“Heaven offers nothing the mercenary soul desires.” C. S. Lewis

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”

The promise of reward lies hand in hand to all life with God. After all, “at His right hand are pleasures forever.” This does not mean that the rewards of glory are tainted with selfishness as rewards commonly are in this place that there are rewards on earth that have nothing to do with the activity that may bring them. Lewis cites marrying for money as one example and the services of a mercenary for another. The rewards of Heaven are always hand in hand with the service that offers them such as marrying for love, or fighting for freedom. If we are to lay up for ourselves treasure in Heaven it will be done by some service, in some manner and for some reason that naturally will yield them. God is not bribing His children. 12/29/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Heaven offers nothing the mercenary soul desires.” C. S. Lewis

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”

The promise of reward lies hand in hand to all life with God. After all, “at His right hand are pleasures forever.” This does not mean that the rewards of glory are tainted with selfishness as rewards commonly are in this place that there are rewards on earth that have nothing to do with the activity that may bring them. Lewis cites marrying for money as one example and the services of a mercenary for another. The rewards of Heaven are always hand in hand with the service that offers them such as marrying for love, or fighting for freedom. If we are to lay up for ourselves treasure in Heaven it will be done by some service, in some manner and for some reason that naturally will yield them. God is not bribing His children. 12/29/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The highest reward for a man's toil is not what he gets for it but what he becomes by it.” John Ruskin

“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.” Mt.6.16 (Sermon on the Mount)

After Alexander the Great divided all the lands and riches of his conquest and gave them to his generals, it is said that someone asked him what he had left for himself. Alexander is reported to have simply said, “Hope!” It would be tragic to arrive before God and hear Him tell us that we have already received our reward on earth. Is anything reward worth having that we will not possess and enjoy in glory? To live for the Kingdom of God is to seek a reward beyond the trifles that this temporary life can give. 12/28/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The highest reward for a man's toil is not what he gets for it but what he becomes by it.” John Ruskin

“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.” Mt.6.16 (Sermon on the Mount)

After Alexander the Great divided all the lands and riches of his conquest and gave them to his generals, it is said that someone asked him what he had left for himself. Alexander is reported to have simply said, “Hope!” It would be tragic to arrive before God and hear Him tell us that we have already received our reward on earth. Is anything reward worth having that we will not possess and enjoy in glory? To live for the Kingdom of God is to seek a reward beyond the trifles that this temporary life can give. 12/28/2009 Conversations Within ts

When receiving is giving.

When receiving is giving.

“Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” Mt.2.11 ESV

What gift would we give to God for the indescribable gift of Jesus? Of course, gifts are free so any thing we would offer to God would be simply to show our appreciation. When it comes to others Jesus told us that to give is to receive. But I think that when it comes to God, to receive from Him is to give to Him. What I mean is that the best gift we can offer to God is to receive His Son into our lives. Doing so will surely result in giving Him our very self. 12/25/2009 Conversations Within ts

When receiving is giving.

When receiving is giving.

“Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” Mt.2.11 ESV

What gift would we give to God for the indescribable gift of Jesus? Of course, gifts are free so any thing we would offer to God would be simply to show our appreciation. When it comes to others Jesus told us that to give is to receive. But I think that when it comes to God, to receive from Him is to give to Him. What I mean is that the best gift we can offer to God is to receive His Son into our lives. Doing so will surely result in giving Him our very self. 12/25/2009 Conversations Within ts

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

“And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” Lk.2.10 ESV

Here is the offer of pardon, of peace, of promise-- God’s present to the world wrapped in a baby. In Christ all our sins are forgiven, every wrong forgotten, all debts paid in full. God has declared the hostilities over and our longing for eternal life answered. If we would know what God is like, we see Him in the face of Jesus Christ. He is a forgiving Father, a peace activist like no other, and the fountain of eternal youth to all who would come and drink. Merry Christmas 12/24/2009 Conversations Within ts

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

“And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” Lk.2.10 ESV

Here is the offer of pardon, of peace, of promise-- God’s present to the world wrapped in a baby. In Christ all our sins are forgiven, every wrong forgotten, all debts paid in full. God has declared the hostilities over and our longing for eternal life answered. If we would know what God is like, we see Him in the face of Jesus Christ. He is a forgiving Father, a peace activist like no other, and the fountain of eternal youth to all who would come and drink. Merry Christmas 12/24/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Christmas began in the heart of God. It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man.” Anonymous

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Jo.1.14 ESV

We are a people drawn to power, so it is no wonder that the miraculous catches our attention. But the miracle of Christmas isn’t so much a demonstration of God’s power as it is an expression of His grace and truth. Jesus once asked which was the greater challenge, for God to heal lame legs or forgive sins. The incarnation is a wondrous miracle but it is made wondrous because of the reason Christ became a man not because God is powerful enough to turn Himself into one. The Word became a man, to forgive our sins and to make possible all the other expressions of God’s grace. 12/23/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Christmas began in the heart of God. It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man.” Anonymous

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Jo.1.14 ESV

We are a people drawn to power, so it is no wonder that the miraculous catches our attention. But the miracle of Christmas isn’t so much a demonstration of God’s power as it is an expression of His grace and truth. Jesus once asked which was the greater challenge, for God to heal lame legs or forgive sins. The incarnation is a wondrous miracle but it is made wondrous because of the reason Christ became a man not because God is powerful enough to turn Himself into one. The Word became a man, to forgive our sins and to make possible all the other expressions of God’s grace. 12/23/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Miracles are a retelling in small letters...

“Miracles are a retelling in small letters of the very same story which is written across the whole world in letters too large for some of us to see.” C.S. Lewis

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way.”

The virgin birth of Christ is one of many miracles cherished by Christians. Miracles are not fabricated amendments to the stories about the life of Jesus added by fanatical followers. The miracles surrounding Christ are the story. God coming to dwell with us is nothing less than miraculous. 12/22/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Miracles are a retelling in small letters...

“Miracles are a retelling in small letters of the very same story which is written across the whole world in letters too large for some of us to see.” C.S. Lewis

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way.”

The virgin birth of Christ is one of many miracles cherished by Christians. Miracles are not fabricated amendments to the stories about the life of Jesus added by fanatical followers. The miracles surrounding Christ are the story. God coming to dwell with us is nothing less than miraculous. 12/22/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.” Paul Boese

“and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Mt.6.12 ESV

It is rightly said that prayers do not change God, but they surely change us. When we ask God to forgive us our debts, “as” we have forgiven those indebted to us, Jesus hopes to teach us the grace of forgiveness. Jesus reminds us that the forgiveness we receive is tied to the forgiveness we offer. Do I forgive but not forget. Do I forgive but refuse the relationship any further progress. What we offer to others when we forgive them is a mere reflection on what we are able to receive when we ask forgiveness from God. Christ said to give is to receive. This is just as true in forgiveness as it is in all giving. Those who sow sparingly receive sparingly and those who sow bountifully receive bountifully. Bountifully give; bountifully forgive. 12/18/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.” Paul Boese

“and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Mt.6.12 ESV

It is rightly said that prayers do not change God, but they surely change us. When we ask God to forgive us our debts, “as” we have forgiven those indebted to us, Jesus hopes to teach us the grace of forgiveness. Jesus reminds us that the forgiveness we receive is tied to the forgiveness we offer. Do I forgive but not forget. Do I forgive but refuse the relationship any further progress. What we offer to others when we forgive them is a mere reflection on what we are able to receive when we ask forgiveness from God. Christ said to give is to receive. This is just as true in forgiveness as it is in all giving. Those who sow sparingly receive sparingly and those who sow bountifully receive bountifully. Bountifully give; bountifully forgive. 12/18/2009 Conversations Within ts

Jesus told us to pray for daily bread because it is the only kind of bread He offers.

Jesus told us to pray for daily bread because it is the only kind of bread He offers.

“Give us this day our daily bread.” Mt.6.11 ESV

By telling us to pray for daily bread, Jesus is helping us wake to a simple life lesson. Be where you are, live in the present moment and trust God for it. Worrying about tomorrow is to worry about something that may not happen. Life comes to us a moment at a time and God promises to provide for it. To ask is to partake of His provision. It is no use asking God for tomorrow’s bread; God will not give us anything that will lead us away from another opportunity to trust Him. 12/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

Jesus told us to pray for daily bread because it is the only kind of bread He offers.

Jesus told us to pray for daily bread because it is the only kind of bread He offers.

“Give us this day our daily bread.” Mt.6.11 ESV

By telling us to pray for daily bread, Jesus is helping us wake to a simple life lesson. Be where you are, live in the present moment and trust God for it. Worrying about tomorrow is to worry about something that may not happen. Life comes to us a moment at a time and God promises to provide for it. To ask is to partake of His provision. It is no use asking God for tomorrow’s bread; God will not give us anything that will lead us away from another opportunity to trust Him. 12/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Purity of heart is to will one thing.” Sören Kierkegaard

“…your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Mt.6.10

Is it not our core belief that when everything is as God desires, everything will be as it should be? God’s will is surely done on earth, even to the degree that it is His will, at least for the present that humans are allowed to resist it. And so we pray, as we may, that our Father’s will be done here as it is in Heaven. In glory, all are freely and happily joined to Him in perfect love. All of Heaven wills one will. We may know moments of it here in this place, but only as the sky knows an un-cloudy day. Praying these words at the beginning of every new task, may project a clear forecast for the day. 12/15/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Purity of heart is to will one thing.” Sören Kierkegaard

“…your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Mt.6.10

Is it not our core belief that when everything is as God desires, everything will be as it should be? God’s will is surely done on earth, even to the degree that it is His will, at least for the present that humans are allowed to resist it. And so we pray, as we may, that our Father’s will be done here as it is in Heaven. In glory, all are freely and happily joined to Him in perfect love. All of Heaven wills one will. We may know moments of it here in this place, but only as the sky knows an un-cloudy day. Praying these words at the beginning of every new task, may project a clear forecast for the day. 12/15/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Look children to the eastern sky" Anberlin

