"Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.” Jo.4 ESV
Most of us admit that it’s good to own up to the truth about your self. These honest moments are usually forced upon us but have greater benefit when we humbly and freely acknowledge them. But true humility doesn’t only own up to not doing well, humility is admitting what is true. Some of our most humble and honest moments are when we own up to those times we’ve done well. It seems to me that most honest and humble owning up was every time Jesus uttered the words, “I am.” I am the way the truth the life…I am the resurrection and the life; I who speak to you am he.” 4/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Friday, April 30, 2010
“A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said, would not be a great moral teacher.” C. S. Lewis
"Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.” Jo.4 ESV
Most of us admit that it’s good to own up to the truth about your self. These honest moments are usually forced upon us but have greater benefit when we humbly and freely acknowledge them. But true humility doesn’t only own up to not doing well, humility is admitting what is true. Some of our most humble and honest moments are when we own up to those times we’ve done well. It seems to me that most honest and humble owning up was every time Jesus uttered the words, “I am.” I am the way the truth the life…I am the resurrection and the life; I who speak to you am he.” 4/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
Most of us admit that it’s good to own up to the truth about your self. These honest moments are usually forced upon us but have greater benefit when we humbly and freely acknowledge them. But true humility doesn’t only own up to not doing well, humility is admitting what is true. Some of our most humble and honest moments are when we own up to those times we’ve done well. It seems to me that most honest and humble owning up was every time Jesus uttered the words, “I am.” I am the way the truth the life…I am the resurrection and the life; I who speak to you am he.” 4/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 29, 2010
“The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind, The answer is blowin' in the wind” Bob Dylan
“The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Jo.3 ESV
Many Christians, with good intent but poor effect, will often speak of whether such and such a person is going to hell or not. The truth is that none of us knows another person’s heart, nor do we know the extent of God’s Spirit working in them. And though there is certainly a Hell, it is not our place to say if a person is going there or not. Our place is to attend to our own faith and how well we exhibit the value of trusting Christ to others. I don’t think I have ever met anyone in whom God’s Spirit was not working. If we listen carefully, we can here the sound of the Wind even in questioning hearts. How else will people find the Answer, if they are not permitted, even encouraged to ask questions? 4/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
Many Christians, with good intent but poor effect, will often speak of whether such and such a person is going to hell or not. The truth is that none of us knows another person’s heart, nor do we know the extent of God’s Spirit working in them. And though there is certainly a Hell, it is not our place to say if a person is going there or not. Our place is to attend to our own faith and how well we exhibit the value of trusting Christ to others. I don’t think I have ever met anyone in whom God’s Spirit was not working. If we listen carefully, we can here the sound of the Wind even in questioning hearts. How else will people find the Answer, if they are not permitted, even encouraged to ask questions? 4/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind, The answer is blowin' in the wind” Bob Dylan
“The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Jo.3 ESV
Many Christians, with good intent but poor effect, will often speak of whether such and such a person is going to hell or not. The truth is that none of us knows another person’s heart, nor do we know the extent of God’s Spirit working in them. And though there is certainly a Hell, it is not our place to say if a person is going there or not. Our place is to attend to our own faith and how well we exhibit the value of trusting Christ to others. I don’t think I have ever met anyone in whom God’s Spirit was not working. If we listen carefully, we can here the sound of the Wind even in questioning hearts. How else will people find the Answer, if they are not permitted, even encouraged to ask questions? 4/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
Many Christians, with good intent but poor effect, will often speak of whether such and such a person is going to hell or not. The truth is that none of us knows another person’s heart, nor do we know the extent of God’s Spirit working in them. And though there is certainly a Hell, it is not our place to say if a person is going there or not. Our place is to attend to our own faith and how well we exhibit the value of trusting Christ to others. I don’t think I have ever met anyone in whom God’s Spirit was not working. If we listen carefully, we can here the sound of the Wind even in questioning hearts. How else will people find the Answer, if they are not permitted, even encouraged to ask questions? 4/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
No one can learn to ride a bicycle for you, but few, if any, learn without help.
“But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people.” Jo.2.24 ESV
We may be sure that there are matters that God would never leave to our charge just as there are things that must be. God knows when to trust us and when not to. There are things that concern our salvation that God alone must perform because if they were left up to us, we would surely perish. But there are aspects of the Christian life that God must leave to our care. One that I can think of is simply our love for Him, because for love to be love it must be freely given. This of course does not mean that He does not help us with our love for Him. He surely does that, for without Him we can do nothing. I think that when God leaves matters in our hands He does so precisely so that we will ask for His help, even if it is only to be encouraged. 4/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
We may be sure that there are matters that God would never leave to our charge just as there are things that must be. God knows when to trust us and when not to. There are things that concern our salvation that God alone must perform because if they were left up to us, we would surely perish. But there are aspects of the Christian life that God must leave to our care. One that I can think of is simply our love for Him, because for love to be love it must be freely given. This of course does not mean that He does not help us with our love for Him. He surely does that, for without Him we can do nothing. I think that when God leaves matters in our hands He does so precisely so that we will ask for His help, even if it is only to be encouraged. 4/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
No one can learn to ride a bicycle for you, but few, if any, learn without help.
“But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people.” Jo.2.24 ESV
We may be sure that there are matters that God would never leave to our charge just as there are things that must be. God knows when to trust us and when not to. There are things that concern our salvation that God alone must perform because if they were left up to us, we would surely perish. But there are aspects of the Christian life that God must leave to our care. One that I can think of is simply our love for Him, because for love to be love it must be freely given. This of course does not mean that He does not help us with our love for Him. He surely does that, for without Him we can do nothing. I think that when God leaves matters in our hands He does so precisely so that we will ask for His help, even if it is only to be encouraged. 4/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
We may be sure that there are matters that God would never leave to our charge just as there are things that must be. God knows when to trust us and when not to. There are things that concern our salvation that God alone must perform because if they were left up to us, we would surely perish. But there are aspects of the Christian life that God must leave to our care. One that I can think of is simply our love for Him, because for love to be love it must be freely given. This of course does not mean that He does not help us with our love for Him. He surely does that, for without Him we can do nothing. I think that when God leaves matters in our hands He does so precisely so that we will ask for His help, even if it is only to be encouraged. 4/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Not having enough is often God’s way of telling us that He is all we need.
And Jesus said to them, "How many loaves do you have?"
If asked about money a good many would say that there is never enough. This seems so foreign to the confident claim, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” When you think about it, seven loaves and a couple of fish were not enough either, at least in normal accounting terms. “Too much month at the end of the money;” or “too many mouths to feed,” however it is described, money or the lack is one of the chief concerns of life. “But little is much when God is in it;” that’s what been reported. I guess the question is if I have found this to be the case where I am concerned. Time and again, the little entrusted to me has proven to be more than enough, not in my hands but in His. What I can’t work out on paper God works out in practice, at least when He has the checkbook. 4/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
If asked about money a good many would say that there is never enough. This seems so foreign to the confident claim, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” When you think about it, seven loaves and a couple of fish were not enough either, at least in normal accounting terms. “Too much month at the end of the money;” or “too many mouths to feed,” however it is described, money or the lack is one of the chief concerns of life. “But little is much when God is in it;” that’s what been reported. I guess the question is if I have found this to be the case where I am concerned. Time and again, the little entrusted to me has proven to be more than enough, not in my hands but in His. What I can’t work out on paper God works out in practice, at least when He has the checkbook. 4/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
Not having enough is often God’s way of telling us that He is all we need.
And Jesus said to them, "How many loaves do you have?"
