Transformational Thought
So many times, we make mistakes. Even big sinful ones. Unfortunately, we often let our fleshly me-centered nature and Satan go to town with these sins to cripple, bind, and blind us. The chains are made of guilt, shame, self-pity, lame excuses, blame-shifting, depression, fear, anxiety, isolation, addiction, insecurity, and the list goes on.
In the Holy Bible, 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 said, “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 woman if anyone has judged her guilty … she says “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 because this is critical: He writes it down … not in the sand or on paper, but on a cross and with Jesus’ blood. His message has three words: “Paid in Full”. He’s given you a prepaid gift card that 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 your sin would bring if it weren’t for such a gracious God who is perfectly holy and just, but also perfectly loving and merciful.
Today, redeem your gift card. How? Confession. We don’t use it enough. We sin a bunch, but most only confess, what, once a week … once a day … three times a day? I know I sin more than that, and I bet you do too. Examine your thoughts and actions. When you miss God’s mark, stop and confess missing the mark and celebrate your freedom Christ purchased from the slave market of sin. Your renewed and liberated mind is now freer than ever before to make Godly decisions. Your decision, choose well.
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 you offer me, free from sin’s devastation. Help me learn from Your wisdom and apply it 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 intentions, and not on 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
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Stepping Stones: Closeness, Not Absence, Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
Transformational Thought
When we were first married, predicting what my wife would order for dinner, knowing how she would react to a surprise, or guessing how she would handle a hurtful situation were works in progress and nearly impossible to predict. Now I know what my wife will order in different restaurants, the movies she likes, what words hurt or encourage her, and how she will react to different people and situations. She know me the same way, although she still has a false belief that someday I will like the vegetables she makes each night at dinner.
How did we get to know each other’s mind so well? It wasn’t easy, although sometimes it was fun. But it took time. In fact, it was the time we spent together paying attention and listening to each other. We were motivated to know each other’s minds, both to love the other person better as well as to help make life more manageable and enjoyable.
God’s intent for us is to be conformed to the likeness of Christ … to develop the mind of Christ. In order for this to happen, I need to know Christ … really understand who He is and how He thinks. How do you really get to know anybody? You spend time with them and pay attention. Once you see how they think and get to know their perspective, you can really appreciate what they love and why they love it. As you spend more time with Jesus, you can’t help but care for Him more, and start to love the things He loves.
Today try to make time to sit quietly in the presence of your Lord. I know how difficult it is to concentrate, but even the effort will please God and bring you peace. Like any skill, the more you practice, the easier it gets, and the better you get at it.
Today, try taking a few minutes after reading the daily devotional to absorb God’s Word. Spend a few minutes imagining how Christ views your toughest situation today. How will you react to the situation by viewing it the way Jesus would?
Prayer
Dear Father, I am sitting quietly in Your presence, waiting and expecting Your blessings. Help make my mind still, Lord, in the midst of all the confusion. Make my mind still like a pool of water, ready to receive whatever thoughts You drop into my mind. Help me rest in Your presence, as I consider the challenges this day presents. Help me keep my focus on You … to keep looking to and communicating with You as we walk through this day together. I pray this in the name of the One with the perfect mind, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
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 37:7
Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,
1 Peter 4:1
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
Romans 8:16-17
When we were first married, predicting what my wife would order for dinner, knowing how she would react to a surprise, or guessing how she would handle a hurtful situation were works in progress and nearly impossible to predict. Now I know what my wife will order in different restaurants, the movies she likes, what words hurt or encourage her, and how she will react to different people and situations. She know me the same way, although she still has a false belief that someday I will like the vegetables she makes each night at dinner.
How did we get to know each other’s mind so well? It wasn’t easy, although sometimes it was fun. But it took time. In fact, it was the time we spent together paying attention and listening to each other. We were motivated to know each other’s minds, both to love the other person better as well as to help make life more manageable and enjoyable.
God’s intent for us is to be conformed to the likeness of Christ … to develop the mind of Christ. In order for this to happen, I need to know Christ … really understand who He is and how He thinks. How do you really get to know anybody? You spend time with them and pay attention. Once you see how they think and get to know their perspective, you can really appreciate what they love and why they love it. As you spend more time with Jesus, you can’t help but care for Him more, and start to love the things He loves.
Today try to make time to sit quietly in the presence of your Lord. I know how difficult it is to concentrate, but even the effort will please God and bring you peace. Like any skill, the more you practice, the easier it gets, and the better you get at it.
Today, try taking a few minutes after reading the daily devotional to absorb God’s Word. Spend a few minutes imagining how Christ views your toughest situation today. How will you react to the situation by viewing it the way Jesus would?
Prayer
Dear Father, I am sitting quietly in Your presence, waiting and expecting Your blessings. Help make my mind still, Lord, in the midst of all the confusion. Make my mind still like a pool of water, ready to receive whatever thoughts You drop into my mind. Help me rest in Your presence, as I consider the challenges this day presents. Help me keep my focus on You … to keep looking to and communicating with You as we walk through this day together. I pray this in the name of the One with the perfect mind, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
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 37:7
Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,
1 Peter 4:1
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
Romans 8:16-17
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Stepping Stones: How far are you willing to pedal to church?
Transformational Thought
Early one Sunday morning, I was shopping at the local food store. As I approached the checkout line, I noticed a young man in front of me with a bicycle helmet still on his head; he was carrying two large vegetable platters. I asked him; “Are you planning on carrying all that on your bike?” He tapped his ear letting me know he was deaf. I watched as he double and triple bagged his purchase. As I was checking out I saw him leave the parking lot. He had two bags on one handle grip and one bag on the other. He was in a hurry.
On my way home, about three miles from the store, I saw the young man struggling to ride his bike in a straight line. The handles on one of the plastic bags had broken…and he was trying to hold it in his arm while steering the bike with the other hand. I pulled over to help; when he saw me he was thrilled. With no words spoken he quickly opened the passenger door and placed the vegetable trays on the seat. He pulled out a small pad of paper and wrote the cross streets of his destination. We were headed to his church which was another three miles away.
Met him at the church. He jumped off his bike and ran to get the pastor. It was a church for the deaf and he wanted the pastor to interpret his sign language for me. His name was Tony. He thanked me repeatedly and told me that when the handle broke, he knew God would send help. The church was having a luncheon following worship and the vegetable trays were Tony’s contribution. The pastor told me that Tony lived 12 miles from the church.
I left the church filled with happiness and thankfulness for the experience God had placed in front of me that Sunday morning. I had moved to that new town just one month prior to meeting Tony. I had not attended a worship service since arriving there. Laziness was only excuse. We often put our wants above our real needs, especially our spiritual needs. Then we wonder why we aren’t getting what we need and act so surprised!
A few months following that experience, I met Tony again at a local coffee shop. When he recognized me he gave me a big hug, grabbed my hand and took me to the store window. He pointed to a late model car parked at the curb and then pointed back at himself … Tony had his first car and he was filled with pride and joy.
Today, think about how much effort you put forth to praise God with others. Do you find time for God with only minimal effort, or when it fits into your schedule? Or do you sacrifice some of your “wants” to make regular time with God? How important is it to you to make it to church? How far would you pedal? What are you willing to endure to worship God and meet Him each day?
Prayer
Father God, I thank You for the little and not so little reminders and lessons you place before me for the taking. Today, I have a renewed thankfulness for my ability to see … to hear … to speak. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I may use all my senses to give you glory and to praise You … to further Your Kingdom here on earth even in ways that I do not understand. I pray this in the name of my savior and teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
1 John 1:7
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all
2 Corinthians 13:14
Early one Sunday morning, I was shopping at the local food store. As I approached the checkout line, I noticed a young man in front of me with a bicycle helmet still on his head; he was carrying two large vegetable platters. I asked him; “Are you planning on carrying all that on your bike?” He tapped his ear letting me know he was deaf. I watched as he double and triple bagged his purchase. As I was checking out I saw him leave the parking lot. He had two bags on one handle grip and one bag on the other. He was in a hurry.
On my way home, about three miles from the store, I saw the young man struggling to ride his bike in a straight line. The handles on one of the plastic bags had broken…and he was trying to hold it in his arm while steering the bike with the other hand. I pulled over to help; when he saw me he was thrilled. With no words spoken he quickly opened the passenger door and placed the vegetable trays on the seat. He pulled out a small pad of paper and wrote the cross streets of his destination. We were headed to his church which was another three miles away.
Met him at the church. He jumped off his bike and ran to get the pastor. It was a church for the deaf and he wanted the pastor to interpret his sign language for me. His name was Tony. He thanked me repeatedly and told me that when the handle broke, he knew God would send help. The church was having a luncheon following worship and the vegetable trays were Tony’s contribution. The pastor told me that Tony lived 12 miles from the church.
I left the church filled with happiness and thankfulness for the experience God had placed in front of me that Sunday morning. I had moved to that new town just one month prior to meeting Tony. I had not attended a worship service since arriving there. Laziness was only excuse. We often put our wants above our real needs, especially our spiritual needs. Then we wonder why we aren’t getting what we need and act so surprised!
A few months following that experience, I met Tony again at a local coffee shop. When he recognized me he gave me a big hug, grabbed my hand and took me to the store window. He pointed to a late model car parked at the curb and then pointed back at himself … Tony had his first car and he was filled with pride and joy.
Today, think about how much effort you put forth to praise God with others. Do you find time for God with only minimal effort, or when it fits into your schedule? Or do you sacrifice some of your “wants” to make regular time with God? How important is it to you to make it to church? How far would you pedal? What are you willing to endure to worship God and meet Him each day?
Prayer
Father God, I thank You for the little and not so little reminders and lessons you place before me for the taking. Today, I have a renewed thankfulness for my ability to see … to hear … to speak. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Father, so that I may use all my senses to give you glory and to praise You … to further Your Kingdom here on earth even in ways that I do not understand. I pray this in the name of my savior and teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say – AMEN!
The Truth
But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
1 John 1:7
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all
2 Corinthians 13:14
Monday, May 2, 2011
Stepping Stones: Unresolved Anger Has Poisonous Roots!
Transformational Thought
When you feel angry with someone or something, do you express your feelings … or do you hold the anger inside? People who bury their anger usually believe they are doing the right thing by appearing calm on the outside. The reality, however, is that unresolved anger can fester and develop into resentment, bitterness, or even depression.
Some people respond to anger by immediately holding it in, but then releasing it or letting it go a short time later without hurting themselves or others. When we handle our feelings like this, the results are often beneficial. But if you tend to hold your anger inside and grow resentful, ask God to help you share your angry feelings with people as they occur. Not in a rage or with unkind words … just an honest expression of your feelings.
The Bible teaches that we shouldn't carry anger overnight. Get it settled before going to bed. Otherwise, it is likely that resentment will begin to grow. We see various passages in the Bible where God and Jesus expressed their anger or displeasure.