Your kingdom come…Mt.6.10

When we pray for the Kingdom to come, we ask first and foremost that Christ come reign in our own heart, for surely the Kingdom of Heaven is this before it is anything else. This means that His Kingdom comes to earth at least in us. But in another sense, we also ask that our King return to earth as He promised to do, so that the peace He brings within us may rule around us. Many prayers in Scripture express and could be summed up in this single request, "Come, Lord Jesus!" 12/14/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Look children to the eastern sky" Anberlin

Your kingdom come…Mt.6.10

When we pray for the Kingdom to come, we ask first and foremost that Christ come reign in our own heart, for surely the Kingdom of Heaven is this before it is anything else. This means that His Kingdom comes to earth at least in us. But in another sense, we also ask that our King return to earth as He promised to do, so that the peace He brings within us may rule around us. Many prayers in Scripture express and could be summed up in this single request, "Come, Lord Jesus!" 12/14/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Hallowed be thy name" means: understand what you're talking about when you're talking about God””. Rowan Williams

“…hallowed be your name.” Mt.6.9

I suppose there are many ways we may hallow our Father’s name. We do so when we see to it that His reputation is never tainted by our own. Certainly, the conduct of people who name His name shapes the opinion that others have of Him. We hallow our Father’s good name when we represent Him well. We hallow His name by setting Christ apart, as Lord in our heart not in some religious sense mind you, but in speech, in conduct, even in our simplest thoughts. 12/13/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Hallowed be thy name" means: understand what you're talking about when you're talking about God””. Rowan Williams

“…hallowed be your name.” Mt.6.9

I suppose there are many ways we may hallow our Father’s name. We do so when we see to it that His reputation is never tainted by our own. Certainly, the conduct of people who name His name shapes the opinion that others have of Him. We hallow our Father’s good name when we represent Him well. We hallow His name by setting Christ apart, as Lord in our heart not in some religious sense mind you, but in speech, in conduct, even in our simplest thoughts. 12/13/2009 Conversations Within ts

“To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that God is God.” Theopedia

“Our Father in heaven.” Mt.6.9 ESV

That our God is in Heaven, should help us with a number of earthly struggles. One, is that we remind our heart of His absolute sovereignty. Our Father is above all things and our prayers are directed to the One who is able, who alone can move that impossible mountain facing us. Second, to acknowledge that our Father is in Heaven helps to set our love on the place where our Lover lives. Our treasure is in Heaven and all our energies are directed to pursuits which cannot rust and which no thief can steal. Third, to confess that our Father is in Heaven will give each of us greater grace to let go of all earthly bonds. As beautiful as life may be, we go to a place where beauty is unfading--home at last in our Father’s house. 12/12/2009 Conversations Within ts

“To say that God is Sovereign is to declare that God is God.” Theopedia

“Our Father in heaven.” Mt.6.9 ESV

That our God is in Heaven, should help us with a number of earthly struggles. One, is that we remind our heart of His absolute sovereignty. Our Father is above all things and our prayers are directed to the One who is able, who alone can move that impossible mountain facing us. Second, to acknowledge that our Father is in Heaven helps to set our love on the place where our Lover lives. Our treasure is in Heaven and all our energies are directed to pursuits which cannot rust and which no thief can steal. Third, to confess that our Father is in Heaven will give each of us greater grace to let go of all earthly bonds. As beautiful as life may be, we go to a place where beauty is unfading--home at last in our Father’s house. 12/12/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The surest way to happiness is to lose yourself in a cause greater than yourself”. Anonymous

“Our Father…” Mt.6.9 ESV

By telling us to pray “our Father,” not “my Father,” Jesus directs us to wake to our connectedness to one another. As it is often asserted, we’re all in this together. When one of us is in need, all of us are in need. Christ wants us to know the joy of living for something beyond our own concerns by seeking the welfare of the greater community. The proper perspective and proper prayer is always, “Our Father, give us, forgive us, lead us, deliver us. 12/11/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The surest way to happiness is to lose yourself in a cause greater than yourself”. Anonymous

“Our Father…” Mt.6.9 ESV

By telling us to pray “our Father,” not “my Father,” Jesus directs us to wake to our connectedness to one another. As it is often asserted, we’re all in this together. When one of us is in need, all of us are in need. Christ wants us to know the joy of living for something beyond our own concerns by seeking the welfare of the greater community. The proper perspective and proper prayer is always, “Our Father, give us, forgive us, lead us, deliver us. 12/11/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The Lord's Prayer may be committed to memory quickly, but it is slowly learnt by heart.” Frederick Denison Maurice

“Pray then like this…” Mt.6.9 ESV

Some teachers emphasize that Christ did not tell us to pray the Lord’s Prayer but to pray “like” it. What they suggest is that we should only use it as a model for others prayer. They often believe that one mark of a sincere prayer is that it is heart felt, therefore spontaneous. I used to feel this way and thought that recited prayers were impersonal and possibly even an insult to God. I no longer believe this. In fact, I pray the Lord’s Prayer most every day. When I do, it is anything but a recitation; rather it provides confident direction to the rest of my prayers. And, just because a prayer is sincere does not mean it is good prayer. A person may pray sincerely that they would win the lottery. Jesus offers us a good prayer; we can bring along the sincerity part by putting our heart into it. 12/10/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The Lord's Prayer may be committed to memory quickly, but it is slowly learnt by heart.” Frederick Denison Maurice

“Pray then like this…” Mt.6.9 ESV

Some teachers emphasize that Christ did not tell us to pray the Lord’s Prayer but to pray “like” it. What they suggest is that we should only use it as a model for others prayer. They often believe that one mark of a sincere prayer is that it is heart felt, therefore spontaneous. I used to feel this way and thought that recited prayers were impersonal and possibly even an insult to God. I no longer believe this. In fact, I pray the Lord’s Prayer most every day. When I do, it is anything but a recitation; rather it provides confident direction to the rest of my prayers. And, just because a prayer is sincere does not mean it is good prayer. A person may pray sincerely that they would win the lottery. Jesus offers us a good prayer; we can bring along the sincerity part by putting our heart into it. 12/10/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Many a Christian prays faintly lest God might really hear him." C. S. Lewis

“…your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Mt.6.8 ESV

There are many occasions when I do not know what I need to ask from God. Other times I am concerned that I may ask for the wrong thing. The words of Jesus are a great comfort to us in these moments. He assures us that God knows what we need before we ask. I should think this would also apply to prayers for guidance. Sometimes the only thing we can do is to commit ourselves to God’s care, head off in the direction we think best and trust that Father will make any necessary course adjustments. Christ assures us that He will, if we really want Him to. 12/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Many a Christian prays faintly lest God might really hear him." C. S. Lewis

“…your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Mt.6.8 ESV

There are many occasions when I do not know what I need to ask from God. Other times I am concerned that I may ask for the wrong thing. The words of Jesus are a great comfort to us in these moments. He assures us that God knows what we need before we ask. I should think this would also apply to prayers for guidance. Sometimes the only thing we can do is to commit ourselves to God’s care, head off in the direction we think best and trust that Father will make any necessary course adjustments. Christ assures us that He will, if we really want Him to. 12/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you.” Joyce Brothers

"And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.” Mt.6.7 ESV

Jesus tells us that His Father isn’t impressed by the number of words we use when we pray. Meaningless repetition carries no rapport with Him. If this is true, why does Jesus tell us to ask the Father for daily bread and I assume to do this daily? What is the difference between asking God for bread every day and asking Him for it ten times a day? Well, I think the first, expresses simple dependence; but to do the latter we may be trying to manipulate God as a child does to a parent when he wants his own way. The purpose of prayer isn’t to convince God but to trust Him. 12/8/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you.” Joyce Brothers

"And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.” Mt.6.7 ESV

Jesus tells us that His Father isn’t impressed by the number of words we use when we pray. Meaningless repetition carries no rapport with Him. If this is true, why does Jesus tell us to ask the Father for daily bread and I assume to do this daily? What is the difference between asking God for bread every day and asking Him for it ten times a day? Well, I think the first, expresses simple dependence; but to do the latter we may be trying to manipulate God as a child does to a parent when he wants his own way. The purpose of prayer isn’t to convince God but to trust Him. 12/8/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the and the blind can see” – Mark Twain

“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others.” Mt.6.5 ESV

Marketing strategists, in recent years, are testing the veiled advertisement. You may have noticed the Pepsi product in the hand of a great actor while playing some great role in a great movie. If they drink Pepsi, it must be great too. Or, better yet, wouldn’t I look great if people saw me with this cool product. Doing something for show seldom projects anything of real substance and I should think this just as true of one’s faith. Wearing your faith on your sleeve rarely attracts others to it. Better is a genuine enjoyment of life in God. The best witness to one’s faith is not when we try to be witness but when we simply are and simply because the personal pleasure we find in God naturally overflows. 12/7/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the and the blind can see” – Mark Twain

“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others.” Mt.6.5 ESV

Marketing strategists, in recent years, are testing the veiled advertisement. You may have noticed the Pepsi product in the hand of a great actor while playing some great role in a great movie. If they drink Pepsi, it must be great too. Or, better yet, wouldn’t I look great if people saw me with this cool product. Doing something for show seldom projects anything of real substance and I should think this just as true of one’s faith. Wearing your faith on your sleeve rarely attracts others to it. Better is a genuine enjoyment of life in God. The best witness to one’s faith is not when we try to be witness but when we simply are and simply because the personal pleasure we find in God naturally overflows. 12/7/2009 Conversations Within ts

One true secret to giving is to give in secret.

“Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Mat 6:4 ESV

When we do some good work in secret, God who sees in secret will often bring such works to light. I suppose He chooses to do this not to draw attention to giver but to the value of love itself. He of course, is love. I recently found out that a dear friend has been quietly caring for an indigent person for years without telling a soul. Perhaps Father chose to bring her actions to light as a clear demonstration of His presence in her life and at a time when she needs the support of others. 12/6/2009 Conversations Within ts

One true secret to giving is to give in secret.

“Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Mat 6:4 ESV

When we do some good work in secret, God who sees in secret will often bring such works to light. I suppose He chooses to do this not to draw attention to giver but to the value of love itself. He of course, is love. I recently found out that a dear friend has been quietly caring for an indigent person for years without telling a soul. Perhaps Father chose to bring her actions to light as a clear demonstration of His presence in her life and at a time when she needs the support of others. 12/6/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Did you hear about the guy who got an award for being humble but they took it back when he accepted it.” Anonymous

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them…” Mt.6.1 RSV

There is a difference between calling attention to our actions and having actions, which call attention to God’s work in our life. When we call attention to our own actions, we want everyone to appreciate our own worth. When we live as the latter, we want others know the worth of God. But in our messed up world, people will always have problems giving credit where credit is due. I sometimes become enamored with people who are so “Christ like” in character. I need to remind myself that what really impresses me is Christ working grace in that person. In that sense, we come to realize that we are only the container; Jesus is the elixir of life. 12/5/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Did you hear about the guy who got an award for being humble but they took it back when he accepted it.” Anonymous

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them…” Mt.6.1 RSV

There is a difference between calling attention to our actions and having actions, which call attention to God’s work in our life. When we call attention to our own actions, we want everyone to appreciate our own worth. When we live as the latter, we want others know the worth of God. But in our messed up world, people will always have problems giving credit where credit is due. I sometimes become enamored with people who are so “Christ like” in character. I need to remind myself that what really impresses me is Christ working grace in that person. In that sense, we come to realize that we are only the container; Jesus is the elixir of life. 12/5/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Do more than is required.” Gary Ryan Blair

“And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? “Mat.5.47

If we take the words, “what more are you doing than others” as addressing more than just salutary greetings and I think that we should, then Jesus clearly expects more from His followers than just an run of the mill performance. God wants us to grow up into all things befitting an image bearer. Because we are made in His likeness, our labor is to be more than just another day at the job, our relationships more than just putting up with people, even our play and relaxation is to be more than ordinary. Jesus tells us that we give God the proper place in our life, He will improve the quality of life’s interactions and we will come to live in the joy of the extraordinary. 12/4/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Do more than is required.” Gary Ryan Blair

“And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? “Mat.5.47

If we take the words, “what more are you doing than others” as addressing more than just salutary greetings and I think that we should, then Jesus clearly expects more from His followers than just an run of the mill performance. God wants us to grow up into all things befitting an image bearer. Because we are made in His likeness, our labor is to be more than just another day at the job, our relationships more than just putting up with people, even our play and relaxation is to be more than ordinary. Jesus tells us that we give God the proper place in our life, He will improve the quality of life’s interactions and we will come to live in the joy of the extraordinary. 12/4/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” Abraham Lincoln

Love your enemies…so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.

When Jesus tells us to love our enemies, he is not saying that we should have warm feeling about them but we are to act in a beneficial manner towards them. This is not to say that we help them in the way they think will benefit them, but we do what will actually be in their best interest. This may mean in war that we defeat them as we did Japan and then rebuild their economy around peaceful purposes. How we would accomplish this with personal enemies may look different but it will nonetheless always come down to seeking their highest good. For Christians, that goodness is Christ. 12/3/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” Abraham Lincoln

Love your enemies…so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.

When Jesus tells us to love our enemies, he is not saying that we should have warm feeling about them but we are to act in a beneficial manner towards them. This is not to say that we help them in the way they think will benefit them, but we do what will actually be in their best interest. This may mean in war that we defeat them as we did Japan and then rebuild their economy around peaceful purposes. How we would accomplish this with personal enemies may look different but it will nonetheless always come down to seeking their highest good. For Christians, that goodness is Christ. 12/3/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them so much.” Oscar Wilde

“And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.” Jesus

I do not believe Jesus is telling us to tolerate corruption when we can do something about it but I do believe he is offering us a way to respond to people who would take advantage of us as an individual. In short, he is describing how to turn disadvantage into advantage. He is suggesting that we conquer the opposition by acting as their friend. 12/2/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them so much.” Oscar Wilde

“And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.” Jesus

I do not believe Jesus is telling us to tolerate corruption when we can do something about it but I do believe he is offering us a way to respond to people who would take advantage of us as an individual. In short, he is describing how to turn disadvantage into advantage. He is suggesting that we conquer the opposition by acting as their friend. 12/2/2009 Conversations Within ts

“I don't deserve any credit for turning the other cheek as my tongue is always in it.” Flannery O'Connor

“But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” Jesus

I read recently where one popular ministry was encouraging Christians to boycott purchases from any store that substituted “Happy Holidays” for “Merry Christmas.” I am wondering how this stick it to um in the name of the Lord attitude matches up with the prominent words of Jesus to turn the other cheek. If the unbelieving say, “Happy Holidays, “ nothing prohibits us from replying, “Merry Christmas.” If we return kindness for their insult, they may come to know the Christ of Christmas. 12/1/2009 Conversations Within ts

“I don't deserve any credit for turning the other cheek as my tongue is always in it.” Flannery O'Connor

“But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” Jesus

I read recently where one popular ministry was encouraging Christians to boycott purchases from any store that substituted “Happy Holidays” for “Merry Christmas.” I am wondering how this stick it to um in the name of the Lord attitude matches up with the prominent words of Jesus to turn the other cheek. If the unbelieving say, “Happy Holidays, “ nothing prohibits us from replying, “Merry Christmas.” If we return kindness for their insult, they may come to know the Christ of Christmas. 12/1/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Say what you mean and mean what you say.” The Cheshire Cat

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” Mt.5.37 NKJV

Lord, help me, to be passionate without being overdramatic; to speak honestly without exaggeration and to never punctuate with words what would be better punctuated by example. Lead me thus that I will be as a gentle rain not a torrential downpour; a quiet faith that resonates Your worth, a testimony that speaks volumes of Your goodness but with fewer words. 12/1/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Say what you mean and mean what you say.” The Cheshire Cat

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” Mt.5.37 NKJV

Lord, help me, to be passionate without being overdramatic; to speak honestly without exaggeration and to never punctuate with words what would be better punctuated by example. Lead me thus that I will be as a gentle rain not a torrential downpour; a quiet faith that resonates Your worth, a testimony that speaks volumes of Your goodness but with fewer words. 12/1/2009 Conversations Within ts

“This is the air I breathe, your holy presence living in me.” Michael W. Smith

“And if your right hand leads you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose a part of your body than to have all of it go into hell. ” Mt.5.30

I remember watching some movie where a man had to cut off his hand in order to keep from drowning and wondered if I would be able do something like that. A good friend, who happens also to be my doctor, assured me that I would do whatever it took if I was deprived of air. I suppose the question that Jesus would have us ask ourselves, is will we do whatever it takes to escape hell. To put it another way, is life with God the air of my soul? Is there anything I would not sacrifice if keeping it meant living without Him? 11/30/2009 Conversations Within ts

“This is the air I breathe, your holy presence living in me.” Michael W. Smith

“And if your right hand leads you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose a part of your body than to have all of it go into hell. ” Mt.5.30

I remember watching some movie where a man had to cut off his hand in order to keep from drowning and wondered if I would be able do something like that. A good friend, who happens also to be my doctor, assured me that I would do whatever it took if I was deprived of air. I suppose the question that Jesus would have us ask ourselves, is will we do whatever it takes to escape hell. To put it another way, is life with God the air of my soul? Is there anything I would not sacrifice if keeping it meant living without Him? 11/30/2009 Conversations Within ts

There are times when the best way to ask for something is to give thanks for it before you receive it.

“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving…” Col.4.2 NKJV

In my prayers for others, I have asked the Lord for some provision or protection only to realize that He has already given it or that He, as any good father, will certainly do it. My request for something naturally turns into thanksgiving for it. Perhaps we would do better to surround every request with thankfulness. Could we not just as easily say, “Thank you this day for our daily bread or thank you for delivering us from evil? “ 11/27/2009 Conversations Within ts

There are times when the best way to ask for something is to give thanks for it before you receive it.

“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving…” Col.4.2 NKJV

In my prayers for others, I have asked the Lord for some provision or protection only to realize that He has already given it or that He, as any good father, will certainly do it. My request for something naturally turns into thanksgiving for it. Perhaps we would do better to surround every request with thankfulness. Could we not just as easily say, “Thank you this day for our daily bread or thank you for delivering us from evil? “ 11/27/2009 Conversations Within ts

Of all the things that can keep us awake at night, nothing can compare to wakefulness overwhelmed with gratitude.

”At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You…” Psalm 119:62 NKJV

Who has not waked at midnight to the worries of this world? But have we not also cracked our eyes in the dark and smiled secure that God was watching over our concerns. I often lay my head down and ask God to keep my family and friends safe until morning. But sometimes I think He wakes me up in the middle of the night to keep watch with Him in my prayers. How precious are those midnight conversations. I am so grateful for You dear Friend for You are sweet sleep to us because we know you never sleep. 11/26/2009 Conversations Within ts

Of all the things that can keep us awake at night, nothing can compare to wakefulness overwhelmed with gratitude.

