I love 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12! I think I have even mentioned it somewhere in the past here before, but it is the kind of passage that God brings to my heart often, and is continuously relevant in our lives.
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependant on anybody."
That is a telling passage. I know many people that love drama in their lives. I DON'T! I have had it before, and NOTHING good came from it. God has clearly shown me that a drama-free life is the only way to go, and this passage reminds me of that. This passage also reminds us that we should be focused on the things in front of us---not far off from us. If we are focused on the things that God has shown us should matter to us, then we more clearly hear him, and we DON'T worry about the world and the drama that are constantly trying to drag us down to them. The only thing that living any other way than this does for us is to allow distractions in that keep us from experiencing the very best that life has to offer.
What a great word...thanks God! You are my peace, my joy, and my strength!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Opinions...
Something most people have about most things. Opinions.
So why is it that most people also think that it is their place to share opinions that don't matter about issues that aren't theirs to worry about in the first place with other people that have no involvement whatsoever?
Just something I think about. And we are all guilty on some level at some point, so I am speaking to myself as well here.
Our tongues can be one of the most painful things to others if we aren't careful in how we use them.
So why is it that most people also think that it is their place to share opinions that don't matter about issues that aren't theirs to worry about in the first place with other people that have no involvement whatsoever?
Just something I think about. And we are all guilty on some level at some point, so I am speaking to myself as well here.
Our tongues can be one of the most painful things to others if we aren't careful in how we use them.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A lesson learned...
Proverbs 28:19
He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.
This is one TRUE verse. I can speak from experience!
Do to struggling finances in the past, I used to want to find ANY way possible to try to make a quick buck, or cash in on some quick opportunity. I felt like my heart was right, because it wasn't about greed as much as being comfortable and having plenty stored away. I spent most of my time thinking and pondering how to make this happen. Yet in the end, what God showed me was that HE is the supplier of my needs, and I have NEVER been without. He reminded me that by giving to him faithfully, and honoring the job he had me in, I would be successful. And I am here to tell you that he is so faithful to me in that. I don't have a ton, but I don't want a ton. Proverbs 30:8-9 is where I go to support that. I enjoy my simple life, and I don't want more things coming into it that can take away from the joy and peace that I have been given.
The other thing to consider here is motive. If I was focused on the things in front of me that I was already blessed with, I would not have had time or necessity to feel like I needed to be pursuing other things. Are we focused on OUR plan? Or trusting God's? Think about that.
I hope you are having a great week. I know that I am one blessed man, and I have only God to thank!
He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.
This is one TRUE verse. I can speak from experience!
Do to struggling finances in the past, I used to want to find ANY way possible to try to make a quick buck, or cash in on some quick opportunity. I felt like my heart was right, because it wasn't about greed as much as being comfortable and having plenty stored away. I spent most of my time thinking and pondering how to make this happen. Yet in the end, what God showed me was that HE is the supplier of my needs, and I have NEVER been without. He reminded me that by giving to him faithfully, and honoring the job he had me in, I would be successful. And I am here to tell you that he is so faithful to me in that. I don't have a ton, but I don't want a ton. Proverbs 30:8-9 is where I go to support that. I enjoy my simple life, and I don't want more things coming into it that can take away from the joy and peace that I have been given.
The other thing to consider here is motive. If I was focused on the things in front of me that I was already blessed with, I would not have had time or necessity to feel like I needed to be pursuing other things. Are we focused on OUR plan? Or trusting God's? Think about that.
I hope you are having a great week. I know that I am one blessed man, and I have only God to thank!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Some great movies we can learn from...
I was thinking about life and about what matters most. To me, one of the biggest things is happiness. As we look at our journey in life towards this, I think it is important that we keep in mind that our road will have bumps in it. Probably many bumps. Yet the end result is more than worth the trials and tribulations we face along the way. It is on us to give all we have and be willing to sacrifice whatever necessary, as well as operate our lives with no selfishness and total humility, being nothing but grateful and confident in the person God created us to be.
There are two movies that popped into my mind as I pondered on this topic. The first is "Cinderella Man". Russell Crowe plays a boxer who was on top, but then life gave him many challenges. The story of the sacrifice, determination, and his own personal journey is nothing less than inspirational. It will change how you look at life, as well as make you greater appreciate the little blessings you have in your day and life.
The second movie is "The Pursuit of Happyness" starring Will Smith. He plays a character that faces a failed marriage, single parenthood, and poverty. Not only does he deal with these, but he does it while he is pursuing a job opportunity that can change his life. This film is moving to me. To watch him as he stays laser-focused on his opportunity, yet having to still live in a way that most of us could not even fathom, is something that brings tears to my eyes.
Each of these is a story of pursuit. Our lives are the same way. We should have our goals in our sights everyday. We will have to deal with life and all of its problems along the way, no doubts about that, but we shouldn't lose our focus as we deal with those problems. We should focus more on ridding our lives of the things that get in the way of our own goal-pursuit. There is nothing out there worth allowing to get in the way of our joy and happiness. Keep that in mind as you walk through your days and weeks. And remember also that true joy is contagious. People notice when others have an authenticity in their happiness.
Have an awesome week!
There are two movies that popped into my mind as I pondered on this topic. The first is "Cinderella Man". Russell Crowe plays a boxer who was on top, but then life gave him many challenges. The story of the sacrifice, determination, and his own personal journey is nothing less than inspirational. It will change how you look at life, as well as make you greater appreciate the little blessings you have in your day and life.
The second movie is "The Pursuit of Happyness" starring Will Smith. He plays a character that faces a failed marriage, single parenthood, and poverty. Not only does he deal with these, but he does it while he is pursuing a job opportunity that can change his life. This film is moving to me. To watch him as he stays laser-focused on his opportunity, yet having to still live in a way that most of us could not even fathom, is something that brings tears to my eyes.
Each of these is a story of pursuit. Our lives are the same way. We should have our goals in our sights everyday. We will have to deal with life and all of its problems along the way, no doubts about that, but we shouldn't lose our focus as we deal with those problems. We should focus more on ridding our lives of the things that get in the way of our own goal-pursuit. There is nothing out there worth allowing to get in the way of our joy and happiness. Keep that in mind as you walk through your days and weeks. And remember also that true joy is contagious. People notice when others have an authenticity in their happiness.
Have an awesome week!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Some favorites...
Thought I'd keep it simple again tonight, since I know so often I end up writing alot!
I don't know what your "go-to's" are as far as books of the Bible. I don't know how much you dig in it and read. I hope daily in some form or fashion. Either way, here are my favorite books of the Bible:
Proverbs
Ephesians
Psalms
Matthew
Romans
Philippians
Galatians
James
1 Corinthians
Colossians
Daniel
Whatcha think of those? What are your favorites? I'd love to know!
Have an awesome weekend, and enjoy the journey. None of us are perfect, but remember that God's power is perfected in our weakness! Love your brothers and sisters out there!!!
I don't know what your "go-to's" are as far as books of the Bible. I don't know how much you dig in it and read. I hope daily in some form or fashion. Either way, here are my favorite books of the Bible:
Proverbs
Ephesians
Psalms
Matthew
Romans
Philippians
Galatians
James
1 Corinthians
Colossians
Daniel
Whatcha think of those? What are your favorites? I'd love to know!
Have an awesome weekend, and enjoy the journey. None of us are perfect, but remember that God's power is perfected in our weakness! Love your brothers and sisters out there!!!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
A few questions...
Who is influencing you? Who are you influencing? What kind of influence are you both being to each other?
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
A simple statement today...
Proverbs 22:4
Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life.
Who among us doesn't want wealth, honor, and life?????????
It tells us right there the simple things that bring those to us. Seems like it should be simple, don't you think?
Well, in reality, humility in all we do is tough. Think of all of the different people, situations, circumstances, etc, that your day and life involves. EVERY situation. Tough stuff.
