If you want God to give you His best, give Him yours--not that He will hold out until we do, but it is only in giving our best that we lay hold of His.

“For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2Chron.16

I have always thought this an amazing verse. What is keeping me from giving God my whole heart? Consider all that He is promising us when we serve Him with wholehearted devotion. Doesn’t it seems foolish to hold anything back from Him? Give God all you’ve got--do it one decision at a time and His hand will empower all you do. Conversations Within” ts 12/25/2014

If you want God to give you His best, give Him yours--not that He will hold out until we do, but it is only in giving our best that we lay hold of His.

“For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2Chron.16

I have always thought this an amazing verse. What is keeping me from giving God my whole heart? Consider all that He is promising us when we serve Him with wholehearted devotion. Doesn’t it seems foolish to hold anything back from Him? Give God all you’ve got--do it one decision at a time and His hand will empower all you do. Conversations Within” ts 12/25/2014

“I suddenly saw that all the time it was not I who had been seeking God, but God who had been seeking me.” Bede Griffiths

“No one seeks after God, no not one.” Rom.3

This verse should be qualified to say that no one seeks after God unless God first seeks after them. If we find in ourselves the slightest interest in spiritual life it is because God has taken an interest in us. It would be safe to say that God did not start the argument but He certainly has taken the initiative to end it. Conversations Within” ts 12/24/2014

“I suddenly saw that all the time it was not I who had been seeking God, but God who had been seeking me.” Bede Griffiths

“No one seeks after God, no not one.” Rom.3

This verse should be qualified to say that no one seeks after God unless God first seeks after them. If we find in ourselves the slightest interest in spiritual life it is because God has taken an interest in us. It would be safe to say that God did not start the argument but He certainly has taken the initiative to end it. Conversations Within” ts 12/24/2014

“What we hope ever to do with ease, we must first learn to do with diligence.” Samuel Johnson

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Heb.11

When the Bible speaks of seeking God it does not have in mind some casual search. We do not look for God as we would flip aimlessly through a magazine. God rewards those who diligently seek Him. Like any relationship, you usually get out of it what you put into it. This is undoubtedly why some people regard Him as impersonal and distant and others see Him as their Father and friend.   Conversations Within” ts 12/23/2014

“What we hope ever to do with ease, we must first learn to do with diligence.” Samuel Johnson

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Heb.11

When the Bible speaks of seeking God it does not have in mind some casual search. We do not look for God as we would flip aimlessly through a magazine. God rewards those who diligently seek Him. Like any relationship, you usually get out of it what you put into it. This is undoubtedly why some people regard Him as impersonal and distant and others see Him as their Father and friend.   Conversations Within” ts 12/23/2014

“The seeking is the goal and the search is the answer”

“Everyone who is seeking is finding.” Jesus

It is in the very act of seeking God that we find HIm. If you are not drawing on the straw the milkshake stays in the glass. You must seek a relationship with Him if you want to have one. And, we must seek “Him,” not just something from Him. Some people have the same relationship with God that they do with a 911 operator.   Conversations Within” ts 12/22/2014

“The seeking is the goal and the search is the answer”

“Everyone who is seeking is finding.” Jesus

It is in the very act of seeking God that we find HIm. If you are not drawing on the straw the milkshake stays in the glass. You must seek a relationship with Him if you want to have one. And, we must seek “Him,” not just something from Him. Some people have the same relationship with God that they do with a 911 operator.   Conversations Within” ts 12/22/2014

“Seven Deadly Sins” Wealth without work, Pleasure without conscience, Science without humanity, Knowledge without character, Politics without principle, Commerce without morality, Worship without sacrifice.” Mahatma Gandhi

I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God...offerings that cost me nothing." 2Sam.24

The one sacrifice that we can all give to the Lord is the one thing He has first given to us and that is our life. One practical way we give Him our life is to give Him our time. We do this every time we arrange our affairs to love others.  Conversations Within” ts 12/20/2014

“Seven Deadly Sins” Wealth without work, Pleasure without conscience, Science without humanity, Knowledge without character, Politics without principle, Commerce without morality, Worship without sacrifice.” Mahatma Gandhi

I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God...offerings that cost me nothing." 2Sam.24

The one sacrifice that we can all give to the Lord is the one thing He has first given to us and that is our life. One practical way we give Him our life is to give Him our time. We do this every time we arrange our affairs to love others.  Conversations Within” ts 12/20/2014

“You can sacrifice and not love. But you cannot love and not sacrifice.” Kris Vallotton

“It's useless to try to follow the One who was crucified without taking up our own cross daily.” John Wesley

Sacrifice is a necessary condition to love. The reason is simple enough--in order to love we will reconcile ourselves to do what necessary to seek another’s good. People lose sleep, work long hours, and silently endure all kinds of hardship, just to serve those they care about. Sacrifice for the sake of sacrifice is silly, but performed for love, it is an immeasurable worth. Conversations Within” ts 12/18/2014

