Start anew... again

  NEW Year! The word, 'new', holds such promise, such expectation. We all like our new's. The question is...what do we do with our new's? How do we respond? Each year on January 1st we emphasize 'new' by experiencing another opportunity for new through making 'resolutions'. Do we even acknowledge this? How do we meet our 'new'? Recognizing that each of our definitions may differ slightly, the point is many people look at January 1st as the opportunity to start again, anew... to???

  Like many of you (of a certain generation), when I was growing up and realized the significance of January 1st, I was told that it was important to develop some resolutions for improvement... like, not teasing my sibling so much (I never said never because I knew 'never' would never work) or to practice my piano more diligently. And how long did these good intentions last? When did they finally slip from memory and become lost? Unless you are extremely unusual, quite quickly is the truthful response.

  But, if you tried, were you resolved, purposed to (fill in the blank) and now, some days later you fell off your resolve. So? Big deal. We all fall off, the question is - do we get back up? Simply because you didn't hold strong to your plan doesn't mean that you have to undo whatever you have purposed. Start again. Start anew. You don't have to wallow or give up. Recognize that you might have to start again many times before your resolve has a foundation to continue. 

  Actually I think that this should be our mindset when we are trying something new, improved, different. We need to, no not plan to fail but plan what we do when we don't hold to our intentions. Remember - you made a plan to improve you because that's what resolutions should be all about. Don't give up or in when you face an obstacle, a slip. If you are able to start anew... again on January 1st, you can do this on any day. Improving and becoming who you can be should be the focus.

Unique and extraordinary

  Have you ever considered the fact that you are quite extraordinary? I know I've said it before but you are the only person in the world that can be you. No one else can smile the way you do or see the world like you do. Maybe others can do the same kind of work that you do, but not in the same way as you do. Certainly you don't always do what you should, none of us do - not an excuse, an explanation. And yes, you make mistakes but you also can be creative about resolution. You are far from perfect, but if you get up each day and try to be better than the day before, that defines why you really are quite extraordinary.

  However, what I've just said is totally irrelevant if you don't believe this about yourself. It makes little difference if it isn't important to you as well. If this isn't foundational to how you go about being you, then the words are meaningless. In the dark of night before you go to sleep, even with all of the demands that you will face in the morning, if you can't be pleased with you in your day, then you won't experience the rest you need for your tomorrow. If you can say that most of the time you tried, then that's the mark of an achiever, an overcomer. Not perfect yet, but on your way. And that's extraordinary.

  Being extraordinary, however, can't be maintained and built upon if you are attempting to do it alone, through your own efforts. Yes, you are much stronger than you know but you aren't invincible. But you can also do far more than you think you can when you choose to partner with the Lord. That really is your first act, accepting Jesus and what He did, your Savior, so that you can become all that you are destined to be, which becomes your foundation.  After being born again (saved), you begin to learn and discover what this means for you and how you 'fit' into the body. While saved is the mandatory start, it is not the end of your journey - actually it begins it.

  You can never say you aren't important, extraordinary once you have accepted Jesus as Lord and are born again. You are now part of the body and become a soldier in the army of the Lord. (read 1 Corinthians 14, 2 Timothy 2:3) You are needed to fill your place, you are wanted and welcomed, and with your acceptance this defines who you are. You should never forget that you really are a miracle... just like the person next to you.  

MERRY CHRISTMAS

  Happy Holidays??!! I don’t think so. It has and will always be MERRY CHRISTMAS. I love Christmas! I love everything about Christmas – the aroma of cookies baking, the decorating (the doing), the haunting fragrance from the outdoor pine tree, the caroling followed by cookies and hot chocolate. I enjoy the hustle and bustle - the excitement in children's eyes and the mischievous smile in the eyes of parents. I love buying presents for those I love and remembering the joys of Christmases past. I love family being together and engaging in the activities of this season and holiday. Yes... even the snow. This is such a glorious and joyous time of year.

  However... often the reason for the holiday is lost in the process. And with Christmas, the world has commercialized it to such a degree that it’s difficult to recognize its true reason. What we need to be mindful of is that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year because it starts the salvation process. Without Christmas, there is no Easter and without Easter, there is no salvation. And Jesus really is and has always been the reason for the season because if He hadn't been willing to be our propitiation we would be eternally lost. 

  Presents are lovely, but... it is the inexpressible joy of knowing that I have been saved that is the grandest present of all. I pray that it will mark the beginning of a joy filled and fruitful year for you – that is an indescribable gift.

[That was the article I provided for my church's monthly newsletter that I also wanted to share on my blog. There is so very much that I could write about Christmas but this short article sums it quite well.

 To you, who have made Jesus your Lord, may Christmas mark the beginning of a deeper walk for you and a further discovery of all He has provided.

 To you, who haven't made Jesus your Lord, may you reconsider and discover all that being a part of the Family of God has waiting on your acceptance of His free gift of abundant life.]

Mystery

       "Hark the Herald Angels sing, 
        Glory to the newborn King;
        Peace on earth and mercy mild, 
        God and sinners reconciled."

And in those few words, we have God's mystery explained. The words come from one of the Christmas carols that we all enjoy because of the message it brings. We are reconciled - all because of the actions of a babe, the newborn King. Paul: 

       "...the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from 
        generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them
        God willed to make know what are the riches of the glory of
        this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the
        hope of glory."  (Colossians 1:26-27)

  Paul talks about the mystery in a number of different places but what he is saying is that we who are Gentiles have had this destiny of redemption and adoption into the family of God -  from the beginning of time! We have always had a place, a belonging even before God chose the Jewish nation as His people. Romans 11:17 talks about our grafting into the tree through our acceptance and allegiance to Jesus.

