...and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.“ Antoine de Saint-Exupery
“…and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Rom.5.2 ESV
We usually think of hope as something that concerns the future. But hope also gives focused attention to the present. How so? Well, we usually prepare for things, which we anticipate. What is it that we hope for as Christians? I think in light of the New Testament that our hope is centered not so much on where we will be as it is what we will be. We shall be like Him. That being the case, we corporate with the transformation that will make us fit to live there. Not fit in the sense of worthy but fit in the sense of able. Anyone who has been in a peaceful place knows that if your heart is not at peace, nothing around you can manufacture it. God cannot create heaven for hearts, which do not long for it and unable to appreciate it. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
If you want to build a ship, don't herd people together to collect wood ...
...and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.“ Antoine de Saint-Exupery
“…and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Rom.5.2 ESV
We usually think of hope as something that concerns the future. But hope also gives focused attention to the present. How so? Well, we usually prepare for things, which we anticipate. What is it that we hope for as Christians? I think in light of the New Testament that our hope is centered not so much on where we will be as it is what we will be. We shall be like Him. That being the case, we corporate with the transformation that will make us fit to live there. Not fit in the sense of worthy but fit in the sense of able. Anyone who has been in a peaceful place knows that if your heart is not at peace, nothing around you can manufacture it. God cannot create heaven for hearts, which do not long for it and unable to appreciate it. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
“…and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Rom.5.2 ESV
We usually think of hope as something that concerns the future. But hope also gives focused attention to the present. How so? Well, we usually prepare for things, which we anticipate. What is it that we hope for as Christians? I think in light of the New Testament that our hope is centered not so much on where we will be as it is what we will be. We shall be like Him. That being the case, we corporate with the transformation that will make us fit to live there. Not fit in the sense of worthy but fit in the sense of able. Anyone who has been in a peaceful place knows that if your heart is not at peace, nothing around you can manufacture it. God cannot create heaven for hearts, which do not long for it and unable to appreciate it. 3/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, March 30, 2009
“Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace.” Buddha
“Into your hand I commit my spirit…” Ps.31.5 ESV
Here is one of the seven saying of Christ on the cross. It is so appropriate that His last words are a quotation from God’s word. Jesus is called the eternal Word, He came to fulfill the word, told us to live by God’s every word, He died with the word on His lips and His last words to us after the resurrection, commissioned us to spread the word. God has spoken and Jesus is what He said.
“In the beginning was the word and the word was with God, and the word was God… 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.”
3/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Here is one of the seven saying of Christ on the cross. It is so appropriate that His last words are a quotation from God’s word. Jesus is called the eternal Word, He came to fulfill the word, told us to live by God’s every word, He died with the word on His lips and His last words to us after the resurrection, commissioned us to spread the word. God has spoken and Jesus is what He said.
“In the beginning was the word and the word was with God, and the word was God… 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.”
3/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace.” Buddha
“Into your hand I commit my spirit…” Ps.31.5 ESV
Here is one of the seven saying of Christ on the cross. It is so appropriate that His last words are a quotation from God’s word. Jesus is called the eternal Word, He came to fulfill the word, told us to live by God’s every word, He died with the word on His lips and His last words to us after the resurrection, commissioned us to spread the word. God has spoken and Jesus is what He said.
“In the beginning was the word and the word was with God, and the word was God… 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.”
3/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Here is one of the seven saying of Christ on the cross. It is so appropriate that His last words are a quotation from God’s word. Jesus is called the eternal Word, He came to fulfill the word, told us to live by God’s every word, He died with the word on His lips and His last words to us after the resurrection, commissioned us to spread the word. God has spoken and Jesus is what He said.
“In the beginning was the word and the word was with God, and the word was God… 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.”
3/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, March 28, 2009
“The trouble with always trying to preserve the health of the body...
...is that it is so difficult to do without destroying the health of the mind.” ~G.K. Chesterton
“O Lord my God, I cried to you for help and you have healed me.” Ps.30.2 ESV
Health is a one of a kind treasure and we usually appreciate it more after seasons where it has been threatened. It is a precious grace that our bodies have been given the power to fight off disease and injury. Cuts heal, colds go away, sleep refreshes and rest restores. If we find ourselves in health this morning, let us offer the sacrifice of praise--for God is life, health and peace. We are a society obsessed with health; and like all obsessions, this one has proved to be unhealthy. Beyond trusting God for daily provision, there is little need to worry with health. He has promised to provide all that is needed each day to serve Him and I should think that health is factored into that. He of course knows the bigger picture and while we may not know it, we can sure that worry will add nothing to it. 3/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O Lord my God, I cried to you for help and you have healed me.” Ps.30.2 ESV
Health is a one of a kind treasure and we usually appreciate it more after seasons where it has been threatened. It is a precious grace that our bodies have been given the power to fight off disease and injury. Cuts heal, colds go away, sleep refreshes and rest restores. If we find ourselves in health this morning, let us offer the sacrifice of praise--for God is life, health and peace. We are a society obsessed with health; and like all obsessions, this one has proved to be unhealthy. Beyond trusting God for daily provision, there is little need to worry with health. He has promised to provide all that is needed each day to serve Him and I should think that health is factored into that. He of course knows the bigger picture and while we may not know it, we can sure that worry will add nothing to it. 3/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The trouble with always trying to preserve the health of the body...
...is that it is so difficult to do without destroying the health of the mind.” ~G.K. Chesterton
“O Lord my God, I cried to you for help and you have healed me.” Ps.30.2 ESV
Health is a one of a kind treasure and we usually appreciate it more after seasons where it has been threatened. It is a precious grace that our bodies have been given the power to fight off disease and injury. Cuts heal, colds go away, sleep refreshes and rest restores. If we find ourselves in health this morning, let us offer the sacrifice of praise--for God is life, health and peace. We are a society obsessed with health; and like all obsessions, this one has proved to be unhealthy. Beyond trusting God for daily provision, there is little need to worry with health. He has promised to provide all that is needed each day to serve Him and I should think that health is factored into that. He of course knows the bigger picture and while we may not know it, we can sure that worry will add nothing to it. 3/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O Lord my God, I cried to you for help and you have healed me.” Ps.30.2 ESV
Health is a one of a kind treasure and we usually appreciate it more after seasons where it has been threatened. It is a precious grace that our bodies have been given the power to fight off disease and injury. Cuts heal, colds go away, sleep refreshes and rest restores. If we find ourselves in health this morning, let us offer the sacrifice of praise--for God is life, health and peace. We are a society obsessed with health; and like all obsessions, this one has proved to be unhealthy. Beyond trusting God for daily provision, there is little need to worry with health. He has promised to provide all that is needed each day to serve Him and I should think that health is factored into that. He of course knows the bigger picture and while we may not know it, we can sure that worry will add nothing to it. 3/26/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, March 27, 2009
“Be thou the rainbow in the storms of life.” Lord Byron
“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name.” Ps.29.2 ESV