”At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You…” Psalm 119:62 NKJV

Who has not waked at midnight to the worries of this world? But have we not also cracked our eyes in the dark and smiled secure that God was watching over our concerns. I often lay my head down and ask God to keep my family and friends safe until morning. But sometimes I think He wakes me up in the middle of the night to keep watch with Him in my prayers. How precious are those midnight conversations. I am so grateful for You dear Friend for You are sweet sleep to us because we know you never sleep. 11/26/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Prayers of thanksgiving bring even greater blessings than the things we are thankful for.” Anonymous

“Gather us together…to give thanks to Your holy name, To triumph in Your praise.” 1 Chronicles 16:35 NKJV

In our divided world, it is a precious moment when something brings us together. Thanksgiving is just that among those who profess faith, not the day but the act. Voices rise before the God of glory and if only to say grace before a meal, many people are joined in a simple and singular act of giving thanks. In these precious moments our fragmented fellowship is given a glimpse of heaven’s promise as every eyes turns in the same direction intent on the same purpose and we acknowledge our Maker as the singular cause of all blessings. 11/25/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Prayers of thanksgiving bring even greater blessings than the things we are thankful for.” Anonymous

“Gather us together…to give thanks to Your holy name, To triumph in Your praise.” 1 Chronicles 16:35 NKJV

In our divided world, it is a precious moment when something brings us together. Thanksgiving is just that among those who profess faith, not the day but the act. Voices rise before the God of glory and if only to say grace before a meal, many people are joined in a simple and singular act of giving thanks. In these precious moments our fragmented fellowship is given a glimpse of heaven’s promise as every eyes turns in the same direction intent on the same purpose and we acknowledge our Maker as the singular cause of all blessings. 11/25/2009 Conversations Within ts

“A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.” John Wooden

“But I say to you…” Mt.5.22

These words of Jesus echo often in the halls of self-justification. He gently but soberly corrects our misunderstanding of how good we think we are. We may believe that we are basically good people but Christ knows better. He explains that though we may not have murdered, violence boils in the caldron of our thoughts. But love His admonishments for the Son does not come to condemn us, He is only showing us our need of His offered grace. 11/24/2009 Conversations Within ts

“A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.” John Wooden

“But I say to you…” Mt.5.22

These words of Jesus echo often in the halls of self-justification. He gently but soberly corrects our misunderstanding of how good we think we are. We may believe that we are basically good people but Christ knows better. He explains that though we may not have murdered, violence boils in the caldron of our thoughts. But love His admonishments for the Son does not come to condemn us, He is only showing us our need of His offered grace. 11/24/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard.” Anne Sexton

“For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Mt.5.20 NKJV

If the religious right and the religious left of Christ’s day, failed to measure up, it may just be that religion itself falls short of what God wants from us. Why is that? Well certain aspects of religion focus only on compliance to some moral code and Jesus has made it clear that His Father doesn’t want just a surface compliance to a set of rules; He desires our heart. And, everyone knows that when your heart is truly in something, even keeping a rule is transfigured into something genuine. One man is faithful to his wife but inwardly lusts; another has eyes only for his bride. The former has her husband’s body the later has both body and soul. Both men keep the rule but one its letter the other its spirit. Until Christ enters the heart and changes it, I am afraid compliance may the best that people have to offer. 11/23/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard.” Anne Sexton

“For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Mt.5.20 NKJV

If the religious right and the religious left of Christ’s day, failed to measure up, it may just be that religion itself falls short of what God wants from us. Why is that? Well certain aspects of religion focus only on compliance to some moral code and Jesus has made it clear that His Father doesn’t want just a surface compliance to a set of rules; He desires our heart. And, everyone knows that when your heart is truly in something, even keeping a rule is transfigured into something genuine. One man is faithful to his wife but inwardly lusts; another has eyes only for his bride. The former has her husband’s body the later has both body and soul. Both men keep the rule but one its letter the other its spirit. Until Christ enters the heart and changes it, I am afraid compliance may the best that people have to offer. 11/23/2009 Conversations Within ts

“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.” Albert Einstein

“Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments…” Mt.5.19 NKJV

We may wonder why Christians would change dietary laws in light of these words of Christ. The child often watches the grown up and wonders if they contradict their own instructions. For example, a father may tell his son to always use the back door when coming in the house. It may then seem a contradiction to them when dad uses the front door. Of course, the child doesn’t know that dad has installed a security system on the front door and they are too short to reach the keypad and disarm it. This might illustrate why certain Old Testament practices were not brought into the New. The apostles were not breaking and teaching others to break Old Testament sacrifice laws when they explained Jesus as the final sacrifice for all time. 11/20/2009 Conversations Within ts

“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.” Albert Einstein

“Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments…” Mt.5.19 NKJV

We may wonder why Christians would change dietary laws in light of these words of Christ. The child often watches the grown up and wonders if they contradict their own instructions. For example, a father may tell his son to always use the back door when coming in the house. It may then seem a contradiction to them when dad uses the front door. Of course, the child doesn’t know that dad has installed a security system on the front door and they are too short to reach the keypad and disarm it. This might illustrate why certain Old Testament practices were not brought into the New. The apostles were not breaking and teaching others to break Old Testament sacrifice laws when they explained Jesus as the final sacrifice for all time. 11/20/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ…” Rom.9.5 NIV

“…until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” Mt.5.18

There was a season in the history of God’s people when a stone temple was an integral part of worship and service to God. That season has passed, not away but into maturity. God has chosen in Christ, to dwell in our hearts not in stone temples. We may look at much of the Old Testament as seed and the New Testament as mature plant. The New does not replace the Old even as the adult does not replace the child. One grows from the other. The Old Covenant was the child, the new Covenant the mature adult. Why is this important? Well, just as the mature plant needs its roots, New Testament believers need the rich heritage of the Old Testament saints. 11/19/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ…” Rom.9.5 NIV

“…until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” Mt.5.18

There was a season in the history of God’s people when a stone temple was an integral part of worship and service to God. That season has passed, not away but into maturity. God has chosen in Christ, to dwell in our hearts not in stone temples. We may look at much of the Old Testament as seed and the New Testament as mature plant. The New does not replace the Old even as the adult does not replace the child. One grows from the other. The Old Covenant was the child, the new Covenant the mature adult. Why is this important? Well, just as the mature plant needs its roots, New Testament believers need the rich heritage of the Old Testament saints. 11/19/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Hate the sin and love the sinner." Mahatma Ghandi

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. Mt.5.17 NKJV

Some believe the God of the Old Testament to be wrathful and the God of the New, as loving and merciful. Christ is telling us that this is nonsense. The New covenant under Christ does not contradict the Old Covenant; it completes it. God demonstrated both His hatred of sin and His love for the sinner at Calvary. Christ did not abrogate the just condemnation of the Law He accomplished its righteous demands for us. 11/18/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Hate the sin and love the sinner." Mahatma Ghandi

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. Mt.5.17 NKJV

Some believe the God of the Old Testament to be wrathful and the God of the New, as loving and merciful. Christ is telling us that this is nonsense. The New covenant under Christ does not contradict the Old Covenant; it completes it. God demonstrated both His hatred of sin and His love for the sinner at Calvary. Christ did not abrogate the just condemnation of the Law He accomplished its righteous demands for us. 11/18/2009 Conversations Within ts

“We must radiate success before it will come to us.” Earl Nightingale

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Let me do good in the world today dear Lord. Let me know goodness too. When I pray for Your Kingdom to come, let me at least open the doors by opening my heart. Awaken me Lord Jesus, to every occasion for goodness; to express Your goodness in a simple smile, a kind word, a beneficial deed. Let me not only reflect your presence, let me to radiate it--to know such oneness with You, so that when other are with me, they are truly with You. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“We must radiate success before it will come to us.” Earl Nightingale

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Let me do good in the world today dear Lord. Let me know goodness too. When I pray for Your Kingdom to come, let me at least open the doors by opening my heart. Awaken me Lord Jesus, to every occasion for goodness; to express Your goodness in a simple smile, a kind word, a beneficial deed. Let me not only reflect your presence, let me to radiate it--to know such oneness with You, so that when other are with me, they are truly with You. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“We can't go around measuring our goodness by what we don't do…and who we exclude....

.... we've got to measure goodness by what we embrace…and who we include.” Chocolat (the movie)

“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Mt.5.15 NKJV

Many Christians are hidden within the four walls of organized religion. This is pretty much hiding your light under a basket. Apart from the workplace, there is little interaction between most Christians and there non-Christian neighbors. If we do not spend time with people whose beliefs differ from our own, how will they ever witness the beauty of God in Christ? Remember the criticism of the aloof Pharisees about Christ. "This man receives sinners and eats with them.” How can a disciple be a disciple and not do as the teacher has done? 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“We can't go around measuring our goodness by what we don't do…and who we exclude....

.... we've got to measure goodness by what we embrace…and who we include.” Chocolat (the movie)

“Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Mt.5.15 NKJV

Many Christians are hidden within the four walls of organized religion. This is pretty much hiding your light under a basket. Apart from the workplace, there is little interaction between most Christians and there non-Christian neighbors. If we do not spend time with people whose beliefs differ from our own, how will they ever witness the beauty of God in Christ? Remember the criticism of the aloof Pharisees about Christ. "This man receives sinners and eats with them.” How can a disciple be a disciple and not do as the teacher has done? 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“my eyes were blinded by the light. I couldn’t see the stars anymore.” Edward Cullin

“You are the light of the world.” Mt.5.14 NJKV

I remember nights when my dad would come in from patrolling Alabama’s highways; he would always shine his flashlight into my room to see if everything was safe and secure. The light would hit me in the eyes and I would be temporally blinded by it. Sometimes well meaning Christians shine the light of faith in such a way that it blinds the unbelieving to the truth rather than helping them to see it. Instead of shining the light in someone’s eyes, we might try letting our good works shine forth God’s glory. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“my eyes were blinded by the light. I couldn’t see the stars anymore.” Edward Cullin

“You are the light of the world.” Mt.5.14 NJKV

I remember nights when my dad would come in from patrolling Alabama’s highways; he would always shine his flashlight into my room to see if everything was safe and secure. The light would hit me in the eyes and I would be temporally blinded by it. Sometimes well meaning Christians shine the light of faith in such a way that it blinds the unbelieving to the truth rather than helping them to see it. Instead of shining the light in someone’s eyes, we might try letting our good works shine forth God’s glory. 11/16/2009 Conversations Within ts

