And now I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you the inheritance among all them that are sanctified. -Acts 20:32 (ASV)
One of ministry classes talked about the Attitude of Excellence. Of course it wasn't addressing His attitude, instead it focused on my attitude. It posed the question, "Am I wearing the attitude of God?" An attitude of Godly excellence which leads to holiness among other things. To answer that question, I had to dig deep within. I was able to answer that question while in Afghanistan during the Christmas season of 2008. Nothing was more clear than the Candlelight Service program. We (Afghan, Turkish, Canadian, German, British, American and many more nations) celebrated the birth of Christ. It was truly glorious, amazing, and loving. The attitude we displayed was marvelous in His light.
But what does it mean to live a holy life? It means living in God's authority. Living a life of holiness also has countless practical benefits. You see, it brings peace and confidence into your life. There is freedom from addiction, guilt, shame, depression, oppression, and loneliness. It brings you into closer fellowship with God and comes with the promise of an eternal inheritance in heaven. All of these things and so much more help you lead with greater confidence, maturity, and perspective. Now, isn't that wearing an attitude of excellence through holiness.
Song: When I Look Into Your Holiness (Archive - St. Teklahimanout Orthodox Church - Egypt)
1- When I look into Your holiness
When I gaze into Your loveliness
When all things that surround become shadows
In the light of You
R- I worship You, I worship You
The reason I live is to worship You
I worship You, I worship You
The reason I live is to worship You
2- When I've found the joy of reaching Your heart
When my will becomes enthralled in Your love
When all things that surround become shadows
In the light of You
When you work hard at living a holy life, how will it affect those you lead?
28 December 2009
02 September 2009
Comfort In All Situations
Matthew 11:28
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (NIV)
When tragedy strikes or problems overwhelm you, do you wonder what happened to God? Do you wonder why He would allow these things to happen? Everybody does. In fact, during Mother's Day our pastor announced that a Soldier had died in Iraq. His mother was there worshiping God. I could only think of her courage and strength, and I questioned if I could be that strong. She knew God could heal and comfort her, and she chose to be near Him at that very moment.
Our nagging doubts might cause us to question whether God still loves us from day to day depending on the circumstances/situation at hand. It's when we lose confidence that God cares about us, we are in danger of pushing Him away and separating ourself from our only source of hope. When tough times come, we must move immediately toward God, not away from Him. We will receive comfort and gain perspective.
Song: Comfort Song (by Hokus Pick)
I put my comfort in my stuff The more I get, well it's never quite Enough
Life without it would be really rough I put my comfort in my stuff
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is big, we are small Yea, yeah super small
I put my comfort in my looks My face has grazed the front
Of magazines and books I don't want to get beat up by a crook
I put my comfort in my looks
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is great, we are lame Yeah (x6) really lame
I put my comfort in my cash With t-bills, bonds and back accounts
It's really quite a stash I hope the stock market doesn't crash
I put my comfort in my cash
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is rich, we are poor Yeah (x13) extremely poor
I find my comfort in God's grace When I'm in heaven I will look him in The face
The one thing that could never be Replaced Is the comfort of God's grace
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
Happiness is relative Based upon the way we live
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is great all The time Yeah (x30) all The time.
Do you still believe that God cares about you even when trouble comes your way? How can you learn to expect comfort instead of doubting His presence?
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (NIV)
When tragedy strikes or problems overwhelm you, do you wonder what happened to God? Do you wonder why He would allow these things to happen? Everybody does. In fact, during Mother's Day our pastor announced that a Soldier had died in Iraq. His mother was there worshiping God. I could only think of her courage and strength, and I questioned if I could be that strong. She knew God could heal and comfort her, and she chose to be near Him at that very moment.
Our nagging doubts might cause us to question whether God still loves us from day to day depending on the circumstances/situation at hand. It's when we lose confidence that God cares about us, we are in danger of pushing Him away and separating ourself from our only source of hope. When tough times come, we must move immediately toward God, not away from Him. We will receive comfort and gain perspective.
Song: Comfort Song (by Hokus Pick)
I put my comfort in my stuff The more I get, well it's never quite Enough
Life without it would be really rough I put my comfort in my stuff
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is big, we are small Yea, yeah super small
I put my comfort in my looks My face has grazed the front
Of magazines and books I don't want to get beat up by a crook
I put my comfort in my looks
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is great, we are lame Yeah (x6) really lame
I put my comfort in my cash With t-bills, bonds and back accounts
It's really quite a stash I hope the stock market doesn't crash
I put my comfort in my cash
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is rich, we are poor Yeah (x13) extremely poor
I find my comfort in God's grace When I'm in heaven I will look him in The face
The one thing that could never be Replaced Is the comfort of God's grace
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
Happiness is relative Based upon the way we live
Give it up, let it go Step out of your comfort zone
God is great all The time Yeah (x30) all The time.
Do you still believe that God cares about you even when trouble comes your way? How can you learn to expect comfort instead of doubting His presence?
15 August 2009
SACRIFICE: What Does It Really Mean To You
Hebrews 9:27-28
Just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly awaiting for Him. (NLT)
Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. (NIV)
Do you know what it means to sacrifice? Did you do it willingly or was it out of spite or to meet a requirement? I know as a parent, I have made several sacrifices and still continue so that my children have a better life. How is that sacrifice any different from the "ultimate" sacrifice?
Let's see. In the Old Testament, God's people offered sacrifices to Him as part of their worship. It was the through the blood of an animal. The animal's blood was shed as a substitute for the punishment the people deserved for their sin. In fact, all the sacrifices of the Old Testament anticipated the ultimate sacrifice of God's own Son, Jesus, on the cross for the sins of the world. Now, that is The ULTIMATE Sacrifice.
So, whenever you must sacrifice or give up something, you can be reminded in some small way of God's greatest sacrifice and His promise of eternal life in heaven because of it. Jesus paid it all, and my all is to Him.
Sacrifice Lyrics (Big Daddy Weave)
God of Glory, God of Might
King of Heaven, Lord of Light
Though my ways are less than wise
I come to praise You
Jesus, Master, Savior, Friend
Your mercy seems to have no end
And though all I have to bring is sin
I come to praise You
And my righteousness, is as filthy rags
But You exchange them for the good things that You have
Chorus:
Lord I want to sing..
I wanna sing you a song, I wanna lift up my voice
As I lift my hands, Lord I make my choice
That from this moment on until the end of my days
I want to offer up my life as a sacrifice of praise,
As a sacrifice of praise
God of Glory, God of Might
King of Heaven, Lord of Light
Though my ways are less than wise,
I come to praise You
Jesus, Master, Savior, Friend
Your mercy seems to have no end
And though all I have to bring is sin
I come to praise You
And my righteousness, is as filthy rags
But You exchange them for the good things that You have
(Chorus)
I want to show You just how much I love You
I want to love You with my life (4x)
(Chorus 2x)
© 2002 Fervent / Spirit-Led
What can you sacrifice today to remind you of Jesus' greatest sacrifice?
Just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly awaiting for Him. (NLT)
Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. (NIV)
Do you know what it means to sacrifice? Did you do it willingly or was it out of spite or to meet a requirement? I know as a parent, I have made several sacrifices and still continue so that my children have a better life. How is that sacrifice any different from the "ultimate" sacrifice?
Let's see. In the Old Testament, God's people offered sacrifices to Him as part of their worship. It was the through the blood of an animal. The animal's blood was shed as a substitute for the punishment the people deserved for their sin. In fact, all the sacrifices of the Old Testament anticipated the ultimate sacrifice of God's own Son, Jesus, on the cross for the sins of the world. Now, that is The ULTIMATE Sacrifice.
So, whenever you must sacrifice or give up something, you can be reminded in some small way of God's greatest sacrifice and His promise of eternal life in heaven because of it. Jesus paid it all, and my all is to Him.
Sacrifice Lyrics (Big Daddy Weave)
God of Glory, God of Might
King of Heaven, Lord of Light
Though my ways are less than wise
I come to praise You
Jesus, Master, Savior, Friend
Your mercy seems to have no end
And though all I have to bring is sin
I come to praise You
And my righteousness, is as filthy rags
But You exchange them for the good things that You have
Chorus:
Lord I want to sing..
I wanna sing you a song, I wanna lift up my voice
As I lift my hands, Lord I make my choice
That from this moment on until the end of my days
I want to offer up my life as a sacrifice of praise,
As a sacrifice of praise
God of Glory, God of Might
King of Heaven, Lord of Light
Though my ways are less than wise,
I come to praise You
Jesus, Master, Savior, Friend
Your mercy seems to have no end
And though all I have to bring is sin
I come to praise You
And my righteousness, is as filthy rags
But You exchange them for the good things that You have
(Chorus)
I want to show You just how much I love You
I want to love You with my life (4x)
(Chorus 2x)
© 2002 Fervent / Spirit-Led
What can you sacrifice today to remind you of Jesus' greatest sacrifice?
11 August 2009
God's Goodness Pours In and Out of You if You Let It
James 3:13
If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an
honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from
wisdom. (NLT)
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show how by good
conduct that his works are done in meekness of wisdom. (NKJV)
There is a soap opera on television called Passions. I admit I watched it a few times (six to be exact), but after a while it became quite boring and funny. It began to put witches/warlocks in the plot, sex, and drugs, and all that supposed jazz. It appealed to the younger generation. Whatever. Back to reality, we all have a passion for something and there's nothing wrong with desires and passions. However, those desires and passions should be good and healthy. Right? Too often we let sinful desires linger in our minds (lust, covetous, greed, fashion, appearance, speech, duty position/title). When that happens, they creep down into our hearts. There is victory. You can resist bad thoughts and wrong desires by spending more time doing good deeds. My mother said, "the good out weighs the bad." Therefore, living out God's goodness is a proactive way to curb your sinful desires and encourage your passion for serving God and others. Also, influencing the character of others, which is an important part of leadership, requires that goodness - in thoughts and actions - is an integral part of your daily life.
Song: It Is Good (by Don Adler )
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to the Lord on high
To sing of Your faithfulness and loving kindness
Both day and night
To play on our instruments sweet songs of praise
For the things You do
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to You
For though the wicked spring up like the grass
And are everywhere
Soon they will perish
But all those planted in Your house will grow without end
Sing it again
For though we struggle
And trials and troubles still come our way
You won't forsake us
Your Word has told us
Your promises will never end
Sing it again
Why give Him praise
Because He is worthy
Why should we sing
He loves you and me
Why give Him thanks
Because He forgave us
Why celebrate
Because we are free
And when should we thank Him
Both morning and evening
In what circumstance
The good and the bad
Is it always easy
No it's not so easy
But is it good
Yes it's good it is good it is good
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to You
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to You
How can you plan to live out God's goodness today?
If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an
honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from
wisdom. (NLT)
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show how by good
conduct that his works are done in meekness of wisdom. (NKJV)
There is a soap opera on television called Passions. I admit I watched it a few times (six to be exact), but after a while it became quite boring and funny. It began to put witches/warlocks in the plot, sex, and drugs, and all that supposed jazz. It appealed to the younger generation. Whatever. Back to reality, we all have a passion for something and there's nothing wrong with desires and passions. However, those desires and passions should be good and healthy. Right? Too often we let sinful desires linger in our minds (lust, covetous, greed, fashion, appearance, speech, duty position/title). When that happens, they creep down into our hearts. There is victory. You can resist bad thoughts and wrong desires by spending more time doing good deeds. My mother said, "the good out weighs the bad." Therefore, living out God's goodness is a proactive way to curb your sinful desires and encourage your passion for serving God and others. Also, influencing the character of others, which is an important part of leadership, requires that goodness - in thoughts and actions - is an integral part of your daily life.
Song: It Is Good (by Don Adler )
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to the Lord on high
To sing of Your faithfulness and loving kindness
Both day and night
To play on our instruments sweet songs of praise
For the things You do
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to You
For though the wicked spring up like the grass
And are everywhere
Soon they will perish
But all those planted in Your house will grow without end
Sing it again
For though we struggle
And trials and troubles still come our way
You won't forsake us
Your Word has told us
Your promises will never end
Sing it again
Why give Him praise
Because He is worthy
Why should we sing
He loves you and me
Why give Him thanks
Because He forgave us
Why celebrate
Because we are free
And when should we thank Him
Both morning and evening
In what circumstance
The good and the bad
Is it always easy
No it's not so easy
But is it good
Yes it's good it is good it is good
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to You
It is good it is good it is good
To give thanks to You
How can you plan to live out God's goodness today?
09 August 2009
EMOTIONS: Let Go and Let God
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (KJV)
But the Spirit produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23 gentleness, self-control. There is no law that says these things are wrong. (NCV)
Some of us can say we allow our emotions to take control. And if we were to ask our loved ones, friends or family members, they may say we have a problem (anger issues and etc). When in truth, without emotions, you could not experience the power and satisfaction of a relationship with God. In fact, you could also model the character of God in your life. I have to say, don't deny your emotions. If you let things fester, you will eventually blow up and that could be ugly. The flip side is you do not let emotions control you or cause you to sin. That is the worse thing. You need to allow the emotions God has given you to deepen your relationship with Him. These emotions are the fruit of the spirit (Bible verse for today). They will help you experience the drama and power of Christian living, which will also have a profound impact on those you lead, mentor, follow, love and befriend.
Song: Emotions (by LaShun Pace)
Chorus:
All my emotions, I give them to You;
my feelings of hatred, bitterness, unforgiveness,
jealousy, and revengefulness too,
All these emotions, I give them to You.
Verse:
Lord, I need You right about now, right on through here,
when I would do good, evil is all around.
Lord, I need Your spirit, Holy Ghost I need You right now,
'cause if You don't help me I don't know what I might do.
Vamp 1:
I give them to You.
Vamp 2
Help me,
help me Lord.
Vamp 3:
Help me Lord.
Vamp 4:
Help me.
Which emotions help you feel closer to God?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (KJV)
But the Spirit produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23 gentleness, self-control. There is no law that says these things are wrong. (NCV)
Some of us can say we allow our emotions to take control. And if we were to ask our loved ones, friends or family members, they may say we have a problem (anger issues and etc). When in truth, without emotions, you could not experience the power and satisfaction of a relationship with God. In fact, you could also model the character of God in your life. I have to say, don't deny your emotions. If you let things fester, you will eventually blow up and that could be ugly. The flip side is you do not let emotions control you or cause you to sin. That is the worse thing. You need to allow the emotions God has given you to deepen your relationship with Him. These emotions are the fruit of the spirit (Bible verse for today). They will help you experience the drama and power of Christian living, which will also have a profound impact on those you lead, mentor, follow, love and befriend.
Song: Emotions (by LaShun Pace)
Chorus:
All my emotions, I give them to You;
my feelings of hatred, bitterness, unforgiveness,
jealousy, and revengefulness too,
All these emotions, I give them to You.
Verse:
Lord, I need You right about now, right on through here,
when I would do good, evil is all around.
Lord, I need Your spirit, Holy Ghost I need You right now,
'cause if You don't help me I don't know what I might do.
Vamp 1:
I give them to You.
Vamp 2
Help me,
help me Lord.
Vamp 3:
Help me Lord.
Vamp 4:
Help me.
Which emotions help you feel closer to God?
08 August 2009
COMMUNICATION: The Key To Remain In Christ
John 10:27
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (ASV)
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NCV)
Being in Public Affairs means communication is vital to everything I do. Without it, I'm lost and I can't pass important information to those who need it most. And too, we keep in touch with people because it is vital to the quality and success of our relationships, whether in marriage, friendships, family relations, or business partnerships. The same principle applies to your relationship with God. You must find ways to communicate with Him. Prayer, meditation, conversation, spiritual journals, singing, and fasting are just a few means of communicating with God. You can also learn to listen as He communicates with you through the same methods for the most part. You see, good communication allows you to experience a breakthrough in your spiritual life. The more time you spend communicating with God, the closer and more successful your relationship with Him will be. And it can also encourage others to do the same.
