“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Gen.1 ESV
It seems rather simple, at least to me, that there is an intelligent design witnessed in all the universe. When I look its many wonders the greatest wonder of all, is my own wonder of these wonders. The “manishness of man”, as the late Francis Schaeffer called it, is the one wonder that stands out with such power that I could hardly believe that all this is the result of some cosmic accident. I quite agree with C. S. Lewis, “If the whole universe has no meaning, we should never have found out that it has no meaning.” But certainly not everybody feels this way. There is no reason to be offended when they don't. Some believe that in the beginning man created God. Freedom to choose one's beliefs is one part of man's manishness. Christianity offers me a reasonable explanation of that manishness. 10/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
“Worldview (Weltanschauung)--The overall perspective from which one sees and interprets the world.” The Free Dictionary
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Gen.1 ESV
It seems rather simple, at least to me, that there is an intelligent design witnessed in all the universe. When I look its many wonders the greatest wonder of all, is my own wonder of these wonders. The “manishness of man”, as the late Francis Schaeffer called it, is the one wonder that stands out with such power that I could hardly believe that all this is the result of some cosmic accident. I quite agree with C. S. Lewis, “If the whole universe has no meaning, we should never have found out that it has no meaning.” But certainly not everybody feels this way. There is no reason to be offended when they don't. Some believe that in the beginning man created God. Freedom to choose one's beliefs is one part of man's manishness. Christianity offers me a reasonable explanation of that manishness. 10/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
It seems rather simple, at least to me, that there is an intelligent design witnessed in all the universe. When I look its many wonders the greatest wonder of all, is my own wonder of these wonders. The “manishness of man”, as the late Francis Schaeffer called it, is the one wonder that stands out with such power that I could hardly believe that all this is the result of some cosmic accident. I quite agree with C. S. Lewis, “If the whole universe has no meaning, we should never have found out that it has no meaning.” But certainly not everybody feels this way. There is no reason to be offended when they don't. Some believe that in the beginning man created God. Freedom to choose one's beliefs is one part of man's manishness. Christianity offers me a reasonable explanation of that manishness. 10/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Friday, October 29, 2010
People, when they are able, always choose whatever desire is the greatest at the moment. Johnathan Edwards.
“The fruit of the Spirit is....self-control.” Gal.5 ESV
Self-control is learned just as all other virtues are. Moral excellence is not cooked in our lives instantly like some microwave dinner. We do not ask God to give us self-control and wake up the next day a disciplined person. Self-control is learned one decision at a time. Every decision that we make simply reinforces in us the desire to choose it the next time around. This is just as true for bad decisions as it is good ones. It is certainly true that every decision is born from desire. What I desire most will determine what decision I make and this is precisely where the Spirit of Jesus helps us. He works in us a desire to say no to inferior desires and to choose the superior delights of joy. The catch seems to be that joy is often an acquired taste. 10/27/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Self-control is learned just as all other virtues are. Moral excellence is not cooked in our lives instantly like some microwave dinner. We do not ask God to give us self-control and wake up the next day a disciplined person. Self-control is learned one decision at a time. Every decision that we make simply reinforces in us the desire to choose it the next time around. This is just as true for bad decisions as it is good ones. It is certainly true that every decision is born from desire. What I desire most will determine what decision I make and this is precisely where the Spirit of Jesus helps us. He works in us a desire to say no to inferior desires and to choose the superior delights of joy. The catch seems to be that joy is often an acquired taste. 10/27/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
People, when they are able, always choose whatever desire is the greatest at the moment. Johnathan Edwards.
“The fruit of the Spirit is....self-control.” Gal.5 ESV
Self-control is learned just as all other virtues are. Moral excellence is not cooked in our lives instantly like some microwave dinner. We do not ask God to give us self-control and wake up the next day a disciplined person. Self-control is learned one decision at a time. Every decision that we make simply reinforces in us the desire to choose it the next time around. This is just as true for bad decisions as it is good ones. It is certainly true that every decision is born from desire. What I desire most will determine what decision I make and this is precisely where the Spirit of Jesus helps us. He works in us a desire to say no to inferior desires and to choose the superior delights of joy. The catch seems to be that joy is often an acquired taste. 10/27/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Self-control is learned just as all other virtues are. Moral excellence is not cooked in our lives instantly like some microwave dinner. We do not ask God to give us self-control and wake up the next day a disciplined person. Self-control is learned one decision at a time. Every decision that we make simply reinforces in us the desire to choose it the next time around. This is just as true for bad decisions as it is good ones. It is certainly true that every decision is born from desire. What I desire most will determine what decision I make and this is precisely where the Spirit of Jesus helps us. He works in us a desire to say no to inferior desires and to choose the superior delights of joy. The catch seems to be that joy is often an acquired taste. 10/27/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Some of our choices limit other choices.
“The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way.” Ps.37 ESV
God leaves thousands of decisions to us every day. It it obvious that He does not tell us every single thing we are to do. He does provide us with some excellent guidelines and even offers to bless the choices we make when we live by them. After we have made the singular choice to commit our lives to Him, God gives great latitude to the choices we make. When we have sincerely asked for His guidance and truly look for it as a manner of living, we should rest confident that He is in fact, leading us. This is just as true for the person I choose to marry, the work I choose as a my career ,as it is when I choose a tuna or a peanut butter sandwich for lunch. When we want God's will He is certainly able to lead us to it. 10/26/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
God leaves thousands of decisions to us every day. It it obvious that He does not tell us every single thing we are to do. He does provide us with some excellent guidelines and even offers to bless the choices we make when we live by them. After we have made the singular choice to commit our lives to Him, God gives great latitude to the choices we make. When we have sincerely asked for His guidance and truly look for it as a manner of living, we should rest confident that He is in fact, leading us. This is just as true for the person I choose to marry, the work I choose as a my career ,as it is when I choose a tuna or a peanut butter sandwich for lunch. When we want God's will He is certainly able to lead us to it. 10/26/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Some of our choices limit other choices.
“The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way.” Ps.37 ESV
God leaves thousands of decisions to us every day. It it obvious that He does not tell us every single thing we are to do. He does provide us with some excellent guidelines and even offers to bless the choices we make when we live by them. After we have made the singular choice to commit our lives to Him, God gives great latitude to the choices we make. When we have sincerely asked for His guidance and truly look for it as a manner of living, we should rest confident that He is in fact, leading us. This is just as true for the person I choose to marry, the work I choose as a my career ,as it is when I choose a tuna or a peanut butter sandwich for lunch. When we want God's will He is certainly able to lead us to it. 10/26/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
God leaves thousands of decisions to us every day. It it obvious that He does not tell us every single thing we are to do. He does provide us with some excellent guidelines and even offers to bless the choices we make when we live by them. After we have made the singular choice to commit our lives to Him, God gives great latitude to the choices we make. When we have sincerely asked for His guidance and truly look for it as a manner of living, we should rest confident that He is in fact, leading us. This is just as true for the person I choose to marry, the work I choose as a my career ,as it is when I choose a tuna or a peanut butter sandwich for lunch. When we want God's will He is certainly able to lead us to it. 10/26/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
The best thing to do with dirty laundry isn't to air it, nor hide it under the rug, but to wash it.
