We're just 2 days before Christmas and I am reminded of the reason for the season. I see that phrase in so many places but I have to stop and ask myself am I truly conscious of what Christmas is all about. With shopping for gifts, cooking for the family and trying to wrap up the last minutes things in the office before we close for a couple of days, I really don't think that I have given any serious consideration to the true meaning of Christmas.
Do you recall the scene in the Charlie Brown Christmas Special where Linus is on stage and begins to recite the Christmas story. Everyone is quiet and all of a sudden, it's not about the tree and decorations any longer. It's about the true meaning of Christmas. I hope that we all take the time to quietly remember the Christmas story and why this is Christmas, not just a happy holiday. We have a loving heavenly Father that loves us more than we can ever imagine. May this Christmas be very special for you as you quietly reflect on God's love.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Self Control Versus Always Being in Control
Day 52
Sometimes I get really stressed out when I have so much to do and everything is under the demand of a deadline. I get that anxious feeling in my stomach and wake up all during the night remembering things that need attention. It’s not fun and I don’t like it when I get this anxious. I told my friend Martha this morning, that I considered it a talent to always remain calm and in control. Not too many highs and very few lows, just always steady and IN CONTROL. Good grief! Is there a greater arrogance than to think you’re in control of everything?
It has occurred to me that the only control that is expected of me is self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 says: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity but one of power, love, and self-discipline. Proverbs 29:11 says: A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. There are many more references in scripture to the benefits of self-control and also that it is a gift from God and that help to improve our self-control is readily available. But I didn’t find a single verse that said I needed to be in control of anything or anyone, other than myself. Now, this is not to be confused with responsibility. That’s another subject. Being responsible is also a strong and important character trait that the Lord loves. But what a relief it is and a burden lifted, to know that I have no need to feel that I have control over everything. Thank you Lord for shouldering for all of us!
Sometimes I get really stressed out when I have so much to do and everything is under the demand of a deadline. I get that anxious feeling in my stomach and wake up all during the night remembering things that need attention. It’s not fun and I don’t like it when I get this anxious. I told my friend Martha this morning, that I considered it a talent to always remain calm and in control. Not too many highs and very few lows, just always steady and IN CONTROL. Good grief! Is there a greater arrogance than to think you’re in control of everything?
It has occurred to me that the only control that is expected of me is self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 says: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity but one of power, love, and self-discipline. Proverbs 29:11 says: A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control. There are many more references in scripture to the benefits of self-control and also that it is a gift from God and that help to improve our self-control is readily available. But I didn’t find a single verse that said I needed to be in control of anything or anyone, other than myself. Now, this is not to be confused with responsibility. That’s another subject. Being responsible is also a strong and important character trait that the Lord loves. But what a relief it is and a burden lifted, to know that I have no need to feel that I have control over everything. Thank you Lord for shouldering for all of us!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: Are you a Shopaholic with Life? -- something to think about
Day 51
Last night Lanny and I watched the cutest movie and one that I definitely identified with to some extent. The movie was ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’. At one point, Rebecca, the shopaholic, was asked why did she shop and spend so much on things she didn’t need and could not afford. Her response was that when she shops in these beautiful stores with all the fabulous merchandise and she buys things, life just seems so much better. But then the feeling goes away and she has to go back and do it all over again. That was such a profound statement from such a simple minded, fun movie.
Isn’t that how life is? We search through worldly things for happiness and contentment. And, these things make us feel good for a while. Have you ever purchased a new car? I’m a car enthusiast and have been my whole life. Maybe because I grew up with brothers, I don’t know. But I love the smell of a new car and the way it handles when you drive off the car lot. It’s euphoric – temporarily. But like all things, it gets old and before you know it you’re noticing the newest model on the road and trying to justify why you need that one and why the one you’re driving isn’t so great anymore. All new stuff gets old eventually and we can find ourselves still paying for something that we don’t even enjoy any longer. And that’s where this young lady found herself. Head over heels in debt, a closet full of clothes and shoes she didn’t need and very unhappy. The only true happiness and contentment that you can have on this side of eternity is in a relationship with Christ. It’s the only relationship you can have that’s everlasting, that doesn’t waver. It won’t grow old and weary over time. It only grows in richness and depth. And it will fill the voids and give you the balance in life that we all search for that can’t be found in new shoes or an expensive car.
Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust does corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust does corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.
Last night Lanny and I watched the cutest movie and one that I definitely identified with to some extent. The movie was ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’. At one point, Rebecca, the shopaholic, was asked why did she shop and spend so much on things she didn’t need and could not afford. Her response was that when she shops in these beautiful stores with all the fabulous merchandise and she buys things, life just seems so much better. But then the feeling goes away and she has to go back and do it all over again. That was such a profound statement from such a simple minded, fun movie.
Isn’t that how life is? We search through worldly things for happiness and contentment. And, these things make us feel good for a while. Have you ever purchased a new car? I’m a car enthusiast and have been my whole life. Maybe because I grew up with brothers, I don’t know. But I love the smell of a new car and the way it handles when you drive off the car lot. It’s euphoric – temporarily. But like all things, it gets old and before you know it you’re noticing the newest model on the road and trying to justify why you need that one and why the one you’re driving isn’t so great anymore. All new stuff gets old eventually and we can find ourselves still paying for something that we don’t even enjoy any longer. And that’s where this young lady found herself. Head over heels in debt, a closet full of clothes and shoes she didn’t need and very unhappy. The only true happiness and contentment that you can have on this side of eternity is in a relationship with Christ. It’s the only relationship you can have that’s everlasting, that doesn’t waver. It won’t grow old and weary over time. It only grows in richness and depth. And it will fill the voids and give you the balance in life that we all search for that can’t be found in new shoes or an expensive car.
Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust does corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust does corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.
Monday, December 14, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Do You Know the Difference Between Happiness and Joy?
Day 50
Do you know the difference between happiness and joy? That was the subject of our lesson in Sunday school yesterday and it got me to thinking. Aren’t they both similar emotions? Different words for the same feelings? But I discovered there is certainly a difference.
Happiness comes and goes. It’s an emotional state based on things that are happening in our life. It’s fleeting and is based on how we feel about ourselves or how we think others feel about us. So what’s joy? Joy is the deep rooted knowledge that no matter what happens in life, we will be OK. It’s more than a passing emotion or a feeling. It’s stable and constant but more important is what it’s not. It’s not based on us. It’s based on our walk with God. There’s nothing we can do to be happy all the time but we can have a steady state of joy, even when the worst things in life happen – if that joy is based on the knowledge that we do not walk through life alone but rather with a God that’s greater than us. There’s a world of comfort in that knowledge. I know it to be true from my life’s experience. I’m definitely not happy all the time. But when I have had to face the worst that life has to throw at me so far, I have been grateful that I could still find joy in life, even though it was hard some days. During this holiday season, I hope that you will find joy that will take you past Christmas and beyond.
Do you know the difference between happiness and joy? That was the subject of our lesson in Sunday school yesterday and it got me to thinking. Aren’t they both similar emotions? Different words for the same feelings? But I discovered there is certainly a difference.
Happiness comes and goes. It’s an emotional state based on things that are happening in our life. It’s fleeting and is based on how we feel about ourselves or how we think others feel about us. So what’s joy? Joy is the deep rooted knowledge that no matter what happens in life, we will be OK. It’s more than a passing emotion or a feeling. It’s stable and constant but more important is what it’s not. It’s not based on us. It’s based on our walk with God. There’s nothing we can do to be happy all the time but we can have a steady state of joy, even when the worst things in life happen – if that joy is based on the knowledge that we do not walk through life alone but rather with a God that’s greater than us. There’s a world of comfort in that knowledge. I know it to be true from my life’s experience. I’m definitely not happy all the time. But when I have had to face the worst that life has to throw at me so far, I have been grateful that I could still find joy in life, even though it was hard some days. During this holiday season, I hope that you will find joy that will take you past Christmas and beyond.
Friday, December 11, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- You Can Never Use All of God Unlimited Resources
Day 49
Last night I was reading a book by Dan Kennedy on secrets to being successful. It’s a book that’s strictly based on business concepts, not biblical, but it’s still a good read and very interesting. He used an analogy in the book that I thought was awesome. He was using it to emphasize the unlimited supply of money and resources for someone that opens their mind. But I immediately saw the implications in God’s unlimited resources and abilities.
Here’s how he explained it. Imagine that 3 people go to the beach in order to scoop up water from the sea. One goes with a spoon, the other with a large bucket and yet another with an empty tanker truck. They all take all the sea water that their equipment will hold and they could have taken as much as they wanted. One walks away with only a spoonful while another has a truckful. Was the ocean depleted in any way by what any of them took away from it? Of course not! It was so small compared to the ocean’s supply, that the ocean was completely unaffected. The supply was only limited by the mind of those that chose to take from it. And it’s the same with God. Sometimes I fail to take everything to the Lord in prayer. I think I can handle it myself or it’s too insignificant to pray about. But I wondered how often I have limited God’s resources or His abilities by not going to Him for help. Just like in the story of the ocean, do I go with a spoon or with a truck to draw from God all that He has to offer? And no matter how much I take from His guidance and wisdom, there’s plenty more left and plenty more for others to use. I can’t use up all that God has to give. It’s about time I lay down the spoon and start backing up the truck!
Last night I was reading a book by Dan Kennedy on secrets to being successful. It’s a book that’s strictly based on business concepts, not biblical, but it’s still a good read and very interesting. He used an analogy in the book that I thought was awesome. He was using it to emphasize the unlimited supply of money and resources for someone that opens their mind. But I immediately saw the implications in God’s unlimited resources and abilities.
Here’s how he explained it. Imagine that 3 people go to the beach in order to scoop up water from the sea. One goes with a spoon, the other with a large bucket and yet another with an empty tanker truck. They all take all the sea water that their equipment will hold and they could have taken as much as they wanted. One walks away with only a spoonful while another has a truckful. Was the ocean depleted in any way by what any of them took away from it? Of course not! It was so small compared to the ocean’s supply, that the ocean was completely unaffected. The supply was only limited by the mind of those that chose to take from it. And it’s the same with God. Sometimes I fail to take everything to the Lord in prayer. I think I can handle it myself or it’s too insignificant to pray about. But I wondered how often I have limited God’s resources or His abilities by not going to Him for help. Just like in the story of the ocean, do I go with a spoon or with a truck to draw from God all that He has to offer? And no matter how much I take from His guidance and wisdom, there’s plenty more left and plenty more for others to use. I can’t use up all that God has to give. It’s about time I lay down the spoon and start backing up the truck!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Wisdom in Our Lives Is Readily Available
Day 48
Most mornings I start out my day asking for wisdom from the Lord to deal with whatever comes my way. I should start every morning this way! Yesterday I was thinking about the value of time and this morning I’m considering the great value in Godly wisdom. After all it takes wisdom to manage the precious gift of time. They go hand in hand.
In Proverbs 8:4 we’re told that wisdom calls out to us. That’s interesting because I never thought of that before. I always thought of wisdom as something that was to be searched for and sought after, that was a scarce commodity, like time. I considered it to be something that was difficult to attain but greatly needed to find contentment in life and that only came with age and time. As I think about it now, I guess that was kind of silly. We have a loving Heavenly Father that desires for us to be all that He created us to be. So, why would he make something so desperately needed, so difficult to attain? He didn’t! Proverbs 8:4-6, which is wisdom speaking to us, says “To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right.” Wisdom in our daily lives is readily available. It’s actually calling out to us to pay attention and to provide us with all the understanding that we need.
I go back to how I started out this morning by asking for wisdom. Yes, I should do this every single day. The Lord has delivered all the wisdom that I need. I just have to reach out and take it!
Most mornings I start out my day asking for wisdom from the Lord to deal with whatever comes my way. I should start every morning this way! Yesterday I was thinking about the value of time and this morning I’m considering the great value in Godly wisdom. After all it takes wisdom to manage the precious gift of time. They go hand in hand.
In Proverbs 8:4 we’re told that wisdom calls out to us. That’s interesting because I never thought of that before. I always thought of wisdom as something that was to be searched for and sought after, that was a scarce commodity, like time. I considered it to be something that was difficult to attain but greatly needed to find contentment in life and that only came with age and time. As I think about it now, I guess that was kind of silly. We have a loving Heavenly Father that desires for us to be all that He created us to be. So, why would he make something so desperately needed, so difficult to attain? He didn’t! Proverbs 8:4-6, which is wisdom speaking to us, says “To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right.” Wisdom in our daily lives is readily available. It’s actually calling out to us to pay attention and to provide us with all the understanding that we need.
I go back to how I started out this morning by asking for wisdom. Yes, I should do this every single day. The Lord has delivered all the wisdom that I need. I just have to reach out and take it!
Monday, December 7, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Management of the Precious Gift of Time
Day 47
Last Friday, I was in class all day to get my 8 hours of class room continuing education. I know every year that I must do this and yet I still wait until the last minute to take care of it. It just always seems to come at a time when I’m busy and the good classes are offered in the later part of the year anyway. Yes, I procrastinate. This year the class was partially about good time management, one of my many weaknesses. It’s something that I struggle with and never seem to master.
Time management is important, whether it pertains to business or personal life. I always hear people make comments about not having enough time or trying to ‘buy’ a little more time or as Mamaw would say, “Time’s a wasting!” We know we can’t buy time. If we could, imagine how expensive it would be. The demand is far greater than the supply. So all we can do is manage it better. But first I think we have to realize what a precious gift it is. Each day when we wake up and our feet hit the floor, we’re off and running. We each have the same number of minutes in the day. But isn’t it amazing how much more some people can do with it than others? For me, I think that if I give more thought to the value of each day and how that day can never, ever be replaced, I will honor it more and protect each minute more carefully from things that are useless and unproductive. Our Heavenly Father is a God of order and discipline. It’s evident from the very first chapter of scripture. God created the heavens and earth in an orderly and timely fashion. He values our life and our time. How much more so should I?
Last Friday, I was in class all day to get my 8 hours of class room continuing education. I know every year that I must do this and yet I still wait until the last minute to take care of it. It just always seems to come at a time when I’m busy and the good classes are offered in the later part of the year anyway. Yes, I procrastinate. This year the class was partially about good time management, one of my many weaknesses. It’s something that I struggle with and never seem to master.
Time management is important, whether it pertains to business or personal life. I always hear people make comments about not having enough time or trying to ‘buy’ a little more time or as Mamaw would say, “Time’s a wasting!” We know we can’t buy time. If we could, imagine how expensive it would be. The demand is far greater than the supply. So all we can do is manage it better. But first I think we have to realize what a precious gift it is. Each day when we wake up and our feet hit the floor, we’re off and running. We each have the same number of minutes in the day. But isn’t it amazing how much more some people can do with it than others? For me, I think that if I give more thought to the value of each day and how that day can never, ever be replaced, I will honor it more and protect each minute more carefully from things that are useless and unproductive. Our Heavenly Father is a God of order and discipline. It’s evident from the very first chapter of scripture. God created the heavens and earth in an orderly and timely fashion. He values our life and our time. How much more so should I?
Thursday, December 3, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- The Sounds of Christmas
Day 46
On the first Wednesday night of each month, our ladies group meets. We have a brief devotion and discuss different ministry projects that we have on our schedule. It’s always a good time of fellowship and we manage to get a lot accomplished. Last night, our devotional was on the subject of Christmas sounds. I hadn’t really thought about it before but there are so many sounds of Christmas that are special to me and bring back memories of my childhood.
One of the things I remember most is this pretty gold, glittery bell that my mom always hung over the bar in the kitchen. The ringer was actually a pull string and when you pulled it, it played Jingle Bells. I recall that we would all pull the string every time we walked by it. I know my mom would get tired of hearing it over and over but yet she would hang it there at Thanksgiving each year, knowing that she would hear it relentlessly until after Christmas. She still has that bell and when I’m at her house, I still can’t resist pulling the string to make it play music. There are many other sounds of Christmas that I love including Christmas carols and all the laughter around the house when we get together.
Imagine what the shepherds heard on that special night when Christ was born. Luke 2:13, 14 says ‘And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ Can you imagine what a beautiful sound that was and how glorious it will be to hear the angels singing and praising the Lord when we get to heaven? I plan to enjoy every minute of this Christmas season but know that there will be an endless Christmas when this journey is over!
On the first Wednesday night of each month, our ladies group meets. We have a brief devotion and discuss different ministry projects that we have on our schedule. It’s always a good time of fellowship and we manage to get a lot accomplished. Last night, our devotional was on the subject of Christmas sounds. I hadn’t really thought about it before but there are so many sounds of Christmas that are special to me and bring back memories of my childhood.
One of the things I remember most is this pretty gold, glittery bell that my mom always hung over the bar in the kitchen. The ringer was actually a pull string and when you pulled it, it played Jingle Bells. I recall that we would all pull the string every time we walked by it. I know my mom would get tired of hearing it over and over but yet she would hang it there at Thanksgiving each year, knowing that she would hear it relentlessly until after Christmas. She still has that bell and when I’m at her house, I still can’t resist pulling the string to make it play music. There are many other sounds of Christmas that I love including Christmas carols and all the laughter around the house when we get together.
Imagine what the shepherds heard on that special night when Christ was born. Luke 2:13, 14 says ‘And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ Can you imagine what a beautiful sound that was and how glorious it will be to hear the angels singing and praising the Lord when we get to heaven? I plan to enjoy every minute of this Christmas season but know that there will be an endless Christmas when this journey is over!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- The Master of Instruction
Day 45
In the 20+ years that I’ve been in businesses, many times I have had the privilege of teaching new comers the ropes. I take this responsibility very seriously and consider it an honor to be able to share what I’ve learned from others and to share what I’ve learned from my own experiences, both good and bad.
