As we celebrate the birth of Christ and the hope that He alone can offer, let us remember the families in Newtown, Connecticut, and pray that God will supernaturally draw near to them in their time of deep, deep loss. Our hearts are broken for them. Those who lost their most precious little ones and other family members have seen their world shattered. From now on, the Christmas holidays will always bring back painful memories and thoughts of how old their loved one would be if they were still here. They will always wonder what they would be like at that age. Jesus and love-filled people are the only ones who can help lessen the pain these families are experiencing.
Satan is the author and instigator of all evil. He is the very personification of it. Even those who doubt or deny God cannot deny there is an obvious force of evil present in our world. Jesus said Satan is the father of all lies and, above all, a thief and murderer. He seeks to destroy life—every precious aspect of it. When he is in control, he continually manifests despicable, unimaginable acts defying all logic.
We are right to be abhorred by unspeakable brutality and murder of the innocent and the helpless. Such was the case a week ago when those little children and adults were murdered senselessly. Yes, it was demonic. No, the devil didn’t make him do it. The murderer made a horrible choice, seemingly the result of terrible mental, psychological, and emotional disturbance.
Such is the case when the resistance and clear-mindedness on anyone’s part has been compromised and diminished. Many things can negatively impact our spiritual and mental condition to some degree: addiction to alcohol or drugs, damaging emotions such as bitterness or envy, emotional or physical exhaustion. It can even be the result of self-intoxication, as with Herod at the time of Christ’s birth. He ordered the murder of all little boys under two years old in Bethlehem (Matt. 2:16). Satanic? Yes. Demonic? Yes. Even so, it was Herod’s choice to act on his evil schemes. Satan so detests freedom and godliness that he seeks to destroy any deliverer or possibility of deliverance.
In the fatherless home and the dysfunctional community I grew up in, you cannot imagine the suggestions other kids made to me, along with the fiery darts (horrific suggestions) Satan fired my way. I was vulnerable; but thanks be to God, praying Christians, a pastor and his wife who never forgot the boy they cared for the first few years of my life, and then the witness of committed Christian teenagers led me to the Christ whose birth we’re about to celebrate. I am convinced that the prayers of others (even before my conversion to Christ) helped prevent me from giving into violent impulses, especially when my alcoholic father threatened to take my life. Sadly, some choose to give in to their anger and act out in unimaginable ways.
Jesus is the answer. He was my answer and He is the sole answer for those who have been devastated by the events last week. Only a great God and a loving heavenly Father can give the people of Newtown the ultimate comfort they long for and must have. Caring neighbors, friends, and other Christians will seek to lighten their load and brighten their future. We rightly celebrate the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, because He is the only way to overcome evil and the evil one. He alone can direct our steps and help us build wise, secure walls of protection.
God’s Word should be our hedge of security. He wants His Word to be written in our hearts, not just carried in our hands. He wants His Word to carry and lead us and, as Paul said, write “letters in the hearts of other men’s lives” as a result of our consistent Christian testimony.
In addition to celebrating His birth, we need to praise God for the resurrection life He offers each day! Jesus came to overcome the evil one and to give us the ability to be delivered from that despicable, damaging influence. Because Christ was born and now lives, we live. May others see Jesus living in us.
Thirty years ago when I experienced a marvelous deliverance from the power of demonic assault due to spiritual burnout and physical exhaustion, I was undoubtedly vulnerable. During the time following my deliverance, God clearly revealed that in the last days evil will wax worse. Satan’s nature will be more obviously manifested than at any time in history with indescribable, unfathomable, despicable acts of evil. But the opposite of that is true also. The church (true Christians - fully devoted followers of Christ), will become more like Jesus than in any time in history because He is coming for a fit and ready bride that looks and behaves like Him. At Christ’s return, Satan will be destroyed, but until then, believers must stand suited up in the whole armor of God resisting evil on every front. We can be forever triumphant by snatching victory from the jaws of defeat when we allow the love, hope, and peace of Christ to prevail.
Jesus is God’s answer to man’s weakness and evil’s intention. Christmas and the rest of His story can become our story. Jesus took this broken, fatherless, and impoverished boy writing this commentary and delivered me from destruction and the intentions of the evil one. He will do the same for all who receive Him and follow Him with their whole heart. Jesus is the light that pierces the darkness. He offers strength beyond ourselves and grants us the grace and ability to share the hope, joy, and peace that only He can give in the face of the most challenging possible circumstances. Just as the shepherds and wise men followed the light of the Star of Bethlehem, we must follow the light of the forever bright and Morning Star – Jesus!
May you have a Christ-honoring Christmas and a God-honoring New Year!
(Via James Robison)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, December 31, 2012
Thursday, December 6, 2012
The Promise of Christmas
God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures. The Good News is about his Son. . . Romans 1:2-3
I have always believed in the promise of Christmas. There is something very special, wonderful, even magical (in the best use of that word) at this time of year. And that goes back to my earliest childhood.
With Christmas, we have a sense of wonder, beauty, and anticipation. We look forward to being with loved ones, family and friends, and eating incredible food. It is a wonderful time of the year. It is also a time that is marked, for the most part, by an absence of meanness. There is a kindness that people will demonstrate toward one another, even strangers.
But here is the question: Does Christmas really deliver on its promises? It does sometimes—a little bit here and a little bit there. But for the most part, Christmas doesn't really deliver. In fact, what it does deliver is a lot of difficulty. If you are a man, your blood pressure will go up dramatically at this time of the year. A study was done by a British psychologist who found that Christmas shopping is actually hazardous for men's health, due to its elevating effects on blood pressure. The same study also revealed that women's blood pressure remained unaffected by the holiday shopping ritual.
So what is Christmas at its worst? It is a crass, commercial, empty, exhausting, and very expensive event that drags on for months at a time. And what is Christmas at its best? It is a glimpse of something that is coming: the beauty . . . the wonderful music . . . the adoring angels . . . the love . . . the warmth . . . the promise . . . the hope. Because when you get down to it, Christmas is a promise. It is a promise of things to come.
(Via Greg Laurie) Be Blessed! Dawn
I have always believed in the promise of Christmas. There is something very special, wonderful, even magical (in the best use of that word) at this time of year. And that goes back to my earliest childhood.
With Christmas, we have a sense of wonder, beauty, and anticipation. We look forward to being with loved ones, family and friends, and eating incredible food. It is a wonderful time of the year. It is also a time that is marked, for the most part, by an absence of meanness. There is a kindness that people will demonstrate toward one another, even strangers.
But here is the question: Does Christmas really deliver on its promises? It does sometimes—a little bit here and a little bit there. But for the most part, Christmas doesn't really deliver. In fact, what it does deliver is a lot of difficulty. If you are a man, your blood pressure will go up dramatically at this time of the year. A study was done by a British psychologist who found that Christmas shopping is actually hazardous for men's health, due to its elevating effects on blood pressure. The same study also revealed that women's blood pressure remained unaffected by the holiday shopping ritual.
So what is Christmas at its worst? It is a crass, commercial, empty, exhausting, and very expensive event that drags on for months at a time. And what is Christmas at its best? It is a glimpse of something that is coming: the beauty . . . the wonderful music . . . the adoring angels . . . the love . . . the warmth . . . the promise . . . the hope. Because when you get down to it, Christmas is a promise. It is a promise of things to come.
(Via Greg Laurie) Be Blessed! Dawn
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
The Spirit Of The Age
You He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world. —Ephesians 2:1-2
Every age has its own thoughts, ideas, and values that influence the culture, the “spirit of the age.” It is the kind of growing consensus that morally lulls us to sleep, gradually easing out biblical principles and causing us to accept society’s latest values. The shifting of the Christmas season from one of celebrating and focusing on the birth of God's greatest gift to us, to a time of competition, commercialism and marketing is a prime example.
The apostle Paul called this corrupting atmosphere the “course of this world.” Describing the lives of the believers at Ephesus before they encountered Christ, he said that they were “dead in trespasses and sins” and “walked according to the course of this world” (Eph. 2:1-2). This is the world’s peer pressure—a satanically inspired system of values and ideas that cultivates a lifestyle that is independent of God.
Jesus intends for us to live in the world (John 17:15), so worldly influence is nearly impossible to escape. But He’s given us His Word to so permeate our thinking that we don’t have to become conformed to the world’s values (Rom. 12:1-2). Instead, God helps us walk in His light (Eph. 5:8), in the Spirit (Gal. 5:25), in love (Eph. 5:2), in truth (3 John 4), and in Christ (Col. 2:6).
As we walk in God’s power and spend time in His Word, He gives us the strength to live according to kingdom values and not the spirit of the age.
Although Christians live in this world, their allegiance is to Christ and His kingdom. (Via Dennis Fisher) Be Blessed! Dawn
Every age has its own thoughts, ideas, and values that influence the culture, the “spirit of the age.” It is the kind of growing consensus that morally lulls us to sleep, gradually easing out biblical principles and causing us to accept society’s latest values. The shifting of the Christmas season from one of celebrating and focusing on the birth of God's greatest gift to us, to a time of competition, commercialism and marketing is a prime example.
The apostle Paul called this corrupting atmosphere the “course of this world.” Describing the lives of the believers at Ephesus before they encountered Christ, he said that they were “dead in trespasses and sins” and “walked according to the course of this world” (Eph. 2:1-2). This is the world’s peer pressure—a satanically inspired system of values and ideas that cultivates a lifestyle that is independent of God.
Jesus intends for us to live in the world (John 17:15), so worldly influence is nearly impossible to escape. But He’s given us His Word to so permeate our thinking that we don’t have to become conformed to the world’s values (Rom. 12:1-2). Instead, God helps us walk in His light (Eph. 5:8), in the Spirit (Gal. 5:25), in love (Eph. 5:2), in truth (3 John 4), and in Christ (Col. 2:6).
As we walk in God’s power and spend time in His Word, He gives us the strength to live according to kingdom values and not the spirit of the age.
Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son.You have made
us alive in Christ and now we
have a new kind of thinking that differs from the world.
Teach us Your kingdom’s values that we might
learn to walk in love. In Jesus's name, Amen.
Although Christians live in this world, their allegiance is to Christ and His kingdom. (Via Dennis Fisher) Be Blessed! Dawn
Friday, November 30, 2012
Know the Right Savior
21) Not everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22) On that day many will say to me, “Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?” 23) And then will I declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.” —Matthew 7:21-23
Sometimes, the people with the most exposure to the Gospel are the least likely to think they need the Good News. Oh, they may say that Christ is their Savior because it’s the right thing to say, but a personal relationship may be lacking. Because they have such knowledge of how they should live according to biblical principles, many times they think they are saved when in fact, they are not. It is very possible to live so “above” others morally that we don’t see how desperately we need a Savior. Why? Because people become their own savior without even realizing it.
You can speak the right language and not know your Savior. You can know the right biblical answers and not know your Savior. You can look and act the part of a Christian, bringing others to know their Savior, and still not have the right Savior.
It is just our natural bent to want to be our own savior. That’s why these verses in Matthew can be so convicting. Every time we read them, it should stop us in our tracks and make us evaluate just who or what is our savior. We must be mindful that how we live is a testimony or witness to who we serve.
Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:1, “To walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” The keys words are worthy and called. How we act is hugely important for the reputation of the Lord who called us. We wear His name on us at all times. If you are a parent, think of how you feel when your kids do something that is just awful. What’s goes through your mind? Right or wrong, you probably think of how their behavior makes you look. It’s no different with how our behavior can sling mud on the reputation of our Heavenly Father. This is one reason why behavior matters.
Now go back to the verses above. Read them slowly and ask yourself if how you live is for your own reputation or for that of God. If you call yourself a Christian, why you act the way you do, whether it’s good or bad, reflects on the true nature of that relationship. You just might need to know the right Savior.
Journal: What motivates me to live like I do?
What excuses do I give myself to act sinfully? Does my bad behavior ever make my Father look appealing to others?
(Via Trent Griffith)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Sometimes, the people with the most exposure to the Gospel are the least likely to think they need the Good News. Oh, they may say that Christ is their Savior because it’s the right thing to say, but a personal relationship may be lacking. Because they have such knowledge of how they should live according to biblical principles, many times they think they are saved when in fact, they are not. It is very possible to live so “above” others morally that we don’t see how desperately we need a Savior. Why? Because people become their own savior without even realizing it.
You can speak the right language and not know your Savior. You can know the right biblical answers and not know your Savior. You can look and act the part of a Christian, bringing others to know their Savior, and still not have the right Savior.
It is just our natural bent to want to be our own savior. That’s why these verses in Matthew can be so convicting. Every time we read them, it should stop us in our tracks and make us evaluate just who or what is our savior. We must be mindful that how we live is a testimony or witness to who we serve.
Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:1, “To walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” The keys words are worthy and called. How we act is hugely important for the reputation of the Lord who called us. We wear His name on us at all times. If you are a parent, think of how you feel when your kids do something that is just awful. What’s goes through your mind? Right or wrong, you probably think of how their behavior makes you look. It’s no different with how our behavior can sling mud on the reputation of our Heavenly Father. This is one reason why behavior matters.
