“as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ…” James 2.1 NIV
Here is a fitting description of Jesus. He is our glorious Lord. And since Christ is glorious, everyone who trusts Him has at least the opportunity to live gloriously. I must confess that glorious doesn’t describe some of the days I have had. But I have enough taste of His glory to want more of it. I want to dress in the finest robes of praise not in the shabby rags of petty complaint. We honor Him when life under His glorious Lordship, is nothing less than glorious. Our lives can reflect so much more than just surviving. Mercies are new every day and we are promised the richness of wonder, discovery, and delight. In Christ, life is not only good it is glorious. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Monday, August 31, 2009
One crowded hour of glorious life is worth an age without a name. Walter Scott
“as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ…” James 2.1 NIV
Here is a fitting description of Jesus. He is our glorious Lord. And since Christ is glorious, everyone who trusts Him has at least the opportunity to live gloriously. I must confess that glorious doesn’t describe some of the days I have had. But I have enough taste of His glory to want more of it. I want to dress in the finest robes of praise not in the shabby rags of petty complaint. We honor Him when life under His glorious Lordship, is nothing less than glorious. Our lives can reflect so much more than just surviving. Mercies are new every day and we are promised the richness of wonder, discovery, and delight. In Christ, life is not only good it is glorious. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Here is a fitting description of Jesus. He is our glorious Lord. And since Christ is glorious, everyone who trusts Him has at least the opportunity to live gloriously. I must confess that glorious doesn’t describe some of the days I have had. But I have enough taste of His glory to want more of it. I want to dress in the finest robes of praise not in the shabby rags of petty complaint. We honor Him when life under His glorious Lordship, is nothing less than glorious. Our lives can reflect so much more than just surviving. Mercies are new every day and we are promised the richness of wonder, discovery, and delight. In Christ, life is not only good it is glorious. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, August 29, 2009
We Can Work It Out.
“What causes fights and quarrels among you?” James 4.1 NIV
Good question, but I am not sure we will like the answer. The reason more than not, is that the answer will bring us face to face with our brutal selfishness. We want something, we believe we have a right to it and someone or something is keeping us from getting it. So what do we do with our wants, crucify them? Is this the death that Jesus spoke about; the losing of our life to find it? The answer where God is concerned is yes, but not always where others are concerned. I used to believe that the only Christian response when having a disagreement with my wife was to give in to her, in other words, she wins, I loose. But it has been explained to me that by letting my wife win when I loose means that she ultimately is the one who looses and I would not be seeking her best interest to let this happen. It would be better for both of us to seek a solution where we both neither win nor lose but mutually benefit. When we are unconditionally surrendered to God, refusing to accept any solution except where both parties benefit is true Christian love. But sometimes God may ask me to accept another’s gain as my gain. 8/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
Good question, but I am not sure we will like the answer. The reason more than not, is that the answer will bring us face to face with our brutal selfishness. We want something, we believe we have a right to it and someone or something is keeping us from getting it. So what do we do with our wants, crucify them? Is this the death that Jesus spoke about; the losing of our life to find it? The answer where God is concerned is yes, but not always where others are concerned. I used to believe that the only Christian response when having a disagreement with my wife was to give in to her, in other words, she wins, I loose. But it has been explained to me that by letting my wife win when I loose means that she ultimately is the one who looses and I would not be seeking her best interest to let this happen. It would be better for both of us to seek a solution where we both neither win nor lose but mutually benefit. When we are unconditionally surrendered to God, refusing to accept any solution except where both parties benefit is true Christian love. But sometimes God may ask me to accept another’s gain as my gain. 8/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
We Can Work It Out.
“What causes fights and quarrels among you?” James 4.1 NIV
Good question, but I am not sure we will like the answer. The reason more than not, is that the answer will bring us face to face with our brutal selfishness. We want something, we believe we have a right to it and someone or something is keeping us from getting it. So what do we do with our wants, crucify them? Is this the death that Jesus spoke about; the losing of our life to find it? The answer where God is concerned is yes, but not always where others are concerned. I used to believe that the only Christian response when having a disagreement with my wife was to give in to her, in other words, she wins, I loose. But it has been explained to me that by letting my wife win when I loose means that she ultimately is the one who looses and I would not be seeking her best interest to let this happen. It would be better for both of us to seek a solution where we both neither win nor lose but mutually benefit. When we are unconditionally surrendered to God, refusing to accept any solution except where both parties benefit is true Christian love. But sometimes God may ask me to accept another’s gain as my gain. 8/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
Good question, but I am not sure we will like the answer. The reason more than not, is that the answer will bring us face to face with our brutal selfishness. We want something, we believe we have a right to it and someone or something is keeping us from getting it. So what do we do with our wants, crucify them? Is this the death that Jesus spoke about; the losing of our life to find it? The answer where God is concerned is yes, but not always where others are concerned. I used to believe that the only Christian response when having a disagreement with my wife was to give in to her, in other words, she wins, I loose. But it has been explained to me that by letting my wife win when I loose means that she ultimately is the one who looses and I would not be seeking her best interest to let this happen. It would be better for both of us to seek a solution where we both neither win nor lose but mutually benefit. When we are unconditionally surrendered to God, refusing to accept any solution except where both parties benefit is true Christian love. But sometimes God may ask me to accept another’s gain as my gain. 8/28/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, August 28, 2009
“Give the devil his due” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. James 3.15 NIV
There is a kind of wisdom that comes from the simple know how of experience and the inclination to choose it. The devil is said to have wisdom of that sort. He is wise in the ways of malicious deceit and knows all the ends and outs of perversion. He is an experienced thief and knows well the devious means to steal joy from others. He is always baiting us to trade true happiness for temporal pleasure and all that is authentic for all that is artificial. He is the master of lies and compromise is one of his favorite ploys. But no matter how skilled his deception, he cannot remove the stench of selfishness from his foul breath even when he barters a pleasure he has stolen from God. 8/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
There is a kind of wisdom that comes from the simple know how of experience and the inclination to choose it. The devil is said to have wisdom of that sort. He is wise in the ways of malicious deceit and knows all the ends and outs of perversion. He is an experienced thief and knows well the devious means to steal joy from others. He is always baiting us to trade true happiness for temporal pleasure and all that is authentic for all that is artificial. He is the master of lies and compromise is one of his favorite ploys. But no matter how skilled his deception, he cannot remove the stench of selfishness from his foul breath even when he barters a pleasure he has stolen from God. 8/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Give the devil his due” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. James 3.15 NIV
There is a kind of wisdom that comes from the simple know how of experience and the inclination to choose it. The devil is said to have wisdom of that sort. He is wise in the ways of malicious deceit and knows all the ends and outs of perversion. He is an experienced thief and knows well the devious means to steal joy from others. He is always baiting us to trade true happiness for temporal pleasure and all that is authentic for all that is artificial. He is the master of lies and compromise is one of his favorite ploys. But no matter how skilled his deception, he cannot remove the stench of selfishness from his foul breath even when he barters a pleasure he has stolen from God. 8/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
There is a kind of wisdom that comes from the simple know how of experience and the inclination to choose it. The devil is said to have wisdom of that sort. He is wise in the ways of malicious deceit and knows all the ends and outs of perversion. He is an experienced thief and knows well the devious means to steal joy from others. He is always baiting us to trade true happiness for temporal pleasure and all that is authentic for all that is artificial. He is the master of lies and compromise is one of his favorite ploys. But no matter how skilled his deception, he cannot remove the stench of selfishness from his foul breath even when he barters a pleasure he has stolen from God. 8/27/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, August 27, 2009
“Corruption of the best becomes the worst” Anonymous
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.” James 3.10 NIV
A faucet runs both hot and cold water; it of course is designed that way. The mouth speaks both praise and cursing; and I guess you might say in one sense, it too was designed that way. Jesus said that the mouth speaks what is in the heart. God may have designed the mouth to reflect our inner life, but He did not design our inner life to know corruption. And, that’s exactly what a corruption is, an alteration in design so that something does the exact opposite of it original purpose. As Jesus heals the heart, we will notice the difference in what that pours from the mouth. 8/26/2009 Conversations Within
A faucet runs both hot and cold water; it of course is designed that way. The mouth speaks both praise and cursing; and I guess you might say in one sense, it too was designed that way. Jesus said that the mouth speaks what is in the heart. God may have designed the mouth to reflect our inner life, but He did not design our inner life to know corruption. And, that’s exactly what a corruption is, an alteration in design so that something does the exact opposite of it original purpose. As Jesus heals the heart, we will notice the difference in what that pours from the mouth. 8/26/2009 Conversations Within
“Corruption of the best becomes the worst” Anonymous
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.” James 3.10 NIV
A faucet runs both hot and cold water; it of course is designed that way. The mouth speaks both praise and cursing; and I guess you might say in one sense, it too was designed that way. Jesus said that the mouth speaks what is in the heart. God may have designed the mouth to reflect our inner life, but He did not design our inner life to know corruption. And, that’s exactly what a corruption is, an alteration in design so that something does the exact opposite of it original purpose. As Jesus heals the heart, we will notice the difference in what that pours from the mouth. 8/26/2009 Conversations Within
A faucet runs both hot and cold water; it of course is designed that way. The mouth speaks both praise and cursing; and I guess you might say in one sense, it too was designed that way. Jesus said that the mouth speaks what is in the heart. God may have designed the mouth to reflect our inner life, but He did not design our inner life to know corruption. And, that’s exactly what a corruption is, an alteration in design so that something does the exact opposite of it original purpose. As Jesus heals the heart, we will notice the difference in what that pours from the mouth. 8/26/2009 Conversations Within
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
A good life boils down to the next right choice.
