As having nothing, yet possessing everything. 2Cor6.10 ESV
Once when I was out for morning prayers, I had walked down to the Alabama River and found my way blocked by dense underbrush. I had one of those passing thoughts that it sure would be nice to have a path that ran along the river so I would have a pretty place to walk while I prayed. You can imagine how surprised I was when I returned several weeks later only to find such a path. Evidently a couple of mountain bikers had cut a nice trail through the patch of woods along that stretch of river since I had been there last. It made a perfect loop for my morning walk and prayers. I felt as if God was listening to more than just my intercessions that morning and had sent me a precious gift. It is humbling when you know that God has provided you with more than you need but has visited you with lavished kindness, and hears even our passing thoughts.
I do not suppose in this life that I will ever own a track of land beside a river or a beautiful mountain top vista. But it matters not, when it all belongs to Father and He has graciously made us a joint heir with Christ. 3/31/2008 ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Even your passing thoughts
As having nothing, yet possessing everything. 2Cor6.10 ESV
Once when I was out for morning prayers, I had walked down to the Alabama River and found my way blocked by dense underbrush. I had one of those passing thoughts that it sure would be nice to have a path that ran along the river so I would have a pretty place to walk while I prayed. You can imagine how surprised I was when I returned several weeks later only to find such a path. Evidently a couple of mountain bikers had cut a nice trail through the patch of woods along that stretch of river since I had been there last. It made a perfect loop for my morning walk and prayers. I felt as if God was listening to more than just my intercessions that morning and had sent me a precious gift. It is humbling when you know that God has provided you with more than you need but has visited you with lavished kindness, and hears even our passing thoughts.
I do not suppose in this life that I will ever own a track of land beside a river or a beautiful mountain top vista. But it matters not, when it all belongs to Father and He has graciously made us a joint heir with Christ. 3/31/2008 ts
Once when I was out for morning prayers, I had walked down to the Alabama River and found my way blocked by dense underbrush. I had one of those passing thoughts that it sure would be nice to have a path that ran along the river so I would have a pretty place to walk while I prayed. You can imagine how surprised I was when I returned several weeks later only to find such a path. Evidently a couple of mountain bikers had cut a nice trail through the patch of woods along that stretch of river since I had been there last. It made a perfect loop for my morning walk and prayers. I felt as if God was listening to more than just my intercessions that morning and had sent me a precious gift. It is humbling when you know that God has provided you with more than you need but has visited you with lavished kindness, and hears even our passing thoughts.
I do not suppose in this life that I will ever own a track of land beside a river or a beautiful mountain top vista. But it matters not, when it all belongs to Father and He has graciously made us a joint heir with Christ. 3/31/2008 ts
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Wanderlust
“Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Mt25.24 ESV
Brenda and I are adventurers. We jokingly refer to each other as Lewis and Clark. I of course, am Lewis. We love exploring and could easily spend a day wandering in the woods or wading up a creek, always wondering what’s just around that next bend. Some days we will drive a dirt road just to see where it may lead or paddle a swamp on the side of the road. The world is filled with wonder and we with wanderlust.
You can imagine how these words of Jesus stir my soul. Talk about what’s around the next bend! His Kingdom is sure to be the never-ending adventure of our eternal lifetime.
And even as these words stir my soul they also settle and quiet it. As much as I enjoy seeing new places I know that I will never see some of the popular destinations in this world. Not to worry, we feel no need to try and get it all in before our sunset. For Jesus assures us that a million years from today, Brenda and I will be somewhere wandering in that place He has prepared for us. And even though no eye has seen, nor ear heard, all that God has prepared, even though we can’t even begin to imagine it, I am sure there will be endless nooks and crannies to explore, yes, endless wood and water and the wind of wanderlust in our sails. 3/29/2008 ts
Brenda and I are adventurers. We jokingly refer to each other as Lewis and Clark. I of course, am Lewis. We love exploring and could easily spend a day wandering in the woods or wading up a creek, always wondering what’s just around that next bend. Some days we will drive a dirt road just to see where it may lead or paddle a swamp on the side of the road. The world is filled with wonder and we with wanderlust.
You can imagine how these words of Jesus stir my soul. Talk about what’s around the next bend! His Kingdom is sure to be the never-ending adventure of our eternal lifetime.
And even as these words stir my soul they also settle and quiet it. As much as I enjoy seeing new places I know that I will never see some of the popular destinations in this world. Not to worry, we feel no need to try and get it all in before our sunset. For Jesus assures us that a million years from today, Brenda and I will be somewhere wandering in that place He has prepared for us. And even though no eye has seen, nor ear heard, all that God has prepared, even though we can’t even begin to imagine it, I am sure there will be endless nooks and crannies to explore, yes, endless wood and water and the wind of wanderlust in our sails. 3/29/2008 ts
Wanderlust
“Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Mt25.24 ESV
Brenda and I are adventurers. We jokingly refer to each other as Lewis and Clark. I of course, am Lewis. We love exploring and could easily spend a day wandering in the woods or wading up a creek, always wondering what’s just around that next bend. Some days we will drive a dirt road just to see where it may lead or paddle a swamp on the side of the road. The world is filled with wonder and we with wanderlust.
You can imagine how these words of Jesus stir my soul. Talk about what’s around the next bend! His Kingdom is sure to be the never-ending adventure of our eternal lifetime.
And even as these words stir my soul they also settle and quiet it. As much as I enjoy seeing new places I know that I will never see some of the popular destinations in this world. Not to worry, we feel no need to try and get it all in before our sunset. For Jesus assures us that a million years from today, Brenda and I will be somewhere wandering in that place He has prepared for us. And even though no eye has seen, nor ear heard, all that God has prepared, even though we can’t even begin to imagine it, I am sure there will be endless nooks and crannies to explore, yes, endless wood and water and the wind of wanderlust in our sails. 3/29/2008 ts
Brenda and I are adventurers. We jokingly refer to each other as Lewis and Clark. I of course, am Lewis. We love exploring and could easily spend a day wandering in the woods or wading up a creek, always wondering what’s just around that next bend. Some days we will drive a dirt road just to see where it may lead or paddle a swamp on the side of the road. The world is filled with wonder and we with wanderlust.
You can imagine how these words of Jesus stir my soul. Talk about what’s around the next bend! His Kingdom is sure to be the never-ending adventure of our eternal lifetime.
And even as these words stir my soul they also settle and quiet it. As much as I enjoy seeing new places I know that I will never see some of the popular destinations in this world. Not to worry, we feel no need to try and get it all in before our sunset. For Jesus assures us that a million years from today, Brenda and I will be somewhere wandering in that place He has prepared for us. And even though no eye has seen, nor ear heard, all that God has prepared, even though we can’t even begin to imagine it, I am sure there will be endless nooks and crannies to explore, yes, endless wood and water and the wind of wanderlust in our sails. 3/29/2008 ts
Friday, March 28, 2008
When prey becomes predator
…they shall mount up with wings like eagles… Is410.31 ESV
I have always liked the saying, ‘Memory is the power to gather roses in winter.” I think one of the reasons I like it is because I do not like limitations and these words give me the power to overcome at least one limitation of winter's cold.
Now my confession is not necessarily a good one, because some limitations in life are boundaries, which God has set for our protection. But, there are also many things in this life, which seek to constrict our faith and rob us our joy, and so we find in these words the power to overcome. Those who wait on the LORD, are given a supernatural strength, a peace that passes understanding. His is the power to transform from prey to predator.
The predators that would rob us, have no wings. Worry cannot ascend the mountains of worship where all who wait on God may fly. Fear and doubt may pounce as the cat but those who trust in God fly away as the little bird or better as the eagle. Once prey, now winged predator we may in turn dive from above and capture our enemies. Do you not feel the power? Wait on Him and see your wings grow. 3/28/2008 ts
I have always liked the saying, ‘Memory is the power to gather roses in winter.” I think one of the reasons I like it is because I do not like limitations and these words give me the power to overcome at least one limitation of winter's cold.
Now my confession is not necessarily a good one, because some limitations in life are boundaries, which God has set for our protection. But, there are also many things in this life, which seek to constrict our faith and rob us our joy, and so we find in these words the power to overcome. Those who wait on the LORD, are given a supernatural strength, a peace that passes understanding. His is the power to transform from prey to predator.
The predators that would rob us, have no wings. Worry cannot ascend the mountains of worship where all who wait on God may fly. Fear and doubt may pounce as the cat but those who trust in God fly away as the little bird or better as the eagle. Once prey, now winged predator we may in turn dive from above and capture our enemies. Do you not feel the power? Wait on Him and see your wings grow. 3/28/2008 ts
When prey becomes predator
…they shall mount up with wings like eagles… Is410.31 ESV
I have always liked the saying, ‘Memory is the power to gather roses in winter.” I think one of the reasons I like it is because I do not like limitations and these words give me the power to overcome at least one limitation of winter's cold.
Now my confession is not necessarily a good one, because some limitations in life are boundaries, which God has set for our protection. But, there are also many things in this life, which seek to constrict our faith and rob us our joy, and so we find in these words the power to overcome. Those who wait on the LORD, are given a supernatural strength, a peace that passes understanding. His is the power to transform from prey to predator.