Now go back to the verses above. Read them slowly and ask yourself if how you live is for your own reputation or for that of God. If you call yourself a Christian, why you act the way you do, whether it’s good or bad, reflects on the true nature of that relationship. You just might need to know the right Savior.
Journal: What motivates me to live like I do?
What excuses do I give myself to act sinfully? Does my bad behavior ever make my Father look appealing to others?
Prayer –
Dear Father, I truly want You to be my heavenly Father.
I want to be desperate for Your grace all the days of my life.
I want to be motivated by an intense desire to see Your will lived out through me.
Help me not to make myself my own savior, and alert me when I begin to.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
(Via Trent Griffith)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Give Thanks!
I think we forget this sometimes.......
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18
In Lansing, Michigan, during the winter, we don’t get many sunny days. But last year God blessed us with one of those beautiful days, and it seemed that almost everyone was thanking God, except me. As I left my office, a man said, “What a wonderful day we’re having. This is a gift from God!” To which I replied, “Yes, but we’re getting snow later this week.” What ingratitude!
In his letters, the apostle Paul helped his readers to develop a theology of gratitude. He wrote about thanksgiving more often than any other New Testament author. From the 23 times he used the word, we learn a few lessons about thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving was always directed toward God and never toward people. People were gifts from God, and Paul thanked God for their growth, love, and faith (1 Cor. 1:4; 1 Thess. 1:2).
Thanksgiving is given through Jesus for everything (Col. 3:15,17). Paul believed followers of Jesus could be thankful for everything because God is sovereign, and He is working things out for the believers’ good (1 Thess. 5:18).
May we intentionally be aware of God’s gifts all around us, and respond with gratitude. In response to God’s gifts, it’s natural to say, “Thank You, Lord.”
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:18
In Lansing, Michigan, during the winter, we don’t get many sunny days. But last year God blessed us with one of those beautiful days, and it seemed that almost everyone was thanking God, except me. As I left my office, a man said, “What a wonderful day we’re having. This is a gift from God!” To which I replied, “Yes, but we’re getting snow later this week.” What ingratitude!
In his letters, the apostle Paul helped his readers to develop a theology of gratitude. He wrote about thanksgiving more often than any other New Testament author. From the 23 times he used the word, we learn a few lessons about thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving was always directed toward God and never toward people. People were gifts from God, and Paul thanked God for their growth, love, and faith (1 Cor. 1:4; 1 Thess. 1:2).
Thanksgiving is given through Jesus for everything (Col. 3:15,17). Paul believed followers of Jesus could be thankful for everything because God is sovereign, and He is working things out for the believers’ good (1 Thess. 5:18).
May we intentionally be aware of God’s gifts all around us, and respond with gratitude. In response to God’s gifts, it’s natural to say, “Thank You, Lord.”
Lord, for days that are sunny or gray we simply
want to say, Thank You! And for the daily grace
You give us in Your Son, may we always be faithful
to say, Thank You! You are so good to us.
Gratitude is a natural response to God’s grace.
(Via Marvin Williams)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Dawn
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
5 Things to Do Instead of Complain
Interesting Reading!!
Scripture of the Day: “Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
I’ve been speaking to a lot of organizations around the country and one thing I keep hearing from leaders and employees is that complaining is at an all time high. I’m not surprised. There are usually two main reasons why we complain. 1) We complain because we feel powerless. 2) We complain because it’s a habit. The economy has shaken a lot of people’s foundations and we feel powerless which leads to a rise in habitual complaining.
But complaining isn’t something new. Think about the Israelites who had spent years as captive slaves and within a short time of being freed they start complaining. They complained about being hungry. They complained about not having enough water. They complained about living in the wilderness. They even said it would be better to be back in Egypt as slaves rather than be free in the desert. Four hundred years of slavery, and they didn’t appreciate the freedom and blessing they have been given.
Here’s the thing, God doesn’t want us to be complainers, He wants us to live with a spirit of joy and thanksgiving.
“Now when the people complained, it displeased the Lord…” – Numbers 11:1 (NKJV
“Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
So today I want to encourage you to adopt a No Complaining Rule and go on a complaining fast. Not because it will make everyone around you happier, although it will, but because it will help you experience more of the peace and joy that God wants for you, and it will help you build strong, positive relationships with others.
Believe me; I know a lot about complaining. I use to be a professional complainer and found that it not only sabotages your happiness but the morale of your team and family.
To help you break out of a “complaining” rut here are five things you can do instead of complain. These tips will help you realize you are not powerless. You have the power to choose your beliefs and actions. And in your focus on the positive instead of the negative you'll find the faith, strength and confidence to take on life’s challenges and identify the solutions to your complaints.
1. Practice Gratitude. Research shows that when we count three blessings a day, we get a measurable boost in happiness that uplifts and energizes us. It's also physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time. If you are focusing on gratitude, you can't be negative. (Psalm 118:24)
2. Praise Others. Instead of complaining about what others are doing wrong, start focusing on what they are doing right. Praise them and watch as they create more success as a result. Of course, point out their mistakes so they can learn and grow, but make sure you give three times as much praise as criticism. You can energize and engage your coworkers by encouraging them and their work. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
3. Focus on Success. Start a success journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down the one great thing about your day. The one great conversation, accomplishment, or win that you are most proud of. Focus on your success, and you'll look forward to creating more success tomorrow. (Philippians 4:8)
4. Let Go. Focus on the things that you have the power to change, and let go of the things that are beyond your control. Give it up to God and trust Him with the outcome. You’ll be amazed that when you stop trying to control everything, it all somehow works out. Surrender is the answer. (Proverbs 3:5)
5. Pray. God wants to hear from you. He wants to have a personal relationship with you on a daily basis. Take your worries to Him and He will help you. If you’re a skeptic, also know that scientific research shows that daily prayer reduces stress; boosts positive energy; and promotes health, vitality, and longevity. When you are faced with the urge to complain or you are feeling stressed to the max, stop, be still, plug-in to the ultimate power of God and recharge. (Philippians 4:6)
(Via Jon Gordon )
Be Blessed! Dawn
Scripture of the Day: “Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
I’ve been speaking to a lot of organizations around the country and one thing I keep hearing from leaders and employees is that complaining is at an all time high. I’m not surprised. There are usually two main reasons why we complain. 1) We complain because we feel powerless. 2) We complain because it’s a habit. The economy has shaken a lot of people’s foundations and we feel powerless which leads to a rise in habitual complaining.
But complaining isn’t something new. Think about the Israelites who had spent years as captive slaves and within a short time of being freed they start complaining. They complained about being hungry. They complained about not having enough water. They complained about living in the wilderness. They even said it would be better to be back in Egypt as slaves rather than be free in the desert. Four hundred years of slavery, and they didn’t appreciate the freedom and blessing they have been given.
Here’s the thing, God doesn’t want us to be complainers, He wants us to live with a spirit of joy and thanksgiving.
“Now when the people complained, it displeased the Lord…” – Numbers 11:1 (NKJV
“Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
So today I want to encourage you to adopt a No Complaining Rule and go on a complaining fast. Not because it will make everyone around you happier, although it will, but because it will help you experience more of the peace and joy that God wants for you, and it will help you build strong, positive relationships with others.
Believe me; I know a lot about complaining. I use to be a professional complainer and found that it not only sabotages your happiness but the morale of your team and family.
To help you break out of a “complaining” rut here are five things you can do instead of complain. These tips will help you realize you are not powerless. You have the power to choose your beliefs and actions. And in your focus on the positive instead of the negative you'll find the faith, strength and confidence to take on life’s challenges and identify the solutions to your complaints.
1. Practice Gratitude. Research shows that when we count three blessings a day, we get a measurable boost in happiness that uplifts and energizes us. It's also physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time. If you are focusing on gratitude, you can't be negative. (Psalm 118:24)
2. Praise Others. Instead of complaining about what others are doing wrong, start focusing on what they are doing right. Praise them and watch as they create more success as a result. Of course, point out their mistakes so they can learn and grow, but make sure you give three times as much praise as criticism. You can energize and engage your coworkers by encouraging them and their work. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
3. Focus on Success. Start a success journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down the one great thing about your day. The one great conversation, accomplishment, or win that you are most proud of. Focus on your success, and you'll look forward to creating more success tomorrow. (Philippians 4:8)
4. Let Go. Focus on the things that you have the power to change, and let go of the things that are beyond your control. Give it up to God and trust Him with the outcome. You’ll be amazed that when you stop trying to control everything, it all somehow works out. Surrender is the answer. (Proverbs 3:5)
5. Pray. God wants to hear from you. He wants to have a personal relationship with you on a daily basis. Take your worries to Him and He will help you. If you’re a skeptic, also know that scientific research shows that daily prayer reduces stress; boosts positive energy; and promotes health, vitality, and longevity. When you are faced with the urge to complain or you are feeling stressed to the max, stop, be still, plug-in to the ultimate power of God and recharge. (Philippians 4:6)
(Via Jon Gordon )
Be Blessed! Dawn
Monday, November 19, 2012
Some Thanksgiving Thoughts
Thanksgiving is finally upon us. And that means Christmas is closely following. Often we put so much of our focus on Christmas, we miss this important American Holiday.
Psalm 106:1 – "Praise the LORD! Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever."
Yes, praise and worship can sometimes be a "sacrifice" because we don't want to give it. That may be because we are down or depressed, or things aren't going all that well. Or it may be that hardship or tragedy has hit your life and you don't want to thank God.
But the Bible does not say, "Give thanks unto the Lord when you feel good," but rather, because "He is good!" So, I encourage you to give thanks in this special holiday time.
May God bless you, and I hope that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends.
(Via Greg Laurie)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Dawn
Friday, November 9, 2012
Are You Teachable?
A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool. —Proverbs 17:10
I believe that God speaks to us through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. In the times of my life when I’ve needed some course correction, most often I’ve heard His Word coming through someone who cared enough and loved me enough to sit down with me and say, “There’s something you need to change.”
Are you a teachable person? Proverbs 17:10 says, “A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool.” In other words, you can get more ROI (Return on Investment) from a wise person in one gentle conversation than you can gain from a fool by whacking him with a board a hundred times. Which are you?
If you’re not sure how you rate on the teachability meter, take this five-point quiz:
1. I know I’m teachable when people give me input. When people feel free to give you a word of improvement, it’s a good sign that you’re teachable. Nobody wants to risk cleaning up a meltdown if the person can’t receive a difficult word. Don’t try to tell him he’s not headed in the right direction because he’ll bite your head off. The fool is always deeply persuaded that what he is doing is right. A teachable person will receive input.
2. I know I’m teachable when I see measurable growth and character development in myself. If you’re changing for the good, then you’re teachable. If you’re not the same person you were last year at this time, godly instruction has produced results in your life and there’s growth because of it.
3. I know I’m teachable when I don’t have to answer a critic with a defense. More often than I ever want to be, I’m in the uneasy position of giving people input. As hard as that is, I love to sit down with a person who can hear a difficult word with an open heart and without defensiveness. It’s been my repeated observation that those who are receptive to criticism flourish!
4. I know I’m teachable when I don’t have to criticize back. The classic symptom of an unteachable person is that they will listen to what you say, all the while framing their comeback, “Now let me tell you something . . .” Can you keep your defenses down and pride in check?
5. I know I’m teachable when I’m learning new ways to grow. If people have been telling you the same stuff for years, you’re not teachable. If you’ve grown out of those old issues and are now on to new lessons, you’re on the right track.
Are you teachable? Ask someone who knows you well for their honest evaluation. And take their response to heart.
Journal:
Prayer – Almighty Father, I can point to many times in my life where I have not been teachable. The worst part is, most of the time I don’t realize it because of my blind pride. Please forgive me for willfulness, Father, and continue to put people in my life that will rebuke me in love and keep me on the path You have chosen for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen. (via James MacDonald)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
I believe that God speaks to us through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. In the times of my life when I’ve needed some course correction, most often I’ve heard His Word coming through someone who cared enough and loved me enough to sit down with me and say, “There’s something you need to change.”
Are you a teachable person? Proverbs 17:10 says, “A rebuke goes deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred blows into a fool.” In other words, you can get more ROI (Return on Investment) from a wise person in one gentle conversation than you can gain from a fool by whacking him with a board a hundred times. Which are you?
If you’re not sure how you rate on the teachability meter, take this five-point quiz:
1. I know I’m teachable when people give me input. When people feel free to give you a word of improvement, it’s a good sign that you’re teachable. Nobody wants to risk cleaning up a meltdown if the person can’t receive a difficult word. Don’t try to tell him he’s not headed in the right direction because he’ll bite your head off. The fool is always deeply persuaded that what he is doing is right. A teachable person will receive input.
2. I know I’m teachable when I see measurable growth and character development in myself. If you’re changing for the good, then you’re teachable. If you’re not the same person you were last year at this time, godly instruction has produced results in your life and there’s growth because of it.