If asked about money a good many would say that there is never enough. This seems so foreign to the confident claim, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” When you think about it, seven loaves and a couple of fish were not enough either, at least in normal accounting terms. “Too much month at the end of the money;” or “too many mouths to feed,” however it is described, money or the lack is one of the chief concerns of life. “But little is much when God is in it;” that’s what been reported. I guess the question is if I have found this to be the case where I am concerned. Time and again, the little entrusted to me has proven to be more than enough, not in my hands but in His. What I can’t work out on paper God works out in practice, at least when He has the checkbook. 4/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
If asked about money a good many would say that there is never enough. This seems so foreign to the confident claim, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” When you think about it, seven loaves and a couple of fish were not enough either, at least in normal accounting terms. “Too much month at the end of the money;” or “too many mouths to feed,” however it is described, money or the lack is one of the chief concerns of life. “But little is much when God is in it;” that’s what been reported. I guess the question is if I have found this to be the case where I am concerned. Time and again, the little entrusted to me has proven to be more than enough, not in my hands but in His. What I can’t work out on paper God works out in practice, at least when He has the checkbook. 4/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 26, 2010
“Every Christian is to become a little Christ. The whole purpose of becoming a Christian is simply nothing else.” C. S. Lewis
“He came as a witness… that all might believe through him.” Jo.1.7
We all bear witness to something. We all melt into the collective voice of being light or darkness. We all advance the cause of good or evil, hope or despair, love or hate. Do I bear witness to selfishness or service? When I am scooped into the sift, will I find value in eyes of the Sifter. Will the whole of my words and life be catch or cull. My hope of course is that I have been infected, but a good infection one that spreads healing. I have been infected with the Life and even now, He spreads within. I expect nothing less than a total cure. 4/20/2010 Conversations Within ts
We all bear witness to something. We all melt into the collective voice of being light or darkness. We all advance the cause of good or evil, hope or despair, love or hate. Do I bear witness to selfishness or service? When I am scooped into the sift, will I find value in eyes of the Sifter. Will the whole of my words and life be catch or cull. My hope of course is that I have been infected, but a good infection one that spreads healing. I have been infected with the Life and even now, He spreads within. I expect nothing less than a total cure. 4/20/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Every Christian is to become a little Christ. The whole purpose of becoming a Christian is simply nothing else.” C. S. Lewis
“He came as a witness… that all might believe through him.” Jo.1.7
We all bear witness to something. We all melt into the collective voice of being light or darkness. We all advance the cause of good or evil, hope or despair, love or hate. Do I bear witness to selfishness or service? When I am scooped into the sift, will I find value in eyes of the Sifter. Will the whole of my words and life be catch or cull. My hope of course is that I have been infected, but a good infection one that spreads healing. I have been infected with the Life and even now, He spreads within. I expect nothing less than a total cure. 4/20/2010 Conversations Within ts
We all bear witness to something. We all melt into the collective voice of being light or darkness. We all advance the cause of good or evil, hope or despair, love or hate. Do I bear witness to selfishness or service? When I am scooped into the sift, will I find value in eyes of the Sifter. Will the whole of my words and life be catch or cull. My hope of course is that I have been infected, but a good infection one that spreads healing. I have been infected with the Life and even now, He spreads within. I expect nothing less than a total cure. 4/20/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Anyone who has hammered a nail with the butt end of a screwdriver understands how an infallible God can use fallible people.
“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.” Lk.6.40 ESV
So many things are settled in my own mind simply because I have chosen to be a disciple of Christ. When someone asks me my view of the Bible for instance, I try as much as possible to discover how Jesus viewed the Scriptures and adopt that same view. A liberal friend once asked me if I believed in a literal Adam. It appears that Jesus did, so for me the matter is settled. When someone challenges this thinking by saying, “But you’re using the Bible to determine what Jesus believed. I concede that I am. My faith in Christ is inseparably connected to my faith not in the frail and fallible disciples who passed along His life and teaching but in the power of an infallible God to use them. It seems that my teacher would have it no other way. 4/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
So many things are settled in my own mind simply because I have chosen to be a disciple of Christ. When someone asks me my view of the Bible for instance, I try as much as possible to discover how Jesus viewed the Scriptures and adopt that same view. A liberal friend once asked me if I believed in a literal Adam. It appears that Jesus did, so for me the matter is settled. When someone challenges this thinking by saying, “But you’re using the Bible to determine what Jesus believed. I concede that I am. My faith in Christ is inseparably connected to my faith not in the frail and fallible disciples who passed along His life and teaching but in the power of an infallible God to use them. It seems that my teacher would have it no other way. 4/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
Anyone who has hammered a nail with the butt end of a screwdriver understands how an infallible God can use fallible people.
“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.” Lk.6.40 ESV
So many things are settled in my own mind simply because I have chosen to be a disciple of Christ. When someone asks me my view of the Bible for instance, I try as much as possible to discover how Jesus viewed the Scriptures and adopt that same view. A liberal friend once asked me if I believed in a literal Adam. It appears that Jesus did, so for me the matter is settled. When someone challenges this thinking by saying, “But you’re using the Bible to determine what Jesus believed. I concede that I am. My faith in Christ is inseparably connected to my faith not in the frail and fallible disciples who passed along His life and teaching but in the power of an infallible God to use them. It seems that my teacher would have it no other way. 4/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
So many things are settled in my own mind simply because I have chosen to be a disciple of Christ. When someone asks me my view of the Bible for instance, I try as much as possible to discover how Jesus viewed the Scriptures and adopt that same view. A liberal friend once asked me if I believed in a literal Adam. It appears that Jesus did, so for me the matter is settled. When someone challenges this thinking by saying, “But you’re using the Bible to determine what Jesus believed. I concede that I am. My faith in Christ is inseparably connected to my faith not in the frail and fallible disciples who passed along His life and teaching but in the power of an infallible God to use them. It seems that my teacher would have it no other way. 4/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 23, 2010
In Search of Donkeys
In Search of Donkeys
1Sam.9.16 "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin..."
Two donkeys wander off and become lost. Saul is sent to look for them by his father. He wanders here and there. He wanders straight into the path of the prophet Samuel. All the while God is sending him to Samuel and for no small thing. He is to be the king of Israel. I am sure Saul made hundreds of choices on his search for the donkeys, what road to take, when to stop and eat, the people with whom he would speak. Every choice, every decision, every conversation, were all under the direction of God. Consider all that God did to bring Samuel and Saul together on the road. Why would we ever wonder about God's power to lead us. Saul searches for donkeys, God is leading him to be the King of Israel. The universe moves at the direction of the Almighty. Those who seek are assured that they will find. We should find comfort in the knowledge that God is able to use the smallest details of our lives to lead us into all His goodness. And, it is goodness that is promised to those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose. (Re posted by request)
1Sam.9.16 "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin..."
Two donkeys wander off and become lost. Saul is sent to look for them by his father. He wanders here and there. He wanders straight into the path of the prophet Samuel. All the while God is sending him to Samuel and for no small thing. He is to be the king of Israel. I am sure Saul made hundreds of choices on his search for the donkeys, what road to take, when to stop and eat, the people with whom he would speak. Every choice, every decision, every conversation, were all under the direction of God. Consider all that God did to bring Samuel and Saul together on the road. Why would we ever wonder about God's power to lead us. Saul searches for donkeys, God is leading him to be the King of Israel. The universe moves at the direction of the Almighty. Those who seek are assured that they will find. We should find comfort in the knowledge that God is able to use the smallest details of our lives to lead us into all His goodness. And, it is goodness that is promised to those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose. (Re posted by request)
In Search of Donkeys
In Search of Donkeys
1Sam.9.16 "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin..."