The predators that would rob us, have no wings. Worry cannot ascend the mountains of worship where all who wait on God may fly. Fear and doubt may pounce as the cat but those who trust in God fly away as the little bird or better as the eagle. Once prey, now winged predator we may in turn dive from above and capture our enemies. Do you not feel the power? Wait on Him and see your wings grow. 3/28/2008 ts
I have always liked the saying, ‘Memory is the power to gather roses in winter.” I think one of the reasons I like it is because I do not like limitations and these words give me the power to overcome at least one limitation of winter's cold.
Now my confession is not necessarily a good one, because some limitations in life are boundaries, which God has set for our protection. But, there are also many things in this life, which seek to constrict our faith and rob us our joy, and so we find in these words the power to overcome. Those who wait on the LORD, are given a supernatural strength, a peace that passes understanding. His is the power to transform from prey to predator.
The predators that would rob us, have no wings. Worry cannot ascend the mountains of worship where all who wait on God may fly. Fear and doubt may pounce as the cat but those who trust in God fly away as the little bird or better as the eagle. Once prey, now winged predator we may in turn dive from above and capture our enemies. Do you not feel the power? Wait on Him and see your wings grow. 3/28/2008 ts
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Don’t come alone.
And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more Mt25.19 ESV
Let me get this right. When I come to settle accounts with God, He expects me to have something to show for the time given to me in this place. Christ promised us fruitfulness; the Father is expecting it.
OK then, what exactly is God expecting us to bring? Well, according to the good book, “if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.”
Father cares as much for our motives as He does for the mountains we might move; truthfully more so. I dare say, that the one who faithfully seeks to profit the people around them, will be better off than one who builds a church of ten thousand seeking to profit only themselves.
The great reward of heaven will not be its streets of gold, but the feet of those who walk them because of the influences of our love. When I cross the finish line, I should not cross it alone. 3/27/2008 ts
Let me get this right. When I come to settle accounts with God, He expects me to have something to show for the time given to me in this place. Christ promised us fruitfulness; the Father is expecting it.
OK then, what exactly is God expecting us to bring? Well, according to the good book, “if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.”
Father cares as much for our motives as He does for the mountains we might move; truthfully more so. I dare say, that the one who faithfully seeks to profit the people around them, will be better off than one who builds a church of ten thousand seeking to profit only themselves.
The great reward of heaven will not be its streets of gold, but the feet of those who walk them because of the influences of our love. When I cross the finish line, I should not cross it alone. 3/27/2008 ts
Don’t come alone.
And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more Mt25.19 ESV
Let me get this right. When I come to settle accounts with God, He expects me to have something to show for the time given to me in this place. Christ promised us fruitfulness; the Father is expecting it.
OK then, what exactly is God expecting us to bring? Well, according to the good book, “if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.”
Father cares as much for our motives as He does for the mountains we might move; truthfully more so. I dare say, that the one who faithfully seeks to profit the people around them, will be better off than one who builds a church of ten thousand seeking to profit only themselves.
The great reward of heaven will not be its streets of gold, but the feet of those who walk them because of the influences of our love. When I cross the finish line, I should not cross it alone. 3/27/2008 ts
Let me get this right. When I come to settle accounts with God, He expects me to have something to show for the time given to me in this place. Christ promised us fruitfulness; the Father is expecting it.
OK then, what exactly is God expecting us to bring? Well, according to the good book, “if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.”
Father cares as much for our motives as He does for the mountains we might move; truthfully more so. I dare say, that the one who faithfully seeks to profit the people around them, will be better off than one who builds a church of ten thousand seeking to profit only themselves.
The great reward of heaven will not be its streets of gold, but the feet of those who walk them because of the influences of our love. When I cross the finish line, I should not cross it alone. 3/27/2008 ts
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Money for the Zoo
“For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. Mt25.14 ESV
Jesus tells us that it is vital that we understand that the Kingdom of God is the property of God and that we are mere servants in that Kingdom. All that we possess has been entrusted to us, does not belong to us, and is to be used for Kingdom purposes. This does not mean that we can’t enjoy what God has entrusted to us. He certainly desires that we do. But it does mean that these endowments are not for us alone and are to be as freely shared as they have been freely given. Because we are in charge of these gifts it cannot be said that the sharing is communism, but it is certainly community. Communism is a forced sharing, while community is a voluntary sharing. This means that although every gift of God is for the benefit of the community, it is under the care and direction of the individual. And, because all submission to God is voluntary the individual may of course refuse to share what is entrusted to them, but at what cost?
Yesterday we took some inner city teens to the zoo. At one point the thought crossed my mind that I was being generous with my possessions doing so. Just as I was staring to feel a little too good about myself, the Holy Spirit quickly reminded me, that I was being generous with His possessions and that He had provided them for just that purpose. The truth is that Father gave us all some money to go to the zoo yesterday, He just entrusted it to my care. Jesus tells us that that is the only proper way to view all His endowments. 3/26/2008 ts
Jesus tells us that it is vital that we understand that the Kingdom of God is the property of God and that we are mere servants in that Kingdom. All that we possess has been entrusted to us, does not belong to us, and is to be used for Kingdom purposes. This does not mean that we can’t enjoy what God has entrusted to us. He certainly desires that we do. But it does mean that these endowments are not for us alone and are to be as freely shared as they have been freely given. Because we are in charge of these gifts it cannot be said that the sharing is communism, but it is certainly community. Communism is a forced sharing, while community is a voluntary sharing. This means that although every gift of God is for the benefit of the community, it is under the care and direction of the individual. And, because all submission to God is voluntary the individual may of course refuse to share what is entrusted to them, but at what cost?
Yesterday we took some inner city teens to the zoo. At one point the thought crossed my mind that I was being generous with my possessions doing so. Just as I was staring to feel a little too good about myself, the Holy Spirit quickly reminded me, that I was being generous with His possessions and that He had provided them for just that purpose. The truth is that Father gave us all some money to go to the zoo yesterday, He just entrusted it to my care. Jesus tells us that that is the only proper way to view all His endowments. 3/26/2008 ts
Money for the Zoo
“For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. Mt25.14 ESV
Jesus tells us that it is vital that we understand that the Kingdom of God is the property of God and that we are mere servants in that Kingdom. All that we possess has been entrusted to us, does not belong to us, and is to be used for Kingdom purposes. This does not mean that we can’t enjoy what God has entrusted to us. He certainly desires that we do. But it does mean that these endowments are not for us alone and are to be as freely shared as they have been freely given. Because we are in charge of these gifts it cannot be said that the sharing is communism, but it is certainly community. Communism is a forced sharing, while community is a voluntary sharing. This means that although every gift of God is for the benefit of the community, it is under the care and direction of the individual. And, because all submission to God is voluntary the individual may of course refuse to share what is entrusted to them, but at what cost?
Yesterday we took some inner city teens to the zoo. At one point the thought crossed my mind that I was being generous with my possessions doing so. Just as I was staring to feel a little too good about myself, the Holy Spirit quickly reminded me, that I was being generous with His possessions and that He had provided them for just that purpose. The truth is that Father gave us all some money to go to the zoo yesterday, He just entrusted it to my care. Jesus tells us that that is the only proper way to view all His endowments. 3/26/2008 ts
Jesus tells us that it is vital that we understand that the Kingdom of God is the property of God and that we are mere servants in that Kingdom. All that we possess has been entrusted to us, does not belong to us, and is to be used for Kingdom purposes. This does not mean that we can’t enjoy what God has entrusted to us. He certainly desires that we do. But it does mean that these endowments are not for us alone and are to be as freely shared as they have been freely given. Because we are in charge of these gifts it cannot be said that the sharing is communism, but it is certainly community. Communism is a forced sharing, while community is a voluntary sharing. This means that although every gift of God is for the benefit of the community, it is under the care and direction of the individual. And, because all submission to God is voluntary the individual may of course refuse to share what is entrusted to them, but at what cost?
Yesterday we took some inner city teens to the zoo. At one point the thought crossed my mind that I was being generous with my possessions doing so. Just as I was staring to feel a little too good about myself, the Holy Spirit quickly reminded me, that I was being generous with His possessions and that He had provided them for just that purpose. The truth is that Father gave us all some money to go to the zoo yesterday, He just entrusted it to my care. Jesus tells us that that is the only proper way to view all His endowments. 3/26/2008 ts
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
All the difference in the world
“Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go…” Gen28.15 ESV
It seems to me that the Holy Spirit is all of the time seeking to strengthen our faith by bolstering our confidence in God.
There are times when I am not sure where God may be leading, but I believe He wants us to be certain, that wherever that is, He will be there with us. And of course, knowing that makes all the difference in the world.
When Moses was speaking to God about the mission He was assigning to him, there were many particulars that God did not reveal to him. But Moses needed to know only one thing, and that was if God was coming along. “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here.” Moses went on to say, “Is it not in your going with us, that we are distinct…?” In other words, God it is Your presence with us, that defines us. Your presence makes all the difference in the world.
