That's what the word 'gospel' means - good news. But do you know what the good news is? We tend to make it complicated, to theologize it, to make it a series of steps or stages that one goes through. However, in its simplest and easiest - it means:
Jesus Love me, this I know.
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong,
They are weak but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me,
Yes, Jesus loves me.
Yes, Jesus loves me,
For the Bible tells me so.
That's all there is and yet that's only the first step. Knowing Jesus loves me is so simple, so basic that sometimes it defies understanding. Its something that children know instinctively and accept unconditionally. We adults, on the other hand, have a tendency to embellish it.
If we could provide this explanation of what the good news is to others, then we will accomplish the goal of Chrisitianity. Because, in it's most basic, fundamental it is simply this - the Lord came to save the lost. The lost only need to acknowledge this fact and come to the understanding that He loves, unconditionally, and accepts, unconditionally, all who come to Him. Because... Jesus loves.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Forgiving self
I don't know about you but I find it very difficult to forgive myself when I've done something stupid or hurtful to another. It really isn't all that difficult to go to that person and ask for their forgiveness, whether or not they give it, but I find it incredibly difficult to forgive myself.
Actually, while the other's forgiveness is freeing, it really doesn't impact on self forgiveness. And rehearsing what you coulda/shoulda done will not undo what you did. And, once you've asked for forgiveness, you need to forgive yourself or your relationship with that person will suffer.
I tend to hit myself over the head with what I've done/said.... repeatedly. As much as I'd like to not acknowledge this, it is true. It's considerably easier when the issue is omission than when it's commission. If it's something I haven't said or done, this is more quickly dispensed with. But when it's something I've done - not. However, I suspect it is even more important to forgive yourself in an act of commission because that really is the only way you will move on. And moving on is important.
I would contend that while previous behavior may be lurking in the background - that's where it should stay: as a reminder to not repeat the behavior. But when it begins to interfere with what is currently going on, then it is crippling. And not forgiving yourself is crippling.
It really is cowardice to not forgive yourself. You can always use the shield of no behavior because you erred before. It takes courage to reach out again. It is never easy to forgive yourself, especially when you really feel badly about what you did/said. But if you truly seek forgiveness, then you really don't have the option to wallow in self guilt - you have to move on.
Actually, while the other's forgiveness is freeing, it really doesn't impact on self forgiveness. And rehearsing what you coulda/shoulda done will not undo what you did. And, once you've asked for forgiveness, you need to forgive yourself or your relationship with that person will suffer.
I tend to hit myself over the head with what I've done/said.... repeatedly. As much as I'd like to not acknowledge this, it is true. It's considerably easier when the issue is omission than when it's commission. If it's something I haven't said or done, this is more quickly dispensed with. But when it's something I've done - not. However, I suspect it is even more important to forgive yourself in an act of commission because that really is the only way you will move on. And moving on is important.
I would contend that while previous behavior may be lurking in the background - that's where it should stay: as a reminder to not repeat the behavior. But when it begins to interfere with what is currently going on, then it is crippling. And not forgiving yourself is crippling.
It really is cowardice to not forgive yourself. You can always use the shield of no behavior because you erred before. It takes courage to reach out again. It is never easy to forgive yourself, especially when you really feel badly about what you did/said. But if you truly seek forgiveness, then you really don't have the option to wallow in self guilt - you have to move on.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Two Birthdays
We all have a physical (date) birthday but we also have the opportunity of a second birthday - a spiritual birthday. This second birthday is more important than the first, though, admittedly, you have to have the first to have the second. Specifically - today is my birthday and my spiritual day is three days from now. I tend to celebrate both.
The spiritual birthday is when you accepted Jesus as Lord. And while you don't remember the events of the first one, even though you were present, the details of the second should be something you don't forget. I'm one of those who does remember. I know the date and I think I even know the time. I can see, in my mind's eye, what I was wearing, where I was, what triggered the rebirth - all the details. Actually I think this is very cool, because I think it's important to remember.
Your spiritual birthday marks the beginning of your adventure in faith. I've always believed that faith is a journey moving to greater and greater understanding about faith, about who you have become as a result of making Jesus Lord. Faith doesn't mean having all the answers about your future but it does mean you know where your future lies and where you will be. These answers do give great comfort.
A spiritual birthday encompasses so many aspects of life that it soon becomes the foundation for your life. So today I celebrate my birthday and in three days I rejoice at my birth into life.
The spiritual birthday is when you accepted Jesus as Lord. And while you don't remember the events of the first one, even though you were present, the details of the second should be something you don't forget. I'm one of those who does remember. I know the date and I think I even know the time. I can see, in my mind's eye, what I was wearing, where I was, what triggered the rebirth - all the details. Actually I think this is very cool, because I think it's important to remember.
Your spiritual birthday marks the beginning of your adventure in faith. I've always believed that faith is a journey moving to greater and greater understanding about faith, about who you have become as a result of making Jesus Lord. Faith doesn't mean having all the answers about your future but it does mean you know where your future lies and where you will be. These answers do give great comfort.
