I will go before you and make the crooked places straight...
Isaiah 45:2a NKJV
Have you ever taken a path that wasn't a paved road or sidewalk? Have you walked a trail through the woods or a campground? You know the trail was made because many people walked that same path. I love going through an old neighborhood and seeing a worn path between two houses. You know they have forged a friendship and the trail is the proof.
In business, we often refer to leaving a paper trail - one that can help us to determine where we started, where we've been and hopefully, point us in a good direction for the next time we go that way. It matters not the kind of trail, the one thing they all have in common is that someone had to make the first step.
Scripture instructs us to comfort others with the comfort we have received from the Lord (2nd Corinthians 1:4). I believe that extends to all areas of our lives - sharing knowledge, best way practices, lending a hand, etc. So think about this for a moment. Think about the last trial of your faith that you walked through - where you packed the grass a little tighter, leaving impressions of your knees. Left pieces of you among the rocks. You are able now to help the next person navigate that trail.
With that in mind, think about the one you're walking now. Step a little stronger - walk with a little more purpose. You're leaving footprints for those coming after you. Take note of the prayers and Scriptures that give you sustenance for this part of the journey. Leave landmarks.
Jesus walked it first and showed us the way. Help to make the way more clearly defined for those coming after you. Whether it's the heat of adversity, the fire of our passion, or following hot on the footsteps of Jesus, we're blazing a trail for those coming after us, so let's follow Jesus. He's never lost and He makes the crooked ways straight.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank You for being the original GPS. Thank You for Your mercy and Your grace and Your forgiveness that redeems us so we are not eternally lost when we miss the way. Help us, Father, to follow more closely in Your footsteps. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
Following the Schedule +
You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in your Book!
Psalm 139:16 TLB
We deal with schedules every day - and not just our own, but those with whom we interact - the boss, the kids, grandkids. We call it keeping on track, being focused, staying the course. We follow the schedules of life.
You go to a seminar and they hand you a schedule to follow so you can accomplish everything you came to do and get your money's worth. Well, what do you do if you lose your schedule?
I have seen the meltdowns (and experienced a few) when the app doesn't sync properly or the PDA is lost or misplaced, or the DayMinder organizer is left somewhere (yes - there are still a few who use them!). Then there's the infamous computer crash and you hear the wail, "My whole life is in that thing!" and we are lost. You know what I'm talking about. It makes no difference if you work outside the home or your home is your work. There's a schedule to follow.
All day long we're bombarded with thoughts and tasks and assignments and project schedules...and life. I don't know about you, but I have been attention deficit since before they had a name for it. If I hope to get anything done, I have to have a schedule. Do I live rigidly? Oh, no no no. Only on those things that are important. But I do tend to have a hard time staying focused. In the morning, I use my old cell phone as my schedule reminder. I set it as my alarm clock to wake in the morning, and then hit the 10-minute snooze button until I actually leave the house. Some mornings, it drives me crazy, but 99% of the time, it keeps me on task.
We all know how easy it is to get off task. Someone comes to your desk and asks, Do you have a minute? and what they really mean is, I want at least 15 minutes of your time to explain what I need that will take more of your time. Oh, well, depending on your job, it all pays the same, right? The point is, a little behind here, a little behind there, and the next thing you know, the reminder on your Outlook calendar pops up with the note, TWO weeks overdue...
What DO we do when we're that far off schedule? Stress out? Work horrendous hours to try to catch up? Have "the talk" with the powers that be? Ask for help? Revise? Cry 'Uncle'? Quit?
In many ways, it's very much like our Christian walk. God has already laid the schedule of our days. We get however many days He decided before we were born. If we're off-task, off-schedule or just have blown it so bad we think there's no hope for recovery, I've got Good News for you. God is different. There is ALWAYS redemption. There is ALWAYS recovery. There is ALWAYS a way to revise and get us back on schedule. We simply cry out in Prayer...
Father,
I am so behind on the schedule of my life. Worse, I can't even seem to find the schedule You have laid out for me. And I want that more than anything else. Please forgive me for losing it and getting so far behind. Help me, Father. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.
Psalm 139:16 TLB
We deal with schedules every day - and not just our own, but those with whom we interact - the boss, the kids, grandkids. We call it keeping on track, being focused, staying the course. We follow the schedules of life.
You go to a seminar and they hand you a schedule to follow so you can accomplish everything you came to do and get your money's worth. Well, what do you do if you lose your schedule?
I have seen the meltdowns (and experienced a few) when the app doesn't sync properly or the PDA is lost or misplaced, or the DayMinder organizer is left somewhere (yes - there are still a few who use them!). Then there's the infamous computer crash and you hear the wail, "My whole life is in that thing!" and we are lost. You know what I'm talking about. It makes no difference if you work outside the home or your home is your work. There's a schedule to follow.
All day long we're bombarded with thoughts and tasks and assignments and project schedules...and life. I don't know about you, but I have been attention deficit since before they had a name for it. If I hope to get anything done, I have to have a schedule. Do I live rigidly? Oh, no no no. Only on those things that are important. But I do tend to have a hard time staying focused. In the morning, I use my old cell phone as my schedule reminder. I set it as my alarm clock to wake in the morning, and then hit the 10-minute snooze button until I actually leave the house. Some mornings, it drives me crazy, but 99% of the time, it keeps me on task.
We all know how easy it is to get off task. Someone comes to your desk and asks, Do you have a minute? and what they really mean is, I want at least 15 minutes of your time to explain what I need that will take more of your time. Oh, well, depending on your job, it all pays the same, right? The point is, a little behind here, a little behind there, and the next thing you know, the reminder on your Outlook calendar pops up with the note, TWO weeks overdue...
What DO we do when we're that far off schedule? Stress out? Work horrendous hours to try to catch up? Have "the talk" with the powers that be? Ask for help? Revise? Cry 'Uncle'? Quit?
In many ways, it's very much like our Christian walk. God has already laid the schedule of our days. We get however many days He decided before we were born. If we're off-task, off-schedule or just have blown it so bad we think there's no hope for recovery, I've got Good News for you. God is different. There is ALWAYS redemption. There is ALWAYS recovery. There is ALWAYS a way to revise and get us back on schedule. We simply cry out in Prayer...