As we discussed yesterday, anger is just a God-given warning system … letting us know when a real or potential problem exists. Until you actually do something about the underlying problem, your brain will continue to, thankfully, warn you. Not addressing the problem is what allows anger to grow, fester, and either overflow and come out in harmful ways, or be directed inward leading to real negative self-talk, low self-image, depression, isolation, self-loathing, and a whole list of battles against ourselves.
Perhaps you are already experiencing bitterness because of past unexpressed grievances. The answer … Acknowledge the hurt … Forgive or ask for forgiveness … Then address and solve the original problem your anger warned about. You won’t have to try so hard to let go of the anger … because, when the problem is resolved, that original anger will go away.
Holding on to bitterness can damage your relationship with God, relationships with others, and your peace of mind. It even harms your health, especially your heart, blood pressure, digestive system, and brain chemistry. Being a problem solver, and forgiving and being forgiven can change all that. Ask God … He will help you.
Today, notice if someone is angry. Ask them, “You seem angry or upset. There must be some problem that your anger is warning you about. Can I help you work or solve that problem?” You can ask the same to yourself as well. WITHIN REACH helps you understand and utilize these negative feelings to be a great decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me and help me deal with this resentment I have been carrying. Give me the strength and wisdom to acknowledge the hurt, control my anger, identify and solve the underlying issue, and forgive and move forward. Thank You for the wonderful way You designed me. Help me understand that design better so I can be a great steward of my mind and free will by using my emotions in the way You designed. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the best mirror for my eye exam, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many
Hebrews 12:15
When you feel angry with someone or something, do you express your feelings … or do you hold the anger inside? People who bury their anger usually believe they are doing the right thing by appearing calm on the outside. The reality, however, is that unresolved anger can fester and develop into resentment, bitterness, or even depression.
Some people respond to anger by immediately holding it in, but then releasing it or letting it go a short time later without hurting themselves or others. When we handle our feelings like this, the results are often beneficial. But if you tend to hold your anger inside and grow resentful, ask God to help you share your angry feelings with people as they occur. Not in a rage or with unkind words … just an honest expression of your feelings.
The Bible teaches that we shouldn't carry anger overnight. Get it settled before going to bed. Otherwise, it is likely that resentment will begin to grow. We see various passages in the Bible where God and Jesus expressed their anger or displeasure.
As we discussed yesterday, anger is just a God-given warning system … letting us know when a real or potential problem exists. Until you actually do something about the underlying problem, your brain will continue to, thankfully, warn you. Not addressing the problem is what allows anger to grow, fester, and either overflow and come out in harmful ways, or be directed inward leading to real negative self-talk, low self-image, depression, isolation, self-loathing, and a whole list of battles against ourselves.
Perhaps you are already experiencing bitterness because of past unexpressed grievances. The answer … Acknowledge the hurt … Forgive or ask for forgiveness … Then address and solve the original problem your anger warned about. You won’t have to try so hard to let go of the anger … because, when the problem is resolved, that original anger will go away.
Holding on to bitterness can damage your relationship with God, relationships with others, and your peace of mind. It even harms your health, especially your heart, blood pressure, digestive system, and brain chemistry. Being a problem solver, and forgiving and being forgiven can change all that. Ask God … He will help you.
Today, notice if someone is angry. Ask them, “You seem angry or upset. There must be some problem that your anger is warning you about. Can I help you work or solve that problem?” You can ask the same to yourself as well. WITHIN REACH helps you understand and utilize these negative feelings to be a great decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me and help me deal with this resentment I have been carrying. Give me the strength and wisdom to acknowledge the hurt, control my anger, identify and solve the underlying issue, and forgive and move forward. Thank You for the wonderful way You designed me. Help me understand that design better so I can be a great steward of my mind and free will by using my emotions in the way You designed. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the best mirror for my eye exam, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many
Hebrews 12:15
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Stepping Stones: Make Anger Your Servant…Not Your Master
May 1, 2011
Transformational Thought
Yesterday we talked about how anger isn’t necessarily wrong, dysfunctional, or sinful. But what causes anger? In reality, the answer could be "nothing" around us. We might think that it’s a rude driver, an unfair criticism, or a friend's betrayal. These situations are usually followed by an angry reaction in us. But the anger is actually our own doing. It is actually our own lenses, how we view situations, that precipitate the feeling of anger. And we usually blame others for “making” us feel that way.
During a basketball game, if my team scores a last minute, game-winning basket, I am excited. Someone rooting for the other team experiences the same event, but instead of being excited, will actually be angry, frustrated, and have other negative emotions as well.
The event, a made shot, doesn’t cause the anger. If it did everybody experiencing the event would be angry. You see, the difference, the key ingredient is the lenses we use as we witness or experience the event.
Anger (and all negative feelings) is a great warning system. Anger let’s us know when something is not going right or when potential danger exists. If I am in the woods and see a tiger, I should get angry, sad, worried, frightened. That is a good warning system letting me know something is not safe or right.
When someone insults us or treats us badly, we should get angry. That lets us know a problem exists in this relationship and needs to be addressed. We can choose how to respond. God has given us free will to control our feelings, thoughts, and actions. Will we choose unkind words, or find a way to "get even" … or will we problem-solve and forgive? It's our choice. No matter what our background or the current circumstances, we are responsible for our own behavior and we can’t blame it on our emotions. Unfortunately, we often let our anger rule us, allowing it to become our main decision-making influence. Anger serves us well as a warning system. But anger is a very poor master when we let it become our decision-maker in testy situations.
None of us express our feelings appropriately all the time. But the Bible tells us, For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need. Philippians 4:13.
Today, notice when you are angry. Stop and thank God for a great warning system. Then look below the anger to the problem and address it. If you don’t, your warning system (anger) will keep on alerting you ‘til the problem is resolved. Let Jesus help you make anger your servant instead of your master by following His attitude, actions, and teachings. WITHIN REACH helps you understand your feelings, their role, how we misuse them, how we can soothe them, and then maximally steward them to our benefit and God’s glory.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You so much for my anger, and all my negative feelings. It is awesome to have a warning system to alert me to problems and danger. When I am wronged in some way, help me to choose the Godly response … the one that is pleasing to You. Teach me to control my anger, have patience, problem-solve, and forgive. Thanks for Your soothing Spirit when I am angry. Help me to alllow You in when I feel this pain. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who teaches me how to handle all things well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.
Proverbs 19:11
Transformational Thought
Yesterday we talked about how anger isn’t necessarily wrong, dysfunctional, or sinful. But what causes anger? In reality, the answer could be "nothing" around us. We might think that it’s a rude driver, an unfair criticism, or a friend's betrayal. These situations are usually followed by an angry reaction in us. But the anger is actually our own doing. It is actually our own lenses, how we view situations, that precipitate the feeling of anger. And we usually blame others for “making” us feel that way.
During a basketball game, if my team scores a last minute, game-winning basket, I am excited. Someone rooting for the other team experiences the same event, but instead of being excited, will actually be angry, frustrated, and have other negative emotions as well.
The event, a made shot, doesn’t cause the anger. If it did everybody experiencing the event would be angry. You see, the difference, the key ingredient is the lenses we use as we witness or experience the event.
Anger (and all negative feelings) is a great warning system. Anger let’s us know when something is not going right or when potential danger exists. If I am in the woods and see a tiger, I should get angry, sad, worried, frightened. That is a good warning system letting me know something is not safe or right.
When someone insults us or treats us badly, we should get angry. That lets us know a problem exists in this relationship and needs to be addressed. We can choose how to respond. God has given us free will to control our feelings, thoughts, and actions. Will we choose unkind words, or find a way to "get even" … or will we problem-solve and forgive? It's our choice. No matter what our background or the current circumstances, we are responsible for our own behavior and we can’t blame it on our emotions. Unfortunately, we often let our anger rule us, allowing it to become our main decision-making influence. Anger serves us well as a warning system. But anger is a very poor master when we let it become our decision-maker in testy situations.
None of us express our feelings appropriately all the time. But the Bible tells us, For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need. Philippians 4:13.
Today, notice when you are angry. Stop and thank God for a great warning system. Then look below the anger to the problem and address it. If you don’t, your warning system (anger) will keep on alerting you ‘til the problem is resolved. Let Jesus help you make anger your servant instead of your master by following His attitude, actions, and teachings. WITHIN REACH helps you understand your feelings, their role, how we misuse them, how we can soothe them, and then maximally steward them to our benefit and God’s glory.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You so much for my anger, and all my negative feelings. It is awesome to have a warning system to alert me to problems and danger. When I am wronged in some way, help me to choose the Godly response … the one that is pleasing to You. Teach me to control my anger, have patience, problem-solve, and forgive. Thanks for Your soothing Spirit when I am angry. Help me to alllow You in when I feel this pain. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who teaches me how to handle all things well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.
Proverbs 19:11
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Stepping Stones: Anger…Right or Wrong?
Transformational Thought
Anger: right or wrong? The answer is that anger is right … but it can also be wrong. Anger is a God-given emotional energy designed for good. But the way we use and express anger-produced energy can often be dysfunctional and lead to sin … though it doesn't have to. With God's help, we can control the thoughts and actions that come after an event precipitates some angry feelings in us.
The Bible tells of many times when anger was a positive force for achieving good: Moses' anger when the Israelites worshipped idols resulted in their repentance (Exodus 32:19-35); Jesus' anger motivated him to clear blasphemers and abusers from his Father's temple (Luke 19:45-48).
Actually, it seems like God is angry and jealous during half of the Old Testament, as man chronically rejects Him to do his own thing, especially the Israelites. Remember the flood, Tower of Babel, and Sodom and Gomorrah? We know God never sins, so anger itself can’t be a bad thing.
In fact, our anger can be a positive force in many daily situations. Appropriate anger in response to our children's wrong behaviors can motivate us as parents to exert firm but loving discipline. Anger against injustices and wrongdoing in our communities can motivate us to do something positive about the situation. Anger energizes and motivates us to take action when we might be reluctant or passive in areas of struggle or conflict. Tomorrow, we will dig into anger’s best and main role in our lives.
But our anger can also lead to sinful acts of selfishness, unkindness or even aggression. It is our responsibility to use our anger-induced energy in positive ways, even if it's just walking around the block to cool off.
Today, if you experience anger, stop and remember that anger itself isn’t bad. It’s what you decide to do with your anger that will determine a positive or negative outcome. As we find with most situations in life: It's your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the times I have used my anger in sinful ways instead of as a positive force. I know I get irritated easily and for reasons that are me-centered. Help me to control my thoughts and actions and to use my anger in positive ways. Help me to develop eyes that see life more clearly and from a bigger picture view. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry … but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.
Ephesians 4:26-27
Anger: right or wrong? The answer is that anger is right … but it can also be wrong. Anger is a God-given emotional energy designed for good. But the way we use and express anger-produced energy can often be dysfunctional and lead to sin … though it doesn't have to. With God's help, we can control the thoughts and actions that come after an event precipitates some angry feelings in us.