“It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out.” Proverbs 25 ESV
Somewhere there is a fine line that defines when it is proper to confess our shortcomings to others and when to keep our sins to ourselves. Certainly if I have wronged someone I need to go to them and ask forgiveness. But on the whole it is probably best to keep private matters private. “Airing my dirty laundry,” encourages no one except gossips and airing others peoples dirty laundry is never appropriate. But if my laundry has been washed and I mean washed in the good old Christian sense of the word, then by all means wear it. People are encouraged when they see a sinner turned saint if for no other reason than it give us hope that we too may be forgiven and changed. Some of the most powerful stories are those of drug dealers, prostitutes, alcoholics and bad husbands, who after coming to Christ, have experienced a wonderful transformation. 10/25/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Somewhere there is a fine line that defines when it is proper to confess our shortcomings to others and when to keep our sins to ourselves. Certainly if I have wronged someone I need to go to them and ask forgiveness. But on the whole it is probably best to keep private matters private. “Airing my dirty laundry,” encourages no one except gossips and airing others peoples dirty laundry is never appropriate. But if my laundry has been washed and I mean washed in the good old Christian sense of the word, then by all means wear it. People are encouraged when they see a sinner turned saint if for no other reason than it give us hope that we too may be forgiven and changed. Some of the most powerful stories are those of drug dealers, prostitutes, alcoholics and bad husbands, who after coming to Christ, have experienced a wonderful transformation. 10/25/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
The best thing to do with dirty laundry isn't to air it, nor hide it under the rug, but to wash it.
“It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out.” Proverbs 25 ESV
Somewhere there is a fine line that defines when it is proper to confess our shortcomings to others and when to keep our sins to ourselves. Certainly if I have wronged someone I need to go to them and ask forgiveness. But on the whole it is probably best to keep private matters private. “Airing my dirty laundry,” encourages no one except gossips and airing others peoples dirty laundry is never appropriate. But if my laundry has been washed and I mean washed in the good old Christian sense of the word, then by all means wear it. People are encouraged when they see a sinner turned saint if for no other reason than it give us hope that we too may be forgiven and changed. Some of the most powerful stories are those of drug dealers, prostitutes, alcoholics and bad husbands, who after coming to Christ, have experienced a wonderful transformation. 10/25/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Somewhere there is a fine line that defines when it is proper to confess our shortcomings to others and when to keep our sins to ourselves. Certainly if I have wronged someone I need to go to them and ask forgiveness. But on the whole it is probably best to keep private matters private. “Airing my dirty laundry,” encourages no one except gossips and airing others peoples dirty laundry is never appropriate. But if my laundry has been washed and I mean washed in the good old Christian sense of the word, then by all means wear it. People are encouraged when they see a sinner turned saint if for no other reason than it give us hope that we too may be forgiven and changed. Some of the most powerful stories are those of drug dealers, prostitutes, alcoholics and bad husbands, who after coming to Christ, have experienced a wonderful transformation. 10/25/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
To believe that someone's behavior is immoral does not make you a bigot unless of course you refuse to love them.
“He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” John 8 KJV
Recently the news reported the suicides of “several young people who were bullied and taunted for being gay.” We are no doubt a conflicted society and such stories are sad beyond description. What is equally sad, is that Christians often have a double standard about homosexual behavior and our own short comings. All sin is a perversion of what God desires for His children, my sins no less. And it should be said that persecution is always wrong. People who persecute people for being gay do not understand the nature of their own sins nor nature of grace to to cease condemnation. And while this is certainly tragic, it should also be said that people who persecute Christians for their beliefs about same sex relations are just as wrong. Holding to ones moral code does not make you a bigot, but failing to love those who do not share it, does. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Recently the news reported the suicides of “several young people who were bullied and taunted for being gay.” We are no doubt a conflicted society and such stories are sad beyond description. What is equally sad, is that Christians often have a double standard about homosexual behavior and our own short comings. All sin is a perversion of what God desires for His children, my sins no less. And it should be said that persecution is always wrong. People who persecute people for being gay do not understand the nature of their own sins nor nature of grace to to cease condemnation. And while this is certainly tragic, it should also be said that people who persecute Christians for their beliefs about same sex relations are just as wrong. Holding to ones moral code does not make you a bigot, but failing to love those who do not share it, does. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
To believe that someone's behavior is immoral does not make you a bigot unless of course you refuse to love them.
“He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.” John 8 KJV
Recently the news reported the suicides of “several young people who were bullied and taunted for being gay.” We are no doubt a conflicted society and such stories are sad beyond description. What is equally sad, is that Christians often have a double standard about homosexual behavior and our own short comings. All sin is a perversion of what God desires for His children, my sins no less. And it should be said that persecution is always wrong. People who persecute people for being gay do not understand the nature of their own sins nor nature of grace to to cease condemnation. And while this is certainly tragic, it should also be said that people who persecute Christians for their beliefs about same sex relations are just as wrong. Holding to ones moral code does not make you a bigot, but failing to love those who do not share it, does. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Recently the news reported the suicides of “several young people who were bullied and taunted for being gay.” We are no doubt a conflicted society and such stories are sad beyond description. What is equally sad, is that Christians often have a double standard about homosexual behavior and our own short comings. All sin is a perversion of what God desires for His children, my sins no less. And it should be said that persecution is always wrong. People who persecute people for being gay do not understand the nature of their own sins nor nature of grace to to cease condemnation. And while this is certainly tragic, it should also be said that people who persecute Christians for their beliefs about same sex relations are just as wrong. Holding to ones moral code does not make you a bigot, but failing to love those who do not share it, does. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Monday, October 25, 2010
The letter of Scripture is a veil just as much as it is a revelation; hiding while it reveals, and yet revealing while it hides. Andrew Jukes
But Jesus answered them, "You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God.”
One cannot be a disciple of Jesus and not be a disciple of the Scriptures—at least not a good disciple. Jesus taught from the Scriptures, obeyed their teachings, appealed to them as the authoritative word of God, told us that one purpose of His life was to fulfill them and said that they would remain until heaven and earth passed away. He also commissioned His apostles to give us the New Testament and for two thousand years followers of Christ have been disciples of the Book even if faltering ones. Any serious disciple of Jesus might as well make up their mind that to follow Jesus is to reverence the Bible as God's word, even if we struggle with some of its passages. The good news is that Jesus promises, in the Scriptures of course, to lead us, and feed us from them. He does not leave us to figure it out on our own. 10/19/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
One cannot be a disciple of Jesus and not be a disciple of the Scriptures—at least not a good disciple. Jesus taught from the Scriptures, obeyed their teachings, appealed to them as the authoritative word of God, told us that one purpose of His life was to fulfill them and said that they would remain until heaven and earth passed away. He also commissioned His apostles to give us the New Testament and for two thousand years followers of Christ have been disciples of the Book even if faltering ones. Any serious disciple of Jesus might as well make up their mind that to follow Jesus is to reverence the Bible as God's word, even if we struggle with some of its passages. The good news is that Jesus promises, in the Scriptures of course, to lead us, and feed us from them. He does not leave us to figure it out on our own. 10/19/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
The letter of Scripture is a veil just as much as it is a revelation; hiding while it reveals, and yet revealing while it hides. Andrew Jukes
But Jesus answered them, "You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God.”
