...Concern yourself only with how you appear before God...” Miguel De Unamuno
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
It is one thing to care about your reputation from the standpoint of credibility and entirely another for reasons of vanity. What people think about me is only important in so far as it serves to help them on the road to life. There is a fine line of caring what people think about us as it lends credibility to the path we have chosen and another to scratch the itch of our self worth from the opinions of others. The former cares what others think for the benefit of their neighbor, the latter for empty pride. Conversations Within ts 2/23/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
Just me trying to be honest with God.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
“Cure yourself of the affliction of caring how you appear to others.
...Concern yourself only with how you appear before God...” Miguel De Unamuno
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
It is one thing to care about your reputation from the standpoint of credibility and entirely another for reasons of vanity. What people think about me is only important in so far as it serves to help them on the road to life. There is a fine line of caring what people think about us as it lends credibility to the path we have chosen and another to scratch the itch of our self worth from the opinions of others. The former cares what others think for the benefit of their neighbor, the latter for empty pride. Conversations Within ts 2/23/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
It is one thing to care about your reputation from the standpoint of credibility and entirely another for reasons of vanity. What people think about me is only important in so far as it serves to help them on the road to life. There is a fine line of caring what people think about us as it lends credibility to the path we have chosen and another to scratch the itch of our self worth from the opinions of others. The former cares what others think for the benefit of their neighbor, the latter for empty pride. Conversations Within ts 2/23/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
“There are no grades of vanity, there are only grades of ability in concealing it.” Mark Twain
"I am gentle and humble in heart...” Jesus
Benjamin Franklin had a list of virtues he worked diligently to acquire; moderation, cleanliness and industry to name a few. A friend suggested that he add humility to the list and asked him some time later if he had obtained it. Franklin believed that he never acquired true humility, only the appearance of it. Humility isn't something we attain as it is something we realize-something we realize about ourselves. Humility is not thinking too highly of oneself or too low; it is a realistic appraisal, a sober judgment about one's strengths and weaknesses. A humble person knows they have moments of vanity but instead of sitting around grieving with hurt pride of over it, true humility leads us to do something about it. Don't waste time concealing vanity, appropriate the grace of God and put it to death. Conversations Within ts 2/22/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
Benjamin Franklin had a list of virtues he worked diligently to acquire; moderation, cleanliness and industry to name a few. A friend suggested that he add humility to the list and asked him some time later if he had obtained it. Franklin believed that he never acquired true humility, only the appearance of it. Humility isn't something we attain as it is something we realize-something we realize about ourselves. Humility is not thinking too highly of oneself or too low; it is a realistic appraisal, a sober judgment about one's strengths and weaknesses. A humble person knows they have moments of vanity but instead of sitting around grieving with hurt pride of over it, true humility leads us to do something about it. Don't waste time concealing vanity, appropriate the grace of God and put it to death. Conversations Within ts 2/22/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
“There are no grades of vanity, there are only grades of ability in concealing it.” Mark Twain
"I am gentle and humble in heart...” Jesus
Benjamin Franklin had a list of virtues he worked diligently to acquire; moderation, cleanliness and industry to name a few. A friend suggested that he add humility to the list and asked him some time later if he had obtained it. Franklin believed that he never acquired true humility, only the appearance of it. Humility isn't something we attain as it is something we realize-something we realize about ourselves. Humility is not thinking too highly of oneself or too low; it is a realistic appraisal, a sober judgment about one's strengths and weaknesses. A humble person knows they have moments of vanity but instead of sitting around grieving with hurt pride of over it, true humility leads us to do something about it. Don't waste time concealing vanity, appropriate the grace of God and put it to death. Conversations Within ts 2/22/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
Benjamin Franklin had a list of virtues he worked diligently to acquire; moderation, cleanliness and industry to name a few. A friend suggested that he add humility to the list and asked him some time later if he had obtained it. Franklin believed that he never acquired true humility, only the appearance of it. Humility isn't something we attain as it is something we realize-something we realize about ourselves. Humility is not thinking too highly of oneself or too low; it is a realistic appraisal, a sober judgment about one's strengths and weaknesses. A humble person knows they have moments of vanity but instead of sitting around grieving with hurt pride of over it, true humility leads us to do something about it. Don't waste time concealing vanity, appropriate the grace of God and put it to death. Conversations Within ts 2/22/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
Monday, February 27, 2012
“Pride that dines on vanity, sups on contempt.” Benjamin Franklin
“Take away from me scorn and contempt...” Psalms 119 ESV
When we look down on others we have lost sight of the delights of love. The only time we should be looking down is to help someone up. Even then, when we help people up it should not be to join us on some perch of pride but to something of real value. Love moves us to compassion and the desire to help; pride to contempt and a critical spirit. Pride pontificates, love lends support. Conversations Within ts 2/21/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
When we look down on others we have lost sight of the delights of love. The only time we should be looking down is to help someone up. Even then, when we help people up it should not be to join us on some perch of pride but to something of real value. Love moves us to compassion and the desire to help; pride to contempt and a critical spirit. Pride pontificates, love lends support. Conversations Within ts 2/21/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
“Pride that dines on vanity, sups on contempt.” Benjamin Franklin
“Take away from me scorn and contempt...” Psalms 119 ESV
When we look down on others we have lost sight of the delights of love. The only time we should be looking down is to help someone up. Even then, when we help people up it should not be to join us on some perch of pride but to something of real value. Love moves us to compassion and the desire to help; pride to contempt and a critical spirit. Pride pontificates, love lends support. Conversations Within ts 2/21/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
When we look down on others we have lost sight of the delights of love. The only time we should be looking down is to help someone up. Even then, when we help people up it should not be to join us on some perch of pride but to something of real value. Love moves us to compassion and the desire to help; pride to contempt and a critical spirit. Pride pontificates, love lends support. Conversations Within ts 2/21/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
”Vanity is so secure in the heart of man that everyone wants to be admired: even I who write this, and you who read this.” Blaise Pascal
“The pride of your heart has deceived you...” Obadiah 1 ESV
I was surprised to find that the Bible principally uses the word vanity to depict the notion of emptiness more than the notion of pride but the end result is the same. Pride is surely an empty pursuit, it adds no value to our lives and can destroy what worth we do posses. Even so, people are eaten up with vanity. We are repelled by expressions of it in others yet pride blinds us to it in ourselves. What's worse are all the superficial things that seem to satisfy our trite desires to be admired. We take pride over appearances than in true character. It doesn't matter if we are wise just that we look like we are. Conversations Within ts 2/20/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
I was surprised to find that the Bible principally uses the word vanity to depict the notion of emptiness more than the notion of pride but the end result is the same. Pride is surely an empty pursuit, it adds no value to our lives and can destroy what worth we do posses. Even so, people are eaten up with vanity. We are repelled by expressions of it in others yet pride blinds us to it in ourselves. What's worse are all the superficial things that seem to satisfy our trite desires to be admired. We take pride over appearances than in true character. It doesn't matter if we are wise just that we look like we are. Conversations Within ts 2/20/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
”Vanity is so secure in the heart of man that everyone wants to be admired: even I who write this, and you who read this.” Blaise Pascal
“The pride of your heart has deceived you...” Obadiah 1 ESV
I was surprised to find that the Bible principally uses the word vanity to depict the notion of emptiness more than the notion of pride but the end result is the same. Pride is surely an empty pursuit, it adds no value to our lives and can destroy what worth we do posses. Even so, people are eaten up with vanity. We are repelled by expressions of it in others yet pride blinds us to it in ourselves. What's worse are all the superficial things that seem to satisfy our trite desires to be admired. We take pride over appearances than in true character. It doesn't matter if we are wise just that we look like we are. Conversations Within ts 2/20/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
I was surprised to find that the Bible principally uses the word vanity to depict the notion of emptiness more than the notion of pride but the end result is the same. Pride is surely an empty pursuit, it adds no value to our lives and can destroy what worth we do posses. Even so, people are eaten up with vanity. We are repelled by expressions of it in others yet pride blinds us to it in ourselves. What's worse are all the superficial things that seem to satisfy our trite desires to be admired. We take pride over appearances than in true character. It doesn't matter if we are wise just that we look like we are. Conversations Within ts 2/20/2012 (Birmingham, AL)
Friday, February 24, 2012
Marriage is “for” life.
