“Your best days are in front of you.” Cecil Williamson

Do I really believe this? Are my best days in front of me, or is this just wishful thinking? It may very well be wishful thinking if my plans conflict with the Architect of hope and happiness. It makes perfect sense that God has plans for those who love Him and good plans at that. Our future is tied to those plans or not. It all comes down to this very simple question: “Do I want what He wants an am I will to align myself with it?

“For 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 12/22/2018

“It is wise to realize that God can catch you when you fall, He just might use the ground to do so.” Unknown

God uses ordinary means. It should come as no surprise that He will use aspirin to cure headaches and hangovers and upset stomachs to teach us to eat and drink with moderation. God is present in natural law as much as in miracles. A sharp edge cuts because He designed it that way. Gravity is a gift that should be respected. In fact every gift from God should be received as much with reverence as with thanksgiving.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1.17 Conversations Within” ts 12/20/2018

“Sometimes when you’re in a dark place you think you have been buried, but actually you have been planted.” Christine Caine

It helps to remind ourselves that every trial God allows in our life, is for our good. His intentions toward those who love Him are always kind, and He places us where we can be the most use to others. What some see as a demotion may very well be a promotion in God’s eyes. Remember the words, “Low,  I am with you always.” The pun is intended. Lowliness is the favorite attitude of Christ.

“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 12/19/2018

”If you want something you never had, you have to do something you’ve never done.”

Try something new if you want to see change in the New Year. A new you often begins with steps in a new direction. Break old unwanted habits by establishing desired new ones. Forget going boldly where no man has gone before, just go somewhere you've never gone before.

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and loved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, and patience." Col.3.12 Conversations Within” ts 12/18/2018

“Don’t cry over spilt milk.” Adage

Do not waste time bemoaning what is, move on. Don’t even give it one second of thought lest you linger over it and waste valuable time, time that could be used to climb “further up and further in” to the glory that awaits all who hope for a better life in God.

“Set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1Pet.1.13 Conversations Within” ts 12/18/2018

Peace on earth! I would settle for peace at home.

I come from an argumentative family. The truth is that none of us like it. We just do it. All the arguments in the world can be traced to many of the same arguments in the home. If there is any place on earth that needs the peace of Christ it is in our own homes. One meaning of Christmas it that Christ will come sit down at the family dinner table, join our hands together and say the blessing of peace. Join hands at His table, forgive your differences and be merry.

"Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” Rev.3.20 Conversations Within” ts 12/17/2018

“The excellence of a gift lies in its appropriateness rather than its value.” Charles Dudley Warner

Christ is God’s gift to the world short and simple. His excellent gift is both appropriate and valuable. Christ came that God might forgive our sins. What could be more appropriate than that to a world needing forgiveness? And, consider the cost His gift came to us? “Amazing love how can it be that Thou my God didst die for me.”

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” 2Cor.9.15 Conversations Within” ts 12/16/2018

“May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve.” Meme

Christmas Eve celebrations may look forward in faith as much as they look back with joy. The eve of Christ’s first coming stirs in our heart a quiet hope for that eve of expectation at His second. The faithful wait with eager expectation to the end of all sorrow and pain where glory unspeakable awaits. The tomorrow of all tomorrows is upon us more than we know.

“Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. Rev.22 Conversations Within” ts 12/15/2018

”If you love someone, tell them because hearts are often broken by words left unspoken.” Pamela Daranjo.

Do not hide the light and warmth of your love. Leave no doubt of your affection for the people in your life. Tell them. Tell them often. People like to hear the words, “I love you!” Say them, not just in parting, or the end of a phone call, but unexpectedly, without reservation and wholeheartedly like you’ll burst if you don’t.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…” 1Thess.5.11 Conversations Within” ts 12/13/2018

Nurture your appreciation for others and you nurture your affection for them.

Love can grow cold even after years of loving service, especially after years of service without a sincere appreciation “towards” the ones you serve. You read right. It is not only important to express appreciation when someone serves you, it is important to be grateful for the people you serve. Otherwise bitterness may spring up in the garden of your service where you meant affection to do so.

“I thank God continually for you and I never give up praying for you…” Eph.1.15 Conversations Within” ts 12/12/2018

“To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken.” C.S. Lewis

Why would we want a relationship that could potentially crush our heart? Because the alternative is to know nothing and possibly be left in the hell of a self-centered life. Make your peace with it. Love can surely be painful, but absolutely and positively more than worth it. How can we be sure? Well, the wisest Person known has chosen to walk this path and calls us to join Him. Who am I to question God’s wisdom?

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3.16 Conversations Within” ts 12/11/2018

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Elizabeth Barrett Browning

We may wonder how we can be “in love” with someone especially if we have fallen out of love with them. I mean, you either have feelings for them or you don’t, right? Well not quite. Our feelings often follow the investments of our time and energy. If we want to be in love and stay in love with someone, love them with action--put sincere time and energy into the relationship. But be sure to do so with gratitude, not bitter resentment. Nurture appreciation and you nurture affection.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2018

“There is no power greater than true affection.” Seneca the Younger

I used to think that emotional love was weaker than the love of action, but I now realize that the love of affection, properly expressed, may fuel the resolve of the love of action. Actions come so much easier when we feel strongly about someone. It is also true that the love of our emotions and actions need the guidance of wisdom, and so it seems the true love involves all three, the mind, the will and our emotions. God said as much when He asked us to love with our whole heart. 

“And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.” Gen.29.20 Conversations Within” ts 12/10/2018

“Only in love are unity and duality not in conflict.” Rabindranath Tagore

There is a unity in love. I am referring to the unity in the love of action and the love of strong affection. I am beginning to realize that true love expresses both. Strong affections for someone naturally flow into powerful and beneficial actions for them. It is true that emotional love can be hurt, but rather than trying to hurt back true affection will give way to those actions that heal.

“Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.” Conversations Within” ts 12/8/2018

The morning reboot!

The stuff of everyday life can slow down our fruitfulness so much so that it becomes necessary to reboot, to dump all the mental and emotional clutter, refocus and remember life’s purpose. Not only knowing the purpose of life, but being able to recenter ourselves around it, yields a sweet inner peace. Do I know how to center myself? It may be something as simple as closing your eyes for a moment and speaking core values to your heart until focus and its peace returns.

“You will keep in perfect peace, the mind focused on You…” Is.26.3 Conversations Within” ts 12/5/2018

“I find that we are all such sinners that it is better to leave the judging up to God.” Gandhi

I think we will all have a better day if we stop passing judgement, not only on others, but on ourselves as well. Leave all judgments to God, and accept the simple and wonderful truth that He offers to accept any and everyone who looks humbly to Him for grace. Bathing in His gracious acceptance may help us with our own acceptance of others. 

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Romans 15:7  Conversations Within” ts 12/4/2018

“Learning to ignore things is one of the greatest paths to inner peace.” Unknown

How easily am I provoked? Easily enough, I am sad to say. Lord make me sensitive to others, but not sensitive to their provocations. Help me possess my soul in patience, and close the door on all that would rob Your precious inner peace. I want to live deliberately, not reacting to people or circumstances, but to consciously respond, and always with gentleness, kindness and self-control. Amen!

“Come to me...I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 12/3/2018

“You will never have this day again, so make it count.” Meme

Time is too precious to waste. The encouragement to make this day count would be true enough even if nothing was working against us. Sadly the passage of time is always working against us in this place. Rust happens. Age encroaches. All we have to do to destroy our possessions, or ruin our health, or harm our relationships is NOTHING. Everything good in life must be actively maintained. Do we really have a day to waste?

“Make the most of every opportunity, because the day is evil.” Eph.5.16 Conversations Within” ts 12/2/2018

”Good day!” (Every day greeting)

When we use these words, and others like them, are we just being polite, or do we really mean them? Well, we probably want most of the people in our life to have a good day, but it is easy to live on autopilot and fall back on a cliche when answering a greeting. But since we are respectful enough to say these words, could we not be conscience enough to pray them. We are able to turn every parting word into a prayer for blessings. This way the people in our life may very well have a “good day.”

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6.24 Conversations Within” ts 12/1/2018

“It’s a good day to have a good day.” Meme

It is as simple as that? Can I have a good day, simply by choosing to have a good day? There are always unpleasantries beyond our control, but we can always choose our attitude toward them. Is having a good attitude enough to have a good day? Well, it will certainly help by laying a solid foundation for follow up actions that build one. Is there ever a good reason to not have a good attitude?

“Let this attitude be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…” Conversations Within” ts 11/30/2018

“If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next." C.S.Lewis

I want to share the same vision of life that Jesus has. He works from Heaven, I work on earth. We both work to see the Kingdom of love and light come to earth. This does not mean that I should be “so heavenly minded that I am no earthly good.” The love Jesus promotes touches everything with goodness not just the soul. One cannot ignore the physical sufferings of others and be centered on the justice and mercies of Heaven.

