I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, and my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend.. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio.
I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.
I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.
Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will.
I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set.
They, too, will get old.
I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things. Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.
I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver. As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong.
So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day (if I feel like it).
MAY OUR FRIENDSHIP NEVER COME APART ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Transforming the Task List
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31
What got you out of bed this morning (besides the lure of a hot cup of coffee)? If you’re like me, you finally pulled yourself out of bed because you’ve got stuff to do. In fact, your obligations for the day will probably end up being itemized on a list.
My to-do list is unapologetically low-tech. Just a small pad of lined paper with the date on the top and a handwritten itemization of things I need to get done before I hit the sack at the end of the day. I know that a Palm Pilot, a Blackberry, or even my trusted laptop could make my list look much trendier, but in the end a list is a list—a long series of items that keep my feet to the fire.
What’s troubling is that as I get to the bottom of one page of tasks, there’s often a note that says, “See next page.” And the scariest page is the one from yesterday that reminds me that I didn’t get it all done after all. It’s easy to begin to feel that life is only about “living for the list”! But if all of life is just about the stuff to do, it becomes little more than an accumulation of random, disconnected events in life. You climb in bed at the end of each day exhausted, thinking to yourself: There really has to be more to life than this.
The good news is that God has an overriding purpose for your life that encompasses everything on your list. When we put that purpose at the top of our priorities, even a day with an incomplete task list can be a smashingly significant, successful day. Are you ready to find out what it is?
God’s purpose for you is that you live to glorify Him. Not that you stop doing the list thing, but that everything on your list can be done to His glory. It’s just that simple. Glorifying God in all we do takes us beyond the routine of “just getting things done.” It fills the stuff on the list with a new sense of significance and in the end leaves us feeling that even the smallest task is significant. Getting the right degree, finding the right job, making lots of money, or landing a meaningful relationship is no longer the end game. Thankfully so, those kinds of pursuits left to themselves soon run out of gas. But getting a degree (or doing any of those things) so that you can use the degree to glorify God instead of yourself fills your life with a new and lasting sense of significance.
This is exactly what Paul had in mind when he wrote in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whether you eat or drink, do it all for the glory of God.” There is nothing in your life that can’t be done to glorify God. Living to bring glory to Him is the all-consuming, driving, defining purpose that God has intended for our lives. Glorifying God simply means to do all we do in a way that communicates the attitudes and actions of God. It is filling life with His presence. When others see His mercy, justice, grace, love, tolerance, generosity, and humility in everything we do, they are seeing the glory of God through our lives. And tactfully giving Him the credit for all our accomplishments focuses the spotlight and applause on the right person.
Let’s face it—our lists are here to stay! Let’s make something of them. Do it all to show your world what God is like!
YOUR JOURNEY…
* Look over your tasks and plans for the day ahead. What priorities are reflected in your list?
* What are the dangers of being ruled by your task list? Have any of these dangers crept into your day-to-day activities?
* Consider one of the more mundane items on the list. What are some ways God could use that task for His glory if submitted to Him?
* Think of some practical ways you can submit your plans and lists to God each day. You can start right now. Take some time to ask the Lord to show you how to bring glory to Him in all your activities
What got you out of bed this morning (besides the lure of a hot cup of coffee)? If you’re like me, you finally pulled yourself out of bed because you’ve got stuff to do. In fact, your obligations for the day will probably end up being itemized on a list.
My to-do list is unapologetically low-tech. Just a small pad of lined paper with the date on the top and a handwritten itemization of things I need to get done before I hit the sack at the end of the day. I know that a Palm Pilot, a Blackberry, or even my trusted laptop could make my list look much trendier, but in the end a list is a list—a long series of items that keep my feet to the fire.
What’s troubling is that as I get to the bottom of one page of tasks, there’s often a note that says, “See next page.” And the scariest page is the one from yesterday that reminds me that I didn’t get it all done after all. It’s easy to begin to feel that life is only about “living for the list”! But if all of life is just about the stuff to do, it becomes little more than an accumulation of random, disconnected events in life. You climb in bed at the end of each day exhausted, thinking to yourself: There really has to be more to life than this.
The good news is that God has an overriding purpose for your life that encompasses everything on your list. When we put that purpose at the top of our priorities, even a day with an incomplete task list can be a smashingly significant, successful day. Are you ready to find out what it is?
God’s purpose for you is that you live to glorify Him. Not that you stop doing the list thing, but that everything on your list can be done to His glory. It’s just that simple. Glorifying God in all we do takes us beyond the routine of “just getting things done.” It fills the stuff on the list with a new sense of significance and in the end leaves us feeling that even the smallest task is significant. Getting the right degree, finding the right job, making lots of money, or landing a meaningful relationship is no longer the end game. Thankfully so, those kinds of pursuits left to themselves soon run out of gas. But getting a degree (or doing any of those things) so that you can use the degree to glorify God instead of yourself fills your life with a new and lasting sense of significance.
This is exactly what Paul had in mind when he wrote in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whether you eat or drink, do it all for the glory of God.” There is nothing in your life that can’t be done to glorify God. Living to bring glory to Him is the all-consuming, driving, defining purpose that God has intended for our lives. Glorifying God simply means to do all we do in a way that communicates the attitudes and actions of God. It is filling life with His presence. When others see His mercy, justice, grace, love, tolerance, generosity, and humility in everything we do, they are seeing the glory of God through our lives. And tactfully giving Him the credit for all our accomplishments focuses the spotlight and applause on the right person.
Let’s face it—our lists are here to stay! Let’s make something of them. Do it all to show your world what God is like!
YOUR JOURNEY…
* Look over your tasks and plans for the day ahead. What priorities are reflected in your list?
* What are the dangers of being ruled by your task list? Have any of these dangers crept into your day-to-day activities?
* Consider one of the more mundane items on the list. What are some ways God could use that task for His glory if submitted to Him?
* Think of some practical ways you can submit your plans and lists to God each day. You can start right now. Take some time to ask the Lord to show you how to bring glory to Him in all your activities
Friday, August 13, 2010
God Decrees.....God Permits
The way of God is complex
he is hard for us to predict.
He moves the pieces and they
come somehow into a kind of
order.
he is hard for us to predict.
He moves the pieces and they
come somehow into a kind of
order.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
The Rain
It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am..
I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.
While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.
The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health.
He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease.
As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late.
He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.
I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?'
He smiled as he patted my hand and said,
'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'
I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought,
'That is the kind of love I want in my life.'
