Stepping Stones: Are You Starving At The Buffet?

Transformational Thought

We buy and eat food, lots of it and all the time. We must though in order to live, to survive. But, actually, our country is well-fed, overweight even, yet we are still starving. We’re starving spiritually!

Even though we are well fed with all this food, supplements, restaurants, and microwaves, we still struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, pornography, addictions, insecurity, other people’s opinions, sleeplessness, and fill in your issue. Be mindful that food lasts for only a short time, and only meets our physical needs. God is eternal and all powerful to meet all our needs, all the time.

God invites us, throughout Scripture, to come to Him for all our needs. In Isaiah 55, God invites the thirsty and His invitation is very clear and simple. Come, then Listen, then Seek. Come means both feet in. Not ready to run the other way at the drop of a hat. Listen is to really take it in and let it examine and reshape your heart. Seek is to pursue the goal, relentlessly, like you lost a $10,000,000 lottery ticket.

Do you Come, Listen, and Seek God in this way? Why not? Because if you aren’t pursuing God, you are pursuing the counterfeit in this way, so don’t be surprised with what you are reaping.

Today, go to your Father and really listen. Go to your Father, listen, and seek the mind of Christ. As Isaiah writes, seek the Lord while He is near. This is not because God will move away…but we do things to place distance between God and us. And we must not forget, don’t let God come to judge the earth before you seek and accept Him. Click on the Spiritual Basics tab and then click on “Salvation.”

Prayer
Dear Father, I come to you today, thirsty, hungry and tired. I thank You, Father, for Your ever-present invitation to come to You. I am learning that, because of my humanness, I will always have ups and downs in my life. I have had many downs lately…I feel spiritually malnourished. When I am really feeling down, I feel distant from You…I feel like a failure. At such times, it’s almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your presence in my life. When I cannot find the way to connect to You, help me at least cling to the promise of You. I thank you that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit…and that Your Spirit will lead me to You, and that I will “…eat what is good.” I pray this and all prayers in the name the Bread of Life, my savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David.
See, I have made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor.
Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.
Isaiah 55:1-6

Stepping Stones: Peace Is There, But Don’t Look In The Wrong Place

Transformational Thought

In my teenage years, I enjoyed had many outward successes in sports, academics, and with peers. But inside, unfortunately, peace was often elusive, and I really struggled inside, as I felt out of control on many occasions. One of my favorite and frequent activities was sitting down and making a plan for the next 5 years of my life, one year at a time.

This planning behavior, this “soothing activity,” was my attempt to act out the false belief that an orderly life on the outside would bring order on the inside of my heart. Also, with all that ordering of my outside world, my future, my path, I thought I could plan my way to peace.

It took me a while to learn this important truth about the brain, and it wasn’t in undergrad as a biomedical engineer, or medical school, or in psychiatry training. The Bible actually taught me that God did not design the human mind to figure out the future, for this is clearly beyond our capability.

He crafted our minds for continual communication with Him. You will not find peace by engaging in excessive planning and “doing”, with futile attempts to control what will happen to you in the future. This is not the path to peace. Excessive planning and doing is actually a often practiced form of unbelief.

Today, bring all your needs, your hopes and your fears to Your Lord and God. Commit everything into His care. When uneasy, instead of planning, stop, look around at creation and your life and enjoy the moment…bask in God’s blessings, love, and amazing grace. Remember He promises to comfort you and bring a peace. Look in the right places for it because it is there. Turn from the path of planning and doing to the path of peace.

Prayer
Dear Father God, My mind spins with multiple plans. I spend so much time planning because I think it is the pathway to peace. And just when peace appears to be within my reach, it somehow eludes me. Just when I think I have prepared for all possibilities, covered all my bases, a meteor strikes my life and pushes peace once again beyond my grasp and throws me into another state of confusion. Help me, Father, to stop this wasted effort. I bring to You today all my issues, needs, and insecurities…I release them into Your care. For I know this is the true pathway to peace. Help me, Father, to find the next step, and the next, on this pathway of Stepping Stones. I pray to You Father in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5:6-7

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9

Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Psalm 37:5-7

Stepping Stones: You Complaining? Motive Check Time

Transformational Thought

I was in a restaurant the other day and the tables were close to each other, so it was easy to hear (yes, eavesdrop on) the various groups talking. As I listened, I realized there was a distinct pattern across the conversation – complaining. Everyone was complaining about something. Just realized, even I am complaining about all the complaining!

No one wins when you complain. You get all worked up, you keep pulling the scabs off of the sores that need to heal…and your complaining is almost always unwelcomed by those you are complaining to. Complaining to others actually puts you on a dangerous slippery slope to deadly sins such as pride, duplicity, laziness, self-pity, an unforgiving heart, bitterness, or rage.

So why do we complain so much? Our innate nature is to want to try to make ourselves look better, so we pick at so many issues, putting others down which then allows us to “rank” in a better position than them. Another reason for complaining is our pride in thinking we know exactly how situations should go, and when these events don’t go as planned, we complain about the alternative reality that God deals us.

When you look at the past, the goal needs to bring hope to the future. Complaining is not constructive remembering, it is destructive remembering. If you are going to process negative events, and I am certainly advocating we do need to do this, we have to be careful of our real motive for reviewing these negative events.

Today, if you feel like complaining, talk with God about the difficult path you are on – He understands better than anyone else the stresses and strains that are affecting you. Talking it out with God will temper your thoughts, soothe your feelings, clear your perspective, and help you begin seeing things from His perspective. If you are complaining or listening to complaining, stop and take time to check your motives. Always remember where each of us came from, a sinner saved by grace… and there is a list of people with complaints about you, too. Your choice, choose well!