A spiritual birthday encompasses so many aspects of life that it soon becomes the foundation for your life. So today I celebrate my birthday and in three days I rejoice at my birth into life.
Friday, June 25, 2010
He will never leave you.... or forsake you...
Have you considered the meaning of those words? Never leave. This means He isn't a talisman to be brought out when we are in trouble or have a problem, to 'fix it'. He doesn't just 'check in' with us occasionally to see if everything is OK. This is a 24/7 reality.
I know that when I realized the significance of what this means that I was stunned. 24/7! Goodness! That means He's there when I might prefer that He wasn't. He's there when I say or do something I wish I didn't and definitely would prefer He didn't 'know' how I had acted. He's always there.
This is not an awareness to be taken lightly. Especially if you don't want to disappoint the Lord or yourself. Once this became a reality for me it began to change what I did or didn't do and what I said or didn't say. It's not that I suddenly became 'perfect' but it did put me on the path toward being pleasing rather than disappointing.
I discovered that when He said He would never leave me - He meant it! But that it also required me to be aware of His constant presence. He never asked me to do something I couldn't or become someone I wasn't - but because He was with me I found that I wanted to become a 'better person'.
The 'flip side' of the reality that He will never leave is that I am never alone. I always have someone with me regardless of what messes I get into, what accomplishments I may succeed at - that I always have someone to count on to be with me.
I know that when I realized the significance of what this means that I was stunned. 24/7! Goodness! That means He's there when I might prefer that He wasn't. He's there when I say or do something I wish I didn't and definitely would prefer He didn't 'know' how I had acted. He's always there.
This is not an awareness to be taken lightly. Especially if you don't want to disappoint the Lord or yourself. Once this became a reality for me it began to change what I did or didn't do and what I said or didn't say. It's not that I suddenly became 'perfect' but it did put me on the path toward being pleasing rather than disappointing.
I discovered that when He said He would never leave me - He meant it! But that it also required me to be aware of His constant presence. He never asked me to do something I couldn't or become someone I wasn't - but because He was with me I found that I wanted to become a 'better person'.
The 'flip side' of the reality that He will never leave is that I am never alone. I always have someone with me regardless of what messes I get into, what accomplishments I may succeed at - that I always have someone to count on to be with me.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Model
Do you consider yourself a model? You are, you know. Actually.... everyone is. You model your true beliefs, your character, your wants, your needs - everything! You model by your actions as well as by your words. You are constantly on display.
I suspect most people don't look at themselves as being 'on stage'. But it is true. Everything that makes up who you are and what you do is evident in what you say and what you do. Are you in favor of ... (fill in the blank)? Whether you say anything or not you indicate your stand - through your facial expressions and body language. This is why it's important for us to know what we are saying.
A frown can indicate disapproval, but it can also indicate lack of understanding. A smile can indicate approval as well as simply indicating being pleased. Facial expressions can often be spontaneous but they are always communicating. This only reinforces the need to be certain about what we are trying to communicate. How many times have we miscommunicated because our faces said one thing and our words another? Or, we misunderstood because we heard a mixed message from someone else based on a lack of congruence between face and words.
Unfortunately, it is the rare person that is aware that they model who they are and what they believe - their facial expressions and body language reinforcing their words. Even if we don't agree with them, these people are typically trusted more readily because we don't have to hunt for hidden messages. A person like this is always honored for being true - what you see is what you get.
The question really is: if you believe in ... (fill in the blank) then why disguise it? You might as well acknowledge what you consciously or unconsciously model - it's a lot less stressful, for you.... for others.
I suspect most people don't look at themselves as being 'on stage'. But it is true. Everything that makes up who you are and what you do is evident in what you say and what you do. Are you in favor of ... (fill in the blank)? Whether you say anything or not you indicate your stand - through your facial expressions and body language. This is why it's important for us to know what we are saying.
A frown can indicate disapproval, but it can also indicate lack of understanding. A smile can indicate approval as well as simply indicating being pleased. Facial expressions can often be spontaneous but they are always communicating. This only reinforces the need to be certain about what we are trying to communicate. How many times have we miscommunicated because our faces said one thing and our words another? Or, we misunderstood because we heard a mixed message from someone else based on a lack of congruence between face and words.
Unfortunately, it is the rare person that is aware that they model who they are and what they believe - their facial expressions and body language reinforcing their words. Even if we don't agree with them, these people are typically trusted more readily because we don't have to hunt for hidden messages. A person like this is always honored for being true - what you see is what you get.
The question really is: if you believe in ... (fill in the blank) then why disguise it? You might as well acknowledge what you consciously or unconsciously model - it's a lot less stressful, for you.... for others.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Forgiveness: Step 3
With each progressive forgiveness step, the responsibility and subsequent action increases and this step is the hardest of all - forgetting. This step is forgiveness's forgetting. I don't know about you but this is something I find extremely difficult to accomplish. I have a very long memory.
