do. I pray this in the name the one who died for my freedom, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.
Ephesians 6:9
And Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left;
1 Kings 22:19
And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them
day and night before our God.
Revelation 12:9-10
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Stepping Stones: The Terminator Tutor
Transformational Tip
When I first started my psychiatric practice, one problem I really struggled with for awhile…a patient who didn’t show up for their appointment. My mind was stressed as several issues hindered me. Was the patient in a car accident on their way…my loss of income…me having to bill them for a missed appointment…someone who was on my waiting list and in distress could have been seen if the missing person had given some notice.
Who wants problems? Nobody, right? But try thinking about problems differently. An ongoing problem can be like a tutor…a teacher that is always by your side teaching you. Your learning possibilities are limited only by your willingness to be “teachable”. The bottom line here is whether or not you can trust God to use the difficulties in your life for goodness.
If you want to learn all that your God has prepared for you…then you must accept his teaching methods. The more humble you are, the more teachable you are…the more teachable and flexible you are, the more you learn…the more you learn, the better you’ll understand life…the more you understand, the easier life is….the easier life is, the more you’ll glorify God…the more you glorify God, the more peace, contentment, and fulfillment you have as you achieve the mind of Christ.
You see, for me, I started looking at why God was allowing cancellations to occur. What the cancellations taught me – I was a control addict. I needed my agenda to happen my way. When it didn’t, this derailed me. These cancellations were an incredible tutor to me. Now I enjoy cancellations and trust God’s sovereignty, knowing He has something better than I planned during that time slot for me to enjoy.
Remember today that God is the potter and you are the clay. How flexible are you willing to be in His skillful hands? Take inventory. Any recurring problems? Let God tutor you using these problems. This tutor is relentless, like the Terminator, so don’t ignore it.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you with embarrassment as I confess that I really don’t like this tutor at all. What I really want is to have my problems taken away, I want to run away from my problems…Haven’t I spent enough time with this teacher? Isn’t there a simpler less painful way to learn? Father God, I pray to You to help me trust You more, to trust that You intend my problems for something good…to transform me. I will try beginning today to see my problems as blessings in disguise which are stepping stones to my gradual transformation into Your likeness…depending on You, developing Your perspective, and understanding what is really important to You. Help me this day; empower me be a Lighthouse, reflecting Your light to others with ever-increasing Glory.
I pray this in the name of my Perfect Tutor, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
Isaiah 64:8
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
When I first started my psychiatric practice, one problem I really struggled with for awhile…a patient who didn’t show up for their appointment. My mind was stressed as several issues hindered me. Was the patient in a car accident on their way…my loss of income…me having to bill them for a missed appointment…someone who was on my waiting list and in distress could have been seen if the missing person had given some notice.
Who wants problems? Nobody, right? But try thinking about problems differently. An ongoing problem can be like a tutor…a teacher that is always by your side teaching you. Your learning possibilities are limited only by your willingness to be “teachable”. The bottom line here is whether or not you can trust God to use the difficulties in your life for goodness.
If you want to learn all that your God has prepared for you…then you must accept his teaching methods. The more humble you are, the more teachable you are…the more teachable and flexible you are, the more you learn…the more you learn, the better you’ll understand life…the more you understand, the easier life is….the easier life is, the more you’ll glorify God…the more you glorify God, the more peace, contentment, and fulfillment you have as you achieve the mind of Christ.
You see, for me, I started looking at why God was allowing cancellations to occur. What the cancellations taught me – I was a control addict. I needed my agenda to happen my way. When it didn’t, this derailed me. These cancellations were an incredible tutor to me. Now I enjoy cancellations and trust God’s sovereignty, knowing He has something better than I planned during that time slot for me to enjoy.
Remember today that God is the potter and you are the clay. How flexible are you willing to be in His skillful hands? Take inventory. Any recurring problems? Let God tutor you using these problems. This tutor is relentless, like the Terminator, so don’t ignore it.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you with embarrassment as I confess that I really don’t like this tutor at all. What I really want is to have my problems taken away, I want to run away from my problems…Haven’t I spent enough time with this teacher? Isn’t there a simpler less painful way to learn? Father God, I pray to You to help me trust You more, to trust that You intend my problems for something good…to transform me. I will try beginning today to see my problems as blessings in disguise which are stepping stones to my gradual transformation into Your likeness…depending on You, developing Your perspective, and understanding what is really important to You. Help me this day; empower me be a Lighthouse, reflecting Your light to others with ever-increasing Glory.
I pray this in the name of my Perfect Tutor, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
Isaiah 64:8
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Friday, July 2, 2010
Stepping Stones: Close Your Eyes To Really See
Transformational Tip
In our normal state, we are so dependent on our eyes as our only real radar system in gauging our surroundings. It takes a really intense stimulus to set off our other radar systems….a skunk…a sudden noise….bitter herb….nudge or tap on the arm.
When we lose our sight, we’re incapacitated. Our radar is out! Over time, though, we learn to develop our other senses…revealing an amazing world as these other previously little used radar systems get recalibrated, sensitized, and cranked up.
Believe this; God is at work in many areas of your life long before you can discern or “see” the results. Shut down your reliance on your material radar honed by the false influences of this world, and start to develop your spiritual radar. God built it in to you, but we have allowed it to atrophy, wither away, as we rarely turned it on or paid any attention to it. Trust Him by waiting patiently, accepting each moment as a gift from Him to exercise and develop the most important part of your awareness system, your spiritual radar.
When the time is right, when you have learned to tune into the spiritual station, you will see the results of His handiwork…of his Mercy and Grace. Work on your spiritual radar….learn the spiritual truths of the Bible, God’s character, His promises, His perspective of you and life. Develop a focus on the eternal. Trusting…believing these to be true…that is how you tune your spiritual radar to the reality of life.
Today, begin living by faith rather than by sight. It will enable you to see and revel in His Glory. Miracles are not always visible to the eye…but those who live by faith see them clearly and regularly. The life you yearn for and He has for you is WITHIN REACH. Tune in and grab it!
Prayer
Dear God, I want to see Your Glory in myself and in others. I pray that You allow me just a glimpse of Your Glory. Please give me spiritual radar and discerning eyes so I can recognize miracles when I see them. I pray that you reveal more and more of Your Glory-moments to me. I look forward to Your radiant perfection. Sadly though, I know that this world I live in is deeply fallen. I pray for an increase in my faith so that I can accept and navigate in this world’s brokenness yet remain open to seeing Your beautiful miracles. I pray this in the name of the One with perfect spiritual radar, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
John 11:40
For we walk by faith, not by sight
2 Corinthians 5:7
For in thee, O LORD, do I hope: thou wilt hear, O Lord my God.
Psalm 38:15
In our normal state, we are so dependent on our eyes as our only real radar system in gauging our surroundings. It takes a really intense stimulus to set off our other radar systems….a skunk…a sudden noise….bitter herb….nudge or tap on the arm.
When we lose our sight, we’re incapacitated. Our radar is out! Over time, though, we learn to develop our other senses…revealing an amazing world as these other previously little used radar systems get recalibrated, sensitized, and cranked up.