Two donkeys wander off and become lost. Saul is sent to look for them by his father. He wanders here and there. He wanders straight into the path of the prophet Samuel. All the while God is sending him to Samuel and for no small thing. He is to be the king of Israel. I am sure Saul made hundreds of choices on his search for the donkeys, what road to take, when to stop and eat, the people with whom he would speak. Every choice, every decision, every conversation, were all under the direction of God. Consider all that God did to bring Samuel and Saul together on the road. Why would we ever wonder about God's power to lead us. Saul searches for donkeys, God is leading him to be the King of Israel. The universe moves at the direction of the Almighty. Those who seek are assured that they will find. We should find comfort in the knowledge that God is able to use the smallest details of our lives to lead us into all His goodness. And, it is goodness that is promised to those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose. (Re posted by request)
1Sam.9.16 "About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin..."
Two donkeys wander off and become lost. Saul is sent to look for them by his father. He wanders here and there. He wanders straight into the path of the prophet Samuel. All the while God is sending him to Samuel and for no small thing. He is to be the king of Israel. I am sure Saul made hundreds of choices on his search for the donkeys, what road to take, when to stop and eat, the people with whom he would speak. Every choice, every decision, every conversation, were all under the direction of God. Consider all that God did to bring Samuel and Saul together on the road. Why would we ever wonder about God's power to lead us. Saul searches for donkeys, God is leading him to be the King of Israel. The universe moves at the direction of the Almighty. Those who seek are assured that they will find. We should find comfort in the knowledge that God is able to use the smallest details of our lives to lead us into all His goodness. And, it is goodness that is promised to those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose. (Re posted by request)
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Permission to read someone else's mail
In response to yesterday’s reflection, a friend wrote the following and suggested that I post my response. “Sorry but I'm feeling rather signless now and have for some time. Maybe you can give us some thoughts on rediscovering signs or seeing them.”
Thank you for your precious candor. Your sincerity and honesty is refreshing if only to remind me to measure my own. To answer your question my first thought is that the roadblock, flat tire or detour is the first sign. By it God is saying that His plan for us, at least for the present, is not in the direction we are going. It could be that He ultimately intends that we wind up there but His wisdom dictates that a delay is necessary; Joseph story is a great example. Sometimes God causes detours, sometimes we cause them. But both are well within the scope of His gracious dealings in us and for us. One young lady asked me why God had allowed her to fail her nursing entrance exam two times in a row since she believes that He led her to pursue nursing. I reminded her that her detour might be due the fact that she did not pay attention to her studies in high school. A friend of mine once said that ten miles out is often ten miles back. But to get back to your question. I think it is important when we encounter a road block that we reaffirm our desire for God's will and use the delay to humbly allow Him to search out any harmful ways in us. I also think it is important to keep moving. Which direction? Well, when we are surrendered, at lease to the best of our knowledge, it probably doesn't matter. God can always put up another road block if necessary and will do so if we expressly ask Him to and i mean ask Him in the spirit of discovering His will. As for the signs, they usually pop up along the way. When they do, whether we recognize them or not, the road we are traveling tends to hedge us one way or another.
Thank you for your precious candor. Your sincerity and honesty is refreshing if only to remind me to measure my own. To answer your question my first thought is that the roadblock, flat tire or detour is the first sign. By it God is saying that His plan for us, at least for the present, is not in the direction we are going. It could be that He ultimately intends that we wind up there but His wisdom dictates that a delay is necessary; Joseph story is a great example. Sometimes God causes detours, sometimes we cause them. But both are well within the scope of His gracious dealings in us and for us. One young lady asked me why God had allowed her to fail her nursing entrance exam two times in a row since she believes that He led her to pursue nursing. I reminded her that her detour might be due the fact that she did not pay attention to her studies in high school. A friend of mine once said that ten miles out is often ten miles back. But to get back to your question. I think it is important when we encounter a road block that we reaffirm our desire for God's will and use the delay to humbly allow Him to search out any harmful ways in us. I also think it is important to keep moving. Which direction? Well, when we are surrendered, at lease to the best of our knowledge, it probably doesn't matter. God can always put up another road block if necessary and will do so if we expressly ask Him to and i mean ask Him in the spirit of discovering His will. As for the signs, they usually pop up along the way. When they do, whether we recognize them or not, the road we are traveling tends to hedge us one way or another.
Permission to read someone else's mail
In response to yesterday’s reflection, a friend wrote the following and suggested that I post my response. “Sorry but I'm feeling rather signless now and have for some time. Maybe you can give us some thoughts on rediscovering signs or seeing them.”
Thank you for your precious candor. Your sincerity and honesty is refreshing if only to remind me to measure my own. To answer your question my first thought is that the roadblock, flat tire or detour is the first sign. By it God is saying that His plan for us, at least for the present, is not in the direction we are going. It could be that He ultimately intends that we wind up there but His wisdom dictates that a delay is necessary; Joseph story is a great example. Sometimes God causes detours, sometimes we cause them. But both are well within the scope of His gracious dealings in us and for us. One young lady asked me why God had allowed her to fail her nursing entrance exam two times in a row since she believes that He led her to pursue nursing. I reminded her that her detour might be due the fact that she did not pay attention to her studies in high school. A friend of mine once said that ten miles out is often ten miles back. But to get back to your question. I think it is important when we encounter a road block that we reaffirm our desire for God's will and use the delay to humbly allow Him to search out any harmful ways in us. I also think it is important to keep moving. Which direction? Well, when we are surrendered, at lease to the best of our knowledge, it probably doesn't matter. God can always put up another road block if necessary and will do so if we expressly ask Him to and i mean ask Him in the spirit of discovering His will. As for the signs, they usually pop up along the way. When they do, whether we recognize them or not, the road we are traveling tends to hedge us one way or another.
Thank you for your precious candor. Your sincerity and honesty is refreshing if only to remind me to measure my own. To answer your question my first thought is that the roadblock, flat tire or detour is the first sign. By it God is saying that His plan for us, at least for the present, is not in the direction we are going. It could be that He ultimately intends that we wind up there but His wisdom dictates that a delay is necessary; Joseph story is a great example. Sometimes God causes detours, sometimes we cause them. But both are well within the scope of His gracious dealings in us and for us. One young lady asked me why God had allowed her to fail her nursing entrance exam two times in a row since she believes that He led her to pursue nursing. I reminded her that her detour might be due the fact that she did not pay attention to her studies in high school. A friend of mine once said that ten miles out is often ten miles back. But to get back to your question. I think it is important when we encounter a road block that we reaffirm our desire for God's will and use the delay to humbly allow Him to search out any harmful ways in us. I also think it is important to keep moving. Which direction? Well, when we are surrendered, at lease to the best of our knowledge, it probably doesn't matter. God can always put up another road block if necessary and will do so if we expressly ask Him to and i mean ask Him in the spirit of discovering His will. As for the signs, they usually pop up along the way. When they do, whether we recognize them or not, the road we are traveling tends to hedge us one way or another.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Trusting God means you can enjoy the scenery even when taking a detour.
“Now when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you.” 1Sa 10:7
Roadblocks and detours are “cie la vie;” we should not only expect them but accept them. There is no profit in complaining or fretting over them; just take them as the come. It certainly makes it easier to accept them when we believe that we are being led by a most wise providence and that life’s detours are necessary for one reason or another. But it is one thing to expect delays and another to cause them. And, whether we did something to cause them or not, once detours come, it is better to be where you are, attend to the present with gratitude and grit and follow the signs. Oh yes, there will always be signs for anyone who looks for them. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Roadblocks and detours are “cie la vie;” we should not only expect them but accept them. There is no profit in complaining or fretting over them; just take them as the come. It certainly makes it easier to accept them when we believe that we are being led by a most wise providence and that life’s detours are necessary for one reason or another. But it is one thing to expect delays and another to cause them. And, whether we did something to cause them or not, once detours come, it is better to be where you are, attend to the present with gratitude and grit and follow the signs. Oh yes, there will always be signs for anyone who looks for them. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Trusting God means you can enjoy the scenery even when taking a detour.