“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it” Benjamin Franklin

“…but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?” Mt.5.13 ESV

While I do not believe the Church has lost all its effectiveness in American, certain actions have certainly hurt our ability to positively influence society. My generation witnessed the failure of Christians to stand up and some even stood up on the wrong side, during the civil rights era. Every time we fail to follow the directives of Jesus, our witness suffers. It is hard to make up for a poor service record. This should make each of us think hard about what our words and actions say to those around us. Each of us individually reflects the testimony of the whole. 11/12/2009 Conversations Within ts

“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it” Benjamin Franklin

“…but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored?” Mt.5.13 ESV

While I do not believe the Church has lost all its effectiveness in American, certain actions have certainly hurt our ability to positively influence society. My generation witnessed the failure of Christians to stand up and some even stood up on the wrong side, during the civil rights era. Every time we fail to follow the directives of Jesus, our witness suffers. It is hard to make up for a poor service record. This should make each of us think hard about what our words and actions say to those around us. Each of us individually reflects the testimony of the whole. 11/12/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Keep company with good men, and you'll increase their number” Italian Proverb

“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Mt.5.12 ESV

The whole of life is opportunity to choose our response to trial and suffering. Life always comes to us in the little choices. This makes it possible for choice not circumstance to determine what we embrace with our heart. Because of this, we may bitterly or joyfully walk life’s twists and turns. The apostle assured us that all who name Christ would suffer persecution. And, when persecution comes, we always have before us the power to rejoice and be in the company of the glad or to complain and be in the company of the sad. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Keep company with good men, and you'll increase their number” Italian Proverb

“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Mt.5.12 ESV

The whole of life is opportunity to choose our response to trial and suffering. Life always comes to us in the little choices. This makes it possible for choice not circumstance to determine what we embrace with our heart. Because of this, we may bitterly or joyfully walk life’s twists and turns. The apostle assured us that all who name Christ would suffer persecution. And, when persecution comes, we always have before us the power to rejoice and be in the company of the glad or to complain and be in the company of the sad. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

The greatest complement a demon can give you is persecution.

"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.

Why would we or should we regard persecution as a blessing. Well, the Scriptures suggest several reasons. One is the affirmation by our enemies and I mean the enemies of unrighteousness, that we are somehow a threat to the kingdom of darkness. This may explain one reason why they oppose us though not always. Second, persecution in Father’s hands helps to purge from us the remnants of that kingdom that remain in us. And third, we learn joyful contentment accepting from God not only our present circumstance but also the future promise of His reward in Glory. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

The greatest complement a demon can give you is persecution.

"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.

Why would we or should we regard persecution as a blessing. Well, the Scriptures suggest several reasons. One is the affirmation by our enemies and I mean the enemies of unrighteousness, that we are somehow a threat to the kingdom of darkness. This may explain one reason why they oppose us though not always. Second, persecution in Father’s hands helps to purge from us the remnants of that kingdom that remain in us. And third, we learn joyful contentment accepting from God not only our present circumstance but also the future promise of His reward in Glory. 11/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Opposition may become sweet to a man when he has christened it persecution” George Eliot

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.10 ESV

I am sure these words have been used by people on both sides of the same hostility. I am also sure there are times when people believe they are suffering for the Lord when actually they are suffering for being foolish. I am sure I have misapplied these words to my on interactions. But let me be equally certain, if not more so, that when I do indeed suffer for Kingdom purposes, blessed happiness will be its fruit. The difference usually lies in whether our focus is on the persecution or the privilege of being identified with Christ. 11/8/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Opposition may become sweet to a man when he has christened it persecution” George Eliot

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.10 ESV

I am sure these words have been used by people on both sides of the same hostility. I am also sure there are times when people believe they are suffering for the Lord when actually they are suffering for being foolish. I am sure I have misapplied these words to my on interactions. But let me be equally certain, if not more so, that when I do indeed suffer for Kingdom purposes, blessed happiness will be its fruit. The difference usually lies in whether our focus is on the persecution or the privilege of being identified with Christ. 11/8/2009 Conversations Within ts

The steps to peace are best seen when they are modeled rather than being pointed out.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Mt.5.9 ESV

It is often easier to see the path to peace when you are a third party than to see it when you are a member of first party. It is even easier to point out peaceful steps in the second person such as “you should, you need, you might try,” than it is in the first person, “I should, I need or I might try.” But it is only when we attend to peace in the first person that we are able to make peace in the second. And, it just may be that modeling peace is not only the best approach to assist others, it might be the only approach that will help at all. 11/7/2009 Conversations Within ts

The steps to peace are best seen when they are modeled rather than being pointed out.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Mt.5.9 ESV

It is often easier to see the path to peace when you are a third party than to see it when you are a member of first party. It is even easier to point out peaceful steps in the second person such as “you should, you need, you might try,” than it is in the first person, “I should, I need or I might try.” But it is only when we attend to peace in the first person that we are able to make peace in the second. And, it just may be that modeling peace is not only the best approach to assist others, it might be the only approach that will help at all. 11/7/2009 Conversations Within ts

“As selfishness and complaint pervert and cloud the mind, so love with its joy clears and sharpens the vision.” Helen Keller

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

In my efforts to be sincere before God, I fear that I may have crossed the line of being too familiar with Him. What I mean is that I may have assumed certain aspects of a close friendship that do not really exist, at lease on my part. God has been a good friend to me, I not so to Him. I am not sure that the un-pure heart is forbidden to see God; it may just be that all the impurities in it have clouded our vision so that we can’t, at least in this place. 11/6/2009 Conversations Within ts

“As selfishness and complaint pervert and cloud the mind, so love with its joy clears and sharpens the vision.” Helen Keller

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

In my efforts to be sincere before God, I fear that I may have crossed the line of being too familiar with Him. What I mean is that I may have assumed certain aspects of a close friendship that do not really exist, at lease on my part. God has been a good friend to me, I not so to Him. I am not sure that the un-pure heart is forbidden to see God; it may just be that all the impurities in it have clouded our vision so that we can’t, at least in this place. 11/6/2009 Conversations Within ts

“May God have mercy upon my enemies, because I won't.” General George S. Patton

"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Mt.5.7 ESV

When I show mercy to another, I always think of the mercies I have received but I also think about the mercies I hope God will continue to give. If we expect mercy, we should certainly be gracious in giving it. But consider for a moment the greatness of God’s mercy. When we show mercy to another, we often draw upon the knowledge that we too need it. But God needs no mercy. We He extends it; it isn’t because He messed up and mercy was shown to Him. His mercy flows wholly from His goodness and for that He is to be uniquely praised. Praise the Lord, for His mercies endures forever. 11/5/2009 Conversations Within ts

“May God have mercy upon my enemies, because I won't.” General George S. Patton

"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Mt.5.7 ESV

When I show mercy to another, I always think of the mercies I have received but I also think about the mercies I hope God will continue to give. If we expect mercy, we should certainly be gracious in giving it. But consider for a moment the greatness of God’s mercy. When we show mercy to another, we often draw upon the knowledge that we too need it. But God needs no mercy. We He extends it; it isn’t because He messed up and mercy was shown to Him. His mercy flows wholly from His goodness and for that He is to be uniquely praised. Praise the Lord, for His mercies endures forever. 11/5/2009 Conversations Within ts

If junk food is the devil, then a sweet orange is as scripture. Audrey Foris

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Mt.5.6 ESV

It seems to me that dissatisfaction with one’s self may very be one of the steps that lead us to hunger for righteousness. But there are other important attitudes and actions if we are to be truly healed. We must not want to be different solely because we don’t like ourselves. We ay start out that way but we must want to be made right for the right reasons and for that we need grace. In grace we are taught not only to hate evil but also to love all that is good, is I may play on familiar words, to be for goodness sake. This of course begins when we love the Source of goodness. And, we may expect that learning to love what is wholesome will take time for people who have long been addicted to junk food. 11/4/2009 Conversations Within ts

If junk food is the devil, then a sweet orange is as scripture. Audrey Foris

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Mt.5.6 ESV

It seems to me that dissatisfaction with one’s self may very be one of the steps that lead us to hunger for righteousness. But there are other important attitudes and actions if we are to be truly healed. We must not want to be different solely because we don’t like ourselves. We ay start out that way but we must want to be made right for the right reasons and for that we need grace. In grace we are taught not only to hate evil but also to love all that is good, is I may play on familiar words, to be for goodness sake. This of course begins when we love the Source of goodness. And, we may expect that learning to love what is wholesome will take time for people who have long been addicted to junk food. 11/4/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.” C. S. Lewis“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Mt.5.5 ESV

There are two sorts of surrendered spirits. The first surrenders because they are defeated but they want nothing of surrender. Indeed, if they were able they would turn and seek to fight again or else escape. The second and this is the meek about which Jesus speaks, are those who willfully surrender. They too are defeated. The difference is that they have come to realize that life submitted to God’s rule offers greater freedom than they ever had under the tyranny of their own rule. In the end, every knee will bow. The first sort will be handed over to what they want, but held in a place where they can do no harm to any but themselves. The meek will be set free from the bondage of their own will, only to given it back in glory as its master. 11/3/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.” C. S. Lewis“Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Mt.5.5 ESV

There are two sorts of surrendered spirits. The first surrenders because they are defeated but they want nothing of surrender. Indeed, if they were able they would turn and seek to fight again or else escape. The second and this is the meek about which Jesus speaks, are those who willfully surrender. They too are defeated. The difference is that they have come to realize that life submitted to God’s rule offers greater freedom than they ever had under the tyranny of their own rule. In the end, every knee will bow. The first sort will be handed over to what they want, but held in a place where they can do no harm to any but themselves. The meek will be set free from the bondage of their own will, only to given it back in glory as its master. 11/3/2009 Conversations Within ts