Believe this; God is at work in many areas of your life long before you can discern or “see” the results. Shut down your reliance on your material radar honed by the false influences of this world, and start to develop your spiritual radar. God built it in to you, but we have allowed it to atrophy, wither away, as we rarely turned it on or paid any attention to it. Trust Him by waiting patiently, accepting each moment as a gift from Him to exercise and develop the most important part of your awareness system, your spiritual radar.
When the time is right, when you have learned to tune into the spiritual station, you will see the results of His handiwork…of his Mercy and Grace. Work on your spiritual radar….learn the spiritual truths of the Bible, God’s character, His promises, His perspective of you and life. Develop a focus on the eternal. Trusting…believing these to be true…that is how you tune your spiritual radar to the reality of life.
Today, begin living by faith rather than by sight. It will enable you to see and revel in His Glory. Miracles are not always visible to the eye…but those who live by faith see them clearly and regularly. The life you yearn for and He has for you is WITHIN REACH. Tune in and grab it!
Prayer
Dear God, I want to see Your Glory in myself and in others. I pray that You allow me just a glimpse of Your Glory. Please give me spiritual radar and discerning eyes so I can recognize miracles when I see them. I pray that you reveal more and more of Your Glory-moments to me. I look forward to Your radiant perfection. Sadly though, I know that this world I live in is deeply fallen. I pray for an increase in my faith so that I can accept and navigate in this world’s brokenness yet remain open to seeing Your beautiful miracles. I pray this in the name of the One with perfect spiritual radar, Jesus Christ – and all God’s children say, AMEN!
The Truth
Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
John 11:40
For we walk by faith, not by sight
2 Corinthians 5:7
For in thee, O LORD, do I hope: thou wilt hear, O Lord my God.
Psalm 38:15
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Stepping Stones: Choose Your Commander!
Transformational Tip
Conflict, war, disputes, battles. Even the words themselves cause many to brace themselves as uneasiness and discomfort tense up the muscles and get the heart beating with a little anxiety. And that’s just with the concrete struggles we experience with a tangible opponent and a concrete battlefield.
Be clear, our real battles are not human or physical battles, they are spiritual battles. The evil one is so crafty, so deceptive, not of this world. The battlefield…your mind. One of his favorite strategies is using deceptions to intrude into our minds and reduce our confidence in God’s unconditional love.
Fight back and do not let these lies go unchallenged. Be armed with the truth. Thoroughly know the Christmas and Easter stories, as they are the total and ultimate representation of God’s love and Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Who else, other than your parent, and maybe your spouse would humiliate themselves that much and die for you? Better yet, God promises to love us unconditionally and really does back it up ALL the time with action.
Put Satan to the test…scrutinize his activity and love for you. Does it come close to God’s? Then why do you accept or trust anything from Satan. He is a great tempter and masquerader. The choice is yours. Don’t be tricked
Today, don’t fall for it, because he just laughs at you behind your back while God cries for you and died for you. “Resist the devil and he will flee from you”. Each choice you have (you actually have more than 5,000 per day), identify God’s path and Satan’s path. Which should you trust?
Prayer
Dear Father, Help me open my mind and my heart to You today…to open my entire being to receive Your love to the fullest. So many of Your children limp through life starved for Your love because they have not learned the art of receiving You. I know that receiving You is an act of faith: believing that You love me with unlimited, everlasting love. Train my mind, Lord, to trust You, as I come close to you with confidence. I know that one of Satan’s favorite deceptions and intrusions into my mind and thoughts is to undermine my confidence in Your unconditional love. I fight back against these lies today...I do not let them go unchallenged. I resist the devil in Your name and know that he will shrink away from me as I draw closer to Your presence. Give me Your strength today. Envelope me today and always with Your love and peace that passes all human understanding. I pray this in the name of the One who rebuked the lies and endured many battle scars, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:44
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7
Conflict, war, disputes, battles. Even the words themselves cause many to brace themselves as uneasiness and discomfort tense up the muscles and get the heart beating with a little anxiety. And that’s just with the concrete struggles we experience with a tangible opponent and a concrete battlefield.
Be clear, our real battles are not human or physical battles, they are spiritual battles. The evil one is so crafty, so deceptive, not of this world. The battlefield…your mind. One of his favorite strategies is using deceptions to intrude into our minds and reduce our confidence in God’s unconditional love.
Fight back and do not let these lies go unchallenged. Be armed with the truth. Thoroughly know the Christmas and Easter stories, as they are the total and ultimate representation of God’s love and Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Who else, other than your parent, and maybe your spouse would humiliate themselves that much and die for you? Better yet, God promises to love us unconditionally and really does back it up ALL the time with action.
Put Satan to the test…scrutinize his activity and love for you. Does it come close to God’s? Then why do you accept or trust anything from Satan. He is a great tempter and masquerader. The choice is yours. Don’t be tricked
Today, don’t fall for it, because he just laughs at you behind your back while God cries for you and died for you. “Resist the devil and he will flee from you”. Each choice you have (you actually have more than 5,000 per day), identify God’s path and Satan’s path. Which should you trust?
Prayer
Dear Father, Help me open my mind and my heart to You today…to open my entire being to receive Your love to the fullest. So many of Your children limp through life starved for Your love because they have not learned the art of receiving You. I know that receiving You is an act of faith: believing that You love me with unlimited, everlasting love. Train my mind, Lord, to trust You, as I come close to you with confidence. I know that one of Satan’s favorite deceptions and intrusions into my mind and thoughts is to undermine my confidence in Your unconditional love. I fight back against these lies today...I do not let them go unchallenged. I resist the devil in Your name and know that he will shrink away from me as I draw closer to Your presence. Give me Your strength today. Envelope me today and always with Your love and peace that passes all human understanding. I pray this in the name of the One who rebuked the lies and endured many battle scars, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:44
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Stepping Stones: Take Your Life Out of the Microwave
Transformational Tip
Whether it is food, finances, sex, my schedule for the day, my strategy to deal with a stressor or conflict, plans to navigate a relationship obstacle….waiting, without knowing, to see if my “master” plan, “needs”, or “expert” solutions to take care of me will occur, or whether I have to accept someone else’s, who obviously doesn’t know or care about me as much as I do, will happen, is so agonizing and unfair.
Wow, so many beliefs of that last statement were such incredible distortions of the truth, but in the moment, I believe them so often, when left to my own understanding, using my old crappy lenses to view life.
We are in a microwave society….the “I want all my needs met now, or at least give me a sign that they will be met pretty soon” mentality. Now is not soon enough for most people. In this hurry-up world, it’s so difficult to let God set the pace.
Slow the merry-go-round of life down…take a closer look at life thru God’s lenses. Try accepting that God’s timing is perfect timing. Understand that a delay in your requests does not mean no forever…but if no is the answer you do get, understand that God only means “No, because I love you and actually have something better than what you asked for.”
Today, instead of getting impatient, frustrated, or wallowing in self-pity about what you didn’t get, be excited for the “something better” that God has in store for you. be patient for His timing. Examine the glitches in your plan to see what the Perfect Teacher is teaching you.
Prayer
Dear Father, Through this renewed intimacy with You, I feel I am being transformed from the inside out. Far too long I have been focusing on the outer person, now I focus on the inner person. I pray that as I increase my focus on You my Lord, that You transform me into the one You desire me to be. I yield to you, Lord, I do not resist this change nor do I desire to slow it down or speed it up. I let You set the pace Lord, for I know Your timing is perfect. I hold your hand, Lord, with childlike trust, just as babies hold their parents hand as they learn to walk, step by step. Hold my hand, let me feel and enjoy the tempo of this God-breathed life I am now living. Thank You Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who was never rushed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday.
