1 Peter 3:9 NIV
"Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing."
Sometimes people can be frustrating and inconsiderate. It may seem like they are just wasting your time or not giving two thoughts about anyone but themselves. It's almost like their very person is sandpaper to yours. The problem is how do we overcome such negativity? How do we, when faced with difficult people, hold on to our joy? The apostle Peter says that we cannot think the way our natural inclinations would want us to. We cannot sink into that place where the storm cloud hangs over us the rest of the time we are with them. We have to flip that entire thought process on its head. We have to try and bless that person. Sometimes that is very difficult and requires us to be away from them for a minute to get our mind right first. But, I was always taught that a person who gets on you like sandpaper is exactly what you need to get your own rough edges off. In the process of dealing with them you are becoming smoother. How are you dealing with the difficult people in your life? Have you tried praying for them?
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
29Sep16
Luke 17:3-4 ESV
"Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, 'I repent,' you must forgive him."
Perceptions of people can be made or broken very quickly and very easily. Have you ever met someone and had an initial encounter that made you say, "I will never like that guy?" I did. I was at a training with a whole lot of other chaplains (a place where the world should somehow be better right?) and a guy in front of me got up and left his chair out in front of me. I pushed it back in under the table so people could move around it only to have the guy come back and stare me down. He said, "Don't. Ever. Touch. My. Chair." I thought he was joking so I chuckled a bit. But, he kept staring at me and repeated himself. My first impression... JERK! I didn't ask him why. I didn't rebuke him. I just formed my opinion and walked away.
Fast forward to a year later when I got a chance to work with this guy over a long period of time. He's now a good friend and one of the funniest guys I know. He would have my back no matter what and I would stand up for him. Somewhere along the line he explained how he is prone to doing things like the chair incident and I let it go. I forgave him. But, until I forgave him he was labeled. He was the Jerk. It wasn't until I forgave him that I found what was there below the surface... a friend. Who are you missing out on because of your first impression? What might be there right below forgiveness?
"Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, 'I repent,' you must forgive him."
Perceptions of people can be made or broken very quickly and very easily. Have you ever met someone and had an initial encounter that made you say, "I will never like that guy?" I did. I was at a training with a whole lot of other chaplains (a place where the world should somehow be better right?) and a guy in front of me got up and left his chair out in front of me. I pushed it back in under the table so people could move around it only to have the guy come back and stare me down. He said, "Don't. Ever. Touch. My. Chair." I thought he was joking so I chuckled a bit. But, he kept staring at me and repeated himself. My first impression... JERK! I didn't ask him why. I didn't rebuke him. I just formed my opinion and walked away.
Fast forward to a year later when I got a chance to work with this guy over a long period of time. He's now a good friend and one of the funniest guys I know. He would have my back no matter what and I would stand up for him. Somewhere along the line he explained how he is prone to doing things like the chair incident and I let it go. I forgave him. But, until I forgave him he was labeled. He was the Jerk. It wasn't until I forgave him that I found what was there below the surface... a friend. Who are you missing out on because of your first impression? What might be there right below forgiveness?
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
28Sep16
Matthew 6:1 The Message
"Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don't make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won't be applauding."
A play can be really entertaining. It may even teach us something very important. However, to the actors, the play is just that... a play. It's an act. It is not their reality no matter how convincing they are to the audience. For a moment they may convince the world that they are someone they are not or feeling something they are not. But, they remain the same. This happens to us when we put on a show of righteousness. When we do good things simply because they will look good or we think it is the right thing to do. We put on our mask and perform for those around us but, the truth in our hearts has not changed in the least. Don't do good simply to be seen, to look good, or to impress those you think are judging your performance. We should be concerned about the applause of only one person... God. He knows what the reality is and He delights in the genuine work of your hands. Where are you "acting" in your life? What would happen if you stepped from the lime-light and simply worked on your heart?
"Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don't make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won't be applauding."
A play can be really entertaining. It may even teach us something very important. However, to the actors, the play is just that... a play. It's an act. It is not their reality no matter how convincing they are to the audience. For a moment they may convince the world that they are someone they are not or feeling something they are not. But, they remain the same. This happens to us when we put on a show of righteousness. When we do good things simply because they will look good or we think it is the right thing to do. We put on our mask and perform for those around us but, the truth in our hearts has not changed in the least. Don't do good simply to be seen, to look good, or to impress those you think are judging your performance. We should be concerned about the applause of only one person... God. He knows what the reality is and He delights in the genuine work of your hands. Where are you "acting" in your life? What would happen if you stepped from the lime-light and simply worked on your heart?
