Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. (Acts 3:19)
Our pastor made mention of John Wesley, the founder of the United Methodist Church, during yesterday's sermon. He said that the earliest members of the UMC used to meet at each other's houses for what were called town meetings. Each one of those meetings began with each member sharing a list of their committed sins with one another. Could you imagine starting out the work week openly sharing all of your sins and shortcomings with your family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors? I know I'd probably think twice about some of the petty and selfish things I do....
Honestly, one of the first steps of repentance is confession of our sins. You must be humbly honest with God in addition to being sincere and sorry for your actions. Genuine repentance also requires a heart that is willing to accept change.
Repentance brings forgiveness, which ultimately restores your relationship with the Father. God removes your guilt and lovingly heals your brokenness while restoring your joy.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Drift Away
We must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. (Hebrews 2:1)
Both boys spent the weekend in Atlanta with their grandparents and Charlie finally had us to himself again. Charlie, our Shetland Sheepdog, has been our family pet since the summer of 2001. He has moved with me to 6 different homes in 3 different states, fathered 6 puppies, and ran over 8,000 miles since 2006! He was the center of attention until our sons were born. It amazed me last night to see him play fetch in the house for the first time as long as I could remember. To be honest, I actually felt somewhat guilty for neglecting him...
As sad and tragic as it is to neglect a pet, is just as tragic when you neglect your heavenly Father. God patiently waits for you to seek Him each and every day. He longs to hear your voice through prayer, He wants to reveal His truths through His Word, and wants to be worshipped corporately by His congregation. He wants to know that He is first in your life and that you are willing to follow His perfect will. Your relationship with God is the most important relationship you can possibly have.
God extends His loving arms to you daily; don't fail to neglect Him!
Both boys spent the weekend in Atlanta with their grandparents and Charlie finally had us to himself again. Charlie, our Shetland Sheepdog, has been our family pet since the summer of 2001. He has moved with me to 6 different homes in 3 different states, fathered 6 puppies, and ran over 8,000 miles since 2006! He was the center of attention until our sons were born. It amazed me last night to see him play fetch in the house for the first time as long as I could remember. To be honest, I actually felt somewhat guilty for neglecting him...
As sad and tragic as it is to neglect a pet, is just as tragic when you neglect your heavenly Father. God patiently waits for you to seek Him each and every day. He longs to hear your voice through prayer, He wants to reveal His truths through His Word, and wants to be worshipped corporately by His congregation. He wants to know that He is first in your life and that you are willing to follow His perfect will. Your relationship with God is the most important relationship you can possibly have.
God extends His loving arms to you daily; don't fail to neglect Him!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
What You Need
By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know Him, the one who called us to Himself by means of His marvelous glory and excellence. (2 Peter 1:3)
It's that time of year again; tax season. No, I am not a CPA, but many of my friends who are always seem to disappear for several weeks the first part of each new year. We have already filed our taxes and Alicia and I were slightly disappointed by our returns. We were blessed to receive a nice return, but it wasn't as much as we received the prior year, which let us down a little. God quickly dispelled my disappointment and filled my spirit with contentment. I am blessed to have a career in a struggling economy and blessed to be filing taxes on the income I received in 2010. There is no reason for me to be down at all!
The truth is, when our contentment depends on things going our own way, we will become unhappy when they don't. When your contentment comes from watching Him meet all of your needs, you can rest secure and happy because you will always have all you need.
He is the great Teacher, and if you allow Him, He will teach you to discern the valuable things in life from the distractions.
It's that time of year again; tax season. No, I am not a CPA, but many of my friends who are always seem to disappear for several weeks the first part of each new year. We have already filed our taxes and Alicia and I were slightly disappointed by our returns. We were blessed to receive a nice return, but it wasn't as much as we received the prior year, which let us down a little. God quickly dispelled my disappointment and filled my spirit with contentment. I am blessed to have a career in a struggling economy and blessed to be filing taxes on the income I received in 2010. There is no reason for me to be down at all!
The truth is, when our contentment depends on things going our own way, we will become unhappy when they don't. When your contentment comes from watching Him meet all of your needs, you can rest secure and happy because you will always have all you need.
He is the great Teacher, and if you allow Him, He will teach you to discern the valuable things in life from the distractions.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Come Together
Where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them. (Matthew 18:20)
It's no secret that during college I spent a majority of my time going to concerts. Specifically, I followed bands like Widespread Panic, Phish, Galactic, String Cheese Incident, and the Dave Matthews Band around the country as much as I possibly could. My parents always were baffled at how many times I went to see the same bands. It was hard for them to understand, but it was always about the experience of just being there, hearing the songs jammed live and the throng of followers that traveled to every show in every city the bands played.
Our experience at church is not much different. Christ lives in the heart of every believer, but He also lives in the community of the church. When the church is gathered together, something special happens-He fills the walls with His Holy presence. I have seen lives changed at the alter of our church. It's one of the greatest experiences of my lifetime to see someone surrender to His never-ending love.
Just like being at a live concert or sporting event makes it more exciting, worshipping God with other believers makes it even more meaningful!
It's no secret that during college I spent a majority of my time going to concerts. Specifically, I followed bands like Widespread Panic, Phish, Galactic, String Cheese Incident, and the Dave Matthews Band around the country as much as I possibly could. My parents always were baffled at how many times I went to see the same bands. It was hard for them to understand, but it was always about the experience of just being there, hearing the songs jammed live and the throng of followers that traveled to every show in every city the bands played.
