“He will not always chide.” Ps.103.9

Pruning is a seasonal activity. There is a time to do it and not do it. The same is true in our spiritual life. God doesn’t always come to us with pruning shears in hand. He doesn’t always rebuke us every time we interact with Him. Like any good parent, He doesn't overdo it where discipline is concerned. There are seasons of rest and refreshment, seasons of joyful harvest. Embrace every season for what it is and give Him thanks for past prunings. But never forget to celebrate the harvest of growth and progress.

“You are already pruned because of the words I have spoken to you.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 3/25/2017

“He will not always chide.” Ps.103.9

Pruning is a seasonal activity. There is a time to do it and not do it. The same is true in our spiritual life. God doesn’t always come to us with pruning shears in hand. He doesn’t always rebuke us every time we interact with Him. Like any good parent, He doesn't overdo it where discipline is concerned. There are seasons of rest and refreshment, seasons of joyful harvest. Embrace every season for what it is and give Him thanks for past prunings. But never forget to celebrate the harvest of growth and progress.

“You are already pruned because of the words I have spoken to you.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 3/25/2017

“Not that you should own nothing, but that no thing should own you.” Minimalism

There are many areas in our lives that could benefit from a good pruning. Someone has said, “if it doesn’t matter, get rid of it.” It is probably a wise habit to consider all the stuff that weighs us down in life--not only possessions, but bad attitudes and even bad habits. Throw or give away possessions you do not need. Stop giving time to things that waste your time. Start giving energy to those attitudes and activities that produce lasting value. Consider not only the worth of our purchases, but also the work they will require from us to own them.

“Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 3/24/2017

“Not that you should own nothing, but that no thing should own you.” Minimalism

There are many areas in our lives that could benefit from a good pruning. Someone has said, “if it doesn’t matter, get rid of it.” It is probably a wise habit to consider all the stuff that weighs us down in life--not only possessions, but bad attitudes and even bad habits. Throw or give away possessions you do not need. Stop giving time to things that waste your time. Start giving energy to those attitudes and activities that produce lasting value. Consider not only the worth of our purchases, but also the work they will require from us to own them.

“Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 3/24/2017

"An unexamined life is not worth living." Plato

I can think of few things, if any, that are good when they are allowed to run rampant and unchecked. Weeds must be controlled, lawns cut, and personal desires brought under control. It is wise to examine our lives if we are to keep our desires in check. We are inclined to be too too! We work too much, play too much, eat too much; in short, we let things get out of control and run rampant. If our lives are overrun, our garden's overgrown, it may be a good time to get out the pruning shears and start cutting.

“I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down.” Prov.24.30-31 Conversations Within” ts 3/23/2017

"An unexamined life is not worth living." Plato

I can think of few things, if any, that are good when they are allowed to run rampant and unchecked. Weeds must be controlled, lawns cut, and personal desires brought under control. It is wise to examine our lives if we are to keep our desires in check. We are inclined to be too too! We work too much, play too much, eat too much; in short, we let things get out of control and run rampant. If our lives are overrun, our garden's overgrown, it may be a good time to get out the pruning shears and start cutting.

“I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down.” Prov.24.30-31 Conversations Within” ts 3/23/2017

“Legalism says God will love us if we change. The gospel says God will change us because He loves us.” Tullian Tchividjian

It is clear that God desires to change certain attitudes and actions that will help us live wonderfully fruitful lives. Should we take up the practice with Him? I think yes, but we must take care doing so. One of the things that we should avoid when seeking change is making a checklist of religious practices that we can check off each day just so we can feel better about ourselves. I would think it better to follow His leading, not our own. God wants to make us truly righteous, not self-righteous.

