Freedom comes to us a choice at a time as does slavery.

“Do not harden your heart.” Heb.3

Every choice has consequences; probably not the least of which is that we incline our heart to make the same choice the next time similar circumstances arise. Every time I refuse some prompting of my conscience to do right, it will get easier and easier to choose wrong. Hard hearts are fashioned this way. Thank God it works the other way as well. Every good choice can incline us to do right until doing what is good and right and true is second nature. It is called second nature because our first nature is usually to be selfish. Conversations Within ts 12/25/2012 (Bham, AL)

Freedom comes to us a choice at a time as does slavery.

“Do not harden your heart.” Heb.3

Every choice has consequences; probably not the least of which is that we incline our heart to make the same choice the next time similar circumstances arise. Every time I refuse some prompting of my conscience to do right, it will get easier and easier to choose wrong. Hard hearts are fashioned this way. Thank God it works the other way as well. Every good choice can incline us to do right until doing what is good and right and true is second nature. It is called second nature because our first nature is usually to be selfish. Conversations Within ts 12/25/2012 (Bham, AL)

Sometimes the best way to be where you are is to pay attention to where have been and where you are going.

"First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Jesus

Some have said that the present is all there is simply because you cannot change the past and the tomorrow hasn’t come. Certainly worrying about the past or future is a waste of time. But assigning some of the present to correct past mistakes or to prepare for the future is wise. The trick is to not allow either to rob you of the joy of the present. Sometimes the past catches up to us if we have not lived responsibly and restitution is needed. Sometimes the future will catch us unprepared so we should prepare. A person who is fully present takes the past and future into consideration. Conversations Within ts 12/24/2012 (Bham, AL)

Sometimes the best way to be where you are is to pay attention to where have been and where you are going.

"First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Jesus

Some have said that the present is all there is simply because you cannot change the past and the tomorrow hasn’t come. Certainly worrying about the past or future is a waste of time. But assigning some of the present to correct past mistakes or to prepare for the future is wise. The trick is to not allow either to rob you of the joy of the present. Sometimes the past catches up to us if we have not lived responsibly and restitution is needed. Sometimes the future will catch us unprepared so we should prepare. A person who is fully present takes the past and future into consideration. Conversations Within ts 12/24/2012 (Bham, AL)

“In truth there is no such thing in man's nature as a settled and full resolve either for good or evil, except at the very moment of execution.” Nathaniel Hawthorne

“...for it is now that God favors what you do.” Ecc.9

Reduce life down to this moment, give your full attention to now. Let your every decision be your next right step. Some have quit smoking by simply saying, “I will not smoke now.” Surely there are hundreds of things which we know are bad for us which could complete that sentence. What are you going to do now? Now is all that counts anyway. Move through the day one moment at a time, be where you are! Be fully where you are and fully committed only to goodness. Conversations Within ts 12/21/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)

“In truth there is no such thing in man's nature as a settled and full resolve either for good or evil, except at the very moment of execution.” Nathaniel Hawthorne

“...for it is now that God favors what you do.” Ecc.9

Reduce life down to this moment, give your full attention to now. Let your every decision be your next right step. Some have quit smoking by simply saying, “I will not smoke now.” Surely there are hundreds of things which we know are bad for us which could complete that sentence. What are you going to do now? Now is all that counts anyway. Move through the day one moment at a time, be where you are! Be fully where you are and fully committed only to goodness. Conversations Within ts 12/21/2012 (Camp Farrington, AL)

Why wait for the new year to make changes; why wait at all?

“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” Hebrews 3

If you believe something is good and right and true, why wait to do it. Don’t put off eating right or exercise or quitting some bad habit until after the first of the year. Do it today. Do it now. Never put off doing good. Do not delay doing what is right. Acclimate yourself toward actions you believe to be true. It is those who do who are counted wise, not those who plan to do. Conversations Within ts 12/20/2012 (Jax, FL)

Why wait for the new year to make changes; why wait at all?