It is the "fear of the Lord" part that is toughest for me. If I am to fear the Lord, then I have to agree that God is who God is, and I am who I am, and that his Word is literal and true. If that is the case, in fearing him, I should be living every bit of that Word that I can. In order to do that, I must know it. I must meditate on it. I must share it. I must be constantly in it to do those things. If that is the case, then the selfish things I want can't matter or be there to get in the way. My thoughts aren't mine then, and my life isn't mine. I could go on and on. It's a long road, all leading to the fact that God IS who he is, and I AM who I am.
Just think about all of that as you walk through your day. Who is in control? You? Or God? Do you want wealth, honor, and life? It says right there how to have it! GO GET IT!
Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life.
Who among us doesn't want wealth, honor, and life?????????
It tells us right there the simple things that bring those to us. Seems like it should be simple, don't you think?
Well, in reality, humility in all we do is tough. Think of all of the different people, situations, circumstances, etc, that your day and life involves. EVERY situation. Tough stuff.
It is the "fear of the Lord" part that is toughest for me. If I am to fear the Lord, then I have to agree that God is who God is, and I am who I am, and that his Word is literal and true. If that is the case, in fearing him, I should be living every bit of that Word that I can. In order to do that, I must know it. I must meditate on it. I must share it. I must be constantly in it to do those things. If that is the case, then the selfish things I want can't matter or be there to get in the way. My thoughts aren't mine then, and my life isn't mine. I could go on and on. It's a long road, all leading to the fact that God IS who he is, and I AM who I am.
Just think about all of that as you walk through your day. Who is in control? You? Or God? Do you want wealth, honor, and life? It says right there how to have it! GO GET IT!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Daily reading...
I notice such a difference in my outlook, my attitude, and my encouragement to others when I make sure that I start my day in the Word. I definitely have times that it is mid morning or lunch before I can stop and read, but the sooner I read, the better off I am. And it HAS to be daily, or it is too easy to slide off track, and there in nothing worse than feeling like you're further back from where you have been, right?
So I encourage you to do two things. First, read proverbs daily. Whether you are a believer or not, there is amazing and practical daily living advice there for you and your life. You WILL be blessed from your efforts. Read whatever chapter corresponds to the day of the month on the calendar. Then pick out a few verses in it that stick out to you. Underline them, or just meditate on them throughout the day. Heck, go a step further and share one with those close to you, and make a difference in their lives!
The second thing is to read Psalm 119 daily. I'll confess, I don't read the whole thing daily, but rather a large number of what I find to be very powerful and impactful verses within that chapter. Those verses are 1, 2, 10, 20, 28, 32, 35, 37, 47, 50, 58, 66, 67, 71, 74, 76, 88, 89, 90, 92, 103, 112, 114, 115, 125, 131, 133, 143, 147, 154, 165, 171, 172, and 174. Underline those. There are many different valuable words dealing with many different things in there. Go check those out!
So if you don't read daily already, or are looking for something to make part of your routine that can really help you, then try that. I would love to know what any of you think of those verses in Psalm 119. Do any stick out to you? I encourage you to try this for atleast a week, and see if it makes a positive difference in your life. Then tell someone else that you are doing it and the difference it has made.
Remember, it isn't about being perfect, it's about growth in your relationship with the Lord. But we have to do our part individually!
Make it happen! Be a blessing out there...
So I encourage you to do two things. First, read proverbs daily. Whether you are a believer or not, there is amazing and practical daily living advice there for you and your life. You WILL be blessed from your efforts. Read whatever chapter corresponds to the day of the month on the calendar. Then pick out a few verses in it that stick out to you. Underline them, or just meditate on them throughout the day. Heck, go a step further and share one with those close to you, and make a difference in their lives!
The second thing is to read Psalm 119 daily. I'll confess, I don't read the whole thing daily, but rather a large number of what I find to be very powerful and impactful verses within that chapter. Those verses are 1, 2, 10, 20, 28, 32, 35, 37, 47, 50, 58, 66, 67, 71, 74, 76, 88, 89, 90, 92, 103, 112, 114, 115, 125, 131, 133, 143, 147, 154, 165, 171, 172, and 174. Underline those. There are many different valuable words dealing with many different things in there. Go check those out!
So if you don't read daily already, or are looking for something to make part of your routine that can really help you, then try that. I would love to know what any of you think of those verses in Psalm 119. Do any stick out to you? I encourage you to try this for atleast a week, and see if it makes a positive difference in your life. Then tell someone else that you are doing it and the difference it has made.
Remember, it isn't about being perfect, it's about growth in your relationship with the Lord. But we have to do our part individually!
Make it happen! Be a blessing out there...
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Losing it...
Proverbs 19:27
Stop listening to instruction my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
I know in our lives we seem to go through peaks and valleys, right? Sometimes we are on fire, feeling close with the Lord, seeing him guide our each and every step. Then other times we feel lost, alone, like we have some serious wax buildup or our belltone is off, because we can't seem to get motivated to get our life on the track we know it has been on before.
Many times in the Bible we are instructed to some of the things that make up how we should be living daily. We are told to pray without ceasing, to stay in the Word, to share and fill our conversations and heads with things of God. Yet we are also told that we have a sinful and selfish nature, and we can't help but desire the things that aren't of God that we shouldn't be desiring.
So what the crap, right??? Why does it have to be that way???
Well, we have a choice in all we do. I have said many times here that my belief is that we choose and dictate our attitudes and actions. What we choose is largely based on where our heart is. If we are about us, then our choices lean to the selfish side. If we are about others and God, then our choices are usually of Him. Pretty simple concept.
So taking it back to the verse mentioned earlier, it is up to us to pay attention to the instruction that we get from the Holy Spirit as we walk daily in our lives. If we stop listening to it, then it is clear what will happen. It might seem to us that once in a while avoiding the Spirit might be ok, but as we settle for less than God's best once, we will surely find it easier to do again, then perhaps over and over. I have been there. Not a fun place. Trust me. Don't give the devil an inch. He is way too real and powerful to do that.
So make it a point to seek the Word daily. Even just a verse from Proverbs that you can think about, or talk to your friends and loved ones about. It will make a difference in your life, I promise. Seek out wise people and make it a point to have appointments to speak with them often. Turn your car radio off now and then and just listen to God. You'll be amazed at what He wants to tell you!
I wish all of the fathers out there a Happy Father's Day, and I hope yours was amazing as mine!
Have a great week, and change a life out there as you go through it! It's not about us!
Stop listening to instruction my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
I know in our lives we seem to go through peaks and valleys, right? Sometimes we are on fire, feeling close with the Lord, seeing him guide our each and every step. Then other times we feel lost, alone, like we have some serious wax buildup or our belltone is off, because we can't seem to get motivated to get our life on the track we know it has been on before.
Many times in the Bible we are instructed to some of the things that make up how we should be living daily. We are told to pray without ceasing, to stay in the Word, to share and fill our conversations and heads with things of God. Yet we are also told that we have a sinful and selfish nature, and we can't help but desire the things that aren't of God that we shouldn't be desiring.
So what the crap, right??? Why does it have to be that way???
Well, we have a choice in all we do. I have said many times here that my belief is that we choose and dictate our attitudes and actions. What we choose is largely based on where our heart is. If we are about us, then our choices lean to the selfish side. If we are about others and God, then our choices are usually of Him. Pretty simple concept.
So taking it back to the verse mentioned earlier, it is up to us to pay attention to the instruction that we get from the Holy Spirit as we walk daily in our lives. If we stop listening to it, then it is clear what will happen. It might seem to us that once in a while avoiding the Spirit might be ok, but as we settle for less than God's best once, we will surely find it easier to do again, then perhaps over and over. I have been there. Not a fun place. Trust me. Don't give the devil an inch. He is way too real and powerful to do that.
