Our series at church on parenting has been great. We have also had super discussion during Encore (Wed night growth group) about it. One thing is for sure, we need God's grace to parent our kids. He has given us the tools, the principles from His Word, but applying them in a consistent manner is difficult. We are often too tired or too busy. Often parents are both working and then there is preparing dinner and kids activities and homework.
Sometimes we just don't want to deal with the issues that arise. We hope they will just go away and our kids will just turn out OK. But, that is not the way. Parenting takes resolve and being willing to not always be liked by your kids. No one likes being the bad guy. Of course in the long run taking a stand and setting the limits your kids need will cause them to become the Godly, responsible, and loving adults you want them to be.
Having a loving home without limits is out of balance. Having a lot of limits but no love is also out of balance. We love our kids enough to say no to things. We also say yes to the things that take our time but foster the loving family relationships that each child longs for.
Prayer: Lord, help us make the time needed to spend time with our kids. That we would dare to stand up and make the limits that will help our kids grow up to be the Godly adults they should be. Grace us with your strength to parent our kids. Let them be secure and stable in the love of their parents. Thank you Father for help for the specific issues each parent is facing with their kids today.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Wondering About the Future
Wow! It has been a while since I have written in this blog. I have been busy getting stuff going on facebook and twitter, though. This is such a great opportunity to connect with you and everyone around the world. What a day we live in.
What does tomorrow hold? What will happen in technology next? I drive a Camry hybrid. It gets around 38 miles per gallon on average. What is coming will only get better. Think of just a few years ago what kind of cell phones and computers we had. Hey, I did not have a computer when I was in college. We had to learn Fortran computer language and go to the Mainframe and print out some cards to give it commands. Then we had to come back latter to see our results. Now we have that much computing power in our cell phones.
I do like to watch shows that talk about technology possibilities. I think it is so interesting to see what technology could be some day. Give me an electric car I think it is great. Give me some solar panels and wind generators -- I would love to see my electric meter go backwards. My electric bill has gone up, how about yours.
I was just talking to my wife about how tedious it is to travel on commercial airlines. It is just that -- lines. You drive and find a place to park. You go stand in line to check in. You stand in line to go through security. You stand in line to board. You wait to taxi out. You wait to take off. You wait to use the restroom. You wait in line to deboard. You wait for your luggage. Finally you wait for rental car or whatever. You get to your hotel and you are exhausted already.
I said there must be a better way. When will we be able to just beam over. Beam me up Scotty! Well there is a day coming when we can be like Jesus. Remember when He had risen from the dead and just appeared to the disciples in a locked room. He was able to be touched and ate with them. They all watched Him ascend up through the clouds, too. The Bible says we will have bodies just like His. Sounds even better than beam me up technology. Come Lord Jesus Come!
What does tomorrow hold? What will happen in technology next? I drive a Camry hybrid. It gets around 38 miles per gallon on average. What is coming will only get better. Think of just a few years ago what kind of cell phones and computers we had. Hey, I did not have a computer when I was in college. We had to learn Fortran computer language and go to the Mainframe and print out some cards to give it commands. Then we had to come back latter to see our results. Now we have that much computing power in our cell phones.
I do like to watch shows that talk about technology possibilities. I think it is so interesting to see what technology could be some day. Give me an electric car I think it is great. Give me some solar panels and wind generators -- I would love to see my electric meter go backwards. My electric bill has gone up, how about yours.
I was just talking to my wife about how tedious it is to travel on commercial airlines. It is just that -- lines. You drive and find a place to park. You go stand in line to check in. You stand in line to go through security. You stand in line to board. You wait to taxi out. You wait to take off. You wait to use the restroom. You wait in line to deboard. You wait for your luggage. Finally you wait for rental car or whatever. You get to your hotel and you are exhausted already.
I said there must be a better way. When will we be able to just beam over. Beam me up Scotty! Well there is a day coming when we can be like Jesus. Remember when He had risen from the dead and just appeared to the disciples in a locked room. He was able to be touched and ate with them. They all watched Him ascend up through the clouds, too. The Bible says we will have bodies just like His. Sounds even better than beam me up technology. Come Lord Jesus Come!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Enjoy Life and Play a Little
Being a pastor some people do not think that I have any fun or play; that I just sit around reading the Bible and praying. That would be good, but I am a regular person, too. I enjoy boating, biking, hiking, skiing, and going to the beach with my family. I love to play other sports and enjoy watching sports, too. Golf was a great activity, but with kids it took too much time and money.
Some think that playing instead of working is irresponsible. Adults should be grown up and not play anymore. Play is a necessary part of a balanced life. It is restorative and enables us to enjoy all areas of our lives. As the old saying goes, “All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy.” On the other hand, too much play can short-change that which should be of a higher priority.
One dilemma is faced by the army of workaholics who approach their leisure and work with an equal zeal. Trying to make every leisure moment count, they apply the principles of 'productivity' to their leisure. Their three day weekend becomes a whirlwind that neither refreshes nor satisfies. When they finally return home exhausted, and plop down on the sofa, Monday doesn't look so bad.
Here are some ideas to have more time for recreation: downsize and simplify so you will have more time to live for what matters – God, and family. Try to live on less of your income so you can have some family fun activities. Spend time on hobbies and/or other leisure-time activities. You must schedule WORSHIP, REST, and PLAY, too!
We should not feel bad when we take time out for recreation or to go on vacation. Staycations are a new word put in the dictionary. It is one way to save money and yet enjoy time together recreating. This area of Western Wisconsin is great for walking, hiking, biking and in winter going cross-country snow skiing.
Balance is a fundamental element in creating a healthy lifestyle. Recreation must be a part of that balance.
Recreation with physical activity has these benefits:
• increases life expectancy; (Every time sedentary people walk a mile, they add 21 minutes to their life, saving society 34 cents in medical and related costs)
• reduces the risk of dying from heart disease or stroke, which are responsible for one-third of all deaths;
• reduces the risk of developing heart disease or colon cancer by up to 50%;
• reduces the risk of developing Type II diabetes 50%;
• helps to prevent / reduce hypertension, which affects one-fifth of the world's adult population;
• helps to prevent / reduce osteoporosis, reducing the risk of hip fracture by up to 50% in women;
• reduces the risk of developing lower back pain;
• promotes psychological well-being, reduces stress, anxiety and feelings of depression and loneliness;
• helps prevent or control risky behaviours, especially among children and young people, like tobacco, alcohol or other substance use, unhealthy diet or violence;
• helps control weight and lower the risk of becoming obese by 50% compared to people with sedentary lifestyles;
• helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints and makes people with chronic, disabling conditions improve their stamina; and
• can help in the management of painful conditions, like back pain or knee pain.
Look at the word recreation: it is to create again. We need after a day and week of work to create ourselves again. Definitions of recreation: the refreshment of the mind and body after work, especially by engaging in enjoyable activities; an activity that a person takes part in for pleasure or relaxation rather than as work.
God created you and gives you life with the intention that you will enjoy it. Some people think that Christians need to be serious all the time and never smile. It’s almost like we need to move into a convent and sit on the floor and only eat raw vegetables. The Christian life is not meant to be one of boredom; we ought to have more fun than anyone else. I don’t mean that we ought to have fun more often than anyone else, but we ought to really enjoy life.
So how do recreation and pleasure help us enjoy life? Recreation and pleasure break routine, reduce tension, bring laughter (good medicine, Pr 17:22), build relationships, and bring renewal.
But there is another side to recreation and pleasure the Bible addresses. We must be balanced in pursuing recreation and pleasures.
II Tim. 3: 2,4,5 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, […] 4 lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. NIV
When we love ourselves and pleasures our families will suffer. People can unknowingly worship recreation rather than God (“do not love the world, its desires pass away, doing the will of God lives forever” I Jn 2:15,17).The Bible also says, “those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them” (II Cor 5:15).
Isn’t it strange that some people know so much about a hobby but very little about God. They can give you the statistics of their favorite player since 1968 and tell you who won the Super Bowl 25 years ago, but they don’t know what God has promised them. They devote themselves to a hobby with their time, energy, and money when they get up early in the morning, drive for hours, and spend generously to buy tickets or equipment, but they complain they don’t have enough of these to spend time with God.