Monday, September 26, 2016
27Sep16
Isaiah 43:1 ESV
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine."
I always laugh when I watch a movie where the main character meets the person of their dreams, the one they have secret been pining over, and the love interest calls them by name. There's always the line said with a little flutter of the heart, "He knows my naaaaame." It never seems like a big deal to those outside the love affair. Of course he knows your name. Why wouldn't he? But, to the one who is resting all their hope for true love on that one individual it means everything that they know each other's' names.
To some it may not seem like a big deal that God knows your name, that He calls out to you, and calls you His beloved. But, to the one who is truly invested in their love affair with God it becomes a huge deal. "He knows my naaaaame." The God of the universe. The seemingly unattainable prize. The lover of all lovers. He knows your name. Do you care? Or do you just write Him off as another entity trying to be with you. The difference is that one position puts God as the lover, the other has Him as the loved. One puts you in the center, the other puts Him there. One makes you the prize. The other rightly defines God as the prize. Are you swept away by the thought that He knows your name or do you feel like you deserve it? He knows your name, your heart, your life and He chose you.
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine."
I always laugh when I watch a movie where the main character meets the person of their dreams, the one they have secret been pining over, and the love interest calls them by name. There's always the line said with a little flutter of the heart, "He knows my naaaaame." It never seems like a big deal to those outside the love affair. Of course he knows your name. Why wouldn't he? But, to the one who is resting all their hope for true love on that one individual it means everything that they know each other's' names.
To some it may not seem like a big deal that God knows your name, that He calls out to you, and calls you His beloved. But, to the one who is truly invested in their love affair with God it becomes a huge deal. "He knows my naaaaame." The God of the universe. The seemingly unattainable prize. The lover of all lovers. He knows your name. Do you care? Or do you just write Him off as another entity trying to be with you. The difference is that one position puts God as the lover, the other has Him as the loved. One puts you in the center, the other puts Him there. One makes you the prize. The other rightly defines God as the prize. Are you swept away by the thought that He knows your name or do you feel like you deserve it? He knows your name, your heart, your life and He chose you.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
26Sep16
Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever the activity in which you engage, do it with all your ability, because there is no work, no planning, no learning, and no wisdom in the next world where you're going.
I'm reminded of a lyric from a song called 'Til the Day I Die' that goes, "I only got one life And I get it though; And this is not an act, Not a movie, Not a TV show; I don't know what quittin' means I don't ever take it slow." When we give up our days to mediocrity, to depression, to boredom, to laziness, we give up something that we will never get back. It doesn't matter if what you are doing is seemingly insignificant, do it with everything you've got because you won't get the chance again. Take risks, step up, push yourself, and move further than you ever thought possible. I've always wanted there to be an easy fix to a lot of things but, the easiest fix is to consistently do the best you can in everything you set your mind to. I fail every time that I half-heartedly complete a task regardless of the opinion of others because I know, inside, and God knows I could have done it better. How will you engage this day? Will it be half-cocked and with just enough to squeak by? Or will you give everything you have to make this day worth living?
Whatever the activity in which you engage, do it with all your ability, because there is no work, no planning, no learning, and no wisdom in the next world where you're going.
I'm reminded of a lyric from a song called 'Til the Day I Die' that goes, "I only got one life And I get it though; And this is not an act, Not a movie, Not a TV show; I don't know what quittin' means I don't ever take it slow." When we give up our days to mediocrity, to depression, to boredom, to laziness, we give up something that we will never get back. It doesn't matter if what you are doing is seemingly insignificant, do it with everything you've got because you won't get the chance again. Take risks, step up, push yourself, and move further than you ever thought possible. I've always wanted there to be an easy fix to a lot of things but, the easiest fix is to consistently do the best you can in everything you set your mind to. I fail every time that I half-heartedly complete a task regardless of the opinion of others because I know, inside, and God knows I could have done it better. How will you engage this day? Will it be half-cocked and with just enough to squeak by? Or will you give everything you have to make this day worth living?
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
22Sep16
Ecclesiastes 5:10
Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.