Prayer
Dear Father God, I have been on a long, uphill journey, and my energy is almost depleted. In this state of mind, I find myself all-too-quick to complain to others. I want to live by Your Word, Lord…and Your Word teaches me to do everything without complaining. Help me, Lord, to bring my complaints only to You. Help me to not ridicule others by complaining about them. Help me, Lord, to develop and maintain a thankful heart. I pray, Lord, that You help me send the message to others, in a gentle loving way, that complaining is wasteful and counterproductive. Help me lead them to You. I pray in the name of the one who refreshes me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe
Philippians 2:14-15

I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint
Jeremiah 31:25

Stepping Stones: You’re Like A Fish!

Transformational Thought

Most of mankind’s misery stems from one condition; feeling unloved. We then develop many dysfunctional activities to soothe this misery. Such as pursuing quick love, trying to numb or escape the hurt of not being loved, substituting for the love we don’t feel by “loving” ourselves (pride), or loving other things (sports, work, sex, food, shopping, insert your vice) to vicariously feel or try to get love. In the midst of our storms, we tend to feel that somehow love has been withdrawn and that we have been forsaken…and this is exactly the Satan, the Great Deceiver, wants us to think and feel.

This feeling of abandonment is often worse than the storm itself. Love to us is like water to fish; we need it to surround us… we need it to navigate life…we need it to feed us. In fact, we need it to breathe, most importantly, we need it to LIVE! Have you ever seen a fish out of water? Floundering, flapping, gasping. Isnt that how we must seem emotionally, psychologically, spiritually at times.

When we feel unloved or abandoned, turn to God’s Holy Scripture. Today’s Scripture reading is what I believe to be the most comforting promise in all of scripture. It assures us that we will never be alone or unloved, “Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God.” Who do you believe, Satan’s lies or God’s promise? Your own insecure flesh, or the great instruction book of life? The message of e world or Jesus’ death on the cross for you?

Today, be aware of God’s love for you by imagining the love in the best fairy tale you can remember (yes guys, you can do this, too). If you are struggling, or doing well, remember that fairy tale, and look around to see and feel God’s love for YOU! Also, tell someone today who is close to you that you love them…and that God loves them more. Your choice regarding whether you believe Satan or God, choose well!

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You today with such a thankful heart. Thankful for Your love and for Your promise and assurance that nothing can separate me from Your love. I pray, Lord, that You let this divine assurance trickle through my mind, body and spirit…to trickle into my heart and soul. In this action-addicted world, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find time alone with You, but when I do, I feel Your love. Help this day bring awareness to those that I love…even to strangers…that they are loved. In the name of love personified, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39

…which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
Ephesians 1:20-21

Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
Psalm 63:3

Stepping Stones: Today’s Homework Brings Tomorrow’s Reward!

Transformational Thought

How easy it is to “lose heart.” We have all faced storms and problems in relationships, in our jobs, with our finances, not having our dreams or plans work out. How many times have you thought about just quitting…just walking off the job? In the midst of Paul’s most troublesome times, he decides to focus on his inner strength, which comes from the Holy Spirit.

Don’t let fatigue, pain, judgment and criticism from others force you off the job. Don’t forsake your eternal reward because of some pain or temptation. You see, so many people think, “do the right thing now for my reward in heaven, but it gets me suffering now.” But do the right thing now renews your mind. That means you are strengthened psychologically, and your brain wiring actually improves. But most importantly, your relationship with God stays pure and the Holy Spirit, not your flesh, is on the throne of your heart and the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the flesh is what you will reap.

Adversity has a purpose. Someone wrote to us recently with a very simple prayer to pray while in the midst of a life storm; “Dear God, please do not let these tears be wasted.” Think of the many benefits of our human limitations and problems; they remind us of Christ suffering for us; they keep pride away; they provide the opportunity to look beyond this brief life; they allow us to demonstrate our faith to others…and they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His awesome power.

Today, think about how complacent and prideful you would be if everything went your way. Then, during a setback or struggle today, remember a school assignment, athletic training, or arts preparation you had that was difficult and painful, but eventually grew and prospered you. Then be thankful for today’s homework or training exercise. Do it with excellence, and be excited for our perfect Teacher or Coach is training us for the greatest trophy and reward! Your perspective is your choice, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to you today as a fearful follower. As Paul writes, I do feel as if I am wasting away…most days lately I feel as if I am losing heart. By reading Your word today, I see where I have been going wrong. I have been looking only at what I can see, and what I can see is only temporary. Father, help me today fix my eyes and heart on what is deeper, for I know that what is deeper more valuable. Help me today to see my problems as opportunities, for Your Word has taught me that when I am at my weakest, I really am my strongest. It is Your strength and power that makes me strong. Father, please do not let my troubles today diminish my faith in You. Please let my very weakness allow the resurrection power of Jesus Christ to strengthen me moment by moment. I pray in need and through Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Cor. 4:16–18

You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.
John 13:13

He who teaches man knowledge--the LORD--knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath. Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked.
Psalm 94:10-13

Stepping Stones: Battlefield is Our Mind

Transformational Thought

We were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great spiritual battle. Every day all the forces of good and evil, heaven and hell, God and Satan, collide. You have experienced and witnessed this warfare.

Today’s scripture are words spoken by Jesus…he makes the choices so obvious, so clear. So few of us face this fact; I know I’m guilty of not reminding myself each day that I’m in the middle of spiritual warfare.