”What God has joined together, let no one tear apart.” Jesus
When we say that marriage is for life we mean so much more than saying that marriage is life long. Marriage is also for life because it is “for” life--it is pro life. It begets children, partnership, companionship, and a host of other benefits, all designed to promote health and happiness. Homes spring from its foundations, nations have been born to protect its fruit. Meaning is given to work and play and powerful expression is given to our faith. Human hopes and dreams are created and nurtured in the precious union between a man and woman. All of this is to say nothing of the spiritual families that find their pattern and grow out of the home. After God created man, male and female, He designed marriage as his first gift to them. To tear apart a marriage is like tearing the soul from the body-what we call death. Neither divorce nor death were God's intentions when He designed us. Conversations Within ts 2/18/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
When we say that marriage is for life we mean so much more than saying that marriage is life long. Marriage is also for life because it is “for” life--it is pro life. It begets children, partnership, companionship, and a host of other benefits, all designed to promote health and happiness. Homes spring from its foundations, nations have been born to protect its fruit. Meaning is given to work and play and powerful expression is given to our faith. Human hopes and dreams are created and nurtured in the precious union between a man and woman. All of this is to say nothing of the spiritual families that find their pattern and grow out of the home. After God created man, male and female, He designed marriage as his first gift to them. To tear apart a marriage is like tearing the soul from the body-what we call death. Neither divorce nor death were God's intentions when He designed us. Conversations Within ts 2/18/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
Marriage is “for” life.
”What God has joined together, let no one tear apart.” Jesus
When we say that marriage is for life we mean so much more than saying that marriage is life long. Marriage is also for life because it is “for” life--it is pro life. It begets children, partnership, companionship, and a host of other benefits, all designed to promote health and happiness. Homes spring from its foundations, nations have been born to protect its fruit. Meaning is given to work and play and powerful expression is given to our faith. Human hopes and dreams are created and nurtured in the precious union between a man and woman. All of this is to say nothing of the spiritual families that find their pattern and grow out of the home. After God created man, male and female, He designed marriage as his first gift to them. To tear apart a marriage is like tearing the soul from the body-what we call death. Neither divorce nor death were God's intentions when He designed us. Conversations Within ts 2/18/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
When we say that marriage is for life we mean so much more than saying that marriage is life long. Marriage is also for life because it is “for” life--it is pro life. It begets children, partnership, companionship, and a host of other benefits, all designed to promote health and happiness. Homes spring from its foundations, nations have been born to protect its fruit. Meaning is given to work and play and powerful expression is given to our faith. Human hopes and dreams are created and nurtured in the precious union between a man and woman. All of this is to say nothing of the spiritual families that find their pattern and grow out of the home. After God created man, male and female, He designed marriage as his first gift to them. To tear apart a marriage is like tearing the soul from the body-what we call death. Neither divorce nor death were God's intentions when He designed us. Conversations Within ts 2/18/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
“We picture lovers face to face but Friends side by side; their eyes look ahead.” C. S. Lewis
“We picture lovers face to face but Friends side by side; their eyes look ahead.” C. S. Lewis
“I have called you friends.” Jesus
My best friend is my wife. I am not sure when the change took place but I am grateful for it. There was a time in our relationship when we were so caught up with one another we excluded people. Now our relationship is inclusive if it is anything. Our love for each other is overflowing into the love of loving others. I used to have my friends and she had hers. Now we have our friends. I think it is good for lovers to mature into friends. It is not that you cease being lovers; you simply wake to all the other interests that can be shared. Lovers can feel bothered even threatened by a third party, friends delight in sharing. Conversations Within ts 2/17/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
“I have called you friends.” Jesus
My best friend is my wife. I am not sure when the change took place but I am grateful for it. There was a time in our relationship when we were so caught up with one another we excluded people. Now our relationship is inclusive if it is anything. Our love for each other is overflowing into the love of loving others. I used to have my friends and she had hers. Now we have our friends. I think it is good for lovers to mature into friends. It is not that you cease being lovers; you simply wake to all the other interests that can be shared. Lovers can feel bothered even threatened by a third party, friends delight in sharing. Conversations Within ts 2/17/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
“We picture lovers face to face but Friends side by side; their eyes look ahead.” C. S. Lewis
“We picture lovers face to face but Friends side by side; their eyes look ahead.” C. S. Lewis
“I have called you friends.” Jesus
My best friend is my wife. I am not sure when the change took place but I am grateful for it. There was a time in our relationship when we were so caught up with one another we excluded people. Now our relationship is inclusive if it is anything. Our love for each other is overflowing into the love of loving others. I used to have my friends and she had hers. Now we have our friends. I think it is good for lovers to mature into friends. It is not that you cease being lovers; you simply wake to all the other interests that can be shared. Lovers can feel bothered even threatened by a third party, friends delight in sharing. Conversations Within ts 2/17/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
“I have called you friends.” Jesus
My best friend is my wife. I am not sure when the change took place but I am grateful for it. There was a time in our relationship when we were so caught up with one another we excluded people. Now our relationship is inclusive if it is anything. Our love for each other is overflowing into the love of loving others. I used to have my friends and she had hers. Now we have our friends. I think it is good for lovers to mature into friends. It is not that you cease being lovers; you simply wake to all the other interests that can be shared. Lovers can feel bothered even threatened by a third party, friends delight in sharing. Conversations Within ts 2/17/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
Thursday, February 23, 2012
“Never go to bed mad. Stay up and fight.” Phyllis Diller
“Do not let the sun set on your anger.” Ephesians 4
When two people commit to a life long partnership they should surely expect some disagreement. Every couple I know argues; some argue constructively while others do it destructively. A good marriage knows that differences do not exist to divide the partnership but to compliment it, if for no other reason, than the wisdom found from seeing a different perspective. The mature couple will choose quiet discussion over arguing in anger. They expel the temptation to yell, refuse to accuse, and rather than assign blame they choose to discover “what” is right or wrong not “who” is right or wrong. People tend to be be better fighters than they are lovers. We must learn how to constructively argue if the partnership is to flourish with the lasting fruit of a mature love. Conversations Within ts 2/16/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
When two people commit to a life long partnership they should surely expect some disagreement. Every couple I know argues; some argue constructively while others do it destructively. A good marriage knows that differences do not exist to divide the partnership but to compliment it, if for no other reason, than the wisdom found from seeing a different perspective. The mature couple will choose quiet discussion over arguing in anger. They expel the temptation to yell, refuse to accuse, and rather than assign blame they choose to discover “what” is right or wrong not “who” is right or wrong. People tend to be be better fighters than they are lovers. We must learn how to constructively argue if the partnership is to flourish with the lasting fruit of a mature love. Conversations Within ts 2/16/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
“Never go to bed mad. Stay up and fight.” Phyllis Diller
“Do not let the sun set on your anger.” Ephesians 4
When two people commit to a life long partnership they should surely expect some disagreement. Every couple I know argues; some argue constructively while others do it destructively. A good marriage knows that differences do not exist to divide the partnership but to compliment it, if for no other reason, than the wisdom found from seeing a different perspective. The mature couple will choose quiet discussion over arguing in anger. They expel the temptation to yell, refuse to accuse, and rather than assign blame they choose to discover “what” is right or wrong not “who” is right or wrong. People tend to be be better fighters than they are lovers. We must learn how to constructively argue if the partnership is to flourish with the lasting fruit of a mature love. Conversations Within ts 2/16/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