Yet, I'd like to think there is a partial caveat in this - we need to forget the feelings. To forget what happened may be beyond us but we can move beyond how we felt.... if we choose. Whether our reactive emotion was humiliation, anger, or any other similar one - we need to move beyond what happened. Granted there is the scripture about not casting our pearls before swine, but we are not to see the offending party in that light.
Their action may have been purposeful or retaliatory or impulse but we have the responsibility to 'give them another chance'. Admittedly our trust level has plummeted but we still need to give them the opportunity of 'redemption'. Why? Because that's what we need as well. And scripture is very clear that we won't be forgiven if we don't forgive.
We do have an example of what we are to do. According to scripture, we are to forgive 70 times 7. We see that God removes our sin, "...as far as the east is from the west..." and casts it into the sea of forgetfulness. We need to do that as well. If God CHOOSES to forget then we have to choose to forget. And we really can do this.
Forgiveness' forgetting is extremely freeing. We lose all that baggage that goes with our hurt feelings. At some point, if you choose this step, you will find that you've become stronger because of the experience. Easy? Hardly. Worth the time? Absolutely.
Yet, I'd like to think there is a partial caveat in this - we need to forget the feelings. To forget what happened may be beyond us but we can move beyond how we felt.... if we choose. Whether our reactive emotion was humiliation, anger, or any other similar one - we need to move beyond what happened. Granted there is the scripture about not casting our pearls before swine, but we are not to see the offending party in that light.
Their action may have been purposeful or retaliatory or impulse but we have the responsibility to 'give them another chance'. Admittedly our trust level has plummeted but we still need to give them the opportunity of 'redemption'. Why? Because that's what we need as well. And scripture is very clear that we won't be forgiven if we don't forgive.
We do have an example of what we are to do. According to scripture, we are to forgive 70 times 7. We see that God removes our sin, "...as far as the east is from the west..." and casts it into the sea of forgetfulness. We need to do that as well. If God CHOOSES to forget then we have to choose to forget. And we really can do this.
Forgiveness' forgetting is extremely freeing. We lose all that baggage that goes with our hurt feelings. At some point, if you choose this step, you will find that you've become stronger because of the experience. Easy? Hardly. Worth the time? Absolutely.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Forgiveness: Step 2
Whether your forgiveness of another is unilateral on your part or instigated through the other person seeking your forgiveness, the statement is only the first step in the forgiveness process. Forgiving is a process. Forgiveness is always a choice. However, the benefits far outweigh any negatives. And whether or not you realize it - forgiveness is always about you.
Forgiveness is an action. But I don't believe it's a one step action. While the first step is always a choice by you to forgive, the next step is to walk in forgiveness and that's considerably more difficult. The difficulty lies in the reality that we rarely forget. We remember what happened, how we felt.
Walking in forgiveness is a conscious act and decision to not hold whatever happened against the person who 'wronged' you (wronged, at least from your perspective - I am not going to address whether or not your perception is right, if you feel wronged then it occurred in your world). Even though you have initiated the behavior to forgive, this step requires strength of character. It is never automatic and more often than not, not easy.
Walking in forgiveness occurs every time we meet the person who 'wronged' us. And if we happen to be in their presence often, it doesn't get easier with the number of times this happens. Quite honestly, it's considerably easier when we rarely see the offending person. But even in this case, it doesn't change the need for Step 3. But to move to Step 3, we have to operate in Step 2 first - and it does need to become a habit.
Walking in forgiveness includes: not imparting an unspoken lack of forgiveness regardless of your previous words. Body language is important and you can't imply, subtly, that the other person is anathema to you. You can't give credence to gossip about them through listening to it or simply not replying to the words. You have to give everyone the impression that you have moved beyond what happened.
Walking in forgiveness is also a choice. But part of the reason to do this lies in our relationship with the Father. How can we expect, ask for forgiveness from Him if we don't forgive those who wrong us? We can't. Scripture clearly states that before we can ask for forgiveness from what we did or didn't do, we must first forgive our brother. And forgiveness is always more than just words.
Forgiveness is an action. But I don't believe it's a one step action. While the first step is always a choice by you to forgive, the next step is to walk in forgiveness and that's considerably more difficult. The difficulty lies in the reality that we rarely forget. We remember what happened, how we felt.
Walking in forgiveness is a conscious act and decision to not hold whatever happened against the person who 'wronged' you (wronged, at least from your perspective - I am not going to address whether or not your perception is right, if you feel wronged then it occurred in your world). Even though you have initiated the behavior to forgive, this step requires strength of character. It is never automatic and more often than not, not easy.
Walking in forgiveness occurs every time we meet the person who 'wronged' us. And if we happen to be in their presence often, it doesn't get easier with the number of times this happens. Quite honestly, it's considerably easier when we rarely see the offending person. But even in this case, it doesn't change the need for Step 3. But to move to Step 3, we have to operate in Step 2 first - and it does need to become a habit.