“Now when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you.” 1Sa 10:7
Roadblocks and detours are “cie la vie;” we should not only expect them but accept them. There is no profit in complaining or fretting over them; just take them as the come. It certainly makes it easier to accept them when we believe that we are being led by a most wise providence and that life’s detours are necessary for one reason or another. But it is one thing to expect delays and another to cause them. And, whether we did something to cause them or not, once detours come, it is better to be where you are, attend to the present with gratitude and grit and follow the signs. Oh yes, there will always be signs for anyone who looks for them. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Roadblocks and detours are “cie la vie;” we should not only expect them but accept them. There is no profit in complaining or fretting over them; just take them as the come. It certainly makes it easier to accept them when we believe that we are being led by a most wise providence and that life’s detours are necessary for one reason or another. But it is one thing to expect delays and another to cause them. And, whether we did something to cause them or not, once detours come, it is better to be where you are, attend to the present with gratitude and grit and follow the signs. Oh yes, there will always be signs for anyone who looks for them. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
“I have discovered that the people who believe most strongly in the next life do the most good in the present one.” C.S. Lewis
“Set your affections on things above.” Col.3
Many things in life change value with the slightest turn of events. Consider the oft-told story of the woman who ran to her stateroom and grabbed two oranges ignoring her diamond jewelry as she hurried to a lifeboat on the Titanic. Crisis brings our values into focus. This is why the Spirit of God is always encouraging us to set our affections on the eternal state rather than our short-lived life in this campground. This does not mean that we neglect the affairs of everyday life. We redeem them with faith, hope and love. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Many things in life change value with the slightest turn of events. Consider the oft-told story of the woman who ran to her stateroom and grabbed two oranges ignoring her diamond jewelry as she hurried to a lifeboat on the Titanic. Crisis brings our values into focus. This is why the Spirit of God is always encouraging us to set our affections on the eternal state rather than our short-lived life in this campground. This does not mean that we neglect the affairs of everyday life. We redeem them with faith, hope and love. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
“I have discovered that the people who believe most strongly in the next life do the most good in the present one.” C.S. Lewis
“Set your affections on things above.” Col.3
Many things in life change value with the slightest turn of events. Consider the oft-told story of the woman who ran to her stateroom and grabbed two oranges ignoring her diamond jewelry as she hurried to a lifeboat on the Titanic. Crisis brings our values into focus. This is why the Spirit of God is always encouraging us to set our affections on the eternal state rather than our short-lived life in this campground. This does not mean that we neglect the affairs of everyday life. We redeem them with faith, hope and love. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Many things in life change value with the slightest turn of events. Consider the oft-told story of the woman who ran to her stateroom and grabbed two oranges ignoring her diamond jewelry as she hurried to a lifeboat on the Titanic. Crisis brings our values into focus. This is why the Spirit of God is always encouraging us to set our affections on the eternal state rather than our short-lived life in this campground. This does not mean that we neglect the affairs of everyday life. We redeem them with faith, hope and love. 4/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 19, 2010
It is the nature of water to seek the lowest place; it is the nature of grace to flow down into humble trusting hearts.
"Jesus answered, "It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Mat 15:26-27 ESV
Lord, there is so much to learn from what you abruptly said to the Canaanite women and what she humbly replied to You. Grace is not only undeserved, You are not obligated to show it. This makes me appreciate it more. Faith not only impresses You, You find it irresistible. And, things are not always as they appear and you sometimes appear harsh if only to provoke greater faith from us. 4/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
Lord, there is so much to learn from what you abruptly said to the Canaanite women and what she humbly replied to You. Grace is not only undeserved, You are not obligated to show it. This makes me appreciate it more. Faith not only impresses You, You find it irresistible. And, things are not always as they appear and you sometimes appear harsh if only to provoke greater faith from us. 4/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
It is the nature of water to seek the lowest place; it is the nature of grace to flow down into humble trusting hearts.
"Jesus answered, "It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Mat 15:26-27 ESV
Lord, there is so much to learn from what you abruptly said to the Canaanite women and what she humbly replied to You. Grace is not only undeserved, You are not obligated to show it. This makes me appreciate it more. Faith not only impresses You, You find it irresistible. And, things are not always as they appear and you sometimes appear harsh if only to provoke greater faith from us. 4/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
Lord, there is so much to learn from what you abruptly said to the Canaanite women and what she humbly replied to You. Grace is not only undeserved, You are not obligated to show it. This makes me appreciate it more. Faith not only impresses You, You find it irresistible. And, things are not always as they appear and you sometimes appear harsh if only to provoke greater faith from us. 4/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 17, 2010
"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing that's why we recommend it daily." Zig Ziglar
“My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction.” Pr.3.11 KJV
Christians are told to view all hardship as discipline and to see it as training rather than punishment. Because of this, we are encouraged to embrace discipline as the expression of God’s love. This doesn’t mean that every time life deals me a blow, God is beating me on the head. It does mean that He is using these blows, sometimes cause by our own foolishness, to deepen the image of Jesus in us. But as with all children, discipline is contingent on our response to it. If we do not allow it to train us, then life’s blows will be little more than painful and frustrating experiences. How do we allow it to train us? Listen to the instruction that comes along with it, and do what we’re told. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christians are told to view all hardship as discipline and to see it as training rather than punishment. Because of this, we are encouraged to embrace discipline as the expression of God’s love. This doesn’t mean that every time life deals me a blow, God is beating me on the head. It does mean that He is using these blows, sometimes cause by our own foolishness, to deepen the image of Jesus in us. But as with all children, discipline is contingent on our response to it. If we do not allow it to train us, then life’s blows will be little more than painful and frustrating experiences. How do we allow it to train us? Listen to the instruction that comes along with it, and do what we’re told. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing that's why we recommend it daily." Zig Ziglar
“My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction.” Pr.3.11 KJV
Christians are told to view all hardship as discipline and to see it as training rather than punishment. Because of this, we are encouraged to embrace discipline as the expression of God’s love. This doesn’t mean that every time life deals me a blow, God is beating me on the head. It does mean that He is using these blows, sometimes cause by our own foolishness, to deepen the image of Jesus in us. But as with all children, discipline is contingent on our response to it. If we do not allow it to train us, then life’s blows will be little more than painful and frustrating experiences. How do we allow it to train us? Listen to the instruction that comes along with it, and do what we’re told. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christians are told to view all hardship as discipline and to see it as training rather than punishment. Because of this, we are encouraged to embrace discipline as the expression of God’s love. This doesn’t mean that every time life deals me a blow, God is beating me on the head. It does mean that He is using these blows, sometimes cause by our own foolishness, to deepen the image of Jesus in us. But as with all children, discipline is contingent on our response to it. If we do not allow it to train us, then life’s blows will be little more than painful and frustrating experiences. How do we allow it to train us? Listen to the instruction that comes along with it, and do what we’re told. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 16, 2010
Christ is the mantra of the Most High.