We must balance recreation and pleasure by asking these questions. Does it glorify God, or has it become an idol in our lives? Or do we work so much that we have no enjoyment? Ask God to help you and balance your life.
Some think that playing instead of working is irresponsible. Adults should be grown up and not play anymore. Play is a necessary part of a balanced life. It is restorative and enables us to enjoy all areas of our lives. As the old saying goes, “All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy.” On the other hand, too much play can short-change that which should be of a higher priority.
One dilemma is faced by the army of workaholics who approach their leisure and work with an equal zeal. Trying to make every leisure moment count, they apply the principles of 'productivity' to their leisure. Their three day weekend becomes a whirlwind that neither refreshes nor satisfies. When they finally return home exhausted, and plop down on the sofa, Monday doesn't look so bad.
Here are some ideas to have more time for recreation: downsize and simplify so you will have more time to live for what matters – God, and family. Try to live on less of your income so you can have some family fun activities. Spend time on hobbies and/or other leisure-time activities. You must schedule WORSHIP, REST, and PLAY, too!
We should not feel bad when we take time out for recreation or to go on vacation. Staycations are a new word put in the dictionary. It is one way to save money and yet enjoy time together recreating. This area of Western Wisconsin is great for walking, hiking, biking and in winter going cross-country snow skiing.
Balance is a fundamental element in creating a healthy lifestyle. Recreation must be a part of that balance.
Recreation with physical activity has these benefits:
• increases life expectancy; (Every time sedentary people walk a mile, they add 21 minutes to their life, saving society 34 cents in medical and related costs)
• reduces the risk of dying from heart disease or stroke, which are responsible for one-third of all deaths;
• reduces the risk of developing heart disease or colon cancer by up to 50%;
• reduces the risk of developing Type II diabetes 50%;
• helps to prevent / reduce hypertension, which affects one-fifth of the world's adult population;
• helps to prevent / reduce osteoporosis, reducing the risk of hip fracture by up to 50% in women;
• reduces the risk of developing lower back pain;
• promotes psychological well-being, reduces stress, anxiety and feelings of depression and loneliness;
• helps prevent or control risky behaviours, especially among children and young people, like tobacco, alcohol or other substance use, unhealthy diet or violence;
• helps control weight and lower the risk of becoming obese by 50% compared to people with sedentary lifestyles;
• helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints and makes people with chronic, disabling conditions improve their stamina; and
• can help in the management of painful conditions, like back pain or knee pain.
Look at the word recreation: it is to create again. We need after a day and week of work to create ourselves again. Definitions of recreation: the refreshment of the mind and body after work, especially by engaging in enjoyable activities; an activity that a person takes part in for pleasure or relaxation rather than as work.
God created you and gives you life with the intention that you will enjoy it. Some people think that Christians need to be serious all the time and never smile. It’s almost like we need to move into a convent and sit on the floor and only eat raw vegetables. The Christian life is not meant to be one of boredom; we ought to have more fun than anyone else. I don’t mean that we ought to have fun more often than anyone else, but we ought to really enjoy life.
So how do recreation and pleasure help us enjoy life? Recreation and pleasure break routine, reduce tension, bring laughter (good medicine, Pr 17:22), build relationships, and bring renewal.
But there is another side to recreation and pleasure the Bible addresses. We must be balanced in pursuing recreation and pleasures.
II Tim. 3: 2,4,5 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, […] 4 lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. NIV
When we love ourselves and pleasures our families will suffer. People can unknowingly worship recreation rather than God (“do not love the world, its desires pass away, doing the will of God lives forever” I Jn 2:15,17).The Bible also says, “those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them” (II Cor 5:15).
Isn’t it strange that some people know so much about a hobby but very little about God. They can give you the statistics of their favorite player since 1968 and tell you who won the Super Bowl 25 years ago, but they don’t know what God has promised them. They devote themselves to a hobby with their time, energy, and money when they get up early in the morning, drive for hours, and spend generously to buy tickets or equipment, but they complain they don’t have enough of these to spend time with God.
We must balance recreation and pleasure by asking these questions. Does it glorify God, or has it become an idol in our lives? Or do we work so much that we have no enjoyment? Ask God to help you and balance your life.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Be Balanced in Your Work
Overwork can shorten your life and can cause the things that really matter to be short-changed. Not enough work can also be detrimental as you are unable to make a living and it affects your self-worth. We need balance because too much or too little work can hurt us. Is your work week balanced?
When I worked a summer job for IBM while I was going to Bible School, what a great job, I worked as many hours as they would let me, over 60 a week. I was thrilled to be able to make the money to pay for school. But it was a job and it was hard, boring, long and monotonous. I remember once getting a task that required me to use regular snips to cut a part. My hands got so tired and sore I could hardly keep doing it. A big boss came around to inspect it with my regular boss. The guy asked me about it and I told him I had about had it. He just looked at me and walked off. So much for open and honest communication. This life was filled with work. I knew it was only temporary however. It was out of balance. But I had to make hay while the sun shines.
Work must be balanced. Two Extremes: People only there to make the money to do what they want to do on the weekends; work my 40 hours and not a minute more, they hate their work.
The other side of work is those that have thrown themselves into their work. Their identities are wrapped up in their work. Their success in life depends on their success at work. Life only has meaning if their work is successful. They are willing to sacrifice friends, marriage, family, health, etc., to make sure they succeed at work.
Most of us are somewhere in the middle. Prioritize so you won’t get pulled down and stressed, and burned out. A balanced lifestyle enables us to not only begin well but far more importantly, to end well. God does not intend for us to be shooting stars or firework Christians.
Ecclesiastes 4:8 Here is a man who lives alone. He has no son, no brother, yet he is always working, never satisfied with the wealth he has. For whom is he working so hard and denying himself any pleasure? This is useless, too — and a miserable way to live. TEV
How do we balance our workweek? Don’t bring your work home. (Don’t talk about it).
Prioritize: schedule most important things first. God, spouse, kids, work; now God gives grace for the rest to get done. 168 hours in a week. 40 to 50 you work with commuting. 56 you sleep. Avg. of 65 hours of free time. Try to work 40 hrs a week, not 60. (Have enough energy to give to the other higher priorities).
The bible says that God told Abraham “I will bless you … and you will be a blessing [dispensing good to others].” (Genesis 12:2)God did not create us to work for the sake of work but to create, produce and be challenged. This should bring great joy to our lives. What you believe about how God wants to provide for you determines what you do with your hands, knowledge and time. Are you busy doing the right things that are effectively providing for your life, others, and God’s work?
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12
10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." 11 We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. NIV
God created us to be productive through work.
Proverbs 6:9-11
9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest 11 and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. NIV
This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody's job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.
Work makes you useful. Our family needs are met. This is basic and you might not think it is a God benefit, but it is doing something that God wants done in the world to supply your needs. (Some are hoping to win the lottery, or use get rich quick schemes, or play “Deal or No Deal” with Howie Mandel.)Work enables you to fulfill God’s plan for your life. The bible tells those that are rich:
1 Timothy 6:18-19
18 to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. 19 If they do that, they'll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life. MB
How you work is important. Work with the right motive. The bible tells us to work with a smile; serving God is your motive to work. God will reward you when you keep a good attitude and not just work enough to get by. (Eph 6:5-8 MB).
How much should we work? It depends on your priorities – married, number of children, called to church work, etc. Also we must have four things in balance: work, rest, play, and worship.
Dr. Charles Garfield, the professor of the University of California Medical School in San Francisco, studied 1500 outstanding achievers in all walks of life. He said that high performers are willing to work hard but within strict limits. For them, work is not everything. When Garfield interviewed top executives in ten major industries he found that they knew how to relax, they could leave their work at the office, they prized close friends and family life, and they spent a healthy amount of time with their children and intimates. They were balanced.
Don’t spend all your time each week at work. Be balanced by making time for family and friends. Be successful as a person by including worship, rest, and play. Realize, too, that God does want to bless your work, not your idleness. Use your work to bless others and fulfill God’s plan for your life and to help the Gospel be proclaimed.