One cannot be a disciple of Jesus and not be a disciple of the Scriptures—at least not a good disciple. Jesus taught from the Scriptures, obeyed their teachings, appealed to them as the authoritative word of God, told us that one purpose of His life was to fulfill them and said that they would remain until heaven and earth passed away. He also commissioned His apostles to give us the New Testament and for two thousand years followers of Christ have been disciples of the Book even if faltering ones. Any serious disciple of Jesus might as well make up their mind that to follow Jesus is to reverence the Bible as God's word, even if we struggle with some of its passages. The good news is that Jesus promises, in the Scriptures of course, to lead us, and feed us from them. He does not leave us to figure it out on our own. 10/19/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
One cannot be a disciple of Jesus and not be a disciple of the Scriptures—at least not a good disciple. Jesus taught from the Scriptures, obeyed their teachings, appealed to them as the authoritative word of God, told us that one purpose of His life was to fulfill them and said that they would remain until heaven and earth passed away. He also commissioned His apostles to give us the New Testament and for two thousand years followers of Christ have been disciples of the Book even if faltering ones. Any serious disciple of Jesus might as well make up their mind that to follow Jesus is to reverence the Bible as God's word, even if we struggle with some of its passages. The good news is that Jesus promises, in the Scriptures of course, to lead us, and feed us from them. He does not leave us to figure it out on our own. 10/19/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Saturday, October 23, 2010
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." Thomas Edison
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." Thomas Edison
“To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.” Eph.6 ESV
We usually associate perseverance with some action on our part and I suppose prayer is as much an action as anything else, perhaps more so. If we believe this, we should stick to our prayers as we stay with any task and that is until we see results. C.H. Spurgeon is said to have prayed every day for a number of friends to experience faith in Christ and did so without fail until he died. It is said that all but one came to faith before he died and that one did shortly after his departure. Perseverance in prayer is no small thing, and it is perhaps our most powerful contribution to the lives of those we love. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
“To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.” Eph.6 ESV
We usually associate perseverance with some action on our part and I suppose prayer is as much an action as anything else, perhaps more so. If we believe this, we should stick to our prayers as we stay with any task and that is until we see results. C.H. Spurgeon is said to have prayed every day for a number of friends to experience faith in Christ and did so without fail until he died. It is said that all but one came to faith before he died and that one did shortly after his departure. Perseverance in prayer is no small thing, and it is perhaps our most powerful contribution to the lives of those we love. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." Thomas Edison
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up." Thomas Edison
“To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.” Eph.6 ESV
We usually associate perseverance with some action on our part and I suppose prayer is as much an action as anything else, perhaps more so. If we believe this, we should stick to our prayers as we stay with any task and that is until we see results. C.H. Spurgeon is said to have prayed every day for a number of friends to experience faith in Christ and did so without fail until he died. It is said that all but one came to faith before he died and that one did shortly after his departure. Perseverance in prayer is no small thing, and it is perhaps our most powerful contribution to the lives of those we love. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
“To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.” Eph.6 ESV
We usually associate perseverance with some action on our part and I suppose prayer is as much an action as anything else, perhaps more so. If we believe this, we should stick to our prayers as we stay with any task and that is until we see results. C.H. Spurgeon is said to have prayed every day for a number of friends to experience faith in Christ and did so without fail until he died. It is said that all but one came to faith before he died and that one did shortly after his departure. Perseverance in prayer is no small thing, and it is perhaps our most powerful contribution to the lives of those we love. 10/21/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Friday, October 22, 2010
"Time is too slow for those who wait,...
"Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity." Henry Van Dyke
“There is a time for everything...a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” Ecc.3 ESV
I pretty much expect to have my share of sorrow as I have had my share of joy. I have known good health, I will also know sickness. My body will fail me just as surely as it has served me. Life has been good and death will certainly walk my way. But though life under the sun brings the certainly of weeping as well as laughter, life in Jesus brings another certainty. My best days lie before me not behind. It is in this season only that I will sing sad songs. Now is the season of changing seasons but the day approaches where the need for night will pass forever into eternal day! 10/19/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
“There is a time for everything...a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” Ecc.3 ESV
I pretty much expect to have my share of sorrow as I have had my share of joy. I have known good health, I will also know sickness. My body will fail me just as surely as it has served me. Life has been good and death will certainly walk my way. But though life under the sun brings the certainly of weeping as well as laughter, life in Jesus brings another certainty. My best days lie before me not behind. It is in this season only that I will sing sad songs. Now is the season of changing seasons but the day approaches where the need for night will pass forever into eternal day! 10/19/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Thursday, October 21, 2010
It is only possible to live happily-ever-after on a day-to-day basis. Margaret Bonnano
“He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1Pt.1 ESV
I like the birthday greeting, “May you live forever,” and follow it by saying, “May you live all the days of your life.” After all, what is living forever if we are not living life today? I do not want to wait for life to begin after I die and go to some better place. I want to live this day, and I want to live it to the max. I feel this way not because of some silly notion that I only go around once and I need to do as much as I can while I can. No, I feel that that I am waking up, I have gotten a taste of life of that eternal life in Jesus and I want more of it. The promise of doing this forever makes me tingle all over. 10/18/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
I like the birthday greeting, “May you live forever,” and follow it by saying, “May you live all the days of your life.” After all, what is living forever if we are not living life today? I do not want to wait for life to begin after I die and go to some better place. I want to live this day, and I want to live it to the max. I feel this way not because of some silly notion that I only go around once and I need to do as much as I can while I can. No, I feel that that I am waking up, I have gotten a taste of life of that eternal life in Jesus and I want more of it. The promise of doing this forever makes me tingle all over. 10/18/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
It is only possible to live happily-ever-after on a day-to-day basis. Margaret Bonnano
“He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1Pt.1 ESV
I like the birthday greeting, “May you live forever,” and follow it by saying, “May you live all the days of your life.” After all, what is living forever if we are not living life today? I do not want to wait for life to begin after I die and go to some better place. I want to live this day, and I want to live it to the max. I feel this way not because of some silly notion that I only go around once and I need to do as much as I can while I can. No, I feel that that I am waking up, I have gotten a taste of life of that eternal life in Jesus and I want more of it. The promise of doing this forever makes me tingle all over. 10/18/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
I like the birthday greeting, “May you live forever,” and follow it by saying, “May you live all the days of your life.” After all, what is living forever if we are not living life today? I do not want to wait for life to begin after I die and go to some better place. I want to live this day, and I want to live it to the max. I feel this way not because of some silly notion that I only go around once and I need to do as much as I can while I can. No, I feel that that I am waking up, I have gotten a taste of life of that eternal life in Jesus and I want more of it. The promise of doing this forever makes me tingle all over. 10/18/2010 Conversations Within ts (Gunterhill)
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
“Enjoy what you can, endure what you must.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“It is for discipline that you have to endure.” Heb.12 ESV
I believe the purpose of life is simple. It is to enjoy God, and to be enjoyed by Him. We learn to live for God's pleasure, and in doing so, find Him to be our greatest. But this doesn't mean that everything we do is enjoyable. That we are spiritually out of shape and need the strengthening of spiritual muscles usually means training and training usually involves pain. Endurance is needed at such times. Endurance is perhaps a quality only necessary this side of glory but it is certainly necessary in the here and now. Without endurance training will accomplish little; without training our faith remains weak; without faith how can we please God?. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
I believe the purpose of life is simple. It is to enjoy God, and to be enjoyed by Him. We learn to live for God's pleasure, and in doing so, find Him to be our greatest. But this doesn't mean that everything we do is enjoyable. That we are spiritually out of shape and need the strengthening of spiritual muscles usually means training and training usually involves pain. Endurance is needed at such times. Endurance is perhaps a quality only necessary this side of glory but it is certainly necessary in the here and now. Without endurance training will accomplish little; without training our faith remains weak; without faith how can we please God?. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“Enjoy what you can, endure what you must.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“It is for discipline that you have to endure.” Heb.12 ESV
I believe the purpose of life is simple. It is to enjoy God, and to be enjoyed by Him. We learn to live for God's pleasure, and in doing so, find Him to be our greatest. But this doesn't mean that everything we do is enjoyable. That we are spiritually out of shape and need the strengthening of spiritual muscles usually means training and training usually involves pain. Endurance is needed at such times. Endurance is perhaps a quality only necessary this side of glory but it is certainly necessary in the here and now. Without endurance training will accomplish little; without training our faith remains weak; without faith how can we please God?. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
I believe the purpose of life is simple. It is to enjoy God, and to be enjoyed by Him. We learn to live for God's pleasure, and in doing so, find Him to be our greatest. But this doesn't mean that everything we do is enjoyable. That we are spiritually out of shape and need the strengthening of spiritual muscles usually means training and training usually involves pain. Endurance is needed at such times. Endurance is perhaps a quality only necessary this side of glory but it is certainly necessary in the here and now. Without endurance training will accomplish little; without training our faith remains weak; without faith how can we please God?. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
I think that humility is borne to us on the wings of perspective, the perspective of knowing one’s place in the world.
I think that humility is borne to us on the wings of perspective, the perspective of knowing one’s place in the world.
