“Chance favors the prepared mind.” Louis Pasteur

People sometimes take foolish chances. One of the big ones is gambling that we have time to recover from making an irresponsible decision, like putting off important matters. We should ready ourselves if we are to be ready for events we know are coming. Have I made preparations to keep my affairs in order in the event…? Well, you know what I mean. And, after the event am I ready for life’s most important appointment with my Maker? We certainly don’t want to leave anything to chance for that.

"Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit.” Jesus Luke 12.35 Conversations Within” ts 6/23/2017

“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Benjamin Franklin

Prudence enables us to see matters through. Forethought can accurately forecast what we start today and the likelihood of whether we will finish it tomorrow. It is silly to start something we cannot finish. Prudence and forethought that can reveal if we have what it takes to finish what we start. Jesus called this counting the cost. This two-edged sword can show us not only what it will take to finish but also the cost of not starting what needs to be done.

"For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/22/2017

Learning to pause before we say or do something is far better than picking up after.

Wise forethought doesn't have to be about the next 5 years, it can be about the next 5 minutes, or even the next 5 words out of our mouth. We should think before we speak. We should think before we act. We should even think before we think. The thoughts that we allow ourselves to entertain will influence the whole of our words and actions. It is wise to live life from within and control the flow of what we set loose on others.  

“In everything the prudent acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.” Prov.13 Conversations Within” ts 6/21/2017

Learning to pause before we say or do something is far better than picking up after.

Wise forethought doesn't have to be about the next 5 years, it can be about the next 5 minutes, or even the next 5 words out of our mouth. We should think before we speak. We should think before we act. We should even think before we think. The thoughts that we allow ourselves to entertain will influence the whole of our words and actions. It is wise to live life from within and control the flow of what we set loose on others.  

“In everything the prudent acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.” Prov.13 Conversations Within” ts 6/21/2017

“In life, as in chess, forethought wins.” Charles Buxton

Strategy, or “stra-tee-ger-ree” as it is called by my domino friends, is a necessary skill in life as it is at the game table. It pays to plan ahead--to give forethought to matters that affect our future. It is certainly true that people can forget how to enjoy today by always being worried about tomorrow, but sometimes the best way to make the most of the present moment is to give forethought to the next moment. Someone wisely observed that “Noah didn't wait till it started raining to build an ark.”

“By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household.”  Heb.11 Conversations Within” ts 6/20/2017

“In life, as in chess, forethought wins.” Charles Buxton

Strategy, or “stra-tee-ger-ree” as it is called by my domino friends, is a necessary skill in life as it is at the game table. It pays to plan ahead--to give forethought to matters that affect our future. It is certainly true that people can forget how to enjoy today by always being worried about tomorrow, but sometimes the best way to make the most of the present moment is to give forethought to the next moment. Someone wisely observed that “Noah didn't wait till it started raining to build an ark.”

“By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household.”  Heb.11 Conversations Within” ts 6/20/2017

“It does not do to leave a live dragon out of your calculations, if you live near him.” J. R. Tolkien

Forethought is an activity of the wise. We should not worry about the future, but it is wise to prepare for it, especially when you know something is headed your way. People who live on the coast prepare for hurricanes, people who live on the plains prepare for tornadoes. A wise person will give forethought and make preparations for a predictable crisis. Don’t create problems for yourself, but be ready for them before they occur.

“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” Prov.27.12 Conversations Within” ts 6/19/2017

“It does not do to leave a live dragon out of your calculations, if you live near him.” J. R. Tolkien

Forethought is an activity of the wise. We should not worry about the future, but it is wise to prepare for it, especially when you know something is headed your way. People who live on the coast prepare for hurricanes, people who live on the plains prepare for tornadoes. A wise person will give forethought and make preparations for a predictable crisis. Don’t create problems for yourself, but be ready for them before they occur.

“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” Prov.27.12 Conversations Within” ts 6/19/2017

“Sometimes our plans don’t work out because God has better ones.” Anonymous

Since God has plans for us, we may well want to make plans ourselves. I mean iIf God makes plans, why shouldn’t we? After all, a large part of life is learning wisdom from Him. It is wise to think about the direction of our life. Of course when we make plans it might be good to ask if our plans conflict, or cooperate with His? I should think it counterproductive if God has plans for me to be a good family man, and I make plans which keep me from being home most of the time.