  'Christ in you, the hope of glory' - do you understand this or does it remain a different mystery? Regardless of understanding, it is fact for those who count themselves as Christian. It's not a gift that will eventually be given, it is a now reality. Our hope is and always has been in Jesus as our 'door', entry into right relationship with the Father. We never could attain this through our own efforts. No one is 'good' enough, we all sin. The point is that irrespective of our inability, Jesus is able to provide our way when we follow Him.

  This is our empowerment - to be able to do whatever is required, necessary because He is in us, He is our hope of glory. Yes, glory is for another time but it is a promise. And He is is us, the scripture says: (1 Corinthians 6:17) "He who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him." John (17:20-21) in relaying Jesus' prayer says:
   
     "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in
      Me through their words: that they all may be one, as You, Father,
      are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the
      world may believe that You sent Me."

I may not fully understand or appreciate what this says and means, this is a mystery not fully revealed to my understanding, but I do know that I can appropriate this for myself through faith. A mystery and a reality.

  

Forgiveness... at a price?

  Is this your attitude toward others... especially those who have wronged you in some way? Do you want them to pay in some fashion, to extract a price to secure your forgiveness? Or do you simply remind them of your magnanimous nature/behavior in forgiving such an action committed by them? Is there an addendum that tells us we can exact a payment for that forgiveness? I don't think so.

  Ephesians 2:1-10 gives us another reminder of who we were before Christ and who we've become as a result - but not just us - all, God, "...made us alive together with Christ." How we must forgive is demonstrated by the Father's behavior toward us, how He forgives. Just 3 scriptural reminders:

       "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will
        also forgive you." (Matthew 6:14)
       "... forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against
        another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. 
       (Colossians 3:13) 
       "But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven
        forgive your trespasses." (Mark 11:26)

Mark's comments are the strongest in terms of our requirement to forgive. To be forgiven we must forgive - no other option.

  Another way of looking at this is - are we quick to judge? On what basis are you 'judging'? Whose standards determine your response to (fill in the blank)? First - judging is something we all do, almost like this is on autopilot. And this determines what we do next. Judging appears to be a natural instinct but I would argue that it's the context, the 'object' of our judging that is at issue. We are not given the prerogative to exact a punishment. 

  It isn't always easy to walk in forgiveness. No one said it would be. It just happens to be what is required of us. However I know we sometimes want revenge... that's not ours to determine. We can always, always walk in forgiveness when we realize our context that this is the basis we are forgiven. Justice or mercy? I want mercy for me so I must extend mercy to others.

... and in the meantime?

  You are waiting. But it isn't the time quite yet... so, what do you, are you doing now? If you are the anxious (defined as excited, primed) type then you are probably chomping at the bit. If you are the more 'reasoned' type you are probably reassessing your 'resources' and your plan to put into effect once the time is right. Wasting this 'in the meantime' time is not really the best option. If nothing else, 'meantime' teaches you patience. Obviously, since acting before the best time may not produce the desired result.

  Waiting expectantly? This is one of those 'heightened' attentiveness times. We need to continue to be and act intentional in whatever is currently going on in our life. For some, this is extremely difficult because many people want to 'get on with it'. So what productive behavior can you focus on during this period of meantime? I did suggest that reassessing. to make certain you are ready to respond effectively once it is time, is a good use of this time. This is the making certain that 'all the ducks are in a row' approach.

  What else can you do besides reassessing and being attentive to your now? If you are the 'big picture' type, you'll begin to look at the results of this effort and begin to decide what will possibly come next. Perhaps you'll posit a number of options that will or may become available. A big picture approach allows you the luxury to look at how what you are doing fits into the larger canvas. And sometimes in doing this you may find you need to tweak what it is you will be doing.

  Never waste your 'in the meantime' time as it is a valuable opportunity. Too often we have to act 'on the fly' so when these times come, we should always take advantage of them. Perhaps it will be a time for personal growth in areas you've always wanted to pursue but hadn't the time to do so. Maybe it will be a time to build relationships. There are all sorts of possibilities. The point is that you have the opportunity to not just hop up and down in your waiting but to let this time serve you.

Me and... you?

  Especially when we need some assistance, do we seek help with the unstated proposition that it will be ... then get out of the way? Is that what we really are saying? We want or need protection, help or (fill in the blank) - but on our terms? Not sure that's how it works. If we are seeking help, isn't that help from another based on what whoever is being asked and is willing to do? Yet... isn't that how we react to the Lord? Once our 'crises' is over we want to take control again. A quick 'thanks' and we're off. Grateful creation, aren't we?

  Since it isn't a 'positive', do we take the time to learn from the situation we were in to discover what was happening and how to avoid it the next time? Do we develop new methods to respond to such situations? Most important, do we acknowledge the help given to us by others? I suspect we don't take much time to thank the Lord when He was the primary person leading us through the situation we were in. But how about others who help? How do you thank them... do you? Or is it a toss away 'thanks' without any gratitude attached? How do you feel when you have been one of those who helped someone else and they didn't even take the time to say 'thanks'? 

  Relationships are critically important. They aren't really delicate or they won't stand the test of... whatever comes the way. So they really aren't 'delicate' but they do need to be developed. And they do need nourishing, however we define this. No relationship will stand the test of ignoring. Have you seen many long-distance relationships survive? Time, others, lack of communication and interface all contribute to the eventual dissolve. Anyone's fault? Probably but that isn't the point. My suggestion that in any and all relationships there is a critical need for expressions of appreciation, development, and willingness to be in the relationship. While this last sentence may sound strange, think about it. How many relationships are you in, that have meaning, that don't require your participation?