True love is neither physical, nor romantic.
True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
With all the jokes and fun that are in e-mails, sometimes there is one that comes along that has an important message. This one I thought I could share with you.
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.
I hope you share this with someone you care about. I just did.
'Life isn't about how to survive the storm,
But how to dance in the rain.'
We are all getting Older
GOD BLESS!
"Ask not of your friends , That which your friends could not ask of you."
I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.
While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.
The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health.
He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease.
As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late.
He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.
I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?'
He smiled as he patted my hand and said,
'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'
I had to hold back tears as he left, I had goose bumps on my arm, and thought,
'That is the kind of love I want in my life.'
True love is neither physical, nor romantic.
True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.
With all the jokes and fun that are in e-mails, sometimes there is one that comes along that has an important message. This one I thought I could share with you.
The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.
I hope you share this with someone you care about. I just did.
'Life isn't about how to survive the storm,
But how to dance in the rain.'
We are all getting Older
GOD BLESS!
"Ask not of your friends , That which your friends could not ask of you."
Friday, July 16, 2010
El milagro de las convicciones
Mi palabra y mi predicación no fue con palabras persuasivas de sabiduría humana. . . 1 Corintios 2:04
Pablo era un erudito y un orador de la graduación más alta, él no estaba hablando aquí de un profundo sentido de humildad, sino que decía que cuando él predicaba el evangelio, se solaparía el poder de Dios, si impresionó a la gente con la excelencia de su discurso. Creer en Jesús es un milagro producido únicamente por la eficacia de la redención, no por el impresionante discurso, ni por cortejar y convencer, sino sólo por el puro poder sin la ayuda de Dios. El poder creativo de la redención viene por la predicación del evangelio, pero nunca debido a la personalidad del predicador.
El ayuno real y efectiva de un predicador no es el ayuno de alimentos, pero el ayuno de la elocuencia, de la dicción impresionante, y de todo lo demás que pudieran dificultar el evangelio de Dios que se presenta. El predicador está ahí como representante de Dios-". . . como si Dios rogase por medio de nosotros. . . "(2 Corintios 5:20). Él está allí para presentar el evangelio de Dios. Si es sólo por mi predicación que la gente desea ser mejor, nunca se acercaran a Jesucristo. Cualquier cosa que me halaga en mi predicación del evangelio, como resultado, me hara traidor de Jesús, y puedo evitar que el poder creativo de Su redención haga su trabajo.
"Y yo, si soy levantado. . . , A todos atraeré a mí mismo "(Juan 12:32).
Pablo era un erudito y un orador de la graduación más alta, él no estaba hablando aquí de un profundo sentido de humildad, sino que decía que cuando él predicaba el evangelio, se solaparía el poder de Dios, si impresionó a la gente con la excelencia de su discurso. Creer en Jesús es un milagro producido únicamente por la eficacia de la redención, no por el impresionante discurso, ni por cortejar y convencer, sino sólo por el puro poder sin la ayuda de Dios. El poder creativo de la redención viene por la predicación del evangelio, pero nunca debido a la personalidad del predicador.
El ayuno real y efectiva de un predicador no es el ayuno de alimentos, pero el ayuno de la elocuencia, de la dicción impresionante, y de todo lo demás que pudieran dificultar el evangelio de Dios que se presenta. El predicador está ahí como representante de Dios-". . . como si Dios rogase por medio de nosotros. . . "(2 Corintios 5:20). Él está allí para presentar el evangelio de Dios. Si es sólo por mi predicación que la gente desea ser mejor, nunca se acercaran a Jesucristo. Cualquier cosa que me halaga en mi predicación del evangelio, como resultado, me hara traidor de Jesús, y puedo evitar que el poder creativo de Su redención haga su trabajo.
"Y yo, si soy levantado. . . , A todos atraeré a mí mismo "(Juan 12:32).
Friday, May 28, 2010
Nehemia 4: 16-23
We must watch always against spiritual enemies, and not expect that our warfare will be over till our work is ended. The word of God is the sword of the spirit, which we ought to have always at hand, and never to have to seek for it, either in our labors, or in our conflicts, as Christians. Every true Christian is both a laborer and a soldier, working with one hand, and fighting with the other. Good work is likely to go on with success, when those who labor in it, make a business of it. And Satan fears to assault the watchful Christian; or, if attacked, the Lord fight for him. Thus must we wait to the close of life, never putting off our account till our work and warfare are ended; then we shall be welcomed to the rest and joy of our Lord.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Thank God for Mothers!
"I have been reminded of your sincere faith that lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded, now lives in you also." 2 Timothy 1:05
It was Sunday morning and his son had not yet been presented at the breakfast table. She had tried to climb the stairs shouting: "Wake up and get down here!" But there was no response. Finally, up the stairs and opened the door to the room of his son and said: "We must rise and dress. It's time to go to church!"
"I do not want to go to church," her son complained of under the covers.
"You can not give me one good reason not to go to church, so get up!" Replied his mother.
"Actually, I'll give you three reasons. Number one: it's boring. Number two: people are gossipy and critical. And number three: nobody loves me. So why do I bother?"
"I'll give you three reasons," replied her mother. "Number one: the Bible says you should go. Number two: you are 45 years. And number three: you're the pastor! Now get out of bed and dressed for church!"
Where would we be without the tireless insistence of our mothers to do the right thing? Across the United States this weekend, the flowers will be delivered, homemade cards will be given, and mothers celebrated Mother's Day. And it is right to do so. I know of very few roles that such demand unconditional perseverance, selfless commitment and that of motherhood.
In his second letter to Timothy, Paul pauses to acknowledge the impact that a mother can have, mentioning Lois, Timothy's grandmother, and Eunice, his mother. Paul's mention of these women is interesting because he, personally, could claim a major influence on the spiritual journey of Timothy. Paul called his spiritual son (2 Timothy 1:6, 1 Corinthians 4:17, Philippians 2:22) and not only Timothy had been included in mission trips, but there were numerous tasks entrusted to him, including grazing growing church in Ephesus. It is clear that Paul had spent much of his life in mentoring and helping to make Timothy capable and useful.
But Paul readily and willingly acknowledged that the seeds of Timothy's faith were planted by these two women. We know very little about Lois and Eunice, but our imagination can imagine young Timothy to pray, teaching them simple stories of Jesus and the life-changing truths of the Word of God and submit to the early church leaders. We all know that motherhood is a difficult task, but the rewards to faithful moms is great. Think about how the mother and the grandmother of Timothy must have felt to see him blossom as a leader in the work of Jesus!