When the Lord is with us, every good thing surrounds us, for God works all things for the good of those who love Him. His company transforms the mundane into magic and the ordinary into opulent opportunity. When the Lord is with us, what could possibly be against us? Knowing this makes all the difference in the world.
“Behold I am with you always…” Jesus
3/25/2008 ts
It seems to me that the Holy Spirit is all of the time seeking to strengthen our faith by bolstering our confidence in God.
There are times when I am not sure where God may be leading, but I believe He wants us to be certain, that wherever that is, He will be there with us. And of course, knowing that makes all the difference in the world.
When Moses was speaking to God about the mission He was assigning to him, there were many particulars that God did not reveal to him. But Moses needed to know only one thing, and that was if God was coming along. “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here.” Moses went on to say, “Is it not in your going with us, that we are distinct…?” In other words, God it is Your presence with us, that defines us. Your presence makes all the difference in the world.
When the Lord is with us, every good thing surrounds us, for God works all things for the good of those who love Him. His company transforms the mundane into magic and the ordinary into opulent opportunity. When the Lord is with us, what could possibly be against us? Knowing this makes all the difference in the world.
“Behold I am with you always…” Jesus
3/25/2008 ts
All the difference in the world
“Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go…” Gen28.15 ESV
It seems to me that the Holy Spirit is all of the time seeking to strengthen our faith by bolstering our confidence in God.
There are times when I am not sure where God may be leading, but I believe He wants us to be certain, that wherever that is, He will be there with us. And of course, knowing that makes all the difference in the world.
When Moses was speaking to God about the mission He was assigning to him, there were many particulars that God did not reveal to him. But Moses needed to know only one thing, and that was if God was coming along. “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here.” Moses went on to say, “Is it not in your going with us, that we are distinct…?” In other words, God it is Your presence with us, that defines us. Your presence makes all the difference in the world.
When the Lord is with us, every good thing surrounds us, for God works all things for the good of those who love Him. His company transforms the mundane into magic and the ordinary into opulent opportunity. When the Lord is with us, what could possibly be against us? Knowing this makes all the difference in the world.
“Behold I am with you always…” Jesus
3/25/2008 ts
It seems to me that the Holy Spirit is all of the time seeking to strengthen our faith by bolstering our confidence in God.
There are times when I am not sure where God may be leading, but I believe He wants us to be certain, that wherever that is, He will be there with us. And of course, knowing that makes all the difference in the world.
When Moses was speaking to God about the mission He was assigning to him, there were many particulars that God did not reveal to him. But Moses needed to know only one thing, and that was if God was coming along. “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here.” Moses went on to say, “Is it not in your going with us, that we are distinct…?” In other words, God it is Your presence with us, that defines us. Your presence makes all the difference in the world.
When the Lord is with us, every good thing surrounds us, for God works all things for the good of those who love Him. His company transforms the mundane into magic and the ordinary into opulent opportunity. When the Lord is with us, what could possibly be against us? Knowing this makes all the difference in the world.
“Behold I am with you always…” Jesus
3/25/2008 ts
Monday, March 24, 2008
So far so good!
“No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith…”Ro4.20 ESV
What has God promised you? I can think of any number of promises He has made but one stands out to me more than others. Christ promised his disciples fruitfulness. I understand this fruit to be a number of things although it is always directed toward the same purpose. He put it this way, “It is to my Father’s glory that you bear much fruit.”
Fruit then is first my personal enjoyment of God, not doubt resulting in personal transformation, love, joy, peace, patience--the very fruit of the Spirit in me. It is second the fruit of impact, that my life will find meaning helping others discover the beauty and value of God in Christ. After all, what good was Abraham’s wealth if he had no one to share it with, and no one who would inherit it? It is finally the fruit of answered prayer, that when I ask God anything needed to accomplish these things, He will give it.
The promise of fruitfulness has given purpose and direction to my life. When I wake each day, it gives me my heading. When I loose my way it has served as a compass for my soul. All I can say is that Christ’s words which direct us to abide in Him as the basis for happiness have been so far so good. Why then would I waver from this path of joy? 3/24/2008 ts
What has God promised you? I can think of any number of promises He has made but one stands out to me more than others. Christ promised his disciples fruitfulness. I understand this fruit to be a number of things although it is always directed toward the same purpose. He put it this way, “It is to my Father’s glory that you bear much fruit.”
Fruit then is first my personal enjoyment of God, not doubt resulting in personal transformation, love, joy, peace, patience--the very fruit of the Spirit in me. It is second the fruit of impact, that my life will find meaning helping others discover the beauty and value of God in Christ. After all, what good was Abraham’s wealth if he had no one to share it with, and no one who would inherit it? It is finally the fruit of answered prayer, that when I ask God anything needed to accomplish these things, He will give it.
The promise of fruitfulness has given purpose and direction to my life. When I wake each day, it gives me my heading. When I loose my way it has served as a compass for my soul. All I can say is that Christ’s words which direct us to abide in Him as the basis for happiness have been so far so good. Why then would I waver from this path of joy? 3/24/2008 ts
So far so good!
“No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith…”Ro4.20 ESV
What has God promised you? I can think of any number of promises He has made but one stands out to me more than others. Christ promised his disciples fruitfulness. I understand this fruit to be a number of things although it is always directed toward the same purpose. He put it this way, “It is to my Father’s glory that you bear much fruit.”
Fruit then is first my personal enjoyment of God, not doubt resulting in personal transformation, love, joy, peace, patience--the very fruit of the Spirit in me. It is second the fruit of impact, that my life will find meaning helping others discover the beauty and value of God in Christ. After all, what good was Abraham’s wealth if he had no one to share it with, and no one who would inherit it? It is finally the fruit of answered prayer, that when I ask God anything needed to accomplish these things, He will give it.
The promise of fruitfulness has given purpose and direction to my life. When I wake each day, it gives me my heading. When I loose my way it has served as a compass for my soul. All I can say is that Christ’s words which direct us to abide in Him as the basis for happiness have been so far so good. Why then would I waver from this path of joy? 3/24/2008 ts
What has God promised you? I can think of any number of promises He has made but one stands out to me more than others. Christ promised his disciples fruitfulness. I understand this fruit to be a number of things although it is always directed toward the same purpose. He put it this way, “It is to my Father’s glory that you bear much fruit.”
Fruit then is first my personal enjoyment of God, not doubt resulting in personal transformation, love, joy, peace, patience--the very fruit of the Spirit in me. It is second the fruit of impact, that my life will find meaning helping others discover the beauty and value of God in Christ. After all, what good was Abraham’s wealth if he had no one to share it with, and no one who would inherit it? It is finally the fruit of answered prayer, that when I ask God anything needed to accomplish these things, He will give it.
The promise of fruitfulness has given purpose and direction to my life. When I wake each day, it gives me my heading. When I loose my way it has served as a compass for my soul. All I can say is that Christ’s words which direct us to abide in Him as the basis for happiness have been so far so good. Why then would I waver from this path of joy? 3/24/2008 ts
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Fascination with flashlights
“The unfolding of your words gives light.” Ps119.130 ESV
I think it is safe to say that men are generally fascinated with flashlights and pocketknives. Most, if not all the men I know are. I keep both handy all of the time and would be sore pressed not to have them. But my fascination with a good flashlight is more than in its usefulness. I am not exactly sure what it is about the ability to hold the power of light in your hand and to call it up whenever it is needed.
The value of light is a common theme in the Scriptures. There is a great confidence when we are able to unfold the wisdom and light of it pages into the dark places of our lives. When the children of God are in doubt, we search the Scriptures. When fear assails us, we search the Scriptures. When we need guidance, or comfort or wisdom, we search the Scriptures. Our faith in God’s Word is the power to turn on the light. And as we seek the Spirit of God leads us to find, and we give this praise, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” There is nothing like a good flashlight when you need one. 3/20/2008 ts
I think it is safe to say that men are generally fascinated with flashlights and pocketknives. Most, if not all the men I know are. I keep both handy all of the time and would be sore pressed not to have them. But my fascination with a good flashlight is more than in its usefulness. I am not exactly sure what it is about the ability to hold the power of light in your hand and to call it up whenever it is needed.
The value of light is a common theme in the Scriptures. There is a great confidence when we are able to unfold the wisdom and light of it pages into the dark places of our lives. When the children of God are in doubt, we search the Scriptures. When fear assails us, we search the Scriptures. When we need guidance, or comfort or wisdom, we search the Scriptures. Our faith in God’s Word is the power to turn on the light. And as we seek the Spirit of God leads us to find, and we give this praise, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” There is nothing like a good flashlight when you need one. 3/20/2008 ts
Fascination with flashlights
“The unfolding of your words gives light.” Ps119.130 ESV
I think it is safe to say that men are generally fascinated with flashlights and pocketknives. Most, if not all the men I know are. I keep both handy all of the time and would be sore pressed not to have them. But my fascination with a good flashlight is more than in its usefulness. I am not exactly sure what it is about the ability to hold the power of light in your hand and to call it up whenever it is needed.
