“A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great.” Prov.18 ESV
I suppose one could understand these words to reference bribing your way into the graces of an important person. This is not to say that God’s word approves such behavior; He cautions us of the way things work in this place. But another way of looking at these words is that when the value of a person’s service is deemed a gift, people of note usually take note. This is why we see presidents inviting gifted people to attend White House functions. Everyone likes to be in the company of people whose very presence communicates some grace, some gift. Some people see themselves as God’s gift to humanity; others truly are and are because they continually offer themselves on the altar of service. 6/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
What we are is God's gift to us. What we become is our gift to God. ~Eleanor Powell
“A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great.” Prov.18 ESV
I suppose one could understand these words to reference bribing your way into the graces of an important person. This is not to say that God’s word approves such behavior; He cautions us of the way things work in this place. But another way of looking at these words is that when the value of a person’s service is deemed a gift, people of note usually take note. This is why we see presidents inviting gifted people to attend White House functions. Everyone likes to be in the company of people whose very presence communicates some grace, some gift. Some people see themselves as God’s gift to humanity; others truly are and are because they continually offer themselves on the altar of service. 6/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
I suppose one could understand these words to reference bribing your way into the graces of an important person. This is not to say that God’s word approves such behavior; He cautions us of the way things work in this place. But another way of looking at these words is that when the value of a person’s service is deemed a gift, people of note usually take note. This is why we see presidents inviting gifted people to attend White House functions. Everyone likes to be in the company of people whose very presence communicates some grace, some gift. Some people see themselves as God’s gift to humanity; others truly are and are because they continually offer themselves on the altar of service. 6/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left...
...and could say, "I used everything you gave me.” Erma Bombeck
“But each has his own gift from God.” ICor.7 ESV
God has created every person with the potential to be a gift to the world. We can rightly say then that everyone is gifted person. I am sure God does this as a means of providing our needs and joining us together in service. We may not be equally endowed but each endowment is equally needed in the world. What happens when a person refuses to use or develop their gifts, or is has been hindered from doing so? Not only does that individual miss a large part of their purpose in life but the rest of humanity is robbed of the singular grace God intended to pass to us through them. Squandered talent may be the reason we have no cure for cancer or why we are still addicted to petroleum products, or why millions still starve. Each of us should consider if people are suffering because I am not using the gifts entrusted to me or if I am hindering others from using theirs. 6/24/2010 Conversations Within ts
“But each has his own gift from God.” ICor.7 ESV
God has created every person with the potential to be a gift to the world. We can rightly say then that everyone is gifted person. I am sure God does this as a means of providing our needs and joining us together in service. We may not be equally endowed but each endowment is equally needed in the world. What happens when a person refuses to use or develop their gifts, or is has been hindered from doing so? Not only does that individual miss a large part of their purpose in life but the rest of humanity is robbed of the singular grace God intended to pass to us through them. Squandered talent may be the reason we have no cure for cancer or why we are still addicted to petroleum products, or why millions still starve. Each of us should consider if people are suffering because I am not using the gifts entrusted to me or if I am hindering others from using theirs. 6/24/2010 Conversations Within ts
“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left...
...and could say, "I used everything you gave me.” Erma Bombeck
“But each has his own gift from God.” ICor.7 ESV
God has created every person with the potential to be a gift to the world. We can rightly say then that everyone is gifted person. I am sure God does this as a means of providing our needs and joining us together in service. We may not be equally endowed but each endowment is equally needed in the world. What happens when a person refuses to use or develop their gifts, or is has been hindered from doing so? Not only does that individual miss a large part of their purpose in life but the rest of humanity is robbed of the singular grace God intended to pass to us through them. Squandered talent may be the reason we have no cure for cancer or why we are still addicted to petroleum products, or why millions still starve. Each of us should consider if people are suffering because I am not using the gifts entrusted to me or if I am hindering others from using theirs. 6/24/2010 Conversations Within ts
“But each has his own gift from God.” ICor.7 ESV
God has created every person with the potential to be a gift to the world. We can rightly say then that everyone is gifted person. I am sure God does this as a means of providing our needs and joining us together in service. We may not be equally endowed but each endowment is equally needed in the world. What happens when a person refuses to use or develop their gifts, or is has been hindered from doing so? Not only does that individual miss a large part of their purpose in life but the rest of humanity is robbed of the singular grace God intended to pass to us through them. Squandered talent may be the reason we have no cure for cancer or why we are still addicted to petroleum products, or why millions still starve. Each of us should consider if people are suffering because I am not using the gifts entrusted to me or if I am hindering others from using theirs. 6/24/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, June 28, 2010
“We don’t seek perfection but excellence.” Joan Miller
Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men. Prov.22 ESV
It is hard to argue with excellence. Who isn’t impressed with skilled athletes, artists or musicians? Excellence captures hearts and people sit up to notice it. God endows people with talent but it is our love for something and our diligent pursuit of it, which turns talent into excellence. The truth is that, excellence is within the reach of anyone who will give their heart and soul to their pursuits. Whatever I do let me do it with all my might. As for standing before kings, what better way to stand before a king who has been made a king by the way we treat them and by the services, we offer to them in excellence? 6/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
It is hard to argue with excellence. Who isn’t impressed with skilled athletes, artists or musicians? Excellence captures hearts and people sit up to notice it. God endows people with talent but it is our love for something and our diligent pursuit of it, which turns talent into excellence. The truth is that, excellence is within the reach of anyone who will give their heart and soul to their pursuits. Whatever I do let me do it with all my might. As for standing before kings, what better way to stand before a king who has been made a king by the way we treat them and by the services, we offer to them in excellence? 6/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
“We don’t seek perfection but excellence.” Joan Miller
Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men. Prov.22 ESV
It is hard to argue with excellence. Who isn’t impressed with skilled athletes, artists or musicians? Excellence captures hearts and people sit up to notice it. God endows people with talent but it is our love for something and our diligent pursuit of it, which turns talent into excellence. The truth is that, excellence is within the reach of anyone who will give their heart and soul to their pursuits. Whatever I do let me do it with all my might. As for standing before kings, what better way to stand before a king who has been made a king by the way we treat them and by the services, we offer to them in excellence? 6/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
It is hard to argue with excellence. Who isn’t impressed with skilled athletes, artists or musicians? Excellence captures hearts and people sit up to notice it. God endows people with talent but it is our love for something and our diligent pursuit of it, which turns talent into excellence. The truth is that, excellence is within the reach of anyone who will give their heart and soul to their pursuits. Whatever I do let me do it with all my might. As for standing before kings, what better way to stand before a king who has been made a king by the way we treat them and by the services, we offer to them in excellence? 6/23/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, June 26, 2010
“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things...
...you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.” Colin Powell
“…so that you may approve what is excellent…” Phil.1 ESV
Who would choose something of less value over something of greater value? Actually, we all do and do it everyday. People choose poor eating and exercising habits over health. Many choose selfish pursuits over family or materialism over spiritual maturity. Imagine life where every choice was determined by a singular commitment to excellence. Such a life would never approve any activity that would weaken one’s love of God or family. It is the small decisions we make each day that determine whether we live an excellent life. 6/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
“…so that you may approve what is excellent…” Phil.1 ESV
Who would choose something of less value over something of greater value? Actually, we all do and do it everyday. People choose poor eating and exercising habits over health. Many choose selfish pursuits over family or materialism over spiritual maturity. Imagine life where every choice was determined by a singular commitment to excellence. Such a life would never approve any activity that would weaken one’s love of God or family. It is the small decisions we make each day that determine whether we live an excellent life. 6/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things...