I know for sure that my character and faith has been shaped and molded by my mom. I will always be grateful for his influence in my life. It has been a privilege for me to see how my wife, Martie, has impacted the lives of our children, and now our grandchildren. So this weekend, I'm excited for the opportunity to celebrate the important role of our mothers.
Because let's face it, where would we be without them? We will listen to the mothers!
YOUR JOURNEY ...
* For some, Mother's Day brings pain, perhaps the pain of a fractured relationship between a mother and her son, the pain of losing a loved one, or the pain of unfulfilled longings for motherhood. Psalms 34:18 offers these compassionate words: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit." Jesus knows and understands your pain and is willing to not only grieve with you, but to bring peace and hope soft.
* If you're a mom, how to stimulate and excite you to know that you can play a key role in the lives of their children (and grandchildren)?
* Take a moment to thank the Lord for your mom, then make sure to thank her mother specifically!
It was Sunday morning and his son had not yet been presented at the breakfast table. She had tried to climb the stairs shouting: "Wake up and get down here!" But there was no response. Finally, up the stairs and opened the door to the room of his son and said: "We must rise and dress. It's time to go to church!"
"I do not want to go to church," her son complained of under the covers.
"You can not give me one good reason not to go to church, so get up!" Replied his mother.
"Actually, I'll give you three reasons. Number one: it's boring. Number two: people are gossipy and critical. And number three: nobody loves me. So why do I bother?"
"I'll give you three reasons," replied her mother. "Number one: the Bible says you should go. Number two: you are 45 years. And number three: you're the pastor! Now get out of bed and dressed for church!"
Where would we be without the tireless insistence of our mothers to do the right thing? Across the United States this weekend, the flowers will be delivered, homemade cards will be given, and mothers celebrated Mother's Day. And it is right to do so. I know of very few roles that such demand unconditional perseverance, selfless commitment and that of motherhood.
In his second letter to Timothy, Paul pauses to acknowledge the impact that a mother can have, mentioning Lois, Timothy's grandmother, and Eunice, his mother. Paul's mention of these women is interesting because he, personally, could claim a major influence on the spiritual journey of Timothy. Paul called his spiritual son (2 Timothy 1:6, 1 Corinthians 4:17, Philippians 2:22) and not only Timothy had been included in mission trips, but there were numerous tasks entrusted to him, including grazing growing church in Ephesus. It is clear that Paul had spent much of his life in mentoring and helping to make Timothy capable and useful.
But Paul readily and willingly acknowledged that the seeds of Timothy's faith were planted by these two women. We know very little about Lois and Eunice, but our imagination can imagine young Timothy to pray, teaching them simple stories of Jesus and the life-changing truths of the Word of God and submit to the early church leaders. We all know that motherhood is a difficult task, but the rewards to faithful moms is great. Think about how the mother and the grandmother of Timothy must have felt to see him blossom as a leader in the work of Jesus!
I know for sure that my character and faith has been shaped and molded by my mom. I will always be grateful for his influence in my life. It has been a privilege for me to see how my wife, Martie, has impacted the lives of our children, and now our grandchildren. So this weekend, I'm excited for the opportunity to celebrate the important role of our mothers.
Because let's face it, where would we be without them? We will listen to the mothers!
YOUR JOURNEY ...
* For some, Mother's Day brings pain, perhaps the pain of a fractured relationship between a mother and her son, the pain of losing a loved one, or the pain of unfulfilled longings for motherhood. Psalms 34:18 offers these compassionate words: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit." Jesus knows and understands your pain and is willing to not only grieve with you, but to bring peace and hope soft.
* If you're a mom, how to stimulate and excite you to know that you can play a key role in the lives of their children (and grandchildren)?
* Take a moment to thank the Lord for your mom, then make sure to thank her mother specifically!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Time
Being a father means giving up your time without resentment. It's hard, I know. Men spend most of their time working for someone else. When you come home and there are even more demands on your time, you might feel like distancing yourself from your own family.
Your daughter realizes this, and becasue she wants to please you, she might not tell you how much she needs your time. So you have to take the initiative to spend time alone with her.
I realize that many good fathers feel pressured regarding time. There isn't enough, for any of us, and the lack of time or misuse of it causes great anxiety. We carve out time slots for our kids, and we don't want to waste that time. We want to ensure that it's productive and meaningful. And that only adds to pressure.
But spending time with your daughter shouldn't be full of pressure, because she doesn't need you to do something; she only needs to be with you. So don't worry about finding activities to entertain her. She doesn't want to hitch a ride on your golf cart. (And she certainly doesn't want to share you with the television.) All she wants is your attention. And she need it on a regular basis.
Your daughter realizes this, and becasue she wants to please you, she might not tell you how much she needs your time. So you have to take the initiative to spend time alone with her.
I realize that many good fathers feel pressured regarding time. There isn't enough, for any of us, and the lack of time or misuse of it causes great anxiety. We carve out time slots for our kids, and we don't want to waste that time. We want to ensure that it's productive and meaningful. And that only adds to pressure.
But spending time with your daughter shouldn't be full of pressure, because she doesn't need you to do something; she only needs to be with you. So don't worry about finding activities to entertain her. She doesn't want to hitch a ride on your golf cart. (And she certainly doesn't want to share you with the television.) All she wants is your attention. And she need it on a regular basis.
Monday, May 3, 2010
The Significance of Suffering
“Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:3
Let’s be honest, most of us would have to admit that we have a natural aversion to suffering. It may not bother us so much when “bad” people suffer, but we often get bent out of shape when suffering happens to “good” people—especially to us! We think that life owes us happiness, comfort, wealth, and a bit of prosperity. So when life deals us a blow, it’s no wonder we are prone to “grow weary and lose heart.”
Thankfully the writer of Hebrews helps put things into perspective by instructing us to “consider” the suffering of Jesus. When we fully grasp the terrible suffering that Jesus Christ—the only perfect person to walk this planet—endured on our behalf, it makes all the difference.
It’s significant to note that Jesus knew exactly what was coming. The night before His death, He told His disciples, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer” (Luke 22:15, italics mine). I have often thought that it would have been a lot easier for Him to die a different way—something more sudden and less violent. Why was such deep agony required?