When two people commit to a life long partnership they should surely expect some disagreement. Every couple I know argues; some argue constructively while others do it destructively. A good marriage knows that differences do not exist to divide the partnership but to compliment it, if for no other reason, than the wisdom found from seeing a different perspective. The mature couple will choose quiet discussion over arguing in anger. They expel the temptation to yell, refuse to accuse, and rather than assign blame they choose to discover “what” is right or wrong not “who” is right or wrong. People tend to be be better fighters than they are lovers. We must learn how to constructively argue if the partnership is to flourish with the lasting fruit of a mature love. Conversations Within ts 2/16/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
“Love as distinct from "being in love'...is a deep unity,
... maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by (in Christian marriages) the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God.” C. S. Lewis
“May your love abound more and more...” Philippians 1
When people divorce it is usually because they have fallen out of love. What they mean is that they no longer have the feelings they had when they started out. A friend of mine is fond of saying that it is not wise to make a permanent decision in a temporary state of mind. Feelings change. Hence marriages based on feelings usually stop working when the feelings do. This kind of marriage is not marriage at all. True marriage is a life long commitment that says I will never stop loving you, that is, I will never stop looking after your best interest.. This kind of love says, “I am not going somewhere even when the weather changes.” “I will always work for your highest good.” Conversations Within ts 2/15/2012 (Jax, FL)
“May your love abound more and more...” Philippians 1
When people divorce it is usually because they have fallen out of love. What they mean is that they no longer have the feelings they had when they started out. A friend of mine is fond of saying that it is not wise to make a permanent decision in a temporary state of mind. Feelings change. Hence marriages based on feelings usually stop working when the feelings do. This kind of marriage is not marriage at all. True marriage is a life long commitment that says I will never stop loving you, that is, I will never stop looking after your best interest.. This kind of love says, “I am not going somewhere even when the weather changes.” “I will always work for your highest good.” Conversations Within ts 2/15/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Love as distinct from "being in love'...is a deep unity,
... maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by (in Christian marriages) the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God.” C. S. Lewis
“May your love abound more and more...” Philippians 1
When people divorce it is usually because they have fallen out of love. What they mean is that they no longer have the feelings they had when they started out. A friend of mine is fond of saying that it is not wise to make a permanent decision in a temporary state of mind. Feelings change. Hence marriages based on feelings usually stop working when the feelings do. This kind of marriage is not marriage at all. True marriage is a life long commitment that says I will never stop loving you, that is, I will never stop looking after your best interest.. This kind of love says, “I am not going somewhere even when the weather changes.” “I will always work for your highest good.” Conversations Within ts 2/15/2012 (Jax, FL)
“May your love abound more and more...” Philippians 1
When people divorce it is usually because they have fallen out of love. What they mean is that they no longer have the feelings they had when they started out. A friend of mine is fond of saying that it is not wise to make a permanent decision in a temporary state of mind. Feelings change. Hence marriages based on feelings usually stop working when the feelings do. This kind of marriage is not marriage at all. True marriage is a life long commitment that says I will never stop loving you, that is, I will never stop looking after your best interest.. This kind of love says, “I am not going somewhere even when the weather changes.” “I will always work for your highest good.” Conversations Within ts 2/15/2012 (Jax, FL)
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
“Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.” Barnett R. Brickner
“And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.” Genesis 2
Love is so much more than how you feel about your mate. It is how you treat them. Love seeks the highest good of the person you love. You love them even on the days you don't like them. There is no better place to practice the radical teachings of Jesus about love than in a marriage. To answer your mate with kindness when they are being cruel is his universal formula for loving people. The love that Jesus speaks about is a deliberate act of the will to always treat your mate as you would be treated, not because you feel like it but because it is the nature of real love to do so. Be the person you want to be married to. It may or may not transform your mate but it will certainly transform you. Conversations Within ts 2/14/2012 (Jax, FL)
Love is so much more than how you feel about your mate. It is how you treat them. Love seeks the highest good of the person you love. You love them even on the days you don't like them. There is no better place to practice the radical teachings of Jesus about love than in a marriage. To answer your mate with kindness when they are being cruel is his universal formula for loving people. The love that Jesus speaks about is a deliberate act of the will to always treat your mate as you would be treated, not because you feel like it but because it is the nature of real love to do so. Be the person you want to be married to. It may or may not transform your mate but it will certainly transform you. Conversations Within ts 2/14/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.” Barnett R. Brickner
“And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.” Genesis 2
Love is so much more than how you feel about your mate. It is how you treat them. Love seeks the highest good of the person you love. You love them even on the days you don't like them. There is no better place to practice the radical teachings of Jesus about love than in a marriage. To answer your mate with kindness when they are being cruel is his universal formula for loving people. The love that Jesus speaks about is a deliberate act of the will to always treat your mate as you would be treated, not because you feel like it but because it is the nature of real love to do so. Be the person you want to be married to. It may or may not transform your mate but it will certainly transform you. Conversations Within ts 2/14/2012 (Jax, FL)
Love is so much more than how you feel about your mate. It is how you treat them. Love seeks the highest good of the person you love. You love them even on the days you don't like them. There is no better place to practice the radical teachings of Jesus about love than in a marriage. To answer your mate with kindness when they are being cruel is his universal formula for loving people. The love that Jesus speaks about is a deliberate act of the will to always treat your mate as you would be treated, not because you feel like it but because it is the nature of real love to do so. Be the person you want to be married to. It may or may not transform your mate but it will certainly transform you. Conversations Within ts 2/14/2012 (Jax, FL)
Monday, February 20, 2012
“Marriage is an alliance entered into by a man who can't sleep with the window shut, and a woman who can't sleep with the window open.” George Bernard
“Marriage is an alliance entered into by a man who can't sleep with the window shut, and a woman who can't sleep with the window open.” George Bernard Shaw
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Eph.5
Two people wanting to cross the same log over the same river at the same time means that someone must yield the right of way. Learning when and how to yield helps us navigate in the home as much as in the car. The problem is that there are no yield signs posted in the living room or bedroom. Communication in marriage is as much learning to yield our rights as it is in speaking clearly about them. Yielding often means that we put another's needs before our own. This may mean teaching our spouse how they too must learn how to take their turn yielding the right of way. The best marriages learn to find the joy in mutual service and submission. Conversations Within ts 2/13/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Eph.5
Two people wanting to cross the same log over the same river at the same time means that someone must yield the right of way. Learning when and how to yield helps us navigate in the home as much as in the car. The problem is that there are no yield signs posted in the living room or bedroom. Communication in marriage is as much learning to yield our rights as it is in speaking clearly about them. Yielding often means that we put another's needs before our own. This may mean teaching our spouse how they too must learn how to take their turn yielding the right of way. The best marriages learn to find the joy in mutual service and submission. Conversations Within ts 2/13/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Marriage is an alliance entered into by a man who can't sleep with the window shut, and a woman who can't sleep with the window open.” George Bernard
“Marriage is an alliance entered into by a man who can't sleep with the window shut, and a woman who can't sleep with the window open.” George Bernard Shaw
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Eph.5
Two people wanting to cross the same log over the same river at the same time means that someone must yield the right of way. Learning when and how to yield helps us navigate in the home as much as in the car. The problem is that there are no yield signs posted in the living room or bedroom. Communication in marriage is as much learning to yield our rights as it is in speaking clearly about them. Yielding often means that we put another's needs before our own. This may mean teaching our spouse how they too must learn how to take their turn yielding the right of way. The best marriages learn to find the joy in mutual service and submission. Conversations Within ts 2/13/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Eph.5