Quote: ~ Communication is the real work of leadership. ~ Nitin Nohria
Are you in touch with God? How much time do you spend communicating with Him?
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (ASV)
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NCV)
Being in Public Affairs means communication is vital to everything I do. Without it, I'm lost and I can't pass important information to those who need it most. And too, we keep in touch with people because it is vital to the quality and success of our relationships, whether in marriage, friendships, family relations, or business partnerships. The same principle applies to your relationship with God. You must find ways to communicate with Him. Prayer, meditation, conversation, spiritual journals, singing, and fasting are just a few means of communicating with God. You can also learn to listen as He communicates with you through the same methods for the most part. You see, good communication allows you to experience a breakthrough in your spiritual life. The more time you spend communicating with God, the closer and more successful your relationship with Him will be. And it can also encourage others to do the same.
Quote: ~ Communication is the real work of leadership. ~ Nitin Nohria
Are you in touch with God? How much time do you spend communicating with Him?
07 August 2009
DEFEAT: Not a word in God's vocabulary for us
2 Corinthians 4:8-9
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (NIV)
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (KJV)
Defeat is common to all people, yes, even you. It does not make you feel good. Some begin to indulge in the pity-party dance. Others become outraged. And still others push through it and try again for success. What is it about defeat that makes them try again?
Defeat keeps you connected with the realities faced by everyone whether you like it or not. In fact, failing from time to time keeps you humble and dependent on God. Because if you were to win all the time, your character would have no chance to grow in a healthy and spiritual way.
That wrong path could have you become too proud, arrogant, or shallow, and rely only on yourself without regard for the opinions or the help of others. How many of you are guilty including me? The fact is, you must let God help you. Why? He promises to use times of defeat to strengthen your character and keep you humbly dependent on Him. Aren't we supposed to do that anyway?
Song: No Defeat (by Hezekiah Walker)
No more losing, in Jesus I found a blessing
I've got a new life, a new start
A right spirit, a clean heart
No defeat no, I'm going to win
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
(Repeat)
There is victory in Jesus, he gave me the power
I'm more than a conqueror
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat 3x and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat 4x)
No defeat no, I'm going to win!
How might God give you victory even when you experience defeat?
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (NIV)
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (KJV)
Defeat is common to all people, yes, even you. It does not make you feel good. Some begin to indulge in the pity-party dance. Others become outraged. And still others push through it and try again for success. What is it about defeat that makes them try again?
Defeat keeps you connected with the realities faced by everyone whether you like it or not. In fact, failing from time to time keeps you humble and dependent on God. Because if you were to win all the time, your character would have no chance to grow in a healthy and spiritual way.
That wrong path could have you become too proud, arrogant, or shallow, and rely only on yourself without regard for the opinions or the help of others. How many of you are guilty including me? The fact is, you must let God help you. Why? He promises to use times of defeat to strengthen your character and keep you humbly dependent on Him. Aren't we supposed to do that anyway?
Song: No Defeat (by Hezekiah Walker)
No more losing, in Jesus I found a blessing
I've got a new life, a new start
A right spirit, a clean heart
No defeat no, I'm going to win
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
(Repeat)
There is victory in Jesus, he gave me the power
I'm more than a conqueror
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
No defeat no, I'm going to win.
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat 3x and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat and then modulate)
And because God is the greatest power, we shall not be defeated.
(Repeat 4x)
No defeat no, I'm going to win!
How might God give you victory even when you experience defeat?
05 August 2009
God Holds Our Future
1 Corinthians 2:9-10
That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." But it was to us that God revealed these things by His Spirit. For His Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. (NLT)
But, on the contrary, as the Scripture says, What eye has not seen and ear has not heard and has not entered into the heart of man, [all that] God has prepared (made and keeps ready) for those who love Him [who hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed]. Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man's scrutiny]. (Amplified Bible)
God makes promises to us, and He keeps them all. The other good thing about His promises is that they are full of abundant blessings. We only need to trust in Him, His promises, and keep the faith each and every day. You see, God promises to reveal enough of the future to give you hope. Let's reflect on Psalm 16:9 as it provides such encouragement: "Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiced: my flesh also shall rest in hope."
What hope do we have?
1. There is heaven
2. We know how to get to heaven
3. Our future in heaven will be more wonderful than you can imagine
What else do we need to hope for or in?
God wants you and me to trust Him and demonstrate our belief that what He promises will happen. Think about it. Our trust in God for the future will be an inspiration and an example to a multitude of others that they may be strengthened, encouraged and saved.
Song: The Hammer Holds (by Bebo Norman)
A shapeless piece of steel, that's all I claim to be
This hammer pounds to give me form, this flame, it melts my dreams
I glow with fire and fury, as I'm twisted like a vine
My final shape, my final form I'm sure I'm bound to find
So dream a little, dream for me in hopes that I'll remain
And cry a little, cry for me so I can bear the flames
And hurt a little, hurt for me my future is untold
But my dreams are not the issue here, for they, the hammer holds
And the water, it cools me gray, and the hurt's subdued somehow
I have my shape, this sharpened point, what is my purpose now?
And the question still remains, what am I to be?
Perhaps some perfect piece of art displayed for all to see
So dream a little, dream for me in hopes that I'll remain
And cry a little, cry for me so I can bear the flames
And hurt a little, hurt for me my future is untold
But my dreams are not the issue here, for they, the hammer holds
The hammer pounds again, but flames I do not feel
This force that drives me, helplessly, through flesh, and wood reveals
A burn that burns much deeper, it's more than I can stand
The reason for my life was to take the life of a guiltless man
So dream a little, dream for me in hopes that I'll remain
And cry a little, cry for me so I can bear the pain
And hurt a little, hurt for me, my future is so bold
But my dreams are not the issue here, for they, the hammer holds
This task before me may seem unclear
But it, my maker holds
What detail about the future do you need to entrust to God?
That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." But it was to us that God revealed these things by His Spirit. For His Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. (NLT)
But, on the contrary, as the Scripture says, What eye has not seen and ear has not heard and has not entered into the heart of man, [all that] God has prepared (made and keeps ready) for those who love Him [who hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed]. Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man's scrutiny]. (Amplified Bible)
God makes promises to us, and He keeps them all. The other good thing about His promises is that they are full of abundant blessings. We only need to trust in Him, His promises, and keep the faith each and every day. You see, God promises to reveal enough of the future to give you hope. Let's reflect on Psalm 16:9 as it provides such encouragement: "Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiced: my flesh also shall rest in hope."
What hope do we have?
1. There is heaven
2. We know how to get to heaven
3. Our future in heaven will be more wonderful than you can imagine
What else do we need to hope for or in?
God wants you and me to trust Him and demonstrate our belief that what He promises will happen. Think about it. Our trust in God for the future will be an inspiration and an example to a multitude of others that they may be strengthened, encouraged and saved.
Song: The Hammer Holds (by Bebo Norman)
A shapeless piece of steel, that's all I claim to be
This hammer pounds to give me form, this flame, it melts my dreams
I glow with fire and fury, as I'm twisted like a vine
My final shape, my final form I'm sure I'm bound to find
So dream a little, dream for me in hopes that I'll remain
And cry a little, cry for me so I can bear the flames
And hurt a little, hurt for me my future is untold
But my dreams are not the issue here, for they, the hammer holds
And the water, it cools me gray, and the hurt's subdued somehow
I have my shape, this sharpened point, what is my purpose now?
And the question still remains, what am I to be?
Perhaps some perfect piece of art displayed for all to see
So dream a little, dream for me in hopes that I'll remain
And cry a little, cry for me so I can bear the flames
And hurt a little, hurt for me my future is untold
But my dreams are not the issue here, for they, the hammer holds
The hammer pounds again, but flames I do not feel
This force that drives me, helplessly, through flesh, and wood reveals
A burn that burns much deeper, it's more than I can stand
The reason for my life was to take the life of a guiltless man
So dream a little, dream for me in hopes that I'll remain
And cry a little, cry for me so I can bear the pain
And hurt a little, hurt for me, my future is so bold
But my dreams are not the issue here, for they, the hammer holds
This task before me may seem unclear
But it, my maker holds
What detail about the future do you need to entrust to God?
04 August 2009
Investments in God is worth more than all the riches in the world
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (NIV)
Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. (NLT)
Charge them that are rich in this present world, that they be not high-minded, nor have their hope set on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that they be ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good
foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on the life which is life indeed. (ASV)
I have to admit I don't know that much about investing. I have managed to maintain and sustain investments I made earlier in life as a single parent at the time. I had to learn a certain amount of trust in order to do it. Now that my Autumn is fourteen, I have tried to get her up to speed on investing, managing money in a more productive and effective manner. Over the years I've learned investing money can be a tool for blessing or a trap for deception. My greatest investment is Christ by ALL means. In a worldly sense, the secret to investing is knowing whom to trust and where to invest. I have listened to my husband, co-workers, and financial advisors and have a better understanding of investing, but I still have my reservations and with the economy crisis I still move forward. How? I use the resources God has given me to do good for others. One example is investing my time and devotion to you through the Inspirational Vitamins. The feedback I get from you, prayers and encouragement are an essential investment to my daily spiritual growth in our heavenly Father. Why don't you invest in helping others too; then your investments will never lose their value. Truthfully, the only lasting investment comes from trusting in God and investing in helping others.
Poem: The Investment (by Robert Frost)
Over back where they speak of life as staying
('You couldn't call it living, for it ain't'),
There was an old, old house renewed with paint,
And in it a piano loudly playing.
Out in the plowed ground in the cold a digger,
Among unearthed potatoes standing still,
Was counting winter dinners, one a hill,
With half an ear to the piano's vigor.
All that piano and new paint back there,
Was it some money suddenly come into?
Or some extravagance young love had been to?
Or old love on an impulse not to care--
Not to sink under being man and wife,
But get some color and music out of life?
Where are you investing your greatest treasures?
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (NIV)
Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. (NLT)
Charge them that are rich in this present world, that they be not high-minded, nor have their hope set on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that they be ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good
foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on the life which is life indeed. (ASV)
I have to admit I don't know that much about investing. I have managed to maintain and sustain investments I made earlier in life as a single parent at the time. I had to learn a certain amount of trust in order to do it. Now that my Autumn is fourteen, I have tried to get her up to speed on investing, managing money in a more productive and effective manner. Over the years I've learned investing money can be a tool for blessing or a trap for deception. My greatest investment is Christ by ALL means. In a worldly sense, the secret to investing is knowing whom to trust and where to invest. I have listened to my husband, co-workers, and financial advisors and have a better understanding of investing, but I still have my reservations and with the economy crisis I still move forward. How? I use the resources God has given me to do good for others. One example is investing my time and devotion to you through the Inspirational Vitamins. The feedback I get from you, prayers and encouragement are an essential investment to my daily spiritual growth in our heavenly Father. Why don't you invest in helping others too; then your investments will never lose their value. Truthfully, the only lasting investment comes from trusting in God and investing in helping others.
Poem: The Investment (by Robert Frost)
Over back where they speak of life as staying
('You couldn't call it living, for it ain't'),
There was an old, old house renewed with paint,
And in it a piano loudly playing.
Out in the plowed ground in the cold a digger,
Among unearthed potatoes standing still,
Was counting winter dinners, one a hill,
With half an ear to the piano's vigor.
All that piano and new paint back there,
Was it some money suddenly come into?
Or some extravagance young love had been to?
Or old love on an impulse not to care--
Not to sink under being man and wife,
But get some color and music out of life?
Where are you investing your greatest treasures?
02 August 2009
APPEARANCE: God's Image in Us
1 Samuel 16:7
The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. (NLT)
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (NIV)
According to my daughter and niece, actually every preteen to teenager, appearance matters. As a child, it does matter. In the military, our appearance in the uniform also matters. However, you have to make sure you're looking at the right things. What I am saying is ... It's not wrong to pay attention to how you look or how you present your work or your organization to others. You must not neglect your spiritual appearance, which is more important. Whoa. Your spiritual appearance. Have you ever considered that into the Christian work in progress theory/life changing process? If not, begin today.
You see, it's very easy to get distracted by appearances, whether your own or someone else's. There certainly is enough of movie, TV, sports, rock stars and such to influence anyone's appearance these days. Right? More importantly, you can have an incredible impact when other people look right past your outward appearance because of what they see on the inside - God Himself shining through you. God promises that the inward condition of your heart is what matters to Him. And to me that has made all the difference.
Quote: ~ Don't judge men's wealth or godliness by their Sunday appearance. ~ Benjamin Franklin
Do you focus more on your outward appearance or on what God sees inside of you?
The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. (NLT)
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (NIV)
According to my daughter and niece, actually every preteen to teenager, appearance matters. As a child, it does matter. In the military, our appearance in the uniform also matters. However, you have to make sure you're looking at the right things. What I am saying is ... It's not wrong to pay attention to how you look or how you present your work or your organization to others. You must not neglect your spiritual appearance, which is more important. Whoa. Your spiritual appearance. Have you ever considered that into the Christian work in progress theory/life changing process? If not, begin today.
You see, it's very easy to get distracted by appearances, whether your own or someone else's. There certainly is enough of movie, TV, sports, rock stars and such to influence anyone's appearance these days. Right? More importantly, you can have an incredible impact when other people look right past your outward appearance because of what they see on the inside - God Himself shining through you. God promises that the inward condition of your heart is what matters to Him. And to me that has made all the difference.
Quote: ~ Don't judge men's wealth or godliness by their Sunday appearance. ~ Benjamin Franklin
Do you focus more on your outward appearance or on what God sees inside of you?
27 July 2009
MERCY: God's extended love to us
Psalm 86:15
But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. (NIV)
But, Lord, you are a God who shows mercy and is kind. You don't become angry quickly. You have great love and faithfulness. (NCV)
But you, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. (NLV)
Name one person who showed the greatest act of mercy? Who popped into your head? Was it your parents, siblings, teacher, child, stranger, or yourself? Perhaps they did show you some act of mercy, but there is one who is greater. And He did in a way only He can.
You see, receiving mercy from God is one of the best experiences in the world. God not only showed you mercy by forgiving your sins when you became a Christian, it went much further. He continues to forgive you and shows you every second, minute, hour, day, week, and month. Amazing and encouraging. And only God could be that patient and merciful to shower us in that manner. I ask you receive His mercy with a grateful heart. And while you are at it commit yourself to extending the same kind of mercy to others. We all could use mercy every now and then.
Song: Thy Mercy (by Caedmon's Call)
Thy mercy my God is the theme of my song,
The joy of my heart, and the boast of my tongue.
Thy free grace alone, from the first to the last,
Hath won my affection and bound my soul fast.
Without Thy sweet mercy, I could not live here.
Sin would reduce me to utter despair,
But through Thy free goodness, my spirit's revived
And He that first made me still keeps me alive.
Thy mercy is more than a match for my heart,
Which wonders to feel its own hardness depart.
Dissolved by Thy goodness, I fall to the ground
And weep for the praise of the mercy I've found.
(Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah)
Hallelujah
(Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah)
Great Father of mercies, Thy goodness I own
In the covenant love of Thy crucified Son.
All praise to the Spirit, Whose whisper divine
Seals mercy and pardon and righteousness mine.
All praise to the Spirit, Whose whisper divine
Seals mercy and pardon and righteousness mine.
Well, Hallelujah
Hallelujah (Hallelujah)
Well, Hallelujah
Is there someone who might need to receive mercy today instead of judgment?
But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. (NIV)
But, Lord, you are a God who shows mercy and is kind. You don't become angry quickly. You have great love and faithfulness. (NCV)
But you, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. (NLV)
Name one person who showed the greatest act of mercy? Who popped into your head? Was it your parents, siblings, teacher, child, stranger, or yourself? Perhaps they did show you some act of mercy, but there is one who is greater. And He did in a way only He can.
You see, receiving mercy from God is one of the best experiences in the world. God not only showed you mercy by forgiving your sins when you became a Christian, it went much further. He continues to forgive you and shows you every second, minute, hour, day, week, and month. Amazing and encouraging. And only God could be that patient and merciful to shower us in that manner. I ask you receive His mercy with a grateful heart. And while you are at it commit yourself to extending the same kind of mercy to others. We all could use mercy every now and then.