“Humility comes before honor.” Prov.15 ESV
I think it s a kindness shown to us that humility comes before honor. We are humbled so that any honors that come to us do not go to our head. I feel pretty certain that when God humbles us His purpose is not to embarrass but to help us discover our true worth. Humility is not having a low opinion of ourselves just a realistic one. We should not over or under estimate our value to others nor their value to us. It is probably just as important to realize that we can humble ourselves or be humbled, better the first I think. 10/13/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“Humility comes before honor.” Prov.15 ESV
I think it s a kindness shown to us that humility comes before honor. We are humbled so that any honors that come to us do not go to our head. I feel pretty certain that when God humbles us His purpose is not to embarrass but to help us discover our true worth. Humility is not having a low opinion of ourselves just a realistic one. We should not over or under estimate our value to others nor their value to us. It is probably just as important to realize that we can humble ourselves or be humbled, better the first I think. 10/13/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
I think that humility is borne to us on the wings of perspective, the perspective of knowing one’s place in the world.
I think that humility is borne to us on the wings of perspective, the perspective of knowing one’s place in the world.
“Humility comes before honor.” Prov.15 ESV
I think it s a kindness shown to us that humility comes before honor. We are humbled so that any honors that come to us do not go to our head. I feel pretty certain that when God humbles us His purpose is not to embarrass but to help us discover our true worth. Humility is not having a low opinion of ourselves just a realistic one. We should not over or under estimate our value to others nor their value to us. It is probably just as important to realize that we can humble ourselves or be humbled, better the first I think. 10/13/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“Humility comes before honor.” Prov.15 ESV
I think it s a kindness shown to us that humility comes before honor. We are humbled so that any honors that come to us do not go to our head. I feel pretty certain that when God humbles us His purpose is not to embarrass but to help us discover our true worth. Humility is not having a low opinion of ourselves just a realistic one. We should not over or under estimate our value to others nor their value to us. It is probably just as important to realize that we can humble ourselves or be humbled, better the first I think. 10/13/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Monday, October 18, 2010
“This is the final test of a gentleman: his respect for those who can be of no possible service to him” William Lyon Phelps
“Honor everyone.” 1Pt.2 ESV
I vividly remember meeting someone and greeted them without much enthusiasm until I discovered that he owned a fishing pond that I had eyed from the road. Once I found out he had something I wanted I altered the way I was interacting with him. Immediately, I felt a sadness in me and realized how ugly I was behaving. My treatment of people should have nothing to do with whether they can benefit me in some way. Every person I meet is intrinsically an “image bearer “ and as such deserves honor and respect. I have always been impressed by something C. S. Lewis said, “It is a serious thing to live in a world of possible gods and goddesses.” It grips me even more to realize that the way I treat people can help or hinder the process of expressing all that it means to bear the image of God. 10/12/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
I vividly remember meeting someone and greeted them without much enthusiasm until I discovered that he owned a fishing pond that I had eyed from the road. Once I found out he had something I wanted I altered the way I was interacting with him. Immediately, I felt a sadness in me and realized how ugly I was behaving. My treatment of people should have nothing to do with whether they can benefit me in some way. Every person I meet is intrinsically an “image bearer “ and as such deserves honor and respect. I have always been impressed by something C. S. Lewis said, “It is a serious thing to live in a world of possible gods and goddesses.” It grips me even more to realize that the way I treat people can help or hinder the process of expressing all that it means to bear the image of God. 10/12/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“This is the final test of a gentleman: his respect for those who can be of no possible service to him” William Lyon Phelps
“Honor everyone.” 1Pt.2 ESV
I vividly remember meeting someone and greeted them without much enthusiasm until I discovered that he owned a fishing pond that I had eyed from the road. Once I found out he had something I wanted I altered the way I was interacting with him. Immediately, I felt a sadness in me and realized how ugly I was behaving. My treatment of people should have nothing to do with whether they can benefit me in some way. Every person I meet is intrinsically an “image bearer “ and as such deserves honor and respect. I have always been impressed by something C. S. Lewis said, “It is a serious thing to live in a world of possible gods and goddesses.” It grips me even more to realize that the way I treat people can help or hinder the process of expressing all that it means to bear the image of God. 10/12/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
I vividly remember meeting someone and greeted them without much enthusiasm until I discovered that he owned a fishing pond that I had eyed from the road. Once I found out he had something I wanted I altered the way I was interacting with him. Immediately, I felt a sadness in me and realized how ugly I was behaving. My treatment of people should have nothing to do with whether they can benefit me in some way. Every person I meet is intrinsically an “image bearer “ and as such deserves honor and respect. I have always been impressed by something C. S. Lewis said, “It is a serious thing to live in a world of possible gods and goddesses.” It grips me even more to realize that the way I treat people can help or hinder the process of expressing all that it means to bear the image of God. 10/12/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Saturday, October 16, 2010
There are two lasting bequests we can give our children. One is roots. The other is wings. Hodding Carter, Jr.
“'Honor your father and mother' (this is the first commandment with a promise).'”Eph.6 ESV
Children obey their parents; when they grow up they learn to honor them. When parental authority appropriately matures to unassuming counsel, children who have grown under the grace of command will always insist on honoring their parents, even if they choose not to follow their counsel. Parents are intended to be the initial source of God's guidance in our lives and while this does not last forever it is wonderful while it does. There are few moments of certainty after we leave home where finding God's will is as simple as asking mom and dad. And, though our relationship with them changes from command to counsel the need to honor them never changes. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Children obey their parents; when they grow up they learn to honor them. When parental authority appropriately matures to unassuming counsel, children who have grown under the grace of command will always insist on honoring their parents, even if they choose not to follow their counsel. Parents are intended to be the initial source of God's guidance in our lives and while this does not last forever it is wonderful while it does. There are few moments of certainty after we leave home where finding God's will is as simple as asking mom and dad. And, though our relationship with them changes from command to counsel the need to honor them never changes. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
There are two lasting bequests we can give our children. One is roots. The other is wings. Hodding Carter, Jr.