Grief is itself a medicine. ~William Cowper

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Mt5.4 ESV

To believe in one’s spiritual poverty is reason enough to mourn. But, godly sorrow knows that we fail to see our sin properly unless we see that our sin is against God. Did not David pray, “Against thee and thee only have I sinned.” It is not enough to weep over our sins because we have known personal defeat but we should weep because have failed God. True sorrow does not lapse into self-pity like Judas, who hung himself in shame. No, godly sorrow weeps because we know we have grieved God and it leads us to repent like Peter. I should think it a grace anytime we are able to weep over our transgressions when we see them though the eyes of the one we have offended. 11/2/2009 Conversations Within ts

Grief is itself a medicine. ~William Cowper

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Mt5.4 ESV

To believe in one’s spiritual poverty is reason enough to mourn. But, godly sorrow knows that we fail to see our sin properly unless we see that our sin is against God. Did not David pray, “Against thee and thee only have I sinned.” It is not enough to weep over our sins because we have known personal defeat but we should weep because have failed God. True sorrow does not lapse into self-pity like Judas, who hung himself in shame. No, godly sorrow weeps because we know we have grieved God and it leads us to repent like Peter. I should think it a grace anytime we are able to weep over our transgressions when we see them though the eyes of the one we have offended. 11/2/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Christianity is one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread.” D. T. Niles

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.3

The first words of the first known public message of Jesus tell us the first thing we must understand if we desire a relationship with God. In short, we are spiritually homeless, morally impoverished beggars and Jesus is telling us that we are in a position to discover true happiness when we not only know this but we actually beg for mercy and grace. A beggar has no pride. They only know that unless someone takes pity on them they will perish. Here is the first thing we must realize about ourselves if we are to have any relationship with God. One does not seek a physician if they do not believe they are sick. 11/1/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Christianity is one beggar telling another beggar where he found bread.” D. T. Niles

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.3

The first words of the first known public message of Jesus tell us the first thing we must understand if we desire a relationship with God. In short, we are spiritually homeless, morally impoverished beggars and Jesus is telling us that we are in a position to discover true happiness when we not only know this but we actually beg for mercy and grace. A beggar has no pride. They only know that unless someone takes pity on them they will perish. Here is the first thing we must realize about ourselves if we are to have any relationship with God. One does not seek a physician if they do not believe they are sick. 11/1/2009 Conversations Within ts

“E.F. Hutton says….”

“And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:” Mt.5.2

One popular translation leaves out the phrase, “And he opened his mouth.” The translators probably thought that it redundant because one usually opens their mouth when they teach. But I think Matthew was being deliberately redundant when he recorded these opening words of the Sermon on the Mount. I believe he was trying to capture the magical atmosphere surrounding Jesus. He was saying that every head was turned and every eye was fixed on the very lips of this unique teacher. They were hung on his every word and so should we be. Jesus once asked His disciples if they really wanted to be his followers, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” 10/30/2009 Conversations Within ts

“E.F. Hutton says….”

“And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:” Mt.5.2

One popular translation leaves out the phrase, “And he opened his mouth.” The translators probably thought that it redundant because one usually opens their mouth when they teach. But I think Matthew was being deliberately redundant when he recorded these opening words of the Sermon on the Mount. I believe he was trying to capture the magical atmosphere surrounding Jesus. He was saying that every head was turned and every eye was fixed on the very lips of this unique teacher. They were hung on his every word and so should we be. Jesus once asked His disciples if they really wanted to be his followers, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” 10/30/2009 Conversations Within ts

To believe in the resurrection means that our faith is not just in what Christ did, our faith is in a living person.

“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.” Mt.5.1

How responsive is Christ to His flock. Let us be equally attentive to Him. He positions Himself to teach, to guide and give direction to our lives. Let us sit at His feet, to listen, learn and follow. He not only taught, He still teaches all who will listen. We not only study what He has said, we hear fresh words from Him each day. Our relationship with Him is not with a dead historical figure but we are coming to know and love the resurrected living Savior. 10/29/2009 Conversations Within ts

To believe in the resurrection means that our faith is not just in what Christ did, our faith is in a living person.

“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.” Mt.5.1

How responsive is Christ to His flock. Let us be equally attentive to Him. He positions Himself to teach, to guide and give direction to our lives. Let us sit at His feet, to listen, learn and follow. He not only taught, He still teaches all who will listen. We not only study what He has said, we hear fresh words from Him each day. Our relationship with Him is not with a dead historical figure but we are coming to know and love the resurrected living Savior. 10/29/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Credit you give yourself is not worth having.” Irving Thalberg

“In that day it shall be— “ The LORD is one, And His name one.” Zech.14.9

Religions divide the world; set the nations at odds against each other and for that reason some would do away with them. It is foolish to think that this could be done, at least by any human endeavor. When peace finally comes to the world, it will be a spiritual work brought about by the Spirit of God. It has been said that Christ did not come to establish Christendom, at least Christendom as it is portrayed in the world. Such is the work of man not God. The Lord commanded that no cut stones be used to build His altar and we may be sure that no mark of human accomplishment will be seen on the building of God. Each of us should consider the nature of our labor for Christ and by all means, we should lay down our engraving tools. 10/28/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Credit you give yourself is not worth having.” Irving Thalberg

“In that day it shall be— “ The LORD is one, And His name one.” Zech.14.9

Religions divide the world; set the nations at odds against each other and for that reason some would do away with them. It is foolish to think that this could be done, at least by any human endeavor. When peace finally comes to the world, it will be a spiritual work brought about by the Spirit of God. It has been said that Christ did not come to establish Christendom, at least Christendom as it is portrayed in the world. Such is the work of man not God. The Lord commanded that no cut stones be used to build His altar and we may be sure that no mark of human accomplishment will be seen on the building of God. Each of us should consider the nature of our labor for Christ and by all means, we should lay down our engraving tools. 10/28/2009 Conversations Within ts

“You can safely assume that you've created God in your own image...

...when it turns out that God hates all the same people you do.” Anne Lamott

They will call on My name, And I will answer them. Zech.13.9 NKJV

People in general make assumptions about God, some of them good, some bad. A bad assumption is bad simply because it is not true and, in the end in it may betray us. I think one reason Jesus came was to take the guesswork out of our relationship with God. He put it plainly when He told us to call on God using His name. We should not understand this as some magical incantation we append to the end of our prayers. To pray in His name is to appeal to all that is true about Him. It would be silly to ask for something we know is inconsistent with that. But, and this is an important contrast, we may confidently assume that every prayer offered up in the true spirit of the Name will move the Father to answer. 10/26/2009 Conversations Within ts

“You can safely assume that you've created God in your own image...

...when it turns out that God hates all the same people you do.” Anne Lamott

They will call on My name, And I will answer them. Zech.13.9 NKJV

People in general make assumptions about God, some of them good, some bad. A bad assumption is bad simply because it is not true and, in the end in it may betray us. I think one reason Jesus came was to take the guesswork out of our relationship with God. He put it plainly when He told us to call on God using His name. We should not understand this as some magical incantation we append to the end of our prayers. To pray in His name is to appeal to all that is true about Him. It would be silly to ask for something we know is inconsistent with that. But, and this is an important contrast, we may confidently assume that every prayer offered up in the true spirit of the Name will move the Father to answer. 10/26/2009 Conversations Within ts

"At the deepest level of Being, you are one with all that is" Eckhart Tolle.

“Thus says the LORD, who stretches out the heavens, lays the foundation of the earth, and forms the spirit of man within him…” Zech.12.1 NKJV

A friend recently asked me to read and review Eckhart Tolle ‘s book “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose.” My first impression was really my only impression. I told my friend that Mr. Tolle had discovered his soul or to put it precisely, that he is a soul. Many religions not only believe this, they have somehow made the pursuit of experiencing it their Heaven so to speak and the oneness they seek does not refer to our connectedness to God but the “enlightenment” that all things are god. What falls short of life’s true purpose, at least from a Christian standpoint, happens when we make the experiencing of this awareness of soul our aim. There is indeed something wonderful about waking to one’s spiritual life even to our connectedness to everything else but our highest purpose is to know and love the God who forms the spirit of man. Before we can know oneness with Him, as Jesus prayed that we would, we must first understand God’s distinctiveness from us. We are the over flow of God but that does not make us God. 10/25/2009 Conversations Within ts

"At the deepest level of Being, you are one with all that is" Eckhart Tolle.

“Thus says the LORD, who stretches out the heavens, lays the foundation of the earth, and forms the spirit of man within him…” Zech.12.1 NKJV

A friend recently asked me to read and review Eckhart Tolle ‘s book “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose.” My first impression was really my only impression. I told my friend that Mr. Tolle had discovered his soul or to put it precisely, that he is a soul. Many religions not only believe this, they have somehow made the pursuit of experiencing it their Heaven so to speak and the oneness they seek does not refer to our connectedness to God but the “enlightenment” that all things are god. What falls short of life’s true purpose, at least from a Christian standpoint, happens when we make the experiencing of this awareness of soul our aim. There is indeed something wonderful about waking to one’s spiritual life even to our connectedness to everything else but our highest purpose is to know and love the God who forms the spirit of man. Before we can know oneness with Him, as Jesus prayed that we would, we must first understand God’s distinctiveness from us. We are the over flow of God but that does not make us God. 10/25/2009 Conversations Within ts

“God has two dwellings: one in heaven, and the other in a meek and thankful heart” Izaak Walton

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4.8 KJV

People tell me all the time that they are not as close to the Lord as they would like to be. Some are intimidated by so-called “spiritual giants,” others tell me plainly that they just don’t know how to get close to Him. As for “giants,” well let’s just say God is big enough to be close to us all. As for the how, one thing is plain. “This is what the high and lofty One says— he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit.” Is.57.15 NIV 10/24/2009 Conversations Within ts

“God has two dwellings: one in heaven, and the other in a meek and thankful heart” Izaak Walton