“I will show you my faith by what I do.” James 2.18 NIV
Have you ever picked up an item in a store and then in some other department decided that you didn’t want it and then were faced the decision whether to return it to where it belonged or just put it on some shelf where you happen to be. My faith won’t let me leave the item in sporting goods when I took it off the shelf in house wares. I reason that if I treat my neighbor, as I would want to be treated, then I will put his stuff back where it belongs even when my neighbor is some unknown manager of a Wal-Mart. This may seem silly to some, especially when I sin against my conscience in other ways, but I find that when faith is expressed in small things, it helps reinforce faith when it is needed in larger matters. A good life boils down to the next right choice. 8/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Have you ever picked up an item in a store and then in some other department decided that you didn’t want it and then were faced the decision whether to return it to where it belonged or just put it on some shelf where you happen to be. My faith won’t let me leave the item in sporting goods when I took it off the shelf in house wares. I reason that if I treat my neighbor, as I would want to be treated, then I will put his stuff back where it belongs even when my neighbor is some unknown manager of a Wal-Mart. This may seem silly to some, especially when I sin against my conscience in other ways, but I find that when faith is expressed in small things, it helps reinforce faith when it is needed in larger matters. A good life boils down to the next right choice. 8/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
A good life boils down to the next right choice.
“I will show you my faith by what I do.” James 2.18 NIV
Have you ever picked up an item in a store and then in some other department decided that you didn’t want it and then were faced the decision whether to return it to where it belonged or just put it on some shelf where you happen to be. My faith won’t let me leave the item in sporting goods when I took it off the shelf in house wares. I reason that if I treat my neighbor, as I would want to be treated, then I will put his stuff back where it belongs even when my neighbor is some unknown manager of a Wal-Mart. This may seem silly to some, especially when I sin against my conscience in other ways, but I find that when faith is expressed in small things, it helps reinforce faith when it is needed in larger matters. A good life boils down to the next right choice. 8/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Have you ever picked up an item in a store and then in some other department decided that you didn’t want it and then were faced the decision whether to return it to where it belonged or just put it on some shelf where you happen to be. My faith won’t let me leave the item in sporting goods when I took it off the shelf in house wares. I reason that if I treat my neighbor, as I would want to be treated, then I will put his stuff back where it belongs even when my neighbor is some unknown manager of a Wal-Mart. This may seem silly to some, especially when I sin against my conscience in other ways, but I find that when faith is expressed in small things, it helps reinforce faith when it is needed in larger matters. A good life boils down to the next right choice. 8/25/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
“Just do it!” Nike
“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror…and immediately forgets what he looks like.” James 1.23 NIV
Knowledge is important, but only in so far as it assists action. I can attest that Bible study is no substitute for doing what the Bible teaches. Let us learn by doing not defining. Being a disciple of Christ is more like learning to fly a plane than going to Sunday school. The cockpit is the classroom of the would be pilot, and love in action for the would be disciple. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Knowledge is important, but only in so far as it assists action. I can attest that Bible study is no substitute for doing what the Bible teaches. Let us learn by doing not defining. Being a disciple of Christ is more like learning to fly a plane than going to Sunday school. The cockpit is the classroom of the would be pilot, and love in action for the would be disciple. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Just do it!” Nike
“Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror…and immediately forgets what he looks like.” James 1.23 NIV
Knowledge is important, but only in so far as it assists action. I can attest that Bible study is no substitute for doing what the Bible teaches. Let us learn by doing not defining. Being a disciple of Christ is more like learning to fly a plane than going to Sunday school. The cockpit is the classroom of the would be pilot, and love in action for the would be disciple. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Knowledge is important, but only in so far as it assists action. I can attest that Bible study is no substitute for doing what the Bible teaches. Let us learn by doing not defining. Being a disciple of Christ is more like learning to fly a plane than going to Sunday school. The cockpit is the classroom of the would be pilot, and love in action for the would be disciple. 8/24/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, August 24, 2009
“…a tribe's greatness is figured on how mighty its enemies be.” Jeremiah Johnson
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds…” James 1.2 NIV
One way of looking at the trials of life is to see them as a means to maturity. And, because God naturally desires that we mature, a man blessed by Him may have many trials. Sickness, disability, temptations, threats without and within, whatever moves us to stop trusting self and turn our trust to Christ, is of great value. We do not measure the value of our enemies intrinsically. Cancer has no value in and of itself. But we consider the trial with joy because our enemies make us stronger by our improving our stand against them. This is why some strongest Christians have come from drug addiction, alcoholism or short fused families. People who know well the power of their enemy know also the value of powerful ally. 8/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
One way of looking at the trials of life is to see them as a means to maturity. And, because God naturally desires that we mature, a man blessed by Him may have many trials. Sickness, disability, temptations, threats without and within, whatever moves us to stop trusting self and turn our trust to Christ, is of great value. We do not measure the value of our enemies intrinsically. Cancer has no value in and of itself. But we consider the trial with joy because our enemies make us stronger by our improving our stand against them. This is why some strongest Christians have come from drug addiction, alcoholism or short fused families. People who know well the power of their enemy know also the value of powerful ally. 8/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
“…a tribe's greatness is figured on how mighty its enemies be.” Jeremiah Johnson
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds…” James 1.2 NIV
One way of looking at the trials of life is to see them as a means to maturity. And, because God naturally desires that we mature, a man blessed by Him may have many trials. Sickness, disability, temptations, threats without and within, whatever moves us to stop trusting self and turn our trust to Christ, is of great value. We do not measure the value of our enemies intrinsically. Cancer has no value in and of itself. But we consider the trial with joy because our enemies make us stronger by our improving our stand against them. This is why some strongest Christians have come from drug addiction, alcoholism or short fused families. People who know well the power of their enemy know also the value of powerful ally. 8/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
One way of looking at the trials of life is to see them as a means to maturity. And, because God naturally desires that we mature, a man blessed by Him may have many trials. Sickness, disability, temptations, threats without and within, whatever moves us to stop trusting self and turn our trust to Christ, is of great value. We do not measure the value of our enemies intrinsically. Cancer has no value in and of itself. But we consider the trial with joy because our enemies make us stronger by our improving our stand against them. This is why some strongest Christians have come from drug addiction, alcoholism or short fused families. People who know well the power of their enemy know also the value of powerful ally. 8/21/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, August 22, 2009
“Lord, hear my voice, my present voice I mean, Not that which may be speaking an hour hence…” C. S. Lewis
“Praise the LORD.” Ps.150.6 NIV