“'Honor your father and mother' (this is the first commandment with a promise).'”Eph.6 ESV
Children obey their parents; when they grow up they learn to honor them. When parental authority appropriately matures to unassuming counsel, children who have grown under the grace of command will always insist on honoring their parents, even if they choose not to follow their counsel. Parents are intended to be the initial source of God's guidance in our lives and while this does not last forever it is wonderful while it does. There are few moments of certainty after we leave home where finding God's will is as simple as asking mom and dad. And, though our relationship with them changes from command to counsel the need to honor them never changes. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Children obey their parents; when they grow up they learn to honor them. When parental authority appropriately matures to unassuming counsel, children who have grown under the grace of command will always insist on honoring their parents, even if they choose not to follow their counsel. Parents are intended to be the initial source of God's guidance in our lives and while this does not last forever it is wonderful while it does. There are few moments of certainty after we leave home where finding God's will is as simple as asking mom and dad. And, though our relationship with them changes from command to counsel the need to honor them never changes. 10/15/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Friday, October 15, 2010
“A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old... the affection and care for the old...are the true gold mines of a culture.”Abraham J. Heschel
“Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God.” Lev.19 ESV
We might understand these words to say that when we show respect to the elderly we thereby show respect to God. Jesus tells as much when he said that love shown to others is love directed to him. Not only is this true, but anytime we give honor to those it is due we too get splashed by its refreshment. Showing honor is a lesson in valuing what is truly valuable. What we value demonstrates our own value. This is why so much is said about it in all wisdom literature. Rise in the presence of the aged and witness its power to shape your values. 10/11/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
We might understand these words to say that when we show respect to the elderly we thereby show respect to God. Jesus tells as much when he said that love shown to others is love directed to him. Not only is this true, but anytime we give honor to those it is due we too get splashed by its refreshment. Showing honor is a lesson in valuing what is truly valuable. What we value demonstrates our own value. This is why so much is said about it in all wisdom literature. Rise in the presence of the aged and witness its power to shape your values. 10/11/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old... the affection and care for the old...are the true gold mines of a culture.”Abraham J. Heschel
“Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God.” Lev.19 ESV
We might understand these words to say that when we show respect to the elderly we thereby show respect to God. Jesus tells as much when he said that love shown to others is love directed to him. Not only is this true, but anytime we give honor to those it is due we too get splashed by its refreshment. Showing honor is a lesson in valuing what is truly valuable. What we value demonstrates our own value. This is why so much is said about it in all wisdom literature. Rise in the presence of the aged and witness its power to shape your values. 10/11/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
We might understand these words to say that when we show respect to the elderly we thereby show respect to God. Jesus tells as much when he said that love shown to others is love directed to him. Not only is this true, but anytime we give honor to those it is due we too get splashed by its refreshment. Showing honor is a lesson in valuing what is truly valuable. What we value demonstrates our own value. This is why so much is said about it in all wisdom literature. Rise in the presence of the aged and witness its power to shape your values. 10/11/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Thursday, October 14, 2010
“Treat your family like friends and your friends like family.” Anonymous
“For Jesus himself had testified that a prophet has no honor in his own hometown.” Jo.4 ESV
One idiom tells us that familiarity breeds contempt and I would say this is probably witnessed in family life more so than any other relationship. Have you noticed that we say things, ugly things to members of our own family that we would not dare say to perfect strangers. Strange that we would treat a stranger with greater respect than we do our on family. I have noticed that the tone I use when expressing displeasure to my wife is different if I were to say the same thing to a friend. I could get caught up trying to figure out why people do this but the simple solution is to stop it. One way to reverse this nasty tendency, is to pay attention to what I say, how I say it and speak tenderly with those closest to me. 10/10/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
One idiom tells us that familiarity breeds contempt and I would say this is probably witnessed in family life more so than any other relationship. Have you noticed that we say things, ugly things to members of our own family that we would not dare say to perfect strangers. Strange that we would treat a stranger with greater respect than we do our on family. I have noticed that the tone I use when expressing displeasure to my wife is different if I were to say the same thing to a friend. I could get caught up trying to figure out why people do this but the simple solution is to stop it. One way to reverse this nasty tendency, is to pay attention to what I say, how I say it and speak tenderly with those closest to me. 10/10/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“Treat your family like friends and your friends like family.” Anonymous
“For Jesus himself had testified that a prophet has no honor in his own hometown.” Jo.4 ESV
One idiom tells us that familiarity breeds contempt and I would say this is probably witnessed in family life more so than any other relationship. Have you noticed that we say things, ugly things to members of our own family that we would not dare say to perfect strangers. Strange that we would treat a stranger with greater respect than we do our on family. I have noticed that the tone I use when expressing displeasure to my wife is different if I were to say the same thing to a friend. I could get caught up trying to figure out why people do this but the simple solution is to stop it. One way to reverse this nasty tendency, is to pay attention to what I say, how I say it and speak tenderly with those closest to me. 10/10/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
One idiom tells us that familiarity breeds contempt and I would say this is probably witnessed in family life more so than any other relationship. Have you noticed that we say things, ugly things to members of our own family that we would not dare say to perfect strangers. Strange that we would treat a stranger with greater respect than we do our on family. I have noticed that the tone I use when expressing displeasure to my wife is different if I were to say the same thing to a friend. I could get caught up trying to figure out why people do this but the simple solution is to stop it. One way to reverse this nasty tendency, is to pay attention to what I say, how I say it and speak tenderly with those closest to me. 10/10/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
“Example isn't another way to teach, it is the only way to teach.” Albert Einstein
“For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done to you.” Jo.13 ESV
The other day I wanted to point out to my wife something I felt that she was doing that wasn't very respectful. I of course, mean very respectful to me. Before I could say anything to her, the Spirit brought two things to mind. First, He reminded me that I too have been disrespectful to my wife. He also reminded me that I talk too much and that perhaps the best way I could serve my wife would be to lead by example. This started me thinking not only about how to show respect to my wife, but the whole idea teaching without using words, as if this shouldn't be obvious to a follower of Christ. Duh! On the whole, I am thinking example is the best way for followers of Jesus to carry his message to the nations, especially in our televangelist and talk show culture. We talk too much. 10/9/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
The other day I wanted to point out to my wife something I felt that she was doing that wasn't very respectful. I of course, mean very respectful to me. Before I could say anything to her, the Spirit brought two things to mind. First, He reminded me that I too have been disrespectful to my wife. He also reminded me that I talk too much and that perhaps the best way I could serve my wife would be to lead by example. This started me thinking not only about how to show respect to my wife, but the whole idea teaching without using words, as if this shouldn't be obvious to a follower of Christ. Duh! On the whole, I am thinking example is the best way for followers of Jesus to carry his message to the nations, especially in our televangelist and talk show culture. We talk too much. 10/9/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“Example isn't another way to teach, it is the only way to teach.” Albert Einstein
“For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done to you.” Jo.13 ESV
The other day I wanted to point out to my wife something I felt that she was doing that wasn't very respectful. I of course, mean very respectful to me. Before I could say anything to her, the Spirit brought two things to mind. First, He reminded me that I too have been disrespectful to my wife. He also reminded me that I talk too much and that perhaps the best way I could serve my wife would be to lead by example. This started me thinking not only about how to show respect to my wife, but the whole idea teaching without using words, as if this shouldn't be obvious to a follower of Christ. Duh! On the whole, I am thinking example is the best way for followers of Jesus to carry his message to the nations, especially in our televangelist and talk show culture. We talk too much. 10/9/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
The other day I wanted to point out to my wife something I felt that she was doing that wasn't very respectful. I of course, mean very respectful to me. Before I could say anything to her, the Spirit brought two things to mind. First, He reminded me that I too have been disrespectful to my wife. He also reminded me that I talk too much and that perhaps the best way I could serve my wife would be to lead by example. This started me thinking not only about how to show respect to my wife, but the whole idea teaching without using words, as if this shouldn't be obvious to a follower of Christ. Duh! On the whole, I am thinking example is the best way for followers of Jesus to carry his message to the nations, especially in our televangelist and talk show culture. We talk too much. 10/9/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
“Agree to disagree and love thy neighbor." Enrique Chagoya (the artist)
“If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” Jesus
The other day I read where a woman was arrested for taking a crowbar and attacking a pornographic drawing of Jesus in an art museum. When someone tried to stop her, she allegedly said, “How could you desecrate my Lord?” I do not question to womans loyalty to Jesus, just the manner she has chosen to display it. But I also question my questioning what she did, after all who am I to judge another man's servant. But in my mind it seems that Christians should distance themselves from any expression of violence when we are criticized even if persecuted. I think it goes without saying that this also applies when Jesus is criticized. He told us to turn the other cheek and certainly part of that would be the privilege to turn our cheek for Him when the world is critical of Him. Think about the violence we do to the name of Jesus anytime we take up the sword, crowbar or anything to defend it. 10/8/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