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4.8 KJV

People tell me all the time that they are not as close to the Lord as they would like to be. Some are intimidated by so-called “spiritual giants,” others tell me plainly that they just don’t know how to get close to Him. As for “giants,” well let’s just say God is big enough to be close to us all. As for the how, one thing is plain. “This is what the high and lofty One says— he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit.” Is.57.15 NIV 10/24/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough...give the world the best you have anyway.” Mother Teresa

“And they weighed out as my wages thirty pieces of silver.” Zech.11.12 ESV

Some very ugly business is conducted every day in this “every man for himself” place. But though this is true, we should not let it discourage us from doing the beautiful business of helping and healing. One man throws down another picks up. Some cheat and swindle, others sacrifice for the good of an absolute stranger. The world is full of takers, but each of us can insure it also has its share of givers. 10/23/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough...give the world the best you have anyway.” Mother Teresa

“And they weighed out as my wages thirty pieces of silver.” Zech.11.12 ESV

Some very ugly business is conducted every day in this “every man for himself” place. But though this is true, we should not let it discourage us from doing the beautiful business of helping and healing. One man throws down another picks up. Some cheat and swindle, others sacrifice for the good of an absolute stranger. The world is full of takers, but each of us can insure it also has its share of givers. 10/23/2009 Conversations Within ts

“There is no tragedy like getting your own way.” Anonymous

“…in far countries they shall remember me.” Zech.10.9 ESV

There are times when God lets us have our on way, just as a parent must do with a stubborn teenager. And, when we come to our senses, and realize how foolish we have behaved, the very thing that enticed us away from God becomes a powerful motivation to return to Him. I am referring not only to the misery that always follows when we get our own way but the memory of how good we had it when we were under God’s care and guidance. 10/22/2009 Conversations Within ts

“There is no tragedy like getting your own way.” Anonymous

“…in far countries they shall remember me.” Zech.10.9 ESV

There are times when God lets us have our on way, just as a parent must do with a stubborn teenager. And, when we come to our senses, and realize how foolish we have behaved, the very thing that enticed us away from God becomes a powerful motivation to return to Him. I am referring not only to the misery that always follows when we get our own way but the memory of how good we had it when we were under God’s care and guidance. 10/22/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal." Sir Thomas Moore

“O prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you.” Zech.9.12 NIV

Everything that was lost by Adam’s rebellion is promised to be restored by the obedience of Jesus, indeed doubly so! We can only imagine the beauty of life in Eden; we can hardly begin to imagine the glory of the world to come. One of the ways paradise regained will be superior to the paradise that was lost is in its permanence. Our first parents were created so that it was possible that they could sin and loose paradise but the paradise regained by Christ can never be lost. Somehow, and we don’t know exactly how, we will be kept by the power of grace, not against our will mind you, but through the healing of our will so that everlasting life will be everlasting indeed. 10/21/2009 Conversations Within ts

"Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal." Sir Thomas Moore

“O prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you.” Zech.9.12 NIV

Everything that was lost by Adam’s rebellion is promised to be restored by the obedience of Jesus, indeed doubly so! We can only imagine the beauty of life in Eden; we can hardly begin to imagine the glory of the world to come. One of the ways paradise regained will be superior to the paradise that was lost is in its permanence. Our first parents were created so that it was possible that they could sin and loose paradise but the paradise regained by Christ can never be lost. Somehow, and we don’t know exactly how, we will be kept by the power of grace, not against our will mind you, but through the healing of our will so that everlasting life will be everlasting indeed. 10/21/2009 Conversations Within ts

“We admitted we were powerless--that our lives had become unmanageable…

that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” Twelve Steps

“Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.” Zech.8.23 NKJV

Here is one of the most desirable forecasts that anyone could wish about his or her faith in God. “In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jew and say, ‘“Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’” Is God with me? Do others see His hand on my life? Do I see His favorable hand in my life? I am convinced that an abundant life is what Jesus offers every single person who comes to Him. If the favorable presence of God is the blessing of only a few, it is because only a few take advantage of all that God is for us in Christ. The only condition I know to receive the riches of God presence is to realize that in and of ourselves we are poor and then to cash the check offered to us by Christ. 10/20/2009 Conversations Within ts

“We admitted we were powerless--that our lives had become unmanageable…

that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” Twelve Steps

“Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.” Zech.8.23 NKJV

Here is one of the most desirable forecasts that anyone could wish about his or her faith in God. “In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jew and say, ‘“Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’” Is God with me? Do others see His hand on my life? Do I see His favorable hand in my life? I am convinced that an abundant life is what Jesus offers every single person who comes to Him. If the favorable presence of God is the blessing of only a few, it is because only a few take advantage of all that God is for us in Christ. The only condition I know to receive the riches of God presence is to realize that in and of ourselves we are poor and then to cash the check offered to us by Christ. 10/20/2009 Conversations Within ts

I cannot seem to escape the pull of my own gravity.

“When you fasted and mourned…was it for me that you fasted?” Zech.7.5. ESV

Lord, you tell me plainly that selfish prayers are a waste of time but I cannot seem to escape the pull of my own gravity. You have promised to look after me and that I should look after the concerns of Your Kingdom. As far as I can tell, You have kept Your side of things even though I fudge on my side all the time. How I want to be different. But, I am not sure if my desire to change is for You or for me. It seems I need more fuel Lord if I am to reach escape velocity, break free from my self-centered life and find myself and my concerns orbiting Yours. 10/20/2009 Conversations Within ts

I cannot seem to escape the pull of my own gravity.

“When you fasted and mourned…was it for me that you fasted?” Zech.7.5. ESV

Lord, you tell me plainly that selfish prayers are a waste of time but I cannot seem to escape the pull of my own gravity. You have promised to look after me and that I should look after the concerns of Your Kingdom. As far as I can tell, You have kept Your side of things even though I fudge on my side all the time. How I want to be different. But, I am not sure if my desire to change is for You or for me. It seems I need more fuel Lord if I am to reach escape velocity, break free from my self-centered life and find myself and my concerns orbiting Yours. 10/20/2009 Conversations Within ts

"The happiness which God designs for His higher creatures is the happiness of being freely and voluntarily united to Him." C.S. Lewis

“And this shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” Zech.6.15 NKJV

God has put some matters into our hands. And, considering the weakness of human character this at first may be a scary thought. Scary, until we realize that everything God does, He does from the standpoint of His wisdom and love. We may then assume that when God made human choice apart of the certain equations, He was designing the best possible route for us to experience His goodness and love. This does not mean that we can’t blow it. Choice is always makes that possible. The nation of Israel was offered the opportunity to share His value with the nations and blew it. That task has now passed to the others. The question for each of us is will we chose to be the vehicle of blessing or will He pass us by to find someone who will? 10/18/2009 Conversations Within ts

"The happiness which God designs for His higher creatures is the happiness of being freely and voluntarily united to Him." C.S. Lewis

“And this shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.” Zech.6.15 NKJV

God has put some matters into our hands. And, considering the weakness of human character this at first may be a scary thought. Scary, until we realize that everything God does, He does from the standpoint of His wisdom and love. We may then assume that when God made human choice apart of the certain equations, He was designing the best possible route for us to experience His goodness and love. This does not mean that we can’t blow it. Choice is always makes that possible. The nation of Israel was offered the opportunity to share His value with the nations and blew it. That task has now passed to the others. The question for each of us is will we chose to be the vehicle of blessing or will He pass us by to find someone who will? 10/18/2009 Conversations Within ts

"God not only sends special angels into our lives...

...but sometimes He even sends them back again if we forget to take notes the first time!" Eileen Elias Freeman, 1994

“Then I turned and raised my eyes, and saw there a flying scroll.” Zech5.1 NKJV

The vision of the flying scroll is one of many revelations in the Scriptures that assure us that there are decisions being made in heaven that affect affairs here on earth. The abode of angels is not a static place. Every glimpse we are given in God’s word, describes Heaven as a place of bustling business and its chief export, the directives of God’s will on earth. Not surprisingly, many times these directives are in answer to the prayers of God’s people. 10/17/2009 Conversations Within ts

"God not only sends special angels into our lives...

...but sometimes He even sends them back again if we forget to take notes the first time!" Eileen Elias Freeman, 1994

“Then I turned and raised my eyes, and saw there a flying scroll.” Zech5.1 NKJV

The vision of the flying scroll is one of many revelations in the Scriptures that assure us that there are decisions being made in heaven that affect affairs here on earth. The abode of angels is not a static place. Every glimpse we are given in God’s word, describes Heaven as a place of bustling business and its chief export, the directives of God’s will on earth. Not surprisingly, many times these directives are in answer to the prayers of God’s people. 10/17/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” Mother Teresa

"Who despises the day of small things?” Zech.4.10 NIV

Ordinary moments are made magical when life is seen through healed eyes. Our smallest actions are made to bear lasting fruit when His life fills our own. The life of Jesus within us will transform the quality of our interactions so that reading a book; conversing with a friend or eating a sandwich, become a means of worship and life itself a sanctuary. 10/15/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” Mother Teresa

"Who despises the day of small things?” Zech.4.10 NIV

Ordinary moments are made magical when life is seen through healed eyes. Our smallest actions are made to bear lasting fruit when His life fills our own. The life of Jesus within us will transform the quality of our interactions so that reading a book; conversing with a friend or eating a sandwich, become a means of worship and life itself a sanctuary. 10/15/2009 Conversations Within ts

Humility isn’t a virtue we attain but something we realize.

"Remove the filthy garments from him." Zech.3.4 ESV

If we live in each moment, savor and give ourselves to it, then those moments where we have sought and found forgiveness can be a continuing means of grace. I mean the next time we face the temptation to return to that sin we have confessed, that sin which God has graciously forgiven, the remembered forgiveness may serve to put out the fire of our desire to do it again. The key then is to remember, and the key to remembering is to be continually thankful and the key to thanksgiving is humility. The humble soul, is a needful soul, is a grateful soul, is a soul made powerful to utter the words, “How could I do this thing and sin against my God?” 10/13/2009 Conversations Within ts

Humility isn’t a virtue we attain but something we realize.