Jesus knew that suffering is part and parcel of Satan’s grip on our lives. Satan loves to bring it on, because he believes the more suffering he can throw at us, the more we will become defeated, discouraged, and disengaged from God. That’s his plan. And so the enemy threw the book at Jesus. Satan entered the heart of Judas, which meant that Jesus would suffer the bitter betrayal of a trusted friend. The kangaroo courts and crowds declared Jesus to be a criminal, beat and mocked Him, and inflicted terrible agony on Him. He stumbled up the cobblestone steps carrying His own cross, felt the stab of the sword in His side, the nails in His hands and feet, the thorns on His brow. He tasted suffering for us, and all the while Satan said, “Take that!”
What Satan did not know was that behind the scenes, God was working to use Jesus’ experience of suffering to turn the tables on Satan and defeat him through the suffering. The suffering of Jesus was a prelude to the ultimate defeat of sin, death, and hell. Because He died on the cross and suffered for us, we too can be assured that in the depths of suffering there is the reality that victory will be God’s end game for us. So, when Satan heaps suffering on your life, you can be certain that God, who works all things together for good (Romans 8:28), is ready to turn the tables on Satan to bring victory out of defeat for you.
I don’t know about you, but I’m really thankful that Jesus was not only willing to die, but to defeat the stronghold of suffering in the process. He willingly walked into the arena of suffering in order to achieve complete, final victory over the ravaging effects of sin. And what’s more, He proved that there’s life beyond the grave.
So don’t miss the significance in your time of suffering! When Satan throws his best stuff at you, because of Jesus you can believe that God is both able and ready to turn the tables on him—and to bring you out with hands held high in victory!
Let’s be honest, most of us would have to admit that we have a natural aversion to suffering. It may not bother us so much when “bad” people suffer, but we often get bent out of shape when suffering happens to “good” people—especially to us! We think that life owes us happiness, comfort, wealth, and a bit of prosperity. So when life deals us a blow, it’s no wonder we are prone to “grow weary and lose heart.”
Thankfully the writer of Hebrews helps put things into perspective by instructing us to “consider” the suffering of Jesus. When we fully grasp the terrible suffering that Jesus Christ—the only perfect person to walk this planet—endured on our behalf, it makes all the difference.
It’s significant to note that Jesus knew exactly what was coming. The night before His death, He told His disciples, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer” (Luke 22:15, italics mine). I have often thought that it would have been a lot easier for Him to die a different way—something more sudden and less violent. Why was such deep agony required?
Jesus knew that suffering is part and parcel of Satan’s grip on our lives. Satan loves to bring it on, because he believes the more suffering he can throw at us, the more we will become defeated, discouraged, and disengaged from God. That’s his plan. And so the enemy threw the book at Jesus. Satan entered the heart of Judas, which meant that Jesus would suffer the bitter betrayal of a trusted friend. The kangaroo courts and crowds declared Jesus to be a criminal, beat and mocked Him, and inflicted terrible agony on Him. He stumbled up the cobblestone steps carrying His own cross, felt the stab of the sword in His side, the nails in His hands and feet, the thorns on His brow. He tasted suffering for us, and all the while Satan said, “Take that!”
What Satan did not know was that behind the scenes, God was working to use Jesus’ experience of suffering to turn the tables on Satan and defeat him through the suffering. The suffering of Jesus was a prelude to the ultimate defeat of sin, death, and hell. Because He died on the cross and suffered for us, we too can be assured that in the depths of suffering there is the reality that victory will be God’s end game for us. So, when Satan heaps suffering on your life, you can be certain that God, who works all things together for good (Romans 8:28), is ready to turn the tables on Satan to bring victory out of defeat for you.
I don’t know about you, but I’m really thankful that Jesus was not only willing to die, but to defeat the stronghold of suffering in the process. He willingly walked into the arena of suffering in order to achieve complete, final victory over the ravaging effects of sin. And what’s more, He proved that there’s life beyond the grave.
So don’t miss the significance in your time of suffering! When Satan throws his best stuff at you, because of Jesus you can believe that God is both able and ready to turn the tables on him—and to bring you out with hands held high in victory!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
DON'T FORGET
“Be careful that you do not forget the LORD, who brought you out of Egypt.” Deuteronomy 6:12
In Deuteronomy 6:12, Moses is talking to the Israelites about the danger of memory loss when it comes to forgetting God. God’s people were standing on the edge of the Promised Land, ready to enter a land with great cities they did not build, houses full of good things they did not fill, and vast and lush vineyards they didn’t plant. And, as good as the prospect of all this prosperity was, there was a danger lurking under the blessing. Moses knew that in good times it’s easy to forget God. The people were in danger of forgetting that it was God who had given them this land flowing with milk and honey; forgetting that it was God who went before them in each battle; forgetting, in fact, that it was only through God’s gracious choice of them as His people that they were enjoying the blessings of their new home and country. And, when we forget God, we become unthankful, proud, and self-sufficient—the kinds of things that are offensive to the Giver of every good and perfect gift.
So the solution for Israel—and for that matter, for us—is keeping God in mind! The book of Deuteronomy is actually a memory seminar about God’s goodness to His people. Moses reminds the Israelites of the law that was given on Mount Sinai. He tracks the Israelites back over the ways God miraculously provided for them—battles won, food given, shoes that didn’t wear out—the list of God’s providing work is long.
So, here’s the lesson. Beware! When God is abundantly good to us we are in great danger. We are in danger because in good times it’s easy to forget God. It’s easy to be so consumed with the gifts that we forget the Giver! And if we do that, we end up worshiping the blessings and not the One who in His amazing grace has blessed us.
The benefit of keeping God in mind is that it keeps our hearts grateful, appropriately humble, and delighted in our God for His goodness to us. Believe me, delighting in Him beats being consumed by the stuff that He has given us.
Memory lapses in our daily routines may be normal for us. But remembering God’s goodness in our lives is something we can’t afford to forget!
YOUR JOURNEY…
In Deuteronomy 6:12, Moses is talking to the Israelites about the danger of memory loss when it comes to forgetting God. God’s people were standing on the edge of the Promised Land, ready to enter a land with great cities they did not build, houses full of good things they did not fill, and vast and lush vineyards they didn’t plant. And, as good as the prospect of all this prosperity was, there was a danger lurking under the blessing. Moses knew that in good times it’s easy to forget God. The people were in danger of forgetting that it was God who had given them this land flowing with milk and honey; forgetting that it was God who went before them in each battle; forgetting, in fact, that it was only through God’s gracious choice of them as His people that they were enjoying the blessings of their new home and country. And, when we forget God, we become unthankful, proud, and self-sufficient—the kinds of things that are offensive to the Giver of every good and perfect gift.