Father,
I am so behind on the schedule of my life. Worse, I can't even seem to find the schedule You have laid out for me. And I want that more than anything else. Please forgive me for losing it and getting so far behind. Help me, Father. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.
Friday, January 27, 2012
It's On Us *
[Jesus speaking] By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
John 13:35
It's easy to see love between people - whether romantic love or that of friendship. There are defining markers. Sweet people, kind people are often described as loving. The world's adage is that "Love is blind." I don't buy that exactly, but when love is involved, one has different reactions given the same circumstances. Yes, that's true even in the simplest of things - think about it. Think of things you would let someone in your family do or "get away with," but if a total stranger did it, you'd be up in arms. That's what I'm talking about.
Peter describes that reaction best in 1st Peter 4:8 NLT ...love covers a multitude of sins. Not covers them like hiding them, but covers them in forgiveness. Forgiving and not holding against them. In truth, Peter encourages us to continue to show deep love for each other for that very reason.
Innate mercy and a full measure of grace flow from loving. It is the Father's example toward us. Think of the mercy and grace in our own lives - the sins that have been covered because of His great love. Really think on that. It is immeasurable and full of grace and it's on us. It is overwhelming.
He calls us His own. He lays claim to you and to me. Gives us His Name and the inheritance that comes with being a child of the Most High. We didn't earn it. It's love, pure and holy and righteous love. The world will know that we are His, if we have love for one another... It's on us to exhibit His love. Can they tell it's on us?
Prayer:
Father,
We want to live in love - with You and with all those You've put in our path. Manifest Your light in us so that others will be drawn by it. May only what is pure and righteous and holy be poured out from us to those around us.We want to be like You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
John 13:35
It's easy to see love between people - whether romantic love or that of friendship. There are defining markers. Sweet people, kind people are often described as loving. The world's adage is that "Love is blind." I don't buy that exactly, but when love is involved, one has different reactions given the same circumstances. Yes, that's true even in the simplest of things - think about it. Think of things you would let someone in your family do or "get away with," but if a total stranger did it, you'd be up in arms. That's what I'm talking about.
Peter describes that reaction best in 1st Peter 4:8 NLT ...love covers a multitude of sins. Not covers them like hiding them, but covers them in forgiveness. Forgiving and not holding against them. In truth, Peter encourages us to continue to show deep love for each other for that very reason.
Innate mercy and a full measure of grace flow from loving. It is the Father's example toward us. Think of the mercy and grace in our own lives - the sins that have been covered because of His great love. Really think on that. It is immeasurable and full of grace and it's on us. It is overwhelming.
He calls us His own. He lays claim to you and to me. Gives us His Name and the inheritance that comes with being a child of the Most High. We didn't earn it. It's love, pure and holy and righteous love. The world will know that we are His, if we have love for one another... It's on us to exhibit His love. Can they tell it's on us?
Prayer:
Father,
We want to live in love - with You and with all those You've put in our path. Manifest Your light in us so that others will be drawn by it. May only what is pure and righteous and holy be poured out from us to those around us.We want to be like You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Delayed - How Delightful! +
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way
Psalm 37:23 NKJV
When my youngest child was about 13 years old, we went through a bit of a tough spot and I had to be creative to find no-to-low cost entertainment for him. I decided test-driving sports cars would be good, because like most boys, Aaron was into anything with a motor, wheels and gas fumes. So off we went.
We tried several places but couldn't get anyone to come out to us. We had taken a shower - we were dressed nicely. Just because we pulled up in a 17-year-old car (great shape, just old), they didn't think we had the money? Gee, I don't understand. And you can't test drive, unless you can get someone to talk with you...
So after several futile attempts, we headed to the closest Ford dealer. I don't know if they drew straws and he lost or what, but within a few minutes, a salesman came out and treated us like we were going to buy a fleet from him. He was so kind to us, I wish we could have. However, I explained to him that we were just looking. He never missed a beat. Loaded us into the hottest Mustang on the lot, and as I maneuvered and manipulated that car into Houston traffic, in my best show-off-for-my-son-fashion, the man did NOT scream in terror - not even once.
When I drove back into the lot, popped the car into reverse, and whipped it back into the parking spot, (whipped being the operative word), I did notice that it could be said that the man's eyes were opened considerably wider than when we first started... (in fact, it put me in mind of Buckwheat from Spanky and Our Gang, when Buckwheat thought he saw a ghost). Nevertheless, the man was kind and gracious, shook both our hands and bid us farewell. As Aaron and I strutted to our car - Aaron because he was 13 and me because I had just impressed my 13-year-old son, we agreed that when we were able to purchase a new vehicle, we would come back and buy it from that man because he was so nice to us.
Fast-forward a dozen years. Meanwhile, several vehicles had been purchased...in other towns, in other states. Aaron was looking for a Yukon to purchase for his wife. They found one in a neighboring town and made the deal. At that time, we were carpooling, so Aaron made the arrangement to go by the next night after he dropped me off.
Well, with last-minute banking details, etc, he was running late to pick me up from work and asked, Mom, do you mind if we stop by the dealership on the way home? No problem. When we arrived, I chose to stay in the truck. I was comfy, it was climate-controlled, and I didn't have to move. Besides, I'm a people-watcher and I had a front row seat...
Aaron and his salesman came out to go over the vehicle. All the doors were opened and left open - the rear door was lifted and left open - the hood was opened...it's a guy thing, I'm sure. After about 10 minutes of the inspection, I wondered, What can they be looking for standing in back of the vehicle?
A few more minutes, and my son waved his hand in the general direction of the cab of his truck where I was. Another few minutes and the salesman walked over to the truck, so I hit the button and lowered the window to shake his extended hand, and he says to me, I know you - you live in La Porte, right?
Yes, I do.
Do you work at the bank or one of the local businesses?
No, I used to work at La Porte Elementary, (thinking he might have been a parent of one of the kids).
No, that's not it. I used to work at the Ford dealer in La Porte... (pause) THAT'S how I know you!! You came in with your son and test drove a Mustang!
My first thought was, I must have scared the fire outta this guy that he remembers me 12 years later! But what I said was, The same son who just bought that car from you...
He grinned from ear to ear. I didn't recognize your son all grown up, but I never forget a face. Then he said, What a blessing!
Truly, what a blessing! I love it when God makes a point of illustrating His faithfulness to us. A dozen years before, we wanted to be able to bless this man, but in the ensuing time, we'd forgotten about him. There we were in a different town, a different dealership, a different car company altogether, but God hadn't forgotten.