“You can sacrifice and not love. But you cannot love and not sacrifice.” Kris Vallotton

“It's useless to try to follow the One who was crucified without taking up our own cross daily.” John Wesley

Sacrifice is a necessary condition to love. The reason is simple enough--in order to love we will reconcile ourselves to do what necessary to seek another’s good. People lose sleep, work long hours, and silently endure all kinds of hardship, just to serve those they care about. Sacrifice for the sake of sacrifice is silly, but performed for love, it is an immeasurable worth. Conversations Within” ts 12/18/2014

Merry Christmas!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3

Never doubt that you are loved. Christmas is proof enough. God not only loved the world, He “so” loved it. He loved each of us enough, that despite our individual rebellions, Christ was born to pay the penalty for all of them. When I personally consider what is included in “all of them,” there is reason enough to be merry!

Merry Christmas!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3

Never doubt that you are loved. Christmas is proof enough. God not only loved the world, He “so” loved it. He loved each of us enough, that despite our individual rebellions, Christ was born to pay the penalty for all of them. When I personally consider what is included in “all of them,” there is reason enough to be merry!

“Put your hand in the hand of the man who stilled the waters.” Donney Hathaway

"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."  Jesus

Jesus came into the world on a rescue mission. He extends His hand to save us from the world of selfishness and bring us into the Kingdom of love. Put your hand in the hand of the world’s lifeguard. Celebrate with Him your own rescue. Conversations Within” ts 12/17/2014

“Put your hand in the hand of the man who stilled the waters.” Donney Hathaway

"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."  Jesus

Jesus came into the world on a rescue mission. He extends His hand to save us from the world of selfishness and bring us into the Kingdom of love. Put your hand in the hand of the world’s lifeguard. Celebrate with Him your own rescue. Conversations Within” ts 12/17/2014

“I’ll be home for Christmas.” Kim Gannon

“Although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant.” Phil.2

Most of us go home for Christmas. Jesus left home for Christmas. One reason to keep this in mind, is to remind ourselves that sacrifice is often a necessary condition for love because love does whatever it takes to seek what is best for those loved. If you love people, you will undoubtedly be called upon to make sacrifices.  Christmas is all about sacrifice. Conversations Within” ts 12/16/2014

“I’ll be home for Christmas.” Kim Gannon

“Although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant.” Phil.2

Most of us go home for Christmas. Jesus left home for Christmas. One reason to keep this in mind, is to remind ourselves that sacrifice is often a necessary condition for love because love does whatever it takes to seek what is best for those loved. If you love people, you will undoubtedly be called upon to make sacrifices.  Christmas is all about sacrifice. Conversations Within” ts 12/16/2014

“Make me an instrument of your peace.” Prayer of Saint Francis

"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." Luke 2

To be an instrument of God’s peace probably means that we will be sent to people at war. The battlefield of earth is littered with broken marriages, broken people and divided families.  Christ set aside the comforts of Heaven for the war zone of earth. We too must be willing to leave the personal comforts of the quiet life so that we can enter the fray, and help heal the hurts of others. Conversations Within” ts 12/13/2014

“Make me an instrument of your peace.” Prayer of Saint Francis

"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." Luke 2

To be an instrument of God’s peace probably means that we will be sent to people at war. The battlefield of earth is littered with broken marriages, broken people and divided families.  Christ set aside the comforts of Heaven for the war zone of earth. We too must be willing to leave the personal comforts of the quiet life so that we can enter the fray, and help heal the hurts of others. Conversations Within” ts 12/13/2014

Love doesn't keep score.

“Love...keeps no record of wrongs.” 1Cor.13

God does not treat us as our sins deserve, nor should we treat ourselves or others that way. We should not hold on to our past transgressions, and we certainly should not keep score with others. Freely accept God’s grace where your sins are concerned and extend grace to others who have wronged you. There is nothing wrong with God’s memory, He simply chooses not to hold our sins against us. To be like Him we must not harbor hurts but seek to heal them. Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2014

Love doesn't keep score.

“Love...keeps no record of wrongs.” 1Cor.13

God does not treat us as our sins deserve, nor should we treat ourselves or others that way. We should not hold on to our past transgressions, and we certainly should not keep score with others. Freely accept God’s grace where your sins are concerned and extend grace to others who have wronged you. There is nothing wrong with God’s memory, He simply chooses not to hold our sins against us. To be like Him we must not harbor hurts but seek to heal them. Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2014

“Love is not provoked by another, nor does it provoke." Unknown

“Love...is not easily angered…” 1Cor.13

If anger is ever appropriate, let me be the one who turns it on and also the one who turns it off. And, let me turn it on only after it becomes necessary to further the aims of love. Let love direct all your energies even the energy found in anger. Use anger if necessary to accomplish good, but do not let anger use you. Anger is like fire, if controlled it has many benefits, but out of control it only destroys. Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2014

“Love is not provoked by another, nor does it provoke." Unknown

“Love...is not easily angered…” 1Cor.13

If anger is ever appropriate, let me be the one who turns it on and also the one who turns it off. And, let me turn it on only after it becomes necessary to further the aims of love. Let love direct all your energies even the energy found in anger. Use anger if necessary to accomplish good, but do not let anger use you. Anger is like fire, if controlled it has many benefits, but out of control it only destroys. Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2014

Looking out for one’s well being is not the problem. Looking out “only” for one’s well being is.