3. I know I’m teachable when I don’t have to answer a critic with a defense. More often than I ever want to be, I’m in the uneasy position of giving people input. As hard as that is, I love to sit down with a person who can hear a difficult word with an open heart and without defensiveness. It’s been my repeated observation that those who are receptive to criticism flourish!
4. I know I’m teachable when I don’t have to criticize back. The classic symptom of an unteachable person is that they will listen to what you say, all the while framing their comeback, “Now let me tell you something . . .” Can you keep your defenses down and pride in check?
5. I know I’m teachable when I’m learning new ways to grow. If people have been telling you the same stuff for years, you’re not teachable. If you’ve grown out of those old issues and are now on to new lessons, you’re on the right track.
Are you teachable? Ask someone who knows you well for their honest evaluation. And take their response to heart.
Journal:
- What evidence of being teachable do I have?
- Where is there room for improvement?
Prayer – Almighty Father, I can point to many times in my life where I have not been teachable. The worst part is, most of the time I don’t realize it because of my blind pride. Please forgive me for willfulness, Father, and continue to put people in my life that will rebuke me in love and keep me on the path You have chosen for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen. (via James MacDonald)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Thursday, November 8, 2012
The Woman and Her Silent Tears
This one is near & dear to my heart yall! ENJOY
Even though you are surrounded by people, you still feel left out of the game. You are wondering if anybody knows how hurt you are or how hard it is within the lonely dark room of your heart. Thoughts about the past hurt you and the fear of your future taunts you. This is for women who are asking God if He really cares. This is for those who have questions about ‘why it happened to them’, and why they are being treated this way. This is for you.
The Bible tells us of two women who went through similar situations. Women who were used for someone’s happiness or need and then discarded. They were outcasts. They were not included. They were not loved but left lonely in the wilderness. As we read about their lives, we see how God was not a silent spectator of what was happening. He reached out to them.
One of them was Leah, Jacob’s first wife. She knew Jacob loved Rachel. She knew he was working for her and the sweat and blood poured out was for her sister. She knew that Rachel had captured his heart and that her sister was more desirable to him than her. But she became a victim of her father’s greed. Laban who wanted to make Jacob work so that he could become richer. Laban for the sake of a society that believed the elder daughter should be married first, forced Leah to marry Jacob in a game of trickery. Leah married a man who did not love her.
The night of the wedding, she knowingly stepped into disaster. Hoping against all hope she would have desired that after that night, Jacob would begin to love her. Much to her dismay Leah found the next day that Jacob was still very much in love with Rachel. She could not woo him. I can imagine what she would have gone through when Jacob decided to work another seven years for her sister. Jacob was doing anything he could for her sister. All his sweat and blood was for her. The way she named her children shows how desperate she was for love, for closeness and for respect.
Many of you also have been in similar situations or have seen women used for the need of others, pushed into a life they did not want to – women who are treated with less respect anywhere other than the bedroom and kitchen – Women who are crying out to God asking if He is there?
Leah also would have had the same questions. She would have spent nights crying alone asking if God really saw what was happening in her life why He would let her go through all this. Did God even care?
Yes God did care. Genesis 29:31 says, when the Lord saw that Jacob loved Rachel more than, Leah, He made it possible for Leah to have children but not Rachel. We see here that through it all, God was watching Leah. He knew how much she was despised and God was on her side. God gave her so many children and blessed her. Through her sons came priests and kings. Through her descendants came the Savior of the world.
We believe and worship a God who sees. He will always be on the side of the oppressed. He knows what we go through and He sees our pain and answers our prayer (Genesis 30:17).
That’s why the other woman ‘Hagar’ called the Lord who spoke to her in the wilderness as ‘the God who sees me.’ Well, she was also used by her mistress, treated badly and chased away as an outcast. But when she was running away into the wilderness, God saw her, reached out to her and blessed her descendants. Even to this day we see that her descendants are blessed.
He is a God who sees your emotions, your silent tears; sees how people treat you. He knows when you feel left out; He knows when you don’t feel loved. He will always answer when you call. He will always be on your side. He will bless you and make you a blessing to many. For the outcast, who was on her knees, He was the God who sees and today He is at your side holding your hand and He will keep you close to His heart. Though your family may hurt you, friends abandon you, He will never leave you nor forsake you.
So be encouraged women of God! You are never alone. He is the lifter of your head. When I read about God, the way He works the things He sees in a heart, the details He notices, the way He administers justice, the way He always sides the oppressed, the way He reaches out, the way He is in control over all, it fills me with hope. Not once has God left a child in pain. He has always come to their rescue. We have a Savior who walks through hell or the darkest night to reach out to an outcast who cries for help. (Via Mrs. Merilyn Jemimah Amirtharaj) Be Blessed! Dawn
Even though you are surrounded by people, you still feel left out of the game. You are wondering if anybody knows how hurt you are or how hard it is within the lonely dark room of your heart. Thoughts about the past hurt you and the fear of your future taunts you. This is for women who are asking God if He really cares. This is for those who have questions about ‘why it happened to them’, and why they are being treated this way. This is for you.
The Bible tells us of two women who went through similar situations. Women who were used for someone’s happiness or need and then discarded. They were outcasts. They were not included. They were not loved but left lonely in the wilderness. As we read about their lives, we see how God was not a silent spectator of what was happening. He reached out to them.
One of them was Leah, Jacob’s first wife. She knew Jacob loved Rachel. She knew he was working for her and the sweat and blood poured out was for her sister. She knew that Rachel had captured his heart and that her sister was more desirable to him than her. But she became a victim of her father’s greed. Laban who wanted to make Jacob work so that he could become richer. Laban for the sake of a society that believed the elder daughter should be married first, forced Leah to marry Jacob in a game of trickery. Leah married a man who did not love her.
The night of the wedding, she knowingly stepped into disaster. Hoping against all hope she would have desired that after that night, Jacob would begin to love her. Much to her dismay Leah found the next day that Jacob was still very much in love with Rachel. She could not woo him. I can imagine what she would have gone through when Jacob decided to work another seven years for her sister. Jacob was doing anything he could for her sister. All his sweat and blood was for her. The way she named her children shows how desperate she was for love, for closeness and for respect.
Many of you also have been in similar situations or have seen women used for the need of others, pushed into a life they did not want to – women who are treated with less respect anywhere other than the bedroom and kitchen – Women who are crying out to God asking if He is there?
Leah also would have had the same questions. She would have spent nights crying alone asking if God really saw what was happening in her life why He would let her go through all this. Did God even care?
Yes God did care. Genesis 29:31 says, when the Lord saw that Jacob loved Rachel more than, Leah, He made it possible for Leah to have children but not Rachel. We see here that through it all, God was watching Leah. He knew how much she was despised and God was on her side. God gave her so many children and blessed her. Through her sons came priests and kings. Through her descendants came the Savior of the world.
We believe and worship a God who sees. He will always be on the side of the oppressed. He knows what we go through and He sees our pain and answers our prayer (Genesis 30:17).
That’s why the other woman ‘Hagar’ called the Lord who spoke to her in the wilderness as ‘the God who sees me.’ Well, she was also used by her mistress, treated badly and chased away as an outcast. But when she was running away into the wilderness, God saw her, reached out to her and blessed her descendants. Even to this day we see that her descendants are blessed.
He is a God who sees your emotions, your silent tears; sees how people treat you. He knows when you feel left out; He knows when you don’t feel loved. He will always answer when you call. He will always be on your side. He will bless you and make you a blessing to many. For the outcast, who was on her knees, He was the God who sees and today He is at your side holding your hand and He will keep you close to His heart. Though your family may hurt you, friends abandon you, He will never leave you nor forsake you.
So be encouraged women of God! You are never alone. He is the lifter of your head. When I read about God, the way He works the things He sees in a heart, the details He notices, the way He administers justice, the way He always sides the oppressed, the way He reaches out, the way He is in control over all, it fills me with hope. Not once has God left a child in pain. He has always come to their rescue. We have a Savior who walks through hell or the darkest night to reach out to an outcast who cries for help. (Via Mrs. Merilyn Jemimah Amirtharaj) Be Blessed! Dawn
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
The Way That Seems Right
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. —Proverbs 16:25
Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. —Proverbs 3:7
Not a day goes by that you and I don’t make decisions that turn the direction of our lives. We base some of our choices on what we know for sure; others are judgment calls. Proverbs 16:25 has a built-in alarm system that warns us, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” When you base your decisions on what seems right to you, flags should fly up all around when you read this verse. Its caution is so specific and so current that we need to take every word seriously.
Notice, “There is a way . . .” not there was a way. This warning is not leftover from when you were in high school. Nor is it talking about your future. This flag is for your life today, wherever you are. If you’re 25 or 45 or 65, there is a way that seems like the way to go and you’re always looking right at it.
“There’s a way that seems right to a man . . . ” Are you pondering a decision, maybe even taken several steps in a certain direction, that just feels like the right decision because it’s smooth and sunny and fun and fast? Make no mistake about it, most likely it is the wrong way.
Remember when Jonah ran from God? He went down to Joppa and found a boat waiting in the harbor that took him in the opposite direction from where God told him to go. It must be right; the boat was just waiting there for me. Satan can put a lot of wrong ways right in front of the person who is willing to consider them. You’ve got to go find the right way. The wrong way will usually come after you.
The problem is all of this only “seems right to a man ” because our minds are darkened by sin, our hearts are impatient for pleasure, and our wills are weighed down with the old nature and the inclination to sin. Don’t trust what seems right to you—that’s leaning on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Trust God with everything you’ve got, ask Him for wisdom, and He will make the path of your life plain and straight. He’ll make it so you don’t have to waste a lot of time going down roads that just seem right. He will lead you to a path you know is right in God’s eyes.
Journal:
When I look back at choices I made, did I decide based on asking God for wisdom or what seemed right to me?
What happened?
Prayer – Father, I know I need to trust You in everything. I also know that I go my own way more than I should. Help me to pursue Your will for me and even more than this, to pursue You with all I am. I know if I’m pursuing You, I’m on the right path. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
(James MacDonald)
Be Blessed Dawn
Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. —Proverbs 3:7
Not a day goes by that you and I don’t make decisions that turn the direction of our lives. We base some of our choices on what we know for sure; others are judgment calls. Proverbs 16:25 has a built-in alarm system that warns us, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” When you base your decisions on what seems right to you, flags should fly up all around when you read this verse. Its caution is so specific and so current that we need to take every word seriously.
Notice, “There is a way . . .” not there was a way. This warning is not leftover from when you were in high school. Nor is it talking about your future. This flag is for your life today, wherever you are. If you’re 25 or 45 or 65, there is a way that seems like the way to go and you’re always looking right at it.
“There’s a way that seems right to a man . . . ” Are you pondering a decision, maybe even taken several steps in a certain direction, that just feels like the right decision because it’s smooth and sunny and fun and fast? Make no mistake about it, most likely it is the wrong way.
Remember when Jonah ran from God? He went down to Joppa and found a boat waiting in the harbor that took him in the opposite direction from where God told him to go. It must be right; the boat was just waiting there for me. Satan can put a lot of wrong ways right in front of the person who is willing to consider them. You’ve got to go find the right way. The wrong way will usually come after you.
The problem is all of this only “seems right to a man ” because our minds are darkened by sin, our hearts are impatient for pleasure, and our wills are weighed down with the old nature and the inclination to sin. Don’t trust what seems right to you—that’s leaning on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Trust God with everything you’ve got, ask Him for wisdom, and He will make the path of your life plain and straight. He’ll make it so you don’t have to waste a lot of time going down roads that just seem right. He will lead you to a path you know is right in God’s eyes.
Journal:
When I look back at choices I made, did I decide based on asking God for wisdom or what seemed right to me?
What happened?
Prayer – Father, I know I need to trust You in everything. I also know that I go my own way more than I should. Help me to pursue Your will for me and even more than this, to pursue You with all I am. I know if I’m pursuing You, I’m on the right path. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
(James MacDonald)
Be Blessed Dawn
Friday, November 2, 2012
The Way We Were
I have been amazed at the testimonies of some people, when they tell me the way they used to be.
I've looked at them and thought, There is no way they used to be that way. Jesus Christ has so radically changed them.
Isaiah 61:3–4 promises that God "will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, repairing cities destroyed long ago. . ." (NLT).
For the person who has made a mess of his or her life—a pile of ashes, so to speak—God says, For those who mourn because of the wrongs they have done and the sins they have committed, God says, "I will bring joy out of it."
Only God can do that. Only He can take a tangled mess of a life, turn it around, and transform it in such a way that you wouldn't even know that individual used to be a very different person. As Paul wrote: "When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!" (2 Corinthians 5:17 TLB).
That's the best news ever for the person being transformed, but the change in that life also gives great hope to others, who may still despair over the condition of their lives.
If you come to Christ and say, "Lord, here I am. Forgive me of my sin," He can transform you and change you. He can take your mistakes and your sins, turn them around, and even use them for His glory. When you commit your life to Christ, putting the broken, stained, twisted pieces into His hand, He will transform it into a thing of beauty.
(Via Greg Laurie) Have a Blessed Weekend! Dawn
I've looked at them and thought, There is no way they used to be that way. Jesus Christ has so radically changed them.