It is amazing the number of relationships I hear about that are destroyed because of money. Not just marriages but, friendships, families, and co-workers. I got the chance this week to speak to a room full of screaming children and I tried to keep my message as simple and clear as possible... Love people first. People are God's number one priority. There is nothing that supersedes that. You know what our number one priority should be? People. Love people first. The only way to ensure that you are prioritizing people over money is to take control of your money. EVERY. SINGLE. DOLLAR. Use it to support your relationships, to love on people, to create a life that enables you to spend time with those you love. Don't work for money. Work for people. What are you doing with your money today?
Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.
It is amazing the number of relationships I hear about that are destroyed because of money. Not just marriages but, friendships, families, and co-workers. I got the chance this week to speak to a room full of screaming children and I tried to keep my message as simple and clear as possible... Love people first. People are God's number one priority. There is nothing that supersedes that. You know what our number one priority should be? People. Love people first. The only way to ensure that you are prioritizing people over money is to take control of your money. EVERY. SINGLE. DOLLAR. Use it to support your relationships, to love on people, to create a life that enables you to spend time with those you love. Don't work for money. Work for people. What are you doing with your money today?
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
21Sep16
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.
Contemplating the future can be a scary endeavor especially at the end of a journey. What comes next? Will it be better or worse? We become overwhelmed with fear. I was once taught that FEAR stands for False Expectations Appearing Real. We grab ahold of the worst case scenario and then live our lives as if there is no hope. Do not worry. You will not be overwhelmed. You will not be burned. You will not be consumed. God walks with you when you walk with Him. If you have fears and doubts as we move forward, understand that the future is held in His hands for you. Do what you can today and then pass it to the one who controls it. Do not let fear suck the joy from your day today!
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.
Contemplating the future can be a scary endeavor especially at the end of a journey. What comes next? Will it be better or worse? We become overwhelmed with fear. I was once taught that FEAR stands for False Expectations Appearing Real. We grab ahold of the worst case scenario and then live our lives as if there is no hope. Do not worry. You will not be overwhelmed. You will not be burned. You will not be consumed. God walks with you when you walk with Him. If you have fears and doubts as we move forward, understand that the future is held in His hands for you. Do what you can today and then pass it to the one who controls it. Do not let fear suck the joy from your day today!
Monday, September 19, 2016
20Sep16
John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
I'm supposed to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) this morning in a few short minutes. I don't know what it is about this thing. I haven't failed one since basic training and yet, every single time I am worried. I get stressed out and worked up. I imagine what would happen if I failed and the consequences of that one brief moment of weakness. I think it might be because something in my life is being measured. Concretely. It's not up to interpretation. I either run that fast or I don't and it carries a lot of weight behind it. I seem to be in control of my outcome.
There are a lot of moments in life that may feel that way but, God commands us not to worry. He says, "Do not be afraid." Why? Because He is peace and when we dwell in Him and with Him we should be a reflection of that peace. When we trust God for His blessing and mercy then the worry can slip away. There is no room in our hearts for both faith and worry. You either trust God to be who He is or you don't. One brings peace. The other brings fear and worry. Take a moment. Breathe in deep. Embrace the peace of God for your day. Trust His promises and have no fear. He is in control.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
I'm supposed to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) this morning in a few short minutes. I don't know what it is about this thing. I haven't failed one since basic training and yet, every single time I am worried. I get stressed out and worked up. I imagine what would happen if I failed and the consequences of that one brief moment of weakness. I think it might be because something in my life is being measured. Concretely. It's not up to interpretation. I either run that fast or I don't and it carries a lot of weight behind it. I seem to be in control of my outcome.
There are a lot of moments in life that may feel that way but, God commands us not to worry. He says, "Do not be afraid." Why? Because He is peace and when we dwell in Him and with Him we should be a reflection of that peace. When we trust God for His blessing and mercy then the worry can slip away. There is no room in our hearts for both faith and worry. You either trust God to be who He is or you don't. One brings peace. The other brings fear and worry. Take a moment. Breathe in deep. Embrace the peace of God for your day. Trust His promises and have no fear. He is in control.
Sunday, September 18, 2016
19Sep16
Psalm 5:3
In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.