Love...is not self-seeking” 1Cor.13

I think about myself too much. The fact that I am confessing it now is evidence enough. It is a symptom of what ails my soul and the illness that Jesus comes to heal. How blessed are those moments when He helps me see through the fog of selfishness into the world around me.  Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2014

Looking out for one’s well being is not the problem. Looking out “only” for one’s well being is.

Love...is not self-seeking” 1Cor.13

I think about myself too much. The fact that I am confessing it now is evidence enough. It is a symptom of what ails my soul and the illness that Jesus comes to heal. How blessed are those moments when He helps me see through the fog of selfishness into the world around me.  Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2014

“Mind your manners.”

“Love...is not rude.”

There is more than one way to be rude. Love knows none of them. It is impossible to be indifferent and caring at the same time. One cannot gossip and respect the privacy of others. One who takes time to make their counsel acceptable will not speak rashly or rudely.  Conversations Within” ts 12/9/2014

“Mind your manners.”

“Love...is not rude.”

There is more than one way to be rude. Love knows none of them. It is impossible to be indifferent and caring at the same time. One cannot gossip and respect the privacy of others. One who takes time to make their counsel acceptable will not speak rashly or rudely.  Conversations Within” ts 12/9/2014

“Did you hear about the guy that received a medal for humility but they took it away when he decided to wear it.” Unknown

“Love...does not boast, it is not proud.” 1Cor.13

If we listen to people talk, most of us could probably be credited with saying, “I am my favorite subject.” Calling attention to yourself is rarely profitable. When love makes an impression on others, they leave our company feeling appreciated--not impressed with how important we are but how important they are to us.   Conversations Within” ts 12/8/2014

“Did you hear about the guy that received a medal for humility but they took it away when he decided to wear it.” Unknown

“Love...does not boast, it is not proud.” 1Cor.13

If we listen to people talk, most of us could probably be credited with saying, “I am my favorite subject.” Calling attention to yourself is rarely profitable. When love makes an impression on others, they leave our company feeling appreciated--not impressed with how important we are but how important they are to us.   Conversations Within” ts 12/8/2014

Love does not dream of having another person’s anything, much less another person’s spouse.

“It (love) does not envy.” 1Cor.13

Love refuses to take, and it does so by first refusing even to envy. The joy of love frees us from the prison of selfishness. It encourages us to run free, possessing the outward focus of giving rather than receiving. The beauty of love is seen as much in what it does not do, as in what it does. How peaceful the heart that is free from covetousness. Conversations Within” ts 12/7/2014

Love does not dream of having another person’s anything, much less another person’s spouse.

“It (love) does not envy.” 1Cor.13

Love refuses to take, and it does so by first refusing even to envy. The joy of love frees us from the prison of selfishness. It encourages us to run free, possessing the outward focus of giving rather than receiving. The beauty of love is seen as much in what it does not do, as in what it does. How peaceful the heart that is free from covetousness. Conversations Within” ts 12/7/2014

“My religion is kindness.” Dalai Lama

‘Love is kind.” 1Cor.13

Warm the cold indifference of the world with kindness. Go out of your way to seek the benefit of others. Be a flowing stream of goodness.  The world is full of givers and takers. Be the giver. Extol the merits of love and declare the value of God with acts of kindness, instead of religious rhetoric. A kind word will do more to advance faith than any ceremonious sermon.  Conversations Within” ts 12/6/2014

“My religion is kindness.” Dalai Lama

‘Love is kind.” 1Cor.13

Warm the cold indifference of the world with kindness. Go out of your way to seek the benefit of others. Be a flowing stream of goodness.  The world is full of givers and takers. Be the giver. Extol the merits of love and declare the value of God with acts of kindness, instead of religious rhetoric. A kind word will do more to advance faith than any ceremonious sermon.  Conversations Within” ts 12/6/2014

“The art of love... is largely the art of persistence.” Albert Ellis

“Love is patient.” 1Cor.13

Love puts up with a lot where people are concerned. The reason is that love will do what it takes to seek the benefit of those loved. The old King Jimmy version said it best when it translated this verse, “Love suffereth long.” Never give up is the motto when loving people.  Conversations Within” ts 12/5/2014

“The art of love... is largely the art of persistence.” Albert Ellis

“Love is patient.” 1Cor.13

Love puts up with a lot where people are concerned. The reason is that love will do what it takes to seek the benefit of those loved. The old King Jimmy version said it best when it translated this verse, “Love suffereth long.” Never give up is the motto when loving people.  Conversations Within” ts 12/5/2014