“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer.29.11 Conversations Within” ts 6/16/2017

“Sometimes our plans don’t work out because God has better ones.” Anonymous

Since God has plans for us, we may well want to make plans ourselves. I mean iIf God makes plans, why shouldn’t we? After all, a large part of life is learning wisdom from Him. It is wise to think about the direction of our life. Of course when we make plans it might be good to ask if our plans conflict, or cooperate with His? I should think it counterproductive if God has plans for me to be a good family man, and I make plans which keep me from being home most of the time.

“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer.29.11 Conversations Within” ts 6/16/2017

“I have often wished I had time to cultivate modesty... But I am too busy thinking about myself.” Edith Sitwell

Modesty in words shows respect for the feelings of others. Modesty in dress shows respect for the thoughts of others. When modesty is coupled with love it listens more than it talks, it conceals more than it reveals, it walks with quiet reserve rather than with loud boasting. Modesty is a reflection of the heart’s humility and looks to encourage the heart of others not by trying to impress them, but to serve them and bring goodness to them. We can seek to bless not impress.

“...clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Col.3.12 Conversations Within” ts 6/15/2017

“I have often wished I had time to cultivate modesty... But I am too busy thinking about myself.” Edith Sitwell

Modesty in words shows respect for the feelings of others. Modesty in dress shows respect for the thoughts of others. When modesty is coupled with love it listens more than it talks, it conceals more than it reveals, it walks with quiet reserve rather than with loud boasting. Modesty is a reflection of the heart’s humility and looks to encourage the heart of others not by trying to impress them, but to serve them and bring goodness to them. We can seek to bless not impress.

“...clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Col.3.12 Conversations Within” ts 6/15/2017

"Have more than you show, speak less than you know.” William Shakespeare

A modest person is guarded in their use of knowledge, unlike the proud who gives little thought to their words. One practices verbal restraint, the other speaks whatever’s on their mind. One is quiet and reserved but the other is constantly trying to be the center of attention. Radiate an ambiance that invites and attracts rather than one that tries to impress and overpowers. Modesty is the twin sister of humility.

A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly. Prov.12.23 ESV Conversations Within” ts 6/14/2017

"Have more than you show, speak less than you know.” William Shakespeare

A modest person is guarded in their use of knowledge, unlike the proud who gives little thought to their words. One practices verbal restraint, the other speaks whatever’s on their mind. One is quiet and reserved but the other is constantly trying to be the center of attention. Radiate an ambiance that invites and attracts rather than one that tries to impress and overpowers. Modesty is the twin sister of humility.

A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly. Prov.12.23 ESV Conversations Within” ts 6/14/2017

“True modesty does not consist in an ignorance of our merits, but in a due estimate of them.” A.W. Hare

A truly humble person does not call attention to themselves unless doing so will serve others. Imagine a person holding the door open in a smoke filled theater and yelling, “Over here, I found a way out.” In such an instance the person calling attention to themselves isn’t doing so for silly notions of pride and vainglory, but to offer genuine assistance to others. It is with similar understanding that we should listen to the words of Jesus when He says. “I am the light of the world.”

“I am the way the truth and the life.”  Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/13/2017

“True modesty does not consist in an ignorance of our merits, but in a due estimate of them.” A.W. Hare

A truly humble person does not call attention to themselves unless doing so will serve others. Imagine a person holding the door open in a smoke filled theater and yelling, “Over here, I found a way out.” In such an instance the person calling attention to themselves isn’t doing so for silly notions of pride and vainglory, but to offer genuine assistance to others. It is with similar understanding that we should listen to the words of Jesus when He says. “I am the light of the world.”

“I am the way the truth and the life.”  Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/13/2017

“Work for a cause, not for applause. Live life to express, not to impress. Don’t strive to make your presence noticed just make your absence felt.” Unknown

I know some really cool people that I admire; then I know some people who try to look cool and I am usually not impressed. A modest person is never a “Here I am,” performer, but a “There you are” servant. Modest people are too busy considering others than to waste energy drawing attention to themselves.  