When I worked a summer job for IBM while I was going to Bible School, what a great job, I worked as many hours as they would let me, over 60 a week. I was thrilled to be able to make the money to pay for school. But it was a job and it was hard, boring, long and monotonous. I remember once getting a task that required me to use regular snips to cut a part. My hands got so tired and sore I could hardly keep doing it. A big boss came around to inspect it with my regular boss. The guy asked me about it and I told him I had about had it. He just looked at me and walked off. So much for open and honest communication. This life was filled with work. I knew it was only temporary however. It was out of balance. But I had to make hay while the sun shines.
Work must be balanced. Two Extremes: People only there to make the money to do what they want to do on the weekends; work my 40 hours and not a minute more, they hate their work.
The other side of work is those that have thrown themselves into their work. Their identities are wrapped up in their work. Their success in life depends on their success at work. Life only has meaning if their work is successful. They are willing to sacrifice friends, marriage, family, health, etc., to make sure they succeed at work.
Most of us are somewhere in the middle. Prioritize so you won’t get pulled down and stressed, and burned out. A balanced lifestyle enables us to not only begin well but far more importantly, to end well. God does not intend for us to be shooting stars or firework Christians.
Ecclesiastes 4:8 Here is a man who lives alone. He has no son, no brother, yet he is always working, never satisfied with the wealth he has. For whom is he working so hard and denying himself any pleasure? This is useless, too — and a miserable way to live. TEV
How do we balance our workweek? Don’t bring your work home. (Don’t talk about it).
Prioritize: schedule most important things first. God, spouse, kids, work; now God gives grace for the rest to get done. 168 hours in a week. 40 to 50 you work with commuting. 56 you sleep. Avg. of 65 hours of free time. Try to work 40 hrs a week, not 60. (Have enough energy to give to the other higher priorities).
The bible says that God told Abraham “I will bless you … and you will be a blessing [dispensing good to others].” (Genesis 12:2)God did not create us to work for the sake of work but to create, produce and be challenged. This should bring great joy to our lives. What you believe about how God wants to provide for you determines what you do with your hands, knowledge and time. Are you busy doing the right things that are effectively providing for your life, others, and God’s work?
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12
10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." 11 We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. NIV
God created us to be productive through work.
Proverbs 6:9-11
9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? 10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest 11 and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man. NIV
This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody's job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.
Work makes you useful. Our family needs are met. This is basic and you might not think it is a God benefit, but it is doing something that God wants done in the world to supply your needs. (Some are hoping to win the lottery, or use get rich quick schemes, or play “Deal or No Deal” with Howie Mandel.)Work enables you to fulfill God’s plan for your life. The bible tells those that are rich:
1 Timothy 6:18-19
18 to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. 19 If they do that, they'll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life. MB
How you work is important. Work with the right motive. The bible tells us to work with a smile; serving God is your motive to work. God will reward you when you keep a good attitude and not just work enough to get by. (Eph 6:5-8 MB).
How much should we work? It depends on your priorities – married, number of children, called to church work, etc. Also we must have four things in balance: work, rest, play, and worship.
Dr. Charles Garfield, the professor of the University of California Medical School in San Francisco, studied 1500 outstanding achievers in all walks of life. He said that high performers are willing to work hard but within strict limits. For them, work is not everything. When Garfield interviewed top executives in ten major industries he found that they knew how to relax, they could leave their work at the office, they prized close friends and family life, and they spent a healthy amount of time with their children and intimates. They were balanced.
Don’t spend all your time each week at work. Be balanced by making time for family and friends. Be successful as a person by including worship, rest, and play. Realize, too, that God does want to bless your work, not your idleness. Use your work to bless others and fulfill God’s plan for your life and to help the Gospel be proclaimed.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Influenced or Influencer?
Our culture is a culture of influence. Everyone is under the influence of someone or something. Advertisers vie for our spending dollars. Highway safety officials influence us with “Click It Or Ticket” admonitions to wear seat belts. And I noticed in a television ad that Dish customers do not let their friends use cable… so Dish customers are urged to influence their friends to switch to Dish.
Are you a thermometer or are you a thermostat Christ-follower? A thermometer is circumstantially led. Depending on the temperature, the mercury moves up or down. It moves according to the circumstances that it is set in. Everything around a thermometer controls how the thermometer works, whether it moves up or down.
A thermostat influences its surroundings. Unlike the thermometer, the thermostat controls the heat or coldness around it. What type of believer are you? Do you influence your surroundings? Or, are you influenced by your surroundings? The Bible tells us which we should be, (Jer 15:19b,TLB) "Only if you return to trusting me will I let you continue as my spokesman. You are to influence them, not let them influence you!"
There are all kinds of voices that we allow into our lives. Some voices are our own intellect, or feelings, or emotions, or other people. Many get all their answers from the TV. When we listen to these other voices we will not listen to the Spirit of God within us. This will cause us to go the wrong way and into disaster. You will make bad choices and fall for anything.
Right thinking leads to right attitudes and right actions. What is the controlling influence in your life? Is it your job, the internet, money, greed, alcohol, or drugs? Is it your sinful nature, the world’s ways, the lies and temptations of the enemy, or is it the Holy Spirit of God?” The way you can determine the dominant influence in your life is to examine what occupies your mind or what you think about. Our thoughts lead to attitudes and our attitudes lead to actions. Our attitudes and actions reflect that we are either under the influence of our sinful nature, or under the influence of God.
The Bible tells us that when you let the Holy Spirit control or influence your mind there is life and peace, versus our own sinful nature that leads to death. (Rom 8:6). You decide what controls your mind. The bible tells us in Romans 12:2 to renew or feed our minds; one translation says to “fix your attention on God” (MB), and another adds that then you will “experience how his ways will really satisfy you.” (TLB)
Eph 4:14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. NLT
Ultimately, every person decides what he or she will think about and do. How can we be influenced by the Holy Spirit continually? How can we keep the others voices at bay long enough to let God's voice come flowing in? In short, how can we be led by God's Spirit all day long, so we can avoid disasters and be an influencer for Jesus Christ.
Three keys to better hearing God's voice:
1. Identify the wrong influences. Many of you have had voices and influences that wrecked your life and derailed your future? Check the crowd you hang with. Are they negative, cynical, and pessimistic?
2. Spend time with God by prayer, worship and bible study. The more in tune we will be by studying the Bible. We must be reading the word daily and getting it in our hearts. It’s easier to differentiate His voice from all the voices because you are so familiar with it from spending time with His writings. Also you will know His will and can be assured you are hearing Him as His leading always lines up with His Word.
3. Let peace be your umpire. The bible tells us that the peace that Christ gives is to guide you in your decisions, (Col 3:15 TEV). His voice gives peace to your heart and can be your umpire (one chosen to rule on decisions) for the way you should go. The Holy Spirit will speak to you from the inside, not the outside. Take time to be still and listen. Clear the line by closing out the other voices. Faith does not get in a hurry. Pray about the leading for a few days to make sure. You will have peace about what to decide.
Now you will be able to influence your world instead of the world influencing you.
Are you a thermometer or are you a thermostat Christ-follower? A thermometer is circumstantially led. Depending on the temperature, the mercury moves up or down. It moves according to the circumstances that it is set in. Everything around a thermometer controls how the thermometer works, whether it moves up or down.
A thermostat influences its surroundings. Unlike the thermometer, the thermostat controls the heat or coldness around it. What type of believer are you? Do you influence your surroundings? Or, are you influenced by your surroundings? The Bible tells us which we should be, (Jer 15:19b,TLB) "Only if you return to trusting me will I let you continue as my spokesman. You are to influence them, not let them influence you!"
There are all kinds of voices that we allow into our lives. Some voices are our own intellect, or feelings, or emotions, or other people. Many get all their answers from the TV. When we listen to these other voices we will not listen to the Spirit of God within us. This will cause us to go the wrong way and into disaster. You will make bad choices and fall for anything.
Right thinking leads to right attitudes and right actions. What is the controlling influence in your life? Is it your job, the internet, money, greed, alcohol, or drugs? Is it your sinful nature, the world’s ways, the lies and temptations of the enemy, or is it the Holy Spirit of God?” The way you can determine the dominant influence in your life is to examine what occupies your mind or what you think about. Our thoughts lead to attitudes and our attitudes lead to actions. Our attitudes and actions reflect that we are either under the influence of our sinful nature, or under the influence of God.