Song: Thy Mercy (by Caedmon's Call)
Thy mercy my God is the theme of my song,
The joy of my heart, and the boast of my tongue.
Thy free grace alone, from the first to the last,
Hath won my affection and bound my soul fast.
Without Thy sweet mercy, I could not live here.
Sin would reduce me to utter despair,
But through Thy free goodness, my spirit's revived
And He that first made me still keeps me alive.
Thy mercy is more than a match for my heart,
Which wonders to feel its own hardness depart.
Dissolved by Thy goodness, I fall to the ground
And weep for the praise of the mercy I've found.
(Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah)
Hallelujah
(Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah)
Great Father of mercies, Thy goodness I own
In the covenant love of Thy crucified Son.
All praise to the Spirit, Whose whisper divine
Seals mercy and pardon and righteousness mine.
All praise to the Spirit, Whose whisper divine
Seals mercy and pardon and righteousness mine.
Well, Hallelujah
Hallelujah (Hallelujah)
Well, Hallelujah
Is there someone who might need to receive mercy today instead of judgment?
05 July 2009
Unity In One ... Christ
1 Corinthians 1:10, 30
I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. ... It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God-that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. (NIV)
Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. ... But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: (KJV)
What is unity? Unity Church of Ann Arbor defines unity as: Unity is an adventure that arouses interest in our spiritual nature. Unity sparks our desire to find our true relationship with God. The military uses the term unity of effort as: Coordination and cooperation toward common objectives, even if the participants are not necessarily part of the same command or organization - the product of successful unified action.
When it comes to believers, unity of heart, purpose, and mind comes when everyone strives for the same things. Two of those integral things are - serving others first and helping others before helping oneself. What is the number one division? Selfishness. What is second? The desire to get what you want in the expense of others. Seems harsh, but it's reality. Some of us believers will stop at nothing to get what we want. Whatever happened to getting to know others through Christ? We have to change our mindset and reprioritize our values, morals and scruples. We need to let God take over. And when that happens, everyone's goal will be to serve others. Then and only then will the needs of everyone be met. When you as a leader, pastor, parent, teacher or co-worker model the priority of serving others first, you will see unity blossom in your organization, church, home, school, or work.
Song: Unity (by Pillar)
There's you and I in unity
It's time we take a stand so we can let the world see
God made different colors to make His people unique
Just because I'm different doesn't mean that I'm a freak
Or maybe I am a freak for the man Himself who died for me
We're daily on a mission from God in search of unity
it's time you open your eyes see the problem at hand
All you have to do is love and live and take your own stand
And love each other like a brother
All you people love them like they were your sister or your mother
It's time we stoop the hate so we can't hurt one another
'Cause that ain't it that ain't right
Congregate we got to fight
The end will come keep Him in sight
His people unify it's time we all fight
Chorus
You and I in unity
That's what love should be
You and I in unity
It's time for the world to see
Denomination it shouldn't stop a congregation
From being one with every tongue and every tribe and every nation
Tribulation the force that fought for people left behind
Revelation I got to let them know the missions mine
All those different places of different races and different faces
We come together as one achievable through graces
It's not about the fat pockets or scrilla
We got to stand up straight and be strong like a pillar
We got to stand up and fight
You know the time is right
We got to keep the end in sight
So His people stand up and fight
What five things can you do to serve others today?
I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. ... It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God-that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. (NIV)
Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. ... But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: (KJV)
What is unity? Unity Church of Ann Arbor defines unity as: Unity is an adventure that arouses interest in our spiritual nature. Unity sparks our desire to find our true relationship with God. The military uses the term unity of effort as: Coordination and cooperation toward common objectives, even if the participants are not necessarily part of the same command or organization - the product of successful unified action.
When it comes to believers, unity of heart, purpose, and mind comes when everyone strives for the same things. Two of those integral things are - serving others first and helping others before helping oneself. What is the number one division? Selfishness. What is second? The desire to get what you want in the expense of others. Seems harsh, but it's reality. Some of us believers will stop at nothing to get what we want. Whatever happened to getting to know others through Christ? We have to change our mindset and reprioritize our values, morals and scruples. We need to let God take over. And when that happens, everyone's goal will be to serve others. Then and only then will the needs of everyone be met. When you as a leader, pastor, parent, teacher or co-worker model the priority of serving others first, you will see unity blossom in your organization, church, home, school, or work.
Song: Unity (by Pillar)
There's you and I in unity
It's time we take a stand so we can let the world see
God made different colors to make His people unique
Just because I'm different doesn't mean that I'm a freak
Or maybe I am a freak for the man Himself who died for me
We're daily on a mission from God in search of unity
it's time you open your eyes see the problem at hand
All you have to do is love and live and take your own stand
And love each other like a brother
All you people love them like they were your sister or your mother
It's time we stoop the hate so we can't hurt one another
'Cause that ain't it that ain't right
Congregate we got to fight
The end will come keep Him in sight
His people unify it's time we all fight
Chorus
You and I in unity
That's what love should be
You and I in unity
It's time for the world to see
Denomination it shouldn't stop a congregation
From being one with every tongue and every tribe and every nation
Tribulation the force that fought for people left behind
Revelation I got to let them know the missions mine
All those different places of different races and different faces
We come together as one achievable through graces
It's not about the fat pockets or scrilla
We got to stand up straight and be strong like a pillar
We got to stand up and fight
You know the time is right
We got to keep the end in sight
So His people stand up and fight
What five things can you do to serve others today?
03 July 2009
Heaven: My Goal In Life
2 Corinthians 4:17
As a heaven-bound follower of Jesus Christ, you need to put heaven and earth in proper perspective. Here on earth, you will live for a hundred years or less. In heaven, a hundred million years is just the beginning! Yet God has determined that how you live during your short time on earth will prepare you for heaven. This gives you purpose in your life, perspective on your troubles, and anticipation for what God has planned for you in eternity.
How does your view of heaven affect your life now?
As a heaven-bound follower of Jesus Christ, you need to put heaven and earth in proper perspective. Here on earth, you will live for a hundred years or less. In heaven, a hundred million years is just the beginning! Yet God has determined that how you live during your short time on earth will prepare you for heaven. This gives you purpose in your life, perspective on your troubles, and anticipation for what God has planned for you in eternity.
How does your view of heaven affect your life now?
21 June 2009
Resurrection: Jesus Lives Forever ... A Promise To Keep
John 11:25
Jesus said to her, I am [Myself] the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on) Me, although he may die, yet he shall live; - (Amplified Bible)
Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believes on me, though he have died, shall live - (Darby Translation)
How many of you ever promised someone so huge that it made even you doubt the outcome? Has someone promised you something that it seemed it was impossible for them to keep? I can't help but think about yesterday's topic of faith. Consider Jesus' resurrection … key takeaway ... faith.
Jesus' resurrection is the key to the Christian faith. Why? He promised us a multitude of things, and it's up to us to believe Him and have faith. One of those multitude of things is Jesus rose from the dead. He kept His promise; thus, you can be confident God will keep all of His other promises as well. You can also be certain of your own resurrection because God has power over death. Hallelujah! His resurrection is the basis of your faith because by it He proved to be more than just a good human leader. Jesus demonstrated these things through His promise:
1. Showed that He is the Son of God
2. Brings eternal life to all who believe in Him
My friends let His resurrection inspire you to lead not just with human abilities but with the spiritual qualities that come from your living Lord (Personal Savior).
Song: Resurrection Power
The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
F D7
There's a feeling in the air that God is ev'rywhere
Gm7 C7 Gm7 C7
And His resurrection power is moving in this hour
Gm7 C7 Bb/C F
That Jesus might be glori--fied
F Bb F
I will glorify the name of the Lord
F Bb C7
I will glorify His name
Gm7 C7 Gm7 C7
And His resurrection power is moving in this hour
Gm7 C7 Bb/C F
That Jesus might be glori---fied
How does Jesus' resurrection affect your perspective on this life and your leadership?
Jesus said to her, I am [Myself] the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on) Me, although he may die, yet he shall live; - (Amplified Bible)
Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believes on me, though he have died, shall live - (Darby Translation)
How many of you ever promised someone so huge that it made even you doubt the outcome? Has someone promised you something that it seemed it was impossible for them to keep? I can't help but think about yesterday's topic of faith. Consider Jesus' resurrection … key takeaway ... faith.
Jesus' resurrection is the key to the Christian faith. Why? He promised us a multitude of things, and it's up to us to believe Him and have faith. One of those multitude of things is Jesus rose from the dead. He kept His promise; thus, you can be confident God will keep all of His other promises as well. You can also be certain of your own resurrection because God has power over death. Hallelujah! His resurrection is the basis of your faith because by it He proved to be more than just a good human leader. Jesus demonstrated these things through His promise:
1. Showed that He is the Son of God
2. Brings eternal life to all who believe in Him
My friends let His resurrection inspire you to lead not just with human abilities but with the spiritual qualities that come from your living Lord (Personal Savior).
Song: Resurrection Power
The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
F D7
There's a feeling in the air that God is ev'rywhere
Gm7 C7 Gm7 C7
And His resurrection power is moving in this hour
Gm7 C7 Bb/C F
That Jesus might be glori--fied
F Bb F
I will glorify the name of the Lord
F Bb C7
I will glorify His name
Gm7 C7 Gm7 C7
And His resurrection power is moving in this hour
Gm7 C7 Bb/C F
That Jesus might be glori---fied
How does Jesus' resurrection affect your perspective on this life and your leadership?
10 June 2009
Greatness Is All God And More
Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else. - Mark 9:35 (NLT)
And He sat down and called the Twelve [apostles], and He said to them, If anyone desires to be first, he must be last of all, and servant of all. - Mark 9:35 (Amplified Bible)
After Jesus sat down and told the twelve disciples to gather around him, he said, "If you want the place of honor, you must become a slave and serve others!" - Mark 9:35 (Contemporary English Version)
Many of us try to become successful and want our children to achieve even greater success, and who wouldn't. But to what extent? What are your limits, your boundaries? How do you define success, better yet, how do you define greatness? How do you measure greatness? And those around you seeking your approval, how do they measure up to you?
I have four children and one granddaughter. Only one daughter (Autumn) remains at home with me. She looks up to me and possess some traits of mine, but I stress to her constantly that she has to be her own person in this world. Of course I tell her that I want her to be the best she can. And I also tell her as long as she does her best at whatever she chooses I am proud of her, and to take responsibility for the choices she made good, bad or indifferent. To me, that is greatness.
Greatness as defined by Webster's Dictionary: markedly superior in character or quality; remarkably skilled; used as a generalized term of approval; chief or preeminent over others
Through spiritual eyes, true greatness comes from finding your real value in God's eyes. Can you imagine being great in God's eyes? What an impossible task! Not really. An eight letter word says it all. The essence of true greatness is HUMILITY. Through humility it takes great power, restraint, compassion, love, forgiveness, and mercy. So, don’t be fooled into striving to gain everything you desire in this world at the cost of eternal rewards in heaven. Nothing in this life is worth losing your soul if it means spending the rest of it in total hell and damnation. Look it at this way, if the greatest benefactor of your achievement is yourself, then you are trying to find meaning in the wrong way.
Song: How Great Is Our God (by Chris Tomlin)
VERSE(1):
The splendor of a King,
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice,
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at his voice,
And trembles at his voice
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
VERSE(2):
Age to age he stands
And time is in His Hands
Beginning and the End,
Beginning and the End
The Godhead, Three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb,
The Lion and the Lamb
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
CHORUS(2)
Name above all names
You are Worthy of all praise
and My heart will sing how great
Is our God
(x2)
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
Are you living as if what you do is more important than who you are before God?
And He sat down and called the Twelve [apostles], and He said to them, If anyone desires to be first, he must be last of all, and servant of all. - Mark 9:35 (Amplified Bible)
After Jesus sat down and told the twelve disciples to gather around him, he said, "If you want the place of honor, you must become a slave and serve others!" - Mark 9:35 (Contemporary English Version)
Many of us try to become successful and want our children to achieve even greater success, and who wouldn't. But to what extent? What are your limits, your boundaries? How do you define success, better yet, how do you define greatness? How do you measure greatness? And those around you seeking your approval, how do they measure up to you?
I have four children and one granddaughter. Only one daughter (Autumn) remains at home with me. She looks up to me and possess some traits of mine, but I stress to her constantly that she has to be her own person in this world. Of course I tell her that I want her to be the best she can. And I also tell her as long as she does her best at whatever she chooses I am proud of her, and to take responsibility for the choices she made good, bad or indifferent. To me, that is greatness.
Greatness as defined by Webster's Dictionary: markedly superior in character or quality; remarkably skilled; used as a generalized term of approval; chief or preeminent over others
Through spiritual eyes, true greatness comes from finding your real value in God's eyes. Can you imagine being great in God's eyes? What an impossible task! Not really. An eight letter word says it all. The essence of true greatness is HUMILITY. Through humility it takes great power, restraint, compassion, love, forgiveness, and mercy. So, don’t be fooled into striving to gain everything you desire in this world at the cost of eternal rewards in heaven. Nothing in this life is worth losing your soul if it means spending the rest of it in total hell and damnation. Look it at this way, if the greatest benefactor of your achievement is yourself, then you are trying to find meaning in the wrong way.
Song: How Great Is Our God (by Chris Tomlin)
VERSE(1):
The splendor of a King,
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice,
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at his voice,
And trembles at his voice
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
VERSE(2):
Age to age he stands
And time is in His Hands
Beginning and the End,
Beginning and the End
The Godhead, Three in one
Father, Spirit, Son
The Lion and the Lamb,
The Lion and the Lamb
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
CHORUS(2)
Name above all names
You are Worthy of all praise
and My heart will sing how great
Is our God
(x2)
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
CHORUS(1):
How great is our God,
Sing with me
How great is our God,
and all will see
How great, How great
Is our God
Are you living as if what you do is more important than who you are before God?
09 June 2009
Risks Are Only Dangerous When Not Taken With God
Anyone who moves boulders might be hurt by them; and anyone who cuts
logs might be harmed by them. - Ecclesiastes 10:9 (NCV)
You have rebuked the nations,
You have destroyed the wicked;
You have blotted out their name forever and ever.
O enemy, destructions are finished forever!
And you have destroyed cities;
Even their memory has perished. - Psalm 9:5-6 (KJV)
Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get
discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take. - Joshua
1:9 (The Message Bible)
The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9 (NLT)
At what point and time have you NOT taken risks? As military personnel we take risks all the time. In fact, we take them so often that we must do risk assessments. As parents, we take risks everyday especially when it comes to our children. You see, life in general is a risk. Why? Life is filled with risks and to not take a single risk is quite questionable to me. Let's go further, the person who never takes anyrisks falls short of many things.
1. Never succeeds (full potential/ability/capability is not met)
2. Never enjoys everything life has to offer (what if syndrome)
3. Never fully experiences God's plan (hindering your blessings from
God)
What it boils down to is YOU are too cautious. By being too cautious you allow fear to control you to the point where any risk seems too great. That's like saying God is not that great. In fact, fear keeps you from taking risks at all. And how can you trust God if you don't leap out on faith? Caution keeps you from risking too much; however, true obedience to God balances the two. Try it and see. I risked writing and sending out these inspirational vitamins to you in hopes it would encourage you to trust God, and seek Him first even in the midst
of trials and tribulations. Your risk ... you tell me.
Quotes:
The most important thing to remember is this: To be ready at any moment to give up what you are for what you might become. - W.E.B. Du Bois
You've got to go out on a limb sometimes because that's where the fruit is. - Will Rogers
Do you need to take more risks to obey God?
logs might be harmed by them. - Ecclesiastes 10:9 (NCV)
You have rebuked the nations,
You have destroyed the wicked;
You have blotted out their name forever and ever.
O enemy, destructions are finished forever!