The value of light is a common theme in the Scriptures. There is a great confidence when we are able to unfold the wisdom and light of it pages into the dark places of our lives. When the children of God are in doubt, we search the Scriptures. When fear assails us, we search the Scriptures. When we need guidance, or comfort or wisdom, we search the Scriptures. Our faith in God’s Word is the power to turn on the light. And as we seek the Spirit of God leads us to find, and we give this praise, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” There is nothing like a good flashlight when you need one. 3/20/2008 ts
I think it is safe to say that men are generally fascinated with flashlights and pocketknives. Most, if not all the men I know are. I keep both handy all of the time and would be sore pressed not to have them. But my fascination with a good flashlight is more than in its usefulness. I am not exactly sure what it is about the ability to hold the power of light in your hand and to call it up whenever it is needed.
The value of light is a common theme in the Scriptures. There is a great confidence when we are able to unfold the wisdom and light of it pages into the dark places of our lives. When the children of God are in doubt, we search the Scriptures. When fear assails us, we search the Scriptures. When we need guidance, or comfort or wisdom, we search the Scriptures. Our faith in God’s Word is the power to turn on the light. And as we seek the Spirit of God leads us to find, and we give this praise, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” There is nothing like a good flashlight when you need one. 3/20/2008 ts
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
We need far more than a clean slate
“For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life”. Ro5.10 ESV
We are given so much more than a clean slate, when we look to Christ for our acceptance before God. His death has certainly erased our debt but it is His perfect life, which is credited to our account. What good is an empty slate when the Master requires perfection? And so, the perfect life of Jesus is transferred to us. We are saved as much by the life of Christ as we are then by His death.
When the scriptures tell us that we are saved by His life, we understand this to be more than just a simple accounting notation. Jesus comes to live in us, and through us. His very life enters our own. Father will never turn away His Son, and so we may be confident that when we come to judgment we do not come alone. When the Father sees Jesus in us, He will embrace us as His own.
We are given so much more than a clean slate, when we look to Christ for our acceptance before God. His death has certainly erased our debt but it is His perfect life, which is credited to our account. What good is an empty slate when the Master requires perfection? And so, the perfect life of Jesus is transferred to us. We are saved as much by the life of Christ as we are then by His death.
When the scriptures tell us that we are saved by His life, we understand this to be more than just a simple accounting notation. Jesus comes to live in us, and through us. His very life enters our own. Father will never turn away His Son, and so we may be confident that when we come to judgment we do not come alone. When the Father sees Jesus in us, He will embrace us as His own.
We need far more than a clean slate
“For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life”. Ro5.10 ESV
We are given so much more than a clean slate, when we look to Christ for our acceptance before God. His death has certainly erased our debt but it is His perfect life, which is credited to our account. What good is an empty slate when the Master requires perfection? And so, the perfect life of Jesus is transferred to us. We are saved as much by the life of Christ as we are then by His death.
When the scriptures tell us that we are saved by His life, we understand this to be more than just a simple accounting notation. Jesus comes to live in us, and through us. His very life enters our own. Father will never turn away His Son, and so we may be confident that when we come to judgment we do not come alone. When the Father sees Jesus in us, He will embrace us as His own.
We are given so much more than a clean slate, when we look to Christ for our acceptance before God. His death has certainly erased our debt but it is His perfect life, which is credited to our account. What good is an empty slate when the Master requires perfection? And so, the perfect life of Jesus is transferred to us. We are saved as much by the life of Christ as we are then by His death.
When the scriptures tell us that we are saved by His life, we understand this to be more than just a simple accounting notation. Jesus comes to live in us, and through us. His very life enters our own. Father will never turn away His Son, and so we may be confident that when we come to judgment we do not come alone. When the Father sees Jesus in us, He will embrace us as His own.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
There’s nothing like sleeping in one own bed.
“My eyes are weary with looking upward.” Is38.14 ESV
Most of us can appreciate coming back home after several days of travel. There’s nothing like sleeping in ones own bed. We can then, in some small sense, relate to Jesus, who surely grew tied of being on the road, so to speak. He had come from the glory of Heaven, where all live in perfect unity, intent on that one glory, to enjoy God supremely. He left the glory of Heaven to walk our filthy streets, to wake up each day to people with divided hearts, and forced to witness our greed and selfishness. Surely His eyes grew weary of looking upward when He was accustomed to talking with His Father face to face.
Each day when I pray the Lord’s Prayer I am keenly aware that I speak to our Father, who is in Heaven but I, I am on earth. I feel more and more this distance between us, fragmented yet wanting to be whole, divided but desiring to be one. Strange that my eyes are weary looking upward and longing to see Him face to face. And, as I am presently ashamed to do so, surely this can only be Christ in me, the very hope of glory.
We have yet to come home to this place we have never been and to know a sleep like no other, in the bed prepared for us. Ah, it shall at last be my own bed.
Most of us can appreciate coming back home after several days of travel. There’s nothing like sleeping in ones own bed. We can then, in some small sense, relate to Jesus, who surely grew tied of being on the road, so to speak. He had come from the glory of Heaven, where all live in perfect unity, intent on that one glory, to enjoy God supremely. He left the glory of Heaven to walk our filthy streets, to wake up each day to people with divided hearts, and forced to witness our greed and selfishness. Surely His eyes grew weary of looking upward when He was accustomed to talking with His Father face to face.
Each day when I pray the Lord’s Prayer I am keenly aware that I speak to our Father, who is in Heaven but I, I am on earth. I feel more and more this distance between us, fragmented yet wanting to be whole, divided but desiring to be one. Strange that my eyes are weary looking upward and longing to see Him face to face. And, as I am presently ashamed to do so, surely this can only be Christ in me, the very hope of glory.
We have yet to come home to this place we have never been and to know a sleep like no other, in the bed prepared for us. Ah, it shall at last be my own bed.
There’s nothing like sleeping in one own bed.
“My eyes are weary with looking upward.” Is38.14 ESV
Most of us can appreciate coming back home after several days of travel. There’s nothing like sleeping in ones own bed. We can then, in some small sense, relate to Jesus, who surely grew tied of being on the road, so to speak. He had come from the glory of Heaven, where all live in perfect unity, intent on that one glory, to enjoy God supremely. He left the glory of Heaven to walk our filthy streets, to wake up each day to people with divided hearts, and forced to witness our greed and selfishness. Surely His eyes grew weary of looking upward when He was accustomed to talking with His Father face to face.
Each day when I pray the Lord’s Prayer I am keenly aware that I speak to our Father, who is in Heaven but I, I am on earth. I feel more and more this distance between us, fragmented yet wanting to be whole, divided but desiring to be one. Strange that my eyes are weary looking upward and longing to see Him face to face. And, as I am presently ashamed to do so, surely this can only be Christ in me, the very hope of glory.
We have yet to come home to this place we have never been and to know a sleep like no other, in the bed prepared for us. Ah, it shall at last be my own bed.
Most of us can appreciate coming back home after several days of travel. There’s nothing like sleeping in ones own bed. We can then, in some small sense, relate to Jesus, who surely grew tied of being on the road, so to speak. He had come from the glory of Heaven, where all live in perfect unity, intent on that one glory, to enjoy God supremely. He left the glory of Heaven to walk our filthy streets, to wake up each day to people with divided hearts, and forced to witness our greed and selfishness. Surely His eyes grew weary of looking upward when He was accustomed to talking with His Father face to face.
Each day when I pray the Lord’s Prayer I am keenly aware that I speak to our Father, who is in Heaven but I, I am on earth. I feel more and more this distance between us, fragmented yet wanting to be whole, divided but desiring to be one. Strange that my eyes are weary looking upward and longing to see Him face to face. And, as I am presently ashamed to do so, surely this can only be Christ in me, the very hope of glory.
We have yet to come home to this place we have never been and to know a sleep like no other, in the bed prepared for us. Ah, it shall at last be my own bed.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Nothing to fear
Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy…Jude1.24 ESV
There is a powerful line from Pilgrim's Progress that has stuck with me through the years. Evangelist asks the pilgrim, "Wherefore dost thou cry?" He answered, "Sir, I perceive, by the book in my hand, that I am condemned to die, and after that to come to judgment, and I find that I am not willing to do the first, nor able to do the second."
Fear of judgment initially brings many to Christ. I confess that this was true for me. But to seriously contemplate all that Christ is for us before God, eventually transforms our fear into inexpressible joy. As the old hymn says, “Twas grace that taught my heart to fear and grace my fears relieved.”
Imagine coming before God on Judgment Day not with a sense of dread but with great joy. If I were to stand on my own record, I would have nothing but fear. But if I stand on the free grace offered to me in Christ, I have nothing to fear.
3/17/2008 ts
There is a powerful line from Pilgrim's Progress that has stuck with me through the years. Evangelist asks the pilgrim, "Wherefore dost thou cry?" He answered, "Sir, I perceive, by the book in my hand, that I am condemned to die, and after that to come to judgment, and I find that I am not willing to do the first, nor able to do the second."
Fear of judgment initially brings many to Christ. I confess that this was true for me. But to seriously contemplate all that Christ is for us before God, eventually transforms our fear into inexpressible joy. As the old hymn says, “Twas grace that taught my heart to fear and grace my fears relieved.”
Imagine coming before God on Judgment Day not with a sense of dread but with great joy. If I were to stand on my own record, I would have nothing but fear. But if I stand on the free grace offered to me in Christ, I have nothing to fear.