“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” Hebrews 3

If you believe something is good and right and true, why wait to do it. Don’t put off eating right or exercise or quitting some bad habit until after the first of the year. Do it today. Do it now. Never put off doing good. Do not delay doing what is right. Acclimate yourself toward actions you believe to be true. It is those who do who are counted wise, not those who plan to do. Conversations Within ts 12/20/2012 (Jax, FL)

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” Charles Dickens

“Now you are the body of Christ.” 2Cor.12

The Spirit of Christmas is none other than the Holy Spirit sent to live in us as the gift of Christ. He of course does not come to visit us at Christmas time but to take up residence in us throughout the years appointed to us on this earth. His presence in us is intended to be Christ’s continuing presence in the world. We are His hands that heal, his heart that loves, His eyes which cry, His ears that listen, His mouth that smiles. As my body and its actions is the physical expression of my soul, so too are we His body--the physical expression of Jesus to a world that needs to be loved. Conversations Within ts 12/19/2012 (Jax, FL)

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” Charles Dickens

“Now you are the body of Christ.” 2Cor.12

The Spirit of Christmas is none other than the Holy Spirit sent to live in us as the gift of Christ. He of course does not come to visit us at Christmas time but to take up residence in us throughout the years appointed to us on this earth. His presence in us is intended to be Christ’s continuing presence in the world. We are His hands that heal, his heart that loves, His eyes which cry, His ears that listen, His mouth that smiles. As my body and its actions is the physical expression of my soul, so too are we His body--the physical expression of Jesus to a world that needs to be loved. Conversations Within ts 12/19/2012 (Jax, FL)

Let our celebration of His first coming ready us for His next.

“I will come again!” Jesus

This morning I rise with a deadline. I must check out of my cabin by 10 AM which means there are certain things I must accomplish before this can happen. The Second Coming of Christ is likewise a very real deadline and while we are not given a specific time, there are certain things which must be done in preparation for it. We are told to live expectantly--to live in such a manner that when He comes we will not be ashamed but be found doing the work that He has left us to do. What is that work? Simply put, it is to be His presence in the world. Conversations Within ts 12/15/2012 (Jax, FL)

Let our celebration of His first coming ready us for His next.

“I will come again!” Jesus

This morning I rise with a deadline. I must check out of my cabin by 10 AM which means there are certain things I must accomplish before this can happen. The Second Coming of Christ is likewise a very real deadline and while we are not given a specific time, there are certain things which must be done in preparation for it. We are told to live expectantly--to live in such a manner that when He comes we will not be ashamed but be found doing the work that He has left us to do. What is that work? Simply put, it is to be His presence in the world. Conversations Within ts 12/15/2012 (Jax, FL)

“That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.” Linus

“For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke2

Christmas is a celebration of gift giving. Let the celebrations begin! Let the celebrations continue. Because we have in ourselves the power to give every day, the celebration needs never to stop. Christ is the first of many gifts that God gives to the world. Christmas day can be celebrated every day when we wrap ourselves as a present of kindness to those around us. If we want more of the joy of Christmas give of yourself every day of the year. Conversations Within ts 12/14/2012 (Jax, FL)

“That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.” Linus

“For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke2

Christmas is a celebration of gift giving. Let the celebrations begin! Let the celebrations continue. Because we have in ourselves the power to give every day, the celebration needs never to stop. Christ is the first of many gifts that God gives to the world. Christmas day can be celebrated every day when we wrap ourselves as a present of kindness to those around us. If we want more of the joy of Christmas give of yourself every day of the year. Conversations Within ts 12/14/2012 (Jax, FL)

“How beautiful the tender eyes That chose to forgive and never despise.” Twila Paris

“For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved.” Jesus

Silent night, silence the noise of this world that I may hear your precious truth. Holy night, draw me into your magic. Let your stillness quiet my soul and the message of the mother and Child light my understand. “You did not come to condemn the world. You Did Not Come To Condemn The World. YOU DID NOT COME TO CONDEMN! Blessed Father may we discover in this Christmas all that You desire to be for us in the gift of Christ. Conversations Within ts 12/17/2012 (Jax, FL)