Two people wanting to cross the same log over the same river at the same time means that someone must yield the right of way. Learning when and how to yield helps us navigate in the home as much as in the car. The problem is that there are no yield signs posted in the living room or bedroom. Communication in marriage is as much learning to yield our rights as it is in speaking clearly about them. Yielding often means that we put another's needs before our own. This may mean teaching our spouse how they too must learn how to take their turn yielding the right of way. The best marriages learn to find the joy in mutual service and submission. Conversations Within ts 2/13/2012 (Jax, FL)
Saturday, February 18, 2012
“You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19
Anger like other emotions should be the caboose of the train not the engine driving it. I want my feelings to follow; never lead my life. When we live our lives on purpose then purpose will govern our interactions not emotional reactions. The responses of love, should always be my purpose, and as such is always better than the reactions of anger. Even anger can be good and governed when it is led by a loving response. Make your choices by what you know is good and right and true, not by some emotional outburst. Govern your emotions, never be governed by them. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
Anger like other emotions should be the caboose of the train not the engine driving it. I want my feelings to follow; never lead my life. When we live our lives on purpose then purpose will govern our interactions not emotional reactions. The responses of love, should always be my purpose, and as such is always better than the reactions of anger. Even anger can be good and governed when it is led by a loving response. Make your choices by what you know is good and right and true, not by some emotional outburst. Govern your emotions, never be governed by them. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
“You will not be punished for your anger, you will be punished by your anger.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19
Anger like other emotions should be the caboose of the train not the engine driving it. I want my feelings to follow; never lead my life. When we live our lives on purpose then purpose will govern our interactions not emotional reactions. The responses of love, should always be my purpose, and as such is always better than the reactions of anger. Even anger can be good and governed when it is led by a loving response. Make your choices by what you know is good and right and true, not by some emotional outburst. Govern your emotions, never be governed by them. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
Anger like other emotions should be the caboose of the train not the engine driving it. I want my feelings to follow; never lead my life. When we live our lives on purpose then purpose will govern our interactions not emotional reactions. The responses of love, should always be my purpose, and as such is always better than the reactions of anger. Even anger can be good and governed when it is led by a loving response. Make your choices by what you know is good and right and true, not by some emotional outburst. Govern your emotions, never be governed by them. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
Friday, February 17, 2012
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened....
Happiness is never decreased by being shared.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
There is great danger if we base our happiness on the happiness of others. Some people simply won't allow themselves to be happy which means we won't be if we keep waiting on them. We can share our own happiness with them. We should share it with them, if it is a proper kind of happiness. Some things that make people happy are just plain wrong. I am not sure which is worse, to be unhappy or to be happy for the wrong reasons. Both fail to be light in the world. When I share my happiness I want it to be the kind that grows out of goodness and truth. This is the only happiness worth having and the only kind that will endure. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
There is great danger if we base our happiness on the happiness of others. Some people simply won't allow themselves to be happy which means we won't be if we keep waiting on them. We can share our own happiness with them. We should share it with them, if it is a proper kind of happiness. Some things that make people happy are just plain wrong. I am not sure which is worse, to be unhappy or to be happy for the wrong reasons. Both fail to be light in the world. When I share my happiness I want it to be the kind that grows out of goodness and truth. This is the only happiness worth having and the only kind that will endure. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened....
Happiness is never decreased by being shared.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
There is great danger if we base our happiness on the happiness of others. Some people simply won't allow themselves to be happy which means we won't be if we keep waiting on them. We can share our own happiness with them. We should share it with them, if it is a proper kind of happiness. Some things that make people happy are just plain wrong. I am not sure which is worse, to be unhappy or to be happy for the wrong reasons. Both fail to be light in the world. When I share my happiness I want it to be the kind that grows out of goodness and truth. This is the only happiness worth having and the only kind that will endure. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
“You are the light of the world.” Jesus
There is great danger if we base our happiness on the happiness of others. Some people simply won't allow themselves to be happy which means we won't be if we keep waiting on them. We can share our own happiness with them. We should share it with them, if it is a proper kind of happiness. Some things that make people happy are just plain wrong. I am not sure which is worse, to be unhappy or to be happy for the wrong reasons. Both fail to be light in the world. When I share my happiness I want it to be the kind that grows out of goodness and truth. This is the only happiness worth having and the only kind that will endure. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
Thursday, February 16, 2012
“The mind is everything. What you think you become.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“For as a man thinks within himself, so he is.” Proverbs 23
My thoughts sometimes surprise me. I find myself saying, “Now where in the world did that come from.” That I posses these thoughts reminds me that I am still very much someone I do not want to be. That I do not want to be this way reminds me that a change is taking place in me. I am somewhere between worm and winged wonder. This metamorphosis is very much a spiritual thing, something the Scriptures call the renewing of my mind. I am encouraged by these new thoughts and smile when my wife asks me, “What did you do with my husband.” My thoughts sometimes surprise me. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
My thoughts sometimes surprise me. I find myself saying, “Now where in the world did that come from.” That I posses these thoughts reminds me that I am still very much someone I do not want to be. That I do not want to be this way reminds me that a change is taking place in me. I am somewhere between worm and winged wonder. This metamorphosis is very much a spiritual thing, something the Scriptures call the renewing of my mind. I am encouraged by these new thoughts and smile when my wife asks me, “What did you do with my husband.” My thoughts sometimes surprise me. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
“The mind is everything. What you think you become.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“For as a man thinks within himself, so he is.” Proverbs 23
My thoughts sometimes surprise me. I find myself saying, “Now where in the world did that come from.” That I posses these thoughts reminds me that I am still very much someone I do not want to be. That I do not want to be this way reminds me that a change is taking place in me. I am somewhere between worm and winged wonder. This metamorphosis is very much a spiritual thing, something the Scriptures call the renewing of my mind. I am encouraged by these new thoughts and smile when my wife asks me, “What did you do with my husband.” My thoughts sometimes surprise me. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
My thoughts sometimes surprise me. I find myself saying, “Now where in the world did that come from.” That I posses these thoughts reminds me that I am still very much someone I do not want to be. That I do not want to be this way reminds me that a change is taking place in me. I am somewhere between worm and winged wonder. This metamorphosis is very much a spiritual thing, something the Scriptures call the renewing of my mind. I am encouraged by these new thoughts and smile when my wife asks me, “What did you do with my husband.” My thoughts sometimes surprise me. Conversations Within ts 2/9/2012 (Jax, FL)
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“My peace I give to you.” Jesus
Sometimes we find emotional peace by making our peace that the world is, as it is. But peace is so much more than a tranquil feeling. The peace of Jesus is a healing peace. It seeks to mend relationships not just make peace with the fact things are not as they should be. Jesus offers us a real peace, not just a perceived one. He offers us peace with God and through it He will seek to bring healing to our fragmented lives. His is a peace within that begins to flow without. He would heal our relationship with others and even heal our own fractured heart. Conversations Within ts 2/8/2012 (Jax, FL)
Sometimes we find emotional peace by making our peace that the world is, as it is. But peace is so much more than a tranquil feeling. The peace of Jesus is a healing peace. It seeks to mend relationships not just make peace with the fact things are not as they should be. Jesus offers us a real peace, not just a perceived one. He offers us peace with God and through it He will seek to bring healing to our fragmented lives. His is a peace within that begins to flow without. He would heal our relationship with others and even heal our own fractured heart. Conversations Within ts 2/8/2012 (Jax, FL)