“But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?” 1 Jo.3.17 Conversations Within” ts 11/28/2018

“Won’t you be my Neighbor?” Mr. Rogers

Live a life of love and love the person in front of you, but certainly don’t stop there. Love without limits. After all, Jesus told us to “Go into all the world and make disciples of all.” Our efforts to love in His name should embrace the nations not just our nation, the world, not just the home front. Love your neighbor, but understand that God’s  view of our neighborhood if much bigger than our own.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…”  Jesus Conversations Within” ts 11/27/2018

“Enlightenment is when a wave realises it is the Ocean” Thich nhat Hanh

When we help someone else we are helping ourselves. We are all sons and daughters of Adam and Eve--members of the same human tribe. We all have the same need of God’s love and forgiveness in Christ. Our connectedness is why Christ became one of us so that we can become one with His Father. When we wake to this oneness with God, we should logically realise our oneness and responsibility to each other. 

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” Eph.4 Conversations Within” ts 11/26/2018

”Heal the world. Make it a better place, for you and for me and the entire human race“ Michael Jackson

God has made it abundantly clear that we are responsible not just to our own personal welfare, but the welfare of others. One reason God entrusts people with means whether money, or possessions, or influence, is so we can assist others in need. What others? God so loved the world, not just those in my neighborhood. Love without limits.

“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause.” Is.1.17 Conversations Within” ts 11/25/2018

“A better world starts with a better me.” Meme

The focus of wanting to make the world better surely begins when I make myself better. I am not referring to the bettering of things like my personal finances, or building a better house, but pursuing better character. Perhaps at the top of my “to do” list each day, I should write something as simple as, “Be a better person.” It goes without saying that I will need help. Our Father offers it. 

“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Col.3:12 Conversations Within” ts 11/24/2018

“What man is a man who does not make the world better.” Balian of Ibelin (Kingdom of Heaven)

Spread goodness. Leave people and places better than you find them. Clean up after yourself. Even clean up after others if need be. Live each day enjoying and being enjoyed. Bless and be blessed. Give thought each day to the many ways that you can make life better for those around you. Live a life of love and love the person in front of you.

“Whatever your hands finds to do, do it with all of your might.” Ecc.9.10 Conversations Within” ts 11/23/2018

“You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” C. S. Lewis

If you are able to make a choice, it is never too late to make the right one. Start from where you are, turn around and crawl, if this is all you can do.  Just be sure to crawl in a direction that leaves no regret. What a gracious encouragement from Jesus, that if we turn our gaze and look in God’s direction, we will find Him running in ours. 

"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15.20 Conversations Within” ts 11/22/2018

“At the end of the day, let there be no excuses, no explanations, no regrets.” Steve Maraboli

I have often wondered why people say that “regret is a waste of time.” I suppose it is if all we do is sit around and feel sad because we messed up, or failed to take advantage of some opportunity. The truth is that we should bemoan both of these things but only as a precursor to not repeating them by learning from them, even making restitution for them if necessary. 

"Even now," declares the LORD, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Joel 2.12 Conversations Within” ts 11/20/2018

“I have no regrets.” Meme

Such a declaration could be written either by a very wise or a very foolish person. It is a worthwhile goal to live each day without regret. But to have no regret when we have not acted as we should, means that we will not learn from our hurtful decisions.  Regret in the sense of remorse can be a good thing if we acknowledge a wrong. But our sorrow should lead us to right a wrong, not wallow in a self remorse.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.” 2Cor.7.10 Conversations Within” ts 11/21/2018

I regret that I have regrets. And, it does not help to ask, “Who doesn't?”

It is generally considered wise to learn from one’s mistakes. Don’t be guilty of not learning from your regrets; repent and regret no more. It is before we say something, before we do something, before we eat or drink, or participate in any activity that the battle of not regretting is won or lost. Decide before so there we be no regret after.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.” 2Cor.7.10 Conversations Within” ts 11/19/2018

“Better to embrace the pain of discipline than the pain of regret.” Unknown

The power to choose is valuable but not near as valuable as a self-mastery that always chooses the right thing. Imagine a life where you always choose what is best for yourself and others. Such a life is found when love, guided by wisdom, directs us to overcome obstacles even if the obstacle is our own desire for anything less.

“The fruit of the Spirit is self-control. Gal.5.22 Conversations Within” ts 11/18/2018

“Regrets, I have a few.” My Way

Regrets, I myself have quite a few, and most, if not all of them, are because I did it my way. Doing it “my way” is the sad arrogance of Adam and Eve passed down to all of us. It is one thing to regret doing it my way, and another to stop it, and do it the Father’s way. Regrets, you bet. But beyond regret, I would repent--turn around reverse my selfish ways.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.” Is.59.8 Conversations Within” ts 11/17/2018

“I wanted to go jogging but the Bible says ‘the wicked run when nobody is chasing them.’” Meme

We can pretty much use the Bible to justify just about anything we want to do. Of course this is not a wise thing to do. God’s word and wisdom are a precious gift, and surely to be used, not to justify our silly notions, but direct our path into all that is good, right and true. Don’t just quote the Bible for your own ends, listen to your Father’s words.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.” Ps.119.105 Conversations Within” ts 11/16/2018

Is this a Christian thing to do?

Jesus has made the measure of whether something is Christian or not rather simple: does it meet the criteria of loving others? How do we decide if we are loving someone? When we are able, love seeks the wellbeing of the people around us. Of course, love needs the guidance of wisdom to measure if an action will truly benefit, and wisdom comes from loving and listening to God.

“Love one another as i have loved you.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 11/15/2018

Happy Thanksgiving!

One thing I encourage myself to do is not talk about dieting when I am seated around the Thanksgiving table. There is a time to feast, and a time to fast. Don’t talk about one when you are doing the other. Be where you are and relish the moment by giving sincere, joyful thanks for it. Fill your plate, give thanks, and dig in. Oh! It will taste better if your share your meal with others. Happy thanksgiving!

“Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good;His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.” Ps.100 Conversations Within” ts 11/14/2018

”God is great, God is good, let us thank Him for this food. By His hands we are fed. Thank you God for daily bread.” The Blessing

If we want to be more thankful it is as simple as expressing it often. This is easily accomplished if we pause every time we eat to say an ole fashioned blessing. I like to pick up my plate and smell my food before I eat it. When I do, I breathe in the meals wonderful aroma and breathe out a word of grateful praise to the One who has provided it.

“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all of my heart.” Ps.9.1 Conversations Within” ts 11/13/2018

“Gratitude is the gateway to joy.” Elaine S. Marshall

 oy is gladness of heart. Gratitude nurtures it. Ever expression of thanksgiving can both create and at the same time express our joy. Our Father is a happy God; what better news is there that He wants us as His children to be glad. We walk the path of this gladness when we not only know how blessed we are, and from whom all these blessing flow. It has nothing to do with luck.

"Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!” Ps.95.2 Conversations Within” ts 11/12/2018

“Let joy be your compass.” Unknown

Live decisively and always decide to take the path of joy. One way we find joy is when we pursue peace in our interactions, not just with people but with everything. The pursuits of peace always show proper respect- respect for the world around you, respect your neighbor, respect yourself, your body, soul and spirit, and of course, respect for God. He has made this easy. We show respect to Him by showing respect to everything and everyone else. 

“Those who promote peace have joy.” Prov.12.20 Conversations Within” ts 11/11/2018

“I am with you always.” Jesus

Do I believe that God is with me? I am not speaking about God being with me in some general way, but in a favorable way. To lay hold of this in faith is to possess not only the the greatest comfort but also a profound confidence that whatever I face, I face with God’s grace. To have God’s favor is to have everything we need.

“Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” Luke 1:28 Conversations Within” ts 11/10/2018

“Faith is seeing light with your heart when all your eyes can see is darkness.” Unknown

Faith believes a promise before it is fulfilled. God has made a good many promises to His children and made good on them. Faith lays hold of them and energizes the comfort found in them. This is what Jesus was speaking about when He told us that we live by every word of God. When the smoke clears we, not our doubts, worries or fears, will be the last one standing.

“The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul.” Ps127.7-8 Conversations Within” ts 11/9/2018

It is easy to smile when you know that God is smiling at you.

How can we be sure that God is smiling when He looks our way? It’s actually a simple thing. God delights in people who trust Him, who believe that He loves them, not because they are lovely, but because He is unfailing in His love. Every time we take a step of faith, no matter how small, He is delighted, and a lifetime of trust adds up to a life pleasing to Him. Go ahead, make Him smile today.

“The LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” Ps.147.11 Conversations Within” ts 11/5/2018

Hope helps us visualize the finished painting as we feel the brush strokes God is making on our canvass today.