“Your fulfillment stems from your motives.” Danielle LaPorte

And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. 1Cor.13

We may wonder if love is action, then why would it not be an act of love to give my possessions to feed the poor? I suppose, that like many other actions, our motives determine their true value. Why we do something is as important as what we do. If I feed the poor to be noticed or thought by others to be a pious person, then my action profits me nothing of value. Love is its own reward.  Conversations Within” ts 12/4/2014

“Your fulfillment stems from your motives.” Danielle LaPorte

And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. 1Cor.13

We may wonder if love is action, then why would it not be an act of love to give my possessions to feed the poor? I suppose, that like many other actions, our motives determine their true value. Why we do something is as important as what we do. If I feed the poor to be noticed or thought by others to be a pious person, then my action profits me nothing of value. Love is its own reward.  Conversations Within” ts 12/4/2014

“Too much ego will kill your talent.” Unknown

“If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” 1Cor.13

What is giftedness if it only serves ego. God gives people talent, not to show off, but to shore up others. Everything God entrusts to us is not for us alone, but is meant to pass through us to water the garden of humanity. What benefit is it if I have faith to move mountains but it serves no one.  Conversations Within” ts 12/3/2014

“Too much ego will kill your talent.” Unknown

“If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” 1Cor.13

What is giftedness if it only serves ego. God gives people talent, not to show off, but to shore up others. Everything God entrusts to us is not for us alone, but is meant to pass through us to water the garden of humanity. What benefit is it if I have faith to move mountains but it serves no one.  Conversations Within” ts 12/3/2014

People are like pianists, some play the truth and others just make noise. - Unknown.

“If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal.” 1Cor.13

Facts, opinions, even advise without love is just noise. It does not matter how true our words--if what we say is not motivated and expressed with love, our words are nothing more than racket in a world already full of it.  Do not bang on the keys of truth; learn to harmoniously play them, and until we do, we should probably keep quiet. “The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing...”  Conversations Within” ts 12/2/2014

People are like pianists, some play the truth and others just make noise. - Unknown.

“If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal.” 1Cor.13

Facts, opinions, even advise without love is just noise. It does not matter how true our words--if what we say is not motivated and expressed with love, our words are nothing more than racket in a world already full of it.  Do not bang on the keys of truth; learn to harmoniously play them, and until we do, we should probably keep quiet. “The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing...”  Conversations Within” ts 12/2/2014

People are like pianists, some play the truth and others just make noise. - Unknown.

“If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal.” 1Cor.13

Facts, opinions, even advise without love is just noise. It does not matter how true our words--if what we say is not motivated and expressed with love, our words are nothing more than racket in a world already full of it.  Do not bang on the keys of truth; learn to harmoniously play them, and until we do, we should probably keep quiet. “The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing...”  Conversations Within” ts 12/2/2014

People are like pianists, some play the truth and others just make noise. - Unknown.

“If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal.” 1Cor.13

Facts, opinions, even advise without love is just noise. It does not matter how true our words--if what we say is not motivated and expressed with love, our words are nothing more than racket in a world already full of it.  Do not bang on the keys of truth; learn to harmoniously play them, and until we do, we should probably keep quiet. “The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing...”  Conversations Within” ts 12/2/2014

If everything begins with God and ends with God, it only makes sense that every day be lived in view of God and with the help of God.

“Everything was created through him and for him.” Col.1

If there is a beginning then surely there is an end. God is the Alpha and Omega, beginning and end. The world was created by Christ, and for Christ. Everything then finds its highest purpose in Him and when it is done for His pleasure. If this is factually true, it is not some religious mumbo jumbo but a practical way to live one’s life with the only parameters that can give it true meaning.  Conversations Within” ts 12/1/2014

If everything begins with God and ends with God, it only makes sense that every day be lived in view of God and with the help of God.

“Everything was created through him and for him.” Col.1

If there is a beginning then surely there is an end. God is the Alpha and Omega, beginning and end. The world was created by Christ, and for Christ. Everything then finds its highest purpose in Him and when it is done for His pleasure. If this is factually true, it is not some religious mumbo jumbo but a practical way to live one’s life with the only parameters that can give it true meaning.  Conversations Within” ts 12/1/2014

“There is a child inside each one of us in our life, who comes out in front of the person we are most comfortable with.” Unknown

“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Jo.1

If there is any person I want to be comfortable with it is God. Grace makes this possible. I certainly know my own record has not earned this privilege, but Grace grants it to who everyone who trusts in the merits of Christ. I think God wants nothing more than to hear His children run excitedly into His presence with arms outstretched yelling “Daddy!” Conversations Within” ts 11/29/2014

“There is a child inside each one of us in our life, who comes out in front of the person we are most comfortable with.” Unknown