“Work out your own salvation...for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Phil.2.13 Conversations Within” ts 3/22/2017

“Legalism says God will love us if we change. The gospel says God will change us because He loves us.” Tullian Tchividjian

It is clear that God desires to change certain attitudes and actions that will help us live wonderfully fruitful lives. Should we take up the practice with Him? I think yes, but we must take care doing so. One of the things that we should avoid when seeking change is making a checklist of religious practices that we can check off each day just so we can feel better about ourselves. I would think it better to follow His leading, not our own. God wants to make us truly righteous, not self-righteous.

“Work out your own salvation...for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Phil.2.13 Conversations Within” ts 3/22/2017

“The purpose of pruning is to improve the quality of the roses, not hurt the bush.” Florence Littauer

God is said to prune our lives to make us more fruitful. With the pruning shears of various trials, He seeks to remove those things which are keeping us from being productive, and to focus our energies on matters that matter. Pruning seems a violent act, but its intentions are wholly good.  And, it is good to remind ourselves when we see God coming with His pruning shears in hand, that a good gardener does not hack aimlessly away at the vines. He is strategic, caring, tender, and pruning only what is necessary.

“Every branch the bears fruit He prunes that it may be more fruitful.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 3/21/2017

“The purpose of pruning is to improve the quality of the roses, not hurt the bush.” Florence Littauer

God is said to prune our lives to make us more fruitful. With the pruning shears of various trials, He seeks to remove those things which are keeping us from being productive, and to focus our energies on matters that matter. Pruning seems a violent act, but its intentions are wholly good.  And, it is good to remind ourselves when we see God coming with His pruning shears in hand, that a good gardener does not hack aimlessly away at the vines. He is strategic, caring, tender, and pruning only what is necessary.

“Every branch the bears fruit He prunes that it may be more fruitful.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 3/21/2017

Prune-To cut away dead or unproductive branches.

Pruning is a must-do activity if we want to increase fruitfulness. This is true for gardens, grape vines, and the human soul. Pruning involves cutting away everything that is dead and unproductive so that we can channel the energy of life into what is fruitful. We prune our soul when we remove from our lives attitudes and activities that steal our focus from living life as we should. Do so can direct our efforts into matters that matter.  

“Then He will cut off the sprigs with pruning knives And remove and cut away the spreading branches.” Is.18.5  Conversations Within” ts 3/16/2017

Prune-To cut away dead or unproductive branches.

Pruning is a must-do activity if we want to increase fruitfulness. This is true for gardens, grape vines, and the human soul. Pruning involves cutting away everything that is dead and unproductive so that we can channel the energy of life into what is fruitful. We prune our soul when we remove from our lives attitudes and activities that steal our focus from living life as we should. Do so can direct our efforts into matters that matter.  

“Then He will cut off the sprigs with pruning knives And remove and cut away the spreading branches.” Is.18.5  Conversations Within” ts 3/16/2017

”Adapt yourself to the things among which your lot has been cast and love sincerely the fellow creatures with whom destiny has ordained that you shall live.” Marcus Aurelius

It is said that “happiness comes from acceptance,” namely acceptance of where we find ourselves. Some call it the “luck of the draw,” or “the cards we’ve been dealt,” and in Scripture “the lot” we’ve been assigned. There are many factors that influence our place in life, but I believe that God presides over them all. He has ultimately drawn the lines that surround us so it is proper to give Him thanks if we find ourselves in a fix for making bad choices or blessed because we made good ones. Praise be, He has been known to override the bad ones.

“You hold my lot. The lines have been drawn for me in pleasant places. Indeed I have a beautiful inheritance.” Ps.16   Conversations Within” ts 3/17/2017

”Adapt yourself to the things among which your lot has been cast and love sincerely the fellow creatures with whom destiny has ordained that you shall live.” Marcus Aurelius

It is said that “happiness comes from acceptance,” namely acceptance of where we find ourselves. Some call it the “luck of the draw,” or “the cards we’ve been dealt,” and in Scripture “the lot” we’ve been assigned. There are many factors that influence our place in life, but I believe that God presides over them all. He has ultimately drawn the lines that surround us so it is proper to give Him thanks if we find ourselves in a fix for making bad choices or blessed because we made good ones. Praise be, He has been known to override the bad ones.