Hope fine tunes our trust when it begins to take shape in our heart. Hope visualizes our faith in God and helps us to see what He desires to accomplish. It nurtures a clear picture of the outcome of the faith we are putting in Him. Hope patiently and confidently waits for the Lord to bring that goodness to sight even as it trusts God to tweak it with His perfect wisdom.

 “The LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” Ps.147.11 Conversations Within” ts 11/4/2018

“Trusting God starts when you can give up what you want, for what you know God wants.” Unknown

Faith in God is mainly about the transfer of our trust. We stop trusting our own understanding and shift our trust to His. This transfer is often expressed when we stop doing one thing and start doing another; faith is put into action. It is also expressed when we stop fiddling with our worries and confidently trust God’s promises; faith put into attitude. 

“Cast all your cares of Him, because He cares for you.” 1Pet.5.7 Conversations Within” ts 11/4/2018

“If you want to fly, give up everything that weighs you down.” Unknown

Faith enables us to fly above the cares of this world. Do not let the worries of this world rob your joy. Spread the wings of trust and take flight. Leave your worries behind and soar confident of God’s love for you and in the absolute goodness of His plans for your life.

“For 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 11/4/2018

“The goal of marriage is not to think alike, but to think together.” Robert Dodd

Not thinking alike, but thinking together should be the tool of all good communication. Thinking together is just another way of working together. A wise person learns the true value of partnership, not only when they see things the same way, but also when they see things differently. This is as much as attitude as it is an action. Learn the value of a different point of view.

“Two are better than one.” Ecc.4.9 Conversations Within” ts 11/3/2018

“He who lives in harmony with himself lives in harmony with the Universe.” Marcus Aurelius

If I live with a divided heart, why should I not expect to live in a divided world. Christ is the ultimate peacemaker. He begins by healing our relationship with the Father. This healing, like ripples in a pond, spreads out creating a harmonious healing within our own heart, then out to others, even further to the natural world. 

“Live in harmony with one another.” Rom.12.16 Conversations Within” ts 11/1/2018

”The proof of order is the absence of strife.” Mike Murdock

 If you tug on a towel in a dog’s mouth he will most likely tug back. The harder you tug one way, the harder they will tug the other. Drop it, and the dog will simply lose interest. One of the best ways to keep away from strife is to just drop it. Don’t not get drawn into an argument. Do not sit down at the table of strife. Keep order, if only in your soul. 

“Keeping away from strife is an honor for a man, But any fool will quarrel.” Prov.20.3 Conversations Within” ts 10/30/2018

“Agree to disagree.” Adage

We can respectfully disagree with someone without strife or getting into an argument. There is common ground to be found, even if it is only showing mutual respect. We can even show respect to one who does not show respect to us. Just because someone is disrespectful doesn’t mean that we “jump off the bridge too.” 

“Show proper respect to everyone…” 1Pet.2.17 Conversations Within” ts 10/27/2018

"Discussion is an exchange of knowledge; an argument an exchange of ignorance." - Robert Quillen

The only way to win an argument is to avoid getting into one. We can train ourselves to listen to a different point of view without getting into an argument over it. It is wise to consider if the topic is even worth discussing. What good is talk if it will not accomplish anything. Better to do something about matters that matter, rather than just talking about them. 

“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.” 2Tim.2.23 Conversations Within” ts 10/27/2018

“It’s OK for you to disagree with me. I cannot force you to be right.” Meme

Learning how to agreeably disagree is a must if we would live peacefully with our neighbors. Refuse an argument before it breaks out and do so by making up your mind that it takes two to argue and you will not be attending. 

“The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.” Prov.17.14 Conversations Within” ts 10/27/2018

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

Do I show off what I know, or do I use knowledge to serve others?  Learn how to share what you have learned without being viewed as a “know it all.” The goal is never to impress, but to express goodness and a wise person knows when to keep quiet and let people learn for themselves. 

“The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint.” Prov.17.27 Conversations Within” ts 10/25/2018

“Life is a song. Sing it!” Unknown

Sometimes the best way to say it is to sing it. Singing has always been an expression of life as it is of faith, hope and love. Do not neglect its power to work grace in the soul. Need a lift? Sing a song, or at least listen to one. Need to lift someone else up? Sing them a song or sing with them. Singing puts wings to our words and lifts the soul to breathe Heaven's air. 

 “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.” Eph.5.19 Conversations Within” ts 10/25/2018

“If you can’t be kind, be quiet.” Meme

 I cannot see any reason why we cannot be kind, ever. Sometimes being quiet is an act of kindness. But gentleness and quietness are first an attitude embraced in the soul before they are expressed in words. As such, there are times when kindness demands that we speak on behalf of others, especially those who cannot speak up for themselves. Even then, we can speak kindly. 

“But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.” 1Pet.3.4 Conversations Within” ts 10/23/2018

“Sometimes not telling people anything is a good thing.” Meme

The effectiveness of our counsel is often flooded out in the multitude of giving it too much. Wait for the right moment to speak and if it doesn’t arrive, refrain from speaking. Remember that good counsel is generally sought after, and therefore not given before it is ready to be received. 

“A man finds joy in giving an apt reply — and how good is a timely word!” Prov.15.23 Conversations Within” ts 10/23/2018

“No comment.”

Lord give me the wisdom to realize that I do not need to comment on everything. Teach me to keep my opinions to myself and when asked to give them let me sprinkle them with a good dose of humility.

“Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak…” James 1.19 Conversations Within” ts 10/22/2018

“Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” Rumi

Speak less. Use fewer words. Consider the value of your “two cents” before you put them into a conversation. Are my words worth hearing? There is a considerable difference in justifying what we want to say and wisely discerning whether we should say it. 

“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” Prov.17.28 “Conversations Within” ts 10/21/2018

”My best prayer wasn’t on my knees, but was when I was hanging by my ankle 30 feet in the air from a power pole.” Lineman

There are times when we realize that we need help and we ask for it. Wise move, but wiser still is when we realize that we need help more than we realize. I do not need a “pull yourself up by your own bootstraps” religion. I do need the help that God offers each day. The simple truth is that I cannot affect many of the changes that need to take place in my life. God can and will when I stop trying and start trusting.

“My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only he will release my feet from the snare. Ps.25 15” Conversations Within” ts 10/18/2018

“I am” is a powerful sentence construction.

I like to begin the day with a personal mantra as a reminder of who I am. “By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect.” In Christ I am love, I am joy, I am peace, I am patience,  I am kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  I am in Christ. In Christ, I am. Reboot as needed.

“By the grace of God I am what I am and His grace was not without effect.” Conversations Within” ts 10/17/2018

“It's a cold world, better pack your own heat.” Redman

Cold is the natural state of the space when there is no heat source. Our fallen desires are the natural state of our heart without the warmth of divine fire. If you want to stay warm, stay close to the fire of God’s Spirit. Life in the Spirit is an intentional thing. 

“Keep in step with the Spirit.” Gal.5 Conversations Within” ts 10/17/2018

“The starting point of all achievement is desire.” Napoleon Hill

I believe in the value of self-control. I tell myself to practice it, but experience has taught me that the strongest desire often wins out over what I believe. I may want to eat less at the start of the day, but by days end my desire to eat more has grown stronger. Surely this suggests that if we have a desire for something good now, we must nurture it if we want to practice it later. 

“I discipline my body and keep it under control” (1 Corinthians 9:27) Conversations Within” ts 10/16/2018

”Yet not I but the grace of God with me.”

It is a good thing that we are not alone in the makeup of who we are. God is there, and He is pouring His grace into the mix. It is important to cooperate with the kind intentions of that grace. To say “I am a work of grace” and know it in our heart, we highlight the great value of our faith and remind ourselves of the real catalyst of positive transformation. The humility that recognizes this is one thing we can bring to the table of change. 

“By the grace of God I am what I am…” Conversations Within” ts 10/15/2018

”I am who I am.”

How would you finish this sentence? “I am ….” There is a measure of truth that says we become what we say and think about ourselves. To say, “I am bored,” “I am tired,” “I am frustrated,” can actually reinforce, or create that reality. We often lay claim to  things simply by saying them. “I am...” is a powerful sentence construction. Thank God we can also say things like, “I am grateful.” “I am ready to take on this day.” I am patient with this.” 

“As a man thinks in his heart, so he is.” Prov.23.7 Conversations Within” ts 10/14/2018

“It may look like I'm doing nothing, but I'm actively waiting for my problems to go away.” Meme

Sometimes the best way to deal with a problem, is simply to ignore it until it goes away. In one sense we could say, it will go away the minute we begin to ignore it. What I mean is that some problems have become problems because they are distracting us from doing what is really important. Learning how to ignore distractions is an important way we can stay focused. 

“Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you.” Prov.4.25 Conversations Within” ts 10/13/2018

“Keep it simple. Keep it honest. Keep it real.” Meme

Jesus gives us a straightforward and simple formula for a wholesome life in two simple encouragements. First, love God. Second, love others as you love yourself. One can even reverse the order. One of the best ways to love yourself, is to love others, and doing so is one way we love God. The rest of the Bible is mainly wisdom on how we can effectively love. 

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 10/12/2018

“People say nothing is impossible but I do nothing everyday.” A.A Milne- Winnie The Pooh

“La dolce far niente,” is one of my favorite Italian phrases and it means, “the joy of doing nothing.” It is also a skill that needs to be nurtured if we want balance in our lives. You can call it learning how to chill, do the “mellow yellow,” or just simply unwind, but we all need to balance work and rest. Do not let the business of life keep you from stopping by the house at Pooh corner.

“It is vain for you to rise up early, To retire late, To eat the bread of painful labors; For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 10/11/2018

“My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have, to try to make a difference.” Jimmy Carter

There are certain things I do everyday. One question that I ask myself is do I make a positive difference in the lives of people? Life is surely more than just personal pursuits. Do I contribute? Am I useful to others? Do I intentionally and purposefully set out to benefit the quality of people’s lives?

“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone” Gal.6.10 Conversations Within” ts 10/10/2018

Give your energy doing the tasks at hand, not worrying “if this,” or “if that,” or “if only.”

Think less, do more. Talk less, do more. Worry less, do more. Complain less, do more.

“Be doers…” Conversations Within” ts 10/9/2018

“I do not worry about what will happen, only what needs to be done.” Lucius Hunt (The Village)

If something needs doing, and you are able to do it, why not jump in and get it done? Don’t waste energy talking about it, complaining about it, thinking too much about it. Just do it. Make positive changes anytime you are able, and when you are not, trust it to God. Prayer means that we can always affect wholesome change. 

“Be doers…” Conversations Within” ts 10/8/2018

Just keep quiet and do what needs to the done.

We should avoid pretending we are maturing spiritually by simply talking about rather than acting out what we know is good. There is no benefit in mere talk. In fact talking may lead us to believe that because we are well versed discussing the subject, we have somehow mastered it. What value is a Karate class if all you can do is talk about Karate. Faith is something that must be lived not just discussed.

“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Prov.14.23 Conversations Within” ts 10/6/2018

”You are never too old to set a new goal or a dream a new dream.” CS Lewis

New Year’s Resolutions often have something to do with eating better, exercising more, or saving money. All of these have some value, but not just for the temporal benefits they bring, but because inner discipline is nurtured keeping them. Give priority to spiritual resolutions- godliness in particular.  And what is godliness? In short, it is a life inclined toward pleasing God. When you think about it, everything that God approves, is good for the body and the soul as well. 

“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1Tim.4.8 Conversations Within” ts 10/5/2018

”It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see.” David Henry Thoreau

Use the temptation to be frustrated with things that don’t  matter as a reminder to focus on things that do. Provocation can remind us to be patient. Someone's rudeness can remind us to be kind. The loss of something temporal can sharpen our desires for what is eternal. Declining health can stimulate attitudes that foster spiritual wholeness. Let go of that which matters little and embrace those things that matter most.

“The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Gal.5.6 Conversations Within” ts 10/4/2018

“Live in the light of eternity.” Meme

The prospect of living forever excites me. It can bring focus to the present moment like nothing else. One of life’s purposes is enjoyment and living in the light of eternity sharpens what I choose to enjoy. Temporal pleasures? Sure, when they are taken from God’s hand. But Christ offers so much more than mere pleasure; He offers joy. Not one day in Heaven, but the unfading joy of this moment joined inseparably to all the other moments to come, and all in the rapture of God’s love for me and my love for Him.

“I tell you these things that my joy be in you and you joy made complete.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 10/3/2018

“The older you get the better you get, unless you're a banana.” Betty White

Work out everyday in the gym of your inner life. Condition the spiritual muscles of faith, hope and love. Nurture attitudes and actions that foster lasting health. Prioritize what is temporal and what is eternal and give energy to those things that will never fade. Your body may decline with age, but the soul can flourish in spiritual maturity. 

“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment...Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.” Conversations Within” ts 10/2/2018

Peace comes from within, do not seek it without.” Buddha.

Weeds may surround our outer life, but a well cultivated soul can always feast on the delights of its inner fruit. If we look for happiness in our circumstances we will know many disappointments, but there is a deep satisfaction and peace to live life from within, and eat the fruit of a well tended inner life.

“Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.” 2Cor.4.16 Conversations Within” ts 10/1/2018

“There's no substitute for a great love who says, 'No matter what's wrong with you, you're welcome at this table.’” Tom Hanks

It is always possible to express some measure of love to someone, even if they refuse it. We can still show kindness at the very moment someone walks away. Of course wisdom may direct our love to show disapproval of another’s harmful behavior. But even then, the goal of love is an unconditional commitment to the other’s highest good. May God give us all wisdom in loving people who are making bad and destructive choices.

 “..and it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment…” Phil.1.9  “Conversations Within” ts 9/29/2018

”Conflict cannot survive without your participation.” Wayne Dyer

Learning to meet provocation with silence is a powerful way to promote peace, if only your own. But to speak a kind word may take the wind out of a brewing storm. It is hard, if not impossible, to argue with someone who simply refuses to argue back.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Prov.15.1 Conversations Within” ts 9/27/2018

“Say what you mean, but don't say it mean.” Andrea Wachter,

We should pay attention not only to what we say to our family, but the tone we use saying it. Whatever we say, we should say it with respect and with kindness or don’t say it at all. Let every word be spoken with tenderness, even rebuke. We could say, especially rebuke. Such is the fruit of a humble heart. 

“To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit.” 1Pet.3.8 Conversations Within” ts 9/26/2018

“Treat your family like friends and your friends like family.” Anonymous

When I think of the word family my thinking is being shaped more by a Spirit that includes not excludes. Family is far more than just blood relatives. Don’t get me wrong, Blood matters. But it is the blood of Christ that matters more than my physical blood. His blood means that people from all over the world are blood relatives. This surely implies that the family table is set for “whosoever will.” 

“Whosoever will may come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Jesus  Conversations Within” ts 9/25/2018

“I smile because you’re my family. I laugh because there is nothing you can do about it.” Meme

Being family affords certain privileges. One is input. There are times when the people in my life probably wish I didn’t give it. And, that’s OK! We should not be bothered too much when our family and friends do not take our counsel. Being family gives us the privilege to give it anyway. We just need to remember that being family also gives them the right to ignore it. Be serious about your family and friends but don’t take your opinions too seriously. 

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.” Prov.21.2 Conversations Within” ts 9/24/2018

“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten,” Lilo and Stitch

Imagine a family of friends who play together and pray together. Who celebrate life. Who share each other’s joys and sorrows. Who support one another and share life together. Friends who frequent each others homes to eat together. A community who gathers with joy to stimulate each other to love and goodness in order to make the world a better place, and to be loyal to the highest vision that God has designed for each of us. Is this not true of church in its purest form?

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Rom.15.7 Conversations Within” ts 9/22/2018

A different life rests in our power to choose one way of thinking over another.

We all think things we should not think just as we all do things we should not do. As we think so we are.  If I want to stop a certain bad behavior I need to stop it at the starting line of my thoughts. We all think a thousand different thoughts every day. Think about what you think about. If it is unproductive, choose a different thought--a productive one. 

“As a man thinks in his heart, so he is.” Prov.23.7 Conversations Within” ts 9/21/2018

“What God desires is here [points to head] and here [points to heart] and what you decide to do every day, you will be a good man - or not.” Hospitaller (Kingdom of Heaven)

Make no mistake about it. We act out what occupies our head and heart. This is why the battle for positive transformation is fought on the battlefield of our thoughts and affections. Cast down every unproductive thought. Someone speaking about our thought life said,, “You cannot keep a bird from flying over your head, but you can keep it from building a nest in your hair.” 

“Bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2Cor.10.5 Conversations Within” ts 9/20/2018

Here is the single most important skill we must learn in life. Discover what God requires of us each moment, then ask His help doing it.

I am so grateful for the inner encouragements I receive from God each day. He offers both counsel and correction at the crossroads of my every thought and action. More and more I feel His gentle hand on my shoulder before I speak. I appreciate the stoke He communicates on loving and living. But more than just telling me what to do, I love that He comes alongside me with the simple assurance, “Just tell me what you need and it’s yours.” 