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Pr.16.24 ESV
The relationship between the words of our mouth and the thoughts of our heart is so shared that that what passes between them passes both ways. We may reinforce negative thoughts by speaking negative words. But we may also interrupt negative thoughts by speaking positive words. No doubt, there is also a strong relationship between what we think and say and our mental and physical well-being. This means that good health maybe ruined or reinforced by what we think and say. Lord let my mantra be kind words, encouraging words, gracious words but most of all, Your words. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
The relationship between the words of our mouth and the thoughts of our heart is so shared that that what passes between them passes both ways. We may reinforce negative thoughts by speaking negative words. But we may also interrupt negative thoughts by speaking positive words. No doubt, there is also a strong relationship between what we think and say and our mental and physical well-being. This means that good health maybe ruined or reinforced by what we think and say. Lord let my mantra be kind words, encouraging words, gracious words but most of all, Your words. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christ is the mantra of the Most High.
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Pr.16.24 ESV
The relationship between the words of our mouth and the thoughts of our heart is so shared that that what passes between them passes both ways. We may reinforce negative thoughts by speaking negative words. But we may also interrupt negative thoughts by speaking positive words. No doubt, there is also a strong relationship between what we think and say and our mental and physical well-being. This means that good health maybe ruined or reinforced by what we think and say. Lord let my mantra be kind words, encouraging words, gracious words but most of all, Your words. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
The relationship between the words of our mouth and the thoughts of our heart is so shared that that what passes between them passes both ways. We may reinforce negative thoughts by speaking negative words. But we may also interrupt negative thoughts by speaking positive words. No doubt, there is also a strong relationship between what we think and say and our mental and physical well-being. This means that good health maybe ruined or reinforced by what we think and say. Lord let my mantra be kind words, encouraging words, gracious words but most of all, Your words. 4/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 15, 2010
“Positive Is How I Live,” US Virgin Islands
“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Pr.17.22 ESV
On a recent trip to the Caribbean, I was somewhat impressed by the positive candor of the islanders. They were able to turn a simple “Hello” into a whole conversation. I walked past one gentleman, nodded my head and offered the casual, “How are you?” He looked me square in the face and with thick Jamaican enthusiastically replied, “I am doing great! Are you able to say the same for yourself?”
My daughter bought an islander bracelet, which tries to capture the spirit of these laid-back people. “Positive is how I live.” Some common denominators of positive living; be grateful, be where you are and enjoy the mutual encouragement of friends. 4/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
On a recent trip to the Caribbean, I was somewhat impressed by the positive candor of the islanders. They were able to turn a simple “Hello” into a whole conversation. I walked past one gentleman, nodded my head and offered the casual, “How are you?” He looked me square in the face and with thick Jamaican enthusiastically replied, “I am doing great! Are you able to say the same for yourself?”
My daughter bought an islander bracelet, which tries to capture the spirit of these laid-back people. “Positive is how I live.” Some common denominators of positive living; be grateful, be where you are and enjoy the mutual encouragement of friends. 4/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Positive Is How I Live,” US Virgin Islands
“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Pr.17.22 ESV
On a recent trip to the Caribbean, I was somewhat impressed by the positive candor of the islanders. They were able to turn a simple “Hello” into a whole conversation. I walked past one gentleman, nodded my head and offered the casual, “How are you?” He looked me square in the face and with thick Jamaican enthusiastically replied, “I am doing great! Are you able to say the same for yourself?”
My daughter bought an islander bracelet, which tries to capture the spirit of these laid-back people. “Positive is how I live.” Some common denominators of positive living; be grateful, be where you are and enjoy the mutual encouragement of friends. 4/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
On a recent trip to the Caribbean, I was somewhat impressed by the positive candor of the islanders. They were able to turn a simple “Hello” into a whole conversation. I walked past one gentleman, nodded my head and offered the casual, “How are you?” He looked me square in the face and with thick Jamaican enthusiastically replied, “I am doing great! Are you able to say the same for yourself?”
My daughter bought an islander bracelet, which tries to capture the spirit of these laid-back people. “Positive is how I live.” Some common denominators of positive living; be grateful, be where you are and enjoy the mutual encouragement of friends. 4/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
“Eat right, exercise regularly, die anyway.” Author Unknown
“…his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.” 2Ti.1.9 ESV
I may not always know where I am going but God certainly does. Nothing is uncertain where God is concerned. God not only knows our future, He has already made every provision for it. A friend asked me this morning what my plans were when our health started failing. Now I do not advocate ignoring health concerns or preparations for it, but I am being persuaded that no detail has been overlooked where our well-being is concerned. This is true, though we may not be able to wrap our minds around it, even if we were to die cold, alone and naked. This is something of what it means to walk by faith and not by sight. Jesus asks us to believe that He was forsaken so that we wouldn’t be. 4/9/2010 Conversations Within ts
I may not always know where I am going but God certainly does. Nothing is uncertain where God is concerned. God not only knows our future, He has already made every provision for it. A friend asked me this morning what my plans were when our health started failing. Now I do not advocate ignoring health concerns or preparations for it, but I am being persuaded that no detail has been overlooked where our well-being is concerned. This is true, though we may not be able to wrap our minds around it, even if we were to die cold, alone and naked. This is something of what it means to walk by faith and not by sight. Jesus asks us to believe that He was forsaken so that we wouldn’t be. 4/9/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Eat right, exercise regularly, die anyway.” Author Unknown
“…his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.” 2Ti.1.9 ESV
I may not always know where I am going but God certainly does. Nothing is uncertain where God is concerned. God not only knows our future, He has already made every provision for it. A friend asked me this morning what my plans were when our health started failing. Now I do not advocate ignoring health concerns or preparations for it, but I am being persuaded that no detail has been overlooked where our well-being is concerned. This is true, though we may not be able to wrap our minds around it, even if we were to die cold, alone and naked. This is something of what it means to walk by faith and not by sight. Jesus asks us to believe that He was forsaken so that we wouldn’t be. 4/9/2010 Conversations Within ts
I may not always know where I am going but God certainly does. Nothing is uncertain where God is concerned. God not only knows our future, He has already made every provision for it. A friend asked me this morning what my plans were when our health started failing. Now I do not advocate ignoring health concerns or preparations for it, but I am being persuaded that no detail has been overlooked where our well-being is concerned. This is true, though we may not be able to wrap our minds around it, even if we were to die cold, alone and naked. This is something of what it means to walk by faith and not by sight. Jesus asks us to believe that He was forsaken so that we wouldn’t be. 4/9/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
“Act as if you have already achieved your goal and it is yours.” Dr. Robert Anthony
“Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.” 1Jo.3.2 ESV
If all the things said about us in the Scriptures are true, especially those things said about being in Christ, then why are we still so unlike Him? I think the answer, which is also told us in the Scriptures, is that it has “not yet appeared what we shall be.” We are in an already but not yet state very much like someone who is elected President in November but must wait on inauguration day in January before they experience everything it means to be President. There are many things said about us in glory that have yet to come to us. In Christ, the direction of everything in our lives has changed. Our inauguration tomorrow is certain; we might as well live like it as best we can today. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