Psalm 37:3-6
Whether it is food, finances, sex, my schedule for the day, my strategy to deal with a stressor or conflict, plans to navigate a relationship obstacle….waiting, without knowing, to see if my “master” plan, “needs”, or “expert” solutions to take care of me will occur, or whether I have to accept someone else’s, who obviously doesn’t know or care about me as much as I do, will happen, is so agonizing and unfair.
Wow, so many beliefs of that last statement were such incredible distortions of the truth, but in the moment, I believe them so often, when left to my own understanding, using my old crappy lenses to view life.
We are in a microwave society….the “I want all my needs met now, or at least give me a sign that they will be met pretty soon” mentality. Now is not soon enough for most people. In this hurry-up world, it’s so difficult to let God set the pace.
Slow the merry-go-round of life down…take a closer look at life thru God’s lenses. Try accepting that God’s timing is perfect timing. Understand that a delay in your requests does not mean no forever…but if no is the answer you do get, understand that God only means “No, because I love you and actually have something better than what you asked for.”
Today, instead of getting impatient, frustrated, or wallowing in self-pity about what you didn’t get, be excited for the “something better” that God has in store for you. be patient for His timing. Examine the glitches in your plan to see what the Perfect Teacher is teaching you.
Prayer
Dear Father, Through this renewed intimacy with You, I feel I am being transformed from the inside out. Far too long I have been focusing on the outer person, now I focus on the inner person. I pray that as I increase my focus on You my Lord, that You transform me into the one You desire me to be. I yield to you, Lord, I do not resist this change nor do I desire to slow it down or speed it up. I let You set the pace Lord, for I know Your timing is perfect. I hold your hand, Lord, with childlike trust, just as babies hold their parents hand as they learn to walk, step by step. Hold my hand, let me feel and enjoy the tempo of this God-breathed life I am now living. Thank You Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who was never rushed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday.
Psalm 37:3-6
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Stepping Stones: Wisdom: Using the Creator’s Instruction Manual
Transformational Tip
If you look up the word “wisdom”, you will find as the first definition; having the ability to make sensible decisions and judgments. It’s been said ,“to live is to choose”. And how many times have bad decisions put us in that downward spiral.
Today’s scripture reading tells us that to receive God’s wisdom (think about that for a moment…God’s wisdom) all we have to do is ask…but there’s a condition…we must ask in faith.
I know I look back every 5 years or so and say “wow, if only I knew then what I know now…” The problem is, I think I know everything now and what God should allow to happen in my life, but in 5 years, I will again say, “wow, if only I knew then what I know now….” It is always like that. We will never know enough to be the one trusted to call the shots.
I am still amazed by our pride and stubbornness when we continue to really on our own understanding instead of His, even when we know our track record in certain areas is terrible. Reading the manufacturer’s instruction manual always works. Winging the assembly on my own costs me time, energy, money, and lots of stress and frustration.
Today, stop facing life’s challenges and storms half-witted. Let’s ask for and receive from Him who…”gives generously and without finding fault”. Why would we want to make decisions with any other wisdom than His. Pretty arrogant isn’t it….thinking we know it all, especially knowing our own track record. Be wise…whose instruction manual you using to assemble your life…yours or HIS?
Prayer
Father, I am learning Lord, that the battles we fight each day are not always fair, but through these battles I trust that You are watching over me and that You have a plan for me and for all of us. I have challenges that are far too great for me to overcome; I thank You, Lord, for helping me endure these burdens with Your presence and by bringing this Stepping Stones prayer community together. During times of burdens and trials, I lack wisdom, Lord…I don’t know what to do, which way to turn…but then I turn to the gift of faith that you have given me…and that faith leads me to believe that I will receive Your wisdom. You tell me in James 1:5-6 that if I lack wisdom all I need to do is to ask You and You will give Your wisdom generously. I am asking Lord, give me Your wisdom this day. I ask with faith and without doubt. Father, I pray that through Your grace, each member of this Stepping Stones community gets closer to You today, and each day. Remind me and all those reading this prayer that we cannot earn God’s grace; that it is a gift that is ours for the taking. Help us Believe in You, Receive your grace…and then Become who You want us to be to further Your Kingdom. Give all of us Your wisdom and peace, so that we too can be victorious in our battles and trials...and to weather well the storms in our lives. I ask You, my Lord and God, to align my desires with Your purpose. I pray this in the name of the One who used Your instruction manual when tempted by the evil one, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.
Proverbs 16:16
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
James 1:5-6
So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. 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 your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:4-6
If you look up the word “wisdom”, you will find as the first definition; having the ability to make sensible decisions and judgments. It’s been said ,“to live is to choose”. And how many times have bad decisions put us in that downward spiral.
Today’s scripture reading tells us that to receive God’s wisdom (think about that for a moment…God’s wisdom) all we have to do is ask…but there’s a condition…we must ask in faith.
I know I look back every 5 years or so and say “wow, if only I knew then what I know now…” The problem is, I think I know everything now and what God should allow to happen in my life, but in 5 years, I will again say, “wow, if only I knew then what I know now….” It is always like that. We will never know enough to be the one trusted to call the shots.
I am still amazed by our pride and stubbornness when we continue to really on our own understanding instead of His, even when we know our track record in certain areas is terrible. Reading the manufacturer’s instruction manual always works. Winging the assembly on my own costs me time, energy, money, and lots of stress and frustration.
Today, stop facing life’s challenges and storms half-witted. Let’s ask for and receive from Him who…”gives generously and without finding fault”. Why would we want to make decisions with any other wisdom than His. Pretty arrogant isn’t it….thinking we know it all, especially knowing our own track record. Be wise…whose instruction manual you using to assemble your life…yours or HIS?
Prayer
Father, I am learning Lord, that the battles we fight each day are not always fair, but through these battles I trust that You are watching over me and that You have a plan for me and for all of us. I have challenges that are far too great for me to overcome; I thank You, Lord, for helping me endure these burdens with Your presence and by bringing this Stepping Stones prayer community together. During times of burdens and trials, I lack wisdom, Lord…I don’t know what to do, which way to turn…but then I turn to the gift of faith that you have given me…and that faith leads me to believe that I will receive Your wisdom. You tell me in James 1:5-6 that if I lack wisdom all I need to do is to ask You and You will give Your wisdom generously. I am asking Lord, give me Your wisdom this day. I ask with faith and without doubt. Father, I pray that through Your grace, each member of this Stepping Stones community gets closer to You today, and each day. Remind me and all those reading this prayer that we cannot earn God’s grace; that it is a gift that is ours for the taking. Help us Believe in You, Receive your grace…and then Become who You want us to be to further Your Kingdom. Give all of us Your wisdom and peace, so that we too can be victorious in our battles and trials...and to weather well the storms in our lives. I ask You, my Lord and God, to align my desires with Your purpose. I pray this in the name of the One who used Your instruction manual when tempted by the evil one, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.