The Psalm begins and ends with the single word HalleluYah. I would like to begin and end each day with God’s praise on my lips but I don’t. I would that His glory be the nexus of my every interest; the purpose for all action but there is such disparity between what I intend and what I do. Even so, let me at least in this moment offer a simple praise. You are every happy and peaceful moment I have known or ever will know. 8/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Psalm begins and ends with the single word HalleluYah. I would like to begin and end each day with God’s praise on my lips but I don’t. I would that His glory be the nexus of my every interest; the purpose for all action but there is such disparity between what I intend and what I do. Even so, let me at least in this moment offer a simple praise. You are every happy and peaceful moment I have known or ever will know. 8/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Lord, hear my voice, my present voice I mean, Not that which may be speaking an hour hence…” C. S. Lewis
“Praise the LORD.” Ps.150.6 NIV
The Psalm begins and ends with the single word HalleluYah. I would like to begin and end each day with God’s praise on my lips but I don’t. I would that His glory be the nexus of my every interest; the purpose for all action but there is such disparity between what I intend and what I do. Even so, let me at least in this moment offer a simple praise. You are every happy and peaceful moment I have known or ever will know. 8/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Psalm begins and ends with the single word HalleluYah. I would like to begin and end each day with God’s praise on my lips but I don’t. I would that His glory be the nexus of my every interest; the purpose for all action but there is such disparity between what I intend and what I do. Even so, let me at least in this moment offer a simple praise. You are every happy and peaceful moment I have known or ever will know. 8/20/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, August 21, 2009
If you want sweet dreams, you've got to live a sweet life." Barbara Kingsolver
“Let the godly exult in glory; let them sing for joy on their beds.” Ps.149.5 ESV
The lullabies of the godly are songs of joy. When we are blessed and know we are blessed we sometimes cannot help but sing. But there are times when each of us, like an upset child afraid of the dark, ask to be sung to sleep. And, there is no sweeter melody to light the heart than a divine lullaby. How valuable are the assurances of God when they softly pass the lips of Jesus singing us to sleep. Sing us to sleep dear Lord, because some nights we forget the words to the song. 8/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
The lullabies of the godly are songs of joy. When we are blessed and know we are blessed we sometimes cannot help but sing. But there are times when each of us, like an upset child afraid of the dark, ask to be sung to sleep. And, there is no sweeter melody to light the heart than a divine lullaby. How valuable are the assurances of God when they softly pass the lips of Jesus singing us to sleep. Sing us to sleep dear Lord, because some nights we forget the words to the song. 8/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
If you want sweet dreams, you've got to live a sweet life." Barbara Kingsolver
“Let the godly exult in glory; let them sing for joy on their beds.” Ps.149.5 ESV
The lullabies of the godly are songs of joy. When we are blessed and know we are blessed we sometimes cannot help but sing. But there are times when each of us, like an upset child afraid of the dark, ask to be sung to sleep. And, there is no sweeter melody to light the heart than a divine lullaby. How valuable are the assurances of God when they softly pass the lips of Jesus singing us to sleep. Sing us to sleep dear Lord, because some nights we forget the words to the song. 8/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
The lullabies of the godly are songs of joy. When we are blessed and know we are blessed we sometimes cannot help but sing. But there are times when each of us, like an upset child afraid of the dark, ask to be sung to sleep. And, there is no sweeter melody to light the heart than a divine lullaby. How valuable are the assurances of God when they softly pass the lips of Jesus singing us to sleep. Sing us to sleep dear Lord, because some nights we forget the words to the song. 8/19/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, August 20, 2009
“The Pentagon is like a log floating down a river with 10,000 ants aboard, and each one thinks he's steering.'' Thomas Jones
“…His name alone is exalted.” Ps.148.13
To look at the world from the limited perspectives of this world, one might question if the Creator has lost control of His creation. The Scriptures give us two points two reconcile. One is that for the present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to Him and two we should still understand that God is the absolute LORD of heaven and earth. God is the Master over all He has made because it is His will, at least for the present, that people be permitted to resist His will. It is not in the ultimate sense only that His name alone is exalted as Lord. He alone is exalted not because people recognize Him to be or pay tribute to it but because He alone truly is. 8/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
To look at the world from the limited perspectives of this world, one might question if the Creator has lost control of His creation. The Scriptures give us two points two reconcile. One is that for the present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to Him and two we should still understand that God is the absolute LORD of heaven and earth. God is the Master over all He has made because it is His will, at least for the present, that people be permitted to resist His will. It is not in the ultimate sense only that His name alone is exalted as Lord. He alone is exalted not because people recognize Him to be or pay tribute to it but because He alone truly is. 8/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The Pentagon is like a log floating down a river with 10,000 ants aboard, and each one thinks he's steering.'' Thomas Jones
“…His name alone is exalted.” Ps.148.13
To look at the world from the limited perspectives of this world, one might question if the Creator has lost control of His creation. The Scriptures give us two points two reconcile. One is that for the present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to Him and two we should still understand that God is the absolute LORD of heaven and earth. God is the Master over all He has made because it is His will, at least for the present, that people be permitted to resist His will. It is not in the ultimate sense only that His name alone is exalted as Lord. He alone is exalted not because people recognize Him to be or pay tribute to it but because He alone truly is. 8/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
To look at the world from the limited perspectives of this world, one might question if the Creator has lost control of His creation. The Scriptures give us two points two reconcile. One is that for the present, we do not yet see everything in subjection to Him and two we should still understand that God is the absolute LORD of heaven and earth. God is the Master over all He has made because it is His will, at least for the present, that people be permitted to resist His will. It is not in the ultimate sense only that His name alone is exalted as Lord. He alone is exalted not because people recognize Him to be or pay tribute to it but because He alone truly is. 8/18/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
“Superstition is to religion what astrology is to astronomy: the mad daughter of a wise mother” Voltaire
“The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love. Ps.147.11 ESV
When we put our hope in God this is one way we express proper fear of Him. Hope reverently acknowledges that the Lord decides matters great and small. Whatever our advantage, be it money, power, or know how, hope says that unless God decides in our favor we shall fail. One danger in all this is that we might confuse hope with superstition. A superstitious person may believe that they need God’s favor for success but instead of putting hope in Him they “cross their fingers,” hoping God will avert some disaster because they have “knocked on wood or some other silly notion” The difference between God fearing hope and superstition is that superstition tries to bend God to our designs; hope puts the matter God’s hands whether yea or nay and hopes in His steadfast love. 8/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
When we put our hope in God this is one way we express proper fear of Him. Hope reverently acknowledges that the Lord decides matters great and small. Whatever our advantage, be it money, power, or know how, hope says that unless God decides in our favor we shall fail. One danger in all this is that we might confuse hope with superstition. A superstitious person may believe that they need God’s favor for success but instead of putting hope in Him they “cross their fingers,” hoping God will avert some disaster because they have “knocked on wood or some other silly notion” The difference between God fearing hope and superstition is that superstition tries to bend God to our designs; hope puts the matter God’s hands whether yea or nay and hopes in His steadfast love. 8/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Superstition is to religion what astrology is to astronomy: the mad daughter of a wise mother” Voltaire