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.
God DOESN'T forget us. The steps of both of those good men were ordered by the Lord. HIS timing. HIS blessings. Delayed according to our finite minds, but definitely not denied. How delightful!
Prayer:
Father,
You make all things beautiful...in Your time. Thank You for Your trustworthy faithfulness. According to Your Word in Psalm 27:13, we would surely faint unless we believed we would see Your goodness in the land of the living. Thank You for Your goodness. Thank You for all the things that work together for our good. We know You are ever mindful of us, working in us Your greater glory. Help us to be ever mindful of You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Psalm 37:23 NKJV
When my youngest child was about 13 years old, we went through a bit of a tough spot and I had to be creative to find no-to-low cost entertainment for him. I decided test-driving sports cars would be good, because like most boys, Aaron was into anything with a motor, wheels and gas fumes. So off we went.
We tried several places but couldn't get anyone to come out to us. We had taken a shower - we were dressed nicely. Just because we pulled up in a 17-year-old car (great shape, just old), they didn't think we had the money? Gee, I don't understand. And you can't test drive, unless you can get someone to talk with you...
So after several futile attempts, we headed to the closest Ford dealer. I don't know if they drew straws and he lost or what, but within a few minutes, a salesman came out and treated us like we were going to buy a fleet from him. He was so kind to us, I wish we could have. However, I explained to him that we were just looking. He never missed a beat. Loaded us into the hottest Mustang on the lot, and as I maneuvered and manipulated that car into Houston traffic, in my best show-off-for-my-son-fashion, the man did NOT scream in terror - not even once.
When I drove back into the lot, popped the car into reverse, and whipped it back into the parking spot, (whipped being the operative word), I did notice that it could be said that the man's eyes were opened considerably wider than when we first started... (in fact, it put me in mind of Buckwheat from Spanky and Our Gang, when Buckwheat thought he saw a ghost). Nevertheless, the man was kind and gracious, shook both our hands and bid us farewell. As Aaron and I strutted to our car - Aaron because he was 13 and me because I had just impressed my 13-year-old son, we agreed that when we were able to purchase a new vehicle, we would come back and buy it from that man because he was so nice to us.
Fast-forward a dozen years. Meanwhile, several vehicles had been purchased...in other towns, in other states. Aaron was looking for a Yukon to purchase for his wife. They found one in a neighboring town and made the deal. At that time, we were carpooling, so Aaron made the arrangement to go by the next night after he dropped me off.
Well, with last-minute banking details, etc, he was running late to pick me up from work and asked, Mom, do you mind if we stop by the dealership on the way home? No problem. When we arrived, I chose to stay in the truck. I was comfy, it was climate-controlled, and I didn't have to move. Besides, I'm a people-watcher and I had a front row seat...
Aaron and his salesman came out to go over the vehicle. All the doors were opened and left open - the rear door was lifted and left open - the hood was opened...it's a guy thing, I'm sure. After about 10 minutes of the inspection, I wondered, What can they be looking for standing in back of the vehicle?
A few more minutes, and my son waved his hand in the general direction of the cab of his truck where I was. Another few minutes and the salesman walked over to the truck, so I hit the button and lowered the window to shake his extended hand, and he says to me, I know you - you live in La Porte, right?
Yes, I do.
Do you work at the bank or one of the local businesses?
No, I used to work at La Porte Elementary, (thinking he might have been a parent of one of the kids).
No, that's not it. I used to work at the Ford dealer in La Porte... (pause) THAT'S how I know you!! You came in with your son and test drove a Mustang!
My first thought was, I must have scared the fire outta this guy that he remembers me 12 years later! But what I said was, The same son who just bought that car from you...
He grinned from ear to ear. I didn't recognize your son all grown up, but I never forget a face. Then he said, What a blessing!
Truly, what a blessing! I love it when God makes a point of illustrating His faithfulness to us. A dozen years before, we wanted to be able to bless this man, but in the ensuing time, we'd forgotten about him. There we were in a different town, a different dealership, a different car company altogether, but God hadn't forgotten.
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.
God DOESN'T forget us. The steps of both of those good men were ordered by the Lord. HIS timing. HIS blessings. Delayed according to our finite minds, but definitely not denied. How delightful!
Prayer:
Father,
You make all things beautiful...in Your time. Thank You for Your trustworthy faithfulness. According to Your Word in Psalm 27:13, we would surely faint unless we believed we would see Your goodness in the land of the living. Thank You for Your goodness. Thank You for all the things that work together for our good. We know You are ever mindful of us, working in us Your greater glory. Help us to be ever mindful of You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
* Used to Be
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.
2nd Corinthians 5:17 NKJV
People frequently ask me where I get the ideas for the Promise. I think God brings every day of our lives into His keeping. Therefore, everyday situations are not something that happen apart from our Christianity, but rather an opportunity to grow and mature - and to recognize the presence of God in every moment. Now with all that seemingly serious profundity, I'll tell you that today's Promise came from thinking about cleaning the coils on my refrigerator.
I'll spare you the gory details... Used to be, when I worked construction, I actually started as a painter. As an apprentice, you don't get to roll right away, you have to cut in and do baseboards and trim. Crawl around for most of the day, up and down the ladder. Great cardio, but boring. I was thinking about all that, and about how we used to knock out 2 to 3 apartments a day (determined by how many bedrooms)...all that crawling and all that up and down. Used to be, I could do that without even giving it a thought. However, cleaning coils on the refrigerator took an engineering epiphany just to get TO the floor; never mind, getting back up.
Used to be, I played competition volleyball. Used to be, I could carry 2 five-gallon buckets of paint up 3 flights of stairs and not even be winded. Used to be, I could lift 100-pound sacks of flour without batting an eye. Now there are days I'd better grab the 5-pound bag just right, or I'm gonna drop it.
As I was writing my own Book of Lamentations in my mind, while trying to get UP off the floor after cleaning the coils on my refrigerator, the Lord reminded me about how it used to be. Used to be when I worked construction, I was drunk by 6 o'clock on Friday night and stayed drunk until Sunday night and spent 3 days recovering, so I could start again the next weekend. Now, I get high on worshipping the Lord.