Proverbs 16:16
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
James 1:5-6
So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. 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 your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:4-6
Monday, June 28, 2010
Stepping Stones: Time to Get in God’s Wheelbarrow
Transformational Tip
Two amazing tightrope walkers amazed the crowd with acrobatics crossing treacherous Niagara Falls. After many dangerous stunts, the acrobat asked the crowd if they thought he could cross the rope pushing his partner in a wheelbarrow. One man yelled, “I am positive you can because you performed so many amazing feats already.” The acrobat replied, “Great, with all that faith and confidence, will you please jump in my wheelbarrow?”
There are simple truths that just jump out of The Holy Bible and grab us. Hebrews 11:16 contains one of those “ah ha” truths; Without faith, it is impossible to please God. It all begins with faith.
Would you get in that acrobats wheelbarrow? Intellectual faith is knowing you would be safe. Behavioral faith, what we actually do, really puts into action what we actually believe. Everyday is filled with these crossroads…of whether we truly believe God is who He says He is, does what He says He does, and knows all He says He knows. Do we just intellectually believe but in our daily lives avoid His wheelbarrow test, or do you really have faith as evidenced by action based on that intellectual knowledge? This is where the rubber meets the road.
Faith tells God we are willing to put our life, needs, fate in His hands and willing to let Him be in control instead of us. We actually get in the wheelbarrow…and don’t have any reservation or fear! God loves this as any parent would. When we are truly able to have behavioral faith, we admit our weakness, see His strength, and start getting out of His way so He can do amazing transformational work in our life!!!!
Today, take a chance, do one thing differently…the way you know God wants you to do it even though you haven’t in the past. Watch God lead you into freedom. Take a ride in His wheelbarrow.
Remember the simple formula of Christian life: Believe > Receive > Become
Prayer
Dear Father, I know my increased faith and belief in You is pleasing to You, for You tell us in scripture that without faith it is impossible to please You. I pray that all those reading and walking the Stepping Stones Devotionals are becoming a more pleasing people to You. I know that believing that You exist is only the beginning; I know You want a personal, dynamic, life-transforming relationship with me and the entire Stepping Stones community and the world. I know those of us who “earnestly seek You” will be rewarded with Your intimate presence. I place all hope in You Lord. I pray that You restore me to full health of body, mind and spirit.
I pray this in the name of the One who got in Your wheelbarrow taking Him to the cross, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Hebrews 11:6
God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, he I will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.
Psalm 46:1-2
that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God
1 Corinthians 2:5
Two amazing tightrope walkers amazed the crowd with acrobatics crossing treacherous Niagara Falls. After many dangerous stunts, the acrobat asked the crowd if they thought he could cross the rope pushing his partner in a wheelbarrow. One man yelled, “I am positive you can because you performed so many amazing feats already.” The acrobat replied, “Great, with all that faith and confidence, will you please jump in my wheelbarrow?”
There are simple truths that just jump out of The Holy Bible and grab us. Hebrews 11:16 contains one of those “ah ha” truths; Without faith, it is impossible to please God. It all begins with faith.
Would you get in that acrobats wheelbarrow? Intellectual faith is knowing you would be safe. Behavioral faith, what we actually do, really puts into action what we actually believe. Everyday is filled with these crossroads…of whether we truly believe God is who He says He is, does what He says He does, and knows all He says He knows. Do we just intellectually believe but in our daily lives avoid His wheelbarrow test, or do you really have faith as evidenced by action based on that intellectual knowledge? This is where the rubber meets the road.
Faith tells God we are willing to put our life, needs, fate in His hands and willing to let Him be in control instead of us. We actually get in the wheelbarrow…and don’t have any reservation or fear! God loves this as any parent would. When we are truly able to have behavioral faith, we admit our weakness, see His strength, and start getting out of His way so He can do amazing transformational work in our life!!!!
Today, take a chance, do one thing differently…the way you know God wants you to do it even though you haven’t in the past. Watch God lead you into freedom. Take a ride in His wheelbarrow.
Remember the simple formula of Christian life: Believe > Receive > Become
Prayer
Dear Father, I know my increased faith and belief in You is pleasing to You, for You tell us in scripture that without faith it is impossible to please You. I pray that all those reading and walking the Stepping Stones Devotionals are becoming a more pleasing people to You. I know that believing that You exist is only the beginning; I know You want a personal, dynamic, life-transforming relationship with me and the entire Stepping Stones community and the world. I know those of us who “earnestly seek You” will be rewarded with Your intimate presence. I place all hope in You Lord. I pray that You restore me to full health of body, mind and spirit.
I pray this in the name of the One who got in Your wheelbarrow taking Him to the cross, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Hebrews 11:6
God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, he I will not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.
Psalm 46:1-2
that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God
1 Corinthians 2:5
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Stepping Stones: Even in Darkness, Light Dawns
Transformational Tip
How many of us, deep down, believe we deserve a trouble-free life? And even if we don’t feel we deserve it, we certainly desire that problem-free life. What do we really deserve? The wages of sin is death.
From the first sin of Eve and Adam, with the consequences of separation from God, shame, pain in childbirth (and childrearing) and toiling in the field, to the consequences of our own sin, when we sin, we deserve death. Everything we get….breathing, walking, thinking, house, family, heat, food….is all way more than we deserve, and is total grace from God. Amazing how we get so entitled and believe we deserve all we get…. believing we actually deserve even more than we get now.
Instead of being happy about the 38 cancer free years we enjoyed, we are bitter as we know we “deserved” better. Instead of being happy about the 8 years we had with our son, we ruminate and believe we were entitled to more time with him when he dies. Just because we had something (good things or the lack of bad things) yesterday, we feel entitled to have it again today(job, finances, college, friendship, health, etc). Jesus tells us clearly in John 16:33 that we will have trouble in this world, and that we will only find peace in Him. No pain, no gain.
Today, let go of the illusion of the trouble-free life and begin turning your focus toward your Lord during the dark times; for “Even in darkness light dawns…” and show God you trust His prescription and provision for your life more than your own plan.
Prayer
Dear Father, Please help me give up the belief that I deserve a problem-free life. I remain constantly hungry for solutions for all difficulties in my life. I know now that this is false hope, for You tell me through Your word, that in this world, I will have trouble. Instead of me seeking perfection in this fallen world, help me focus my energy on seeking You…the only perfect One. I know and believe that it is possible to enjoy You and glorify You in the midst of adverse situations and circumstances. In fact, You have taught me that Your light shines most brightly through believers who trust You while they are in the dark. I thank You, Lord, for the Christians you have placed in my life. The kind of trust I see them having in You is clearly supernatural…only possible by Your Spirit living within them. It’s so beautiful and encouraging to see their hearts so steadfast, trusting in You Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who was perfect and really deserved the trouble free life, but suffered instead for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:4 and 7
How many of us, deep down, believe we deserve a trouble-free life? And even if we don’t feel we deserve it, we certainly desire that problem-free life. What do we really deserve? The wages of sin is death.
From the first sin of Eve and Adam, with the consequences of separation from God, shame, pain in childbirth (and childrearing) and toiling in the field, to the consequences of our own sin, when we sin, we deserve death. Everything we get….breathing, walking, thinking, house, family, heat, food….is all way more than we deserve, and is total grace from God. Amazing how we get so entitled and believe we deserve all we get…. believing we actually deserve even more than we get now.