It always amazes me to see the difference between someone that’s eager to learn, absorbing as much information as they possibly can, just like a sponge, and those that either resist change or refuse to give up control long enough to be taught. The eager learners always progress so much faster and their success level always far surpasses that of someone that challenges instruction. And it has nothing to do with natural talent or ability. It’s a mind set and heart issue. When the mind and heart are in alignment, it’s really difficult to fail.
But then I think of my own walk with the Lord. He’s the Master of Instruction and has prepared the most marvelous training manual in the history of mankind. Yet sometimes my mind and heart are not eager to learn or to accept the authority of the Father. I’m reluctant to give up control and I don’t always want to know how He says I should do things. I’ll just do it my own way, thank you just the same. Good grief! How foolish is that? There are numerous references to learning and wisdom in scripture. Proverbs 1:5 says ‘A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels’. I have someone that loves me and wants to guide me through life, helping me avoid making huge mistakes or wasting my time with the wrong priorities. God is patient with me, always continuing to teach and instruct. I desire to be a better student myself and to have more patience during those times that I am the teacher.
In the 20+ years that I’ve been in businesses, many times I have had the privilege of teaching new comers the ropes. I take this responsibility very seriously and consider it an honor to be able to share what I’ve learned from others and to share what I’ve learned from my own experiences, both good and bad.
It always amazes me to see the difference between someone that’s eager to learn, absorbing as much information as they possibly can, just like a sponge, and those that either resist change or refuse to give up control long enough to be taught. The eager learners always progress so much faster and their success level always far surpasses that of someone that challenges instruction. And it has nothing to do with natural talent or ability. It’s a mind set and heart issue. When the mind and heart are in alignment, it’s really difficult to fail.
But then I think of my own walk with the Lord. He’s the Master of Instruction and has prepared the most marvelous training manual in the history of mankind. Yet sometimes my mind and heart are not eager to learn or to accept the authority of the Father. I’m reluctant to give up control and I don’t always want to know how He says I should do things. I’ll just do it my own way, thank you just the same. Good grief! How foolish is that? There are numerous references to learning and wisdom in scripture. Proverbs 1:5 says ‘A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels’. I have someone that loves me and wants to guide me through life, helping me avoid making huge mistakes or wasting my time with the wrong priorities. God is patient with me, always continuing to teach and instruct. I desire to be a better student myself and to have more patience during those times that I am the teacher.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Focus on Giving Thanks
Day 44
Thanksgiving is almost here and I’m so excited. The beautiful colors of fall and the Thanksgiving holiday are some of my favorite things in life. And then the Christmas music begins! I can listen to Christmas carols all year. But since it would drive everyone else nuts, I just wait for the first radio station of the season that plays them and that’s where the station stays until after New Year’s Day. There’s just such a feeling of anticipation and excitement that’s hard to explain. Maybe it goes back to my childhood when the holidays were always a special time in our home.
I’m taking a few days off from work to spend some time with my family this year. And during that time I plan to reflect on the many things that I should be more thankful for. I have a tendency to keep plowing ahead, working toward the next goal and not taking time to consider the goals that were reached, the ones that were not but provided a huge learning opportunity, the special people that have come into my life this year and the many burdens that have been lifted. It’s so easy to get caught up in ‘what’s next’ that I miss today. But also, it’s difficult to justify being unhappy, worried or disappointed when you consider so many blessings in life. I found 58 references to the word ‘thanksgiving’ in the Bible and I’m sure there are a lot more than that. Apparently God wants us to stay focused on giving thanks. I know for me, that it keeps balance in my life and takes the focus off myself, both good and bad. Phillipians 4:6 tells us ‘Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God’. I hope this holiday season that you also spend time in thanksgiving and find that you no longer need to be anxious about anything!
Thanksgiving is almost here and I’m so excited. The beautiful colors of fall and the Thanksgiving holiday are some of my favorite things in life. And then the Christmas music begins! I can listen to Christmas carols all year. But since it would drive everyone else nuts, I just wait for the first radio station of the season that plays them and that’s where the station stays until after New Year’s Day. There’s just such a feeling of anticipation and excitement that’s hard to explain. Maybe it goes back to my childhood when the holidays were always a special time in our home.
I’m taking a few days off from work to spend some time with my family this year. And during that time I plan to reflect on the many things that I should be more thankful for. I have a tendency to keep plowing ahead, working toward the next goal and not taking time to consider the goals that were reached, the ones that were not but provided a huge learning opportunity, the special people that have come into my life this year and the many burdens that have been lifted. It’s so easy to get caught up in ‘what’s next’ that I miss today. But also, it’s difficult to justify being unhappy, worried or disappointed when you consider so many blessings in life. I found 58 references to the word ‘thanksgiving’ in the Bible and I’m sure there are a lot more than that. Apparently God wants us to stay focused on giving thanks. I know for me, that it keeps balance in my life and takes the focus off myself, both good and bad. Phillipians 4:6 tells us ‘Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God’. I hope this holiday season that you also spend time in thanksgiving and find that you no longer need to be anxious about anything!
Monday, November 23, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- What Do We Implant in our Minds, Thoughts and Memories?
Day 43
When we came home from church the other night, I had good intentions of doing some reading and studying. But after I got home, I realized that it had been a hectic day, my brain was tired and I didn’t want to think. So I sat down with Lanny in front of the TV and he turned it to an old musical western made in the mid l940’s called ‘The Harvey Girls’ starring Judy Garland.
The movie was originally made in black and white and had been colorized at some point since then. The color looked strange and the movie plot was simple and predictable, pretty corny actually. The production itself was so uncomplicated that I had forgotten how simple movies used to look with the fake movie sets. There was a lot missing in the movie. Let’s see – there were no special effects and it wasn’t in HD but there was also no foul language, no graphic bloodshed or death, no torture or mutilation of anyone or anything. There were no sexually explicit scenes or nudity and at no point was the Lord’s name taken in vain. When the movie was over, I actually felt good! I had a smile on my face and I went to bed and slept like a baby. I had no horribly graphic scenes that were forever implanted into my memory, only to come back at some point in my dreams. I had not watched anything that I knew would not help me to grow in my walk with God and I had no sense of uneasiness or regret about my time spent. I had spent time with my husband, watching a movie that was positive and relaxing. Actually, it was so relaxing that Lanny slept through most of it. He doesn’t get into musicals.
As I reflected on this later, I thought about movies, video games and TV shows today and what is being implanted into our minds and more frightening, what is being implanted into the minds of children. It made me realize the impact of what we put in front of us and them. Psalm 139:23 says ‘Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.’ Our thoughts are so powerful and what is implanted into our memories determines the decisions that we will make. My desire is to keep things of God in my thoughts and hope that in time, they will begin to replace the thoughts and memories that need to be erased.
When we came home from church the other night, I had good intentions of doing some reading and studying. But after I got home, I realized that it had been a hectic day, my brain was tired and I didn’t want to think. So I sat down with Lanny in front of the TV and he turned it to an old musical western made in the mid l940’s called ‘The Harvey Girls’ starring Judy Garland.
The movie was originally made in black and white and had been colorized at some point since then. The color looked strange and the movie plot was simple and predictable, pretty corny actually. The production itself was so uncomplicated that I had forgotten how simple movies used to look with the fake movie sets. There was a lot missing in the movie. Let’s see – there were no special effects and it wasn’t in HD but there was also no foul language, no graphic bloodshed or death, no torture or mutilation of anyone or anything. There were no sexually explicit scenes or nudity and at no point was the Lord’s name taken in vain. When the movie was over, I actually felt good! I had a smile on my face and I went to bed and slept like a baby. I had no horribly graphic scenes that were forever implanted into my memory, only to come back at some point in my dreams. I had not watched anything that I knew would not help me to grow in my walk with God and I had no sense of uneasiness or regret about my time spent. I had spent time with my husband, watching a movie that was positive and relaxing. Actually, it was so relaxing that Lanny slept through most of it. He doesn’t get into musicals.
As I reflected on this later, I thought about movies, video games and TV shows today and what is being implanted into our minds and more frightening, what is being implanted into the minds of children. It made me realize the impact of what we put in front of us and them. Psalm 139:23 says ‘Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.’ Our thoughts are so powerful and what is implanted into our memories determines the decisions that we will make. My desire is to keep things of God in my thoughts and hope that in time, they will begin to replace the thoughts and memories that need to be erased.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Proud to be a Christian!
Day 42
I have a friend that challenges me in positive ways. She reads the devotionals and often comments. Sometimes it’s in agreement and sometimes she questions my thoughts or remarks in a way that makes me dig a little deeper. She’s super smart and I appreciate so much how she manages to very subtly raise the bar for me and forces me to stand behind what I say. A friend does those things for us.
At some point in the devotionals I had commented that I was proud to be a Christian and she called me out on it! Why was I proud? So, I thought, geez Louise, am I wrong here? Why am I proud to be a Christian and is this an inappropriate response to salvation? We all grew up, whether Christian or not, with the Proverb 16:18 that says, paraphrased, Pride goes before a fall. I’ve heard it a hundred times from my grandmother. So, back to the original question, is it wrong to be proud to be a Christian? Am I supposed to be humbled and reserved because of my faith? Or should I prefer to be honored or respected? But isn’t that also pride too? This is getting difficult so I decided to dig down a little deeper.
As I look around our communities and throughout this country, I see organizations like the ACLU that’s pulling out all the stops in order to stop the spread of Christianity under the guise of separation of church and state. But what’s most appalling is that I see Christian people dropping their head as if we should be ashamed and a small minority is making decisions for everyone. I just read in the paper that a group of commissioners in a neighboring town are being sued by two women, backed by the ACLU, because they opened their meetings with prayer. It’s created quite a stir and many people are saying they should stop praying because of the price of the lawsuit. But was this about the price of not standing up for Christ and the power of prayer? Sorry, I digress a little here, but it goes back to pride. Here’s what I’ve realized. Pride in self is destructive. Scripture says it is. I’m not proud of myself. I usually embarrass myself almost every day and there’s hardly a day that goes by that I don’t wish I had done something a little different. I can make a mess out of the simplest things. But pride in our faith, in a God that loved us enough to sacrifice His only Son for us and holds the world in His hand is righteous pride! I’m proud to be part of the family of Christ and so very thankful that the Lord adopted me into the family. And I hope that I’m proud enough of my heavenly Father to stand up for Him when the occasion arises. Yep, I’m proud to be a Christian.
But I’m also proud of my true friends that know they can say what they want and we make each other better because of it.
I have a friend that challenges me in positive ways. She reads the devotionals and often comments. Sometimes it’s in agreement and sometimes she questions my thoughts or remarks in a way that makes me dig a little deeper. She’s super smart and I appreciate so much how she manages to very subtly raise the bar for me and forces me to stand behind what I say. A friend does those things for us.
At some point in the devotionals I had commented that I was proud to be a Christian and she called me out on it! Why was I proud? So, I thought, geez Louise, am I wrong here? Why am I proud to be a Christian and is this an inappropriate response to salvation? We all grew up, whether Christian or not, with the Proverb 16:18 that says, paraphrased, Pride goes before a fall. I’ve heard it a hundred times from my grandmother. So, back to the original question, is it wrong to be proud to be a Christian? Am I supposed to be humbled and reserved because of my faith? Or should I prefer to be honored or respected? But isn’t that also pride too? This is getting difficult so I decided to dig down a little deeper.
As I look around our communities and throughout this country, I see organizations like the ACLU that’s pulling out all the stops in order to stop the spread of Christianity under the guise of separation of church and state. But what’s most appalling is that I see Christian people dropping their head as if we should be ashamed and a small minority is making decisions for everyone. I just read in the paper that a group of commissioners in a neighboring town are being sued by two women, backed by the ACLU, because they opened their meetings with prayer. It’s created quite a stir and many people are saying they should stop praying because of the price of the lawsuit. But was this about the price of not standing up for Christ and the power of prayer? Sorry, I digress a little here, but it goes back to pride. Here’s what I’ve realized. Pride in self is destructive. Scripture says it is. I’m not proud of myself. I usually embarrass myself almost every day and there’s hardly a day that goes by that I don’t wish I had done something a little different. I can make a mess out of the simplest things. But pride in our faith, in a God that loved us enough to sacrifice His only Son for us and holds the world in His hand is righteous pride! I’m proud to be part of the family of Christ and so very thankful that the Lord adopted me into the family. And I hope that I’m proud enough of my heavenly Father to stand up for Him when the occasion arises. Yep, I’m proud to be a Christian.
But I’m also proud of my true friends that know they can say what they want and we make each other better because of it.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- A Believers Walk with Christ
Day 41
As I write these devotionals each day, my heart’s desire is to provide a glimpse into a believer’s walk with Christ and the many thoughts, concerns, joys and trials that come with that walk. Some days seem almost perfect and some days it’s just one problem after another. That’s just the way life is, whether you are a believer in Christ or not. But how you make it through those days, in a close walk with the Lord is what makes all the difference.
But as I write, I’m always hoping and praying that my journey will be an encouragement to someone or in some way be a little help as you get through your day and never be a hindrance. I’m not a Bible scholar or professionally trained in theology. I’m just a spiritually hungry person that has discovered where to find food and want to share it with everyone else.
James says in 3:1 ‘Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.’ My prayer is that as I share my walk with Christ, that you will somehow be blessed and that I will not cause you to stumble in any way. I open up my heart and hope that it may somehow lead you to Christ.
As I write these devotionals each day, my heart’s desire is to provide a glimpse into a believer’s walk with Christ and the many thoughts, concerns, joys and trials that come with that walk. Some days seem almost perfect and some days it’s just one problem after another. That’s just the way life is, whether you are a believer in Christ or not. But how you make it through those days, in a close walk with the Lord is what makes all the difference.
But as I write, I’m always hoping and praying that my journey will be an encouragement to someone or in some way be a little help as you get through your day and never be a hindrance. I’m not a Bible scholar or professionally trained in theology. I’m just a spiritually hungry person that has discovered where to find food and want to share it with everyone else.
James says in 3:1 ‘Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.’ My prayer is that as I share my walk with Christ, that you will somehow be blessed and that I will not cause you to stumble in any way. I open up my heart and hope that it may somehow lead you to Christ.
Monday, November 16, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Gaze Into the Magnifying Glass of Scripture and Look Intently Into God's Face
Day 40
Imagine you have some place important to go this morning like work or a special meeting. And you look in the mirror when you first get up and see that your hair is a mess, your teeth haven’t been brushed, you need a shower and definitely a little touch of makeup. But instead of going through your morning ritual, you throw on your clothes and walk out the door, totally ignoring what you have just seen in the mirror as if you don’t remember what you looked like. You know that this is not the way you want to present yourself to the world. My mom is one of those ladies that can’t imagine going to the store to grab a loaf of bread without having everything in place. Make up on, hair done, jewelry on, ready to face the world. That’s just who she was and who she still is. And it’s also one of the things that I admire about her. It wasn’t about trying to impress anyone. It was more about how she wanted to face the world, prepared, bringing her best and knowing she was ready for whatever came. Slothfulness was not an acceptable lifestyle.
James 1:22-25 says ‘Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it – he will be blessed in what he does.
As unlikely as it is that we would go to an important event, unclean and disheveled, how much more unlikely should it be to read and study God’s word and then completely ignore it, as if you never knew what it said. But if we gaze into it intently, just like looking very close into the mirror and observing every little detail in our face, we will see the richness and wisdom in God’s word and as James says, be blessed. It’s my heart’s desire to gaze into the magnifying glass of scripture and look intently into God’s face.
Imagine you have some place important to go this morning like work or a special meeting. And you look in the mirror when you first get up and see that your hair is a mess, your teeth haven’t been brushed, you need a shower and definitely a little touch of makeup. But instead of going through your morning ritual, you throw on your clothes and walk out the door, totally ignoring what you have just seen in the mirror as if you don’t remember what you looked like. You know that this is not the way you want to present yourself to the world. My mom is one of those ladies that can’t imagine going to the store to grab a loaf of bread without having everything in place. Make up on, hair done, jewelry on, ready to face the world. That’s just who she was and who she still is. And it’s also one of the things that I admire about her. It wasn’t about trying to impress anyone. It was more about how she wanted to face the world, prepared, bringing her best and knowing she was ready for whatever came. Slothfulness was not an acceptable lifestyle.
James 1:22-25 says ‘Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it – he will be blessed in what he does.
As unlikely as it is that we would go to an important event, unclean and disheveled, how much more unlikely should it be to read and study God’s word and then completely ignore it, as if you never knew what it said. But if we gaze into it intently, just like looking very close into the mirror and observing every little detail in our face, we will see the richness and wisdom in God’s word and as James says, be blessed. It’s my heart’s desire to gaze into the magnifying glass of scripture and look intently into God’s face.
Friday, November 13, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Trials and Hardship
Day 39
It seems that as I go through my Bible study, I keep going back to various subjects dealing with trials and hardship. It’s interesting that there are multiple references to difficulties in life throughout scripture in both the Old and New Testaments. God spoke of it frequently and offered guidance and wisdom.
I don’t believe there has been a more challenging time in our country for several generations, since the Great Depression. Generally speaking, as a nation, we have grandparents, parents and children who have never truly dealt with financial disaster to the extent we are witnessing now. My family was not wealthy but we were not poor either. I don’t recall ever going hungry because there was no food in the house or not having a warm coat or shoes on my feet. Yet today our Christian Crisis Center is overwhelmed with requests for help and it’s not just the same people that have always relied upon public assistance. There are people who have never had to ask for help before. Life changes so quickly and I’m reminded more than ever in my entire life, that material possessions are fleeting and temporary. People that once had much are now humbled by their needs.