...you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.” Colin Powell
“…so that you may approve what is excellent…” Phil.1 ESV
Who would choose something of less value over something of greater value? Actually, we all do and do it everyday. People choose poor eating and exercising habits over health. Many choose selfish pursuits over family or materialism over spiritual maturity. Imagine life where every choice was determined by a singular commitment to excellence. Such a life would never approve any activity that would weaken one’s love of God or family. It is the small decisions we make each day that determine whether we live an excellent life. 6/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
“…so that you may approve what is excellent…” Phil.1 ESV
Who would choose something of less value over something of greater value? Actually, we all do and do it everyday. People choose poor eating and exercising habits over health. Many choose selfish pursuits over family or materialism over spiritual maturity. Imagine life where every choice was determined by a singular commitment to excellence. Such a life would never approve any activity that would weaken one’s love of God or family. It is the small decisions we make each day that determine whether we live an excellent life. 6/22/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, June 25, 2010
[The anti-Christian] would be troubled if whenever he wanted a cheap introduction to some science...
...the best work on the market was always by a Christian.” C. S. Lewis
“Honor your father and mother.” Ex.20 ESV
This past Sunday I told a group of Christians that their celebrations of Father’s day help disciple the nations. How so? Our values, our work ethic, the way we love our spouses, children, parents, friends even our enemies is our best witness. When Jesus told us to go into the world and make disciples of the nations, I think He meant something more than just trying to convince people with verbal argument that He is the only way to heaven. The message of Jesus is best communicated when it is modeled not when it is presented like a sales pitch. What we do, how well we do it and why we do it, reflect the value of our beliefs. It is the quality of our faith expressed in things like honoring our parents or doing our best that demonstrates to the world that Jesus is worth believing, worth following. 6/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Honor your father and mother.” Ex.20 ESV
This past Sunday I told a group of Christians that their celebrations of Father’s day help disciple the nations. How so? Our values, our work ethic, the way we love our spouses, children, parents, friends even our enemies is our best witness. When Jesus told us to go into the world and make disciples of the nations, I think He meant something more than just trying to convince people with verbal argument that He is the only way to heaven. The message of Jesus is best communicated when it is modeled not when it is presented like a sales pitch. What we do, how well we do it and why we do it, reflect the value of our beliefs. It is the quality of our faith expressed in things like honoring our parents or doing our best that demonstrates to the world that Jesus is worth believing, worth following. 6/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
[The anti-Christian] would be troubled if whenever he wanted a cheap introduction to some science...
...the best work on the market was always by a Christian.” C. S. Lewis
“Honor your father and mother.” Ex.20 ESV
This past Sunday I told a group of Christians that their celebrations of Father’s day help disciple the nations. How so? Our values, our work ethic, the way we love our spouses, children, parents, friends even our enemies is our best witness. When Jesus told us to go into the world and make disciples of the nations, I think He meant something more than just trying to convince people with verbal argument that He is the only way to heaven. The message of Jesus is best communicated when it is modeled not when it is presented like a sales pitch. What we do, how well we do it and why we do it, reflect the value of our beliefs. It is the quality of our faith expressed in things like honoring our parents or doing our best that demonstrates to the world that Jesus is worth believing, worth following. 6/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Honor your father and mother.” Ex.20 ESV
This past Sunday I told a group of Christians that their celebrations of Father’s day help disciple the nations. How so? Our values, our work ethic, the way we love our spouses, children, parents, friends even our enemies is our best witness. When Jesus told us to go into the world and make disciples of the nations, I think He meant something more than just trying to convince people with verbal argument that He is the only way to heaven. The message of Jesus is best communicated when it is modeled not when it is presented like a sales pitch. What we do, how well we do it and why we do it, reflect the value of our beliefs. It is the quality of our faith expressed in things like honoring our parents or doing our best that demonstrates to the world that Jesus is worth believing, worth following. 6/21/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, June 24, 2010
The seed I plant today becomes the garden I live in tomorrow.
“Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground…” Hos.10ESV
Actions are like poetry; the second line complements the first. Maybe that is why we call it poetic justice. But reaping what you sow can be such a positive dynamic as much as a negative one. Every seed I plant has power to positively influence my future and the future of those I love. Reaping what you sow is such a wonderful process set in motion by a loving God. Knowing this, the question isn’t why aren’t we planting, for we are certainly putting seeds in the ground every day. The question is why aren’t we giving purposeful thought to what we are planting. 6/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
Actions are like poetry; the second line complements the first. Maybe that is why we call it poetic justice. But reaping what you sow can be such a positive dynamic as much as a negative one. Every seed I plant has power to positively influence my future and the future of those I love. Reaping what you sow is such a wonderful process set in motion by a loving God. Knowing this, the question isn’t why aren’t we planting, for we are certainly putting seeds in the ground every day. The question is why aren’t we giving purposeful thought to what we are planting. 6/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
The seed I plant today becomes the garden I live in tomorrow.
“Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground…” Hos.10ESV
Actions are like poetry; the second line complements the first. Maybe that is why we call it poetic justice. But reaping what you sow can be such a positive dynamic as much as a negative one. Every seed I plant has power to positively influence my future and the future of those I love. Reaping what you sow is such a wonderful process set in motion by a loving God. Knowing this, the question isn’t why aren’t we planting, for we are certainly putting seeds in the ground every day. The question is why aren’t we giving purposeful thought to what we are planting. 6/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
Actions are like poetry; the second line complements the first. Maybe that is why we call it poetic justice. But reaping what you sow can be such a positive dynamic as much as a negative one. Every seed I plant has power to positively influence my future and the future of those I love. Reaping what you sow is such a wonderful process set in motion by a loving God. Knowing this, the question isn’t why aren’t we planting, for we are certainly putting seeds in the ground every day. The question is why aren’t we giving purposeful thought to what we are planting. 6/19/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
"…obedience will teach you more about God than a lifetime of Bible discussions. " — Rick Warren
“The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.” Prov.18 ESV
Doing out performs discussion every time. Wisdom tells us that some people talk, others do. Discussions about faith are no substitute for expressing it. God’s word tells us, “Mere talk leads to poverty.” The deep water of discussions will sometimes leave people confused and doubting. Nothing will blow away the clouds of doubt faster than walking in the fresh air of obedience. Do not worry about things you don’t know, center yourself on the things you do know and do them. The reason wisdom is a bubbling brook is that it leads us to live life not just talk about it. 6/18/2010 Conversations Within ts
Doing out performs discussion every time. Wisdom tells us that some people talk, others do. Discussions about faith are no substitute for expressing it. God’s word tells us, “Mere talk leads to poverty.” The deep water of discussions will sometimes leave people confused and doubting. Nothing will blow away the clouds of doubt faster than walking in the fresh air of obedience. Do not worry about things you don’t know, center yourself on the things you do know and do them. The reason wisdom is a bubbling brook is that it leads us to live life not just talk about it. 6/18/2010 Conversations Within ts
"…obedience will teach you more about God than a lifetime of Bible discussions. " — Rick Warren
“The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.” Prov.18 ESV
Doing out performs discussion every time. Wisdom tells us that some people talk, others do. Discussions about faith are no substitute for expressing it. God’s word tells us, “Mere talk leads to poverty.” The deep water of discussions will sometimes leave people confused and doubting. Nothing will blow away the clouds of doubt faster than walking in the fresh air of obedience. Do not worry about things you don’t know, center yourself on the things you do know and do them. The reason wisdom is a bubbling brook is that it leads us to live life not just talk about it. 6/18/2010 Conversations Within ts
Doing out performs discussion every time. Wisdom tells us that some people talk, others do. Discussions about faith are no substitute for expressing it. God’s word tells us, “Mere talk leads to poverty.” The deep water of discussions will sometimes leave people confused and doubting. Nothing will blow away the clouds of doubt faster than walking in the fresh air of obedience. Do not worry about things you don’t know, center yourself on the things you do know and do them. The reason wisdom is a bubbling brook is that it leads us to live life not just talk about it. 6/18/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
“My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man, I'm just a living legacy to the leader of the band.” Dan Fogelberg
Jubal…was the father of all those who play the lyre and pipe. Gen.4 ESV