The Bible tells of many times when anger was a positive force for achieving good: Moses' anger when the Israelites worshipped idols resulted in their repentance (Exodus 32:19-35); Jesus' anger motivated him to clear blasphemers and abusers from his Father's temple (Luke 19:45-48).
Actually, it seems like God is angry and jealous during half of the Old Testament, as man chronically rejects Him to do his own thing, especially the Israelites. Remember the flood, Tower of Babel, and Sodom and Gomorrah? We know God never sins, so anger itself can’t be a bad thing.
In fact, our anger can be a positive force in many daily situations. Appropriate anger in response to our children's wrong behaviors can motivate us as parents to exert firm but loving discipline. Anger against injustices and wrongdoing in our communities can motivate us to do something positive about the situation. Anger energizes and motivates us to take action when we might be reluctant or passive in areas of struggle or conflict. Tomorrow, we will dig into anger’s best and main role in our lives.
But our anger can also lead to sinful acts of selfishness, unkindness or even aggression. It is our responsibility to use our anger-induced energy in positive ways, even if it's just walking around the block to cool off.
Today, if you experience anger, stop and remember that anger itself isn’t bad. It’s what you decide to do with your anger that will determine a positive or negative outcome. As we find with most situations in life: It's your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the times I have used my anger in sinful ways instead of as a positive force. I know I get irritated easily and for reasons that are me-centered. Help me to control my thoughts and actions and to use my anger in positive ways. Help me to develop eyes that see life more clearly and from a bigger picture view. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. And all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry … but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.
Ephesians 4:26-27
Friday, April 29, 2011
Stepping Stones: “Turn To Jesus” Means…
Transformational Thought
How refreshing is this fact … Jesus never changes! When you climbed out of bed this morning, regardless of how you might have felt, or the subtle changes you went through, He had not changed during the night. He is trustworthy and consistent.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
No matter what your situation, you can turn to Jesus. Turn to Jesus … what does that mean? Obviously not just a physical turning, but something more practical and powerful. Turning our back on the world’s values, ways of measuring success, influences, and decision-making strategies. Turning away from the desires of our flesh.
What choices are you facing? We all make one very key decision in every circumstance we face that determines the outcome of that particular situation … the choice of the lenses I will use to view, experience, and assess this particular event God has allowed to come into my life. Turning toward, understanding, grabbing hold of, and using God’s instruction, forgiveness, grace, promises, and character to form the lenses I use to view each situation God brings my way. This is what I mean by turning toward Jesus. Following Jesus … choosing His way and His lenses, not yours … choosing to receive His love … choosing to trust Him.
If you use His lenses, of course you will still have problems and challenges. Remember the trials Jesus endured? But each one of these opportunities (yes, I called them opportunities) will be easier to navigate in a way that grows you psychologically and spiritually, because it won’t be you who is responding to the adversity. It will be Jesus who lives in you, who will be responding. You will be perceiving and responding in a Christ-like way, having the Mind of Christ.
Today, choose to trust Jesus and do things His way. God has room to work in your life. He will help you move on past the hurt, pain, or failures of the past. He will give you hope for the future. Use lenses based on who He is and what He teaches. Don’t use those distorted lenses with all the muck we’ve accumulated from this world.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to trust You … not just verbalize it, but actually do it in every circumstance. I know You love me and that Your plan for me is the best plan. Please keep me on track … show me the next step … and the next one after that. I know turning to You isn’t physical, it is all mental. Help me turn it all over to You and allow Your perspective to be my lenses. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who I choose to follow, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!
Proverbs 3:5-7
My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
How refreshing is this fact … Jesus never changes! When you climbed out of bed this morning, regardless of how you might have felt, or the subtle changes you went through, He had not changed during the night. He is trustworthy and consistent.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
No matter what your situation, you can turn to Jesus. Turn to Jesus … what does that mean? Obviously not just a physical turning, but something more practical and powerful. Turning our back on the world’s values, ways of measuring success, influences, and decision-making strategies. Turning away from the desires of our flesh.
What choices are you facing? We all make one very key decision in every circumstance we face that determines the outcome of that particular situation … the choice of the lenses I will use to view, experience, and assess this particular event God has allowed to come into my life. Turning toward, understanding, grabbing hold of, and using God’s instruction, forgiveness, grace, promises, and character to form the lenses I use to view each situation God brings my way. This is what I mean by turning toward Jesus. Following Jesus … choosing His way and His lenses, not yours … choosing to receive His love … choosing to trust Him.
If you use His lenses, of course you will still have problems and challenges. Remember the trials Jesus endured? But each one of these opportunities (yes, I called them opportunities) will be easier to navigate in a way that grows you psychologically and spiritually, because it won’t be you who is responding to the adversity. It will be Jesus who lives in you, who will be responding. You will be perceiving and responding in a Christ-like way, having the Mind of Christ.
Today, choose to trust Jesus and do things His way. God has room to work in your life. He will help you move on past the hurt, pain, or failures of the past. He will give you hope for the future. Use lenses based on who He is and what He teaches. Don’t use those distorted lenses with all the muck we’ve accumulated from this world.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I do want to trust You … not just verbalize it, but actually do it in every circumstance. I know You love me and that Your plan for me is the best plan. Please keep me on track … show me the next step … and the next one after that. I know turning to You isn’t physical, it is all mental. Help me turn it all over to You and allow Your perspective to be my lenses. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who I choose to follow, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!
Proverbs 3:5-7
My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Stepping Stones: Give Me What I Want
Transformational Thought
Jesus taught the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32. This young man really showed the classic mentality guiding his decision-making: “I don’t need authority or rules because it’s all about what I need and want … now!” We’ve all been there, even in our adult life.
Deciding to set out on his own, he asked his father for his inheritance and off he went. He proceeded to make more bad choices, squandering his money on wild living. Eventually, the money was gone and he fell to the position of feeding another man’s livestock. He was so hungry, even the food he was feeding the pigs looked good. He thought of home … even his father’s servants were eating better than he was.
“I think I’ll return home and become one of my father’s servants”, he thought. “I don’t deserve more than that, but I believe he’ll hire me.” Several good decisions here: to admit his error, stop blaming others, and most importantly, to face up to and take responsibility for his actions.
The young man’s father was waiting for him and when he saw his lost son coming home, he ran out to meet him with open arms, killed the fat calf, and had a huge party to celebrate his son’s homecoming. This is one of the most powerful messages provided in the Word of God’s incredible love, yearning, and forgiveness for us.
Don’t we often ask God for our inheritance, our salvation and other spiritual assets, and say, “thanks, but I don’t need you anymore. I’m off to satisfy my needs, my way, on my timeline, with no regard for my future growth?” Like the prodigal’s father, God gives us free will, hopes we choose to follow His instruction, but is always waiting with forgiveness and open arms when we come to our senses.
Have you made some bad decisions? Wandered off and squandered your talents or your opportunities to do good? Felt that your way was a better way than God’s? We all have, but don’t continue to wallow in the pig slop of your wrong decisions. Return to Him and enjoy the contentment and celebration of letting Him be your Father, Teacher, Counselor, Coach, and Lord.
Today, many opportunities exist to run with your inheritance and do life on your own. When you get that urge, stop! Count to 5 then say a prayer asking God for wisdom. Make the right choice to follow the stepping-stones to your Heavenly Father and submit to His authority and guidance. Make good decisions, because you have to live with the consequences, or get to reap the rewards. Your choice, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I’ve made so many mistakes. I know many of the things I’ve done have not pleased You, but I thank You for this assurance of Your love and forgiveness. Please forgive me and take me into Your loving arms. I need You Father … I need more of You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who opened His arms on the cross for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.
Luke 15:20
Jesus taught the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32. This young man really showed the classic mentality guiding his decision-making: “I don’t need authority or rules because it’s all about what I need and want … now!” We’ve all been there, even in our adult life.
Deciding to set out on his own, he asked his father for his inheritance and off he went. He proceeded to make more bad choices, squandering his money on wild living. Eventually, the money was gone and he fell to the position of feeding another man’s livestock. He was so hungry, even the food he was feeding the pigs looked good. He thought of home … even his father’s servants were eating better than he was.
“I think I’ll return home and become one of my father’s servants”, he thought. “I don’t deserve more than that, but I believe he’ll hire me.” Several good decisions here: to admit his error, stop blaming others, and most importantly, to face up to and take responsibility for his actions.
The young man’s father was waiting for him and when he saw his lost son coming home, he ran out to meet him with open arms, killed the fat calf, and had a huge party to celebrate his son’s homecoming. This is one of the most powerful messages provided in the Word of God’s incredible love, yearning, and forgiveness for us.
Don’t we often ask God for our inheritance, our salvation and other spiritual assets, and say, “thanks, but I don’t need you anymore. I’m off to satisfy my needs, my way, on my timeline, with no regard for my future growth?” Like the prodigal’s father, God gives us free will, hopes we choose to follow His instruction, but is always waiting with forgiveness and open arms when we come to our senses.
Have you made some bad decisions? Wandered off and squandered your talents or your opportunities to do good? Felt that your way was a better way than God’s? We all have, but don’t continue to wallow in the pig slop of your wrong decisions. Return to Him and enjoy the contentment and celebration of letting Him be your Father, Teacher, Counselor, Coach, and Lord.
Today, many opportunities exist to run with your inheritance and do life on your own. When you get that urge, stop! Count to 5 then say a prayer asking God for wisdom. Make the right choice to follow the stepping-stones to your Heavenly Father and submit to His authority and guidance. Make good decisions, because you have to live with the consequences, or get to reap the rewards. Your choice, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I’ve made so many mistakes. I know many of the things I’ve done have not pleased You, but I thank You for this assurance of Your love and forgiveness. Please forgive me and take me into Your loving arms. I need You Father … I need more of You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one who opened His arms on the cross for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.
Luke 15:20
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Stepping Stones: Map To The Promised Land
Transformational Thought
Hopefully, as you have been with us, you have recognized an area of emphasis we consistently focus on: Decision-Making. Life all comes down to the choices and decisions we make as we come to many forks in the road of our daily walk. Amazing as it seems, we make 5,000 – 10,000 decisions during each day. And that is actually a conservative estimate according to most scientists.
God gave us free will to make our own decisions, but God also gave us the Best Instruction Book for Living Everyday(BIBLE), because He is all about helping us make great choices for our growth and fulfillment. The biggest choice we have to make is whether or not we are going to trust Him to guide us and then to trust the guidance He gives us.
The Bible promises us that if we follow God, all things will work together for our and His good. I have found this to be so true. As I trust Jesus to help me make the right choices, I know without a doubt that no matter how things may look right now, in the end they will work out for the best. His way is always the best way … and His time is the best time.