Everybody I know will stop to watch an approaching thunderstorm. The raw power of nature arouses in us a unique sense of awe. Sometimes we give human traits to tornados and volcanoes, calling them nature’s wrath. But generations of believing people have always ascribed these powerful manifestations to God. As this psalm says, “The voice of the LORD makes the lightning flash. His voice makes the desert shake.” Now this gets somewhat personal when human life is threatened or lost because of a storm. If God controls the path of a tornado and it blows my dad’s house away, as one did several years ago, then I logically conclude that God is responsible for destroying my dad’s house. The alternative that God could have done something to stop it but did not, offers no comfort to me. I prefer the belief that God is sovereign and that His sovereignty is always governed by His wisdom and love. His glory in all of this is that He loves us though we may not see it now; every dark canvas is just the backdrop of brilliant mercy and grace. It certainly was this, when the skies darkened over Golgotha. 3/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Everybody I know will stop to watch an approaching thunderstorm. The raw power of nature arouses in us a unique sense of awe. Sometimes we give human traits to tornados and volcanoes, calling them nature’s wrath. But generations of believing people have always ascribed these powerful manifestations to God. As this psalm says, “The voice of the LORD makes the lightning flash. His voice makes the desert shake.” Now this gets somewhat personal when human life is threatened or lost because of a storm. If God controls the path of a tornado and it blows my dad’s house away, as one did several years ago, then I logically conclude that God is responsible for destroying my dad’s house. The alternative that God could have done something to stop it but did not, offers no comfort to me. I prefer the belief that God is sovereign and that His sovereignty is always governed by His wisdom and love. His glory in all of this is that He loves us though we may not see it now; every dark canvas is just the backdrop of brilliant mercy and grace. It certainly was this, when the skies darkened over Golgotha. 3/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Be thou the rainbow in the storms of life.” Lord Byron
“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name.” Ps.29.2 ESV
Everybody I know will stop to watch an approaching thunderstorm. The raw power of nature arouses in us a unique sense of awe. Sometimes we give human traits to tornados and volcanoes, calling them nature’s wrath. But generations of believing people have always ascribed these powerful manifestations to God. As this psalm says, “The voice of the LORD makes the lightning flash. His voice makes the desert shake.” Now this gets somewhat personal when human life is threatened or lost because of a storm. If God controls the path of a tornado and it blows my dad’s house away, as one did several years ago, then I logically conclude that God is responsible for destroying my dad’s house. The alternative that God could have done something to stop it but did not, offers no comfort to me. I prefer the belief that God is sovereign and that His sovereignty is always governed by His wisdom and love. His glory in all of this is that He loves us though we may not see it now; every dark canvas is just the backdrop of brilliant mercy and grace. It certainly was this, when the skies darkened over Golgotha. 3/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Everybody I know will stop to watch an approaching thunderstorm. The raw power of nature arouses in us a unique sense of awe. Sometimes we give human traits to tornados and volcanoes, calling them nature’s wrath. But generations of believing people have always ascribed these powerful manifestations to God. As this psalm says, “The voice of the LORD makes the lightning flash. His voice makes the desert shake.” Now this gets somewhat personal when human life is threatened or lost because of a storm. If God controls the path of a tornado and it blows my dad’s house away, as one did several years ago, then I logically conclude that God is responsible for destroying my dad’s house. The alternative that God could have done something to stop it but did not, offers no comfort to me. I prefer the belief that God is sovereign and that His sovereignty is always governed by His wisdom and love. His glory in all of this is that He loves us though we may not see it now; every dark canvas is just the backdrop of brilliant mercy and grace. It certainly was this, when the skies darkened over Golgotha. 3/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Bible is the greatest example of the whole being greater that its parts. –Michael Phillips.
“Give to them according to their work and according to the evil of their deeds…” Ps.28.4 ESV
We certainly see progress in the family of faith and well we should. Who would, in light of Christ’s example and words pray this imprecatory prayer against their enemies? Jesus clearly enjoins us to love and forgive our enemies, and to return good for evil. What was permitted in the childhood of the Old Testament is put aside in the maturity of the New. One way to properly view the Bible is to see it as a series of letters from a Father to His children as they grow though various stages of maturity. What is tolerated in the child is forbidden to the adult. The tricky part is knowing which parts are for what stages. We do this by surrendered listening not by looking for loopholes. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
We certainly see progress in the family of faith and well we should. Who would, in light of Christ’s example and words pray this imprecatory prayer against their enemies? Jesus clearly enjoins us to love and forgive our enemies, and to return good for evil. What was permitted in the childhood of the Old Testament is put aside in the maturity of the New. One way to properly view the Bible is to see it as a series of letters from a Father to His children as they grow though various stages of maturity. What is tolerated in the child is forbidden to the adult. The tricky part is knowing which parts are for what stages. We do this by surrendered listening not by looking for loopholes. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Bible is the greatest example of the whole being greater that its parts. –Michael Phillips.
“Give to them according to their work and according to the evil of their deeds…” Ps.28.4 ESV
We certainly see progress in the family of faith and well we should. Who would, in light of Christ’s example and words pray this imprecatory prayer against their enemies? Jesus clearly enjoins us to love and forgive our enemies, and to return good for evil. What was permitted in the childhood of the Old Testament is put aside in the maturity of the New. One way to properly view the Bible is to see it as a series of letters from a Father to His children as they grow though various stages of maturity. What is tolerated in the child is forbidden to the adult. The tricky part is knowing which parts are for what stages. We do this by surrendered listening not by looking for loopholes. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
We certainly see progress in the family of faith and well we should. Who would, in light of Christ’s example and words pray this imprecatory prayer against their enemies? Jesus clearly enjoins us to love and forgive our enemies, and to return good for evil. What was permitted in the childhood of the Old Testament is put aside in the maturity of the New. One way to properly view the Bible is to see it as a series of letters from a Father to His children as they grow though various stages of maturity. What is tolerated in the child is forbidden to the adult. The tricky part is knowing which parts are for what stages. We do this by surrendered listening not by looking for loopholes. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth. Virginia Satir
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Ps.27.1 ESV
It would be great if we only had to say these words one time for them to take root in our heart but most of us have to keep telling ourselves these things with every new trial. So, let us declare these precious promises every time they are needed, for it is good to bolster one’s faith before battle. Maintenance is one of those things that accompany life. And whether we like it or not, the need to uphold belief reflects the wisdom of the author and finisher of our faith. We might as well get accustomed to the fact, that like most things, our faith needs to be strengthened and supported every day. All the unknowns that approach us in the next hour keep us looking to God this very minute. If we cannot appreciate the value of these trials let us at least praise the wisdom that designed life this way. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
It would be great if we only had to say these words one time for them to take root in our heart but most of us have to keep telling ourselves these things with every new trial. So, let us declare these precious promises every time they are needed, for it is good to bolster one’s faith before battle. Maintenance is one of those things that accompany life. And whether we like it or not, the need to uphold belief reflects the wisdom of the author and finisher of our faith. We might as well get accustomed to the fact, that like most things, our faith needs to be strengthened and supported every day. All the unknowns that approach us in the next hour keep us looking to God this very minute. If we cannot appreciate the value of these trials let us at least praise the wisdom that designed life this way. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth. Virginia Satir
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Ps.27.1 ESV
It would be great if we only had to say these words one time for them to take root in our heart but most of us have to keep telling ourselves these things with every new trial. So, let us declare these precious promises every time they are needed, for it is good to bolster one’s faith before battle. Maintenance is one of those things that accompany life. And whether we like it or not, the need to uphold belief reflects the wisdom of the author and finisher of our faith. We might as well get accustomed to the fact, that like most things, our faith needs to be strengthened and supported every day. All the unknowns that approach us in the next hour keep us looking to God this very minute. If we cannot appreciate the value of these trials let us at least praise the wisdom that designed life this way. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
It would be great if we only had to say these words one time for them to take root in our heart but most of us have to keep telling ourselves these things with every new trial. So, let us declare these precious promises every time they are needed, for it is good to bolster one’s faith before battle. Maintenance is one of those things that accompany life. And whether we like it or not, the need to uphold belief reflects the wisdom of the author and finisher of our faith. We might as well get accustomed to the fact, that like most things, our faith needs to be strengthened and supported every day. All the unknowns that approach us in the next hour keep us looking to God this very minute. If we cannot appreciate the value of these trials let us at least praise the wisdom that designed life this way. 3/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
“Pray for patience, but be prepared for a long wait.” Stewart Elliott
“Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind.” Ps.26.2 ESV