Our experience at church is not much different. Christ lives in the heart of every believer, but He also lives in the community of the church. When the church is gathered together, something special happens-He fills the walls with His Holy presence. I have seen lives changed at the alter of our church. It's one of the greatest experiences of my lifetime to see someone surrender to His never-ending love.
Just like being at a live concert or sporting event makes it more exciting, worshipping God with other believers makes it even more meaningful!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Follow The Leader
When good people run things, everyone is glad, but when the ruler is bad, everyone groans. (Proverbs 29:2, The Message)
Not to open up a political can or worms, but people sure do enjoy complaining about who holds the office of the President of the United States of America. For a solid eight years, George W. Bush was demonized by liberals. Barrack Obama has not fared much better from conservatives and Tea Party members. Regardless of political affiliations or beliefs, we are all called to be leaders, but personal success without leadership ability will only result in limited effectiveness.
If you aspire for great heights, you need leadership to reach those heights. Whatever you accomplish is restricted by your ability to lead others. To be a true leader, you must be willing to make difficult decisions, take risks, have vision, work tirelessly, be willing to accept change, and serve others in the process. Jesus laid the perfect foundation and mold for a true leader. His example should be the one we follow in our efforts to lead others.
To reach the high effectiveness as a leader, you have to raise the lid on your leadership ability. Follow His lead and you can't go wrong!
Not to open up a political can or worms, but people sure do enjoy complaining about who holds the office of the President of the United States of America. For a solid eight years, George W. Bush was demonized by liberals. Barrack Obama has not fared much better from conservatives and Tea Party members. Regardless of political affiliations or beliefs, we are all called to be leaders, but personal success without leadership ability will only result in limited effectiveness.
If you aspire for great heights, you need leadership to reach those heights. Whatever you accomplish is restricted by your ability to lead others. To be a true leader, you must be willing to make difficult decisions, take risks, have vision, work tirelessly, be willing to accept change, and serve others in the process. Jesus laid the perfect foundation and mold for a true leader. His example should be the one we follow in our efforts to lead others.
To reach the high effectiveness as a leader, you have to raise the lid on your leadership ability. Follow His lead and you can't go wrong!
Europa and the Pirate Twins
My child, if you receive my words, and store up my commands within you, by making your ear attentive to wisdom...if you seek it like silver, and search for it like hidden treasure, then you will understand how to fear the Lord, and you will discover knowledge about God. (Proverbs 2:1, 4-5)
I guarantee that if I were at a meeting and gave people the coordinates on a GPS device to find the exact location of a treasure chest filled with over a million dollars worth of silver, gold, and rare jewels, that it wouldn't be long before I'd be the only person left at that meeting! People would certainly be eager to search for such a valuable treasure.
Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." What does it mean to fear the Lord? Fear is used to describe an awesome reverence for the Lord that makes us acknowledge Him as the creator of life, this earth, and everything in it, submission to His will and trusting and obeying Him as the Lord and Savior over our lives.
Sure, anyone that can read, can read His commands in the Bible. It's not just reading His Word, it's about becoming doers of His Word. If we desire to please Him and honor Him, we will turn from evil and live obediently.
The end result is gaining wisdom beyond all human understanding, which is more valuable than any tangible treasure!
I guarantee that if I were at a meeting and gave people the coordinates on a GPS device to find the exact location of a treasure chest filled with over a million dollars worth of silver, gold, and rare jewels, that it wouldn't be long before I'd be the only person left at that meeting! People would certainly be eager to search for such a valuable treasure.
Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." What does it mean to fear the Lord? Fear is used to describe an awesome reverence for the Lord that makes us acknowledge Him as the creator of life, this earth, and everything in it, submission to His will and trusting and obeying Him as the Lord and Savior over our lives.
Sure, anyone that can read, can read His commands in the Bible. It's not just reading His Word, it's about becoming doers of His Word. If we desire to please Him and honor Him, we will turn from evil and live obediently.
The end result is gaining wisdom beyond all human understanding, which is more valuable than any tangible treasure!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Feeling Gravity's Pull
Do not fret! That only leads to trouble! (Psalm 37:8)
Several years ago, my old doctor asked me during a regular check-up if I experienced "high, highs" and "low, lows." When I answered "yes," he quickly offered to write a script for an anti-depression/anti-anxiety prescription. I graciously declined as something did not feel right about it at all; ups and downs in life seem normal to me and just something that all people experience. An unsettling fact is that over 5 Million Americans are prescribed some sort of anti-anxiety medication each year.
In many cases, anxiety medication is a necessity, but I can't help but think that many people are overprescribed in our country and simply do not need to take anything at all. You see, concern is productive and often times, motivates us to take action. Anxiety is the polar opposite-it is counterproductive and paralyzes us from doing anything at all. Concern is positive while anxiety is negative and keeps one stuck in the present.
I would be a liar if I said I never experience any form of anxiousness in my life. The big difference and point that I would like to make is that concern, unlike anxiety, leads us to make decisions. Decisions such as learning to trust in God, choosing to seek His will, and choosing to follow Him where He is leading us.
Several years ago, my old doctor asked me during a regular check-up if I experienced "high, highs" and "low, lows." When I answered "yes," he quickly offered to write a script for an anti-depression/anti-anxiety prescription. I graciously declined as something did not feel right about it at all; ups and downs in life seem normal to me and just something that all people experience. An unsettling fact is that over 5 Million Americans are prescribed some sort of anti-anxiety medication each year.
In many cases, anxiety medication is a necessity, but I can't help but think that many people are overprescribed in our country and simply do not need to take anything at all. You see, concern is productive and often times, motivates us to take action. Anxiety is the polar opposite-it is counterproductive and paralyzes us from doing anything at all. Concern is positive while anxiety is negative and keeps one stuck in the present.