The Bible tells us that when you let the Holy Spirit control or influence your mind there is life and peace, versus our own sinful nature that leads to death. (Rom 8:6). You decide what controls your mind. The bible tells us in Romans 12:2 to renew or feed our minds; one translation says to “fix your attention on God” (MB), and another adds that then you will “experience how his ways will really satisfy you.” (TLB)
Eph 4:14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. NLT
Ultimately, every person decides what he or she will think about and do. How can we be influenced by the Holy Spirit continually? How can we keep the others voices at bay long enough to let God's voice come flowing in? In short, how can we be led by God's Spirit all day long, so we can avoid disasters and be an influencer for Jesus Christ.
Three keys to better hearing God's voice:
1. Identify the wrong influences. Many of you have had voices and influences that wrecked your life and derailed your future? Check the crowd you hang with. Are they negative, cynical, and pessimistic?
2. Spend time with God by prayer, worship and bible study. The more in tune we will be by studying the Bible. We must be reading the word daily and getting it in our hearts. It’s easier to differentiate His voice from all the voices because you are so familiar with it from spending time with His writings. Also you will know His will and can be assured you are hearing Him as His leading always lines up with His Word.
3. Let peace be your umpire. The bible tells us that the peace that Christ gives is to guide you in your decisions, (Col 3:15 TEV). His voice gives peace to your heart and can be your umpire (one chosen to rule on decisions) for the way you should go. The Holy Spirit will speak to you from the inside, not the outside. Take time to be still and listen. Clear the line by closing out the other voices. Faith does not get in a hurry. Pray about the leading for a few days to make sure. You will have peace about what to decide.
Now you will be able to influence your world instead of the world influencing you.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Independence Day - A Nation Under God
Our great nation was established upon biblical principles. Because of that we have become great and a leader in the world. But, if we go away from the foundation that was laid, this great ‘house’ will fall. This is true for individuals, families, corporations, and, yes, nations. We have a responsibility as Christ-followers and Americans to be involved in our nation’s government.
At a prayer breakfast for Congress one time, Billy Graham said he believed that there were many times in the history of America when certain men stood for God and actually changed the course of our history. With that in mind, let’s go back to the first Constitutional Convention, where the delegates were burdened with the pressures of their time, and they exhausted from trying to hammer out a new government’s precepts. These men were so frustrated at not being able to agree on a Constitution that they were all but ready to throw the whole idea out and forget it. But, it was during this upheaval of spirit that one older man with white hair stood up, calm and deliberate. That man was Benjamin Franklin, and this is what he said: “Gentlemen, if it is true that not one single petal from any flower falls to the ground without escaping God’s attention, will the distress of this nation go unheeded? Let us therefore determine to seek His face.”
These men did something that would cause many legal challenges today. They immediately put down their pens and all got on their knees in prayer. When they got back on their feet, the slogan “E Pluribus Unum” was born, “One Out Of Many.”
Greece built a society on culture and it failed. Rome built her society on military power and it crumbled. The nation that survives is not the nation with the power; not the nation with the military might; not the nation with all the intellect, nor the nation with all the wealth, but the nation whose God is the Lord.
Are you praying for our nation and government leader? We are responsible to pray whether you agree with them or not?
Gerald Ford, our 38th President, quoted a 1955 speech by Dwight D. Eisenhower on December 5, 1974: "Without God there could be no American form of government, nor an American way of life. Recognition of the Supreme Being is the first - the most basic - expression of Americanism. Thus the founding fathers of America saw it, and thus with God’s help, it will continue to be."
President Ronald Reagan said, "If we ever forget that we are “One nation, under God”, then we will be one nation gone under."
What say you all? Will we pray and fulfill our destiny as a people of God, so that we will as a nation? God wants to heal the USA. As it says in 2 Chron 7:14, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
Take your responsibility to petition our government representatives and speak out on the issues to keep God and the Bible a part of our nation’s affairs. Always be in prayer for our nation and its leaders. 1 Tim 2:2 gives us our mandate as Christ-followers to pray for our nation’s leaders so we can live peaceful, godly lives that honor God. God bless the USA!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Bummed About My Knee
How do you get around on a bum leg? Not very well I'll tell you. I overdid it playing softball, painting all day, and doing a lot of work on my feet. I have a knee that is swollen and giving me some pain. I am just hobbling around. It is very frustrating and humbling.
I often have to ask the kids or my wife if they would 'please' go and get me this or that, so that I don't have to get up and walk up stairs. Stairs are the worst. I am believing that the Lord Jesus is my healer. He does expect us to do our part, too. I am icing the knee and the last couple nights I am elevating it. So, it is feeling better. I also bought about a week ago a knee brace so I could get around doing all the needed work around the house.
Yes, there is much to do around the house as my daughter, Jenessa, is graduating from high school. It is hard to believe. She is ready, though. I am proud of her. She is so mature and ready for college. So, we have been doing a lot of yard work. Much edging and mulching and weed killing and watering. We also painted the garage as I already referred to. It does look much better. I am now going to have to sort and organize all the garage stuff so it looks nice for the open house.
Meantime, my leg is still needing to heal up. Pray for me. One thing I have noticed is how the other leg and my back muscles, etc., have to compensate for the bum knee. I also have overworked those muscles now.
It is the same in the church. We need each part of the church body to operate strong and healthy. If a person is missing or not working to their full potential the whole rest of the church feels it, too. The other people begin to feel over stressed and that is bad. But, after awhile, the others will get it done though not as well as if each person was at its best. Each part is important that is why we are all 'part'ners in God's work.
1 Cor 12:20-21
20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body. 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" NIV So, church, we need each one of you to give your gifts and talents fully to the Lord's work. It is not as effective without you. Let it not be said that the church body has a bum knee.
I often have to ask the kids or my wife if they would 'please' go and get me this or that, so that I don't have to get up and walk up stairs. Stairs are the worst. I am believing that the Lord Jesus is my healer. He does expect us to do our part, too. I am icing the knee and the last couple nights I am elevating it. So, it is feeling better. I also bought about a week ago a knee brace so I could get around doing all the needed work around the house.
Yes, there is much to do around the house as my daughter, Jenessa, is graduating from high school. It is hard to believe. She is ready, though. I am proud of her. She is so mature and ready for college. So, we have been doing a lot of yard work. Much edging and mulching and weed killing and watering. We also painted the garage as I already referred to. It does look much better. I am now going to have to sort and organize all the garage stuff so it looks nice for the open house.
Meantime, my leg is still needing to heal up. Pray for me. One thing I have noticed is how the other leg and my back muscles, etc., have to compensate for the bum knee. I also have overworked those muscles now.
It is the same in the church. We need each part of the church body to operate strong and healthy. If a person is missing or not working to their full potential the whole rest of the church feels it, too. The other people begin to feel over stressed and that is bad. But, after awhile, the others will get it done though not as well as if each person was at its best. Each part is important that is why we are all 'part'ners in God's work.
1 Cor 12:20-21
20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body. 21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" NIV So, church, we need each one of you to give your gifts and talents fully to the Lord's work. It is not as effective without you. Let it not be said that the church body has a bum knee.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
That's Good to Hear
This past Sunday a guest brought an announcement to our congregation about a local help organization that we support. This person got up to speak a couple minutes after we had finished worship. She said that she was so overwhelmed by the worship and music that she had to take a minute to collect herself. It was evident that she was having a bit of trouble gathering herself.
It is quite refreshing to hear of a newcomer expressing the impact of the worship that we often as 'old-timers' can take for granted. We are so blessed here at Abundant Life Church with an amazing worship team. Our Director of Worship, Jeff Knowlen, has over two decades of experience leading worship. He is doing a phenomenal job and is endeavoring to keep it fresh by introducing new and current songs. He is also bringing in the young to be sure that the baton is passed to the next generation. I am grateful that my own children are a part of that.
It is just good to hear that the Holy Spirit is still having His way during our worship and that He is experienced in such a powerful way by individuals. That is what it is all about. Our mission is "to effectively communicate biblical truth in a way that transforms lives." Well, we were effective this past Sunday through the music and worship. People experienced the truth that God is real and loves them.