“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without.” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
“My peace I give to you.” Jesus
Sometimes we find emotional peace by making our peace that the world is, as it is. But peace is so much more than a tranquil feeling. The peace of Jesus is a healing peace. It seeks to mend relationships not just make peace with the fact things are not as they should be. Jesus offers us a real peace, not just a perceived one. He offers us peace with God and through it He will seek to bring healing to our fragmented lives. His is a peace within that begins to flow without. He would heal our relationship with others and even heal our own fractured heart. Conversations Within ts 2/8/2012 (Jax, FL)
Sometimes we find emotional peace by making our peace that the world is, as it is. But peace is so much more than a tranquil feeling. The peace of Jesus is a healing peace. It seeks to mend relationships not just make peace with the fact things are not as they should be. Jesus offers us a real peace, not just a perceived one. He offers us peace with God and through it He will seek to bring healing to our fragmented lives. His is a peace within that begins to flow without. He would heal our relationship with others and even heal our own fractured heart. Conversations Within ts 2/8/2012 (Jax, FL)
“In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west; people create distinctions out of their own minds and then believe them to be true.” Siddhārtha
“But if you show favoritism, you sin...” James 2 NIV
Forgive me Lord for every judgmental thought, and every critical word. Who am I to pass judgment on anyone? Do we not all share the same inclinations. Do we not also share the same need for Your mercy and grace. Forgive me too, for failing to understand how connected I am to the people of the world. Break down the superficial walls I have erected and let me see all people as neighbors regardless of who they are, or where they come from or what beliefs they have different from my own. I am to love my neighbor second only to loving You. Conversations Within ts 2/7/2012 (Jax, FL)
Forgive me Lord for every judgmental thought, and every critical word. Who am I to pass judgment on anyone? Do we not all share the same inclinations. Do we not also share the same need for Your mercy and grace. Forgive me too, for failing to understand how connected I am to the people of the world. Break down the superficial walls I have erected and let me see all people as neighbors regardless of who they are, or where they come from or what beliefs they have different from my own. I am to love my neighbor second only to loving You. Conversations Within ts 2/7/2012 (Jax, FL)
“In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west; people create distinctions out of their own minds and then believe them to be true.” Siddhārtha
“But if you show favoritism, you sin...” James 2 NIV
Forgive me Lord for every judgmental thought, and every critical word. Who am I to pass judgment on anyone? Do we not all share the same inclinations. Do we not also share the same need for Your mercy and grace. Forgive me too, for failing to understand how connected I am to the people of the world. Break down the superficial walls I have erected and let me see all people as neighbors regardless of who they are, or where they come from or what beliefs they have different from my own. I am to love my neighbor second only to loving You. Conversations Within ts 2/7/2012 (Jax, FL)
Forgive me Lord for every judgmental thought, and every critical word. Who am I to pass judgment on anyone? Do we not all share the same inclinations. Do we not also share the same need for Your mercy and grace. Forgive me too, for failing to understand how connected I am to the people of the world. Break down the superficial walls I have erected and let me see all people as neighbors regardless of who they are, or where they come from or what beliefs they have different from my own. I am to love my neighbor second only to loving You. Conversations Within ts 2/7/2012 (Jax, FL)
Monday, February 13, 2012
“However many holy words you read, however many you speak, what good will they do you if you do not act upon them?” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
"If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.” Jesus
It all comes down to action. What good is knowing that exercise is good for you if you don't exercise. The same can be said for just about everything. But truly, I cannot think of a single instance when I do not act out my greatest desire when I am able to do so. The trouble is that we want to be fit and healthy, we also want that extra piece of pie. Whatever desire is greatest at the moment will decide what we do. It is important then to pay attention to what fuels our desires. Like fire, the desire that burns the hottest and brightest will be the one I feed the most. Conversations Within ts 2/6/2012 (Jax, FL)
It all comes down to action. What good is knowing that exercise is good for you if you don't exercise. The same can be said for just about everything. But truly, I cannot think of a single instance when I do not act out my greatest desire when I am able to do so. The trouble is that we want to be fit and healthy, we also want that extra piece of pie. Whatever desire is greatest at the moment will decide what we do. It is important then to pay attention to what fuels our desires. Like fire, the desire that burns the hottest and brightest will be the one I feed the most. Conversations Within ts 2/6/2012 (Jax, FL)
“However many holy words you read, however many you speak, what good will they do you if you do not act upon them?” Siddhārtha Gautama Buddha
"If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.” Jesus
It all comes down to action. What good is knowing that exercise is good for you if you don't exercise. The same can be said for just about everything. But truly, I cannot think of a single instance when I do not act out my greatest desire when I am able to do so. The trouble is that we want to be fit and healthy, we also want that extra piece of pie. Whatever desire is greatest at the moment will decide what we do. It is important then to pay attention to what fuels our desires. Like fire, the desire that burns the hottest and brightest will be the one I feed the most. Conversations Within ts 2/6/2012 (Jax, FL)
It all comes down to action. What good is knowing that exercise is good for you if you don't exercise. The same can be said for just about everything. But truly, I cannot think of a single instance when I do not act out my greatest desire when I am able to do so. The trouble is that we want to be fit and healthy, we also want that extra piece of pie. Whatever desire is greatest at the moment will decide what we do. It is important then to pay attention to what fuels our desires. Like fire, the desire that burns the hottest and brightest will be the one I feed the most. Conversations Within ts 2/6/2012 (Jax, FL)
Saturday, February 11, 2012
"You and I have need of the strongest spell that can be found to wake us from the evil enchantment of worldliness." C. S. Lewis
“Blessed are the poor in Spirit for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to them.” Jesus
If life with God is glory then life without Him is poverty, the worst sort of poverty. This is why the first words of Jesus, in His first public sermon were, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” We must first realize our poverty without God before we can truly discover the great wealth of returning to Him. The word that Jesus used for poor is literally one so poor that the only option available to them is to beg. The beggar holds an empty cup out to the hand that would fill it. Someone has said that you cannot fill hands already full. We are blessed when we know that our soul is impoverished and we beg from God His tender mercies and grace. Conversations Within ts 2/4/2012 (Jax, FL)
If life with God is glory then life without Him is poverty, the worst sort of poverty. This is why the first words of Jesus, in His first public sermon were, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” We must first realize our poverty without God before we can truly discover the great wealth of returning to Him. The word that Jesus used for poor is literally one so poor that the only option available to them is to beg. The beggar holds an empty cup out to the hand that would fill it. Someone has said that you cannot fill hands already full. We are blessed when we know that our soul is impoverished and we beg from God His tender mercies and grace. Conversations Within ts 2/4/2012 (Jax, FL)
"You and I have need of the strongest spell that can be found to wake us from the evil enchantment of worldliness." C. S. Lewis
“Blessed are the poor in Spirit for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to them.” Jesus
If life with God is glory then life without Him is poverty, the worst sort of poverty. This is why the first words of Jesus, in His first public sermon were, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” We must first realize our poverty without God before we can truly discover the great wealth of returning to Him. The word that Jesus used for poor is literally one so poor that the only option available to them is to beg. The beggar holds an empty cup out to the hand that would fill it. Someone has said that you cannot fill hands already full. We are blessed when we know that our soul is impoverished and we beg from God His tender mercies and grace. Conversations Within ts 2/4/2012 (Jax, FL)
If life with God is glory then life without Him is poverty, the worst sort of poverty. This is why the first words of Jesus, in His first public sermon were, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” We must first realize our poverty without God before we can truly discover the great wealth of returning to Him. The word that Jesus used for poor is literally one so poor that the only option available to them is to beg. The beggar holds an empty cup out to the hand that would fill it. Someone has said that you cannot fill hands already full. We are blessed when we know that our soul is impoverished and we beg from God His tender mercies and grace. Conversations Within ts 2/4/2012 (Jax, FL)
Friday, February 10, 2012
“You can shut Him up for a fool or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God....