And you have destroyed cities;
Even their memory has perished. - Psalm 9:5-6 (KJV)
Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get
discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take. - Joshua
1:9 (The Message Bible)
The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9 (NLT)
At what point and time have you NOT taken risks? As military personnel we take risks all the time. In fact, we take them so often that we must do risk assessments. As parents, we take risks everyday especially when it comes to our children. You see, life in general is a risk. Why? Life is filled with risks and to not take a single risk is quite questionable to me. Let's go further, the person who never takes anyrisks falls short of many things.
1. Never succeeds (full potential/ability/capability is not met)
2. Never enjoys everything life has to offer (what if syndrome)
3. Never fully experiences God's plan (hindering your blessings from
God)
What it boils down to is YOU are too cautious. By being too cautious you allow fear to control you to the point where any risk seems too great. That's like saying God is not that great. In fact, fear keeps you from taking risks at all. And how can you trust God if you don't leap out on faith? Caution keeps you from risking too much; however, true obedience to God balances the two. Try it and see. I risked writing and sending out these inspirational vitamins to you in hopes it would encourage you to trust God, and seek Him first even in the midst
of trials and tribulations. Your risk ... you tell me.
Quotes:
The most important thing to remember is this: To be ready at any moment to give up what you are for what you might become. - W.E.B. Du Bois
You've got to go out on a limb sometimes because that's where the fruit is. - Will Rogers
Do you need to take more risks to obey God?
08 June 2009
Faith In God Great Or Small Can Move Mountains
(The passage comes from JOHN 5:24)
"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. (NIV)
Verily, verily I say unto you, he that heareth My Word and believeth in Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life. (21st Century KJV)
What is faith? Faith is the confident belief in the truth of or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing. It is also used for a , belief without proof. Informal usage of the word "faith" can be quite broad, and may be used standardly in place of, "trust" "belief", or "hope". For example, the word "faith" can refer to a religion itself or to religion in general. As with "trust", faith involves a concept of future events or outcomes. Interesting isn't it?
Faith is more than just believing it is entrusting your very life to what you believe. For example you may believe that someone can cross a deep gorge on a tightrope. But would you trust that person to carry you across? Another example is trusting the person in the foxhole with you has your back when it comes down to it. Will he/she be there when all heck breaks loose? If you truly had faith, you would say yes. And so faith in God means that you are willing to trust Him with your whole life. You are willing to follow His guidelines for living, as outlined in the Bible, because you have the conviction that His will is best for you. That is much faith in a living God we cannot see, but know He is there. Let me ask. Are you even willing to endure ridicule and persecution for your faith because you are sure that God is who He says He is and He will keep His promises about salvation and eternal life in heaven?
Song: Great Is Thy Faithfulness (by Thomas O Chisholm & William Runyan)
"Great is They faithfulness"; O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not, As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
"Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy Faithfulness!" Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided, "Great is Thy faithfulness," Lord unto me!
How can you strengthen your faith today?
"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. (NIV)
Verily, verily I say unto you, he that heareth My Word and believeth in Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life. (21st Century KJV)
What is faith? Faith is the confident belief in the truth of or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing. It is also used for a , belief without proof. Informal usage of the word "faith" can be quite broad, and may be used standardly in place of, "trust" "belief", or "hope". For example, the word "faith" can refer to a religion itself or to religion in general. As with "trust", faith involves a concept of future events or outcomes. Interesting isn't it?
Faith is more than just believing it is entrusting your very life to what you believe. For example you may believe that someone can cross a deep gorge on a tightrope. But would you trust that person to carry you across? Another example is trusting the person in the foxhole with you has your back when it comes down to it. Will he/she be there when all heck breaks loose? If you truly had faith, you would say yes. And so faith in God means that you are willing to trust Him with your whole life. You are willing to follow His guidelines for living, as outlined in the Bible, because you have the conviction that His will is best for you. That is much faith in a living God we cannot see, but know He is there. Let me ask. Are you even willing to endure ridicule and persecution for your faith because you are sure that God is who He says He is and He will keep His promises about salvation and eternal life in heaven?
Song: Great Is Thy Faithfulness (by Thomas O Chisholm & William Runyan)
"Great is They faithfulness"; O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not, As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
"Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy Faithfulness!" Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided, "Great is Thy faithfulness," Lord unto me!
How can you strengthen your faith today?
07 June 2009
Avoiding God's Blessings Doesn't Make Sense
2 Corinthians 6:2
For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." - (NIV)
For He says, In the time of favor (of an assured welcome) I have listened to and heeded your call, and I have helped you on the day of deliverance (the day of salvation). Behold, now is truly the time for a gracious welcome and acceptance [of you from God]; behold, now is the day of salvation! - (Amplified Bible)
Hebrews 3:15
Remember what it says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.” (NLT)
while it is said:“ Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (NKJV)
Let's consider honesty, loyalty, and faithfulness in our thoughts today. Of course, we should be doing that daily. Humor me for a bit. You have this idea you've been toying with all week or month. And you have put much time and effort into the whole thought process. Now comes the decision making process or perhaps for some of you … the final decision making process. You have your reservations. You even question your motives behind it all. Why the hesitation? Or is it safe to ask, why the procrastination? This past Sunday, the guest pastor said procrastination is our answer to not do what God has asked or to act upon the answer He provided us. I have to agree whether whole heartedly or half heartedly. It makes sense, and it's funny how some of us will say, "I'm waiting for God to answer me." In fact, I remember telling a dear friend of mine not so long ago that the answer was within him/her because God is ever present and always answering prayer.
What am I saying? Do you ever think that your plan is better than God's? Do you think His plan is just too inconvenient for you? That's not a difficult question to answer; however, the truth in your answer may be. One must realize that God's call deserves and requires an immediate response. Key word: immediate. If you can recall the disciples, each one gave an immediate response to follow Jesus. Ahh! Wait a minute. Yes, He does give us a choice, yet even the choice cannot wait forever. Remember the parable about the ten bridesmaids? (Read Matthew 25:1-15)
Friends, He does not ask you to do anything without giving you the resources and power to accomplish it. Moses, Sampson, Esther, and Jabez are ones that come to my mind quickly. If you avoid the opportunities God gives you, you will miss His blessings as well. If you accept His call, you will be living according to His will, which will bring you great blessing and joy.
Song: Sing (I'm Gonna Sing When The Spirit Says Sing (by: William Farley Smith 1947- )
I'm gonna sing when the Spirit says sing, I'm gonna sing when the Spirit says sing, I'm gonna sing when the Sprit says sing, and obey the Spirit of the Lord.
I'm gonna pray when the Spirit says pray, …
I'm gonna cry when the Spirit says cry, …
I'm gonna shout when the Spirit says shout, ...
Have you received a clear call from God? Will you avoid it or accept it?
For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." - (NIV)
For He says, In the time of favor (of an assured welcome) I have listened to and heeded your call, and I have helped you on the day of deliverance (the day of salvation). Behold, now is truly the time for a gracious welcome and acceptance [of you from God]; behold, now is the day of salvation! - (Amplified Bible)
Hebrews 3:15
Remember what it says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.” (NLT)
while it is said:“ Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (NKJV)
Let's consider honesty, loyalty, and faithfulness in our thoughts today. Of course, we should be doing that daily. Humor me for a bit. You have this idea you've been toying with all week or month. And you have put much time and effort into the whole thought process. Now comes the decision making process or perhaps for some of you … the final decision making process. You have your reservations. You even question your motives behind it all. Why the hesitation? Or is it safe to ask, why the procrastination? This past Sunday, the guest pastor said procrastination is our answer to not do what God has asked or to act upon the answer He provided us. I have to agree whether whole heartedly or half heartedly. It makes sense, and it's funny how some of us will say, "I'm waiting for God to answer me." In fact, I remember telling a dear friend of mine not so long ago that the answer was within him/her because God is ever present and always answering prayer.
What am I saying? Do you ever think that your plan is better than God's? Do you think His plan is just too inconvenient for you? That's not a difficult question to answer; however, the truth in your answer may be. One must realize that God's call deserves and requires an immediate response. Key word: immediate. If you can recall the disciples, each one gave an immediate response to follow Jesus. Ahh! Wait a minute. Yes, He does give us a choice, yet even the choice cannot wait forever. Remember the parable about the ten bridesmaids? (Read Matthew 25:1-15)
Friends, He does not ask you to do anything without giving you the resources and power to accomplish it. Moses, Sampson, Esther, and Jabez are ones that come to my mind quickly. If you avoid the opportunities God gives you, you will miss His blessings as well. If you accept His call, you will be living according to His will, which will bring you great blessing and joy.
Song: Sing (I'm Gonna Sing When The Spirit Says Sing (by: William Farley Smith 1947- )
I'm gonna sing when the Spirit says sing, I'm gonna sing when the Spirit says sing, I'm gonna sing when the Sprit says sing, and obey the Spirit of the Lord.
I'm gonna pray when the Spirit says pray, …
I'm gonna cry when the Spirit says cry, …
I'm gonna shout when the Spirit says shout, ...
Have you received a clear call from God? Will you avoid it or accept it?
06 June 2009
Hope Resurrects Our Faith In God
Hope: 1 Peter 1: 3-6
Because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead…we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance-an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay…There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. - (NLT)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials - (NKJV)
My husband, Troy, rides a motorcycle (street bike/crotch rocket). While I was in Iraq 2004-2005, Troy taught Autumn (my daughter) how to ride. He kept telling her, "If you look straight, you will go straight. Once you look another direction, the bike will go in that direction." It took a few times, but she learned how to ride a bike. In fact, she wanted to race them. Like most young children, she changed her mind and has aspired to be something else. LOL. Anyway, my point is … just as focusing on a fixed point in the distance helps you go in a straight line, followers of Jesus should fix their eyes on the eternal horizon in order to move straight toward their ultimate goal. That goal being heaven.
You see, Heaven is the ultimate place you will live with God forever without pain or sorrow or suffering. I don't know about you, that sounds fantabulous! I have a hope as all of you should have that same hope. This hope for eternity enables you to endure the challenges and discomforts of daily life here on earth. It gives you the motivation and energy to press on in your daily tasks of being a husband, wife, father, mother, pastor, supervisor, friend, teacher, student, and Christian. Your hope offers an eternal perspective on life to those you lead, and also in your development as a follower.
Song: Only Hope (by Switchfoot)
There's a song that's inside of my soul
It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again
I'm awake in the infinite cold
But You sing to me over and over again
So I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope
Sing to me the song of the stars
Of your galaxy dancing and laughing and laughing again
When it feels like my dreams are so far
Sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again
And I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope
I give You my apathy
I'm giving You all of me
I want Your symphony
Singing in all that I am
At the top of my lungs
I'm giving it back
So I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope
How does your hope for eternity change the way you lead today?
Because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead…we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance-an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay…There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. - (NLT)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials - (NKJV)
My husband, Troy, rides a motorcycle (street bike/crotch rocket). While I was in Iraq 2004-2005, Troy taught Autumn (my daughter) how to ride. He kept telling her, "If you look straight, you will go straight. Once you look another direction, the bike will go in that direction." It took a few times, but she learned how to ride a bike. In fact, she wanted to race them. Like most young children, she changed her mind and has aspired to be something else. LOL. Anyway, my point is … just as focusing on a fixed point in the distance helps you go in a straight line, followers of Jesus should fix their eyes on the eternal horizon in order to move straight toward their ultimate goal. That goal being heaven.
You see, Heaven is the ultimate place you will live with God forever without pain or sorrow or suffering. I don't know about you, that sounds fantabulous! I have a hope as all of you should have that same hope. This hope for eternity enables you to endure the challenges and discomforts of daily life here on earth. It gives you the motivation and energy to press on in your daily tasks of being a husband, wife, father, mother, pastor, supervisor, friend, teacher, student, and Christian. Your hope offers an eternal perspective on life to those you lead, and also in your development as a follower.
Song: Only Hope (by Switchfoot)
There's a song that's inside of my soul
It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again
I'm awake in the infinite cold
But You sing to me over and over again
So I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope
Sing to me the song of the stars
Of your galaxy dancing and laughing and laughing again
When it feels like my dreams are so far
Sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again
And I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope
I give You my apathy
I'm giving You all of me
I want Your symphony
Singing in all that I am
At the top of my lungs
I'm giving it back
So I lay my head back down
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I pray to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope
How does your hope for eternity change the way you lead today?
04 June 2009
Joy In God Brings Joy In You and Others
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. - Deuteronomy 30:10 (NLT)
if you obey the LORD your God and keep his commands and decrees that are written in this Book of the Law and turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. - Deuteronomy 30:10 (NIV)
Take time to think about giving this answer in your quiet, devotional time with God today. Can finite, sinful human beings truly bring joy and delight to the Lord, the Creator of the universe? God says yes.
How can this be? Simple. He created you because He wants to have a relationship with you. He really wants to delight in being with you as well. Is that so hard to believe? I think for many of us it is because we find it difficult to be with Him mind, body and soul. Now, that's not an effective or productive relationship in today's terms. However, a good relationship works in both directions, especially when God is the dominating force in our lives. You see, a relationship that brings joy to God is built on several things. Let me provide a few for you.
1. Trust
2. Regular communication
3. Honesty
4. Humility
5. Service
6. Unconditional love
Although each one is just as important, I like unconditional love the best. We as humans define our feelings, who we are, and our success based upon conditions. Praise God, He threw those conditions away so I can be saved. I am more accepting of His love because of His unconditional love.
And you know what? These are the traits that will make your leadership effective and productive as well.
Song: Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, Hail Thee as the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness, Fill us with the light of day!
Thou art giving and forgiving, Ever blessing, ever blest,
Well-spring of the joy of living, Ocean-depth of happy rest!
Thou the Father, Christ our Brother-All who live in love are Thine:
Teach us how to love each other, Lift us to the joy divine.
Do you think you are bringing God joy today?
if you obey the LORD your God and keep his commands and decrees that are written in this Book of the Law and turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. - Deuteronomy 30:10 (NIV)
Take time to think about giving this answer in your quiet, devotional time with God today. Can finite, sinful human beings truly bring joy and delight to the Lord, the Creator of the universe? God says yes.
How can this be? Simple. He created you because He wants to have a relationship with you. He really wants to delight in being with you as well. Is that so hard to believe? I think for many of us it is because we find it difficult to be with Him mind, body and soul. Now, that's not an effective or productive relationship in today's terms. However, a good relationship works in both directions, especially when God is the dominating force in our lives. You see, a relationship that brings joy to God is built on several things. Let me provide a few for you.
1. Trust
2. Regular communication
3. Honesty
4. Humility
5. Service
6. Unconditional love
Although each one is just as important, I like unconditional love the best. We as humans define our feelings, who we are, and our success based upon conditions. Praise God, He threw those conditions away so I can be saved. I am more accepting of His love because of His unconditional love.
And you know what? These are the traits that will make your leadership effective and productive as well.
Song: Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, Hail Thee as the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness, Fill us with the light of day!
Thou art giving and forgiving, Ever blessing, ever blest,
Well-spring of the joy of living, Ocean-depth of happy rest!
Thou the Father, Christ our Brother-All who live in love are Thine:
Teach us how to love each other, Lift us to the joy divine.
Do you think you are bringing God joy today?
31 May 2009
Reward: It's All About Jesus, The Ultimate Reward
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. -Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)
In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people. Remember that you will receive your reward from the Lord, which he promised to his people. You are serving the Lord Christ. (NCV)
Giving our best for God even during this tough financial time can be difficult and challenging, but God is worth it. Don't you think? Better yet, don't you know He's worth it? Let me explain. While it may seem overwhelming to give your best in everything for God, this is the kind of attitude that God promises to reward. How? As you give God your best in your quiet times with Him, He will energize you through prayer and His Word. Haven't you ever gone to Him and just fell at His feet? I have plenty of times. I either went to sleep peacefully or felt this heavy burden lifted and exhaled. The kind of exhale you get after accomplishing a major event like: passing a physical fitness test, completing a big project, having the kids settled down in bed early without a fight, getting your taxes done before the 15 April deadline, and my favorite losing that impossible 2lbs that mysteriously appears every year. The same exhilarating feeling happens when you give God your best from your income. It's giving God thanks in another way. You will also be blessed as you see how it can help others. God doesn't bless you just so you can store it up. God blesses you so that through it, you will bless others. And when you give God your best in serving others, you will be blessed with personal satisfaction as well as deeper relationships. And yes, there will be still be challenges, but our God is greater, stronger, wiser, and able to better equip us with the equipment we need to overcome those challenges. Now, isn't that wonderful how God turns your best efforts into eternal rewards.