“How beautiful the tender eyes That chose to forgive and never despise.” Twila Paris

“For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved.” Jesus

Silent night, silence the noise of this world that I may hear your precious truth. Holy night, draw me into your magic. Let your stillness quiet my soul and the message of the mother and Child light my understand. “You did not come to condemn the world. You Did Not Come To Condemn The World. YOU DID NOT COME TO CONDEMN! Blessed Father may we discover in this Christmas all that You desire to be for us in the gift of Christ. Conversations Within ts 12/17/2012 (Jax, FL)

“The secret to humor is surprise.” ― Aristotle

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us...” Eph.3

In the end I think we will be surprised by all that God has done, not only in answer to our prayers but by His own proactive expressions of love. What continues to amaze me is that even though He knows what sins we will commit tomorrow He remains steadfast in His love for us today. Even things which I questioned at the time He has answered--sometimes years later. I realize that what I thought was bad was actually the best thing He could have done for me. Conversations Within ts 12/6/201 (Jax, FL)

“The secret to humor is surprise.” ― Aristotle

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us...” Eph.3

In the end I think we will be surprised by all that God has done, not only in answer to our prayers but by His own proactive expressions of love. What continues to amaze me is that even though He knows what sins we will commit tomorrow He remains steadfast in His love for us today. Even things which I questioned at the time He has answered--sometimes years later. I realize that what I thought was bad was actually the best thing He could have done for me. Conversations Within ts 12/6/201 (Jax, FL)

“Unexpected travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God” Kirt Vonnegut Jr.

“David was angry because the LORD's anger had burst out against Uzzah.” 2Sam.6

No doubt that God uses the unexpected. When things pop up and interrupt our lives we often turn to Him for help, guidance and comfort. Sometimes we blame Him and turn to Him in anger. No matter. If we are looking in God’s direction the unexpected has us at least looking where we need to look and God will use it. Even if we are angry with Him, He can use it perhaps as the starting point of our first honest conversation with Him in a while. Conversations Within ts 12/5/201 (Jax, FL)

“Unexpected travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God” Kirt Vonnegut Jr.

“David was angry because the LORD's anger had burst out against Uzzah.” 2Sam.6

No doubt that God uses the unexpected. When things pop up and interrupt our lives we often turn to Him for help, guidance and comfort. Sometimes we blame Him and turn to Him in anger. No matter. If we are looking in God’s direction the unexpected has us at least looking where we need to look and God will use it. Even if we are angry with Him, He can use it perhaps as the starting point of our first honest conversation with Him in a while. Conversations Within ts 12/5/201 (Jax, FL)

Don’t be surprised by what should be expected.

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” 1Pet.4

Some things are best if they are expected. Common experience teaches us that we should expect hardship in life. God has evidently decided that trials are necessary for our development. Knowing this means that the sooner we embrace every hardship as training, the sooner we will learn its lessons. Get on with it! Conversations Within ts 12/12/201 (Jax, FL)

Don’t be surprised by what should be expected.

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” 1Pet.4

Some things are best if they are expected. Common experience teaches us that we should expect hardship in life. God has evidently decided that trials are necessary for our development. Knowing this means that the sooner we embrace every hardship as training, the sooner we will learn its lessons. Get on with it! Conversations Within ts 12/12/201 (Jax, FL)

“Don't despair too much if you see beautiful things destroyed, if you see them perish. Because the best things are always growing in secret." Ben Okri

The gift of God is eternal life. Rom.6

Most people know that they are more than the body that perishes but we rarely embrace all that this means. We fear things which threaten our physical existence but fail to take into account dangers that can destroy the soul. We hold on so tightly to this life but neglect to invest in the next. I will survive my death but how will I fare in that life that follows it. How firmly do I believe in the afterlife? A dying man once wrote a letter to a friend. He began, “I am still in the land of the living,” but stopped and started again. He then wrote, “I am yet in the land of the dying, but I hope soon to be in the land of the living.” Conversations Within ts 12/13/2012 (Jax, FL)