Of all things certain, we are not the only ones who reap what we sow. We can sow either weeds or roses into the garden of those we love. Let me sow roses. If I have fallen, let me rise. If I have blown it, let me build again. If my children follow in my footsteps, let me walk in the garden of joy. I do not want my children to spend the better part of their lives getting over dear old dad. Rather, let me pass to them a good inheritance. Let me weed out any spiritual strongholds of bondage and sow the seeds of faith, hope and love. Let it be said that I am the father of those who love God, who play in the fields of the Lord, who dance to the rhythm of the superior delights of joy and sing the songs of grateful praise. 6/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
Of all things certain, we are not the only ones who reap what we sow. We can sow either weeds or roses into the garden of those we love. Let me sow roses. If I have fallen, let me rise. If I have blown it, let me build again. If my children follow in my footsteps, let me walk in the garden of joy. I do not want my children to spend the better part of their lives getting over dear old dad. Rather, let me pass to them a good inheritance. Let me weed out any spiritual strongholds of bondage and sow the seeds of faith, hope and love. Let it be said that I am the father of those who love God, who play in the fields of the Lord, who dance to the rhythm of the superior delights of joy and sing the songs of grateful praise. 6/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
“My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man, I'm just a living legacy to the leader of the band.” Dan Fogelberg
Jubal…was the father of all those who play the lyre and pipe. Gen.4 ESV
Of all things certain, we are not the only ones who reap what we sow. We can sow either weeds or roses into the garden of those we love. Let me sow roses. If I have fallen, let me rise. If I have blown it, let me build again. If my children follow in my footsteps, let me walk in the garden of joy. I do not want my children to spend the better part of their lives getting over dear old dad. Rather, let me pass to them a good inheritance. Let me weed out any spiritual strongholds of bondage and sow the seeds of faith, hope and love. Let it be said that I am the father of those who love God, who play in the fields of the Lord, who dance to the rhythm of the superior delights of joy and sing the songs of grateful praise. 6/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
Of all things certain, we are not the only ones who reap what we sow. We can sow either weeds or roses into the garden of those we love. Let me sow roses. If I have fallen, let me rise. If I have blown it, let me build again. If my children follow in my footsteps, let me walk in the garden of joy. I do not want my children to spend the better part of their lives getting over dear old dad. Rather, let me pass to them a good inheritance. Let me weed out any spiritual strongholds of bondage and sow the seeds of faith, hope and love. Let it be said that I am the father of those who love God, who play in the fields of the Lord, who dance to the rhythm of the superior delights of joy and sing the songs of grateful praise. 6/17/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, June 21, 2010
“May the Lord not permit me to hear that you are dead…
“May the Lord not permit me to hear that you are dead…and my will shall be done…for my will seeks the honor of the divine name and not my own honor and pleasure.” Martin Luther (Prayer for a sick friend.)
“…we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus…” Heb.10 ESV
If I dare ask anything from God, let me at least ask for it boldly. Any prayer worth bringing to Him is worth bringing to Him with confidence. But let my confidence before God, not rest in any silly notions I have about my own goodness. Rather, let me believe that the right to enter into the Presence was secured by Jesus and that any prayer that reflects His divine cause will meet with His divine favor. Let us frequently and confidently enter the secret chambers of intercession to take from its store promised blessings for those we love. Let us lay aside all timidity in prayer and boldly ask, and confidently expect that we will receive what we have asked from a gracious God. 6/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
“…we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus…” Heb.10 ESV
If I dare ask anything from God, let me at least ask for it boldly. Any prayer worth bringing to Him is worth bringing to Him with confidence. But let my confidence before God, not rest in any silly notions I have about my own goodness. Rather, let me believe that the right to enter into the Presence was secured by Jesus and that any prayer that reflects His divine cause will meet with His divine favor. Let us frequently and confidently enter the secret chambers of intercession to take from its store promised blessings for those we love. Let us lay aside all timidity in prayer and boldly ask, and confidently expect that we will receive what we have asked from a gracious God. 6/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
“May the Lord not permit me to hear that you are dead…
“May the Lord not permit me to hear that you are dead…and my will shall be done…for my will seeks the honor of the divine name and not my own honor and pleasure.” Martin Luther (Prayer for a sick friend.)
“…we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus…” Heb.10 ESV
If I dare ask anything from God, let me at least ask for it boldly. Any prayer worth bringing to Him is worth bringing to Him with confidence. But let my confidence before God, not rest in any silly notions I have about my own goodness. Rather, let me believe that the right to enter into the Presence was secured by Jesus and that any prayer that reflects His divine cause will meet with His divine favor. Let us frequently and confidently enter the secret chambers of intercession to take from its store promised blessings for those we love. Let us lay aside all timidity in prayer and boldly ask, and confidently expect that we will receive what we have asked from a gracious God. 6/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
“…we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus…” Heb.10 ESV
If I dare ask anything from God, let me at least ask for it boldly. Any prayer worth bringing to Him is worth bringing to Him with confidence. But let my confidence before God, not rest in any silly notions I have about my own goodness. Rather, let me believe that the right to enter into the Presence was secured by Jesus and that any prayer that reflects His divine cause will meet with His divine favor. Let us frequently and confidently enter the secret chambers of intercession to take from its store promised blessings for those we love. Let us lay aside all timidity in prayer and boldly ask, and confidently expect that we will receive what we have asked from a gracious God. 6/16/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, June 19, 2010
“Place the Fear of God within the home of your heart…all other fears shall be frightened away.” Sri Guru Granth
“In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence...” Prov.14
Normally we think that the word fear and the word confidence are contradictory not complementary. How is it that a fear of God inspires strong confidence? Well for one thing, the fear of the Lord instructs us where we are safe and where we are not safe. If I know God approves a certain behavior, I am free to run in it. There is no need for guilt, no fear of reprisal and no doubts. This kind of confidence is unparalleled. This means of course that there are two very different aspects of fear. Fear, in the sense of respect, turns to confidence when we value God and obey His directives. But fear, in the sense of terror, turns to torment when we do not love Him and fail to heed His gracious warnings. 6/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Normally we think that the word fear and the word confidence are contradictory not complementary. How is it that a fear of God inspires strong confidence? Well for one thing, the fear of the Lord instructs us where we are safe and where we are not safe. If I know God approves a certain behavior, I am free to run in it. There is no need for guilt, no fear of reprisal and no doubts. This kind of confidence is unparalleled. This means of course that there are two very different aspects of fear. Fear, in the sense of respect, turns to confidence when we value God and obey His directives. But fear, in the sense of terror, turns to torment when we do not love Him and fail to heed His gracious warnings. 6/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Place the Fear of God within the home of your heart…all other fears shall be frightened away.” Sri Guru Granth
“In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence...” Prov.14
Normally we think that the word fear and the word confidence are contradictory not complementary. How is it that a fear of God inspires strong confidence? Well for one thing, the fear of the Lord instructs us where we are safe and where we are not safe. If I know God approves a certain behavior, I am free to run in it. There is no need for guilt, no fear of reprisal and no doubts. This kind of confidence is unparalleled. This means of course that there are two very different aspects of fear. Fear, in the sense of respect, turns to confidence when we value God and obey His directives. But fear, in the sense of terror, turns to torment when we do not love Him and fail to heed His gracious warnings. 6/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Normally we think that the word fear and the word confidence are contradictory not complementary. How is it that a fear of God inspires strong confidence? Well for one thing, the fear of the Lord instructs us where we are safe and where we are not safe. If I know God approves a certain behavior, I am free to run in it. There is no need for guilt, no fear of reprisal and no doubts. This kind of confidence is unparalleled. This means of course that there are two very different aspects of fear. Fear, in the sense of respect, turns to confidence when we value God and obey His directives. But fear, in the sense of terror, turns to torment when we do not love Him and fail to heed His gracious warnings. 6/14/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, June 18, 2010
“When you have confidence, you can have a lot of fun. And when you have fun, you can do amazing things.” Anonymous
“He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights.” 2Sam.22 ESV
God is able to make us sure-footed even on un-level ground. Believing God promises enables confidence on the slopes of all uncertainty; obeying His commandments provides direction through the fog of any indecision. Speak His words and light will pierce each dark place. Declare His truth to your heart and melt every cold doubt into a certain joy. Meditate on His assurances and music will fill your soul and gladness will be the rhythm of your feet. Our Father would have us dance on the heights and turn the toil of earth into delightful play. 6/13/2010 Conversations Within ts