“ If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 9/19/2018

“Everyday is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” Meme

Open the present of the present. Be right here, right now. Don’t live just for the moment, but wholeheartedly live in the moment. Embrace it. Be grateful for it. Who is more present than God. He invites us to join Him in the joys of each day--to taste and see His absolute goodness. Lay hold of all that your Father is for you in this moment. Know peaceful oneness with Him, and discover that His life is your very great reward. 

“I AM has sent me to you.” Ex.3.14 Conversations Within” ts 9/18/2018

Live on the positive side.

I think the life that Christ invites us to share is not expressed only in negatives that we avoid as it is in positives that we live each day. If we spend our energies pursuing love, we will have no energy left to waste on hate, or strife. If we rise each day to show kindness, our days will be so rich showing it that judgmental and critical attitudes will not impoverish our life. Follow Christ on the positive side of living and all the negatives will dwindle.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love...against such there is no law.” Gal.5 Conversations Within” ts 9/15/2018

“When you judge another, you do not define them, you define yourself.” Wayne Dyer

Self appointed judges are just that; they have elevated themselves to a position which has no value to anyone. Avoid the temptation to comment or criticize others by refusing to even entertain judgmental thoughts about them. Do not even judge these self-appointed judges. That is like being prejudiced against the prejudice. Purge yourself of all that criticizes.

“Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls.” Rom.14.4 Conversations Within” ts 9/14/2018

“I'm not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know that I'm not dumb... I also know that I'm not blond.” Dolly Parton

There is great value in being able to overlook an offense. To show patience in the face of provocation is a mark of spiritual maturity. How gracious is a gentle and humble heart. Be the kind of person who is able to choose kindness over retaliation and forgiveness over returned hostility.

 “A person's wisdom yields patience; it is to one's glory to overlook an offense.” Prov.19.11 Conversations Within” ts 9/13/2018

Is there anything better than loving and being loved?

Keep the focus of life simple. Just love, and always love the person in front of you. If we cannot make a difference that will be felt around the world, we can certainly make a difference that will be felt by the person next to us.

 “Live a life of love.” Eph.5.2 Conversations Within” ts 9/12/2018

“When you are behaving as if you loved someone, you will presently come to love him.” C.S. Lewis

There is the love of action, and the love of affection. We should not confuse the two. I may not feel particularly affectionate toward someone, but I can still treat them well. This does not mean that we should underestimate the power of emotional love. We often develop strong feelings for the people into which we invest time and energy. The love of affection can strengthen the love of action and motivate us in powerful ways. But  ultimately, it is our actions of love  that communicate our feelings of love.

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 9/11/2018

Christian love is gracious action, pure and simple.

Love forgives even when the other party has not asked for it. Love gives to someone who very likely is taking from us. Love overlooks offenses and focuses instead on doing things which serve. If our feelings are hurt, love can help us get over our feelings, bite our tongue, and think of the other person first. Love always moves us to seek what is good, even in the face of another’s anger, even in the face of our own. 

“Love is patient and is kind.” 1Cor.13 Conversations Within” ts 9/11/2018

“If you're not making someone else's life better, then you're wasting your time.” Will Smith

If it has nothing to do with love, even if it is just loving yourself, then it is probably not worth while. Of course it is not really possible to truly love yourself and not love those in your life. Once we understand that love is so much more than a feeling, we are able to live a worthwhile life. Christ defined love as actively seeking the highest good in every thought, attitude and action. 

“The only thing that matters is faith expressing itself through love.” Gal.5 Conversations Within” ts 9/10/2018

“All you need is love... Love is all you need.”

We have a saying that the “proof is in the pudding.” Love, not fuzzy feelings, but the love of beneficial action toward others, is proof enough for me to follow Christ. The power of love, and the goodness it brings, is undeniable in my mind. I believe in love because I believe in God. I believe in God because I believe in love. When in doubt, always take a step in the direct of love.

 “God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God lives in them.” 1John 4.15

“You have the power to say, ‘This is NOT how my story will end.’” Unknown

The path up often begins by going down, and choosing loss often results in great gain. Wishing our life to be different will not make it happen. God’s grace can, and the way to get His grace is to humble ourselves before Him. Just as pride precedes a fall, surrender to God’s will precedes victory over all that oppresses. 

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” James 4.10 Conversations Within” ts 9/7/2018

“Mistakes are the portals of discovery.” James Joyce

In life, as in golf, there is nothing so important as a good recovery shot, except perhaps an attitude to always attempt one. It is hard to improve on these lines from a movie I have come to love. “You'll come to see that a man learns nothing from winning. The act of losing, however, can elicit great wisdom. Not least of which is, how much more enjoyable it is to win. It's inevitable to lose now and again. The trick is not to make a habit of it.” A Good Year

“For the righteous falls seven times and rises again.” Proverbs 24:16 Conversations Within” ts 9/6/2018

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” Marcel Proust

I think one of the best ways to learn is not being told, but when we are guided into it by simple discovery. Discovery comes from personal involvement. Some things must be experienced before we can really know them. God’s word is one of them. We can read the Scriptures and know about them or we can live them and really experience God in them. 

“I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure.” Ps.119.162 Conversations Within” ts 9/5/2018

“Hold the vision. Trust the process.” Unknown

Cooperate with God’s Providences rather than complain about them. We express our faith in God’s wisdom when we refuse to complain about what He allows to come our way each day. God knows what He is doing. Trust not only the end results of His grace, but the process that leads there. It is God and His wisdom that decided to weave hardship into the fabric of transformation. 

“As for God, his way is perfect.” Ps.18.30 Conversations Within” ts 9/4/2018

“It's a slow process but quitting won't speed it up.” Unknown

Character is not a hundred yard dash but an endurance race. To be serious about it a long haul attitude is a must. Run. Keep running. Adopt a consistent, not a frantic pace. Be deliberate about your attitude and perseverance will see you to the finish line. Perhaps this sweet transformation will happen--a quote I have come to love. “Winners forget they’re in a race, they just love to run.” With Honors (The Movie) 

“Run in such a way that you may win.” 1Cor.9.24 Conversations Within” ts 9/3/2018

“Transformation is a process...It is a journey of discovery--there are moments on mountaintops and moments in deep valleys of despair.” Rick Warren

Sometimes it is not just your next move but your overall maturity that God has in mind. This is one of the reasons He does not always spell out our next step, but rather gives us some simple guidelines we can use to discover what they should be. Learning how to learn--to discover may be more important at certain stages in our life than the destination we have in mind. 

“The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Prov.16.9 Conversations Within” ts 9/1/2018

May God redeem the ground on which you walk.

We all talk. We all walk. We know the axiom that our walk should match our talk. It doesn't. This is one reason we need Jesus. He made it possible so God can be just and merciful at the same time and will not only forgive our mess ups, but He can establish our steps in goodness. We may have lost out at the gambling tables of life. But God is able to buy it all back and turn loss into gain. May the kindness of God lead us to prosper as we walk before Him in the sweetness of grace and goodness.

"Arise, walk about the land through its length and breadth; for I will give it to you." God to Abraham Gen.13.17  Conversations Within” ts 8/31/2018

“When God looks your way, may He smile.” Blessing

There are two ways to consider the blessing given above. One expresses the hope that God will smile at us because of the way we live our lives. The other embraces the hope that we live our lives the way we do because God is smiling on us. Both are intertwined. I want God to smile on me, and I want to bring a smile to God’s face. In both cases, to have His smile is to have life, health and peace. Walk under the sunshine of God’s smile.

“How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! O LORD, they walk in the light of Your countenance.” Ps.89.15 Conversations Within” ts 8/30/2018

“Walk the spiritual path; say little; love much; give all; judge no man; aspire to all that is pure and good, and keep on keeping on.” Unknown

Walking is a great metaphor for living life. Keep moving forward, focus on one step at a time, put one foot in front of the other, enjoy every step, and keep walking till you reach your destination. Wear the cologne of Christ as you walk, and spread the aroma of His love in the air. Bless and be blessed, bring benefit to others in all you do. Leave a positive difference in the wake of your journey. Leave people and places better than you find them. 

“and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Eph.5:2 Conversations Within” ts 8/29/2018

“It is not talking but walking that will bring us to Heaven.” Matthew Henry

Walking is a spiritual activity as much as physical one. We physically walk with legs; we spiritually walk by faith. And, it is important to realize that faith is action. Faith is always expressed in the steps of obedience. Often the steps that Father asks us to take are outside our present experience simply because He is leading us to new places. He is leading us to new places because He is making us a new person. 

“for we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2Cor.5:7 Conversations Within” ts 8/28/2018

“I’m walking on sunshine.” Katrina and the Waves.

Some days it is easy to walk. I am speaking not only about physical walking but soul walking as well. It is easy to walk when all is well and we feel that sunshine pep in our step. Thank God for such days. It is when we are not “feeling it” that we should walk anyway. Doing so teaches us to push through our feelings and keep doing something we know will yield physical and spiritual health. Someone said, “Bring your own sunshine.” Walk to the rhythm of music when you hear it and when you don't make your own. 