If all the things said about us in the Scriptures are true, especially those things said about being in Christ, then why are we still so unlike Him? I think the answer, which is also told us in the Scriptures, is that it has “not yet appeared what we shall be.” We are in an already but not yet state very much like someone who is elected President in November but must wait on inauguration day in January before they experience everything it means to be President. There are many things said about us in glory that have yet to come to us. In Christ, the direction of everything in our lives has changed. Our inauguration tomorrow is certain; we might as well live like it as best we can today. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Act as if you have already achieved your goal and it is yours.” Dr. Robert Anthony
“Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.” 1Jo.3.2 ESV
If all the things said about us in the Scriptures are true, especially those things said about being in Christ, then why are we still so unlike Him? I think the answer, which is also told us in the Scriptures, is that it has “not yet appeared what we shall be.” We are in an already but not yet state very much like someone who is elected President in November but must wait on inauguration day in January before they experience everything it means to be President. There are many things said about us in glory that have yet to come to us. In Christ, the direction of everything in our lives has changed. Our inauguration tomorrow is certain; we might as well live like it as best we can today. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
If all the things said about us in the Scriptures are true, especially those things said about being in Christ, then why are we still so unlike Him? I think the answer, which is also told us in the Scriptures, is that it has “not yet appeared what we shall be.” We are in an already but not yet state very much like someone who is elected President in November but must wait on inauguration day in January before they experience everything it means to be President. There are many things said about us in glory that have yet to come to us. In Christ, the direction of everything in our lives has changed. Our inauguration tomorrow is certain; we might as well live like it as best we can today. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 12, 2010
“Faith is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted in spite of your changing moods” C.S. Lewis
“Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live…” Jo.11.25 ESV
True faith demands that we believe in Christ on many levels--all of them essentially a transfer of trust. This is not to say that we transfer reason to some blind faith rather our reason directs us to transfer trust to what is truly reliable. We transfer our trust from our own flawed works to His perfect accomplishments so that God may justify us. We stop trusting our own understanding and put our trust in His wisdom. We reassign our values from things temporal to things eternal. We relocate our faith in a person not in religion. We stop living our way and start trusting His. The transfer of trust is the critical difference between the belief of demons that Christ is the Son of God and the belief of disciples who trust the Son of God with all their hopes and dreams. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
True faith demands that we believe in Christ on many levels--all of them essentially a transfer of trust. This is not to say that we transfer reason to some blind faith rather our reason directs us to transfer trust to what is truly reliable. We transfer our trust from our own flawed works to His perfect accomplishments so that God may justify us. We stop trusting our own understanding and put our trust in His wisdom. We reassign our values from things temporal to things eternal. We relocate our faith in a person not in religion. We stop living our way and start trusting His. The transfer of trust is the critical difference between the belief of demons that Christ is the Son of God and the belief of disciples who trust the Son of God with all their hopes and dreams. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Faith is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted in spite of your changing moods” C.S. Lewis
“Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live…” Jo.11.25 ESV
True faith demands that we believe in Christ on many levels--all of them essentially a transfer of trust. This is not to say that we transfer reason to some blind faith rather our reason directs us to transfer trust to what is truly reliable. We transfer our trust from our own flawed works to His perfect accomplishments so that God may justify us. We stop trusting our own understanding and put our trust in His wisdom. We reassign our values from things temporal to things eternal. We relocate our faith in a person not in religion. We stop living our way and start trusting His. The transfer of trust is the critical difference between the belief of demons that Christ is the Son of God and the belief of disciples who trust the Son of God with all their hopes and dreams. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
True faith demands that we believe in Christ on many levels--all of them essentially a transfer of trust. This is not to say that we transfer reason to some blind faith rather our reason directs us to transfer trust to what is truly reliable. We transfer our trust from our own flawed works to His perfect accomplishments so that God may justify us. We stop trusting our own understanding and put our trust in His wisdom. We reassign our values from things temporal to things eternal. We relocate our faith in a person not in religion. We stop living our way and start trusting His. The transfer of trust is the critical difference between the belief of demons that Christ is the Son of God and the belief of disciples who trust the Son of God with all their hopes and dreams. 4/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 10, 2010
"Marriage is made in heaven, but so is thunder and lightning." Anonymous
“but those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage…” Lk.20.35 ESV
I once asked Brenda that since Jesus said there is no marriage in Heaven, would she mind hanging out together the first thousand years or so. We do not need to be concerned that there is no marriage in Heaven. We do not need to be concerned if there will be sex or chocolate or any other temporal enjoyment. When we look at the beauty of God in the face of Christ it is easy to surmise that the Lord who created us to enjoy chocolate can recreate us to enjoy whatever He has prepared for us in glory. It comforts me to know that Jesus speaks so matter of factly about a place I have never seen. 4/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
I once asked Brenda that since Jesus said there is no marriage in Heaven, would she mind hanging out together the first thousand years or so. We do not need to be concerned that there is no marriage in Heaven. We do not need to be concerned if there will be sex or chocolate or any other temporal enjoyment. When we look at the beauty of God in the face of Christ it is easy to surmise that the Lord who created us to enjoy chocolate can recreate us to enjoy whatever He has prepared for us in glory. It comforts me to know that Jesus speaks so matter of factly about a place I have never seen. 4/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
"Marriage is made in heaven, but so is thunder and lightning." Anonymous
“but those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage…” Lk.20.35 ESV
I once asked Brenda that since Jesus said there is no marriage in Heaven, would she mind hanging out together the first thousand years or so. We do not need to be concerned that there is no marriage in Heaven. We do not need to be concerned if there will be sex or chocolate or any other temporal enjoyment. When we look at the beauty of God in the face of Christ it is easy to surmise that the Lord who created us to enjoy chocolate can recreate us to enjoy whatever He has prepared for us in glory. It comforts me to know that Jesus speaks so matter of factly about a place I have never seen. 4/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
I once asked Brenda that since Jesus said there is no marriage in Heaven, would she mind hanging out together the first thousand years or so. We do not need to be concerned that there is no marriage in Heaven. We do not need to be concerned if there will be sex or chocolate or any other temporal enjoyment. When we look at the beauty of God in the face of Christ it is easy to surmise that the Lord who created us to enjoy chocolate can recreate us to enjoy whatever He has prepared for us in glory. It comforts me to know that Jesus speaks so matter of factly about a place I have never seen. 4/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 9, 2010
Caution wet canvas!
“He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Phil.1.6 ESV
I was scouring the net the other day when I ran across a forum titled “Wet Canvas.” I didn’t really pay much attention to the topics being discussed but I really liked the imagery captured by the title. I am very much a wet canvas, a work in progress. We all are. Jesus told us that His Father is the Gardener; I think Artist would do just as well. God is painting my life. The brush strokes of His hand shape my thoughts, and actions. The paint isn’t dry because I’m not finished but He assures each of us that He will certainly finish what He has started. I am pretty sure He is painting a portrait. It’s not difficult to guess whose. 4/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
I was scouring the net the other day when I ran across a forum titled “Wet Canvas.” I didn’t really pay much attention to the topics being discussed but I really liked the imagery captured by the title. I am very much a wet canvas, a work in progress. We all are. Jesus told us that His Father is the Gardener; I think Artist would do just as well. God is painting my life. The brush strokes of His hand shape my thoughts, and actions. The paint isn’t dry because I’m not finished but He assures each of us that He will certainly finish what He has started. I am pretty sure He is painting a portrait. It’s not difficult to guess whose. 4/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
Caution wet canvas!