Used to be when I was lifting 100-pound sacks of flour, I was quietly going out of my mind because of the pain in my soul and the torment in my mind. Now, I fight the powers of hell and live in peace because my mind is stayed on Him.
Used to be...oh, really! Why go there?
Used to be doesn't live here anymore... and I thank God for it every day. Praise His Holy Name!
Prayer:
Father,
You overwhelm me with Your love and Your care. I have never done anything worthy to be called Your child and yet, You chose me to be Yours. O for a thousand tongues to sing praises to You! Help me to always see You in every moment of my life. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
2nd Corinthians 5:17 NKJV
People frequently ask me where I get the ideas for the Promise. I think God brings every day of our lives into His keeping. Therefore, everyday situations are not something that happen apart from our Christianity, but rather an opportunity to grow and mature - and to recognize the presence of God in every moment. Now with all that seemingly serious profundity, I'll tell you that today's Promise came from thinking about cleaning the coils on my refrigerator.
I'll spare you the gory details... Used to be, when I worked construction, I actually started as a painter. As an apprentice, you don't get to roll right away, you have to cut in and do baseboards and trim. Crawl around for most of the day, up and down the ladder. Great cardio, but boring. I was thinking about all that, and about how we used to knock out 2 to 3 apartments a day (determined by how many bedrooms)...all that crawling and all that up and down. Used to be, I could do that without even giving it a thought. However, cleaning coils on the refrigerator took an engineering epiphany just to get TO the floor; never mind, getting back up.
Used to be, I played competition volleyball. Used to be, I could carry 2 five-gallon buckets of paint up 3 flights of stairs and not even be winded. Used to be, I could lift 100-pound sacks of flour without batting an eye. Now there are days I'd better grab the 5-pound bag just right, or I'm gonna drop it.
As I was writing my own Book of Lamentations in my mind, while trying to get UP off the floor after cleaning the coils on my refrigerator, the Lord reminded me about how it used to be. Used to be when I worked construction, I was drunk by 6 o'clock on Friday night and stayed drunk until Sunday night and spent 3 days recovering, so I could start again the next weekend. Now, I get high on worshipping the Lord.
Used to be when I was lifting 100-pound sacks of flour, I was quietly going out of my mind because of the pain in my soul and the torment in my mind. Now, I fight the powers of hell and live in peace because my mind is stayed on Him.
Used to be...oh, really! Why go there?
Used to be doesn't live here anymore... and I thank God for it every day. Praise His Holy Name!
Prayer:
Father,
You overwhelm me with Your love and Your care. I have never done anything worthy to be called Your child and yet, You chose me to be Yours. O for a thousand tongues to sing praises to You! Help me to always see You in every moment of my life. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Monday, January 23, 2012
* Worth the Effort
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Philippians 4:8 KJV
It's been said that anything worth having is worth fighting for. There are several different connotations to that, but the one I'd like to focus on is the one that relates to making the extra effort to obtain and keep something of value.
Did you ever notice how easy it is to be grumpy? It takes hardly any effort at all. For some, all they have to do is open their eyes in the morning...and poof! Without even trying, they're grump rumps. And have you ever noticed how contagious it can be?!? God have mercy on us!
Recently, I was talking with someone at work and trying to get her to see the positive side of a challenge. Her response was that she was positive that it was bad and nothing good would come of it. The sad thing is - with that attitude - she's right. Nothing good will come of it, because her outlook won't allow it.
I'm not talking about living in "la-la land" or being a pollyanna. I'm talking about focusing on the goodness of God in the midst of the ugly. Life's circumstances change on a daily basis - God is eternal. He doesn't change His faithfulness in a back-stabbing world. His pure, unselfish, never-ending love doesn't end even in a world that for the most part doesn't want it, let alone understand it.
Whatever we focus on becomes larger - no matter what it is. Look for the good in those around you. If it's annoying and we focus on it, we're tempted to squeeze and squeeze until their little eyeballs pop right outta their head. If we focus on the wonderful, it almost threatens to overwhelm us with the wonderfulness of whatever it is. If you don't believe me, pay attention to yourself the next day or so. Or listen to those around you. Let old hurts die. Let the past go. Forgive. Quit piling up offenses by holding on. It's not Scriptural.
And finally, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on THESE things.
It won't be easy, but it'll be worth the effort.
Prayer:
Father,
Shine Your light on our words and expose any malingering malady of grumbling. Let our focus be on You and Your Words of Light and Life, and help us walk accordingly. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Philippians 4:8 KJV
It's been said that anything worth having is worth fighting for. There are several different connotations to that, but the one I'd like to focus on is the one that relates to making the extra effort to obtain and keep something of value.
Did you ever notice how easy it is to be grumpy? It takes hardly any effort at all. For some, all they have to do is open their eyes in the morning...and poof! Without even trying, they're grump rumps. And have you ever noticed how contagious it can be?!? God have mercy on us!
Recently, I was talking with someone at work and trying to get her to see the positive side of a challenge. Her response was that she was positive that it was bad and nothing good would come of it. The sad thing is - with that attitude - she's right. Nothing good will come of it, because her outlook won't allow it.
I'm not talking about living in "la-la land" or being a pollyanna. I'm talking about focusing on the goodness of God in the midst of the ugly. Life's circumstances change on a daily basis - God is eternal. He doesn't change His faithfulness in a back-stabbing world. His pure, unselfish, never-ending love doesn't end even in a world that for the most part doesn't want it, let alone understand it.
Whatever we focus on becomes larger - no matter what it is. Look for the good in those around you. If it's annoying and we focus on it, we're tempted to squeeze and squeeze until their little eyeballs pop right outta their head. If we focus on the wonderful, it almost threatens to overwhelm us with the wonderfulness of whatever it is. If you don't believe me, pay attention to yourself the next day or so. Or listen to those around you. Let old hurts die. Let the past go. Forgive. Quit piling up offenses by holding on. It's not Scriptural.
And finally, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on THESE things.
It won't be easy, but it'll be worth the effort.
Prayer:
Father,
Shine Your light on our words and expose any malingering malady of grumbling. Let our focus be on You and Your Words of Light and Life, and help us walk accordingly. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Deciding Factor +
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do.
Psalm 139:1-3 NLT
There are times in all our lives - at every stage of our lives - when we face decisions about whether we should or should not do something. It doesn't matter how young or old we are.