“How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! O LORD, they walk in the light of Your countenance.” Ps. 89.15 Conversations Within” ts 8/27/2018

“Solvitur Ambulando---It is solved by walking.” Augustine

There are so many health benefits to the simple act of taking a walk. What is good for the body, can also be good for the soul. Walking gets the blood flowing, and gives us time to actively reflect. My best prayers are usually said while walking. Walking is an act of soul as much as with the body. A good walk can help solve a host of things. We are after all told to “Keep in step with the Spirit.”  Conversations Within” ts 8/26/2018

“Change is the essence of life; be willing to surrender who you are for what you could become.” Unknown

To live is to change. The quality of life is determined by the kind of change we experience. By all means cooperate with change--change for the better. According to Christ, if we refuse the changes He wants to work in us, we will lose life. If we allow His life to grow in our own, His promise is that our life will be full, fruitful, free and last of all, forever. Before His life can grow in us, we must undergo a kind of death to our own way of doing things.   “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 8/23/2018

“Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit.” Frank Borman

According to Jesus, God the Father is a Spirit, so it makes perfect sense that knowing Him must be principally a spiritual experience. God is surely not against the physical, He did after all create the material universe. But because the Father is not a physical being, but a spiritual one, could suggest that He may meet us in the physical world, but only insofar as to waken us to spiritual realities. We are, after all, ultimately the spiritual person inside, not the shell which houses us.

“God is a spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 8/22/2018

“A beautiful face will age and a perfect body will change, but a beautiful soul will always be a beautiful soul.” Unknown

The body will decline with age, but the soul may grow stronger, untouched by diminishing physical strength. The mature soul does not fear the declining health of the body. It possesses a living hope that a new glove awaits in the realities of the resurrection that Christ has secured. There is really nothing we can do to prevent the wearing out of our earthly glove. But, there is so much we can do to deepen the life of our soul. Faith can make the soul grow younger and younger even as the body gets older and older.

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Ps.73.26  Conversations Within” ts 8/21/2018

“Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Few of us are not moved when we come upon a cascading waterfall, or sit under a star filled sky. Nature may belong to the physical world, but its message is heard in the soul. As a painting communicates the passions of the artist, so too does the intricacies of wood, wind, and water reveal the passions of the Creator. Nature has a way of waking us to the spiritual. 

“They have no speech, they use no words;  no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth,  their words to the ends of the world.” Ps.19.3 Conversations Within” ts 8/21/2018

“The very best friend ever, God” Meme

I learned early on that there is a distinction between those who practice a religion in response to their belief in God, and those who seek a personal relationship with Him. Religion seems at times to keep God safely at a distance. For some the distance exists because they perceive that God wants it to keep His distance from them. For others, it is because they want the to keep God at a safe distance.  Does God want a personal even intimate relationship with us? Many things suggest that He does. The question that each of us should ask is do we? Relationship is a two way street. 

“The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.” Ex.33.11 Conversations Within” ts 8/20/2018

“Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without a spiritual life.” Buddha

I think people are spiritual by nature. We are what we are, we are as God has made us--body and soul. Of course we also contribute to our makeup, and to a great degree determine how mature our spiritual life will be. We can be so much more than a puppet of our physical desires. A mature inner life enjoys but isn’t ruled by physical passions. But there are also spiritual desires that can rule us as well--pride for one. The wisdom of Christ encourages a joint partnership with the Spirit who created our spirit. 

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me." Jesus Conversations Within” ts 8/19/2018

“It was all balance. But then, she already knew that from surfing.” Eve Babitz

Learning balance in one arena can help us learn balance in others. Something as simple as knowing when to speak and when not to speak can translate into self control in many other arenas of life. We say that once you learn to surf or ride a bicycle you never forget how. Once learned, balance teaches us the “feel” of when things are unbalanced. Knowing this can be the first step in acquiring balance in something new until balance itself takes hold of all of us. 

“Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is mature, able to keep their whole body in check.” James 3.2 Conversations Within” ts 8/15/2018

“The secret of life is honesty and fair dealing. If you can fake that you've got it made.” Groucho Marx

Balance is expressed as much in our dealing with others as it is with ourselves. To live a balanced life we strive to be fair both to ourselves and to our neighbor. The late Stephen Covey referred to this as a “win win” Only enter into an arrangement where both sides win. We may wonder if the Christian point of view means that we are willing to lose and let our neighbor win. This is not the case because if our neighbor wins and we lose, our neighbor will ultimately be the loser and we should not settle for that. Balance is when both sides win.

  “A false balance is an abomination to the LORD, But a just weight is His delight.” Prov.11.1 Conversations Within” ts 8/14/2018

“Balance is not better time management but better boundary management.” Unknown

It is wise and therefore good to set boundaries on our activities. Knowing how much is enough, and sticking to it doesn’t limit freedom, it insures it. Pleasures and more pleasurable when they are kept under control. Wise boundaries are also avoiding activities all together that are potentially hurtful. A good example (called the Billy Graham rule) is to never be alone with someone of the opposite sex unless they are your spouse. Love your marriage enough to safeguard it with boundaries.

"Everything is permissible for me," but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me," but I will not be mastered by anything.” 1Cor.6.12 Conversations Within” ts 8/13/2018

“Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create.” Jana Kingsford

Balance is a deliberate thing. It is not something that just happens, we must work at it. It all comes down to the choices we make each day. Each choice reflects our priorities. Balance keeps us from assigning priority only to physical matters. What good is eating a balanced diet if we starve the soul. True balance balances everything. 

“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 8/12/2018

“When you're on a merry-go-round, you miss a lot of the scenery.” Neil Diamond

Wisdom creates balance and balance creates a full life. One simple way to see the value of balance is simply to picture its opposite--imbalance. Remember what is was like as a kid when you stepped off a merry-go-round and couldn’t walk straight. Some people seem to live on a merry-go-round and life is anything but merry. Living out of whack is hard on the soul and eventually takes it toll on physical and spiritual health. Plow the waters of life with an even keel.

“I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.” Prov.4.11 Conversations Within” ts 8/10/2018

“Some days you eat salads and go to the gym, some days you eat cupcakes and refuse to put on your pants. It's called balance.” Unknown

There are serious matters and then there are not so serious matters. Balance helps us to not take everything seriously. Balance is an important part of health, both for the body, and the soul. We work, then we rest. We take time to think ahead or just live carefree in the moment. Think but don’t think too much. Fast then feast. Avoid the imbalance of being too one way or too the other.   

“Be not overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself?” Ecc.7.16 Conversations Within” ts 8/10/2018

“There may be people who have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anybody to work harder than you do.” Derek Jeter

Talent is like the color of your eyes; you had nothing to do with having either one, they are the gift that God give to each of us. It is not our particular talent, but what we do with them that is our gift to God. Resolve to discover what is the best use of your endowments, then resolve to do your best with them. Doing so is the fruit of wisdom, and such offerings are God’s delight.

“...fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you…” 2Tim.1.6 Conversations Within” ts 8/9/2018

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Chinese Proverb

It is silly to sit and sulk over what is lost to us when there are many good things still within reach. If the best has already passed by, go for the next best. Just because the very best that could have been is no longer within reach, we can strive to look back on this day and say, “I did the next best thing and gave it my best today.”

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory that is due His name.” Ps.29.8 Conversations Within” ts 8/8/2018

“The best project you will ever work on is you.” Meme

It is a wonderful realization that a loving God is interested in our lives and that we can be in a joint partnership with Him to be the very best we can be. He partners with us, enlightening, encouraging and enabling us to discover the best version of ourselves. He simply asks us to trust His leading, and to work out those graces that He is working in us. Being the very best comes to us by doing our very best. He supplies all that is needed beyond our best.

 “Work out your own salvation...For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure.” Conversations Within” ts 8/7/2018

Bake delicious sweetness into every moment and fill the air with the aroma of a generous heart.

Do I hold out on God? Do I serve Him leftovers or set the table with the best I have? I find it hard to believe, but if I am honest with myself I know that I hold back. God deserves the very best we can give Him. A truly grateful heart extends a generous hand and pours out without reservation. 

 “Able brought the best of the firstborn of his flocks.” Gen.4.4 Conversations Within” ts 8/6/2018

“Just do the best you can. No one can do more than that.” John Wooden

When you have given your best, what more is there? Even if your best doesn’t accomplish what you are after, your best is your best. There is a deep satisfaction and peace when you know you did all you could do. It produces that singular joy that is discovered in accepting the results after you gave it your all. Someone has said, “Do your best. Give God the rest.” Everything will be as God decides. May He smile on our efforts and may our efforts be the best we can give. 

