Transformed

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..." (Romans 12:2). As you can see from this scripture we have 2 statements - to not be conformed and to be transformed. However, this is what we do. A magic wand is not waved over our heads so that we automatically are transformed.

So why is transformation important? Simple - so you can live proactive in the world rather than reactive. And exactly what is transformation? This transformation is exciting. 2 Corinthians 3:18 tells us that, "...we are being transformed into the same image (of the Lord) by the spirit of the Lord." This is a process (verse 18 - from glory to glory) that we become involved in.

We learn in Corinthians that when we make Jesus the Lord of our life that we are born anew and become an entirely new creation. Amplifying this, Ephesians 4:23 says, "...and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God in true righteousness and holiness." Colossians 3 specifies that we are to put off the old man - anger, wrath, malice, etc. And we are to put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him. None of that is automatic - it becomes a conscious act that we engage in.

Once started you never finish - there is no 'made it' in transformation. You'll never run out of ways to grow. One of the main questions is: are you in charge of your own transformation. Remembering that nothing stays the same, do you let the vagaries of life to dictate who you are and who you are becoming. Or... do you work with and trust the Holy Spirit to help you make the changes you need to be transformed?

Thank you Lord!

(This is typically said with an exclamation mark and a spoken, or not, 'whew'.) It struck me anew how quickly we are to say, 'Thank you Lord', when we've suddenly emerged or escaped from a difficult situation. Or, how we use those words when things are going well and we are happy and pleased and think about the source of our joy. But how often do we think about thanking the Lord when we're in a sticky situation? And please read this carefully - I am not saying we should be grateful for painful experiences, but we should be grateful in the situation.

Why? Because scripture keeps telling us to praise, to rejoice. If there was only one theme from Old through New Testaments it's a call to praise, to rejoice... to thank. There are countless scriptures from the Psalms, "...let all the earth, praise the Lord." to Philippians which says, "... again I tell you, rejoice." But in none of those scriptures does it tell us to thank the Lord for the situation.

Even if we only look at one 'case', Job is a perfect example. After everything was taken from him, after all the attacks, after his friends and his wife abandoned him he still would not blame the Lord and continued to honor Him. Why? Does God need our praise so badly that He will do anything to get it? I don't think so.

I would suggest that it is because of what happens to us when we praise and rejoice. When our focus is upon the Lord then the outside world ceases to influence us. It's at that time that we recall some of the scriptures we can stand on such as, "I will never leave you ..." and "... He will provide a way through..."

Thanking/praising the Lord is a lifestyle decision. It's not a behavior that is automatic, it is an act that requires your mind to be involved. It is your choice to live such a lifestyle... actually, you are invited to.

Anger

We all get angry, period. The difference lies in how we handle it. There are basically two ways: inward, which is extremely self-destructive and outward, which can also be self-destructive but can be resolved more quickly (apology). When anger is coped with internally the resultant behavior is typically passive aggressive in order to get what you want. When it is external, it typically results in very loud shouting in order to get what you want. Neither is effective.

When I was a child I had bright red hair and someone told me that this meant I had a quick temper. And I did - flash point. My lashing out was verbal as physical violence was never tolerated in my home. My quick temper was checked one day when my Mom said that the moment anyone lost their temper they would inevitably lose the argument. To me, the value of winning the argument was far more persuasive. At least this became the motivator to dampening my temper outbursts.

Anger can be motivating - potentially positive - or destructive - typically throwing the baby out with the bathwater. When anger is directed creatively to resolving an issue, it can sometimes be a force to bring a new perspective. The key in this is that it can't be personal - directed either at oneself or others. Personally directed anger is rarely productive. And we all know what happens when the anger is destructive- no one really 'wins' - and the positive attributes get trashed in the process.

Sometimes the main problem of losing one's temper is enlightened by a self analysis of what triggers our anger. There are the 'thems' out there that know how to cause us to lose our self control. We should know as well. If others can 'use' our anger.... why can't we?

Holiday

If ever there was a word that created nearly instantaneous warm feelings it's the word, 'holiday'. It can conjure up all sorts of reactions, mostly positive. The word evokes a change from the normal everyday activities and a great deal of joy. Often the word is related to thoughts of great food and in great quantities. Actually... the more I think about it, the more I find it difficult to think of any negative reactions to the word.

However... often the reason for the holiday is lost in the process. And with some of the holidays, the world has commercialized it nearly into greed. Probably the one with the greatest examples is what's happened to Christmas. But look at Thanksgiving. How much of your activity is devoted to thinking about, sharing those people and things you are grateful for versus thinking about the whether or not all the items for the feast will be ready at the same time?

To me, Christmas is the greatest holiday because it starts the salvation of mankind. Without Christmas there is no Easter and without Easter there is no salvation. And Jesus really is the reason for the season because if He hadn't been willing to be our propitiation we would be eternally lost. Sometimes we act as if He had no involvement in our creation and salvation. Because mankind needed a savior to re-establish the relationship between the Father and His creation.

Yes, I enjoy the hustle and bustle - the excitement in children's eyes and the mischief smile in the eyes of parents. Yes, I love all the decoration and food that's associated with the season. Yes, I love buying presents for those I love and remembering the joys of Christmases past. But... it is the inexpressible joy of knowing that I have been saved that is the biggest present of all.

Friendship

Friends are important. But how do you define the word? What makes a good friend? And... according to your own definition, are you a good friend?

According to Webster, a friend is: "a person whom one knows well and is fond of, an ally, supporter, sympathizer". This definition provides 5 essential qualities - known, fond of, ally, supporter, sympathizer. This also informs us how we are to act in order to be considered a friend by someone else. Obviously this list is far from exhaustive, but it does provide a foundation.

Actually, I'm not certain there are any universals in a list of qualities used to determine friendship. We all may hold some of the same qualities but not in the same ranking order. The issue in all this is - do we know what these are and how we recognize them? Let me give one example... One quality that I prize is the ability to be whoever I am at a moment in time but not to be confined to that - to be able to change, grow, mature and to make mistakes. This particular quality has to be one of the highest that I value.

Another person who enters our world brings their own frame of reference and this can provide us with the ability to expand our understand - as long as we are open. We don't have to agree but we can provide one of the five Webster defined qualities - support. But this needs to be a reciprocal situation - you need to feel that your frame of reference is honored.

Friendship is a very precious gift that is given and received.... and esteemed.

Fence Sitting

It really is quite uncomfortable being a fence sitter. Plus, no one can count on you because you are constantly trying to shift your position to still stay on the fence but be in a more comfortable position. Not going to happen. And with all the shifting going on - do you know where you stand?

I suspect that some of the fence sitting lifestyle comes from a people pleasing desire. If you don't 'choose' then you won't be rejected. It won't work, you know, because others pick up on your lack of commitment to one position or the other and have no basis to trust in you. Why would anyone seek your involvement if they know that you may change your mind the next time you are in communication with someone with an opposing view?

Another cause for fence sitting may be an avoidance of making commitment.... to anything. If you don't commit then you never have to take a stand for a particular position thus keeping your options open. Not true. Your option is a no option stand.

What other reasons are there for fence sitting that don't fall under people pleasing or an unwillingness to commit? None. If you were to offer the ... I don't have enough facts to make a decision... reason, then when will you? The 'in process' position, at some point, does need to take a stand.

You can't be a both/and on your stand - you must be willing to stand strong. However, taking a stand doesn't mean that you can't change your mind. If you find that the stand you've made is no longer viable, you need to correct your position. But whatever change you make, you need to be as overt about the change as you were about the original.