I would be a liar if I said I never experience any form of anxiousness in my life. The big difference and point that I would like to make is that concern, unlike anxiety, leads us to make decisions. Decisions such as learning to trust in God, choosing to seek His will, and choosing to follow Him where He is leading us.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Nasty Habits
The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
We all have our addictions; there is no denying it. Of all of the many substances and chemicals I have put into my body over my lifetime, nicotine has been the hardest for me to quit. I smoked cigarettes for over ten years, primarily during college, and once Elliott was born, I eventually quit. Unfortunately, I picked up an even nastier habit, smokeless tobacco. I really want to quit at some point, but haven't given much of an effort if I am being perfectly honest with myself.
As humans, we are dangerously addicted to sin. The only cure is to submit to the Holy Spirit. Anything less is futile. When you are following God's control, He replaces the dangerous and destructive things with good things.
Make no excuses, God's transforming power is the only thing that can heal us of our addictions.
We all have our addictions; there is no denying it. Of all of the many substances and chemicals I have put into my body over my lifetime, nicotine has been the hardest for me to quit. I smoked cigarettes for over ten years, primarily during college, and once Elliott was born, I eventually quit. Unfortunately, I picked up an even nastier habit, smokeless tobacco. I really want to quit at some point, but haven't given much of an effort if I am being perfectly honest with myself.
As humans, we are dangerously addicted to sin. The only cure is to submit to the Holy Spirit. Anything less is futile. When you are following God's control, He replaces the dangerous and destructive things with good things.
Make no excuses, God's transforming power is the only thing that can heal us of our addictions.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Times Change
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (Romans 12:2)
Alicia left town yesterday morning to go visit some friends in Atlanta and left me with both boys and the dog! The day was actually pretty smooth and the house is still standing for the most part, but tending to both children by my lonesome was overwhelming at times. I had a list of things that I wanted to accomplish on Saturday, but quickly had to abandon all of the items to make sure the boys were taken care of. My, how things have changed!
A few months ago, I was doing a lot more at church...most Sundays, I would leave the house early in the morning to help set up on the audio/video team at Hardin Valley, teach Sunday School, attend choir practice on a regular basis as well as Celebrate Recovery. All of those things are great and noble, but after Elijah was born, God called me to focus on my most important ministry-my family.
Jesus modeled a perfect life of balance. His pace allowed Him to be guided by God's will instead of the human pressures that we all face.
When you let God change your thinking to reflect His thinking, He will sow you what you can do and cannot do. Then you can live according to His priorities and will!
Alicia left town yesterday morning to go visit some friends in Atlanta and left me with both boys and the dog! The day was actually pretty smooth and the house is still standing for the most part, but tending to both children by my lonesome was overwhelming at times. I had a list of things that I wanted to accomplish on Saturday, but quickly had to abandon all of the items to make sure the boys were taken care of. My, how things have changed!
A few months ago, I was doing a lot more at church...most Sundays, I would leave the house early in the morning to help set up on the audio/video team at Hardin Valley, teach Sunday School, attend choir practice on a regular basis as well as Celebrate Recovery. All of those things are great and noble, but after Elijah was born, God called me to focus on my most important ministry-my family.
Jesus modeled a perfect life of balance. His pace allowed Him to be guided by God's will instead of the human pressures that we all face.
When you let God change your thinking to reflect His thinking, He will sow you what you can do and cannot do. Then you can live according to His priorities and will!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Forever Man
We have known and believed the love that God has for us. (1 John 4:16)
When Elliott gets angry with me, he often storms off and says "You're not my best friend anymore, daddy." Understanding the mind of a 3.5 year old is very difficult, but he normally comes back shortly after one of his temper tantrums and tells me that I am his best friend again. Regardless, those words kind of hurt!
In the end, it's love that creates in us a feeling of self-worth. More importantly, it's God's unending, unconditional, and forgiving love that proves we are worthy. If God created us, redeemed us with blood of Christ, and calls us His children, we are surely of great importance to Him.
The answer to feelings of unworthiness is love-the always and forever kind that only God gives each of us. A love that is not based on what a person does or how they act, but one that is given to a beloved child of the Father forever!
When Elliott gets angry with me, he often storms off and says "You're not my best friend anymore, daddy." Understanding the mind of a 3.5 year old is very difficult, but he normally comes back shortly after one of his temper tantrums and tells me that I am his best friend again. Regardless, those words kind of hurt!
In the end, it's love that creates in us a feeling of self-worth. More importantly, it's God's unending, unconditional, and forgiving love that proves we are worthy. If God created us, redeemed us with blood of Christ, and calls us His children, we are surely of great importance to Him.
The answer to feelings of unworthiness is love-the always and forever kind that only God gives each of us. A love that is not based on what a person does or how they act, but one that is given to a beloved child of the Father forever!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Tomorrow
The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations. (Psalm 33:11)
Elliott often tells me that when he grows up he is going to be a race car driver. Of course, he has also mentioned becoming Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, Green Lantern and The Flash as possible super-hero occupations. As adults we still plot out our future; when we will go here and there, how much we will earn, how well our favorite team will finish for the season, when we will retire, etc.
The good news about the future is that the God that is in control today is also fully in control of the future. In fact, He already knows and is prepared for what happens to us tomorrow. He is steadfast in providing us what we need each and every day, today,and tomorrow.
No matter what problem you will face in the future, He has already anticipated the problems and has set into motion everything required to resolve these problems! Praise His Holy name!