“Whatever you hand finds to do, do it with all of your might.” Ecc.9 Conversations Within” ts 8/5/2018

“Excellence is not being the best; it is doing your best.” Proverb

Do I give God my best? Doing our best, no matter what we are doing is one way to do so I suppose. Does this mean when I am fixing and eating my sandwich, I should give it my best? Well, why not? Caress life as if it were your favorite pet. Pet is a verb as well as a noun, so too is our approach to life. I am certain this is part of what the Scriptures have in mind in the simple encouragement...

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Conversations Within” ts 8/4/2018

“Stop wishing. Start doing.” Sticker

At this stage in my life I find that most of what I wish for is to consistently practice what I am learning. Everyday I seek cadence with the Spirit who patiently instructs my heart, but find myself frustrated at how fast I can get out of step. I still get mad at silly things. I still entertain negative thoughts. I still say critical words only to feel His correcting hand on my shoulder. What is there to do but to get back on the path of peace, and a peaceful path it is. Lord keep up your work until this hope becomes my reality.

“Keep in step with the Spirit.” Gal. 5 Conversations Within” ts 8/3/2018

"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible." Francis of Assisi

Be a faithful doer of small things and God is said to entrust us with more important matters. This does not mean that the small stuff is unimportant. In fact it is, and for no other reason than to teach us to be a person others can count on. I appreciate what Admiral William H. McRaven said. “If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never do the big things right.” 

“You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 8/2/2018

There are seven days in a week and someday isn't one of them. Shaquille O'Neal

There are some things in life that we could put off for an indefinite period of time, like travel to some exotic place we want to see. But on the whole, it is not good to create a habit that puts things off. Procrastination is the enemy of doing, and the bane of accomplishment. Do not wait for that supposedly perfect day to begin. Do it now. 

“Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.” Ecc.11.4 Conversations Within” ts 8/1/2018

“Saying something is easy. The challenge and the reward is in the doing.” Steve Maraboli

We’ve all said these words that, “It’s easier said than done.” This is often offered as an excuse for not doing something. Of course it is easier said than done. So what, get on with it and do it,! I think that the harder something is to do, may be a good measure of whether we should do it or not. Aren’t most things worth doing hard, even if only at first.

“Is anything too hard for the LORD?” Gen.18.14 Conversations Within” ts 7/30/2018

“Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it.” David Starr Jordan

There is a world of difference believing  that you should do something, and actually doing it. Until we act, nothing of value happens. Knowing a coat will keep you warm will not warm you unless you put it on. If I say I believe in exercise, but do not exercise, where is the value in it? How true this is of laying hold of God’s blessings in life. 

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” Jas.1 ESV

“Do or do not, there is no try.” Yoda

The final measure, perhaps the only measure is in doing. The only proper response to an encouragement from God is to embrace it with action. We should not tell ourselves to try or that we should. We can just do it. Listen with hands, feet, and attitude. Lay hold of every word by the actions of faith.

“If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 7/29/2018

“I pray because I'm helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time, waking and sleeping. It doesn't change God. It changes me.” C.S. Lewis

I know that when I pray, I sometimes find myself trying to persuade God to do something. I know I can’t really give Him some bit of information He doesn’t already know. His wisdom is complete. Still I try. In the end I realize that my prayers reflect His work in me. He is using our prayers to channel blessing and goodness. He is the nourishment of life. Prayer is very much like drinking in that goodness. Draw in His strength and lay hold of all He desires to be for us in life. 

“Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” Abraham (pleading with God not to destroy Sodom) Conversations Within” ts 7/28/2018

"If you talk to God, you are praying; If God talks to you, you have schizophrenia." Thomas Szasz

I talk with God all the time. It is pretty cool actually. I mean, He is with me all day. Doesn’t the Scriptures say, “In Him we live and move and have our being?” Every sight and sound wakes me to Him, so talking comes easy. I tend to say what’s on my mind, and I can be guilty of rambling on and on. He patiently listens and then with gentle prodding brings focus to our talks. He doesn’t always answer immediately, but He always answers. I will have asked Him a question that morning only to have some experience that afternoon and realize that He is answering the question I asked earlier that day.

“Pray without ceasing.” Conversations Within” ts 7/27/2018

“Prayers are woven into the fabric of the universe.”

I’m impressed that God would include us in His desires and actions to bless other people. That is exactly what happens when we pray good things for them. God makes us a partner in sharing goodness. I am often prompted to intercede for the people in my life, sometimes in the middle of the night, and sometimes in the middle of some crisis they may be having that I do not know about but our ever watchful Father does. He could assist them without our prayers but chooses rather to include us which is just like Someone who delights in blessing.

“We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” Col.1.9 Conversations Within” ts 7/26/2018

God tweaks prayers. Tweaking our prayers is one way He fine tunes us to Kingdom concerns.

I want to know that my prayers have a positive and eternal influence in the lives of the people I love. How can I know this? I mean if I ask God for something for someone is He obligated to give me what I ask for? We all know that He doesn’t do that. I have come to appreciate that He tweaks our prayers so that the answer He gives reflects His wisdom and goodness which just happen to be better than our own.  A part of trusting God is trusting the process He uses.

“Cast all you care on Him because He cares for you.” 1Peter 5.7 Conversations Within” ts 7/25/2018

“I fear the prayers of John Knox more than all the assembled armies of Europe.” Mary, Queen of Scots

 How do we know that our prayers have any influence where God is concerned? Well, for one thing He assures everyone that He hears our prayers when we call out to Him in truth. What does this mean? This word is often joined to other words in Scripture such as good and right. Why would God not listen to our prayers when we ask for things which are good and right and therefore true to His purposes. This is at least part of what Jesus was referring to when He told us to pray in His name--to ask for things He would be proud to represent to His Father for us.   

“The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth.” Ps.145.18 Conversations Within” ts 7/23/2018

There is no harm in asking, certainly where God is concerned.

If there is any one activity that should characterize our prayers it is simply that of asking. Every sentence in the Lord’s prayer is a request. After all, Jesus did say “Ask and you will receive.” We are pointedly told,  “You do not have, because you do not ask.” When in doubt, ask. When in need, ask, and we are always in need. We need God’s grace, God’s guidance. We need His protection and provision. Our need is as much in the asking as it is in what we are asking for. And when He answers, don’t forget to say “Thank you!” 

“For everyone who asks receives.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 7/22/2018

“If you propose to speak, always ask yourself, is it true, is it necessary, is it kind?” Buddha

How precious is the gift of speech. How precarious as well. The power to build up and tear down, to praise and to curse reside in that tiny muscle in our mouth.  The above quote is a good measure on whether we should open our mouth and let our words fly out into the world. Just because something is true does not mean it should be shared. Is it really necessary to say it and is it kind? How we say something can determine if it is a kindness or not.

"Speak the truth in love." Eph.4 Conversations Within” ts 7/21/2018

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” George Bernard Shaw

We should not assume that we understand what someone has said. We should clarify what we heard. We should not assume that people have understood what we are trying to say, we should clarify it. Clear communication is clarified communication. If you want your someone to know something or that you understand what they have said, leave no doubts. 

 “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” Prov.18.13 Conversations Within” ts 7/21/2018

“Say what you mean. Mean what you say.” Proverb

Keeping this bit of wisdom would cut out a great deal of speech simply because we all say things we do not mean. We especially do this when we are angry, or worried or “down and out.” We also make promises we do not keep. Better is a life of doing than talking about doing. Our speech should be a deliberate thing as should our manner of living.

 “Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” Prov.17.28 Conversations Within” ts 7/20/2018

"90% of being married is just shouting "what" from other rooms.” Unknown

I can't hear you! My wife and I say this just about everyday. Talking room to room can be difficult. You have to shout, and repeat yourself most of the time. Finally we give up and do what we should have done in the first place and that is position ourselves to communicate effectively. Of course there is more to this than physical proximity. It takes sincere and purposeful energy to communicate when sharing matters of soul. Half-hearted communication is not really communicating. When we speak or listen do so face to face and heart to heart.

“The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.” Exo.33.11 Conversations Within” ts 7/18/2018

"There should be no yelling in the home unless there is a fire." David O. McKay

Our tone and facial expressions often communicates louder than our words. How we say something is probably as important as what we say. The tone in our voice is its own communication. The tone we use says as much, if not more, than the words we choose. It is probably a good idea when speaking to people never to use a tone or a sentence that could end calling them or even implying the word “stupid.”

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Prov.15.1 Conversations Within” ts 7/17/2018

“What we have here is a failure to communicate.” Cool Hand Luke

Communication is vital to healthy relationships. It involves not only hearing what the other person is saying but also making sure they are hearing correctly what we are saying. Feedback is essential in this two way exchange. It may be wise to ask others what they think you are trying to say, or to repeat back to them what you think you heard them say. In any case we must often listen and speak on several frequencies at the same time --not just the words, but emotions and motives as well.