God is able to make us sure-footed even on un-level ground. Believing God promises enables confidence on the slopes of all uncertainty; obeying His commandments provides direction through the fog of any indecision. Speak His words and light will pierce each dark place. Declare His truth to your heart and melt every cold doubt into a certain joy. Meditate on His assurances and music will fill your soul and gladness will be the rhythm of your feet. Our Father would have us dance on the heights and turn the toil of earth into delightful play. 6/13/2010 Conversations Within ts
“When you have confidence, you can have a lot of fun. And when you have fun, you can do amazing things.” Anonymous
“He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights.” 2Sam.22 ESV
God is able to make us sure-footed even on un-level ground. Believing God promises enables confidence on the slopes of all uncertainty; obeying His commandments provides direction through the fog of any indecision. Speak His words and light will pierce each dark place. Declare His truth to your heart and melt every cold doubt into a certain joy. Meditate on His assurances and music will fill your soul and gladness will be the rhythm of your feet. Our Father would have us dance on the heights and turn the toil of earth into delightful play. 6/13/2010 Conversations Within ts
God is able to make us sure-footed even on un-level ground. Believing God promises enables confidence on the slopes of all uncertainty; obeying His commandments provides direction through the fog of any indecision. Speak His words and light will pierce each dark place. Declare His truth to your heart and melt every cold doubt into a certain joy. Meditate on His assurances and music will fill your soul and gladness will be the rhythm of your feet. Our Father would have us dance on the heights and turn the toil of earth into delightful play. 6/13/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, June 17, 2010
“Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people.” Spencer Johnson
“Whoever gives an honest answer kisses the lips.” Prov.24 ESV
If you love someone, you tell them the truth even if it hurts. Grownups understand that there are good hurts, hurts that are necessary to heal or at least they should know this. The honest answer can certainly be painful, just like the mother scrubbing dirt from a fresh wound can be, but both are needed to prevent worst things from happening. It may take time but “honesty is the best policy,” and those we love will hopefully come to appreciate it as a kiss on the lips. From another angle, how precious it is to those who love us when we are honest with ourselves, and come clean as they say. The honest admission of a wrong is the first step toward making it right. 6/12/2010 Conversations Within ts
If you love someone, you tell them the truth even if it hurts. Grownups understand that there are good hurts, hurts that are necessary to heal or at least they should know this. The honest answer can certainly be painful, just like the mother scrubbing dirt from a fresh wound can be, but both are needed to prevent worst things from happening. It may take time but “honesty is the best policy,” and those we love will hopefully come to appreciate it as a kiss on the lips. From another angle, how precious it is to those who love us when we are honest with ourselves, and come clean as they say. The honest admission of a wrong is the first step toward making it right. 6/12/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Integrity is telling myself the truth. And honesty is telling the truth to other people.” Spencer Johnson
“Whoever gives an honest answer kisses the lips.” Prov.24 ESV
If you love someone, you tell them the truth even if it hurts. Grownups understand that there are good hurts, hurts that are necessary to heal or at least they should know this. The honest answer can certainly be painful, just like the mother scrubbing dirt from a fresh wound can be, but both are needed to prevent worst things from happening. It may take time but “honesty is the best policy,” and those we love will hopefully come to appreciate it as a kiss on the lips. From another angle, how precious it is to those who love us when we are honest with ourselves, and come clean as they say. The honest admission of a wrong is the first step toward making it right. 6/12/2010 Conversations Within ts
If you love someone, you tell them the truth even if it hurts. Grownups understand that there are good hurts, hurts that are necessary to heal or at least they should know this. The honest answer can certainly be painful, just like the mother scrubbing dirt from a fresh wound can be, but both are needed to prevent worst things from happening. It may take time but “honesty is the best policy,” and those we love will hopefully come to appreciate it as a kiss on the lips. From another angle, how precious it is to those who love us when we are honest with ourselves, and come clean as they say. The honest admission of a wrong is the first step toward making it right. 6/12/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
“There is a loftier ambition than merely to stand high in the world. It is to stoop down and lift mankind a little higher.” Henry Van Dyke
“Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.” Prov.26 ESV
Here is one of those verses that people use to say the Bible is full of contradictions. I suppose that in a two-dimensional world these words might be considered a contradiction. But life is hardly two-dimensional. In the real world, there are times when the best response to a foolish person is to not let them draw us into a foolish conversation. But there times when stooping to his level is the best way teach them—hence the adage, “give people a taste of their own medicine." To stoop or not to stoop is the question. The answer, I suppose, is found when we consider what is the best way to love someone and decide which response will benefit them most. 6/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Here is one of those verses that people use to say the Bible is full of contradictions. I suppose that in a two-dimensional world these words might be considered a contradiction. But life is hardly two-dimensional. In the real world, there are times when the best response to a foolish person is to not let them draw us into a foolish conversation. But there times when stooping to his level is the best way teach them—hence the adage, “give people a taste of their own medicine." To stoop or not to stoop is the question. The answer, I suppose, is found when we consider what is the best way to love someone and decide which response will benefit them most. 6/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
“There is a loftier ambition than merely to stand high in the world. It is to stoop down and lift mankind a little higher.” Henry Van Dyke
“Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.” Prov.26 ESV
Here is one of those verses that people use to say the Bible is full of contradictions. I suppose that in a two-dimensional world these words might be considered a contradiction. But life is hardly two-dimensional. In the real world, there are times when the best response to a foolish person is to not let them draw us into a foolish conversation. But there times when stooping to his level is the best way teach them—hence the adage, “give people a taste of their own medicine." To stoop or not to stoop is the question. The answer, I suppose, is found when we consider what is the best way to love someone and decide which response will benefit them most. 6/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Here is one of those verses that people use to say the Bible is full of contradictions. I suppose that in a two-dimensional world these words might be considered a contradiction. But life is hardly two-dimensional. In the real world, there are times when the best response to a foolish person is to not let them draw us into a foolish conversation. But there times when stooping to his level is the best way teach them—hence the adage, “give people a taste of their own medicine." To stoop or not to stoop is the question. The answer, I suppose, is found when we consider what is the best way to love someone and decide which response will benefit them most. 6/11/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing another, it is the only means.” Albert Einstein
“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.” Prov.15 ESV
Living in a society always raises questions of controversy and, in our particular society, where freedom is championed; we have more than our share-abortion, gay rights, euthanasia to mention a few. The heart of the righteous knows that “how” we answer may be as important as “what” we answer especially if we really care about people and not just care about being right. As always, example is more powerful than any verbal reply. Perhaps we should ponder ways to answer with our actions rather than just our words. But how do we answer a society that not only does wrong but also approves it as right? The advice from Scripture is that when you live in a society that does what is wrong the best response is to do what is right. Model what it means to follow Christ. 6/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
Living in a society always raises questions of controversy and, in our particular society, where freedom is championed; we have more than our share-abortion, gay rights, euthanasia to mention a few. The heart of the righteous knows that “how” we answer may be as important as “what” we answer especially if we really care about people and not just care about being right. As always, example is more powerful than any verbal reply. Perhaps we should ponder ways to answer with our actions rather than just our words. But how do we answer a society that not only does wrong but also approves it as right? The advice from Scripture is that when you live in a society that does what is wrong the best response is to do what is right. Model what it means to follow Christ. 6/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing another, it is the only means.” Albert Einstein
“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.” Prov.15 ESV
Living in a society always raises questions of controversy and, in our particular society, where freedom is championed; we have more than our share-abortion, gay rights, euthanasia to mention a few. The heart of the righteous knows that “how” we answer may be as important as “what” we answer especially if we really care about people and not just care about being right. As always, example is more powerful than any verbal reply. Perhaps we should ponder ways to answer with our actions rather than just our words. But how do we answer a society that not only does wrong but also approves it as right? The advice from Scripture is that when you live in a society that does what is wrong the best response is to do what is right. Model what it means to follow Christ. 6/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