Remember: If you don't stand for something you will fall for everything. (A slight paraphrase of the famous quote by Edmund Burke) And it is true. If you don't know where you stand then you are fence sitting and fence sitting is a coward's position.

Presumptuous

Are you presumptuous? The answer is that we all are, in some fashion, and especially so with God. Presumptuous in my world of definitions is: typically overt, expectation not based in hope but based in a more demanding sense. We expect, underlined, that God will do what we are wanting. There is no, or little, humility in the request.

Sometimes, in order to get whatever it is we want, we take a 'bargaining' posture. "I'll do (fill in the blank) for you God if you'll do (fill in the blank) for me." As if doing what's ultimately in our best interest would entice the God of all the universe to stop and do whatever it is we want in the time and method we want. And.... how often would/do we fulfill our part of the bargain? To me, bargaining is the highest form of presumptuousness.

Admittedly, presumptuousness is not always that blatant. However, our level of expectation can be a problem if for no other reason than we prostitute hope. I know that sounds severe and harsh but how would you define what happens to hope in this situation?

In a very real way presumptuousness is a cancer. It has the potential to eat away all the strength we have because we have, "... you don't receive because you ask amiss...". It can also affect everything else in our lives to the point that we are near death. What we need do is to take a hard analysis of what we are when we expect God to respond to our wants in a particular way and in a particular time.

It's been said that God is never late - and He isn't. It may at the last moment, but if so then it's for our best. And He always answers prayer - perhaps not how, when we want or the answer we want but He is constantly looking out for our best. It's our choice to trust Him.

Success

Success can be punctuated with a period or an exclamation mark - both valid, but one has more celebration associated with it. But, what is success? Webster says it is: "a favorable result, the gaining of wealth, fame, etc." When you think about the word, what people pop to mind that you consider successful? Are they associated with wealth and fame? What about you - are you successful according to that standard... or, do you judge success by a different one?

Probably from the way I stated my question you already suspect that I would suggest a wider definition of success that merely the gaining of wealth, fame. Success is directly related to your personal values, what you consider important regardless of others' thinking. It is your unique determination of values that will inform you of your level of success.

Success is not a fixed point unless the value is quantitative and most values are not easily quantified. And this becomes the dilemma, what constitutes 'success' on a unquantifiable value? Again, the issue is resolved only by you. What satisfied your conditions? And once satisfied, are you finished or is this an ongoing issue?

Success is not easily defined but everyone needs to have some basic definition to know, for themselves, where they are on the continuum. Some of the determination comes from others. We all need to feel that we are successful but to base this totally on others is folly. It must be internalized - truly it must come from you for any satisfaction to occur.

Potential

Do you consider yourself a person of 'potential'? A person of promise? You are, you know. And how you feel has absolutely nothing to do with it. Scripture provides us with many evidences of this. Actually this is a double edged sword because others also expect you to fulfill your potential.

The alternative to being a person of potential is definitely not one to be pursued but discovering your own potential can be somewhat arduous - worth it, but not simple. Then once you've discovered where your potential lies, you have the responsibility to fulfill it. And that isn't easy either. It seems that one is constantly proving oneself.

Is there an alternative? None that I've found. It is a given. You have potential. Once you discover where your talents and gifts lie, then you have the responsibility to act on them. And, you'll be constantly challenged. It does make for an interesting life.

You see - the difference in all this is you and your attitude. As long as you don't waste your energy on trying to change a given, an immutable then your entire approach changes. You can tackle what ever problem/issue/opportunity/question, etc. with which you are faced without the baggage of anger.

Also you can rest on the scriptures that support you such as: "I know the plans I have for you. Plans for a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11) Future and hope are both positives and can lead you as you fulfill your potential. As for enemies to you and your future - always remember that the Lord said that if He was for you, who could stand against you?

Potential is the gift God gives each person, what you do with it is your gift to Him.

Compromise

"What you compromise to keep.... you'll lose." I first heard this from Oral Roberts. I don't know if this is original with him or if he was quoting someone else. However, if you think about it - there is always a loss in compromise. And this is true for all involved/concerned. And yes I realize that compromise is sometimes considered the only path to resolution.... as long as you don't 'compromise' your values.

I believe the issue is one of - what are you willing to forgo in order to attain something? A 'something is better than nothing' attitude isn't always correct. Plus, often one believes that compromise is the only answer and it may not be a correct perception. So... is the prize important? If it is then you probably are less likely to compromise. The prize is the determinant for compromise.

Some people automatically assume that compromise is the only answer to a two sided situation. Not necessarily. Compromise should always be the last resort - not the first. Cogent facts should always sway minds.... yes, I know, not always. However, taking the 'come let us reason together' approach to a disagreement is a far better way of arriving at the best answer. I do realize that it does take more time but I'm an advocate that the best resolution is worth the effort.

Compromise isn't all 'bad' but it is not necessarily the best answer. And it can definitely be a detriment to the unorthodox approach to resolution. Compromise should be weighed in light of the particular issue and, if found wanting, be discarded. Or, accepted if it provides the only means to resolution and advancement.

Giving your best

Are you the 100% type or do you hold 'something' back, hold it in reserve? When you wake in the morning and are conscious, do you make it an intention of your heart to do your very best in the day? Or do you not think about it and just 'wait and see'?

I would suspect that most people either don't think about it or they wait till they are called upon and then determine, by the seat of their pants, how much they are willing to invest in whatever it is. However, there are those rare individuals who do predetermine that they will give their utmost into whatever they are called upon to do. These are the 'giving your best' types - rare, very rare.

Perhaps you are a selective giving your best type. The, 'it depends on the situation' determiners. So, my question to you is - how do you determine just how much you are willing to invest? Is this a moment-by-moment determination? And which emotion guides these decisions? Anger? Fear? Ends/means decision? And those are only a few of the possible filters you can use.

And then there are always those who never give their best for fear that they may be needed at another time/place which would conflict with giving all now. Or, the just don't care types. The point in all this is - who are you? A giver? Or a conditional giver?

I would like to think that I'm in the giving my best standing but I seriously doubt it. However, I'm also the type that doesn't commit to everything or everyone, I'm quite selective. But to/with those concepts, ideals, people I am committed to I do tend to be an 'all or nothing at all' type. And commitment is really at the bottom of giving. I do believe that without commitment it is impossible to give your best. Commitment is really the filter. What have you committed to?

Gift Giving & Gift Receiving

Without question my Dad was the greatest gift giver I've ever known. Mom was excellent but Dad ratcheted it up to 'rather superb'. He would find items that no one else would even have thought about at first blush, but they were always spot on. However, he was also the world's worst gift receiver. I never understood this or knew why but he was. Mom, on the other hand, was able to adroitly blend both.

Gift giving and receiving is an art. The giving requires you to really think about the person you are giving the gift to and attempt to find something that reflects who they are and/or their interests. Sometimes a gift meets a need and sometimes it meets a want. Personally, I prefer the latter. You need to be able to appreciate the other person in order to find the gift that would most delight them. If not.... why bother?

The gift receiving is a little trickier. And this is where you need to be able to appreciate the other's intent even if the gift is not precisely what you need or want. The fact that the other person went to the trouble and expense of getting you a gift should demonstrate something to you - that you are appreciated, liked, loved. To me, it is always the look on the face of the person giving the gift that is the key to their involvement. Are they excited? Is there a gleam in their eye? Do they look like they'd like to rip the paper off to get to the gift to see your expression?