So why should you trust God? First of all, He loves you more than you love you … He sacrificed more for you than you ever have or will sacrifice for you. In fact, He loves you so much that He gave up heaven and then died on the cross … for you. His love is perfect—and nothing can ever separate you from that love. You are that important to him.
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death
nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-39
Second, He knows what is best. He knows what is best for you in the here and now … and more importantly, He knows what is best for you in the future. He sees the whole picture … a perspective we can never have. Today’s scripture beautifully expresses the blessing of trusting Him in all plans and decisions.
And lastly, he is able. He has the power over all things to work out circumstances for your growth.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28
Today, you will make some knee-jerk decisions that aren’t good ones. Instead, stop for 5 seconds and choose to trust His way when you get to that fork in your road. “Why?” you may ask. Well, we laid out our case above. But really, what else are you going to trust? Yourself, other people, material things, your looks, your sparkling wit, your bank account? Has that strategy really delivered the abundant life, the Promised Land you’ve been yearning for? Trust Him. You will never regret it. Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the times I thought I knew more than You. I know that You love me and want only what is best for me. And I know that no matter how things may look sometimes, Your way is always the best way. Help me to trust You more and choose to do things Your way. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one I trust completely, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You're blessed when you stay on course, walking steadily on the road revealed by GOD. You're blessed when you follow his directions, doing your best to find him. That's right—you don't go off on your own; you walk straight along the road he set.
Psalm 119:1-3
“The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is WITHIN REACH. The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart so that you can obey it.
“Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.
Deut. 30:9a, 10-11,14-16
Hopefully, as you have been with us, you have recognized an area of emphasis we consistently focus on: Decision-Making. Life all comes down to the choices and decisions we make as we come to many forks in the road of our daily walk. Amazing as it seems, we make 5,000 – 10,000 decisions during each day. And that is actually a conservative estimate according to most scientists.
God gave us free will to make our own decisions, but God also gave us the Best Instruction Book for Living Everyday(BIBLE), because He is all about helping us make great choices for our growth and fulfillment. The biggest choice we have to make is whether or not we are going to trust Him to guide us and then to trust the guidance He gives us.
The Bible promises us that if we follow God, all things will work together for our and His good. I have found this to be so true. As I trust Jesus to help me make the right choices, I know without a doubt that no matter how things may look right now, in the end they will work out for the best. His way is always the best way … and His time is the best time.
So why should you trust God? First of all, He loves you more than you love you … He sacrificed more for you than you ever have or will sacrifice for you. In fact, He loves you so much that He gave up heaven and then died on the cross … for you. His love is perfect—and nothing can ever separate you from that love. You are that important to him.
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death
nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-39
Second, He knows what is best. He knows what is best for you in the here and now … and more importantly, He knows what is best for you in the future. He sees the whole picture … a perspective we can never have. Today’s scripture beautifully expresses the blessing of trusting Him in all plans and decisions.
And lastly, he is able. He has the power over all things to work out circumstances for your growth.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28
Today, you will make some knee-jerk decisions that aren’t good ones. Instead, stop for 5 seconds and choose to trust His way when you get to that fork in your road. “Why?” you may ask. Well, we laid out our case above. But really, what else are you going to trust? Yourself, other people, material things, your looks, your sparkling wit, your bank account? Has that strategy really delivered the abundant life, the Promised Land you’ve been yearning for? Trust Him. You will never regret it. Your decision, choose well!
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the times I thought I knew more than You. I know that You love me and want only what is best for me. And I know that no matter how things may look sometimes, Your way is always the best way. Help me to trust You more and choose to do things Your way. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the one I trust completely, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
You're blessed when you stay on course, walking steadily on the road revealed by GOD. You're blessed when you follow his directions, doing your best to find him. That's right—you don't go off on your own; you walk straight along the road he set.
Psalm 119:1-3
“The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul. This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is WITHIN REACH. The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart so that you can obey it.
“Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.
Deut. 30:9a, 10-11,14-16
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Stepping Stones: Shortcuts: Better Think Twice
Transformational Thought
Yesterday I was standing in line at the omelet making station of a nice restaurant serving brunch … there were 4 or 5 people ahead on me in line. A well-dressed, middle-age man with his teenage son walked in front of the line in an attempt to place their omelet orders. The chef making the omelets gently told the man there was a line.
As the man stepped back, I assumed he was just making an honest mistake, so I jokingly asked; “Were you trying to cut in line?” His response surprised … and saddened me. He said, “Absolutely … if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.”
It’s a hard element to measure, but it sure feels like our society is increasingly turning to shortcuts and even cheating to get what they want. And the guy in the omelet line was not only attempting to cheat … he even adapted a slogan to glorify it. If this is what he openly does in public, he must even be worse when no one is looking, when no accountability is in place to contain him. What is he teaching his young son?
Then I realized how often “I cut in line” in my day. Sleeping in … taking that extra doughnut or cookie … not confronting a situation that needs it … procrastinating a less desirable task or project … judging someone before all the evidence is in … doing a task halfway … leaving that wrapper behind the garbage for someone else to pick up. And these all happened before lunch! I am too embarrassed to tell you my major “short-cuts” … otherwise labeled bad habits, addictions, or dysfunctional patterns of cheating in life.
It’s unbelievable what we are willing to do to avoid a little discomfort … rationalizing it so we believe it is self-protective, when actually, it is self-destructive. Our shortcuts harm our brain circuitry, our personality and psychological skill maturation, and they are especially harmful to our spiritual walk in developing the Mind of Christ. You see, these shortcuts don’t renew the mind, they undermine, weaken, and deceive or brainwash the mind.
Today, examine your behavior and actions. Are you taking shortcuts or cheating? Why? Is feeling “good” or avoiding some discomfort worth sacrificing yourself so much? Be mindful that even minor infractions eventually trend toward major violations. However, minor character- building actions truly renew your mind so you become a powerful lighthouse of character. As always, the choice is yours … don’t harm yourself, choose well.
Prayer
O God, I confess that I have been guilty of cheating … in small and in big ways. I ask Your forgiveness, Father. I know You have protected me from many consequences of my shortcuts … thank You for Your amazing grace. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that He may guide me to the “right-way” … into “Your way” in all that I do. Help me not to be deceived into believing the shortcuts are beneficial to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who always avoided shortcuts with ultimate integrity and character, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.
Luke 16:10
The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.
Proverbs 29:27
Yesterday I was standing in line at the omelet making station of a nice restaurant serving brunch … there were 4 or 5 people ahead on me in line. A well-dressed, middle-age man with his teenage son walked in front of the line in an attempt to place their omelet orders. The chef making the omelets gently told the man there was a line.
As the man stepped back, I assumed he was just making an honest mistake, so I jokingly asked; “Were you trying to cut in line?” His response surprised … and saddened me. He said, “Absolutely … if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.”
It’s a hard element to measure, but it sure feels like our society is increasingly turning to shortcuts and even cheating to get what they want. And the guy in the omelet line was not only attempting to cheat … he even adapted a slogan to glorify it. If this is what he openly does in public, he must even be worse when no one is looking, when no accountability is in place to contain him. What is he teaching his young son?
Then I realized how often “I cut in line” in my day. Sleeping in … taking that extra doughnut or cookie … not confronting a situation that needs it … procrastinating a less desirable task or project … judging someone before all the evidence is in … doing a task halfway … leaving that wrapper behind the garbage for someone else to pick up. And these all happened before lunch! I am too embarrassed to tell you my major “short-cuts” … otherwise labeled bad habits, addictions, or dysfunctional patterns of cheating in life.
It’s unbelievable what we are willing to do to avoid a little discomfort … rationalizing it so we believe it is self-protective, when actually, it is self-destructive. Our shortcuts harm our brain circuitry, our personality and psychological skill maturation, and they are especially harmful to our spiritual walk in developing the Mind of Christ. You see, these shortcuts don’t renew the mind, they undermine, weaken, and deceive or brainwash the mind.
Today, examine your behavior and actions. Are you taking shortcuts or cheating? Why? Is feeling “good” or avoiding some discomfort worth sacrificing yourself so much? Be mindful that even minor infractions eventually trend toward major violations. However, minor character- building actions truly renew your mind so you become a powerful lighthouse of character. As always, the choice is yours … don’t harm yourself, choose well.
Prayer
O God, I confess that I have been guilty of cheating … in small and in big ways. I ask Your forgiveness, Father. I know You have protected me from many consequences of my shortcuts … thank You for Your amazing grace. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that He may guide me to the “right-way” … into “Your way” in all that I do. Help me not to be deceived into believing the shortcuts are beneficial to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who always avoided shortcuts with ultimate integrity and character, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.
Luke 16:10
The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.
Proverbs 29:27
Monday, April 25, 2011
Stepping Stones: Self Eye Exam - Regularly
Transformational Thought
The last couple of days we have been discussing the complicated and seemingly contradictory instructions we get from the Bible about judging others. We saw how we are called not to judge and yet called to judge. The main element was looking at the heart, of both the judger and the judged.
As we discussed, the Bible calls us to correct our children … to pick elders and church leaders with certain character … to vote for Godly leaders … to be a third party helping settle a dispute between two brothers. So again, the permission to judge rests in the motivating engine in our heart that drives our judgment of the other person.
If our motivation is to condemn, shame, mock, belittle them … or exalt ourselves, then obviously, this is not the kind of peer judging God calls us to.
On the contrary, our motivation needs to be one of compassion, love, service, and encouragement. Trying to help someone avoid reaping the perilous fruit of the flesh that continued wrong behavior produces. Being a lighthouse or mouthpiece of God and trying to direct them to God and His Word.
Another issue in judging is our motivation for judging the other person. In today's scripture, Jesus describes a type of hypocrisy most of us have experienced. We are quick to condemn others, deflecting from or overtly avoiding examining our own lives. Often our sins actually surpass theirs.
Jesus says that before we can help them, we need to have a look at our own lives. Are we involved in wrongdoing that might cloud our wisdom and hamper our ability to assess and help? Our sin, baggage, and issues could distort our perception of their conduct, and we might even wrongly judge them. We could then give them poor counsel as our issues bleed into our Biblical objectivity.
Not having our own house in order will also undermine our credibility to speak into their lives. Why would someone listen to or believe my assessment or judgment when I have all this sin and dysfunction, and so many blindspots in my life? What expertise or wisdom can I really share with them if I can’t even identify and address the struggles in my own life?
Looking closely at and addressing our own stuff, is a pretty good indicator of our level of humility, or lack thereof. Low humility equals high pride. Not a great attribute for speaking into another’s life with Godliness. A last point, our dysfunction and sin hinder our prayers for them as well.