This morning started really early for us. It's never easy to start moving around well before the sun is set to shine in the sky. But, throughout the Bible we see examples of how we are supposed to start our day. Moses, Jacob, David, Daniel, Ezekiel, ect. All of these men had one particular habit that the Bible records in common... they woke up early and started their day in prayer. I'm not talking about the, "roll out of bed, say good morning God, brush your teeth, and start your day" kind of prayer. They spent hours in prayer. Sometimes crying out in need. Sometimes just waiting to hear the voice of God. When you give the first hours of your day to God it brings purpose and focus to the rest of the hours. What do you do with the first hours of your day? Today, start simple and try to spend 5 whole minutes in prayer and then 5 minutes in silence listening to God. Is 10 minutes too much to ask? Set a timer. See what God does for your day.
In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.
This morning started really early for us. It's never easy to start moving around well before the sun is set to shine in the sky. But, throughout the Bible we see examples of how we are supposed to start our day. Moses, Jacob, David, Daniel, Ezekiel, ect. All of these men had one particular habit that the Bible records in common... they woke up early and started their day in prayer. I'm not talking about the, "roll out of bed, say good morning God, brush your teeth, and start your day" kind of prayer. They spent hours in prayer. Sometimes crying out in need. Sometimes just waiting to hear the voice of God. When you give the first hours of your day to God it brings purpose and focus to the rest of the hours. What do you do with the first hours of your day? Today, start simple and try to spend 5 whole minutes in prayer and then 5 minutes in silence listening to God. Is 10 minutes too much to ask? Set a timer. See what God does for your day.
Thursday, September 15, 2016
15Sep16
James 3:2 ESV
For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.
I'm a pretty excitable person. Sometimes I speak before I've completely processed what it coming out of my mouth. Last night when the BC walked into the office someone said, "The BC's back." In response I sang, "Backstreet's back alright!" Oh man. Sometimes the hardest thing we can do is to remain silent rather than let disinformation, frustration, or hatred to spew from our mouths. Some people are just resigned to the fact that the way they speak is never going to change. It's just who they are. But, if they are not in control of the messages coming out of their mouth then they are not in control of the rest of their lives. Self-control starts with the mouth. So, what is yours saying today?
For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.
I'm a pretty excitable person. Sometimes I speak before I've completely processed what it coming out of my mouth. Last night when the BC walked into the office someone said, "The BC's back." In response I sang, "Backstreet's back alright!" Oh man. Sometimes the hardest thing we can do is to remain silent rather than let disinformation, frustration, or hatred to spew from our mouths. Some people are just resigned to the fact that the way they speak is never going to change. It's just who they are. But, if they are not in control of the messages coming out of their mouth then they are not in control of the rest of their lives. Self-control starts with the mouth. So, what is yours saying today?
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
14Sep16
Hebrews 6:3
"And this we will do if God permits."
Growing up I really looked up to my grandfathers. Both of them war veterans in the Air Force. Although they were very different men, it was from them that I gained a strong respect for what the military can do to provide for a man and their family. I also learned the importance of serving my country. I think some part of me always wanted to follow in their footsteps. In fact, when I received my calling to be a minister, and then a chaplain, I automatically assumed that it meant I would go into the Air Force. I planned my life around that eventuality. I pursued it with everything I had... until they said that it would never happen. They stopped returning my calls and sent me rejection letters. I was crushed. How could God not make my dream come true? I was so convinced it was what I was supposed to do. But, it was MY dream. I hadn't asked Him if the Air Force was it. He had a different plan. As soon as that door closed it was like He hit me with a 2x4. What I was blind to in my own arrogance, was the real dream.
You cannot do anything outside what God permits for you to do. Sometimes He closes doors in front of you because He knows that it is not the path you are supposed to travel down. We get the mindset, "I'll do whatever I set my mind to." No. You'll do whatever God allows you to do. IT might be a good idea to ask Him what that is today.
"And this we will do if God permits."
Growing up I really looked up to my grandfathers. Both of them war veterans in the Air Force. Although they were very different men, it was from them that I gained a strong respect for what the military can do to provide for a man and their family. I also learned the importance of serving my country. I think some part of me always wanted to follow in their footsteps. In fact, when I received my calling to be a minister, and then a chaplain, I automatically assumed that it meant I would go into the Air Force. I planned my life around that eventuality. I pursued it with everything I had... until they said that it would never happen. They stopped returning my calls and sent me rejection letters. I was crushed. How could God not make my dream come true? I was so convinced it was what I was supposed to do. But, it was MY dream. I hadn't asked Him if the Air Force was it. He had a different plan. As soon as that door closed it was like He hit me with a 2x4. What I was blind to in my own arrogance, was the real dream.