When God gave His Son as a gift to mankind, he was meeting both a need and a want. Jesus is truly the gift, and the only gift, that meets the need for salvation and the want of a savior. And this is also a gift that keeps on giving. When we accept the gift and make Him our Lord, He steps into the void and provides us with all the gifts we need for a full and fruitful life. All we need do is to accept the gift given.

Helping others to forgive you....

Perhaps it may appear ludicrous, but one aspect of forgiveness that I hadn't previously considered is helping others forgive you. Just like you don't want to be burdened with unforgiveness, you need to be conscious of this for others who may be harboring unforgiveness toward you.

Somehow I don't think that our asking for forgiveness stops with the request. Unfortunately, there is no set 'what to do' or when or how in the assisting others to forgive you, I just believe that there is no IF. Realizing that your assisting may not result in their walking in forgiveness, I still believe that we need to do what we can. This is the redeeming part of forgiveness.

However, I would suspect that one of the components that would help another is whether or not they believe in the sincerity of the apology. If they sense it is merely one of form from you rather than heart intent then it will be difficult for them to move on. On the other hand if they feel you really are sorry then they will be more likely to accept. And the best way they can judge is if your behavior is changed as a result.

Apologies, forgiveness, moving on are always based on whether or not there is a perceived change. This doesn't mean you have to agree with the other person or become someone you aren't, but it does mean that you understand the implications from what you did and are willing to acknowledge your error and desire to make amends.

Discipline

I don't know anyone who seeks or likes discipline. Typically it is, minimally, uncomfortable but on the flip side - the potential is enormous. The experience can be painful but the resultant learning is always significant. The important consideration is how you approach discipline.

Discipline is almost always associated with punishment but that really is a short sided view. While punishment can be involved discipline is more a mindset than an action. When I was growing up, 'punishment' in my home was meted out principally by my Mom, and her approach was more of a... come let us reason together. Therefore, my approach in negative situations and potential 'punitive' ones is... what was learned?

I remember that one of Mom's favorite approaches to misdeed was, what do you think your punishment should be? I hated that because my punishment was always greater than what she would have done. But it also caused me to look at the responsibility issue and what ramifications occurred from an act.

But this is the effect from going contrary to what one should be doing which, though related, is not the heart of discipline. Discipline is character producing and is not necessarily punishing however, it is always corrective. The context is learning and developing. It is always highly focused.

Scripture talks about discipline being harsh for a season which indicates that it is related to the immediate behavior that is self defeating. But as soon as the lesson is learned, the disciplining ceases because it is time to move on. Discipline is related to who you are becoming which is why it is character building.

Justice and Mercy

Perhaps somewhat childlike, though I would refute childish, I have always had a strong sense of justice. You can sense it in my black and while approach to life and issues. Justice was something that I was brought up to believe in and hold dear.... at all costs. It may not have always been the popular stand or even an easy one, but it was the standard. Justice, not so much unrelenting, but the quality that should always prevail. I must admit I haven't changed much from this stand.

Mercy? Mercy was a quality that, in my mind, was something quite apart from justice. Justice first and then show mercy. I suspect I would still love to see justice prevail but unfortunately I have lost the faith that there are many who would agree. Simultaneously I have a great suspicion that mercy has been the replacement, one doesn't always see mercy being the prevailing standard either.

If it is mercy then it transcends so many other qualities and vices. If you show mercy then you can't show martyrdom or anger or superiority and especially not revenge.... and the list of what is not acceptable is enormous. Mercy is like an open outstretched hand with no hidden agenda or personal prejudice. Mercy is far stronger.

At the same time I have come to see my need for mercy. In a very real way, mercy supersedes justice. And if there is a personal need to be treated merciful then there is an equal need and requirement to show mercy to others. In a strange way I have come to appreciate mercy. I know unequivocally that if the Lord hadn't shown mercy toward me then I would be lost. If He is willing to do this for me then I need to do this for others.

Praise

"Let everything that has breath, Praise the Lord" the scripture tells us. This is one of those statements that's punctuated with an exclamation mark, not just a period. Praise is so important that a whole book is devoted to this - Psalms. And praise is so critical to our own mental health that it's not just a suggestion.

Webster says that praise is: to glorify as in song. Scripture defines it as boasting about with words and singing, lauding, exalting, celebrating. However, it should be obvious that this is not something one does quietly in one's head. Praise isn't made for silence nor is it solely an intellectual exercise. Praise is an activity that is filled with joy and honor to the one being praised. The focus of praise is obvious - it is the Lord.

I cannot emphasize strongly enough the importance of praise. I know we are instructed to praise but the more I think about it the more I believe it's for us, more that just a tribute to Him. There is 'something' that happens to us when we are praising. We are transported out of a focus on just ourselves and our situation into an acknowledgement and intentionality toward the one being praised.

The content of praise is important. I do not believe that we are to Praise the Lord for everything that happens but I do believe that we are to praise Him in all that happens.

Overcome

Are you an overcomer? Do you think, act, believe you are an overcomer? More particularly... do you know you are an overcomer? Or are you one of the overcomed - and yes I know overcomed is not a word but it does portray the reality. I'm not sure you can be on a continuum between the two extremes because to overcome, you have to make a stand. Believe it or not, overcoming is a choice. And you either are an overcomer or you are an overcomed.


Webster defines overcome as: "to master, prevail over, or surmount". That is a strong statement requiring strong action and equally strong believing. It is the believing that's the first step. You have to believe that you can overcome, that you have within you far more ability and assistance than whatever it is you are overcoming. Actually I think you have to know you can overcome.

Being an overcomer is not a passive action. You have to do something, but no, fortunately, you don't have to do it alone. I suspect that it can be argued that overcoming is a process, that one doesn't overcome overnight or by snapping one's fingers. True. But that first step is critical. You have to take an action and belief is the foundation.

I can't stress strongly enough that you aren't in this alone. You have all the resources for success available to you: prayer, scripture, and the statement from God that He will never leave or forsake you and He will provide a way through the trial. Overcoming is a trial but one you can win - IF you choose to. And yes, you are strong enough but you have to be willing to take a stand.

Inspiration

Motivation is one key in our repertoire of what moves us. But if motivation is the action verb then inspiration is the force behind it. Inspiration is the heart of our actions. But what is 'inspiration' and what are the specifics, individually?

One of the definitions that Webster provides us with is: "any stimulus to creative thought or action". And while thought is part of the formula, the emphasis is on action. We always do something with what inspires us. But we need to identify the 'any stimulus'. So what are your stimuli? Because this is a plural word - there are a variety of ways we are stimulated.

Again referring to Webster, a 'stimulus' is an incentive to action. It can be argued that inspiration always leads us to action. Typically we consider inspiration as a positive word, a word leading us to actions that are 'good', but do remember inspiration can have its opposite affect - leading us into areas we should avoid.

Personally I've always associated inspiration with creative. And I believe we all are creative in one way or another - our responsibility is to discover where and how we are creative. I also believe that our creativity gives our lives meaning. However, don't limit 'creative' because it is not just art or music or writing - it is far more extensive.

Just like our Creator God brought the worlds and life into existence through His creativity, He also planted a spark of creativity in us. And that spark of creativity inspired men and women throughout history. Your spark of creativity will also inspire others.