Yes, there is a thief out there…he comes only to steal and destroy. And he’s not interesting in taking a few things and be gone – he wants it all; your marriage, your job, your children, your relationships – everything. Satan’s main strategy is distorting our lenses and disrupting our decision-making skills. Satan even went after Jesus with lies and trying to affect Jesus’ decisions.

But it’s the second part of Jesus’ sentence we need to focus on. He tells us He has come so that we may have life and life to the fullest. However, you have to choose this life; it will not be handed to you. You need to face the fact…every day…that you are smack dab in the middle of this war. Just like Jesus used the BIBLE to be His lenses and the reference for accurate decision-making, that’s what we need to use.

Jesus’ offer to us is life, but you better be ready to fight for it. Because the bad guy on the other side is your greatest enemy. It’s not pleasant news, but it is news everyone needs to hear.

Today, stop yourself when tempted to stray and calm yourself with God’s word and Jesus’ promise of abundant life so you don’t take Satan’s lie. Also, think of one or two people at this moment that you want to alert or remind that there is a thief stalking them. Call them, forward this email to them…pray for them.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I choose life! Thank You, Father, for providing such a beautiful alternative - life. I ask for Your help, Father God, I need Your help to face into the fact that I am in the middle of spiritual warfare…and to help me remember that You sent Your son so that I may have abundant life. I have seen what this enemy is capable of, Lord; in my life and in the lives of others. I pray that You help me and the Stepping Stones praying community accept the fact that there is an enemy out there trying to steal all we have…to destroy and kill. Help me, Lord, as a Father to protect my children from this thief; to protect all those I love. I pray in the name of the Conqueror, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!


The Truth
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10

And the tempter came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread." But he answered, "It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, "'He will command his angels concerning you,' and "'On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'" Jesus said to him, "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to him, "All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan! For it is written, "You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve."
Matthew 4:3-10

My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
Proverbs 1:10

Stepping Stones: The Ultimate Alchemist

Transformational Thought

My little granny is coming up on 90 years old in January. Good thing she doesn’t get the Internet or she would be so angry with me telling people her age. She still gets to the Russian Orthodox Church, twice a month, to crank out 6000 perogies with her gnarled hands.

You see, my granny is the dough master, the most physically grueling task when making perogies, and she keeps waiting for some young buck to learn her secret before she dies. Perogies, deep-fried, are my favorite food, but perogies are a classic example of the final product being way better than the sum of the ingredients, because of the talent of the cook.

Alchemy is an ancient practice of combining common, cheap substances and transforming them into something of value. One who practices Alchemy is called an Alchemist. So many of us suffer from the belief that we have nothing of value to share with others…or with our God. We feel we are a waste.

Nothing is wasted when it is shared with Your Lord. He can bring beauty out of the ashes of broken or lost dreams. He can glean joy out of sorrow…peace out of adversity. Your God delights in transforming His Children.

Today, bring your sorrow, sadness and brokenness to God. Release them into his care and keeping. He will not only heal your brokenness…He will give you a new dream – one that is in perfect harmony with His plans for you. To do this, give up one of your needs and instead, turn to depend on His promises. As you begin to work with Him to bring this fresh new dream to reality, you will find yourself becoming more and more content and increasingly aware of His beautiful presence.

Only your best friend and the King of Kings could accomplish this Divine Alchemy.

Prayer
Dear Father, I am so blessed to call you my friend. I pray to You, Father, that You help me share more and more of my life with You. I believe You and only You can bring beauty out of my lost dreams…out of my sorrow. I confess, Father, that as I try and bring my junk to you for transformation – I get stuck in my self-pity; my brokenness and my struggles. Help me bring all these things to You so that You place on me a crown of beauty instead of ashes. I know You are the Divine Alchemist. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who needed no alchemy to shine His glory, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!


The Truth
He has sent me to bind the brokenhearted…and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:2-3

Jesus looked at them and said; “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26

Stepping Stones: Do You Recognize The Darkness?

Transformational Thought

What is darkness? We all have really bright and shiny days when everything goes great and we feel on top of the world. But darker days, those are a lot tougher to describe and identify. You might be thinking, “what is he talking about, I know the dark days and can identify them pretty easily.”

Dark days can also be days that are “neutral” days. Nothing great, nothing earth-shattering, nothing memorable. Those are the days that Satan starts to play with our head, getting us to think or believe we are nothing special, that God doesn’t really love us, that God inst interested in our wellbeing, that God is really just witting up there with a scorecard, keeping track of out mistakes.

Why do we fall for Satan’s tricks? Because, at our core, we are insecure, feel inadequate, and have a consistent and constant need for approval and to be important to someone. Noticed. To be making our mark on each day.

Growing in God’s grace is all about trusting Him above all else, particularly in the darkness, whether it is a for-all-the-marbles darkness, or those neutral days that set us up on the slippery slope for a big darkness. When you are in the dark, reach for His hand with confidence. Turn to Him. Resist the hollow earthly solutions and addictions. Reaching for His hand in the dark is a display of magnificent trust and greatly weakens the spiritual forces of evil, the very forces that have tricked you to pursue the darkness as a solution.

When your world is dark and you trust God, His light will shine brightly through you for all to see…for His light shines brightest in the darkness.

Today, if you are in the dark and feel on the brink of giving up, cry out for His assistance and pray: “Help me Holy Spirit.” Really look for the hand that is reaching out for you….it is there. This brief prayer is a beautiful display of trust and a simple way to tap into His vast power. Learn to recognize the lies that take you from a neutral day to a dark day.