The Bible tells us that He inhabits the praises of His people. We are so privileged to be able to enjoy the Presence of God. We can have His presence anytime, but it is more evident when we join together in praising and worshiping God together. That is biblical, too, as we see it in many places of scripture where God manifests Himself extraordinarily in the midst of people worshiping together.
I also heard a couple days ago from a family that moved away. They said that they so missed our church. That is good to hear, too. We are causing people to be transformed by our continued ministry of holding up the Word of Truth in relevant ways.
It is quite refreshing to hear of a newcomer expressing the impact of the worship that we often as 'old-timers' can take for granted. We are so blessed here at Abundant Life Church with an amazing worship team. Our Director of Worship, Jeff Knowlen, has over two decades of experience leading worship. He is doing a phenomenal job and is endeavoring to keep it fresh by introducing new and current songs. He is also bringing in the young to be sure that the baton is passed to the next generation. I am grateful that my own children are a part of that.
It is just good to hear that the Holy Spirit is still having His way during our worship and that He is experienced in such a powerful way by individuals. That is what it is all about. Our mission is "to effectively communicate biblical truth in a way that transforms lives." Well, we were effective this past Sunday through the music and worship. People experienced the truth that God is real and loves them.
The Bible tells us that He inhabits the praises of His people. We are so privileged to be able to enjoy the Presence of God. We can have His presence anytime, but it is more evident when we join together in praising and worshiping God together. That is biblical, too, as we see it in many places of scripture where God manifests Himself extraordinarily in the midst of people worshiping together.
I also heard a couple days ago from a family that moved away. They said that they so missed our church. That is good to hear, too. We are causing people to be transformed by our continued ministry of holding up the Word of Truth in relevant ways.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Just Not Good Enough
Have you ever felt like you did your best, but still you came up short? Your heart was right, but how it turned out was not how it was planned? I sure have. I felt like what I was doing was just not good enough. So, what do you do?
I have gotten mad, and upset, disappointed and even disillusioned. I have wanted to quit and run away. You know, just like the airline commercial -- "Ever want to get away!" The announcer says that right after someone innocently knocked over all the store shelves or something.
Well, after you settle down and think about it, you can't run away. You have to deal with it. You have to stay motivated to your expectations and do your best. If it's not working, try it another way, or even get help -- coaching even. You have to keep trying your best. Don't give up now.
Gal 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. NIV
Even though others may not see your heart and the effort you are putting in. God knows and He is the one that rewards you anyway. Though others are quick to judge and even make you feel condemned, keep yourself motivated by looking at the promises of God. Ask Him to help you and then keep the faith. You will reap wonderful results if you don't give up!
I have gotten mad, and upset, disappointed and even disillusioned. I have wanted to quit and run away. You know, just like the airline commercial -- "Ever want to get away!" The announcer says that right after someone innocently knocked over all the store shelves or something.
Well, after you settle down and think about it, you can't run away. You have to deal with it. You have to stay motivated to your expectations and do your best. If it's not working, try it another way, or even get help -- coaching even. You have to keep trying your best. Don't give up now.
Gal 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. NIV
Even though others may not see your heart and the effort you are putting in. God knows and He is the one that rewards you anyway. Though others are quick to judge and even make you feel condemned, keep yourself motivated by looking at the promises of God. Ask Him to help you and then keep the faith. You will reap wonderful results if you don't give up!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
No One Likes Change
Over the years I have learned first hand that no one likes change. We all like to settle into a nice routine that is comfortable and convenient. We usually are involved in something because it fits our schedule and we like it. That is naturally the way most of us operate.
I am amazed to find that when we are forced to change, and sometimes we have to be forced, it is not as bad as we thought it would be. Then, we actually end up getting it into a new routine and a few months later we don't really think about it too much.
Change is for our good. Growth requires change. So, think about what you can change that will make you a better person. I know I need to start exercising again. It's getting it started that is the hard part. Making it routine and habitual will come later, at least we hope. If we can keep at it long enough to see some results, then it is easier to keep with it.
When you change by God's leading, you know it is for your best. Often we want to do it differently, or at least a lot quicker. But, go with God. Let Him have His way. Know that the change will cause His best to flow into your life. The Bible says it like this 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."
If you've been forced to change a job, or how things are done, or how you relate to your kids, or friends, look for the silver lining of that cloud. Find what you need for growth and go with it. I look to see you this time next year to be different; changed.
I am amazed to find that when we are forced to change, and sometimes we have to be forced, it is not as bad as we thought it would be. Then, we actually end up getting it into a new routine and a few months later we don't really think about it too much.
Change is for our good. Growth requires change. So, think about what you can change that will make you a better person. I know I need to start exercising again. It's getting it started that is the hard part. Making it routine and habitual will come later, at least we hope. If we can keep at it long enough to see some results, then it is easier to keep with it.
When you change by God's leading, you know it is for your best. Often we want to do it differently, or at least a lot quicker. But, go with God. Let Him have His way. Know that the change will cause His best to flow into your life. The Bible says it like this 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."
If you've been forced to change a job, or how things are done, or how you relate to your kids, or friends, look for the silver lining of that cloud. Find what you need for growth and go with it. I look to see you this time next year to be different; changed.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Pomp and Circumstance
As we approach the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ we first remember His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. A large crowd of people preceded Him putting their coats and palm branches on the ground in front of Him as He came in riding on a donkey (as was prophesied). There was a large crowd before and after Him crying out, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" (Matt. 21:9). (Hosanna - A Hebrew expression meaning "Save!" which became an exclamation of praise).
There is much pomp and circumstance for national leaders that come to the U.S. I have seen the greatly and lavi
shly decorated rooms that the State Department uses to entertain state dignitaries. There are priceless artifacts and many are two hundred years old or more. They don't have reproductions of furniture, it is the real deal. I think that it is important to honor those that lead and serve their nations and peoples as long as it does not go to their heads. Wealth and honor can be deserved and is great for a nation as long as all the boats rise with the high tide together.
With shouts of praise and proclamations of Jesus being the long promised Messiah, He enters the capital of Israel. What a sight. It says that the whole city was stirred. Jesus did not stop them from this as He had before. Because it was now time for His true identity to be proclaimed. The praise and adoration of the people was deserved for the sinless, and compassionate Son of God. Of course, in a few days, He would be brought before a similar crowd and the people would shout to crucify Him. People, the masses, the crowd, are not to be followed as they can easily be turned by fear or reward. Follow Jesus only, not what is popular.
Let's set our hearts to celebrate the Savior, Jesus Christ, this Palm Sunday. Let's proclaim Him as Savior to the world and testify of His saving grace that transformed our lives as well. He is worthy. He took the praise, but He also took the extreme abuse for you and me. Hosanna! Hosanna in the Highest!
There is much pomp and circumstance for national leaders that come to the U.S. I have seen the greatly and lavi
shly decorated rooms that the State Department uses to entertain state dignitaries. There are priceless artifacts and many are two hundred years old or more. They don't have reproductions of furniture, it is the real deal. I think that it is important to honor those that lead and serve their nations and peoples as long as it does not go to their heads. Wealth and honor can be deserved and is great for a nation as long as all the boats rise with the high tide together.With shouts of praise and proclamations of Jesus being the long promised Messiah, He enters the capital of Israel. What a sight. It says that the whole city was stirred. Jesus did not stop them from this as He had before. Because it was now time for His true identity to be proclaimed. The praise and adoration of the people was deserved for the sinless, and compassionate Son of God. Of course, in a few days, He would be brought before a similar crowd and the people would shout to crucify Him. People, the masses, the crowd, are not to be followed as they can easily be turned by fear or reward. Follow Jesus only, not what is popular.
Let's set our hearts to celebrate the Savior, Jesus Christ, this Palm Sunday. Let's proclaim Him as Savior to the world and testify of His saving grace that transformed our lives as well. He is worthy. He took the praise, but He also took the extreme abuse for you and me. Hosanna! Hosanna in the Highest!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Nine Trillion Dollars of New Debt? Ouch!