So the solution for Israel—and for that matter, for us—is keeping God in mind! The book of Deuteronomy is actually a memory seminar about God’s goodness to His people. Moses reminds the Israelites of the law that was given on Mount Sinai. He tracks the Israelites back over the ways God miraculously provided for them—battles won, food given, shoes that didn’t wear out—the list of God’s providing work is long.
So, here’s the lesson. Beware! When God is abundantly good to us we are in great danger. We are in danger because in good times it’s easy to forget God. It’s easy to be so consumed with the gifts that we forget the Giver! And if we do that, we end up worshiping the blessings and not the One who in His amazing grace has blessed us.
The benefit of keeping God in mind is that it keeps our hearts grateful, appropriately humble, and delighted in our God for His goodness to us. Believe me, delighting in Him beats being consumed by the stuff that He has given us.
Memory lapses in our daily routines may be normal for us. But remembering God’s goodness in our lives is something we can’t afford to forget!
YOUR JOURNEY…
- Take some time to write out what God has done for you. Let it be an exercise in remembering His goodness and grace in your life!
- While we can rejoice in the fact that God forgives and forgets the sins that we confess before Him, it’s sometimes helpful for us to remember just how much He has forgiven us. We are, as Paul said, examples of God’s “unlimited patience” (1 Timothy 1:16).
- How does remembering what God has done for you personally affect the way that you will live your life today?
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Words are Important
Use them. One of the major differences between men and women is how they use words. Woman like to talk; men don't. That's just the way it is. You might spend three hours watching a football game with your son and never say a word - and both of you would be happy. But your daughter isn't wired like that. You have to talk to her. A good rule of thumb is to use twice as m,any words as you normally would, even if it means just saying tings twice. Daughters can be prone to self-doubt. Pay her compliments repeatedly, so she knows you're sincere
When she talks she wants you to respond. Your daughter is sensitive not only to herself, but to others, and is always asking herself: Does he like being with me? Is he quiet because he's thinking about something? Is he angry? Is he depressed? She wants you to be happy becasue then her life is better. She'll often act as your personal aide, doing what she can to improve things. Your are the center of her world.
In return, you need, first and foremost to tell her you love her. Not just on special occasions, but regularly. That might be easy when she's five, but she needs to hear it even more when she is fifteen. She needs to hear you say it all the time. When a daughter hears "I love you" from her father, she feels complete.
When she talks she wants you to respond. Your daughter is sensitive not only to herself, but to others, and is always asking herself: Does he like being with me? Is he quiet because he's thinking about something? Is he angry? Is he depressed? She wants you to be happy becasue then her life is better. She'll often act as your personal aide, doing what she can to improve things. Your are the center of her world.
In return, you need, first and foremost to tell her you love her. Not just on special occasions, but regularly. That might be easy when she's five, but she needs to hear it even more when she is fifteen. She needs to hear you say it all the time. When a daughter hears "I love you" from her father, she feels complete.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
You Are Her First Love
Thomas Aquinas regarded love as the root of all other passions - hate, jealousy, and fear - and when I talk to daughters about their fathers, the conversations are almost always emotionally charged. They adore their fathers or hate them - sometimes they do both simultaneously. Your daughter yearns to secure your love, and throughout her life she'll need you to prove it.
A daughter identifies easily with her mother, but you are a mystery to her. you are her first love, so the early years of your relationship with her a crucial. The love you give her is her starting point. You have other loves in your life, but she doesn't. Every man who enters her life will be compared to you; every relationship she has with a man will be filtered through her relationship with you. If you have a good relationship, she will choose boyfriends who will treat her well. If she sees you as open and warm, she'll be confident with other men. If you are cold and unaffectionate, she'll find it hard to express love in a healthy way.
When your daughter was born, oxygen was forced into her lungs so she could breathe. So too must love be pressed into her being if she is to grow into an emotionally sound woman.
You will naturally feel love toward your daughter - especially in those first years of life - but that doesn't guarantee she feels loved by you. Daughters' reactions to words, actions, and situations are more complex, reflective, and diverse than those of fathers. She will read a litany of possible meanings into every thing you do. When you you buy your daughter a bracelet for her birthday, you'll think of it as a straightforward gift. But she will think of it as fraught with meaning, good or bad.
A daughter identifies easily with her mother, but you are a mystery to her. you are her first love, so the early years of your relationship with her a crucial. The love you give her is her starting point. You have other loves in your life, but she doesn't. Every man who enters her life will be compared to you; every relationship she has with a man will be filtered through her relationship with you. If you have a good relationship, she will choose boyfriends who will treat her well. If she sees you as open and warm, she'll be confident with other men. If you are cold and unaffectionate, she'll find it hard to express love in a healthy way.
When your daughter was born, oxygen was forced into her lungs so she could breathe. So too must love be pressed into her being if she is to grow into an emotionally sound woman.
You will naturally feel love toward your daughter - especially in those first years of life - but that doesn't guarantee she feels loved by you. Daughters' reactions to words, actions, and situations are more complex, reflective, and diverse than those of fathers. She will read a litany of possible meanings into every thing you do. When you you buy your daughter a bracelet for her birthday, you'll think of it as a straightforward gift. But she will think of it as fraught with meaning, good or bad.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Leadership
When your daughter is born, she recognizes your voice as deeper than her mother"s. As a toddler, she looks up to your enormous frame and realizes that your are big, smart, and tough. In her grade school years, she instinctively turn to you for direction.
What ever outward impression she gives , her life is centered on discovering what you like in her, and what you want from her. She knows you are smarter that she is. She gives you authority because she needs you to love and adore her. She can't feel good about herself until she knows that you feel good about her. So you need to use your authority carefully and wisely. Your daughter doesn't want to see you as an equal. She want you to be her hero, someone who is wiser and steadier and stronger than she is.
The only way you will alienate your daughter in the long term is by losing her respect, failing to lead, or failing to protect her. If you don't provide for her needs, she will find someone else who will-and that's when trouble starts. Don't let that happen.
What ever outward impression she gives , her life is centered on discovering what you like in her, and what you want from her. She knows you are smarter that she is. She gives you authority because she needs you to love and adore her. She can't feel good about herself until she knows that you feel good about her. So you need to use your authority carefully and wisely. Your daughter doesn't want to see you as an equal. She want you to be her hero, someone who is wiser and steadier and stronger than she is.