James 1:2-3 says ‘Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Joy during hardship may seem like an impossible response. Hardship and trials are not fun. No one wants them and we quickly want them to go away. But every hardship draws us closer to God because we realize how fragile, dependent and incomplete we are without Him. The question I’m pondering now is, will we draw closer to God because life is more difficult or will we as a nation despise Him because life is not as good as it used to be? Look around. What do you see? I see both and I see it with more conviction and passion than ever before. But I know which path I will take. Do you?
It seems that as I go through my Bible study, I keep going back to various subjects dealing with trials and hardship. It’s interesting that there are multiple references to difficulties in life throughout scripture in both the Old and New Testaments. God spoke of it frequently and offered guidance and wisdom.
I don’t believe there has been a more challenging time in our country for several generations, since the Great Depression. Generally speaking, as a nation, we have grandparents, parents and children who have never truly dealt with financial disaster to the extent we are witnessing now. My family was not wealthy but we were not poor either. I don’t recall ever going hungry because there was no food in the house or not having a warm coat or shoes on my feet. Yet today our Christian Crisis Center is overwhelmed with requests for help and it’s not just the same people that have always relied upon public assistance. There are people who have never had to ask for help before. Life changes so quickly and I’m reminded more than ever in my entire life, that material possessions are fleeting and temporary. People that once had much are now humbled by their needs.
James 1:2-3 says ‘Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Joy during hardship may seem like an impossible response. Hardship and trials are not fun. No one wants them and we quickly want them to go away. But every hardship draws us closer to God because we realize how fragile, dependent and incomplete we are without Him. The question I’m pondering now is, will we draw closer to God because life is more difficult or will we as a nation despise Him because life is not as good as it used to be? Look around. What do you see? I see both and I see it with more conviction and passion than ever before. But I know which path I will take. Do you?
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Reading and Studying the Scriptures Together in Worship
Day 38
Do you know the first thing the Israelites did after they finished rebuilding the wall, under Nehemiah’s leadership? It says in chapter 8 that all the people assembled as one in the square. And then after they all got together in one place, the Levites began to read the scriptures to all the people and they explained it to them so they could understand it better. The people were so happy to be able to join together and study God’s word after so many years that they cried with joy. It was a wonderful celebration because they had fortified their beloved city but more importantly they were able to worship together safely.
I love having a church for worship and having my church family. Our preacher reads the scriptures and explains things, just like in Nehemiah, so that we can better understand how to live to serve the Lord. Sometimes when I go to church, I’m tired or have too many other things on my mind and I’m not 100% present. But that wasn’t the case with the people in Nehemiah’s day. They were so happy to worship and hear the word read. They had to be instructed to leave and go home to eat and celebrate, sharing their food with each other. Obviously they were not Baptist! We don’t have to be reminded when it’s 12:00 and time to go home and eat. I would love to see a revival in our churches in this country that was so awesome that we had to be reminded to go home and eat. What a miracle that would be! What joy that would bring to the Lord!
Do you know the first thing the Israelites did after they finished rebuilding the wall, under Nehemiah’s leadership? It says in chapter 8 that all the people assembled as one in the square. And then after they all got together in one place, the Levites began to read the scriptures to all the people and they explained it to them so they could understand it better. The people were so happy to be able to join together and study God’s word after so many years that they cried with joy. It was a wonderful celebration because they had fortified their beloved city but more importantly they were able to worship together safely.
I love having a church for worship and having my church family. Our preacher reads the scriptures and explains things, just like in Nehemiah, so that we can better understand how to live to serve the Lord. Sometimes when I go to church, I’m tired or have too many other things on my mind and I’m not 100% present. But that wasn’t the case with the people in Nehemiah’s day. They were so happy to worship and hear the word read. They had to be instructed to leave and go home to eat and celebrate, sharing their food with each other. Obviously they were not Baptist! We don’t have to be reminded when it’s 12:00 and time to go home and eat. I would love to see a revival in our churches in this country that was so awesome that we had to be reminded to go home and eat. What a miracle that would be! What joy that would bring to the Lord!
Monday, November 9, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- All a Man's Ways Seem Innocent to Him but God Weighs His Motives":
Day 37
Have you ever said something that could clearly be misinterpreted or just wish you had said nothing at all? It seems like I always do this. I was recently interviewed and after the interview, I reviewed in my mind all the answers to the questions and thought of a dozen things that would have been better to have said or explained better. It’s so easy to be an arm chair quarterback after it’s all over or when you’re not under pressure. When I say dumb things or perhaps imply something that I didn’t intend to, it physically hurts me to think about it. And it really hurts when someone puts words into my mouth or questions my true motivation behind what I say. I know in my heart what my true motivation is. Proverbs 16:2 tells us that ‘All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord.’ So when I totally mess up something or say the wrong thing, it’s comforting to know that the Lord knows my heart and my true motivation.
I think of professional athletes or politicians that are always being scrutinized for every word and deed they say or do. What a burden to bear and how well I know that I would always be in trouble! The Lord knows if there is anyone in His kingdom that will insert a foot into the mouth, it will likely be me. How do I treat people when they say things they shouldn’t or they don’t say them in the best way? I have to admit, there are times that I’m just as judgmental as anyone. I know that the Lord called me to service but He didn’t call me to be judge over others thoughts and motivations. I believe I better leave that job to Him and just hope that others will do the same for me.
Have you ever said something that could clearly be misinterpreted or just wish you had said nothing at all? It seems like I always do this. I was recently interviewed and after the interview, I reviewed in my mind all the answers to the questions and thought of a dozen things that would have been better to have said or explained better. It’s so easy to be an arm chair quarterback after it’s all over or when you’re not under pressure. When I say dumb things or perhaps imply something that I didn’t intend to, it physically hurts me to think about it. And it really hurts when someone puts words into my mouth or questions my true motivation behind what I say. I know in my heart what my true motivation is. Proverbs 16:2 tells us that ‘All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord.’ So when I totally mess up something or say the wrong thing, it’s comforting to know that the Lord knows my heart and my true motivation.
I think of professional athletes or politicians that are always being scrutinized for every word and deed they say or do. What a burden to bear and how well I know that I would always be in trouble! The Lord knows if there is anyone in His kingdom that will insert a foot into the mouth, it will likely be me. How do I treat people when they say things they shouldn’t or they don’t say them in the best way? I have to admit, there are times that I’m just as judgmental as anyone. I know that the Lord called me to service but He didn’t call me to be judge over others thoughts and motivations. I believe I better leave that job to Him and just hope that others will do the same for me.
Friday, November 6, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Do You Really Want to be Chosen by God to be Used by Him?
Do you really want to be chosen by God to be used by Him? Do you really want to be selected to take on responsibility for His honor? So many times in my life, both in my Christian and non-Christian walk; I’ve wanted to do things for my own benefit or my own self-interest. And I think that I mistakenly thought that serving God and doing what I wanted were on opposite ends of the spectrum. How could I be chosen to serve God and honor Him and do what I wanted to do? But I’ve realized in the Lord’s awesome wisdom that the two are not exclusive. I really enjoy what I do for a living and often I meet with young families that want to buy their first home. Many times the conversation goes from their financial situation to their spiritual life and it usually happens so easily and so naturally. I don’t strategically plan it or target anyone for these times. It just happens. Or does it? I feel so blessed that the Lord placed me in a position to do work that I enjoy but He also brings people along my path that I can share Jesus with. He does that, not me. So, it’s clear to me that serving God does not mean you must live a life of denial. Serving God means you get to live a rich, fulfilling life full of opportunities, not just to do what you want but to do it for Him as well.
Nehemiah 7:2 says that Nehemiah chose Hananiah to do a specific task because ‘…..Hananiah the commander of the citadel, because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most men do.’ I want to be a person of integrity that God knows He can use in any capacity He chooses. I know that it will be a wonderful journey.
Nehemiah 7:2 says that Nehemiah chose Hananiah to do a specific task because ‘…..Hananiah the commander of the citadel, because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most men do.’ I want to be a person of integrity that God knows He can use in any capacity He chooses. I know that it will be a wonderful journey.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- We Can Claim God's Comforting Presence When Life Turns Sour
Day 35
There seems to be a lot of ‘preaching’ these days that says if you want health and wealth, all you need to do is name it and claim it. That may be an encouraging thought. But when I hear this type of theology, I have to ask does it line up with scripture? I’m not a preacher or highly trained in the doctrine but I can read the Bible. After all, may as well go directly to source, right? In James 1:2-4, it says ‘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.’
The reality is that sometimes life is just lousy. People we love die, tragic accidents happen, businesses fail, parents divorce and families lose their homes. Believing that God meets all our wants and desires if we just ask and believe it, can lead to distrust in the Lord and a distorted concept of what a real relationship with God means when bad things happen. Scripture says clearly that we will face trials and tribulations. But the richest, most comforting truth of having a relationship with God is in knowing that when these things happen, we are never alone. He is always there with us and for us. God is the Great Comforter and I can speak from personal experience. When bad things have happened in my life, having a close walk with God has brought me through it. I believe that the Lord desires for us to prosper for His honor and glory but all the riches in the world can’t replace His comforting presence when life turns sour. If you want to name and claim something, let it be the knowledge that you are a child of God, that He loves you and He has a great plan for you and that He will walk with you through the valleys of life.
There seems to be a lot of ‘preaching’ these days that says if you want health and wealth, all you need to do is name it and claim it. That may be an encouraging thought. But when I hear this type of theology, I have to ask does it line up with scripture? I’m not a preacher or highly trained in the doctrine but I can read the Bible. After all, may as well go directly to source, right? In James 1:2-4, it says ‘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.’
The reality is that sometimes life is just lousy. People we love die, tragic accidents happen, businesses fail, parents divorce and families lose their homes. Believing that God meets all our wants and desires if we just ask and believe it, can lead to distrust in the Lord and a distorted concept of what a real relationship with God means when bad things happen. Scripture says clearly that we will face trials and tribulations. But the richest, most comforting truth of having a relationship with God is in knowing that when these things happen, we are never alone. He is always there with us and for us. God is the Great Comforter and I can speak from personal experience. When bad things have happened in my life, having a close walk with God has brought me through it. I believe that the Lord desires for us to prosper for His honor and glory but all the riches in the world can’t replace His comforting presence when life turns sour. If you want to name and claim something, let it be the knowledge that you are a child of God, that He loves you and He has a great plan for you and that He will walk with you through the valleys of life.
Monday, November 2, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Give Every Situation to the Lord
Day 34
Have you ever had someone that was absolutely relentless in trying to harm you or discredit you in some way? No matter how hard you tried to ignore it or fix it, it just would not end? I’ve had a few people in my lifetime that have done that. Sometimes it is people you do business with and sometimes it’s a friend or family member, it could be anyone. But regardless of who it is, it still hurts and causes anxiety.
I was reading this morning in Nehemiah, one of my favorite books, and he’s telling about how they were making great progress in rebuilding the wall but some of the men in the area were resentful of their success. They tried every way to trick the workers and to tell lies. They also tried to deceive Nehemiah into making a bad decision. So I wanted to see. How does he handle this situation that we all have to face at some point? His answer was simple. He prayed. In Nehemiah 6:9, it says ‘But I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” And then again in verse 14 we see that he is praying about this matter. He always seemed to be in a constant state of prayer. Miraculously, they completed the wall in only 52 days and Nehemiah’s enemies were frightened because they knew it was only possible through the works of God.
I realize that I have to deal with situations that I just can’t fix, no matter how hard I try. The solution is to give it to the Lord and pray consistently. I can’t perform miracles so why do I try to control things as if I can? But if I pray and give these heartaches to God, He can do miraculous things. He’s God, the Miracle Worker, not me. I’m thankful for that!
Have you ever had someone that was absolutely relentless in trying to harm you or discredit you in some way? No matter how hard you tried to ignore it or fix it, it just would not end? I’ve had a few people in my lifetime that have done that. Sometimes it is people you do business with and sometimes it’s a friend or family member, it could be anyone. But regardless of who it is, it still hurts and causes anxiety.
I was reading this morning in Nehemiah, one of my favorite books, and he’s telling about how they were making great progress in rebuilding the wall but some of the men in the area were resentful of their success. They tried every way to trick the workers and to tell lies. They also tried to deceive Nehemiah into making a bad decision. So I wanted to see. How does he handle this situation that we all have to face at some point? His answer was simple. He prayed. In Nehemiah 6:9, it says ‘But I prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” And then again in verse 14 we see that he is praying about this matter. He always seemed to be in a constant state of prayer. Miraculously, they completed the wall in only 52 days and Nehemiah’s enemies were frightened because they knew it was only possible through the works of God.
I realize that I have to deal with situations that I just can’t fix, no matter how hard I try. The solution is to give it to the Lord and pray consistently. I can’t perform miracles so why do I try to control things as if I can? But if I pray and give these heartaches to God, He can do miraculous things. He’s God, the Miracle Worker, not me. I’m thankful for that!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Does Someone Need You to Stand by Him Today?
Day 33
I’m continuing to study the book of Nehemiah. It’s one of my favorite books and has such depth of wisdom for anyone that wants to know more about being a good leader and manager. In Chapter 5, Nehemiah talks about how the people, after having been treated so poorly by their captors in the past, are now being taken advantage of by their own people. They were being charged high rates of interest for money they borrowed to pay the governor’s taxes, their crops were being taken and their children were being used as slaves to repay the debt. When Nehemiah saw what was being done. It says in Nehemiah 5:6-7 – ‘When I heard their outcry and these charges, I was very angry. I pondered them in my mind and then accused the nobles and officials’.
Have you ever stood up for someone that couldn’t or wouldn’t stand up for themselves? Have you ever stood up for a cause you believed in, even if you were outnumbered or people thought you were nuts? Or, has anyone ever stood by you when you thought you must stand alone? Perhaps you’ve been accused of something that wasn’t true. These are painful situations but they are also growing times. I’m thinking of the people that have believed in me when no one else did. My husband Lanny has always stood by me and we have grown more in our marriage because of it. I get a lot of hair brained ideas and he always encourages me in them but he also is my anchor to keep me from going too far out of bounds. I think I must keep his life interesting but he also keeps mine more secure and stable. I recall when I decided to sell my accounting firm and go into the mortgage business. Everyone told me I was crazy and that I was making a bad choice. Everyone except Lanny. I remember him saying, “If you have prayed about it and that’s where the Lord is leading you then let’s do it.” What a relief that was and I’ve never regretted or second guessed that decision. I knew he was on my side. But more importantly, we both knew we were on the Lord’s side. That was 11 years ago and it’s been interesting. We’ve had a lot of challenges but we’ve also had some of the best years of our life so far together. I may not have made the right choice if I had not had him to stand by me when no one else did. Does someone need you to stand by him today?
I’m continuing to study the book of Nehemiah. It’s one of my favorite books and has such depth of wisdom for anyone that wants to know more about being a good leader and manager. In Chapter 5, Nehemiah talks about how the people, after having been treated so poorly by their captors in the past, are now being taken advantage of by their own people. They were being charged high rates of interest for money they borrowed to pay the governor’s taxes, their crops were being taken and their children were being used as slaves to repay the debt. When Nehemiah saw what was being done. It says in Nehemiah 5:6-7 – ‘When I heard their outcry and these charges, I was very angry. I pondered them in my mind and then accused the nobles and officials’.
Have you ever stood up for someone that couldn’t or wouldn’t stand up for themselves? Have you ever stood up for a cause you believed in, even if you were outnumbered or people thought you were nuts? Or, has anyone ever stood by you when you thought you must stand alone? Perhaps you’ve been accused of something that wasn’t true. These are painful situations but they are also growing times. I’m thinking of the people that have believed in me when no one else did. My husband Lanny has always stood by me and we have grown more in our marriage because of it. I get a lot of hair brained ideas and he always encourages me in them but he also is my anchor to keep me from going too far out of bounds. I think I must keep his life interesting but he also keeps mine more secure and stable. I recall when I decided to sell my accounting firm and go into the mortgage business. Everyone told me I was crazy and that I was making a bad choice. Everyone except Lanny. I remember him saying, “If you have prayed about it and that’s where the Lord is leading you then let’s do it.” What a relief that was and I’ve never regretted or second guessed that decision. I knew he was on my side. But more importantly, we both knew we were on the Lord’s side. That was 11 years ago and it’s been interesting. We’ve had a lot of challenges but we’ve also had some of the best years of our life so far together. I may not have made the right choice if I had not had him to stand by me when no one else did. Does someone need you to stand by him today?
Monday, October 26, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- A Church Family Is a Source of Strength and Community - a Refuge When the World Seems Cruel
Day 32
We have a new pastor that is young and we are his first church, so last night we had the privilege of participating in his ordination service. It was a special time for him and his family and for us too as his church family. It was quite interesting to see several churches come together in one place to celebrate the life and future service of a young man starting in the ministry. You don’t see churches come together that often and the strength of combining us under one roof was very powerful.