Bible

Have you ever thought about how truly remarkable the Bible is? Perhaps 'remarkable' doesn't even come close to capturing the sheer enormity of it. If all you were to do is to look at the logistics of the book, even then it is considerably more than just remarkable. This is a book that was written over centuries of time by tens of authors but only one source of inspiration - God. And it is the Word of God or it is the biggest fraud in history!

If the length of time isn't a feat in and of itself then consider the multitudes of people who have been influenced by it and have not sought to grandize themselves in the process. Consider the prophetic elements in the book, penned hundreds of years before they are actualized. And, all of the prophecies, save one, have come to fruition as predicted. If those facts don't cause you to pause and consider the Bible, do you know of any other book that has accomplished the same?

Actually, it's what you do about and with the Bible that is the significant consideration. There are those who would accept certain parts of the Bible and not others. And there are those who would like to add to it. Why? In the first place who is able to determine what should/can be accepted and what isn't? Simply because I don't understand certain parts, the motivation behind certain acts doesn't make them 'wrong'/unacceptable. And there is the scripture that talks about adding or changing any word....

For me, in the final analysis I have to either accept or reject the Bible as the word of God. Every word - not just the parts I like or accept. If I reject it, what have I to stand on as my personal philosophical foundation? My life would truly be built on shifting sand. If I accept it then I become engaged in a life long journey of discovery to understand, because the Bible is NOT a book to be read only once. The Bible is the foundation, the handbook, for living my life.

Selfish

Do you consider yourself selfish? Altruistic? Somewhere on the continuum between them? Selfish, like pride, is one of those behaviors that we feel should be avoided at all costs. And while I would never try to make a case for selfish, I do believe we need to be aware of what it is and what its effects can cause. And most important - what do we do/say when we are.

Selfish needs to be defined so we all have the same framework. Selfish, for the most part, tends to be solely self enhancing - looking out for oneself to the exclusion of all other considerations. In choosing between self sacrificing and selfish, for the person who is self serving, there is no choice. And we see examples of this behavior every day... some of it our own. But there are also much subtler examples.

One question that needs to be asked: is acting in one's best interest always selfish? Is there ever a situation that 'requires' us to be selfish? An argument can be made that the end result needs to be known in order to determine whether or not the behavior was selfish. If the end result was to the detriment of someone else then a case can be made for selfishness. But...I'm not going to provide an answer, it needs to be answered by each person. Part of the consideration of this topic is for each person to have a clear perception of themselves and their behavior.

Most critical to an understanding of when and how one is selfish, because we all are at some time or other, is... what about the intent of one's heart? And self preservation, regardless of reality, does impact on one's behavior. So perhaps the question should be - how do you mitigate against all pervasive selfishness? Simple denial is never, in my opinion, a method of working through selfish behaviors.

HOW to renew

It's one thing to be told you need to renew your mind and another thing to know how to go about renewing. There are a number of things one can do and probably all are things one should do. I believe it's not so much a question of how to begin as it is to... begin. So, what to do?

One thing that's critical to renewal is to discover who you now are since you have accepted Jesus as Lord. Who you are is described in great deal throughout the New Testament. Ephesians does an excellent job of identifying who you now are. One of the easiest methods is to read your name every time the Word says: in Him, in Christ - that's who we are. For example: in verse 1:3 we find that we are blessed with every spiritual blessing. In verse 4 we see we are chosen that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. So you'd say... in Christ (your name) is blessed and in Him (your name) is without blame before Him in love. But don't just think it - say it out loud, the impact is increased in hearing that you, YOU are...

In only two verses we find we are blessed, chosen, holy, without blame. And this is only the beginning. But it begins to identify who we now are and tell us who we are to be renewed into. So discovery is the anchor of renewal. But how do we go about this. The simple answer is prayer and study.

We have a handbook and it's called Scripture. In its pages we find who we are and in finding the who we are doing the how and are becoming renewed. Another equally important component in how is prayer -our conversation with God. Both are important in the 'how' to renew.

Renewing

One of the more important instructions Paul gives us is to renew our minds. This is not some idle suggestion since he makes it more than once. And it's not a magic wand that's twirled over our heads when we are born again that instantaneously creates a new mindset, this is a daily ongoing activity that we have the responsibility for. Fortunately not alone - we have help.

But it is also very clear that it is our responsibility. In Romans (12:2) Paul says we should not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing. And in Colossians 3:10 he tell us, "... to put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him (Jesus)...". Put on.

Renewing is a putting on.... which implies a putting off. Consider some of the behaviors/ emotions we are to put off: worry for faith (Philippians 4:6-8), despair for hope (Psalms 33:17), anger for love (1Corinthians 13), sorrow for joy (2Corinthians 6:9), gloom for cheerfulness (Philippians 4:4), jealousy for contentment (Philippians 4:12).

Those are only some of the trades we are to make. We are to put off worry, despair, anger, sorrow, gloom, jealousy. But in the putting off we are to put on: faith, hope, love, joy, cheerfulness, contentment. Again, these are only some of the trades we get to make but the really wonderful news is that we can! If it weren't possible, we wouldn't be told to do this.

Renewing takes time and takes dedication because the old and familiar of the put offs sometimes seem to be simpler. But the cost of those behaviors and emotions can sap you of your strength. Putting on the new is worth the cost. Renewing is an ongoing conscious act until the new becomes who we are.

Mountain Tops and Stormy Seas

We've all experienced both - yes? And I suspect we all would vote for Mountain Tops over the Stormy Seas. But unless you've experienced the stormy seas.... how can you fully appreciate the mountain tops?

Probably definitions would be in order though I suspect we all have the same basic understanding of the two opposites. Mountain Tops are those times when 'all's right with the world', when everything is emotionally smooth. Mountain Tops are those times in our lives that we can recall, especially when the opposite condition occurs, that give us hope of return to those places. MT's are times of joy, of insight, of extreme well being and so many other emotions. But they are not the places we tend to live in - they are the times of encouragement.

Stormy Seas, on the other hand, are precisely what they say - stormy times. These are the low points in our lives when nothing seems right, nothing is 'going right' - when we seem to be in a dessert time spiritually. However, these are the times that define us - that show us and others exactly 'what we're made of'. I wouldn't trade these times ever because, for me, they marked times of growth. SS's seem to be times of testing, of discovering what we really do believe in and what price we're willing to pay.

While MT's are times of refreshing and we all need them, SS's are times of character building and we all need these too. Whichever state you are in, learn from it -that's the important point. No one can live in the rarefied air of MT's and no one can live in the tumult of SS's - we weren't created to do this. But we have been given the opportunity to experience both. I would suggest that no one lingers long in either but recognize that both will come into our living as we journey through life.

Stand

One of the scriptures that has seriously impacted me is found in Ephesians 6:10-20, especially verse 13. These are the scriptures that talk about putting on the whole armor of God and then describes each piece in that armor and the reason for its inclusion. Paul tells us what each piece of the armor is designed to do and how we should be using it.

It starts out in verse 10 by saying 'Finally...' To me that is indicating the end, the last instructions. Finally. After all has been said and done.... finally. Then in verse 13 he says, "... and having done all, to stand." This is what caught my eye. You have the armor on, you are withstanding against the forces of evil and now.... you stand. What an incredible image!

We are instructed to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. We are to be strong but the power is in Him - we don't need to be powerful on our own. And then Paul begins to talk about standing and identifying our enemies - not flesh and blood. Our war is against a much more insidious enemy. But we are equipped.