“The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love. Ps.147.11 ESV
When we put our hope in God this is one way we express proper fear of Him. Hope reverently acknowledges that the Lord decides matters great and small. Whatever our advantage, be it money, power, or know how, hope says that unless God decides in our favor we shall fail. One danger in all this is that we might confuse hope with superstition. A superstitious person may believe that they need God’s favor for success but instead of putting hope in Him they “cross their fingers,” hoping God will avert some disaster because they have “knocked on wood or some other silly notion” The difference between God fearing hope and superstition is that superstition tries to bend God to our designs; hope puts the matter God’s hands whether yea or nay and hopes in His steadfast love. 8/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
When we put our hope in God this is one way we express proper fear of Him. Hope reverently acknowledges that the Lord decides matters great and small. Whatever our advantage, be it money, power, or know how, hope says that unless God decides in our favor we shall fail. One danger in all this is that we might confuse hope with superstition. A superstitious person may believe that they need God’s favor for success but instead of putting hope in Him they “cross their fingers,” hoping God will avert some disaster because they have “knocked on wood or some other silly notion” The difference between God fearing hope and superstition is that superstition tries to bend God to our designs; hope puts the matter God’s hands whether yea or nay and hopes in His steadfast love. 8/17/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
“May you live all the days of your life.” Jonathan Swift
“I will praise the LORD all my life…” Ps.146.2
When the Scriptures say that God “inhabits the praise of His people,” this is just another way of saying that He dwells in our experiences of Him. Praise openly declares the worth of God, but in its purest form, the praise of life is the experience that causes it. Praise then is not only performed with our lips but also with our lives. Praise often reflects our experience of something. How many times have we exclaimed an accolade after experiencing some wonder? I often utter the word, “unbelievable” when overwhelmed by some experience; coming across a soft bed of emerald moss lining a mountain trail, or the tiny hand of my grandson grasping my little finger.
When I name these experiences “unbelievable,” I am not saying that I don’t believe them; I am confessing that they are too wonderful for me to wrap my thoughts around. That is often the way I feel about my experience of God. God is “unbelievable.” Believe it! 8/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
When the Scriptures say that God “inhabits the praise of His people,” this is just another way of saying that He dwells in our experiences of Him. Praise openly declares the worth of God, but in its purest form, the praise of life is the experience that causes it. Praise then is not only performed with our lips but also with our lives. Praise often reflects our experience of something. How many times have we exclaimed an accolade after experiencing some wonder? I often utter the word, “unbelievable” when overwhelmed by some experience; coming across a soft bed of emerald moss lining a mountain trail, or the tiny hand of my grandson grasping my little finger.
When I name these experiences “unbelievable,” I am not saying that I don’t believe them; I am confessing that they are too wonderful for me to wrap my thoughts around. That is often the way I feel about my experience of God. God is “unbelievable.” Believe it! 8/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
“May you live all the days of your life.” Jonathan Swift
“I will praise the LORD all my life…” Ps.146.2
When the Scriptures say that God “inhabits the praise of His people,” this is just another way of saying that He dwells in our experiences of Him. Praise openly declares the worth of God, but in its purest form, the praise of life is the experience that causes it. Praise then is not only performed with our lips but also with our lives. Praise often reflects our experience of something. How many times have we exclaimed an accolade after experiencing some wonder? I often utter the word, “unbelievable” when overwhelmed by some experience; coming across a soft bed of emerald moss lining a mountain trail, or the tiny hand of my grandson grasping my little finger.
When I name these experiences “unbelievable,” I am not saying that I don’t believe them; I am confessing that they are too wonderful for me to wrap my thoughts around. That is often the way I feel about my experience of God. God is “unbelievable.” Believe it! 8/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
When the Scriptures say that God “inhabits the praise of His people,” this is just another way of saying that He dwells in our experiences of Him. Praise openly declares the worth of God, but in its purest form, the praise of life is the experience that causes it. Praise then is not only performed with our lips but also with our lives. Praise often reflects our experience of something. How many times have we exclaimed an accolade after experiencing some wonder? I often utter the word, “unbelievable” when overwhelmed by some experience; coming across a soft bed of emerald moss lining a mountain trail, or the tiny hand of my grandson grasping my little finger.
When I name these experiences “unbelievable,” I am not saying that I don’t believe them; I am confessing that they are too wonderful for me to wrap my thoughts around. That is often the way I feel about my experience of God. God is “unbelievable.” Believe it! 8/15/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, August 17, 2009
“Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be both God and a Dad.”
“Every day I will praise you.” Ps.145.2 NIV
Have I told You how grateful I am for the gentle way You sculpt my soul. Even though I am so very slow to learn, You are patiently persistent without being pushy or overbearing. I have never known You to be loud or to loose Your temper. You never fuss, cuss, or yell. I want You to know how much I appreciate that about You. Your manner is delicate but direct, subtle yet always crystal clear. You correct me without criticizing, teach me without pushing me out of the way and give me room to learn from my mistakes. I want to be like You as a kid wants to be like a parent. You’re the best Dad a child could ever have. 8/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
Have I told You how grateful I am for the gentle way You sculpt my soul. Even though I am so very slow to learn, You are patiently persistent without being pushy or overbearing. I have never known You to be loud or to loose Your temper. You never fuss, cuss, or yell. I want You to know how much I appreciate that about You. Your manner is delicate but direct, subtle yet always crystal clear. You correct me without criticizing, teach me without pushing me out of the way and give me room to learn from my mistakes. I want to be like You as a kid wants to be like a parent. You’re the best Dad a child could ever have. 8/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be both God and a Dad.”
“Every day I will praise you.” Ps.145.2 NIV
Have I told You how grateful I am for the gentle way You sculpt my soul. Even though I am so very slow to learn, You are patiently persistent without being pushy or overbearing. I have never known You to be loud or to loose Your temper. You never fuss, cuss, or yell. I want You to know how much I appreciate that about You. Your manner is delicate but direct, subtle yet always crystal clear. You correct me without criticizing, teach me without pushing me out of the way and give me room to learn from my mistakes. I want to be like You as a kid wants to be like a parent. You’re the best Dad a child could ever have. 8/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
Have I told You how grateful I am for the gentle way You sculpt my soul. Even though I am so very slow to learn, You are patiently persistent without being pushy or overbearing. I have never known You to be loud or to loose Your temper. You never fuss, cuss, or yell. I want You to know how much I appreciate that about You. Your manner is delicate but direct, subtle yet always crystal clear. You correct me without criticizing, teach me without pushing me out of the way and give me room to learn from my mistakes. I want to be like You as a kid wants to be like a parent. You’re the best Dad a child could ever have. 8/14/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, August 15, 2009
"'You come of the Lord Adam and the Lady Eve, said Aslan...