We have heard it said that we should not ask the Lord for patience because He will surely give us opportunities to learn it. Praying for patience is considered by many to be asking for trouble. Now the question that comes to mind is do I want patience or not? Or to put it another way, is having patience worth the trouble that God may send my way in order to teach it to me. We might as well ask the same of any of the qualities or fruit of the Spirit. Character is certainly learned. The truth is that our attitude often determines how we respond to training. Isn’t it also said that, “Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional.” Whoever said this, has surely learned something of patience. 3/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
We have heard it said that we should not ask the Lord for patience because He will surely give us opportunities to learn it. Praying for patience is considered by many to be asking for trouble. Now the question that comes to mind is do I want patience or not? Or to put it another way, is having patience worth the trouble that God may send my way in order to teach it to me. We might as well ask the same of any of the qualities or fruit of the Spirit. Character is certainly learned. The truth is that our attitude often determines how we respond to training. Isn’t it also said that, “Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional.” Whoever said this, has surely learned something of patience. 3/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Pray for patience, but be prepared for a long wait.” Stewart Elliott
“Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind.” Ps.26.2 ESV
We have heard it said that we should not ask the Lord for patience because He will surely give us opportunities to learn it. Praying for patience is considered by many to be asking for trouble. Now the question that comes to mind is do I want patience or not? Or to put it another way, is having patience worth the trouble that God may send my way in order to teach it to me. We might as well ask the same of any of the qualities or fruit of the Spirit. Character is certainly learned. The truth is that our attitude often determines how we respond to training. Isn’t it also said that, “Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional.” Whoever said this, has surely learned something of patience. 3/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
We have heard it said that we should not ask the Lord for patience because He will surely give us opportunities to learn it. Praying for patience is considered by many to be asking for trouble. Now the question that comes to mind is do I want patience or not? Or to put it another way, is having patience worth the trouble that God may send my way in order to teach it to me. We might as well ask the same of any of the qualities or fruit of the Spirit. Character is certainly learned. The truth is that our attitude often determines how we respond to training. Isn’t it also said that, “Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional.” Whoever said this, has surely learned something of patience. 3/23/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, March 20, 2009
"The term is over: the holidays have begun. The dream is ended: this is the morning." The Last Battle C.S. Lewis
"The term is over: the holidays have begun. The dream is ended: this is the morning." The Last Battle C.S. Lewis
“The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!” Ps.24.10 ESV
When we consider the vast host over which the Lord reigns, we catch but a glimpse of His great glory. Angel armies assemble at His command, ranks of cherubim, seraphim, and the messengers He has made winds and ministers of fire. Think too of the host of stars, and planets and galaxies, spread light years apart but held in the hollow of His hand. And how could we number the vast host of created things under His rule, every phylum and genus and species of plant and animal. The LORD is Lord over the grains of sand on the beaches of countless worlds and He directs the endless waves that lap their distant shores. On the day, which He has appointed, the angelic host shall assemble in vast array. They will cast their nets and gather before Him all the souls of men. And He will separate us according to His infinite wisdom, the wisdom revealed to us in Christ. He will assign us to our eternal home and the Lord of hosts shall forever be the gracious Host of all who look to Him in faith. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!” Ps.24.10 ESV
When we consider the vast host over which the Lord reigns, we catch but a glimpse of His great glory. Angel armies assemble at His command, ranks of cherubim, seraphim, and the messengers He has made winds and ministers of fire. Think too of the host of stars, and planets and galaxies, spread light years apart but held in the hollow of His hand. And how could we number the vast host of created things under His rule, every phylum and genus and species of plant and animal. The LORD is Lord over the grains of sand on the beaches of countless worlds and He directs the endless waves that lap their distant shores. On the day, which He has appointed, the angelic host shall assemble in vast array. They will cast their nets and gather before Him all the souls of men. And He will separate us according to His infinite wisdom, the wisdom revealed to us in Christ. He will assign us to our eternal home and the Lord of hosts shall forever be the gracious Host of all who look to Him in faith. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
"The term is over: the holidays have begun. The dream is ended: this is the morning." The Last Battle C.S. Lewis
"The term is over: the holidays have begun. The dream is ended: this is the morning." The Last Battle C.S. Lewis
“The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!” Ps.24.10 ESV
When we consider the vast host over which the Lord reigns, we catch but a glimpse of His great glory. Angel armies assemble at His command, ranks of cherubim, seraphim, and the messengers He has made winds and ministers of fire. Think too of the host of stars, and planets and galaxies, spread light years apart but held in the hollow of His hand. And how could we number the vast host of created things under His rule, every phylum and genus and species of plant and animal. The LORD is Lord over the grains of sand on the beaches of countless worlds and He directs the endless waves that lap their distant shores. On the day, which He has appointed, the angelic host shall assemble in vast array. They will cast their nets and gather before Him all the souls of men. And He will separate us according to His infinite wisdom, the wisdom revealed to us in Christ. He will assign us to our eternal home and the Lord of hosts shall forever be the gracious Host of all who look to Him in faith. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory!” Ps.24.10 ESV
When we consider the vast host over which the Lord reigns, we catch but a glimpse of His great glory. Angel armies assemble at His command, ranks of cherubim, seraphim, and the messengers He has made winds and ministers of fire. Think too of the host of stars, and planets and galaxies, spread light years apart but held in the hollow of His hand. And how could we number the vast host of created things under His rule, every phylum and genus and species of plant and animal. The LORD is Lord over the grains of sand on the beaches of countless worlds and He directs the endless waves that lap their distant shores. On the day, which He has appointed, the angelic host shall assemble in vast array. They will cast their nets and gather before Him all the souls of men. And He will separate us according to His infinite wisdom, the wisdom revealed to us in Christ. He will assign us to our eternal home and the Lord of hosts shall forever be the gracious Host of all who look to Him in faith. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, March 19, 2009
“Minor things can become moments of great revelation when encountered for the first time” Margot Fonteyn
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Ps.23.1 ESV
It comes to my attention this morning that Ps.23 follows Ps.22. The Messianic Psalm that Jesus quoted while hanging on the cross comes before the Psalm we use most often for comfort. Perhaps this arrangement is intentional. Didn’t He say, “You forsaken me,” so we could say, “I shall not want.” After all these years, I am amazed that I just noticed this subtle sequence. I guess it shouldn’t surprise me though; I am still in that stage of waking, rubbing sleep from my eyes and squinting in this Sonlight. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
It comes to my attention this morning that Ps.23 follows Ps.22. The Messianic Psalm that Jesus quoted while hanging on the cross comes before the Psalm we use most often for comfort. Perhaps this arrangement is intentional. Didn’t He say, “You forsaken me,” so we could say, “I shall not want.” After all these years, I am amazed that I just noticed this subtle sequence. I guess it shouldn’t surprise me though; I am still in that stage of waking, rubbing sleep from my eyes and squinting in this Sonlight. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Minor things can become moments of great revelation when encountered for the first time” Margot Fonteyn
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Ps.23.1 ESV
It comes to my attention this morning that Ps.23 follows Ps.22. The Messianic Psalm that Jesus quoted while hanging on the cross comes before the Psalm we use most often for comfort. Perhaps this arrangement is intentional. Didn’t He say, “You forsaken me,” so we could say, “I shall not want.” After all these years, I am amazed that I just noticed this subtle sequence. I guess it shouldn’t surprise me though; I am still in that stage of waking, rubbing sleep from my eyes and squinting in this Sonlight. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
It comes to my attention this morning that Ps.23 follows Ps.22. The Messianic Psalm that Jesus quoted while hanging on the cross comes before the Psalm we use most often for comfort. Perhaps this arrangement is intentional. Didn’t He say, “You forsaken me,” so we could say, “I shall not want.” After all these years, I am amazed that I just noticed this subtle sequence. I guess it shouldn’t surprise me though; I am still in that stage of waking, rubbing sleep from my eyes and squinting in this Sonlight. 3/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
“There’s nothing like a flower in bloom.” Kent Stewart
“I am poured out like water.” Ps.22.14 ESV