Walking in forgiveness includes: not imparting an unspoken lack of forgiveness regardless of your previous words. Body language is important and you can't imply, subtly, that the other person is anathema to you. You can't give credence to gossip about them through listening to it or simply not replying to the words. You have to give everyone the impression that you have moved beyond what happened.
Walking in forgiveness is also a choice. But part of the reason to do this lies in our relationship with the Father. How can we expect, ask for forgiveness from Him if we don't forgive those who wrong us? We can't. Scripture clearly states that before we can ask for forgiveness from what we did or didn't do, we must first forgive our brother. And forgiveness is always more than just words.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Christianity is a Relationship - Part 2
Now we address some of the more difficult aspects when Christianity is viewed as a Relationship. One huge aspect are the requirements. And these we have to accept in order to be in relationship. So.... exactly what is required of us to be in relationship?
Interestingly, much of what our relationship with God entails relates to how we interact with each other. But that's for Part 3 - this is looking at the requirements in terms of our relationship with God. He really gave us this answer thousands of years ago when He gave the 10 commandments to Moses.
Love is the primary requirement. Love does no harm, but love is also strong. Love speaks the truth and doesn't mitigate it, but it doesn't batter. And love is the basis of our relationship with the Father. We do that through having no other gods before Him. We do that through loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind.
Having no other gods is a gargantuan statement as we are all prone to placing other things and people as gods in our lives. Example: our job, money, status, our 'toys', our family, etc. Nowhere does it state that we can't have those things, it merely states that those things can't have us. When we make them our focus, our god then we are owned by them. This is not a simple thing for us to do but it is critical. Our God has to be God or we aren't in relationship.
But love is an action word. We see love in action when we see that it was the Father's love first when He gave His only son to be our entry into relationship. And we see love in action when we witness Jesus's acceptance of that mission so that in Him we have redemption, we have restoration. We were loved first - the initiation to relationship came from God.... not from us.
Interestingly, much of what our relationship with God entails relates to how we interact with each other. But that's for Part 3 - this is looking at the requirements in terms of our relationship with God. He really gave us this answer thousands of years ago when He gave the 10 commandments to Moses.
Love is the primary requirement. Love does no harm, but love is also strong. Love speaks the truth and doesn't mitigate it, but it doesn't batter. And love is the basis of our relationship with the Father. We do that through having no other gods before Him. We do that through loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind.
Having no other gods is a gargantuan statement as we are all prone to placing other things and people as gods in our lives. Example: our job, money, status, our 'toys', our family, etc. Nowhere does it state that we can't have those things, it merely states that those things can't have us. When we make them our focus, our god then we are owned by them. This is not a simple thing for us to do but it is critical. Our God has to be God or we aren't in relationship.
But love is an action word. We see love in action when we see that it was the Father's love first when He gave His only son to be our entry into relationship. And we see love in action when we witness Jesus's acceptance of that mission so that in Him we have redemption, we have restoration. We were loved first - the initiation to relationship came from God.... not from us.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Christianity is a Relationship - Part 1
Christianity is first and foremost a relationship. It has never been a 'religion'. And that, is something that people find hard to comprehend. Actually it would be far simpler if Christianity was a religion - then it couldn't touch us.
I profoundly believe that people, for the most part, don't understand (or want?) how Christianity can be a relationship because that makes it personal. And we all tend to really want God to be waaaay out there - to be revered by those who believe but not to be involved in our day-to-day living. I even believe that this was part of the problem with Satan - he wanted reverence, preferably obsequious, and when this wasn't how God functioned then he went off the deep end.
When you view Christianity as a relationship then this places 'requirements' on us. Actually it places requirements on the relationship. However, God foresaw that and gave guidelines for how the relationship could function. And when He saw that we were having difficulty in developing this kind of relationship, He sent Jesus to provide us a model.
Yes, Jesus is our savior, our only way into relationship but He is far more than that, fantastic as it is. Jesus is also a model of what a relationship with the Father can be. I find it incredibly awesome (and I rarely use that word) that God was as interested in developing a relationship with us as He was in saving us. I still have trouble getting my head around that reality.
I profoundly believe that people, for the most part, don't understand (or want?) how Christianity can be a relationship because that makes it personal. And we all tend to really want God to be waaaay out there - to be revered by those who believe but not to be involved in our day-to-day living. I even believe that this was part of the problem with Satan - he wanted reverence, preferably obsequious, and when this wasn't how God functioned then he went off the deep end.
When you view Christianity as a relationship then this places 'requirements' on us. Actually it places requirements on the relationship. However, God foresaw that and gave guidelines for how the relationship could function. And when He saw that we were having difficulty in developing this kind of relationship, He sent Jesus to provide us a model.