...And that is both honour enough to erect the head of the poorest beggar, and shame enough to bow the shoulders of the greatest emperor in earth.” Prince Caspian C. S. Lewis
“O LORD, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him?” Ps.144.3
These words are recorded in no less than four distinct passages in the Scriptures. They summarize at least two profound themes of the Bible. One is found in the question being asked the other in its answer. The question bespeaks our utter insignificance because of sin and the answer of God’s great glory expressed in His grace. I believe that most people can relate to the question as to why God would have a single caring thought for contemptible fallen humans. But the evidence is radically clear, He does. We see this best of course in Jesus who by the way identified Himself as the Son of Man. 8/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O LORD, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him?” Ps.144.3
These words are recorded in no less than four distinct passages in the Scriptures. They summarize at least two profound themes of the Bible. One is found in the question being asked the other in its answer. The question bespeaks our utter insignificance because of sin and the answer of God’s great glory expressed in His grace. I believe that most people can relate to the question as to why God would have a single caring thought for contemptible fallen humans. But the evidence is radically clear, He does. We see this best of course in Jesus who by the way identified Himself as the Son of Man. 8/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
"'You come of the Lord Adam and the Lady Eve, said Aslan...
...And that is both honour enough to erect the head of the poorest beggar, and shame enough to bow the shoulders of the greatest emperor in earth.” Prince Caspian C. S. Lewis
“O LORD, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him?” Ps.144.3
These words are recorded in no less than four distinct passages in the Scriptures. They summarize at least two profound themes of the Bible. One is found in the question being asked the other in its answer. The question bespeaks our utter insignificance because of sin and the answer of God’s great glory expressed in His grace. I believe that most people can relate to the question as to why God would have a single caring thought for contemptible fallen humans. But the evidence is radically clear, He does. We see this best of course in Jesus who by the way identified Himself as the Son of Man. 8/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O LORD, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him?” Ps.144.3
These words are recorded in no less than four distinct passages in the Scriptures. They summarize at least two profound themes of the Bible. One is found in the question being asked the other in its answer. The question bespeaks our utter insignificance because of sin and the answer of God’s great glory expressed in His grace. I believe that most people can relate to the question as to why God would have a single caring thought for contemptible fallen humans. But the evidence is radically clear, He does. We see this best of course in Jesus who by the way identified Himself as the Son of Man. 8/13/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, August 14, 2009
“The danger of an adventure is worth a thousand days of ease and comfort.” Paulo Coelho
“…lead me on level ground.” Ps.143.10
I confess that difficult times have worked many a good grace in my soul. And, though hard, there is challenge even adventure, in traversing life’s mountains and valleys. Ascending and descending strengthens the muscles of our faith. But we all need, especially after a season of strain, those sweet days of ease, where God leads us on level ground--no lessons to be learned, no trials or tests to pass. And so, the need flows from us to ask God to lead us to quieter days beside still waters where we may lay down with nothing to do but chew on a twig of grass and nap in the warmth of the Son. 8/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
I confess that difficult times have worked many a good grace in my soul. And, though hard, there is challenge even adventure, in traversing life’s mountains and valleys. Ascending and descending strengthens the muscles of our faith. But we all need, especially after a season of strain, those sweet days of ease, where God leads us on level ground--no lessons to be learned, no trials or tests to pass. And so, the need flows from us to ask God to lead us to quieter days beside still waters where we may lay down with nothing to do but chew on a twig of grass and nap in the warmth of the Son. 8/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The danger of an adventure is worth a thousand days of ease and comfort.” Paulo Coelho
“…lead me on level ground.” Ps.143.10
I confess that difficult times have worked many a good grace in my soul. And, though hard, there is challenge even adventure, in traversing life’s mountains and valleys. Ascending and descending strengthens the muscles of our faith. But we all need, especially after a season of strain, those sweet days of ease, where God leads us on level ground--no lessons to be learned, no trials or tests to pass. And so, the need flows from us to ask God to lead us to quieter days beside still waters where we may lay down with nothing to do but chew on a twig of grass and nap in the warmth of the Son. 8/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
I confess that difficult times have worked many a good grace in my soul. And, though hard, there is challenge even adventure, in traversing life’s mountains and valleys. Ascending and descending strengthens the muscles of our faith. But we all need, especially after a season of strain, those sweet days of ease, where God leads us on level ground--no lessons to be learned, no trials or tests to pass. And so, the need flows from us to ask God to lead us to quieter days beside still waters where we may lay down with nothing to do but chew on a twig of grass and nap in the warmth of the Son. 8/12/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, August 13, 2009
“Habits are first cobwebs, then cables”. Spanish proverb
Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Ps.142.7 NIV
I cannot think of a single person who isn’t addicted to something. And, while it is true that some addictions are worst than others, we all find ourselves in self-made prisons from time to time or I should say doing time for some of our poor decisions. How sweet it is then to receive God’s pardon. It would be childish to believe that His pardon is only to forgive. When He pardons His intent is to set us free, to fling open the bars and release us into the fields of freedom. 8/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
I cannot think of a single person who isn’t addicted to something. And, while it is true that some addictions are worst than others, we all find ourselves in self-made prisons from time to time or I should say doing time for some of our poor decisions. How sweet it is then to receive God’s pardon. It would be childish to believe that His pardon is only to forgive. When He pardons His intent is to set us free, to fling open the bars and release us into the fields of freedom. 8/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Habits are first cobwebs, then cables”. Spanish proverb
Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Ps.142.7 NIV
I cannot think of a single person who isn’t addicted to something. And, while it is true that some addictions are worst than others, we all find ourselves in self-made prisons from time to time or I should say doing time for some of our poor decisions. How sweet it is then to receive God’s pardon. It would be childish to believe that His pardon is only to forgive. When He pardons His intent is to set us free, to fling open the bars and release us into the fields of freedom. 8/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
I cannot think of a single person who isn’t addicted to something. And, while it is true that some addictions are worst than others, we all find ourselves in self-made prisons from time to time or I should say doing time for some of our poor decisions. How sweet it is then to receive God’s pardon. It would be childish to believe that His pardon is only to forgive. When He pardons His intent is to set us free, to fling open the bars and release us into the fields of freedom. 8/11/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” George Bernard Shaw
“May my prayer be set before you like incense, may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.” Ps141.2 NIV
I have often commented to friends that most people are not seeking religion but happiness. Jesus assures us that the joy of living comes from a meaningful relationship with His Father. Relationship then, not religion fills the hole in our hearts. But even though this is true, there are specified activities people must practice “religiously” as well as truthfully if we are to interact with God in Christ. Prayer is one of them and although practiced religiously as conversation is in all relationships, it never needs to be practiced as perfunctory. 8/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
I have often commented to friends that most people are not seeking religion but happiness. Jesus assures us that the joy of living comes from a meaningful relationship with His Father. Relationship then, not religion fills the hole in our hearts. But even though this is true, there are specified activities people must practice “religiously” as well as truthfully if we are to interact with God in Christ. Prayer is one of them and although practiced religiously as conversation is in all relationships, it never needs to be practiced as perfunctory. 8/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” George Bernard Shaw
“May my prayer be set before you like incense, may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.” Ps141.2 NIV