  So my question: how are you nourishing your relationship with the Lord? This is making the unproven assumption that a: you have a relationship and b: you want His involvement in your life. Do you expect Him to only involve Himself in your life when it suits your needs or wants? Relationships really never work this way and to expect it to be the basis and operational definition of your relationship with the Lord is not a relationship. No, you don't have to do deeds of derring do to prove how important the Lord is - but minimally you have to be in communication. If you never spoke with your children or spouse or parents, or your friends, how long will that relationship grow and continue? Is it 'me and you' in your relationships?

Messing up, confusion, and making 'corrections'

  Let's face it... we all mess up. Sometimes we even surprise ourselves by what we just said or did - or didn't say/do. If you feel shocked, you aren't alone. Then again... as long as we aren't repeating a previous mistake, it isn't as 'bad', yes? Okay... we do repeat messes. But often that repeat is the final time for that particular mess. Personally, I feel I am very creative at discovering and/or developing new messes. I may repeat one once, but rarely keep reinforcing it. I attempt to follow (attributed to Einstein) the saying that the definition of insanity is repeating the same behavior but expecting a different result.

  Sometimes, at least for me, I am surprised and just a tad confused about what just happened. Things don't always turn out the way you think they will. And if the surprise is associated with others (and what isn't?) then 'they' rarely react according to the script in your head. The point really is... what am I going to do about it? And the first question has to be - is there anything I can do? Or do I need assistance? Or will I have to accept the situation as is?

  I have also discovered that if I precipitously act then 9 times out of 10 I only make the situation worse. This often is the result if confusion is the feeling. While mistakes happen, exasperating them doesn't need to follow in their wake. Obviously apologize, if not for what you did/didn't do/say, then for how the other person feels. At this point that should be the focus, in my world. You really need the time to consider what precipitated your response, the response, and the reaction to your response. But it always shows consideration on your part when you acknowledge the other person's feelings.

  'Correction' becomes the final piece. Sometimes you really can't do or say anything. Sometimes, whether or not the 'blame' is yours, you simply have to live with it. However, that initial acknowledgement of the other person's feelings may be all that's necessary. Justice can be a tricky thing since it appears that sometimes it's in the eye of the beholder. Grace, on the other hand, is always available as a response. And Mercy toward all, yourself included, heals many a troubling situation.
  

Life is the beginning...

  This is not an 'of course' statement. Life is not easy. I'm not certain it's meant to be. I sometimes think it's like being in school. There are life lessons to be learned, here and now, because I really don't believe this life is all there is. What we learn in this life will be put in context and use in the next. And don't simply dismiss what I've said out of hand. I know the phrase sounds somewhat precious, but life requires us to be engaged. Those who try to only look on from the sidelines are truly throwing away their life.

  I have always been intrigued with Solomon's comments. Here was a man that asked for wisdom and received everything as a result. But he also ended up saying that everything was futile, vanity of vanities. Not a particularly positive view. How did he get to this point? What happened that caused him to walk away from an involvement in his life? Partially, I would speculate, is because he was looking only at the carnal world. He had lost his perspective.

  Do you think that he felt he had experienced everything there was to be experienced and now he was bored? There was nothing left for him? If so, then he was wrong. Each day has new surprises, new opportunities, new... and this is what is exciting. However, I don't believe we should look at our current residence as the end of our all living. Scripture provides us with countless verses attesting to the fact that this life is only the beginning, that there is life after death. But how often do we have this mindset when we are making decisions or simply responding in the day? 

  There are those who never look at the now but focus all their attention on the next life. In my opinion that is throwing away a wondrous gift. Life is worth the living and yes, it is the beginning. But... what a beginning. Life beckons us but we have to respond. And while it can be argued that it's what you do with that 'then' focus, I don't believe that we are meant to only look to 'then'. We are created to engage our now, to be alive in our life. Yes, our treasure is not in this life but we bring who we are now into our next. Life requires our willingness to experience all that happens and learn from it. What will we use it for in the next life? Notta clue. I just know that we have been created to be involved and alive ... now.

Hard Pressed?

  I'm sure we all feel this way at times. But remember 2 Corinthians 4: 8-9

     "We are hard pressed on every side but not crushed; perplexed but 
      not in despair; persecuted but not abandoned; struck down but not 
      destroyed." 

'Not' is the point. We are not crushed, in despair, abandoned, destroyed! Our problem typically is that in the midst of those times, our feelings tend toward feeling crushed, despairing, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down. We forget what we have and who we are and what we've overcome before. Face it - hard pressed times may come but how do we respond, what is our mindset during these times?


  In a recent post, John MacArthur said:

     "God is never caught off guard by our suffering and trials. On 
      the contrary, He’s at work in the midst of all our circumstances, 
      directing all things for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28). 
      So rather than running from persecution, we need to look for 
      what the Lord is accomplishing in the midst of it."

What a terrific perspective. We all tend to look at our sufferings and trials from our perspective, but if we can take a moment and look at it from the Father's perspective, we may find a treasure trove of learning. I don't believe that the actions, if from God, are to tempt us. God tells us He doesn't do this, but we are tested. We, obviously, are intimately involved in our own situation, but our perspective can shift to finding what the Lord is doing in us for our good as we go through.

  Hard pressed is also part of another teaching - Romans 5:3-5a
     
     "...but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces
      perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
      Now hope does not disappoint..."

  Our choice is 'how' we go through these times since the source can come from a variety of places and people. This isn't really the point... the point is our growth and subsequent witness. Hard pressed should strengthen us, but this typically only happens when we decide we will learn and apply the learning. We always have a choice as to how we will respond to these times. Saying that 'it isn't fair' or that 'you don't deserve this' may be true, but if you are in the midst of this... it doesn't help to resolve the hard pressed times. 