Love is said to be the greatest of virtues, but especially when it is expressed in sacrifice. We appreciate the gift that is given out of bounty, but it doesn’t match the patina of the gift where someone surrenders apart of themselves to give it. It is when love requires personal casualty that we see it in its greatest glory. Just as nature is beautiful year round but more so in the bloom of spring, love is always a beautiful thing, but nothing compares to love in the bloom of sacrifice for another. 3/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Love is said to be the greatest of virtues, but especially when it is expressed in sacrifice. We appreciate the gift that is given out of bounty, but it doesn’t match the patina of the gift where someone surrenders apart of themselves to give it. It is when love requires personal casualty that we see it in its greatest glory. Just as nature is beautiful year round but more so in the bloom of spring, love is always a beautiful thing, but nothing compares to love in the bloom of sacrifice for another. 3/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
“There’s nothing like a flower in bloom.” Kent Stewart
“I am poured out like water.” Ps.22.14 ESV
Love is said to be the greatest of virtues, but especially when it is expressed in sacrifice. We appreciate the gift that is given out of bounty, but it doesn’t match the patina of the gift where someone surrenders apart of themselves to give it. It is when love requires personal casualty that we see it in its greatest glory. Just as nature is beautiful year round but more so in the bloom of spring, love is always a beautiful thing, but nothing compares to love in the bloom of sacrifice for another. 3/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Love is said to be the greatest of virtues, but especially when it is expressed in sacrifice. We appreciate the gift that is given out of bounty, but it doesn’t match the patina of the gift where someone surrenders apart of themselves to give it. It is when love requires personal casualty that we see it in its greatest glory. Just as nature is beautiful year round but more so in the bloom of spring, love is always a beautiful thing, but nothing compares to love in the bloom of sacrifice for another. 3/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
“We cannot love someone with whom we never laugh.” Agnes Repplier
“…you make him glad with the joy of your presence.” Ps21.6 ESV
Brenda once commented that we were becoming far too serious and did not laugh together near enough. We both started making a concerted effort to laugh at least once a day. We learned quickly that laughing and acquiring a sense of humor were two different things. We had some rather forced moments where our laughter lacked the quality of any real delight. We laugh now more than ever but not so much from trying as from an easier disposition, something we are learning. Love, joy, peace, all the qualities of a Spirit filled life are learned. And, while I do not think that having joy and possessing a sense of humor is the same thing, I should think that both come from hanging out with a deliriously happy God. 3/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Brenda once commented that we were becoming far too serious and did not laugh together near enough. We both started making a concerted effort to laugh at least once a day. We learned quickly that laughing and acquiring a sense of humor were two different things. We had some rather forced moments where our laughter lacked the quality of any real delight. We laugh now more than ever but not so much from trying as from an easier disposition, something we are learning. Love, joy, peace, all the qualities of a Spirit filled life are learned. And, while I do not think that having joy and possessing a sense of humor is the same thing, I should think that both come from hanging out with a deliriously happy God. 3/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
“We cannot love someone with whom we never laugh.” Agnes Repplier
“…you make him glad with the joy of your presence.” Ps21.6 ESV
Brenda once commented that we were becoming far too serious and did not laugh together near enough. We both started making a concerted effort to laugh at least once a day. We learned quickly that laughing and acquiring a sense of humor were two different things. We had some rather forced moments where our laughter lacked the quality of any real delight. We laugh now more than ever but not so much from trying as from an easier disposition, something we are learning. Love, joy, peace, all the qualities of a Spirit filled life are learned. And, while I do not think that having joy and possessing a sense of humor is the same thing, I should think that both come from hanging out with a deliriously happy God. 3/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Brenda once commented that we were becoming far too serious and did not laugh together near enough. We both started making a concerted effort to laugh at least once a day. We learned quickly that laughing and acquiring a sense of humor were two different things. We had some rather forced moments where our laughter lacked the quality of any real delight. We laugh now more than ever but not so much from trying as from an easier disposition, something we are learning. Love, joy, peace, all the qualities of a Spirit filled life are learned. And, while I do not think that having joy and possessing a sense of humor is the same thing, I should think that both come from hanging out with a deliriously happy God. 3/16/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, March 16, 2009
“Love and do what you want.” Augustine
“Love and do what you want.” Augustine
“May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!” Ps.20.4 ESV
We might wonder if it is safe to offer this blessing to someone. After all, do we really want God to give us some of the things our heart has desired or bless all our plans. I think it is safe when we trust God to shape our hearts and by doing so, He helps to influence our plans. I am not sure, but beyond teaching us to love Him wholeheartedly and to love others, God’s plan just very well may be to let us make our own plans—turn us loose, so to speak, as parents do children--only when they are ready of course. When God has our heart, it seems consistent with His original plan, to give us a great deal of freedom to choose what we would like to accomplish. This isn’t to say that He doesn’t assign specific tasks to each of us. But in some ways, it might be that God is waiting on us--to see what we will do with this precious freedom and to support us as we do it. With His glory as our chief aim, and His blessing on us, the possibilities are boundless. 3/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
“May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!” Ps.20.4 ESV
We might wonder if it is safe to offer this blessing to someone. After all, do we really want God to give us some of the things our heart has desired or bless all our plans. I think it is safe when we trust God to shape our hearts and by doing so, He helps to influence our plans. I am not sure, but beyond teaching us to love Him wholeheartedly and to love others, God’s plan just very well may be to let us make our own plans—turn us loose, so to speak, as parents do children--only when they are ready of course. When God has our heart, it seems consistent with His original plan, to give us a great deal of freedom to choose what we would like to accomplish. This isn’t to say that He doesn’t assign specific tasks to each of us. But in some ways, it might be that God is waiting on us--to see what we will do with this precious freedom and to support us as we do it. With His glory as our chief aim, and His blessing on us, the possibilities are boundless. 3/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Love and do what you want.” Augustine
“Love and do what you want.” Augustine
“May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!” Ps.20.4 ESV
We might wonder if it is safe to offer this blessing to someone. After all, do we really want God to give us some of the things our heart has desired or bless all our plans. I think it is safe when we trust God to shape our hearts and by doing so, He helps to influence our plans. I am not sure, but beyond teaching us to love Him wholeheartedly and to love others, God’s plan just very well may be to let us make our own plans—turn us loose, so to speak, as parents do children--only when they are ready of course. When God has our heart, it seems consistent with His original plan, to give us a great deal of freedom to choose what we would like to accomplish. This isn’t to say that He doesn’t assign specific tasks to each of us. But in some ways, it might be that God is waiting on us--to see what we will do with this precious freedom and to support us as we do it. With His glory as our chief aim, and His blessing on us, the possibilities are boundless. 3/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
“May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!” Ps.20.4 ESV
We might wonder if it is safe to offer this blessing to someone. After all, do we really want God to give us some of the things our heart has desired or bless all our plans. I think it is safe when we trust God to shape our hearts and by doing so, He helps to influence our plans. I am not sure, but beyond teaching us to love Him wholeheartedly and to love others, God’s plan just very well may be to let us make our own plans—turn us loose, so to speak, as parents do children--only when they are ready of course. When God has our heart, it seems consistent with His original plan, to give us a great deal of freedom to choose what we would like to accomplish. This isn’t to say that He doesn’t assign specific tasks to each of us. But in some ways, it might be that God is waiting on us--to see what we will do with this precious freedom and to support us as we do it. With His glory as our chief aim, and His blessing on us, the possibilities are boundless. 3/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Lord, make my words as sweet as honey, for tomorrow I may have to eat them! --Anonymous;
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Ps.19.14 ESV
The mouth is the faucet of our thoughts. Christ tells us that if we can control what we say we can bridle the whole body. By this Jesus may mean that we learn to shut off our thoughts before they flow out into actions. We may choose instead, to ask the Spirit to redirect our thoughts though the filter of His. It is in this plumbing, the place that exists between what we think and what we do, where grace is appropriated and self-control may be learned. It maybe wise then to place a redirect valve, so to speak, by saying a simple prayer between each thought and each action such as, “Lord is this thought, which wants to become action, acceptable to You? 3/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