Prayer
Dear Father, I am completely in the dark today – scared, disoriented – don’t know which way to turn. Help me, God, help me, Holy Spirit. You have designed me to seek light…I crave all kind of light; sunlight, even artificial light…but especially the light of Your holy presence. I want to walk in Your light, Father. It is easy for me to trust You when there is plenty of light in my world. But trusting You in my darkness is another matter. But I am desperate, Lord, I am reaching for You in the dark. I know, Lord, that Your light shines brightest in the dark. I pray that even in times when I cannot see the illumination of Your light, that Your light shining through me is visible to those around me. I pray in need through Your Son Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

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, purifies us from all sin
1 John 1:7

Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.
Psalm 139:10

Stepping Stones: How Do You Fill Your Vessel?

Transformational Thought

A banner ad came across my screen yesterday as I was on the Internet; “10 ways to be happier in 2 minutes or less.” Wow, what a deal, I would even give 10 minutes for happiness. Be honest with yourself, would you have clicked on the link. I would really like to know how many people clicked onto that ad in search of quick-hit happiness.

Why is happiness, true lasting happiness, you know, happiness regardless of your circumstances, so hard to “find”? When we do find happiness…why does it leave us so quickly? Scripture tells us that God created us as earthen vessels, but I believe I am such a leaky container that I can never really get filled and stay filled. Our fleshly lenses are so me oriented, we focus on the negative and what we don’t have, making happiness so elusive. Our selfish need to always want more makes happiness so short-lived.

This is why I need my vessel to be filled over and over constantly as I get empty so quicky. But while we are earthen vessels, God designed us to be filled with heavenly content that cant leak out…to fill our vessels with Him. Whether we choose to use this full vessel, or just pour it out and replace it with other stuff that easily leaks out, that decision is up to us.

So where do you go to “fill-up?” What do you put in your vessel? When you put the right God-gifts in your vessel, do you use it or do you pour it out for a cheap substitute? Don’t rush to the dollar store to grab items that break easily causing you to go back regularly and never being fully satisfied. Go to the quality store where the valuable items that take more commitment to “buy” are kept and patiently pursue quality that lasts.

Today, remain in the presence of Your God. He is excited and proud to fill you with His Glory-gifts. But this takes time…do not rush this process. Examine some truths you already know and see if you can apply them to a couple more small areas of your life, over and over, instead of applying cheap imitations from the world or your past. This is how you use the Glory-gifts in your vessel. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Without You, my emptiness is profound. I know that I am an earthen vessel…and a leaky one at that. I need to be filled and refilled with You, my Father. Please fill me with Your love, joy and peace. Because Your gifts leak out of me, I need your continual presence…I need You endlessly for renewal. I have been empty for so long, Father…for as long as I can remember. I always knew that I was a leaky vessel. I saw myself as a defect…a mistake. But I rejoice in the awareness that I am not a mistake…that this is exactly how You made me, to allow the world’s stuff to leak out and your glory-gifts to be held in. This keeps me looking at You, coming to You for renewal. Thank You, Father. All praise and glory be to You. I pray, Father, that You also fill me with Your Holy Spirit…the most precious treasure of all. Fill me with Your holy scripture. As You fill me with Your gifts, let Your beautiful light shine through me like a Lighthouse to other people’s lives. Let me do Your work today, Lord, in ways that I don’t even understand. I pray in need and through the perfect filling for my vessel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
However, we possess this precious treasure (the divine light of the Gospel) in (frail, human) vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves.
2 Corinthians 4:7

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven
Matthew 5:16

Stepping Stones: Grandma’s Vision Ain’t So Good

Transformation Thought

My oldest daughter just started college at the University of Pittsburgh, which is very close to where my parents and I were born. I haven’t lived there in almost 40 years, but I still have many relatives there. It has been great staying with my cousin Chuckie, and catching up with some other relatives that I rarely see.

When I go to Granny Guzy’s house, she pinches my cheeks, calls me junior(ever since I could remember, she has never called me Karl), makes me 2 huge sandwiches or perogies, and buys me sugar pops for breakfast….she sees me like I am 8 yrs old still. It is very hard to see myself accurately, as a 47 you adult professional husband and father, when I am getting feedback and lenses put over my eyes that see me as an 8 yo.

How do you see yourself? If you are looking through your own eyes, chances are you will not like what you see. Satan, the Great Deceiver, wants us to see ourselves as alone, unloved, unwanted, unable to tolerate pain, and needing his quick fix for our problems. Sometimes our fleshly lenses skew our self-evaluation to the other end of the spectrum and we see ourselves as King of our world, much better than we really are, entitled to way more than we really deserve, you know, “My kingdom come, My will be done” mentality.

Try seeing yourself through the clearest, most accurate lenses of all, the eyes of God…see yourself as someone who is deeply loved and protected. Healing, comfort, and peace our abundantly provided. Immerse yourself in God’s Holy Bible, a tremendous love story about God’s love for you, and see just how much He loves you. He offers us more love, peace, wisdom, and protection than we could ever get from Satan’s world system.

Today, look in the mirror and valuate your base, knee-jerk view of yourself. Then, while in the bathroom, read Luke 1:26 – 2:21(the Christmas Story) and John 18, 19 20(Easter story)… don’t say “I know these stories, I can skip the reading”…READ THEM, they are short. Use this to see yourself thru God’s lenses. Your decision, your lenses or God’s. Choose well!

Prayer
Dear Father, You are the peak of all my desires and all my hopes. You are the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last: who is, and was, and is to come. You have brought so many pleasures and blessings into my life. Thank You, Jesus. I receive Your gifts with open arms, but help me, my God, to not cling to these gifts. At times I cling to the gifts and am fearful that I might lose them, but what a peaceful thought to know that the only thing I absolutely need, is the one thing I can never lose: Your presence in me. Thank You Jesus. Today, I try to see myself through Your eyes my God. Through Your eyes I see myself as someone who is deeply loved and protected by Your presence which safely shields me from all evil. I pray in Jesus’ never ending name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."
Revelation 1:8

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
Psalm 62:5-8

Stepping Stones: What If You Could Change the Past?