Elliott often tells me that when he grows up he is going to be a race car driver. Of course, he has also mentioned becoming Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, Green Lantern and The Flash as possible super-hero occupations. As adults we still plot out our future; when we will go here and there, how much we will earn, how well our favorite team will finish for the season, when we will retire, etc.
The good news about the future is that the God that is in control today is also fully in control of the future. In fact, He already knows and is prepared for what happens to us tomorrow. He is steadfast in providing us what we need each and every day, today,and tomorrow.
No matter what problem you will face in the future, He has already anticipated the problems and has set into motion everything required to resolve these problems! Praise His Holy name!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Can't Nobody Hold Me Down
To be spiritually minded is life and peace. (Romans 8:6)
A common misconception of Believers is that we are isolated from what's going on in the world around us. For instance, I was recently talking to a family member that has chronic bouts of depression and was trying to lift her spirits with words of encouragement. No matter what I said, there was always another excuse and much of the conversation was dominated by her "woe is me" talk. She wouldn't hear anything I said as it pertained to my faith.
The truth is that followers of Christ experience disappointment and hurt just like everyone else. We also face temptations on a regular basis. The biggest difference is that when our peace is disrupted with havoc and chaos, we don't stay down for long.
Believers are filled with the Spirit, so we are able to refocus our attention on the bigger picture and acknowledge the truth that our peace comes from God.
A common misconception of Believers is that we are isolated from what's going on in the world around us. For instance, I was recently talking to a family member that has chronic bouts of depression and was trying to lift her spirits with words of encouragement. No matter what I said, there was always another excuse and much of the conversation was dominated by her "woe is me" talk. She wouldn't hear anything I said as it pertained to my faith.
The truth is that followers of Christ experience disappointment and hurt just like everyone else. We also face temptations on a regular basis. The biggest difference is that when our peace is disrupted with havoc and chaos, we don't stay down for long.
Believers are filled with the Spirit, so we are able to refocus our attention on the bigger picture and acknowledge the truth that our peace comes from God.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Prince of Peace
God is not the author of confusion but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33)
Our youngest son, Elijah, just recently reached his 6 month milestone. It's interesting the similarities he shares with his older brother and at the same time is vastly different. Elijah seems to be our big eater whereas Elliott barely eats enough food to sustain life. In fact Elijah is such a great baby that he only cries to let us know he is uncomfortable or to remind us that he is hungry. He sleeps solid as well, Elliott will wake up at the sound of a pin dropping. I had the late night duty last night and picked Elijah up to rock him back to sleep. He was so peaceful, secure, and trusting of me while I held him in my arms that it made me realize what God expects of us.
I am a firm believer that to attain peace, we too must also trust God completely, like a child in his/her parents' arms. If a stranger tried to pick up Elijah and rock him back to sleep, chances are he would become very fussy and agitated and would cry anxiously.
The same principle applies to us as well. If we do not trust God or even have the slightest doubts in our mind, we too will be anxious and nervous. Learn to trust Him with the faith of a child...He is good and is trustworthy.
Our youngest son, Elijah, just recently reached his 6 month milestone. It's interesting the similarities he shares with his older brother and at the same time is vastly different. Elijah seems to be our big eater whereas Elliott barely eats enough food to sustain life. In fact Elijah is such a great baby that he only cries to let us know he is uncomfortable or to remind us that he is hungry. He sleeps solid as well, Elliott will wake up at the sound of a pin dropping. I had the late night duty last night and picked Elijah up to rock him back to sleep. He was so peaceful, secure, and trusting of me while I held him in my arms that it made me realize what God expects of us.
I am a firm believer that to attain peace, we too must also trust God completely, like a child in his/her parents' arms. If a stranger tried to pick up Elijah and rock him back to sleep, chances are he would become very fussy and agitated and would cry anxiously.
The same principle applies to us as well. If we do not trust God or even have the slightest doubts in our mind, we too will be anxious and nervous. Learn to trust Him with the faith of a child...He is good and is trustworthy.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Call On Me
Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)
We had a another great and tiring weekend. After spending some much needed quality time with the children, running errands, visiting with friends, helping with the audio/video set up at church, hosting Life Group, and spending time outdoors, I was officially worn out on Monday morning as I began the new work week. Weekends aren't always so busy for us; usually it's the weekdays that are chock-full of long hours at work and an "all hands on deck" approach to parenthood that tend to wear me out.
Through the Cross, God has made Himself available to us at ALL times. Jesus invites us to come into the presence of God to find the grace, mercy, and peace that we so desperately need. We need no middle-man to speak to God either; it's as simple as getting on our knees to pray. God is always there and ready to listen to your inner most groaning and moaning.
God loves you and is available to you whenever you need Him...
We had a another great and tiring weekend. After spending some much needed quality time with the children, running errands, visiting with friends, helping with the audio/video set up at church, hosting Life Group, and spending time outdoors, I was officially worn out on Monday morning as I began the new work week. Weekends aren't always so busy for us; usually it's the weekdays that are chock-full of long hours at work and an "all hands on deck" approach to parenthood that tend to wear me out.
Through the Cross, God has made Himself available to us at ALL times. Jesus invites us to come into the presence of God to find the grace, mercy, and peace that we so desperately need. We need no middle-man to speak to God either; it's as simple as getting on our knees to pray. God is always there and ready to listen to your inner most groaning and moaning.
God loves you and is available to you whenever you need Him...
Monday, February 14, 2011
What Is Love?
Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or wide. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
The above Scripture is easily one of the most recognized passages in the Holy Bible. It is one of the most commonly read Scriptures at weddings and is also the most descriptive verses about what love actually is.