The only way you will alienate your daughter in the long term is by losing her respect, failing to lead, or failing to protect her. If you don't provide for her needs, she will find someone else who will-and that's when trouble starts. Don't let that happen.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Daughters need good Fathers
Your daughter needs the best of who you are: your strength, your courage, your fearlessness. She needs your empathy, assertiveness, and self-confidence. She needs you.
Our daughters need the support that only fathers can provide - and if you are willing to guide your daughter, to stand between her and a toxic culture, to take her to a healthier place, your rewards will be unmatched. You will experience the love and adoration that can come only from a daughter. You will a feel pride, satisfaction, and joy that, satisfaction, and joy that you can know nowhere else.
Daughters are never lukewarm in the presence of their fathers., They might take their mothers for granted, but not you. They light up-or they cry. They watch you intensely. They hang on your words. They hope for your attention, and they wait for it in frustration-or in despair. They need a gesture of approval, a nod of encouragement, or even simple eye contact to let them know you care and are willing to help.
When she's in your company, your daughter tries harder to excel. When you teach her, she learns more rapidly. When you guide her, she gains confidence. If you fully understood just how profoundly you can influence your daughter's life, you would be terrified, overwhelmed, or both. Boyfriends, brothers, even husbands can't shape her character the way you do. You will influence her entire life because she gives you an authority she gives no other man.
Our daughters need the support that only fathers can provide - and if you are willing to guide your daughter, to stand between her and a toxic culture, to take her to a healthier place, your rewards will be unmatched. You will experience the love and adoration that can come only from a daughter. You will a feel pride, satisfaction, and joy that, satisfaction, and joy that you can know nowhere else.
Daughters are never lukewarm in the presence of their fathers., They might take their mothers for granted, but not you. They light up-or they cry. They watch you intensely. They hang on your words. They hope for your attention, and they wait for it in frustration-or in despair. They need a gesture of approval, a nod of encouragement, or even simple eye contact to let them know you care and are willing to help.
When she's in your company, your daughter tries harder to excel. When you teach her, she learns more rapidly. When you guide her, she gains confidence. If you fully understood just how profoundly you can influence your daughter's life, you would be terrified, overwhelmed, or both. Boyfriends, brothers, even husbands can't shape her character the way you do. You will influence her entire life because she gives you an authority she gives no other man.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Perseverance
The character trai of perseverance is fast becoming lost in our culture. Greatness is born by pereverance in the face of adversity. Few things worth doing are ever easy.
Marriages and families sometimes face hard times. Boys must learn to persevere in the face of adversity if they are to struggle forward later, during the even tougher seasons of life. Persevrance is probably one of the toughest things to teach boys. it requieres us to reseit the ureg to rescue them when they are struggling. letting them suffer goes against our nature, but suffer they must if they are to develop the strength for the long haul.
James 1:2-4 speaks of persevering during tough times: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Marriages and families sometimes face hard times. Boys must learn to persevere in the face of adversity if they are to struggle forward later, during the even tougher seasons of life. Persevrance is probably one of the toughest things to teach boys. it requieres us to reseit the ureg to rescue them when they are struggling. letting them suffer goes against our nature, but suffer they must if they are to develop the strength for the long haul.
James 1:2-4 speaks of persevering during tough times: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Teach your Son Respect for Authority
"There are those who curse their fathers
and do not bless their mothers;
those who are pure in their own eyes
and yet are not cleansed of their filth;
those whose eyes are ever so haughty,
whose glances are so disdainful;
those whose teeth are swords
and whose jaws are set with knives
to devour the poor from the earth,
the needy from among mankind.
Proverbs 30:11-14
Too many people in our country are being raised without respect for authority. In order for your son to be a good leader, he has to understand hoe to be a good follower. Respect for authority also helps create appropriate boundaries in his life and teaches him self-respect.
"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience." Romans 13: 1-2, 5
Learning to understand, respect, and deal with the various forms of authority your son encounters will help him recognize God's authority over his own life. When he acknowledges that authority, he can begin the process of becoming a nob;e man worthy of leading a family.
and do not bless their mothers;
those who are pure in their own eyes
and yet are not cleansed of their filth;
those whose eyes are ever so haughty,
whose glances are so disdainful;
those whose teeth are swords
and whose jaws are set with knives
to devour the poor from the earth,
the needy from among mankind.
Proverbs 30:11-14
Too many people in our country are being raised without respect for authority. In order for your son to be a good leader, he has to understand hoe to be a good follower. Respect for authority also helps create appropriate boundaries in his life and teaches him self-respect.
"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience." Romans 13: 1-2, 5
Learning to understand, respect, and deal with the various forms of authority your son encounters will help him recognize God's authority over his own life. When he acknowledges that authority, he can begin the process of becoming a nob;e man worthy of leading a family.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Trustworthiness
To trust someone is to know that he will stand beside you - that he won't cut and run when the going gets tough. Preston Gillham says, "Trust is the confidence that continues to believe, even if what you believe appears to be untrue. To my way of thinking, trust is one step deeper than faith".
We are in a war - a spiritual war - and we need people around us we can trust to cover our backs - people who put our well-being ahead of their own. We need men who care enough about us and have our best interest at heart so much that they are willing to challenge our actions and decisions even if we get angry with them.
Men who are trustworthy are dependable. Can he be counted upon? Is his word his bond? Are his wife, children, and friends confident that he will be there for them when times are tough? A man who is dependable can be counted on to do what is best for you and others around him.
These are the kind of men we need as leaders. The Bible puts it this way: "But select capable men from all the people, men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain; and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times; let them bring every difficult case to you, but the simple ones they can decide themselves" (Exod. 18:21-22)
Talk to your son about your own life and what being able to trust someone means to you. If you have trouble trusting due to past experience, discuss it with him so that he can understand how trustworthiness is such a strong character trait in a man and how damaging it can be when violated
(Taken from "Better Dads, Stronger Sons" by Rick Johnson)
We are in a war - a spiritual war - and we need people around us we can trust to cover our backs - people who put our well-being ahead of their own. We need men who care enough about us and have our best interest at heart so much that they are willing to challenge our actions and decisions even if we get angry with them.
Men who are trustworthy are dependable. Can he be counted upon? Is his word his bond? Are his wife, children, and friends confident that he will be there for them when times are tough? A man who is dependable can be counted on to do what is best for you and others around him.