I have often commented to friends that most people are not seeking religion but happiness. Jesus assures us that the joy of living comes from a meaningful relationship with His Father. Relationship then, not religion fills the hole in our hearts. But even though this is true, there are specified activities people must practice “religiously” as well as truthfully if we are to interact with God in Christ. Prayer is one of them and although practiced religiously as conversation is in all relationships, it never needs to be practiced as perfunctory. 8/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
I have often commented to friends that most people are not seeking religion but happiness. Jesus assures us that the joy of living comes from a meaningful relationship with His Father. Relationship then, not religion fills the hole in our hearts. But even though this is true, there are specified activities people must practice “religiously” as well as truthfully if we are to interact with God in Christ. Prayer is one of them and although practiced religiously as conversation is in all relationships, it never needs to be practiced as perfunctory. 8/10/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
(X) “When we attack today, our arrows will blot out the sun! (O) “Good; then we will fight in the shade.” King Leonidas “300”
“O Sovereign LORD, my strong deliverer, who shields my head in the day of battle…” Ps.140.7 NIV
The Confederate general, Stonewall Jackson practiced an unwavering belief in God’s absolutely sovereignty, so much so, that he braved battle with nothing less than astounding confidence. Jackson firmly believed that unless it was his appointed time he was as safe on the battlefield as he was in bed. Even with bullets flying thick as hail, Jackson would ride his horse up and down the battle line calling his men to stand their ground, earning him the nickname “Stonewall.” The kind of faith, displayed in Jackson, does not magically appear the day of our appointed battles but is nurtured in the garden of our every day choices. 8/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Confederate general, Stonewall Jackson practiced an unwavering belief in God’s absolutely sovereignty, so much so, that he braved battle with nothing less than astounding confidence. Jackson firmly believed that unless it was his appointed time he was as safe on the battlefield as he was in bed. Even with bullets flying thick as hail, Jackson would ride his horse up and down the battle line calling his men to stand their ground, earning him the nickname “Stonewall.” The kind of faith, displayed in Jackson, does not magically appear the day of our appointed battles but is nurtured in the garden of our every day choices. 8/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
(X) “When we attack today, our arrows will blot out the sun! (O) “Good; then we will fight in the shade.” King Leonidas “300”
“O Sovereign LORD, my strong deliverer, who shields my head in the day of battle…” Ps.140.7 NIV
The Confederate general, Stonewall Jackson practiced an unwavering belief in God’s absolutely sovereignty, so much so, that he braved battle with nothing less than astounding confidence. Jackson firmly believed that unless it was his appointed time he was as safe on the battlefield as he was in bed. Even with bullets flying thick as hail, Jackson would ride his horse up and down the battle line calling his men to stand their ground, earning him the nickname “Stonewall.” The kind of faith, displayed in Jackson, does not magically appear the day of our appointed battles but is nurtured in the garden of our every day choices. 8/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
The Confederate general, Stonewall Jackson practiced an unwavering belief in God’s absolutely sovereignty, so much so, that he braved battle with nothing less than astounding confidence. Jackson firmly believed that unless it was his appointed time he was as safe on the battlefield as he was in bed. Even with bullets flying thick as hail, Jackson would ride his horse up and down the battle line calling his men to stand their ground, earning him the nickname “Stonewall.” The kind of faith, displayed in Jackson, does not magically appear the day of our appointed battles but is nurtured in the garden of our every day choices. 8/9/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, August 10, 2009
“Without the way, there is no going...
...without the truth, there is no knowing; without the life, there is no living.” Thomas Kempis
“O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.” Ps.139.1 NIV
What does it mean to be known by the LORD? Well, we speak of knowing a person of fame, perhaps a celebrity or a political figure. We know them precisely for the reason that they are famous. But doesn’t the dynamic of our relationship with them change completely when they know us. To be known by the LORD in this sense would be everything. Of course there is a sense in which the LORD knows everyone as He know all things, but to be on intimate terms with the Almighty, to be caught up into His personal and favorable experience, well, that would blessing indeed. Jesus tells us time and again that this is what He brings to us when He comes to live in our heart. He brings His access to the Father, His privileges, His pleasures even His power when we learn how to use it. To know God is eternal life. To know God in Jesus is to be known by His Father. 8/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.” Ps.139.1 NIV
What does it mean to be known by the LORD? Well, we speak of knowing a person of fame, perhaps a celebrity or a political figure. We know them precisely for the reason that they are famous. But doesn’t the dynamic of our relationship with them change completely when they know us. To be known by the LORD in this sense would be everything. Of course there is a sense in which the LORD knows everyone as He know all things, but to be on intimate terms with the Almighty, to be caught up into His personal and favorable experience, well, that would blessing indeed. Jesus tells us time and again that this is what He brings to us when He comes to live in our heart. He brings His access to the Father, His privileges, His pleasures even His power when we learn how to use it. To know God is eternal life. To know God in Jesus is to be known by His Father. 8/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Without the way, there is no going...
...without the truth, there is no knowing; without the life, there is no living.” Thomas Kempis
“O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.” Ps.139.1 NIV
What does it mean to be known by the LORD? Well, we speak of knowing a person of fame, perhaps a celebrity or a political figure. We know them precisely for the reason that they are famous. But doesn’t the dynamic of our relationship with them change completely when they know us. To be known by the LORD in this sense would be everything. Of course there is a sense in which the LORD knows everyone as He know all things, but to be on intimate terms with the Almighty, to be caught up into His personal and favorable experience, well, that would blessing indeed. Jesus tells us time and again that this is what He brings to us when He comes to live in our heart. He brings His access to the Father, His privileges, His pleasures even His power when we learn how to use it. To know God is eternal life. To know God in Jesus is to be known by His Father. 8/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
“O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.” Ps.139.1 NIV
What does it mean to be known by the LORD? Well, we speak of knowing a person of fame, perhaps a celebrity or a political figure. We know them precisely for the reason that they are famous. But doesn’t the dynamic of our relationship with them change completely when they know us. To be known by the LORD in this sense would be everything. Of course there is a sense in which the LORD knows everyone as He know all things, but to be on intimate terms with the Almighty, to be caught up into His personal and favorable experience, well, that would blessing indeed. Jesus tells us time and again that this is what He brings to us when He comes to live in our heart. He brings His access to the Father, His privileges, His pleasures even His power when we learn how to use it. To know God is eternal life. To know God in Jesus is to be known by His Father. 8/8/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, August 8, 2009
“My therapist told me the way to achieve true inner peace is to finish what I start....
...So far today, I have finished 2 bags of M&M's and a chocolate cake. I feel better already.” Dave Barry
“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me.” Ps.138.8 NIV
There have been times of exasperation when I have said aloud, “I’m not going to make it.” I was talking both to myself and to the Lord I suppose. Whatever the circumstance that moved me to such a conclusion, there is always the quiet reply within that I do not need to be afraid, He will see me through, and, a very pointed "and" I might add, He will finish the work He began in me. Both the doubts and the assurances are a work of precious grace. My doubts teach me that in and of myself, I will not make it. This is the point of realization that comes to all drowning people. It is that realization that moves us to call out for help. His assurance is that everyone who calls is answered and He never does anything halfway. Father is not one who answers half of the time nor does He deliver us half of the way. 8/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me.” Ps.138.8 NIV
There have been times of exasperation when I have said aloud, “I’m not going to make it.” I was talking both to myself and to the Lord I suppose. Whatever the circumstance that moved me to such a conclusion, there is always the quiet reply within that I do not need to be afraid, He will see me through, and, a very pointed "and" I might add, He will finish the work He began in me. Both the doubts and the assurances are a work of precious grace. My doubts teach me that in and of myself, I will not make it. This is the point of realization that comes to all drowning people. It is that realization that moves us to call out for help. His assurance is that everyone who calls is answered and He never does anything halfway. Father is not one who answers half of the time nor does He deliver us half of the way. 8/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
“My therapist told me the way to achieve true inner peace is to finish what I start....