When Paul describes the armor, to me it pictures a person who is/has: truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, the shield of faith, salvation, and the Word. And if you notice, these pieces of the armor cover all the vulnerable spots. With such an arsenal and with such protection we are more than prepared. Therefore, all we need do is..... stand.

Confidence

Confidence is not arrogance. And confidence is not superiority. Confidence is a deep seated knowledge about who one is and the depth of conviction about what is being discussed. You do need both existing for confidence to display itself otherwise one can be interpreted as arrogant.

One test as to whether you are confident or arrogant is how you respond to views opposite to your own, even deeply held beliefs. If you react violently (not physical) to an opposition then you need to ask yourself why. Are you 'defending' your position? Especially in areas that you feel strongly about you need to be able to listen to the opposing view. Why? Because this helps you refine or solidify your belief.

Attacking an opposing view before it's been stated is the typical reaction. We've all witnessed that behavior innumerable times. IF, and duly note the word, IF my intent is to influence someone else of my position then yelling or cutting them off will never work. No one can listen to another's view if they don't feel that they've been heard.

If I believe in the validity of my position then an opposing view is not threatening. It's a time for... "Come, let us reason together..." And if the other person's approach is to cut you off or yelling, you don't have to respond in kind. Once there is a moment of silence you can ask them if they really want to discuss this or not. If they are in the 'or not' category then there is nothing you can do to provide an opposing view.

Always ask yourself the question - what is the purpose in this. If it's only to exercise your lung power then it's an issue of who can shout the loudest. If it's to listen to another's message and provide your own then it's your responsibility to provide the climate in which this can occur. Actually the question really is.... are you confident?

Obey.... or not???

Do you argue with God. Of course you do! We all do. The question really is.... after you've argued what do you do? Do you follow what God is telling you to do or continue in disobedience? It really is either/or and it can't be both/and.

Sometimes we use the...'is it me or is it God' as the basis for not doing something. It is rarely used as a 'to do'. Sometimes the hesitation is legitimate - not really certain but not in a disobedient way. Again the same question - do you follow God or not?

I'm a great proponent of, "...come let us reason together..." which could be viewed as a delaying tactic. It isn't, at least that's not my intent. It's a 'let's be sure' tactic. The 'I'm not equipped or prepared for...' doesn't work. Scripture clearly states that He would never ask us to do something we aren't able to. And it states that He always equips His people for the task at hand.

Have you asked yourself why you are hesitating? Is it pride that's stopping you - potentially looking foolish? Are you self conscious? Is the request out of your comfort zone? Do you really believe that if you were asked to do something you'd get some kind of 'sign' that would confirm? Signs are not the issue. Why are you unwilling to do what is requested? For each of us, the answers vary but inevitably we have to consider and then act on what we decide.

So eventually one comes to the bottom line - obey or not. While we may have misgivings about doing a thing, the issue is never one of our inability - merely our willingness. And while it shouldn't be, obedience should never be at issue. Obviously we tend not to look at it in this light but after you cut away all the attending issues/questions - it is. Obey? or not???

Content

For me, 'content' is on a continuum from not very to very. And it slides up and down the scale never quite reaching either. I know that Paul tells us that we should be content but I also think we need to define the word. 'Content' is aligned with accepting but in both cases positively viewed not a resignation.

There is something distasteful about giving up so if content is something we should attain then it can't be through this method. It isn't giving up or giving in.... it isn't a consolation prize. Content is mildly pleased, it really isn't an emotion/state that causes great exuberance and equally important, it isn't a stationary position. And my definition includes a provision for issue specific. You can be content in one area of your life and not very in a different area.

Paul talks about that he has learned to be content. Learned. Which means that this wasn't a natural state for him either and that it is a learned condition. Paul is talking specifically about need when he says: "... for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content..." (Philippians 4:11). So if Paul can learn, so can we.

Earlier Paul gives us some guidance on how to attain 'content': ",,, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these thing." (Philippians 4:8) One really can't meditate on those things and grumble at the same time.

Being content does give us a mindset of peace and in that state we can move forward. Content is not a place of no movement, it is a place to rest and reflect in order to move proactively.

Walk

One of the more 'popular' words in scripture is 'walk'. And rather than leaving the word open to definition, scripture defines and discusses it many times and in a variety of books. In Ephesians 4:1 we are told to, "...walk worthy of the calling..." Colossians 1:10 tells us to: "...walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him..." And these are only 2 examples.

If scripture is as interested as it is in how we walk, then we should be too. Another reality is that if we call ourselves 'Christian' then we need to model this behavior. It's important to remember that we are no longer our own... we were bought by a tremendous price so it's our responsibility to be pleasing. We need to walk worthy.

But what is walking worthy? How are we to walk? Scripture talks to us constantly about this. Simplistically, we need to walk in love, speaking truth in love. We need to love God first and foremost and then we need to follow the simple command to love others as we love ourselves. I believe a worthy walk is a loving walk.

Walking in love is NOT becoming someone else's doormat. Nowhere does scripture admonish us to do that. But we don't hit people over the head either. To walk means to walk by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), we walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), we walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8). And these are only some of the descriptions.

Walking is a full time focus requiring all our concentration and dedication. But it is a do-able. If it weren't we wouldn't be asked to do it.

What is required....

When you look into scripture you find that the Lord does have some requirements for us. But they really aren't difficult, actually they are quite simple: "... to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." What I find amazing is that we have to be told them in the first place.

But what do those 3 requirements mean? 'to do justly'... Just means right or fair, correct or true - righteous. Now we see the full impact of the word. We are to be right and fair in our dealings with others. We are not to only look out for our own best interests when we interact - we are to be fair to the other person as well as ourselves. We are to be righteous. If you remember the definition it means to be in right standing. These words do dictate how we are to act and who we are to be.

'to love mercy'... In its simplest definition, mercy means: a refraining from harming, a disposition to forgive or be kind. And this is what we are to love. Mercy may conjure up a picture of a benevolent you dispensing your favor. But it is incredibly more. A disposition to forgive is a mindset that controls and dictates your words and actions.

'and to walk humbly with your God.' We really aren't particularly good at 'humble'. There's false humility, of course, but that's far from this. I suspect the word, humble, has a negative connotation depicting obsequious behavior. This is not what humble means. Again, in its simplest form, I think to walk humble is to acknowledge who God is and who you are in relation to Him.

The Case For Pride

Ladies and Gentlemen of the jury, Your Honor: You've all heard the charges against Pride, which we have not disputed. You've also heard the sorry results of following after pride. Again, there is no defense except to say that it is always a willfull act to follow after. Pride may be guilty of enticement but it is always a choice to act, to follow.

This is the sentencing phase of the trial against Pride and Pride would like for me to state some mitigating factors in his defense. The first issue is: why is it so bad to have pride? You parents, when your child achieves a good grade or shows athletic prowess, aren't you proud of them? Don't you tell them? And when you've accomplished a goal isn't there some pride lurking around your emotions? Of course!

Isn't the real issue in this case not the 'badness' of Pride but the inability or lack of desire by others to qualify and quantify pride? Pride would contend that others misuse pride to their detriment, at least his blame should be mitigated. Yes?
......
There are some positive 'attributes' to pride but the scare about pride has contributed to the
distrust. I would contend that pride used in moderation allows us to express our feelings of success for ourselves and for others. It's when this pride finds itself expressed in feelings of superiority that we start to have problems.