These are the kind of men we need as leaders. The Bible puts it this way: "But select capable men from all the people, men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain; and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times; let them bring every difficult case to you, but the simple ones they can decide themselves" (Exod. 18:21-22)
Talk to your son about your own life and what being able to trust someone means to you. If you have trouble trusting due to past experience, discuss it with him so that he can understand how trustworthiness is such a strong character trait in a man and how damaging it can be when violated
(Taken from "Better Dads, Stronger Sons" by Rick Johnson)
Friday, April 2, 2010
THINGS THAT MATTER
It's often hard to understand
From where the other comes.
It may seem as if we're marching
To the beat of different drums.
The songs I like, some things I do,
The way I cut my hair,
Must seem to you as very dull
Just as the clothes I wear.
Your youth is now...a different day
Than days when I was young.
Some things I never dreamed would be
Are things you live among.
But all the things that matter, son,
Are still the same today.
If only those we understand,
The rest shall fade away.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Don't be an April Fool
“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ ” Psalm 14:1
Warning! It’s April Fools’ Day!
I’ve had a lot of AF jokes pulled on me, and I must admit that I’ve pulled off a few pretty good ones myself. But one thing I’ve noticed. No one likes being called a fool, much less being made to look like a fool. We like to think of ourselves as savvy, wise, and sharp—not easily tricked or duped. But when we measure ourselves by God’s standards, we might be surprised at how much we deserve the title.
Did you know, for example, that the Bible says we are fools if we . . .
One of the most penetrating “fool” passages in Scripture is recorded in Luke 12. Jesus told the parable of a rich businessman who had more wealth than he knew what to do with. After signing the papers for corporate expansion (bigger barns), he congratulates himself and decides to throw himself a party. Everyone in his town would have said he was a smashing success. But God had a different take on him: “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?” (v.20). Jesus concluded with the point: “So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21 ESV). It is indeed foolish to be satisfied with our own wealth and to have given no thought to becoming rich toward God by preparing for eternity, or as Jesus said to become rich toward God by giving our money away to the poor and to those in need (v.33).
When we recognize the rightful place of God in our hearts, our lives are wonderfully transformed to enjoy the rewarding results of wisdom—life from God’s point of view—rather than the embarrassing outcomes of a godless, foolish heart.
I hope you get to pull off a good April Fools’ joke today. In fact, you may even have a good-natured laugh at having one pulled on you. But, while all that is going on, don’t forget to honor God’s will and ways in your heart. Life is too short and too serious to live it as a fool!
YOUR JOURNEY…
Warning! It’s April Fools’ Day!
I’ve had a lot of AF jokes pulled on me, and I must admit that I’ve pulled off a few pretty good ones myself. But one thing I’ve noticed. No one likes being called a fool, much less being made to look like a fool. We like to think of ourselves as savvy, wise, and sharp—not easily tricked or duped. But when we measure ourselves by God’s standards, we might be surprised at how much we deserve the title.
Did you know, for example, that the Bible says we are fools if we . . .
- spread slander (Proverbs 10:18);
- think we’re right in our own eyes rather than listening to wise counsel (Proverbs 12:15);
- reject our father’s discipline (Proverbs 15:5);
- delight only in revealing our own mind rather than in understanding (Proverbs 18:2);
- are perverse in speech instead of walking in integrity (Proverbs 19:1);
- quarrel instead of keeping away from strife (Proverbs 20:3);
- always lose our temper (Proverbs 29:11)?
One of the most penetrating “fool” passages in Scripture is recorded in Luke 12. Jesus told the parable of a rich businessman who had more wealth than he knew what to do with. After signing the papers for corporate expansion (bigger barns), he congratulates himself and decides to throw himself a party. Everyone in his town would have said he was a smashing success. But God had a different take on him: “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?” (v.20). Jesus concluded with the point: “So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21 ESV). It is indeed foolish to be satisfied with our own wealth and to have given no thought to becoming rich toward God by preparing for eternity, or as Jesus said to become rich toward God by giving our money away to the poor and to those in need (v.33).
When we recognize the rightful place of God in our hearts, our lives are wonderfully transformed to enjoy the rewarding results of wisdom—life from God’s point of view—rather than the embarrassing outcomes of a godless, foolish heart.
I hope you get to pull off a good April Fools’ joke today. In fact, you may even have a good-natured laugh at having one pulled on you. But, while all that is going on, don’t forget to honor God’s will and ways in your heart. Life is too short and too serious to live it as a fool!
YOUR JOURNEY…
- Look back over the characteristics of a fool from the book of Proverbs. Are there any ways that “foolishness” has crept into your life?
- How might your life look a little bit like the rich fool described in Luke 12? Have you ever thought of giving away some of your money or possessions to the kingdom of God so that you could be rich toward Him?
- Maybe you haven’t said it, but are there ways in which you’re living as if there is no God? Take a few minutes to turn back to wisdom, which begins with “the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7).
Just Listen
If you want someone's friendship
Then while you both walk,
Just keep your mouth closed
And try not to talk.
Just Listen.
It is strange how people
Will think you so wise
When you don't say a thing.
But speak with your eyes
And just listen.
Two ears and one mouth
Was for us a good start.
When used in proportion
We become twice as smart,
So just listen.
Then while you both walk,
Just keep your mouth closed
And try not to talk.
Just Listen.
It is strange how people
Will think you so wise
When you don't say a thing.
But speak with your eyes
And just listen.
Two ears and one mouth
Was for us a good start.
When used in proportion
We become twice as smart,
So just listen.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Our Daily Strength
Are We Small Yet?
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3 NASBIn Philippians 2:3-11, Paul tells us that we need to stop living to advance ourselves and our own interests and instead start considering others as more important than ourselves. In fact, he says that we should do nothing from “empty conceit”—which literally means the puffing up of our nothingness. I love the graphic picture in that thought. No matter how big you puff up a zero, it’s still a zero!
And then he points us to Jesus who didn’t consider His “big” standing in heaven a thing to hang on to, but rather He humbled Himself to care for our interests by becoming obedient to death on the cross. Think of that! Jesus thought of us and our needs as being more important than His own! He made Himself small that we by His abundant mercy might become big in the riches of His grace.
Let this mind be in you that was also in Christ Jesus!
Are you small yet?
YOUR JOURNEY…
- What would it take for you to have the mind of Jesus by being more concerned about others’ needs and interests than your own? Who could be an object of this change in your life?
- Read 1 Peter 5:5-7 and honestly ask yourself if there is pride in your life. What does God think of proud people?