Instead of being happy about the 38 cancer free years we enjoyed, we are bitter as we know we “deserved” better. Instead of being happy about the 8 years we had with our son, we ruminate and believe we were entitled to more time with him when he dies. Just because we had something (good things or the lack of bad things) yesterday, we feel entitled to have it again today(job, finances, college, friendship, health, etc). Jesus tells us clearly in John 16:33 that we will have trouble in this world, and that we will only find peace in Him. No pain, no gain.
Today, let go of the illusion of the trouble-free life and begin turning your focus toward your Lord during the dark times; for “Even in darkness light dawns…” and show God you trust His prescription and provision for your life more than your own plan.
Prayer
Dear Father, Please help me give up the belief that I deserve a problem-free life. I remain constantly hungry for solutions for all difficulties in my life. I know now that this is false hope, for You tell me through Your word, that in this world, I will have trouble. Instead of me seeking perfection in this fallen world, help me focus my energy on seeking You…the only perfect One. I know and believe that it is possible to enjoy You and glorify You in the midst of adverse situations and circumstances. In fact, You have taught me that Your light shines most brightly through believers who trust You while they are in the dark. I thank You, Lord, for the Christians you have placed in my life. The kind of trust I see them having in You is clearly supernatural…only possible by Your Spirit living within them. It’s so beautiful and encouraging to see their hearts so steadfast, trusting in You Lord. I pray this in the name of the One who was perfect and really deserved the trouble free life, but suffered instead for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Psalm 112:4 and 7
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Stepping Stones: Real Rest is in His Hands
Transformational Tip
So many times I have patients that come to me with complaints of not feeling rested. We discuss their sleep patterns and “sleep hygiene”…like noise, temperature, bed partner, evening eating and exercise habits, caffeine and alcohol use. Sometimes these corrections help, but at times, something else is going on.
They do need a rest, but not a nap or more sleep, actually a rest from the burdens and conflicts battering hem each day. More sleep or a nap only rests your body. It’s not your body that needs rest…it’s your soul.
How do you find rest for your soul? Jesus tells us; “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. Don’t fight the experiences and activities. Accept them and see how God is growing you through these specially prescribed circumstances. Seek Him today. Go to Him.
Today, put your life in His hands like you put your eternal life in His hands. Examine your stressors today and embrace them as workouts to strengthen and grow you. be thankful for who you will be after the workout. Then ask a wise person to help you see the stressor more objectively…like God sees it. Let your soul rest with Him today and forever. His hands are big enough and soft enough!
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you weary and burdened, I come to You to rest, I come for Your blessing and grace and to be restored. Today, I feel the way ahead of me is steep. I am slowing down, Lord, so I can cling tightly to Your hand. I feel You are teaching me a difficult yet important lesson. I am ready to learn, I lift my hands up to You at this very moment, hands of faith to receive Your lesson, Your peace, Your presence. Light, Life, Joy, Peace flow freely from You. I know that when my focus turns away from You I reach for other things. In this reaching, I at times drop the glowing gift of Your presence. I return to You my Lord, I turn to regain Your presence. I pray this in the name of the One who laid His life on the cross in Your hands, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28-29
He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken. On God my salvation and my glory rest; the rock of my strength, my refuge is in God. Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.
Psalm 62:6-8
So many times I have patients that come to me with complaints of not feeling rested. We discuss their sleep patterns and “sleep hygiene”…like noise, temperature, bed partner, evening eating and exercise habits, caffeine and alcohol use. Sometimes these corrections help, but at times, something else is going on.
They do need a rest, but not a nap or more sleep, actually a rest from the burdens and conflicts battering hem each day. More sleep or a nap only rests your body. It’s not your body that needs rest…it’s your soul.
How do you find rest for your soul? Jesus tells us; “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest”. Don’t fight the experiences and activities. Accept them and see how God is growing you through these specially prescribed circumstances. Seek Him today. Go to Him.
Today, put your life in His hands like you put your eternal life in His hands. Examine your stressors today and embrace them as workouts to strengthen and grow you. be thankful for who you will be after the workout. Then ask a wise person to help you see the stressor more objectively…like God sees it. Let your soul rest with Him today and forever. His hands are big enough and soft enough!
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you weary and burdened, I come to You to rest, I come for Your blessing and grace and to be restored. Today, I feel the way ahead of me is steep. I am slowing down, Lord, so I can cling tightly to Your hand. I feel You are teaching me a difficult yet important lesson. I am ready to learn, I lift my hands up to You at this very moment, hands of faith to receive Your lesson, Your peace, Your presence. Light, Life, Joy, Peace flow freely from You. I know that when my focus turns away from You I reach for other things. In this reaching, I at times drop the glowing gift of Your presence. I return to You my Lord, I turn to regain Your presence. I pray this in the name of the One who laid His life on the cross in Your hands, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28-29
He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken. On God my salvation and my glory rest; the rock of my strength, my refuge is in God. Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.
Psalm 62:6-8
Friday, June 25, 2010
Stepping Stones: Live in “day-tight” Compartments
Transformational Tip
The other day, I was in the midst of a very hectic couple week stretch. The phone rang and my daughter’s boyfriend is on my daughters phone telling me she was in an accident. My heart jumped wondering worst-case scenario why she isn’t calling me herself. Thankfully, all involved were OK…but then the many hassles of towing, car totaled, being down one car. And I thought I had the next several crazy weeks already planned out.
How much time and energy do you spend fretting and worrying about things of tomorrow?, next week?…next year? What if you could lay out the blueprint of your life right now? Figure you’d love this option, right, as your life would be set?
Why then is the divorce rate 40%.....the lemon law necessary…..so many returns after Christmas….so many transfer colleges….or switch majors….or change jobs. All these are where we were able to select exactly what we want. We have almost no control of the future, even less knowledge of what’s to come, and limited idea of what we really need to grow.
Today, try to live one day at a time, try to live in “day-tight” compartments. Take what God brings you today and be great and grateful with it because it is the perfect gift for you from the perfect gift giver. Don’t let tomorrow’s concerns seep into today. Today is all we can truly need, now. You don’t need to return it…you can’t!!!
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank You for all Your blessings. I pray that You help me learn to accept the limitations of living one day at a time, trusting You with all my heart. Teach me, Lord, to release all worry and problems into Your care. Doing this brings to my life such a beautiful simplicity. I release myself and all my loved ones into Your care, my Lord. I pray You will bring Your healing grace to my life and into the lives of those I love who suffer from sickness, fear, and wariness. I pray to You my God to help me live a life close to You. Contrary to how the world thinks of You, a life lived closed to You is not complicated or cluttered. When I focus on Your presence within me, all things that once troubled me lose their power over me…and life takes on a beautiful simplicity. The world around me is messy and very confusing, but I remember that You have already overcome this world. You have told me these things through Your Word so that I may have peace. I pray this in the name of the One who laid His life perfectly in Your loving hands, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7
The other day, I was in the midst of a very hectic couple week stretch. The phone rang and my daughter’s boyfriend is on my daughters phone telling me she was in an accident. My heart jumped wondering worst-case scenario why she isn’t calling me herself. Thankfully, all involved were OK…but then the many hassles of towing, car totaled, being down one car. And I thought I had the next several crazy weeks already planned out.
How much time and energy do you spend fretting and worrying about things of tomorrow?, next week?…next year? What if you could lay out the blueprint of your life right now? Figure you’d love this option, right, as your life would be set?