3/17/2008 ts
Nothing to fear
Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy…Jude1.24 ESV
There is a powerful line from Pilgrim's Progress that has stuck with me through the years. Evangelist asks the pilgrim, "Wherefore dost thou cry?" He answered, "Sir, I perceive, by the book in my hand, that I am condemned to die, and after that to come to judgment, and I find that I am not willing to do the first, nor able to do the second."
Fear of judgment initially brings many to Christ. I confess that this was true for me. But to seriously contemplate all that Christ is for us before God, eventually transforms our fear into inexpressible joy. As the old hymn says, “Twas grace that taught my heart to fear and grace my fears relieved.”
Imagine coming before God on Judgment Day not with a sense of dread but with great joy. If I were to stand on my own record, I would have nothing but fear. But if I stand on the free grace offered to me in Christ, I have nothing to fear.
3/17/2008 ts
There is a powerful line from Pilgrim's Progress that has stuck with me through the years. Evangelist asks the pilgrim, "Wherefore dost thou cry?" He answered, "Sir, I perceive, by the book in my hand, that I am condemned to die, and after that to come to judgment, and I find that I am not willing to do the first, nor able to do the second."
Fear of judgment initially brings many to Christ. I confess that this was true for me. But to seriously contemplate all that Christ is for us before God, eventually transforms our fear into inexpressible joy. As the old hymn says, “Twas grace that taught my heart to fear and grace my fears relieved.”
Imagine coming before God on Judgment Day not with a sense of dread but with great joy. If I were to stand on my own record, I would have nothing but fear. But if I stand on the free grace offered to me in Christ, I have nothing to fear.
3/17/2008 ts
Saturday, March 15, 2008
To be with the one you love.
“perfect through suffering.” He2.10 ESV
In what sense should we understand that the Son of God was made perfect through suffering? From all accounts Jesus certainly lacked nothing in and of Himself. From all eternity His divine nature has shared the glory and the fellowship of the Father. Yet He did not regard this equality as something to be grasped. He mysteriously emptied Himself and took to Himself a human nature. The scriptures tell us that His human nature learned obedience to God through the things that he suffered, just as He learned how to read or tie up his sandals or work in the carpenters shop with Joseph. Learning was one way He underwent our trials as humans.
But it is the first part of the verse that clarifies the other sense in which Christ was made complete in suffering. “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” We were lacking in the fellowship of Christ. For though He had made us and had every right to us, we all had gone astray. And so, to bring us back and make that fellowship complete, He had to suffer for us. It was in this sense that He was made complete in suffering. Just as time and space may separate one lover from another, making their lives incomplete, our sins had separated us from Him. This was something He would not allow and so He bridged the barriers between us at great cost to Himself. He did so, that He might be with the one He loves--to be with you and me. 3/15/2008 ts
In what sense should we understand that the Son of God was made perfect through suffering? From all accounts Jesus certainly lacked nothing in and of Himself. From all eternity His divine nature has shared the glory and the fellowship of the Father. Yet He did not regard this equality as something to be grasped. He mysteriously emptied Himself and took to Himself a human nature. The scriptures tell us that His human nature learned obedience to God through the things that he suffered, just as He learned how to read or tie up his sandals or work in the carpenters shop with Joseph. Learning was one way He underwent our trials as humans.
But it is the first part of the verse that clarifies the other sense in which Christ was made complete in suffering. “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” We were lacking in the fellowship of Christ. For though He had made us and had every right to us, we all had gone astray. And so, to bring us back and make that fellowship complete, He had to suffer for us. It was in this sense that He was made complete in suffering. Just as time and space may separate one lover from another, making their lives incomplete, our sins had separated us from Him. This was something He would not allow and so He bridged the barriers between us at great cost to Himself. He did so, that He might be with the one He loves--to be with you and me. 3/15/2008 ts
To be with the one you love.
“perfect through suffering.” He2.10 ESV
In what sense should we understand that the Son of God was made perfect through suffering? From all accounts Jesus certainly lacked nothing in and of Himself. From all eternity His divine nature has shared the glory and the fellowship of the Father. Yet He did not regard this equality as something to be grasped. He mysteriously emptied Himself and took to Himself a human nature. The scriptures tell us that His human nature learned obedience to God through the things that he suffered, just as He learned how to read or tie up his sandals or work in the carpenters shop with Joseph. Learning was one way He underwent our trials as humans.
But it is the first part of the verse that clarifies the other sense in which Christ was made complete in suffering. “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” We were lacking in the fellowship of Christ. For though He had made us and had every right to us, we all had gone astray. And so, to bring us back and make that fellowship complete, He had to suffer for us. It was in this sense that He was made complete in suffering. Just as time and space may separate one lover from another, making their lives incomplete, our sins had separated us from Him. This was something He would not allow and so He bridged the barriers between us at great cost to Himself. He did so, that He might be with the one He loves--to be with you and me. 3/15/2008 ts
In what sense should we understand that the Son of God was made perfect through suffering? From all accounts Jesus certainly lacked nothing in and of Himself. From all eternity His divine nature has shared the glory and the fellowship of the Father. Yet He did not regard this equality as something to be grasped. He mysteriously emptied Himself and took to Himself a human nature. The scriptures tell us that His human nature learned obedience to God through the things that he suffered, just as He learned how to read or tie up his sandals or work in the carpenters shop with Joseph. Learning was one way He underwent our trials as humans.
But it is the first part of the verse that clarifies the other sense in which Christ was made complete in suffering. “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” We were lacking in the fellowship of Christ. For though He had made us and had every right to us, we all had gone astray. And so, to bring us back and make that fellowship complete, He had to suffer for us. It was in this sense that He was made complete in suffering. Just as time and space may separate one lover from another, making their lives incomplete, our sins had separated us from Him. This was something He would not allow and so He bridged the barriers between us at great cost to Himself. He did so, that He might be with the one He loves--to be with you and me. 3/15/2008 ts
Friday, March 14, 2008
A good sense of humor
“…adorn the doctrine of God our Savior. “ Titus 2.10 ESV
There are many ways to adorn the doctrine of God but a negative, critical and judgmental spirit is not one of them. Rather, let us accentuate all that is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, yes, whatever is commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Let it also be said that underneath it all, it never hurts to have a good sense of humor. 3/14/2008 ts
There are many ways to adorn the doctrine of God but a negative, critical and judgmental spirit is not one of them. Rather, let us accentuate all that is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, yes, whatever is commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Let it also be said that underneath it all, it never hurts to have a good sense of humor. 3/14/2008 ts
A good sense of humor
“…adorn the doctrine of God our Savior. “ Titus 2.10 ESV
There are many ways to adorn the doctrine of God but a negative, critical and judgmental spirit is not one of them. Rather, let us accentuate all that is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, yes, whatever is commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Let it also be said that underneath it all, it never hurts to have a good sense of humor. 3/14/2008 ts
There are many ways to adorn the doctrine of God but a negative, critical and judgmental spirit is not one of them. Rather, let us accentuate all that is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, yes, whatever is commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Let it also be said that underneath it all, it never hurts to have a good sense of humor. 3/14/2008 ts
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Hard-core!
"Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things." Heb2.14 ESV
I once watched one of those extreme nature shows, where the host designed and then donned an alligator headdress and body suit, in order to study large gators up close. He actually swam up to them, interacted and filmed their responses. He was shall we say, a hard-core environmentalist and animal lover.
To what extent would we be willing to go, in order to help someone who did not necessarily want our help? Well, Jesus donned our form, walked under our sun, shared our suffering, and then suffered for our sins that He might save us from extinction. Christ was, shall we say, a hard-core philanthropist and people lover. He calls us to have the same hard-core attitude in our service to each other—to do whatever it takes to seek another’s well being. 3/13/2008 ts
I once watched one of those extreme nature shows, where the host designed and then donned an alligator headdress and body suit, in order to study large gators up close. He actually swam up to them, interacted and filmed their responses. He was shall we say, a hard-core environmentalist and animal lover.
To what extent would we be willing to go, in order to help someone who did not necessarily want our help? Well, Jesus donned our form, walked under our sun, shared our suffering, and then suffered for our sins that He might save us from extinction. Christ was, shall we say, a hard-core philanthropist and people lover. He calls us to have the same hard-core attitude in our service to each other—to do whatever it takes to seek another’s well being. 3/13/2008 ts
Hard-core!
"Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things." Heb2.14 ESV
I once watched one of those extreme nature shows, where the host designed and then donned an alligator headdress and body suit, in order to study large gators up close. He actually swam up to them, interacted and filmed their responses. He was shall we say, a hard-core environmentalist and animal lover.
To what extent would we be willing to go, in order to help someone who did not necessarily want our help? Well, Jesus donned our form, walked under our sun, shared our suffering, and then suffered for our sins that He might save us from extinction. Christ was, shall we say, a hard-core philanthropist and people lover. He calls us to have the same hard-core attitude in our service to each other—to do whatever it takes to seek another’s well being. 3/13/2008 ts
I once watched one of those extreme nature shows, where the host designed and then donned an alligator headdress and body suit, in order to study large gators up close. He actually swam up to them, interacted and filmed their responses. He was shall we say, a hard-core environmentalist and animal lover.