But let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us." C. S. Lewis
“For God...made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4
If we want to know what God is like we do not need to look beyond the face of Christ. If we are disturbed by God's wrath, Christ promises to turn it away from us. If we are afraid of God's judgment, Christ has satisfied the demands of it. If we are suspicious of God's intentions, Christ has made it clear the lengths that God is willing to go to accept us as His sons and daughters. If God were to dress up like a man and visit our planet, walk our streets, and eat at our tables, what would He say and do? Jesus said He is the answer to that question. God is not some distant impersonal being merely watching us from afar any more than Jesus is just a good teacher. The most astounding claim of Christ, that He and God are one, is either our greatest reason to reject Him as a fraud or worship Him as Lord and Savior. Conversations Within ts 2/3/2012 (Jax, FL)
“For God...made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4
If we want to know what God is like we do not need to look beyond the face of Christ. If we are disturbed by God's wrath, Christ promises to turn it away from us. If we are afraid of God's judgment, Christ has satisfied the demands of it. If we are suspicious of God's intentions, Christ has made it clear the lengths that God is willing to go to accept us as His sons and daughters. If God were to dress up like a man and visit our planet, walk our streets, and eat at our tables, what would He say and do? Jesus said He is the answer to that question. God is not some distant impersonal being merely watching us from afar any more than Jesus is just a good teacher. The most astounding claim of Christ, that He and God are one, is either our greatest reason to reject Him as a fraud or worship Him as Lord and Savior. Conversations Within ts 2/3/2012 (Jax, FL)
“You can shut Him up for a fool or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God....
But let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us." C. S. Lewis
“For God...made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4
If we want to know what God is like we do not need to look beyond the face of Christ. If we are disturbed by God's wrath, Christ promises to turn it away from us. If we are afraid of God's judgment, Christ has satisfied the demands of it. If we are suspicious of God's intentions, Christ has made it clear the lengths that God is willing to go to accept us as His sons and daughters. If God were to dress up like a man and visit our planet, walk our streets, and eat at our tables, what would He say and do? Jesus said He is the answer to that question. God is not some distant impersonal being merely watching us from afar any more than Jesus is just a good teacher. The most astounding claim of Christ, that He and God are one, is either our greatest reason to reject Him as a fraud or worship Him as Lord and Savior. Conversations Within ts 2/3/2012 (Jax, FL)
“For God...made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 2 Corinthians 4
If we want to know what God is like we do not need to look beyond the face of Christ. If we are disturbed by God's wrath, Christ promises to turn it away from us. If we are afraid of God's judgment, Christ has satisfied the demands of it. If we are suspicious of God's intentions, Christ has made it clear the lengths that God is willing to go to accept us as His sons and daughters. If God were to dress up like a man and visit our planet, walk our streets, and eat at our tables, what would He say and do? Jesus said He is the answer to that question. God is not some distant impersonal being merely watching us from afar any more than Jesus is just a good teacher. The most astounding claim of Christ, that He and God are one, is either our greatest reason to reject Him as a fraud or worship Him as Lord and Savior. Conversations Within ts 2/3/2012 (Jax, FL)
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Every experience of the “WOW:”
...a majestic waterfall, a quiet brook, a stunningly beautiful woman, a sleeping baby or a fabulous dessert, are simply the fragrant aroma of His presence nearby.
“And I will be the glory in her midst.” Zechariah 2
There are times when people know they are in the presence of Glory. We can feel it. But, Glory surrounds us even when we don't feel it. God's glory engulfs like the air we breathe. Every rock and tree, song and dance, the whole earth and sky contain it. Even an asphalt parking lot reflects God's glory if only because people made in His image used skill building it. God's glory not only surrounds us, it is in each and every one of us. The glory of humans is that we were created as an expression of God's glory, to the end that we may behold and enjoy His glory and in turn discover our own. Conversations Within ts 2/2/2012 (Jax, FL)
“And I will be the glory in her midst.” Zechariah 2
There are times when people know they are in the presence of Glory. We can feel it. But, Glory surrounds us even when we don't feel it. God's glory engulfs like the air we breathe. Every rock and tree, song and dance, the whole earth and sky contain it. Even an asphalt parking lot reflects God's glory if only because people made in His image used skill building it. God's glory not only surrounds us, it is in each and every one of us. The glory of humans is that we were created as an expression of God's glory, to the end that we may behold and enjoy His glory and in turn discover our own. Conversations Within ts 2/2/2012 (Jax, FL)
Every experience of the “WOW:”
...a majestic waterfall, a quiet brook, a stunningly beautiful woman, a sleeping baby or a fabulous dessert, are simply the fragrant aroma of His presence nearby.