Today, sit down and identify areas in your life that are broken or off-track. You know what they are. As Jesus teaches, get the plank out of your own eye. Only then will you see clearly enough to help your friends and have the credibility to speak into their lives about their problems. Have you performed an eye exam on yourself lately? Like me, you are probably overdue! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I am sometimes quick to judge … and to condemn. Please forgive me. Help me to examine my own life first so I can see clearly to help others and not condemn them. Help me to extend the same grace to them that You have abundantly extended to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the best mirror for my eye exam, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
Matthew 7:3-5
The last couple of days we have been discussing the complicated and seemingly contradictory instructions we get from the Bible about judging others. We saw how we are called not to judge and yet called to judge. The main element was looking at the heart, of both the judger and the judged.
As we discussed, the Bible calls us to correct our children … to pick elders and church leaders with certain character … to vote for Godly leaders … to be a third party helping settle a dispute between two brothers. So again, the permission to judge rests in the motivating engine in our heart that drives our judgment of the other person.
If our motivation is to condemn, shame, mock, belittle them … or exalt ourselves, then obviously, this is not the kind of peer judging God calls us to.
On the contrary, our motivation needs to be one of compassion, love, service, and encouragement. Trying to help someone avoid reaping the perilous fruit of the flesh that continued wrong behavior produces. Being a lighthouse or mouthpiece of God and trying to direct them to God and His Word.
Another issue in judging is our motivation for judging the other person. In today's scripture, Jesus describes a type of hypocrisy most of us have experienced. We are quick to condemn others, deflecting from or overtly avoiding examining our own lives. Often our sins actually surpass theirs.
Jesus says that before we can help them, we need to have a look at our own lives. Are we involved in wrongdoing that might cloud our wisdom and hamper our ability to assess and help? Our sin, baggage, and issues could distort our perception of their conduct, and we might even wrongly judge them. We could then give them poor counsel as our issues bleed into our Biblical objectivity.
Not having our own house in order will also undermine our credibility to speak into their lives. Why would someone listen to or believe my assessment or judgment when I have all this sin and dysfunction, and so many blindspots in my life? What expertise or wisdom can I really share with them if I can’t even identify and address the struggles in my own life?
Looking closely at and addressing our own stuff, is a pretty good indicator of our level of humility, or lack thereof. Low humility equals high pride. Not a great attribute for speaking into another’s life with Godliness. A last point, our dysfunction and sin hinder our prayers for them as well.
Today, sit down and identify areas in your life that are broken or off-track. You know what they are. As Jesus teaches, get the plank out of your own eye. Only then will you see clearly enough to help your friends and have the credibility to speak into their lives about their problems. Have you performed an eye exam on yourself lately? Like me, you are probably overdue! Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I am sometimes quick to judge … and to condemn. Please forgive me. Help me to examine my own life first so I can see clearly to help others and not condemn them. Help me to extend the same grace to them that You have abundantly extended to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the best mirror for my eye exam, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
Matthew 7:3-5
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Stepping Stones: Do You Keep God In A Box or Tomb?
Transformational Thought
Let’s continue our journey in time, back to that first glorious Easter morning, about 2000 years ago. When Mary, Mary, Salome, and the rest of their crew visited the tomb that Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had just lost their great and charismatic leader at the end of a rollercoaster week that started on a triumphant high, and ended in their cause being judged as wrong and their leader executed by all the power and ruling elements in their land. Would they be next to be rounded up and endure a mock trial and persecution, then executed?
So imagine their surprise as they see the stone rolled aside. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Thankfully, they get to meet not one, but two angels who explained that Jesus was not there, but risen. But they didn’t believe and just thought the body was stolen. They then ran to tell Peter and John, who also were perplexed and needed to come to the tomb to figure it out. Finally, once in the tomb, seeing the evidence of the wrappings, they believed. Mary actually had to talk to Jesus outside the tomb to really get it.
I can’t understand their stupidity, ignorance, disbelief, and nearsightedness. Jesus performed many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that He will rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they so surprised and not excited, but actually fearful, to see an empty tomb. Seems like they would be expecting it and rejoicing while looking for where He would appear to them.
How often do we react the same way? Believing God is as limited as us, think He's restricted to the same reality we are, don't believe His promises and predictions, and underestimate His power and knowledge. Well, I have no right to criticize Mary, Mary, the disciples and most of His followers, because I limit Jesus and God the same way they did.
My life has really changed since I realized He is bigger than me, He will stand by His promises, and expect the unexpected!
Don't expect God to be dormant in a Tomb. He is at work in and around you...expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it. Thank God the tomb is empty, but why were they surprised. I hope you aren't surprised in your everyday trials because God will show up. But remember, He didn’t rise from the dead immediately, He waited three days for a specific reason.
Happy Easter! from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death embolden and encourage your advancement against whatever trials and threats you are facing.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for Your power You give us by Christ's death, resurrection, and through Your Holy Spirit to be free of sin's grip and Satan's schemes. Give me a heart that will love You even 1/1000 of what You love me. Keep fresh in my mind Your promises and character, so in times of uncertainty, I don't put You in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of Your plan and power. I pray You grant the Stepping Stones readers eyes that see Your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise." But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
Let’s continue our journey in time, back to that first glorious Easter morning, about 2000 years ago. When Mary, Mary, Salome, and the rest of their crew visited the tomb that Easter morning, they were saddened, upset, worried, and edgy. They had just lost their great and charismatic leader at the end of a rollercoaster week that started on a triumphant high, and ended in their cause being judged as wrong and their leader executed by all the power and ruling elements in their land. Would they be next to be rounded up and endure a mock trial and persecution, then executed?
So imagine their surprise as they see the stone rolled aside. They had no idea what to make of the empty tomb. Thankfully, they get to meet not one, but two angels who explained that Jesus was not there, but risen. But they didn’t believe and just thought the body was stolen. They then ran to tell Peter and John, who also were perplexed and needed to come to the tomb to figure it out. Finally, once in the tomb, seeing the evidence of the wrappings, they believed. Mary actually had to talk to Jesus outside the tomb to really get it.
I can’t understand their stupidity, ignorance, disbelief, and nearsightedness. Jesus performed many miracles, talked of ruling His kingdom, raised Lazarus from the dead, and taught that He will rise from the dead in 3 days. Why were they so surprised and not excited, but actually fearful, to see an empty tomb. Seems like they would be expecting it and rejoicing while looking for where He would appear to them.
How often do we react the same way? Believing God is as limited as us, think He's restricted to the same reality we are, don't believe His promises and predictions, and underestimate His power and knowledge. Well, I have no right to criticize Mary, Mary, the disciples and most of His followers, because I limit Jesus and God the same way they did.
My life has really changed since I realized He is bigger than me, He will stand by His promises, and expect the unexpected!
Don't expect God to be dormant in a Tomb. He is at work in and around you...expect it, embrace it, and enjoy it. Thank God the tomb is empty, but why were they surprised. I hope you aren't surprised in your everyday trials because God will show up. But remember, He didn’t rise from the dead immediately, He waited three days for a specific reason.
Happy Easter! from the Lighthouse Network staff. May His power over death embolden and encourage your advancement against whatever trials and threats you are facing.
Prayer
Thank You, Father, for Your power You give us by Christ's death, resurrection, and through Your Holy Spirit to be free of sin's grip and Satan's schemes. Give me a heart that will love You even 1/1000 of what You love me. Keep fresh in my mind Your promises and character, so in times of uncertainty, I don't put You in a box and limit my expectations and understanding of Your plan and power. I pray You grant the Stepping Stones readers eyes that see Your awesome plans for them. In Christ's powerful and magnified name; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Matthew 12:40
for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise." But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.
Mark 9:31
Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."
The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?"
John 2:19-20
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Stepping Stones: Are You A Judas or a Peter?
Transformational Thought
When we know the outcome of all the events of the Bible, hindsight is 20:20. Well, 2000 years ago, on that day between Christ's crucifixion and resurrection (sorry to spoil the surprise), the disciples must have had all kinds of feelings swirling inside and been in disarray, discouraged, bewildered, and even afraid for their lives.
Most affected, I think, would be Judas, who betrayed Jesus for a little bit of money, and "ever faithful" Peter, who actually denied Jesus 3 times, even after Jesus told Peter he would, and Peter, in disbelief, said he wouldn't ever deny Christ.
Both Judas and Peter screwed up big time and rejected Christ, but now they have a major DECISION to make. Receive God's forgiveness, victory over sin, and love, and put their trust and confidence in Him and His Son who died for hem, and joyously rejoice, or, let sin defeat them, wallow in guilt, and self pity, be miserable, and even kill themselves, whether literally like Judas or emotionally, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually, like so many of us tend to do at times.
Judas relied on his own abilities and resources, realized how flawed and impotent those are to deal with his actions, and decided to kill himself. Peter relied on God's abilities and resources, realized how perfect and omnipotent they are to deal with his actions, and chose to glorify God and live a victorious life.
We face this decision regularly, as we are sinners and we sin a bunch, rejecting or betraying Jesus when we choose “my will be done” mentality instead of a “thy will be done” mindset.
Today, choose to side with our victorious Savior, and don't be faked out by Satan as he wants you to believe your situation is bleak, your actions are irreparable, and Jesus is not victorious.
Judas killed himself....Peter becomes the rock of the early church that revolutionized the world. What will you decide? Don't let your decision be one and done, but make it an intentional, daily, decision. Whether you will achieve your God-given potential and attain the love, joy and peace you strive for depends on your daily discipline to follow Him in mind and action. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
O gracious Father, I confess that even though I intellectually have You on the throne of my heart and mind, in reality, I often reject Your Lordship and put my selfish desires, agendas, and need to avoid discomfort on the throne of my heart. Thank You so much for Your forgiveness that You extend to me, unconditionally, even when I reject you big-time, or for a long time. Like the incredible father who received his prodigal son, You have Your arms open for me every time I return. Then You have a feast and bless me beyond my dreams. Help the amazement of Your greatness and goodness energize me daily. Grow me to be as gracious to others as You have been to me. I pray in the name of the One who stood up for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Luke 22:61,62
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1:1-3
Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself." And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5
When we know the outcome of all the events of the Bible, hindsight is 20:20. Well, 2000 years ago, on that day between Christ's crucifixion and resurrection (sorry to spoil the surprise), the disciples must have had all kinds of feelings swirling inside and been in disarray, discouraged, bewildered, and even afraid for their lives.
Most affected, I think, would be Judas, who betrayed Jesus for a little bit of money, and "ever faithful" Peter, who actually denied Jesus 3 times, even after Jesus told Peter he would, and Peter, in disbelief, said he wouldn't ever deny Christ.
Both Judas and Peter screwed up big time and rejected Christ, but now they have a major DECISION to make. Receive God's forgiveness, victory over sin, and love, and put their trust and confidence in Him and His Son who died for hem, and joyously rejoice, or, let sin defeat them, wallow in guilt, and self pity, be miserable, and even kill themselves, whether literally like Judas or emotionally, relationally, psychologically, and spiritually, like so many of us tend to do at times.