To what extent would we be willing to go, in order to help someone who did not necessarily want our help? Well, Jesus donned our form, walked under our sun, shared our suffering, and then suffered for our sins that He might save us from extinction. Christ was, shall we say, a hard-core philanthropist and people lover. He calls us to have the same hard-core attitude in our service to each other—to do whatever it takes to seek another’s well being. 3/13/2008 ts
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
“There’s a party going on right here.”
“Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face.” Ps89.15 ESV
God has graced some of us with a disposition of praise. Such people are predisposed toward all that is good and lovely. They rarely see obstacles, choosing instead to see everything as an opportunity for greater faith and love. Even when they encounter a sourpuss, or whiner they tend to see their negatives as an opportunity to counter with positives, and to love them into the light. It is not that praise people have no faults. No, like all of us, they have their share of weakness and need other strengths found in other people and, not surprisingly, often in the sourpuss they have just encouraged. God gives us each other. He gives us positive people to teach us all how to be positive. He gives us people with sober judgment to help those who are naïve, and the faithful to help the fickle.
And so, God has given us people who know the festive shout, so that we all may learn how to party and celebrate life before the face of God.
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face.” Ps89.15 ESV
God has graced some of us with a disposition of praise. Such people are predisposed toward all that is good and lovely. They rarely see obstacles, choosing instead to see everything as an opportunity for greater faith and love. Even when they encounter a sourpuss, or whiner they tend to see their negatives as an opportunity to counter with positives, and to love them into the light. It is not that praise people have no faults. No, like all of us, they have their share of weakness and need other strengths found in other people and, not surprisingly, often in the sourpuss they have just encouraged. God gives us each other. He gives us positive people to teach us all how to be positive. He gives us people with sober judgment to help those who are naïve, and the faithful to help the fickle.
And so, God has given us people who know the festive shout, so that we all may learn how to party and celebrate life before the face of God.
“There’s a party going on right here.”
“Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face.” Ps89.15 ESV
God has graced some of us with a disposition of praise. Such people are predisposed toward all that is good and lovely. They rarely see obstacles, choosing instead to see everything as an opportunity for greater faith and love. Even when they encounter a sourpuss, or whiner they tend to see their negatives as an opportunity to counter with positives, and to love them into the light. It is not that praise people have no faults. No, like all of us, they have their share of weakness and need other strengths found in other people and, not surprisingly, often in the sourpuss they have just encouraged. God gives us each other. He gives us positive people to teach us all how to be positive. He gives us people with sober judgment to help those who are naïve, and the faithful to help the fickle.
And so, God has given us people who know the festive shout, so that we all may learn how to party and celebrate life before the face of God.
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face.” Ps89.15 ESV
God has graced some of us with a disposition of praise. Such people are predisposed toward all that is good and lovely. They rarely see obstacles, choosing instead to see everything as an opportunity for greater faith and love. Even when they encounter a sourpuss, or whiner they tend to see their negatives as an opportunity to counter with positives, and to love them into the light. It is not that praise people have no faults. No, like all of us, they have their share of weakness and need other strengths found in other people and, not surprisingly, often in the sourpuss they have just encouraged. God gives us each other. He gives us positive people to teach us all how to be positive. He gives us people with sober judgment to help those who are naïve, and the faithful to help the fickle.
And so, God has given us people who know the festive shout, so that we all may learn how to party and celebrate life before the face of God.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
God bless you! Really!
“The Lord bless you and keep you.” Nu6.24 ESV
The other day Brenda and I were trying to occupy a rather tight spot with our camper and became stuck in the mud. I managed to flag down a young man with a four-wheel drive pick-up truck who was more than willing to pull us out of our predicament. When I offered to pay him, he just told me to help the next person I came across who was in need. The idea of paying it forward is a rich cultural heritage. I offered a simple “God bless you,” as we parted. He tipped his hat in acceptance.
There is usually a profound effect on people when you ask blessings for them in the simple words, “God bless you.” In the covenant nation of Israel, blessings were freely passed from one person to the next using the Aaronic benediction. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” God blesses people so that they may be a blessing to others. His desire is to make us all instruments of His peace in the world. We experience the joy of Christ and have our own joy made full, when we spend our days enriching the lives of other people. To pronounce a blessing on someone and really mean it, carries this promise from God, “So shall they put my name upon the people… and I will bless them.” 3/11/2008 ts
The other day Brenda and I were trying to occupy a rather tight spot with our camper and became stuck in the mud. I managed to flag down a young man with a four-wheel drive pick-up truck who was more than willing to pull us out of our predicament. When I offered to pay him, he just told me to help the next person I came across who was in need. The idea of paying it forward is a rich cultural heritage. I offered a simple “God bless you,” as we parted. He tipped his hat in acceptance.
There is usually a profound effect on people when you ask blessings for them in the simple words, “God bless you.” In the covenant nation of Israel, blessings were freely passed from one person to the next using the Aaronic benediction. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” God blesses people so that they may be a blessing to others. His desire is to make us all instruments of His peace in the world. We experience the joy of Christ and have our own joy made full, when we spend our days enriching the lives of other people. To pronounce a blessing on someone and really mean it, carries this promise from God, “So shall they put my name upon the people… and I will bless them.” 3/11/2008 ts
God bless you! Really!
“The Lord bless you and keep you.” Nu6.24 ESV
The other day Brenda and I were trying to occupy a rather tight spot with our camper and became stuck in the mud. I managed to flag down a young man with a four-wheel drive pick-up truck who was more than willing to pull us out of our predicament. When I offered to pay him, he just told me to help the next person I came across who was in need. The idea of paying it forward is a rich cultural heritage. I offered a simple “God bless you,” as we parted. He tipped his hat in acceptance.
There is usually a profound effect on people when you ask blessings for them in the simple words, “God bless you.” In the covenant nation of Israel, blessings were freely passed from one person to the next using the Aaronic benediction. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” God blesses people so that they may be a blessing to others. His desire is to make us all instruments of His peace in the world. We experience the joy of Christ and have our own joy made full, when we spend our days enriching the lives of other people. To pronounce a blessing on someone and really mean it, carries this promise from God, “So shall they put my name upon the people… and I will bless them.” 3/11/2008 ts
The other day Brenda and I were trying to occupy a rather tight spot with our camper and became stuck in the mud. I managed to flag down a young man with a four-wheel drive pick-up truck who was more than willing to pull us out of our predicament. When I offered to pay him, he just told me to help the next person I came across who was in need. The idea of paying it forward is a rich cultural heritage. I offered a simple “God bless you,” as we parted. He tipped his hat in acceptance.
There is usually a profound effect on people when you ask blessings for them in the simple words, “God bless you.” In the covenant nation of Israel, blessings were freely passed from one person to the next using the Aaronic benediction. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” God blesses people so that they may be a blessing to others. His desire is to make us all instruments of His peace in the world. We experience the joy of Christ and have our own joy made full, when we spend our days enriching the lives of other people. To pronounce a blessing on someone and really mean it, carries this promise from God, “So shall they put my name upon the people… and I will bless them.” 3/11/2008 ts
Monday, March 10, 2008
No intention of coming back
“…you have cast all my sins behind your back.” Is38.17 ESV
One question will often come up when Brenda and I are taking a long hike. She will inevitably ask if we a coming back the same way we are going out. She usually asks this when she wants to discard something like a sweater that has gotten to hot to wear. If we are coming back the same way, she will hide it in a bush and retrieve it on the way back to the car.
We can find comfort in the knowledge, that when God discards our sins, He has no intention of coming back the same way and retrieving them. When He casts our sins behind His back, He walks on and remembers them no more. Gods forgives, and He forgets. And, He forgives all our sins, not just some of them. We may well wonder why, when we know the seriousness of some of the things we have done.
The reason of course is Jesus. In some way we do not understand, God placed our sins on Him at the cross and turned His back on His own son in judgment. Remember His words, “Why has thou forsaken me?” God has buried our sins at Calvary. He has no intention of coming back this way again. 3/8/2008 ts
One question will often come up when Brenda and I are taking a long hike. She will inevitably ask if we a coming back the same way we are going out. She usually asks this when she wants to discard something like a sweater that has gotten to hot to wear. If we are coming back the same way, she will hide it in a bush and retrieve it on the way back to the car.
We can find comfort in the knowledge, that when God discards our sins, He has no intention of coming back the same way and retrieving them. When He casts our sins behind His back, He walks on and remembers them no more. Gods forgives, and He forgets. And, He forgives all our sins, not just some of them. We may well wonder why, when we know the seriousness of some of the things we have done.
The reason of course is Jesus. In some way we do not understand, God placed our sins on Him at the cross and turned His back on His own son in judgment. Remember His words, “Why has thou forsaken me?” God has buried our sins at Calvary. He has no intention of coming back this way again. 3/8/2008 ts
No intention of coming back
“…you have cast all my sins behind your back.” Is38.17 ESV
One question will often come up when Brenda and I are taking a long hike. She will inevitably ask if we a coming back the same way we are going out. She usually asks this when she wants to discard something like a sweater that has gotten to hot to wear. If we are coming back the same way, she will hide it in a bush and retrieve it on the way back to the car.