Song: Your Name's My Reward (by: Isa Couvertier)
I will seek you Lord, while you may be found
My broken, contrite heart, you have yet to deny
Chorus
O Je-sus, Your name's my reward
O Je-sus,I'm returning to You
With all of my heart, with all that I am.
Verse 2:
I will call upon your name, while you are near
Forsaking all others, clinging only to you
Chorus
I wanna fall more in love with you Jesus
I wanna fall more in love
How can you give your best to God today?
In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people. Remember that you will receive your reward from the Lord, which he promised to his people. You are serving the Lord Christ. (NCV)
Giving our best for God even during this tough financial time can be difficult and challenging, but God is worth it. Don't you think? Better yet, don't you know He's worth it? Let me explain. While it may seem overwhelming to give your best in everything for God, this is the kind of attitude that God promises to reward. How? As you give God your best in your quiet times with Him, He will energize you through prayer and His Word. Haven't you ever gone to Him and just fell at His feet? I have plenty of times. I either went to sleep peacefully or felt this heavy burden lifted and exhaled. The kind of exhale you get after accomplishing a major event like: passing a physical fitness test, completing a big project, having the kids settled down in bed early without a fight, getting your taxes done before the 15 April deadline, and my favorite losing that impossible 2lbs that mysteriously appears every year. The same exhilarating feeling happens when you give God your best from your income. It's giving God thanks in another way. You will also be blessed as you see how it can help others. God doesn't bless you just so you can store it up. God blesses you so that through it, you will bless others. And when you give God your best in serving others, you will be blessed with personal satisfaction as well as deeper relationships. And yes, there will be still be challenges, but our God is greater, stronger, wiser, and able to better equip us with the equipment we need to overcome those challenges. Now, isn't that wonderful how God turns your best efforts into eternal rewards.
Song: Your Name's My Reward (by: Isa Couvertier)
I will seek you Lord, while you may be found
My broken, contrite heart, you have yet to deny
Chorus
O Je-sus, Your name's my reward
O Je-sus,I'm returning to You
With all of my heart, with all that I am.
Verse 2:
I will call upon your name, while you are near
Forsaking all others, clinging only to you
Chorus
I wanna fall more in love with you Jesus
I wanna fall more in love
How can you give your best to God today?
25 May 2009
Pride Keeps You From God, So Lose It
The greatest person in the kingdom of heaven is the one who makes
himself humble like this child. - Matthew 18:4 (NCV)
Whoever then may humble himself as this child, he is the greater in the
reign of the heavens. - Matthew 18:4 (Young's Literal Translation)
Let's take a brief look at your day-to-day life. Oh, and be totally
honest with yourself. Who or what do you truly honor, worship? How do
you worship? What does it mean to honor others? What does it mean to
honor God? You may be surprised, embarrassed, or even angry at the true
and real answer you provide. I know that I don't always honor others in
a way that is pleasing God. I allow pride to get in the way. We all do
from time to time, but when we continue to do it ... that is sin. And
sin is no where near pleasing God. In fact, He abhors sin.
How can you stop? Remember from the previous blog I mentioned a few things
like:
1. You have to recognize your fault (identify) 2. You have to face it
head-on (accept and confront) 3. You have to humble yourself (vulnerable
to others through God) 4. You have to admit it to someone else
(demonstrate God's love)
Well, you have to do the same thing and adding confession/repentance to
God.
You see, the less you seek to honor yourself, the more God will honor
and bless you. Pride builds barriers that keep God out of your life.
If you're like me, you want to keep God IN your life. It's very
important. The Word says, "abide in me and I will abide you". A
valuable asset.
Humility opens the way for God to work in you because it makes you
willing to seek His help and honor Him for it. We should all be seeking
God first in Matthew 6:33 it reads: But seek ye first the kingdom of
God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto
you. (KJV). Pride reaches no further than your own ego. That like
saying, "I trust you as far as I can throw you". Humility is true
greatness because its effects reach into the Kingdom of Heaven, and that
is so much more rewarding than a bruise.
Song: Pride
by Jeremy Camp
Every single word I say
You know it before I speak
You know every thought
The deepest part of me
You draw me closer than I see
Your presence is every thing I need to be The child that you've created
me to be I'm ready now to see it your way
I lay down my pride
My desires my demise
I'm ready now to see it your way
I'm done I'm thru ignoring you now it's true I'm kneeling at the cross
of your grace Lay down my pride
I was faced with passing time
But I knew the choice was mine
To finally come to you
And give you all control
I've wandered miles to find my way
And then you revealed this simple faith
I know that you can see the secrets of my soul
The cross the blood you shed for me
Your back was ripped and bruised
So I can know your love
I kneel I bow to you my kind
Are you too proud to pursue what God says is true greatness?
himself humble like this child. - Matthew 18:4 (NCV)
Whoever then may humble himself as this child, he is the greater in the
reign of the heavens. - Matthew 18:4 (Young's Literal Translation)
Let's take a brief look at your day-to-day life. Oh, and be totally
honest with yourself. Who or what do you truly honor, worship? How do
you worship? What does it mean to honor others? What does it mean to
honor God? You may be surprised, embarrassed, or even angry at the true
and real answer you provide. I know that I don't always honor others in
a way that is pleasing God. I allow pride to get in the way. We all do
from time to time, but when we continue to do it ... that is sin. And
sin is no where near pleasing God. In fact, He abhors sin.
How can you stop? Remember from the previous blog I mentioned a few things
like:
1. You have to recognize your fault (identify) 2. You have to face it
head-on (accept and confront) 3. You have to humble yourself (vulnerable
to others through God) 4. You have to admit it to someone else
(demonstrate God's love)
Well, you have to do the same thing and adding confession/repentance to
God.
You see, the less you seek to honor yourself, the more God will honor
and bless you. Pride builds barriers that keep God out of your life.
If you're like me, you want to keep God IN your life. It's very
important. The Word says, "abide in me and I will abide you". A
valuable asset.
Humility opens the way for God to work in you because it makes you
willing to seek His help and honor Him for it. We should all be seeking
God first in Matthew 6:33 it reads: But seek ye first the kingdom of
God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto
you. (KJV). Pride reaches no further than your own ego. That like
saying, "I trust you as far as I can throw you". Humility is true
greatness because its effects reach into the Kingdom of Heaven, and that
is so much more rewarding than a bruise.
Song: Pride
by Jeremy Camp
Every single word I say
You know it before I speak
You know every thought
The deepest part of me
You draw me closer than I see
Your presence is every thing I need to be The child that you've created
me to be I'm ready now to see it your way
I lay down my pride
My desires my demise
I'm ready now to see it your way
I'm done I'm thru ignoring you now it's true I'm kneeling at the cross
of your grace Lay down my pride
I was faced with passing time
But I knew the choice was mine
To finally come to you
And give you all control
I've wandered miles to find my way
And then you revealed this simple faith
I know that you can see the secrets of my soul
The cross the blood you shed for me
Your back was ripped and bruised
So I can know your love
I kneel I bow to you my kind
Are you too proud to pursue what God says is true greatness?
24 May 2009
Generosity Creates Hospitality
Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. - Malachi 3:10
Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing - Malachi 3:10 (NKJV)
Old Testament law made it clear that God wanted His people to tithe - to give Him the first tenth of their income - to demonstrate their obedience and trust that He would provide for them. I'm sure we can all agree to how good God provides for us. In fact, when Jesus came, He made it clear that He loves a cheerful giver. This means that He loves a generous heart.
Tithing, what does it mean as a Christian? The principle of the tithe is a good place to start when setting an example of generosity for those you lead.
It demonstrates:
1. Concern for those in need
2. Commitment to being a part of God's work in the world
3. Sacrifice by giving up something in order to give more to others
Quote:
“If you as parents cut corners, your children will too. If you lie, they will too. If you spend all your money on yourselves and tithe no portion of it for charities, colleges, churches, synagogues, and civic causes, your children won't either. And if parents snicker at racial and gender jokes, another generation will pass on the poison adults still have not had the courage to snuff out.”
Marian Wright Edelman quotes
What steps can you take to give more generously to others?
Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
That there may be food in My house,
And try Me now in this,”
Says the LORD of hosts,
“ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
And pour out for you such blessing - Malachi 3:10 (NKJV)
Old Testament law made it clear that God wanted His people to tithe - to give Him the first tenth of their income - to demonstrate their obedience and trust that He would provide for them. I'm sure we can all agree to how good God provides for us. In fact, when Jesus came, He made it clear that He loves a cheerful giver. This means that He loves a generous heart.
Tithing, what does it mean as a Christian? The principle of the tithe is a good place to start when setting an example of generosity for those you lead.
It demonstrates:
1. Concern for those in need
2. Commitment to being a part of God's work in the world
3. Sacrifice by giving up something in order to give more to others
Quote:
“If you as parents cut corners, your children will too. If you lie, they will too. If you spend all your money on yourselves and tithe no portion of it for charities, colleges, churches, synagogues, and civic causes, your children won't either. And if parents snicker at racial and gender jokes, another generation will pass on the poison adults still have not had the courage to snuff out.”
Marian Wright Edelman quotes
What steps can you take to give more generously to others?
17 May 2009
Commitment: The Best Treatment For Trusting In God
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: - Psalm 37:5 (NIV)
Let the LORD lead you and trust him to help. - Psalm 37:5 (Contemporary English Version)
What does it mean to commit? According to Wikipedia, commitment means duty or pledge to something or someone.
Let's look at our commitment to a very special someone ... God. Commitment to God is more than an intellectual agreement with His principles. Commitment involves giving your whole self - body, soul, emotions, and mind - for His use. In His Word it tells us to love God with our all our heart, mind, body and soul. That is a very large part of us, yet we give we Him so little of ourselves even after all He has done for us. Why? It requires a decision of the mind followed by an act of the will to follow through, regardless of the difficulty or the cost. As leaders, followers, parents, or partners in marriage we know about following through. It is very important to our accomplishing something much bigger than our own selves. It is vital to a more personal relationship with Him. Yes, although commitment to God can be costly, remember God promises to help you and bless you when you are faithful to Him. Isn't that worth committing yourself to an eternal life?
Song: "Are Ye Able," Said the Master
"Are ye able," said the Master, "To be crucified with Me?"
"Yea," the sturdy dreamers answered, "To the death we follow Thee:"
Chorus: "Lord, we are able" - our spirits are Thine;
Remold them make us like Thee, divine:
Thy guiding radiance a above us shall be
A beacon to God, to love and loyalty.
"Are ye able," when the shadows close around you with the sod,
To believe that spirit triumphs, To commend your soul to God?
On a scale from one to ten, what is your level of commitment to God?
Let the LORD lead you and trust him to help. - Psalm 37:5 (Contemporary English Version)
What does it mean to commit? According to Wikipedia, commitment means duty or pledge to something or someone.
Let's look at our commitment to a very special someone ... God. Commitment to God is more than an intellectual agreement with His principles. Commitment involves giving your whole self - body, soul, emotions, and mind - for His use. In His Word it tells us to love God with our all our heart, mind, body and soul. That is a very large part of us, yet we give we Him so little of ourselves even after all He has done for us. Why? It requires a decision of the mind followed by an act of the will to follow through, regardless of the difficulty or the cost. As leaders, followers, parents, or partners in marriage we know about following through. It is very important to our accomplishing something much bigger than our own selves. It is vital to a more personal relationship with Him. Yes, although commitment to God can be costly, remember God promises to help you and bless you when you are faithful to Him. Isn't that worth committing yourself to an eternal life?
Song: "Are Ye Able," Said the Master
"Are ye able," said the Master, "To be crucified with Me?"
"Yea," the sturdy dreamers answered, "To the death we follow Thee:"
Chorus: "Lord, we are able" - our spirits are Thine;
Remold them make us like Thee, divine:
Thy guiding radiance a above us shall be
A beacon to God, to love and loyalty.
"Are ye able," when the shadows close around you with the sod,
To believe that spirit triumphs, To commend your soul to God?
On a scale from one to ten, what is your level of commitment to God?
15 May 2009
Opposition or Fear, You Choose - God Is Always Near
Cry aloud with my voice to the LORD;
I make supplication with my voice to the LORD.
I pour out my complaint before Him;
I declare my trouble before Him.
When my spirit was overwhelmed within me,
You knew my path
In the way where I walk
They have hidden a trap for me. - Psalm 142:1-3 (New American Standard Bible)
I cry out loudly to God, loudly I plead with God for mercy.
I spill out all my complaints before him,
and spell out my troubles in detail:
"As I sink in despair, my spirit ebbing away,
you know how I'm feeling,
Know the danger I'm in,
the traps hidden in my path. - Psalm 142:1-3 (The Message)
Let's face it, sometimes you face overwhelming opposition. Whether it be deployed in close quarters, washing/cooking/cleaning the house while the kids are running around crazy, taking courses online and trying to complete a paper due within hours, or findng time just for adequate sleep ... it's opposition. You feel outnumbered and at times helpless. I know I do, and I found it hard at first to allow God do His part. However, I learned as my faith grows, I call on God much more easier and trust Him to take care of it. I am energized by God. You see, God boosts your confidence by reminding you that just as He has delivered His people from their enemies in the past, He will deliver you from your troubles. Deliverance. Doesn't the word sound exhilerating?
God has given you courage in the face of opposition because you know that God is stronger than your worst problem and that He wants to use His strength to help you. Isn't God almighty powerful? Yes, He is! And His power is available to you when you do what pleases Him.
Remember, God also promises to be with you.
Song: They That Overcome
by: Fanny Crosby
Overcoming evil day by day,
This our warfare on the Christian way;
Yet unto those that faithful endure,
God has declared that His promise is sure.
Refrain
They that overcome, thus saith He,
They that overcome, blessèd shall be;
They that overcome the world and sin,
Life and a crown in His kingdom shall win.
Tho’ we suffer tribulation here,
Tho’ our crosses oft may seem severe,
Think of the joy when trials are past,
Strong in the Lord we shall conquer at last.
Refrain
Overcoming, O my soul, arise,
Overcoming, thou must reach the skies;
Still journey on, and still overcome,
Rest by and by with the Savior at home.
Refrain
What opposition are you facing? Have you asked God to help you overcome it?
I make supplication with my voice to the LORD.
I pour out my complaint before Him;
I declare my trouble before Him.
When my spirit was overwhelmed within me,
You knew my path
In the way where I walk
They have hidden a trap for me. - Psalm 142:1-3 (New American Standard Bible)
I cry out loudly to God, loudly I plead with God for mercy.
I spill out all my complaints before him,
and spell out my troubles in detail:
"As I sink in despair, my spirit ebbing away,
you know how I'm feeling,
Know the danger I'm in,
the traps hidden in my path. - Psalm 142:1-3 (The Message)
Let's face it, sometimes you face overwhelming opposition. Whether it be deployed in close quarters, washing/cooking/cleaning the house while the kids are running around crazy, taking courses online and trying to complete a paper due within hours, or findng time just for adequate sleep ... it's opposition. You feel outnumbered and at times helpless. I know I do, and I found it hard at first to allow God do His part. However, I learned as my faith grows, I call on God much more easier and trust Him to take care of it. I am energized by God. You see, God boosts your confidence by reminding you that just as He has delivered His people from their enemies in the past, He will deliver you from your troubles. Deliverance. Doesn't the word sound exhilerating?
God has given you courage in the face of opposition because you know that God is stronger than your worst problem and that He wants to use His strength to help you. Isn't God almighty powerful? Yes, He is! And His power is available to you when you do what pleases Him.