I browsed through the hosting church Sunday bulletin and picked up some new ideas of different ministries that they are doing and I also observed the facility and noticed lots of nice attention to detail that is welcoming to visitors. OK, I admit, I’m nosey. But more importantly I noticed how they opened their church ‘home’ to us as guests and made us feel very much a part of the family. But you know, we are all part of one family. We are brothers and sisters, adopted into the family of Christ and I really had a great time with my extended family. As I think of people that don’t go to church and all the excuses that I have heard for not being there, it makes me sad to think about what they are missing. A church family is a source of strength and community and it’s also a refuge when the world around you seems cruel. Paul said in Ephesians 2:22 that ‘in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.’ I’m thankful for my salvation through Christ but I’m also thankful that He didn’t leave me to take this journey alone. He gave me a church family to help me and for me to join with them to serve Him in more powerful ways than I could ever do alone.
We have a new pastor that is young and we are his first church, so last night we had the privilege of participating in his ordination service. It was a special time for him and his family and for us too as his church family. It was quite interesting to see several churches come together in one place to celebrate the life and future service of a young man starting in the ministry. You don’t see churches come together that often and the strength of combining us under one roof was very powerful.
I browsed through the hosting church Sunday bulletin and picked up some new ideas of different ministries that they are doing and I also observed the facility and noticed lots of nice attention to detail that is welcoming to visitors. OK, I admit, I’m nosey. But more importantly I noticed how they opened their church ‘home’ to us as guests and made us feel very much a part of the family. But you know, we are all part of one family. We are brothers and sisters, adopted into the family of Christ and I really had a great time with my extended family. As I think of people that don’t go to church and all the excuses that I have heard for not being there, it makes me sad to think about what they are missing. A church family is a source of strength and community and it’s also a refuge when the world around you seems cruel. Paul said in Ephesians 2:22 that ‘in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.’ I’m thankful for my salvation through Christ but I’m also thankful that He didn’t leave me to take this journey alone. He gave me a church family to help me and for me to join with them to serve Him in more powerful ways than I could ever do alone.
Friday, October 23, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: Slow Down Enough to Recognize the Special Gifts from God All Around
Day 31
I woke up this morning remembering the best dream. Most of the time when I dream, I only have a vague recollection of it, but this morning it was crystal clear. I dreamed that my dad was handing me candy. I could see the smile on his face and the twinkle in his eye when he laughed. He always called me Sissy and as the only daughter, his face lit up any time I walked into the room. He loved to surprise me with little treats. We didn’t have a lot of money when I was growing up but my dad always found something to give me. Sometimes it was candy or it may be some handmade item that someone at his plant was selling. My favorite treat was when he came home, opened his jacket and there was a little Chihuahua puppy in his shirt pocket. Her name was Candy and she was adorable. Candy lived to a ripe old age. My dad and I had a special bond and I miss him. He passed away over 11 years ago and time tends to erase some of the little details of our memories. But this dream brought all those little details of my dad back to the front of my mind. So when I woke up smiling and remembering with such clarity the details of his face and some of the things he did that were forgotten, I was very thankful.
Yesterday I was thinking about all the many blessings from the Lord and how we could spend a life time giving thanks for all of them. Today was a different kind of blessing. The Lord clearly brought to my memory things that were lost in my mind, cluttered over with all the stress and detail of the world today. I suppose I had to be in a sleep state for this memory to surface. Maybe this is another reminder to slow down physically and to slow my mind down enough recognize the special gifts from God that are all around. He is a loving God and He desires to bless us and reach out to us. As much as my dad loved me, my heavenly Father loves me even more. He also desires that we love one another. John 15:12 says ‘This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.’ This morning I have a special gift to be thankful for and will strive to be more loving to others.
I woke up this morning remembering the best dream. Most of the time when I dream, I only have a vague recollection of it, but this morning it was crystal clear. I dreamed that my dad was handing me candy. I could see the smile on his face and the twinkle in his eye when he laughed. He always called me Sissy and as the only daughter, his face lit up any time I walked into the room. He loved to surprise me with little treats. We didn’t have a lot of money when I was growing up but my dad always found something to give me. Sometimes it was candy or it may be some handmade item that someone at his plant was selling. My favorite treat was when he came home, opened his jacket and there was a little Chihuahua puppy in his shirt pocket. Her name was Candy and she was adorable. Candy lived to a ripe old age. My dad and I had a special bond and I miss him. He passed away over 11 years ago and time tends to erase some of the little details of our memories. But this dream brought all those little details of my dad back to the front of my mind. So when I woke up smiling and remembering with such clarity the details of his face and some of the things he did that were forgotten, I was very thankful.
Yesterday I was thinking about all the many blessings from the Lord and how we could spend a life time giving thanks for all of them. Today was a different kind of blessing. The Lord clearly brought to my memory things that were lost in my mind, cluttered over with all the stress and detail of the world today. I suppose I had to be in a sleep state for this memory to surface. Maybe this is another reminder to slow down physically and to slow my mind down enough recognize the special gifts from God that are all around. He is a loving God and He desires to bless us and reach out to us. As much as my dad loved me, my heavenly Father loves me even more. He also desires that we love one another. John 15:12 says ‘This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.’ This morning I have a special gift to be thankful for and will strive to be more loving to others.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Work with One Hand and Carry a Stick in the Other
Day 30
I was a little late getting up this morning which I’m more likely to do toward the end of the week. I guess I was tired because it’s been such a busy and hectic week. I was a little frustrated with myself because I really wanted to get my day started earlier and not feel rushed or distracted during my Bible study. So as I sat down in my office to read this morning, it occurred to me, what if I worked somewhere that I wasn’t allowed to read scripture or spend the first part of my day in prayer. What if I didn’t have these privileges? What if I lived in a country where the Bible was prohibited and I was forced to worship a false god or some insane dictator? I have so many privileges as an American that I tend to take them for granted. So, I spent a few minutes this morning thinking of all the things that our freedom provides and realized that I could spend the whole day giving thanks for all these things, starting with the freedom to worship.
There’s a verse of scripture in Nehemiah 4:9 that I enjoy. It says ‘But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.’ They were being harassed and persecuted by the foreigners that didn’t want to see Jerusalem rebuilt. I so appreciate the example in this verse of how they trusted God and prayed for His protection but they also used their resources to take action. It tells us in this chapter that they worked with one hand and carried a shield in the other, ready to work or fight whatever the day called for. This is what our Lord calls upon us to do now. I see our country being heavily influenced by non-believers. So I’ll continue to give more thought today for all the many things our freedom provides and will consider myself challenged to work with one hand and carry my shield in the other.
I was a little late getting up this morning which I’m more likely to do toward the end of the week. I guess I was tired because it’s been such a busy and hectic week. I was a little frustrated with myself because I really wanted to get my day started earlier and not feel rushed or distracted during my Bible study. So as I sat down in my office to read this morning, it occurred to me, what if I worked somewhere that I wasn’t allowed to read scripture or spend the first part of my day in prayer. What if I didn’t have these privileges? What if I lived in a country where the Bible was prohibited and I was forced to worship a false god or some insane dictator? I have so many privileges as an American that I tend to take them for granted. So, I spent a few minutes this morning thinking of all the things that our freedom provides and realized that I could spend the whole day giving thanks for all these things, starting with the freedom to worship.
There’s a verse of scripture in Nehemiah 4:9 that I enjoy. It says ‘But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.’ They were being harassed and persecuted by the foreigners that didn’t want to see Jerusalem rebuilt. I so appreciate the example in this verse of how they trusted God and prayed for His protection but they also used their resources to take action. It tells us in this chapter that they worked with one hand and carried a shield in the other, ready to work or fight whatever the day called for. This is what our Lord calls upon us to do now. I see our country being heavily influenced by non-believers. So I’ll continue to give more thought today for all the many things our freedom provides and will consider myself challenged to work with one hand and carry my shield in the other.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
100 Days With Jesus -- Will You Be Part of the Rebuilding or of Defeat?
Day 29
I’m reading this morning in Chapter 3 of Nehemiah which gives a detailed list of all the people that helped to rebuild the wall around their beloved city of Jerusalem. It’s interesting to me that the wall remained damaged and in disrepair for years and nothing was done about it. I suppose it seemed impossible because the small band of people left behind had little resources and were spiritually defeated. That is until someone came along with a vision and that someone was Nehemiah. Nehemiah was a strong leader, planner and visionary but more importantly he helped his people to see the vision that God had shown him and to feel the sense of responsibility that he felt. He gave them hope and helped them to believe in something that just the day before was considered impossible.
I was in a meeting yesterday and as I listened to the words and noticed the body language of those in attendance, I could see this same attitude of defeat. And I wonder, are things really that bad? Have we given everything that we have and have we fought to rebuild our families, our financial situations, our spiritual lives and this country or did we wimp out at the first sign of trouble? I think we’ve wimped out. Our government has used the term ‘too big to fail’ to describe some major industries that have received billions of dollars. Did we buy into the concept that our country was too big or too powerful to fail? Or that we, as individuals were too blessed and too important to fail? The Lord has blessed us for many years, just like He blessed the children of Israel. And now that we are facing a recession, high unemployment and a meltdown of the financial system that’s served us well for so long, I see so many signs of giving up. Our faith has been in ourselves and not in the Lord. The Lord wants our attention and He will have it. So I’m asking myself now, am I going to be like Nehemiah and be the visionary that encourages others to do the things that seemed impossible or will I take on an attitude of defeat? As a child of God, I will not be defeated because I’m in His army and I commit to being a part of His team that will rebuild. When Nehemiah shared his vision, the wall was rebuilt in a miraculous way. I too want to be a part of God’s miraculous rebuilding! God’s army is voluntary. Have you signed up yet?
I’m reading this morning in Chapter 3 of Nehemiah which gives a detailed list of all the people that helped to rebuild the wall around their beloved city of Jerusalem. It’s interesting to me that the wall remained damaged and in disrepair for years and nothing was done about it. I suppose it seemed impossible because the small band of people left behind had little resources and were spiritually defeated. That is until someone came along with a vision and that someone was Nehemiah. Nehemiah was a strong leader, planner and visionary but more importantly he helped his people to see the vision that God had shown him and to feel the sense of responsibility that he felt. He gave them hope and helped them to believe in something that just the day before was considered impossible.
I was in a meeting yesterday and as I listened to the words and noticed the body language of those in attendance, I could see this same attitude of defeat. And I wonder, are things really that bad? Have we given everything that we have and have we fought to rebuild our families, our financial situations, our spiritual lives and this country or did we wimp out at the first sign of trouble? I think we’ve wimped out. Our government has used the term ‘too big to fail’ to describe some major industries that have received billions of dollars. Did we buy into the concept that our country was too big or too powerful to fail? Or that we, as individuals were too blessed and too important to fail? The Lord has blessed us for many years, just like He blessed the children of Israel. And now that we are facing a recession, high unemployment and a meltdown of the financial system that’s served us well for so long, I see so many signs of giving up. Our faith has been in ourselves and not in the Lord. The Lord wants our attention and He will have it. So I’m asking myself now, am I going to be like Nehemiah and be the visionary that encourages others to do the things that seemed impossible or will I take on an attitude of defeat? As a child of God, I will not be defeated because I’m in His army and I commit to being a part of His team that will rebuild. When Nehemiah shared his vision, the wall was rebuilt in a miraculous way. I too want to be a part of God’s miraculous rebuilding! God’s army is voluntary. Have you signed up yet?
Monday, October 19, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: The God of Heaven Will Give Us Success - His concept of sucess
Day 28
It is cold and flu season and this past week I had my share, or what I hope will be my only share. No flu thankfully, but a nasty cold that lasted a few days. So for the better part of last week, I had the fever and cold medicine induced brain fog! You know the feeling I’m talking about. You know what you need to be doing but nothing makes sense. Even the simplest tasks you’ve done a hundred times are painfully difficult. Nothing seems like a good idea except sleep. I did not write in my devotional journal. I thought of God each morning at my devotional time and throughout the day and had an overwhelming sense of sadness because I couldn’t get my head into studying and comprehending anything, much less write about it. So I prayed and muddled through the days until my head began to clear up and my fever went away.
I guess the thing I was most aware of is that I desperately missed my routine of Bible study, prayer and thinking through the things that God was teaching me each morning. Once the habit begins to develop, it embraces you and you long for it, you look forward to it. It becomes as vital to you as food and water. As much as I regret that I did not develop this habit at a much younger age, I’m thankful that I am doing it now. God is such an awesome God. He can bring me up to speed, teach me, train me, mold me and use me according to His will no matter my age or how long I’ve delayed committing fully to Him. In Nehemiah 2:20, Nehemiah said ‘The God of Heaven will give us success.” I know it will be success according to His terms and His concept of success. I find the world’s idea of success to be oppressive and heavy on my shoulders. You know, for the first time in my life, I’m happy to be striving to reach His goals for my life and not my own. It’s the most liberating and energizing feeling in the world because it’s not of this world. God can give insight, even in the midst of a nasty head cold!
It is cold and flu season and this past week I had my share, or what I hope will be my only share. No flu thankfully, but a nasty cold that lasted a few days. So for the better part of last week, I had the fever and cold medicine induced brain fog! You know the feeling I’m talking about. You know what you need to be doing but nothing makes sense. Even the simplest tasks you’ve done a hundred times are painfully difficult. Nothing seems like a good idea except sleep. I did not write in my devotional journal. I thought of God each morning at my devotional time and throughout the day and had an overwhelming sense of sadness because I couldn’t get my head into studying and comprehending anything, much less write about it. So I prayed and muddled through the days until my head began to clear up and my fever went away.
I guess the thing I was most aware of is that I desperately missed my routine of Bible study, prayer and thinking through the things that God was teaching me each morning. Once the habit begins to develop, it embraces you and you long for it, you look forward to it. It becomes as vital to you as food and water. As much as I regret that I did not develop this habit at a much younger age, I’m thankful that I am doing it now. God is such an awesome God. He can bring me up to speed, teach me, train me, mold me and use me according to His will no matter my age or how long I’ve delayed committing fully to Him. In Nehemiah 2:20, Nehemiah said ‘The God of Heaven will give us success.” I know it will be success according to His terms and His concept of success. I find the world’s idea of success to be oppressive and heavy on my shoulders. You know, for the first time in my life, I’m happy to be striving to reach His goals for my life and not my own. It’s the most liberating and energizing feeling in the world because it’s not of this world. God can give insight, even in the midst of a nasty head cold!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Do You Have God with You Because You Were With God First?
Day 27
I’m continuing today in the book of Nehemiah. It’s such an exciting book and certainly one of the best management tools I’ve ever read. Nehemiah was organized, an excellent planner, very detail oriented and thought through things before he did or SAID anything. But more importantly, he prayed with all his heart to God for guidance at every step of the way - unlike me. I’m pretty bad to spend some time in prayer, throw a plan together and strike out with guns blazing! It doesn’t always work out the way I had hoped!
As Nehemiah was fasting and praying for his beloved city, knowing that he would go before the king for help, he was also very carefully planning his strategy. The scripture doesn’t really say so but I imagine that he was praying and writing down a plan and then praying some more and adding to the plan. Why do I think so? Well, when he had the opportunity to go before the king and ask for help for his home town, when the king granted his assistance and asked what he needed, he immediately laid out a detailed plan as to what he would do, how long he would be gone, what he would need to take with him – the whole plan! He knew exactly from start to finish how he would progress and he was prepared when asked the question. It says in Nehemiah 2:8……’and because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests.’ Nehemiah had God with him because he was with God first. He went to the Lord in prayer first instead of creating a plan and then asking God to bless it. I find it interesting that he also prayed before he opened his mouth. Nehemiah 2:5 says ‘Then I prayed to the God of heaven and I answered the king.’ This may be the most powerful lesson in the whole book! This will be my prayer for today too!
I’m continuing today in the book of Nehemiah. It’s such an exciting book and certainly one of the best management tools I’ve ever read. Nehemiah was organized, an excellent planner, very detail oriented and thought through things before he did or SAID anything. But more importantly, he prayed with all his heart to God for guidance at every step of the way - unlike me. I’m pretty bad to spend some time in prayer, throw a plan together and strike out with guns blazing! It doesn’t always work out the way I had hoped!
As Nehemiah was fasting and praying for his beloved city, knowing that he would go before the king for help, he was also very carefully planning his strategy. The scripture doesn’t really say so but I imagine that he was praying and writing down a plan and then praying some more and adding to the plan. Why do I think so? Well, when he had the opportunity to go before the king and ask for help for his home town, when the king granted his assistance and asked what he needed, he immediately laid out a detailed plan as to what he would do, how long he would be gone, what he would need to take with him – the whole plan! He knew exactly from start to finish how he would progress and he was prepared when asked the question. It says in Nehemiah 2:8……’and because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests.’ Nehemiah had God with him because he was with God first. He went to the Lord in prayer first instead of creating a plan and then asking God to bless it. I find it interesting that he also prayed before he opened his mouth. Nehemiah 2:5 says ‘Then I prayed to the God of heaven and I answered the king.’ This may be the most powerful lesson in the whole book! This will be my prayer for today too!
Monday, October 12, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: Instruction on How to Balance Spirituality with Action
Day 26
As a business owner and manager, I have found the book of Nehemiah to be one of the most powerful and awesome books of instruction for handling many situations in business and in life. Nehemiah had an awesome love of God and he also loved his remnant of people that were left back in Jerusalem and wanted to help them rebuild the city. It’s a wonderful book of instruction on how to balance spirituality with action. After 20 years of business, I still find this to be one of my biggest challenges.