Yes, Jesus is our savior, our only way into relationship but He is far more than that, fantastic as it is. Jesus is also a model of what a relationship with the Father can be. I find it incredibly awesome (and I rarely use that word) that God was as interested in developing a relationship with us as He was in saving us. I still have trouble getting my head around that reality.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Age
It seems that every generation, in some fashion, idolizes the young. Perhaps it's a memory of one's own youth and lost youth that stimulates this. The young are glamorized for their innocence, their passion, their willingness to 'think outside the box', their daring, their zest for life. And they are amusingly admonished for their belief that they are indestructible. I know that when I was young I never thought I was invincible... actually, I never thought about it period.
And yes, there are those who denigrate the young. Those who, simply because the other person is young, ignore or ridicule what the young say and do. They point out the errors, mistakes, stupidity that can and do occur with youth. And they are wrong, just like those who idolize the young are wrong.
It appears we have a love/hate relationship with age. On the one hand we don't think the young have something to offer because they are young and on the other hand we don't think that someone older has enough of a 'current' grasp. We shouldn't castigate anyone because of their age, or lack. Simply because one is older doesn't automatically make them wise. And, simply because one is older doesn't automatically make any thoughts or ideas offered as 'old fashion' or irrelevant.
The young are... young. They've yet to taste and feel all that life has to offer with all the attendant joys and sorrows. And that's perfectly all right. One learns as one experiences and understand. And all that takes time.
Age is like a good wine. It can taste quite good even when it is not yet fully developed. And, as it matures it can be come an excellent vintage. The opposite is also true - it can start out bad and never develop. Truth is... it depends on the grape.
And yes, there are those who denigrate the young. Those who, simply because the other person is young, ignore or ridicule what the young say and do. They point out the errors, mistakes, stupidity that can and do occur with youth. And they are wrong, just like those who idolize the young are wrong.
It appears we have a love/hate relationship with age. On the one hand we don't think the young have something to offer because they are young and on the other hand we don't think that someone older has enough of a 'current' grasp. We shouldn't castigate anyone because of their age, or lack. Simply because one is older doesn't automatically make them wise. And, simply because one is older doesn't automatically make any thoughts or ideas offered as 'old fashion' or irrelevant.
The young are... young. They've yet to taste and feel all that life has to offer with all the attendant joys and sorrows. And that's perfectly all right. One learns as one experiences and understand. And all that takes time.
Age is like a good wine. It can taste quite good even when it is not yet fully developed. And, as it matures it can be come an excellent vintage. The opposite is also true - it can start out bad and never develop. Truth is... it depends on the grape.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Comfort Zone
Do you know yours? You may not know what/where it is but you certainly know when you're not in it. There should be a caveat in this - moving out of your comfort zone shouldn't be willy nilly. Not sure what the point in that would be. Personally, I think that taking chances for the sake of taking chances is stupid. I would also contend that no one can force you out of your c-z, but circumstances can. Thus, the only 'reasoned' movement is when you choose to move from comfort to the unknown.
The advantage to movement? Multiple: it tests your ability to adjust/adapt to change. It gives you a whole new set of opportunities/options in which to respond to the change. If you are choosing it then you may have the ability to determine the time, place, and method. The point in all this is growth - in increased understanding of who you are, and your ability to make reasoned choices, rather than forced choices.
The difficulty arises when movement is thrust upon you. This typically happens when you least expect it or are the most unprepared for change. However, to expect the status quo to continue indefinitely is really not very logical. Change is always the order of life, how/what is yours to determine.... never if.
The advantage to movement? Multiple: it tests your ability to adjust/adapt to change. It gives you a whole new set of opportunities/options in which to respond to the change. If you are choosing it then you may have the ability to determine the time, place, and method. The point in all this is growth - in increased understanding of who you are, and your ability to make reasoned choices, rather than forced choices.
The difficulty arises when movement is thrust upon you. This typically happens when you least expect it or are the most unprepared for change. However, to expect the status quo to continue indefinitely is really not very logical. Change is always the order of life, how/what is yours to determine.... never if.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Trusting (in) ... Believing (for) - difference?
I was thinking about those 2 phrases - really the same thing? Maybe..... maybe not. Sorry to get sophomoric but it does depend on how you define the words. And, yes, it is important to know the difference.
My definitions are: 'believing' has an element of hope attached to it. I do believe in/for whatever but I also hope. 'Trusting' has a larger dose of confidence - I know that what I'm trusting in/for will come about though I don't know the timeline or method. Obviously 'trust' is stronger according to my definitions.
Why the emphasis on two extremely similar concepts? Because I believe it is critical to know your own level of commitment, your own level of knowing related to ... whatever it is. Example: I may believe for someone's conversion but if I trust that it will happen then I will partner with the current 'conditions' to enhance the opportunity.
Perhaps simplistic but believe is more passive while trust is more active. And 'no' I don't believe prayer is passive. Quite the contrary. Prayer is typically the mode of expression for both but 'believing' prayer is more passionate because it is based in hope. And 'trusting' prayer is more factual since it sees the end from the beginning.