So make it a point to seek the Word daily. Even just a verse from Proverbs that you can think about, or talk to your friends and loved ones about. It will make a difference in your life, I promise. Seek out wise people and make it a point to have appointments to speak with them often. Turn your car radio off now and then and just listen to God. You'll be amazed at what He wants to tell you!
I wish all of the fathers out there a Happy Father's Day, and I hope yours was amazing as mine!
Have a great week, and change a life out there as you go through it! It's not about us!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
I love strong words...
You ever really look at some of the specific words used in specific scriptures in the Bible? It is very easy for us to be looking ourselves for something and pass right over certain things, as oppossed to waiting and listening to what God wants us to get from it. His way, not ours. His plan, not ours. He is in control, not us.
So I was reading today in my daily Proverbs reading, and a verse really stuck out because of the literal meaning of it. Proverbs 18:10 says:
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."
Seems simple, right? The first half seems pretty simple--even powerful and encouraging. It reinforces that God is all powerful, he is strong and mighty, not able to be taken down, etc. But it is the second half of the verse that yells at me. When you think of the people you most respect for their faith, they walk righteously, right? They pursue and strive for Godliness, they command respect because they try to live a blameless life as much as possible. Well, how can they do it and others can't? It is stated right there. They RUN to the name of the Lord. They RUN to that strong tower. They RUN to the strength and protection and security that that name provides and promises. They RUN to the forgiveness, healing, joy, peace, truth, and love that his name includes. RUN, not take a look at. Not glance at, not think about now and then, not think about if they have nothing else to do.
When I think of running, I think of a 100-yard dash. These are people that have a goal---to win that race. To finish as the best of everyone. To win the prize. They train and practice, and everything that they do goes into preparing for that less than 10-second dash. Their exercise, diet, sleep, friendships, mindset, conversations, etc. All of that is geared at and focused towards RUNNING that race. They are completely sold out to it.
Shouldn't we be shooting for that in our lives?
Think about that verse and what it might mean to you. Ask God what it means to in your life to be running to his name.
I hope you all had a great Saturday!
So I was reading today in my daily Proverbs reading, and a verse really stuck out because of the literal meaning of it. Proverbs 18:10 says:
"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."
Seems simple, right? The first half seems pretty simple--even powerful and encouraging. It reinforces that God is all powerful, he is strong and mighty, not able to be taken down, etc. But it is the second half of the verse that yells at me. When you think of the people you most respect for their faith, they walk righteously, right? They pursue and strive for Godliness, they command respect because they try to live a blameless life as much as possible. Well, how can they do it and others can't? It is stated right there. They RUN to the name of the Lord. They RUN to that strong tower. They RUN to the strength and protection and security that that name provides and promises. They RUN to the forgiveness, healing, joy, peace, truth, and love that his name includes. RUN, not take a look at. Not glance at, not think about now and then, not think about if they have nothing else to do.
When I think of running, I think of a 100-yard dash. These are people that have a goal---to win that race. To finish as the best of everyone. To win the prize. They train and practice, and everything that they do goes into preparing for that less than 10-second dash. Their exercise, diet, sleep, friendships, mindset, conversations, etc. All of that is geared at and focused towards RUNNING that race. They are completely sold out to it.
Shouldn't we be shooting for that in our lives?
Think about that verse and what it might mean to you. Ask God what it means to in your life to be running to his name.
I hope you all had a great Saturday!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Opportunity is knocking...
I ask you tonight to go and check out http://www.lacesofgrace.com/
It was started by a friend of mine, Matt Graves, and is a fantastic ministry. You can read more there, but basically it is for the purpose of providing those in need with new shoes, while also sharing Christ with them.
You can read more about how it got started there on the site itself, but it is a growing ministry that God is definitely blessing---and doesn't take much at all to be a part and pass a blessing along yourself!
I give Matt alot of credit for being available and obedient to what the Holy Spirit was telling him. I know we all have times in our lives that we feel a tug on our hearts in a certain direction, but we just don't know what to think about it or do with it. GOD DOES! Even the smallest ideas God gives us might blow up into something larger if we will allow God to move and take the "self" out of it. It is our job only to be faithful and trust him, and he will handle the rest and guide our way. But we first have to be walking where we can listen to him and hear him. That is really hard to do sometimes, and definitely takes effort daily on our part. So again, praise God, and he gets all the glory, but thank you also to Matt for following God's lead! You inspire us all!
I hope you enjoy checking out Laces of Grace, and pray about being a part of making a difference in a young person's life.
Be a blessing, and have a great Father's Day weekend!
It was started by a friend of mine, Matt Graves, and is a fantastic ministry. You can read more there, but basically it is for the purpose of providing those in need with new shoes, while also sharing Christ with them.
You can read more about how it got started there on the site itself, but it is a growing ministry that God is definitely blessing---and doesn't take much at all to be a part and pass a blessing along yourself!
I give Matt alot of credit for being available and obedient to what the Holy Spirit was telling him. I know we all have times in our lives that we feel a tug on our hearts in a certain direction, but we just don't know what to think about it or do with it. GOD DOES! Even the smallest ideas God gives us might blow up into something larger if we will allow God to move and take the "self" out of it. It is our job only to be faithful and trust him, and he will handle the rest and guide our way. But we first have to be walking where we can listen to him and hear him. That is really hard to do sometimes, and definitely takes effort daily on our part. So again, praise God, and he gets all the glory, but thank you also to Matt for following God's lead! You inspire us all!
I hope you enjoy checking out Laces of Grace, and pray about being a part of making a difference in a young person's life.
Be a blessing, and have a great Father's Day weekend!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
State of the blog address...
I can't believe this is my 100th post on here!
Seeing as how I have more people checking this thing out, I wanted to stop and share my heart again. It is something I will probably do every once in a while, so bear with me.
When I started this, it was in my mind and heart to be geared just at men. I am a man that has many faults, has made many mistakes, and has a heart to help others through their tough times, or to help avoid those same mistakes in their lives alltogether. As time has gone on, I realized that this is for everyone. Male and female alike. It is more about how we live, what we think about, encouraging one another, sharing together, growing together, and an extra appointment with God in our busy day. We can ALL use that!
I have been so encouraged and blessed through this so far. I have spent more time in the Bible than ever. I have talked about it more with people that anytime before in my life. I am developing a boldness to share more, and have such a confidence in my Jesus that I don't care what others think, because He is my peace. God is my judge, not man. I have friends that read this daily, and encourage me with kind words. I know this is provoking thought in people, and I believe in my heart that God is using this to change lives. What started out as a blog to share my thoughts has been transformed in a way to my ministry. I look so forward to hearing other people's thoughts about it, or what they took away from it, and am always so blessed by the feedback.
So where does it go from here? My hopes are God will use this to touch people's lives all across this nation. That somehow he will use this little blog to make a difference in one life at a time. To help promote courage and strength to stand for what is right and true. To give people a whole new inner boldness to stand firm in God's Word, and seek his best in all we do. Granted, that is a hard thing, but we can still be STRIVING for it, and PURSUING it.
So I ask you to help me get the word out about it. I ask you to tell others. I ask you to join up and share your thoughts. Don't be afraid. Please. I ask you Facebookers to post the blog address at some point on your wall, and ask other friends of your to check it out. I ask you iphoners to go to it on your phone, then save it on your homepage, so its always a click away.
I know everyone has alot of other things to do besides tell people about this, and what we do is always more important to us. I get that. But I believe in this. Mainly because God has put it in my heart to share, and he has shown me the fruit of it already. I trust him. This is his...not mine.
I have learned alot myself through this. One thing is that we should accept people for who they are. Just because they aren't like us or don't live like us doesn't make anything wrong with them. How does Jesus love them?