The mouth is the faucet of our thoughts. Christ tells us that if we can control what we say we can bridle the whole body. By this Jesus may mean that we learn to shut off our thoughts before they flow out into actions. We may choose instead, to ask the Spirit to redirect our thoughts though the filter of His. It is in this plumbing, the place that exists between what we think and what we do, where grace is appropriated and self-control may be learned. It maybe wise then to place a redirect valve, so to speak, by saying a simple prayer between each thought and each action such as, “Lord is this thought, which wants to become action, acceptable to You? 3/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
Lord, make my words as sweet as honey, for tomorrow I may have to eat them! --Anonymous;
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Ps.19.14 ESV
The mouth is the faucet of our thoughts. Christ tells us that if we can control what we say we can bridle the whole body. By this Jesus may mean that we learn to shut off our thoughts before they flow out into actions. We may choose instead, to ask the Spirit to redirect our thoughts though the filter of His. It is in this plumbing, the place that exists between what we think and what we do, where grace is appropriated and self-control may be learned. It maybe wise then to place a redirect valve, so to speak, by saying a simple prayer between each thought and each action such as, “Lord is this thought, which wants to become action, acceptable to You? 3/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
The mouth is the faucet of our thoughts. Christ tells us that if we can control what we say we can bridle the whole body. By this Jesus may mean that we learn to shut off our thoughts before they flow out into actions. We may choose instead, to ask the Spirit to redirect our thoughts though the filter of His. It is in this plumbing, the place that exists between what we think and what we do, where grace is appropriated and self-control may be learned. It maybe wise then to place a redirect valve, so to speak, by saying a simple prayer between each thought and each action such as, “Lord is this thought, which wants to become action, acceptable to You? 3/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, March 13, 2009
Preconceived notions are the locks on the door to wisdom. Merry Browne
“to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd.” Ps.18.26 NIV
If a man has convinced himself that God is a tyrant, it may just be that for all perceived purposes He is, at least to him. What I mean is that God has given us the freedom to choose the way we see Him. Such freedom is necessary for any meaningful love. But choice also makes possible a very real hate. Choosing to believe what we want to believe and we all certainly do that, will inevitably lock us into a self made prison of prejudices. And, if someone sees God a certain way, then no matter what God does, that person will interpret all His actions by the prejudices he has toward Him. This is why some people see suffering as discipline from a loving Father and others see it as a cruel experiment from a callous and uncaring deity. God is as God is but sometimes He is to us as we have judged Him to be. Praise Him that grace can overcome even our prejudices. 3/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
If a man has convinced himself that God is a tyrant, it may just be that for all perceived purposes He is, at least to him. What I mean is that God has given us the freedom to choose the way we see Him. Such freedom is necessary for any meaningful love. But choice also makes possible a very real hate. Choosing to believe what we want to believe and we all certainly do that, will inevitably lock us into a self made prison of prejudices. And, if someone sees God a certain way, then no matter what God does, that person will interpret all His actions by the prejudices he has toward Him. This is why some people see suffering as discipline from a loving Father and others see it as a cruel experiment from a callous and uncaring deity. God is as God is but sometimes He is to us as we have judged Him to be. Praise Him that grace can overcome even our prejudices. 3/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
Preconceived notions are the locks on the door to wisdom. Merry Browne
“to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd.” Ps.18.26 NIV
If a man has convinced himself that God is a tyrant, it may just be that for all perceived purposes He is, at least to him. What I mean is that God has given us the freedom to choose the way we see Him. Such freedom is necessary for any meaningful love. But choice also makes possible a very real hate. Choosing to believe what we want to believe and we all certainly do that, will inevitably lock us into a self made prison of prejudices. And, if someone sees God a certain way, then no matter what God does, that person will interpret all His actions by the prejudices he has toward Him. This is why some people see suffering as discipline from a loving Father and others see it as a cruel experiment from a callous and uncaring deity. God is as God is but sometimes He is to us as we have judged Him to be. Praise Him that grace can overcome even our prejudices. 3/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
If a man has convinced himself that God is a tyrant, it may just be that for all perceived purposes He is, at least to him. What I mean is that God has given us the freedom to choose the way we see Him. Such freedom is necessary for any meaningful love. But choice also makes possible a very real hate. Choosing to believe what we want to believe and we all certainly do that, will inevitably lock us into a self made prison of prejudices. And, if someone sees God a certain way, then no matter what God does, that person will interpret all His actions by the prejudices he has toward Him. This is why some people see suffering as discipline from a loving Father and others see it as a cruel experiment from a callous and uncaring deity. God is as God is but sometimes He is to us as we have judged Him to be. Praise Him that grace can overcome even our prejudices. 3/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, March 12, 2009
"A mystic bond of brotherhood makes all men one." Thomas Carlyle
“Keep me…from the wicked who do me violence, my deadly enemies who surround me.” Ps17.8 ESV
As I look out my window, I have no enemies surrounding me this morning. I sit secure in my comfortable suburban home. Yet, the Spirit reminds me that the words of this prayer hold true for thousands of others in the world. Unspeakable horrors in places like Darfur, where thousands have been driven from their homes, teenage girls fear being raped every night and boys live under the threat of slavery. For them this prayer expresses a plea for mercy and protection from dangers which most of us can only imagine. So let us imagine it and pray with and for them as we may. And, if we pray as we should, there is no need to change the prayer from “keep me” to “keep them.” We are connected to them and they to us in the fellowship of all who look to God for mercy and grace. Let us be that trembling girl collecting firewood alone in the dark, that frightened boy hiding from the rebel forces that come at night and let us put on the shoes of sympathetic prayers. 3/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
As I look out my window, I have no enemies surrounding me this morning. I sit secure in my comfortable suburban home. Yet, the Spirit reminds me that the words of this prayer hold true for thousands of others in the world. Unspeakable horrors in places like Darfur, where thousands have been driven from their homes, teenage girls fear being raped every night and boys live under the threat of slavery. For them this prayer expresses a plea for mercy and protection from dangers which most of us can only imagine. So let us imagine it and pray with and for them as we may. And, if we pray as we should, there is no need to change the prayer from “keep me” to “keep them.” We are connected to them and they to us in the fellowship of all who look to God for mercy and grace. Let us be that trembling girl collecting firewood alone in the dark, that frightened boy hiding from the rebel forces that come at night and let us put on the shoes of sympathetic prayers. 3/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
"A mystic bond of brotherhood makes all men one." Thomas Carlyle
“Keep me…from the wicked who do me violence, my deadly enemies who surround me.” Ps17.8 ESV
As I look out my window, I have no enemies surrounding me this morning. I sit secure in my comfortable suburban home. Yet, the Spirit reminds me that the words of this prayer hold true for thousands of others in the world. Unspeakable horrors in places like Darfur, where thousands have been driven from their homes, teenage girls fear being raped every night and boys live under the threat of slavery. For them this prayer expresses a plea for mercy and protection from dangers which most of us can only imagine. So let us imagine it and pray with and for them as we may. And, if we pray as we should, there is no need to change the prayer from “keep me” to “keep them.” We are connected to them and they to us in the fellowship of all who look to God for mercy and grace. Let us be that trembling girl collecting firewood alone in the dark, that frightened boy hiding from the rebel forces that come at night and let us put on the shoes of sympathetic prayers. 3/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
As I look out my window, I have no enemies surrounding me this morning. I sit secure in my comfortable suburban home. Yet, the Spirit reminds me that the words of this prayer hold true for thousands of others in the world. Unspeakable horrors in places like Darfur, where thousands have been driven from their homes, teenage girls fear being raped every night and boys live under the threat of slavery. For them this prayer expresses a plea for mercy and protection from dangers which most of us can only imagine. So let us imagine it and pray with and for them as we may. And, if we pray as we should, there is no need to change the prayer from “keep me” to “keep them.” We are connected to them and they to us in the fellowship of all who look to God for mercy and grace. Let us be that trembling girl collecting firewood alone in the dark, that frightened boy hiding from the rebel forces that come at night and let us put on the shoes of sympathetic prayers. 3/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