Multi-tasking

   Do you engage in this activity? Do you enjoy multi-tasking? Are you good at it? How do you use this ability to your greatest advantage? Is this approach always good, in all situations, at all times? The last multi-layered question was a give away... multi-tasking is a great ability, but it isn't good in and at all times. I would make the argument that there are people who are really good with this talent and also know when to employ it and when not to; just as there are those who really are terrible at multi-tasking. I believe that the problem is more that they don't know when, where, how, and with whom to use it. Or they decide that this lesson is not an ability they're interested in acquiring.

   While I consider myself rather adept at multi-tasking I also don't use it as my primary mode of behavior. When my attention is multi rather than focused then I find that I have to rely on... others, or that the 'project' is now in a mode that needs little tweaking, or that the project has already begun its 'life', etc. My point is that when you do multi-tasking no one 'aspect' can absorb all your attention and that can become a problem. 

  Actually, I think the most fun is in the prep stage and this may be the best use of this ability. Getting from point A to point B often requires all your multi-tasking skills. To effectively and efficiently go forward in accomplishing your goal. The other prep involves your critical thinking and options planning skills - example, if Plan A doesn't work is there a seemless way to proceed and utilize Plan B? 

  Obviously, multi-tasking has its strengths and weaknesses but we can employ those skills to our advantage. But to indiscriminately use this style as our default behavior is rarely effective. I tend to view multi-tasking as my 'big picture' style. However, it is sheer folly to use this style when dealing with people. People very rarely react and respond according to 'our' script. Then again... that's what makes life so 'interesting'.

Giving

  Have you thought about what it is that you give? We all give, every day, but the question is our 'what'. Are you the builder upper giver? Perhaps you dispense love or maybe it's hope. Maybe you are an encourager, strengthening those who may be attempting something entirely new to them and they are hesitant, unsure. Perhaps you are the tearer downer giver. You dispense words of discouragement or of defeat even before the other person ever begins. Maybe you simply project a critical spirit.


  Those two examples are extreme types on either end of a continuum and most of us fall somewhere in between. But do you see your typical giving style? Some people display their giving with words, some with a look, some with deafening silence; but whether requested or not, however we express we all do respond. But what message do we want to project? How do we want the other person to feel? Taking this thought a step further, combine giving with thanks and you have a potent force.


  Thanksgiving is important, a time for us to reflect and remember all the blessings we have received. What does 'thankful' mean for/to you? Is it a phrase tossed out, a kind of 'gee thanks' or is it more? Unfortunately, thanks, thanksgiving, thankful are words that everyone 'knows' - but do we? Do you take the time to acknowledge your thankfulness when it happens or do you save up your thanking for once a year? Silly question? Not necessarily. In my world of definitions thankful is the attitude and the other two words are the actions that identify the attitude. I tend to think that most of us don’t do a very good job of expressing... in a timely fashion. Thankfulness is as much a lifestyle as it is a mindset. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)  Some people know how to be grateful; some know that the expression is based in their beliefs and attitudes.

  Giving and Thanksgiving are attitudes, behaviors-expressions, mindsets and they are cultivated. Many times the thankful feeling is unexpected and you simply have to share - the awareness of what has occurred is occasion for expression. Whatever the situation, the fact remains that thanks, thanksgiving, thankfulness has to be expressed. And often in the sharing, this becomes cause for others' rejoicing with and for you. It has a ripple effect. 

Send me!

  Can you say 'send me' and mean it? And do if you do say it, is it based in faith and confidence? Isaiah 6:8 was a response given to the Father's question,
     
     "I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, And who will
     go for us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me.'"

  There wasn't the question of is this me or is it the Lord. There wasn't a question of whether 'I' was the best choice or the one with the greatest potential for success. There was the simple response of... Here am I. I believe that there was the implicit statement that if 'I' is not the best choice, then you wouldn't be chosen. There was also the under girding belief that whatever equipping was necessary would be present at the point of need. Two statements of faith.

  What would it take for you to respond with...send me? Or do you only want a 'comfortable' Christianity? Not sure that 'comfortable' is any more appropriate than politically correct - both of those are opposite of what Christianity stands for. Have you ever considered that if you waited till all the ducks were in a row and you had everything you needed for success that this would be defined as 'yours' and not the opportunity for you to be a conduit for the Father's power manifested through you?

  John 4:35 tells us that we are, "...to lift up our eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!"  What about you? Can/are you able to respond with a faith declaration? Are you equally ready to go to your family as you are to the farthest reaches of the world? Are you a candidate for the Lord to 'send you' wherever that may mean? Or is your response more of - with reservation? 'Send me' is really the acceptance of a partnership with the Lord to accomplish His goals of the Great Commission - you get the opportunity to be a party to something that goes beyond the norm.

Fair

  I've always appreciated the parable about the man who hired workers at the start of the day and continued throughout the day. At the close of the day, when he was paying the workers, they all received the same wage - which all had agreed to prior to starting work. Those who had worked all day complained that it wasn't 'fair' because they had worked all day and the last group had worked less. The response (and explanation): Matthew 20: 1-16

     "Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for 
      a denarius? Take what is yours and go... Is it not lawful for me to do 
      what I wish with my own things?"

However, it is the end of these verses that caused me pause. "So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen." What is Jesus telling us in these verses? Perhaps it's related to Paul's teaching in Philippians beginning with 2:12

     "...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God
      who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Do 
      all things without complaining and disputing..."

  Fair is one of those words that we all used, typically when things don't go our way. According to Webster, 'fair' is: "what is thought to be right or acceptable,
treating people in a way that does not favor some over others, marked by impartiality and honesty, free from self-interest, prejudice, or favoritism." Is this your definition? More important - does this describe how you interact with others? Does working out our salvation require us to act 'fair' toward others? Is this the embodiment of our behavior?