“Don't despair too much if you see beautiful things destroyed, if you see them perish. Because the best things are always growing in secret." Ben Okri

The gift of God is eternal life. Rom.6

Most people know that they are more than the body that perishes but we rarely embrace all that this means. We fear things which threaten our physical existence but fail to take into account dangers that can destroy the soul. We hold on so tightly to this life but neglect to invest in the next. I will survive my death but how will I fare in that life that follows it. How firmly do I believe in the afterlife? A dying man once wrote a letter to a friend. He began, “I am still in the land of the living,” but stopped and started again. He then wrote, “I am yet in the land of the dying, but I hope soon to be in the land of the living.” Conversations Within ts 12/13/2012 (Jax, FL)

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” David Thoreau

“A man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Jesus

Some dreams that we have in life are better than others. Those that are, have little if anything to do with material possessions and everything to do with people. It is a wasted life that chases things but a rich one that pursues the love that Jesus spoke about. Rise each day to fulfill this dream and the ordinary becomes the extraordinary. Conversations Within ts 12/4/201 (Jax, FL)

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” David Thoreau

“A man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Jesus

Some dreams that we have in life are better than others. Those that are, have little if anything to do with material possessions and everything to do with people. It is a wasted life that chases things but a rich one that pursues the love that Jesus spoke about. Rise each day to fulfill this dream and the ordinary becomes the extraordinary. Conversations Within ts 12/4/201 (Jax, FL)

“Unscheduled stops may be God’s way of leading us to our life calling.”

“In everything give thanks....”1Thess.5

I find it interesting that the first king of Israel was out looking for a couple of lost donkeys when he discovered that he had been chosen to be the first King. There is a good measure of comfort when we know that God can use the smallest detail of our lives to direct our steps into His purposes. Unscheduled stops are often viewed as an inconvenience but may wind up being divine detours. In any case, it is better to be focused than frustrated. Give thanks in every circumstance, you never know what God is up to. Conversations Within ts 12/2/2012 (Shenandoah, AL)

“Unscheduled stops may be God’s way of leading us to our life calling.”

“In everything give thanks....”1Thess.5

I find it interesting that the first king of Israel was out looking for a couple of lost donkeys when he discovered that he had been chosen to be the first King. There is a good measure of comfort when we know that God can use the smallest detail of our lives to direct our steps into His purposes. Unscheduled stops are often viewed as an inconvenience but may wind up being divine detours. In any case, it is better to be focused than frustrated. Give thanks in every circumstance, you never know what God is up to. Conversations Within ts 12/2/2012 (Shenandoah, AL)

Don't become a wandering generality. Be a meaningful specific. Zig Ziglar

“Remain in my love...” Jesus

There is more to life than just this life which means there should be more to life than just the concerns of this life. Money and material possessions are a means to, not the end of our life purpose. And what is the purpose of life? According to Jesus it is to love God and be loved by Him. This circle of love is certain to overflow in loving others. We love God by doing what He commands and we also are loved by God when we do what He commands. This is why Jesus said, “Remain in my love.” If I do not live as God asks, He will not stop loving me, but i may not experience the benefits of His love. Conversations Within ts 12/10/2012 (Jax, FL)

Don't become a wandering generality. Be a meaningful specific. Zig Ziglar

“Remain in my love...” Jesus

There is more to life than just this life which means there should be more to life than just the concerns of this life. Money and material possessions are a means to, not the end of our life purpose. And what is the purpose of life? According to Jesus it is to love God and be loved by Him. This circle of love is certain to overflow in loving others. We love God by doing what He commands and we also are loved by God when we do what He commands. This is why Jesus said, “Remain in my love.” If I do not live as God asks, He will not stop loving me, but i may not experience the benefits of His love. Conversations Within ts 12/10/2012 (Jax, FL)