When my kids were younger, I used to give them this rule of thumb. "If Jesus was standing right next to you and could see what you're doing, would you do it?" You know the Truth is that Jesus IS with us all the time. Numerous Scriptures tell us so. He DOES see what we're facing, and the course of action we choose.
That thing when no one's looking? Where you let your mind wander and stay when no one's around? When you're in the big city and no one knows who you are or what you normally do? And there's no one to tell... He knows it all... Think carefully.
Sometimes we make decisions without thinking at all. Sometimes, we're distracted and don't fully engage to use the sense God gave us. Choose wisely. It could very well be the deciding factor between where you will spend eternity - smoking or non-smoking - or for someone else's eternity who is looking to you as their example to follow Christ. Yes, we are our brother's keeper. What will be your deciding factor?
Prayer:
Father,
Guide us by Your righteousness, O Lord our God. We want our deciding factor to be You. Let all of our choices be to follow Your will with clean hands and pure hearts. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Psalm 139:1-3 NLT
There are times in all our lives - at every stage of our lives - when we face decisions about whether we should or should not do something. It doesn't matter how young or old we are.
When my kids were younger, I used to give them this rule of thumb. "If Jesus was standing right next to you and could see what you're doing, would you do it?" You know the Truth is that Jesus IS with us all the time. Numerous Scriptures tell us so. He DOES see what we're facing, and the course of action we choose.
That thing when no one's looking? Where you let your mind wander and stay when no one's around? When you're in the big city and no one knows who you are or what you normally do? And there's no one to tell... He knows it all... Think carefully.
Sometimes we make decisions without thinking at all. Sometimes, we're distracted and don't fully engage to use the sense God gave us. Choose wisely. It could very well be the deciding factor between where you will spend eternity - smoking or non-smoking - or for someone else's eternity who is looking to you as their example to follow Christ. Yes, we are our brother's keeper. What will be your deciding factor?
Prayer:
Father,
Guide us by Your righteousness, O Lord our God. We want our deciding factor to be You. Let all of our choices be to follow Your will with clean hands and pure hearts. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Monday, January 16, 2012
Follow the Plan +
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 NIV
Yeah, I know I've used that particular Scripture too many times to count. But I figure if God puts it in my face to remind me, then maybe you are in need of the reminder, too. We don't always understand His plan, and I don't know about you, but when I don't understand something, I need to keep going back to it until I do.
In the old TV series, "The A Team," Hannibal always closed the episode with, I love it when a plan comes together. Sometimes, you just couldn't tell if it was going to happen. There were so many variables. For instance, BA - just by being himself - could really throw some monkey wrenches into the works - not to mention Murdock... oh, my word! It was a wonder the plan ever came together. Some of the tactics they used were unbelievable. Half the time, one didn't know what the other was doing. How in the world did they make it work? Well, yes, they had writers...it was TV - back before reality TV.
God has a plan. He's had it from the beginning and He's working it every day. And He had writers, too, and they wrote it down for us. And He knows He has some serious variables...for instance, me... or you. (I'm sure you've never had a bad attitude like BA or been driven crazy by people, places or things like Murdock, right?) At any rate, that's irrelevant. The Truth is the Father's plan is the only plan that works for our eternal good.
I know you wanna tell me, "Yeah, but this is real life." That's right, it is and God gave us this real life - with real struggles and real trials and hard times and unknowns. And He gave us this real life with the ability to breathe and to think and to reason and to choose His Plan - the one that includes salvation and redemption.
You see, we don't have to know how the whole thing works, we just have to know Him. And we know it will work, because of who He is...as long as we follow the plan. And we just need to do our part of it, not anyone else's and certainly, not God's part. We only need to do what He's given us to do. That's all. Don't worry about what BA and Murdock are doing...you do your part. God will do His. And it will all come out right in the end and He will say, "Well done..."
And we will love it - and celebrate - when the plan comes together.
Prayer:
Father,
Help us to focus on what is in front of us to do, while keeping our eyes on You. One day at a time. One part at a time. One foot placed in the print You've left in front of us as You go before us and make the crooked way straight. We won't look to the right or left. We won't be distracted by those things that are happening that don't look like part of the plan. We will follow Your plan, Father, and we're grateful for it. Help us to understand and adhere to the instructions You've given us. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Yeah, I know I've used that particular Scripture too many times to count. But I figure if God puts it in my face to remind me, then maybe you are in need of the reminder, too. We don't always understand His plan, and I don't know about you, but when I don't understand something, I need to keep going back to it until I do.
In the old TV series, "The A Team," Hannibal always closed the episode with, I love it when a plan comes together. Sometimes, you just couldn't tell if it was going to happen. There were so many variables. For instance, BA - just by being himself - could really throw some monkey wrenches into the works - not to mention Murdock... oh, my word! It was a wonder the plan ever came together. Some of the tactics they used were unbelievable. Half the time, one didn't know what the other was doing. How in the world did they make it work? Well, yes, they had writers...it was TV - back before reality TV.
God has a plan. He's had it from the beginning and He's working it every day. And He had writers, too, and they wrote it down for us. And He knows He has some serious variables...for instance, me... or you. (I'm sure you've never had a bad attitude like BA or been driven crazy by people, places or things like Murdock, right?) At any rate, that's irrelevant. The Truth is the Father's plan is the only plan that works for our eternal good.
I know you wanna tell me, "Yeah, but this is real life." That's right, it is and God gave us this real life - with real struggles and real trials and hard times and unknowns. And He gave us this real life with the ability to breathe and to think and to reason and to choose His Plan - the one that includes salvation and redemption.
You see, we don't have to know how the whole thing works, we just have to know Him. And we know it will work, because of who He is...as long as we follow the plan. And we just need to do our part of it, not anyone else's and certainly, not God's part. We only need to do what He's given us to do. That's all. Don't worry about what BA and Murdock are doing...you do your part. God will do His. And it will all come out right in the end and He will say, "Well done..."
And we will love it - and celebrate - when the plan comes together.
Prayer:
Father,
Help us to focus on what is in front of us to do, while keeping our eyes on You. One day at a time. One part at a time. One foot placed in the print You've left in front of us as You go before us and make the crooked way straight. We won't look to the right or left. We won't be distracted by those things that are happening that don't look like part of the plan. We will follow Your plan, Father, and we're grateful for it. Help us to understand and adhere to the instructions You've given us. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Thursday, January 12, 2012
*Going the Distance
Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever.