As I am in the midst of a transition in my business, I feel led to this book for help and guidance. Life changes things constantly. You can’t remain static. You are either consciously moving forward or you’re going backward. It reminds me of my treadmill. If I don’t keep walking, I will slide right back to the end and off the track. You’ve got to keep moving and working. I have found this to be the case whether I’m referring to business or my personal life. Businesses must continually be evolving and relationships continually need attention. When Nehemiah was told about the sad condition of the people and his beloved city, he wept and prayed for days. But when he prayed, he prayed for God to give him guidance on how he could help his people. He didn’t just pray that God would fix it all for him. He knew he had to take action. But he didn’t want to take just any action, going off on some misguided rant. This isn’t the way God works. Nehemiah positioned himself to do something, like a runner at the starting line, waiting on the shot into the air to begin the race. His prayer in Nehemiah 1:11 ‘……Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” Nehemiah knew where his success would come from and it wasn’t from his own independent action, it was from God. So many times I make quick decisions and later wish I had first turned to the Lord for instruction. His plans are always perfect until I get into them with my own ideas and make a mess. I believe I will follow the Lord’s instruction through Nehemiah for a while and see where it takes me.
As a business owner and manager, I have found the book of Nehemiah to be one of the most powerful and awesome books of instruction for handling many situations in business and in life. Nehemiah had an awesome love of God and he also loved his remnant of people that were left back in Jerusalem and wanted to help them rebuild the city. It’s a wonderful book of instruction on how to balance spirituality with action. After 20 years of business, I still find this to be one of my biggest challenges.
As I am in the midst of a transition in my business, I feel led to this book for help and guidance. Life changes things constantly. You can’t remain static. You are either consciously moving forward or you’re going backward. It reminds me of my treadmill. If I don’t keep walking, I will slide right back to the end and off the track. You’ve got to keep moving and working. I have found this to be the case whether I’m referring to business or my personal life. Businesses must continually be evolving and relationships continually need attention. When Nehemiah was told about the sad condition of the people and his beloved city, he wept and prayed for days. But when he prayed, he prayed for God to give him guidance on how he could help his people. He didn’t just pray that God would fix it all for him. He knew he had to take action. But he didn’t want to take just any action, going off on some misguided rant. This isn’t the way God works. Nehemiah positioned himself to do something, like a runner at the starting line, waiting on the shot into the air to begin the race. His prayer in Nehemiah 1:11 ‘……Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” Nehemiah knew where his success would come from and it wasn’t from his own independent action, it was from God. So many times I make quick decisions and later wish I had first turned to the Lord for instruction. His plans are always perfect until I get into them with my own ideas and make a mess. I believe I will follow the Lord’s instruction through Nehemiah for a while and see where it takes me.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
100 Days with Jesus -- Forgiveness - That's a Tough One!
Day 25
Forgiveness - that’s a tough one. I had a dear friend to tell me that she has a hard time forgiving on occasion. Sometimes I do too. It really hurts when someone mistreats me or makes false statements or takes advantage of me. My normal reaction is once I get past the hurt feelings, then I become angry and that’s not pretty! Before I began to grow in my relationship with Christ, I had a really short fuse. But once I began to know Him more that was one of the very first things He dealt with in me. He took away a lot of the anger and my hot temper sort of melted away. Of course if you ask my husband, he would probably disagree!
The next step was to replace revenge with forgiveness. We’re still working on that. Like my friend, sometimes the forgiveness comes a little slower. But when I struggle with it, this thought now comes to my mind. Was I beaten beyond recognition? Did I have nails driven into my hands and feet and hung on a cross to die an excruciating and painful death for having done no wrong other than healing the sick and giving sight to the blind? Was I spat upon for telling others about the glory of God? Obviously the answer is no. Matthew 6:14-15 says ‘For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.’ It’s pretty tough to remain angry or have a pity party over unfair treatment when you put it into this perspective. I’m thankful that the Lord convicts me of my attitudes and continues to mold me daily so I can become what He would have me to be. I still have a long way to go. I believe that’s why it’s called a life long journey!
Forgiveness - that’s a tough one. I had a dear friend to tell me that she has a hard time forgiving on occasion. Sometimes I do too. It really hurts when someone mistreats me or makes false statements or takes advantage of me. My normal reaction is once I get past the hurt feelings, then I become angry and that’s not pretty! Before I began to grow in my relationship with Christ, I had a really short fuse. But once I began to know Him more that was one of the very first things He dealt with in me. He took away a lot of the anger and my hot temper sort of melted away. Of course if you ask my husband, he would probably disagree!
The next step was to replace revenge with forgiveness. We’re still working on that. Like my friend, sometimes the forgiveness comes a little slower. But when I struggle with it, this thought now comes to my mind. Was I beaten beyond recognition? Did I have nails driven into my hands and feet and hung on a cross to die an excruciating and painful death for having done no wrong other than healing the sick and giving sight to the blind? Was I spat upon for telling others about the glory of God? Obviously the answer is no. Matthew 6:14-15 says ‘For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.’ It’s pretty tough to remain angry or have a pity party over unfair treatment when you put it into this perspective. I’m thankful that the Lord convicts me of my attitudes and continues to mold me daily so I can become what He would have me to be. I still have a long way to go. I believe that’s why it’s called a life long journey!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart
Day 24
Proverbs 3:5 is one of my favorite verses. It says to me ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.’ But my thinking, my understanding makes sense to me. I don’t always understand God’s thinking. I can’t begin to comprehend the greatness of God’s mind and how my very limited life span and my tiny abilities play into His huge master plan for mankind. I can’t see sometimes how my disappointments or sufferings make any difference to anyone other than me. And I don’t always see how my successes may profit anyone other than me and my family. But it’s all so much bigger than that.
That’s why when I go to the Lord in prayer, sometimes I forget that I am not going to God in prayer to bring Him into my plans. I must go to Him in prayer and see where do I need to fit in today in His plan. What do I need to learn from Him today so that this day will be spent obeying Him and growing spiritually with Him? With so many concerns on my mind, I find that hard to do some days. I naturally want to start putting it all out there for Him to sort out for me. Prayer is designed to change me, one day at a time as I grow in obedience to God. I’m glad I don’t have to lean on my own understandings because that’s a weak, unstable place to rest.
Proverbs 3:5 is one of my favorite verses. It says to me ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.’ But my thinking, my understanding makes sense to me. I don’t always understand God’s thinking. I can’t begin to comprehend the greatness of God’s mind and how my very limited life span and my tiny abilities play into His huge master plan for mankind. I can’t see sometimes how my disappointments or sufferings make any difference to anyone other than me. And I don’t always see how my successes may profit anyone other than me and my family. But it’s all so much bigger than that.
That’s why when I go to the Lord in prayer, sometimes I forget that I am not going to God in prayer to bring Him into my plans. I must go to Him in prayer and see where do I need to fit in today in His plan. What do I need to learn from Him today so that this day will be spent obeying Him and growing spiritually with Him? With so many concerns on my mind, I find that hard to do some days. I naturally want to start putting it all out there for Him to sort out for me. Prayer is designed to change me, one day at a time as I grow in obedience to God. I’m glad I don’t have to lean on my own understandings because that’s a weak, unstable place to rest.
Monday, October 5, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: Our Churches Are a Rock, a Source of Stability, Ordained by the Lord.
Day 23
I went to church yesterday morning and last night for our Sunday worship services. There are Sundays when it seems like it’s another work day. I have to get up, shower and dress, do my hair, and cook breakfast and all the normal things. Then spend about 2.5 hours at church for Sunday school and worship service, then hurry home to prepare lunch. Then back to church in the evening for the Sunday night service. It’s a busy day sometimes I get grumpy about it because I really wanted just a little extra rest.
But then I remember that there are people in other parts of the world that have no church to go to and they have no Bibles to read. There are people that have to hide in order to worship and they share one Bible among the entire community. They suffer persecution in the form of rejection, torture or even death. They would give everything, which for some is very little, to have the freedom to attend church. The idea of attending a church as beautiful as ours is beyond their comprehension. If they had the freedoms that I have and the facilities that I have, they would probably spend every free moment they had at the altar, praising God and worshipping him. Some people refuse to go to church because they say it’s full of hypocrites. They’re probably right, but so is Wal Mart and everyone goes there! Christians are still sinners; they’re just saved by God’s grace. Jesus said in Matthew 16:18 …and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Our churches are a rock, a source of stability, ordained by the Lord. And it’s my family. I’m so thankful to be a part of His church. I hope you have one that you’re a part of too.
I went to church yesterday morning and last night for our Sunday worship services. There are Sundays when it seems like it’s another work day. I have to get up, shower and dress, do my hair, and cook breakfast and all the normal things. Then spend about 2.5 hours at church for Sunday school and worship service, then hurry home to prepare lunch. Then back to church in the evening for the Sunday night service. It’s a busy day sometimes I get grumpy about it because I really wanted just a little extra rest.
But then I remember that there are people in other parts of the world that have no church to go to and they have no Bibles to read. There are people that have to hide in order to worship and they share one Bible among the entire community. They suffer persecution in the form of rejection, torture or even death. They would give everything, which for some is very little, to have the freedom to attend church. The idea of attending a church as beautiful as ours is beyond their comprehension. If they had the freedoms that I have and the facilities that I have, they would probably spend every free moment they had at the altar, praising God and worshipping him. Some people refuse to go to church because they say it’s full of hypocrites. They’re probably right, but so is Wal Mart and everyone goes there! Christians are still sinners; they’re just saved by God’s grace. Jesus said in Matthew 16:18 …and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Our churches are a rock, a source of stability, ordained by the Lord. And it’s my family. I’m so thankful to be a part of His church. I hope you have one that you’re a part of too.
Friday, October 2, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: God Made Me and He Doesn't Make Junk!
Day 22
When the alarm went off this morning I was so sleepy. I even felt dizzy because I was sleeping so sound. I really didn’t want to get up. I’ve been working a lot of hours for the past few weeks and I guess it finally caught up with me. So I decided that the world wouldn’t come to an end if I wasn’t in the office before 8:00 so I dozed off and grabbed an extra hour of sleep. When I woke up again, I felt refreshed and ready to go. It caused me to stop and think about the miracle of the human body. My body talks to me and tells me what it doesn’t want or what it needs. Sometimes that voice is in my outward appearance when I look in the mirror and see a few extra pounds or the sleepiness I feel when it’s tired or the hunger when it doesn’t get the proper nourishment. As I grow older, I’ve become more attentive to my body’s voice. Maybe I think more about the shortness of life or perhaps the voice is much louder than when I was younger. The little aches and pains are certainly difficult to ignore.
But it still amazes me how God created this human body that no man can replicate or even fully understand. In Ephesians 3:9 Paul said, And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ. God created everything, including me. I was no accident. I didn’t come from the evolvement of a monkey and all the miraculous workings of the body most definitely were not caused by some explosion. Because I know that God created me, I also know that He has a purpose for me, a reason for me to exist. For that reason, even when life is difficult, I have the comfort of knowing I’m not alone. God didn’t create me to abandon me. He created me to be a light that will point others to Him. I’m reminded of a child’s t-shirt that I saw once that said, ‘God made me and He doesn’t make junk.’ I’m not junk and neither are you! So let’s shine!
When the alarm went off this morning I was so sleepy. I even felt dizzy because I was sleeping so sound. I really didn’t want to get up. I’ve been working a lot of hours for the past few weeks and I guess it finally caught up with me. So I decided that the world wouldn’t come to an end if I wasn’t in the office before 8:00 so I dozed off and grabbed an extra hour of sleep. When I woke up again, I felt refreshed and ready to go. It caused me to stop and think about the miracle of the human body. My body talks to me and tells me what it doesn’t want or what it needs. Sometimes that voice is in my outward appearance when I look in the mirror and see a few extra pounds or the sleepiness I feel when it’s tired or the hunger when it doesn’t get the proper nourishment. As I grow older, I’ve become more attentive to my body’s voice. Maybe I think more about the shortness of life or perhaps the voice is much louder than when I was younger. The little aches and pains are certainly difficult to ignore.
But it still amazes me how God created this human body that no man can replicate or even fully understand. In Ephesians 3:9 Paul said, And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ. God created everything, including me. I was no accident. I didn’t come from the evolvement of a monkey and all the miraculous workings of the body most definitely were not caused by some explosion. Because I know that God created me, I also know that He has a purpose for me, a reason for me to exist. For that reason, even when life is difficult, I have the comfort of knowing I’m not alone. God didn’t create me to abandon me. He created me to be a light that will point others to Him. I’m reminded of a child’s t-shirt that I saw once that said, ‘God made me and He doesn’t make junk.’ I’m not junk and neither are you! So let’s shine!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
100 Days with Jesus: Jesus Must Be the Center of Our Life Each and Every Day -- A Comforting Thought to Take Us Through This Life Long Journey
Day 21
They say that to do something 21 times consistently will create a new habit. Wouldn’t you know I get to day 21 and drop the ball! Yesterday I failed to post the devotional because I didn’t do it. I have a world of excuses, very good ones too. I started my day with an early morning eye doctor appointment. Then I had to hurry back to the office where we have lots of loan files to work on, new ones coming in, people calling expecting return phone calls, a new loan officer that needs my help and on it goes. So guess what fell by the wayside? My time with the Lord and oh how I missed it. I considered all the rest of the day, as everything was going on, how I had an appointment with the Lord and that He was waiting on me to show up, and I didn’t. What wonderful nuggets of wisdom did He have for me yesterday? What did He need to tell me that would have made the day easier or that would have given me a clearer understanding of Him and His desire for my life? How sad He must have been that I was too busy for Him. How sad I was that I failed to keep my priorities in check. And I had another interesting observation. He still continued to bless me despite my slip in commitment. My eye doctor said that my eye sight had actually improved. The business continues to grow as more and more people desire to finance homes with us. Martha, the new loan officer, is doing a wonderful job despite the fact that she’s never been in the business before. There’s a breath of fresh air in the office and a new level of energy that’s been missing for a long time. These are God’s blessings!
So Day 21, which should have been yesterday, was still a day of enlightenment. I realized that I truly had developed a habit during these days that can carry me through a lifetime if I’m obedient to it. I realized that as much as the Lord wants to share with me, so much more so do I need the time with Him. Ephesians 6:18 says, ‘Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.’ My day is incomplete, more hectic and less controlled when I think that I can put God to the side for ‘just this one time’. Nope, can’t do it! He must be the center of my life, each and every day and that is a comforting thought that will carry me through this life long journey.
They say that to do something 21 times consistently will create a new habit. Wouldn’t you know I get to day 21 and drop the ball! Yesterday I failed to post the devotional because I didn’t do it. I have a world of excuses, very good ones too. I started my day with an early morning eye doctor appointment. Then I had to hurry back to the office where we have lots of loan files to work on, new ones coming in, people calling expecting return phone calls, a new loan officer that needs my help and on it goes. So guess what fell by the wayside? My time with the Lord and oh how I missed it. I considered all the rest of the day, as everything was going on, how I had an appointment with the Lord and that He was waiting on me to show up, and I didn’t. What wonderful nuggets of wisdom did He have for me yesterday? What did He need to tell me that would have made the day easier or that would have given me a clearer understanding of Him and His desire for my life? How sad He must have been that I was too busy for Him. How sad I was that I failed to keep my priorities in check. And I had another interesting observation. He still continued to bless me despite my slip in commitment. My eye doctor said that my eye sight had actually improved. The business continues to grow as more and more people desire to finance homes with us. Martha, the new loan officer, is doing a wonderful job despite the fact that she’s never been in the business before. There’s a breath of fresh air in the office and a new level of energy that’s been missing for a long time. These are God’s blessings!
So Day 21, which should have been yesterday, was still a day of enlightenment. I realized that I truly had developed a habit during these days that can carry me through a lifetime if I’m obedient to it. I realized that as much as the Lord wants to share with me, so much more so do I need the time with Him. Ephesians 6:18 says, ‘Pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.’ My day is incomplete, more hectic and less controlled when I think that I can put God to the side for ‘just this one time’. Nope, can’t do it! He must be the center of my life, each and every day and that is a comforting thought that will carry me through this life long journey.
Monday, September 28, 2009
100 Days With Jesus: We Have Today to Grow Closer to God to Prepare Us for Tomorrow
Day 20
In the last 4 days in our community, we have lost 2 special people by suicide. I find this very troubling, not just because of the pain their families are experiencing but because I don’t understand it. I have wondered what happens in someone’s life that’s so bad that they cannot endure even one more day. I know life can be so hard sometimes. I’ve experienced heartache and difficulties in my life too but I have thankfully never reached that point. I’ve known of people that committed suicide that appeared to have it all together and that’s what troubles me. How susceptible am I to these thoughts? I like to think not at all but how do I know? Do I have a little more grit? Am I stronger because I have a family that loves me unconditionally but did not indulge me as I was growing up? No, I think I am weak and so are most people when the world begins to beat up on us relentlessly.
So how do I protect myself from this moment of insanity that says that life is not worth living any longer and that I will not be missed by my loved ones? The only answer that I have for me is that I want to snuggle up as close to Jesus as I can possibly be, studying His word every day and spending time in prayer with Him. No one is impervious to the attacks of Satan except Jesus. 2 Corinthians 1:3 says ‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles….’ I am thankful to have the comfort of God in all my troubles because I do not know what tomorrow holds. I do not know how weak life can make me or how vulnerable I really am. I don’t want to find out. All I know is that I have today to draw closer to Him, to prepare me for tomorrow. And I find peace and comfort in that.
In the last 4 days in our community, we have lost 2 special people by suicide. I find this very troubling, not just because of the pain their families are experiencing but because I don’t understand it. I have wondered what happens in someone’s life that’s so bad that they cannot endure even one more day. I know life can be so hard sometimes. I’ve experienced heartache and difficulties in my life too but I have thankfully never reached that point. I’ve known of people that committed suicide that appeared to have it all together and that’s what troubles me. How susceptible am I to these thoughts? I like to think not at all but how do I know? Do I have a little more grit? Am I stronger because I have a family that loves me unconditionally but did not indulge me as I was growing up? No, I think I am weak and so are most people when the world begins to beat up on us relentlessly.