The other day I read where a woman was arrested for taking a crowbar and attacking a pornographic drawing of Jesus in an art museum. When someone tried to stop her, she allegedly said, “How could you desecrate my Lord?” I do not question to womans loyalty to Jesus, just the manner she has chosen to display it. But I also question my questioning what she did, after all who am I to judge another man's servant. But in my mind it seems that Christians should distance themselves from any expression of violence when we are criticized even if persecuted. I think it goes without saying that this also applies when Jesus is criticized. He told us to turn the other cheek and certainly part of that would be the privilege to turn our cheek for Him when the world is critical of Him. Think about the violence we do to the name of Jesus anytime we take up the sword, crowbar or anything to defend it. 10/8/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
“Agree to disagree and love thy neighbor." Enrique Chagoya (the artist)
“If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” Jesus
The other day I read where a woman was arrested for taking a crowbar and attacking a pornographic drawing of Jesus in an art museum. When someone tried to stop her, she allegedly said, “How could you desecrate my Lord?” I do not question to womans loyalty to Jesus, just the manner she has chosen to display it. But I also question my questioning what she did, after all who am I to judge another man's servant. But in my mind it seems that Christians should distance themselves from any expression of violence when we are criticized even if persecuted. I think it goes without saying that this also applies when Jesus is criticized. He told us to turn the other cheek and certainly part of that would be the privilege to turn our cheek for Him when the world is critical of Him. Think about the violence we do to the name of Jesus anytime we take up the sword, crowbar or anything to defend it. 10/8/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
The other day I read where a woman was arrested for taking a crowbar and attacking a pornographic drawing of Jesus in an art museum. When someone tried to stop her, she allegedly said, “How could you desecrate my Lord?” I do not question to womans loyalty to Jesus, just the manner she has chosen to display it. But I also question my questioning what she did, after all who am I to judge another man's servant. But in my mind it seems that Christians should distance themselves from any expression of violence when we are criticized even if persecuted. I think it goes without saying that this also applies when Jesus is criticized. He told us to turn the other cheek and certainly part of that would be the privilege to turn our cheek for Him when the world is critical of Him. Think about the violence we do to the name of Jesus anytime we take up the sword, crowbar or anything to defend it. 10/8/2010 Conversations Within ts (Cold Mountain)
Monday, October 11, 2010
“Zeal without knowledge is fire without light.” Thomas Henry Huxley
“With my whole heart have I sought thee...” Ps.119 ESV
They say that Einstein was hyper-focused, so much so that when he was engaged in something he would lose touch with everything else going on around him. The ability to focus and remain focused is certainly a strength but one that can turn against us if we are not careful. Sometimes when I am discussing a concern, with my wife I act like a bulldog on a bone and just can't drop talking about it even when the talk turns unprofitable. If we cannot drop something that needs to be dropped or when it need to be dropped, we wind up being ruled by our power to focus rather than directing our focus for good purposes. Imagine the disability of having eyes with only one focal range. On a related matter, I think that being able to give your whole heart to someone is a good thing but always with deliberation, purpose and self control. To love God, anyone or anything should be a deliberate choice, never an uncontrolled obsession. I don't think God want us to be obsessed with Him, but to consciously love Him with our whole heart. 10/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
They say that Einstein was hyper-focused, so much so that when he was engaged in something he would lose touch with everything else going on around him. The ability to focus and remain focused is certainly a strength but one that can turn against us if we are not careful. Sometimes when I am discussing a concern, with my wife I act like a bulldog on a bone and just can't drop talking about it even when the talk turns unprofitable. If we cannot drop something that needs to be dropped or when it need to be dropped, we wind up being ruled by our power to focus rather than directing our focus for good purposes. Imagine the disability of having eyes with only one focal range. On a related matter, I think that being able to give your whole heart to someone is a good thing but always with deliberation, purpose and self control. To love God, anyone or anything should be a deliberate choice, never an uncontrolled obsession. I don't think God want us to be obsessed with Him, but to consciously love Him with our whole heart. 10/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Zeal without knowledge is fire without light.” Thomas Henry Huxley
“With my whole heart have I sought thee...” Ps.119 ESV
They say that Einstein was hyper-focused, so much so that when he was engaged in something he would lose touch with everything else going on around him. The ability to focus and remain focused is certainly a strength but one that can turn against us if we are not careful. Sometimes when I am discussing a concern, with my wife I act like a bulldog on a bone and just can't drop talking about it even when the talk turns unprofitable. If we cannot drop something that needs to be dropped or when it need to be dropped, we wind up being ruled by our power to focus rather than directing our focus for good purposes. Imagine the disability of having eyes with only one focal range. On a related matter, I think that being able to give your whole heart to someone is a good thing but always with deliberation, purpose and self control. To love God, anyone or anything should be a deliberate choice, never an uncontrolled obsession. I don't think God want us to be obsessed with Him, but to consciously love Him with our whole heart. 10/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
They say that Einstein was hyper-focused, so much so that when he was engaged in something he would lose touch with everything else going on around him. The ability to focus and remain focused is certainly a strength but one that can turn against us if we are not careful. Sometimes when I am discussing a concern, with my wife I act like a bulldog on a bone and just can't drop talking about it even when the talk turns unprofitable. If we cannot drop something that needs to be dropped or when it need to be dropped, we wind up being ruled by our power to focus rather than directing our focus for good purposes. Imagine the disability of having eyes with only one focal range. On a related matter, I think that being able to give your whole heart to someone is a good thing but always with deliberation, purpose and self control. To love God, anyone or anything should be a deliberate choice, never an uncontrolled obsession. I don't think God want us to be obsessed with Him, but to consciously love Him with our whole heart. 10/7/2010 Conversations Within ts
Saturday, October 9, 2010
“Relationships based on obligation lack dignity.” Wayne Dyer
“For the joy set before him, he endured the cross.” Heb.12 ESV
From the moment we are born, life creates obligation. We are obligated to care for parents that have cared for us. The obligation we have to do our chores becomes our obligation to show up at work. Marriage is obligation, parenting even more so. Ownership means maintenance. We may try to minimize our obligations but they sprout up in every new relationship. The word obligation leaves a bad taste in the mouth of some. But those who accept the biblical take on life know that selfishness is the culprit that has transformed delight into duty, work into toil and relationships into obligation. To follow Christ is to choose His joy, to find in sacrificial service the transformation of our duties back into delight. 10/6/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
From the moment we are born, life creates obligation. We are obligated to care for parents that have cared for us. The obligation we have to do our chores becomes our obligation to show up at work. Marriage is obligation, parenting even more so. Ownership means maintenance. We may try to minimize our obligations but they sprout up in every new relationship. The word obligation leaves a bad taste in the mouth of some. But those who accept the biblical take on life know that selfishness is the culprit that has transformed delight into duty, work into toil and relationships into obligation. To follow Christ is to choose His joy, to find in sacrificial service the transformation of our duties back into delight. 10/6/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
“Relationships based on obligation lack dignity.” Wayne Dyer
“For the joy set before him, he endured the cross.” Heb.12 ESV
From the moment we are born, life creates obligation. We are obligated to care for parents that have cared for us. The obligation we have to do our chores becomes our obligation to show up at work. Marriage is obligation, parenting even more so. Ownership means maintenance. We may try to minimize our obligations but they sprout up in every new relationship. The word obligation leaves a bad taste in the mouth of some. But those who accept the biblical take on life know that selfishness is the culprit that has transformed delight into duty, work into toil and relationships into obligation. To follow Christ is to choose His joy, to find in sacrificial service the transformation of our duties back into delight. 10/6/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
From the moment we are born, life creates obligation. We are obligated to care for parents that have cared for us. The obligation we have to do our chores becomes our obligation to show up at work. Marriage is obligation, parenting even more so. Ownership means maintenance. We may try to minimize our obligations but they sprout up in every new relationship. The word obligation leaves a bad taste in the mouth of some. But those who accept the biblical take on life know that selfishness is the culprit that has transformed delight into duty, work into toil and relationships into obligation. To follow Christ is to choose His joy, to find in sacrificial service the transformation of our duties back into delight. 10/6/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
Friday, October 8, 2010
“I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world.” Mother Teresa
“We are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.” 2Cor.5 ESV
The word “Christian” has been watered down by so many non-Christian acts that conscientious believers often feel compelled to apologize. We apologize for centuries of poor representation even for our own hypocrisies. But most discerning people know when they meet a Christian acting as a Christian should act. Usually when they mention running into one, they do not mean that the person is without fault, rather that they have witnessed someone overflowing in compassionate love toward others. The humble acceptance of grace is what defines a Christian and usually turns someone into an instrument of grace. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