Why then is the divorce rate 40%.....the lemon law necessary…..so many returns after Christmas….so many transfer colleges….or switch majors….or change jobs. All these are where we were able to select exactly what we want. We have almost no control of the future, even less knowledge of what’s to come, and limited idea of what we really need to grow.
Today, try to live one day at a time, try to live in “day-tight” compartments. Take what God brings you today and be great and grateful with it because it is the perfect gift for you from the perfect gift giver. Don’t let tomorrow’s concerns seep into today. Today is all we can truly need, now. You don’t need to return it…you can’t!!!
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank You for all Your blessings. I pray that You help me learn to accept the limitations of living one day at a time, trusting You with all my heart. Teach me, Lord, to release all worry and problems into Your care. Doing this brings to my life such a beautiful simplicity. I release myself and all my loved ones into Your care, my Lord. I pray You will bring Your healing grace to my life and into the lives of those I love who suffer from sickness, fear, and wariness. I pray to You my God to help me live a life close to You. Contrary to how the world thinks of You, a life lived closed to You is not complicated or cluttered. When I focus on Your presence within me, all things that once troubled me lose their power over me…and life takes on a beautiful simplicity. The world around me is messy and very confusing, but I remember that You have already overcome this world. You have told me these things through Your Word so that I may have peace. I pray this in the name of the One who laid His life perfectly in Your loving hands, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:7
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Stepping Stones: Get Radar For His “still, small voice”
Transformational Tip
God’s Word tells us that He does speak to us. If we are not hearing it’s because we are not listening. When Adam and Eve were in the garden, I believe they had amazing spiritual radar and hi spiritual IQ, very sensitive to the spiritual world and in tune to spiritual needs….. and minimal sensitivity, awareness, and need for their physical world or needs. They enjoyed awesome spiritual communion with God.
Sin flipped everything around resulting in dulled spiritual radar and IQ mixed with a heightened awareness, need, and sensitivity to their physical needs and world. They knew they were naked, ran from God, and experienced physical pain.
Look at yourself….sex, food, hunger, sleep, physical pain, working out, pursuing that adrenaline rush….amazing how needy, sensitive, aware we are when these things “call” out to us. How is your spiritual radar and IQ? You can improve them but it takes effort and intentionality. Start with listening to God. He is always speaking to you, directly and constantly through your circumstances…periodically through others…and as often as you want through The Holy Bible.
Today, try and make room…make time each day to sit quietly in His presence. His most powerful communication is His still small voice speaking to your spirit. Do not be hurried, for this hurriedness tunes your radar to the physical world and closes ones heart to the spiritual.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am waiting here quietly in Your presence. Your thoughts are forming silently in the depths of my being. I do not rush this process, I have learned that hurrying keeps my heart closed and stuck to earthly things. You are the Creator of all things, You are the King of the universe…yet You choose to make Your home in my broken, humiliated, but humbled heart. It is there where You speak to me in holy whispers. I pray Lord that Your Holy Spirit will quiet my mind so that I can hear Your still, small voice within me. I pray this in the name of the One who had perfect radar ft Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice…
1 Kings 19:12
My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee.
Psalm 5:3-4
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.'
But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.
Matthew 13:15-17
God’s Word tells us that He does speak to us. If we are not hearing it’s because we are not listening. When Adam and Eve were in the garden, I believe they had amazing spiritual radar and hi spiritual IQ, very sensitive to the spiritual world and in tune to spiritual needs….. and minimal sensitivity, awareness, and need for their physical world or needs. They enjoyed awesome spiritual communion with God.
Sin flipped everything around resulting in dulled spiritual radar and IQ mixed with a heightened awareness, need, and sensitivity to their physical needs and world. They knew they were naked, ran from God, and experienced physical pain.
Look at yourself….sex, food, hunger, sleep, physical pain, working out, pursuing that adrenaline rush….amazing how needy, sensitive, aware we are when these things “call” out to us. How is your spiritual radar and IQ? You can improve them but it takes effort and intentionality. Start with listening to God. He is always speaking to you, directly and constantly through your circumstances…periodically through others…and as often as you want through The Holy Bible.
Today, try and make room…make time each day to sit quietly in His presence. His most powerful communication is His still small voice speaking to your spirit. Do not be hurried, for this hurriedness tunes your radar to the physical world and closes ones heart to the spiritual.
Prayer
Dear Father, I am waiting here quietly in Your presence. Your thoughts are forming silently in the depths of my being. I do not rush this process, I have learned that hurrying keeps my heart closed and stuck to earthly things. You are the Creator of all things, You are the King of the universe…yet You choose to make Your home in my broken, humiliated, but humbled heart. It is there where You speak to me in holy whispers. I pray Lord that Your Holy Spirit will quiet my mind so that I can hear Your still, small voice within me. I pray this in the name of the One who had perfect radar ft Your voice, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice…
1 Kings 19:12
My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee.
Psalm 5:3-4
For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.'
But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.
For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.
Matthew 13:15-17
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Stepping Stones: Prevenient Pursuit and Grace
Transformational Tip
Most kids don’t come into the world totally randomly. Most people have been thinking since their childhood about how many kids they will have, how they will parent them, will get an apartment or house with extra bedrooms, plan a nursery, even planning the sexual activity…all before the pregnancy even starts.
Did you know the work of God is present in our lives “before” we are even aware of it? In fact, millennia before we were even born. He is with us from conception to conversion.
The word prevenient means, “to come before”. Think about this for a moment; God is there waiting for us in anticipation of the loving relationship He desires. God pursues this relationship…he “courts” us through love and grace. It’s unassuming…never forced.
He is there wooing us, hoping we accept his offer. We were created to have this beautiful romance with God. And without it, we will forever feel emptiness..… then we turn to ungodly substitutes.
Today, take a look at what you are pursuing instead of God. What hollow and harmful substitutes are you letting Satan entice you with? What are you turning to to meet your needs…. soothe you…. bring you comfort…help you escape your troubles. Anything other than God, or what He provides, is a dangerous counterfeit. Know the Lord is seeking you. Are you ready to receive the love and gifts He offers?
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a humble, yet thankful heart. It’s always so amazing to me to know that in spite of my wrong choices, Your love and grace continue to flow to me. What an awesome thought; You have been there waiting for me even before I was born. Waiting with Your ever-present offer of a personal romance with me. I thank You for the love You give me. My Lord and God, please help me seek You as you seek me. I know now that my acceptance of You changes everything. You have said yes to me at creation and yes again at the cross when You sent Your only Son to die for my sins. I say yes to You Lord. I say yes to the greatest gift anyone could imagine.
I pray this surrounded by Your grace and mercy and through Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Genesis 1:27
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
Most kids don’t come into the world totally randomly. Most people have been thinking since their childhood about how many kids they will have, how they will parent them, will get an apartment or house with extra bedrooms, plan a nursery, even planning the sexual activity…all before the pregnancy even starts.
Did you know the work of God is present in our lives “before” we are even aware of it? In fact, millennia before we were even born. He is with us from conception to conversion.
The word prevenient means, “to come before”. Think about this for a moment; God is there waiting for us in anticipation of the loving relationship He desires. God pursues this relationship…he “courts” us through love and grace. It’s unassuming…never forced.