"I've read the last page of the Bible. It's all going to turn out all right." Billy Graham
“For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol…” Ps.16.11 ESV
The idea of everlasting life is one of the most attractive aspects of Christian hope. I enjoy life and I don’t ever want it to end. Every day is an adventure and every tomorrow holds out the possibility of more. There is of course the nasty business of dying. The reality of death is brought home to us every day. Graveyards litter the land. But the hope that God will not abandon us to the grave is more than a wish or at least it should be. And, whether our hope is mere wishful thinking or confident expectation is surely determined by the kind of relationship we have with God. Are my prayers just wishes directed toward some higher power or confidant requests made to a familiar friend, one that I have always found to be reliable? 3/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The idea of everlasting life is one of the most attractive aspects of Christian hope. I enjoy life and I don’t ever want it to end. Every day is an adventure and every tomorrow holds out the possibility of more. There is of course the nasty business of dying. The reality of death is brought home to us every day. Graveyards litter the land. But the hope that God will not abandon us to the grave is more than a wish or at least it should be. And, whether our hope is mere wishful thinking or confident expectation is surely determined by the kind of relationship we have with God. Are my prayers just wishes directed toward some higher power or confidant requests made to a familiar friend, one that I have always found to be reliable? 3/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
"I've read the last page of the Bible. It's all going to turn out all right." Billy Graham
“For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol…” Ps.16.11 ESV
The idea of everlasting life is one of the most attractive aspects of Christian hope. I enjoy life and I don’t ever want it to end. Every day is an adventure and every tomorrow holds out the possibility of more. There is of course the nasty business of dying. The reality of death is brought home to us every day. Graveyards litter the land. But the hope that God will not abandon us to the grave is more than a wish or at least it should be. And, whether our hope is mere wishful thinking or confident expectation is surely determined by the kind of relationship we have with God. Are my prayers just wishes directed toward some higher power or confidant requests made to a familiar friend, one that I have always found to be reliable? 3/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The idea of everlasting life is one of the most attractive aspects of Christian hope. I enjoy life and I don’t ever want it to end. Every day is an adventure and every tomorrow holds out the possibility of more. There is of course the nasty business of dying. The reality of death is brought home to us every day. Graveyards litter the land. But the hope that God will not abandon us to the grave is more than a wish or at least it should be. And, whether our hope is mere wishful thinking or confident expectation is surely determined by the kind of relationship we have with God. Are my prayers just wishes directed toward some higher power or confidant requests made to a familiar friend, one that I have always found to be reliable? 3/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
"The point is not that God will refuse you admission to His eternal world...
"The point is not that God will refuse you admission to His eternal world if you have not certain qualities of character: the point is that if people have not got at least the beginnings of those qualities inside them, then no possible external conditions could make a 'Heaven' for them ..." C.S. Lewis
“O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?” Ps.15.1 ESV
Forgiveness and acceptance are precious gifts from God, secured by Jesus in ways we have yet to understand. I think it reasonable to assume that alongside God’s acceptance, His plan has always been to make us acceptable. Living in the courts of Heaven will be little more than a change of scenery and scenery we will not be able to appreciate if we are not changed. I think we will find that many notions we have about glory will need to be modified if we are to be happy living there. Certainly, the seed of those changes are now being sow in us. I used to think heaven a place where one could eat all they wanted and never gain weight but more than likely, we will be different and not want to eat like a pig when we get there. 3/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?” Ps.15.1 ESV
Forgiveness and acceptance are precious gifts from God, secured by Jesus in ways we have yet to understand. I think it reasonable to assume that alongside God’s acceptance, His plan has always been to make us acceptable. Living in the courts of Heaven will be little more than a change of scenery and scenery we will not be able to appreciate if we are not changed. I think we will find that many notions we have about glory will need to be modified if we are to be happy living there. Certainly, the seed of those changes are now being sow in us. I used to think heaven a place where one could eat all they wanted and never gain weight but more than likely, we will be different and not want to eat like a pig when we get there. 3/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
"The point is not that God will refuse you admission to His eternal world...
"The point is not that God will refuse you admission to His eternal world if you have not certain qualities of character: the point is that if people have not got at least the beginnings of those qualities inside them, then no possible external conditions could make a 'Heaven' for them ..." C.S. Lewis
“O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?” Ps.15.1 ESV
Forgiveness and acceptance are precious gifts from God, secured by Jesus in ways we have yet to understand. I think it reasonable to assume that alongside God’s acceptance, His plan has always been to make us acceptable. Living in the courts of Heaven will be little more than a change of scenery and scenery we will not be able to appreciate if we are not changed. I think we will find that many notions we have about glory will need to be modified if we are to be happy living there. Certainly, the seed of those changes are now being sow in us. I used to think heaven a place where one could eat all they wanted and never gain weight but more than likely, we will be different and not want to eat like a pig when we get there. 3/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?” Ps.15.1 ESV
Forgiveness and acceptance are precious gifts from God, secured by Jesus in ways we have yet to understand. I think it reasonable to assume that alongside God’s acceptance, His plan has always been to make us acceptable. Living in the courts of Heaven will be little more than a change of scenery and scenery we will not be able to appreciate if we are not changed. I think we will find that many notions we have about glory will need to be modified if we are to be happy living there. Certainly, the seed of those changes are now being sow in us. I used to think heaven a place where one could eat all they wanted and never gain weight but more than likely, we will be different and not want to eat like a pig when we get there. 3/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, March 9, 2009
Every gift from a friend is a wish for your happiness. Richard Bach
“there is none who does good, not even one.” Ps.14.3 ESV
These words are properly understood as all words are—when they are qualified by the whole. I think that what is meant is that no one does good without God’s grace encouraging them to do so. This means that we when we see a person doing some real good, God’s grace is certainly upon them. Apart from grace, nothing we do has any lasting value. We may do good things but our good is not good enough—good enough that is, to merit God’s favor. This is probably the best way we may understand these words. There is no moral goodness in any of us, none that deserves heaven. When our lives are reviewed, no one will boast that they have earned the right of eternal glory. This is why God has made a gift out of what we could never afford to buy. 3/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
These words are properly understood as all words are—when they are qualified by the whole. I think that what is meant is that no one does good without God’s grace encouraging them to do so. This means that we when we see a person doing some real good, God’s grace is certainly upon them. Apart from grace, nothing we do has any lasting value. We may do good things but our good is not good enough—good enough that is, to merit God’s favor. This is probably the best way we may understand these words. There is no moral goodness in any of us, none that deserves heaven. When our lives are reviewed, no one will boast that they have earned the right of eternal glory. This is why God has made a gift out of what we could never afford to buy. 3/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Every gift from a friend is a wish for your happiness. Richard Bach
“there is none who does good, not even one.” Ps.14.3 ESV
These words are properly understood as all words are—when they are qualified by the whole. I think that what is meant is that no one does good without God’s grace encouraging them to do so. This means that we when we see a person doing some real good, God’s grace is certainly upon them. Apart from grace, nothing we do has any lasting value. We may do good things but our good is not good enough—good enough that is, to merit God’s favor. This is probably the best way we may understand these words. There is no moral goodness in any of us, none that deserves heaven. When our lives are reviewed, no one will boast that they have earned the right of eternal glory. This is why God has made a gift out of what we could never afford to buy. 3/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