“He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Phil.1.6 ESV
I was scouring the net the other day when I ran across a forum titled “Wet Canvas.” I didn’t really pay much attention to the topics being discussed but I really liked the imagery captured by the title. I am very much a wet canvas, a work in progress. We all are. Jesus told us that His Father is the Gardener; I think Artist would do just as well. God is painting my life. The brush strokes of His hand shape my thoughts, and actions. The paint isn’t dry because I’m not finished but He assures each of us that He will certainly finish what He has started. I am pretty sure He is painting a portrait. It’s not difficult to guess whose. 4/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
I was scouring the net the other day when I ran across a forum titled “Wet Canvas.” I didn’t really pay much attention to the topics being discussed but I really liked the imagery captured by the title. I am very much a wet canvas, a work in progress. We all are. Jesus told us that His Father is the Gardener; I think Artist would do just as well. God is painting my life. The brush strokes of His hand shape my thoughts, and actions. The paint isn’t dry because I’m not finished but He assures each of us that He will certainly finish what He has started. I am pretty sure He is painting a portrait. It’s not difficult to guess whose. 4/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 8, 2010
“Our strengths create competition, but our weaknesses create community.” Rick Warren
“The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Mt.26.41 ESV
I have heard these words of Jesus used in conversation, in movies, often poking fun at someone. The truth is that just everybody relates to His poignant description, usually spoken after some personal failing, and our failings often taunt us. But I think it healthy for us to accept that as long as we reside in this mortal flesh we will feel this way from time to time. It seems expedient that we make our peace that there will be no peace with our fallen state. Indeed this enemy serves in several ways; one is to find strength in numbers and two it strengthens our longing to go home. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
I have heard these words of Jesus used in conversation, in movies, often poking fun at someone. The truth is that just everybody relates to His poignant description, usually spoken after some personal failing, and our failings often taunt us. But I think it healthy for us to accept that as long as we reside in this mortal flesh we will feel this way from time to time. It seems expedient that we make our peace that there will be no peace with our fallen state. Indeed this enemy serves in several ways; one is to find strength in numbers and two it strengthens our longing to go home. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Our strengths create competition, but our weaknesses create community.” Rick Warren
“The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Mt.26.41 ESV
I have heard these words of Jesus used in conversation, in movies, often poking fun at someone. The truth is that just everybody relates to His poignant description, usually spoken after some personal failing, and our failings often taunt us. But I think it healthy for us to accept that as long as we reside in this mortal flesh we will feel this way from time to time. It seems expedient that we make our peace that there will be no peace with our fallen state. Indeed this enemy serves in several ways; one is to find strength in numbers and two it strengthens our longing to go home. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
I have heard these words of Jesus used in conversation, in movies, often poking fun at someone. The truth is that just everybody relates to His poignant description, usually spoken after some personal failing, and our failings often taunt us. But I think it healthy for us to accept that as long as we reside in this mortal flesh we will feel this way from time to time. It seems expedient that we make our peace that there will be no peace with our fallen state. Indeed this enemy serves in several ways; one is to find strength in numbers and two it strengthens our longing to go home. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
“The union between the Father and the Son is such a live concrete thing that this union itself is also a Person.” C. S. Lewis
“The union between the Father and the Son is such a live concrete thing that this union itself is also a Person.” C. S. Lewis
“…that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us.” Jo.17.21 ESV
Whatever oneness exists between the Father and His Son is the prayer of Jesus for us. The Spirit appears to be the agent that makes this possible. Incredibly, He is sent to live in us for the expressed purpose that we might live in them. The oneness that results from this union is described in the Scripture as the body of Christ. All the individual members are joined in such a way that distinctiveness is not lost but a single unity is created. We are the hands, and feet and mouth of Christ. We are His presence in the world. Every Christian would do well to remember that when we walk into a room Christ presence in us has walked into the room. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
“…that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us.” Jo.17.21 ESV
Whatever oneness exists between the Father and His Son is the prayer of Jesus for us. The Spirit appears to be the agent that makes this possible. Incredibly, He is sent to live in us for the expressed purpose that we might live in them. The oneness that results from this union is described in the Scripture as the body of Christ. All the individual members are joined in such a way that distinctiveness is not lost but a single unity is created. We are the hands, and feet and mouth of Christ. We are His presence in the world. Every Christian would do well to remember that when we walk into a room Christ presence in us has walked into the room. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The union between the Father and the Son is such a live concrete thing that this union itself is also a Person.” C. S. Lewis
“The union between the Father and the Son is such a live concrete thing that this union itself is also a Person.” C. S. Lewis
“…that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us.” Jo.17.21 ESV
Whatever oneness exists between the Father and His Son is the prayer of Jesus for us. The Spirit appears to be the agent that makes this possible. Incredibly, He is sent to live in us for the expressed purpose that we might live in them. The oneness that results from this union is described in the Scripture as the body of Christ. All the individual members are joined in such a way that distinctiveness is not lost but a single unity is created. We are the hands, and feet and mouth of Christ. We are His presence in the world. Every Christian would do well to remember that when we walk into a room Christ presence in us has walked into the room. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
“…that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us.” Jo.17.21 ESV
Whatever oneness exists between the Father and His Son is the prayer of Jesus for us. The Spirit appears to be the agent that makes this possible. Incredibly, He is sent to live in us for the expressed purpose that we might live in them. The oneness that results from this union is described in the Scripture as the body of Christ. All the individual members are joined in such a way that distinctiveness is not lost but a single unity is created. We are the hands, and feet and mouth of Christ. We are His presence in the world. Every Christian would do well to remember that when we walk into a room Christ presence in us has walked into the room. 4/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
“Hope is but the dream of those that wake”
Peace to all of you who are in Christ. 1Pe.5.14 ESV
Spirit of Christ, wake me to the realities of being in Christ—that I am in Him now as Noah was in the ark, that being in Him is to belong to the fraternity of His suffering but also to share His glory. Impress upon us that to be in Christ is to be marked with mercy, an immigrant citizen of a spiritual kingdom, adopted into royalty not to be served but to serve. Lord let me wake to the realities of being in Christ, and then, to remain awake. 3/30/2010 Conversations Within ts
Spirit of Christ, wake me to the realities of being in Christ—that I am in Him now as Noah was in the ark, that being in Him is to belong to the fraternity of His suffering but also to share His glory. Impress upon us that to be in Christ is to be marked with mercy, an immigrant citizen of a spiritual kingdom, adopted into royalty not to be served but to serve. Lord let me wake to the realities of being in Christ, and then, to remain awake. 3/30/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Hope is but the dream of those that wake”
Peace to all of you who are in Christ. 1Pe.5.14 ESV
Spirit of Christ, wake me to the realities of being in Christ—that I am in Him now as Noah was in the ark, that being in Him is to belong to the fraternity of His suffering but also to share His glory. Impress upon us that to be in Christ is to be marked with mercy, an immigrant citizen of a spiritual kingdom, adopted into royalty not to be served but to serve. Lord let me wake to the realities of being in Christ, and then, to remain awake. 3/30/2010 Conversations Within ts
Spirit of Christ, wake me to the realities of being in Christ—that I am in Him now as Noah was in the ark, that being in Him is to belong to the fraternity of His suffering but also to share His glory. Impress upon us that to be in Christ is to be marked with mercy, an immigrant citizen of a spiritual kingdom, adopted into royalty not to be served but to serve. Lord let me wake to the realities of being in Christ, and then, to remain awake. 3/30/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, April 5, 2010
“Die before you die. There’s no chance after.” C. S. Lewis
“For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.“ 1Co.15.22 ESV
I know very well what it is to be in Adam. In the grand scheme of things, I am just beginning to experience what it is to be in Christ. Condemned by the first, pardoned by the second, I am a prisoner set free but still not sure what freedom means. I am told that it has not yet appeared what we shall be. That’s for sure! I still have more dying to do before my final resurrection. Lord Jesus, I only ask that as we put the old man to death and that many times during the day, that I experience more of the life that is coming to me when I finally know the death of dying. Dance with me now risen Lord. 3/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