“Speak the truth in love.” Eph.4 Conversations Within” ts 7/16/2018

“The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Meryl Streep

The power to feel another’s feelings means that no one needs to experience life alone. Compassion connects. Empathy empowers. Sharing is a fundamental part of love. We share life together. Love links us to one another in fellowship, family and community. 

“Rejoice with those who rejoice. Weep with those who weep.” Rom.12.15 Conversations Within” ts 7/14/2018

Put yourself in their shoes.

I can relate. We say these words when we wake to an experience that someone else is having, and we feel what they are feeling. Relating this way can be a powerful motivation for compassion. We feel another's pain and we offer comfort. Such comfort may be a word of kindness, a hug, a blanket for a cold night, a meal shared with some hungry person. Compassion moves us not just to feel for them but to act for them. 

"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” 1John 3.17 Conversations Within” ts 7/13/2018

Age carries some unique graces. Beyond just having more experience, the bumps and bruises of life tend to soften the rigidity of our response toward failure in others.

Compassion is often born in us from personal failures and nurtured by the mercies we’ve received. Failure in others is a wonderful opportunity to show compassion. Who hasn’t failed? Who doesn’t need mercy? Showing compassion can be particularly hard if someone has failed us. But this is one of the few times that looking back remembering our own failures can produce a positive influence on whether we show compassion or not.

“Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 7/12/2018

“Compassion is an action word with no boundaries.” Prince

 Everyone needs compassion simply because everyone has needs they are not able to fulfill. Be compassionate to the person in front of you. They may be out of sorts as we say, but we can sort out the best response that will encourage and help them. It is often negative minded people who need our compassion and positive energy the most. Do not abandon such people, but hold them with the grip of grace and overwhelm the darkness of their negative outlook with the light of positive love. 

“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” 1Pet.3.9 Conversations Within” ts 7/11/2018

”Compassion is to look beyond your own pain, to see the pain of others.” Yasmin Mogahed

That person who was rude to you, or the one who cut you off in traffic, or who got up on the wrong side of the bed, the same bed you slept in, are probably all going through some emotional something. Sometimes the greatest hindrance to being compassionate is when we get so caught up in our own emotions that we are blind to the hurts others may be feeling. We must get over ourselves and get past our own feelings if we are to show love, understanding and compassion to them. 

“Turn the other cheek.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 7/10/2018

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” Dalai Lama

Compassion happens when our heart truly discerns suffering in others and moves us to respond with unconditioned kindness. To do this we must often look past our own feelings so we can bring into focus the feelings, not just the actions of others. Someone may lash out at me in anger; compassion looks past our own hurt, and sees the hurt in them that is tempting them to act the way they are and respond not in kind but in kindness. 

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Col.3.12  Conversations Within” ts 7/9/2018

“Have a balanced breakfast with complex carbohydrates, protein, and some fat preferably high in Omega-3s and with at least 5 grams of fiber.” (Internet suggested list of things to do everyday)

There are many suggested  lists on the internet of things we should do every day. All of them are generally health related. When we think in terms of health we usually think first of our physical health but we would do well to give attention to our emotional, mental and spiritual health as well. Do I have a healthy lifestyle? God’s wisdom inclines us to give some thought to what we do each day. Let us at least do that. Let us at least set aside time to consider, to think, to ponder, and plan a healthy day body soul and spirit.

 “Now this is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways.” Haggai 1.5  Conversations Within” ts 7/7/2018

“Look for something positive in each day even if some days you have to look a little harder.” Unknown

Gratitude is an adjustment in attitude as well as action, and we are wise to practice it everyday. We may have to change the way we see things to express it sincerely, but nothing is as powerful a grace as an authentically grateful and trusting heart. Set aside time every single day to give thanks for God’s blessings, even the ones that are disguised as hardship.

“In everything give thanks…” 1Thess.5.18 Conversations Within” ts 7/5/2018

“People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily. Zig Ziglar

I need forgiveness everyday. I need it from the people in my life; I need it from God. That is why I find it necessary and wholesome to confess and ask forgiveness of my personal offenses every day. Like a daily shower, God promises to forgive and cleanse us when we do. Confession is not just to clear the conscience, but to motivate us to follow through and seek to rid ourselves of the offenses we commit. Confessing our sins can provide us a good checklist for attitudes and actions that need changing every day.

“I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I did not hide; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD"; And You forgave the guilt of my sin.” Ps.32 Conversations Within” ts 7/4/2018

“The secret to your future is hidden in your daily routine.” Mike Murdock

Our routines express our values. We normally spend our time and energy on things that we value, what Jesus calls “treasure.”  He encourages us to invest our life in matters that have a lasting, even eternal value, and not on the temporal trinkets of this life. Is my treasure really a worthwhile treasure? Will the rewards be worth the time and energy I give to them everyday? Sometimes is it wise to sit back and reevaluate what we are doing with our time? 

“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 7/4/2018

We’re gonna have to work at this everyday.”

Usually when we say or hear these words, a few things like relationships, or some healthy lifestyle change come to mind. Some things require daily attention if they are to bring us health and happiness.  It is wise to give thought to what these things are, and then give thought to when and how to do them each day. Someone said “plan to plan.” Include a reminder session everyday first thing in the morning and a review session before you retire at night. Work your garden and work it everyday.

“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek You.” Ps.63 Conversations Within” ts 7/3/2018

“What you do everyday matters more than what you do every once in a while.” Unknown

There are certain activities that I do every day. I read God’s word. I prayerfully reflect and write. I remind myself of who I am, and my purpose in life. I pray for others. I play. I listen to music. I enjoy a good meal. I spend time with my friends. I spend time in nature. Life is in many ways routine. The things we do every day, define us and determine the health of our body and soul.

“Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.” Ps.145.2 Conversations Within” ts 7/2/2018

"Allah says submit. Christ says decide.” Kingdom of Heaven

Choice is a precious gift. With it comes many possibilities, some good, some bad. With it also comes freedom and delights of choosing a loving relationship. There is no such thing as forced love. What a subtle but significant difference is reflected in a commandment and in an invitation. The relationship that God desires is more akin to a marriage than to indentured servitude. 

“Come to me...and I will give you rest”  Jesus Conversations Within” ts 6/30/2018

“When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.” Roy E. Disney

Our values are vital to our decision making process. Life presents us with many choices that produce inner conflict. We sometimes refer to them as temptations. We are given the opportunity to do something we might want to do but know we should not do it because it is not good for us. Well defined values practiced into habit and habit into character make it easier to resist such temptations.

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1Cor.10.13 Conversations Within” ts 6/29/2018

“Good decisions come from experience, and experience comes from bad decisions.”

It is often said that we live and learn but this is not the best approach. Wisdom inclines us to learn and live. One does not have to put their hand on the stove to discover it will burn you. Many bumps and bruises can be avoided if we adopt a humble and teachable spirit and seek the wisdom that comes from listening to the Spirit of God. Decide to learn, then live.

“Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth.
Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you.”
Prov.4.5 Conversations Within” ts 6/27/2018

“Don’t make a permanent decision for your temporary emotion.” Unknown

Someone wisely said, “Your emotions are a gauge not a guide.” Feelings should follow, not lead. The reason is that our feelings can lead us to believe all sorts of things, many of which are simply not true. Emotional decisions many times will get us into trouble. Wisdom teaches us to use sober and sound thinking not our feelings to make good choices. The next time you are tempted to make an emotional decision, give pause to it, and think it through.

“He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, But he who walks wisely will be delivered.” Prov.28.26 Conversations Within” ts 6/27/2018

“Life is a matter of choices, and every choice you make, makes you.” John Maxwell

Considering the sheer power of a single decision, you would think that we would give more thought to them. To go right, or go left, or to not go at all will lead us somewhere. But grace awaits us there if we look for it. Our next choice can powerfully express it. No matter how many bad decisions we have made, our next decision can be a good one, the right one. Make it! 

“Choose this day whom you will serve.” Josh.24  Conversations Within” ts 6/26/2018

Be happy! Choose the superior delights of joy.

We make hundreds of decisions every day. Our every choice expresses the simple desire to be happy. Everything we do, we do to further our happiness. The problem is that some things that we think will make us happy, wind up stealing it from us. Embrace the Spirit’s leading to make choices that bring a lasting, rather than temporal happiness. Such an approach highlights the difference between mere pleasure and joy. Pleasure may make us feel good, but may actually be bad for us. Joy will govern a desire for pleasure and keep it pleasurable.

“The fruit of the spirit is...joy” Gal.5.22 Conversations Within” ts 6/25/2018