Remember, God also promises to be with you.
Song: They That Overcome
by: Fanny Crosby
Overcoming evil day by day,
This our warfare on the Christian way;
Yet unto those that faithful endure,
God has declared that His promise is sure.
Refrain
They that overcome, thus saith He,
They that overcome, blessèd shall be;
They that overcome the world and sin,
Life and a crown in His kingdom shall win.
Tho’ we suffer tribulation here,
Tho’ our crosses oft may seem severe,
Think of the joy when trials are past,
Strong in the Lord we shall conquer at last.
Refrain
Overcoming, O my soul, arise,
Overcoming, thou must reach the skies;
Still journey on, and still overcome,
Rest by and by with the Savior at home.
Refrain
What opposition are you facing? Have you asked God to help you overcome it?
14 May 2009
Doubt Has No Room When It Comes To God
When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul - Psalm 94:19 (NIV)
In the multitude of my [anxious] thoughts within me, Your comforts cheer and delight my soul! - Psalm 94:19 (Amplified Bible)
Virtually every biblical hero struggled with doubts about God or God's ability or desire to help. I can recall Jonah, Moses, Elijah and Jeremiah to name a few. Who can you think of? We left out the most important one ... us. We all have doubted God at one point and time. Let's be totally and completely honest with Him, ourselves and each other.
I can tell you like any other seasoned Christian, God doesn't mind when you doubt as long as you continue to seek Him in the midst of it. That is the key concept ... continue to seek Him.
There are some who say doubt is a sin. Doubt can become sin if it leads you away from God and into skepticism, cynicism, or hard-heartedness. But God promises that doubt can become a blessing if your honest searching leads you to a better understanding of God and a deeper faith in Him. I think back on Thomas, aka Doubting Thomas. Was he doubting God or was he more dumbfounded that it "was" Jesus standing before him? That is a whole other topic for discussion. But eventually we all know that Thomas did believe it was Jesus standing before him because his saw Jesus' hands. Then too, when others see your hope in God even as you struggle with doubt, they will be inspired to follow your example and cling to their faith no matter what their circumstances. In other words, let God's light continue to shine in you for all to see even if it is too dim or too bright, His light will shine for all to see.
Song: God Never Fails (by: George Jordan)
Chorus: God never fails! God never fails! He abides in me,
He gives me victory; No God never fails!
Just keep the faith and never cease to pray;
Just walk upright, call Him noon, day or night.
He'll be there, He'll be there,
There's no need to worry, for God never fails!
I never worry, I never fret;
For God almighty has never failed me yet.
Tho' rebuked and scorned,
I know that I've been reborn,
for God never fails!
No need to cry, I'm not afraid to died;
I've got my Lord, I know He's on my side.
Daily I trust Him, never shall I doubt Him,
for God never fails!
When you find yourself doubting God, do you let it move you closer to Him or farther away?
In the multitude of my [anxious] thoughts within me, Your comforts cheer and delight my soul! - Psalm 94:19 (Amplified Bible)
Virtually every biblical hero struggled with doubts about God or God's ability or desire to help. I can recall Jonah, Moses, Elijah and Jeremiah to name a few. Who can you think of? We left out the most important one ... us. We all have doubted God at one point and time. Let's be totally and completely honest with Him, ourselves and each other.
I can tell you like any other seasoned Christian, God doesn't mind when you doubt as long as you continue to seek Him in the midst of it. That is the key concept ... continue to seek Him.
There are some who say doubt is a sin. Doubt can become sin if it leads you away from God and into skepticism, cynicism, or hard-heartedness. But God promises that doubt can become a blessing if your honest searching leads you to a better understanding of God and a deeper faith in Him. I think back on Thomas, aka Doubting Thomas. Was he doubting God or was he more dumbfounded that it "was" Jesus standing before him? That is a whole other topic for discussion. But eventually we all know that Thomas did believe it was Jesus standing before him because his saw Jesus' hands. Then too, when others see your hope in God even as you struggle with doubt, they will be inspired to follow your example and cling to their faith no matter what their circumstances. In other words, let God's light continue to shine in you for all to see even if it is too dim or too bright, His light will shine for all to see.
Song: God Never Fails (by: George Jordan)
Chorus: God never fails! God never fails! He abides in me,
He gives me victory; No God never fails!
Just keep the faith and never cease to pray;
Just walk upright, call Him noon, day or night.
He'll be there, He'll be there,
There's no need to worry, for God never fails!
I never worry, I never fret;
For God almighty has never failed me yet.
Tho' rebuked and scorned,
I know that I've been reborn,
for God never fails!
No need to cry, I'm not afraid to died;
I've got my Lord, I know He's on my side.
Daily I trust Him, never shall I doubt Him,
for God never fails!
When you find yourself doubting God, do you let it move you closer to Him or farther away?
28 April 2009
Jesus Is The Cure For Burnout
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint. - Isaiah 40:29-31 (NIV)
Some of us at are our wits end by the time the day is really over. Yet we try to cram more things (stuff) into it. I know I do. It's like I have to do more because it's expected of me. Thus leading to total exhaustion and frustration.
One of the best ways to reduce burnout is to take time out to be close to God. Wow. Taking time out to be close to God should be our number one thing each day. Yet, how many of you are doing that very thing? Let's use the analogy of a candle. When you're burning the candle at both ends, it goes until it poofs out by itself. This is you neglecting your time with God because you were too into other things (taking out the trash, pleasing your supervisor, accommodating the children, or confused about what to do in general.
Let me tell you, when you draw close to Him, you can tap into His power, strength, peace, protection and love. Now that's some amazing and wonderful blessing to bestow. So, schedule time each day to meditate on His Word and on other writings that challenge you spiritually. Then you'll see as you focus on God's priorities, your priorities will become clearer.
Song: Near to the Heart of God (by: Cleland B. McAfee)
There is a place of quiet rest, Near to the heart of God,
A place where sin cannot molest, Near to the heart of God.
Chorus: O Jesus, blest Redeemer, Sent from the heart of God,
Hold us who wait before Thee Near to the heart of God
There is a place of full release, Near to the heart of God,
A place where all is joy and peace, Near to the heart of God
How can you make time for God in your busy schedule?
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint. - Isaiah 40:29-31 (NIV)
Some of us at are our wits end by the time the day is really over. Yet we try to cram more things (stuff) into it. I know I do. It's like I have to do more because it's expected of me. Thus leading to total exhaustion and frustration.
One of the best ways to reduce burnout is to take time out to be close to God. Wow. Taking time out to be close to God should be our number one thing each day. Yet, how many of you are doing that very thing? Let's use the analogy of a candle. When you're burning the candle at both ends, it goes until it poofs out by itself. This is you neglecting your time with God because you were too into other things (taking out the trash, pleasing your supervisor, accommodating the children, or confused about what to do in general.
Let me tell you, when you draw close to Him, you can tap into His power, strength, peace, protection and love. Now that's some amazing and wonderful blessing to bestow. So, schedule time each day to meditate on His Word and on other writings that challenge you spiritually. Then you'll see as you focus on God's priorities, your priorities will become clearer.
Song: Near to the Heart of God (by: Cleland B. McAfee)
There is a place of quiet rest, Near to the heart of God,
A place where sin cannot molest, Near to the heart of God.
Chorus: O Jesus, blest Redeemer, Sent from the heart of God,
Hold us who wait before Thee Near to the heart of God
There is a place of full release, Near to the heart of God,
A place where all is joy and peace, Near to the heart of God
How can you make time for God in your busy schedule?
26 April 2009
Justice For All In God's Eyes
This is what the Lord says: "Give justice to all people, and do what is right, because my salvation will come to you soon. Soon everyone will know that I do what is right. The person who obeys the law about the Sabbath will be blessed, and the person who does no evil will be blessed. - Isaiah 56:1-2 (NCV)
Be just and fair to all. Do what is right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you and to display my righteousness among you. Blessed are all those who are careful to do this.
- Isaiah 56:1-2 (NLT)
Justice is important because it ensures fairness, equality, consistency, and equal opportunity to all. True justice eliminates politics, double standards, inequity, and oppression to name a few. Justice comes from the heart of God. As christians, we acknowledge many things come from the heart of God as we continue our journey in Him. And from God's heart He blesses people who are just. I think you all agree His blessings are very bountiful and rewarding to every person who receives them. Leaders who insist on justice, fairness, and equity in their followers or their organization will experience blessing from God. But remember, those blessings are meant to be shared just as Christ is meant to be shared with all.
Song: JUSTICE AND MERCY ( Isaiah 58, Psalm 40:3, James 1:27 )
Matt Redman
Lyrics:
You've put a new song in my mouth
It is a hymn of praise to You
Jus-tice and mercy are its theme
And I will live it back to You
The kind of fast You've chosen, Lord It must reach out
To broken lives and to the poor So change me, Lord
I know You are the orphan's hope
I know You are the widow's song
O Lord, You're showing me what's on You're heart ( Chorus )
Lord, I wont bring an empty song It's meaningless
Without compassion in my life And holiness
You're Father were no father lives
And to the lonely You're a friend
O Lord, You're showing me what's on You're heart ( Chorus )
I know You are the orphan's hope
I know You are the widow's song
You're Father were no father lives
And to the lonely You're a friend
O Lord, You're showing me what's on You're heart ( Chorus )
Is justice essential in your leadership?
Be just and fair to all. Do what is right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you and to display my righteousness among you. Blessed are all those who are careful to do this.
- Isaiah 56:1-2 (NLT)
Justice is important because it ensures fairness, equality, consistency, and equal opportunity to all. True justice eliminates politics, double standards, inequity, and oppression to name a few. Justice comes from the heart of God. As christians, we acknowledge many things come from the heart of God as we continue our journey in Him. And from God's heart He blesses people who are just. I think you all agree His blessings are very bountiful and rewarding to every person who receives them. Leaders who insist on justice, fairness, and equity in their followers or their organization will experience blessing from God. But remember, those blessings are meant to be shared just as Christ is meant to be shared with all.
Song: JUSTICE AND MERCY ( Isaiah 58, Psalm 40:3, James 1:27 )
Matt Redman
Lyrics:
You've put a new song in my mouth
It is a hymn of praise to You
Jus-tice and mercy are its theme
And I will live it back to You
The kind of fast You've chosen, Lord It must reach out
To broken lives and to the poor So change me, Lord
I know You are the orphan's hope
I know You are the widow's song
O Lord, You're showing me what's on You're heart ( Chorus )
Lord, I wont bring an empty song It's meaningless
Without compassion in my life And holiness
You're Father were no father lives
And to the lonely You're a friend
O Lord, You're showing me what's on You're heart ( Chorus )
I know You are the orphan's hope
I know You are the widow's song
You're Father were no father lives
And to the lonely You're a friend
O Lord, You're showing me what's on You're heart ( Chorus )
Is justice essential in your leadership?
24 April 2009
Confession Is Always Good For The Soul
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to clease us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:10-11
I've heard people say, "Confession is good for the soul." I agree. In addition to that how are you confessing and to whom? Are you a person who feels/thinks/believes you have to confess in front of others? Or is confessing to God more important?
Let's define confession.
Confession: to acknowledge or avow by way of revelation; to own or admit as true; to declare or acknowledge one's sins especially to God or a priest in order to obtain absolution; to reveal by circumstances
Confession is both acknowledging guilt and proclaiming allegiance to Jesus Christ. The key concept is acknowledging and proclaiming allegiance TO Jesus Christ. Therefore, confession is integral to our onward journey in Christ. How? It brings us closer to God. We are freed from sin, and will be identified as a "true" follower of Jesus. It is also a necessary part of knowing God, knowing others, and allowing others to know you.
Is confession an important part of your leadership style?
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:10-11
I've heard people say, "Confession is good for the soul." I agree. In addition to that how are you confessing and to whom? Are you a person who feels/thinks/believes you have to confess in front of others? Or is confessing to God more important?
Let's define confession.
Confession: to acknowledge or avow by way of revelation; to own or admit as true; to declare or acknowledge one's sins especially to God or a priest in order to obtain absolution; to reveal by circumstances
Confession is both acknowledging guilt and proclaiming allegiance to Jesus Christ. The key concept is acknowledging and proclaiming allegiance TO Jesus Christ. Therefore, confession is integral to our onward journey in Christ. How? It brings us closer to God. We are freed from sin, and will be identified as a "true" follower of Jesus. It is also a necessary part of knowing God, knowing others, and allowing others to know you.
Is confession an important part of your leadership style?
18 April 2009
Pride Destroys Your Personal Relationship With Others and God
The greatest person in the kingdom of heaven is the one who makes himself humble like this child. - Matthew 18:4 (NCV)
Whoever then may humble himself as this child, he is the greater in the reign of the heavens. - Matthew 18:4 (Young's Literal Translation)
Let's take a brief look at your day-to-day life. Oh, and be totally honest with yourself. Who or what do you truly honor, worship? How do you worship? What does it mean to honor others? What does it mean to honor God? You may be surprised, embarrassed, or even angry at the true and real answer you provide. I know that I don't always honor others in a way that is pleasing God. I allow pride to get in the way. We all do from time to time, but when we continue to do it ... that is sin. And sin is no where near pleasing God. In fact, He abhors sin.
How can you stop? Within another message, I mentioned a few things like:
1. You have to recognize your fault (identify) 2. You have to face it head-on (accept and confront) 3. You have to humble yourself (vulnerable to others through God) 4. You have to admit it to someone else (demonstrate God's love)
Well, you have to do the same thing and adding confession/repentance to God.
You see, the less you seek to honor yourself, the more God will honor and bless you. Pride builds barriers that keep God out of your life. If you're like me, you want to keep God IN your life. It's very important. The Word says, "abide in me and I will abide you". A valuable asset.
Humility opens the way for God to work in you because it makes you willing to seek His help and honor Him for it. We should all be seeking God first in Matthew 6:33 it reads: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV). Pride reaches no further than your own ego. That like saying, "I trust you as far as I can throw you". Humility is true greatness because its effects reach into the Kingdom of Heaven, and that is so much more rewarding than a bruise.
Song: Pride
by Jeremy Camp
Every single word I say
You know it before I speak
You know every thought
The deepest part of me
You draw me closer than I see
Your presence is every thing I need to be
The child that you've created me to be
I'm ready now to see it your way
I lay down my pride
My desires my demise
I'm ready now to see it your way
I'm done I'm thru ignoring you now it's true
I'm kneeling at the cross of your grace
Lay down my pride
I was faced with passing time
But I knew the choice was mine
To finally come to you
And give you all control
I've wandered miles to find my way
And then you revealed this simple faith
I know that you can see the secrets of my soul
The cross the blood you shed for me
Your back was ripped and bruised
So I can know your love
I kneel I bow to you my kind
Are you too proud to pursue what God says is true greatness?
Whoever then may humble himself as this child, he is the greater in the reign of the heavens. - Matthew 18:4 (Young's Literal Translation)
Let's take a brief look at your day-to-day life. Oh, and be totally honest with yourself. Who or what do you truly honor, worship? How do you worship? What does it mean to honor others? What does it mean to honor God? You may be surprised, embarrassed, or even angry at the true and real answer you provide. I know that I don't always honor others in a way that is pleasing God. I allow pride to get in the way. We all do from time to time, but when we continue to do it ... that is sin. And sin is no where near pleasing God. In fact, He abhors sin.
How can you stop? Within another message, I mentioned a few things like:
1. You have to recognize your fault (identify) 2. You have to face it head-on (accept and confront) 3. You have to humble yourself (vulnerable to others through God) 4. You have to admit it to someone else (demonstrate God's love)
Well, you have to do the same thing and adding confession/repentance to God.
You see, the less you seek to honor yourself, the more God will honor and bless you. Pride builds barriers that keep God out of your life. If you're like me, you want to keep God IN your life. It's very important. The Word says, "abide in me and I will abide you". A valuable asset.