I know very well what it is to be in Adam. In the grand scheme of things, I am just beginning to experience what it is to be in Christ. Condemned by the first, pardoned by the second, I am a prisoner set free but still not sure what freedom means. I am told that it has not yet appeared what we shall be. That’s for sure! I still have more dying to do before my final resurrection. Lord Jesus, I only ask that as we put the old man to death and that many times during the day, that I experience more of the life that is coming to me when I finally know the death of dying. Dance with me now risen Lord. 3/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Die before you die. There’s no chance after.” C. S. Lewis
“For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.“ 1Co.15.22 ESV
I know very well what it is to be in Adam. In the grand scheme of things, I am just beginning to experience what it is to be in Christ. Condemned by the first, pardoned by the second, I am a prisoner set free but still not sure what freedom means. I am told that it has not yet appeared what we shall be. That’s for sure! I still have more dying to do before my final resurrection. Lord Jesus, I only ask that as we put the old man to death and that many times during the day, that I experience more of the life that is coming to me when I finally know the death of dying. Dance with me now risen Lord. 3/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
I know very well what it is to be in Adam. In the grand scheme of things, I am just beginning to experience what it is to be in Christ. Condemned by the first, pardoned by the second, I am a prisoner set free but still not sure what freedom means. I am told that it has not yet appeared what we shall be. That’s for sure! I still have more dying to do before my final resurrection. Lord Jesus, I only ask that as we put the old man to death and that many times during the day, that I experience more of the life that is coming to me when I finally know the death of dying. Dance with me now risen Lord. 3/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
Sunday, April 4, 2010
…he was raised on the third day. 1Co15.4
…he was raised on the third day. 1Co15.4
Let the celebration begin! 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
Let the celebration begin! 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
…he was raised on the third day. 1Co15.4
…he was raised on the third day. 1Co15.4
Let the celebration begin! 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
Let the celebration begin! 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, April 3, 2010
“He was buried.” 1Co15.4
“He was buried.” 1Co15.4
The eternal seed was planted. The Christmas present delicately wrapped. The cobbler put in the oven. The wine bottled. The treasure buried. The lights turned out for the surprise party. The curtain closed for the final call. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
The eternal seed was planted. The Christmas present delicately wrapped. The cobbler put in the oven. The wine bottled. The treasure buried. The lights turned out for the surprise party. The curtain closed for the final call. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
“He was buried.” 1Co15.4
“He was buried.” 1Co15.4
The eternal seed was planted. The Christmas present delicately wrapped. The cobbler put in the oven. The wine bottled. The treasure buried. The lights turned out for the surprise party. The curtain closed for the final call. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
The eternal seed was planted. The Christmas present delicately wrapped. The cobbler put in the oven. The wine bottled. The treasure buried. The lights turned out for the surprise party. The curtain closed for the final call. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, April 2, 2010
“Christ died for our sins…” 1Co.15.3 ESV
“Christ died for our sins…” 1Co.15.3 ESV
His hour came, Christmas concluded, the agreement accomplished, justice and mercy merged. All debts covered, the curtain torn, the chasm bridged the road paved. Every sacrifice colored red, a thousand stories made clear, a thousand myths married reality. And death, death was lured into ambush. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
His hour came, Christmas concluded, the agreement accomplished, justice and mercy merged. All debts covered, the curtain torn, the chasm bridged the road paved. Every sacrifice colored red, a thousand stories made clear, a thousand myths married reality. And death, death was lured into ambush. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Christ died for our sins…” 1Co.15.3 ESV
“Christ died for our sins…” 1Co.15.3 ESV
His hour came, Christmas concluded, the agreement accomplished, justice and mercy merged. All debts covered, the curtain torn, the chasm bridged the road paved. Every sacrifice colored red, a thousand stories made clear, a thousand myths married reality. And death, death was lured into ambush. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
His hour came, Christmas concluded, the agreement accomplished, justice and mercy merged. All debts covered, the curtain torn, the chasm bridged the road paved. Every sacrifice colored red, a thousand stories made clear, a thousand myths married reality. And death, death was lured into ambush. 4/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
Sharing is the religion of good relationships.
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” Ja.1.27
Christians often speak of Christianity not as a religion but as a relationship. This does not mean that there are no religious aspects to our relationship with God. There certain are and should be as with any relationship. I religiously tell my wife that I love her; we religiously practice certain activities each day. The essence of our relationship is that we share. Sharing is the religion of our relationship. Christ invites us to share with Him and to take up his concerns for others. He would bind us to Him by uniting us to each other. 3/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christians often speak of Christianity not as a religion but as a relationship. This does not mean that there are no religious aspects to our relationship with God. There certain are and should be as with any relationship. I religiously tell my wife that I love her; we religiously practice certain activities each day. The essence of our relationship is that we share. Sharing is the religion of our relationship. Christ invites us to share with Him and to take up his concerns for others. He would bind us to Him by uniting us to each other. 3/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
Sharing is the religion of good relationships.
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” Ja.1.27
Christians often speak of Christianity not as a religion but as a relationship. This does not mean that there are no religious aspects to our relationship with God. There certain are and should be as with any relationship. I religiously tell my wife that I love her; we religiously practice certain activities each day. The essence of our relationship is that we share. Sharing is the religion of our relationship. Christ invites us to share with Him and to take up his concerns for others. He would bind us to Him by uniting us to each other. 3/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christians often speak of Christianity not as a religion but as a relationship. This does not mean that there are no religious aspects to our relationship with God. There certain are and should be as with any relationship. I religiously tell my wife that I love her; we religiously practice certain activities each day. The essence of our relationship is that we share. Sharing is the religion of our relationship. Christ invites us to share with Him and to take up his concerns for others. He would bind us to Him by uniting us to each other. 3/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, April 1, 2010
...but it is to the one who endures that the final victory comes.”
Siddhārtha Gautama (Buddha)
“If we endure, we will also reign with him…” 2Ti.2.12
Enduring obedience is as important as immediate obedience. What good is it to start but not to finish? A climbing buddy and I once discussed the number of people who have died climbing the world highest mountains. My friend commented that when climbers reach the top, they are only half way. Some spend all their energy trying to summit and have nothing left to get back down. Endurance has a pacing quality to it, one that requires stability of spirit rather than the inconsistencies of living by one’s emotions. Personal pep-rallies will only carry us so far; itis better to have an experienced climbing companion. This is precisely why Christ gave us His Spirit. 3/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
Siddhārtha Gautama (Buddha)
“If we endure, we will also reign with him…” 2Ti.2.12
Enduring obedience is as important as immediate obedience. What good is it to start but not to finish? A climbing buddy and I once discussed the number of people who have died climbing the world highest mountains. My friend commented that when climbers reach the top, they are only half way. Some spend all their energy trying to summit and have nothing left to get back down. Endurance has a pacing quality to it, one that requires stability of spirit rather than the inconsistencies of living by one’s emotions. Personal pep-rallies will only carry us so far; itis better to have an experienced climbing companion. This is precisely why Christ gave us His Spirit. 3/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
...but it is to the one who endures that the final victory comes.”
Siddhārtha Gautama (Buddha)
“If we endure, we will also reign with him…” 2Ti.2.12
Enduring obedience is as important as immediate obedience. What good is it to start but not to finish? A climbing buddy and I once discussed the number of people who have died climbing the world highest mountains. My friend commented that when climbers reach the top, they are only half way. Some spend all their energy trying to summit and have nothing left to get back down. Endurance has a pacing quality to it, one that requires stability of spirit rather than the inconsistencies of living by one’s emotions. Personal pep-rallies will only carry us so far; itis better to have an experienced climbing companion. This is precisely why Christ gave us His Spirit. 3/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
Siddhārtha Gautama (Buddha)
“If we endure, we will also reign with him…” 2Ti.2.12
Enduring obedience is as important as immediate obedience. What good is it to start but not to finish? A climbing buddy and I once discussed the number of people who have died climbing the world highest mountains. My friend commented that when climbers reach the top, they are only half way. Some spend all their energy trying to summit and have nothing left to get back down. Endurance has a pacing quality to it, one that requires stability of spirit rather than the inconsistencies of living by one’s emotions. Personal pep-rallies will only carry us so far; itis better to have an experienced climbing companion. This is precisely why Christ gave us His Spirit. 3/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
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