...So far today, I have finished 2 bags of M&M's and a chocolate cake. I feel better already.” Dave Barry
“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me.” Ps.138.8 NIV
There have been times of exasperation when I have said aloud, “I’m not going to make it.” I was talking both to myself and to the Lord I suppose. Whatever the circumstance that moved me to such a conclusion, there is always the quiet reply within that I do not need to be afraid, He will see me through, and, a very pointed "and" I might add, He will finish the work He began in me. Both the doubts and the assurances are a work of precious grace. My doubts teach me that in and of myself, I will not make it. This is the point of realization that comes to all drowning people. It is that realization that moves us to call out for help. His assurance is that everyone who calls is answered and He never does anything halfway. Father is not one who answers half of the time nor does He deliver us half of the way. 8/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me.” Ps.138.8 NIV
There have been times of exasperation when I have said aloud, “I’m not going to make it.” I was talking both to myself and to the Lord I suppose. Whatever the circumstance that moved me to such a conclusion, there is always the quiet reply within that I do not need to be afraid, He will see me through, and, a very pointed "and" I might add, He will finish the work He began in me. Both the doubts and the assurances are a work of precious grace. My doubts teach me that in and of myself, I will not make it. This is the point of realization that comes to all drowning people. It is that realization that moves us to call out for help. His assurance is that everyone who calls is answered and He never does anything halfway. Father is not one who answers half of the time nor does He deliver us half of the way. 8/7/2009 Conversations Within ts
Friday, August 7, 2009
“Discipline is remembering what you want.” David Campbell
“If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill.” Ps.137.5 NIV
Rust is one of those effects that remind us that certain things must be maintained in this place. Relationships are one of them. All one has to do to destroy a garden or a marriage is nothing. I can think of no loyalties, family, friends, patriotic or religious, that do not require that we muster ourselves from time to time. What I mean is that we must remind ourselves of the why behind the what so that we do not lose sight of what really matters. It is easy to forget the real reason we go to work each day. Even a minister can go through the motions of sermon preparation and forget the flock. What good are our skills if they fail to serve others? 8/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Rust is one of those effects that remind us that certain things must be maintained in this place. Relationships are one of them. All one has to do to destroy a garden or a marriage is nothing. I can think of no loyalties, family, friends, patriotic or religious, that do not require that we muster ourselves from time to time. What I mean is that we must remind ourselves of the why behind the what so that we do not lose sight of what really matters. It is easy to forget the real reason we go to work each day. Even a minister can go through the motions of sermon preparation and forget the flock. What good are our skills if they fail to serve others? 8/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Discipline is remembering what you want.” David Campbell
“If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill.” Ps.137.5 NIV
Rust is one of those effects that remind us that certain things must be maintained in this place. Relationships are one of them. All one has to do to destroy a garden or a marriage is nothing. I can think of no loyalties, family, friends, patriotic or religious, that do not require that we muster ourselves from time to time. What I mean is that we must remind ourselves of the why behind the what so that we do not lose sight of what really matters. It is easy to forget the real reason we go to work each day. Even a minister can go through the motions of sermon preparation and forget the flock. What good are our skills if they fail to serve others? 8/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Rust is one of those effects that remind us that certain things must be maintained in this place. Relationships are one of them. All one has to do to destroy a garden or a marriage is nothing. I can think of no loyalties, family, friends, patriotic or religious, that do not require that we muster ourselves from time to time. What I mean is that we must remind ourselves of the why behind the what so that we do not lose sight of what really matters. It is easy to forget the real reason we go to work each day. Even a minister can go through the motions of sermon preparation and forget the flock. What good are our skills if they fail to serve others? 8/6/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, August 6, 2009
“Fortune and misfortune are two buckets in the same well” German Proverb
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.” Ps.136.1 NIV
I have often commented to family and friends that the meal we are about to eat would be king’s fair to most of the people in the world. My purpose isn’t to make everybody feel bad before we eat but to stimulate grateful thoughts for all that is ours. Now as I consider this, I realize that there can be, thought there need not be a trap to this sort of thinking. If my gratitude stems only from my fortune when compared to the misfortune of others then I may miss that purpose realized by a grateful heart when it is my turn to endure misfortune. It is not so much that we say thank you Lord, because I can always think of people who are much worse off then I am but Lord I humbly thank you, even when I can’t. 8/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
I have often commented to family and friends that the meal we are about to eat would be king’s fair to most of the people in the world. My purpose isn’t to make everybody feel bad before we eat but to stimulate grateful thoughts for all that is ours. Now as I consider this, I realize that there can be, thought there need not be a trap to this sort of thinking. If my gratitude stems only from my fortune when compared to the misfortune of others then I may miss that purpose realized by a grateful heart when it is my turn to endure misfortune. It is not so much that we say thank you Lord, because I can always think of people who are much worse off then I am but Lord I humbly thank you, even when I can’t. 8/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Fortune and misfortune are two buckets in the same well” German Proverb
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.” Ps.136.1 NIV
I have often commented to family and friends that the meal we are about to eat would be king’s fair to most of the people in the world. My purpose isn’t to make everybody feel bad before we eat but to stimulate grateful thoughts for all that is ours. Now as I consider this, I realize that there can be, thought there need not be a trap to this sort of thinking. If my gratitude stems only from my fortune when compared to the misfortune of others then I may miss that purpose realized by a grateful heart when it is my turn to endure misfortune. It is not so much that we say thank you Lord, because I can always think of people who are much worse off then I am but Lord I humbly thank you, even when I can’t. 8/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
I have often commented to family and friends that the meal we are about to eat would be king’s fair to most of the people in the world. My purpose isn’t to make everybody feel bad before we eat but to stimulate grateful thoughts for all that is ours. Now as I consider this, I realize that there can be, thought there need not be a trap to this sort of thinking. If my gratitude stems only from my fortune when compared to the misfortune of others then I may miss that purpose realized by a grateful heart when it is my turn to endure misfortune. It is not so much that we say thank you Lord, because I can always think of people who are much worse off then I am but Lord I humbly thank you, even when I can’t. 8/5/2009 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Thank God, that He is not politically correct but nonetheless, always correct.
“For the LORD has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession.” Ps.135.4 NIV
My wife and I wed one another and like everyone who marries, we chose to forsake all others. Some have accused the God revealed in the Bible of bias because He chose Israel to be His own special people and by doing so excluded all the other nations. Why do we reserve to ourselves the right to do as we please but refuse this right to God? “The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth.” The modern god invented by the imagination of those who reject the God of the Scriptures would never be so politically incorrect as to choose one nation over another. But God did and His exclusive marriage to Israel resulted in an inclusive love for the nations by giving us Jesus, who was born of the nation of Israel. Thank God, that He is not politically correct but nonetheless, always correct. 8/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
My wife and I wed one another and like everyone who marries, we chose to forsake all others. Some have accused the God revealed in the Bible of bias because He chose Israel to be His own special people and by doing so excluded all the other nations. Why do we reserve to ourselves the right to do as we please but refuse this right to God? “The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth.” The modern god invented by the imagination of those who reject the God of the Scriptures would never be so politically incorrect as to choose one nation over another. But God did and His exclusive marriage to Israel resulted in an inclusive love for the nations by giving us Jesus, who was born of the nation of Israel. Thank God, that He is not politically correct but nonetheless, always correct. 8/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
Thank God, that He is not politically correct but nonetheless, always correct.
“For the LORD has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession.” Ps.135.4 NIV
My wife and I wed one another and like everyone who marries, we chose to forsake all others. Some have accused the God revealed in the Bible of bias because He chose Israel to be His own special people and by doing so excluded all the other nations. Why do we reserve to ourselves the right to do as we please but refuse this right to God? “The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth.” The modern god invented by the imagination of those who reject the God of the Scriptures would never be so politically incorrect as to choose one nation over another. But God did and His exclusive marriage to Israel resulted in an inclusive love for the nations by giving us Jesus, who was born of the nation of Israel. Thank God, that He is not politically correct but nonetheless, always correct. 8/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
My wife and I wed one another and like everyone who marries, we chose to forsake all others. Some have accused the God revealed in the Bible of bias because He chose Israel to be His own special people and by doing so excluded all the other nations. Why do we reserve to ourselves the right to do as we please but refuse this right to God? “The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth.” The modern god invented by the imagination of those who reject the God of the Scriptures would never be so politically incorrect as to choose one nation over another. But God did and His exclusive marriage to Israel resulted in an inclusive love for the nations by giving us Jesus, who was born of the nation of Israel. Thank God, that He is not politically correct but nonetheless, always correct. 8/4/2009 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Many a humble soul will be amazed to find...