The word “Christian” has been watered down by so many non-Christian acts that conscientious believers often feel compelled to apologize. We apologize for centuries of poor representation even for our own hypocrisies. But most discerning people know when they meet a Christian acting as a Christian should act. Usually when they mention running into one, they do not mean that the person is without fault, rather that they have witnessed someone overflowing in compassionate love toward others. The humble acceptance of grace is what defines a Christian and usually turns someone into an instrument of grace. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
“I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world.” Mother Teresa
“We are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us.” 2Cor.5 ESV
The word “Christian” has been watered down by so many non-Christian acts that conscientious believers often feel compelled to apologize. We apologize for centuries of poor representation even for our own hypocrisies. But most discerning people know when they meet a Christian acting as a Christian should act. Usually when they mention running into one, they do not mean that the person is without fault, rather that they have witnessed someone overflowing in compassionate love toward others. The humble acceptance of grace is what defines a Christian and usually turns someone into an instrument of grace. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
The word “Christian” has been watered down by so many non-Christian acts that conscientious believers often feel compelled to apologize. We apologize for centuries of poor representation even for our own hypocrisies. But most discerning people know when they meet a Christian acting as a Christian should act. Usually when they mention running into one, they do not mean that the person is without fault, rather that they have witnessed someone overflowing in compassionate love toward others. The humble acceptance of grace is what defines a Christian and usually turns someone into an instrument of grace. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts (Tsali)
Thursday, October 7, 2010
“Wisdom is the power to see and the inclination to choose, the best and the highest goal together with the surest means of attaining it.” J. I. Packer
“The words of the wise are... given by one Shepherd.” Ecc.12 ESV
Christians believe that wise words found in the teaching of the Buddha, Confucius, Mohammad or even from an atheist ultimately come from the one Shepherd who is the wellspring of all wisdom. God moves in the loving counsel of friends, the advise of the old to the young and even children become instruments to radiate it. His is the voice to show down, or speed up, when to stay the course or throw in the towel. His direction is the arrival of the calvary in a crisis, light in a dark place, the eye through the needle, a drop of dew in arid lands. He speaks refreshment to the weary, clarity to the confused, encouragement to oppressed, and warning to the proud. He is often the voice of doubt to the young, the caution light at the crossroads. Blessed is He and blessed are those who take His wisdom to heart. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christians believe that wise words found in the teaching of the Buddha, Confucius, Mohammad or even from an atheist ultimately come from the one Shepherd who is the wellspring of all wisdom. God moves in the loving counsel of friends, the advise of the old to the young and even children become instruments to radiate it. His is the voice to show down, or speed up, when to stay the course or throw in the towel. His direction is the arrival of the calvary in a crisis, light in a dark place, the eye through the needle, a drop of dew in arid lands. He speaks refreshment to the weary, clarity to the confused, encouragement to oppressed, and warning to the proud. He is often the voice of doubt to the young, the caution light at the crossroads. Blessed is He and blessed are those who take His wisdom to heart. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
“Wisdom is the power to see and the inclination to choose, the best and the highest goal together with the surest means of attaining it.” J. I. Packer
“The words of the wise are... given by one Shepherd.” Ecc.12 ESV
Christians believe that wise words found in the teaching of the Buddha, Confucius, Mohammad or even from an atheist ultimately come from the one Shepherd who is the wellspring of all wisdom. God moves in the loving counsel of friends, the advise of the old to the young and even children become instruments to radiate it. His is the voice to show down, or speed up, when to stay the course or throw in the towel. His direction is the arrival of the calvary in a crisis, light in a dark place, the eye through the needle, a drop of dew in arid lands. He speaks refreshment to the weary, clarity to the confused, encouragement to oppressed, and warning to the proud. He is often the voice of doubt to the young, the caution light at the crossroads. Blessed is He and blessed are those who take His wisdom to heart. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
Christians believe that wise words found in the teaching of the Buddha, Confucius, Mohammad or even from an atheist ultimately come from the one Shepherd who is the wellspring of all wisdom. God moves in the loving counsel of friends, the advise of the old to the young and even children become instruments to radiate it. His is the voice to show down, or speed up, when to stay the course or throw in the towel. His direction is the arrival of the calvary in a crisis, light in a dark place, the eye through the needle, a drop of dew in arid lands. He speaks refreshment to the weary, clarity to the confused, encouragement to oppressed, and warning to the proud. He is often the voice of doubt to the young, the caution light at the crossroads. Blessed is He and blessed are those who take His wisdom to heart. 10/4/2010 Conversations Within ts
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
“If you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all” Bambi (the movie)
“The Preacher sought to find words of delight...” Ecc.12 ESV
I often find myself wanting to write about the more pleasant passages in the Bible. I guess I do this for a number of reasons. One is that I worry that the harsh passages may not reflect well on God. Imagine that? Another is that I personally prefer the softer side my interactions with Him. I mean who likes to be around someone when they appear angry or childing. I would rather reflect on passages that are comforting and encouraging instead of warning and convicting. But God won't have it that way. I guess He wants me to know Him as He is, not as I would like Him to be. I reckon He also wants me to know how I am not how I imagine myself to be. He knows that some days I need to hear a word of rebuke not comfort. He kicks me in the seat of the pants instead of patting me on the back. 10/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
I often find myself wanting to write about the more pleasant passages in the Bible. I guess I do this for a number of reasons. One is that I worry that the harsh passages may not reflect well on God. Imagine that? Another is that I personally prefer the softer side my interactions with Him. I mean who likes to be around someone when they appear angry or childing. I would rather reflect on passages that are comforting and encouraging instead of warning and convicting. But God won't have it that way. I guess He wants me to know Him as He is, not as I would like Him to be. I reckon He also wants me to know how I am not how I imagine myself to be. He knows that some days I need to hear a word of rebuke not comfort. He kicks me in the seat of the pants instead of patting me on the back. 10/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
“If you can't say something nice, don't say nothing at all” Bambi (the movie)
“The Preacher sought to find words of delight...” Ecc.12 ESV
I often find myself wanting to write about the more pleasant passages in the Bible. I guess I do this for a number of reasons. One is that I worry that the harsh passages may not reflect well on God. Imagine that? Another is that I personally prefer the softer side my interactions with Him. I mean who likes to be around someone when they appear angry or childing. I would rather reflect on passages that are comforting and encouraging instead of warning and convicting. But God won't have it that way. I guess He wants me to know Him as He is, not as I would like Him to be. I reckon He also wants me to know how I am not how I imagine myself to be. He knows that some days I need to hear a word of rebuke not comfort. He kicks me in the seat of the pants instead of patting me on the back. 10/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
I often find myself wanting to write about the more pleasant passages in the Bible. I guess I do this for a number of reasons. One is that I worry that the harsh passages may not reflect well on God. Imagine that? Another is that I personally prefer the softer side my interactions with Him. I mean who likes to be around someone when they appear angry or childing. I would rather reflect on passages that are comforting and encouraging instead of warning and convicting. But God won't have it that way. I guess He wants me to know Him as He is, not as I would like Him to be. I reckon He also wants me to know how I am not how I imagine myself to be. He knows that some days I need to hear a word of rebuke not comfort. He kicks me in the seat of the pants instead of patting me on the back. 10/2/2010 Conversations Within ts
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
“The seeking is the goal and the search is the answer” Anonymous
“Ask and you will receive." Mt.7 ESV
I often forget to ask for God's help and wind up asking for His forgiveness instead. This is generally the case when I try to face my inner demons alone. Help is always offered to us in the very act of asking for it. The encouragement to ask is God's way of changing our focus from our temptations to the joy of His company. It is always better not to mention easier to redirect our thoughts than it is to resist them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
I often forget to ask for God's help and wind up asking for His forgiveness instead. This is generally the case when I try to face my inner demons alone. Help is always offered to us in the very act of asking for it. The encouragement to ask is God's way of changing our focus from our temptations to the joy of His company. It is always better not to mention easier to redirect our thoughts than it is to resist them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
“The seeking is the goal and the search is the answer” Anonymous
“Ask and you will receive." Mt.7 ESV
I often forget to ask for God's help and wind up asking for His forgiveness instead. This is generally the case when I try to face my inner demons alone. Help is always offered to us in the very act of asking for it. The encouragement to ask is God's way of changing our focus from our temptations to the joy of His company. It is always better not to mention easier to redirect our thoughts than it is to resist them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
I often forget to ask for God's help and wind up asking for His forgiveness instead. This is generally the case when I try to face my inner demons alone. Help is always offered to us in the very act of asking for it. The encouragement to ask is God's way of changing our focus from our temptations to the joy of His company. It is always better not to mention easier to redirect our thoughts than it is to resist them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts
Monday, October 4, 2010
“Eat right, exercise, die anyway!” Anonymous
“What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?” Ecc.1 ESV
Everybody experiences some sense of frustration and futility. I read once that housework is like stringing beads with no knot on the end of the string. Life is pretty much the same, our efforts never end and we seem never to reach the end of our efforts. One popular notion heard these days is just to enjoy the journey. It was certainly the conclusion of one of the wisest men in history. He said, “Take your portion, and to rejoice in your labor; this is the gift of God.” A person may grow to embrace the struggles of life even delight in them.