    There are many lessons to be learned from this scripture and Jesus' teaching. I'm only looking at one very small component - fair. But I believe it is how we respond when we sense the situation isn't fair that tells our story. We won't always be treated fairly, but this does not give us license to respond in like manner. Regardless of the situation, we are required, I believe, to behave fairly toward others. Truly, we are empowered to act this way since most of us would default to a different reaction. However, we have to choose to be what the Lord designs us to be.

Phrase catcher

  I'm a phrase catcher. A phrase catcher is one who, when they are reading all of a sudden a phrase leaps, literally, off the page. For me, whatever I'm reading sends me off on another rabbit trail adventure. Example: I was reading a post by Jacqueline Winspear (who, if you haven't discovered her writing you really should - she a word painter. She paints wonderful pictures with words. As an extended aside - her books take place during WWI and through her writing she transports the reader back into that time.) Anyway... she was writing in "The Naked Truth", a blog that is written by a group of extremely talented writers (published). The phrase - "...what a bittersweet joy memory can be." Is that not terrific!

  Not certain what picture this phrase paints for you, but for me I'm immediately transported to another time and place - rarely the same time/place each instance. And again, for me, there always seems to be a teaching associated with the memory. I've learned to appreciate these opportunities, because they are object learning times to make discoveries about myself and how I interact with the world I live in.

  In terms of this particular phrase it was the 'bittersweet joy' that captured my attention. Memories do provide us with these times but it's how we react to them that gives us a pulse check on our growth. Example: we can berate ourselves on lost opportunities or we can become more sensitive to what is happening and more intentional. Bittersweet occurs in our acceptance that now is not then and we are meant to grow as a result of our learnings. But bittersweet can also occur in those nostalgic memories that we can only savor.

  Do you become captured by phrases? Do they send you on your rabbit trails of new discoveries about yourself, who you are becoming, the people in your world, relationships, plans, goals, etc.? They can provide you with new ways of thinking about things - out of the box as well as in the box. They may lead you into uncharted areas... or maybe just provide a momentary diversion.

Anger...

  What's its source... do you know? Is it guilt-reaction, over something you did or didn't do? Is it righteous indignation? Is it 'justified'? What do you want to happen as the result of your expression of anger? Is the anger a seething? A slow burn that is eventually expressed in an outburst? Or... is for affect? Or is that far too much forethought, which rarely accompanies an outburst of anger? 

  We all get angry at times and I suspect we know how we express our frustration and anger. Obviously, I've also discovered that the same expression is not appropriate for all situations. However, I also believe that the basis of the anger needs to be considered. I gave a hint when I used the word 'frustration'. Sometimes that is the cause/foundation for our anger. The emotions are pent up and explode at the first opportunity. My point is that anger always has a source and is always expressed. 

  I tend to take the position that anger, in and of itself, is not necessarily 'bad'. If you remember scripture - God got angry, Jesus got angry and tossed the money changers out of the temple. Which led me to the logical thought progression that anger isn't necessarily destructive but it's how we express it that defines what our anger is. Do we express it toward others? And, is the person we express our anger to the true object? Does it become physical? Do we want to resolve the issue that is separating us? 

  We will get angry. Anger isn't the problem. Our expression is. But it is also our decision concerning how to express and use this anger. Is it a motivation that will lead to positive outcomes? Is it only an opportunity to express those emotions we are feeling? And yes, I know we can't always be logical and reasoned when it comes to expressing anger. But even after an inappropriate expression, what do we want to happen next? Do you 'use' your anger for potentially positive results? Or... does the anger use you?

Siege mentality

  Is that not a great phrase, or what! Unfortunately, I can't take credit for it... I read it on a post by Jacqueline Winspear. But the phrase is so... so, spot on. I don't remember the context for the phrase but I do know the feelings that arise when you are in a place of feeling you are being besieged from all sides. There is no escape. And no one will take the time to listen to what you are trying to say. This ever happen to you? 

  Actually the most dangerous and insidious condition is the 'mentality' part. We probably will never be able to completely and consistently avoid siege times but we need to not assume the mentality part of this condition. When we experience an overwhelmed time our brains go into a lock down preservation as protection. While this is an oft appreciated defense, we can't take up residence there for long. We have to emerge to 'conquer' the siege. Melodramatic. No, not really. There are times that we have to retreat in order to fight another day. But the point is to prepare for that 'another day'. If we don't then we simply give up and give in and that is rarely satisfying and may not be necessary.

  The point is ... do you know what you do when confronted with these times. How, not just when, do you take the time to regroup and resupply that which you need to be victorious, or minimally to take a stand? The first thing you need do is to take charge of the 'mentality' part which means facing the feelings because if you don't they will rise up, typically at the wrong time. It is your mind, you are to renew it, so it is your responsibility... and privilege. And yes, this is throwing the 'ball back into your court'. But your life IS yours. What do you want and need to do?

  Have you considered that you are the determiner in this? You really are. No one can force you to face whatever is besieging you. No one can force you to develop strategies that will work as a template for what you can and will do both now and in the future. Sure you can lie down and accept the siege but are you really only an ineffective coward? Of course not. Never forget that "No weapon formed against you will prosper." (Isaiah 54:17) And that you are, "...more than a conqueror through Christ who strengthens you." (Romans 8:37) I could add other scriptures, but these two should provide you the strength to stand. 