Transformational Tip

I was a Star Trek maniac as a kid and still am as an adult. Just the original though, you know, with Kirk and Spock. To me, they were the dynamic duo of the universe. Every episode they would take on all challenges and enemies from around the multiverse as well as from within themselves. And Kirk and Spock would beat them in less than 60 minutes, every time!

I especially loved the episodes where they went back in time and did something (usually something good) that would then significantly affect the future…which was Spock and Kirk’s present. The ripples into the their present usually really messed up their lives and often threw everything off balance, wrecking the whole world. Then they had to figure out how to go back in the past, undo what they thought the good deed they did, and make everything right again so their present and future would be OK.

From our own selfish desires, our limited knowledge, and our continuing need to feel good now, we often fall into the same trap as Kirk and Spock. Spending lots of time thinking about what we could change about our past so our lives would be better now. Forget what is behind you and focus on what you need to do now.

God has forgiven you as you receive Christ’s death for your mistakes and sins. Take your personal stepping-stones, one at a time, toward the prize that has already been won for you. Remember that even in this imperfect world, any progress in moving toward a Christ-like life is awesome progress to God.

Today, when a derogatory thought, generated by your past, comes to your mind, grab the remote control for your brain and switch to the channel broadcasting Jesus’ victory over sin and death, and the freedom His resurrection brings you now and in the future. Do you know where the remote control for your brain is? Your remote is your decision-making skills, and that is why we focus so much on the spiritual discipline of decision-making.

Prayer
Dear God, my Father, Trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves me drained and discouraged. I feel that I am so far from being a perfect Christian that I will never be able to please You with my life. During these times when I feel discouraged, I am so thankful for Your message to me through Paul as he spoke to the Philippians. Help me today, Lord, to remember that You paid the price for my sinfulness, and remind me to forget what is behind me and to focus on grabbing the prize that’s within reach for which You have called me. I know that I am not a perfect Christian, but I also know that any progress I make to get closer to You is amazing progress. Help me today, my God, to act on the guidance that you have already given me through the Holy Spirit. In the name of the one with the perfect brain, Jesus’ victorious name, I pray; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14

The path of life leads upward for the prudent, that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.
Proverbs 15:24

Stepping Stones: God’s Wakeup Call: Answer or Hit Snooze?

Transformational Thought

We love our children, as nothing in this world is more precious. As a parent, I really get excited when my kids really pursue me. Especially when they pursue me when they don’t need anything, they just love me and want to hang out with me. What they sometimes don’t realize, I have been pursuing them all along whether they liked it or not, whether they wanted me or not, even before they were born! If you are a parent, you know exactly what I mean.

When you set out to know our God more intimately, He rejoices, but He is not surprised. If you are waking up and starting to pursue Him harder, it’s because He has been pursuing you and you are finally realizing your need to acknowledge that call and respond.

While this longing burns brightly in your heart, remember it originated in Him. Know that God has been pursuing you long before your quest began. If you think it is only your spiritual discipline that keeps you close to God, you are at risk. If you are depending solely on your own efforts to stay close to God, you will for sure find times where you are distant from Him. But if you put His love and pursuit of you as the first step, then His love for you will be always be pursuing and forever assuring.

Today, thank your Lord for awakening in your heart the strong desire for Him, even before you were born He loved, planned, and pursued you. Take 2 separate breaks today and search your heart, looking for what God is asking you to loosen your grip on, so you can grab the hand He extends to you. The weight on your shoulders will actually lighten. It’s your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for awakening me and placing in my heart this strong desire for You. Before I realized your consistent effort to wake me up, I tried to find life in so many different places. I tried so hard to fill the void – and many times I filled it in sinful ways. Forgive me, Lord. I realize now that I have thirsted for You as far back in time as I can remember. I know now that my desire for a closer walk with You grew out of all the work You have done in me. I know You have initiated this longing I have for You…and I know my response now pleases You. Help me, Lord, set aside time and use the remote control for my mind each day to engage with You, my living God. In Jesus’ ultimate awakening; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
My soul thirst for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?
Psalm 42:2

I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:5

Stepping Stones: Do You Avoid God’s Will Because It Hurts?

Transformational Thought

I was in a situation recently where as a close friend revealed some information to me that was quite surprising. After absorbing it, I knew what God wanted me to do. But the Godly response from me was uncomfortable for me to deliver, and I know it was going to be really uncomfortable for my friend to hear. Actually, I was, and still am concerned, that if I said what I know God put on my heart to say, the friendship might end. Wwll I said it, and I know we are both better because I said it. Have you ever been in that kind of situation?

This incident pushed me to examine myself, and I had to admit that at times, I actually fear the will of God. I have a fear that totally aligning my life with the will of God will actually cause me pain. And then I realized my mistake; my fear response was an emotional response. Emotions are great warning signs of potential trouble or danger, but God never intended our emotions o be our decision-making system.

One of Satan's greatest lies is getting us to believe God's way is costly and Satan's way or our fleshly way is on sale, cheaper, less costly than God’s way. Satan's ways will always and immediately result in spiritual, psychological, and physiological (actual brain and heart) damage as well as having longer term damage in these 3 spheres of spirit, mind, and body.

The Word of God continually calls us to transcend living...to go beyond what is natural to what is supernatural. God's will is so much deeper than our understanding. And though His will may entail sacrifice and pain, remember that His will not only does what is good for us...it does what is best for us. Following God's will He will accomplish what is best for you.