The truth is that God is love. Love simply would not exist if it were not for His love for us. This is proven by the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. He took on the burden of all of mankind's sins on the cross, died, was buried, and then rose again from the grave.
As we celebrate our love with that special person(s) on this Valentine's day, let's not forget to give God all the glory and praise, for loving us first!
The above Scripture is easily one of the most recognized passages in the Holy Bible. It is one of the most commonly read Scriptures at weddings and is also the most descriptive verses about what love actually is.
The truth is that God is love. Love simply would not exist if it were not for His love for us. This is proven by the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. He took on the burden of all of mankind's sins on the cross, died, was buried, and then rose again from the grave.
As we celebrate our love with that special person(s) on this Valentine's day, let's not forget to give God all the glory and praise, for loving us first!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
True Faith
Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (James 1:22)
Some people, myself included, get into trouble pretty easily. Alicia gets mad when I do the grocery shopping because I always come home with my share of "junk food." Ice cream, chips, snack food, etc; stuff that tastes good but isn't exactly on top of the food pyramid. I know that the "junk food" is bad for me, but I figure that if I overcompensate with my running, I can burn the extra calories off to support my vices.
Our sins work the same way. Instead of waiting patiently for God's timing, we take matters into our own hands and find ourselves in some serious trouble. Other times, our problems are so seemingly great, that we act ahead of God instead of waiting for His will to unfold.
Anytime we act on our own accord without seeking God, is disobedience. Thankfully, He is patient and forgiving and will never stop loving His children. I always wonder if He is looking down on me repeating Himself like I do with my own children saying "No."
Learn the principle of steadfastness and patience in your faith. If you look at most sin, you will find a great deal of manipulation, which always leads to disappointment and lack of fulfillment.
Some people, myself included, get into trouble pretty easily. Alicia gets mad when I do the grocery shopping because I always come home with my share of "junk food." Ice cream, chips, snack food, etc; stuff that tastes good but isn't exactly on top of the food pyramid. I know that the "junk food" is bad for me, but I figure that if I overcompensate with my running, I can burn the extra calories off to support my vices.
Our sins work the same way. Instead of waiting patiently for God's timing, we take matters into our own hands and find ourselves in some serious trouble. Other times, our problems are so seemingly great, that we act ahead of God instead of waiting for His will to unfold.
Anytime we act on our own accord without seeking God, is disobedience. Thankfully, He is patient and forgiving and will never stop loving His children. I always wonder if He is looking down on me repeating Himself like I do with my own children saying "No."
Learn the principle of steadfastness and patience in your faith. If you look at most sin, you will find a great deal of manipulation, which always leads to disappointment and lack of fulfillment.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Getting Away With It
If someone claims, "I know God," but doesn't obey God's commandments, that person is not living in the truth. But those who obey God's word truly show how completely they love Him. That is how we know we are living in Him. (1 John 2:4-5)
Our three year old son, Elliott, got into a little trouble this past week at daycare. He was following the lead of some of his other classmates and I had a long talk with his teacher on Wednesday evening when I picked him up after work. Alicia and I worked with him to let him know that he has to make better choices; we also encouraged him to be a leader and not a follower. I am proud to write that he was much improved on Thursday and Friday, as well!
Whose lead do you follow? Have you ever wondered how to express your love for God? It's simple, because He tells us how-we must follow Him! The Bible is not just a bunch of stories; it's our manual on how to live a blessed life. When you obey God, you are putting your faith to the test and showing that what you believe is true.
When you trust and obey God's commandments, you will be on the way to living a life full of joy and contentment.
Our three year old son, Elliott, got into a little trouble this past week at daycare. He was following the lead of some of his other classmates and I had a long talk with his teacher on Wednesday evening when I picked him up after work. Alicia and I worked with him to let him know that he has to make better choices; we also encouraged him to be a leader and not a follower. I am proud to write that he was much improved on Thursday and Friday, as well!
Whose lead do you follow? Have you ever wondered how to express your love for God? It's simple, because He tells us how-we must follow Him! The Bible is not just a bunch of stories; it's our manual on how to live a blessed life. When you obey God, you are putting your faith to the test and showing that what you believe is true.
When you trust and obey God's commandments, you will be on the way to living a life full of joy and contentment.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Time of the Season
I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
One of my immediate family members is desperately in need of help but is not willing to accept it from anyone. Times are difficult and this loved one seems to be defeated by all of the troubles that seem to be overwhelming.
My family is not exclusive to experiencing trouble; I have had my fair share as every single other person on this planet has as well. The blessed assurance of Jesus is that we do not have to cave in by the pressure of this world or become defeated by our troubles, because God is always with us.
With God, anything is possible. We never have to face anything alone. We can face our problems and most importantly, we can overcome them. Jesus also taught His followers that conflicts are only passing in nature. Troubles and sickness all occur for a season and a reason. They help us realize our need for God.
If we never faced adversity or difficulties, would we need God? Think about it...
One of my immediate family members is desperately in need of help but is not willing to accept it from anyone. Times are difficult and this loved one seems to be defeated by all of the troubles that seem to be overwhelming.
My family is not exclusive to experiencing trouble; I have had my fair share as every single other person on this planet has as well. The blessed assurance of Jesus is that we do not have to cave in by the pressure of this world or become defeated by our troubles, because God is always with us.
With God, anything is possible. We never have to face anything alone. We can face our problems and most importantly, we can overcome them. Jesus also taught His followers that conflicts are only passing in nature. Troubles and sickness all occur for a season and a reason. They help us realize our need for God.