... and Peter

  Two words in Mark 16:7. But such powerful words. This was spoken by the angel(s) at the tomb after the crucifixion and burial, but they give all of us hope. Peter is singled out by the angel to be told the glorious news that Jesus had overcome the last enemy - death. Remember that Peter had denied Jesus, not just once but three times. Can you even imagine how he must have felt? The declaration by Peter that Jesus said He would build His church on denied The Son of God! (Just for clarification - it was not the man Peter, but his confession of Who Jesus was that the church is built on.)

  And now, Jesus was dead. And Peter had no way of seeking forgiveness from Him. He was a doomed and lost man. Yet...  What is this report that the women are bringing to the disciples? Jesus isn't dead?! Is it possible that what He said really IS true? And we all know the 'rest of the story'. All that Jesus told the disciples is true. But what about Peter? 

  Peter has always been one of my favorite people because he was so very human. He was a passionate person who readily displayed this. It was he who made the first proclamation of who Jesus was. He cut off the ear of the High Priest's servant when Jesus was arrested. He was one of the three inner circle disciples. He was willing to go back out to fish based on Jesus' word though he didn't believe there would be success. And those are only some of the behaviors that he displayed. But this can give us all hope.

  Peter, though making rash judgments passionately believed in Jesus even though he did deny Him. Have you ever experienced this apparently contradictory and dichotomous behavior in yourself? I have. And then I remember Paul's words of frustration when he states that he doesn't do what he wants to do but does those things he doesn't want. This really describes all of us. Christians want to be good examples and faithful witnesses. But we don't always do this. Both Peter and Paul's behaviors show us that though we slip or fall, we can choose to get back up and become that effective ambassador for God. 

The weightier matters

     "...the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith..."  

This admonition by Jesus was given to the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 23:23). It's a warning to look at what we are valuing and what needs valuing. It also is a word to help us look at what we actually do and not just say. We all need to look at our lives and actions to discover if we are focusing on those weightier matters. And, if not, exactly what are we doing? What is more important than justice, mercy, and faith?

  I'm one of those who believes we are living in the last days. All you have to do is to look around you to see and hear the violence that impacts everyone... daily. Leadership seems little concerned except for their own comfort. 

     "But know this that in the last days perilous times will come: For men 
      will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, 
      blasphemers ... unloving, brutal, despisers of good, ..." (2 Timothy 3: 1-4)

While I haven't listed all of the 'characteristics' from those verses, the ones I've indicated give a rather detailed description and we can see them on display. However, it is verse 5  that puts a period on the times - "...having a form of godliness but denying its power." To me this speaks of arrogance and a self-blindness that is truly alarming. These people may not realize what they are asking from others and they certainly exempt themselves and their friends, but blind obedience should never be our response.

  What we all need to focus on, regardless of the times and situations, are the weightier matters. We need to act with justice and mercy in faith. Not compromise. Not truth denying. All of us who count ourselves as Christians need to be circumspect - we can't point fingers and say that they (Christian and non) aren't doing it so that gives us license not to (fill in the blank). This won't work, this is no excuse. And yes, we all stumble at times. But I also believe that the more often we do purpose to be and act with justice, mercy, and faith; the more this will become an ingrained foundation in us.

Goodie two shoes

   Not sure what they call it today, but that comment, when I was growing up, meant someone who was a 'brown-noser', who always behaved 'perfectly' when in the presence of adults. However, the 'in front of' didn't always mesh with the 'behind of'. They also tended to be tattle-tale types. These were people to avoid or you may face the possibility that you may be the butt of their actions. I don't know what this behavior may be called now but the point was that these 'types' weren't trust worthy. Then again... not sure peer approval is their purpose or goal.

  One would need to look at the motivation behind this behavior and the results that accompany it. While attributing motive to someone else can be incorrect, their behavior over time does give you some definite information. Also another clue would be if the actions focus negative attention or blame on an innocent person. These clues may be misinterpreted but if it speaks to a pattern of behavior over time, then this would give credence to being alert around this person.   

  One question is: Is there something inherently 'wrong' with being tagged as a goodie two shoes? Possibly not, except for the reputation that accompanies this behavior. Or if this is for show and isn't an integral part of who you are. If you are a person who seeks to be kind, wants the best for all, acts for the benefit of all; then this person acts this way in all situations and with all people equally. If it's a 'put on' then there is little congruence between the public and private person.

  Bottom line is your experience in these types of situations, with these types of people. If you've been the unfortunate focus of such a person then the memory will probably alert you to any potential problem. My bias would be that the false goodies should be handled with a great deal of suspicion, preferably from a great distance. However, there are the rare individuals who really DO want the best for everyone and act on this. They can be misguided and/or wrong but they aren't malicious and don't focus the 'blame' onto others. 

Part of the Family

  Do you know that you're part of a family? Do you feel that you belong? The answer to the first questions is - YES. The answer to the second is dependent upon you. That's the truly remarkable reality that accompanies all of us when we accept the gift Jesus offers. You, as in you, are always accepted. No one can tell you that you aren't part of the family. You, as well as others, may not always like what you do but that has no bearing on your 'membership'. So now you have three families - your nuclear one, your church, and your eternal one. The latter will never disinherit you.

  The caveat in this is that the family does tend to disagree at times, typically on non essential things - I suspect this is why we have as many denominations within Christianity as we have. While the church family may disagree, just like our nuclear family, we need to never forget that this is us, it is not the Father - He never leaves or forsakes us. Never forget that the angels rejoiced when we come into the Family.

  Just like every nuclear family is or can be vastly different in the interpersonal dynamics, the same is true of our church family. But in the Family of God, we are all equal and share all things together. Galatians 3:28
     "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is
      neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
We are all one! Verse 29 goes on to tell us: "And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seek, and heirs according to the promise." One! Heirs! If that isn't reason for shoutin' time I don't know what would be.