“Let another praise you and not your own lips.” Pro.27 Conversations Within” ts 6/12/2017

“Work for a cause, not for applause. Live life to express, not to impress. Don’t strive to make your presence noticed just make your absence felt.” Unknown

I know some really cool people that I admire; then I know some people who try to look cool and I am usually not impressed. A modest person is never a “Here I am,” performer, but a “There you are” servant. Modest people are too busy considering others than to waste energy drawing attention to themselves.  

“Let another praise you and not your own lips.” Pro.27 Conversations Within” ts 6/12/2017

”Modesty--The art of encouraging people to find out for themselves how wonderful you are.” Unknown

One of the things I enjoy most about God is His understated beauty. He did not write under every rock or carve on every tree, “Made by God.” He walks quietly in creation, holding everything together but always in the background. He is not someone to wear an overpowering cologne but wears a subtle redolence--a hint of divine fragrance that invites us to discover more. God is beautifully and silently modest. I want to grow up and be just like Him.

“Let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart...” 1Pet.3 ESV Conversations Within” ts 6/11/2017

”Modesty--The art of encouraging people to find out for themselves how wonderful you are.” Unknown

One of the things I enjoy most about God is His understated beauty. He did not write under every rock or carve on every tree, “Made by God.” He walks quietly in creation, holding everything together but always in the background. He is not someone to wear an overpowering cologne but wears a subtle redolence--a hint of divine fragrance that invites us to discover more. God is beautifully and silently modest. I want to grow up and be just like Him.

“Let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart...” 1Pet.3 ESV Conversations Within” ts 6/11/2017

“Once you get past my charm, good looks, intelligence and my sense of humor, I think it’s my modesty that stands out.” Barney Stinson

One quality that I appreciate about my wife, is her sweet modesty. She does not like the spotlight, or anything that draws the attention of others. Bless her, wouldn't you know it but God would give her a complete showoff for a husband. He did this I am sure, for my benefit, that her humble modesty would somehow rub off on me. There is one way where my wife cannot help but to stand out; she is the definition of a true servant.  

"But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/10/2017

“Once you get past my charm, good looks, intelligence and my sense of humor, I think it’s my modesty that stands out.” Barney Stinson

One quality that I appreciate about my wife, is her sweet modesty. She does not like the spotlight, or anything that draws the attention of others. Bless her, wouldn't you know it but God would give her a complete showoff for a husband. He did this I am sure, for my benefit, that her humble modesty would somehow rub off on me. There is one way where my wife cannot help but to stand out; she is the definition of a true servant.  

"But the greatest among you shall be your servant.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/10/2017

“People who wrote down their goals were 42% more likely to achieve them than the ones who didn't. Telling a friend increases this rate to 78%.” Brian McCormick

There is no magic just writing your goals on paper. The power is in reminding yourself every day what they are, consistently keeping them in front of you, in speaking and even preaching them to your heart, in acting on the steps that bring them closer to reality, and reviewing your progress at the end of each day. This is why God tells His children to keep His words someplace where they can see them every time they leave the house and come back.

"You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Deut.6.9 Conversations Within” ts 6/9/2017

“People who wrote down their goals were 42% more likely to achieve them than the ones who didn't. Telling a friend increases this rate to 78%.” Brian McCormick

There is no magic just writing your goals on paper. The power is in reminding yourself every day what they are, consistently keeping them in front of you, in speaking and even preaching them to your heart, in acting on the steps that bring them closer to reality, and reviewing your progress at the end of each day. This is why God tells His children to keep His words someplace where they can see them every time they leave the house and come back.

"You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Deut.6.9 Conversations Within” ts 6/9/2017

“Goals in writing are dreams with deadlines.” Brian Tracey

Like so many, I have found that writing down your goals can be an important step in achieving them. Writing forces me to give thought, not just to things I want to do, but to the kind of person I want to be. To put your aspirations in writing has value for a number of reasons. Writing is a kind of action, and nothing brings certainty to our world better than action. Writing can help to keep our goals in front of us, and to review our progress at the end of each day. It can help us break life goals into daily steps. Writing down our day’s directives is more than a wise suggestion, it is a divine encouragement.