“You hold my lot. The lines have been drawn for me in pleasant places. Indeed I have a beautiful inheritance.” Ps.16   Conversations Within” ts 3/17/2017

“The man who has no inner-life is a slave to his surroundings.” Henri Frederic Amiel

I think one aspect of positively adapting to ever changing circumstances, is to express self-control in response to them. Our inner life, not the circumstances around us, should determine how we behave. This will enable us to bring goodness into whatever situation we find ourselves, rather than allowing our circumstances to affect something bad in us. Just as we can adapt to darkness not by sitting in it, but by bringing light to it, we can adapt to things like hostility with kindness.  

“You are the light of the word.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 3/16/2017

“The man who has no inner-life is a slave to his surroundings.” Henri Frederic Amiel

I think one aspect of positively adapting to ever changing circumstances, is to express self-control in response to them. Our inner life, not the circumstances around us, should determine how we behave. This will enable us to bring goodness into whatever situation we find ourselves, rather than allowing our circumstances to affect something bad in us. Just as we can adapt to darkness not by sitting in it, but by bringing light to it, we can adapt to things like hostility with kindness.  

“You are the light of the word.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 3/16/2017

"Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach." Tony Robbins

One positive aspect of flexibility is being able to hold to your own convictions and at the same time being respectful of those who do not share them. We must give people room to express the understanding they have about matters just as we want the very same freedom given to ours. Be fully convinced of your position and practices, but give to others the same grace in the practice of theirs.  

“One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” Rom.14.5 “Conversations Within” ts 3/15/2017

"Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach." Tony Robbins

One positive aspect of flexibility is being able to hold to your own convictions and at the same time being respectful of those who do not share them. We must give people room to express the understanding they have about matters just as we want the very same freedom given to ours. Be fully convinced of your position and practices, but give to others the same grace in the practice of theirs.  

“One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” Rom.14.5 “Conversations Within” ts 3/15/2017

Be like the river, live your life in the flow.” Author Unknown

Do we go with the flow, or swim upstream against it? Someone has said that we should not “go with the flow,” but rather we should “be the flow.” I suppose there are times when both are appropriate especially if the love of Christ is flowing in us. I think it is possible to go with the flow, and be the flow at the same time. Adapting ourselves to be useful to others, is in a manner leading them--becoming the flow in the river of love and service. 

“...with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves…” Phil.2.3  “Conversations Within” ts 3/14/2017

Be like the river, live your life in the flow.” Author Unknown

Do we go with the flow, or swim upstream against it? Someone has said that we should not “go with the flow,” but rather we should “be the flow.” I suppose there are times when both are appropriate especially if the love of Christ is flowing in us. I think it is possible to go with the flow, and be the flow at the same time. Adapting ourselves to be useful to others, is in a manner leading them--becoming the flow in the river of love and service. 

“...with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves…” Phil.2.3  “Conversations Within” ts 3/14/2017

”A wise man adapts himself to circumstances as water shapes itself to the vessel that contains it.” Chinese Proverb

Being able to adapt begins with an attitude that gratefully accepts what God has decided to allow. Once we see His hand in all things we are able to take it, and like a trusting child, follow Him in it. Contentment is the peaceful response of doing so. It is not so much that we throw our hands up and say, “Oh well, I will just have to accept things the way they are.” No, to wisely adapt is not only to accept, but also calmly act in such a manner that seeks God’s good intentions in what He allows.  

“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” Phil.4.11 “Conversations Within” ts 3/13/2017

”A wise man adapts himself to circumstances as water shapes itself to the vessel that contains it.” Chinese Proverb

Being able to adapt begins with an attitude that gratefully accepts what God has decided to allow. Once we see His hand in all things we are able to take it, and like a trusting child, follow Him in it. Contentment is the peaceful response of doing so. It is not so much that we throw our hands up and say, “Oh well, I will just have to accept things the way they are.” No, to wisely adapt is not only to accept, but also calmly act in such a manner that seeks God’s good intentions in what He allows.  