  Each of us have our own jobs and responsibilities in our earthly families that we need to fulfill. My bias is that 1 Corinthians 12 is an attempt by Paul to give us an understanding and appreciation of the Family we have been birthed into, to emulate in our early ones. In verse 12 Paul begins to teach about the body and the membership we have. Everyone is needed, their gift and talent acknowledged; verse 26 - "And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it."

  It never is a question of you earning your place or being worthy enough. None of us can. But the unspeakable joy is that the Father sees us through the eyes of Jesus. And, our acceptance and belief in Jesus is sufficient.

Too late smart?

  I sometimes think that this phrase is my default primary modus operandi. OK, not always, but there are times when I feel like hitting myself aside the head because I really should have known or understood (fill in the blank). I finally got to the 'not to overreact' stage because the point is that eventually I did realize.  Sorry, if you felt that what I said didn't apply to you or that it was just a bit presumptuous - not intended. Still, regardless, the point is that like me, you do see what you missed earlier and now you can adjust or change if you acted prematurely... or seemingly too late.

  Realizing and then adjusting should be more of the focus then your feelings that you should have known earlier. Sometimes though, missing the timing may make adjusting more difficult, you have to flow with the new reality. So there you are standing in your new understanding, what do you do? Do you bring everyone who are directly involved and inform them of the need for change? Do you involved them in the new approach or simply announce that there is a change? Acceptance is typically based on understanding and some level of ownership so all involved really do need to be consulted on some level. It's not so much changing horses in midstream as it is realizing that a change is needed.

  And yes, all that I said is patently logical and life, people, activities/events are not always logical. Quite honestly, it is we who bring the logic to bear. If we don't bring logic with us then either someone who did or chaos reigns. The problem is that time and resources are wasted when we fix our eyes on the 'wrong' thing. This isn't the first time of a 'too late smart' situation so having experienced a variety of actions to the discovery should give us multiple options. Does it? Sometimes yes, sometimes not so much.

  Too late smart is really a terrific teacher when we allow it to provide us with this understanding so we don't repeat the behavior. We won't always get it right but we can look at the behaviors we display to determine those that positively affect and effect a new paradigm. Forced to think out of the box may be the greatest benefit of... too late smart.  

hyp-o-crite

       “a person who claims or pretends to have certain beliefs

       about what is right but who behaves in a way that

       disagrees with those beliefs” (Webster)

  I can’t tell you the number of times this has been the reason given to the question about becoming a Christian. Countless. But that’s focusing on the human component, us, and not the eternal one, Jesus. He wasn’t a hypocrite so why look to frail man instead? Probably because WE are His visible examples in the world. And what does that say about who we are as Christians?

  I would suspect that we all are hypocrites at times, though this doesn’t excuse. Though the ‘everyone’ does it excuse doesn’t work, we do use it – to excuse our own behavior. I’d like to challenge the ‘everyone does it’ excuse. Simply because ‘everyone’ may be true doesn’t mean that you have to succumb to the failing.

  A serious question for us is, if we are the stumbling block for others then we need to serious look at what we are doing - our words and behaviors, but especially our actions. Romans (14:13) and 1 Corinthians (8:9) both talk about how we can be stumbling stones for others and acting hypocritical is definitely a stumbling stone.

  We all need to realize that there is so much we don’t know or understand about being a Christian. It is no shame to say – ‘I don’t know...’ or ‘I don’t understand either...’  Whether an unbeliever or a new Christian, this ‘lack’ can be an impetus for mutual growth when you ask them to join you in making the discovery for understanding. You can model for others that you too are still growing, still becoming; that none of us has all the answers.

  My point is that though we may act hypocritical, we don’t need to continue this type of behavior. I don’t believe we are ever surprised when we are ‘caught’ in this divisive behavior. But we can be more.  We really are better than this... just not by ourselves, we need the help of the Lord and He is more than willing. We can acknowledge this and seek to change. We are able. Look at ‘slipping’ times as wake up calls helping you to continue the change. 

Christian... Politically Correct

  This probably won't be a easy read because it's a difficult subject. Back in 2010 I wrote a blog post about the incompatibility of a alliance between two opposites - Christian and politically correct. My point then was that it is a total oxymoron - one can't be both. I still believe this. And in looking at the church and how it is interacting with the world 4 years later, I sadly suggest that the church has tried to be 'tolerant' and inclusive. It doesn't work. The principles that are the foundation of each are antithetical. Applying this particular scriptural principle, 

     "No one can serve two masters for either he will hate the one and 
      love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other..."        (Matthew 6:24)  

Unarguably we live in a world that is full of compromise, relativists and fence straddlers. Attempting to straddle the fence of Christian and politically correct is not possible - why attempt to marry two diametrically different approaches to life? We have been called to a higher standard. We are to be salt and light, which rarely means 'popular'.

  The 'don't rock the boat' or those advising 'trying to please' mentality attempts to do and be both, which is a lost cause. Part of the dilemma rests in the foundation which each proposes to be and do in life. Politically correct really defines 'shifting sand'. There are moments that we find that word has been redefined or modified so that what was incorrect before, suddenly isn't (or the reverse). Those with the loudest voices tend to have the greatest determination of definition. Also, we discover that behaviors that were totally unacceptable have now the status of 'correct' and proper. According to who? No explanation for the shift is given but it occurred.

  Contrary to this continual shift is Christian, whcih hasn't changed. What was foundational 2000 years ago is still foundational. 'Correct' behavior is still according to a standard that is easy to discover, though if we try to strike a balance with 'political correct' we discover this is difficult, if not impossible. Christians have a handbook to follow that is stable and unshifting. God's principles have always been true.