Today, practice submission to authority. Stop at every stop sign, don't go over the speed limit, pass up that cookie or extra serving, go to bed at the right time, don't look at the cleavage, hold your tongue, look to serve your spouse, and write a thank you letter to the King of the Universe who is giving you and your life special attention, guidance, and instruction. Take a deep breath and dive into the depths of absolute trust in Him. Live by faith...not by sight.

Prayer
Dear Father, I confess, Father, that while I pray for Your Will to be done, I am often afraid at what this will actually entail. I know that at times Your Will includes pain. When I am hurting; physically, emotionally, spiritually – I search for ways to relieve or escape my pain. The escape becomes my focus as I obsess about how I will solve my problems. I pray to You, Father, to help me really believe that Your way is perfect. I pray in the name of the One who always followed Your will, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
As for God, his way is perfect…He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
2 Samuel 22:31

We live by faith, not by sight
2 Corinthians 5:7

Stepping Stones: Are You More Spoiled Than You Think?

Transformational Thought

Spoiled brats! I don’t hear that term as much today as I did back in the 70’s and 80’s. Now, the term is more likely to be heard referring to Brittany Spears, Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, the Kardashian Clan, or other celebrities basking in opulence.

We often think a spoiled brat refers to children, or even teens, that have a sense of entitlement. A mindset that believes anything they want is theirs without having to wait, or, all good things will happen to them and all painful things won’t happen or will be quickly removed.

But notice today, how many times do you notice in others, or yourself, how many people act entitled. This includes people who think they should have perfect health, all their loved ones healthy, more money than they need, an easy job, everyone to like them, their daily plan and agenda to work out perfectly with extra time to spare, or nobody make a mistake around them. See some of yourself in these entitled areas.

We live in an age of entitlement; everyone thinks they deserve more good stuff. You must constantly counteract the barrage of propaganda telling you that you need more…deserve more. A good way of fighting against such lies to be more thankful is by learn to see everything from God’s perspective. Let this world become your classroom. Let His Word become a lamp to your feet and a light for your path.

It’s almost impossible to have a thankful heart when you are in a constant state of wanting. A way to reverse this is to saturate your mind with Scripture: read it, think about it, and memorize portions of it. This will allow you to see things from His perspective.

Today, make a list of all the blessings you really do have in your life. To help spur thought, think of those that are disabled, in third world situations, are oppressed, or have gone through serious events. Then list why you deserve...I mean actually deserve... your positive blessings. Give thanks for your blessings, regardless of how small they are. Go to His word to cut deep into your entitlement. Remember that His word is sharper than any double-edged sword. Let Him use it to do spiritual surgery on the thoughts and attitudes of your mind and soul.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I ask that You set me free from the prison of ingratitude that I have created for myself. Release me from this prison so that I may enjoy the pleasures of a thankful heart. You allowed Your Son to enter this world as an infant…knowing the price He would have to pay. Thank You, Father. I understand why You sent Your Son Jesus to us…You sent Him to ”to open the eyes of the blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.” Open my eyes, Lord. I pray that Your Holy Spirit fill me with the gift to understand and spread You Holy Word. Give me a perspective-lift today; help me to see things from Your perspective. I pray to You with confidence in the name of the one who can provide my every need; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
To open the eyes of the blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness
Isaiah 42:7

Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path
Psalm 119:105

For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Stepping Stones: Do You Really Have Determined Purpose?

Transformational Thought

In Philippians 1:20 Paul seems to be saying; “My determined purpose is to be my best for His glory.…whether by life or death”, Paul was determined to let nothing stand in his way from doing exactly what God wanted.

What will it take to for you to choose to follow God’s will? We all start off our days with the idea, resolve, and attitude that we will do the right thing. Regardless of the temptations, we will make the right decision. But somewhere during the day, we get sidetracked, our determination gets undermined. Our choices become faulty. We stray from following God’s will.

I believe that many times a crisis must develop in our lives before we make the decision to have determined purpose to follow God’s will. This is often how He gets our attention to help us focus on Him more acutely. This happens because we are so unresponsive to God’s gentle nudges. Once we arrive at that place where He asks us to be the best for His glory, the debate within us begins. And when the crisis hits we must decide…for or against? For there is no middle ground. That moment, the moment of deciding for or against, is the greatest crossroads we face in our daily battles.

Today, when adversity comes into your life…on any front…surrender your will to God and you will find peace and freedom. This happens by asking, “what need of mine is out-trumping or competing with God’s instruction, will, promises, or character?” Then make a willful decision to follow His will and put yours on hold. This glorifies Him, and is the actually the best for you as you will actually renew your mind spiritually, psychologically, and even physiologically when you make a Godly decision. Believe it or not, your brain chemistry actually gets stronger.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray to You that Your Holy Spirit reveal Your message to me in a way that I understand and can live out daily. I feel very much ashamed that I have not yielded those areas of my life that You have asked me to. I want to live a life so that in no way I am ashamed. Help me, Lord, shut out everything that keeps me from doing my very best for Your glory. I actually find my limitations liberating when my strongest desire is to do my best for Your glory. Thank You, Lord, for the freedom this provides, for Your word tells me that where Your Spirit is, there is freedom. In Christ’s determined name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1:20

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
Peter 3:18

Stepping Stones: Where Are You Looking?

Transformational Thought

We are all looking for something, whether we realize it or not. Those “things” come in different shapes and sizes, but there are common themes for all of our pursuits. Me, I was looking for identity, connection, attention, wanting to be wanted for me. As an adult, I pursued purpose, meaning, my unique calling, security for me and my family, and being loved and accepted. What are you looking for?