...that the seed it sowed… in the dust of daily life, has blossomed into immortal flowers under the eye of the Lord. Harriet Beecher Stowe
“Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night…” Ps.134.1 NIV
Consider those people who wait upon others at night. There are those humble souls who stack shelves with groceries while we sleep. Some patrol our streets that we may rest safely. Think of the young pregnant waitress who was up before dawn fixing a bacon and egg biscuit, working weekends or Sundays to assist our recreation and rest. There are those serving in hospitals, nursing homes, or sitting with the elderly, countless unassuming souls willing to work when no one else will. They wait upon us, tend to our needs, or just make life in this place more convenient. Praise the Lord for precious souls who minister at night. 8/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night…” Ps.134.1 NIV
Consider those people who wait upon others at night. There are those humble souls who stack shelves with groceries while we sleep. Some patrol our streets that we may rest safely. Think of the young pregnant waitress who was up before dawn fixing a bacon and egg biscuit, working weekends or Sundays to assist our recreation and rest. There are those serving in hospitals, nursing homes, or sitting with the elderly, countless unassuming souls willing to work when no one else will. They wait upon us, tend to our needs, or just make life in this place more convenient. Praise the Lord for precious souls who minister at night. 8/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
Many a humble soul will be amazed to find...
...that the seed it sowed… in the dust of daily life, has blossomed into immortal flowers under the eye of the Lord. Harriet Beecher Stowe
“Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night…” Ps.134.1 NIV
Consider those people who wait upon others at night. There are those humble souls who stack shelves with groceries while we sleep. Some patrol our streets that we may rest safely. Think of the young pregnant waitress who was up before dawn fixing a bacon and egg biscuit, working weekends or Sundays to assist our recreation and rest. There are those serving in hospitals, nursing homes, or sitting with the elderly, countless unassuming souls willing to work when no one else will. They wait upon us, tend to our needs, or just make life in this place more convenient. Praise the Lord for precious souls who minister at night. 8/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night…” Ps.134.1 NIV
Consider those people who wait upon others at night. There are those humble souls who stack shelves with groceries while we sleep. Some patrol our streets that we may rest safely. Think of the young pregnant waitress who was up before dawn fixing a bacon and egg biscuit, working weekends or Sundays to assist our recreation and rest. There are those serving in hospitals, nursing homes, or sitting with the elderly, countless unassuming souls willing to work when no one else will. They wait upon us, tend to our needs, or just make life in this place more convenient. Praise the Lord for precious souls who minister at night. 8/3/2009 Conversations Within ts
Monday, August 3, 2009
“If you have come to help me, you are wasting your time. ..
But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” Lila Watson
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! Ps.133.1 NIV
The imagery in this Psalm of oil running down, and of dew descending, paints one clear benefit of unity. It is a refreshing grace flowing down from the Holy Spirit. God’s people are revived because they are continually stimulated to love and good works when they walk as one people. Unity is so much more than doctrinal agreement. It is a shared commitment to the life and well being of those in the Christian family. True unity is nothing less than a living community. Imagine the sense of tribal security when you know that your brothers and sisters are as committed to your life and concerns as they are their own. 8/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! Ps.133.1 NIV
The imagery in this Psalm of oil running down, and of dew descending, paints one clear benefit of unity. It is a refreshing grace flowing down from the Holy Spirit. God’s people are revived because they are continually stimulated to love and good works when they walk as one people. Unity is so much more than doctrinal agreement. It is a shared commitment to the life and well being of those in the Christian family. True unity is nothing less than a living community. Imagine the sense of tribal security when you know that your brothers and sisters are as committed to your life and concerns as they are their own. 8/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
“If you have come to help me, you are wasting your time. ..
But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” Lila Watson
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! Ps.133.1 NIV
The imagery in this Psalm of oil running down, and of dew descending, paints one clear benefit of unity. It is a refreshing grace flowing down from the Holy Spirit. God’s people are revived because they are continually stimulated to love and good works when they walk as one people. Unity is so much more than doctrinal agreement. It is a shared commitment to the life and well being of those in the Christian family. True unity is nothing less than a living community. Imagine the sense of tribal security when you know that your brothers and sisters are as committed to your life and concerns as they are their own. 8/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! Ps.133.1 NIV
The imagery in this Psalm of oil running down, and of dew descending, paints one clear benefit of unity. It is a refreshing grace flowing down from the Holy Spirit. God’s people are revived because they are continually stimulated to love and good works when they walk as one people. Unity is so much more than doctrinal agreement. It is a shared commitment to the life and well being of those in the Christian family. True unity is nothing less than a living community. Imagine the sense of tribal security when you know that your brothers and sisters are as committed to your life and concerns as they are their own. 8/1/2009 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, August 1, 2009
“Home - that blessed word, which opens to the human heart the most perfect glimpse of Heaven…” Lydia M. Child
“Here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.” Ps.132.14 NIV
Places do not always look the way we picture them nor do God’s promises when they come to pass. I am sure that no one under the old covenant would have pictured that God’s promise to sit enthroned forever in Israel to look the way it does today. He of course does in the hearts of people who hold allegiance not to modern state of Israel but to Jesus, the Son of David. I should think that most of the time our mental picture of what God is promising is a pocket-sized version of what God is actually has in store. Even now, our vision of Heaven is probably far from the actual experience that is coming to us. But not to worry, it will be greater not less than we have imagined. 7/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
Places do not always look the way we picture them nor do God’s promises when they come to pass. I am sure that no one under the old covenant would have pictured that God’s promise to sit enthroned forever in Israel to look the way it does today. He of course does in the hearts of people who hold allegiance not to modern state of Israel but to Jesus, the Son of David. I should think that most of the time our mental picture of what God is promising is a pocket-sized version of what God is actually has in store. Even now, our vision of Heaven is probably far from the actual experience that is coming to us. But not to worry, it will be greater not less than we have imagined. 7/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
“Home - that blessed word, which opens to the human heart the most perfect glimpse of Heaven…” Lydia M. Child
“Here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.” Ps.132.14 NIV
Places do not always look the way we picture them nor do God’s promises when they come to pass. I am sure that no one under the old covenant would have pictured that God’s promise to sit enthroned forever in Israel to look the way it does today. He of course does in the hearts of people who hold allegiance not to modern state of Israel but to Jesus, the Son of David. I should think that most of the time our mental picture of what God is promising is a pocket-sized version of what God is actually has in store. Even now, our vision of Heaven is probably far from the actual experience that is coming to us. But not to worry, it will be greater not less than we have imagined. 7/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
Places do not always look the way we picture them nor do God’s promises when they come to pass. I am sure that no one under the old covenant would have pictured that God’s promise to sit enthroned forever in Israel to look the way it does today. He of course does in the hearts of people who hold allegiance not to modern state of Israel but to Jesus, the Son of David. I should think that most of the time our mental picture of what God is promising is a pocket-sized version of what God is actually has in store. Even now, our vision of Heaven is probably far from the actual experience that is coming to us. But not to worry, it will be greater not less than we have imagined. 7/30/2009 Conversations Within ts
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)