So how do I protect myself from this moment of insanity that says that life is not worth living any longer and that I will not be missed by my loved ones? The only answer that I have for me is that I want to snuggle up as close to Jesus as I can possibly be, studying His word every day and spending time in prayer with Him. No one is impervious to the attacks of Satan except Jesus. 2 Corinthians 1:3 says ‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles….’ I am thankful to have the comfort of God in all my troubles because I do not know what tomorrow holds. I do not know how weak life can make me or how vulnerable I really am. I don’t want to find out. All I know is that I have today to draw closer to Him, to prepare me for tomorrow. And I find peace and comfort in that.
Friday, September 25, 2009
A Friend Loves at All Times
Day 19
I’m so excited because tomorrow I am going shoe shopping with a dear friend, Linda and her daughter Sarah. We are going to a fabulous store in Asheville that’s 3 stories tall and sells nothing but shoes! This is our annual shoe shopping trip together and I always look forward to it. A shoe shopping trip is always a big treat but more importantly, it’s the opportunity that Linda and I have to spend some time together. Our schedules are so full and we’re so busy with all our activities that sometimes we go for months and don’t even take the time to say hello to one another. But I think of Linda and Sarah often and I know that she does me too. And of course almost every shoe in my closet reminds me of the time spent together laughing, shopping and eating.
As I was studying the Word this morning, I was reminded of Proverbs 17:17 that says ‘A friend loves at all times.’ Sometimes we have friends in our lives that have expectations of us. I’ve had such friends that would become upset with me when I wasn’t available at all times or felt threatened when I developed other close friendships. These friendships don’t last and can become a source of stress and anxiety. But to have a friend that loves at all times, that is delighted to have the opportunity to spend a day together, whether it’s once a year or once a week is a blessing from the Lord. I know that I can call Linda, day or night, with good news or bad and she’s there for me, just as I would be her. I give thanks for this kind of special friendship. And tomorrow, we begin the indoctrination of young Miss Sarah into the special world of marathon shoe shopping. Sarah, rest well tonight for tomorrow is a very big day!
I’m so excited because tomorrow I am going shoe shopping with a dear friend, Linda and her daughter Sarah. We are going to a fabulous store in Asheville that’s 3 stories tall and sells nothing but shoes! This is our annual shoe shopping trip together and I always look forward to it. A shoe shopping trip is always a big treat but more importantly, it’s the opportunity that Linda and I have to spend some time together. Our schedules are so full and we’re so busy with all our activities that sometimes we go for months and don’t even take the time to say hello to one another. But I think of Linda and Sarah often and I know that she does me too. And of course almost every shoe in my closet reminds me of the time spent together laughing, shopping and eating.
As I was studying the Word this morning, I was reminded of Proverbs 17:17 that says ‘A friend loves at all times.’ Sometimes we have friends in our lives that have expectations of us. I’ve had such friends that would become upset with me when I wasn’t available at all times or felt threatened when I developed other close friendships. These friendships don’t last and can become a source of stress and anxiety. But to have a friend that loves at all times, that is delighted to have the opportunity to spend a day together, whether it’s once a year or once a week is a blessing from the Lord. I know that I can call Linda, day or night, with good news or bad and she’s there for me, just as I would be her. I give thanks for this kind of special friendship. And tomorrow, we begin the indoctrination of young Miss Sarah into the special world of marathon shoe shopping. Sarah, rest well tonight for tomorrow is a very big day!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Start Your Day Off Right -- Spend Time in God's Word -- It's Powerful
Day 18
This morning my day did not get off to a great start. Nothing in particular happened, just general frustrations of life. So as I have this sense of irritation, I’m thinking to myself, how do I get into prayer and Bible study? What do you do on those days when you’re feeling ill and anything but spiritual? As I open my Bible, just not feeling it, I see God’s word and am reminded of how powerful it is. I’m reminded that this is His way of speaking to me and I really need to hear His voice on days like this. As I read through just a few verses of scripture, I begin to notice the edge in my attitude melting away and I ask God to lead me to what He has for me today. It’s amazing how just a few minutes with the Lord can give an attitude adjustment even more powerful than when my mom would give me the eye. And that’s pretty powerful!
In John 14:27 Jesus says “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” The world can’t give us the peace that comes with knowing Jesus. So when you don’t feel like spending time with the Lord, just remember the Nike slogan ‘Just Do It’! It sums it up better than anything I can say. I’m glad I did this morning. Now I’m ready for the world. Bring it on!
This morning my day did not get off to a great start. Nothing in particular happened, just general frustrations of life. So as I have this sense of irritation, I’m thinking to myself, how do I get into prayer and Bible study? What do you do on those days when you’re feeling ill and anything but spiritual? As I open my Bible, just not feeling it, I see God’s word and am reminded of how powerful it is. I’m reminded that this is His way of speaking to me and I really need to hear His voice on days like this. As I read through just a few verses of scripture, I begin to notice the edge in my attitude melting away and I ask God to lead me to what He has for me today. It’s amazing how just a few minutes with the Lord can give an attitude adjustment even more powerful than when my mom would give me the eye. And that’s pretty powerful!
In John 14:27 Jesus says “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” The world can’t give us the peace that comes with knowing Jesus. So when you don’t feel like spending time with the Lord, just remember the Nike slogan ‘Just Do It’! It sums it up better than anything I can say. I’m glad I did this morning. Now I’m ready for the world. Bring it on!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The Quality of Our Prayer Life
Day 17
This morning I’m thinking about the quality of my prayer life. Too often my prayers sound more like my grocery list than a heartfelt conversation before my Lord. I have so much comfort in knowing that I can take anything to God in prayer. Sometimes I pray about needs that I have. I pray about needs of others and prayer requests that have been given to me by others. Sometimes I pray about my fears or about people that I don’t especially like a lot or that have been mean or rude to me. Sometimes I have to pray about the times I have been mean or rude or have had ugly thoughts. And I believe all of this is OK. We read in James 5:16 that “the effectual prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” The Lord already knows our heart and our thoughts so it’s not like we’re disclosing some big secret when we pray about the bad things about our lives as well as the good or share with Him our greatest spiritual or physical needs.
But this morning I realized that my prayers do not always include all the many things that I have to be thankful for. As I began to give thanks, I realized that I could spend the entire day in prayer and never get to the end of this list. I prayed for sunshine that we’re finally getting, the rain that we just had, the health to get out of bed, a husband that is sweet enough to cook my breakfast, fresh water for a shower, soap and shampoo, a car to drive that has gas in it, my dogs that are always glad to see me, a business and the office building, my church and my church family, my family that lets me celebrate a birthday when it’s not really my birthday and…….. Well, you see, the list could just go on forever. We have an awesome God that is ready and willing to hear our prayers and cherishes the prayers of thanksgiving. I’m thankful for the Lord.
This morning I’m thinking about the quality of my prayer life. Too often my prayers sound more like my grocery list than a heartfelt conversation before my Lord. I have so much comfort in knowing that I can take anything to God in prayer. Sometimes I pray about needs that I have. I pray about needs of others and prayer requests that have been given to me by others. Sometimes I pray about my fears or about people that I don’t especially like a lot or that have been mean or rude to me. Sometimes I have to pray about the times I have been mean or rude or have had ugly thoughts. And I believe all of this is OK. We read in James 5:16 that “the effectual prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” The Lord already knows our heart and our thoughts so it’s not like we’re disclosing some big secret when we pray about the bad things about our lives as well as the good or share with Him our greatest spiritual or physical needs.
But this morning I realized that my prayers do not always include all the many things that I have to be thankful for. As I began to give thanks, I realized that I could spend the entire day in prayer and never get to the end of this list. I prayed for sunshine that we’re finally getting, the rain that we just had, the health to get out of bed, a husband that is sweet enough to cook my breakfast, fresh water for a shower, soap and shampoo, a car to drive that has gas in it, my dogs that are always glad to see me, a business and the office building, my church and my church family, my family that lets me celebrate a birthday when it’s not really my birthday and…….. Well, you see, the list could just go on forever. We have an awesome God that is ready and willing to hear our prayers and cherishes the prayers of thanksgiving. I’m thankful for the Lord.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Listen, for I Have Worthy Things to Say
Day 16
I was listening to this song on the radio in my car on the way into the office this morning. I don’t know the name of the song or who sings it but there was a phrase in the song that really touched me. It said something about how we are always striving to be heard when we really should strive to listen. The truth of that statement immediately caught my attention.
We are constantly being bombarded with advertisers’ messages online, on the radio or TV or just about anything you pick up to look at or listen to. There are thousands of messages coming to us every day. Someone wants to be heard and they want you to be listening to them. They want you to hear their message and buy their product, support their cause or believe what they believe. And, so does God. But He doesn’t blast it out to us or use creative marketing techniques to try to reach us or trick us. He’s there steadily and consistently, day in and day out, never failing us, never going away, never turning His back. He wants to be heard but He wants us to hear Him for our own benefit. He wants to give us the guidance and wisdom that we so desperately need to navigate the world we live in. He wants us to strive to LISTEN much more than we strive to be heard. We don’t have to be concerned about whether or not He’s listening to us. He is. He just needs us to do the same for Him. Proverbs 8:6 very simply says, ‘Listen, for I have worthy things to say.’ Enough said. I’ll just listen now.
I was listening to this song on the radio in my car on the way into the office this morning. I don’t know the name of the song or who sings it but there was a phrase in the song that really touched me. It said something about how we are always striving to be heard when we really should strive to listen. The truth of that statement immediately caught my attention.
We are constantly being bombarded with advertisers’ messages online, on the radio or TV or just about anything you pick up to look at or listen to. There are thousands of messages coming to us every day. Someone wants to be heard and they want you to be listening to them. They want you to hear their message and buy their product, support their cause or believe what they believe. And, so does God. But He doesn’t blast it out to us or use creative marketing techniques to try to reach us or trick us. He’s there steadily and consistently, day in and day out, never failing us, never going away, never turning His back. He wants to be heard but He wants us to hear Him for our own benefit. He wants to give us the guidance and wisdom that we so desperately need to navigate the world we live in. He wants us to strive to LISTEN much more than we strive to be heard. We don’t have to be concerned about whether or not He’s listening to us. He is. He just needs us to do the same for Him. Proverbs 8:6 very simply says, ‘Listen, for I have worthy things to say.’ Enough said. I’ll just listen now.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Choose the Right Path and Mentor
Day 15
I can’t believe it’s been two weeks now since we began this journey. I’ve pondered today what have I learned but maybe the better question is - what’s different about me? Has it begun to make any difference that I am digging into God’s word to seek out guidance and wisdom?
My first observation is that I think of the Lord more often. Actually, I think of Him all throughout the day now. I think of how my actions, thoughts, plans, everything I say or do is viewed through His eyes. Some days I’m ashamed or disappointed. Some days I know that I have dodged a bullet because I tried to think through a situation the way He would have me think instead of just my own way. I’ve mentioned several times that I also have a greater sense of calm and clarity. I’m not saying I have it all figured out. Trust me when I say that I absolutely do not. This isn’t a 100 day journey, this is a lifelong journey. But I guess if I had to sum it up, I would say that I know I have chosen the right path, the right Mentor. I also realize that in God’s eyes, it’s not about who I am, it’s much more about who I am becoming. I’m encouraged when I read in Phillipians 1:6 ‘being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.’ I know that the Lord has a lot more work to do in me and work that will be done through me. I’m excited to see where the next 85 days will lead! And I’m so glad that you are sharing this journey with me.
I can’t believe it’s been two weeks now since we began this journey. I’ve pondered today what have I learned but maybe the better question is - what’s different about me? Has it begun to make any difference that I am digging into God’s word to seek out guidance and wisdom?
My first observation is that I think of the Lord more often. Actually, I think of Him all throughout the day now. I think of how my actions, thoughts, plans, everything I say or do is viewed through His eyes. Some days I’m ashamed or disappointed. Some days I know that I have dodged a bullet because I tried to think through a situation the way He would have me think instead of just my own way. I’ve mentioned several times that I also have a greater sense of calm and clarity. I’m not saying I have it all figured out. Trust me when I say that I absolutely do not. This isn’t a 100 day journey, this is a lifelong journey. But I guess if I had to sum it up, I would say that I know I have chosen the right path, the right Mentor. I also realize that in God’s eyes, it’s not about who I am, it’s much more about who I am becoming. I’m encouraged when I read in Phillipians 1:6 ‘being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.’ I know that the Lord has a lot more work to do in me and work that will be done through me. I’m excited to see where the next 85 days will lead! And I’m so glad that you are sharing this journey with me.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Celebration in Honor of one of God's Children -- My Dad
Day 14
Yesterday was a very special day for me. Yesterday, I celebrated my birthday! But it wasn’t really my birthday. Every year for the past 11 years I have celebrated my birthday on September 17th even though my actual birthday is December 31st. When my dad passed away 11 years ago, being a daddy’s girl, I was so heartbroken I could hardly bear it. And even though I knew that I would always miss my dad, I had this crazy idea that he would be forgotten. So to make sure that didn’t happen, I decided to celebrate my birthday on what was really his birthday, September 17th. As a child I always complained about my birthday being so close to Christmas and New Year’s because it never seemed special. Yes, I was completely spoiled and so indulgent. I mean, who complains about a birthday? So this seemed like a perfect way to ‘reschedule’ my birthday and deal with my grief over the passing of my dad. As it turned out, no one in the family participates in my ‘rescheduling’ except my mom and my younger brother Preston. Everyone else in the family rolls their eyes at me and reminds me how spoiled I am and that no one in their right mind thinks they can change their birthday. But, I did it anyway and if Mom agrees, since she had a big part in bringing me into the world, then it must be OK. Yesterday, my mom came to the office and brought food, cake, decorations, the whole works. We had a fabulous time here at the office with all the ladies and my mom. I had a great birthday!
But I also remembered why I did this. I didn’t want myself or anyone else to forget that this was really my dad’s special day. 1 Corinthians 1:9 tells us that ‘God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.’ It reminds me that God is faithful to heal our heartache and to fill all voids that are left with the passing of a loved one. Even though I miss my dad, I don’t grieve over him because I know he is walking daily with the Lord and he knows no suffering. I still have lots of fun with the adopted birthday and all the ribbing I get from everyone about it but my dad will not be forgotten and I will not forget the comfort that the Lord gave me during one of the saddest times of my life. I can’t help but believe that the Lord and my dad were both smiling yesterday as we celebrated a special day in remembrance of one of His children.
Yesterday was a very special day for me. Yesterday, I celebrated my birthday! But it wasn’t really my birthday. Every year for the past 11 years I have celebrated my birthday on September 17th even though my actual birthday is December 31st. When my dad passed away 11 years ago, being a daddy’s girl, I was so heartbroken I could hardly bear it. And even though I knew that I would always miss my dad, I had this crazy idea that he would be forgotten. So to make sure that didn’t happen, I decided to celebrate my birthday on what was really his birthday, September 17th. As a child I always complained about my birthday being so close to Christmas and New Year’s because it never seemed special. Yes, I was completely spoiled and so indulgent. I mean, who complains about a birthday? So this seemed like a perfect way to ‘reschedule’ my birthday and deal with my grief over the passing of my dad. As it turned out, no one in the family participates in my ‘rescheduling’ except my mom and my younger brother Preston. Everyone else in the family rolls their eyes at me and reminds me how spoiled I am and that no one in their right mind thinks they can change their birthday. But, I did it anyway and if Mom agrees, since she had a big part in bringing me into the world, then it must be OK. Yesterday, my mom came to the office and brought food, cake, decorations, the whole works. We had a fabulous time here at the office with all the ladies and my mom. I had a great birthday!
But I also remembered why I did this. I didn’t want myself or anyone else to forget that this was really my dad’s special day. 1 Corinthians 1:9 tells us that ‘God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.’ It reminds me that God is faithful to heal our heartache and to fill all voids that are left with the passing of a loved one. Even though I miss my dad, I don’t grieve over him because I know he is walking daily with the Lord and he knows no suffering. I still have lots of fun with the adopted birthday and all the ribbing I get from everyone about it but my dad will not be forgotten and I will not forget the comfort that the Lord gave me during one of the saddest times of my life. I can’t help but believe that the Lord and my dad were both smiling yesterday as we celebrated a special day in remembrance of one of His children.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
God's Wisdom Includes the Ability to Balance and Prioritize Things in Our Life
Day 13
I’m excited because this afternoon I am starting a walking/running program with a young teenager in our church that is kind enough to tolerate me. She may decide I’m holding her back and leave me on the curb after the first couple of days. We’ll see how this works out. But I realized that I had to do something to take care of my health. With so much work to do at the office, I’m often just too tired to exercise and I’ve put on a few more pounds than I need.
The main reason I don’t exercise is that I work too much. Interestingly enough, I came across Proverbs 23:4 that says: “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint.” I’m really not greedy or obsessed with riches. I do enjoy what you can do with money. But the main reason that I work too many hours is that I just can’t stand to leave my work undone or not fulfill promises or expectations that my customers or associates have of me. But that also means that I don’t take care of myself nor do I make it home as early as my husband would like for me to. It’s difficult to balance all these responsibilities. God given wisdom includes the ability to balance and prioritize to avoid obsessing over any one aspect of life. I think it also means that I must be conscious of who sets my priorities. Is it me or is it everyone else deciding for me how my day will be spent? I will pray for greater balance and harmony in my day. I will also pray that my teenage running buddy doesn’t wear me out the first day. Does anyone have an Advil?