He is there wooing us, hoping we accept his offer. We were created to have this beautiful romance with God. And without it, we will forever feel emptiness..… then we turn to ungodly substitutes.
Today, take a look at what you are pursuing instead of God. What hollow and harmful substitutes are you letting Satan entice you with? What are you turning to to meet your needs…. soothe you…. bring you comfort…help you escape your troubles. Anything other than God, or what He provides, is a dangerous counterfeit. Know the Lord is seeking you. Are you ready to receive the love and gifts He offers?
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a humble, yet thankful heart. It’s always so amazing to me to know that in spite of my wrong choices, Your love and grace continue to flow to me. What an awesome thought; You have been there waiting for me even before I was born. Waiting with Your ever-present offer of a personal romance with me. I thank You for the love You give me. My Lord and God, please help me seek You as you seek me. I know now that my acceptance of You changes everything. You have said yes to me at creation and yes again at the cross when You sent Your only Son to die for my sins. I say yes to You Lord. I say yes to the greatest gift anyone could imagine.
I pray this surrounded by Your grace and mercy and through Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Genesis 1:27
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Stepping Stones: Thankfully, The Story Doesn’t End There
Transformational Tip
What if you were a murder, rapist, thief, child molester…all terrible, sinful things. Then you were caught and found guilty. Sentence pronounced – DEATH!. Just as they are getting the lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything and lets you know the amazing wonderful news.
He reluctantly(because he, Satan, wants to see you destroyed) explains, the penalty for your crime is death. A perfect person, who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed for you. You are free to go as your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day, but if that was the end of the story, it wouldn’t be that great. Who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry, a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, child molester.
This is the even more amazing second blessing…the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything wants to date you, marry you, hang out with you. He trusts you with His kids, possessions…and really loves and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of our sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, but rejoice in His second blessing.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for Your relentless pursuit of me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity, I now realize, you were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals that you also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid the died for me and pursued me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
What if you were a murder, rapist, thief, child molester…all terrible, sinful things. Then you were caught and found guilty. Sentence pronounced – DEATH!. Just as they are getting the lethal injection ready, the warden runs in to stop everything and lets you know the amazing wonderful news.
He reluctantly(because he, Satan, wants to see you destroyed) explains, the penalty for your crime is death. A perfect person, who owed no penalty, has voluntarily taken your place and will be executed for you. You are free to go as your penalty is Paid in Full (the first blessing). What a great day, but if that was the end of the story, it wouldn’t be that great. Who really wants to date, befriend, hire, hangout with, or marry, a convicted murderer, rapist, thief, child molester.
This is the even more amazing second blessing…the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Almighty Creator of everything wants to date you, marry you, hang out with you. He trusts you with His kids, possessions…and really loves and wants to get to know you intimately regardless of our sins, past, present, and future.
Today, try to see you the way God sees you. Now look at God with the gratitude and love that He extends to you (if we could even muster 1/1000 the love He gives us – wow). Be glad the story doesn’t end with forgiveness, but rejoice in His second blessing.
Prayer
Dear Gracious and Merciful Father, I confess my sinful ways before You and thank You for your forgiveness. Thanks for not giving up on me and for Your relentless pursuit of me, especially when I stray way off course. Thanks for the nudging You give me to get back on track, even though at times I see it as adversity, I now realize, you were trying to catch my attention and get me back on the right path toward true peace, freedom, and contentment in Your ways and arms. Please help me be a grateful prodigal son and not be resentful of other prodigals that you also forgive. I pray this in the name of the One who paid the died for me and pursued me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
“And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
“But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.
Luke 15:10-24
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43
Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it: "I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
Isaiah 42:5-7
Monday, June 21, 2010
Stepping Stones: Your Ultimate Personal Gift Card
Transformational Tip
When the crowd was about to stone the woman caught in adultery, they asked Jesus; “What do you say we do?” Jesus started to write in the sand and then says; “Anyone here who has never sinned can through the first stone at her.”
The young men look to the old…the old look into their hearts and they are the first to drop their stones. Jesus then asks the women if anyone has judged her guilty…she say “no one, Lord”. Then Jesus says; “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”
How do you think God reacts when you fail? Listen carefully; he writes it down. Not in the sand or on paper, but on a cross. His message has three words: “Paid in Full”. He’s given you a prepaid gift card and He paid in full for your penalty. Your response is…. confess your sin and receive His gift.
Hear this, your personal gift card is not permission to sin…that is a whole different topic. Your gift card is freedom from the condemnation our sin should bring us if it weren’t for such a gracious God who is perfectly holy and just, but also perfect love and merciful.
Today, redeem your gift card. How? Confession. We don’t use it enough. We sin a bunch, but confess, what, once a week…day…three times a day? I know we sin more than that. Notice your thoughts and actions. When you miss God’s mark, stop and confess your missing the mark and celebrate your freedom Christ purchased from the slave market of sin. Your renewed and liberated mind is now freer to make Godly decisions than ever before.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a thankful heart, so thankful You sent Your son to pay the price for my sin, and thankful for Your gift of forgiveness. What a comfort to think of the words; “Paid in Full”. Better yet, thanks for the eternal life, free from sin’s devastation, you offer me. Help me learn from and apply Your wisdom to my everyday life. Please help me to not judge others hearts, let me be Your disciple, not a judge. Help me to forgive others as You have forgiven me. Focus my eyes on my heart and intents, and not those of others. I pray this in the name of the One who paid the ultimate price for my gift card, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:12
This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:5-9
When the crowd was about to stone the woman caught in adultery, they asked Jesus; “What do you say we do?” Jesus started to write in the sand and then says; “Anyone here who has never sinned can through the first stone at her.”
The young men look to the old…the old look into their hearts and they are the first to drop their stones. Jesus then asks the women if anyone has judged her guilty…she say “no one, Lord”. Then Jesus says; “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”
How do you think God reacts when you fail? Listen carefully; he writes it down. Not in the sand or on paper, but on a cross. His message has three words: “Paid in Full”. He’s given you a prepaid gift card and He paid in full for your penalty. Your response is…. confess your sin and receive His gift.
Hear this, your personal gift card is not permission to sin…that is a whole different topic. Your gift card is freedom from the condemnation our sin should bring us if it weren’t for such a gracious God who is perfectly holy and just, but also perfect love and merciful.
Today, redeem your gift card. How? Confession. We don’t use it enough. We sin a bunch, but confess, what, once a week…day…three times a day? I know we sin more than that. Notice your thoughts and actions. When you miss God’s mark, stop and confess your missing the mark and celebrate your freedom Christ purchased from the slave market of sin. Your renewed and liberated mind is now freer to make Godly decisions than ever before.
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You with a thankful heart, so thankful You sent Your son to pay the price for my sin, and thankful for Your gift of forgiveness. What a comfort to think of the words; “Paid in Full”. Better yet, thanks for the eternal life, free from sin’s devastation, you offer me. Help me learn from and apply Your wisdom to my everyday life. Please help me to not judge others hearts, let me be Your disciple, not a judge. Help me to forgive others as You have forgiven me. Focus my eyes on my heart and intents, and not those of others. I pray this in the name of the One who paid the ultimate price for my gift card, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:12
This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:5-9
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Stepping Stones: Out of the Mouths of Children
Transformational Tip
Today, Father's Day, we have something a little different and special (especially for me). I hope it tickles and touches you as it did me. I send the devotional to my daughters, 2 teens and an 8yo....in the beginning, my 8 year old didn't know I was writing some of them, so she replied to Lighthouse, "hi i wish there were kids devotions. i would read them more", ggb(8yo). I replied to her, "you sound pretty wise, can you write me one for kids?" This is what she sent (her punctuation and words!):
Does God Hear You?