So... believing for? .... trusting in? Both are important. We need to know which we are doing so we pray accordingly.
My definitions are: 'believing' has an element of hope attached to it. I do believe in/for whatever but I also hope. 'Trusting' has a larger dose of confidence - I know that what I'm trusting in/for will come about though I don't know the timeline or method. Obviously 'trust' is stronger according to my definitions.
Why the emphasis on two extremely similar concepts? Because I believe it is critical to know your own level of commitment, your own level of knowing related to ... whatever it is. Example: I may believe for someone's conversion but if I trust that it will happen then I will partner with the current 'conditions' to enhance the opportunity.
Perhaps simplistic but believe is more passive while trust is more active. And 'no' I don't believe prayer is passive. Quite the contrary. Prayer is typically the mode of expression for both but 'believing' prayer is more passionate because it is based in hope. And 'trusting' prayer is more factual since it sees the end from the beginning.
So... believing for? .... trusting in? Both are important. We need to know which we are doing so we pray accordingly.
First day
If today is the first day of the rest of your life.... then.... what are you doing with the rest of your life? Maybe I should be asking: what does this phrase mean to you, for you? Is it a yawn? Is it the chance for a new start? Is it a tad scary? Is it empowering? And those are only some of the possible reactions.
The last thing this revelation should be is crippling. What this concept does is to give us all 'another chance'/a clean slate and, for me, I can use all the 2nd/3rd/etc. chances I get. Paul in one of his letters talks about doing the things that he didn't want to do and not doing the things he did want to do. This is true for all of us. But if we consider, 'first day', as a time to start anew then we become empowered to be our better self.
The last thing this revelation should be is crippling. What this concept does is to give us all 'another chance'/a clean slate and, for me, I can use all the 2nd/3rd/etc. chances I get. Paul in one of his letters talks about doing the things that he didn't want to do and not doing the things he did want to do. This is true for all of us. But if we consider, 'first day', as a time to start anew then we become empowered to be our better self.
It really is our mindset that determines how we react to/interact with this concept. It's not that with a clean slate we are wiping out yesterday because yesterday should be our motivation for today. If we didn't do what we wanted/'shoulda' then now we can look to today to not repeat the mistakes of yesterday. If it was one of those lovely days that we did do what we wanted/shoulda then we can look at that behavior as a positive, a possible repeat and learn from it.
A corollary to this is... do we give others the opportunity for second chances? Do they 'deserve' that first day grace? And I'm not suggesting that you forget what happened, just that you consider that they should have the opportunity to 'correct' and improve.
One thing we can't do is to look on this as a time to change the consequences of yesterday's actions (or lack of actions). It happened, it was. it must be dealt with, and it can't be forgotten but... Yesterday was, 'first day' is a new start.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Your best gift
Have you ever considered that you have a gift to give and it really is your choice as to whom, or even if, you give it to? To be honest.... it really is the only gift of worth that you have to offer. And, the recipient always has the right to refuse your offer. There is also another caveat in this.... once you've given the gift and it's been accepted you relinquish all control over it.
Dilemma?
One of the first questions you have to answer is - to whom do you offer the gift? To your family? To your friends? To your 'work'? To God? Who will safeguard your gift, actually cherish it? Because your gift is - you, warts and all. Whoever and whatever you are at that moment in time is your gift. And this is a very priceless gift.
I suspect that you can also give 'portions' of your gift - not the whole. Not really certain how this is accomplished, but you can attempt to retain some level of control -but then you really haven't given the gift. But what's the point? IF you are to give a gift, you need to relinquish your control, your rights over it, otherwise it really isn't a gift.
In giving your gift, since you do relinquish control, I understand that this places you in a very vulnerable position. Reality is that gift can be misplaced, misused or misinterpreted. Actually the only truly safe harbor for your gift is the Lord. He doesn't misplace or misuse you, actually He enhances you.
I've always found that when I've given me to something, someone that I have to allow them the 'right' to hurt me. That's very uncomfortable basically because typically I do end up hurt in some way. But when I finally gave myself completely (or at least as completely as I know how) to the Lord, my vulnerability is protected. More important, to me, is that I've grown and that is valuable.
The last question is.... if you don't give your gift, what are you doing with it?
Dilemma?
One of the first questions you have to answer is - to whom do you offer the gift? To your family? To your friends? To your 'work'? To God? Who will safeguard your gift, actually cherish it? Because your gift is - you, warts and all. Whoever and whatever you are at that moment in time is your gift. And this is a very priceless gift.
I suspect that you can also give 'portions' of your gift - not the whole. Not really certain how this is accomplished, but you can attempt to retain some level of control -but then you really haven't given the gift. But what's the point? IF you are to give a gift, you need to relinquish your control, your rights over it, otherwise it really isn't a gift.