1st Timothy 4:7-8 The Message
How's it going with those New Year resolutions? How many new gym members do you know who are not going 3 or 4 times a week now, but are lucky to make it once or twice? Thinking about going is not the same as going...
Did you know that the trainers tell those who regularly go to the gym to wait till two weeks into January and they'll have a better chance of getting a machine when they want it. And if they wait until the end of the month, there will be no wait.
If you are one who is on a regular exercise program, you know the only immediate effect you have after the first day at the gym is pain...and the second day...and the third day...and any time you up the ante on your routine. However, if you remain faithful and are disciplined, you progress, training and developing the necessary muscles to get the job done.
If you just go to the gym and hear about all the things the machines can help you do, but you just stand there without getting to know the equipment, you don't reap the benefits. It's the time well-spent in the gym that equips us to lift that weight or go the distance.
Our spiritual walk is exactly the same. We will have ample opportunity to exercise our faith, but will we? Or do we quit because the only immediate effect we got was pain? And any time a crisis comes, we feel it again.
However, if we remain faithful and are disciplined, we progress, and we train and develop the necessary faith to get the job done. If we just go to the church and hear about our Savior, but don't get to know Him or utilize the equipment (the Word of God, for instance), we're not going to reap the benefits of being a Christian. It's the time well-spent in the Word that equips us to lift that weight AND go the distance.
Jesus went the distance for you.
Prayer:
Father,
Birth in us a new desire for You and Your Word. Help us to keep our priorities in the proper order. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.
1st Timothy 4:7-8 The Message
How's it going with those New Year resolutions? How many new gym members do you know who are not going 3 or 4 times a week now, but are lucky to make it once or twice? Thinking about going is not the same as going...
Did you know that the trainers tell those who regularly go to the gym to wait till two weeks into January and they'll have a better chance of getting a machine when they want it. And if they wait until the end of the month, there will be no wait.
If you are one who is on a regular exercise program, you know the only immediate effect you have after the first day at the gym is pain...and the second day...and the third day...and any time you up the ante on your routine. However, if you remain faithful and are disciplined, you progress, training and developing the necessary muscles to get the job done.
If you just go to the gym and hear about all the things the machines can help you do, but you just stand there without getting to know the equipment, you don't reap the benefits. It's the time well-spent in the gym that equips us to lift that weight or go the distance.
Our spiritual walk is exactly the same. We will have ample opportunity to exercise our faith, but will we? Or do we quit because the only immediate effect we got was pain? And any time a crisis comes, we feel it again.
However, if we remain faithful and are disciplined, we progress, and we train and develop the necessary faith to get the job done. If we just go to the church and hear about our Savior, but don't get to know Him or utilize the equipment (the Word of God, for instance), we're not going to reap the benefits of being a Christian. It's the time well-spent in the Word that equips us to lift that weight AND go the distance.
Jesus went the distance for you.
Prayer:
Father,
Birth in us a new desire for You and Your Word. Help us to keep our priorities in the proper order. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.
Monday, January 9, 2012
* Sticking With It
But the seed in the good earth—these are the good-hearts who seize the Word and hold on no matter what, sticking with it until there's a harvest.
Luke 8:15 The Message
Have you ever thought about a seed? I mean, since grade school when you put the lima bean in the plastic cup with the paper towel and kept it moist. However, thinking back on that, do you remember the wonder and amazement you felt watching it germinate and grow? And even though as a child, it seemed like it took forever, it really was only a few days.
Think about that for just a moment. In that one hard, dry bean - useless in that state, until water is added either to cook it or grow it - there is enough life to eventually produce a bumper crop if you were to stick with it. In one apple, there is an orchard. In a kernel of corn is the potential for acres and acres of golden tassels blowing in the breeze.
In the parable of the sower, the seed is sown everywhere. Everyone has the opportunity to reap a harvest from the seed given to them. In The Message Bible, Luke 8:11-14, Jesus explains, The seed is the Word of God. The seeds on the road are those who hear the Word, but no sooner do they hear it than the Devil snatches it from them so they won't believe and be saved. The seeds in the gravel are those who hear with enthusiasm, but the enthusiasm doesn't go very deep. It's only another fad, and the moment there's trouble it's gone. And the seed that fell in the weeds—well, these are the ones who hear, but then the seed is crowded out and nothing comes of it as they go about their lives worrying about tomorrow, making money, and having fun.
And then today's text, But the seed in the good earth—these are the good-hearts who seize the Word and hold on no matter what, sticking with it until there's a harvest.
Okay, let's think about one more thing. Our lives without Christ. Most of us were one hard, dry life - and useless - until the Living Water (Jesus) was added to it. Then slowly, but surely, we began to grow. He plants us where He wants us, where we're gonna get the most growth, the right temperature, the right light, the best environment. Sometimes, there's cultivating, pruning, and fertilizer - none of which is fun, but all are necessary for growth. If we seize the Word and hold on - No Matter What - and stick with it, there will be a harvest.
Let's stick with it.
Prayer:
Father,
We don't always understand the process of growing, but we know that You are in control. You are the Creator of life and the Author and Finisher of our faith. You are the Alpha and the Omega, Beginning and the End. Your Word assures us that You've got it covered and we choose to trust You. Help us to stick with it. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Luke 8:15 The Message
Have you ever thought about a seed? I mean, since grade school when you put the lima bean in the plastic cup with the paper towel and kept it moist. However, thinking back on that, do you remember the wonder and amazement you felt watching it germinate and grow? And even though as a child, it seemed like it took forever, it really was only a few days.
Think about that for just a moment. In that one hard, dry bean - useless in that state, until water is added either to cook it or grow it - there is enough life to eventually produce a bumper crop if you were to stick with it. In one apple, there is an orchard. In a kernel of corn is the potential for acres and acres of golden tassels blowing in the breeze.
In the parable of the sower, the seed is sown everywhere. Everyone has the opportunity to reap a harvest from the seed given to them. In The Message Bible, Luke 8:11-14, Jesus explains, The seed is the Word of God. The seeds on the road are those who hear the Word, but no sooner do they hear it than the Devil snatches it from them so they won't believe and be saved. The seeds in the gravel are those who hear with enthusiasm, but the enthusiasm doesn't go very deep. It's only another fad, and the moment there's trouble it's gone. And the seed that fell in the weeds—well, these are the ones who hear, but then the seed is crowded out and nothing comes of it as they go about their lives worrying about tomorrow, making money, and having fun.