Judas relied on his own abilities and resources, realized how flawed and impotent those are to deal with his actions, and decided to kill himself. Peter relied on God's abilities and resources, realized how perfect and omnipotent they are to deal with his actions, and chose to glorify God and live a victorious life.
We face this decision regularly, as we are sinners and we sin a bunch, rejecting or betraying Jesus when we choose “my will be done” mentality instead of a “thy will be done” mindset.
Today, choose to side with our victorious Savior, and don't be faked out by Satan as he wants you to believe your situation is bleak, your actions are irreparable, and Jesus is not victorious.
Judas killed himself....Peter becomes the rock of the early church that revolutionized the world. What will you decide? Don't let your decision be one and done, but make it an intentional, daily, decision. Whether you will achieve your God-given potential and attain the love, joy and peace you strive for depends on your daily discipline to follow Him in mind and action. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
O gracious Father, I confess that even though I intellectually have You on the throne of my heart and mind, in reality, I often reject Your Lordship and put my selfish desires, agendas, and need to avoid discomfort on the throne of my heart. Thank You so much for Your forgiveness that You extend to me, unconditionally, even when I reject you big-time, or for a long time. Like the incredible father who received his prodigal son, You have Your arms open for me every time I return. Then You have a feast and bless me beyond my dreams. Help the amazement of Your greatness and goodness energize me daily. Grow me to be as gracious to others as You have been to me. I pray in the name of the One who stood up for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Luke 22:61,62
Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1:1-3
Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, "I have sinned by betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? See to it yourself." And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.
Matthew 27:3-5
Friday, April 22, 2011
Stepping Stones: The Greatest Day of All Time
Transformational Thought
I was on national TV for a football competition when I was 12 and 13 years old. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18, and my wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th birthday party. The day I met my wife – love at first sight. Wedding Day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest daughters and children a father could ever dream of.
These were unbelievably great days, but amazingly, I wasn’t even alive for the greatest day of my life.
You see, almost 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man who ever lived, endured humiliation, persecution, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted peons posing as rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross…for ME! He took my punishment for all, and that is a lot, of my sins, the big ones and little ones.
He was even willing to endure the 3 hour separation from His Father, their first separation ever, as He bore my sins. He was willing to do that for Me…and for YOU!
Because of Good, no, GREAT FRIDAY, and in accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan’s power, man’s schemes, sin’s guilt, and death’s grip. I am in God’s loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace, no matter what God allows to come into my life to purify and grow me into His child and a disciple of Christ.
Today, if you haven’t already, humbly accept Christ as your Savior and Lord….. He died for your daily and eternal freedom, too. Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours, too. If you have accepted Christ, remember your elation of that day and pass this on to someone who needs to experience the greatest day ever.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for Your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above, to a dirty manger, then living as a menial carpenter in a slave family, working with 12 guys that needed a lot of help, being falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed…..for me. I am sorry I stray from You, but Your love and sacrifice doesn’t depend on my obedience. It truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and Your redeeming act every day, and live a rejoicing life so other’s see Your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus’ great and humble name above all names; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
I was on national TV for a football competition when I was 12 and 13 years old. My parents gave me a great surprise birthday party when I was 18, and my wife and 3 girls gave me an awesome surprise 40th birthday party. The day I met my wife – love at first sight. Wedding Day, and night. The birth of all 3 of the greatest daughters and children a father could ever dream of.
These were unbelievably great days, but amazingly, I wasn’t even alive for the greatest day of my life.
You see, almost 2000 years ago, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the only Perfect Man who ever lived, endured humiliation, persecution, the false accusations of ignorant and corrupted peons posing as rulers, to die a physically painful death on the cross…for ME! He took my punishment for all, and that is a lot, of my sins, the big ones and little ones.
He was even willing to endure the 3 hour separation from His Father, their first separation ever, as He bore my sins. He was willing to do that for Me…and for YOU!
Because of Good, no, GREAT FRIDAY, and in accepting His death and payment, I am free of Satan’s power, man’s schemes, sin’s guilt, and death’s grip. I am in God’s loving, powerful, and protective arms forever. What relief and peace, no matter what God allows to come into my life to purify and grow me into His child and a disciple of Christ.
Today, if you haven’t already, humbly accept Christ as your Savior and Lord….. He died for your daily and eternal freedom, too. Does your greatest day compare with mine? The cool thing is that it can be yours, too. If you have accepted Christ, remember your elation of that day and pass this on to someone who needs to experience the greatest day ever.
Prayer
Glorious Heavenly Father, Thanks for Your eternal love, that pursued me from Heaven above, to a dirty manger, then living as a menial carpenter in a slave family, working with 12 guys that needed a lot of help, being falsely accused, scorned, whipped, tortured, and killed…..for me. I am sorry I stray from You, but Your love and sacrifice doesn’t depend on my obedience. It truly was, is, and will always be, unconditional. Help me rest in this truth and Your redeeming act every day, and live a rejoicing life so other’s see Your mercy, grace, power, and love. In Jesus’ great and humble name above all names; and all God’s children say – Amen!
The Truth
And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong." And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, "Certainly this man was innocent!"
Luke 23:34-47
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Stepping Stones: “I’ll Only Do It This One Time”
Transformational Thought
Paul wrote the second chapter of Romans to Jewish readers who believed they had a special relationship with God because they knew, approved, and were obedient to the Law of God. Many believed this relationship made them above the Law, and so were not careful in their lifestyles. They excused behaviors that were wrong and trusted in their supposed privileged position to shield them from the consequences of their guilt.
It is never enough just to know and approve what is right. It is never enough to be a church member or to be born into a Christian family. Nothing has any meaning without a relationship with God that is alive and based solely on faith in Christ as your personal Savior. In today's scripture, Paul is speaking to religious people who lack a living relationship with God.
Religious people are prone to rationalization. They often have a strong belief system. But when their beliefs and behaviors conflict, they may resolve the internal conflict by finding excuses for themselves. Many people are pro-life, but when it comes to an unwanted pregnancy in their own home, some are able to rationalize an abortion. Many oppose pornography, but allow themselves to indulge in secret. Nobody, I repeat, nobody is above rationalizing and excusing sinful behaviors and attitudes.
People rationalize sins such as cheating on their taxes, lying, having temper tantrums, gossiping, being bitter, harboring a grudge, controlling others, resisting change, continuing an addiction, or having an affair. "Everyone does it." "I deserve it." "It doesn’t really hurt anyone." "I'll only do it this one time."
Perhaps you have fallen into this rationalization trap. You know God’s Word. You say you believe it. And yet when it comes right down to your personal circumstances, you find a way to rationalize behavior that the Holy Bible condemns. Hypocrisy? You bet! But don’t just pout or deny you’re in this category, learn why you are tricked into thinking that your behavior results in benefit rather than harm.
Today, don’t rationalize or hide. Stop posing. Jesus died so you could lead a transformed life. That is only place in which the peace and joy we all desire can be found. Faith in Christ sets us free from sin, but we must exercise and apply that faith to life’s situations. It isn't enough to know what the Bible says. God calls us into a close relationship that causes us to want to please Him. We will all stumble and fall along the way, but a close walk with the Lord should encourage us to repent and get back on the right path … to restore our relationship with Him. Knowing and speaking the Word isn't enough … we must live it. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for reading Your Word but then going my own way. I pray that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Word will become a living part of me and that I will live to please You. Help me apply Your instruction clearly in my life. I pray that my relationship with You will grow stronger and my desire to please You will grow. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who lived His Father’s Word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For merely listening to the law doesn't make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in his sight.
Romans 2:13
Paul wrote the second chapter of Romans to Jewish readers who believed they had a special relationship with God because they knew, approved, and were obedient to the Law of God. Many believed this relationship made them above the Law, and so were not careful in their lifestyles. They excused behaviors that were wrong and trusted in their supposed privileged position to shield them from the consequences of their guilt.
It is never enough just to know and approve what is right. It is never enough to be a church member or to be born into a Christian family. Nothing has any meaning without a relationship with God that is alive and based solely on faith in Christ as your personal Savior. In today's scripture, Paul is speaking to religious people who lack a living relationship with God.
Religious people are prone to rationalization. They often have a strong belief system. But when their beliefs and behaviors conflict, they may resolve the internal conflict by finding excuses for themselves. Many people are pro-life, but when it comes to an unwanted pregnancy in their own home, some are able to rationalize an abortion. Many oppose pornography, but allow themselves to indulge in secret. Nobody, I repeat, nobody is above rationalizing and excusing sinful behaviors and attitudes.
People rationalize sins such as cheating on their taxes, lying, having temper tantrums, gossiping, being bitter, harboring a grudge, controlling others, resisting change, continuing an addiction, or having an affair. "Everyone does it." "I deserve it." "It doesn’t really hurt anyone." "I'll only do it this one time."
Perhaps you have fallen into this rationalization trap. You know God’s Word. You say you believe it. And yet when it comes right down to your personal circumstances, you find a way to rationalize behavior that the Holy Bible condemns. Hypocrisy? You bet! But don’t just pout or deny you’re in this category, learn why you are tricked into thinking that your behavior results in benefit rather than harm.
Today, don’t rationalize or hide. Stop posing. Jesus died so you could lead a transformed life. That is only place in which the peace and joy we all desire can be found. Faith in Christ sets us free from sin, but we must exercise and apply that faith to life’s situations. It isn't enough to know what the Bible says. God calls us into a close relationship that causes us to want to please Him. We will all stumble and fall along the way, but a close walk with the Lord should encourage us to repent and get back on the right path … to restore our relationship with Him. Knowing and speaking the Word isn't enough … we must live it. Your decision, choose well.
Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for reading Your Word but then going my own way. I pray that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that Your Word will become a living part of me and that I will live to please You. Help me apply Your instruction clearly in my life. I pray that my relationship with You will grow stronger and my desire to please You will grow. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who lived His Father’s Word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For merely listening to the law doesn't make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in his sight.
Romans 2:13
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Stepping Stones: Self-Deception Traps Your Thinking
Transformational Thought
What is a hypocrite? According to Webster, a hypocrite is a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion, a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. In other words, hypocrites pretend to be someone or something that they aren’t. The definition doesn’t distinguish between an intentional or a subconscious (unintentional) deception.
The Bible teaches that a hypocrite is one who pretends to put God first in all things without really being pious … one who talks the talk without walking the walk. Jesus confronted hypocrites vigorously in His earthly ministry. These confrontations of truth against their self-deception fueled the Pharisee’s desire to kill Jesus.
A hypocrite knows what is right but makes elaborate excuses for doing wrong, and rationalizes why his behavior is allowable. He weaves a web of self-deception that eventually traps his thinking and keeps him from seeing the truth. He makes himself king and writes his own rules to declare and stamp his conduct as permissible. My kingdom come, my will be done mentality, all the while proclaiming that Jesus is the Lord of his life.