Living in a society always raises questions of controversy and, in our particular society, where freedom is championed; we have more than our share-abortion, gay rights, euthanasia to mention a few. The heart of the righteous knows that “how” we answer may be as important as “what” we answer especially if we really care about people and not just care about being right. As always, example is more powerful than any verbal reply. Perhaps we should ponder ways to answer with our actions rather than just our words. But how do we answer a society that not only does wrong but also approves it as right? The advice from Scripture is that when you live in a society that does what is wrong the best response is to do what is right. Model what it means to follow Christ. 6/10/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, June 14, 2010
“Seek first to understand then to be understood.” Stephen Covey
“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” Prov.18 ESV
Someone asked me the other day what was one thing I really liked about living on the road. Without a doubt, it is meeting new people, listening to some of their story and sharing some of mine. What better way to gain and give new perspectives on living? Sometimes I ask questions in the sharing. A well-placed question can turn into a morning of stimulating conversation I think it is important to be a good listener. Slow to speak quick to listen is how the Good Book puts it. Everyone has something to offer and listening is the key to learning. I think each of us should give God credit for working in people who come from all types of backgrounds and not assume that He is only working in mine. 6/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
Someone asked me the other day what was one thing I really liked about living on the road. Without a doubt, it is meeting new people, listening to some of their story and sharing some of mine. What better way to gain and give new perspectives on living? Sometimes I ask questions in the sharing. A well-placed question can turn into a morning of stimulating conversation I think it is important to be a good listener. Slow to speak quick to listen is how the Good Book puts it. Everyone has something to offer and listening is the key to learning. I think each of us should give God credit for working in people who come from all types of backgrounds and not assume that He is only working in mine. 6/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Seek first to understand then to be understood.” Stephen Covey
“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” Prov.18 ESV
Someone asked me the other day what was one thing I really liked about living on the road. Without a doubt, it is meeting new people, listening to some of their story and sharing some of mine. What better way to gain and give new perspectives on living? Sometimes I ask questions in the sharing. A well-placed question can turn into a morning of stimulating conversation I think it is important to be a good listener. Slow to speak quick to listen is how the Good Book puts it. Everyone has something to offer and listening is the key to learning. I think each of us should give God credit for working in people who come from all types of backgrounds and not assume that He is only working in mine. 6/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
Someone asked me the other day what was one thing I really liked about living on the road. Without a doubt, it is meeting new people, listening to some of their story and sharing some of mine. What better way to gain and give new perspectives on living? Sometimes I ask questions in the sharing. A well-placed question can turn into a morning of stimulating conversation I think it is important to be a good listener. Slow to speak quick to listen is how the Good Book puts it. Everyone has something to offer and listening is the key to learning. I think each of us should give God credit for working in people who come from all types of backgrounds and not assume that He is only working in mine. 6/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, June 12, 2010
“Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. It's something to say when you don't know what to say.” Mary Poppins
“…do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.” Mt. 10 ESV
We worry about many things facing us before they actually face us. We stage make believe or expected confrontations, trying to figure out how we might respond. I think in some instances it may be good to rehearse our responses especially responses to certain temptations. Now, might be the best time to prepare my response to lust, to anger, to worry or fear. Doing so might enable a controlled response rather than an out of controlled reaction. But Jesus tells us there are times when the best way to prepare for something is to not prepare at all but simply trust that when the time comes He will give us what we need. How do I know when to prepare or not? This is exactly the kind of thing that He uses to help keep us focused on walking with Him in the present moment. If you don’t know, ask Him, He will let you know, if He doesn’t, don’t worry about it, He give it to you when the time comes. 6/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
We worry about many things facing us before they actually face us. We stage make believe or expected confrontations, trying to figure out how we might respond. I think in some instances it may be good to rehearse our responses especially responses to certain temptations. Now, might be the best time to prepare my response to lust, to anger, to worry or fear. Doing so might enable a controlled response rather than an out of controlled reaction. But Jesus tells us there are times when the best way to prepare for something is to not prepare at all but simply trust that when the time comes He will give us what we need. How do I know when to prepare or not? This is exactly the kind of thing that He uses to help keep us focused on walking with Him in the present moment. If you don’t know, ask Him, He will let you know, if He doesn’t, don’t worry about it, He give it to you when the time comes. 6/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. It's something to say when you don't know what to say.” Mary Poppins
“…do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.” Mt. 10 ESV
We worry about many things facing us before they actually face us. We stage make believe or expected confrontations, trying to figure out how we might respond. I think in some instances it may be good to rehearse our responses especially responses to certain temptations. Now, might be the best time to prepare my response to lust, to anger, to worry or fear. Doing so might enable a controlled response rather than an out of controlled reaction. But Jesus tells us there are times when the best way to prepare for something is to not prepare at all but simply trust that when the time comes He will give us what we need. How do I know when to prepare or not? This is exactly the kind of thing that He uses to help keep us focused on walking with Him in the present moment. If you don’t know, ask Him, He will let you know, if He doesn’t, don’t worry about it, He give it to you when the time comes. 6/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
We worry about many things facing us before they actually face us. We stage make believe or expected confrontations, trying to figure out how we might respond. I think in some instances it may be good to rehearse our responses especially responses to certain temptations. Now, might be the best time to prepare my response to lust, to anger, to worry or fear. Doing so might enable a controlled response rather than an out of controlled reaction. But Jesus tells us there are times when the best way to prepare for something is to not prepare at all but simply trust that when the time comes He will give us what we need. How do I know when to prepare or not? This is exactly the kind of thing that He uses to help keep us focused on walking with Him in the present moment. If you don’t know, ask Him, He will let you know, if He doesn’t, don’t worry about it, He give it to you when the time comes. 6/6/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, June 11, 2010
“Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.” Barnett R. Brickner
“Husbands love your wives…” Eph. 5
A new friend asked me the other day what was the key to a good marriage. This was after I told them that Brenda and I would celebrate thirty-four years of marriage June 5th. There are probably as many keys as there are doors in any relationship but one that has enriched our own marriage would be learning love each other on the days you don’t like each other. This of course hinges on understanding love to be an action not just an emotion. Love seeks what is best for the one you love regardless of how you may feel about them at the moment. 6/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
A new friend asked me the other day what was the key to a good marriage. This was after I told them that Brenda and I would celebrate thirty-four years of marriage June 5th. There are probably as many keys as there are doors in any relationship but one that has enriched our own marriage would be learning love each other on the days you don’t like each other. This of course hinges on understanding love to be an action not just an emotion. Love seeks what is best for the one you love regardless of how you may feel about them at the moment. 6/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.” Barnett R. Brickner
“Husbands love your wives…” Eph. 5
A new friend asked me the other day what was the key to a good marriage. This was after I told them that Brenda and I would celebrate thirty-four years of marriage June 5th. There are probably as many keys as there are doors in any relationship but one that has enriched our own marriage would be learning love each other on the days you don’t like each other. This of course hinges on understanding love to be an action not just an emotion. Love seeks what is best for the one you love regardless of how you may feel about them at the moment. 6/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
A new friend asked me the other day what was the key to a good marriage. This was after I told them that Brenda and I would celebrate thirty-four years of marriage June 5th. There are probably as many keys as there are doors in any relationship but one that has enriched our own marriage would be learning love each other on the days you don’t like each other. This of course hinges on understanding love to be an action not just an emotion. Love seeks what is best for the one you love regardless of how you may feel about them at the moment. 6/5/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, June 10, 2010
“If the Lord should bring a wicked man to heaven, heaven would be hell to him...