I have been doing my taxes and thinking that this sure takes up a lot of time and effort just to pay this. Most of the time we want others to send us a bill stating how much we owe for services rendered or merchandise purchased. The government sure has a good thing going when they make us spend hours going through the huge tax codes to find out if we can lesson our tax bill. Thank God for computer programs that help do all this. Just think that our taxes are so complicated that we need computers to figure it out.
Now put on top of that President Obama’s budget that will cause the government to be an additional $9,000,000,000,000 in debt in ten years time. It is reported that the
Now, I don’t have any trouble paying my fair share. I believe in the
I know that the programs that the government has are mostly good or at least they have good intentions. Right now they are talking about the spending stimulus they are doing and they may be good, I just don’t know. I trust that God will see us through and believe that the economy will be turned around.
Here is what one Senator said, "This clearly creates a scenario where the country's going to go bankrupt. It's almost that simple," said Sen. Judd Gregg (N.H.), the senior Republican on the Senate Budget Committee, who briefly considered joining the Obama administration as commerce secretary. "One would hope these numbers would wake somebody up," Gregg said.
President Obama is purposing to cut the deficit in half by the end of his term that is still hundreds of billions of dollars in red ink that the government is overspending. God give the president and the congress supernatural wisdom to get this under control. I will pay my taxes and praise God for giving me the blessings to do it, but this is getting out of hand. Don’t even mention the Social Security Fund that is already bankrupt. Jesus help us.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
City of the People for Inspiring the People
Susan and I have returned from our trip to Washington D.C. It was an awesome trip. We are so blessed to have been able to go and see our nation’s capitol. I would recommend it for everyone. To see this great city that has our nation’s history, art, Christian heritage and beauty.
We got around mostly by foot. Parking is almost non-existent and costly. Just to have a car parked at our hotel would have cost $33 a night. So we opted to go the way the travel books recommended, by metro. We sure had sore feet after walking so much and we were exhausted each evening, but it was well worth it. The metro was quite an adventure, but now we feel like old pros. It is amazing to think that a great many people get around this way all the time. I think I could live with it. It is certainly more healthy to walk more. It is certainly less expensive than owning a car, too.
Of course there are limitations and inconveniences, such as when we were going to the airport on our way home we took the metro to the appropriate stop (which is fun to come out of the ground and experience a new place all of a sudden) and then we were to catch the bus to the airport. Well so were about 20 other people and the bus was like 45 minutes late and packed to the whole aisle being full of standing people for a 45 minute bus ride. Well thankfully we were still on time to catch our plane. Later that night the area got 6 inches of snow, so we made it b
efore everything shut down.
Well, we viewed the Capitol Building and went on a tour. We also were blessed to get some free Senate tickets to view it in action. That was cool, though there was not much going on in the chamber, but just to be there and see where laws are made was inspiring.
That is the word I would use for this great building, the seat of our nations government, inspiring. The whole trip was inspiring. It makes feel like there is hope. Even when we may not agree with all that Washington is doing, there is hope, as we see the great history and the many trials we have overcome to get where we are. So, the trials we face today I believe with God’s help we will continue to overcome them. We are the greatest nation in the world because of great men who believed and followed the principles in the Word of God.
We also went to many of the free Smithsonian museums. We kind of had to make a whirlwind tour as there was too much to see and not enough time (there for four days). I would love to go back to see more. We went to the State Department and saw where dignitaries came to be entertained by our leaders. This place was filled with priceless pieces hundreds of years old. We went to the National Archives where the Declaration of Independence is kept and the Constitution and Bill of Rights. We went to the Washington Monument, drove by many others as well. What a trip.
This makes me want to declare the greatness of a great God who allowed people of faith to forge such a nation. Let’s keep our nation strong by living the values and principles of God that were implemented in our founding documents. God Bless America. Keep praying for her leaders.
We got around mostly by foot. Parking is almost non-existent and costly. Just to have a car parked at our hotel would have cost $33 a night. So we opted to go the way the travel books recommended, by metro. We sure had sore feet after walking so much and we were exhausted each evening, but it was well worth it. The metro was quite an adventure, but now we feel like old pros. It is amazing to think that a great many people get around this way all the time. I think I could live with it. It is certainly more healthy to walk more. It is certainly less expensive than owning a car, too.
Of course there are limitations and inconveniences, such as when we were going to the airport on our way home we took the metro to the appropriate stop (which is fun to come out of the ground and experience a new place all of a sudden) and then we were to catch the bus to the airport. Well so were about 20 other people and the bus was like 45 minutes late and packed to the whole aisle being full of standing people for a 45 minute bus ride. Well thankfully we were still on time to catch our plane. Later that night the area got 6 inches of snow, so we made it b
efore everything shut down.Well, we viewed the Capitol Building and went on a tour. We also were blessed to get some free Senate tickets to view it in action. That was cool, though there was not much going on in the chamber, but just to be there and see where laws are made was inspiring.
That is the word I would use for this great building, the seat of our nations government, inspiring. The whole trip was inspiring. It makes feel like there is hope. Even when we may not agree with all that Washington is doing, there is hope, as we see the great history and the many trials we have overcome to get where we are. So, the trials we face today I believe with God’s help we will continue to overcome them. We are the greatest nation in the world because of great men who believed and followed the principles in the Word of God.
We also went to many of the free Smithsonian museums. We kind of had to make a whirlwind tour as there was too much to see and not enough time (there for four days). I would love to go back to see more. We went to the State Department and saw where dignitaries came to be entertained by our leaders. This place was filled with priceless pieces hundreds of years old. We went to the National Archives where the Declaration of Independence is kept and the Constitution and Bill of Rights. We went to the Washington Monument, drove by many others as well. What a trip.
This makes me want to declare the greatness of a great God who allowed people of faith to forge such a nation. Let’s keep our nation strong by living the values and principles of God that were implemented in our founding documents. God Bless America. Keep praying for her leaders.Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Washington D.C. Here I Come
Yes, a trip to D.C. My wife, Susan, is already near there doing a training week for her job. This is her third trip like this. I will be going tomorrow to meet her at the airport there and then we will go to a hotel near all the national monuments and museums.
I have never been to D.C. Susan has just been through a little, looking through the bus window, for her work with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife. So, we are excited to get away for a weekend to see the capital and Smithsonian, and all the other monuments. There is so much history and so much Christian heritage that made this country great. I was watching a show on Abraham Lincoln yesterday and it will be awesome to see his memorial. He stood on Bible Truth during an incredibly difficult time with the Civil War and signing the Emancipation Proclamation to free the slaves. It would have been easy to cave in and just go the easy way, but he stood for Righteousness.
But, I digress. It will be a good break for us to spend time together as our lives have been so hectic. Susan is usually gone to work with travel 11 hours a day. This does not count the hours she puts in for church ministry. So, we are busy, but thankful for God's provision.
It is suppose to snow tomorrow. I believe I will fly out before the snow comes and slows down the airport. It is suppose to be a six-inch snowfall. I am going to have to give my son, Grant, some pointers on snow blowing, today, before I go.
I hope to give you some photos of our trip next time. It is exciting as we have always wanted to see the Capitol of our nation. I understand that there is so much to see that it could take weeks if you tried to see it all.
We all need to remember the great triumphs of our nation and great heroes as they persevered through great trials. This gives us confidence that we will overcome the financial recession that we are experiencing and by putting our trust in God again, He will see us through.
The faith of our founding fathers is important to us as it was to the Apostle Paul when he spoke of Timothy's heritage of faith.
I have never been to D.C. Susan has just been through a little, looking through the bus window, for her work with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife. So, we are excited to get away for a weekend to see the capital and Smithsonian, and all the other monuments. There is so much history and so much Christian heritage that made this country great. I was watching a show on Abraham Lincoln yesterday and it will be awesome to see his memorial. He stood on Bible Truth during an incredibly difficult time with the Civil War and signing the Emancipation Proclamation to free the slaves. It would have been easy to cave in and just go the easy way, but he stood for Righteousness.
But, I digress. It will be a good break for us to spend time together as our lives have been so hectic. Susan is usually gone to work with travel 11 hours a day. This does not count the hours she puts in for church ministry. So, we are busy, but thankful for God's provision.