We all tend to condemn other people's wrong actions and attitudes. At the same time, we are prone to excuse the same or worse behaviors in ourselves. We put on a good front and try to hide our real attitudes and feelings. We try to convince others … and even ourselves … that we are OK. We might be able to fool others. We might even delude ourselves for a while. But God knows our hearts. He is not impressed by our outward displays of "being religious" or following the rules. He considers what we are inside ... our motivations, desires, and fears.
Today, objectively examine whether you are putting up a good front while harboring sin in your life. Maybe the sin is something you are doing … participating in pornography, an adulterous relationship, angry outbursts, sharp words, over-eating, or some other wrong behavior. Maybe it's hidden inside … fear, anxiety, insecurity, bitterness, envy, lack of forgiveness. Remember that whatever it is … God already knows. He loves you and wants to help you overcome. You can start on the path to ending the sinful behavior by admitting your guilt to yourself … and to Him. WITHIN REACH can then help you take the next steps of applying the Bible and allowing God into those deep places in your heart and life and truly transform your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I've been living a lie. I also know that You see the real me--You see my heart. Please forgive my sin and give me the strength to overcome. Help me to be honest with You, with myself, and with others. Open my eyes to the truth, and give me the courage to take one stepping stone at a time to follow Your guidance. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts.”
Luke 16:15
"You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy … full of greed and wickedness!"
Luke 11:39
What is a hypocrite? According to Webster, a hypocrite is a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion, a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. In other words, hypocrites pretend to be someone or something that they aren’t. The definition doesn’t distinguish between an intentional or a subconscious (unintentional) deception.
The Bible teaches that a hypocrite is one who pretends to put God first in all things without really being pious … one who talks the talk without walking the walk. Jesus confronted hypocrites vigorously in His earthly ministry. These confrontations of truth against their self-deception fueled the Pharisee’s desire to kill Jesus.
A hypocrite knows what is right but makes elaborate excuses for doing wrong, and rationalizes why his behavior is allowable. He weaves a web of self-deception that eventually traps his thinking and keeps him from seeing the truth. He makes himself king and writes his own rules to declare and stamp his conduct as permissible. My kingdom come, my will be done mentality, all the while proclaiming that Jesus is the Lord of his life.
We all tend to condemn other people's wrong actions and attitudes. At the same time, we are prone to excuse the same or worse behaviors in ourselves. We put on a good front and try to hide our real attitudes and feelings. We try to convince others … and even ourselves … that we are OK. We might be able to fool others. We might even delude ourselves for a while. But God knows our hearts. He is not impressed by our outward displays of "being religious" or following the rules. He considers what we are inside ... our motivations, desires, and fears.
Today, objectively examine whether you are putting up a good front while harboring sin in your life. Maybe the sin is something you are doing … participating in pornography, an adulterous relationship, angry outbursts, sharp words, over-eating, or some other wrong behavior. Maybe it's hidden inside … fear, anxiety, insecurity, bitterness, envy, lack of forgiveness. Remember that whatever it is … God already knows. He loves you and wants to help you overcome. You can start on the path to ending the sinful behavior by admitting your guilt to yourself … and to Him. WITHIN REACH can then help you take the next steps of applying the Bible and allowing God into those deep places in your heart and life and truly transform your heart.
Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I've been living a lie. I also know that You see the real me--You see my heart. Please forgive my sin and give me the strength to overcome. Help me to be honest with You, with myself, and with others. Open my eyes to the truth, and give me the courage to take one stepping stone at a time to follow Your guidance. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts.”
Luke 16:15
"You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy … full of greed and wickedness!"
Luke 11:39
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Stepping Stones: Whose Instruction Book Do You Use?
Transformational Thought
God loves us so much that He gives us the freedom to make choices. Some are of little consequence, but others are life-changing. This freedom of choice dates back to Adam and Eve. They made one choice that went against God’s instruction book and sin has dramatically affected the lives and events of all mankind ever since.
The freedom to make choices is great, but brings grave responsibility. We have all made poor choices at times and have suffered the consequences. The good news is that no matter what choices we have made in the past, there is always hope for a better future. God knew that we would make some bad choices, but He loves us so much that He sent Jesus. And Jesus willingly, His free-will choice, paid the price for our sin to provide a way to restore our relationship with God.
Some people go through life carrying the load of some wrong choices they’ve made in the past. They believe they’ve messed up so badly that nothing good can ever come of their lives. Do you ever feel this way? Good news! If you want to be set free from the past, Jesus is the answer. He has already paid the price for your sin … for every wrong choice you’ve ever made.
Make a good decision right now by accepting His payment for your sin. This could be the first time (becoming saved) or part of the regular practice of confession, which is a powerful coping skill. God has always wanted to forgive you and help you make better choices. That is why He sent His Son, gave us the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us, and spelled it all out in His instruction book, The Holy Bible.
Many decisions are tough and it’s a great benefit to have a guidebook for our journey. Now it’s up to us … what decision will we make? To follow the greatest instruction book of all time, or to continually write and follow our own very flawed instruction book. I know where “Life According to the Book of Karl” gets me. Although it seemed cool when I was writing it, it truly was hell to live at times. Thank You God for Your amazing grace!
Today, when you make a mistake, stop and look at whose instruction book are you using, yours or God’s. Next time you are in a tough situation, choose to use God’s instruction book instead of the knee-jerk response from your own or society’s instruction book. Document how different the results will be as you develop the spiritual radar of tuning into God’s frequency. Remember, you are very special to God and He loves you no matter what you’ve done. He wants you to put the past behind so that you can become all He has designed you to be. It’s never to late to make good decisions. Learn from your mistakes … and look forward to a future filled with hope. WITHIN REACH is designed to help you practically use God’s instruction manual in all the daily decisions that are your walk.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for forgiving my sins. I’ve made so many wrong choices. Help me now to put them behind and to look forward to the future You have planned for me … one filled with hope. Show me how to use Your instructions from Your Holy Bible. Thanks for creating me then giving me the instruction book so I can function well and glorify You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has secured my future, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14
For the word of God is living and full of power, and is sharper than any two-edged sword, cutting through and making a division even of the soul and the spirit, the bones and the muscles, and quick to see the thoughts and purposes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
God loves us so much that He gives us the freedom to make choices. Some are of little consequence, but others are life-changing. This freedom of choice dates back to Adam and Eve. They made one choice that went against God’s instruction book and sin has dramatically affected the lives and events of all mankind ever since.
The freedom to make choices is great, but brings grave responsibility. We have all made poor choices at times and have suffered the consequences. The good news is that no matter what choices we have made in the past, there is always hope for a better future. God knew that we would make some bad choices, but He loves us so much that He sent Jesus. And Jesus willingly, His free-will choice, paid the price for our sin to provide a way to restore our relationship with God.
Some people go through life carrying the load of some wrong choices they’ve made in the past. They believe they’ve messed up so badly that nothing good can ever come of their lives. Do you ever feel this way? Good news! If you want to be set free from the past, Jesus is the answer. He has already paid the price for your sin … for every wrong choice you’ve ever made.
Make a good decision right now by accepting His payment for your sin. This could be the first time (becoming saved) or part of the regular practice of confession, which is a powerful coping skill. God has always wanted to forgive you and help you make better choices. That is why He sent His Son, gave us the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us, and spelled it all out in His instruction book, The Holy Bible.
Many decisions are tough and it’s a great benefit to have a guidebook for our journey. Now it’s up to us … what decision will we make? To follow the greatest instruction book of all time, or to continually write and follow our own very flawed instruction book. I know where “Life According to the Book of Karl” gets me. Although it seemed cool when I was writing it, it truly was hell to live at times. Thank You God for Your amazing grace!
Today, when you make a mistake, stop and look at whose instruction book are you using, yours or God’s. Next time you are in a tough situation, choose to use God’s instruction book instead of the knee-jerk response from your own or society’s instruction book. Document how different the results will be as you develop the spiritual radar of tuning into God’s frequency. Remember, you are very special to God and He loves you no matter what you’ve done. He wants you to put the past behind so that you can become all He has designed you to be. It’s never to late to make good decisions. Learn from your mistakes … and look forward to a future filled with hope. WITHIN REACH is designed to help you practically use God’s instruction manual in all the daily decisions that are your walk.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for forgiving my sins. I’ve made so many wrong choices. Help me now to put them behind and to look forward to the future You have planned for me … one filled with hope. Show me how to use Your instructions from Your Holy Bible. Thanks for creating me then giving me the instruction book so I can function well and glorify You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has secured my future, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14
For the word of God is living and full of power, and is sharper than any two-edged sword, cutting through and making a division even of the soul and the spirit, the bones and the muscles, and quick to see the thoughts and purposes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
Monday, April 18, 2011
Stepping Stones: You Didn’t Get a Brain Transplant?
Transformational Thought
As we come to Jesus and begin to understand who we are in Him, it is time to learn from our past, put it behind, and move on ahead. Paul makes it clear in today’s scripture that he is on a journey. He knows he is not perfect, but he determines to forget what used to motivate him … to forget his past achievements. He reaches forward … to become all Jesus wants him to be. He is moving in the right direction, toward Jesus … and he is not turning back.
That’s where we need to be too, on a journey toward Jesus, to accomplish His purpose for us. In the verse for today, Paul talks about forgetting, but what does he really mean? He is not talking about having amnesia about the past. Some Christians will tell you, “You are a new creation, don’t look at your past, only look forward.”
Now, listen closely as this is a very important point. It seems clear and silly when I say it, but it is a powerful point with many ramifications that clarify the process of journeying for the prize. When we accepted Christ as our personal savior, we didn’t get a brain transplant. If we were totally transformed at that point of salvation, we would never have sinned again. How sad, that as believers, we do still sin. So there must be something we have to do to allow the Holy Spirit to complete His task job in us.
In order to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us, one thing we need to do is look at how our past adversely influences present decision-making. We need to forget the old motivations, goals, and pursuits we once had … and stop conforming to the world’s system.
Our past is what God allowed in our lives so we would draw close to Him. Another outcome is to prepare us for the good works He has planned for us. Many items from life prior to my commitment to Christ are used by God in my ministry to others. This is what God intended. Forgetting my past would cause me to miss opportunities to turn what Satan intended for bad into something God can use for His glory.
But when we look at our past, we do need to process it with a very specific focus on Jesus and God’s plans and goals. That will transform the lenses so we can take every thought captive and allow God to come in to those old areas of hurt. Then healing can occur … and truth will replace the ripples of distortion that Satan wants fogging our lenses.