In giving your gift, since you do relinquish control, I understand that this places you in a very vulnerable position. Reality is that gift can be misplaced, misused or misinterpreted. Actually the only truly safe harbor for your gift is the Lord. He doesn't misplace or misuse you, actually He enhances you.
I've always found that when I've given me to something, someone that I have to allow them the 'right' to hurt me. That's very uncomfortable basically because typically I do end up hurt in some way. But when I finally gave myself completely (or at least as completely as I know how) to the Lord, my vulnerability is protected. More important, to me, is that I've grown and that is valuable.
The last question is.... if you don't give your gift, what are you doing with it?
Monday, June 7, 2010
Accused! Are you guilty?
The following charges come from behavior and/or actions of the accused that have been observed. There may be other charges that will emerge, but these are the predominant ones. The question that remains is to each 'charge' are you guilty or not?
1. Helping. The accused has been seen offering help and assistance to others. This has been an indiscriminate use of help and wasn't simply to the accused family and friends. The helping took many forms from providing funds to sharing a meal to giving comfort when the other person was obviously under duress.
Are you guilty?
2. Giving. The accused has been providing a tenth of his/her income to sustain the work of the church. Plus there have been occasions when there was financial giving above and beyond the ten per cent. Also the accused has given of time and energy to see the work of the kingdom advanced in many different ways.
Are you guilty?
3. Forgiving. The accused has shown a forgiving behavior toward others who have hurt him/her through not holding those actions against them. Many times the accused has worked with the other person when it was apparent that the person repeated the offending behavior.
Are you guilty?
4. Joyful. The accused typically reacts to others with a joyful attitude and a lightheartedness. This transparent behavior appears to be in effect regardless of the current physical or social condition of the accused. In their meetings this is often seen in how the accused greets others, how they worship, and in other very observable behaviors.
Are you guilty?
5. Love. It appears that the accused attempts to treat others with love, thinking of their best but still not mitigating the truth. The primary basis the accused attempts to act upon is an unconditional love and acceptance.
Are you guilty?
1. Helping. The accused has been seen offering help and assistance to others. This has been an indiscriminate use of help and wasn't simply to the accused family and friends. The helping took many forms from providing funds to sharing a meal to giving comfort when the other person was obviously under duress.
Are you guilty?
2. Giving. The accused has been providing a tenth of his/her income to sustain the work of the church. Plus there have been occasions when there was financial giving above and beyond the ten per cent. Also the accused has given of time and energy to see the work of the kingdom advanced in many different ways.
Are you guilty?
3. Forgiving. The accused has shown a forgiving behavior toward others who have hurt him/her through not holding those actions against them. Many times the accused has worked with the other person when it was apparent that the person repeated the offending behavior.
Are you guilty?
4. Joyful. The accused typically reacts to others with a joyful attitude and a lightheartedness. This transparent behavior appears to be in effect regardless of the current physical or social condition of the accused. In their meetings this is often seen in how the accused greets others, how they worship, and in other very observable behaviors.
Are you guilty?
5. Love. It appears that the accused attempts to treat others with love, thinking of their best but still not mitigating the truth. The primary basis the accused attempts to act upon is an unconditional love and acceptance.
Are you guilty?
Friday, June 4, 2010
This is YOUR time...
Seriously - have you ever thought about the fact that since you are alive right now that this is your time? You are uniquely placed right now, right here. It isn't an accident that you were born for this time and you do have a mission to fulfill... if you choose to accept it.
I must admit I always liked that line from "Mission Impossible" because in the final analysis it always is up to us to accept or decline the mission. We may be brought to this time, this place but ultimately it is our decision to accept, or not. And the mission never hides, it is always front and center. A mission is not 'cute' in that it teases us to find it. A mission is born in the heart and soul of a person.
A mission is a God-given assignment. It may last for a short time or it may be a lifetime. But you always know the life of a mission because a new one is always birthed in your heart and mind as the current mission is ending. Being human we often tend to hold on to a mission even after its time is finished because it does give us meaning and identity. And everyone searches for meaning.
A mission is always exciting, always fulfilling and it is always, if it truly is a mission from God, fruitful. That is the key to knowing if the mission is one we'd made or one that God assigned - is it fruitful. In every mission we may not know the end from the beginning but we are always equipped - that's another key. God will always stretch us to our full potential but He will never leave us unprepared. Notice that I didn't use the word - easy. A mission may be or become difficult, but it never is impossible. And that too is a key.
So, if you aren't in a mission at this moment then take the time to stay prepared: pray, read the word, show yourself a workman prepared for every good work. The mission will always show itself... when it is your time.
I must admit I always liked that line from "Mission Impossible" because in the final analysis it always is up to us to accept or decline the mission. We may be brought to this time, this place but ultimately it is our decision to accept, or not. And the mission never hides, it is always front and center. A mission is not 'cute' in that it teases us to find it. A mission is born in the heart and soul of a person.