"You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Deut.6.9 Conversations Within” ts 6/8/2017

“Goals in writing are dreams with deadlines.” Brian Tracey

Like so many, I have found that writing down your goals can be an important step in achieving them. Writing forces me to give thought, not just to things I want to do, but to the kind of person I want to be. To put your aspirations in writing has value for a number of reasons. Writing is a kind of action, and nothing brings certainty to our world better than action. Writing can help to keep our goals in front of us, and to review our progress at the end of each day. It can help us break life goals into daily steps. Writing down our day’s directives is more than a wise suggestion, it is a divine encouragement.

"You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Deut.6.9 Conversations Within” ts 6/8/2017

“Begin with the end in mind.” Stephen Covey

The late Stephen Covey challenges us to think about what we would want people to say about us at our funeral, and then to live in such a manner that people would want to say these things. How do I want to be remembered by those I love? Do I have a clear picture of the kind of person I want to be? I cannot think of a better example than Christ. Jesus is more to us than an example to follow; His life in us is the empowerment to follow His example.

"It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher…” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/7/2017

“Begin with the end in mind.” Stephen Covey

The late Stephen Covey challenges us to think about what we would want people to say about us at our funeral, and then to live in such a manner that people would want to say these things. How do I want to be remembered by those I love? Do I have a clear picture of the kind of person I want to be? I cannot think of a better example than Christ. Jesus is more to us than an example to follow; His life in us is the empowerment to follow His example.

"It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher…” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/7/2017

“When your clarity meets your conviction and you apply action to the equation, your world will begin to transform before your eyes.”~Lisa Nichols.

There is wisdom in writing down what we want. Writing is a kind of action, and nothing brings certainty to our world better than action. Decide what you want--what you really want--what will bring you lasting happiness, then act on it. Keep these moments of clarity by immediately and consistently walking on the path it lays out for you. Simplify your desires, and spend your day fleshing them out into reality.

“Keep in step with the Spirit.” Gal.5 Conversations Within” ts 6/6/2017

“When your clarity meets your conviction and you apply action to the equation, your world will begin to transform before your eyes.”~Lisa Nichols.

There is wisdom in writing down what we want. Writing is a kind of action, and nothing brings certainty to our world better than action. Decide what you want--what you really want--what will bring you lasting happiness, then act on it. Keep these moments of clarity by immediately and consistently walking on the path it lays out for you. Simplify your desires, and spend your day fleshing them out into reality.

“Keep in step with the Spirit.” Gal.5 Conversations Within” ts 6/6/2017

“If you really want to do something, you will find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” Jim Rohn

When we are able, we always do what we want most. In moments of clarity, I want to live my life by the principles I believe in, rather than temporal desires that flare up and are gone in a flash like a spark from a fire. I suppose the best way to accomplish this is to hang on to those moments of clarity until they become a steady state of desire. Someone said, “Be loyal to the highest and best vision of yourself.”

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.: 1Pet.5.8 Conversations Within” ts 6/5/2017

“If you really want to do something, you will find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” Jim Rohn

When we are able, we always do what we want most. In moments of clarity, I want to live my life by the principles I believe in, rather than temporal desires that flare up and are gone in a flash like a spark from a fire. I suppose the best way to accomplish this is to hang on to those moments of clarity until they become a steady state of desire. Someone said, “Be loyal to the highest and best vision of yourself.”

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.: 1Pet.5.8 Conversations Within” ts 6/5/2017

“When one bases his life on principle, 99 percent of his decisions are already made.” Unknown

Is what I am about to think, or say, or do an expression of love--love for God, or others, or myself? Asking this simple question may provide a fundamental principle for choosing a wholesome, fruitful and happy life. Of course, it may lead us to some temporary sacrifice first. According to Jesus, we must often say “No” to ourselves, before we can say ‘Yes” to lasting happiness.

“Whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/4/2017

“When one bases his life on principle, 99 percent of his decisions are already made.” Unknown

Is what I am about to think, or say, or do an expression of love--love for God, or others, or myself? Asking this simple question may provide a fundamental principle for choosing a wholesome, fruitful and happy life. Of course, it may lead us to some temporary sacrifice first. According to Jesus, we must often say “No” to ourselves, before we can say ‘Yes” to lasting happiness.

“Whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/4/2017

“Life is a balance of holding on and letting go.” Keith Urban

Let go of judgement, criticism, prejudices, and hate. Lay hold of love and the joy of all its fruit. Let go of efforts to earn God’s favor and lay hold of His grace, forgiveness and acceptance. Let go of selfishness, lust, and greed, and embrace a generous heart, and simple kindness. Let go of pleasures that leave you feeling empty, that steal your joy, and celebrate pleasures that make your joy full and free.

“Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” Rom.12 Conversations Within” ts 6/3/2017

“Life is a balance of holding on and letting go.” Keith Urban

Let go of judgement, criticism, prejudices, and hate. Lay hold of love and the joy of all its fruit. Let go of efforts to earn God’s favor and lay hold of His grace, forgiveness and acceptance. Let go of selfishness, lust, and greed, and embrace a generous heart, and simple kindness. Let go of pleasures that leave you feeling empty, that steal your joy, and celebrate pleasures that make your joy full and free.

“Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” Rom.12 Conversations Within” ts 6/3/2017

“I look at you and I am home.” Dory (Finding Nemo)

Do I communicate love and acceptance to others? Do I look at people with an accepting and non-judgmental gaze? Every grace that God has extended to me should freely be extended to others. Even when God is disappointed with some of my foolish thoughts and actions, I have never once doubted His commitment to my transformation. How precious that Christ accepts us as we are, yet loves us enough that He will not leave us as He finds us.

“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Rom.15.7 Conversations Within” ts 6/2/2017

“I look at you and I am home.” Dory (Finding Nemo)

Do I communicate love and acceptance to others? Do I look at people with an accepting and non-judgmental gaze? Every grace that God has extended to me should freely be extended to others. Even when God is disappointed with some of my foolish thoughts and actions, I have never once doubted His commitment to my transformation. How precious that Christ accepts us as we are, yet loves us enough that He will not leave us as He finds us.

“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Rom.15.7 Conversations Within” ts 6/2/2017

“Maturity is realizing how many things don’t require your comment.” Rachel Wolchin

I want to be the kind of person who does not feel the need to comment on everything and everyone. Sadly, I fail in this at times. Remember the precious wisdom of Thumper, "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all." If I must say something, let me at least fly it past the One who listens to all we say before I say it. Edit me Lord, before I publish.

“When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” Prov.10.19 “Conversations Within” ts 6/1/2017

“Maturity is realizing how many things don’t require your comment.” Rachel Wolchin

I want to be the kind of person who does not feel the need to comment on everything and everyone. Sadly, I fail in this at times. Remember the precious wisdom of Thumper, "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all." If I must say something, let me at least fly it past the One who listens to all we say before I say it. Edit me Lord, before I publish.

“When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” Prov.10.19 “Conversations Within” ts 6/1/2017

“I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best for both the body and the mind.” Albert Einstein

Modesty of judgment is a peaceful grace. How blessed we are when we escape the temptation to criticize, and not just the use of critical words, but even critical and condemning thoughts. Do not pass judgment on others, but rather, pass peace. A modest manner of life will also keep us from actions that would tempt others to pass judgment on us. Do not pass judgement on others. Do not be the cause of judgement from others. Live life with a modest and unassuming grace.

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” Phil.2.3 “Conversations Within” ts 5/31/2017

“I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best for both the body and the mind.” Albert Einstein

Modesty of judgment is a peaceful grace. How blessed we are when we escape the temptation to criticize, and not just the use of critical words, but even critical and condemning thoughts. Do not pass judgment on others, but rather, pass peace. A modest manner of life will also keep us from actions that would tempt others to pass judgment on us. Do not pass judgement on others. Do not be the cause of judgement from others. Live life with a modest and unassuming grace.