Another is that it is ok to have faults. Just be honest about them. People desire authenticity. That is what people respect.
Next, unless you currently have asked someone specifically themselves what is going on in their life or where they are in their faith, don't even talk about it or assume you know. You have no right or place doing that.
Finally, Satan is real. He WILL attack you. We should ALWAYS be on guard. If we hold people in too high of esteem, we will be let down, because we are all sinners. Celebrate what we have in common, and stay in the Word and walk with the Holy Spirit to best be prepared to push Satan away!
I really do appreciate everyone that stops by here. You bring so much joy and so many smiles to my day and my life. With all my heart, I thank you. Thanks for taking a few minutes out of your day to hear my heart!
Be a blessing out there!
Seeing as how I have more people checking this thing out, I wanted to stop and share my heart again. It is something I will probably do every once in a while, so bear with me.
When I started this, it was in my mind and heart to be geared just at men. I am a man that has many faults, has made many mistakes, and has a heart to help others through their tough times, or to help avoid those same mistakes in their lives alltogether. As time has gone on, I realized that this is for everyone. Male and female alike. It is more about how we live, what we think about, encouraging one another, sharing together, growing together, and an extra appointment with God in our busy day. We can ALL use that!
I have been so encouraged and blessed through this so far. I have spent more time in the Bible than ever. I have talked about it more with people that anytime before in my life. I am developing a boldness to share more, and have such a confidence in my Jesus that I don't care what others think, because He is my peace. God is my judge, not man. I have friends that read this daily, and encourage me with kind words. I know this is provoking thought in people, and I believe in my heart that God is using this to change lives. What started out as a blog to share my thoughts has been transformed in a way to my ministry. I look so forward to hearing other people's thoughts about it, or what they took away from it, and am always so blessed by the feedback.
So where does it go from here? My hopes are God will use this to touch people's lives all across this nation. That somehow he will use this little blog to make a difference in one life at a time. To help promote courage and strength to stand for what is right and true. To give people a whole new inner boldness to stand firm in God's Word, and seek his best in all we do. Granted, that is a hard thing, but we can still be STRIVING for it, and PURSUING it.
So I ask you to help me get the word out about it. I ask you to tell others. I ask you to join up and share your thoughts. Don't be afraid. Please. I ask you Facebookers to post the blog address at some point on your wall, and ask other friends of your to check it out. I ask you iphoners to go to it on your phone, then save it on your homepage, so its always a click away.
I know everyone has alot of other things to do besides tell people about this, and what we do is always more important to us. I get that. But I believe in this. Mainly because God has put it in my heart to share, and he has shown me the fruit of it already. I trust him. This is his...not mine.
I have learned alot myself through this. One thing is that we should accept people for who they are. Just because they aren't like us or don't live like us doesn't make anything wrong with them. How does Jesus love them?
Another is that it is ok to have faults. Just be honest about them. People desire authenticity. That is what people respect.
Next, unless you currently have asked someone specifically themselves what is going on in their life or where they are in their faith, don't even talk about it or assume you know. You have no right or place doing that.
Finally, Satan is real. He WILL attack you. We should ALWAYS be on guard. If we hold people in too high of esteem, we will be let down, because we are all sinners. Celebrate what we have in common, and stay in the Word and walk with the Holy Spirit to best be prepared to push Satan away!
I really do appreciate everyone that stops by here. You bring so much joy and so many smiles to my day and my life. With all my heart, I thank you. Thanks for taking a few minutes out of your day to hear my heart!
Be a blessing out there!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Service...
When looking at love relationships, it is easy to find a ton of different ways to look at it. There's the physical attraction and physical relationship aspect, the emotional, spiritual, friendship, devotion, trust, etc. I could go on and on.
As I look at 1 Corinthians 13, and also couple that with Christ's time ministering on earth, and throw in a little Ephesians 5:25-28, I come to see that the key to making it work is service. I want to give credit here to a very wise man, Dennis Richardson, who preaches this concept as it relates to love relationships. And I believe with my whole heart that he is correct.
We should be striving to out-serve our mates. Putting ourselves to the side, and putting into the relationship everything we can. Heck, jobs change, financial situations change, kids leave, etc---but that person we are committed to spending our lives with shouldn't. Many of us have already failed in this area, and I hope we all have learned from the Word how God wants us to see this.
Think of the time Christ was on earth. Ephesians 5:25 speaks of husbands loving wives as Christ did the church, GIVING HIMSELF UP FOR HER. That is sacrifice and service right there. It would have been easy to be a show off with the power he had. To flaunt it---you and I both know that's what half the world today would do---go make a bazillion dollars off the thing that makes them different! But he didn't. He followed God's plan, and gave himself up. For others. For us.
So think about your relationships now. Do you outserve your mate? Do you even think about that? Are you more into yourself and your own life? I can speak from experience, that if the eyes aren't on God first and then your mate, expect failure. Someone will step out, or pull away. It happens everyday. Trust me.
It is up to us to decide if we want God's best, or just settle for whatever happens when we take it into our own hands.
I choose to trust God with that, and choose the blessings of a fruitful relationship in Him---whomever that may be with!
As I look at 1 Corinthians 13, and also couple that with Christ's time ministering on earth, and throw in a little Ephesians 5:25-28, I come to see that the key to making it work is service. I want to give credit here to a very wise man, Dennis Richardson, who preaches this concept as it relates to love relationships. And I believe with my whole heart that he is correct.
We should be striving to out-serve our mates. Putting ourselves to the side, and putting into the relationship everything we can. Heck, jobs change, financial situations change, kids leave, etc---but that person we are committed to spending our lives with shouldn't. Many of us have already failed in this area, and I hope we all have learned from the Word how God wants us to see this.
Think of the time Christ was on earth. Ephesians 5:25 speaks of husbands loving wives as Christ did the church, GIVING HIMSELF UP FOR HER. That is sacrifice and service right there. It would have been easy to be a show off with the power he had. To flaunt it---you and I both know that's what half the world today would do---go make a bazillion dollars off the thing that makes them different! But he didn't. He followed God's plan, and gave himself up. For others. For us.
So think about your relationships now. Do you outserve your mate? Do you even think about that? Are you more into yourself and your own life? I can speak from experience, that if the eyes aren't on God first and then your mate, expect failure. Someone will step out, or pull away. It happens everyday. Trust me.
It is up to us to decide if we want God's best, or just settle for whatever happens when we take it into our own hands.
I choose to trust God with that, and choose the blessings of a fruitful relationship in Him---whomever that may be with!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
We sure make it more complicated than it has to be...
I was thinking today about life, and how we all know and hear things about people that is absolutely none of our business. These are things that a third party tells us, that never came as first hand knowledge from the actual party being talked about!
I have found in my own life that I really don't care about what others do. Now hear me out on this. I care in the sense that I want God's best for everyone, but no so much in the details of how they live, etc. Most of all of that is none of my business. Heck, I have enough to worry about with work, being a dad, bills, activities, church, etc. I don't need to know the ins and outs of everyone else's lives!
The other thing I have a hard time with is this--how many of us unfairly judge people and hold things against them for a long period of time, and still hold it to them even when they might have changed and we have no idea what they do in their days at this point? Does that make sense?
There is only one judge. People are all different, and that is ok. We tend to look at others different if they aren't like us or don't believe how we do. Well, we can choose to not hang out with them or share our time or lives with them, but it is not for us to judge them and tell them they are wrong.
Anyway, I guess I just hope we all focus on the good things of God, and the blessings in our own lives and sharing those with others---as oppossed to spending time dragging others down, or pointing out their flaws, etc.
Be a blessing---not a curse!
I have found in my own life that I really don't care about what others do. Now hear me out on this. I care in the sense that I want God's best for everyone, but no so much in the details of how they live, etc. Most of all of that is none of my business. Heck, I have enough to worry about with work, being a dad, bills, activities, church, etc. I don't need to know the ins and outs of everyone else's lives!