...for he who loves not grace upon earth will never love it in heaven.” Christopher Love
“You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." Ps.2 ESV
Here is another verse that declares God’s love. We may wonder how so? Because God is love, He will not let the wicked and unrepentant continue to make war against goodness. God would not be love if He did not hate what is evil. Many have the mistaken notion that people are basically good so when the Bible speaks of the wicked it must be talking about the other guy. But the same Bible tells us that every heart is wicked or at least we all start out that way; the meanness of children is proof enough of that. Grace begins healing our hearts and teaches people to change. There are two then two kinds of sinners, the repentant and the unrepentant. Both are sinners but the repentant never need fear condemnation only correction. Wrath is reserved for the unrepentant. 6/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
“You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." Ps.2 ESV
Here is another verse that declares God’s love. We may wonder how so? Because God is love, He will not let the wicked and unrepentant continue to make war against goodness. God would not be love if He did not hate what is evil. Many have the mistaken notion that people are basically good so when the Bible speaks of the wicked it must be talking about the other guy. But the same Bible tells us that every heart is wicked or at least we all start out that way; the meanness of children is proof enough of that. Grace begins healing our hearts and teaches people to change. There are two then two kinds of sinners, the repentant and the unrepentant. Both are sinners but the repentant never need fear condemnation only correction. Wrath is reserved for the unrepentant. 6/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
“If the Lord should bring a wicked man to heaven, heaven would be hell to him...
...for he who loves not grace upon earth will never love it in heaven.” Christopher Love
“You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." Ps.2 ESV
Here is another verse that declares God’s love. We may wonder how so? Because God is love, He will not let the wicked and unrepentant continue to make war against goodness. God would not be love if He did not hate what is evil. Many have the mistaken notion that people are basically good so when the Bible speaks of the wicked it must be talking about the other guy. But the same Bible tells us that every heart is wicked or at least we all start out that way; the meanness of children is proof enough of that. Grace begins healing our hearts and teaches people to change. There are two then two kinds of sinners, the repentant and the unrepentant. Both are sinners but the repentant never need fear condemnation only correction. Wrath is reserved for the unrepentant. 6/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
“You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." Ps.2 ESV
Here is another verse that declares God’s love. We may wonder how so? Because God is love, He will not let the wicked and unrepentant continue to make war against goodness. God would not be love if He did not hate what is evil. Many have the mistaken notion that people are basically good so when the Bible speaks of the wicked it must be talking about the other guy. But the same Bible tells us that every heart is wicked or at least we all start out that way; the meanness of children is proof enough of that. Grace begins healing our hearts and teaches people to change. There are two then two kinds of sinners, the repentant and the unrepentant. Both are sinners but the repentant never need fear condemnation only correction. Wrath is reserved for the unrepentant. 6/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
“People inflict pain on others in the selfish pursuit of their happiness...
...Yet true happiness comes from a sense of peace and contentment, which in turn must be achieved through the cultiv” Dalai Lama
“The LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.” Ps.1 ESV
When I think about it, just about every unhappy moment in my life has come from times when I was thinking only about me. The way of the wicked is overgrown with selfishness. The way of the righteous isn’t concerned only with what is right for oneself, but what is right for the whole. This does not mean that righteous people do not think about their own happiness. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be happy; God designed us with an inclination for it. Wickedness comes into play when we make our happiness more important than the happiness of others or at the expense of what is right. 6/3/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.” Ps.1 ESV
When I think about it, just about every unhappy moment in my life has come from times when I was thinking only about me. The way of the wicked is overgrown with selfishness. The way of the righteous isn’t concerned only with what is right for oneself, but what is right for the whole. This does not mean that righteous people do not think about their own happiness. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be happy; God designed us with an inclination for it. Wickedness comes into play when we make our happiness more important than the happiness of others or at the expense of what is right. 6/3/2010 Conversations Within ts
“People inflict pain on others in the selfish pursuit of their happiness...
...Yet true happiness comes from a sense of peace and contentment, which in turn must be achieved through the cultiv” Dalai Lama
“The LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.” Ps.1 ESV
When I think about it, just about every unhappy moment in my life has come from times when I was thinking only about me. The way of the wicked is overgrown with selfishness. The way of the righteous isn’t concerned only with what is right for oneself, but what is right for the whole. This does not mean that righteous people do not think about their own happiness. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be happy; God designed us with an inclination for it. Wickedness comes into play when we make our happiness more important than the happiness of others or at the expense of what is right. 6/3/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.” Ps.1 ESV
When I think about it, just about every unhappy moment in my life has come from times when I was thinking only about me. The way of the wicked is overgrown with selfishness. The way of the righteous isn’t concerned only with what is right for oneself, but what is right for the whole. This does not mean that righteous people do not think about their own happiness. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be happy; God designed us with an inclination for it. Wickedness comes into play when we make our happiness more important than the happiness of others or at the expense of what is right. 6/3/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Every parent is at some time the father of the unreturned prodigal, with nothing to do but keep his house open to hope” John Ciardi
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Phil.4 ESV
We have needs Lord beyond food, and clothing. We need to know or want to know that our children are safe in the fold of Christ- that all those we love will be among the redeemed. I guess You will decide if this is a need or a want. I am grateful that I have never known a day of hunger but every other provision means little if this circle is broken. When you say every need, I take it You really mean every need. After all, are the requests I make for family and friends any more difficult than what I expect You to do for me or are they any less dependant upon Your grace as the only reason for it. All our hope is in You not only for ourselves but for those we love. 6/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
We have needs Lord beyond food, and clothing. We need to know or want to know that our children are safe in the fold of Christ- that all those we love will be among the redeemed. I guess You will decide if this is a need or a want. I am grateful that I have never known a day of hunger but every other provision means little if this circle is broken. When you say every need, I take it You really mean every need. After all, are the requests I make for family and friends any more difficult than what I expect You to do for me or are they any less dependant upon Your grace as the only reason for it. All our hope is in You not only for ourselves but for those we love. 6/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Every parent is at some time the father of the unreturned prodigal, with nothing to do but keep his house open to hope” John Ciardi
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Phil.4 ESV
We have needs Lord beyond food, and clothing. We need to know or want to know that our children are safe in the fold of Christ- that all those we love will be among the redeemed. I guess You will decide if this is a need or a want. I am grateful that I have never known a day of hunger but every other provision means little if this circle is broken. When you say every need, I take it You really mean every need. After all, are the requests I make for family and friends any more difficult than what I expect You to do for me or are they any less dependant upon Your grace as the only reason for it. All our hope is in You not only for ourselves but for those we love. 6/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
We have needs Lord beyond food, and clothing. We need to know or want to know that our children are safe in the fold of Christ- that all those we love will be among the redeemed. I guess You will decide if this is a need or a want. I am grateful that I have never known a day of hunger but every other provision means little if this circle is broken. When you say every need, I take it You really mean every need. After all, are the requests I make for family and friends any more difficult than what I expect You to do for me or are they any less dependant upon Your grace as the only reason for it. All our hope is in You not only for ourselves but for those we love. 6/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The strength of a family, like the strength of an army, is in its loyalty to each other.” Mario Puzo