Humility opens the way for God to work in you because it makes you willing to seek His help and honor Him for it. We should all be seeking God first in Matthew 6:33 it reads: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV). Pride reaches no further than your own ego. That like saying, "I trust you as far as I can throw you". Humility is true greatness because its effects reach into the Kingdom of Heaven, and that is so much more rewarding than a bruise.
Song: Pride
by Jeremy Camp
Every single word I say
You know it before I speak
You know every thought
The deepest part of me
You draw me closer than I see
Your presence is every thing I need to be
The child that you've created me to be
I'm ready now to see it your way
I lay down my pride
My desires my demise
I'm ready now to see it your way
I'm done I'm thru ignoring you now it's true
I'm kneeling at the cross of your grace
Lay down my pride
I was faced with passing time
But I knew the choice was mine
To finally come to you
And give you all control
I've wandered miles to find my way
And then you revealed this simple faith
I know that you can see the secrets of my soul
The cross the blood you shed for me
Your back was ripped and bruised
So I can know your love
I kneel I bow to you my kind
Are you too proud to pursue what God says is true greatness?
11 April 2009
Apologizing Brings Healing
People who cover over their sins will not prosper. But if they confess
and forsake them, they will receive mercy. Blessed are those who have a
tender conscience, but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble. -
Proverbs 28:13-14 (NLT)
If you hide your sins, you will not succeed. If you confess and reject
them, you will receive mercy. Those who are always respectful will be
happy, but those who are stubborn will get into trouble. - Proverbs
28:13-14 (NCV)
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and
renounces them finds mercy. Blessed is the man who always fears the
LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble. - Proverbs
28:13-14 (NIV)
Sometimes we wait our whole life it seems for someone to say sorry to
us. I've learned waiting for that apology is called patience. You may
laugh, but really think about that. There's truth in it. I'll prove it
by "flipping the script".
Saying "I'm sorry" for something you have done wrong is one of the most
difficult things to do for several reasons.
1. You have to recognize your fault (identify)
2. You have to face it head-on (accept and confront)
3. You have to humble yourself (vulnerable to others through God)
4. You have to admit it to someone else (demonstrate God's love)
Now put those same shoes back on. It is a trying, humbling, patient
process to apologize. How do you go about it? Offering a simple
apology demonstrates that you are willing to open the door to healing
and blessing. Now who doesn't want healing from a painful situation?
And most certainly, everyone should want a blessing, especially a
blessing from God.
If you want to experience peace and growth in your relationships with
family, friends, coworkers, or God Himself, then do something. Start by
practicing this: admitting you are wrong. It will not only help you
reach a new level of trust and respect; it will pose as a powerful
example to others. What example? A Godly example.
Song: Sorry
By Shawn McDonald
There I go talking again letting my mouth get ahead of me
In front of my mind o I said things unkind and I'm sorry for
For the way that I've treating you
Yes I'm sorry for, for what I said
I never meant to hurt you, I'm sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
O I'm sorry
A Godly man is what I'm longing to be
I see the devil inside of me
This is the reason this is the reason why I need a savior, I need a God
I never meant to hurt you, I'm sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
O I'm sorry
I am imperfect X3
I never meant to hurt you I'm sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I am sorry for what I said
I'm sorry, so sorry, so sorry
O I'm sorry, I'm sorry X3
For what I said
Is there someone you need to apologize to? How might your apology
benefit both of you?
and forsake them, they will receive mercy. Blessed are those who have a
tender conscience, but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble. -
Proverbs 28:13-14 (NLT)
If you hide your sins, you will not succeed. If you confess and reject
them, you will receive mercy. Those who are always respectful will be
happy, but those who are stubborn will get into trouble. - Proverbs
28:13-14 (NCV)
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and
renounces them finds mercy. Blessed is the man who always fears the
LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble. - Proverbs
28:13-14 (NIV)
Sometimes we wait our whole life it seems for someone to say sorry to
us. I've learned waiting for that apology is called patience. You may
laugh, but really think about that. There's truth in it. I'll prove it
by "flipping the script".
Saying "I'm sorry" for something you have done wrong is one of the most
difficult things to do for several reasons.
1. You have to recognize your fault (identify)
2. You have to face it head-on (accept and confront)
3. You have to humble yourself (vulnerable to others through God)
4. You have to admit it to someone else (demonstrate God's love)
Now put those same shoes back on. It is a trying, humbling, patient
process to apologize. How do you go about it? Offering a simple
apology demonstrates that you are willing to open the door to healing
and blessing. Now who doesn't want healing from a painful situation?
And most certainly, everyone should want a blessing, especially a
blessing from God.
If you want to experience peace and growth in your relationships with
family, friends, coworkers, or God Himself, then do something. Start by
practicing this: admitting you are wrong. It will not only help you
reach a new level of trust and respect; it will pose as a powerful
example to others. What example? A Godly example.
Song: Sorry
By Shawn McDonald
There I go talking again letting my mouth get ahead of me
In front of my mind o I said things unkind and I'm sorry for
For the way that I've treating you
Yes I'm sorry for, for what I said
I never meant to hurt you, I'm sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
O I'm sorry
A Godly man is what I'm longing to be
I see the devil inside of me
This is the reason this is the reason why I need a savior, I need a God
I never meant to hurt you, I'm sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
O I'm sorry
I am imperfect X3
I never meant to hurt you I'm sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I never meant to hurt you, so sorry
I am sorry for what I said
I'm sorry, so sorry, so sorry
O I'm sorry, I'm sorry X3
For what I said
Is there someone you need to apologize to? How might your apology
benefit both of you?
08 April 2009
Obedience to God is Fulfilling and Productive
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands
in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his
delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and
night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings
forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither and whatever
he does shall prosper. - Psalm 1:1-3 (NKJV)
How can I make my life count where it matters the most? Obedience is the way
to a fulfilling and productive life.
There's two things you have to do while being obedient:
1. Obey God
2. Obey God's Word
When these two things are done, you will have a clear conscience and an
uninterrupted fellowship with Him. For a few seconds, imagine an
uninterrupted fellowship with God. That means no distractions from work,
emails, text messages, sidebar conversations, and et cetera. Wow! How many
of you have longed for that? Then strive for it.
You see, when you are closely connected to God many things will occur.
1. You will honor and respect others
2. You will want to work with them rather than against them
3. Then you will be spending your time and energy on the things that last,
the things God values.
That is how obedience will bring you joy. Funny how that works huh?
Poem about obedience:
"God bade me go when I would stay ('twas cool within the wood); I did not
know the reason why. I heard a boulder crashing by, across the path just
where I stood.
"He bade me stay when I would go; "Thy will be done!", I said. They found
one day at early dawn, across the way I would have gone, a serpent with a
mangled head!
"No more I ask the reason why, although I may not see, the path ahead, His
way I go; for though I know not, He doth know, and He will choose safe paths
for me." --Sunday School Times
Song: Master, speak! Thy servant heareth.
Master, speak! Thy servant heareth,
Waiting for Thy gracious word,
Longing for Thy voice that cheereth
Master, let it now be heard.
I am list'ning, Lord, for Thee;
What hast Thou to say to me?
Often through my heart is pealing
Many another voice than Thine,
Many an unwilled echo stealing
From the walls of this Thy shrine.
Let Thy longed-for accents fall;
Master, speak! and silence all.
Master, speak! though least and lowest,
Let me not unheard depart;
Master, speak! for oh, Thou knowest
All the yearning of my heart.
Knowest all its truest need;
Speak! and make me blest indeed.
Master, speak! and make me ready,
When Thy voice is truly heard,
With obedience glad and steady,
Still to follow every word
I am listening, Lord, for Thee:
Master, speak, oh, speak to me!
Speak to me by name, O Master,
Let me know it is to me;
Speak, that I may follow faster,
With a step more firm and free,
Where the Shepherd leads the flock
In the shadow of the Rock!
How might you be filled with joy as you obey God today?
in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his
delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and
night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings
forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither and whatever
he does shall prosper. - Psalm 1:1-3 (NKJV)
How can I make my life count where it matters the most? Obedience is the way
to a fulfilling and productive life.
There's two things you have to do while being obedient:
1. Obey God
2. Obey God's Word
When these two things are done, you will have a clear conscience and an
uninterrupted fellowship with Him. For a few seconds, imagine an
uninterrupted fellowship with God. That means no distractions from work,
emails, text messages, sidebar conversations, and et cetera. Wow! How many
of you have longed for that? Then strive for it.
You see, when you are closely connected to God many things will occur.
1. You will honor and respect others
2. You will want to work with them rather than against them
3. Then you will be spending your time and energy on the things that last,
the things God values.
That is how obedience will bring you joy. Funny how that works huh?
Poem about obedience:
"God bade me go when I would stay ('twas cool within the wood); I did not
know the reason why. I heard a boulder crashing by, across the path just
where I stood.
"He bade me stay when I would go; "Thy will be done!", I said. They found
one day at early dawn, across the way I would have gone, a serpent with a
mangled head!
"No more I ask the reason why, although I may not see, the path ahead, His
way I go; for though I know not, He doth know, and He will choose safe paths
for me." --Sunday School Times
Song: Master, speak! Thy servant heareth.
Master, speak! Thy servant heareth,
Waiting for Thy gracious word,
Longing for Thy voice that cheereth
Master, let it now be heard.
I am list'ning, Lord, for Thee;
What hast Thou to say to me?
Often through my heart is pealing
Many another voice than Thine,
Many an unwilled echo stealing
From the walls of this Thy shrine.
Let Thy longed-for accents fall;
Master, speak! and silence all.
Master, speak! though least and lowest,
Let me not unheard depart;
Master, speak! for oh, Thou knowest
All the yearning of my heart.
Knowest all its truest need;
Speak! and make me blest indeed.
Master, speak! and make me ready,
When Thy voice is truly heard,
With obedience glad and steady,
Still to follow every word
I am listening, Lord, for Thee:
Master, speak, oh, speak to me!
Speak to me by name, O Master,
Let me know it is to me;
Speak, that I may follow faster,
With a step more firm and free,
Where the Shepherd leads the flock
In the shadow of the Rock!
How might you be filled with joy as you obey God today?
03 April 2009
Creativity Designed By God Is Truly Artistic
The heavens proclaim the lory of God. The skies display His craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak, night after night they make Him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth and their words to al the world. - Psalm 19:1-4
God is many things to many people. But did you know that God ... OUR ... God the creator is a God of design, color, plan, organization, beauty, magnificence, and orderliness. You knew that already didn't you? He's also the finest model of craftsmanship. I think that is awesome in itself! That very same artistic skill is found in the creation of the universe.
What is creativity? Wikipedia defines creativity as a mental and social process involving the generation of new ideas or concepts, or new associations of the creative mind between existing ideas or concepts. It goes on to say, creativity has been attributed variously to divine intervention, cognitive processes, the social environment, personality traits, and chance ("accident", "serendipity").
Spiritually, creativity is the overflow of a heart and mind filled with the good things of God. Again, it is the good things of God. If you need a little inspiration or motivation, try filling your heart and mind with the creative wonders of God. See how it inspires you to find new and fresh ways to express yourself that is pleasing to God in every way and fashion.
Song: God Of Wonders
Lord of all creation
of water earth and sky
The heavens are your Tabernacle
Glory to the Lord on high
Chorus:
God of wonders beyond our galaxy
You are Holy, Holy
The universe declares your Majesty
And you are holy holy
Lord of Heaven and Earth
Lord of Heaven and Earth
Early in the morning
I will celebrate the light
When i stumble in the darkness
I will call your name by night
chrous
lord of heaven and earth
lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the lord of heaven and earth (repeate 3 times)
holy......holy....holy god.....
Chorus
Precious lord reveal your love to me....
Father holy..
(backround)...Lord god almighty...
The "universe" declares your majesty
"you are" holy,holy,holy,holy
Halleujah to the lord of heaven and earth 9x
How can the workmanship of God spark your own creativity?
God is many things to many people. But did you know that God ... OUR ... God the creator is a God of design, color, plan, organization, beauty, magnificence, and orderliness. You knew that already didn't you? He's also the finest model of craftsmanship. I think that is awesome in itself! That very same artistic skill is found in the creation of the universe.
What is creativity? Wikipedia defines creativity as a mental and social process involving the generation of new ideas or concepts, or new associations of the creative mind between existing ideas or concepts. It goes on to say, creativity has been attributed variously to divine intervention, cognitive processes, the social environment, personality traits, and chance ("accident", "serendipity").
Spiritually, creativity is the overflow of a heart and mind filled with the good things of God. Again, it is the good things of God. If you need a little inspiration or motivation, try filling your heart and mind with the creative wonders of God. See how it inspires you to find new and fresh ways to express yourself that is pleasing to God in every way and fashion.
Song: God Of Wonders
Lord of all creation
of water earth and sky
The heavens are your Tabernacle
Glory to the Lord on high
Chorus:
God of wonders beyond our galaxy
You are Holy, Holy
The universe declares your Majesty
And you are holy holy
Lord of Heaven and Earth
Lord of Heaven and Earth
Early in the morning
I will celebrate the light
When i stumble in the darkness
I will call your name by night
chrous
lord of heaven and earth
lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the lord of heaven and earth (repeate 3 times)
holy......holy....holy god.....
Chorus
Precious lord reveal your love to me....
Father holy..
(backround)...Lord god almighty...
The "universe" declares your majesty
"you are" holy,holy,holy,holy
Halleujah to the lord of heaven and earth 9x
How can the workmanship of God spark your own creativity?
28 March 2009
Understanding God's Patience And Losing Our Own
Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that He has promised.
- Hebrews 10:36
You must hold on, so you can do what God wants and receive what He has promised. - Hebrews 10:36 (New Century Version)
I recall a time when I was new in Christ and prayed for patience. It wasn't what I expected. I was thinking everything would be beautiful. Yet, everything was not. I was tired by the time 24 hours rolled around. I was frantic, confused, and angry all at the same time. Then the mother of the church told me, "Melissa...you have experienced patience. God's patience." I have to admit, I don't pray for patience anymore. LOL! I do pray for Godly wisdom and strength to do God's will daily. Coincidentally, I am understanding and appreciating patience all the more.
Did you know it takes patience do God's will. Of course you did. You do it everyday when you go to work, take care of the kids, drive on the road, and executing tasks your chain of command wants done immediately. In fact, you can't do God's will without patience because God's will doesn't happen all at once. No it really doesn't. When does it happen? It unfolds over time. I like to think of it as a time release capsule if you will. You don't know when it is, it just is. And it isn't a mystery, it is God at work.
As you pass each test of your faith, you will develop patience for when God asks you to take the next step of faith. Now that is the total shock for me. That next step of faith seems to be right around the corner especially when I don't want to. You know what I mean? I need to get to my appointment (30 minutes away) and there seems to be traffic ahead at the Monitor Merrimac Bridge Tunnel in VA. I couldn't get around or anything. I called the doctor's office and couldn't get through the first few times. I was concerned because it was one of those things I needed to do before I deploy to Afghanistan. I began to pray about it and then there was this ease. Traffic started moving, and there was an accident on the other side. Had I been impatient by taking matters into my own hands or on time, I could have been involved in that accident. My phone coverage worked and I called the doctor. The secretary told me all was well and that they were behind schedule. Wow.
Are you like that? First you trust that God will handle the situation, but when His solution seems slow in coming, you decide that God needs a bit of help. We all are from time to time. Point is, instead of rushing ahead, you must learn to trust God completely, even if it means having to wait. So, to all my friends in Afghanistan ... your time to redeploy will happen in God's time, and His time is all always right.
Song: Patience (Dream Girls Soundtrack)
I know you have questions
same ones as me
how long has it been
how long will it be
when will come the mornin
we'll drive the night away
tell me when will come the mornin
of a brighter day
yeah
woah patience
little sister
patience
little brother
patience, patience yeah
take eachother by the hand
yeah yeah
woah
patience
little sisters
patience
little brothers
let us walk together yeah
to the promise land
yeah
There's a river
to cross
And a mountain to climb
Patience, patience
its gonna take some time
yeah
We must walk
in peace
its the only, only way yes
If we wanna see that morning
of a brighter day
Patience little sister
Patience little brother
Patience patience
we're gonna find a way
Patience little sisters
Patience little brothers
Until the morn of a brighter day
woah patience till the the brighter day
woah patience till the brighter day
come on come on come on sing it
gotta have some patience
Do you have the patience to let God's will unfold one day at a time?