Isaiah 61:3–4 promises that God "will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, repairing cities destroyed long ago. . ." (NLT).
For the person who has made a mess of his or her life—a pile of ashes, so to speak—God says, For those who mourn because of the wrongs they have done and the sins they have committed, God says, "I will bring joy out of it."
Only God can do that. Only He can take a tangled mess of a life, turn it around, and transform it in such a way that you wouldn't even know that individual used to be a very different person. As Paul wrote: "When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!" (2 Corinthians 5:17 TLB).
That's the best news ever for the person being transformed, but the change in that life also gives great hope to others, who may still despair over the condition of their lives.
If you come to Christ and say, "Lord, here I am. Forgive me of my sin," He can transform you and change you. He can take your mistakes and your sins, turn them around, and even use them for His glory. When you commit your life to Christ, putting the broken, stained, twisted pieces into His hand, He will transform it into a thing of beauty.
(Via Greg Laurie) Have a Blessed Weekend! Dawn
Thursday, October 25, 2012
GOD WANTS YOU TO KNOW…….
GOOD ONE, SO I HAD TO SHARE!
Without a saving relationship with Jesus, you are lost and need to be rescued.
Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3).
There is none righteous, no, not one (Rom. 3:10).
All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23).
You cannot save yourself.
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).
There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved - (Acts 4:12).
For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all - (James 2:10).
You must accept His gift of salvation.
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all (Isa. 53:6).
God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
The wages of sin is death ( spirtual separation from God in this life, physical separation of soul and spirit from our body, and ultimately separated from the presence and goodness of God forever), but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 6:23).
You can be sure you are saved.
"I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand" (John 10:28).
He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:6).
He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them (Heb. 7:25). Be Blessed! Dawn
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
5 Things to Do Instead of Complain
A GOOD ONE FOR US ALL!
Scripture of the Day: “Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
I’ve been speaking to a lot of organizations around the country and one thing I keep hearing from leaders and employees is that complaining is at an all time high. I’m not surprised. There are usually two main reasons why we complain. 1. We complain because we feel powerless. 2. We complain because it’s a habit. The economy has shaken a lot of people’s foundations and we feel powerless which leads to a rise in habitual complaining.
But complaining isn’t something new. Think about the Israelites who had spent years as captive slaves and within a short time of being freed they start complaining. They complained about being hungry. They complained about not having enough water. They complained about living in the wilderness. They even said it would be better to be back in Egypt as slaves rather than be free in the desert. Four hundred years of slavery, and they didn’t appreciate the freedom and blessing they have been given.
Here’s the thing, God doesn’t want us to be complainers, He wants us to live with a spirit of joy and thanksgiving.
“Now when the people complained, it displeased the Lord…” – Numbers 11:1 (NKJV
“Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
So today I want to encourage you to adopt a No Complaining Rule and go on a complaining fast. Not because it will make everyone around you happier, although it will, but because it will help you experience more of the peace and joy that God wants for you, and it will help you build strong, positive relationships with others.
Believe me; I know a lot about complaining. I use to be a professional complainer and found that it not only sabotages your happiness but the morale of your team and family.
To help you break out of a “complaining” rut here are five things you can do instead of complain. These tips will help you realize you are not powerless. You have the power to choose your beliefs and actions. And in your focus on the positive instead of the negative you'll find the faith, strength and confidence to take on life’s challenges and identify the solutions to your complaints.
1. Practice Gratitude. Research shows that when we count three blessings a day, we get a measurable boost in happiness that uplifts and energizes us. It's also physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time. If you are focusing on gratitude, you can't be negative. (Psalm 118:24)
2. Praise Others. Instead of complaining about what others are doing wrong, start focusing on what they are doing right. Praise them and watch as they create more success as a result. Of course, point out their mistakes so they can learn and grow, but make sure you give three times as much praise as criticism. You can energize and engage your coworkers by encouraging them and their work. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
3. Focus on Success. Start a success journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down the one great thing about your day. The one great conversation, accomplishment, or win that you are most proud of. Focus on your success, and you'll look forward to creating more success tomorrow. (Philippians 4:8)
4. Let Go. Focus on the things that you have the power to change, and let go of the things that are beyond your control. Give it up to God and trust Him with the outcome. You’ll be amazed that when you stop trying to control everything, it all somehow works out. Surrender is the answer. (Proverbs 3:5)
5. Pray. God wants to hear from you. He wants to have a personal relationship with you on a daily basis. Take your worries to Him and He will help you. If you’re a skeptic, also know that scientific research shows that daily prayer reduces stress; boosts positive energy; and promotes health, vitality, and longevity. When you are faced with the urge to complain or you are feeling stressed to the max, stop, be still, plug-in to the ultimate power of God and recharge. (Philippians 4:6) (Via Jon Gordon) Be Blessed!
Dawn
Scripture of the Day: “Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
I’ve been speaking to a lot of organizations around the country and one thing I keep hearing from leaders and employees is that complaining is at an all time high. I’m not surprised. There are usually two main reasons why we complain. 1. We complain because we feel powerless. 2. We complain because it’s a habit. The economy has shaken a lot of people’s foundations and we feel powerless which leads to a rise in habitual complaining.
But complaining isn’t something new. Think about the Israelites who had spent years as captive slaves and within a short time of being freed they start complaining. They complained about being hungry. They complained about not having enough water. They complained about living in the wilderness. They even said it would be better to be back in Egypt as slaves rather than be free in the desert. Four hundred years of slavery, and they didn’t appreciate the freedom and blessing they have been given.
Here’s the thing, God doesn’t want us to be complainers, He wants us to live with a spirit of joy and thanksgiving.
“Now when the people complained, it displeased the Lord…” – Numbers 11:1 (NKJV
“Do all things without complaining and disputing…” -Philippians 2:14 (NKJV)
So today I want to encourage you to adopt a No Complaining Rule and go on a complaining fast. Not because it will make everyone around you happier, although it will, but because it will help you experience more of the peace and joy that God wants for you, and it will help you build strong, positive relationships with others.
Believe me; I know a lot about complaining. I use to be a professional complainer and found that it not only sabotages your happiness but the morale of your team and family.
To help you break out of a “complaining” rut here are five things you can do instead of complain. These tips will help you realize you are not powerless. You have the power to choose your beliefs and actions. And in your focus on the positive instead of the negative you'll find the faith, strength and confidence to take on life’s challenges and identify the solutions to your complaints.
1. Practice Gratitude. Research shows that when we count three blessings a day, we get a measurable boost in happiness that uplifts and energizes us. It's also physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time. If you are focusing on gratitude, you can't be negative. (Psalm 118:24)
2. Praise Others. Instead of complaining about what others are doing wrong, start focusing on what they are doing right. Praise them and watch as they create more success as a result. Of course, point out their mistakes so they can learn and grow, but make sure you give three times as much praise as criticism. You can energize and engage your coworkers by encouraging them and their work. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
3. Focus on Success. Start a success journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down the one great thing about your day. The one great conversation, accomplishment, or win that you are most proud of. Focus on your success, and you'll look forward to creating more success tomorrow. (Philippians 4:8)
4. Let Go. Focus on the things that you have the power to change, and let go of the things that are beyond your control. Give it up to God and trust Him with the outcome. You’ll be amazed that when you stop trying to control everything, it all somehow works out. Surrender is the answer. (Proverbs 3:5)
5. Pray. God wants to hear from you. He wants to have a personal relationship with you on a daily basis. Take your worries to Him and He will help you. If you’re a skeptic, also know that scientific research shows that daily prayer reduces stress; boosts positive energy; and promotes health, vitality, and longevity. When you are faced with the urge to complain or you are feeling stressed to the max, stop, be still, plug-in to the ultimate power of God and recharge. (Philippians 4:6) (Via Jon Gordon) Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, October 8, 2012
A Prayer for Everyone
9) For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10) so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11) strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12) giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light 13) For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14) in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1: 9-14
If you've ever been confused about how to intercede for someone, Paul's prayer in Colossians is appropriate for every person and every situation. Because it fits perfectly with God's will, you can ask these requests with great confidence--both for yourself and for others:
To be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Not only do we need to know God's plan for our lives; we also require discernment to distinguish His guiding voice from our own self-directed notions.
To walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in all respects. Our lives should be patterned after the One we follow, with the goal of bringing Him glory and delight.
To bear fruit in every good work. Instead of being wrapped up in our own jobs, possessions, pleasures, and plans, we should be contributing to others' lives.
To increase in the knowledge of God. By reading His Word, applying it to our lives, and observing His ways, we'll gain a deeper understanding of the Lord.
To be strengthened with His power in order to remain steadfast. The Christian life can be lived only with the Holy Spirit's power.
To joyously give thanks for all He's done for you. Believers should be characterized by joy and gratitude.
Too often we focus our requests on important temporal needs but miss seeing the deeper spiritual work God wants to do. Imagine how effective your prayers will be if you'll shift the emphasis of your petitions to the Lord's desires. He'll transform you and the people for whom you intercede. (Via Charles Stanley) Be Blessed! Dawn
If you've ever been confused about how to intercede for someone, Paul's prayer in Colossians is appropriate for every person and every situation. Because it fits perfectly with God's will, you can ask these requests with great confidence--both for yourself and for others:
To be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Not only do we need to know God's plan for our lives; we also require discernment to distinguish His guiding voice from our own self-directed notions.
To walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, pleasing Him in all respects. Our lives should be patterned after the One we follow, with the goal of bringing Him glory and delight.
To bear fruit in every good work. Instead of being wrapped up in our own jobs, possessions, pleasures, and plans, we should be contributing to others' lives.
To increase in the knowledge of God. By reading His Word, applying it to our lives, and observing His ways, we'll gain a deeper understanding of the Lord.
To be strengthened with His power in order to remain steadfast. The Christian life can be lived only with the Holy Spirit's power.
To joyously give thanks for all He's done for you. Believers should be characterized by joy and gratitude.
Too often we focus our requests on important temporal needs but miss seeing the deeper spiritual work God wants to do. Imagine how effective your prayers will be if you'll shift the emphasis of your petitions to the Lord's desires. He'll transform you and the people for whom you intercede. (Via Charles Stanley) Be Blessed! Dawn
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Benefits of Kindness
“A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself” (Proverbs 11:16-17)
Kindness benefits everyone. It brings joy to the giver and peace to the receiver. The recipient reciprocates because respect is embedded in kindness. Kindheartedness facilitates respect as it treats others with dignity and honor. Even when offended or ostracized, a gracious heart takes the higher ground of humility and gentleness. It may not be liked, but it is respected. Kind actions attract the Almighty’s approval. What is kindness? At its core it is a reflection of Christ. It is what we expect of the Lord when we desire good things. Listen to the heart of this employee’s prayer for his boss to experience God’s kindness in marriage: "O Lord, God of my master Abraham, give me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham" (Genesis 24:12). In the same way your Savior shows you kindness in salvation and with His severe mercy. Furthermore, because of Christ’s great kindness, you are compelled to compassionate action. Ruthless men and women use fear and intimidation to gain wealth and power, but considerate adults do not compromise their character for cash or influence. Indeed, God’s great kindness grants us the favor we need. “The Lord was with him [Joseph]; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden” (Genesis 39:21).Who doesn’t need kindness? The undeserving especially need your kindness as a reminder of God’s lasting love and infinite forgiveness. Be kind to the unkind, and they will see what really rests in your heart of hearts. Your kindheartedness will lead others to your source in Jesus Christ. Here the kindness of the Lord leads to repentance. “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance?” (Romans 2:4).Prayer: To whom can I extend kindness that has been unkind to me?Related Readings: Joshua 2:12; Ruth 3:10; Acts 4:9; Ephesians 2:6–8 Kindness benefits everyone. It brings joy to the giver and peace to the receiver. (Via "wisdomhunters.com") Be Blessed!
Dawn
Kindness benefits everyone. It brings joy to the giver and peace to the receiver. The recipient reciprocates because respect is embedded in kindness. Kindheartedness facilitates respect as it treats others with dignity and honor. Even when offended or ostracized, a gracious heart takes the higher ground of humility and gentleness. It may not be liked, but it is respected. Kind actions attract the Almighty’s approval. What is kindness? At its core it is a reflection of Christ. It is what we expect of the Lord when we desire good things. Listen to the heart of this employee’s prayer for his boss to experience God’s kindness in marriage: "O Lord, God of my master Abraham, give me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham" (Genesis 24:12). In the same way your Savior shows you kindness in salvation and with His severe mercy. Furthermore, because of Christ’s great kindness, you are compelled to compassionate action. Ruthless men and women use fear and intimidation to gain wealth and power, but considerate adults do not compromise their character for cash or influence. Indeed, God’s great kindness grants us the favor we need. “The Lord was with him [Joseph]; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden” (Genesis 39:21).Who doesn’t need kindness? The undeserving especially need your kindness as a reminder of God’s lasting love and infinite forgiveness. Be kind to the unkind, and they will see what really rests in your heart of hearts. Your kindheartedness will lead others to your source in Jesus Christ. Here the kindness of the Lord leads to repentance. “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance?” (Romans 2:4).Prayer: To whom can I extend kindness that has been unkind to me?Related Readings: Joshua 2:12; Ruth 3:10; Acts 4:9; Ephesians 2:6–8 Kindness benefits everyone. It brings joy to the giver and peace to the receiver. (Via "wisdomhunters.com") Be Blessed!