It is suppose to snow tomorrow. I believe I will fly out before the snow comes and slows down the airport. It is suppose to be a six-inch snowfall. I am going to have to give my son, Grant, some pointers on snow blowing, today, before I go.
I hope to give you some photos of our trip next time. It is exciting as we have always wanted to see the Capitol of our nation. I understand that there is so much to see that it could take weeks if you tried to see it all.
We all need to remember the great triumphs of our nation and great heroes as they persevered through great trials. This gives us confidence that we will overcome the financial recession that we are experiencing and by putting our trust in God again, He will see us through.
The faith of our founding fathers is important to us as it was to the Apostle Paul when he spoke of Timothy's heritage of faith.
2 Tim 1:55 I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. NIV
We need to be reminded of those that stood in faith believing God and His Word to direct them through the adversity they faced. This will cause a faith to rise up in us to overcome the trials we are facing today.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Preparation Is Essential to Success
Eph 6:15 And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace. AMP
Worry is like a rocking chair. It keeps you busy, but you don’t get anywhere. Worrying about the future is not productive, rather it is destructive. It causes stress that affects your mental acuity and your body can become sick. Thus, worrying will make your future bleak. When the future comes it could be just as you pictured. Most of the time it is never as bad as you thought, but you wasted time worrying about it.
Preparation on the other hand is productive. You are expending energy and resources, but for a better future. When that day comes your preparation will pay off. It is an investment in your future. Once you are prepared you will be able to be at peace knowing that you’ve done what is needed to make your future the best it can be. The rest is up to the Lord and He has that wrapped up for sure.
We all want to succeed. Preparation must be a part of it. You will not just drift into success. Preparation is never wasted.
For instance, we are checking out some colleges for our daughter, Jenessa. She is interested in a field of study and that narrows down the field of colleges. We had gone to a couple that offered it and liked some things about them. But, we ruled them out after we went to another college that is about three hours away. We really liked this one. We thought this is it. There was a lot of preparation, time and energy in this process already.
We were still not sure. So, instead of worrying about it we had to schedule some more trips to colleges. I had not gone with my wife and daughter to one college they had gone to. It had been in the running. So, all of us went back to this one and included a visit with a professor. We all were so impressed with the connection she had with the needs of the students to succeed and that the curriculum would be relevant to the work place that it put this college back at the top. I am so glad we invested another day of our time to pursue this. I am now at peace and confident that my daughter will be given the best possible education for this line of study.
There is more preparation needed with placement testing, scholarship applications, paperwork, etc. But it is a part of investing in the future. Does this preparation always guarantee success? No, at least not always in the way you think it will turn out. But, to not do anything pretty much will doom you to a dismal outcome. So, I encourage you to take the time to prepare. Replace the worry with preparation. The time, energy and resources will not be wasted. Place the rest in God’s hands and live in peace.
Worry is like a rocking chair. It keeps you busy, but you don’t get anywhere. Worrying about the future is not productive, rather it is destructive. It causes stress that affects your mental acuity and your body can become sick. Thus, worrying will make your future bleak. When the future comes it could be just as you pictured. Most of the time it is never as bad as you thought, but you wasted time worrying about it.
Preparation on the other hand is productive. You are expending energy and resources, but for a better future. When that day comes your preparation will pay off. It is an investment in your future. Once you are prepared you will be able to be at peace knowing that you’ve done what is needed to make your future the best it can be. The rest is up to the Lord and He has that wrapped up for sure.
We all want to succeed. Preparation must be a part of it. You will not just drift into success. Preparation is never wasted.
For instance, we are checking out some colleges for our daughter, Jenessa. She is interested in a field of study and that narrows down the field of colleges. We had gone to a couple that offered it and liked some things about them. But, we ruled them out after we went to another college that is about three hours away. We really liked this one. We thought this is it. There was a lot of preparation, time and energy in this process already.
We were still not sure. So, instead of worrying about it we had to schedule some more trips to colleges. I had not gone with my wife and daughter to one college they had gone to. It had been in the running. So, all of us went back to this one and included a visit with a professor. We all were so impressed with the connection she had with the needs of the students to succeed and that the curriculum would be relevant to the work place that it put this college back at the top. I am so glad we invested another day of our time to pursue this. I am now at peace and confident that my daughter will be given the best possible education for this line of study.
There is more preparation needed with placement testing, scholarship applications, paperwork, etc. But it is a part of investing in the future. Does this preparation always guarantee success? No, at least not always in the way you think it will turn out. But, to not do anything pretty much will doom you to a dismal outcome. So, I encourage you to take the time to prepare. Replace the worry with preparation. The time, energy and resources will not be wasted. Place the rest in God’s hands and live in peace.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Frustrated?
People generally get frustrated when things don't go as planned. No matter how vigorously our plan is pursued it can get derailed and cause us to be frustrated. Part of the Serenity Prayer goes like this:
This is very insightful. Sometimes things happen that are beyond our control. I can't control other people - what they think, say, or do. And if I try to control them I will certainly be frustrated. There are situations that occur that I cannot control. This fallen and sinful world can invade our lives even when we've done all we know to do. I need to be accepting of the facts and not wonder why God let them happen. God did not promise that all would go according to our plan. He did promise that though we experience trials and difficulties; they would not destroy us.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego all went into the fiery furnace. God did not save them from going in. But, he did save them from being burned or even smelling like smoke. The trial you may be facing will not destroy you as long as you keep your faith in the Lord to get you through. You will have to endure. You will be tempted to be frustrated, but God has a higher purpose and will enable you to overcome.
There are things that we can change, especially about ourselves. Many of the difficulties we face are of our own doing. We made bad decisions. We planned things without consulting the Lord. We must face up to it and take courage to change.
There is wisdom that God provides to help us know what we can change and what we should put into His hands and leave alone. There is no fun in continuing to beat your head against the wall. Let it go and live in God's peace. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us: "Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." (AMP) He will take care of it, so be carefree.
Leave the frustration behind. You and I can live one day at a time and enjoy each moment. God is not wanting you to be frustrated. Tomorrow is another day. You can plan it out, but it may not turn out the way you hoped. Plan 'B' is OK. Be certain that whatever happens you enjoy this moment. It will not come again.
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time.
This is very insightful. Sometimes things happen that are beyond our control. I can't control other people - what they think, say, or do. And if I try to control them I will certainly be frustrated. There are situations that occur that I cannot control. This fallen and sinful world can invade our lives even when we've done all we know to do. I need to be accepting of the facts and not wonder why God let them happen. God did not promise that all would go according to our plan. He did promise that though we experience trials and difficulties; they would not destroy us.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego all went into the fiery furnace. God did not save them from going in. But, he did save them from being burned or even smelling like smoke. The trial you may be facing will not destroy you as long as you keep your faith in the Lord to get you through. You will have to endure. You will be tempted to be frustrated, but God has a higher purpose and will enable you to overcome.
There are things that we can change, especially about ourselves. Many of the difficulties we face are of our own doing. We made bad decisions. We planned things without consulting the Lord. We must face up to it and take courage to change.
There is wisdom that God provides to help us know what we can change and what we should put into His hands and leave alone. There is no fun in continuing to beat your head against the wall. Let it go and live in God's peace. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us: "Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." (AMP) He will take care of it, so be carefree.
Leave the frustration behind. You and I can live one day at a time and enjoy each moment. God is not wanting you to be frustrated. Tomorrow is another day. You can plan it out, but it may not turn out the way you hoped. Plan 'B' is OK. Be certain that whatever happens you enjoy this moment. It will not come again.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Act Like It's True
When I went to Bible school we would sing a song that went like this:
Act on the Word, act like it's true
Quit being down, quit being blue
Stand up and step out, do what you couldn't do
Act on the Word, act like it's true
It is easy to act like the great promises of God's Word is true when everything is going good. But, when times are hard and challenges are before you it is much easier to act like all is lost. When we say we are believers in Jesus Christ, then we must believe what He has said even when we don't see it or feel like it.