The other thing I have a hard time with is this--how many of us unfairly judge people and hold things against them for a long period of time, and still hold it to them even when they might have changed and we have no idea what they do in their days at this point? Does that make sense?
There is only one judge. People are all different, and that is ok. We tend to look at others different if they aren't like us or don't believe how we do. Well, we can choose to not hang out with them or share our time or lives with them, but it is not for us to judge them and tell them they are wrong.
Anyway, I guess I just hope we all focus on the good things of God, and the blessings in our own lives and sharing those with others---as oppossed to spending time dragging others down, or pointing out their flaws, etc.
Be a blessing---not a curse!
Monday, June 13, 2011
I don't want death...
Romans 8:6
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
It is hard to grasp that through Christ, God has forgiven our sins. Even before we do them, he forgave us. The problem we have here in our lives is more about our daily living with what is in our mind. See, that verse didn't say that lives lived a certain way lead to death or peace. It speaks of our MINDS. Well, we DO have a choice in our thoughts and our attitudes. I have written about that many times before here. We CHOOSE what we watch with our eyes and what we listen to with our ears. It is what we are filling those things with that dictates what will be in and on our minds. Our natural human desires are sinful. I reference our associate pastor Andy today at lunch---he said that someone could tell him that if he eats another chocolate chip cookie then he will go straight to hell. Well, that doesn't change the fact that he still WANTS and DESIRES that freaking cookie!!! Our lives are like that. We naturally want the things we are not suppossed to. That Satan is one crafty sucker! We have to fill our minds and hearts with the good and right things of God, otherwise, proverbs tells us over and over that our lives will go to ruin. Especially when we have heard the truth of the Word, and know better. There is accountability that comes with that knowledge as believers. It is all on us now.
So I have to ask---what are you filling your mind with? None of us are perfect, but we do have a choice to grow in God, or to not.
Think about that.
Have a great night and a blessed Tuesday!
The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
It is hard to grasp that through Christ, God has forgiven our sins. Even before we do them, he forgave us. The problem we have here in our lives is more about our daily living with what is in our mind. See, that verse didn't say that lives lived a certain way lead to death or peace. It speaks of our MINDS. Well, we DO have a choice in our thoughts and our attitudes. I have written about that many times before here. We CHOOSE what we watch with our eyes and what we listen to with our ears. It is what we are filling those things with that dictates what will be in and on our minds. Our natural human desires are sinful. I reference our associate pastor Andy today at lunch---he said that someone could tell him that if he eats another chocolate chip cookie then he will go straight to hell. Well, that doesn't change the fact that he still WANTS and DESIRES that freaking cookie!!! Our lives are like that. We naturally want the things we are not suppossed to. That Satan is one crafty sucker! We have to fill our minds and hearts with the good and right things of God, otherwise, proverbs tells us over and over that our lives will go to ruin. Especially when we have heard the truth of the Word, and know better. There is accountability that comes with that knowledge as believers. It is all on us now.
So I have to ask---what are you filling your mind with? None of us are perfect, but we do have a choice to grow in God, or to not.
Think about that.
Have a great night and a blessed Tuesday!
Sunday, June 12, 2011
A fact about the Word...
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
There's alot lying right there in those two verses. The biggest thing is the reminder to us that every single verse and passage in the Bible is useful for our lives. It is ALL God-breathed. Is there anything better or more sound that we can use to help lead and direct our lives?
This passage also speaks to how much work we have to do as we grow. Notice that as it speaks of righteousness and our journey to it (which we should all be constantly striving for), it doesn't say alot of affirming words. It doesn't pat us on the back and tell us we are doing awesome and already have it down. Nope. It speaks of words that remind us of discipline and effort, both of which are absolutely necessary to grow in our pursuit of Christ-likeness.
Finally, we are charged within this to be prepared. It says "may be equipped". It does not say "could be", or "would be good if he was equipped". It speaks of the state that we should be living in, ready to be used as God so leads us. Always being in the Word, meditating and walking with the Holy Spirit, surrounded by the things of God, all of those to keep us ready and looking for the opportunities God will lay in front of us, so that we may be best used by Him to bring Him glory.
Awesome two verses there.
Also this morning, Proverbs 12 is filled with some great words. I think I have over half of the chapter underlined. The verse that most sticks out to me this morning is verse 26.
"A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray."
Some food for thought there as we examine who we surround ourselves with.
Enjoy your Sunday, and I pray God blesses you and yours!
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
There's alot lying right there in those two verses. The biggest thing is the reminder to us that every single verse and passage in the Bible is useful for our lives. It is ALL God-breathed. Is there anything better or more sound that we can use to help lead and direct our lives?
This passage also speaks to how much work we have to do as we grow. Notice that as it speaks of righteousness and our journey to it (which we should all be constantly striving for), it doesn't say alot of affirming words. It doesn't pat us on the back and tell us we are doing awesome and already have it down. Nope. It speaks of words that remind us of discipline and effort, both of which are absolutely necessary to grow in our pursuit of Christ-likeness.
Finally, we are charged within this to be prepared. It says "may be equipped". It does not say "could be", or "would be good if he was equipped". It speaks of the state that we should be living in, ready to be used as God so leads us. Always being in the Word, meditating and walking with the Holy Spirit, surrounded by the things of God, all of those to keep us ready and looking for the opportunities God will lay in front of us, so that we may be best used by Him to bring Him glory.
Awesome two verses there.
Also this morning, Proverbs 12 is filled with some great words. I think I have over half of the chapter underlined. The verse that most sticks out to me this morning is verse 26.
"A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray."
Some food for thought there as we examine who we surround ourselves with.
Enjoy your Sunday, and I pray God blesses you and yours!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Wedding day...
Well, it's finally here. Wedding day. My sister will be getting married this evening, and thus begin her life as Mrs. Carter. It will be a fantastic time tonight, and I am looking very forward to it. It will be great to see alot of people that I haven't seen in a long time. I wish them both a lifetime of joy and blessings!
I came across a verse this morning in Proverbs 11 that I think is great. Verse 9 says, "With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape."
That speaks to me about truth. Knowledge comes from understanding, and understanding from knowing the Word of God. As we seek the Word and apply it to our lives, we walk in truth. Who can deny truth??? You CANNOT be wrong when you are walking in truth. No argument, accusation, malicious words, etc, will be able to be used against you and stick when you are standing firmly in truth. God is faithful in protecting the integrity of those whose walk is blameless. I don't sit here and claim to be that way, but this verse makes me want to strive even more to live a pure and blameless life of Godly integrity. Humility is also a big part of this to me. Pride is something that gets in the way and allows people to be blinded from the truth. Think about that.
I hope your weekend is blessed!
I came across a verse this morning in Proverbs 11 that I think is great. Verse 9 says, "With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape."
That speaks to me about truth. Knowledge comes from understanding, and understanding from knowing the Word of God. As we seek the Word and apply it to our lives, we walk in truth. Who can deny truth??? You CANNOT be wrong when you are walking in truth. No argument, accusation, malicious words, etc, will be able to be used against you and stick when you are standing firmly in truth. God is faithful in protecting the integrity of those whose walk is blameless. I don't sit here and claim to be that way, but this verse makes me want to strive even more to live a pure and blameless life of Godly integrity. Humility is also a big part of this to me. Pride is something that gets in the way and allows people to be blinded from the truth. Think about that.
I hope your weekend is blessed!
Friday, June 10, 2011
A great Proverb...
Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all wrongs.
I don't know of many truer statements. I am big about the state of our hearts. When we are walking in peace, it is because we are setting our hearts on the good and right things of God. When we aren't, or life is chaotic, most times it is because we aren't adhering to what we are being told.