- What are some ways that you can humble yourself? Are you willing to wait for Him to exalt you?
Sunday, March 14, 2010
What is your greatest gift?
Yesterday my granddaughter was looking at all the diplomas in my home offices. These were her father's diplomas, and her aunt's diplomas and her grandmother's diplomas and other various awards that we have saved over the years. At the very top was one lone diploma that belonged to her Tata, and she asked me why there weren't more awards for me. I thought of the many answers that I could have said to her, but the first one that came to mind was the greatest award that anyone man could have, and that was being a son of God.
I explained to her that the day when I accepted Jesus into my heart was one of the most wonderful days in my life. He changed my life for the better and there is nothing that He would not do for me nor I for Him. I also reminded her that all of my family, her Nana, and all her aunts and uncles and cousins were a blessing to me and to her. I also told her that when God gave me my little granddaughter, and my two grandsons, he gave me the best award ever. But he also told me that I would need to take care of these beautiful gifts and teach them all to love Jesus as Jesus loves us.
Thank you for these gifts. Thank you Jesus.
I explained to her that the day when I accepted Jesus into my heart was one of the most wonderful days in my life. He changed my life for the better and there is nothing that He would not do for me nor I for Him. I also reminded her that all of my family, her Nana, and all her aunts and uncles and cousins were a blessing to me and to her. I also told her that when God gave me my little granddaughter, and my two grandsons, he gave me the best award ever. But he also told me that I would need to take care of these beautiful gifts and teach them all to love Jesus as Jesus loves us.
Thank you for these gifts. Thank you Jesus.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Spent the day with My Grandaughter
Today was a wonderful day with my lovely Luisa. We saw a movie about Jesus and she asked a lot of questions about his death and resurrection. She learned about Easter, without the rabbit. It is a wonderful feeling to have such a young child ask the questions that matter, and be able to understand them as explained by her grandfather.
May we always seek to take care of our children and our relatives who need us. I myself find it very difficult to help my family, especially my elderly aunt who needs and wants our love and attention; however, I said difficult but not impossible. May the Lord give me wisdom and strength to do whatever he wants me to do, as I know it is the right thing.
“This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best.” Philippians 1:9-10
Friday, March 5, 2010
From Our Daily Bread
I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. —1 Thessalonians 4:13
In the first century, a group of believers in Thessalonica were afraid that their believing loved ones who had died were gone forever and would miss out on the second coming of Christ. For that reason, Paul wrote, “I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope” (1 Thess. 4:13). Paul’s words of comfort were intended to soften their fears by giving them the right information, which made all the difference in the world. While grieving their loss, they could still have hope of a coming reunion with those who were in Christ.
In seasons of loss, we too can find comfort and hope because the Bible has given us the right information. — Bill Crowder
He’s coming back! The dead shall rise,
Caught up to meet Him in the skies.
Upon that hope my soul relies;
He’s coming back! —Sherbert
Death is not a period—it’s only a comma.
In the first century, a group of believers in Thessalonica were afraid that their believing loved ones who had died were gone forever and would miss out on the second coming of Christ. For that reason, Paul wrote, “I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope” (1 Thess. 4:13). Paul’s words of comfort were intended to soften their fears by giving them the right information, which made all the difference in the world. While grieving their loss, they could still have hope of a coming reunion with those who were in Christ.
In seasons of loss, we too can find comfort and hope because the Bible has given us the right information. — Bill Crowder
He’s coming back! The dead shall rise,
Caught up to meet Him in the skies.
Upon that hope my soul relies;
He’s coming back! —Sherbert
Death is not a period—it’s only a comma.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Chelsea King
Today Chelsea King's body was found and, although I did not know her, I feel horrible sadness for her parents and all our prayers go out to them tonight and always. How do you offer comfort, how can we say that we feel their pain, when I can't imagine how horrible that pain is. Having run those trails myself, I can remember the beauty of the lake and all the beautiful people that enjoyed the runs, I don't know if I can run that again. I need to take every opportunity to enjoy my children and grandchildren and the time that I share with my wife. Please always be careful when going out alone, better yet always go out in pairs. Also enjoy the sounds of nature and get rid of the i-pod so that you can be aware of your surroundings. God is great, let's pray for wisdom and understanding. I am going to have a tough time with forgiveness.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Felicito mucho a los Pastores Waldo y Leoni Garza, los nuevos Pastores de la Iglesia La Vid en Chula Vista. Mis respetos para esta pareja, siempre han demostrado un genuino amor por el Senor y gran deseo para servirle sin quejarse. Les deseo lo mejor sabiendo de ante mano que no es coincidencia que nuestro Senor los haya escojido para liderar esta nueva iglesia.
Monday, February 22, 2010
In my time with the Lord, I have pinched in as Pastor on at least 4 occasions, only to turn the church over to a more experienced and "anointed" pastor. Much to my chagrin I have been disappointed by these pastors. But it has not changed my love for the Lord and what he has taught me. Many times we want to be Pastor's on our own and not wait for the Lord to call us to serve. I have always been much happier just serving wherever He calls me, not where I want to be.
"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." Proverbs 18:10
"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." Proverbs 18:10
Sunday, February 21, 2010
We had a great time at Sara's Quinceanera in Mexcali. It was an opportunity for the family to reconnect after so many years. The Gonzalez family was a very large family with many uncles and cousins we looked forward to see each other again; however, that seemed to be easy enough because everyone lives in the same town, but it was not to be. Only one branch of the family tree was available, the Adame branch. A very close and loving branch who always are tofether. Many had good legitimate reasons, others well who knows. But fun was had by all who showed. The Bible tells us that many are called but few are chosen, I pray that our children from the Lopez branch never disconnect but continue to reach out to each other and always be friends and family.
Read Colossians 3:15 -4:1
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body youwere called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus. Giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Wives, submit yourselfs to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Chilrdren, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged...."
Read Colossians 3:15 -4:1
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body youwere called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus. Giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Wives, submit yourselfs to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Chilrdren, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged...."
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Matthew 5:16
- Make a commitment today to find an opportunity to do at least one “good work.” Be ready to let people know the reason why you do good works!
- A lot of us “Bible-people” spend far more time trying to be good than we do looking for opportunities to do good. Could you decide today to intentionally commit at least one “good work” every day, just to stay in shape?
- Take a few minutes today to pray that God will give you clear opportunities, and the wisdom to make the most of them!
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