“And I will be the glory in her midst.” Zechariah 2
There are times when people know they are in the presence of Glory. We can feel it. But, Glory surrounds us even when we don't feel it. God's glory engulfs like the air we breathe. Every rock and tree, song and dance, the whole earth and sky contain it. Even an asphalt parking lot reflects God's glory if only because people made in His image used skill building it. God's glory not only surrounds us, it is in each and every one of us. The glory of humans is that we were created as an expression of God's glory, to the end that we may behold and enjoy His glory and in turn discover our own. Conversations Within ts 2/2/2012 (Jax, FL)
“And I will be the glory in her midst.” Zechariah 2
There are times when people know they are in the presence of Glory. We can feel it. But, Glory surrounds us even when we don't feel it. God's glory engulfs like the air we breathe. Every rock and tree, song and dance, the whole earth and sky contain it. Even an asphalt parking lot reflects God's glory if only because people made in His image used skill building it. God's glory not only surrounds us, it is in each and every one of us. The glory of humans is that we were created as an expression of God's glory, to the end that we may behold and enjoy His glory and in turn discover our own. Conversations Within ts 2/2/2012 (Jax, FL)
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
“For [God] self-exaltation is a virtue.” John Piper
“Great is the glory of the LORD.” Psalm 138
When God tells us to put Him first, He is actually telling us how to look after our best interest. He knows that the greatest gift He can give to us is the gift of Himself. He invites us to open this gift every day. When it comes to God, “being stuck on Himself' is His most unselfish act. He directs us to love Him above all things because He is above all things and He knows that lasting happiness can only be found in loving Him. It may sound strange, but for God to be God He must surely seek His own glory. If all that God does is good and right and true then why would God assign the greatest value to anything except what has the greatest value. [See Meditations on God's Delight in Being God by John Piper] Conversations Within ts 2/1/2012 (Jax, FL)
When God tells us to put Him first, He is actually telling us how to look after our best interest. He knows that the greatest gift He can give to us is the gift of Himself. He invites us to open this gift every day. When it comes to God, “being stuck on Himself' is His most unselfish act. He directs us to love Him above all things because He is above all things and He knows that lasting happiness can only be found in loving Him. It may sound strange, but for God to be God He must surely seek His own glory. If all that God does is good and right and true then why would God assign the greatest value to anything except what has the greatest value. [See Meditations on God's Delight in Being God by John Piper] Conversations Within ts 2/1/2012 (Jax, FL)
“For [God] self-exaltation is a virtue.” John Piper
“Great is the glory of the LORD.” Psalm 138
When God tells us to put Him first, He is actually telling us how to look after our best interest. He knows that the greatest gift He can give to us is the gift of Himself. He invites us to open this gift every day. When it comes to God, “being stuck on Himself' is His most unselfish act. He directs us to love Him above all things because He is above all things and He knows that lasting happiness can only be found in loving Him. It may sound strange, but for God to be God He must surely seek His own glory. If all that God does is good and right and true then why would God assign the greatest value to anything except what has the greatest value. [See Meditations on God's Delight in Being God by John Piper] Conversations Within ts 2/1/2012 (Jax, FL)
When God tells us to put Him first, He is actually telling us how to look after our best interest. He knows that the greatest gift He can give to us is the gift of Himself. He invites us to open this gift every day. When it comes to God, “being stuck on Himself' is His most unselfish act. He directs us to love Him above all things because He is above all things and He knows that lasting happiness can only be found in loving Him. It may sound strange, but for God to be God He must surely seek His own glory. If all that God does is good and right and true then why would God assign the greatest value to anything except what has the greatest value. [See Meditations on God's Delight in Being God by John Piper] Conversations Within ts 2/1/2012 (Jax, FL)
Monday, February 6, 2012
“A man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun...
...by scribbling the word, 'darkness' on the walls of his cell.” C. S. Lewis
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name.” Psalms 29
There is a tendency in humans to botch giving proper credit. We ascribe to “Mother Nature” the beauty of the earth and blame God for letting children starve in Africa. I shamefully confess that I have sometimes blamed God when things don't go my way. We say things like, “It would have to rain on the one day I have off this week.” God does not have a personal vendetta against us when we catch every red light in town or have a flat tire on the way to work. It is wrong to blame God just as it is wrong when we fail to Give Him credit where credit is due. We take nothing away from God when we do not ascribe the glory due Him; we just take away our experiences of it. Conversations Within ts 1/31/2012 (Between, GA)
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name.” Psalms 29
There is a tendency in humans to botch giving proper credit. We ascribe to “Mother Nature” the beauty of the earth and blame God for letting children starve in Africa. I shamefully confess that I have sometimes blamed God when things don't go my way. We say things like, “It would have to rain on the one day I have off this week.” God does not have a personal vendetta against us when we catch every red light in town or have a flat tire on the way to work. It is wrong to blame God just as it is wrong when we fail to Give Him credit where credit is due. We take nothing away from God when we do not ascribe the glory due Him; we just take away our experiences of it. Conversations Within ts 1/31/2012 (Between, GA)
“A man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun...
...by scribbling the word, 'darkness' on the walls of his cell.” C. S. Lewis
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name.” Psalms 29
There is a tendency in humans to botch giving proper credit. We ascribe to “Mother Nature” the beauty of the earth and blame God for letting children starve in Africa. I shamefully confess that I have sometimes blamed God when things don't go my way. We say things like, “It would have to rain on the one day I have off this week.” God does not have a personal vendetta against us when we catch every red light in town or have a flat tire on the way to work. It is wrong to blame God just as it is wrong when we fail to Give Him credit where credit is due. We take nothing away from God when we do not ascribe the glory due Him; we just take away our experiences of it. Conversations Within ts 1/31/2012 (Between, GA)
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name.” Psalms 29
There is a tendency in humans to botch giving proper credit. We ascribe to “Mother Nature” the beauty of the earth and blame God for letting children starve in Africa. I shamefully confess that I have sometimes blamed God when things don't go my way. We say things like, “It would have to rain on the one day I have off this week.” God does not have a personal vendetta against us when we catch every red light in town or have a flat tire on the way to work. It is wrong to blame God just as it is wrong when we fail to Give Him credit where credit is due. We take nothing away from God when we do not ascribe the glory due Him; we just take away our experiences of it. Conversations Within ts 1/31/2012 (Between, GA)
Sunday, February 5, 2012
God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied with Him. John Piper
“And the glory of the LORD appeared to them.” Numbers 16
How do I measure or with what do I compare God's value? God is to my soul; what air and water are to my body. If I imagine my eyes without light, or my ears without sound or any of our senses without the things which give meaning to them, I have but a small comparison of existence without Him. Knowing Him gives meaning to my life. When I comes down to it, God is all my reasons, at least the ones that count. I am beginning to believe that He is the home I seek, the happiness I desire, even the mystery I would solve. To know His loving-kindness is the glory of life. Conversations Within ts 1/30/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
How do I measure or with what do I compare God's value? God is to my soul; what air and water are to my body. If I imagine my eyes without light, or my ears without sound or any of our senses without the things which give meaning to them, I have but a small comparison of existence without Him. Knowing Him gives meaning to my life. When I comes down to it, God is all my reasons, at least the ones that count. I am beginning to believe that He is the home I seek, the happiness I desire, even the mystery I would solve. To know His loving-kindness is the glory of life. Conversations Within ts 1/30/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied with Him. John Piper
“And the glory of the LORD appeared to them.” Numbers 16
How do I measure or with what do I compare God's value? God is to my soul; what air and water are to my body. If I imagine my eyes without light, or my ears without sound or any of our senses without the things which give meaning to them, I have but a small comparison of existence without Him. Knowing Him gives meaning to my life. When I comes down to it, God is all my reasons, at least the ones that count. I am beginning to believe that He is the home I seek, the happiness I desire, even the mystery I would solve. To know His loving-kindness is the glory of life. Conversations Within ts 1/30/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