“The most important persuasion tool you have in your entire arsenal is integrity.” Zig Ziglar

“For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing...” 2Cor.2

A life lived with a personal integrity that demands our very best, no matter what we happen to be doing, is the best witness of our faith. Leaving a place better than you find it; leaving people better after they have been with you, even if they are just encouraged by your own joy is a powerful testimony of goodness. Let your ambience radiate the joy of knowing God, and be a fragrant aroma of His goodness. Conversations Within ts 12/10/2012 (Jax, FL)

“The most important persuasion tool you have in your entire arsenal is integrity.” Zig Ziglar

“For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing...” 2Cor.2

A life lived with a personal integrity that demands our very best, no matter what we happen to be doing, is the best witness of our faith. Leaving a place better than you find it; leaving people better after they have been with you, even if they are just encouraged by your own joy is a powerful testimony of goodness. Let your ambience radiate the joy of knowing God, and be a fragrant aroma of His goodness. Conversations Within ts 12/10/2012 (Jax, FL)

“If you go looking for a friend, you’re going to find they’re scarce. If you go out to be a friend, you’ll find them everywhere.” Zig Ziglar

“I have not called you servants....I have called you friends.” Jesus

Am I a good friend? I think the measure of this is not only how I feel about my friends but how I act towards them. Am I a source of goodness to them? When Jesus said that He prefers to have friends rather than servants he was not saying that friends do not serve each other but the reasons behind their service is different. He does not want slaves, employees, taxpayers or mercenaries. He is looking for friends. It is the very nature of a friend to look out for the interest of the ones they love. Conversations Within ts 12/9/2012 (Jax, FL)

“If you go looking for a friend, you’re going to find they’re scarce. If you go out to be a friend, you’ll find them everywhere.” Zig Ziglar

“I have not called you servants....I have called you friends.” Jesus

Am I a good friend? I think the measure of this is not only how I feel about my friends but how I act towards them. Am I a source of goodness to them? When Jesus said that He prefers to have friends rather than servants he was not saying that friends do not serve each other but the reasons behind their service is different. He does not want slaves, employees, taxpayers or mercenaries. He is looking for friends. It is the very nature of a friend to look out for the interest of the ones they love. Conversations Within ts 12/9/2012 (Jax, FL)

“Expect the best. Prepare for the worst. Capitalize on what comes.” Zig Ziglar

“No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame...” Ps.25

Being an optimist does not necessarily mean that you are not being a realist. We can be grateful to God even when we prepare for lean or difficult times. To me, showing gratitude is what it means to be positive--not some silly, deluded notion that denies that there will be tough times, but the faith that God uses them when they come to work character in us. That is surely something for which we should be grateful. The hope that the Scriptures speak so often about is the certain expectation that God works all things together for good. When we capitalize on whatever comes, we become His partner in the enterprise of that goodness. Conversations Within ts 12/8/2012 (Jax,FL)

“Expect the best. Prepare for the worst. Capitalize on what comes.” Zig Ziglar

“No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame...” Ps.25

Being an optimist does not necessarily mean that you are not being a realist. We can be grateful to God even when we prepare for lean or difficult times. To me, showing gratitude is what it means to be positive--not some silly, deluded notion that denies that there will be tough times, but the faith that God uses them when they come to work character in us. That is surely something for which we should be grateful. The hope that the Scriptures speak so often about is the certain expectation that God works all things together for good. When we capitalize on whatever comes, we become His partner in the enterprise of that goodness. Conversations Within ts 12/8/2012 (Jax,FL)

“People often say motivation doesn’t last. Neither does bathing—that’s why we recommend it daily.” Zig Ziglar

“A wise man makes his counsel acceptable.” Prov 16

Learning how to motivate yourself is probably one of the most important skills we can acquire. Learning how to counsel yourself in such a manner that you take your own counsel is one key to successful and positive change. Learn how to talk to yourself in the most persuasive way. The idea is to do it consistently not just when a crisis comes. This way when the crisis comes you know how to deal with yourself. We are our own worst enemy but we can also become our own best friend. Conversations Within ts 12/7/2012 (Jax, FL)