A mission is a God-given assignment. It may last for a short time or it may be a lifetime. But you always know the life of a mission because a new one is always birthed in your heart and mind as the current mission is ending. Being human we often tend to hold on to a mission even after its time is finished because it does give us meaning and identity. And everyone searches for meaning.
A mission is always exciting, always fulfilling and it is always, if it truly is a mission from God, fruitful. That is the key to knowing if the mission is one we'd made or one that God assigned - is it fruitful. In every mission we may not know the end from the beginning but we are always equipped - that's another key. God will always stretch us to our full potential but He will never leave us unprepared. Notice that I didn't use the word - easy. A mission may be or become difficult, but it never is impossible. And that too is a key.
So, if you aren't in a mission at this moment then take the time to stay prepared: pray, read the word, show yourself a workman prepared for every good work. The mission will always show itself... when it is your time.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Foundation
Do you know what your foundation is? When the 'rubber meets the road' what is your basis for moving on? Whatever your foundation is, it not only stops the fall it provides the basis for starting again. Without a solid foundation you live life on a slippery slope or in shifting sands.
For those who choose to make the Lord their foundation, it is considerably more solid then the transient other choices. Example: if you choose your job, you could lose it through layoffs, the position being dispensed with, or being fired. What seemed permanent isn't. If you choose your friends - they, or you, could move away, you could get in a tift, or you just drift apart. Again, not permanent. Quite honestly, there is no permanence. You can't find any stability in this constantly changing society.
Except - the Lord doesn't change. He even promises that in His word. He also states that He shows no partiality - He won't care for/love someone else more than you. And best of all... you don't have to earn any of that. It's His free gift to you. Plus He is the only, as in ONLY, one that can do this - He is the only one who chose to die so that you could have an abundant life. But don't look at 'abundant' with natural eyes The Lord's gifts stand the test of time and continue. And they are yours.
He is the only one that did choose to die but also to rise again to provide you everlasting life. A life now and a life when you go home to be with Him. At the end of the day, and at the beginning too, where your foundation rests will either sustain you or wash away.
For those who choose to make the Lord their foundation, it is considerably more solid then the transient other choices. Example: if you choose your job, you could lose it through layoffs, the position being dispensed with, or being fired. What seemed permanent isn't. If you choose your friends - they, or you, could move away, you could get in a tift, or you just drift apart. Again, not permanent. Quite honestly, there is no permanence. You can't find any stability in this constantly changing society.
Except - the Lord doesn't change. He even promises that in His word. He also states that He shows no partiality - He won't care for/love someone else more than you. And best of all... you don't have to earn any of that. It's His free gift to you. Plus He is the only, as in ONLY, one that can do this - He is the only one who chose to die so that you could have an abundant life. But don't look at 'abundant' with natural eyes The Lord's gifts stand the test of time and continue. And they are yours.
He is the only one that did choose to die but also to rise again to provide you everlasting life. A life now and a life when you go home to be with Him. At the end of the day, and at the beginning too, where your foundation rests will either sustain you or wash away.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
How do we/I/you invest your...
This, ..., is a fill in the blank. And it really is all of the following: time, resources, money, energy... life. When you stop for a moment and really consider how you spend each of the following you'll find a theme, a focus that really identifies and defines you. (And yes, I know I've spoken about this previously but it keeps reoccurring.)
Anyone can say that they are ... but is there evidence to support the claim? When you look at how you spend your time and your money, etc. does it confirm that whatever your ... is, can it be substantiated? Your ... is your words of who you are: family person, Christian, sports player, workaholic, etc. How you actually spend your time, resources, etc. will tell you exactly how much you are who and what you say your are.
Too often we see 'invest' as only the monetary component. But how we spend our time, our energy speak volumes as well - and it is an investment. And many times this investment is more indicative of who we really are. Example: if you say you are a family person but never spend any time with your family because 'other commitments' require your time and energy - are you really a family person? It does beg the question. Bottom line is that we always have, or take, time for the things that are really important to/for us.
So... what motivates you? What is important to you? What do you invest in? Those answers give you invaluable information. Because... if they aren't what/who you say you are then which are you going to change? Your words? Or.... your behavior?
Anyone can say that they are ... but is there evidence to support the claim? When you look at how you spend your time and your money, etc. does it confirm that whatever your ... is, can it be substantiated? Your ... is your words of who you are: family person, Christian, sports player, workaholic, etc. How you actually spend your time, resources, etc. will tell you exactly how much you are who and what you say your are.
Too often we see 'invest' as only the monetary component. But how we spend our time, our energy speak volumes as well - and it is an investment. And many times this investment is more indicative of who we really are. Example: if you say you are a family person but never spend any time with your family because 'other commitments' require your time and energy - are you really a family person? It does beg the question. Bottom line is that we always have, or take, time for the things that are really important to/for us.
So... what motivates you? What is important to you? What do you invest in? Those answers give you invaluable information. Because... if they aren't what/who you say you are then which are you going to change? Your words? Or.... your behavior?
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