You cannot do anything outside what God permits for you to do. Sometimes He closes doors in front of you because He knows that it is not the path you are supposed to travel down. We get the mindset, "I'll do whatever I set my mind to." No. You'll do whatever God allows you to do. IT might be a good idea to ask Him what that is today.
Monday, September 12, 2016
13Sep16
Hebrews 2:15
"and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage."
Fear can do some wicked things to our mind, body, and soul. It can ensnare us and drive us to a life of unfulfillment and cowardice. I remember going camping with some friends of mine. We went to this place called the "blue hole" in Washington where we climbed to the top of a high cliff overlooking the pristine water. It seemed to go down forever and the cliff seemed insanely high. I watched one of my friends laugh as he took a flying leap from the cliff and hit the water with a splash. As he swam to the edge of the pool I stepped up to the ledge and looked down. Suddenly fear gripped every part of my being. It paralyzed me and flooded my brain with a million futures that involved my death. I could hear my friends encouraging me to jump and counting down over and over again as I stared down the depths of the blue hole. I slowly backed away. I forfeited the joy that my friend had just experienced. I relinquished the accomplishment I could have had. I failed my friends and myself with every step I backed away from that ledge. I gave in to fear. Fear binds us. It prevents us from being everything we can be. God only wants us to fear Him. Don't let fear stop you from doing what you know is right. Be released.
The next year I went back to that cliff and I jumped. It was the beginning of a lot of things for me. As I flew through the air and splashed into the ice cold waters of the Blue Hole I knew that the limits of my abilities did not end on that cliff. I knew that fear would not bind me in that way ever again. What binds you today?
"and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage."
Fear can do some wicked things to our mind, body, and soul. It can ensnare us and drive us to a life of unfulfillment and cowardice. I remember going camping with some friends of mine. We went to this place called the "blue hole" in Washington where we climbed to the top of a high cliff overlooking the pristine water. It seemed to go down forever and the cliff seemed insanely high. I watched one of my friends laugh as he took a flying leap from the cliff and hit the water with a splash. As he swam to the edge of the pool I stepped up to the ledge and looked down. Suddenly fear gripped every part of my being. It paralyzed me and flooded my brain with a million futures that involved my death. I could hear my friends encouraging me to jump and counting down over and over again as I stared down the depths of the blue hole. I slowly backed away. I forfeited the joy that my friend had just experienced. I relinquished the accomplishment I could have had. I failed my friends and myself with every step I backed away from that ledge. I gave in to fear. Fear binds us. It prevents us from being everything we can be. God only wants us to fear Him. Don't let fear stop you from doing what you know is right. Be released.
The next year I went back to that cliff and I jumped. It was the beginning of a lot of things for me. As I flew through the air and splashed into the ice cold waters of the Blue Hole I knew that the limits of my abilities did not end on that cliff. I knew that fear would not bind me in that way ever again. What binds you today?
Thursday, September 8, 2016
09Sep16
Acts 9:16
"For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake."
Life isn't always rainbows and unicorns. I find it distinctly distasteful when someone says that being a Christian is going to bring you all the good stuff of life or solve all of your troubles. That's just not how it works. In fact, it may be quite the opposite. Sometimes there is suffering. Sometimes there is sacrifice. Sometimes life just plain sucks. What we cannot see is how that difficulty is changing us, the world around us, or our relationship with God. Paul spent his time traveling away from home being beaten, imprisoned, stoned with big rocks, and shipwrecked. He is probably the greatest spreader of Christianity to ever live and his life was far from easy. If you think life is easy, that you are doing "just fine," or can't see anything wrong then you may want to brace yourself because God may love you just the way you are. But, He loves you too much to leave you that way. When He stretches us it normally involves discomfort or even pain. Don't shy away from it. Embrace it as an opportunity to grow and change into the person He wants you to be. How is God using discomfort in your life to grow you today?
"For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake."
Life isn't always rainbows and unicorns. I find it distinctly distasteful when someone says that being a Christian is going to bring you all the good stuff of life or solve all of your troubles. That's just not how it works. In fact, it may be quite the opposite. Sometimes there is suffering. Sometimes there is sacrifice. Sometimes life just plain sucks. What we cannot see is how that difficulty is changing us, the world around us, or our relationship with God. Paul spent his time traveling away from home being beaten, imprisoned, stoned with big rocks, and shipwrecked. He is probably the greatest spreader of Christianity to ever live and his life was far from easy. If you think life is easy, that you are doing "just fine," or can't see anything wrong then you may want to brace yourself because God may love you just the way you are. But, He loves you too much to leave you that way. When He stretches us it normally involves discomfort or even pain. Don't shy away from it. Embrace it as an opportunity to grow and change into the person He wants you to be. How is God using discomfort in your life to grow you today?