I’m excited because this afternoon I am starting a walking/running program with a young teenager in our church that is kind enough to tolerate me. She may decide I’m holding her back and leave me on the curb after the first couple of days. We’ll see how this works out. But I realized that I had to do something to take care of my health. With so much work to do at the office, I’m often just too tired to exercise and I’ve put on a few more pounds than I need.
The main reason I don’t exercise is that I work too much. Interestingly enough, I came across Proverbs 23:4 that says: “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint.” I’m really not greedy or obsessed with riches. I do enjoy what you can do with money. But the main reason that I work too many hours is that I just can’t stand to leave my work undone or not fulfill promises or expectations that my customers or associates have of me. But that also means that I don’t take care of myself nor do I make it home as early as my husband would like for me to. It’s difficult to balance all these responsibilities. God given wisdom includes the ability to balance and prioritize to avoid obsessing over any one aspect of life. I think it also means that I must be conscious of who sets my priorities. Is it me or is it everyone else deciding for me how my day will be spent? I will pray for greater balance and harmony in my day. I will also pray that my teenage running buddy doesn’t wear me out the first day. Does anyone have an Advil?
Monday, September 14, 2009
Trusting God for Clarity and Wisdom When Making Decisions
Day 12
Yesterday was an exciting day in our church. We voted to accept a new pastor. I did not take this responsibility to vote lightly. I was concerned about bringing a young pastor and his family into our church and knowing with confidence that they would be treated lovingly. Churches are made up of human beings and those human beings don’t always behave the way they should. Sometimes they can be hurtful to the young and inexperienced. But as I sought out God’s will in this matter, it occurred to me that so many times I want to know His will for my own sake, for my own journey. But this journey is not an isolated one. It’s one shared with every person that I touch throughout my life. Whether I’m voting for a new pastor, training new employees or writing this devotional, every decision that is made will affect more than just me.
James 1:5 says “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. “ As I prayed concerning how the Lord would have me vote, I realized that I needed to clear my mind of all past experiences and fears and listen to God’s instruction. And, as I have learned to do during this journey, I also sought out counsel from a fellow Christian that I trusted. With counsel and much prayer, God gave me clarity. Equally important, He made it clear that this decision would affect the lives of others and for any of us to vote contrary to what God had planned would be a huge mistake. So many times I have made decisions based on what I personally wanted or thought was right. It’s a comfort to lay all that down and just follow God’s lead. He knows where He is taking us. You know, when you’re not driving, you can really enjoy the scenery along the way.
Yesterday was an exciting day in our church. We voted to accept a new pastor. I did not take this responsibility to vote lightly. I was concerned about bringing a young pastor and his family into our church and knowing with confidence that they would be treated lovingly. Churches are made up of human beings and those human beings don’t always behave the way they should. Sometimes they can be hurtful to the young and inexperienced. But as I sought out God’s will in this matter, it occurred to me that so many times I want to know His will for my own sake, for my own journey. But this journey is not an isolated one. It’s one shared with every person that I touch throughout my life. Whether I’m voting for a new pastor, training new employees or writing this devotional, every decision that is made will affect more than just me.
James 1:5 says “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. “ As I prayed concerning how the Lord would have me vote, I realized that I needed to clear my mind of all past experiences and fears and listen to God’s instruction. And, as I have learned to do during this journey, I also sought out counsel from a fellow Christian that I trusted. With counsel and much prayer, God gave me clarity. Equally important, He made it clear that this decision would affect the lives of others and for any of us to vote contrary to what God had planned would be a huge mistake. So many times I have made decisions based on what I personally wanted or thought was right. It’s a comfort to lay all that down and just follow God’s lead. He knows where He is taking us. You know, when you’re not driving, you can really enjoy the scenery along the way.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.
Day 11
Yesterday was a long day, starting at 6:00am and finishing up at 11:00pm last night. I don’t normally work these long hours but there is so much to do and so many changes happening that I have accepted this as a season in time that needs this attention. There are new personalities coming into the business, eager and excited to learn and praying for an opportunity to better their lives and support their families. It’s not just about me now. But, I like it when it’s just about me. I’m teasing. I really am exhilarated by the opportunity to help others grow in their business and in their finances but it is an awesome burden to carry when I know that their lives are affected by good or bad decisions on my part. I’m so thankful that I don’t have to carry this burden alone. I have a loving God that is willing to shoulder this responsibility for me if I will just listen to Him. He also provides many awesome advisers, mentors and friends along the way that having a loving and caring spirit that are happy to celebrate the successes of others.
Proverbs 15:22 says that “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” As people have become connected with technology, it seems that they have also become disconnected physically and emotionally. God created us to naturally desire to have human relationships and friendships and He created us to grow and learn by helping each other with good advice and a listening ear. We need each other but, now more than ever, we need a relationship with the Lord. I’m so thankful for the advisers, friends and mentors in my life but I’m most thankful for a loving God that carries burdens that are too heavy for me and counsels me with advice that is never wrong. I just need to be a better listener.
Yesterday was a long day, starting at 6:00am and finishing up at 11:00pm last night. I don’t normally work these long hours but there is so much to do and so many changes happening that I have accepted this as a season in time that needs this attention. There are new personalities coming into the business, eager and excited to learn and praying for an opportunity to better their lives and support their families. It’s not just about me now. But, I like it when it’s just about me. I’m teasing. I really am exhilarated by the opportunity to help others grow in their business and in their finances but it is an awesome burden to carry when I know that their lives are affected by good or bad decisions on my part. I’m so thankful that I don’t have to carry this burden alone. I have a loving God that is willing to shoulder this responsibility for me if I will just listen to Him. He also provides many awesome advisers, mentors and friends along the way that having a loving and caring spirit that are happy to celebrate the successes of others.
Proverbs 15:22 says that “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” As people have become connected with technology, it seems that they have also become disconnected physically and emotionally. God created us to naturally desire to have human relationships and friendships and He created us to grow and learn by helping each other with good advice and a listening ear. We need each other but, now more than ever, we need a relationship with the Lord. I’m so thankful for the advisers, friends and mentors in my life but I’m most thankful for a loving God that carries burdens that are too heavy for me and counsels me with advice that is never wrong. I just need to be a better listener.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Give Jesus the First and Best Part of Your Day
Day 10
This morning has already started out hectic with much to do. I have two new ladies coming into the office today to train and I’m so excited about the opportunities that lie before us. But sometimes I wonder how will I do all that needs to be done? How will I manage, market, train and keep all the balls in the air at one time? I’m surely going to drop one of them!
But then I read to see what Jesus did and in Mark 1:35, I see that “In the early morning, while it was still dark, He arose and went out and departed to a lonely place, and was praying there.” No matter how much there is to do and no matter how many times I neglect doing it, I am always reminded that the day starts and ends so much better if I start in a quiet time of prayer. I have to admit, it’s hard for me some days to clear my mind of all my responsibilities and focus but when I pray and ask God to help me, He will clear away the nonsense and distractions and His message for the day comes through clearly.
I still need to work on complete obedience to this discipline. Sometimes I get ready for work and get other things done first and then sit down to pray and study. Don’t get me wrong, any time spent with God is wonderful. But there’s just something special about that time spent with Him first thing before anything else begins to filter through my mind and my wheels start turning.
I’m so grateful that He always has time for me. I just need to make sure that I always have the best part of my day planned for Him. I hope that today you have that special time with the Lord too.
This morning has already started out hectic with much to do. I have two new ladies coming into the office today to train and I’m so excited about the opportunities that lie before us. But sometimes I wonder how will I do all that needs to be done? How will I manage, market, train and keep all the balls in the air at one time? I’m surely going to drop one of them!
But then I read to see what Jesus did and in Mark 1:35, I see that “In the early morning, while it was still dark, He arose and went out and departed to a lonely place, and was praying there.” No matter how much there is to do and no matter how many times I neglect doing it, I am always reminded that the day starts and ends so much better if I start in a quiet time of prayer. I have to admit, it’s hard for me some days to clear my mind of all my responsibilities and focus but when I pray and ask God to help me, He will clear away the nonsense and distractions and His message for the day comes through clearly.
I still need to work on complete obedience to this discipline. Sometimes I get ready for work and get other things done first and then sit down to pray and study. Don’t get me wrong, any time spent with God is wonderful. But there’s just something special about that time spent with Him first thing before anything else begins to filter through my mind and my wheels start turning.
I’m so grateful that He always has time for me. I just need to make sure that I always have the best part of my day planned for Him. I hope that today you have that special time with the Lord too.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The Lasting Joy That Comes from Giving to Help Others
Day 9
I talk to people every day that are fearful and worried as we wade through this economic mess in the year 2009. It’s sad to see a great nation like the United States brought to its knees but more even more so, it makes me sad to see the long faces and the anxiety of the individuals, the fathers and mothers, employers and employees, small business owners and church members that have put their faith in the prosperity of our country. The Lord has truly blessed us. But now, for the first time for many families, I see them struggling almost in amazement that this could happen when life had been so good for so long. Most of us never imagined that everything that had always seemed so stable could change so quickly and so drastically. The things of this world truly do pass away.
But at the same time, it warms my heart to see people that have less than they ever had before, looking for ways to give generously to help others. Proverbs 11:25 says that “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Our Sunday school class has a ministry we call AllThingsPossible1926 and we have a blog you can follow at www.AllThingsPossible1926.blogspot.com. We had a yard sale this year and raised $2000 to help the needy by selling donated items. The parking lot was full of people. We had homemade ice cream and baked goods for sale. But more importantly we had such a good time of fellowship and everyone forgot about their own concerns for that moment in time. I had the opportunity to see families working together, being refreshed like never before. But not by the passing pleasure of buying things but by the lasting joy that comes from giving to help others. I hope you are refreshed today.
I talk to people every day that are fearful and worried as we wade through this economic mess in the year 2009. It’s sad to see a great nation like the United States brought to its knees but more even more so, it makes me sad to see the long faces and the anxiety of the individuals, the fathers and mothers, employers and employees, small business owners and church members that have put their faith in the prosperity of our country. The Lord has truly blessed us. But now, for the first time for many families, I see them struggling almost in amazement that this could happen when life had been so good for so long. Most of us never imagined that everything that had always seemed so stable could change so quickly and so drastically. The things of this world truly do pass away.
But at the same time, it warms my heart to see people that have less than they ever had before, looking for ways to give generously to help others. Proverbs 11:25 says that “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Our Sunday school class has a ministry we call AllThingsPossible1926 and we have a blog you can follow at www.AllThingsPossible1926.blogspot.com. We had a yard sale this year and raised $2000 to help the needy by selling donated items. The parking lot was full of people. We had homemade ice cream and baked goods for sale. But more importantly we had such a good time of fellowship and everyone forgot about their own concerns for that moment in time. I had the opportunity to see families working together, being refreshed like never before. But not by the passing pleasure of buying things but by the lasting joy that comes from giving to help others. I hope you are refreshed today.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Seek Him First
Day 8
I’m going through many changes in my business that is exciting and yet intimidating. As my business model evolves I have an overwhelming sense of urgency to plan and organize and to make sure, as my Mamaw always said, to ‘get my ducks in a row’. So as I was thinking about all these things this morning, the thought crossed my mind that I needed to hurry up and get my devotional ‘taken care of’. I needed to check that off my list of to do’s for today.
Well, wouldn’t you know, I turn directly to Matthew 6:33 that says to “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Busted again! My mind was already on to the things of the day that I felt were most important and I’m ashamed to admit that spending time with the Lord was not the first priority that came to my mind as I was thinking ahead. It should have been. I know better. I spend a lot of time in church and we have a wonderful pastor. I teach Sunday school. I tell them every week to be sure to spend time in prayer and Bible study and yet I failed to “Seek Him first” at a time when it is extremely important.
As I am making decisions and establishing systems and strategies that will have a major impact on the lives of others, why would I not have an even stronger desire than usual to seek out God’s wisdom? I guess there are a lot of reasons including too much to do and too little time or too much confidence in my own abilities. But primarily I was failing to recognize the awesome power that comes with aligning with God’s will, His plan and His purpose for my very existence. There is nothing more important – not now and not ever.
But, I’m also reminded that God gives us all a fresh start every day. Thank you, Lord, for second chances. Thank you for the comfort in knowing that my salvation is not dependent upon my own successes or failures. What a relief!
I’m going through many changes in my business that is exciting and yet intimidating. As my business model evolves I have an overwhelming sense of urgency to plan and organize and to make sure, as my Mamaw always said, to ‘get my ducks in a row’. So as I was thinking about all these things this morning, the thought crossed my mind that I needed to hurry up and get my devotional ‘taken care of’. I needed to check that off my list of to do’s for today.
Well, wouldn’t you know, I turn directly to Matthew 6:33 that says to “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Busted again! My mind was already on to the things of the day that I felt were most important and I’m ashamed to admit that spending time with the Lord was not the first priority that came to my mind as I was thinking ahead. It should have been. I know better. I spend a lot of time in church and we have a wonderful pastor. I teach Sunday school. I tell them every week to be sure to spend time in prayer and Bible study and yet I failed to “Seek Him first” at a time when it is extremely important.
As I am making decisions and establishing systems and strategies that will have a major impact on the lives of others, why would I not have an even stronger desire than usual to seek out God’s wisdom? I guess there are a lot of reasons including too much to do and too little time or too much confidence in my own abilities. But primarily I was failing to recognize the awesome power that comes with aligning with God’s will, His plan and His purpose for my very existence. There is nothing more important – not now and not ever.
But, I’m also reminded that God gives us all a fresh start every day. Thank you, Lord, for second chances. Thank you for the comfort in knowing that my salvation is not dependent upon my own successes or failures. What a relief!
Friday, September 4, 2009
The Priceless Treasures of Clarity, Calmness, Direction, a Sense of Security and Comfort
Day 7
It’s hard to believe that I’m at the end of a full week of this journey. It seems that I’ve just started but yet the Lord has opened up a world of information. So as I wrap up this first week of striving to know the Lord better and His will in my life, I’m amazed at the simplicity of it all. That’s a powerful word – Simple. As I have pondered the meaning of life and all the things that are just way too deep for an early morning devotional, it all has seemed so mysterious and unknown.
These deep thoughts bring discouragement, frustration or are sometimes a little frightening. But as I’ve spent just a brief 7 days, snuggled up a little closer with the Lord, I realize that it doesn’t have to be that way. He never intended to be distant or foreign to us. He always has and still does desire that we reach out to Him, like a child that reaches for a Mom’s hand. He desires our closeness as much as we need that closeness. And with that closeness comes clarity, calm, direction and a sense of security and comfort. These are the priceless treasures that cannot be found in other relationships, material possessions or anything in this world. Psalm 24:1 says “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.”
This time spent has already begun to create a greater sense of calm. I recall when Hurricane Hugo came through our town and how loud the wind was and how it sounded like a train coming down the tracks. I remember seeing large trees bent nearly in half but yet they didn’t break. But when it was over, the sun came out, the skies were blue and it was a beautiful day. Yes, there was much destruction left behind but the air was fresh and I could not ignore the sense of cleansing and renewal. As I talk to people each week, I see the same thing in their lives. These economic times have left a path of destruction for many families but we don’t have to break. The calm and clarity can be found in this walk with Jesus. He desires to help all of us if we will just reach up with that small hand and take His.
It’s hard to believe that I’m at the end of a full week of this journey. It seems that I’ve just started but yet the Lord has opened up a world of information. So as I wrap up this first week of striving to know the Lord better and His will in my life, I’m amazed at the simplicity of it all. That’s a powerful word – Simple. As I have pondered the meaning of life and all the things that are just way too deep for an early morning devotional, it all has seemed so mysterious and unknown.
These deep thoughts bring discouragement, frustration or are sometimes a little frightening. But as I’ve spent just a brief 7 days, snuggled up a little closer with the Lord, I realize that it doesn’t have to be that way. He never intended to be distant or foreign to us. He always has and still does desire that we reach out to Him, like a child that reaches for a Mom’s hand. He desires our closeness as much as we need that closeness. And with that closeness comes clarity, calm, direction and a sense of security and comfort. These are the priceless treasures that cannot be found in other relationships, material possessions or anything in this world. Psalm 24:1 says “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.”
This time spent has already begun to create a greater sense of calm. I recall when Hurricane Hugo came through our town and how loud the wind was and how it sounded like a train coming down the tracks. I remember seeing large trees bent nearly in half but yet they didn’t break. But when it was over, the sun came out, the skies were blue and it was a beautiful day. Yes, there was much destruction left behind but the air was fresh and I could not ignore the sense of cleansing and renewal. As I talk to people each week, I see the same thing in their lives. These economic times have left a path of destruction for many families but we don’t have to break. The calm and clarity can be found in this walk with Jesus. He desires to help all of us if we will just reach up with that small hand and take His.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Knowing the Lord Better Begins with Discipline, Prayer, and Proper Planning
Day 6
As I continue on this journey of diligently seeking to know the Lord in a more personal way, it seems that I continually end up in Proverbs – the book of wisdom. After all I did ask for wisdom, didn’t I? The Lord also continues to bring me to issues of discipline and prayer. But there’s another element to consider if I really want to know Him better and that is proper planning.
I’ve always appreciated proper planning and have found having systems in place to be a key to success in business. If you are constantly reinventing the wheel to generate business, you will never succeed. How quickly this came to my mind as it pertains to income producing. This knowledge has come to me by trial and error, advice of mentors and after having made many mistakes. Why didn’t I save myself a lot of stress by asking the Lord for guidance in the first place? He clearly tells us in Proverbs 21:5 that “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.” The answers to all questions are right there in God’s word, no matter what the subject.