I always remember the look on my parents faces when I achieved something and this was something that motivated me to work hard to see that expression again. That's not a misuse of pride. And my expression mirrored theirs. To me, that's a positive use of pride.

Let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Pride is/can be detrimental to ourselves and in its expression - to others. But it can also be a positive motivator - it's all in how it's used.

PRIDE!!!

It is with a great deal of hesitancy that I even broach this topic. We all know the admonition about 'pride goeth before a fall'. And this is accurate but.... I also think the word's gotten a bad rap.

While we avoid saying the word, we substitute in order to express our feelings - we say we are pleased rather than saying we are proud, even when it comes to the accomplishments of others. (We certainly don't want to induce pride in the hearts and minds of others.!) But 'pleased' can be such a wimpy word - it really never expresses depth of feeling.

I'm not going to recite all the definitions and examples about the bad effects of pride. We all know them extremely well, they are legend. And they are true - remember, they are true. However, is there a 'case' for pride? Is pride ever positive? Is it possible to have pride but not have pride have you?

My parents were really quite wise in how they raised us, their children. They always demonstrated their pride in us when we accomplished something. And in that process allowed us to feel - no, not superior - that we had succeeded. I think, consciously or not, they modeled a positive way to express pride. Pride does not have to be a stumbling stone.

I'd like to present the case for pride.

Your Honor, ladies and gentlemen of the jury: this is the sentencing phase of the trial against pride. You've found him guilty and now must decide his fate. Up to this point the case against pride was open and shut - we did not present a case because it is more than obvious the destruction pride can cause. But.... is there any case for pride? I think there is.

Plan B

You do know what 'Plan B' is - yes? That's when Plan A doesn't work or no longer works and now you have to shift gears. Sooooo... do you have a 'Plan B'? And I'm not just talking about money - yes that's an important consideration but it's not the only area you need to have your Backup available.

Many people, to their own potential destruction, wait until the eleventh hour to quickly devise a Plan B. Not wise. Most of the time Plan B's require more preparation then A's. You need to have backup plans prepared in advance for any possible negative contingency that would strike your current plan.

I'm an options planner so I typically always have a Plan B in some stage of formation available for Plan A's 'failure'. I tend to look at ramification from doing and from not doing a particular action. Then again, I am a tad of a detail type so it 'comes naturally'. And yes, that means I have a C and D lurking somewhere in the background.... just in case.

But, there is one area in which I have absolutely no Plan B. In fact I have discarded any and all options to the Plan A because before adopting Plan A I considered all the options but found them lacking. The area? My religious stand. Simply - I am a Christian.

Don't like using the word 'religious' since it has such a negative connotation but that's what it is. Then it dawned on me that the word didn't always have such a connotation. It's come about through 'political correctness' and people misusing the word. I make absolutely no excuse for my stand. In fact I am very pleased to be able to state this.

Bottom line: if you are a Christian you really don't need a Plan B. Actually there isn't any.

Covenant

We in the West really don't have the correct appreciation, understanding and definition of this word. A covenant is more than just a 'contract'. Contracts can be broken - covenants aren't. Viewed in that light, covenants aren't entered into lightly. Covenants still are used by people in the East and last from generation to generation.

Looking at 'contracts' we see that they are extremely detailed - every dot and tittle. Nothing is left to chance. We make sure every eventuality is covered: who is responsible, for what in every contingency under the sun. My contention would be that the major reason for this is trust. No one really trusts the individual they are contracting with to fulfill the intent and purpose for the relationship - and this is from both sides.

Years ago an agreement was typically verbal and sealed with a handshake. Then again, you typically knew who you were dealing with and knew if they would keep their word. This is closer to the spirit of a covenant.

Covenants are serious and are entered into very seriously. The model for covenants is found in scripture. This is where we find that it typically is the stronger making a covenant with a weaker person and the covenant covers most of the critical components of life.

The first covenant in scripture is found in the first book of the Bible and was used by God to protect Adam and Eve. What we really need to appreciate is that this bound God to keep His word more than it was an act by Adam and Eve. And God did this to promote confidence by His creation that though they had grievously sinned, He was still with them.

Covenants are the foundation in our relationship to/with God. Do you know your responsibility in relation to this? Do you understand your privileges? Covenants always entail responsibility and privilege and provide the foundation for a fruitful life.

Unspoken Expectations

Expectation is really a two-edged sword. Expectations, from yourself, from others can be extremely debilitating because they are beyond your ability to accomplish. And they can be motivating, giving a sense of accomplishment.

The one critical component in expectations is the knowledge that they are even there. That may sound strange but it isn't. Often there are those unspoken expectations, basically from others. And when we don't fulfill them we reap the results from others without really knowing why. However, we also have unspoken expectations - for others, for ourselves.

It is the unspoken expectations that prove to be frustrating. How can you fulfill something you don't even know? If you do - it's by 'chance', and if you don't- you disappoint. In either case you really have little control, influence in this situation. While it is impossible to control other people's unspoken expectations, you can control your own. This requires you taking a hard analysis of what happened that indicated you didn't fulfill what you should have. Was your expectation of yourself even realistic?

Unspoken expectations are rarely motivational for the simple fact that any knowledge occurs after the fact rather than before - thus not the basis for action. What needs to occur in these situations is to confront them. If it comes from someone else you need to show them that lack of knowledge is no basis for judgment. If it comes from yourself - you need to do precisely the same thing.

It IS more than just a feeling.....

To dismiss what you are feeling as... it's only a feeling, diminishes the words only. It never touches the reality of the feeling. First and foremost: it is OK to feel what you are feeling. It is not OK to blame others for your what/how/why feelings. The feelings are yours. And it is not OK to stay in the feeling and wallow.

That said, feelings are far more powerful and pervasive than a momentary, fleeting... feeling. How you are feeling this precise moment colors how you see this precise moment. And to not allow expression of the feeling never works. Disguising how you feel doesn't work either. In both cases, if you push the feeling down it seems to seep out the edges and make itself known - often with destructive results.

So what are you to do about feelings? Own them. And after a short period of time, analyze them: what caused the feeling, what caused the feeling in the past, how do you cope with the feeling, how do you move beyond the feeling, who caused the feeling - you and/or your reaction and to what or another person, when did you become aware of the feeling, etc. Does this diminish the feeling? Absolutely not - but it identifies it and in that process lessens its control.

Feeling do control us - whether or not we acknowledge this. One question is: not if, but how do they then dictate our behavior? This really becomes the overriding issue - our behavior. How do we express our feelings without being controlled by them? How/what you feel is really more that just a feeling..........

Is it only a feeling???

Do you know what makes you happy? Sad? Joyful? Despondent? I would argue that it is extremely important to know this (and for the other emotions) because without this knowledge you are mired in the emotion. Mired is really not a good thing, even when the emotion/feeling is happiness or some other positive.

It is only by knowing what events, activities, words, ... that precipitate our response that we are able to overcome the negative and enhance the positive. We all need to be able to do this because in both cases we can become mired and we won't grow, move on. Too much of a good thing can be just as stifling as too much of a bad thing. What do you need to move on?

I believe that the first thing that's necessary in the moving on process is to realize that, either positive or negative, what you are feeling is really more than just a feeling. Or, at least the impacts from the feeling are more than just a feeling. Feelings are important - they give us a plethora of information, when we're ready to realize this.

Feelings color our world at that moment with how we are viewing other aspects of our world. They impact how we process other 'things' because feelings are quite powerful. Recognizing this fact is only the beginning, but it is the beginning. How we express these feelings also impacts our current reality. Those around us also 'read' our expressing, even when we don't say a word.