These words are properly understood as all words are—when they are qualified by the whole. I think that what is meant is that no one does good without God’s grace encouraging them to do so. This means that we when we see a person doing some real good, God’s grace is certainly upon them. Apart from grace, nothing we do has any lasting value. We may do good things but our good is not good enough—good enough that is, to merit God’s favor. This is probably the best way we may understand these words. There is no moral goodness in any of us, none that deserves heaven. When our lives are reviewed, no one will boast that they have earned the right of eternal glory. This is why God has made a gift out of what we could never afford to buy. 3/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, March 7, 2009
“Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink.” Samuel Taylor Coleridge
“How long will you hide your face from me?” Ps.13.1 ESV
Most of the Christians I know have spoke of seasons in life where God seemed distant to them. In such times, we pray but have no real sense of God’s presence, or feel none of His encouragements in our heart. We may wonder if God has grown weary of our company or maybe He is mad at us about something. I guess it is some comfort to know that even the shepherd boy who wrote the famed twenty-third Psalm felt this way but there is little actual comfort when one is traversing these spiritual deserts. Reading the Bible doesn’t seem to help, and our prayers seem to fall on deaf ears. We drink from the appointed means of grace, but still our thirst is not quenched. There is really nothing else to do in such times but endure them, to keep on keeping on. Perhaps this is the very reason for these dry seasons. Wilderness crossings prune the heart and highlight the difference between faith and feelings. It is said that roots grow deep in drought; how much more will our faith when it is made to endure. 3/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
Most of the Christians I know have spoke of seasons in life where God seemed distant to them. In such times, we pray but have no real sense of God’s presence, or feel none of His encouragements in our heart. We may wonder if God has grown weary of our company or maybe He is mad at us about something. I guess it is some comfort to know that even the shepherd boy who wrote the famed twenty-third Psalm felt this way but there is little actual comfort when one is traversing these spiritual deserts. Reading the Bible doesn’t seem to help, and our prayers seem to fall on deaf ears. We drink from the appointed means of grace, but still our thirst is not quenched. There is really nothing else to do in such times but endure them, to keep on keeping on. Perhaps this is the very reason for these dry seasons. Wilderness crossings prune the heart and highlight the difference between faith and feelings. It is said that roots grow deep in drought; how much more will our faith when it is made to endure. 3/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Water water everywhere but not a drop to drink.” Samuel Taylor Coleridge
“How long will you hide your face from me?” Ps.13.1 ESV
Most of the Christians I know have spoke of seasons in life where God seemed distant to them. In such times, we pray but have no real sense of God’s presence, or feel none of His encouragements in our heart. We may wonder if God has grown weary of our company or maybe He is mad at us about something. I guess it is some comfort to know that even the shepherd boy who wrote the famed twenty-third Psalm felt this way but there is little actual comfort when one is traversing these spiritual deserts. Reading the Bible doesn’t seem to help, and our prayers seem to fall on deaf ears. We drink from the appointed means of grace, but still our thirst is not quenched. There is really nothing else to do in such times but endure them, to keep on keeping on. Perhaps this is the very reason for these dry seasons. Wilderness crossings prune the heart and highlight the difference between faith and feelings. It is said that roots grow deep in drought; how much more will our faith when it is made to endure. 3/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
Most of the Christians I know have spoke of seasons in life where God seemed distant to them. In such times, we pray but have no real sense of God’s presence, or feel none of His encouragements in our heart. We may wonder if God has grown weary of our company or maybe He is mad at us about something. I guess it is some comfort to know that even the shepherd boy who wrote the famed twenty-third Psalm felt this way but there is little actual comfort when one is traversing these spiritual deserts. Reading the Bible doesn’t seem to help, and our prayers seem to fall on deaf ears. We drink from the appointed means of grace, but still our thirst is not quenched. There is really nothing else to do in such times but endure them, to keep on keeping on. Perhaps this is the very reason for these dry seasons. Wilderness crossings prune the heart and highlight the difference between faith and feelings. It is said that roots grow deep in drought; how much more will our faith when it is made to endure. 3/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, March 6, 2009
“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress…” James
“I will now arise,” says the Lord” Ps.12.5 ESV
If we wonder what moves the Lord to action He tells us. It is when “the poor are plundered” and “the needy groan.” At times, I feel overwhelmed by the torrent of information coming from the Internet and airways about the oppressed peoples in the world. I cannot imagine all that comes before the Lord each day. I know that as His Spirit moves me to get involved, He is moving in thousands of others. God has always used people to minister to people. I bet God wishes there was a nickel given to feed the poor for every time a Christian got into an argument about some fine point of theology. 3/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
If we wonder what moves the Lord to action He tells us. It is when “the poor are plundered” and “the needy groan.” At times, I feel overwhelmed by the torrent of information coming from the Internet and airways about the oppressed peoples in the world. I cannot imagine all that comes before the Lord each day. I know that as His Spirit moves me to get involved, He is moving in thousands of others. God has always used people to minister to people. I bet God wishes there was a nickel given to feed the poor for every time a Christian got into an argument about some fine point of theology. 3/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress…” James
“I will now arise,” says the Lord” Ps.12.5 ESV
If we wonder what moves the Lord to action He tells us. It is when “the poor are plundered” and “the needy groan.” At times, I feel overwhelmed by the torrent of information coming from the Internet and airways about the oppressed peoples in the world. I cannot imagine all that comes before the Lord each day. I know that as His Spirit moves me to get involved, He is moving in thousands of others. God has always used people to minister to people. I bet God wishes there was a nickel given to feed the poor for every time a Christian got into an argument about some fine point of theology. 3/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
If we wonder what moves the Lord to action He tells us. It is when “the poor are plundered” and “the needy groan.” At times, I feel overwhelmed by the torrent of information coming from the Internet and airways about the oppressed peoples in the world. I cannot imagine all that comes before the Lord each day. I know that as His Spirit moves me to get involved, He is moving in thousands of others. God has always used people to minister to people. I bet God wishes there was a nickel given to feed the poor for every time a Christian got into an argument about some fine point of theology. 3/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, March 5, 2009
" There are rewards that do not sully motives." C. S. Lewis
“For the Lord is righteous; he loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face.” Ps.11.7 ESV
If I do what is right, let me do it for the right reasons. Let me do right not like some Friday night babysitter earning a wage but like a mother caring for her own child. Let me do what is right but not like the mercenary seeking pay but rather as the soldier fighting for his home. There is reward in doing what is right but the reward is tied as naturally to the deed as love is to marriage. It is not proper to marry for money, but to marry for love. It is not proper to seek heaven as pay but to seek heaven for love. When I do right let me do it to please God not to appease His anger for the times I have done wrong. Lord let me do what is right for the right reasons. 3/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
If I do what is right, let me do it for the right reasons. Let me do right not like some Friday night babysitter earning a wage but like a mother caring for her own child. Let me do what is right but not like the mercenary seeking pay but rather as the soldier fighting for his home. There is reward in doing what is right but the reward is tied as naturally to the deed as love is to marriage. It is not proper to marry for money, but to marry for love. It is not proper to seek heaven as pay but to seek heaven for love. When I do right let me do it to please God not to appease His anger for the times I have done wrong. Lord let me do what is right for the right reasons. 3/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
" There are rewards that do not sully motives." C. S. Lewis
“For the Lord is righteous; he loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face.” Ps.11.7 ESV
If I do what is right, let me do it for the right reasons. Let me do right not like some Friday night babysitter earning a wage but like a mother caring for her own child. Let me do what is right but not like the mercenary seeking pay but rather as the soldier fighting for his home. There is reward in doing what is right but the reward is tied as naturally to the deed as love is to marriage. It is not proper to marry for money, but to marry for love. It is not proper to seek heaven as pay but to seek heaven for love. When I do right let me do it to please God not to appease His anger for the times I have done wrong. Lord let me do what is right for the right reasons. 3/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