When I look at my life when I feel I was at my worst, I was living a lie. I wanted to seek God in all I did, but the sin I was choosing to live in kept me from it. That is all on me. I know others that I have talked to that share the same experience at some point in their life. Living right is a choice that we all have. Sometimes it is on us to do whatever is necessary to get back on the right path. Thank God he can give us the strength when we ask for it to get rid of the things in our lives that keep us separated from him fully.
Yesterday I got into a conversation that needed to happen a long time ago. It was tough, but it was also good. The timing was all about God, and he shows up in some ways when we least expect it. The reason it went ok was the state of the people's hearts involved.
Is there something inside you that you have been carrying and God convicts you that you need to deal with it or try to fix it? It isn't necessarily the easiest thing to do, and alot of times we have to admit and deal with our own wrongs and sin inside of these situations, but God is still bigger than everything, and with the right heart on our part, we can have peace in obeying what he has put in us to do.
Be a blessing today, and find God in even the smallest of things! He is there!!!
Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all wrongs.
I don't know of many truer statements. I am big about the state of our hearts. When we are walking in peace, it is because we are setting our hearts on the good and right things of God. When we aren't, or life is chaotic, most times it is because we aren't adhering to what we are being told.
When I look at my life when I feel I was at my worst, I was living a lie. I wanted to seek God in all I did, but the sin I was choosing to live in kept me from it. That is all on me. I know others that I have talked to that share the same experience at some point in their life. Living right is a choice that we all have. Sometimes it is on us to do whatever is necessary to get back on the right path. Thank God he can give us the strength when we ask for it to get rid of the things in our lives that keep us separated from him fully.
Yesterday I got into a conversation that needed to happen a long time ago. It was tough, but it was also good. The timing was all about God, and he shows up in some ways when we least expect it. The reason it went ok was the state of the people's hearts involved.
Is there something inside you that you have been carrying and God convicts you that you need to deal with it or try to fix it? It isn't necessarily the easiest thing to do, and alot of times we have to admit and deal with our own wrongs and sin inside of these situations, but God is still bigger than everything, and with the right heart on our part, we can have peace in obeying what he has put in us to do.
Be a blessing today, and find God in even the smallest of things! He is there!!!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Making it happen...
So the other day I stated that we can't expect change until we actually make a change ourselves. I believe that so many of us know where we want to get to, but struggle in how we go from one point to the next. We often don't feel comfortable with the unknown, and are hesitant to actively stay under conditions we aren't familiar with. I guess we could even question how bad we truly want change if we aren't willing to take the steps necessary to have it. It all turns into just empty lip service at that point.
Think about this. If you want to get better at something, you practice and work at it, right? The NBA Finals have been showing Dirk practicing moves by himself that he later executes under pressure during gametime. He puts the time in and has studied what it will take to have the best chance at the end result he desires. Same can be said in our jobs. Or for people that play instruments. Anything we do, if we want to be better, we have to change how we do it, and put in massive effort and focus.
So then in our lives, if we say we want to be more Christ-like, then what are we TRULY willing to sacrifice and put into having that? It takes daily effort and pouring ourselves into practicing our faith, just as my man Dirk puts all he has into being the best basketball player he can be. Just as he can't expect to be better without the efforts, we also can't expect to be filled more with what God wants to give us if we don't ACTIVELY put into it.
The question for us then is this---what do we truly want in our lives, and what are we willing to sacrifice or change from our current way of living to have it?
Think about this. If you want to get better at something, you practice and work at it, right? The NBA Finals have been showing Dirk practicing moves by himself that he later executes under pressure during gametime. He puts the time in and has studied what it will take to have the best chance at the end result he desires. Same can be said in our jobs. Or for people that play instruments. Anything we do, if we want to be better, we have to change how we do it, and put in massive effort and focus.
So then in our lives, if we say we want to be more Christ-like, then what are we TRULY willing to sacrifice and put into having that? It takes daily effort and pouring ourselves into practicing our faith, just as my man Dirk puts all he has into being the best basketball player he can be. Just as he can't expect to be better without the efforts, we also can't expect to be filled more with what God wants to give us if we don't ACTIVELY put into it.
The question for us then is this---what do we truly want in our lives, and what are we willing to sacrifice or change from our current way of living to have it?
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Just a few short thoughts tonight...
-Go Mavs!
-We need a strong candidate to beat Obama is 2012. Our country is headed the wrong direction. The main reason is because our leaders don't TRUST God and seek Him first in all they do. Period.
-Why are people surprised when politicians prove that they are human? EVERYONE is human. EVERYONE sins. Stop expecting perfection.
-Tonights reading---Proverbs 7 and 1 John 1:5-10---check those out. I love 1 John 1:6. Great truth.
-I love the movie "Gran Torino". Just an awesome movie!
Pursue Godliness this week like you never have before. Try something new to grow and develop your faith in a new way. Hold the Word close to your heart. Most of all, be a blessing to others.
-We need a strong candidate to beat Obama is 2012. Our country is headed the wrong direction. The main reason is because our leaders don't TRUST God and seek Him first in all they do. Period.
-Why are people surprised when politicians prove that they are human? EVERYONE is human. EVERYONE sins. Stop expecting perfection.
-Tonights reading---Proverbs 7 and 1 John 1:5-10---check those out. I love 1 John 1:6. Great truth.
-I love the movie "Gran Torino". Just an awesome movie!
Pursue Godliness this week like you never have before. Try something new to grow and develop your faith in a new way. Hold the Word close to your heart. Most of all, be a blessing to others.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Change...
I think we are always looking to better our lives. Some by way of things, some from money, some from friends, some in God, etc. Obviously, Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life---and probably our best choice!
Either way, there is one thing we CANNOT deny---that we can't have change or expect change in our lives until we first make a change ourselves.
Just ponder that as you wonder why things are the way they are and never seem to change.
Either way, there is one thing we CANNOT deny---that we can't have change or expect change in our lives until we first make a change ourselves.
Just ponder that as you wonder why things are the way they are and never seem to change.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
A few different things from my day...
I hope everyone has had a great weekend.
In my daily Proverbs reading, today had some serious words for us when it comes to adultery. When you read Proverbs 5, pay attention to verses 3-4, 6, 8, 13-14, 20, and 21-23. What do you think of those? There's a WHOLE lotta truth in there!
The sermon this morning at church was great. It was about unplugging in our lives from lazy people. It actually focused more on who WE are suppossed to be than the lazy folks and who they are. A few great words from this morning stood out to me though. Think about these three things:
Jesus is Lord of ALL of your life or He is not Lord of it at all.
What does it say about God if we are lazy?
We don't go to work, but rather go to ministry everyday!
Some interesting things there. I absolutely LOVE the first one! I try to give Him more and more everyday. The good thing is that there is plenty of room for growth :)
One other passage that I was reading today that hit me is in 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8:
"For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit."
WOW. That is powerful. First, God CALLED us. And he called us to live a HOLY LIFE. What does that mean to you? Do you live that way? Do you FOCUS on him and living that way? This passage says that if you don't, then you are rejecting God. As a God-fearing christian, I know that the last thing I ever want to willingly do is reject God. It even says that we are already equipped with what we need---the conviction we receive when we seek truth and ALLOW the Holy Spirit to work in us.
Think about that when you get up and head to ministry tomorrow!
In my daily Proverbs reading, today had some serious words for us when it comes to adultery. When you read Proverbs 5, pay attention to verses 3-4, 6, 8, 13-14, 20, and 21-23. What do you think of those? There's a WHOLE lotta truth in there!
The sermon this morning at church was great. It was about unplugging in our lives from lazy people. It actually focused more on who WE are suppossed to be than the lazy folks and who they are. A few great words from this morning stood out to me though. Think about these three things:
Jesus is Lord of ALL of your life or He is not Lord of it at all.