“I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” Phil.4.11 “Conversations Within” ts 3/13/2017

“Intelligence is the ability to adapt.” Stephen Hawkins

I would rather have wisdom over intelligence. The adaptability of wisdom teaches us when we should adapt and when we shouldn't. But on the whole, I believe that wisdom teaches us to be adaptable people. For instance, when something springs up in our day that threatens our peace, wisdom can return it to us by showing us the best path to take through it. If my personal peace has been shattered, the choices of wisdom can put it back together again.

Wisdom ...“Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.” Prov.3 “Conversations Within” ts 3/12/2017

“Intelligence is the ability to adapt.” Stephen Hawkins

I would rather have wisdom over intelligence. The adaptability of wisdom teaches us when we should adapt and when we shouldn't. But on the whole, I believe that wisdom teaches us to be adaptable people. For instance, when something springs up in our day that threatens our peace, wisdom can return it to us by showing us the best path to take through it. If my personal peace has been shattered, the choices of wisdom can put it back together again.

Wisdom ...“Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.” Prov.3 “Conversations Within” ts 3/12/2017

God may choose to meet someone in their practice of their religion, but when He does so it is to lead them into a relationship.

Faith in Christ should link us to an ever flowing fountain, an eternal spring of life-not some stuffy religion of rules and regulations. Relationship, not religion, is the governing dynamic of a living faith. I think it is a fair summary to say that Jesus teaches us to practice a faith that refreshes not burdens, that liberates not enslaves, that celebrates not condemns.  

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 3/11/2017

God may choose to meet someone in their practice of their religion, but when He does so it is to lead them into a relationship.

Faith in Christ should link us to an ever flowing fountain, an eternal spring of life-not some stuffy religion of rules and regulations. Relationship, not religion, is the governing dynamic of a living faith. I think it is a fair summary to say that Jesus teaches us to practice a faith that refreshes not burdens, that liberates not enslaves, that celebrates not condemns.  

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 3/11/2017

“Sometimes when things are falling apart, they may actually be falling into place.” Meme

To say that things happen for a reason, presupposes some meaning to life, even if the reason eludes us at the time. But for many, this is a simple expression of a personal faith, not only that God is working in the background, but that He has good intentions toward those who trust Him. Such trust affirms not only that things always happen for a reason, but they happen for a good reason because they are overseen by a good God.  

“Cast your cares on Him, for He cares for you.” 1Pet.5.7 “Conversations Within” ts 3/10/2017

“Sometimes when things are falling apart, they may actually be falling into place.” Meme

To say that things happen for a reason, presupposes some meaning to life, even if the reason eludes us at the time. But for many, this is a simple expression of a personal faith, not only that God is working in the background, but that He has good intentions toward those who trust Him. Such trust affirms not only that things always happen for a reason, but they happen for a good reason because they are overseen by a good God.  

“Cast your cares on Him, for He cares for you.” 1Pet.5.7 “Conversations Within” ts 3/10/2017

If God keeps up with the affairs of birds He will certainly keep up with us.

God desires our trust even delights in it. He tells us to consider His tender care of creation and reminds us of our value to Him. Will God not care for the caretakers? Happily, He promises to do a better job caring for us than we do of caring for the world He has entrusted to us. I think we would worry less if we simply asked Him to give us what we need today to be better caretakers of the world He has entrusted to us.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Jesus Matthew 6:26  “Conversations Within” ts 3/9/2017

If God keeps up with the affairs of birds He will certainly keep up with us.