“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Jo.1

If there is any person I want to be comfortable with it is God. Grace makes this possible. I certainly know my own record has not earned this privilege, but Grace grants it to who everyone who trusts in the merits of Christ. I think God wants nothing more than to hear His children run excitedly into His presence with arms outstretched yelling “Daddy!” Conversations Within” ts 11/29/2014

"If your knees aren't green by the end of the day, you ought to seriously re-examine your life." - Bill Watterson

“He makes me lie down in green pastures.” Ps.23

They say that one of the markers for old age is when you stop getting on the floor.There are any number of healthy youthful actions even  attitudes we should never grow out of. We should never stop creating with our hands, or reading new stories, or laying in the grass, or playing with friends. Do not forget that life is more than work, that God commands rest and refreshment. Recreation re-creates. It is one of the healthy rhythms of life. Conversations Within” ts 11/28/2014

"If your knees aren't green by the end of the day, you ought to seriously re-examine your life." - Bill Watterson

“He makes me lie down in green pastures.” Ps.23

They say that one of the markers for old age is when you stop getting on the floor.There are any number of healthy youthful actions even  attitudes we should never grow out of. We should never stop creating with our hands, or reading new stories, or laying in the grass, or playing with friends. Do not forget that life is more than work, that God commands rest and refreshment. Recreation re-creates. It is one of the healthy rhythms of life. Conversations Within” ts 11/28/2014

“A man is getting old when he walks around a puddle instead of through it.” R.C. Ferguson

“Here is the sea, great and wide...which you formed to play in it.” Ps.104

I suppose that because I am a surfer this verse has special meaning for me. By all means do not forget to play! There are some things that we should not grow out of. If we forget how to play, we forget, not only one of the most important aspects of life, but one of the best ways to experience God.  “We can play as we can eat to the glory of God.” C. S. Lewis. Conversations Within” ts 11/27/2014

“A man is getting old when he walks around a puddle instead of through it.” R.C. Ferguson

“Here is the sea, great and wide...which you formed to play in it.” Ps.104

I suppose that because I am a surfer this verse has special meaning for me. By all means do not forget to play! There are some things that we should not grow out of. If we forget how to play, we forget, not only one of the most important aspects of life, but one of the best ways to experience God.  “We can play as we can eat to the glory of God.” C. S. Lewis. Conversations Within” ts 11/27/2014

“Children see magic because they look for it.” Christopher Moore

“Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it.” Ps.136

Age can either diminish or increase our experience of wonder. Has the sunrise lost its magic, or are you still captivated by it? Do falling leaves still stir your soul, or have you stopped watching them as they sail from heaven to earth? When was the last time you marveled at nature? Do not grow beyond worship and wonder, but deeper into them.    Conversations Within” ts 11/26/2014

“Children see magic because they look for it.” Christopher Moore

“Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it.” Ps.136

Age can either diminish or increase our experience of wonder. Has the sunrise lost its magic, or are you still captivated by it? Do falling leaves still stir your soul, or have you stopped watching them as they sail from heaven to earth? When was the last time you marveled at nature? Do not grow beyond worship and wonder, but deeper into them.    Conversations Within” ts 11/26/2014

“Truly wonderful the mind of the child is.” Yoda

"Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus

What is it about children that Jesus desires in us. Is it their inquisitive nature--always learning, exploring, asking questions? A disciple could surely use a healthy dose of each of these. Is it a childlike faith; one that takes a word at face value? Is it because they are pliable and can be shaped? Of course these qualities are only good when children have a good teacher and of course, God is such. Humility seems to be one quality the unites them all.      Conversations Within” ts 11/25/2014

“Truly wonderful the mind of the child is.” Yoda

"Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus

What is it about children that Jesus desires in us. Is it their inquisitive nature--always learning, exploring, asking questions? A disciple could surely use a healthy dose of each of these. Is it a childlike faith; one that takes a word at face value? Is it because they are pliable and can be shaped? Of course these qualities are only good when children have a good teacher and of course, God is such. Humility seems to be one quality the unites them all.      Conversations Within” ts 11/25/2014

“I have decided I no longer want to be an adult. So, if anyone needs me, I'll be in my blanket fort...coloring.”

“Unless you become like little children…” Jesus

Be the child but never childish. Celebrate innocence. Be adventurous but also accept that you do not need to know everything about everything. Believe the best without being naive or foolish. Hope in the future God has promised but live in the present moment. Lay hold of the joy of working with your hands; the wonder of discovery, and by all means do not forget to play. Conversations Within” ts 11/24/2014

“I have decided I no longer want to be an adult. So, if anyone needs me, I'll be in my blanket fort...coloring.”