How do I measure or with what do I compare God's value? God is to my soul; what air and water are to my body. If I imagine my eyes without light, or my ears without sound or any of our senses without the things which give meaning to them, I have but a small comparison of existence without Him. Knowing Him gives meaning to my life. When I comes down to it, God is all my reasons, at least the ones that count. I am beginning to believe that He is the home I seek, the happiness I desire, even the mystery I would solve. To know His loving-kindness is the glory of life. Conversations Within ts 1/30/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)
Friday, February 3, 2012
“Don’t count every hour in the day, make every hour in the day count.” Anonymous
“Make good use of time.” Ephesians 5
Most of us can remember watching the clock when we were waiting for school to get out, some of us watch it now waiting to get off work. I never watch the clock when I am surfing or doing something I enjoy. Usually when we count the hours it is because we are not embracing the present just passing though it to get somewhere else. I like the wisdom expressed in several quaint saying; “the shortest distance between two points is not the point,” and “life is not the destination but the journey.” Both encourage us to make the most of every moment by being in the moment. Never travel through time to get somewhere else, wake to where you are and be there. Open the present of the present. Conversations Within ts 1/28/2012 (Madison, MS)
Most of us can remember watching the clock when we were waiting for school to get out, some of us watch it now waiting to get off work. I never watch the clock when I am surfing or doing something I enjoy. Usually when we count the hours it is because we are not embracing the present just passing though it to get somewhere else. I like the wisdom expressed in several quaint saying; “the shortest distance between two points is not the point,” and “life is not the destination but the journey.” Both encourage us to make the most of every moment by being in the moment. Never travel through time to get somewhere else, wake to where you are and be there. Open the present of the present. Conversations Within ts 1/28/2012 (Madison, MS)
“Don’t count every hour in the day, make every hour in the day count.” Anonymous
“Make good use of time.” Ephesians 5
Most of us can remember watching the clock when we were waiting for school to get out, some of us watch it now waiting to get off work. I never watch the clock when I am surfing or doing something I enjoy. Usually when we count the hours it is because we are not embracing the present just passing though it to get somewhere else. I like the wisdom expressed in several quaint saying; “the shortest distance between two points is not the point,” and “life is not the destination but the journey.” Both encourage us to make the most of every moment by being in the moment. Never travel through time to get somewhere else, wake to where you are and be there. Open the present of the present. Conversations Within ts 1/28/2012 (Madison, MS)
Most of us can remember watching the clock when we were waiting for school to get out, some of us watch it now waiting to get off work. I never watch the clock when I am surfing or doing something I enjoy. Usually when we count the hours it is because we are not embracing the present just passing though it to get somewhere else. I like the wisdom expressed in several quaint saying; “the shortest distance between two points is not the point,” and “life is not the destination but the journey.” Both encourage us to make the most of every moment by being in the moment. Never travel through time to get somewhere else, wake to where you are and be there. Open the present of the present. Conversations Within ts 1/28/2012 (Madison, MS)
Thursday, February 2, 2012
"Time is on my side, yes it is." Mick Jaggar
"Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." Hebrews 4
In many ways time is surely on our side. Hurts heal, seasons change, and where trials are concerned we come to appreciate the saying, “This too shall pass.” But, there are times when time is not on our side. Opportunities are missed when we fail to act and never come to us again. We grow older and our bodies start to fail us. Over time we perfect what we practice. This is a good thing if we practice something good but can be bad if we are perfecting something bad. If I harden my heart to love I will perfect selfishness and over time lock myself in an inescapable prison of misery. In this instance time works against the unrepentant. People often think they have plenty of time to repent but after time hardened hearts may not be capable to do so. Herein lies one aspect of Hell. Conversations Within ts 1/27/2012 (Madison, MS)
In many ways time is surely on our side. Hurts heal, seasons change, and where trials are concerned we come to appreciate the saying, “This too shall pass.” But, there are times when time is not on our side. Opportunities are missed when we fail to act and never come to us again. We grow older and our bodies start to fail us. Over time we perfect what we practice. This is a good thing if we practice something good but can be bad if we are perfecting something bad. If I harden my heart to love I will perfect selfishness and over time lock myself in an inescapable prison of misery. In this instance time works against the unrepentant. People often think they have plenty of time to repent but after time hardened hearts may not be capable to do so. Herein lies one aspect of Hell. Conversations Within ts 1/27/2012 (Madison, MS)
"Time is on my side, yes it is." Mick Jaggar
"Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." Hebrews 4
In many ways time is surely on our side. Hurts heal, seasons change, and where trials are concerned we come to appreciate the saying, “This too shall pass.” But, there are times when time is not on our side. Opportunities are missed when we fail to act and never come to us again. We grow older and our bodies start to fail us. Over time we perfect what we practice. This is a good thing if we practice something good but can be bad if we are perfecting something bad. If I harden my heart to love I will perfect selfishness and over time lock myself in an inescapable prison of misery. In this instance time works against the unrepentant. People often think they have plenty of time to repent but after time hardened hearts may not be capable to do so. Herein lies one aspect of Hell. Conversations Within ts 1/27/2012 (Madison, MS)
In many ways time is surely on our side. Hurts heal, seasons change, and where trials are concerned we come to appreciate the saying, “This too shall pass.” But, there are times when time is not on our side. Opportunities are missed when we fail to act and never come to us again. We grow older and our bodies start to fail us. Over time we perfect what we practice. This is a good thing if we practice something good but can be bad if we are perfecting something bad. If I harden my heart to love I will perfect selfishness and over time lock myself in an inescapable prison of misery. In this instance time works against the unrepentant. People often think they have plenty of time to repent but after time hardened hearts may not be capable to do so. Herein lies one aspect of Hell. Conversations Within ts 1/27/2012 (Madison, MS)
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
“...yesterday is but today's memory and tomorrow is today's dream.” Kahlil Gibran
“Be where you are. Whatever your hand find to do, do it with all of your might.” Ecclesiastics 9
This moment is connected to every other moment in my life. Everything I am and everything I hope to be is tied inseparably to the present. It all comes down to now. Am I alive in this moment? Am I worried about the future or crippled by the past? Now is the way to deal with both. If we direct the energies of the present, we can redirect the current of the past and shape the course of the future. Did I make the wrong decision yesterday? Make the right one today. Do I want to make good decisions tomorrow? Make a good decision now. Attend to the present. Be where you are. Keep your eyes fixed on where you should be now and you will be where you are supposed to be later. Conversations Within ts 1/26/2012 (Madison, MS)
This moment is connected to every other moment in my life. Everything I am and everything I hope to be is tied inseparably to the present. It all comes down to now. Am I alive in this moment? Am I worried about the future or crippled by the past? Now is the way to deal with both. If we direct the energies of the present, we can redirect the current of the past and shape the course of the future. Did I make the wrong decision yesterday? Make the right one today. Do I want to make good decisions tomorrow? Make a good decision now. Attend to the present. Be where you are. Keep your eyes fixed on where you should be now and you will be where you are supposed to be later. Conversations Within ts 1/26/2012 (Madison, MS)
“...yesterday is but today's memory and tomorrow is today's dream.” Kahlil Gibran
“Be where you are. Whatever your hand find to do, do it with all of your might.” Ecclesiastics 9
This moment is connected to every other moment in my life. Everything I am and everything I hope to be is tied inseparably to the present. It all comes down to now. Am I alive in this moment? Am I worried about the future or crippled by the past? Now is the way to deal with both. If we direct the energies of the present, we can redirect the current of the past and shape the course of the future. Did I make the wrong decision yesterday? Make the right one today. Do I want to make good decisions tomorrow? Make a good decision now. Attend to the present. Be where you are. Keep your eyes fixed on where you should be now and you will be where you are supposed to be later. Conversations Within ts 1/26/2012 (Madison, MS)
This moment is connected to every other moment in my life. Everything I am and everything I hope to be is tied inseparably to the present. It all comes down to now. Am I alive in this moment? Am I worried about the future or crippled by the past? Now is the way to deal with both. If we direct the energies of the present, we can redirect the current of the past and shape the course of the future. Did I make the wrong decision yesterday? Make the right one today. Do I want to make good decisions tomorrow? Make a good decision now. Attend to the present. Be where you are. Keep your eyes fixed on where you should be now and you will be where you are supposed to be later. Conversations Within ts 1/26/2012 (Madison, MS)
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