Feelings are like a pebble thrown into water. You can see the effect in the ever widening ripples. Do you see your ripples? Are you aware that your ripples impact others - positively and negatively? And recognize too that you really never successfully disguise your feelings.

Clinging to past 'what if'....

Are your 'what if's' in the past or for the future? Do you cling to the past and 'what might have been'? Or are your what if's option thinking for the future? It really does make a difference. And your experience with previous what if's do tend to mark your attitude for future what if's.

For me, the 'what if's' in life go along with my approach to decision making - option planning. I do focus on options and their ramification. Actually it's a behavior that I quite enjoy because it is mind sharpening. What if''s are creative problem solving. Do remember that you use what if's to generate alternatives for your current issue/problem/assignment/etc.

What if's should never be viewed as... if only's. We sabotage ourselves with if only's. And actually, unless it is possible to go back to square one and start again, the dynamics have undoubtedly changed and it's necessary to look at the situation with new eyes. As has been said often, the only constant is change so look at what has changed and how the situation looks now.

Your experience with past what if's do tend to influence how you look at current what if's. But again, don't let previous experience make you wary (when you've had a negative experience) or cocky (if you've had a good experience). What if's is a tool, a way of looking at life and determining the next steps.

Vices

Ugly word. The word even sounds evil. Granted the fact of the definition associated with the word gives the basis for a negative feeling, however it obvious isn't something we should encourage. Webster defines vice: an evil action or habit, evil conduct. And we all have them.... Regardless, no matter the number, we should attempt to overcome them and not enhance them. And never excuse them!

Vices tend to multiply. One vice seems to invite another vice but the second is far worst than the first and together they can seem to be invinsible. They're not! But when we don't deal with the first we do promote our destruction. A vice is not a cute little imp to be encouraged - it needs to be viciously pulled out and destroyed.

What do we do with our vices? Most people attempt to hide them rather than overcome them. Obviously this speaks to the fact that we really are embarrassed by them, and perhaps even ashamed. However we also are taking the easy way out if our response to them is to hide them. Overcoming takes effort, takes vigilance, takes commitment - but we can be victorious over vices. Since they are habit based, we need to realize that they won't go easily.

While I would argue that we really can't fully overcome them alone since I believe we need to have the help of the Lord, we do need to exercise our will power. Overcoming, I believe, is a partnership of our will and the Lord's grace. But we are able to be victorious - actually scripture promises this.

Plant... Water... Harvest

In scripture we are admonished to be 'instant... in season and out...' while this can be applied in a variety of settings, I find it especially applicable in sharing the Word. We really don't know where another person may be in the continuum of being aware of the need for accepting the Lord. I suspect that's why the agricultural analogy is used because we all can understand the phases of plant life from sowing to harvesting.

We need to be able to plant a seed.... then we need to be able to tend the seed (water).... and lastly we need to be able to harvest. But what we also need to appreciate is that the seed isn't ours. Did you understand that? Actually it took me awhile to really understand this when it came to sharing life in Christ.

People are in various stages on the continuum thus it becomes very important for us to be instant. It won't work to try and harvest when no seed has been planted. Perhaps I'm ahead of myself. The seed isn't the person, the seed is the Word. We need to be able to seed in other's lives. This requires us to have the seed planted in ourselves. We need to share what's in us.

However, it is equally important to understand where the seed is in the other person. You may be watering, like with your experience, your life in Christ. Or the person may be watered and the plant is breaking through the earth and you have the joy of leading the person to accepting and be harvesting.

What I find totally incredible is that the Lord chooses to work with us, through us to touch the lives that are around us. We have the great joy of either seeding... or watering... or harvesting.

Be not weary....

The scripture reads, "Be not weary in well doing for you shall reap if you faint not..." Not certain which are the most important words in that phrase. Some will glomb onto 'reap' because we all like the implication from that word. And reap really is a most positive word - and a word that is hope driven.

We all like to be rewarded for our efforts and reap implies this. However, there's also the first half of the phrase to contend with. And that is where the rubber meets the road. So often we do get weary of continuing on. Then we get into doubt - should this be what we should be doing? Did we make the wrong decision? Should we cut our losses? All of those types of thoughts emerge when we're in the 'be not weary' stage.

So how long should we contend with the 'be not weary' stage? Obviously the answer varies depending on the issue, the importance of the eventual reaping, our own impatience, our own doubts, etc. Unfortunately, at least for me, I tend to 'get out' before I should, just shy of the reaping point.

While we don't 'want to go down with the ship', when we find ourselves in a questioning position on what we're doing - we should, if possible, stand back from it and attempt to, as dispassionately as possible, analyze. Given the information, goal we started with - would we have made the decision we did? Is the prize still worth the effort? If so... then keep on keeping on.

Keeping on really is a statement to your personal commitment and your level of valuing. Is the eventual reaping worth the current reality? Only you know if you will be not weary...

Conundrums and Oxymorons

I really love those two words... conundrum, oxymoron - they just frolic off the tongue. Better yet, I like the definitions of those two words - they suit my rather ironic view of words. In case you aren't completely sure of definitions, conundrum is a puzzle. It can be, "a riddle whose answer is or involves a pun". Another definition is, "a question or problem having only a conjectural answer". Either definition works for me but I especially enjoy the second one.

As much as my philosophy is black or white not both, not gray - I enjoy the fact that we often have to operate on partial information thus letting ourselves in for a conjectural response. I suspect that this is why I'm so insistent upon knowing the options and the ramifications from them. Granted one rarely knows all of them but also we need to prepare for this.

A conundrum forces us to be creative, to look beyond the obvious (without discounting it simply because it is obvious) - to be inventive. Bottom line is that it forces us to consider why we are thinking the way we are and to be open to other alternatives.

An oxymoron is, "a combination of contradictory or incongruous words or elements". I suspect that my enjoyment stems from a love of double negatives, which I employ at every opportunity. However, this word also provides some of the same stimulus as conundrum does - it forces us out of a non-thinking response.

Too often we merely parrot the response that is familiar thus we need not think about it and don't delve into the question/statement by someone else. Oxymorons don't allow us this easy answer approach. Simply... it forces us to actually 'be' in the moment rather than being physically in one place and in the mind - far, far away.

Conundrums and oxymorons are the surprise in the moment. They provide us with opportunities to think in different ways.

'Best' for whom...

Have you ever been told that something is best for you? Or have you used that line on others? The answer is 'yes' to both. It's the last ditch attempt at influence. It also rarely works. Or maybe it does work - but to what end? And with what conviction?

Definition time- best in what sense? Assuming the scenario that you are the one using the phrase, have you really thought it out? Is it really the best for the other person? Or.... is there any residual positive impact for you if they choose to act on your advice? Is there a conflict of interest?

Simply because it is also good for you doesn't disqualify it - but it does require an analysis as to your motive. (And you need to apply the same thought pattern if you are the one being influenced.) Why is it the best for you? What are other options? Does the other person really have my best interests at heart? This last question is more of a trust issue but is still relevant.

The last point to consider is what is stopping you and what is convincing you? If you do something simply because someone else says it's a 'good idea' or 'best' for you - your level of commitment isn't high enough for when the problems come. If something is truly 'best' for you and you aren't operating in a fear vacuum then you have your answer.