Actually, the more important question really is, “Where are you looking?” You will only find what you are truly looking for by looking to, at, and with God. God’s message sent through His prophet Isaiah is so simple yet so profound; “Look to me and be saved.” This certainly applies to our eternal need…but it also applies to every other suffering, need, and wayward path we take.

We grow up and are pushed to learn how to take care of ourselves. From learning to hold our bottle, walking to get our toy, feeding ourselves, doing our homework, taking the SAT’s, going off to college or work… so many milestones to become an independent functioning adult.

The downside is we develop the habit of putting our confidence in ourselves, or sometimes others opinions of how we are doing, rather than putting and getting our confidence in GOD. Looking to God, His character, His promises, His instruction. That’s what gives us confidence to pursue the right things…to make the Godly decisions that are sometimes hard.

When our confidence is in ourselves or other’s opinions, we have minimal power to overcome our fleshly needs, desires, distortions, and hurts or pains. That’s when patterns of struggle, dysfunction, even addictions are born and fed.

Today, as you make decisions, especially when you make a mistake, ask yourself, “where am I getting the confidence, instruction, or power to make that decision or soothe my pain? Is my confidence coming from my skills, insights, intellect, attributes, power? Or from God?” Confidence centered in Him generated from Him will save you in today’s battles and discomfort.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You are indeed an awesome God. Who but You could be all places at all times? It amazes me to think that One as great as You care about the many details of my life…but You really do. When I think about these glorious truths…and when I turn to you, I feel safe in knowing I will never be alone again. Help me, Lord, to look at You, to keep You before me always, and to really get my confidence from my ultimate bodyguard. Otherwise, I fall back into my default mode, getting my confidence from myself, of straining so much because all outcomes seem totally up to me, and rest on my skills and what I can muster. For the little things, that seems to work, but for the big things in life, I am doomed without You. All these I ask in the confidence of Christ’s name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
"Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.”
Isaiah 45:22

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
1 Peter 1:15-16

which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.
As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
1 Timothy 6:15-17

Stepping Stones: Waiting on God is Active, Not Passive

Transformational Thought

As Christians, one of our goals must be to be fully utilized by God. To be fully utilized, we must be able to really understand who we are and why we do things so we can avoid messing up God’s plan to use us. You see, He is always trying to use us, setting up situations and people in our life for great things to happen, but instead of following that path, we choose a different route.

To really do some thorough and deep self-assessment, we have to allow God to show us the deep, hidden and faulty areas of our own character. This really requires courage to look inwardly. We are so quick to diagnose and judge others…let us take that energy and time to examine ourselves.

It’s astounding how ignorant we are about our true selves. We rarely recognize the distortions, laziness, envy, and pride held within us. We must dump the idea that we understand ourselves just because we live our life…the only one who truly understands and knows us is God.

To look inwardly we need alone time with God. Then only through God’s lenses and using the mirror of The Holy Bible, can we see our misguided desires and affections…and all those things that keep us from Him. This is how we change our foundation from sand to solid rock, allowing us to become a strong, solid Lighthouse shining God’s glory.

Today, take some time to ask yourself, “what outranked God?…what was more important to me than pleasing God? Another way to think about it, “What fleshly desire or fear was more weighty in my decisions today than keeping the Holy Spirit on the throne of my life?”

Today, examine an area of temptation or a wrong decision you made recently. Really doing heart diagnostics can be painful, but courageously being honest with yourself will open the door to reaping the fruit of the spirit and growing the mind of Christ.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful that You are God with us – constantly and eternally. This fact alone is sufficient to fill my days and nights with joy…thank You, my Lord. Sadly though, my mind slips out of focus and I begin looking outwardly at the broken world around me. I know by Your Word that I learn and grow in You best when I am alone with You. I desire this time alone with You, Lord; please help me push away all the distractions that keep me from being alone with You. When we are alone, I ask that You give me the courage to look deeply inside myself; let me be honest with myself so that I may be honest and open with You. Give me your lenses to see my core accurately. I pray to You in the name of the one who gives me courage; Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
…when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
Mark 4:34

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!
Psalm 139:23-24

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."
Matthew 1:22-23

Stepping Stones: Waiting on God is Active, Not Passive

Transformational Thought

Football is a violent sport. I played it, but I didn’t like it. As a running back, I would get the ball and move toward the designated “hole” to advance the ball. When I first get the ball, no hole exists. Huge angry people are in my way, trying to hurt me, so my first reaction is to run somewhere else and find a real hole where no one can tackle me.

The Coach would yell, “Karl, trust your lineman. They’re blocking the huge angry guys but it takes a second or two. By the time you get to the line, the hole will be there. You have to run hard, waiting for the hole to open, not just trusting, but really knowing your teammates will accomplish their job and you can run through the hole at top speed. If you wait by standing still to see if the line really did their job, then start running, it will be too late and the hole will close. You will miss it and get crushed.”

Waiting on God has similar principles. To wait on God means action. Start running toward the hole while directing your attention to Him in hopeful, knowing anticipation of what He will do. It means trusting Him with every part of your being instead of trying to figure out everything on your own. We are often distracted by our discomfort, pain, need for a quick fix, wanting to be in control, impatience, and our I “need” it now mentality. These distractions interfere with our ability to go full speed with what we are supposed to do, as we actively wait and trust God do His thing.

God has designed you to interact with Him…all day…every day. He has designed you to stay conscious of Him as you go about your daily duties. Satan, the world system, and our flesh are always trying to distract us, provide interference so our spiritual radar has trouble tuning in to His communication and action in our life.