“Unless you become like little children…” Jesus

Be the child but never childish. Celebrate innocence. Be adventurous but also accept that you do not need to know everything about everything. Believe the best without being naive or foolish. Hope in the future God has promised but live in the present moment. Lay hold of the joy of working with your hands; the wonder of discovery, and by all means do not forget to play. Conversations Within” ts 11/24/2014

“We all need a gratitude adjustment from time to time.” Unknown

“Be joyful always; pray continually; in everything give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”

How delightful that God wants His children to always be joyful. His instructions to make this so is for us to nurture a habit of giving thanks in all circumstances. We should take special notice that it does not say give thanks “for” everything, but “in” everything. Everything that happens to us is not necessarily good, but God is able to work good out of everything that happens to us. Nothing will remind us of this better than giving Him thanks. Conversations Within” ts 11/22/2014

“We all need a gratitude adjustment from time to time.” Unknown

“Be joyful always; pray continually; in everything give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”

How delightful that God wants His children to always be joyful. His instructions to make this so is for us to nurture a habit of giving thanks in all circumstances. We should take special notice that it does not say give thanks “for” everything, but “in” everything. Everything that happens to us is not necessarily good, but God is able to work good out of everything that happens to us. Nothing will remind us of this better than giving Him thanks. Conversations Within” ts 11/22/2014

”If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, ‘thank you,’ that would suffice.” Meister Eckhart

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving.” Ps.100

There have been a number of occasions when I asked for something only to realize that God had already provided it. Truthfully, I could just as easily thank Him instead of asking Him. Most of the time He has given before I have asked anyway. It doesn't hurt, and surely it will help our faith if we practice giving HIm thanks before He actually answers. There are few things like gratitude that will express and strengthen faith in a single breath. Conversations Within” ts 11/21/2014

”If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, ‘thank you,’ that would suffice.” Meister Eckhart

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving.” Ps.100

There have been a number of occasions when I asked for something only to realize that God had already provided it. Truthfully, I could just as easily thank Him instead of asking Him. Most of the time He has given before I have asked anyway. It doesn't hurt, and surely it will help our faith if we practice giving HIm thanks before He actually answers. There are few things like gratitude that will express and strengthen faith in a single breath. Conversations Within” ts 11/21/2014

Discovery: If you eat all the healthy food that you are supposed to eat in a day, you will be too full to eat all the junk food you shouldn’t eat.

“My cup runneth over.” Ps.23

Be proactive in your thanksgiving and you will put to death every inclination to complain. One cannot express discontent and gratitude at the same time. Fill your heart with the sweetness of grateful praise and there will be no room left for bitter complaint. Conversations Within” ts 11/20/2014

Discovery: If you eat all the healthy food that you are supposed to eat in a day, you will be too full to eat all the junk food you shouldn’t eat.

“My cup runneth over.” Ps.23

Be proactive in your thanksgiving and you will put to death every inclination to complain. One cannot express discontent and gratitude at the same time. Fill your heart with the sweetness of grateful praise and there will be no room left for bitter complaint. Conversations Within” ts 11/20/2014

"The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities." - Stephen Covey

“I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving.” Ps.116

Spontaneous gratitude after someone has done you a good turn is a beautiful thing, but probably not as meaningful when someone goes the extra mile to show you how much they appreciate you. If you appreciate the people in your life, go out of your way to let them know you do. Doing the unexpected is the special ingredient to give special thanks to special people. By the way, have you done anything special lately for God? Conversations Within” ts 11/19/2014

"The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities." - Stephen Covey

“I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving.” Ps.116

Spontaneous gratitude after someone has done you a good turn is a beautiful thing, but probably not as meaningful when someone goes the extra mile to show you how much they appreciate you. If you appreciate the people in your life, go out of your way to let them know you do. Doing the unexpected is the special ingredient to give special thanks to special people. By the way, have you done anything special lately for God? Conversations Within” ts 11/19/2014

“Dig the well before you are thirsty.” Chinese Proverb

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends.” Jesus

Faith is a deliberate thing. When one interacts with God, especially when we give Him thanks, we become partners in the project of life. And, because God desires partners not pawns, we do not sit around and wait for goodness, we join HIm in creating it. Generosity is the child of the heart that is gratefully His.  Conversations Within” ts 11/19/2014

“Dig the well before you are thirsty.” Chinese Proverb

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends.” Jesus

Faith is a deliberate thing. When one interacts with God, especially when we give Him thanks, we become partners in the project of life. And, because God desires partners not pawns, we do not sit around and wait for goodness, we join HIm in creating it. Generosity is the child of the heart that is gratefully His.  Conversations Within” ts 11/19/2014

All one needs to do to stifle gratitude is nothing.

“I passed by the field of the sluggard And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense, And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles…” Prov.24

Thanksgiving is a proactive activity. In other words, all one has to do in order to be ungrateful is nothing. The garden of gratitude is easily overrun with the weeds of indifference. Gardens require effort and tender care; a grateful heart requires no less. Thanksgiving is something you do on purpose. Conversations Within” ts 11/18/2014

All one needs to do to stifle gratitude is nothing.