"Remove the filthy garments from him." Zech.3.4 ESV

If we live in each moment, savor and give ourselves to it, then those moments where we have sought and found forgiveness can be a continuing means of grace. I mean the next time we face the temptation to return to that sin we have confessed, that sin which God has graciously forgiven, the remembered forgiveness may serve to put out the fire of our desire to do it again. The key then is to remember, and the key to remembering is to be continually thankful and the key to thanksgiving is humility. The humble soul, is a needful soul, is a grateful soul, is a soul made powerful to utter the words, “How could I do this thing and sin against my God?” 10/13/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Before we can pray, "Lord, Thy Kingdom come," we must be willing to pray, "My Kingdom go."” Alan Redpath

“Jerusalem shall be inhabited as towns without walls…” Zech.2.4 NKJV

Surely, the Church is the fulfillment of these words. The citizens of the New Jerusalem are now one vast people from every nation who name the Name of Christ and look to Him as Lord and Savior. Jerusalem in this sense is a city without walls. God clearly has a global focus and so should those who are citizens of His Kingdom. We pray for one world government but not in the liberal sense of modern politics. We pray that men come under the government of Christ. The Kingdom of Christ is no more the Jewish state of Israel than it is the steepled buildings that dot the world. Jesus told us plainly that His Kingdom is not of this world. This does not mean there will be no physical expressions of His kingdom but we should not confuse states and steeples with the hearts of men. 10/12/2009 Conversations Within ts

“Before we can pray, "Lord, Thy Kingdom come," we must be willing to pray, "My Kingdom go."” Alan Redpath

“Jerusalem shall be inhabited as towns without walls…” Zech.2.4 NKJV

Surely, the Church is the fulfillment of these words. The citizens of the New Jerusalem are now one vast people from every nation who name the Name of Christ and look to Him as Lord and Savior. Jerusalem in this sense is a city without walls. God clearly has a global focus and so should those who are citizens of His Kingdom. We pray for one world government but not in the liberal sense of modern politics. We pray that men come under the government of Christ. The Kingdom of Christ is no more the Jewish state of Israel than it is the steepled buildings that dot the world. Jesus told us plainly that His Kingdom is not of this world. This does not mean there will be no physical expressions of His kingdom but we should not confuse states and steeples with the hearts of men. 10/12/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The purpose of influence is to speak up for those who have no influence”. Rick Warren

“I am exceedingly angry with the nations that are at ease.” Zech.1.15 ESV

I remember being sorely displeased whenever my children refused to share their toys. But I also have wonderful memories of times when each of them not only gave to meet another’s need, but also sacrificed to do it. It is abundantly clear that God expects us to not only share but also to sacrifice if necessary to help our neighbors. He is not happy when we sit around in the ease of wealth while millions suffer starvation and oppression. But where can we begin when even Jesus told us “the poor you have with you always?” Mother Theresa offered us a great place to start. “If you can't feed a hundred people, then just feed one.” 10/11/2009 Conversations Within ts

“The purpose of influence is to speak up for those who have no influence”. Rick Warren

“I am exceedingly angry with the nations that are at ease.” Zech.1.15 ESV

I remember being sorely displeased whenever my children refused to share their toys. But I also have wonderful memories of times when each of them not only gave to meet another’s need, but also sacrificed to do it. It is abundantly clear that God expects us to not only share but also to sacrifice if necessary to help our neighbors. He is not happy when we sit around in the ease of wealth while millions suffer starvation and oppression. But where can we begin when even Jesus told us “the poor you have with you always?” Mother Theresa offered us a great place to start. “If you can't feed a hundred people, then just feed one.” 10/11/2009 Conversations Within ts

A person who won't read has no advantage over one who can't read. Mark Twain

“but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2Pt.3.18 NKJV

I feel confident that grace is given to us for every circumstance. The question is do we appropriate it. There must be moments where grace is given to us and whether we receive it or not, we have its benefit. An example may be God protecting us from some danger we do not know about. But there also must be moments when God gives us grace and if we don’t take advantage of it, we miss its benefit. Perhaps He gives us grace to hold our tongue in an argument but we refuse it, lash out, and escalate the conflict. Give us an eye for Your grace Lord, to lay hold of it throughout each day and glory in Your goodness. 10/10/2009 Conversations Within ts

A person who won't read has no advantage over one who can't read. Mark Twain

“but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” 2Pt.3.18 NKJV

I feel confident that grace is given to us for every circumstance. The question is do we appropriate it. There must be moments where grace is given to us and whether we receive it or not, we have its benefit. An example may be God protecting us from some danger we do not know about. But there also must be moments when God gives us grace and if we don’t take advantage of it, we miss its benefit. Perhaps He gives us grace to hold our tongue in an argument but we refuse it, lash out, and escalate the conflict. Give us an eye for Your grace Lord, to lay hold of it throughout each day and glory in Your goodness. 10/10/2009 Conversations Within ts

Osmosis (biology)

Osmosis (biology)-the passage of molecules through a membrane from a place of higher concentration to a place of lower concentration until both sides are equal.

“be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless…” 2Pt.3.14

People often have unrealistic expectations about life. But even though most will never reach the level of perfection they have envisioned, the diligent press on anyway. We may strive to be like Christ in every respect, and though we may never reach His perfect oneness with God in this life, it is still a worthwhile goal. Why? Well certainly not to merit salvation but simply to experience more of it. This means of course, that the how is as important as the why. Our effort to be like Christ is somewhat like a spiritual osmosis rather than earning a merit badge. The higher concentration of God’s presence in Christ is flowing into the lower consecration of His presence in us, until both solutions are the same. The difference is that flowing into us takes nothing from Him. What is the condition, the membrane if you will, that allows this osmosis? That would be simple humility and faith. Christians receive grace they don’t earn it. 10/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

Osmosis (biology)

Osmosis (biology)-the passage of molecules through a membrane from a place of higher concentration to a place of lower concentration until both sides are equal.

“be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless…” 2Pt.3.14

People often have unrealistic expectations about life. But even though most will never reach the level of perfection they have envisioned, the diligent press on anyway. We may strive to be like Christ in every respect, and though we may never reach His perfect oneness with God in this life, it is still a worthwhile goal. Why? Well certainly not to merit salvation but simply to experience more of it. This means of course, that the how is as important as the why. Our effort to be like Christ is somewhat like a spiritual osmosis rather than earning a merit badge. The higher concentration of God’s presence in Christ is flowing into the lower consecration of His presence in us, until both solutions are the same. The difference is that flowing into us takes nothing from Him. What is the condition, the membrane if you will, that allows this osmosis? That would be simple humility and faith. Christians receive grace they don’t earn it. 10/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

Duh!

“looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God.” 2Pt.3.12 NJKV

These words tell us that we may not only look for Christ to return but that our holy conduct, may actually hasten His coming. How so? I mean if the Father already knows the date He has assigned for the Son to return, is there really anything we can do to hasten it. Well certainly, if the date that God has assigned is not so much a circle drawn on a calendar, as it is when the task He has assigned to the Church is complete. And what task is that? Jesus told us plainly, “Go and make disciples of all the nations.” Are we holding up the train? 10/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

Duh!

“looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God.” 2Pt.3.12 NJKV

These words tell us that we may not only look for Christ to return but that our holy conduct, may actually hasten His coming. How so? I mean if the Father already knows the date He has assigned for the Son to return, is there really anything we can do to hasten it. Well certainly, if the date that God has assigned is not so much a circle drawn on a calendar, as it is when the task He has assigned to the Church is complete. And what task is that? Jesus told us plainly, “Go and make disciples of all the nations.” Are we holding up the train? 10/9/2009 Conversations Within ts

God waited even for the snail to reach the ark.

“but is longsuffering toward us…” 2Pt.3.9 NKJV

How can we possibly relate to the longsuffering of God? The word captures an aspect of God’s patience that is nothing less than overwhelming. God suffers! The All Mighty is experiencing degrees of anguish that only a God can know. His distress, if we can call it such, is over the misery and danger that men and women have brought upon themselves. He suffers over us. And, He suffers long over us. What is equally amazing is that we can also be a source of great joy to Him. It staggers me to realize His emotional attachment to mere creatures, not emotions as we know them, but whatever divine attributes spilled over and birthed ours. This of course does not take into account all that Jesus took up of our own distresses when He became flesh. 10/8/2009 Conversations Within ts

God waited even for the snail to reach the ark.

“but is longsuffering toward us…” 2Pt.3.9 NKJV

How can we possibly relate to the longsuffering of God? The word captures an aspect of God’s patience that is nothing less than overwhelming. God suffers! The All Mighty is experiencing degrees of anguish that only a God can know. His distress, if we can call it such, is over the misery and danger that men and women have brought upon themselves. He suffers over us. And, He suffers long over us. What is equally amazing is that we can also be a source of great joy to Him. It staggers me to realize His emotional attachment to mere creatures, not emotions as we know them, but whatever divine attributes spilled over and birthed ours. This of course does not take into account all that Jesus took up of our own distresses when He became flesh. 10/8/2009 Conversations Within ts

Christ doesn't want to renovate our house, he wants to tear it down and start again.

“A dog returns to his own vomit, and, “a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire.”

If these words are true, is there any chance of lasting reform? We’ve all seen or heard of sinner turned saint but sadly, we’ve also seen or heard of saint return to sinner. The great reformer Martin Luther understood it this way. The Christian, in this life, is simultaneously saint and sinner. We are at any given moment capable of powerful expressions in each direction, terrible brutality or gracious compassion. But I suppose the real question is whether the changes in us are because of Christ or simply some prideful attempt at self-improvement. If the changes in us are because of Christ, we may be sure they will continue. If they sprout from pride, well, the seed becomes the plant that sowed it. 10/7/2009 Conversations Within ts