God desires our trust even delights in it. He tells us to consider His tender care of creation and reminds us of our value to Him. Will God not care for the caretakers? Happily, He promises to do a better job caring for us than we do of caring for the world He has entrusted to us. I think we would worry less if we simply asked Him to give us what we need today to be better caretakers of the world He has entrusted to us.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Jesus Matthew 6:26  “Conversations Within” ts 3/9/2017

"When fear knocks, let faith answer the door." - Robin Roberts

Trust is foundational to every healthy relationship. Do I trust God? Do I believe that as a Father He is watching over me, caring, providing and protecting? Trust is an active expression, likened to the tree beside a river whose roots drink deeply the waters of life. God is our abundant supply. We will never exhaust the stores of His provision. I want a faith that aggressively looks to Him each day for all that is needed to enjoy life as He intends.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream” Jer.17.7-8 “Conversations Within” ts 3/8/2017

"When fear knocks, let faith answer the door." - Robin Roberts

Trust is foundational to every healthy relationship. Do I trust God? Do I believe that as a Father He is watching over me, caring, providing and protecting? Trust is an active expression, likened to the tree beside a river whose roots drink deeply the waters of life. God is our abundant supply. We will never exhaust the stores of His provision. I want a faith that aggressively looks to Him each day for all that is needed to enjoy life as He intends.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream” Jer.17.7-8 “Conversations Within” ts 3/8/2017

”Prayer is not overcoming God's reluctance. It is laying hold of His willingness.” Martin Luther

Most of the time, I already know what prayers God will answer with a “Yes” just as I know which ones He won’t, and I know this even before I ask. The level of my confidence in prayer increases or decreases depending on whether or not I believe what I am asking is something that Jesus would be glad to represent to His Father. It is sobering for me to realize that I do not ask enough--that God is more willing to answer us than we are willing to ask. Ask Him!

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 3/7/2017

”Prayer is not overcoming God's reluctance. It is laying hold of His willingness.” Martin Luther

Most of the time, I already know what prayers God will answer with a “Yes” just as I know which ones He won’t, and I know this even before I ask. The level of my confidence in prayer increases or decreases depending on whether or not I believe what I am asking is something that Jesus would be glad to represent to His Father. It is sobering for me to realize that I do not ask enough--that God is more willing to answer us than we are willing to ask. Ask Him!

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 3/7/2017

“Now faith… is the art of holding onto things your reason has once accepted, in spite of your changing moods.” C. S. Lewis

There is a blind faith, then there is a faith which is reasonable. It is reasonable, when I am rock climbing, to trust my best friend when he tells me that there is a ledge just below my foot but out of my sight. My friend has proven that he is trustworthy, therefore any faith I put in him is reasonable. That God has stepped into history time and time again is witnessed by tens of thousands of people. If we trust the character of these witnesses, then our faith, say in the resurrection of Christ, can be just as reasonable as believing that Columbus crossed the Atlantic.

“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” Heb.11.3 “Conversations Within” ts 3/6/2017

“Now faith… is the art of holding onto things your reason has once accepted, in spite of your changing moods.” C. S. Lewis

There is a blind faith, then there is a faith which is reasonable. It is reasonable, when I am rock climbing, to trust my best friend when he tells me that there is a ledge just below my foot but out of my sight. My friend has proven that he is trustworthy, therefore any faith I put in him is reasonable. That God has stepped into history time and time again is witnessed by tens of thousands of people. If we trust the character of these witnesses, then our faith, say in the resurrection of Christ, can be just as reasonable as believing that Columbus crossed the Atlantic.

“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” Heb.11.3 “Conversations Within” ts 3/6/2017

“Tomorrow, noun--a mystical land where 99 percent of all human productivity, motivation and achievement is stored.”

Today’s productivity can be lost to false notions about tomorrow, namely it is so unpredictable. Procrastination presumes, and such presumptions are not guaranteed. Do not lose what can be accomplished today to excuses and the unreliable prediction of tomorrow. If it is of lasting value and significance and needs to be done, then get it done before today is done.  

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Prov.27.1 “Conversations Within” ts 3/4/2017

“Tomorrow, noun--a mystical land where 99 percent of all human productivity, motivation and achievement is stored.”