Dawn
Friday, September 28, 2012
Doing Our Duty
"So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.' " — Luke 17:10
Sometimes people will come up to me and express their appreciation for what I do. I thank them for doing so, but I also tell them, "You know, I am just doing my duty. I don't deserve extra credit or special applause. I am just doing what I am supposed to do as a Christian, because one day, we will stand before God and will be held accountable for how faithful we were with what God gave us."
Jesus gave an example of a man whose hired servants did their work as expected. Jesus asked, "Does [the man] thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not. So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do' " (Luke 17:9–10).
We were like slaves in the open market, and then Jesus came along, saw us on the auction block, and paid the full price. Now we are His servants. He owns us. The Bible says, "For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" (1 Corinthians 6:20).
We are the purchased property of Jesus Christ. Hence we become bondservants. The apostle Paul called himself a bondservant of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Romans 1:1). A bondservant was someone who was purchased, but later went on to voluntarily serve his master. He did it because he wanted to, not because he had to.
Everything we have belongs to God. Our families belong to God. Our careers belong to God. Our possessions belong to God. Everything is His. And we want to make sure that we remember that in all that we say and do.
(Via Greg Laurie) Be Blessed! Dawn
Sometimes people will come up to me and express their appreciation for what I do. I thank them for doing so, but I also tell them, "You know, I am just doing my duty. I don't deserve extra credit or special applause. I am just doing what I am supposed to do as a Christian, because one day, we will stand before God and will be held accountable for how faithful we were with what God gave us."
Jesus gave an example of a man whose hired servants did their work as expected. Jesus asked, "Does [the man] thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not. So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do' " (Luke 17:9–10).
We were like slaves in the open market, and then Jesus came along, saw us on the auction block, and paid the full price. Now we are His servants. He owns us. The Bible says, "For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" (1 Corinthians 6:20).
We are the purchased property of Jesus Christ. Hence we become bondservants. The apostle Paul called himself a bondservant of the Lord Jesus Christ (see Romans 1:1). A bondservant was someone who was purchased, but later went on to voluntarily serve his master. He did it because he wanted to, not because he had to.
Everything we have belongs to God. Our families belong to God. Our careers belong to God. Our possessions belong to God. Everything is His. And we want to make sure that we remember that in all that we say and do.
(Via Greg Laurie) Be Blessed! Dawn
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Surrender To Survive
Scripture of the Day: "The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.” But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord." - Jonah 1:13
In many cases, the word surrender is connected with the idea of losing something. Of course, when you surrender to the police, there’s a great possibility that you’ll lose your freedom. When you have to surrender your driver’s license, you lose the opportunity to drive. For some people, in marriage when they surrender they are losing their ability to be independent. And for even more people, to surrender to God is to sacrifice your freedom to live, have fun, or even pursue your future aspirations.
But on the contrary, to surrender to Christ is the most positive opportunity that all of us as human beings have. Surrendering to Christ means willingly giving up your priorities and desires and agenda so that God’s becomes the priority. His agenda, will, desire, and focus becomes the most significant thing. Clearly, surrendering to the Will of God is directly connected to our survival, ability to thrive, and overall satisfaction with life.
The Old Testament Prophet Jonah’s decision to not submit and surrender to God’s Will serves as a great example of the kind of frustration, discontent, and disillusionment that arises when we refuse to surrender to God’s direction.
1 One day long ago, God's Word came to Jonah, Amittai's son: 2 "Up on your feet and on your way to the big city of Nineveh! Preach to them. They're in a bad way and I can't ignore it any longer." 3 But Jonah got up and went the other direction to Tarshish, running away from God. He went down to the port of Joppa and found a ship headed for Tarshish. He paid the fare and went on board, joining those going to Tarshish - as far away from God as he could get. (The Message)
I find it fascinating that many have the thought of seemingly ‘getting away from God’. It is similar to the notion that Adam & Eve ‘hid’ from God in hopes of Him not seeing them. It is clear that we cannot hide from God. But beyond that most basic notion, why would we want to hide or run away from someone who wants to offer us so much?
His Word clearly identifies the benefits of being surrendered to God. He (God) “rewards those who sincerely seek him.” (Heb. 11: 6, NLT). He grants unmeasured joy for living (Ps. 40:8). He provides amazing answers to our prayers (Ps. 34:4). He gives sweet rest and lighter life loads (Matthew 11: 28). These, along with many other promises, have become the clear picture of what God provides to those who are surrendered to His plan.
When Jonah surrendered, look at what happened to his life and even the life of others. The voice of God is clearly heard and experienced, people trust God, the spiritual maturity of everyone is raised, the things that divide us get eliminated, and more importantly, we live in the will of God.
5) The people of Nineveh listened, and trusted God. They proclaimed a citywide fast and dressed in burlap to show their repentance (turning from evil, wickedness and unbelief to God). Everyone did it - rich and poor, famous and obscure, leaders and followers. (The Message)
It is amazing what we can accomplish when we surrender to God versus living on our own. God has created the universe to surrender to Him and every element of the universe cooperates with us when we surrender to God’s design. Romans 8 says, “5 Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them - living and breathing God! 6) Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life.” (The Message)
Surrender today to survive! (Overseer Christopher J. Harris)
Be Blesssed Dawn
In many cases, the word surrender is connected with the idea of losing something. Of course, when you surrender to the police, there’s a great possibility that you’ll lose your freedom. When you have to surrender your driver’s license, you lose the opportunity to drive. For some people, in marriage when they surrender they are losing their ability to be independent. And for even more people, to surrender to God is to sacrifice your freedom to live, have fun, or even pursue your future aspirations.
But on the contrary, to surrender to Christ is the most positive opportunity that all of us as human beings have. Surrendering to Christ means willingly giving up your priorities and desires and agenda so that God’s becomes the priority. His agenda, will, desire, and focus becomes the most significant thing. Clearly, surrendering to the Will of God is directly connected to our survival, ability to thrive, and overall satisfaction with life.
The Old Testament Prophet Jonah’s decision to not submit and surrender to God’s Will serves as a great example of the kind of frustration, discontent, and disillusionment that arises when we refuse to surrender to God’s direction.
1 One day long ago, God's Word came to Jonah, Amittai's son: 2 "Up on your feet and on your way to the big city of Nineveh! Preach to them. They're in a bad way and I can't ignore it any longer." 3 But Jonah got up and went the other direction to Tarshish, running away from God. He went down to the port of Joppa and found a ship headed for Tarshish. He paid the fare and went on board, joining those going to Tarshish - as far away from God as he could get. (The Message)
I find it fascinating that many have the thought of seemingly ‘getting away from God’. It is similar to the notion that Adam & Eve ‘hid’ from God in hopes of Him not seeing them. It is clear that we cannot hide from God. But beyond that most basic notion, why would we want to hide or run away from someone who wants to offer us so much?
His Word clearly identifies the benefits of being surrendered to God. He (God) “rewards those who sincerely seek him.” (Heb. 11: 6, NLT). He grants unmeasured joy for living (Ps. 40:8). He provides amazing answers to our prayers (Ps. 34:4). He gives sweet rest and lighter life loads (Matthew 11: 28). These, along with many other promises, have become the clear picture of what God provides to those who are surrendered to His plan.
When Jonah surrendered, look at what happened to his life and even the life of others. The voice of God is clearly heard and experienced, people trust God, the spiritual maturity of everyone is raised, the things that divide us get eliminated, and more importantly, we live in the will of God.
5) The people of Nineveh listened, and trusted God. They proclaimed a citywide fast and dressed in burlap to show their repentance (turning from evil, wickedness and unbelief to God). Everyone did it - rich and poor, famous and obscure, leaders and followers. (The Message)
It is amazing what we can accomplish when we surrender to God versus living on our own. God has created the universe to surrender to Him and every element of the universe cooperates with us when we surrender to God’s design. Romans 8 says, “5 Those who think they can do it on their own end up obsessed with measuring their own moral muscle but never get around to exercising it in real life. Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them - living and breathing God! 6) Obsession with self in these matters is a dead end; attention to God leads us out into the open, into a spacious, free life.” (The Message)
Surrender today to survive! (Overseer Christopher J. Harris)
Be Blesssed Dawn
Monday, September 17, 2012
Call Out Seeds of Greatness
Today's Scripture:
…God…calls those things which do not exist as though they did.
Romans 4:17, NKJV.
Today's Word:
Very often, we see potential in other people that they can’t see in themselves. When you speak vision into them, when you tell them what they can become, you can help set the direction for their life. Your words have the power to push people into their divine destiny. I believe that the reason some people are not living at their full potential is because no one has ever spoken faith into them. No one has taken the time to say, “Hey, you’re great at this. You’ve got a gift here. You’re going to do something amazing.”
I believe that one of our assignments in life is to call out the seeds of greatness in other people. Look around at who God has placed in your life. They’re not there by accident. Take time to study them. See what they’re good at. What are their gifts? What do they excel at? Don’t just think about it, speak vision into them. Tell them what they can become. Let your encouragement ignite the greatness on the inside. Help them rise up in confidence so they can be all God has called them to be!
Prayer for Today:
Father, thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life. I choose to be faithful, to speak life and call forth the greatness in them. Thank You for bringing me to new levels as I help others rise higher, too, in Jesus’ name. Amen (shared by a friend) Be Blessed! Dawn
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Bring Out the Best
THIS WAS SHARED WITH ME BY A GOOD FRIEND, SO I'M SHARING WITH ALL OF YOU!
Today's Scripture:
…love is kind… 1 Corinthians 13:4, NIV.
Today's Word:
One translation of today’s simple verse says that “love looks for a way to be constructive.” In other words, love looks for ways to improve someone else’s life. Love brings out the best in other people. Don’t just get up in the morning thinking about yourself or how you can make your own life better. Think about how you can make someone else’s life better. Ask yourself, “Who can I encourage today?” “Who can I build up?” You have something to offer those around you that no one else can give. Someone in your life needs your encouragement. Someone in your life needs to know that you believe in them. I believe God will hold us responsible for the people He’s put in our lives. He’s counting on us to bring out the best in our family and friends.
Are you improving the lives of those around you? Are you pouring confidence in them? Why don’t you ask the Lord to give you creative ways to bring out the best in others? As you sow into the lives of others, God will send people along your path that will build you up so that you can embrace every blessing He has in store for you.
Prayer for Today:
Father, thank You for loving me. Thank You for believing in me and always building me up. I ask that You show me creative ways to encourage and build up the people around me. Help me to be an example of Your love in Jesus’ name. Amen. Be Blessed! Dawn
Today's Scripture:
…love is kind… 1 Corinthians 13:4, NIV.
Today's Word:
One translation of today’s simple verse says that “love looks for a way to be constructive.” In other words, love looks for ways to improve someone else’s life. Love brings out the best in other people. Don’t just get up in the morning thinking about yourself or how you can make your own life better. Think about how you can make someone else’s life better. Ask yourself, “Who can I encourage today?” “Who can I build up?” You have something to offer those around you that no one else can give. Someone in your life needs your encouragement. Someone in your life needs to know that you believe in them. I believe God will hold us responsible for the people He’s put in our lives. He’s counting on us to bring out the best in our family and friends.
Are you improving the lives of those around you? Are you pouring confidence in them? Why don’t you ask the Lord to give you creative ways to bring out the best in others? As you sow into the lives of others, God will send people along your path that will build you up so that you can embrace every blessing He has in store for you.
Prayer for Today:
Father, thank You for loving me. Thank You for believing in me and always building me up. I ask that You show me creative ways to encourage and build up the people around me. Help me to be an example of Your love in Jesus’ name. Amen. Be Blessed! Dawn
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Praying for Change
Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. ~ Jas. 5:16 (AMP)
Hanging above the door in our house, my mother's favorite plaque constantly reminded us, "Prayer changes things." From an early age, I witnessed this powerful truth through her example. She'd tell me about some difficulties she was facing and then have me pray about them with her. And later, she'd always be sure to give God the glory when sharing the awesome news that He had answered those prayers.
Indeed, this is our confidence: Anything we pray for that aligns with the Father's plan will be granted. And the more time we spend with Him, the more we'll come to understand His will and how to pray for it.
Remember, prayer doesn't change God's mind, but it does transform the believer's heart. Some requests are granted immediately, simply because we asked with the realization that our Father loves to give us good gifts. Other requests may require time or certain divine preparations before they can be given. We, meanwhile, must simply be diligent to persevere in prayer.
Whatever the Lord's response or timing, we trust that He has only the very best in store for His children. That means we might not receive exactly what we're asking for, but something even better. Such is God's great pleasure, for He alone perfectly knows each heart's desire and wishes to fulfill it.