What we need to remember is that if it really is 'best' for you/the other person then the fact that you made it know to then and suggested/endorsed it will lodge in the memory to be extracted at some time in the future... if it really is 'best'.

Opportunity knock????

Maybe. Maybe not. I recently heard that opportunity doesn't knock it quietly passes by our window. It's not that it tip toe's past but it also doesn't pound on the door! Obviously it will come in when invited but it doesn't intrude if it isn't wanted. It's not going to force itself on you but it also doesn't run away.

My point in this is that we always need to be alert to opportunities that are presented. Some of them will be for the moment. Some will be for later and some will never be for you - for another perhaps. So, opportunities are to be shared, as well as acted upon. I believe that the primary response to opportunity is to act - not in haste, but decidedly.

Life is constantly providing opportunities on a variety of levels so part of our responsibility is to sift out those that 'fit' us and share the other ones. However.... there are those opportunities that don't comfortably our image of ourselves so we dismiss them out-of-hand. I would contend that we rob ourselves with that attitude. Never dismiss an opportunity simply because it doesn't 'feel' right at the moment. Likewise don't accept it because it appears to 'stretch' us.

Talking out of both sides of my mouth? Admittedly it appears that way. I think that what I'm attempting to do is to suggest that we look with both eyes wide open at what is being presented. But fear should never be the motivator to do or to not do something. 'Something new' can be exciting and it can be disastrous - always look, eyes wide open, at the options of doing and not doing something. That can be your key to your answer.

Ministry

Did you realize you are called to full time ministry?! You are. Right where you are. There is a saying that you may be the only Bible that someone may read. That's both a tremendous responsibility as well as an incredible opportunity. It should not make you fearful that you might say or do the wrong thing - it should send you to the One who can empower you to be effective.

Never think that what you say or what you do is unimportant. It has enormous potential. You really need to appreciate that you have a great deal of 'power' through your words, through your actions.... in the world in which you live. The reason is to touch your world with the grace and mercy of the Lord.

Not all ministry is 'professional' - as a pastor of a church. But then... scripture doesn't define pastoral ministry as the only ministry. Those who have that particular call on their lives should be held up in prayer - that's our responsibility. But it is also important for you to discover your 'call'.

Ephesians, 1 Corinthians, and Romans talk about the gifts that have been given to the church, "...for the edification of the church.". Scripture teaches us that we all have a gift for the benefit of all. What we need to do is to discover our particular endowment and then share it. As we each take our place and share our gifting the church grows stronger and becomes equipped to carry out the mission, the vision for that church.

Ministry is never an 'if'. It is always a given.

Easy Answer

Have you ever had a question that was responded to with an easy answer? We all have and I've become very suspicious of easy answers, especially to hard questions. It's not that the answer couldn't be a simple one.... it just rarely is. It also doesn't mean to throw out the easy answer because that could be the best one, but it also doesn't mean to accept it on face value.

How do you know if it's an 'easy answer'? Quite simply. If the response to your query seems glib or seems uncategorical I would recommend rethinking that answer. Rarely, rarely - not never, do questions have but one response - and those that insist that there is only one response to the question should be re-examined.

This may sound silly, but consider the words the person uses in responding to your question. If their answer is peppered with "I" responses and no qualification, it obviously is that person's approach but it may not be best for you. Anyone who responds with options for you to consider is looking at the question and not at their answer. Personally, I much prefer this because option responding is allowing me to make my own decision rather than merely following theirs.

Easy answers are simple to provide, but they may not be the best approach. If you are receiving easy answers then don't dismiss them but likewise look at the consequence of you following that advice. If your goal is to be helpful to another asking the question then try and provide options for the other person to consider - their situation may be starkly different from yours.

Righteous

We need to begin with a definition so we're all operating from the same frame of reference. Righteous means being in right standing with God. A simple enough concept but also one that's difficult to maintain. Now... how important is righteous to you? The answer should be - all important, because it is. Simply because you are saved doesn't keep you in right standing.

Bottom line is that we all mess up, it's inevitable. The mess up can run the gamut from basically unintentional to really, really bad. But once we are conscious that we have, what do we do. Typically we justify our actions or bluster around with a self righteousness that is incredibly ineffective. Watch a child when they know they've done something wrong - we're just an older version of this.

One thing we need to have planted firmly in our heads is that when we say we have sinned, because that's precisely what we did, it is not the first time God knew about it. Also, He wasn't overwhelmed by our behavior - it's not the first time He's seen it. What we should do is to run TO the Lord not from Him. 1John1 gives us our method to re-establish relationship: confess and He is quick to forgive. This is a far more satisfactory way to end this infraction.

I like the fact that He will forgive, even when we're in the wrong - as long as we acknowledge we were wrong, and set us on our feet again. We always can return to the status of being righteous with God.

What I've just explained is a very simplistic view of righteousness and how to maintain it. It really doesn't need to be more complicated that this. But.... the state of being righteous is one not to be lightly dismissed - the price for this was incredible. 1Corinthians tells us why: Jesus, who knew no sin was made to be sin so that we could be the righteousness of God. That was our entry. Jesus' death and resurrection was the price. Righteousness is a tremendous gift.

Filtered Seeing

HOW you see is probably equal to if not more important than what you see. Because how you see is filtered through what you think, what you believe, what you like, what you don't like, etc. And we all see through filtered eyes.

An easy way to make my point is how 6 people will describe what they saw - which is in 6 different ways. One may emphasize the colors that were worn by those involved. Another may emphasize the emotions that they saw. Still another may describe what was seen surrounding the 'event'. The point is we all focus in on some aspect and only partially see the other components.

This is not a right/wrong - this is simply fact. But it does give us some understanding and it does give us a warning. Whatever we hear as related by someone, we must realize that they are relating what they saw, their 'how'. This places a responsibility on us to appreciate that there is probably a great deal more.

So, how do you see? What is it you tend to focus on, and thus not see the entire picture. Knowing this can help us in responding - not jumping to conclusions. We need a broader swath in our picture. Personally I like to ask the person I'm with what it is they saw - this gives me at least one more perspective on which I can make decisions.

Scripture says that we see through a glass darkly but in the end we will see as we are seen. It's not so much that the masks will no longer be needed.... it's much more extensive than that. We will finally see all that there is to see. Our view will be full and not filtered.

Code

As I was watching one of the few programs on TV that I do view, one of the characters made the comment, "Everyone needs a code to live by." What a great line! And how true! A bit of a 'duh' I grant you but sometimes it is the obvious that's missed.

Everyone DOES need a code to live by. Equally important is how you develop it, what's the source of your code, is it words only or do you act/live by it, etc. For most people, one's personal code is a kind of.... I have one but I don't have it all written down...... Not good. How do you know to act on the code if you don't know the code? I think that's why I like Gibbs on NCIS - he knows his code and he knows it so well that he can even give you a number and you know what it relates to.

Codes are suppose to be so ingrained, so part of your character that you walk your code and, as you do, others can tell what you believe in by your walk. The reality that many forget is that whatever you believe, you will walk by it. It's not possible to sustain a prolonged farce - your essence will eventually be visible. So, are you kind? If so then your behavior will emanate kindness and others will see it. Are you angry? The same - your behavior will portray it.

If kindness is part of your code then many behaviors will support this. If 'your way or the highway' is part of your code then, again, you will exhibit those behaviors in a variety of ways. The point in this is - your code will always display itself and reinforce itself. Therefore, is your code one that you would want others to imitate? Are you who and what you want to be?