“People often say motivation doesn’t last. Neither does bathing—that’s why we recommend it daily.” Zig Ziglar

“A wise man makes his counsel acceptable.” Prov 16

Learning how to motivate yourself is probably one of the most important skills we can acquire. Learning how to counsel yourself in such a manner that you take your own counsel is one key to successful and positive change. Learn how to talk to yourself in the most persuasive way. The idea is to do it consistently not just when a crisis comes. This way when the crisis comes you know how to deal with yourself. We are our own worst enemy but we can also become our own best friend. Conversations Within ts 12/7/2012 (Jax, FL)

“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” Zig Ziglar

“Have this attitude in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Phil.2

I recently read where a good friend said, “Attitude can make the waves even more fun.” It was on a local surf report and I realized the truth of it even as I read it. If you think the waves that day look fun they probably will be. If you don’t; they won’t. How true this is of most things in life. God help me not only purge every negative thoughts, but positively cultivate positive ones. It is up to me if I have a good day or not! Conversations Within ts 12/6/2012 (Jax, FL)

“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” Zig Ziglar

“Have this attitude in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Phil.2

I recently read where a good friend said, “Attitude can make the waves even more fun.” It was on a local surf report and I realized the truth of it even as I read it. If you think the waves that day look fun they probably will be. If you don’t; they won’t. How true this is of most things in life. God help me not only purge every negative thoughts, but positively cultivate positive ones. It is up to me if I have a good day or not! Conversations Within ts 12/6/2012 (Jax, FL)

“Just go out there and do what you have to do.” Martina Navratilova

“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.“Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered.Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.” Jesus

In most cases we know the right thing to do. All that remains is doing it. It is not what we know, what we wish, what we intend or what we promise, but what we do that matters. Doing is everything! “Just do it!” It is more than a Nike ad; it is the final measure of life and our fruitfulness in it. Conversations Within ts 11/30/2012 (Shenandoah, AL)

“Just go out there and do what you have to do.” Martina Navratilova

“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.“Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered.Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.” Jesus

In most cases we know the right thing to do. All that remains is doing it. It is not what we know, what we wish, what we intend or what we promise, but what we do that matters. Doing is everything! “Just do it!” It is more than a Nike ad; it is the final measure of life and our fruitfulness in it. Conversations Within ts 11/30/2012 (Shenandoah, AL)

“Successful people aren't born that way...

They become successful by establishing the habit of doing things unsuccessful people don't like to do. The successful people don't always like these things themselves; they just get on and do them.” Anonymous “Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” Lk.9 When you think about it, the main mission that Jesus was given by His Father was to go to the cross to cover our debts--an unpleasant task to say the least. Sometimes there are things required of us that demand difficult sacrifices but simply must be done for the greater good. I am sure Jesus did not look forward to His appointed hour in Jerusalem but He let nothing deter Him from His assigned duty. When it is our turn at bat may God give us the grace to do whatever it takes. Conversations Within ts 11/30/2012 (Windsor Rock, AL)

“Successful people aren't born that way...

They become successful by establishing the habit of doing things unsuccessful people don't like to do. The successful people don't always like these things themselves; they just get on and do them.” Anonymous “Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” Lk.9 When you think about it, the main mission that Jesus was given by His Father was to go to the cross to cover our debts--an unpleasant task to say the least. Sometimes there are things required of us that demand difficult sacrifices but simply must be done for the greater good. I am sure Jesus did not look forward to His appointed hour in Jerusalem but He let nothing deter Him from His assigned duty. When it is our turn at bat may God give us the grace to do whatever it takes. Conversations Within ts 11/30/2012 (Windsor Rock, AL)

“I do the very best I know how, the very best I can, and I mean to keep on doing so until the end” Abraham Lincoln