We can find comfort in the knowledge, that when God discards our sins, He has no intention of coming back the same way and retrieving them. When He casts our sins behind His back, He walks on and remembers them no more. Gods forgives, and He forgets. And, He forgives all our sins, not just some of them. We may well wonder why, when we know the seriousness of some of the things we have done.
The reason of course is Jesus. In some way we do not understand, God placed our sins on Him at the cross and turned His back on His own son in judgment. Remember His words, “Why has thou forsaken me?” God has buried our sins at Calvary. He has no intention of coming back this way again. 3/8/2008 ts
One question will often come up when Brenda and I are taking a long hike. She will inevitably ask if we a coming back the same way we are going out. She usually asks this when she wants to discard something like a sweater that has gotten to hot to wear. If we are coming back the same way, she will hide it in a bush and retrieve it on the way back to the car.
We can find comfort in the knowledge, that when God discards our sins, He has no intention of coming back the same way and retrieving them. When He casts our sins behind His back, He walks on and remembers them no more. Gods forgives, and He forgets. And, He forgives all our sins, not just some of them. We may well wonder why, when we know the seriousness of some of the things we have done.
The reason of course is Jesus. In some way we do not understand, God placed our sins on Him at the cross and turned His back on His own son in judgment. Remember His words, “Why has thou forsaken me?” God has buried our sins at Calvary. He has no intention of coming back this way again. 3/8/2008 ts
Friday, March 7, 2008
Girl, you're every woman in the world to me
“For your Maker is your husband…” Is54.5 ESV
When someone is in love they are always looking for new ways to say it. Of course saying it in song has always been a favorite. Back in my day, the group Air Supply came out with a popular hit which said it this way: “Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're my fantasy, you're my reality. Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're everything I need, You're everything to me Oh girl.”
God encourages us to look upon Him as Father, as Lord, King, Creator, Redeemer, Friend, our very own Husband and by so many other designations, we began to realize that He is everything to us. These names are not to be taken as mere metaphors or similes. God is not like a father, husband, or friend. He is all of these relations to us. His Fatherhood defines what it means to be a father. Every husband who would love his wife will find Him the greatest example of a husband. He is the poster child of every good thing. He is everything we need. He is everything to us. Oh God, you are! 3/7/2008 ts
When someone is in love they are always looking for new ways to say it. Of course saying it in song has always been a favorite. Back in my day, the group Air Supply came out with a popular hit which said it this way: “Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're my fantasy, you're my reality. Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're everything I need, You're everything to me Oh girl.”
God encourages us to look upon Him as Father, as Lord, King, Creator, Redeemer, Friend, our very own Husband and by so many other designations, we began to realize that He is everything to us. These names are not to be taken as mere metaphors or similes. God is not like a father, husband, or friend. He is all of these relations to us. His Fatherhood defines what it means to be a father. Every husband who would love his wife will find Him the greatest example of a husband. He is the poster child of every good thing. He is everything we need. He is everything to us. Oh God, you are! 3/7/2008 ts
Girl, you're every woman in the world to me
“For your Maker is your husband…” Is54.5 ESV
When someone is in love they are always looking for new ways to say it. Of course saying it in song has always been a favorite. Back in my day, the group Air Supply came out with a popular hit which said it this way: “Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're my fantasy, you're my reality. Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're everything I need, You're everything to me Oh girl.”
God encourages us to look upon Him as Father, as Lord, King, Creator, Redeemer, Friend, our very own Husband and by so many other designations, we began to realize that He is everything to us. These names are not to be taken as mere metaphors or similes. God is not like a father, husband, or friend. He is all of these relations to us. His Fatherhood defines what it means to be a father. Every husband who would love his wife will find Him the greatest example of a husband. He is the poster child of every good thing. He is everything we need. He is everything to us. Oh God, you are! 3/7/2008 ts
When someone is in love they are always looking for new ways to say it. Of course saying it in song has always been a favorite. Back in my day, the group Air Supply came out with a popular hit which said it this way: “Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're my fantasy, you're my reality. Girl, you're every woman in the world to me. You're everything I need, You're everything to me Oh girl.”
God encourages us to look upon Him as Father, as Lord, King, Creator, Redeemer, Friend, our very own Husband and by so many other designations, we began to realize that He is everything to us. These names are not to be taken as mere metaphors or similes. God is not like a father, husband, or friend. He is all of these relations to us. His Fatherhood defines what it means to be a father. Every husband who would love his wife will find Him the greatest example of a husband. He is the poster child of every good thing. He is everything we need. He is everything to us. Oh God, you are! 3/7/2008 ts
Thursday, March 6, 2008
We’re being watched!
“…and watching over the way of his saints.” Pro2.8
The other day Brenda and I were traveling through a car infested park when we met a small child riding by on her bicycle in the oncoming traffic. Brenda exclaimed, “Who, is watching over that child.” You will find a picture of Brenda written next to the word “mother” in the dictionary.
God knows; we all need watching over! And, there is little doubt that He watches over us with the greatest care. If God weren’t invisible we might find a picture of Him in the dictionary next to the word “Father.”
I was praying for someone the other day, wondering about the direction their life was taking. The Holy Spirit assured me that God watches over His own and that every open and closed door is His strategic placement, not only for their good but also for their fruitfulness.
I should thing that one other consideration is important when understanding these words. God does not watch over us because we are saints. We become saints because God is watching over us and He is all the time leading us to Christ. 3/6/2008 ts
The other day Brenda and I were traveling through a car infested park when we met a small child riding by on her bicycle in the oncoming traffic. Brenda exclaimed, “Who, is watching over that child.” You will find a picture of Brenda written next to the word “mother” in the dictionary.
God knows; we all need watching over! And, there is little doubt that He watches over us with the greatest care. If God weren’t invisible we might find a picture of Him in the dictionary next to the word “Father.”
I was praying for someone the other day, wondering about the direction their life was taking. The Holy Spirit assured me that God watches over His own and that every open and closed door is His strategic placement, not only for their good but also for their fruitfulness.
I should thing that one other consideration is important when understanding these words. God does not watch over us because we are saints. We become saints because God is watching over us and He is all the time leading us to Christ. 3/6/2008 ts
We’re being watched!
“…and watching over the way of his saints.” Pro2.8
The other day Brenda and I were traveling through a car infested park when we met a small child riding by on her bicycle in the oncoming traffic. Brenda exclaimed, “Who, is watching over that child.” You will find a picture of Brenda written next to the word “mother” in the dictionary.
God knows; we all need watching over! And, there is little doubt that He watches over us with the greatest care. If God weren’t invisible we might find a picture of Him in the dictionary next to the word “Father.”
I was praying for someone the other day, wondering about the direction their life was taking. The Holy Spirit assured me that God watches over His own and that every open and closed door is His strategic placement, not only for their good but also for their fruitfulness.
I should thing that one other consideration is important when understanding these words. God does not watch over us because we are saints. We become saints because God is watching over us and He is all the time leading us to Christ. 3/6/2008 ts
The other day Brenda and I were traveling through a car infested park when we met a small child riding by on her bicycle in the oncoming traffic. Brenda exclaimed, “Who, is watching over that child.” You will find a picture of Brenda written next to the word “mother” in the dictionary.
God knows; we all need watching over! And, there is little doubt that He watches over us with the greatest care. If God weren’t invisible we might find a picture of Him in the dictionary next to the word “Father.”
I was praying for someone the other day, wondering about the direction their life was taking. The Holy Spirit assured me that God watches over His own and that every open and closed door is His strategic placement, not only for their good but also for their fruitfulness.
I should thing that one other consideration is important when understanding these words. God does not watch over us because we are saints. We become saints because God is watching over us and He is all the time leading us to Christ. 3/6/2008 ts
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Water off a ducks back
“O Lord, I am oppressed; be my pledge of safety!” Is37.14
Evidently the duck has provided us many useful idioms. Consider the illustrious ways we have used this simple bird in our vocabulary; “the lame duck,” “get your ducks in a row,” “a sitting duck,” “a dead duck,” “duck soup,” “like a duck to water,” and, my personal favorite would have to be, “like water off a duck's back.”
The peace of Christ has power to render all oppression just that. Criticisms and worries without, depression and frets within, are like water off a duck's back when we stay our minds on God who is more than willing but also able to keep our hearts in perfect peace. We should not make ourselves a sitting duck, or lay there like a lame duck, least our enemies make us a dead duck. No, we should get our ducks in a row and like a duck to water fix our minds on God who will make duck soup of every attack against us and render all oppression like water off a ducks back.
The apostle Paul put it this way,, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.”
Evidently the duck has provided us many useful idioms. Consider the illustrious ways we have used this simple bird in our vocabulary; “the lame duck,” “get your ducks in a row,” “a sitting duck,” “a dead duck,” “duck soup,” “like a duck to water,” and, my personal favorite would have to be, “like water off a duck's back.”