What does it say about God if we are lazy?
We don't go to work, but rather go to ministry everyday!
Some interesting things there. I absolutely LOVE the first one! I try to give Him more and more everyday. The good thing is that there is plenty of room for growth :)
One other passage that I was reading today that hit me is in 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8:
"For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit."
WOW. That is powerful. First, God CALLED us. And he called us to live a HOLY LIFE. What does that mean to you? Do you live that way? Do you FOCUS on him and living that way? This passage says that if you don't, then you are rejecting God. As a God-fearing christian, I know that the last thing I ever want to willingly do is reject God. It even says that we are already equipped with what we need---the conviction we receive when we seek truth and ALLOW the Holy Spirit to work in us.
Think about that when you get up and head to ministry tomorrow!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Thanks Tim...
Had a great lunch with my favorite pastor today. I'm always honored to be able to steal a few minutes of his time, as I know how busy he stays. Something he said to me earlier this week was that sometimes our disappointments are God's appointments. I am blessed to have been given peace that there is alot of truth in that statement. ALOT of truth. Not only am I blessed in that peace, but I also give God all the praise and glory for revealing that to me.
I know in my life, and I am sure it is the same in yours, there are times that we try to put more of what WE want into a situation vs what God wants for us. Only when we measure our situations up to God's standards for our lives are we able to truly get the bigger picture. It is a very hard thing to remove ourselves and our investment from things sometimes, but when we do, God is faithful in taking great care of us. We never go wrong by choosing the right path. HIS path.
So here I sit having lived through what seemed a disappointment, and cause hurt and suffering this week, yet I know God has better for me around the corner somewhere. THAT is something worth getting excited about!
Is there any truth in all of this in your life? Is there something you are holding onto that you just can't give away to God? I can tell you from experience that the peace he gives you once you hand it over is unmatched. Please take my word for it.
Trust him.
Thanks again, Tim. I love you, man!
I know in my life, and I am sure it is the same in yours, there are times that we try to put more of what WE want into a situation vs what God wants for us. Only when we measure our situations up to God's standards for our lives are we able to truly get the bigger picture. It is a very hard thing to remove ourselves and our investment from things sometimes, but when we do, God is faithful in taking great care of us. We never go wrong by choosing the right path. HIS path.
So here I sit having lived through what seemed a disappointment, and cause hurt and suffering this week, yet I know God has better for me around the corner somewhere. THAT is something worth getting excited about!
Is there any truth in all of this in your life? Is there something you are holding onto that you just can't give away to God? I can tell you from experience that the peace he gives you once you hand it over is unmatched. Please take my word for it.
Trust him.
Thanks again, Tim. I love you, man!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Keepin it real...
Here is a true statement for you:
Whatever you spend the majority of your time doing and thinking about shows what you are truly devoted to.
Think about that. We DO have a choice in those things. We control that.
So, examine your life. What is it that your life SHOWS that you are truly devoted to?
Whatever you spend the majority of your time doing and thinking about shows what you are truly devoted to.
Think about that. We DO have a choice in those things. We control that.
So, examine your life. What is it that your life SHOWS that you are truly devoted to?
Thursday, June 2, 2011
See through the windshield, not the rearview mirror...
This was a case of two totally different days packed into one. Definitely one Satan was attacking in, and then one where God picked me up in my weakness. Satan working the rearview mirror, God the bigger windshield.
It shouldn't surprise us when we go through a difficult time and are already feeling hurt and pain that Satan wants to remind us of every bad life-changing decision we have ever made. And I don't mean on a 10-inch tv screen, but rather on a HUGE, 5000-inch, large as life, shown in 3D and HD GIGANTIC screen---you know, the one you feel like everyone else is watching with you!
Here is the beauty though---and pay attention, because this is REALLY a complicated truth (ha!)---but God is so much bigger than anything. Yup, that's it. Pretty amazing, isn't it! Simple, yet true. Undeniable fact.
I was at a point of brokenness today. Actually, it was a period of brokenness. No strength of my own. Texting those closest to me asking for prayer, encouragement, help, etc. And once I stopped and took my own mind out of it, and truly dealt in His truths and word, God changed my day RIGHT THEN AND THERE. Because his word says he is faithful, and he hears us, and he came through again!
Here are some of the things that he blessed me with this afternoon and evening:
1 Peter 5:10
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.
(See what it said? HIMSELF restore you.)
1 Peter 4:12-13
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Proverbs 2:7
He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless.
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
All powerful verses and passages, but God didn't stop there. He also gave me some fantastic, honest, healing conversations with a few close brothers, as well as an unexpected call from an old brother (easily a healing highlight of my day). Then on top of that, just complete joy tonight for a few hours with my awesome kids. Alot of love, hugs, kisses, "I love you's", and smiles. When we allow God to work and understand what the things are that we need to give to him to stop binding our hearts, he always comes through.
I just wanted to stop and give him all my praise and glory tonight. I am nothing without him.
I urge you to keep those eyes looking forward through the windshield out there, and not looking backwards at the rearview. The windshield is where God is working and holds his path for your life!
I love you Lord. Thank you for your faithfulness and love. Thank you for your healing and strength. Thank you for other christians who bear my burdens and love me for me. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you mostly for Jesus.
It shouldn't surprise us when we go through a difficult time and are already feeling hurt and pain that Satan wants to remind us of every bad life-changing decision we have ever made. And I don't mean on a 10-inch tv screen, but rather on a HUGE, 5000-inch, large as life, shown in 3D and HD GIGANTIC screen---you know, the one you feel like everyone else is watching with you!
Here is the beauty though---and pay attention, because this is REALLY a complicated truth (ha!)---but God is so much bigger than anything. Yup, that's it. Pretty amazing, isn't it! Simple, yet true. Undeniable fact.
I was at a point of brokenness today. Actually, it was a period of brokenness. No strength of my own. Texting those closest to me asking for prayer, encouragement, help, etc. And once I stopped and took my own mind out of it, and truly dealt in His truths and word, God changed my day RIGHT THEN AND THERE. Because his word says he is faithful, and he hears us, and he came through again!
Here are some of the things that he blessed me with this afternoon and evening:
1 Peter 5:10
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.
(See what it said? HIMSELF restore you.)
1 Peter 4:12-13
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Proverbs 2:7
He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless.
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
All powerful verses and passages, but God didn't stop there. He also gave me some fantastic, honest, healing conversations with a few close brothers, as well as an unexpected call from an old brother (easily a healing highlight of my day). Then on top of that, just complete joy tonight for a few hours with my awesome kids. Alot of love, hugs, kisses, "I love you's", and smiles. When we allow God to work and understand what the things are that we need to give to him to stop binding our hearts, he always comes through.
I just wanted to stop and give him all my praise and glory tonight. I am nothing without him.
I urge you to keep those eyes looking forward through the windshield out there, and not looking backwards at the rearview. The windshield is where God is working and holds his path for your life!
I love you Lord. Thank you for your faithfulness and love. Thank you for your healing and strength. Thank you for other christians who bear my burdens and love me for me. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you mostly for Jesus.
God's timing...
Well, here I sit at 6:30a.m., in my boxer briefs, watching Gus stab his horse in Lonesome Dove. LOL. I have been awake spending time with God since 4:23a.m. Definitely God's timing, not mine. And definitely some serious things to think about on my mind.
You know, I have gone through a divorce. And as I stare some other relationship issues in the face, God has taken me to 1 Corinthians 13 this morning in pursuit of his truth and will for my life. Not easy. And if you are in a marriage or relationship this morning, then I hope you take the rest of this to heart.
Have you closely read that chapter? Well, let's start further back. Do you WANT God's best for your life? Do you want a relationship and love to be ALL that HE wants it to be for you? If the answer is yes, then think about these verses and what God means in them. If the answer is no, then you might as well prepare for heartache and get on your own and move on!