“It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.” Lamentations 3:27 ESV

The earlier in life we learn the discipline of doing what we should do instead of what we want to do the better off we will be. But let me decide this day to do it even if my youth has passed. It is never too late to begin doing what you know is good and right and true. There are never any good reasons to put off doing better. Conversations Within ts 11/25/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

“I do the very best I know how, the very best I can, and I mean to keep on doing so until the end” Abraham Lincoln

“It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.” Lamentations 3:27 ESV

The earlier in life we learn the discipline of doing what we should do instead of what we want to do the better off we will be. But let me decide this day to do it even if my youth has passed. It is never too late to begin doing what you know is good and right and true. There are never any good reasons to put off doing better. Conversations Within ts 11/25/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

"The joys of heaven are for most of us, in our present condition, an acquired taste" CS Lewis

“If you then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God.” Col.3

If we have to acquire a taste for things which are good for us in the here and now, it should come as no surprise to us that the joys of Heaven are an acquired taste. I believe Heaven is a real place but I also believe it is a state of mind--an attitude. If we are not made into different people, people who possess this attitude, then it will not matter how beautiful Heaven is; we will not be happy there without it. We must be different, not just moved to a different place. What is this attitude? It is expressed in these simple words: “I delight to do your will O God.” Conversations Within ts 11/25/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

"The joys of heaven are for most of us, in our present condition, an acquired taste" CS Lewis

“If you then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God.” Col.3

If we have to acquire a taste for things which are good for us in the here and now, it should come as no surprise to us that the joys of Heaven are an acquired taste. I believe Heaven is a real place but I also believe it is a state of mind--an attitude. If we are not made into different people, people who possess this attitude, then it will not matter how beautiful Heaven is; we will not be happy there without it. We must be different, not just moved to a different place. What is this attitude? It is expressed in these simple words: “I delight to do your will O God.” Conversations Within ts 11/25/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

If you tie exercise to something you love to do you will probably exercise.

“Always wear your party clothes and put on your best cologne.” Ecc.9 (paraphrase)

One bit of wisdom is learning to love what you do, not just do what you love. Learning to love what you do may require a little creative energy. I do not relish doing taxes, but since I have to do them, I am learning to enjoy myself while I do them. The old adage "Whistle while you work” is still a good reminder to find the fun in what you have to do. Put on some music, dress up, drink a cup of java or add whatever to enrich your experience. I once decided to do taxes parked at the beach. Conversations Within ts 11/25/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

If you tie exercise to something you love to do you will probably exercise.

“Always wear your party clothes and put on your best cologne.” Ecc.9 (paraphrase)

One bit of wisdom is learning to love what you do, not just do what you love. Learning to love what you do may require a little creative energy. I do not relish doing taxes, but since I have to do them, I am learning to enjoy myself while I do them. The old adage "Whistle while you work” is still a good reminder to find the fun in what you have to do. Put on some music, dress up, drink a cup of java or add whatever to enrich your experience. I once decided to do taxes parked at the beach. Conversations Within ts 11/25/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

I have almost decided that if I don't want to do something, there is a good chance that I should be doing it.

“Bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1Tim.4

It seems, at least for the present, we must acquire a taste for many things that are good for us. Eating right, exercise and most spiritual activities are all disciplines because they require discipline to practice them. This is true for just about everything that is good for us. Physical and spiritual health are desirable but we must teach ourselves to love the rigors that bring us health as much as the rewards--the disciplines that promote it as much as the dividends. Conversations Within ts 11/26/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)

I have almost decided that if I don't want to do something, there is a good chance that I should be doing it.

“Bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1Tim.4

It seems, at least for the present, we must acquire a taste for many things that are good for us. Eating right, exercise and most spiritual activities are all disciplines because they require discipline to practice them. This is true for just about everything that is good for us. Physical and spiritual health are desirable but we must teach ourselves to love the rigors that bring us health as much as the rewards--the disciplines that promote it as much as the dividends. Conversations Within ts 11/26/2012 (Camp Farrington, FL)