So whether we’re talking about success in business, organizing the home and family or, as is the subject of our journey, knowing the Lord better – it begins with discipline, prayer, and now proper planning. I’ve found that I can’t hope that a quiet moment to pray and spend time with God will appear. It won’t. If I truly am serious about this journey, I realize that I must plan for this time together. It must be a priority in my schedule, I must be committed to that schedule and know that it’s a planned part of my day. Sometimes it’s difficult, especially as life happens and I get ‘too busy’. But do we ever say that we’re just too busy to get up and go to work? There’s just too much going on in my personal life to work today? Well, no, not if you want to keep your job and pay your bills.
So, I see clearly that I need to apply the same principles in my Christian walk that I have committed to applying in my business, which is discipline and planning. And the best part, a life that is centered around discipline and planning is a life that’s much less stressful. We could all use a little less stress in our lives!
As I continue on this journey of diligently seeking to know the Lord in a more personal way, it seems that I continually end up in Proverbs – the book of wisdom. After all I did ask for wisdom, didn’t I? The Lord also continues to bring me to issues of discipline and prayer. But there’s another element to consider if I really want to know Him better and that is proper planning.
I’ve always appreciated proper planning and have found having systems in place to be a key to success in business. If you are constantly reinventing the wheel to generate business, you will never succeed. How quickly this came to my mind as it pertains to income producing. This knowledge has come to me by trial and error, advice of mentors and after having made many mistakes. Why didn’t I save myself a lot of stress by asking the Lord for guidance in the first place? He clearly tells us in Proverbs 21:5 that “The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.” The answers to all questions are right there in God’s word, no matter what the subject.
So whether we’re talking about success in business, organizing the home and family or, as is the subject of our journey, knowing the Lord better – it begins with discipline, prayer, and now proper planning. I’ve found that I can’t hope that a quiet moment to pray and spend time with God will appear. It won’t. If I truly am serious about this journey, I realize that I must plan for this time together. It must be a priority in my schedule, I must be committed to that schedule and know that it’s a planned part of my day. Sometimes it’s difficult, especially as life happens and I get ‘too busy’. But do we ever say that we’re just too busy to get up and go to work? There’s just too much going on in my personal life to work today? Well, no, not if you want to keep your job and pay your bills.
So, I see clearly that I need to apply the same principles in my Christian walk that I have committed to applying in my business, which is discipline and planning. And the best part, a life that is centered around discipline and planning is a life that’s much less stressful. We could all use a little less stress in our lives!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Learning to Listen with our Heart
Day 5
Some days I allow myself to worry over making sound decisions that are aligned with God’s will. And, I often wonder in frustration, how am I supposed to know these things? I don’t think God ever intended for it to be this complicated or for me to worry about it. He provides the instructions. Proverbs 18:15 says “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out.”
Solomon tells us that if we listen with our heart and our ears that we can have the wisdom and knowledge we need. As I looked at this verse, I looked for what it did not say to do. It doesn’t say to talk about it but to just listen – He said the ‘ears’ of the wise, not the ‘mouth’. And the biggie for me – He didn’t say to analyze it out or to rationalize with my own limited mental abilities. Before I knew the Lord, I used to think of myself as an intellectual. I giggle to myself now just thinking about it. The scripture tells us that the ‘heart’ will seek knowledge. The most foolish mistakes that I’ve ever made were when I have ignored my heart, or as we sometimes say instincts which is the Holy Spirit, and relied upon my own rationalization and reasoning to justify doing what I wanted to do. I take great comfort in knowing that the Lord speaks to me through my quiet moments with Him, when I’m listening with my heart and not trying to debate Him with my own very limited understanding. He sees all things from the mountain top while my vision is as limited as a grasshopper in tall grass.
Our country is facing difficult times and I see people dashing around, grasping for any possible answer to their problems. Today it’s clear that this is the time to slow down, listen to God with an open heart and listening ears. He will guide us through the maze of confusion in these uncertain times. Shhhh. He may be speaking to you right now.
Some days I allow myself to worry over making sound decisions that are aligned with God’s will. And, I often wonder in frustration, how am I supposed to know these things? I don’t think God ever intended for it to be this complicated or for me to worry about it. He provides the instructions. Proverbs 18:15 says “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out.”
Solomon tells us that if we listen with our heart and our ears that we can have the wisdom and knowledge we need. As I looked at this verse, I looked for what it did not say to do. It doesn’t say to talk about it but to just listen – He said the ‘ears’ of the wise, not the ‘mouth’. And the biggie for me – He didn’t say to analyze it out or to rationalize with my own limited mental abilities. Before I knew the Lord, I used to think of myself as an intellectual. I giggle to myself now just thinking about it. The scripture tells us that the ‘heart’ will seek knowledge. The most foolish mistakes that I’ve ever made were when I have ignored my heart, or as we sometimes say instincts which is the Holy Spirit, and relied upon my own rationalization and reasoning to justify doing what I wanted to do. I take great comfort in knowing that the Lord speaks to me through my quiet moments with Him, when I’m listening with my heart and not trying to debate Him with my own very limited understanding. He sees all things from the mountain top while my vision is as limited as a grasshopper in tall grass.
Our country is facing difficult times and I see people dashing around, grasping for any possible answer to their problems. Today it’s clear that this is the time to slow down, listen to God with an open heart and listening ears. He will guide us through the maze of confusion in these uncertain times. Shhhh. He may be speaking to you right now.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Be Conscious of Where Your Blessings Come From
Day 4
So far on this journey, the Lord has immediately brought to my mind the necessity for discipline if I truly want to know Him better. Do I want to know Him and to know His will for my life enough to become better disciplined? Yes, I really do but only my actions will attest to that.
Today I read in Proverbs 27:2 that I am to “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” My goodness, have I been boastful, arrogant or prideful? Well, probably. I’m the Type A personality that takes charge, likes to get things done my way and sometimes doesn’t recognize my own limitations. And I have often had little concern for those that couldn’t appreciate my efforts. Step up or step out of the way! Doesn’t sound too pretty when you write it down. But I also realize that these traits are also the same ones that have made me strong and able to deal with hardships and disappointments without being devastated by them. God blessed me with a strong personality but He also wants me to temper it and channel it for His glory and not for my own. As I reflect back over the last few years, I realize that there were many times that I took credit for the blessings that God bestowed upon me both in my personal life and in my business. And there have been too many times that I used the resources from these blessings for my own self interest. But I’m so thankful to have a God that believes in second chances.
In addition to better discipline in my Bible study and prayer life, I will strive to become conscious of where my blessings come from and be careful to give credit where credit is due, not just to the Lord but to all the wonderful people that surround me and help me to succeed. I see that this journey can be a little painful at times. But it’s like cleaning out the closet. You always dread getting started but it’s interesting to uncover things you had forgotten about and how much better it is when things are back in order.
So far on this journey, the Lord has immediately brought to my mind the necessity for discipline if I truly want to know Him better. Do I want to know Him and to know His will for my life enough to become better disciplined? Yes, I really do but only my actions will attest to that.
Today I read in Proverbs 27:2 that I am to “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” My goodness, have I been boastful, arrogant or prideful? Well, probably. I’m the Type A personality that takes charge, likes to get things done my way and sometimes doesn’t recognize my own limitations. And I have often had little concern for those that couldn’t appreciate my efforts. Step up or step out of the way! Doesn’t sound too pretty when you write it down. But I also realize that these traits are also the same ones that have made me strong and able to deal with hardships and disappointments without being devastated by them. God blessed me with a strong personality but He also wants me to temper it and channel it for His glory and not for my own. As I reflect back over the last few years, I realize that there were many times that I took credit for the blessings that God bestowed upon me both in my personal life and in my business. And there have been too many times that I used the resources from these blessings for my own self interest. But I’m so thankful to have a God that believes in second chances.
In addition to better discipline in my Bible study and prayer life, I will strive to become conscious of where my blessings come from and be careful to give credit where credit is due, not just to the Lord but to all the wonderful people that surround me and help me to succeed. I see that this journey can be a little painful at times. But it’s like cleaning out the closet. You always dread getting started but it’s interesting to uncover things you had forgotten about and how much better it is when things are back in order.
Monday, August 31, 2009
A Conversation about Discipline
Day 3
I have committed to strengthening my walk with Christ for 100 days. The journey begins with a conversation about discipline. Oh, not that word again. It is one of the primary traits that will lead us to success or failure in life, business and in a rich and fulfilling relationship with the Lord. So no doubt, this is the area of attention that I am led to ponder first and that seems pretty logical.
1 Corinthians 3:16 tells us “Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” I’m a temple? Not this body! So how about those cheeseburger Happy Meals that just really hit the spot sometimes or my favorite pizza that I can pack away like a saw miller? Oh and the times I watch a TV show or read a fashion magazine knowing that I have not spent time with the Lord that day? I’m not reverencing the temple either, my temple that the Lord gave me. Paul said “the Spirit of God dwells in you.” That Spirit wants my attention and needs to be fed daily with time in God’s word and in prayer with Him.
So as we begin with a consideration of discipline, I can clearly see that the Lord is directing me to consider the disciplines that I need to improve in my life, starting with a planned and committed schedule for spending time with Him each day. This is foundational to a close walk with God and I am today committing to this schedule. Will you share that commitment with me? I hope we don’t have to discuss an exercise plan!
I have committed to strengthening my walk with Christ for 100 days. The journey begins with a conversation about discipline. Oh, not that word again. It is one of the primary traits that will lead us to success or failure in life, business and in a rich and fulfilling relationship with the Lord. So no doubt, this is the area of attention that I am led to ponder first and that seems pretty logical.
1 Corinthians 3:16 tells us “Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” I’m a temple? Not this body! So how about those cheeseburger Happy Meals that just really hit the spot sometimes or my favorite pizza that I can pack away like a saw miller? Oh and the times I watch a TV show or read a fashion magazine knowing that I have not spent time with the Lord that day? I’m not reverencing the temple either, my temple that the Lord gave me. Paul said “the Spirit of God dwells in you.” That Spirit wants my attention and needs to be fed daily with time in God’s word and in prayer with Him.
So as we begin with a consideration of discipline, I can clearly see that the Lord is directing me to consider the disciplines that I need to improve in my life, starting with a planned and committed schedule for spending time with Him each day. This is foundational to a close walk with God and I am today committing to this schedule. Will you share that commitment with me? I hope we don’t have to discuss an exercise plan!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Great is Thy Faithfulness
Day 2:
I hope you accepted my challenge yesterday to join me on this journey to commit the next 100 days, wrapped in God’s word with open ears to hear Him and an open heart filled with obedience to Him. I’ve chosen to use a wonderful devotional book written by Larry Burkett called ‘Great is Thy Faithfulness’ to search the scriptures. I will use each day’s devotional scripture to guide me but I have no specific road map to follow. We will just see where the Lord takes us. Today we read in 2 Timothy 2:15 that I am to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth”. Don’t guess we could have picked a better place to start! What is the Lord saying and why would we start here?
Yesterday I said that I committed so much to my work and not enough to the Lord and I wanted to change that. He is clearly saying that I need to be as careful to present myself as well to Him as I would be to my employer. Have you ever had to go to the boss’s office, knowing you have made a huge mistake and knowing you are going to be in big trouble? I have in years past when I worked for someone else. It felt terrible and I just wanted it to be over. But I also feel ashamed if I don’t give the Lord my best. I don’t want to feel ashamed before God so I just don’t commit to Him. I’ll just avoid the subject and not have one more thing to feel bad about. After all, there’s enough pressure in life right now, right? Who needs that extra burden? Sounds like a simple solution to me. Except that avoiding God doesn’t work. There’s no lonelier feeling than to walk through life without a close relationship with Him. I know well, I’ve been there. But the solution isn’t difficult it just takes DISCIPLINE. Oh no, not the ‘D’ word! I think I’m already getting a glimpse into the root of the problem. The Lord requires commitment from us and commitment only comes from a disciplined lifestyle filled with Bible study and consistent prayer. Oh dear, I have a suspicion that we’re going to be spending a lot of time talking about discipline. This could be a rough 100 days! But stick with me. I know that the end will be well worth the means! I’ll see you tomorrow as we journey with the Lord to discover his wonderful plans for us.
I hope you accepted my challenge yesterday to join me on this journey to commit the next 100 days, wrapped in God’s word with open ears to hear Him and an open heart filled with obedience to Him. I’ve chosen to use a wonderful devotional book written by Larry Burkett called ‘Great is Thy Faithfulness’ to search the scriptures. I will use each day’s devotional scripture to guide me but I have no specific road map to follow. We will just see where the Lord takes us. Today we read in 2 Timothy 2:15 that I am to “be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth”. Don’t guess we could have picked a better place to start! What is the Lord saying and why would we start here?
Yesterday I said that I committed so much to my work and not enough to the Lord and I wanted to change that. He is clearly saying that I need to be as careful to present myself as well to Him as I would be to my employer. Have you ever had to go to the boss’s office, knowing you have made a huge mistake and knowing you are going to be in big trouble? I have in years past when I worked for someone else. It felt terrible and I just wanted it to be over. But I also feel ashamed if I don’t give the Lord my best. I don’t want to feel ashamed before God so I just don’t commit to Him. I’ll just avoid the subject and not have one more thing to feel bad about. After all, there’s enough pressure in life right now, right? Who needs that extra burden? Sounds like a simple solution to me. Except that avoiding God doesn’t work. There’s no lonelier feeling than to walk through life without a close relationship with Him. I know well, I’ve been there. But the solution isn’t difficult it just takes DISCIPLINE. Oh no, not the ‘D’ word! I think I’m already getting a glimpse into the root of the problem. The Lord requires commitment from us and commitment only comes from a disciplined lifestyle filled with Bible study and consistent prayer. Oh dear, I have a suspicion that we’re going to be spending a lot of time talking about discipline. This could be a rough 100 days! But stick with me. I know that the end will be well worth the means! I’ll see you tomorrow as we journey with the Lord to discover his wonderful plans for us.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
100 Days with Jesus-How Different Would Life Be?
Day 1:
Have you ever wondered how much difference it would make in your life if you committed the same energy and enthusiasm to knowing God that you commit to making money and becoming successful? I have, but not as much as I should have until recently. My friends and mentors in the real estate investing industry recently challenged us to make or raise $100,000 in 100 days. Well, I’m immediately on board with that! How can you lose? Even if you don’t make it, you’ll come further than you were when you started, right? So what are we waiting for! But almost as quickly as I began putting my plan together to reach this goal, it occurred to me – or should I say that the Lord impressed upon my heart – “What if you did this for Me? What if you gave Me that much enthusiasm and commitment? How much richer would your life be? “ It was so compelling that I literally stopped what I was doing at that moment and pondered the idea and wondered why I didn’t do it. How much difference would it make? Why is it that I can get this excited about a challenge to make money but ignore God’s invitation to spend time with Him? Honestly, I really don’t know! Is it because it takes time, quiet time, and I’m just so busy? Is it because I may have to look deeper into myself than I really want to? Do I really want to know the Lord’s will for my life or do I prefer to stay in control myself? These are tough questions and do I really want to know the answer?
So that brings us to today. I am accepting my friends Scott, Bob and Jayme’s challenge to raise $100K in 100 days but more importantly, I’m accepting God’s challenge to commit the next 100 days to Him and to look deeper, to probe harder, to listen better and to be prepared for whatever these times with Him may bring. This makes me anxious. Not only because I have committed to it but because I have committed to share this journey with you, to become transparent before God and before you. Yet I’m excited because I know by the end of this journey, life will be different. By the end of this journey, I will know the Lord better than I ever have. Will you join hands with me and may we begin this challenge together? The Teacher is waiting. Let’s take a seat on the front row!
Have you ever wondered how much difference it would make in your life if you committed the same energy and enthusiasm to knowing God that you commit to making money and becoming successful? I have, but not as much as I should have until recently. My friends and mentors in the real estate investing industry recently challenged us to make or raise $100,000 in 100 days. Well, I’m immediately on board with that! How can you lose? Even if you don’t make it, you’ll come further than you were when you started, right? So what are we waiting for! But almost as quickly as I began putting my plan together to reach this goal, it occurred to me – or should I say that the Lord impressed upon my heart – “What if you did this for Me? What if you gave Me that much enthusiasm and commitment? How much richer would your life be? “ It was so compelling that I literally stopped what I was doing at that moment and pondered the idea and wondered why I didn’t do it. How much difference would it make? Why is it that I can get this excited about a challenge to make money but ignore God’s invitation to spend time with Him? Honestly, I really don’t know! Is it because it takes time, quiet time, and I’m just so busy? Is it because I may have to look deeper into myself than I really want to? Do I really want to know the Lord’s will for my life or do I prefer to stay in control myself? These are tough questions and do I really want to know the answer?
So that brings us to today. I am accepting my friends Scott, Bob and Jayme’s challenge to raise $100K in 100 days but more importantly, I’m accepting God’s challenge to commit the next 100 days to Him and to look deeper, to probe harder, to listen better and to be prepared for whatever these times with Him may bring. This makes me anxious. Not only because I have committed to it but because I have committed to share this journey with you, to become transparent before God and before you. Yet I’m excited because I know by the end of this journey, life will be different. By the end of this journey, I will know the Lord better than I ever have. Will you join hands with me and may we begin this challenge together? The Teacher is waiting. Let’s take a seat on the front row!
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