If we never faced adversity or difficulties, would we need God? Think about it...
Thursday, February 10, 2011
The Weight of the World
Trust in the Lord from this time forward, even in Yah, the Lord, an enduring protector! (Isaiah 26:4 NET)
I work in the insurance industry and sell policies and coverage designed to protect people against sickness, accidents and medical catastrophes. We live in a house that keeps us warm in the winter, cool in the summer heat, and provides protection from dangerous storms. These same principles apply to our faith as it should be our protection from life's storms.
No one is ever guaranteed a life without conflict, stress, problems, or worry, in fact it's quite the opposite. Jesus assures us "in this life we will face hardships, but take heart, for I have overcome this world." Why do we have such a hard time turning our problems over to God? Are we control-freaks? Do we really believe that we can carry all of our burdens on our own? God offers us a liberating alternative: "Cast your burden upon Me and I will sustain you" (Psalm 55:22)
We can all have unshakable peace in God, but it must come from a willingness to grow and mature a deep-seeded trust, love, and relationship with our Father.
I work in the insurance industry and sell policies and coverage designed to protect people against sickness, accidents and medical catastrophes. We live in a house that keeps us warm in the winter, cool in the summer heat, and provides protection from dangerous storms. These same principles apply to our faith as it should be our protection from life's storms.
No one is ever guaranteed a life without conflict, stress, problems, or worry, in fact it's quite the opposite. Jesus assures us "in this life we will face hardships, but take heart, for I have overcome this world." Why do we have such a hard time turning our problems over to God? Are we control-freaks? Do we really believe that we can carry all of our burdens on our own? God offers us a liberating alternative: "Cast your burden upon Me and I will sustain you" (Psalm 55:22)
We can all have unshakable peace in God, but it must come from a willingness to grow and mature a deep-seeded trust, love, and relationship with our Father.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
I Confess
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us. (Titus 3:5)
I often find myself seeking God's forgiveness for my many shortcomings. When I have yielded to temptation or as we call it in the south, "sinned," God is the loving Father that will offer us the peace and wholeness we need to move on in our lives.
As Christians, we are not given a free pass to just "live it up" on earth and then go back to Him, repent and ask forgiveness. It also doesn't mean that we will never have our screw ups or setbacks either.
What this means for followers of Christ is that we can always come to our loving Father, humbly confess our sins, and ask Him to free us from the guilt of our sins and He will always offer His help so that we do not do it again.
There is no amount of making amends that will ever compensate for our sins. The cost was paid for "in-full" when Jesus was nailed to the cross because of our God that loves us so very much.
I often find myself seeking God's forgiveness for my many shortcomings. When I have yielded to temptation or as we call it in the south, "sinned," God is the loving Father that will offer us the peace and wholeness we need to move on in our lives.
As Christians, we are not given a free pass to just "live it up" on earth and then go back to Him, repent and ask forgiveness. It also doesn't mean that we will never have our screw ups or setbacks either.
What this means for followers of Christ is that we can always come to our loving Father, humbly confess our sins, and ask Him to free us from the guilt of our sins and He will always offer His help so that we do not do it again.
There is no amount of making amends that will ever compensate for our sins. The cost was paid for "in-full" when Jesus was nailed to the cross because of our God that loves us so very much.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Give
O Lord, you are great, mighty, majestic, glorious, and sovereign over the sky and earth! You have dominion and exalt yourself as ruler of all. You are the source of wealth and honor; you rule over all. You possess strength and might to magnify and give strength to all. (1 Chronicles 28:11-12)
I had the honor and privilege to host this past Sunday at worship service for Cokesbury West. The sermon was the final in a series entitled, "Vision 2011" and Sunday was "commitment Sunday." I had a few people joked with me about having to stand on the stage on what is certainly a difficult topic for many churchgoers to grasp-financial giving.
Financial giving is not only necessary to keep churches open, it plays a vital role in the continuing efforts of ministries that depend on generous giving and contributions to operate. I never understood what tithing was until several years ago, when the Baptist church I attended did an excellent job of explaining that we are all "stewards" of God's money. God owns everything-our cash, possessions, automobiles, homes, and electronics; we are merely stewards, meaning that we oversee the use and care of God's riches. It's when we begin to falsely believe that that we are the "owners' and not the stewards of God's possessions that mistakes are made.
Make no mistake-our faith and money is permanently intertwined. We cannot keep our money away from God's hand, he holds it all and we manage it for Him.
I had the honor and privilege to host this past Sunday at worship service for Cokesbury West. The sermon was the final in a series entitled, "Vision 2011" and Sunday was "commitment Sunday." I had a few people joked with me about having to stand on the stage on what is certainly a difficult topic for many churchgoers to grasp-financial giving.
Financial giving is not only necessary to keep churches open, it plays a vital role in the continuing efforts of ministries that depend on generous giving and contributions to operate. I never understood what tithing was until several years ago, when the Baptist church I attended did an excellent job of explaining that we are all "stewards" of God's money. God owns everything-our cash, possessions, automobiles, homes, and electronics; we are merely stewards, meaning that we oversee the use and care of God's riches. It's when we begin to falsely believe that that we are the "owners' and not the stewards of God's possessions that mistakes are made.
Make no mistake-our faith and money is permanently intertwined. We cannot keep our money away from God's hand, he holds it all and we manage it for Him.
Monday, February 7, 2011
What Becomes of the Brokenhearted?
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed. (Psalm 34:18)
When tragedy strikes and a loved one is lost, have you ever struggled for the words to offer a friend? The truth is there is no easy cure for a broken heart. There is no prescription you can take and often, the healing process takes a lot of time.