God's word is clear.
In verse 2, towards the beginning of the "love" chapter, it states that "and if I have a faith that can move mountians, but have not love, then I am nothing". Wow. When you take God's word literally, as we are suppossed to, that hits home. Who among us wants to be nothing? God did not create us for that!
Verse 6 says that "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth". Powerful stuff. Are we daily living in truth? Facts are, we either choose God in a situation, or we don't.
Verse 8 says that "Love never fails". Never is a STRONG word. Don't most people say "never say never"? God said never right there. STRONG.
But the verse that speaks to me most this morning and convicts me is verse 7. "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres." Always is another of those strong words. Always is always. I didn't do that in my marriage, but praise God that I have learned to give that my best now.
What does it mean to "protect" love? Think about that. To me, it means that in EVERY instance, if you truly love someone, you think of them and honor both God and them by making the choices that respects that love. You don't flirt, you don't leave yourself open to known temptations or past failures Satan has used against you, you proactively and selflessly put the other first, and most of all, you hold yourself accountable to seeking God with all you have to be in the best position possible to honor that love. To me, that is TRUE, GODLY LOVE.
That is where it is on us. I suffer consequences in my life for not pursuing God first in my marriage. My beautiful children suffer because of my actions. That isn't easy to live with, but God is faithful and merciful and has worked in this. I have accepted that, and have made the changes that I needed to make so that I can best avoid EVER having that happen again. I want only God's best when it comes to love and a love relationship. Any of us that say we want that have an INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTABILITY in our own lives that we HAVE to live to. Period. God wants and has called us to NO less. Again, think about that.
So wherever you are today, whatever situation in a love relationship you are in, or not in, think about what God says about love. Think not only of what it should look like, but even more about YOUR part in honoring God in love.
Then think about when we say we love God. Do we really show it? Do we only think about human love relationships when we read that chapter in 1 Corinthians? Or do we rightly hold our love relationship with God to the same standards?
Again, think about that...
You know, I have gone through a divorce. And as I stare some other relationship issues in the face, God has taken me to 1 Corinthians 13 this morning in pursuit of his truth and will for my life. Not easy. And if you are in a marriage or relationship this morning, then I hope you take the rest of this to heart.
Have you closely read that chapter? Well, let's start further back. Do you WANT God's best for your life? Do you want a relationship and love to be ALL that HE wants it to be for you? If the answer is yes, then think about these verses and what God means in them. If the answer is no, then you might as well prepare for heartache and get on your own and move on!
God's word is clear.
In verse 2, towards the beginning of the "love" chapter, it states that "and if I have a faith that can move mountians, but have not love, then I am nothing". Wow. When you take God's word literally, as we are suppossed to, that hits home. Who among us wants to be nothing? God did not create us for that!
Verse 6 says that "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth". Powerful stuff. Are we daily living in truth? Facts are, we either choose God in a situation, or we don't.
Verse 8 says that "Love never fails". Never is a STRONG word. Don't most people say "never say never"? God said never right there. STRONG.
But the verse that speaks to me most this morning and convicts me is verse 7. "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres." Always is another of those strong words. Always is always. I didn't do that in my marriage, but praise God that I have learned to give that my best now.
What does it mean to "protect" love? Think about that. To me, it means that in EVERY instance, if you truly love someone, you think of them and honor both God and them by making the choices that respects that love. You don't flirt, you don't leave yourself open to known temptations or past failures Satan has used against you, you proactively and selflessly put the other first, and most of all, you hold yourself accountable to seeking God with all you have to be in the best position possible to honor that love. To me, that is TRUE, GODLY LOVE.
That is where it is on us. I suffer consequences in my life for not pursuing God first in my marriage. My beautiful children suffer because of my actions. That isn't easy to live with, but God is faithful and merciful and has worked in this. I have accepted that, and have made the changes that I needed to make so that I can best avoid EVER having that happen again. I want only God's best when it comes to love and a love relationship. Any of us that say we want that have an INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTABILITY in our own lives that we HAVE to live to. Period. God wants and has called us to NO less. Again, think about that.
So wherever you are today, whatever situation in a love relationship you are in, or not in, think about what God says about love. Think not only of what it should look like, but even more about YOUR part in honoring God in love.
Then think about when we say we love God. Do we really show it? Do we only think about human love relationships when we read that chapter in 1 Corinthians? Or do we rightly hold our love relationship with God to the same standards?
Again, think about that...
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
And there He goes again...
Is it not amazing how when we are at our weakest and ask God to restore us, he so faithfully does? Through much prayer, reading the Word, and seeking wise counsel from true Christ-followers, I went to bed and woke up with more boldness and confidence in Jeremiah 29:11-13 than I have ever had. I am continuing to see God work in me to grow my faith. I give him ALL glory for it. He is just being faithful to his word! It doesn't come without tough moments, but they are easily swept aside as God has my eyes going forward, and not in the rearview mirror.
Where are your eyes? Are you focused on past things that can only bind you down and hold you back? Or are your eyes fixed on the truth of the Bible and all of God's promises for you? Do you trust that he CAN change your life? We have a CHOICE in every action we take. We CHOOSE our ATTITUDE. If you feel like you are apart from God or not hearing him right now, then all you have to do is literally stop, humble yourself, and ask him to speak to you. Then listen. He is faithful! You either choose God, or you don't.
A few more scriptures that have been speaking to me:
Isaiah 26:3-4 (AWESOME!)
Psalm 119
If I can say one more thing tonight (which I can, since it's MY blog! HA!), I just want to speak to the blessing of Christian accountability. Brotherhood. Authenticity. I have never been alone the last few days facing some trials, because God has richly blessed me with a group of God-fearing men, his word, his music, and the Holy Spirit. Now, part of that is on me to SEEK him with my whole heart. But he makes it so easy to do because of the love and blessing he showers me with---even in the face of struggle. My life has more peace in it because God is more a part of everything I do.
People will tell you that I am usually pretty good explaining myself and with words, but I can't even begin to describe how good God has been to me in my life. To the world, I look like nothing. I have nothing. But in my Father's eyes, I am a beautiful creation, fearfully and wonderfully made, made to love and serve him. In God and his love I am richer than the richest man of the world.
Now, there's something worth smiling about :)
Let the Lord be your peace, and make a difference for him in someone's life!
Where are your eyes? Are you focused on past things that can only bind you down and hold you back? Or are your eyes fixed on the truth of the Bible and all of God's promises for you? Do you trust that he CAN change your life? We have a CHOICE in every action we take. We CHOOSE our ATTITUDE. If you feel like you are apart from God or not hearing him right now, then all you have to do is literally stop, humble yourself, and ask him to speak to you. Then listen. He is faithful! You either choose God, or you don't.
A few more scriptures that have been speaking to me:
Isaiah 26:3-4 (AWESOME!)
Psalm 119
If I can say one more thing tonight (which I can, since it's MY blog! HA!), I just want to speak to the blessing of Christian accountability. Brotherhood. Authenticity. I have never been alone the last few days facing some trials, because God has richly blessed me with a group of God-fearing men, his word, his music, and the Holy Spirit. Now, part of that is on me to SEEK him with my whole heart. But he makes it so easy to do because of the love and blessing he showers me with---even in the face of struggle. My life has more peace in it because God is more a part of everything I do.
People will tell you that I am usually pretty good explaining myself and with words, but I can't even begin to describe how good God has been to me in my life. To the world, I look like nothing. I have nothing. But in my Father's eyes, I am a beautiful creation, fearfully and wonderfully made, made to love and serve him. In God and his love I am richer than the richest man of the world.
Now, there's something worth smiling about :)
Let the Lord be your peace, and make a difference for him in someone's life!
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