“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” Phil.2.3 “Conversations Within” ts 5/31/2017

“The grace that makes every grace amiable is humility.” Samuel Richardson

It is hard, if not impossible, to be judgmental and humble at the same time. Humility works an unassuming grace in our attitudes and actions toward others. This realistic assessment of ourselves understands one simple truth; that when we see someone acting foolishly, we too have walked in similar shoes. Better to humbly pray for them than to judge and criticize them.

“And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1Pet.5.5 “Conversations Within” ts 5/30/2017

“The grace that makes every grace amiable is humility.” Samuel Richardson

It is hard, if not impossible, to be judgmental and humble at the same time. Humility works an unassuming grace in our attitudes and actions toward others. This realistic assessment of ourselves understands one simple truth; that when we see someone acting foolishly, we too have walked in similar shoes. Better to humbly pray for them than to judge and criticize them.

“And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1Pet.5.5 “Conversations Within” ts 5/30/2017

“I will hold myself to a standard of grace not perfection.” Emily Ley

We all need grace. We all need to express it in our interactions with others if we are to keep peace within ourselves and live at peace with those around us. Grace bears with the failings of people and does so in a graceful manner. Grace is rarely harsh with words or actions. It is quick to forgive and overlook an offense. It holds a condemning judgment in check and chooses instead to encourage people who need it with wisdom and goodness.

Mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2.13 “Conversations Within” ts 5/29/2017

“I will hold myself to a standard of grace not perfection.” Emily Ley

We all need grace. We all need to express it in our interactions with others if we are to keep peace within ourselves and live at peace with those around us. Grace bears with the failings of people and does so in a graceful manner. Grace is rarely harsh with words or actions. It is quick to forgive and overlook an offense. It holds a condemning judgment in check and chooses instead to encourage people who need it with wisdom and goodness.

Mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2.13 “Conversations Within” ts 5/29/2017

“Thomas doubted. Peter had anger issues. David committed adultery. Abraham lied. Lazarus was dead. Surely God can use you too!” Meme

I think every good accomplishment on the face of the earth is an example of divine strength being made perfect in human weakness, for all men are weak in one way or another. If God is to use people to work goodness in the world, the only ones available to Him are imperfect. Perfection has never been a criteria for God to use people. I believe He can use us to work good without us even knowing it but, I think He prefers the participation of a humble faith that trusts Him to do more than we could ever accomplish without Him.

“Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God.” 2Cor.3.5 “Conversations Within” ts 5/27/2017

“Thomas doubted. Peter had anger issues. David committed adultery. Abraham lied. Lazarus was dead. Surely God can use you too!” Meme

I think every good accomplishment on the face of the earth is an example of divine strength being made perfect in human weakness, for all men are weak in one way or another. If God is to use people to work goodness in the world, the only ones available to Him are imperfect. Perfection has never been a criteria for God to use people. I believe He can use us to work good without us even knowing it but, I think He prefers the participation of a humble faith that trusts Him to do more than we could ever accomplish without Him.

“Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God.” 2Cor.3.5 “Conversations Within” ts 5/27/2017

”He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed.” Albert Einstein

Physical strength is one thing, but strength of soul is another. I often run out of go-juice when I work or play hard, Rest of course returns it. But it is different when we lose the strength of life. The will to live life can slowly wane away and leave us feeling defeated. God is a source of infinite strength, but how do we draw upon it. I can think of nothing better than good ole fashion worship. When we turn our heart to sing His praise, His strength will rise up within and fill us with spiritual energy. What is strength if not the motivation to live life as it should be lived.

“Blessed are those whose strength is in you.” Ps.84.5 ESV “Conversations Within” ts 5/26/2017

”He who can no longer pause to wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead; his eyes are closed.” Albert Einstein

Physical strength is one thing, but strength of soul is another. I often run out of go-juice when I work or play hard, Rest of course returns it. But it is different when we lose the strength of life. The will to live life can slowly wane away and leave us feeling defeated. God is a source of infinite strength, but how do we draw upon it. I can think of nothing better than good ole fashion worship. When we turn our heart to sing His praise, His strength will rise up within and fill us with spiritual energy. What is strength if not the motivation to live life as it should be lived.

“Blessed are those whose strength is in you.” Ps.84.5 ESV “Conversations Within” ts 5/26/2017