“For the LORD will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage.” ” Ps.94 ESV
Lord, there are times when I am so ashamed of myself that I cannot imagine why You would want to have anything to do with me. Then you scratch some note reminding me that You wouldn’t dream of ever leaving me and put it where you know I will find it. What can I do but say thanks? I am grateful for your undying loyalty. I am humbled that Your loyalty to me isn’t determined by my loyalty to you. You let me know this in something as simple as the loyalty of family and friends who love me despite me. I am glad You love me even on days when I am sure You don’t like me. 6/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
Lord, there are times when I am so ashamed of myself that I cannot imagine why You would want to have anything to do with me. Then you scratch some note reminding me that You wouldn’t dream of ever leaving me and put it where you know I will find it. What can I do but say thanks? I am grateful for your undying loyalty. I am humbled that Your loyalty to me isn’t determined by my loyalty to you. You let me know this in something as simple as the loyalty of family and friends who love me despite me. I am glad You love me even on days when I am sure You don’t like me. 6/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The strength of a family, like the strength of an army, is in its loyalty to each other.” Mario Puzo
“For the LORD will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage.” ” Ps.94 ESV
Lord, there are times when I am so ashamed of myself that I cannot imagine why You would want to have anything to do with me. Then you scratch some note reminding me that You wouldn’t dream of ever leaving me and put it where you know I will find it. What can I do but say thanks? I am grateful for your undying loyalty. I am humbled that Your loyalty to me isn’t determined by my loyalty to you. You let me know this in something as simple as the loyalty of family and friends who love me despite me. I am glad You love me even on days when I am sure You don’t like me. 6/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
Lord, there are times when I am so ashamed of myself that I cannot imagine why You would want to have anything to do with me. Then you scratch some note reminding me that You wouldn’t dream of ever leaving me and put it where you know I will find it. What can I do but say thanks? I am grateful for your undying loyalty. I am humbled that Your loyalty to me isn’t determined by my loyalty to you. You let me know this in something as simple as the loyalty of family and friends who love me despite me. I am glad You love me even on days when I am sure You don’t like me. 6/1/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Without enough sleep, we all become tall two-year-olds. ~JoJo Jensen, Dirt Farmer Wisdom
“Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.” Prov.31
We can give our strength to any number of unprofitable activities and before we know it, we have but little oomph left to truly live. The encouragement here is to avoid expending energy on things that take much but return little. Small habits can put a big drain on our liveliness. What saps the life from my life? Sadly, some have given their best years to tobacco, or TV, others to negative and critical attitudes. Some exercise too little, others too much. We should give our strength to actions and attitudes that return strength to us. Does my inner life and attitudes empty my energy stores or empower them? Do my eating, and exercise habits rob or replenish me? 5/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
We can give our strength to any number of unprofitable activities and before we know it, we have but little oomph left to truly live. The encouragement here is to avoid expending energy on things that take much but return little. Small habits can put a big drain on our liveliness. What saps the life from my life? Sadly, some have given their best years to tobacco, or TV, others to negative and critical attitudes. Some exercise too little, others too much. We should give our strength to actions and attitudes that return strength to us. Does my inner life and attitudes empty my energy stores or empower them? Do my eating, and exercise habits rob or replenish me? 5/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
Without enough sleep, we all become tall two-year-olds. ~JoJo Jensen, Dirt Farmer Wisdom
“Do not give your strength to women, your ways to those who destroy kings.” Prov.31
We can give our strength to any number of unprofitable activities and before we know it, we have but little oomph left to truly live. The encouragement here is to avoid expending energy on things that take much but return little. Small habits can put a big drain on our liveliness. What saps the life from my life? Sadly, some have given their best years to tobacco, or TV, others to negative and critical attitudes. Some exercise too little, others too much. We should give our strength to actions and attitudes that return strength to us. Does my inner life and attitudes empty my energy stores or empower them? Do my eating, and exercise habits rob or replenish me? 5/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
We can give our strength to any number of unprofitable activities and before we know it, we have but little oomph left to truly live. The encouragement here is to avoid expending energy on things that take much but return little. Small habits can put a big drain on our liveliness. What saps the life from my life? Sadly, some have given their best years to tobacco, or TV, others to negative and critical attitudes. Some exercise too little, others too much. We should give our strength to actions and attitudes that return strength to us. Does my inner life and attitudes empty my energy stores or empower them? Do my eating, and exercise habits rob or replenish me? 5/31/2010 Conversations Within ts
Friday, June 4, 2010
“Humility does not mean you think less of yourself. It means you think of yourself less.” Ken Blanchard
“Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Prov.26
A prideful person will hardly admit when they are wrong so what hope do they have of correction? And, if we don’t receive correction how are we to change? Another terrible aspect of pride, what we call, “wounded pride,” can keep us from the sorrow that leads to repentance even when we admit that we are wrong. We instead get hung up on the shame of our failures and drown in self pity rather than ask forgiveness, humbly accept it and move forward. In both instances, pride cripples our transformation. If we would drive a dagger through the heart of our sinful pride, we must accept Jesus’ help and learn the skill of dying to self. Only by thinking of our self less can Jesus turn us into more. 5/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
A prideful person will hardly admit when they are wrong so what hope do they have of correction? And, if we don’t receive correction how are we to change? Another terrible aspect of pride, what we call, “wounded pride,” can keep us from the sorrow that leads to repentance even when we admit that we are wrong. We instead get hung up on the shame of our failures and drown in self pity rather than ask forgiveness, humbly accept it and move forward. In both instances, pride cripples our transformation. If we would drive a dagger through the heart of our sinful pride, we must accept Jesus’ help and learn the skill of dying to self. Only by thinking of our self less can Jesus turn us into more. 5/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Humility does not mean you think less of yourself. It means you think of yourself less.” Ken Blanchard
“Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Prov.26
A prideful person will hardly admit when they are wrong so what hope do they have of correction? And, if we don’t receive correction how are we to change? Another terrible aspect of pride, what we call, “wounded pride,” can keep us from the sorrow that leads to repentance even when we admit that we are wrong. We instead get hung up on the shame of our failures and drown in self pity rather than ask forgiveness, humbly accept it and move forward. In both instances, pride cripples our transformation. If we would drive a dagger through the heart of our sinful pride, we must accept Jesus’ help and learn the skill of dying to self. Only by thinking of our self less can Jesus turn us into more. 5/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
A prideful person will hardly admit when they are wrong so what hope do they have of correction? And, if we don’t receive correction how are we to change? Another terrible aspect of pride, what we call, “wounded pride,” can keep us from the sorrow that leads to repentance even when we admit that we are wrong. We instead get hung up on the shame of our failures and drown in self pity rather than ask forgiveness, humbly accept it and move forward. In both instances, pride cripples our transformation. If we would drive a dagger through the heart of our sinful pride, we must accept Jesus’ help and learn the skill of dying to self. Only by thinking of our self less can Jesus turn us into more. 5/29/2010 Conversations Within ts
Thursday, June 3, 2010
“Is the glass half full, or half empty? It depends on whether you're pouring, or drinking.” Bill Cosby
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Ps.107 ESV
God is good and it is good to give thanks to Him. How so? Because giving thanks not only a shows proper appreciation of the creature to Creator, it actually benefits the person giving it with happiness. Grateful people are happy people. People with a grateful spirit see life from “the glass is half full” perspective. It is hard to be un-happy and grateful at the same time. Its like trying to whistle while you’re laughing, you just can’t do it. If we want to be happy throughout the day, began by giving thanks for little blessings; we can even use any temptations to be negative to help. If you think about it, every temptation to be negative is also training ground to find something to be grateful about. Instead of complaining about traffic be grateful that you have an air conditioned car or that you are not walking, or any number of things that are good about your life at the moment. 5/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