- Hebrews 10:36
You must hold on, so you can do what God wants and receive what He has promised. - Hebrews 10:36 (New Century Version)
I recall a time when I was new in Christ and prayed for patience. It wasn't what I expected. I was thinking everything would be beautiful. Yet, everything was not. I was tired by the time 24 hours rolled around. I was frantic, confused, and angry all at the same time. Then the mother of the church told me, "Melissa...you have experienced patience. God's patience." I have to admit, I don't pray for patience anymore. LOL! I do pray for Godly wisdom and strength to do God's will daily. Coincidentally, I am understanding and appreciating patience all the more.
Did you know it takes patience do God's will. Of course you did. You do it everyday when you go to work, take care of the kids, drive on the road, and executing tasks your chain of command wants done immediately. In fact, you can't do God's will without patience because God's will doesn't happen all at once. No it really doesn't. When does it happen? It unfolds over time. I like to think of it as a time release capsule if you will. You don't know when it is, it just is. And it isn't a mystery, it is God at work.
As you pass each test of your faith, you will develop patience for when God asks you to take the next step of faith. Now that is the total shock for me. That next step of faith seems to be right around the corner especially when I don't want to. You know what I mean? I need to get to my appointment (30 minutes away) and there seems to be traffic ahead at the Monitor Merrimac Bridge Tunnel in VA. I couldn't get around or anything. I called the doctor's office and couldn't get through the first few times. I was concerned because it was one of those things I needed to do before I deploy to Afghanistan. I began to pray about it and then there was this ease. Traffic started moving, and there was an accident on the other side. Had I been impatient by taking matters into my own hands or on time, I could have been involved in that accident. My phone coverage worked and I called the doctor. The secretary told me all was well and that they were behind schedule. Wow.
Are you like that? First you trust that God will handle the situation, but when His solution seems slow in coming, you decide that God needs a bit of help. We all are from time to time. Point is, instead of rushing ahead, you must learn to trust God completely, even if it means having to wait. So, to all my friends in Afghanistan ... your time to redeploy will happen in God's time, and His time is all always right.
Song: Patience (Dream Girls Soundtrack)
I know you have questions
same ones as me
how long has it been
how long will it be
when will come the mornin
we'll drive the night away
tell me when will come the mornin
of a brighter day
yeah
woah patience
little sister
patience
little brother
patience, patience yeah
take eachother by the hand
yeah yeah
woah
patience
little sisters
patience
little brothers
let us walk together yeah
to the promise land
yeah
There's a river
to cross
And a mountain to climb
Patience, patience
its gonna take some time
yeah
We must walk
in peace
its the only, only way yes
If we wanna see that morning
of a brighter day
Patience little sister
Patience little brother
Patience patience
we're gonna find a way
Patience little sisters
Patience little brothers
Until the morn of a brighter day
woah patience till the the brighter day
woah patience till the brighter day
come on come on come on sing it
gotta have some patience
Do you have the patience to let God's will unfold one day at a time?
The Blessed Assurance Of Our Master
Listen to the Lord who created you..."Don't be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you."
- Isaiah 43:1-2
How many of you have been in situations that seemed to test your very soul, spirit, and heart? Of course, we all have. How did you make it through? Was the confidence in Christ that He would work it out? Was it your mother or grandmother praying over you? Was it when you realized you couldn't do it alone? Or was it all these things and more? I would have to say, it was me hitting rock bottom. I don't mean I was down and out. I mean, I was literally at Jesus' feet crying to Him. One day in particular I had it rough (more so than any other day). I was a single parent and struggling inside. I got tired of trying to make things work (temporarily), and blamed God for not listening to my prayer. Truth is .. He heard me, but I wasn't giving Him anything to work with or in return. I figured I could do whatever and follow Him second. Well, that didn't go too far. I had to seek Him first, accept His will for me, and "truly" believe in what in He needed me to be for Autumn. Isn't that something, how God reveals Himself to you while you're looking in the mirror at yourself.
What I am saying? The circumstances of your life cannot separate you from God. YOU are the sole owner to that circumstance and all it entails. In other words, your hard times don't get in God's way. Your easy times don't get in God's way either. Nonetheless, those hard times are when God's promises to be with you is most clearly revealed through His infinite love and care for you. And for the easy times, remember to give God thanks as well. What we truly need to know is that God is always there ... all you have to do is call, believe, and have hope.
Song: Blessed Assurance
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.
Refrain
This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.
2
Perfect submission, perfect delight,
visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
angels descending bring from above
echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
3
Perfect submission, all is at rest;
I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with his goodness, lost in his love
When tough times come, are you sure that God is right beside you?
- Isaiah 43:1-2
How many of you have been in situations that seemed to test your very soul, spirit, and heart? Of course, we all have. How did you make it through? Was the confidence in Christ that He would work it out? Was it your mother or grandmother praying over you? Was it when you realized you couldn't do it alone? Or was it all these things and more? I would have to say, it was me hitting rock bottom. I don't mean I was down and out. I mean, I was literally at Jesus' feet crying to Him. One day in particular I had it rough (more so than any other day). I was a single parent and struggling inside. I got tired of trying to make things work (temporarily), and blamed God for not listening to my prayer. Truth is .. He heard me, but I wasn't giving Him anything to work with or in return. I figured I could do whatever and follow Him second. Well, that didn't go too far. I had to seek Him first, accept His will for me, and "truly" believe in what in He needed me to be for Autumn. Isn't that something, how God reveals Himself to you while you're looking in the mirror at yourself.
What I am saying? The circumstances of your life cannot separate you from God. YOU are the sole owner to that circumstance and all it entails. In other words, your hard times don't get in God's way. Your easy times don't get in God's way either. Nonetheless, those hard times are when God's promises to be with you is most clearly revealed through His infinite love and care for you. And for the easy times, remember to give God thanks as well. What we truly need to know is that God is always there ... all you have to do is call, believe, and have hope.
Song: Blessed Assurance
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.
Refrain
This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.
2
Perfect submission, perfect delight,
visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
angels descending bring from above
echoes of mercy, whispers of love.
3
Perfect submission, all is at rest;
I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with his goodness, lost in his love
When tough times come, are you sure that God is right beside you?
15 March 2009
Your Excuses Can't Keep You From God's Calling
"Lord," Gideon replied, "how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" The Lord said to him, "I will be with you." - Judges 6:15-16
Gideon thought he had a good excuse to get out of serving God. But the qualifications God looks for are different from what we might expect. Look at what service you are doing for God now in Afghanistan. Look at what your significant other is doing at home right now too. He often chooses the least likely people to do His work in order to demonstrate His power more effectively. Remember the Christmas Candlelight service? The local media was there to cover the event, and we are in a country where serving our God is...let's face it odd/different/politically insain. See how wonderful God is! He continues to move and make a way out of no way.
If you know God has called you to do something (preach, teach, lead the choir, change jobs, stand up for Him), stop trying to excuse yourself. He promises to give you the help and strength you need to get the job done.
Song: I'm Not Tired Yet
by Mississippi Mass Choir
Been working for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet)
Been running for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet)
Been working for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet) Repeat
Been singing for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet) Repeat
Been running by day and praying by night
(I'm not tired yet)
I've gotta get going it's a mighty hard fight
(I'm not tired yet)
No,
(No, I'm not tired yet) (4x)
Are you making excuses to get out of something God wants you to do?
Gideon thought he had a good excuse to get out of serving God. But the qualifications God looks for are different from what we might expect. Look at what service you are doing for God now in Afghanistan. Look at what your significant other is doing at home right now too. He often chooses the least likely people to do His work in order to demonstrate His power more effectively. Remember the Christmas Candlelight service? The local media was there to cover the event, and we are in a country where serving our God is...let's face it odd/different/politically insain. See how wonderful God is! He continues to move and make a way out of no way.
If you know God has called you to do something (preach, teach, lead the choir, change jobs, stand up for Him), stop trying to excuse yourself. He promises to give you the help and strength you need to get the job done.
Song: I'm Not Tired Yet
by Mississippi Mass Choir
Been working for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet)
Been running for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet)
Been working for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet) Repeat
Been singing for Jesus a long time
(I'm not tired yet) Repeat
Been running by day and praying by night
(I'm not tired yet)
I've gotta get going it's a mighty hard fight
(I'm not tired yet)
No,
(No, I'm not tired yet) (4x)
Are you making excuses to get out of something God wants you to do?
13 March 2009
Fond Words
Well the time has come for me to head home. I had a very memorable time while in Kabul, Afghanistan.
I made many friends. I grew spiritually and administered to many service members, contractors, and countless others.
As I take a few days to decompress, meditate, and reflect on all the challenges, headaches, joyous times, and service, I will continue to encourage others because that keeps me encouraged.
This is not the end to my blogs, but the beginning of something new ... God in me ever more.
My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever.
Psalm 73:26
I made many friends. I grew spiritually and administered to many service members, contractors, and countless others.
As I take a few days to decompress, meditate, and reflect on all the challenges, headaches, joyous times, and service, I will continue to encourage others because that keeps me encouraged.
This is not the end to my blogs, but the beginning of something new ... God in me ever more.
My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever.
Psalm 73:26
02 March 2009
The Promise of a Lifetime
As long as the earth endures,
seedtime and harvest,
cold and heat,
summer and winter,
day and night
will never cease.
Genesis 8:22
As I begin to blog this morning in Afghanistan, the rain is pounding down hard. I don't recall a time while here that the rain poured so heavily.
I can remember as a child, I loved playing in the rain (stomping in the puddles) and hated the after effects of the rain. It was the worms that would surface and I was terrified. I remember telling my mother, "I'm afraid of the snakes." And like most mothers in their calm, steady voice would say, "Melissa, those are not snakes. They are worms." That really didn't do anything for me; however, she obviously knew more about it than I did. What was it about? I would I have to find out later in Sunday school.
It was the story about Noah and the ark. As I child, I focused on the animals and his family. Then as I grew, I focused on the people who were stubborn and foolish. Until one day, I got it. It was about a promise. Not just any promise, it was God's promise. And that caught my attention.
The promise God made with Noah. And to my knowledge has never been broken. Of course not, we're talking about God here and not man. What a blessing!
So even now that I'm 40 years old, I like singing, dancing and stomping in the rain. And I still chuckle when I think about my childhood of the rainy days. Don't get me wrong, I see the little worms wiggle about and I have to look up so as not to see them when I walk along my way ... squish ... makes me cringe. I think they are disgusting, yet they have a purpose and were made by God. I digress, it's the part after the rain I love the best. Do you know what I'm talking about? Let me tell you. I look forward to seeing the promise ... the rainbow. It symbolizes so many things to many people, and yet it is the symbol for one true thing. A promise of life.
There is another rainbow I look forward to seeing too. Jesus. He's the ultimate promise of a lifetime that will never cease.
So the next time you are out in the rain, rejoice and stand/dance/sing/shout on the promises of God.
seedtime and harvest,
cold and heat,
summer and winter,
day and night
will never cease.
Genesis 8:22
As I begin to blog this morning in Afghanistan, the rain is pounding down hard. I don't recall a time while here that the rain poured so heavily.
I can remember as a child, I loved playing in the rain (stomping in the puddles) and hated the after effects of the rain. It was the worms that would surface and I was terrified. I remember telling my mother, "I'm afraid of the snakes." And like most mothers in their calm, steady voice would say, "Melissa, those are not snakes. They are worms." That really didn't do anything for me; however, she obviously knew more about it than I did. What was it about? I would I have to find out later in Sunday school.
It was the story about Noah and the ark. As I child, I focused on the animals and his family. Then as I grew, I focused on the people who were stubborn and foolish. Until one day, I got it. It was about a promise. Not just any promise, it was God's promise. And that caught my attention.
The promise God made with Noah. And to my knowledge has never been broken. Of course not, we're talking about God here and not man. What a blessing!
So even now that I'm 40 years old, I like singing, dancing and stomping in the rain. And I still chuckle when I think about my childhood of the rainy days. Don't get me wrong, I see the little worms wiggle about and I have to look up so as not to see them when I walk along my way ... squish ... makes me cringe. I think they are disgusting, yet they have a purpose and were made by God. I digress, it's the part after the rain I love the best. Do you know what I'm talking about? Let me tell you. I look forward to seeing the promise ... the rainbow. It symbolizes so many things to many people, and yet it is the symbol for one true thing. A promise of life.
There is another rainbow I look forward to seeing too. Jesus. He's the ultimate promise of a lifetime that will never cease.
So the next time you are out in the rain, rejoice and stand/dance/sing/shout on the promises of God.
23 February 2009
Where's The Focus If You're Distracted?
Anyone who wanders away from this teaching has no relationship with God. But anyone who remains in the teaching of Christ has a relationship with both the Father and the Son. - 2 John 1:9
If you don't focus on the road when you're driving, you risk running off of it, putting your life and others in great danger. Like you didn't know that already, right? Therefore, in the same way, if you don't focus on the path clearly mapped out for you in God's Word, you risk drifting off the road that will lead you safely to life's most important destination. How do we do that?
1. By being careful to focus on the truths you read in Scripture. We try to justify our actions by reading half the passage and trying to apply to our lives and reasoning. We also take for granted those telling us the scripture/passage is reading it exactly. It is very important to read it for yourselves too and to study it.
2. By listening to godly wisdom. How do we listen? We ask God to give us godly wisdom. We ask Him to open our eyes, ears and heart spiritually before we read the Bible, taking on tasks, beginning our day, lying down to rest at night, going into worship and the list could go on.
Paying attention to the caution signs your heavenly Father gives you will ensure safer travel on your journey through life.
Song:
Don't let the devil fool you
Don't let him change your mind
Cause if you let him fool you
He'll surely change your mind
Poem: Focus
Am I focusing on the Saviour
Who was heaven sent
Or am I bogged down with details
Of every day events
When I'm in a dither
And know not what to do
Do I focus on the cross
And keep on trudging through
Do I stop to think
Of all I have to suffer
That it does not begin to measure up
To the Saviour's bitter cup
So, I'll just keep on trying
And when heaven I have won
After all else
Has been said and done
I'll be glad
I set my focus on the Son.
- Written By Catherine Crockett
How can you keep your "spiritual eyes" focused on the road in front of you?
If you don't focus on the road when you're driving, you risk running off of it, putting your life and others in great danger. Like you didn't know that already, right? Therefore, in the same way, if you don't focus on the path clearly mapped out for you in God's Word, you risk drifting off the road that will lead you safely to life's most important destination. How do we do that?
1. By being careful to focus on the truths you read in Scripture. We try to justify our actions by reading half the passage and trying to apply to our lives and reasoning. We also take for granted those telling us the scripture/passage is reading it exactly. It is very important to read it for yourselves too and to study it.
2. By listening to godly wisdom. How do we listen? We ask God to give us godly wisdom. We ask Him to open our eyes, ears and heart spiritually before we read the Bible, taking on tasks, beginning our day, lying down to rest at night, going into worship and the list could go on.
Paying attention to the caution signs your heavenly Father gives you will ensure safer travel on your journey through life.
Song:
Don't let the devil fool you
Don't let him change your mind
Cause if you let him fool you
He'll surely change your mind
Poem: Focus
Am I focusing on the Saviour
Who was heaven sent
Or am I bogged down with details
Of every day events
When I'm in a dither
And know not what to do
Do I focus on the cross
And keep on trudging through
Do I stop to think
Of all I have to suffer
That it does not begin to measure up
To the Saviour's bitter cup
So, I'll just keep on trying
And when heaven I have won
After all else
Has been said and done
I'll be glad
I set my focus on the Son.
- Written By Catherine Crockett
How can you keep your "spiritual eyes" focused on the road in front of you?
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