“I passed by the field of the sluggard And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense, And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles…” Prov.24

Thanksgiving is a proactive activity. In other words, all one has to do in order to be ungrateful is nothing. The garden of gratitude is easily overrun with the weeds of indifference. Gardens require effort and tender care; a grateful heart requires no less. Thanksgiving is something you do on purpose. Conversations Within” ts 11/18/2014

"I think the fall in Eden was ultimately a failure to give thanks." - Ann Voskamp

“You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor." Exodus 20

I think that to be truly grateful for the blessings we have is the surest way to deal with our inclination to covet what we do not have. Would I covet my neighbor’s house or spouse if I am really satisfied with my own?  Would we trade anything for those blessings which have captured our hearts?  Graze in the grass on your own hill. Blessed are those who know they are blessed.  Conversations Within” ts 11/12/2014

"I think the fall in Eden was ultimately a failure to give thanks." - Ann Voskamp

“You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor." Exodus 20

I think that to be truly grateful for the blessings we have is the surest way to deal with our inclination to covet what we do not have. Would I covet my neighbor’s house or spouse if I am really satisfied with my own?  Would we trade anything for those blessings which have captured our hearts?  Graze in the grass on your own hill. Blessed are those who know they are blessed.  Conversations Within” ts 11/12/2014

“Prayer is the most important conversation of the day.” Unknown

“God is a spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.” Jesus

God is a Spirit, so it makes sense that to know Him must be a spiritual experience. This is why He spends more time working to bless our character rather than our circumstances. He is not against our physical existence, indeed He will meet us there but only in-so-far as to waken the soul. What we are is ultimately that spiritual person inside, not the shell which houses it.   Conversations Within” ts 11/11/2014

“Prayer is the most important conversation of the day.” Unknown

“God is a spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.” Jesus

God is a Spirit, so it makes sense that to know Him must be a spiritual experience. This is why He spends more time working to bless our character rather than our circumstances. He is not against our physical existence, indeed He will meet us there but only in-so-far as to waken the soul. What we are is ultimately that spiritual person inside, not the shell which houses it.   Conversations Within” ts 11/11/2014

“If you are born once, you will die twice. If you are born twice, you will die once.” Unknown

“You must be born again.” Jesus

One must be born in order to live in this world and born again to live in the next. Life is so much more than physical existence, we are not the body with a soul but a soul which happens to have a body. We should care for the body because it houses the soul, but we must attend to the soul if we are to live that which is life indeed.  What our soul needs most, according to Jesus, is to experience a rebirth, one that directs us away from a mere earthly and temporal focus toward one which is heavenly and eternal.   Conversations Within” ts 11/11/2014

“If you are born once, you will die twice. If you are born twice, you will die once.” Unknown

“You must be born again.” Jesus

One must be born in order to live in this world and born again to live in the next. Life is so much more than physical existence, we are not the body with a soul but a soul which happens to have a body. We should care for the body because it houses the soul, but we must attend to the soul if we are to live that which is life indeed.  What our soul needs most, according to Jesus, is to experience a rebirth, one that directs us away from a mere earthly and temporal focus toward one which is heavenly and eternal.   Conversations Within” ts 11/11/2014

We care about things like reputation or possessions; God cares about our character.

“People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1Sam.16

We have within us the power to look at every provocation of circumstance or people as an exercise to develop our spiritual muscles. All of life affords us the opportunity to nurture the only part of us that will survive death. We spend so much time catering to our physical life all the while neglecting our true self. Am I the glove or the hand in the glove? The physical is passing away, the spiritual is forever. Conversations Within” ts 11/10/2014

We care about things like reputation or possessions; God cares about our character.

“People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1Sam.16

We have within us the power to look at every provocation of circumstance or people as an exercise to develop our spiritual muscles. All of life affords us the opportunity to nurture the only part of us that will survive death. We spend so much time catering to our physical life all the while neglecting our true self. Am I the glove or the hand in the glove? The physical is passing away, the spiritual is forever. Conversations Within” ts 11/10/2014

God is a gardener, and His crop is character.

“My Father is the gardener.” Jesus

God does more than look at the heart of His children, He works in it like a garden. His intent is to grow character in us, Christ’s character. Some of His gardening practices seem violent but one must break up the soil if it is to receive the seed. Even when the vines begin to grow, a good gardener prunes away unfruitful branches. These actions which seem harsh are in fact one of the greatest expressions of His tender affections.  Conversations Within” ts 11/9/2014

God is a gardener, and His crop is character.