A broken heart needs a different kind of healing. Generous doses of compassion, comfort, encouragement, love, and listening will eventually restore the joy and hope to a hurting soul.
We must never forget that God is the master healer. As a loving friend, we can offer help, but none like the power our loving Father. When you are hurt and heartbroken, move closer to God than away from Him.
He is the greatest source of healing, peace, and joy; there is nothing this world as to offer that even comes close....
When tragedy strikes and a loved one is lost, have you ever struggled for the words to offer a friend? The truth is there is no easy cure for a broken heart. There is no prescription you can take and often, the healing process takes a lot of time.
A broken heart needs a different kind of healing. Generous doses of compassion, comfort, encouragement, love, and listening will eventually restore the joy and hope to a hurting soul.
We must never forget that God is the master healer. As a loving friend, we can offer help, but none like the power our loving Father. When you are hurt and heartbroken, move closer to God than away from Him.
He is the greatest source of healing, peace, and joy; there is nothing this world as to offer that even comes close....
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Broken Wings
Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts Him! (Psalm 34:8)
I am sure that I share the sentiments of many of my friends by stating, that it's great to see a new week begin! Last week was very difficult for many people that I love dearly. In offering comfort, I often found myself offering the same words of encouragement to different people, for different hardships.
Part of the reason God allows us to experience trials and sorrow in our lives is so that we may learn that He has the power to sustain us and provide for us all things that produce blessings and eternal benefits.
All of God's people will experience difficulties in their lives; Jesus assured us of it. It's often in the eye of the storm and in the midst of a crisis that God's love and peace are the most clearly manifested to all.
I am sure that I share the sentiments of many of my friends by stating, that it's great to see a new week begin! Last week was very difficult for many people that I love dearly. In offering comfort, I often found myself offering the same words of encouragement to different people, for different hardships.
Part of the reason God allows us to experience trials and sorrow in our lives is so that we may learn that He has the power to sustain us and provide for us all things that produce blessings and eternal benefits.
All of God's people will experience difficulties in their lives; Jesus assured us of it. It's often in the eye of the storm and in the midst of a crisis that God's love and peace are the most clearly manifested to all.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
The Wrong Way
But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" And God said, "I will be with you." (Exodus 3:11-12)
Despite some difficult obstacles I have faced in my lifetime, the words "I can't" are no longer in my vocabulary. I struggled with my weight for many years. I went off to college and partied like a rock star, ate like a pig and in sheer laziness, didn't exercise for about 6 years. By the time I miraculously graduated from Auburn University, I weighed 225 lbs. which is grossly obese for my tall 5'5" frame. After having a "spiritual awakening" and feeling downright miserable, I slowly but surely began to exercise again. It was difficult, painful, and embarrassing at first. I could barely walk up my driveway without being winded. As I progressed, and the weight began to fall off, I made a commitment that I was going to work out everyday if I felt good enough to get out of my bed. 11 years later, I now run 8-9 miles per day with a goal of running 3,000 miles in 2011. I am not writing this to brag or boast, but simply to encourage anyone who reads these daily devotions to believe that there is no limit to what you can do or accomplish knowing that God is with you.
Moses found himself doubting that he could accomplish what God had specifically asked him to do-free his people, the Israelites, from slavery in Egypt. God responded to his doubts and fears with a simple answer, "I will be with you."
What a relief knowing that God, the creator of all life, is with each of us, ALL the time. There is nothing that should ever cause us fear knowing that He will be with us always.... Praise His Holy name!
Despite some difficult obstacles I have faced in my lifetime, the words "I can't" are no longer in my vocabulary. I struggled with my weight for many years. I went off to college and partied like a rock star, ate like a pig and in sheer laziness, didn't exercise for about 6 years. By the time I miraculously graduated from Auburn University, I weighed 225 lbs. which is grossly obese for my tall 5'5" frame. After having a "spiritual awakening" and feeling downright miserable, I slowly but surely began to exercise again. It was difficult, painful, and embarrassing at first. I could barely walk up my driveway without being winded. As I progressed, and the weight began to fall off, I made a commitment that I was going to work out everyday if I felt good enough to get out of my bed. 11 years later, I now run 8-9 miles per day with a goal of running 3,000 miles in 2011. I am not writing this to brag or boast, but simply to encourage anyone who reads these daily devotions to believe that there is no limit to what you can do or accomplish knowing that God is with you.
Moses found himself doubting that he could accomplish what God had specifically asked him to do-free his people, the Israelites, from slavery in Egypt. God responded to his doubts and fears with a simple answer, "I will be with you."
What a relief knowing that God, the creator of all life, is with each of us, ALL the time. There is nothing that should ever cause us fear knowing that He will be with us always.... Praise His Holy name!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Lean on Me
The Lord commanded us to observe all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always. (Deuteronomy 6:24)
I had a very difficult conversation with a family member earlier this week in regards to trusting God and allowing him to take the lead. You see, God is not some magical genie that you call on only when you need something. I used the analogy of someone praying to be successful financially; if you pray that prayer, great, but it will never be answered if it is not in accordance to His will and if you are not willing to give your best effort. (Trust me, I know...)
The same principal holds true when we pray; you must also wait patiently to hear His often soft voice speaking into your life. Too many times, we grow impatient and make our prayer requests and follow our own selfish desires because we want instant action.
God made us, so He knows what's going on deep inside of us, including our drives, limitations, fears and weaknesses. His commandments are our blueprint to live the lives He desires for us to live. If you aren't willing to follow His commandments, who are are you following? You have to look at them as more than just a set of rules; they are His operating instructions that if followed, will open up the flood gate of blessings that He so desires to give us.