Our most powerful tool for shaping the world and lives around us is always available. Prayer lets us witness God's hand in any situation. And as we give attention, time, and perseverance to conversation with Him, we find no limit to what He can achieve in people's hearts and circumstances.
(Via CHarles Stanley) Be Blessed!
Dawn
Hanging above the door in our house, my mother's favorite plaque constantly reminded us, "Prayer changes things." From an early age, I witnessed this powerful truth through her example. She'd tell me about some difficulties she was facing and then have me pray about them with her. And later, she'd always be sure to give God the glory when sharing the awesome news that He had answered those prayers.
Indeed, this is our confidence: Anything we pray for that aligns with the Father's plan will be granted. And the more time we spend with Him, the more we'll come to understand His will and how to pray for it.
Remember, prayer doesn't change God's mind, but it does transform the believer's heart. Some requests are granted immediately, simply because we asked with the realization that our Father loves to give us good gifts. Other requests may require time or certain divine preparations before they can be given. We, meanwhile, must simply be diligent to persevere in prayer.
Whatever the Lord's response or timing, we trust that He has only the very best in store for His children. That means we might not receive exactly what we're asking for, but something even better. Such is God's great pleasure, for He alone perfectly knows each heart's desire and wishes to fulfill it.
Our most powerful tool for shaping the world and lives around us is always available. Prayer lets us witness God's hand in any situation. And as we give attention, time, and perseverance to conversation with Him, we find no limit to what He can achieve in people's hearts and circumstances.
(Via CHarles Stanley) Be Blessed!
Dawn
Friday, August 31, 2012
Doing Inventory
This is a good one yall!!
Scripture Of The Day: "By their fruits you will know them." - Matthew 7:20
Travel can be wonderful. But business travel is generally more like death by paper cuts. Last week I landed and was still a bit famished even after the eight tiny pretzels snack I was graciously given in flight. So I began to peruse the food options. I spotted a smoothie stand and that sounded perfect. So I headed over and made my pick.
“I will have the Peanut Butter Zone smoothie.”
The worker turned and looked at the menu as if that order was a complete surprise. Maybe she thought she was being pranked for one of those cable shows. Perhaps I was making stuff up. She carefully examined the ingredients on the menu board and turned to me. “We ain’t got no peanut butter.”
Disappointed but still determined I pushed on.
“Then I will have the Protein Power Berry smoothie.”
Slowly she turned to see what ingredients might be in this order which also appeared to take her by complete surprise. “We ain’t got no protein powder.”
This is where I realized that I am making significant progress in my grace journey. This young lady would have had a very large dose of edgy sarcasm in previous beta editions of Dave Burchett faithwalk. But I bit my lip and simply said this. “You might want to take those things off the menu if you don’t have them.”
Later I reflected on even that comment and felt a tinge of loving conviction from the Spirit. In my Christian example I have done exactly what this poorly trained worker did. As I have poorly represented Jesus I told people that many things were on the menu. A whole variety of spiritual fruit was listed boldly on the board. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, etc. I imagined a little parody of my concession experience.
Spiritually famished sojourner sees my fish cross bumper sticker. Since this is a sure sign of spiritual maturity the seeker boldly approaches and surveys the menu.
“I would like to have peace.”
I turn and examine my life. It is anxious. Frightened. No different from him.
“I don’t have much peace today.” (At least my grammar is a little better than the worker above)
The spiritual seeker looks a bit disappointed but is still hopeful.
“I would like some joy.”
Slowly I examine my life. Frustrated. Not content. A lot like my seeking friend.
“I don’t have any joy right now.”
It was so easy to demean a poorly trained employee representing a random smoothie company that frustrated me that day. Yet I expect grace when I, a poorly trained Christian, fail to represent Jesus and frustrate those I hope to bless.
Slowly I am beginning to comprehend grace. Good buddy Mark sent me this snippet from the book The Search For Significance by Robert S. McGee.
"Our true value is based not on our behavior or the approval of others but on what God's word says is true. Our behavior is often a reflection of our beliefs about who we are. It is usually consistent with what we think to be true about ourselves (Prov 23:7). If we base our worth solidly on the truths of God's word, then our behavior will often reflect His love, grace, and power. But if we base our worth on our abilities or the fickle approval of others, then our behavior will reflect the insecurity, fear, and anger that comes from such instability."
I have been learning the truth of those words in recent months. When I trust who God says I am I begin to stock the ingredients listed on the fruits of the Spirit menu board. God declares all of the following list to be true about me… a broken down TV director. And all of these things became true from the MOMENT I trusted Christ:
• I am forgiven. Col 2:13–14
• I am a child of God. John 1:2; Rom 8:15
• I received Christ's KIND of life, eternal: John 5:24
• I was delivered from Satan's domain and into the Kingdom of Christ: Col 1:13
• Christ came to dwell with me. Col 1:27; Rev 3:20
• I am a new Creation: 2 Cor 5:17
• I am declared righteous by God: 2 Cor 5:21
• I entered a love relationship w/ God: 1 John 4:9-11
• I am accepted by God: Col 1:19-22
Wow. I am wrapping my heart and mind around all of that this morning. I am filled with humility and gratitude for these unmerited gifts given to me that day and every day since. So if my imaginary encounter happens today I pray it will go a little more like this.
“Yes, I would like to have some joy.”
“Grande or Venti? I am overflowing with His abundant love today. Thanks for stopping by and letting me serve you.”
May I leave you with some familiar words from Paul? You can order freely from the menu through the power of the Holy Spirit. And the check has already been picked up by Christ.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. (Galatians 5, NLT) (via Dave Burchett) Be Blessed! Dawn
Scripture Of The Day: "By their fruits you will know them." - Matthew 7:20
Travel can be wonderful. But business travel is generally more like death by paper cuts. Last week I landed and was still a bit famished even after the eight tiny pretzels snack I was graciously given in flight. So I began to peruse the food options. I spotted a smoothie stand and that sounded perfect. So I headed over and made my pick.
“I will have the Peanut Butter Zone smoothie.”
The worker turned and looked at the menu as if that order was a complete surprise. Maybe she thought she was being pranked for one of those cable shows. Perhaps I was making stuff up. She carefully examined the ingredients on the menu board and turned to me. “We ain’t got no peanut butter.”
Disappointed but still determined I pushed on.
“Then I will have the Protein Power Berry smoothie.”
Slowly she turned to see what ingredients might be in this order which also appeared to take her by complete surprise. “We ain’t got no protein powder.”
This is where I realized that I am making significant progress in my grace journey. This young lady would have had a very large dose of edgy sarcasm in previous beta editions of Dave Burchett faithwalk. But I bit my lip and simply said this. “You might want to take those things off the menu if you don’t have them.”
Later I reflected on even that comment and felt a tinge of loving conviction from the Spirit. In my Christian example I have done exactly what this poorly trained worker did. As I have poorly represented Jesus I told people that many things were on the menu. A whole variety of spiritual fruit was listed boldly on the board. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, etc. I imagined a little parody of my concession experience.
Spiritually famished sojourner sees my fish cross bumper sticker. Since this is a sure sign of spiritual maturity the seeker boldly approaches and surveys the menu.
“I would like to have peace.”
I turn and examine my life. It is anxious. Frightened. No different from him.
“I don’t have much peace today.” (At least my grammar is a little better than the worker above)
The spiritual seeker looks a bit disappointed but is still hopeful.
“I would like some joy.”
Slowly I examine my life. Frustrated. Not content. A lot like my seeking friend.
“I don’t have any joy right now.”
It was so easy to demean a poorly trained employee representing a random smoothie company that frustrated me that day. Yet I expect grace when I, a poorly trained Christian, fail to represent Jesus and frustrate those I hope to bless.
Slowly I am beginning to comprehend grace. Good buddy Mark sent me this snippet from the book The Search For Significance by Robert S. McGee.
"Our true value is based not on our behavior or the approval of others but on what God's word says is true. Our behavior is often a reflection of our beliefs about who we are. It is usually consistent with what we think to be true about ourselves (Prov 23:7). If we base our worth solidly on the truths of God's word, then our behavior will often reflect His love, grace, and power. But if we base our worth on our abilities or the fickle approval of others, then our behavior will reflect the insecurity, fear, and anger that comes from such instability."
I have been learning the truth of those words in recent months. When I trust who God says I am I begin to stock the ingredients listed on the fruits of the Spirit menu board. God declares all of the following list to be true about me… a broken down TV director. And all of these things became true from the MOMENT I trusted Christ:
• I am forgiven. Col 2:13–14
• I am a child of God. John 1:2; Rom 8:15
• I received Christ's KIND of life, eternal: John 5:24
• I was delivered from Satan's domain and into the Kingdom of Christ: Col 1:13
• Christ came to dwell with me. Col 1:27; Rev 3:20
• I am a new Creation: 2 Cor 5:17
• I am declared righteous by God: 2 Cor 5:21
• I entered a love relationship w/ God: 1 John 4:9-11
• I am accepted by God: Col 1:19-22
Wow. I am wrapping my heart and mind around all of that this morning. I am filled with humility and gratitude for these unmerited gifts given to me that day and every day since. So if my imaginary encounter happens today I pray it will go a little more like this.
“Yes, I would like to have some joy.”
“Grande or Venti? I am overflowing with His abundant love today. Thanks for stopping by and letting me serve you.”
May I leave you with some familiar words from Paul? You can order freely from the menu through the power of the Holy Spirit. And the check has already been picked up by Christ.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. (Galatians 5, NLT) (via Dave Burchett) Be Blessed! Dawn
Thursday, August 30, 2012
God's Grand Plan
11) For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. ~ Jer: 29:11 (HSBC)
The heavenly Father has a grand plan for the life of every person, and it can be summed up in the word sanctification. If you have never been certain of the term's meaning, you are not alone--many people are unclear about its definition. However, believers should understand it because the word defines them.
In its verb form--sanctify--the term means "to make holy" or "to separate." So when something is sanctified, it is separated from its former common usage and is dedicated for sacred purposes. The Old Testament mentions a number of things that the Lord sanctified: He made the seventh day holy, set aside the Levite tribe as priests, and even consecrated places like the Holy of Holies inside the tabernacle (Gen. 2:3; Num. 3).
The heavenly Father still sanctifies people today. Before a person places his faith in the Savior, he is spiritually dead and, in fact, an enemy of God (Eph. 2:1-3; Rom. 5:10). But the moment someone chooses to trust in Jesus Christ, his sins are wiped away, and he is adopted into God's family. That individual is set apart as a child of God, with a sacred purpose. This means believers are not here to chase after personal gain but to serve the Lord and bring Him honor and glory.
As members of God's family who are called upon to reflect His glory, believers are referred to as "saints." We are given this moniker--which shares its root with sanctification--not because we live sinless lives, but because we live a life consistent with the One we represent. (Via Charles Stanley) Be Blessed! Dawn
The heavenly Father has a grand plan for the life of every person, and it can be summed up in the word sanctification. If you have never been certain of the term's meaning, you are not alone--many people are unclear about its definition. However, believers should understand it because the word defines them.
In its verb form--sanctify--the term means "to make holy" or "to separate." So when something is sanctified, it is separated from its former common usage and is dedicated for sacred purposes. The Old Testament mentions a number of things that the Lord sanctified: He made the seventh day holy, set aside the Levite tribe as priests, and even consecrated places like the Holy of Holies inside the tabernacle (Gen. 2:3; Num. 3).
The heavenly Father still sanctifies people today. Before a person places his faith in the Savior, he is spiritually dead and, in fact, an enemy of God (Eph. 2:1-3; Rom. 5:10). But the moment someone chooses to trust in Jesus Christ, his sins are wiped away, and he is adopted into God's family. That individual is set apart as a child of God, with a sacred purpose. This means believers are not here to chase after personal gain but to serve the Lord and bring Him honor and glory.
As members of God's family who are called upon to reflect His glory, believers are referred to as "saints." We are given this moniker--which shares its root with sanctification--not because we live sinless lives, but because we live a life consistent with the One we represent. (Via Charles Stanley) Be Blessed! Dawn
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Set Apart for God
1) And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2) Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. 3) Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. Rom. 12:1-3 (NLT)
When a person places his faith in Jesus Christ, he becomes a new believer, and he is sanctified--that is, set apart for God's purpose. Unlike salvation, which takes place in a single moment, sanctification is a lifelong process. We who are followers of the Savior should be letting the Holy Spirit control our lives. If that is the case, we are currently being sanctified, regardless of what we may feel or how our actions appear to others. In other words, we are progressively maturing in our faith.
And if we are progressing, we must be working our way toward something. The apostle Paul explained the Christian's mission: "For those whom [God] foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son" (Rom. 8:29). A believer's character, conduct, and conversation should be reflections of Jesus, who lives within. On our own, we'd place too much emphasis on behavior and get caught up with following rules and rituals that look Christian without truly reflecting Christ. But God has given each believer His Spirit as a teacher and guide. The Spirit works to transform our minds and hearts so that we are markedly different from our unsaved peers. When we allow the Spirit to control us, we speak and act in accordance with our true identity: God's sons and daughters.