Today, don’t ruminate about the past, but don’t ignore it as if you had a brain transplant. Your past is affecting your decisions now, so examine your decisions today to understand how your past affects them. This will show you what is at the center of your heart. Your past will reveal why, in certain situations, other things are at the center of your heart, instead of God. WITHIN REACH is our curriculum that helps you examine and understand your decision-making process, and become a Godly decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear God, Thank You for Your healing and forgiveness. Help me to use my past hurts for my growth. Do not allow them to interfere with the growth You have for me. Show me how to keep my eyes on Jesus as I move forward along the path You have for me. Help me to practice this skill regularly. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has made everything right, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
As we come to Jesus and begin to understand who we are in Him, it is time to learn from our past, put it behind, and move on ahead. Paul makes it clear in today’s scripture that he is on a journey. He knows he is not perfect, but he determines to forget what used to motivate him … to forget his past achievements. He reaches forward … to become all Jesus wants him to be. He is moving in the right direction, toward Jesus … and he is not turning back.
That’s where we need to be too, on a journey toward Jesus, to accomplish His purpose for us. In the verse for today, Paul talks about forgetting, but what does he really mean? He is not talking about having amnesia about the past. Some Christians will tell you, “You are a new creation, don’t look at your past, only look forward.”
Now, listen closely as this is a very important point. It seems clear and silly when I say it, but it is a powerful point with many ramifications that clarify the process of journeying for the prize. When we accepted Christ as our personal savior, we didn’t get a brain transplant. If we were totally transformed at that point of salvation, we would never have sinned again. How sad, that as believers, we do still sin. So there must be something we have to do to allow the Holy Spirit to complete His task job in us.
In order to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us, one thing we need to do is look at how our past adversely influences present decision-making. We need to forget the old motivations, goals, and pursuits we once had … and stop conforming to the world’s system.
Our past is what God allowed in our lives so we would draw close to Him. Another outcome is to prepare us for the good works He has planned for us. Many items from life prior to my commitment to Christ are used by God in my ministry to others. This is what God intended. Forgetting my past would cause me to miss opportunities to turn what Satan intended for bad into something God can use for His glory.
But when we look at our past, we do need to process it with a very specific focus on Jesus and God’s plans and goals. That will transform the lenses so we can take every thought captive and allow God to come in to those old areas of hurt. Then healing can occur … and truth will replace the ripples of distortion that Satan wants fogging our lenses.
Today, don’t ruminate about the past, but don’t ignore it as if you had a brain transplant. Your past is affecting your decisions now, so examine your decisions today to understand how your past affects them. This will show you what is at the center of your heart. Your past will reveal why, in certain situations, other things are at the center of your heart, instead of God. WITHIN REACH is our curriculum that helps you examine and understand your decision-making process, and become a Godly decision-maker.
Prayer
Dear God, Thank You for Your healing and forgiveness. Help me to use my past hurts for my growth. Do not allow them to interfere with the growth You have for me. Show me how to keep my eyes on Jesus as I move forward along the path You have for me. Help me to practice this skill regularly. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who has made everything right, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Stepping Stones: Claim The Victory, It’s Already Won!
Transformational Thought
Sometimes in the midst of a great day, all of a sudden, I will feel a cold, wet blanket come over me. A memory from my past creeps into my mind … then it feels like all the goodness is gone. Shame, guilt, and regret instantly flood my mind and seek to control my heart.
Perhaps you have suffered abuse from a parent or spouse or another “trusted” person. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic personal loss. Or perhaps you have made some poor choices in the past and are suffering the consequences. It doesn’t have to be a “major” trauma either. Most hurts for a 6 y.o. are somewhat “traumatic” since we usually don’t have very good interpreters putting the hurt in proper context for us.
Read today’s scripture carefully. God promises that despite all these obstacles of life, you can have overwhelming victory through Christ. Come to Him for help … and forgiveness. If you let Christ in, nothing … absolutely nothing … can separate you from His love. No reason all that stuff from the past should steal another minute of your joy and happiness. A victory doesn’t just mean to win … it means a decisive win … a win that leaves no doubt.
It is easy to look at scriptures about God’s love and think, “Yes, God loves all people.” But in our innermost being we don’t include ourselves in the “all people.” We think, “I’m different … I’m just not good enough…That’s alright for other people, but I’ve made too many mistakes. I’ve got special circumstances. It’s too late for me.” We need to examine and search for the lies that keep us feeling defeated with no chance of winning in this life on Earth.
God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that you are included. No matter what you have done. No matter what other people say or think about you. No matter what you think about yourself. God loves you. Jesus died for you. Nothing will ever separate you from His love.
Today, stop when you struggle. Tell yourself “God loves me and He proved it.” Then consider how that changes your view of the moment. Walk with Jesus and you can have overwhelming victory over every problem and obstacle in your life. The problems might still be there … the obstacles may still come. But you won’t have to face them alone or have a defeated attitude and perspective. God will empower you to overcome.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You that these promises are not just for other people … but they are really for me. Thank You for your unconditional love. Thank You that no matter what happened in the past or comes my way in the future, I can walk in victory through Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who made my victory possible, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I know that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow … not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below … indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39
Sometimes in the midst of a great day, all of a sudden, I will feel a cold, wet blanket come over me. A memory from my past creeps into my mind … then it feels like all the goodness is gone. Shame, guilt, and regret instantly flood my mind and seek to control my heart.
Perhaps you have suffered abuse from a parent or spouse or another “trusted” person. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic personal loss. Or perhaps you have made some poor choices in the past and are suffering the consequences. It doesn’t have to be a “major” trauma either. Most hurts for a 6 y.o. are somewhat “traumatic” since we usually don’t have very good interpreters putting the hurt in proper context for us.
Read today’s scripture carefully. God promises that despite all these obstacles of life, you can have overwhelming victory through Christ. Come to Him for help … and forgiveness. If you let Christ in, nothing … absolutely nothing … can separate you from His love. No reason all that stuff from the past should steal another minute of your joy and happiness. A victory doesn’t just mean to win … it means a decisive win … a win that leaves no doubt.
It is easy to look at scriptures about God’s love and think, “Yes, God loves all people.” But in our innermost being we don’t include ourselves in the “all people.” We think, “I’m different … I’m just not good enough…That’s alright for other people, but I’ve made too many mistakes. I’ve got special circumstances. It’s too late for me.” We need to examine and search for the lies that keep us feeling defeated with no chance of winning in this life on Earth.
God’s Word makes it abundantly clear that you are included. No matter what you have done. No matter what other people say or think about you. No matter what you think about yourself. God loves you. Jesus died for you. Nothing will ever separate you from His love.
Today, stop when you struggle. Tell yourself “God loves me and He proved it.” Then consider how that changes your view of the moment. Walk with Jesus and you can have overwhelming victory over every problem and obstacle in your life. The problems might still be there … the obstacles may still come. But you won’t have to face them alone or have a defeated attitude and perspective. God will empower you to overcome.
Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You that these promises are not just for other people … but they are really for me. Thank You for your unconditional love. Thank You that no matter what happened in the past or comes my way in the future, I can walk in victory through Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who made my victory possible, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I know that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow … not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below … indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:37-39
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Stepping Stones: How Do You See Yourself?
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Transformational Thought
Throughout her high school years, my daughter volunteered at a shelter for abused women and their children. Through her work there, I was exposed to how prevalent and devastating domestic abuse is in America. It cripples not only the direct victim, but also abuser and the people who witness it, usually the kids.
Abuse takes many forms … but it is almost always debilitating. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million women are battered each year by their husbands or partners. Three million reports of child abuse are made every year just in the United States. But experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is three times greater than reported. Many children are suffering from this hidden epidemic. While these are U.S. figures, these problems exist around the world, and in most places at much higher rates.
Abuse is a sin that dishonors God and disrespects His creation of life. Obviously, physical danger exists. Whether the abuse is psychological, physical or verbal, the most chronic damage is that it distorts the lenses we need to see life accurately, from God’s perspective. We need eyes that see the truth, and abuse does the exact opposite.
Abuse erodes confidence and self-esteem. We begin believing what we are told about ourselves; we think that anyone treated violently and abusively must deserve it. These beliefs are often accepted early in life and become part of the initial lenses through which we see and process all information. Even if abuse occurs when we are older, the intensity of the experience makes it a formidable opponent to seeing ourselves as God sees us, our God-image.
Abuse communicates “I am worthless”… “I am an object to be used by you whenever you want” … “dignity, respect, and honor are not for me”… “I don’t deserve or accomplish anything in life”. These distortions and interpretations form part of the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives.
Today, ask, “How do I see myself?” “Is my self-image based on other people’s words and actions toward me? Or is it based on the truth of God’s Word, a God-image?” God knew you before you were even born. He created you … and His works are wonderful. Let Jesus help take your eyes off yourself and begin the process of putting your eyes on Him. He is able to heal our eyes, to see ourselves as He sees us.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for this reminder that You formed me and made me … and that Your works are wonderful. I must admit, though, sometimes I don’t feel as though I’m wonderful at all. In fact, sometimes I feel as though I don’t deserve anything good. Help me to really grasp what Jesus did for me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
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.
Matthew 13:15,16
Transformational Thought
Throughout her high school years, my daughter volunteered at a shelter for abused women and their children. Through her work there, I was exposed to how prevalent and devastating domestic abuse is in America. It cripples not only the direct victim, but also abuser and the people who witness it, usually the kids.
Abuse takes many forms … but it is almost always debilitating. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million women are battered each year by their husbands or partners. Three million reports of child abuse are made every year just in the United States. But experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse and neglect is three times greater than reported. Many children are suffering from this hidden epidemic. While these are U.S. figures, these problems exist around the world, and in most places at much higher rates.
Abuse is a sin that dishonors God and disrespects His creation of life. Obviously, physical danger exists. Whether the abuse is psychological, physical or verbal, the most chronic damage is that it distorts the lenses we need to see life accurately, from God’s perspective. We need eyes that see the truth, and abuse does the exact opposite.
Abuse erodes confidence and self-esteem. We begin believing what we are told about ourselves; we think that anyone treated violently and abusively must deserve it. These beliefs are often accepted early in life and become part of the initial lenses through which we see and process all information. Even if abuse occurs when we are older, the intensity of the experience makes it a formidable opponent to seeing ourselves as God sees us, our God-image.
Abuse communicates “I am worthless”… “I am an object to be used by you whenever you want” … “dignity, respect, and honor are not for me”… “I don’t deserve or accomplish anything in life”. These distortions and interpretations form part of the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives.
Today, ask, “How do I see myself?” “Is my self-image based on other people’s words and actions toward me? Or is it based on the truth of God’s Word, a God-image?” God knew you before you were even born. He created you … and His works are wonderful. Let Jesus help take your eyes off yourself and begin the process of putting your eyes on Him. He is able to heal our eyes, to see ourselves as He sees us.
Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for this reminder that You formed me and made me … and that Your works are wonderful. I must admit, though, sometimes I don’t feel as though I’m wonderful at all. In fact, sometimes I feel as though I don’t deserve anything good. Help me to really grasp what Jesus did for me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!
The Truth
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
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.
Matthew 13:15,16
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