Tithing is a very concrete application. Do you tithe as you are called to, then trust God to provide? Or do you wait for God to provide, then you tithe? The second way usually leaves people missing out on the big opportunity God has, just like the running back who waits too long because his trust is lacking.

Today, be patient when something different or stressful occurs…or it isn’t clear what you should do in. Remember, God speaks to us through our circumstances, so wait on Him. Take action and read what He is saying to you based on who He is, then respond….rather than just reacting based on your limited skills, insight, and ability to read the future. Look for the light He will shine on your Stepping Stones.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess that one of my many short comings is my lack of patience. I read in Your Word that you promise many blessings to those who wait on You…for those whose hope is in You. I pray for Your help in increasing my patience and to let You shine Your light on my pathway of life You’ve designed for me. I know that waiting on You enables me to glorify You by living in deep dependence on You. It will also help me to enjoy You. It is only in Your presence that I will find the fullness of joy. I pray this in the name of my savior, hope, and joy, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:25-26

but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31

You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11

Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness

Transformational Thought

As a kid, I was not a big reader, hated it actually. But I loved comic books, and they were so good back in the 50’s – 70’s. I always fantasized about writing a comic book series, but not only was poor reader, I couldn’t draw.

Writing a book is hard…trying to figure out the overall message, the setting, characters, twists, plot, how deep to go. So many decisions and details to keep track of and integrate.
That’s a lot of pressure and responsibility!

If you trust in God, then you should believe that He write, actually prepares, each day for you with the most tender concern and attention to detail. Scripture is loaded with examples of how important we are to God and parts of the great script He has written especially for us.

Just being an actor in the story is so much easier…give me the script, let me absorb it, get into character, and act out my part. So when you wake in the morning, don’t take the role of author, with all the headaches and stress that come with that job, by trying to fill up the blank page of your day. Instead, be on the lookout for what our supreme Author has drawn up for your day and life. What an illusion it is when people think they can live independently from God…do it on our own, be in charge of and write our own story.

Try to live responsively…meaning responding to what God has planned for you. Living responsively is a matter of aligning yourself with the ultimate realty. God’s sovereignty, power, control, autonomy, authority over the universe.

Today, show yourself your belief in God being the true author of your story. When you are feeling some pressure and uncertain how to write the next scene of your life, STOP! Then respond to His script. Look for what He has written and is trying to communicate through the story He wrote specifically for you in His word. This shows you really believe He loves you, is sovereign, and is true to His promises. Your choice, you be the author, or let God be the author.

Prayer
Dear Father, You are the creator; You are the initiator of my very life. This is how I want to live my life – discovering what You are doing and responding to the opportunities You place before me. I know by Your Word that this is the most joyful and productive way to live. You know, Lord, that there is a part of me that likes to be in control…call the shots. Please teach me, Lord, the art of living responsively. I thank You for Your sovereignty. Teach me to understand and believe that Your sovereignty over every aspect of my life increases my security. I know responding to You requires concentration, however this world is rigged to distract me from You. Protect me, Lord, form all forms of distraction that hampers my ability to keep a constant look-out for You. I pray with confidence in the name of the Author of my salvation, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.
Hebrews 1:3

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Matthew 10:29-31

But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
Psalm 13:5

Stepping Stones: Relationship Prerequisites: Receptivity and Attentiveness

Transformational Thought

Yesterday, I was in a diner and noticed something that saddened me…it was something that I see more and more often. The man was reading the paper and enjoying some light conversation with the waitresses and the owner. A few minutes later the man’s wife come into the diner. Greetings were exchanged between her and the staff…and it was obvious they were regulars at the diner.

As the wife sat at the booth, across from her husband, I noticed that he didn’t look up from his paper to greet her…not even a hello or good morning. She kept glancing his way…but he never looked up. There was no receptivity or attentiveness on his part. I know I too, have been guilty of overlooking a loved one. How many times has this happened to you where you’ve been the ignorer or the ignored?

We love a number of people in life for many reasons, usually because we are related to them…by blood, marriage, kids, or Christ. But really loving them, whether romantically or platonically means developing real intimacy. Two key elements are willingness to open up and share our core, our everything, and be vulnerable with the other person, and also attentiveness and receptivity to what the other person is communicating to us.

God searches for those who are able to receive His gifts and blessings in full measure…those who truly yearn for and will actively pursue an intimate relationship with Him. Two traits that increase our intimacy with God are receptivity and attentiveness. Receptivity here is opening up our innermost being to be filled with God’s abundant riches. Attentiveness is directing our gaze toward Him; searching for Him in all our moments to receive His communication, instruction, and provision for us. God has done His part...opened Himself up to us through His word, sacrificed His son, and died for us. He is always attentive to our needs, thoughts, and feelings, as well as caring and providing for all our needs. Now it’s our turn.

Today, take time to reflect on the area of your life that you haven’t been receptive to God’s grace, love, forgiveness, or instruction. Why? There is something you are holding onto too tightly, so what would you have to give up to let Him in that area for you to experience change? How would your life be different if you were attentive to all He has to give for that particular area of your life? Again, you must decide. Choose to focus on these two attributes; Receptivity and Attentiveness.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You are truly a God who gives, and gives, and gives. When Your Son died on the cross, He held back nothing; he poured out his life like a drink offering. I know that giving is inherent in Your nature; so thank You, Father. I pray that You help me increase my receptivity and attentiveness…knowing that both increases my ability to receive You and have the intimate relationship with You that I desire. I pray in the name of my most attentive Savior, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.
Philippians 2:17

I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10:15

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3