Today’s productivity can be lost to false notions about tomorrow, namely it is so unpredictable. Procrastination presumes, and such presumptions are not guaranteed. Do not lose what can be accomplished today to excuses and the unreliable prediction of tomorrow. If it is of lasting value and significance and needs to be done, then get it done before today is done.  

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Prov.27.1 “Conversations Within” ts 3/4/2017

”Be stronger than your excuses.” Meme

We should resist the temptation to make excuses for our own bad behavior by blaming others for it. It is proper that we assume personal responsibility for our own actions. The “blame game” creates a self-made prison. The key that unlocks this prison door is admitting to ourselves that we are solely responsible for the choices we make. Once admitted, and the door to the prison swings open, we can start making new choices and start creating a new life.

“For we are each responsible for our own conduct.” Gal.6.5 “Conversations Within” ts 3/3/2017

”Be stronger than your excuses.” Meme

We should resist the temptation to make excuses for our own bad behavior by blaming others for it. It is proper that we assume personal responsibility for our own actions. The “blame game” creates a self-made prison. The key that unlocks this prison door is admitting to ourselves that we are solely responsible for the choices we make. Once admitted, and the door to the prison swings open, we can start making new choices and start creating a new life.

“For we are each responsible for our own conduct.” Gal.6.5 “Conversations Within” ts 3/3/2017

The truth can set us free only when we stop making excuses.

As long as we make excuses for bad behavior, we are not being honest with ourselves. We must want deliverance if we are to have it, and we must stop making excuses for it before we can really desire it. We cannot be honest with God if we are not honest with ourselves. A mouth cannot make excuses and make honest confession of need at the same time.

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1John 1.9  “Conversations Within” ts 3/2/2017

The truth can set us free only when we stop making excuses.

As long as we make excuses for bad behavior, we are not being honest with ourselves. We must want deliverance if we are to have it, and we must stop making excuses for it before we can really desire it. We cannot be honest with God if we are not honest with ourselves. A mouth cannot make excuses and make honest confession of need at the same time.

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1John 1.9  “Conversations Within” ts 3/2/2017

“He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” Benjamin Franklin

Resist the temptation to explain all the ways it cannot be done, and find the one way it can. Nurture an “I can” attitude. This is not to encourage us to plow foolishly forward. It is wise to realize our limitations, but our limitations can actually help us find a better and safer way to accomplish something, not not accomplish it. A disability can highlight a new ability. Consider all the people who have lost an arm or leg who play sports and run marathons. Stop making excuses and start making a way.

“The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!” Prov.22.13 “Conversations Within” ts 3/1/2017

“He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” Benjamin Franklin

Resist the temptation to explain all the ways it cannot be done, and find the one way it can. Nurture an “I can” attitude. This is not to encourage us to plow foolishly forward. It is wise to realize our limitations, but our limitations can actually help us find a better and safer way to accomplish something, not not accomplish it. A disability can highlight a new ability. Consider all the people who have lost an arm or leg who play sports and run marathons. Stop making excuses and start making a way.

“The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!” Prov.22.13 “Conversations Within” ts 3/1/2017

Why offer an excuse when none is needed?

When we know the goodness of what we are doing, there is no need to make an excuse for saying no to matters that compete with it. If we believe that God approves our schedule, why change it, or try to explain it. Never offer an excuse for something you believe in. If you are convinced that you are supposed to do something, just do it.

“Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and your ‘no’, no.’” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 2/28/2017

Why offer an excuse when none is needed?

When we know the goodness of what we are doing, there is no need to make an excuse for saying no to matters that compete with it. If we believe that God approves our schedule, why change it, or try to explain it. Never offer an excuse for something you believe in. If you are convinced that you are supposed to do something, just do it.

“Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and your ‘no’, no.’” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 2/28/2017

“Chocolate comes from cocoa, which is a tree. That makes it a plant. Chocolate is salad.” Bill Murray

I am amazed at my ability to make excuses not only for things I don’t want to do but also for the things I do want to do, and shouldn’t. We can reason ourselves into most anything. Of course God does not play along. He knows our inclination to rationalize selfishness. This is why He lovingly offers the cure. He sends Christ to live in us after we get tired of making excuses.

“But they all alike began to make excuses.” Luke 14 “Conversations Within” ts 2/27/2017

“Chocolate comes from cocoa, which is a tree. That makes it a plant. Chocolate is salad.” Bill Murray

I am amazed at my ability to make excuses not only for things I don’t want to do but also for the things I do want to do, and shouldn’t. We can reason ourselves into most anything. Of course God does not play along. He knows our inclination to rationalize selfishness. This is why He lovingly offers the cure. He sends Christ to live in us after we get tired of making excuses.

“But they all alike began to make excuses.” Luke 14 “Conversations Within” ts 2/27/2017

“There are...no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from. Elizabeth Ross

Have you ever found forgotten money in your pants pocket? I did one time, and it was the morning after I had given my last five dollars to a friend in need. I remember smiling and thinking that God put it there and was glad that He remembered that we needed gas to go to work that day. Coincidence? I suppose one could say so, but Jesus taught us that God is Lord over all things, even coincidence. I am sure He uses such to provide for His children.

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good…” Rom.8 “Conversations Within” ts 2/25/2017

“There are...no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from. Elizabeth Ross

Have you ever found forgotten money in your pants pocket? I did one time, and it was the morning after I had given my last five dollars to a friend in need. I remember smiling and thinking that God put it there and was glad that He remembered that we needed gas to go to work that day. Coincidence? I suppose one could say so, but Jesus taught us that God is Lord over all things, even coincidence. I am sure He uses such to provide for His children.

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good…” Rom.8 “Conversations Within” ts 2/25/2017

”When I pray, coincidences happen, and when I don't, they don't.” William Temple

There seems to be two extreme views where coincidences are concerned. Some are superstitious, and treat prayer like a good luck charm or daily horoscope. Then there are others who see no divine involvement at all and call everything coincidence. When do coincidences stop being coincidences? Is it a coincidence when I ask God some specific something, and some specific something happens. I suppose if we wonder if something is God answering us, or if it is mere coincidence, all we need to do is ask Him.  I think He loves clearing things up.

“You do not have because you do not ask.” James 4.3 “Conversations Within” ts 2/24/2017

”When I pray, coincidences happen, and when I don't, they don't.” William Temple

There seems to be two extreme views where coincidences are concerned. Some are superstitious, and treat prayer like a good luck charm or daily horoscope. Then there are others who see no divine involvement at all and call everything coincidence. When do coincidences stop being coincidences? Is it a coincidence when I ask God some specific something, and some specific something happens. I suppose if we wonder if something is God answering us, or if it is mere coincidence, all we need to do is ask Him.  I think He loves clearing things up.

“You do not have because you do not ask.” James 4.3 “Conversations Within” ts 2/24/2017

“Dead End 500 Feet!” Road Sign

I don’t know about you, but if I am on a dead end street I want to know before I turn down it, not 500 ft. before I get to the end of it. Of course I am sure I have missed the signs, or maybe I should say sometimes ignored the signs of the many dead end streets in my life. What can one do when we do this, but turn around? Sweet Lord, help me not miss the next one.

"If you return, then I will restore you.”  Jer.15.19 “Conversations Within” ts 2/23/2017

“Dead End 500 Feet!” Road Sign

I don’t know about you, but if I am on a dead end street I want to know before I turn down it, not 500 ft. before I get to the end of it. Of course I am sure I have missed the signs, or maybe I should say sometimes ignored the signs of the many dead end streets in my life. What can one do when we do this, but turn around? Sweet Lord, help me not miss the next one.

"If you return, then I will restore you.”  Jer.15.19 “Conversations Within” ts 2/23/2017