And then today's text, But the seed in the good earth—these are the good-hearts who seize the Word and hold on no matter what, sticking with it until there's a harvest.
Okay, let's think about one more thing. Our lives without Christ. Most of us were one hard, dry life - and useless - until the Living Water (Jesus) was added to it. Then slowly, but surely, we began to grow. He plants us where He wants us, where we're gonna get the most growth, the right temperature, the right light, the best environment. Sometimes, there's cultivating, pruning, and fertilizer - none of which is fun, but all are necessary for growth. If we seize the Word and hold on - No Matter What - and stick with it, there will be a harvest.
Let's stick with it.
Prayer:
Father,
We don't always understand the process of growing, but we know that You are in control. You are the Creator of life and the Author and Finisher of our faith. You are the Alpha and the Omega, Beginning and the End. Your Word assures us that You've got it covered and we choose to trust You. Help us to stick with it. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Friday, January 6, 2012
Incomparable Riches +
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
Ephesians 2:4-8 NIV
I’ve been thinking lately about the grace of God. How do we measure grace? Should we at least try to measure it? Personally, I think we should. We need to know what it means to our eternal lives and we need to realize that although it was freely given, it was not free.
One of my favorite songs for all time is Alabaster Box. It tells of Mary Magdelene and the alabaster box of costly oil that she poured out on the feet of Jesus (John 12). My favorite passage in the song is toward the end – You don’t know the cost of the oil – you don’t know the cost of my praise… She was a woman who understood God's grace.
I really have no idea what God’s grace covers in your life and you have no idea what God’s grace covers in mine. I know a lot of people – myself, included – who tend to struggle with receiving something they think they haven’t earned in some way, whether it’s love or a gift…or grace. And there’s the rub. We can’t earn any of those things. These are the things in life that are priceless. There's no way to put a dollar value of any kind on them.
I am all too aware of what grace has covered in my life and when I think of a pure and holy Christ giving His life for mine, I am overwhelmed. I know the cost of grace for me – His life for mine on the Cross at Calvary. Something only God and I know the real value of when it comes to my life. Something only God and you know the real value of when it comes to your life.
Oh, the incomparable riches of His grace.
Prayer:
Father,
Help us to live for You as though we are worthy of the value You have placed on our lives. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen
Ephesians 2:4-8 NIV
I’ve been thinking lately about the grace of God. How do we measure grace? Should we at least try to measure it? Personally, I think we should. We need to know what it means to our eternal lives and we need to realize that although it was freely given, it was not free.
One of my favorite songs for all time is Alabaster Box. It tells of Mary Magdelene and the alabaster box of costly oil that she poured out on the feet of Jesus (John 12). My favorite passage in the song is toward the end – You don’t know the cost of the oil – you don’t know the cost of my praise… She was a woman who understood God's grace.
I really have no idea what God’s grace covers in your life and you have no idea what God’s grace covers in mine. I know a lot of people – myself, included – who tend to struggle with receiving something they think they haven’t earned in some way, whether it’s love or a gift…or grace. And there’s the rub. We can’t earn any of those things. These are the things in life that are priceless. There's no way to put a dollar value of any kind on them.
I am all too aware of what grace has covered in my life and when I think of a pure and holy Christ giving His life for mine, I am overwhelmed. I know the cost of grace for me – His life for mine on the Cross at Calvary. Something only God and I know the real value of when it comes to my life. Something only God and you know the real value of when it comes to your life.
Oh, the incomparable riches of His grace.
Prayer:
Father,
Help us to live for You as though we are worthy of the value You have placed on our lives. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
* Promises, Promises
What? No Scripture?
That's because I couldn't find one - not one - in any of the translations I have access to - not one single Scripture that tells me after I accept Christ as my Savior, I won't have any more problems, even though I've heard people say that. Yeah? Well, Promises, Promises. I can't give you that promise - today or any day - because it has no back up in the Word of God.
However, Christ Himself gave the Promise that He will NEVER leave you (Hebrews 13:5, Deuteronomy 31:6,8, Joshua 1:5 NKJV). And the Promise that He will be with you until the end of the age (Matthew 28:20b NKJV). I can Promise that He will complete the work that has been started in you because He said so (Philippians 1:6 NKJV). You can see those have Scripture to back them up.
Other Promises God offers include that whatever is born of God overcomes the world (1st John 5:4); that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37); that we have victory over death, hell and the grave. (Revelation 20:14). Jesus also said that in this world we WILL have many trials and sorrows, but we are to "take heart" because He has overcome the world (John 16:33 NLT).
But I'd like to point out something for your consideration... You're not an overcomer unless there is something to overcome (Revelation 12:10-11). You do not become a conqueror unless you face something that needs to be conquered (Romans 8:36-37). How can you have a victory without a fight or battle (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10)? Promises, Promises, and more promises. But those are REAL promises.
Prayer:
Father,
Give us beauty for ashes. The oil of joy for mourning. Be our Strength. Grow us up in You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
That's because I couldn't find one - not one - in any of the translations I have access to - not one single Scripture that tells me after I accept Christ as my Savior, I won't have any more problems, even though I've heard people say that. Yeah? Well, Promises, Promises. I can't give you that promise - today or any day - because it has no back up in the Word of God.
However, Christ Himself gave the Promise that He will NEVER leave you (Hebrews 13:5, Deuteronomy 31:6,8, Joshua 1:5 NKJV). And the Promise that He will be with you until the end of the age (Matthew 28:20b NKJV). I can Promise that He will complete the work that has been started in you because He said so (Philippians 1:6 NKJV). You can see those have Scripture to back them up.
Other Promises God offers include that whatever is born of God overcomes the world (1st John 5:4); that we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37); that we have victory over death, hell and the grave. (Revelation 20:14). Jesus also said that in this world we WILL have many trials and sorrows, but we are to "take heart" because He has overcome the world (John 16:33 NLT).
But I'd like to point out something for your consideration... You're not an overcomer unless there is something to overcome (Revelation 12:10-11). You do not become a conqueror unless you face something that needs to be conquered (Romans 8:36-37). How can you have a victory without a fight or battle (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10)? Promises, Promises, and more promises. But those are REAL promises.