It is true that those who eat right and exercise will die anyway but “winners forget they're in a race, they just love to run.” With Honors (the movie)
9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
Everybody experiences some sense of frustration and futility. I read once that housework is like stringing beads with no knot on the end of the string. Life is pretty much the same, our efforts never end and we seem never to reach the end of our efforts. One popular notion heard these days is just to enjoy the journey. It was certainly the conclusion of one of the wisest men in history. He said, “Take your portion, and to rejoice in your labor; this is the gift of God.” A person may grow to embrace the struggles of life even delight in them.
It is true that those who eat right and exercise will die anyway but “winners forget they're in a race, they just love to run.” With Honors (the movie)
9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
“Eat right, exercise, die anyway!” Anonymous
“What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?” Ecc.1 ESV
Everybody experiences some sense of frustration and futility. I read once that housework is like stringing beads with no knot on the end of the string. Life is pretty much the same, our efforts never end and we seem never to reach the end of our efforts. One popular notion heard these days is just to enjoy the journey. It was certainly the conclusion of one of the wisest men in history. He said, “Take your portion, and to rejoice in your labor; this is the gift of God.” A person may grow to embrace the struggles of life even delight in them.
It is true that those who eat right and exercise will die anyway but “winners forget they're in a race, they just love to run.” With Honors (the movie)
9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
Everybody experiences some sense of frustration and futility. I read once that housework is like stringing beads with no knot on the end of the string. Life is pretty much the same, our efforts never end and we seem never to reach the end of our efforts. One popular notion heard these days is just to enjoy the journey. It was certainly the conclusion of one of the wisest men in history. He said, “Take your portion, and to rejoice in your labor; this is the gift of God.” A person may grow to embrace the struggles of life even delight in them.
It is true that those who eat right and exercise will die anyway but “winners forget they're in a race, they just love to run.” With Honors (the movie)
9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
Saturday, October 2, 2010
“I now issue a new commandment: Thou shalt do the dance.” Evan Almighty (The movie)
“Praise him with tambourine and dance.” Ps.150 ESV
Adults often need to be reminded to do the things they once did and did naturally when they were children. I often ask people what they do for fun. The most common reply is “Fun, what's that?” Adults forget how to play, roll in the grass, wade in a creek, or dance in the sheer delight of life. Strange that we need to be reminded to do something we once loved to do. But that is the nature of living in this fallen place. It is one of the things that Jesus has undoubtedly come to fix. I love the quote from the children's book Prince Caspian when the Christ character tells them, “You do not yet look as happy as I mean you to be.” 9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
Adults often need to be reminded to do the things they once did and did naturally when they were children. I often ask people what they do for fun. The most common reply is “Fun, what's that?” Adults forget how to play, roll in the grass, wade in a creek, or dance in the sheer delight of life. Strange that we need to be reminded to do something we once loved to do. But that is the nature of living in this fallen place. It is one of the things that Jesus has undoubtedly come to fix. I love the quote from the children's book Prince Caspian when the Christ character tells them, “You do not yet look as happy as I mean you to be.” 9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
“I now issue a new commandment: Thou shalt do the dance.” Evan Almighty (The movie)
“Praise him with tambourine and dance.” Ps.150 ESV
Adults often need to be reminded to do the things they once did and did naturally when they were children. I often ask people what they do for fun. The most common reply is “Fun, what's that?” Adults forget how to play, roll in the grass, wade in a creek, or dance in the sheer delight of life. Strange that we need to be reminded to do something we once loved to do. But that is the nature of living in this fallen place. It is one of the things that Jesus has undoubtedly come to fix. I love the quote from the children's book Prince Caspian when the Christ character tells them, “You do not yet look as happy as I mean you to be.” 9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
Adults often need to be reminded to do the things they once did and did naturally when they were children. I often ask people what they do for fun. The most common reply is “Fun, what's that?” Adults forget how to play, roll in the grass, wade in a creek, or dance in the sheer delight of life. Strange that we need to be reminded to do something we once loved to do. But that is the nature of living in this fallen place. It is one of the things that Jesus has undoubtedly come to fix. I love the quote from the children's book Prince Caspian when the Christ character tells them, “You do not yet look as happy as I mean you to be.” 9/29/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
Friday, October 1, 2010
“The door to safety swings on the hinges of common sense.” Author Unknown
“Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.” Prov.28 ESV
It is one thing to value my right to private judgment and another to trust it. No doubt I have blind spots and biases that skew my view of reality. Wisdom teaches us to listen to what my dad's generation called “common sense.” It was common because it was collectively shared by good ole common folk and past down from generation to generation. A good question before embarking on some new journey might be, 'Is this good common sense.” But, not all common sense is good. When the good has been taken out of common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is really right or wrong, it may be wise to seek the wisdom of a wiser generation. The trick seems to be knowing when to venture out and when to seek the safety of traditional shores. But even the pioneers have the collective wisdom of other pioneers before them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
It is one thing to value my right to private judgment and another to trust it. No doubt I have blind spots and biases that skew my view of reality. Wisdom teaches us to listen to what my dad's generation called “common sense.” It was common because it was collectively shared by good ole common folk and past down from generation to generation. A good question before embarking on some new journey might be, 'Is this good common sense.” But, not all common sense is good. When the good has been taken out of common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is really right or wrong, it may be wise to seek the wisdom of a wiser generation. The trick seems to be knowing when to venture out and when to seek the safety of traditional shores. But even the pioneers have the collective wisdom of other pioneers before them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
“The door to safety swings on the hinges of common sense.” Author Unknown
“Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.” Prov.28 ESV
It is one thing to value my right to private judgment and another to trust it. No doubt I have blind spots and biases that skew my view of reality. Wisdom teaches us to listen to what my dad's generation called “common sense.” It was common because it was collectively shared by good ole common folk and past down from generation to generation. A good question before embarking on some new journey might be, 'Is this good common sense.” But, not all common sense is good. When the good has been taken out of common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is really right or wrong, it may be wise to seek the wisdom of a wiser generation. The trick seems to be knowing when to venture out and when to seek the safety of traditional shores. But even the pioneers have the collective wisdom of other pioneers before them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
It is one thing to value my right to private judgment and another to trust it. No doubt I have blind spots and biases that skew my view of reality. Wisdom teaches us to listen to what my dad's generation called “common sense.” It was common because it was collectively shared by good ole common folk and past down from generation to generation. A good question before embarking on some new journey might be, 'Is this good common sense.” But, not all common sense is good. When the good has been taken out of common sense and is replaced by camaraderie of relativism, where nothing is really right or wrong, it may be wise to seek the wisdom of a wiser generation. The trick seems to be knowing when to venture out and when to seek the safety of traditional shores. But even the pioneers have the collective wisdom of other pioneers before them. 9/28/2010 Conversations Within ts (Watson Mill)
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