I had a very difficult conversation with a family member earlier this week in regards to trusting God and allowing him to take the lead. You see, God is not some magical genie that you call on only when you need something. I used the analogy of someone praying to be successful financially; if you pray that prayer, great, but it will never be answered if it is not in accordance to His will and if you are not willing to give your best effort. (Trust me, I know...)
The same principal holds true when we pray; you must also wait patiently to hear His often soft voice speaking into your life. Too many times, we grow impatient and make our prayer requests and follow our own selfish desires because we want instant action.
God made us, so He knows what's going on deep inside of us, including our drives, limitations, fears and weaknesses. His commandments are our blueprint to live the lives He desires for us to live. If you aren't willing to follow His commandments, who are are you following? You have to look at them as more than just a set of rules; they are His operating instructions that if followed, will open up the flood gate of blessings that He so desires to give us.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Lay Your Hands On Me
He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. (Revelation 21:4)
It seems that recently the focus of most of my prayers are centered around healing. My good friends are mourning the loss of their long-time pet, my mother is in a fight for her life, a friend of a friend is a single mother battling cancer, and another friend is going through a difficult time in her relationship, just to name a few.
The good news is that Jesus has the ability and desire to heal each of us. It's when we go to Him in prayer that we truly express our faith and trust in Him. While He is a true miracle worker in every meaning of the word, He doesn't heal every single illness, grief, or hurt that we experience in our lives.
We know He is faithful as He heals us from our sinful nature each and every day. The best news is that His promises are real and one day we will all be fully healed and perfect with Him!
It seems that recently the focus of most of my prayers are centered around healing. My good friends are mourning the loss of their long-time pet, my mother is in a fight for her life, a friend of a friend is a single mother battling cancer, and another friend is going through a difficult time in her relationship, just to name a few.
The good news is that Jesus has the ability and desire to heal each of us. It's when we go to Him in prayer that we truly express our faith and trust in Him. While He is a true miracle worker in every meaning of the word, He doesn't heal every single illness, grief, or hurt that we experience in our lives.
We know He is faithful as He heals us from our sinful nature each and every day. The best news is that His promises are real and one day we will all be fully healed and perfect with Him!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Don't Look Back
"No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." -Jesus (Luke 9:62)
We heard a great sermon this past Sunday at Cokesbury on being significant instead of just being successful. This really got me thinking about my life; what am I doing to be significant? Am I making a difference? I am sure that this comes with age and children, but I actually started thinking about this a while back. It was about the time that my family moved to Knoxville that I felt I was given a great opportunity to serve the Lord more passionately.
Jesus' words from Luke are 'hard-hitting." In the passage above, Jesus was describing to His disciples the cost of following Him. There are many reasons or excuses we can come up with when it comes to giving 100% of themselves for following Him. Some people have family ties, some hardships, and some just simply are afraid. It's when you come to the realization that it's all about Jesus that you begin to understand the true difference between success and significance.
Our days our numbered and while success is great; it is only temporary. If you really want to make a difference, fix your eyes on Him and allow Him to permeate every thought, attitude, and choice you make...then you will be significant!
We heard a great sermon this past Sunday at Cokesbury on being significant instead of just being successful. This really got me thinking about my life; what am I doing to be significant? Am I making a difference? I am sure that this comes with age and children, but I actually started thinking about this a while back. It was about the time that my family moved to Knoxville that I felt I was given a great opportunity to serve the Lord more passionately.
Jesus' words from Luke are 'hard-hitting." In the passage above, Jesus was describing to His disciples the cost of following Him. There are many reasons or excuses we can come up with when it comes to giving 100% of themselves for following Him. Some people have family ties, some hardships, and some just simply are afraid. It's when you come to the realization that it's all about Jesus that you begin to understand the true difference between success and significance.
Our days our numbered and while success is great; it is only temporary. If you really want to make a difference, fix your eyes on Him and allow Him to permeate every thought, attitude, and choice you make...then you will be significant!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Surrender
God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore submit to God. (James 4:6-7)
In the car the other day, Elliott was insistent that Spider-Man was "Pete" Parker and NOT Peter Parker, which of course is the same guy. You see, he had picked up on this by watching the cartoon, "The Spectacular Spider-Man." No matter how many times I tried to correct him, he answered with "no daddy, his name is Pete! Oh well, some battles are more important to win.
The same principle holds true in our relationship with the Holy Spirit. As long as drowning man thinks he can help himself, he becomes dangerous to anyone who attempts to rescue him. Until we surrender to God and give him full authority to reign supreme in our lives, we are not in any position to be helped either. We may not realize it, but when we aren't following his lead, we are listening to ourselves and being disobedient.
To truly follow God, we must make his will our own and it starts by surrendering our own will!
In the car the other day, Elliott was insistent that Spider-Man was "Pete" Parker and NOT Peter Parker, which of course is the same guy. You see, he had picked up on this by watching the cartoon, "The Spectacular Spider-Man." No matter how many times I tried to correct him, he answered with "no daddy, his name is Pete! Oh well, some battles are more important to win.
The same principle holds true in our relationship with the Holy Spirit. As long as drowning man thinks he can help himself, he becomes dangerous to anyone who attempts to rescue him. Until we surrender to God and give him full authority to reign supreme in our lives, we are not in any position to be helped either. We may not realize it, but when we aren't following his lead, we are listening to ourselves and being disobedient.
To truly follow God, we must make his will our own and it starts by surrendering our own will!
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