It is very easy then to say we believe the Word of God. But acting like it is true is another story. To act like the Word is true, and we should since the Word is true, means to think, speak, and do what the Bible says. Doing or acting like Jesus has given us the victory, or answer, or provision, that we know He promised, when we are in a tough spot is not easy. We don't have it yet and we certainly don't feel like the Word is true. But since we can count on God and His Word when all else around us is failing then we should not act like we are defeated or in despair. We should trust Him and act like we have the promises already. Act like the Word is true. Stand up and step out. Be a hearer of the Word and not a doer only. That is true faith.
Hebrew chapter 11 is the Faith chapter. It records many great people who acted in faith. Noah built an ark. He acted before anyone had seen any rain. Abraham went to a new place that was promised to him though he had never been there. By faith Moses chose to leave the king's palace and be the deliverer of God's people. By faith the people of God marched around Jericho for seven days and the walls fell flat. They took action though it did not make natural sense to do so, but because they did act they got supernatural results.
Act like the Word is true. It is not time to be down and blue. James 2:17 says, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." What are you believing? Take action on it today and see your faith come to life.
Act on the Word, act like it's true
Quit being down, quit being blue
Stand up and step out, do what you couldn't do
Act on the Word, act like it's true
It is easy to act like the great promises of God's Word is true when everything is going good. But, when times are hard and challenges are before you it is much easier to act like all is lost. When we say we are believers in Jesus Christ, then we must believe what He has said even when we don't see it or feel like it.
It is very easy then to say we believe the Word of God. But acting like it is true is another story. To act like the Word is true, and we should since the Word is true, means to think, speak, and do what the Bible says. Doing or acting like Jesus has given us the victory, or answer, or provision, that we know He promised, when we are in a tough spot is not easy. We don't have it yet and we certainly don't feel like the Word is true. But since we can count on God and His Word when all else around us is failing then we should not act like we are defeated or in despair. We should trust Him and act like we have the promises already. Act like the Word is true. Stand up and step out. Be a hearer of the Word and not a doer only. That is true faith.
Hebrew chapter 11 is the Faith chapter. It records many great people who acted in faith. Noah built an ark. He acted before anyone had seen any rain. Abraham went to a new place that was promised to him though he had never been there. By faith Moses chose to leave the king's palace and be the deliverer of God's people. By faith the people of God marched around Jericho for seven days and the walls fell flat. They took action though it did not make natural sense to do so, but because they did act they got supernatural results.
Act like the Word is true. It is not time to be down and blue. James 2:17 says, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." What are you believing? Take action on it today and see your faith come to life.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
The Weather Outside is Frightful
Enough already! It's cold outside and has been for quite awhile. This winter is the coldest and snowiest we have had in a few years. Right now it is 11:30 a.m. and it is -11 degrees out. I understand fully those that are 'snowbirds.' They leave and live down south where it is warm and come back for our beautiful Wisconsin summers. If only I could convince the whole church to be 'snowbirds' and live somewhere like Florida or Arizona, all in the same town, and we could have the First Church of the Snowbirds.
We would live and have church there all winter and then we could come back up here when it is too hot down there and continue to have church here. But, that is only dreaming. It is OK to dream as long as we live, today, in reality. Today it is at least sunny and it feels good as I type this sitting at the south facing window with the sun warming me. But, my feet are still cold, though.
You know the grass always appears greener on the other side. Well, I can't see any grass and it will be March or April before anyone around here sees it. But, what I mean is that we sometimes think that being someplace else, or another job, or situation, would be better than what we have now. God knows where we should be and is certainly capable of leading and getting us there. Unless it is where He wants us to be we will be miserable even if it is 'paradise.' Being in the center of God's will is the best place to be. That is where your provision, grace, joy, blessing, peace, etc., is located. Yes, there is a place that God calls us to. He may at some time move us, but in the mean time we better enjoy where we are and stop wishing we were somewhere else.
Of course with the weather outside being frightful it is a great temptation to want to be somewhere else. Ask yourself, "Where does God want me to be?" Now, when you know, you must settle it in your heart and mind. Take the worst of what you have to experience in that place, or this place, and make the lemons into lemonade. One thing that I did was to embrace the snowy winter by enjoying snow skiing. It may be something different for you, but whatever it is get busy with it. I need to get busy with enjoying skiing, but it is too cold!
So, I will start having a basketball night with the guys at church. We will have it the 2nd and 4th Wednesday night of the month at 6:30 p.m. It is something that I use to so enjoy and was fairly good at. I have not played in a long time. The key here is that it is indoors and will be great fun to hang out with the guys. Again it is 'indoors' and we can play. So enjoy today and the place God has planted you. Put down some roots and quit wishing you were in greener pastures. That greener grass is probably over the septic tank anyway!
We would live and have church there all winter and then we could come back up here when it is too hot down there and continue to have church here. But, that is only dreaming. It is OK to dream as long as we live, today, in reality. Today it is at least sunny and it feels good as I type this sitting at the south facing window with the sun warming me. But, my feet are still cold, though.
You know the grass always appears greener on the other side. Well, I can't see any grass and it will be March or April before anyone around here sees it. But, what I mean is that we sometimes think that being someplace else, or another job, or situation, would be better than what we have now. God knows where we should be and is certainly capable of leading and getting us there. Unless it is where He wants us to be we will be miserable even if it is 'paradise.' Being in the center of God's will is the best place to be. That is where your provision, grace, joy, blessing, peace, etc., is located. Yes, there is a place that God calls us to. He may at some time move us, but in the mean time we better enjoy where we are and stop wishing we were somewhere else.
Of course with the weather outside being frightful it is a great temptation to want to be somewhere else. Ask yourself, "Where does God want me to be?" Now, when you know, you must settle it in your heart and mind. Take the worst of what you have to experience in that place, or this place, and make the lemons into lemonade. One thing that I did was to embrace the snowy winter by enjoying snow skiing. It may be something different for you, but whatever it is get busy with it. I need to get busy with enjoying skiing, but it is too cold!
So, I will start having a basketball night with the guys at church. We will have it the 2nd and 4th Wednesday night of the month at 6:30 p.m. It is something that I use to so enjoy and was fairly good at. I have not played in a long time. The key here is that it is indoors and will be great fun to hang out with the guys. Again it is 'indoors' and we can play. So enjoy today and the place God has planted you. Put down some roots and quit wishing you were in greener pastures. That greener grass is probably over the septic tank anyway!
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
2009, Leave the Past Behind
It is hard to believe that it is 2009 already. Where did 2008 go? For many it will be a welcome relief to let 2008 be over and a distant memory. I hope that you had a great 2008 and will be missing it for all the great things that God did in your life. Wherever you are at on this spectrum, be sure to find things to be thankful for in 2008.
2009 is here and we better enjoy it, even in the face of trials and challenges. God knew that you would be here in this time. He knows what you are facing. He cares and will give His help to those that call upon Him. We can be confident in knowing that God is in control. He will take control of your life if you will let Him. It takes faith to do that. Let 2009 be the year you trust Him more even in the face of a recession, war again in the middle east, etc.
1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us — whatever we ask — we know that we have what we asked of him.NIV
This is the confidence that we should have in our God. But, we must know what His will is in order to be able to ask with confidence and receive from Him. God does not want us to be fearful or dismayed by the events that are happening. We have to trust Him and dare to ask Him. We can be confident in the midst of adversity knowing that God is not only able, but willing to help us. Let's believe together that 2009 is the year our faith and confidence in the Lord will increase and therefore 2009 is to be our best year yet.
2009 is here and we better enjoy it, even in the face of trials and challenges. God knew that you would be here in this time. He knows what you are facing. He cares and will give His help to those that call upon Him. We can be confident in knowing that God is in control. He will take control of your life if you will let Him. It takes faith to do that. Let 2009 be the year you trust Him more even in the face of a recession, war again in the middle east, etc.
1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us — whatever we ask — we know that we have what we asked of him.NIV
This is the confidence that we should have in our God. But, we must know what His will is in order to be able to ask with confidence and receive from Him. God does not want us to be fearful or dismayed by the events that are happening. We have to trust Him and dare to ask Him. We can be confident in the midst of adversity knowing that God is not only able, but willing to help us. Let's believe together that 2009 is the year our faith and confidence in the Lord will increase and therefore 2009 is to be our best year yet.
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