By Gigi Benzio
In troubled times, don't you wonder, is God really up there helping me? Is he really trying to resolve this problem? Well, did you ever try praying to him? God knows you have that problem, but God wants you to ask him to help. Also, the more you pray about it, the more he'll help. The closer to God you are, the more he'll help, and I don't men closer like in distance. I mean the more you like God or go to church or talk with Him or work with Him. Just like with your friends. The more you play together, the closer you are with them, right? It's just like God. But if you see no difference, don't be alarmed because God has the perfect plan and every thing He does is for the best.
Maybe not theologically perfect, but pretty darn good.
Today, Will you play with your kids today? How about spending some time to play...I mean literally play with God a bit and enjoy Him.
A happy Father's Day to all the Stepping Stones community and all your father's.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about playing with your kids…or with your Father.
Prayer
Abba, Abba, our divine, heavenly Father God, You are the perfect Father, and I am so thankful You are the father to my girls and they have accepted Your Son as their savior. Thank you for allowing me to be their earthly guardian. Please continue to grow and purify me...help me to endure the difficult times of that purifying process so I can be a great Father to them... and give them an appetizer to the buffet table of your amazing grace and love. Please protect them from the evil one and help me teach them You and Your Word, so they can be an arrow prepared for Your use.... attacking the evil one and protecting our family and friends as well. Thank You for making up for my mistakes and being the father to them where I fall short. I pray this in the name of the One who perfectly played with His Father, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.
Psalm 127:4
And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
"Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
Matthew 18:2-6
and they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.
Mark 10:13-14
Today, Father's Day, we have something a little different and special (especially for me). I hope it tickles and touches you as it did me. I send the devotional to my daughters, 2 teens and an 8yo....in the beginning, my 8 year old didn't know I was writing some of them, so she replied to Lighthouse, "hi i wish there were kids devotions. i would read them more", ggb(8yo). I replied to her, "you sound pretty wise, can you write me one for kids?" This is what she sent (her punctuation and words!):
Does God Hear You?
By Gigi Benzio
In troubled times, don't you wonder, is God really up there helping me? Is he really trying to resolve this problem? Well, did you ever try praying to him? God knows you have that problem, but God wants you to ask him to help. Also, the more you pray about it, the more he'll help. The closer to God you are, the more he'll help, and I don't men closer like in distance. I mean the more you like God or go to church or talk with Him or work with Him. Just like with your friends. The more you play together, the closer you are with them, right? It's just like God. But if you see no difference, don't be alarmed because God has the perfect plan and every thing He does is for the best.
Maybe not theologically perfect, but pretty darn good.
Today, Will you play with your kids today? How about spending some time to play...I mean literally play with God a bit and enjoy Him.
A happy Father's Day to all the Stepping Stones community and all your father's.
Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community about playing with your kids…or with your Father.
Prayer
Abba, Abba, our divine, heavenly Father God, You are the perfect Father, and I am so thankful You are the father to my girls and they have accepted Your Son as their savior. Thank you for allowing me to be their earthly guardian. Please continue to grow and purify me...help me to endure the difficult times of that purifying process so I can be a great Father to them... and give them an appetizer to the buffet table of your amazing grace and love. Please protect them from the evil one and help me teach them You and Your Word, so they can be an arrow prepared for Your use.... attacking the evil one and protecting our family and friends as well. Thank You for making up for my mistakes and being the father to them where I fall short. I pray this in the name of the One who perfectly played with His Father, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.
Psalm 127:4
And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
"Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.
Matthew 18:2-6
and they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.
Mark 10:13-14
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Stepping Stones: Yours is the Hand He Loves to Hold
Transformational Tip
How foolish, how fruitless it is when we spend our time spinning our wheels trying to fix things that are out of our control. We tend to look outside and ignore what’s going on inside us. The only control we can exert is to affect our inside, our mind and heart. We need to develop spiritual radar for what is going on and not just physical and emotional radar.
Instead of worrying about what is going on around us, try spending some of that mind space and time communicating with God to identify and work on what is going on inside us. Your mind, often called the heart in the Bible, is the real battlefield. Your tongue, your actions, your relationships are all a product of what is going on in your mind.
Your mind though is really driven by your belief system. Therefore, it is important to understand and be aware of spiritual things, to have a sensitive spiritual radar and antennae.
One way is to take just a few seconds, many times during your day, to simply thank God in all circumstances. Focus on what you have in that moment and not on what you don’t have. This will allow you to see God’s hand more clearly in your life.
Today, take small breaks to confess your sins small and large. You will soon find that this frequent communication gives you peace and strength and develops a sensitive spiritual radar. Imagine each time you stop to pray you are reaching your hand through the masses toward God. When your hand reaches through, He knows…..yours is the hand He loves to hold.
Prayer
Dear Father, I pray that You help me remember that my goal should not be to control and fix everything around me...rather let my goal be to continuously commune with You. Help me remember that a successful day is when I have stayed in touch with You and give You thanks in all circumstances...even if many things remain undone by the end of that day. Help me confess my sins often each day, continually opening the pathway to receive Your Spirit and grace. I pray that Your Spirit guide me through my day...moment by moment. I pray in In Jesus’ redeeming and forgiving name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:6
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Phillipians 4:6-9
How foolish, how fruitless it is when we spend our time spinning our wheels trying to fix things that are out of our control. We tend to look outside and ignore what’s going on inside us. The only control we can exert is to affect our inside, our mind and heart. We need to develop spiritual radar for what is going on and not just physical and emotional radar.
Instead of worrying about what is going on around us, try spending some of that mind space and time communicating with God to identify and work on what is going on inside us. Your mind, often called the heart in the Bible, is the real battlefield. Your tongue, your actions, your relationships are all a product of what is going on in your mind.
Your mind though is really driven by your belief system. Therefore, it is important to understand and be aware of spiritual things, to have a sensitive spiritual radar and antennae.
One way is to take just a few seconds, many times during your day, to simply thank God in all circumstances. Focus on what you have in that moment and not on what you don’t have. This will allow you to see God’s hand more clearly in your life.
Today, take small breaks to confess your sins small and large. You will soon find that this frequent communication gives you peace and strength and develops a sensitive spiritual radar. Imagine each time you stop to pray you are reaching your hand through the masses toward God. When your hand reaches through, He knows…..yours is the hand He loves to hold.
Prayer
Dear Father, I pray that You help me remember that my goal should not be to control and fix everything around me...rather let my goal be to continuously commune with You. Help me remember that a successful day is when I have stayed in touch with You and give You thanks in all circumstances...even if many things remain undone by the end of that day. Help me confess my sins often each day, continually opening the pathway to receive Your Spirit and grace. I pray that Your Spirit guide me through my day...moment by moment. I pray in In Jesus’ redeeming and forgiving name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:17-18
in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:6
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Phillipians 4:6-9
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