Our Father wants His children to be living examples of who He is. He doesn't expect perfection--He knows we can't be totally sinless in our human body. But He shows us how to think and act so we may "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which [we] have been called" (Eph. 4:1). (Via Charles Stanley) Be Blessed! Dawn
When a person places his faith in Jesus Christ, he becomes a new believer, and he is sanctified--that is, set apart for God's purpose. Unlike salvation, which takes place in a single moment, sanctification is a lifelong process. We who are followers of the Savior should be letting the Holy Spirit control our lives. If that is the case, we are currently being sanctified, regardless of what we may feel or how our actions appear to others. In other words, we are progressively maturing in our faith.
And if we are progressing, we must be working our way toward something. The apostle Paul explained the Christian's mission: "For those whom [God] foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son" (Rom. 8:29). A believer's character, conduct, and conversation should be reflections of Jesus, who lives within. On our own, we'd place too much emphasis on behavior and get caught up with following rules and rituals that look Christian without truly reflecting Christ. But God has given each believer His Spirit as a teacher and guide. The Spirit works to transform our minds and hearts so that we are markedly different from our unsaved peers. When we allow the Spirit to control us, we speak and act in accordance with our true identity: God's sons and daughters.
Our Father wants His children to be living examples of who He is. He doesn't expect perfection--He knows we can't be totally sinless in our human body. But He shows us how to think and act so we may "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which [we] have been called" (Eph. 4:1). (Via Charles Stanley) Be Blessed! Dawn
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
The Unhappy Backslider
1) First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2) for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3) This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4) who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5) For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6) who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. 7) For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8) I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling. —1 Timothy 2:1-8
Peter speaks of some who through waywardness have gotten so far out of fellowship with God that they have forgotten that they were purged from their old sins. This is a sad state to be in. It is what is commonly called in the Old Testament “backsliding.” “The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways” (Proverbs 14:14). An old preacher I knew as a boy used to say, “Backsliding always begins in the knee.” And this is very true indeed. Neglect of prayer will soon dull the keen edge of one’s spiritual sensibilities and make it easy for a believer to drift into worldliness and carnalities, as a result of which his soul’s eyesight will become dimmed and he will lose the heavenly vision.
The backslider is short-sighted. He sees things of this poor world very vividly, but he cannot see afar off, as he could in the days of his former, happy state. To such comes the exhortation, “Anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see” (Rev. 3:18). Get back to your Bible and back to your knees. Let the Holy Spirit reveal to your penitent heart the point of departure where you left your first love, and judge it definitely before God. Acknowledge the sins and failures that have caused your wanderings. “Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation” (Psalm 51:12). And He who is married to the backslider will give you again to know the blessedness of fellowship with Himself, and once more your peace will flow as a river and the full assurance of hope be yours.
As you walk with God, your faith will grow increasingly, your love unto all saints will be greatly enlarged, and the hope laid up for you in heaven will fill the vision of your opened eyes, as your heart is occupied with the Lord Himself who has restored your soul.
For it is well to remember that He Himself is our hope. He has gone back to the Father’s house to prepare a place for us, and He has promised to come again and receive us unto Himself, that where He is we may be also.
Journal:
Is my “knee bended” in regular times of prayer?
Who in my life helps to keep me accountable to avoid times of backsliding? When I was the last time I met with them?
Prayer Father, thank You that You always are with me, even in times when I am trying to run away. I am so thankful for all the times You gently call me back to Yourself. Keep me close to You, Lord! Don’t let me stray far from Your path. Keep me on my knees and in Your Word so I don’t get off track and fall away. In Jesus’ name, Amen (Via Henry Ironside)
Be Blessed! Dawn
Peter speaks of some who through waywardness have gotten so far out of fellowship with God that they have forgotten that they were purged from their old sins. This is a sad state to be in. It is what is commonly called in the Old Testament “backsliding.” “The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways” (Proverbs 14:14). An old preacher I knew as a boy used to say, “Backsliding always begins in the knee.” And this is very true indeed. Neglect of prayer will soon dull the keen edge of one’s spiritual sensibilities and make it easy for a believer to drift into worldliness and carnalities, as a result of which his soul’s eyesight will become dimmed and he will lose the heavenly vision.
The backslider is short-sighted. He sees things of this poor world very vividly, but he cannot see afar off, as he could in the days of his former, happy state. To such comes the exhortation, “Anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see” (Rev. 3:18). Get back to your Bible and back to your knees. Let the Holy Spirit reveal to your penitent heart the point of departure where you left your first love, and judge it definitely before God. Acknowledge the sins and failures that have caused your wanderings. “Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation” (Psalm 51:12). And He who is married to the backslider will give you again to know the blessedness of fellowship with Himself, and once more your peace will flow as a river and the full assurance of hope be yours.
As you walk with God, your faith will grow increasingly, your love unto all saints will be greatly enlarged, and the hope laid up for you in heaven will fill the vision of your opened eyes, as your heart is occupied with the Lord Himself who has restored your soul.
For it is well to remember that He Himself is our hope. He has gone back to the Father’s house to prepare a place for us, and He has promised to come again and receive us unto Himself, that where He is we may be also.
Journal:
Is my “knee bended” in regular times of prayer?
Who in my life helps to keep me accountable to avoid times of backsliding? When I was the last time I met with them?
Prayer Father, thank You that You always are with me, even in times when I am trying to run away. I am so thankful for all the times You gently call me back to Yourself. Keep me close to You, Lord! Don’t let me stray far from Your path. Keep me on my knees and in Your Word so I don’t get off track and fall away. In Jesus’ name, Amen (Via Henry Ironside)
Be Blessed! Dawn
Monday, July 23, 2012
The "Son" Question
"For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, 'The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.' There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved." — Acts 4:11-12
The conventional wisdom about what happens when you die is that you will stand before God, and if you did enough good works that outweighed your bad works, then you get into heaven, because heaven is for good people. And good people go to heaven.
Then the other belief is that if you have done enough bad things that outweigh your good works, then you will go to hell, because hell is for bad people. Heaven is for good people who get in by good works, while hell is for bad people who do bad things.
But that is not what the Bible teaches. The Bible teaches that hell was prepared for the devil and his angels (see Matthew 25:41); its original purpose was not for bad people at all.
Heaven is the dwelling place of God, and the way you get into heaven is on the basis of what you did with Jesus. What God will want to know is did you believe in Jesus Christ?
Even if you have lived a wicked life and sinned throughout all of it, if on your deathbed you were to call out to the Lord Jesus Christ in genuine repentance, you would go to heaven. But if you lived a good life and have been a relatively moral person and have done good deeds, but you have never put your faith in Jesus Christ, then you would not go to heaven. And by the way, your good works never would outweigh your bad works. So be thankful that is not what you will be judged for. (I'm so glad!)
The assurance that we will go to heaven is not as our culture often sees it, but this is as the Bible teaches it. It is the Son question—not the sin question.
(Via Greg Laurie)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
The conventional wisdom about what happens when you die is that you will stand before God, and if you did enough good works that outweighed your bad works, then you get into heaven, because heaven is for good people. And good people go to heaven.
Then the other belief is that if you have done enough bad things that outweigh your good works, then you will go to hell, because hell is for bad people. Heaven is for good people who get in by good works, while hell is for bad people who do bad things.
But that is not what the Bible teaches. The Bible teaches that hell was prepared for the devil and his angels (see Matthew 25:41); its original purpose was not for bad people at all.
Heaven is the dwelling place of God, and the way you get into heaven is on the basis of what you did with Jesus. What God will want to know is did you believe in Jesus Christ?
Even if you have lived a wicked life and sinned throughout all of it, if on your deathbed you were to call out to the Lord Jesus Christ in genuine repentance, you would go to heaven. But if you lived a good life and have been a relatively moral person and have done good deeds, but you have never put your faith in Jesus Christ, then you would not go to heaven. And by the way, your good works never would outweigh your bad works. So be thankful that is not what you will be judged for. (I'm so glad!)
The assurance that we will go to heaven is not as our culture often sees it, but this is as the Bible teaches it. It is the Son question—not the sin question.
(Via Greg Laurie)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Monday, July 16, 2012
The Danger of Drifting
15) The simpleton believes every word he hears, but the prudent man looks and considers well where he is going. 16) A wise man suspects danger and cautiously avoids evil, but the fool bears himself insolently ( rudeness, arrogance; lack of respect) and is [presumptuously] confident. ~ Proverbs 14:15-16
One fine afternoon, my best friend and I came upon an abandoned boat floating in the river. The paddles were broken, but that wasn't much deterrent for a pair of teenage boys. We shoved off and drifted down the river talking, joking, and carrying on. I'm not sure how much time passed as we floated aimlessly along, but we knew we were in trouble when a loud roar reached our ears. Up ahead, water was rushing over the dam. Panicked, we grabbed the broken paddles and pulled hard against the current. We managed to get close enough to the shore to safely jump out into shallow water, but the boat went over the edge. What started out as pure fun nearly ended in disaster.
That's exactly what is happening to a lot of people today. What begins as fun and pleasure ends in shipwreck because people drift along, neglecting to think ahead or notice how fast they're moving away from the safety of the Lord's plan. According to the prevailing attitude of modern society, God's not needed as long as the stream runs smoothly. In other words, when income is good, family is safe, and health is stable, going with the flow seems fine. But in reality, a drifting man is being swept along on dangerous anti-Christ and anti-church currents.
Today's passage reveals that the wise look to the future to avoid ruin. Let me put it another way: Drifting is foolish. In countless arenas of life--marriage, family, vocation, finances, etc.--we need a clear destination and navigation plan if we expect to be successful. God provides both (Prov. 3:6).
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
One fine afternoon, my best friend and I came upon an abandoned boat floating in the river. The paddles were broken, but that wasn't much deterrent for a pair of teenage boys. We shoved off and drifted down the river talking, joking, and carrying on. I'm not sure how much time passed as we floated aimlessly along, but we knew we were in trouble when a loud roar reached our ears. Up ahead, water was rushing over the dam. Panicked, we grabbed the broken paddles and pulled hard against the current. We managed to get close enough to the shore to safely jump out into shallow water, but the boat went over the edge. What started out as pure fun nearly ended in disaster.
That's exactly what is happening to a lot of people today. What begins as fun and pleasure ends in shipwreck because people drift along, neglecting to think ahead or notice how fast they're moving away from the safety of the Lord's plan. According to the prevailing attitude of modern society, God's not needed as long as the stream runs smoothly. In other words, when income is good, family is safe, and health is stable, going with the flow seems fine. But in reality, a drifting man is being swept along on dangerous anti-Christ and anti-church currents.
Today's passage reveals that the wise look to the future to avoid ruin. Let me put it another way: Drifting is foolish. In countless arenas of life--marriage, family, vocation, finances, etc.--we need a clear destination and navigation plan if we expect to be successful. God provides both (Prov. 3:6).
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Strength in Waiting
This was sent to me, so not sure who actually wrote it but I like it!
Read ~Isaiah 40:28-31
God has a purpose and plan for your life, and His timing is perfect. Sometimes He answers our prayers with "yes" or "no." But at other times, He says "not now"--when that is the case, we can avail ourselves of the rich rewards that come when we wait.
One very practical blessing is that God strengthens us as we lean on Him during delays. Isaiah 40:31 tells us that "those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength." We are given the metaphor of an eagle with wind beneath his wings. It is interesting to note that the words "wind" and "spirit" come from the same Greek word--pneuma. The spirit of God lifts us up, and His energy and strength sustain us as we abide in Him.
When we are facing a difficult decision, the real key is learning to wait. There is no verse of Scripture that tells us to take control and fight our own battles. God is the one who fights them on our behalf (2 Chron. 20:15). We are to be patient and trust in Him.
When David faced his greatest battles, he waited upon the Lord. God delivered him from destruction and set his feet on solid ground. (Ps. 40:1-3) He will do the same for you. When you abide in Him, He gives supernatural energy to accomplish the things He requires of you--His Spirit does for you what you cannot do for yourself.
In reading through the Scriptures, we see that every time one of God's saints gains a victory, he or she is waiting and trusting in the Lord. You can likewise experience triumph in your life. When you have the omnipotent Creator of the universe acting on your behalf, you can't lose.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Read ~Isaiah 40:28-31
God has a purpose and plan for your life, and His timing is perfect. Sometimes He answers our prayers with "yes" or "no." But at other times, He says "not now"--when that is the case, we can avail ourselves of the rich rewards that come when we wait.
One very practical blessing is that God strengthens us as we lean on Him during delays. Isaiah 40:31 tells us that "those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength." We are given the metaphor of an eagle with wind beneath his wings. It is interesting to note that the words "wind" and "spirit" come from the same Greek word--pneuma. The spirit of God lifts us up, and His energy and strength sustain us as we abide in Him.
When we are facing a difficult decision, the real key is learning to wait. There is no verse of Scripture that tells us to take control and fight our own battles. God is the one who fights them on our behalf (2 Chron. 20:15). We are to be patient and trust in Him.