Prayer:
Father,
Give us beauty for ashes. The oil of joy for mourning. Be our Strength. Grow us up in You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
I Resolve to... +
For a day of anger is coming, when God's righteous judgment will be revealed. He will judge everyone according to what they have done. He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. Romans 2:5b-7
Did you make any New Year's resolutions? I wonder how many have been made over the years - have you ever stopped to think about it? Of more interest - how many have actually been resolutely followed through? A resolution by its very definition is about making a decision and following through until something is resolved or changed. Do we ever make resolutions about things with eternal weight? If not... why not?
In Colossians 3, we are instructed to put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don't be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming.
You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don't lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like Him. In this new life, it doesn't matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and He lives in all of us.
Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom He gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
Now, that's what I call a resolution.
Actually...that was Colossians chapter 3, verses 5-17 from the New Living Translation. If we're going to make resolutions, let's resolve to follow God's Word.
Prayer:
Father,
You are the Alpha and Omega, beginning and the end, the first and the last. You are the New Year and the end of it. You are our all in all. Help us to make eternity-minded resolutions and by Your grace become the new creations You planned that we would -and will -be. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Did you make any New Year's resolutions? I wonder how many have been made over the years - have you ever stopped to think about it? Of more interest - how many have actually been resolutely followed through? A resolution by its very definition is about making a decision and following through until something is resolved or changed. Do we ever make resolutions about things with eternal weight? If not... why not?
In Colossians 3, we are instructed to put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don't be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming.
You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don't lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like Him. In this new life, it doesn't matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and He lives in all of us.
Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom He gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
Now, that's what I call a resolution.
Actually...that was Colossians chapter 3, verses 5-17 from the New Living Translation. If we're going to make resolutions, let's resolve to follow God's Word.
Prayer:
Father,
You are the Alpha and Omega, beginning and the end, the first and the last. You are the New Year and the end of it. You are our all in all. Help us to make eternity-minded resolutions and by Your grace become the new creations You planned that we would -and will -be. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Monday, January 2, 2012
The New Year I Choose +
But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Galatians 5:18-23 NLT
New Year's Day marked the anniversary of the first Promise for Today that I sent to a handful of friends and family members in 1996. When I first started sending out the Promise, I used other people's devotions from books I had and then later, I purchased more. We went through quite a few over the years. Sometimes, I'd take them directly from a book, but I always let people know what book we were using. And sometimes I would elaborate and add my own comments. Those of you who know me know that written words are my passion... but I started with the works of others.
Then in 2007, my beloved former pastor, Doc (Dr. Howard O. Jameson) challenged me to step up, to make it personal and write from my heart about how God's Word affects me, rather than from someone else's heart and perspective. It has been the most challenged commitment of my life.
My slogan for this new year is "Deeply Delve in 2012." I need change in my life and I know beyond the shadow of a doubt, the only lasting change comes through the Word of God. By God's grace and with His direction, I will redefine by His Word the areas of my life that need to be changed. As always, it's all about the choices.
The Promise started with this excerpt from Max Lucado's book When God Whispers Your Name. I send it out as the first Promise of the New Year to remind us of our choices.
Max Lucado writes:
It's quiet. It's early. The coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming. In a few moments the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding pace of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.
For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now that I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I am free to choose. And so I choose.
I Choose Love ... No occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love. Today I will love God and what God loves.
I Choose Joy ... I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance. I will refuse the temptation to be cynical ... the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.
I Choose Peace ... I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.
I Choose Patience ... I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clinching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.
I Choose Kindness ... I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone. Kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to the unkind, for such is how God has treated me.
I Choose Goodness ... I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I will boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness.
I Choose Faithfulness ... Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My wife will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their father will not come home.
I Choose Gentleness ... Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself.
I Choose Self-Control ... I am a spiritual being ... After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will rot, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek his grace. And then, when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank You for the power of Your Word to change our lives and our choices for how we live the life You have given us. Give us the courage to walk in the conviction of Your Word. Father, we ask that You guide us in EACH step of our life. I pray Your provision and protection over those You have allowed me to touch with Your Word. Let us be ever mindful of You, Lord, the Author and Finisher of our faith. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Galatians 5:18-23 NLT
New Year's Day marked the anniversary of the first Promise for Today that I sent to a handful of friends and family members in 1996. When I first started sending out the Promise, I used other people's devotions from books I had and then later, I purchased more. We went through quite a few over the years. Sometimes, I'd take them directly from a book, but I always let people know what book we were using. And sometimes I would elaborate and add my own comments. Those of you who know me know that written words are my passion... but I started with the works of others.
Then in 2007, my beloved former pastor, Doc (Dr. Howard O. Jameson) challenged me to step up, to make it personal and write from my heart about how God's Word affects me, rather than from someone else's heart and perspective. It has been the most challenged commitment of my life.
My slogan for this new year is "Deeply Delve in 2012." I need change in my life and I know beyond the shadow of a doubt, the only lasting change comes through the Word of God. By God's grace and with His direction, I will redefine by His Word the areas of my life that need to be changed. As always, it's all about the choices.
The Promise started with this excerpt from Max Lucado's book When God Whispers Your Name. I send it out as the first Promise of the New Year to remind us of our choices.
Max Lucado writes:
It's quiet. It's early. The coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming. In a few moments the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of solitude will be replaced by the pounding pace of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.
For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now that I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I am free to choose. And so I choose.
I Choose Love ... No occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love. Today I will love God and what God loves.
I Choose Joy ... I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance. I will refuse the temptation to be cynical ... the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.
I Choose Peace ... I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.
I Choose Patience ... I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clinching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.
I Choose Kindness ... I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone. Kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to the unkind, for such is how God has treated me.
I Choose Goodness ... I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I will boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness.
I Choose Faithfulness ... Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My wife will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their father will not come home.
I Choose Gentleness ... Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself.
I Choose Self-Control ... I am a spiritual being ... After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will rot, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek his grace. And then, when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank You for the power of Your Word to change our lives and our choices for how we live the life You have given us. Give us the courage to walk in the conviction of Your Word. Father, we ask that You guide us in EACH step of our life. I pray Your provision and protection over those You have allowed me to touch with Your Word. Let us be ever mindful of You, Lord, the Author and Finisher of our faith. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)