The peace of Christ has power to render all oppression just that. Criticisms and worries without, depression and frets within, are like water off a duck's back when we stay our minds on God who is more than willing but also able to keep our hearts in perfect peace. We should not make ourselves a sitting duck, or lay there like a lame duck, least our enemies make us a dead duck. No, we should get our ducks in a row and like a duck to water fix our minds on God who will make duck soup of every attack against us and render all oppression like water off a ducks back.
The apostle Paul put it this way,, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.”
Water off a ducks back
“O Lord, I am oppressed; be my pledge of safety!” Is37.14
Evidently the duck has provided us many useful idioms. Consider the illustrious ways we have used this simple bird in our vocabulary; “the lame duck,” “get your ducks in a row,” “a sitting duck,” “a dead duck,” “duck soup,” “like a duck to water,” and, my personal favorite would have to be, “like water off a duck's back.”
The peace of Christ has power to render all oppression just that. Criticisms and worries without, depression and frets within, are like water off a duck's back when we stay our minds on God who is more than willing but also able to keep our hearts in perfect peace. We should not make ourselves a sitting duck, or lay there like a lame duck, least our enemies make us a dead duck. No, we should get our ducks in a row and like a duck to water fix our minds on God who will make duck soup of every attack against us and render all oppression like water off a ducks back.
The apostle Paul put it this way,, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.”
Evidently the duck has provided us many useful idioms. Consider the illustrious ways we have used this simple bird in our vocabulary; “the lame duck,” “get your ducks in a row,” “a sitting duck,” “a dead duck,” “duck soup,” “like a duck to water,” and, my personal favorite would have to be, “like water off a duck's back.”
The peace of Christ has power to render all oppression just that. Criticisms and worries without, depression and frets within, are like water off a duck's back when we stay our minds on God who is more than willing but also able to keep our hearts in perfect peace. We should not make ourselves a sitting duck, or lay there like a lame duck, least our enemies make us a dead duck. No, we should get our ducks in a row and like a duck to water fix our minds on God who will make duck soup of every attack against us and render all oppression like water off a ducks back.
The apostle Paul put it this way,, “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.”
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Heaven now!
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” Col.3.2 ESV
This encouragement is just another way of telling us to seek first the Kingdom of God and Heaven. It is possible then for us to do this even though we are temporally bound to earth. This is because Heaven, though a real place, is also a manner of thinking and doing. We know America to be a real place, yet it too is also the ideal of freedom for all.
It is not streets of gold we seek, or mansions in glory. These are celestial illustrations, which seek to capture for our feeble minds what it is like to live in perfect union with God. These things are certainly real, but only because of the realities of living under His blessed rule. When we pray that God’s Kingdom come and that His will be done on earth, we are at least in that moment visiting that reality. Because God is love, joy, peace patience, those who set their mind on things above, seek to reconcile themselves to such. Whatever then is true, whatever is honorable, yes all that is just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, flow from the Kingdom of Heaven. To think about these things, practice these things, is to know the peace of God and to experience the Kingdom of Heaven within us. 3/4/2008 ts
This encouragement is just another way of telling us to seek first the Kingdom of God and Heaven. It is possible then for us to do this even though we are temporally bound to earth. This is because Heaven, though a real place, is also a manner of thinking and doing. We know America to be a real place, yet it too is also the ideal of freedom for all.
It is not streets of gold we seek, or mansions in glory. These are celestial illustrations, which seek to capture for our feeble minds what it is like to live in perfect union with God. These things are certainly real, but only because of the realities of living under His blessed rule. When we pray that God’s Kingdom come and that His will be done on earth, we are at least in that moment visiting that reality. Because God is love, joy, peace patience, those who set their mind on things above, seek to reconcile themselves to such. Whatever then is true, whatever is honorable, yes all that is just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, flow from the Kingdom of Heaven. To think about these things, practice these things, is to know the peace of God and to experience the Kingdom of Heaven within us. 3/4/2008 ts
Heaven now!
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” Col.3.2 ESV
This encouragement is just another way of telling us to seek first the Kingdom of God and Heaven. It is possible then for us to do this even though we are temporally bound to earth. This is because Heaven, though a real place, is also a manner of thinking and doing. We know America to be a real place, yet it too is also the ideal of freedom for all.
It is not streets of gold we seek, or mansions in glory. These are celestial illustrations, which seek to capture for our feeble minds what it is like to live in perfect union with God. These things are certainly real, but only because of the realities of living under His blessed rule. When we pray that God’s Kingdom come and that His will be done on earth, we are at least in that moment visiting that reality. Because God is love, joy, peace patience, those who set their mind on things above, seek to reconcile themselves to such. Whatever then is true, whatever is honorable, yes all that is just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, flow from the Kingdom of Heaven. To think about these things, practice these things, is to know the peace of God and to experience the Kingdom of Heaven within us. 3/4/2008 ts
This encouragement is just another way of telling us to seek first the Kingdom of God and Heaven. It is possible then for us to do this even though we are temporally bound to earth. This is because Heaven, though a real place, is also a manner of thinking and doing. We know America to be a real place, yet it too is also the ideal of freedom for all.
It is not streets of gold we seek, or mansions in glory. These are celestial illustrations, which seek to capture for our feeble minds what it is like to live in perfect union with God. These things are certainly real, but only because of the realities of living under His blessed rule. When we pray that God’s Kingdom come and that His will be done on earth, we are at least in that moment visiting that reality. Because God is love, joy, peace patience, those who set their mind on things above, seek to reconcile themselves to such. Whatever then is true, whatever is honorable, yes all that is just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, flow from the Kingdom of Heaven. To think about these things, practice these things, is to know the peace of God and to experience the Kingdom of Heaven within us. 3/4/2008 ts
Monday, March 3, 2008
“Maggie, Heel!”
“Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding,
which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.” Ps32.9
Yesterday Brenda and I went for a hike with our yellow lab Maggie. It was a beautiful day and there were other hikers out on the trail also accompanied by their dogs. Dogs are to be kept under control and every body we met yesterday had their dog on a leash. We rarely if ever use a leash with Maggie and have trained her rather to heel on command. Over time Maggie has figured out that every time we come to a hiker, with or without a dog, we want her to heel. Many times, though not always, the moment she sees a hiker, she will come around and heel herself without being told to do so. This is hard on her if there is a fellow dog coming up and most people are impressed that she behaves so well.
God wants our obedience. He will often employ external influences to motivate us if we misbehave. He of course desires that we come freely without such exterior motivations. But I am sure He is most pleased when we reach a place of maturity and of our own accord chose what is right and good and true without being told to do so. We should make it our goal to heel ourselves to His will. 3/3/2008 ts
which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.” Ps32.9
Yesterday Brenda and I went for a hike with our yellow lab Maggie. It was a beautiful day and there were other hikers out on the trail also accompanied by their dogs. Dogs are to be kept under control and every body we met yesterday had their dog on a leash. We rarely if ever use a leash with Maggie and have trained her rather to heel on command. Over time Maggie has figured out that every time we come to a hiker, with or without a dog, we want her to heel. Many times, though not always, the moment she sees a hiker, she will come around and heel herself without being told to do so. This is hard on her if there is a fellow dog coming up and most people are impressed that she behaves so well.
God wants our obedience. He will often employ external influences to motivate us if we misbehave. He of course desires that we come freely without such exterior motivations. But I am sure He is most pleased when we reach a place of maturity and of our own accord chose what is right and good and true without being told to do so. We should make it our goal to heel ourselves to His will. 3/3/2008 ts
“Maggie, Heel!”
“Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding,
which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.” Ps32.9
Yesterday Brenda and I went for a hike with our yellow lab Maggie. It was a beautiful day and there were other hikers out on the trail also accompanied by their dogs. Dogs are to be kept under control and every body we met yesterday had their dog on a leash. We rarely if ever use a leash with Maggie and have trained her rather to heel on command. Over time Maggie has figured out that every time we come to a hiker, with or without a dog, we want her to heel. Many times, though not always, the moment she sees a hiker, she will come around and heel herself without being told to do so. This is hard on her if there is a fellow dog coming up and most people are impressed that she behaves so well.
God wants our obedience. He will often employ external influences to motivate us if we misbehave. He of course desires that we come freely without such exterior motivations. But I am sure He is most pleased when we reach a place of maturity and of our own accord chose what is right and good and true without being told to do so. We should make it our goal to heel ourselves to His will. 3/3/2008 ts
which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.” Ps32.9
Yesterday Brenda and I went for a hike with our yellow lab Maggie. It was a beautiful day and there were other hikers out on the trail also accompanied by their dogs. Dogs are to be kept under control and every body we met yesterday had their dog on a leash. We rarely if ever use a leash with Maggie and have trained her rather to heel on command. Over time Maggie has figured out that every time we come to a hiker, with or without a dog, we want her to heel. Many times, though not always, the moment she sees a hiker, she will come around and heel herself without being told to do so. This is hard on her if there is a fellow dog coming up and most people are impressed that she behaves so well.
God wants our obedience. He will often employ external influences to motivate us if we misbehave. He of course desires that we come freely without such exterior motivations. But I am sure He is most pleased when we reach a place of maturity and of our own accord chose what is right and good and true without being told to do so. We should make it our goal to heel ourselves to His will. 3/3/2008 ts
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