When David faced his greatest battles, he waited upon the Lord. God delivered him from destruction and set his feet on solid ground. (Ps. 40:1-3) He will do the same for you. When you abide in Him, He gives supernatural energy to accomplish the things He requires of you--His Spirit does for you what you cannot do for yourself.
In reading through the Scriptures, we see that every time one of God's saints gains a victory, he or she is waiting and trusting in the Lord. You can likewise experience triumph in your life. When you have the omnipotent Creator of the universe acting on your behalf, you can't lose.
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
The Power of God's Grace
1)Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2) Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. 3) We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4) And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5) And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. ~ Romans 5:1-5
Grace is one of God's most amazing gifts. It provides us with everything we need to live in perfect freedom ( a life that pleases Him): pardon for our sins, healing for our hearts, the companionship of God's indwelling Holy Spirit, and access to freely cultivate our relationship with Him. We work, worship, and enjoy life surrounded by His unconditional love. His grace upholds us, fills us, and sustains us.
Since we are forgiven people, the Lord responds to us not as enemies but as His dearly loved children (Rom. 8:15; Eph. 5:1). He hears our prayers, speaks to us, and acts on our behalf.
The knowledge that we live under the covering of God's grace gives us...
The Lord is committed to transforming each of us according to His special plan for our lives. Even His correction is an expression of His loving favor (Heb. 12:10). When we falter or fail, we can rest assured that His amazing grace hems us in and always offers us redemption.
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Grace is one of God's most amazing gifts. It provides us with everything we need to live in perfect freedom ( a life that pleases Him): pardon for our sins, healing for our hearts, the companionship of God's indwelling Holy Spirit, and access to freely cultivate our relationship with Him. We work, worship, and enjoy life surrounded by His unconditional love. His grace upholds us, fills us, and sustains us.
Since we are forgiven people, the Lord responds to us not as enemies but as His dearly loved children (Rom. 8:15; Eph. 5:1). He hears our prayers, speaks to us, and acts on our behalf.
The knowledge that we live under the covering of God's grace gives us...
- Security about our position. No one can snatch us out of His hand (John 10:28).
- Boldness to live for Christ. Nothing anyone does or says can shake our confidence in who the Lord is or who we are in Him.
- Peace for today because we can fully trust in His sovereignty. The Lord is carrying out His perfect will--and we can be sure that nothing is able to thwart His plans when we cooperate with Him.
- Hope for the future. This life is just the beginning. One day we'll see Jesus face to face, be perfected as the individuals He created us to be, and live with Him in our true home forever.
The Lord is committed to transforming each of us according to His special plan for our lives. Even His correction is an expression of His loving favor (Heb. 12:10). When we falter or fail, we can rest assured that His amazing grace hems us in and always offers us redemption.
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Tempting Outside; Toxic Inside
For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7) He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. 8) He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. 9) Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. 10) For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. 11) Wise choices will watch over you.Understanding will keep you safe.
~ Proverbs 2:6-9 (NLT)
An Australian study concluded that plainer cigarette packages would make smoking less appealing to teens. In response, the Australian government introduced legislation that would require tobacco companies to replace color, logos, and promotional text on cigarette packages with health warnings and images of diseased lungs. In effect, the Marlboro Man would give way to the Grim Reaper in an effort to reduce the number of deaths caused by smoking. But cigarette packaging isn’t the only thing that may be tempting on the outside with a toxic product inside.
The Old Testament book of Proverbs urges us to carefully consider the long-term results of all our choices. The recurring phrase “in the end” (Prov. 5:4; 25:8; 29:21) is a warning to look down the road and ask if what we’re attracted to will ultimately lead to joy or sorrow, honor or disgrace, life or death (spiritual and/or natural). “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright” (2:6-7).
The key to avoiding the tragic results of foolish choices is embracing God’s wisdom as our guide through life. “Then [we] will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path” (v.9).
There’s so much wisdom to be learned, So many ways for me to grow, Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know. —K. De Haan
Wisdom is understanding what’s really important.
(via David C. McCasland)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
7) He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. 8) He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. 9) Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. 10) For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. 11) Wise choices will watch over you.Understanding will keep you safe.
~ Proverbs 2:6-9 (NLT)
An Australian study concluded that plainer cigarette packages would make smoking less appealing to teens. In response, the Australian government introduced legislation that would require tobacco companies to replace color, logos, and promotional text on cigarette packages with health warnings and images of diseased lungs. In effect, the Marlboro Man would give way to the Grim Reaper in an effort to reduce the number of deaths caused by smoking. But cigarette packaging isn’t the only thing that may be tempting on the outside with a toxic product inside.
The Old Testament book of Proverbs urges us to carefully consider the long-term results of all our choices. The recurring phrase “in the end” (Prov. 5:4; 25:8; 29:21) is a warning to look down the road and ask if what we’re attracted to will ultimately lead to joy or sorrow, honor or disgrace, life or death (spiritual and/or natural). “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright” (2:6-7).
The key to avoiding the tragic results of foolish choices is embracing God’s wisdom as our guide through life. “Then [we] will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path” (v.9).
There’s so much wisdom to be learned, So many ways for me to grow, Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know. —K. De Haan
Wisdom is understanding what’s really important.
(via David C. McCasland)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Getting It Right On The Inside
Then the Lord said, “Is it right for you to be angry?” —Jonah 4:4
I love the story of Jonah! It’s full of drama and important life lessons. After stubbornly refusing to do God’s will, Jonah finally preached a revival service in Nineveh that would have made him one of the most successful missionaries of his time. When the people repented and turned from their wicked ways—and when God relented and turned from His anger against them—you would have expected Jonah to rejoice. Instead, he was angry that God was merciful. Why? Although he was finally obeying God by doing the right thing in the right place, he was deeply flawed on the inside.
Like Jonah, if we are not careful, we can be spiritually “looking good” on the outside, but far from God in our hearts. He is most interested in what we are like on the inside. His Word is “sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit” (Heb. 4:12). With it, He performs divine surgery to remove the greed, dishonesty, hatred, pride, and selfishness that live in the deep shadows of our hearts.
So the next time the Holy Spirit convicts you and asks you about your bad attitude (see Jonah 4:4)—listen carefully. Surrender and let Him change you from the inside out.
If God controls you on the inside, you’ll be genuine on the outside.
(via Joe Stowell)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
I love the story of Jonah! It’s full of drama and important life lessons. After stubbornly refusing to do God’s will, Jonah finally preached a revival service in Nineveh that would have made him one of the most successful missionaries of his time. When the people repented and turned from their wicked ways—and when God relented and turned from His anger against them—you would have expected Jonah to rejoice. Instead, he was angry that God was merciful. Why? Although he was finally obeying God by doing the right thing in the right place, he was deeply flawed on the inside.
Like Jonah, if we are not careful, we can be spiritually “looking good” on the outside, but far from God in our hearts. He is most interested in what we are like on the inside. His Word is “sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit” (Heb. 4:12). With it, He performs divine surgery to remove the greed, dishonesty, hatred, pride, and selfishness that live in the deep shadows of our hearts.
So the next time the Holy Spirit convicts you and asks you about your bad attitude (see Jonah 4:4)—listen carefully. Surrender and let Him change you from the inside out.
I confess, heavenly Father, that I know what it’s
like to be more concerned about my outward obedience
than my inner rebellion. I want to look good to others.
Forgive me. Change me and make me pure within.
If God controls you on the inside, you’ll be genuine on the outside.
(via Joe Stowell)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Live Intentionally
As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:6-8)
Paul was a man who lived life to the full. His goals were to know Christ, abide in His power, fellowship in His suffering, and preach the gospel (Phil. 3:10; 1 Cor. 1:17). In doing so, he aligned his aspirations with the Lord's, diligently worked to fulfill his calling, and persevered through opposition, persecution, and suffering. He could face the end of his life with confidence since he'd "fought the good fight," "finished the course," and "kept the faith" (2 Tim. 4:7).
We'd all like to be able to say the same at the end of our lives, but that means we have to follow Paul's example. How are you doing at setting goals for your life? Have you thought beyond the immediate and set some long-term objectives? Our culture is so fast-paced that few of us take the time to actually consider where we're going. But you don't want to finish your life and find out you were on a course other than God's, fighting the wrong fight, and struggling to keep the faith.
Why not set aside some time this week to get alone with the Lord. Then ask His help in setting goals that will take you where He wants you to go. Consider every area of your life--personal, relational, financial, and vocational--but make spiritual goals your primary emphasis. Then write them down.
If you keep doing what you're doing, you'll keep getting what you're getting. Maybe it's time to get out of your rut and find a new path. God will help you change direction and accomplish new goals that align with His will. Don't settle for the mediocrity of an unplanned life. Start living intentionally.
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Paul was a man who lived life to the full. His goals were to know Christ, abide in His power, fellowship in His suffering, and preach the gospel (Phil. 3:10; 1 Cor. 1:17). In doing so, he aligned his aspirations with the Lord's, diligently worked to fulfill his calling, and persevered through opposition, persecution, and suffering. He could face the end of his life with confidence since he'd "fought the good fight," "finished the course," and "kept the faith" (2 Tim. 4:7).
We'd all like to be able to say the same at the end of our lives, but that means we have to follow Paul's example. How are you doing at setting goals for your life? Have you thought beyond the immediate and set some long-term objectives? Our culture is so fast-paced that few of us take the time to actually consider where we're going. But you don't want to finish your life and find out you were on a course other than God's, fighting the wrong fight, and struggling to keep the faith.
Why not set aside some time this week to get alone with the Lord. Then ask His help in setting goals that will take you where He wants you to go. Consider every area of your life--personal, relational, financial, and vocational--but make spiritual goals your primary emphasis. Then write them down.
If you keep doing what you're doing, you'll keep getting what you're getting. Maybe it's time to get out of your rut and find a new path. God will help you change direction and accomplish new goals that align with His will. Don't settle for the mediocrity of an unplanned life. Start living intentionally.
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Friday, June 8, 2012
The Gospel of the Grace of God
18) When they arrived he declared, “You know that from the day I set foot in the province of Asia until now 19) I have done the Lord’s work humbly and with many tears. I have endured the trials that came to me from the plots of the Jews. 20) I never shrank back from telling you what you needed to hear, either publicly or in your homes. 21) I have had one message for Jews and Greeks alike—the necessity of repenting from sin and turning to God, and of having faith in our Lord Jesus. 22) “And now I am bound by the Spirit[a] to go to Jerusalem. I don’t know what awaits me, 23) except that the Holy Spirit tells me in city after city that jail and suffering lie ahead. 24) But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. ~ Acts 20: 18-24
The apostle Paul was consumed by a passion that was even greater than his desire for life or the dread of suffering. He had a ministry to fulfill and a message of salvation to deliver. His words in Acts 20:24 help us understand the foundational concept involved in our salvation. Paul called it "the gospel of the grace of God."
We're saved simply because the Lord is gracious. He knew we could never be good enough to bridge the gap between our sin and His holiness. That's why you will never hear of "the gospel of the Law of God." That would not be good news at all! Can you imagine singing, "Amazing law, how fearful the sound, that saved a wretch like me"? We could never fulfill the requirements, especially the way Jesus enlarged the meaning of the law in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7). But grace--that's totally different. It has nothing to do with our worthiness or good performance, but is solely based on God's unmerited favor towards us.
What's most amazing is that the avenue for our salvation is through faith alone. The grace that God extends in saving us is His gift, and not anything we can add to by our works (Eph. 2:8-9). Otherwise, we'd have to clean up our lives in order to be saved, and that would nullify grace.
Praise the Lord for His wonderful plan of salvation. Christ paid our sin debt with His death, and all we have to do is believe it. Even after salvation, God’s grace keeps flowing. We never have to worry that we aren't good enough and will fall out of favor. His grace is forever.
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
The apostle Paul was consumed by a passion that was even greater than his desire for life or the dread of suffering. He had a ministry to fulfill and a message of salvation to deliver. His words in Acts 20:24 help us understand the foundational concept involved in our salvation. Paul called it "the gospel of the grace of God."
We're saved simply because the Lord is gracious. He knew we could never be good enough to bridge the gap between our sin and His holiness. That's why you will never hear of "the gospel of the Law of God." That would not be good news at all! Can you imagine singing, "Amazing law, how fearful the sound, that saved a wretch like me"? We could never fulfill the requirements, especially the way Jesus enlarged the meaning of the law in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7). But grace--that's totally different. It has nothing to do with our worthiness or good performance, but is solely based on God's unmerited favor towards us.
What's most amazing is that the avenue for our salvation is through faith alone. The grace that God extends in saving us is His gift, and not anything we can add to by our works (Eph. 2:8-9). Otherwise, we'd have to clean up our lives in order to be saved, and that would nullify grace.
Praise the Lord for His wonderful plan of salvation. Christ paid our sin debt with His death, and all we have to do is believe it. Even after salvation, God’s grace keeps flowing. We never have to worry that we aren't good enough and will fall out of favor. His grace is forever.
(Via Charles Stanley)
Be Blessed!
Dawn
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