God is good and it is good to give thanks to Him. How so? Because giving thanks not only a shows proper appreciation of the creature to Creator, it actually benefits the person giving it with happiness. Grateful people are happy people. People with a grateful spirit see life from “the glass is half full” perspective. It is hard to be un-happy and grateful at the same time. Its like trying to whistle while you’re laughing, you just can’t do it. If we want to be happy throughout the day, began by giving thanks for little blessings; we can even use any temptations to be negative to help. If you think about it, every temptation to be negative is also training ground to find something to be grateful about. Instead of complaining about traffic be grateful that you have an air conditioned car or that you are not walking, or any number of things that are good about your life at the moment. 5/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Is the glass half full, or half empty? It depends on whether you're pouring, or drinking.” Bill Cosby
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Ps.107 ESV
God is good and it is good to give thanks to Him. How so? Because giving thanks not only a shows proper appreciation of the creature to Creator, it actually benefits the person giving it with happiness. Grateful people are happy people. People with a grateful spirit see life from “the glass is half full” perspective. It is hard to be un-happy and grateful at the same time. Its like trying to whistle while you’re laughing, you just can’t do it. If we want to be happy throughout the day, began by giving thanks for little blessings; we can even use any temptations to be negative to help. If you think about it, every temptation to be negative is also training ground to find something to be grateful about. Instead of complaining about traffic be grateful that you have an air conditioned car or that you are not walking, or any number of things that are good about your life at the moment. 5/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
God is good and it is good to give thanks to Him. How so? Because giving thanks not only a shows proper appreciation of the creature to Creator, it actually benefits the person giving it with happiness. Grateful people are happy people. People with a grateful spirit see life from “the glass is half full” perspective. It is hard to be un-happy and grateful at the same time. Its like trying to whistle while you’re laughing, you just can’t do it. If we want to be happy throughout the day, began by giving thanks for little blessings; we can even use any temptations to be negative to help. If you think about it, every temptation to be negative is also training ground to find something to be grateful about. Instead of complaining about traffic be grateful that you have an air conditioned car or that you are not walking, or any number of things that are good about your life at the moment. 5/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
“All men die; few men ever really live.” Braveheart (The Movie)
“I give them eternal life, and they will never perish…” John 10
If Christ has given me eternal life let me in the very least live this part of it today. I would not dishonor His gift with an attitude of just surviving another day, getting by, reducing life to mere existence. Let me wake to life, to beauty, to love, to breathe deeply the fresh air of grace. Let me give myself to my work as an osprey takes to flight and to play as an otter to a mountain stream. Let me explore my surroundings as a boy let loose in the woods and look at the wonder of life with the dewdrop eyes of a little girl. Let me serve the God of life by living it fully. 5/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
If Christ has given me eternal life let me in the very least live this part of it today. I would not dishonor His gift with an attitude of just surviving another day, getting by, reducing life to mere existence. Let me wake to life, to beauty, to love, to breathe deeply the fresh air of grace. Let me give myself to my work as an osprey takes to flight and to play as an otter to a mountain stream. Let me explore my surroundings as a boy let loose in the woods and look at the wonder of life with the dewdrop eyes of a little girl. Let me serve the God of life by living it fully. 5/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
“All men die; few men ever really live.” Braveheart (The Movie)
“I give them eternal life, and they will never perish…” John 10
If Christ has given me eternal life let me in the very least live this part of it today. I would not dishonor His gift with an attitude of just surviving another day, getting by, reducing life to mere existence. Let me wake to life, to beauty, to love, to breathe deeply the fresh air of grace. Let me give myself to my work as an osprey takes to flight and to play as an otter to a mountain stream. Let me explore my surroundings as a boy let loose in the woods and look at the wonder of life with the dewdrop eyes of a little girl. Let me serve the God of life by living it fully. 5/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
If Christ has given me eternal life let me in the very least live this part of it today. I would not dishonor His gift with an attitude of just surviving another day, getting by, reducing life to mere existence. Let me wake to life, to beauty, to love, to breathe deeply the fresh air of grace. Let me give myself to my work as an osprey takes to flight and to play as an otter to a mountain stream. Let me explore my surroundings as a boy let loose in the woods and look at the wonder of life with the dewdrop eyes of a little girl. Let me serve the God of life by living it fully. 5/27/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
“The good news to a hungry person is bread.” Desmond Tutu
"He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor…liberty to the captives…recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed.” Luke 4 ESV
A person may be physically poor but possess great spiritual wealth. They may be captive, blind, or oppressed but know a depth of freedom and spiritual sight beyond measure. And, while Christians believe that issues of the spirit have greater weight than those of body, this in no way means that we do not value both. God tells us to. We are told to work with equal focus to put bread in hungry stomachs as well as in famished souls. We are called to attend to matters of justice in this world as well as the next. We work to cure every disease, and to secure life liberty and the pursuit of happiness for everyone. The good news is that if these things are denied us in some material way, as they commonly are in this world, we may still posses them in the next. We may even posses them now if only in spirit. 5/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
A person may be physically poor but possess great spiritual wealth. They may be captive, blind, or oppressed but know a depth of freedom and spiritual sight beyond measure. And, while Christians believe that issues of the spirit have greater weight than those of body, this in no way means that we do not value both. God tells us to. We are told to work with equal focus to put bread in hungry stomachs as well as in famished souls. We are called to attend to matters of justice in this world as well as the next. We work to cure every disease, and to secure life liberty and the pursuit of happiness for everyone. The good news is that if these things are denied us in some material way, as they commonly are in this world, we may still posses them in the next. We may even posses them now if only in spirit. 5/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The good news to a hungry person is bread.” Desmond Tutu
"He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor…liberty to the captives…recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed.” Luke 4 ESV
A person may be physically poor but possess great spiritual wealth. They may be captive, blind, or oppressed but know a depth of freedom and spiritual sight beyond measure. And, while Christians believe that issues of the spirit have greater weight than those of body, this in no way means that we do not value both. God tells us to. We are told to work with equal focus to put bread in hungry stomachs as well as in famished souls. We are called to attend to matters of justice in this world as well as the next. We work to cure every disease, and to secure life liberty and the pursuit of happiness for everyone. The good news is that if these things are denied us in some material way, as they commonly are in this world, we may still posses them in the next. We may even posses them now if only in spirit. 5/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
A person may be physically poor but possess great spiritual wealth. They may be captive, blind, or oppressed but know a depth of freedom and spiritual sight beyond measure. And, while Christians believe that issues of the spirit have greater weight than those of body, this in no way means that we do not value both. God tells us to. We are told to work with equal focus to put bread in hungry stomachs as well as in famished souls. We are called to attend to matters of justice in this world as well as the next. We work to cure every disease, and to secure life liberty and the pursuit of happiness for everyone. The good news is that if these things are denied us in some material way, as they commonly are in this world, we may still posses them in the next. We may even posses them now if only in spirit. 5/25/2010 Conversations Within ts
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