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
08Sep16
John 12:43
For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
It feels so good when someone complements you. For me especially. My love language is words of affirmation. I think there is something inside of us that is wired to appreciate the praise of others because God receives praise as well. But, the problem comes when the affirmation we are getting from people around us: from our bosses, our peers, our subordinates; supersedes the affirmation we get from God when we walk in His will. Then all of the sudden we aren't doing what we do because we want to please God but rather, to get an, "Atta boy" from someone else we respect or love... more than God. Yup. That's the rub. When we feel better about the approval of someone else than we do about the approval of God we have put them in the place of God. Are you working hard for the approval of a man or for the approval of God? One will let you down... the other will supply you.
For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
It feels so good when someone complements you. For me especially. My love language is words of affirmation. I think there is something inside of us that is wired to appreciate the praise of others because God receives praise as well. But, the problem comes when the affirmation we are getting from people around us: from our bosses, our peers, our subordinates; supersedes the affirmation we get from God when we walk in His will. Then all of the sudden we aren't doing what we do because we want to please God but rather, to get an, "Atta boy" from someone else we respect or love... more than God. Yup. That's the rub. When we feel better about the approval of someone else than we do about the approval of God we have put them in the place of God. Are you working hard for the approval of a man or for the approval of God? One will let you down... the other will supply you.
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
07Sep16
Genesis 33:14
And He said, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."
Isn't it nice to be able to lay down and just relax without a care in the world. There are few times in our lives that we are given that pure opportunity. This weekend I had a few hours of a day that I just was able to lay down and rest. I don't think I would be able to do that at home. There are too many responsibilities there and a million other things I should be doing for my friends and family. But, here I get the unique chance because I have someone back at home that I rely on and trust to take those cares for me. I am able to rest because my wife is the most capable person I know.
In this verse God promises us rest. He can make that promise because His Presence goes with us. He is capable and able to handle our worries, fears, and doubt that would try to steal our rest from us. But, if you don't rely on Him you will take those on yourself and not gain the recuperation you need. The word "rest" here is "nu'ach" and it is a Hebrew word that means to be soothed or quieted, to be secure, and to dwell peacefully. Do you allow God to sooth and quiet you or are you too busy taking the world on your own? God wants to give you rest. Will you rely on him?
And He said, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."
Isn't it nice to be able to lay down and just relax without a care in the world. There are few times in our lives that we are given that pure opportunity. This weekend I had a few hours of a day that I just was able to lay down and rest. I don't think I would be able to do that at home. There are too many responsibilities there and a million other things I should be doing for my friends and family. But, here I get the unique chance because I have someone back at home that I rely on and trust to take those cares for me. I am able to rest because my wife is the most capable person I know.
In this verse God promises us rest. He can make that promise because His Presence goes with us. He is capable and able to handle our worries, fears, and doubt that would try to steal our rest from us. But, if you don't rely on Him you will take those on yourself and not gain the recuperation you need. The word "rest" here is "nu'ach" and it is a Hebrew word that means to be soothed or quieted, to be secure, and to dwell peacefully. Do you allow God to sooth and quiet you or are you too busy taking the world on your own? God wants to give you rest. Will you rely on him?
Thursday, September 1, 2016
02Sep16
Galatians 5:13 NKJV
For you brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
It's Friday! We're about to go on a long weekend when we will be free to do a lot of things. You've probably been thinking about all the things you are wanting to do for yourself. But, have you given any thought to what you are going to do for someone else in the next four days? Do not use this freedom as an opportunity to go and destroy yourself or cater to every whim of your flesh. Instead, take a moment and think about something you may be able to do for someone else this weekend.
For you brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
It's Friday! We're about to go on a long weekend when we will be free to do a lot of things. You've probably been thinking about all the things you are wanting to do for yourself. But, have you given any thought to what you are going to do for someone else in the next four days? Do not use this freedom as an opportunity to go and destroy yourself or cater to every whim of your flesh. Instead, take a moment and think about something you may be able to do for someone else this weekend.
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