“My Father is the gardener.” Jesus

God does more than look at the heart of His children, He works in it like a garden. His intent is to grow character in us, Christ’s character. Some of His gardening practices seem violent but one must break up the soil if it is to receive the seed. Even when the vines begin to grow, a good gardener prunes away unfruitful branches. These actions which seem harsh are in fact one of the greatest expressions of His tender affections.  Conversations Within” ts 11/9/2014

“The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem.” Jack Sparrow

“In your patience possess your soul.” Jesus

We are so focused on the world around us that we neglect the important matters in us. We want stuff, we need character. We want our way, but what we need is patience. It would be nice if our partner always agreed with us, but what we need more is to learn to see someone else's point of view. Conversations Within” ts 11/8/2014

“The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem.” Jack Sparrow

“In your patience possess your soul.” Jesus

We are so focused on the world around us that we neglect the important matters in us. We want stuff, we need character. We want our way, but what we need is patience. It would be nice if our partner always agreed with us, but what we need more is to learn to see someone else's point of view. Conversations Within” ts 11/8/2014

“Less is the new more.” Unknown

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.” Phil.4

The Christian goal is not to be poor for the sake of being poor, but to be content and responsible with what God has provided. If He has blessed us with abundance, then we should remember that  “to whom much is given much is required.” And if God has given us little, we should be happy with what we have and simply give out of our poverty.  Whatever our lot, the goal is to be rich with contentment and overflowing with generosity.  Conversations Within” ts 11/7/2014

“Less is the new more.” Unknown

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.” Phil.4

The Christian goal is not to be poor for the sake of being poor, but to be content and responsible with what God has provided. If He has blessed us with abundance, then we should remember that  “to whom much is given much is required.” And if God has given us little, we should be happy with what we have and simply give out of our poverty.  Whatever our lot, the goal is to be rich with contentment and overflowing with generosity.  Conversations Within” ts 11/7/2014

“Pleasure is always derived from something outside you, whereas joy arises from within.” Eckhart Tolle

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace patience…” Gal.5

Everything of lasting value, love, joy, peace and patience, all rise from within us not from our circumstances. This truth alone highlights the great value of nurturing our inner life. This is why God puts a greater emphasis on what happens in us than around us. Of course, He often uses pressures without to stimulate trust within. Conversations Within” ts 11/6/2014

“Pleasure is always derived from something outside you, whereas joy arises from within.” Eckhart Tolle

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace patience…” Gal.5

Everything of lasting value, love, joy, peace and patience, all rise from within us not from our circumstances. This truth alone highlights the great value of nurturing our inner life. This is why God puts a greater emphasis on what happens in us than around us. Of course, He often uses pressures without to stimulate trust within. Conversations Within” ts 11/6/2014

Don’t let your peace of mind declare war on everything else.

“Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” Ja. 4

If I choose personal peace over and against peace with others I may find myself at war with God. Just because I am comfortable with my life does not mean my life is at peace with God. I covet a laid back attitude, but not at the expense of the true peace that comes from doing the right thing and treating people the right way.  Conversations Within” ts 11/5/2014

Don’t let your peace of mind declare war on everything else.

“Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” Ja. 4

If I choose personal peace over and against peace with others I may find myself at war with God. Just because I am comfortable with my life does not mean my life is at peace with God. I covet a laid back attitude, but not at the expense of the true peace that comes from doing the right thing and treating people the right way.  Conversations Within” ts 11/5/2014

“People say "I want peace." If you remove I (ego), and your want (desire), you are left with peace.” Satya Sai Baba

“I have learned the secret of contentment.” Phil.4

What is the secret of contentment? The Apostle spells it out for us: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Of course, to draw on the strength of Christ is first to stop leaning on your own. Certainly, a part of doing that is to pray His prayer, “Not my will, but your will be done,” and to sincerely reconcile our hearts to it. Conversations Within” ts 11/4/2014

“People say "I want peace." If you remove I (ego), and your want (desire), you are left with peace.” Satya Sai Baba

“I have learned the secret of contentment.” Phil.4

What is the secret of contentment? The Apostle spells it out for us: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Of course, to draw on the strength of Christ is first to stop leaning on your own. Certainly, a part of doing that is to pray His prayer, “Not my will, but your will be done,” and to sincerely reconcile our hearts to it. Conversations Within” ts 11/4/2014

“Learning to ignore things is one of the great paths to inner peace.” Robert J. Sawyer

“Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul…” Ps.131

It is a valuable skill to be able to shut out distractions around you, better yet, to ignore the distractions rising within you. It is often an inner voice that tells us the greatest lies or lures us off the path of peace. Learn how to ignore your own bad advice, however it comes.  Conversations Within” ts 11/3/2014

“Learning to ignore things is one of the great paths to inner peace.” Robert J. Sawyer

“Surely I have stilled and quieted my soul…” Ps.131

It is a valuable skill to be able to shut out distractions around you, better yet, to ignore the distractions rising within you. It is often an inner voice that tells us the greatest lies or lures us off the path of peace. Learn how to ignore your own bad advice, however it comes.  Conversations Within” ts 11/3/2014

“Come on inner peace! I don't have all day!” Sachin Garg

“You will keep perfectly peaceful the one whose mind remains focused on You.” Is.26

It should come as no surprise that we can go from being confident to having doubts, or from intense worry to inner peace, and all in the span of a few minutes. It takes less time than that to shift our focus and without a doubt our feelings always follow our focus. We must learn to interrupt bad feelings when a particular focus is feeding them and redirect our attention on to promises that bring peace. Conversations Within” ts 11/2/2014