If I do what is right, let me do it for the right reasons. Let me do right not like some Friday night babysitter earning a wage but like a mother caring for her own child. Let me do what is right but not like the mercenary seeking pay but rather as the soldier fighting for his home. There is reward in doing what is right but the reward is tied as naturally to the deed as love is to marriage. It is not proper to marry for money, but to marry for love. It is not proper to seek heaven as pay but to seek heaven for love. When I do right let me do it to please God not to appease His anger for the times I have done wrong. Lord let me do what is right for the right reasons. 3/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
“If you can't feed a hundred people, then just feed one.” Mother Teresa
“Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up your hand; forget not the afflicted.” Ps.10.12
If we pray that God would not forget the afflicted, then let us not forget them. If we ask God to remember those less fortunate than we, then let us remember them also. Let us do all that is in our power to do. This may mean that we share our money; our time, our influence but whatever it means, let us give meaning to it. And, let us do it as a manner of living not just during the Christmas season. It may just be that God is remembering the poor, the afflicted, and the oppressed when we remember them. 3/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Samaritan's Purse- Phone: 828-262-1980
Web: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
If we pray that God would not forget the afflicted, then let us not forget them. If we ask God to remember those less fortunate than we, then let us remember them also. Let us do all that is in our power to do. This may mean that we share our money; our time, our influence but whatever it means, let us give meaning to it. And, let us do it as a manner of living not just during the Christmas season. It may just be that God is remembering the poor, the afflicted, and the oppressed when we remember them. 3/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Samaritan's Purse- Phone: 828-262-1980
Web: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
“If you can't feed a hundred people, then just feed one.” Mother Teresa
“Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up your hand; forget not the afflicted.” Ps.10.12
If we pray that God would not forget the afflicted, then let us not forget them. If we ask God to remember those less fortunate than we, then let us remember them also. Let us do all that is in our power to do. This may mean that we share our money; our time, our influence but whatever it means, let us give meaning to it. And, let us do it as a manner of living not just during the Christmas season. It may just be that God is remembering the poor, the afflicted, and the oppressed when we remember them. 3/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Samaritan's Purse- Phone: 828-262-1980
Web: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
If we pray that God would not forget the afflicted, then let us not forget them. If we ask God to remember those less fortunate than we, then let us remember them also. Let us do all that is in our power to do. This may mean that we share our money; our time, our influence but whatever it means, let us give meaning to it. And, let us do it as a manner of living not just during the Christmas season. It may just be that God is remembering the poor, the afflicted, and the oppressed when we remember them. 3/2/2009 Conversations Within ts
Samaritan's Purse- Phone: 828-262-1980
Web: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
“I discovered I always have choices and sometimes it's only a choice of attitude.” Anonymous
“I will be glad and exult in you…” Ps.9.2 ESV
There are times when I find it necessary to choose gladness. I do this when I decide to embrace my circumstances as God’s approved plan for my life, at least His plan for the present. I also do this when I choose to give Him thanks for all that I have, instead of what I do not have. When I delight in all that is good, and have a good attitude about the rest I am choosing gladness. Christ has given us the power to choose joy over pleasure and transform lawful pleasure in moments of glory. It is no secret that so much of life is attitude and since we can choose it why waste one moment outside joy. Serve the Lord with gladness. 2/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
There are times when I find it necessary to choose gladness. I do this when I decide to embrace my circumstances as God’s approved plan for my life, at least His plan for the present. I also do this when I choose to give Him thanks for all that I have, instead of what I do not have. When I delight in all that is good, and have a good attitude about the rest I am choosing gladness. Christ has given us the power to choose joy over pleasure and transform lawful pleasure in moments of glory. It is no secret that so much of life is attitude and since we can choose it why waste one moment outside joy. Serve the Lord with gladness. 2/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
“I discovered I always have choices and sometimes it's only a choice of attitude.” Anonymous
“I will be glad and exult in you…” Ps.9.2 ESV
There are times when I find it necessary to choose gladness. I do this when I decide to embrace my circumstances as God’s approved plan for my life, at least His plan for the present. I also do this when I choose to give Him thanks for all that I have, instead of what I do not have. When I delight in all that is good, and have a good attitude about the rest I am choosing gladness. Christ has given us the power to choose joy over pleasure and transform lawful pleasure in moments of glory. It is no secret that so much of life is attitude and since we can choose it why waste one moment outside joy. Serve the Lord with gladness. 2/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
There are times when I find it necessary to choose gladness. I do this when I decide to embrace my circumstances as God’s approved plan for my life, at least His plan for the present. I also do this when I choose to give Him thanks for all that I have, instead of what I do not have. When I delight in all that is good, and have a good attitude about the rest I am choosing gladness. Christ has given us the power to choose joy over pleasure and transform lawful pleasure in moments of glory. It is no secret that so much of life is attitude and since we can choose it why waste one moment outside joy. Serve the Lord with gladness. 2/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, March 2, 2009
“Wonder is the basis of worship” Thomas Carlyle
O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Ps.8.9 ESV
Jesus explained that when God is worshiped in spirit and truth then the place where we worship is of no consequence. This means that we may worship God in a cathedral or college dormitory. But to say that the place where we worship is of no consequence, just means that, there is nothing in Scripture to forbid us from worshiping anywhere because God is literally, everywhere. He is especially with the humble and contrite heart. This does not mean that the place where we worship can either hinder our interactions with God or enhance them. There are times when my exchanges walking in nature have enriched my worship more so than sitting in a church service. But I find that most of these limitations are mine. If I give myself to it, I can see God reflected in the faces of my fellow hypocrites as much as in a quiet pool somewhere deep in the forest. Maybe more so, when I remind myself that we are gathering to be healed of our hypocrisy. 2/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Jesus explained that when God is worshiped in spirit and truth then the place where we worship is of no consequence. This means that we may worship God in a cathedral or college dormitory. But to say that the place where we worship is of no consequence, just means that, there is nothing in Scripture to forbid us from worshiping anywhere because God is literally, everywhere. He is especially with the humble and contrite heart. This does not mean that the place where we worship can either hinder our interactions with God or enhance them. There are times when my exchanges walking in nature have enriched my worship more so than sitting in a church service. But I find that most of these limitations are mine. If I give myself to it, I can see God reflected in the faces of my fellow hypocrites as much as in a quiet pool somewhere deep in the forest. Maybe more so, when I remind myself that we are gathering to be healed of our hypocrisy. 2/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Wonder is the basis of worship” Thomas Carlyle
O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Ps.8.9 ESV
Jesus explained that when God is worshiped in spirit and truth then the place where we worship is of no consequence. This means that we may worship God in a cathedral or college dormitory. But to say that the place where we worship is of no consequence, just means that, there is nothing in Scripture to forbid us from worshiping anywhere because God is literally, everywhere. He is especially with the humble and contrite heart. This does not mean that the place where we worship can either hinder our interactions with God or enhance them. There are times when my exchanges walking in nature have enriched my worship more so than sitting in a church service. But I find that most of these limitations are mine. If I give myself to it, I can see God reflected in the faces of my fellow hypocrites as much as in a quiet pool somewhere deep in the forest. Maybe more so, when I remind myself that we are gathering to be healed of our hypocrisy. 2/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Jesus explained that when God is worshiped in spirit and truth then the place where we worship is of no consequence. This means that we may worship God in a cathedral or college dormitory. But to say that the place where we worship is of no consequence, just means that, there is nothing in Scripture to forbid us from worshiping anywhere because God is literally, everywhere. He is especially with the humble and contrite heart. This does not mean that the place where we worship can either hinder our interactions with God or enhance them. There are times when my exchanges walking in nature have enriched my worship more so than sitting in a church service. But I find that most of these limitations are mine. If I give myself to it, I can see God reflected in the faces of my fellow hypocrites as much as in a quiet pool somewhere deep in the forest. Maybe more so, when I remind myself that we are gathering to be healed of our hypocrisy. 2/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
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