  More and more we find there is a conflict in definitions, in behavior, in standards between Christian and politically correct - this is only going to intensify. Sadly, Christians are so concerned about being 'acceptable' that they, too often, compromise the Christian values and standards. The 'convenient' Christian has empowered the minority voice to make the standard for all, and most of these people do not even accept a Christian morality. Eventually everyone will have to take a stand and it will be either/or. Either you are an uncompromising politically correct adherent or you are an uncompromising Christian.  

      "... I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; 
       therefore choose life..." (Deuteronomy 30:19)

Relapse

    Do you feel this describes you? That you always end up relapsing in your attempts to 'improve'? Well of course! Why are you surprised that some habit that is entrenched simply retreats gracefully? Not gonna happen. But we all feel this way and then are surprised when that which we are trying to change doesn't docilely agree. The point is to not allow the relapse to control. When you are trying to be a better you, don't give up on you! 

     "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed
      is willing, but the flesh is weak." (Mark 14:38)

  Oh yes. Temptation comes, but We are the ones who have the power as to how and if we will succumb to the temptation. Certainly, we can be blindsided but then what? Do we continue in the relapse or pick ourselves up to try again? Let's face it... temptation is on all sides, especially when you are trying to overcome (fill in the blank). No long held 'habit' is going to give up without a fight! But who's in control? Simply because you relapsed doesn't mean you have to continue in the self-defeating behaviors and thoughts.

 I also believe that we all need others to support us, to be accountable to, we have not been made to go it alone. But we have to be willing to share, to reach out to others to come along side of us. And this is never easy. When we are trying to improve, to grow we don't always like to share the less than perfect parts of us, so reaching out to someone else to stand with us in our battle is admitting our less than perfect self. But your willingness to acknowledge and then work to improve can have a domino effect in that it can be a witness to others that they can do the same.

  We are all in process... We aren't where we can be, become. I believe it's expected that we will always face temptations and relapses when we are fighting our battle to improve, and that really is what we're doing - fighting, to become a better you/me. The longer the habit has been in existence, the longer the battle. BUT the greater the victory. If you don't give up on you, you will come through a stronger you.

GOD

  (I tend to think that the word should always be in caps.) Seriously, can you really get your head around the word, concept...person? To me, it is an ongoing and unending discovery that is never 'expected'; and 'assume' should never be part of the definition. You find yourself making your discoveries in amazing and sometimes amusing times and places. The point though is Person, God is a person not simply an idea. No one could ever conceive of the magnitude or splendor that is God. If God is only a word, a concept then He never really is... real.

  I was curious about why God described Himself in scripture in different ways, components and with attributable names. The more I thought about it, the more it became evident that this was so He could demonstrate Who He was to man in smaller pieces so man could understand. Can you imagine how we would react if God presented Himself in toto, all at once? Talk about overwhelm - we would not be able to take it all in. However, I don't believe that this means we aren't to deliberately and intentionally discover Who God is. I believe He wants to be known.

  God described Himself by what He does as much as who He is. His names are a demonstration of Who and What He is. God provides what we need, when we need it, and in His way - He gives gifts to man. Examples: Jehovah Jireh - our provider, Jehovah Rapha - our healer. Those are only two examples of all of the names of God. But even within each of the descriptions, we need to realize that the word encompasses so much more. Using as an example 'Jehovah Jireh' - typically we think in terms of provision as material and financial. While this is true, there is also the provision of creative expression - art, music, writing. 

  Remembering that need can't be defined by 'want', there's no way of categorizing the various provisions in terms of 'status', importance. There is also all the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual provisions and healings. I would argue that there is nothing that influences and impacts our lives that God isn't able to provide whatever it is we need. And while we will never know the entirety of Who God is, it will be more than a worthwhile journey of discovery. God wants us to know Who He is and He wants relationship with us, which I find amazing. Knowledge can lead to understanding, and understanding can lead to appreciation, and appreciation can lead to ...

Without Faith

  To be perfectly honest... there are times when you may 'feel' that you are operating on little or no faith, I know I do. That truly is a terrible place to be in because all you seem to accomplish is running in circles. My experience is that running in circles, other than not getting you anywhere, leaves you exhausted. However, before you capitulate... stop, assess, and most importantly - seek the Lord. One of the most famous prayers has always been, "Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief."

  For me, to be without faith means that there is no spice and flavor to the day. Everything is a bit flatter and meaning doesn't exist. That's part of my definition of 'without faith'. Faith really is a bulwark and we all need this because we all feel and face times that seem, to us, to be more than we can handle. Without faith it is impossible to move. Typically self pep talks don't work or don't last. This is why we need to be able to stand strong on our foundation of faith, a faith that we know, that we've experienced.

  Another interesting aspect of faith is found in the statement that, " Without faith, it is impossible to please God..." (Hebrews 11:6) The remainder of that verse is important too but just considering this phrase, what does this tell us? Simply that we should never come to the Father without an assurance on our part that we come in faith... believing, even if this is as small as a grain of mustard seed (Luke 17:6). Then again, why come if we don't believe? Perhaps it's also a statement that we need to believe in our faith. This is also when we should review the experiences/times that faith held us strong.

  Bottom line is that without faith we won't go anywhere. If you feel empty and nothing seems to work, consider the scriptures that talk about faith and know them so well that they trip off your tongue. "Faith is the substance... the evidence..." (Hebrews 11;1) And one of my personal favorites, "...God has dealt to each one a measure of faith..." (Romans 12:3) You can build yourself up in confidence by reciting them - scripture is a powerful weapon against fear and hopelessness. 

No little thing

   Without question the most significant decision you will ever make is what you do about Jesus. Who is He? Was (and still is) He who He said He was and did He do what is reported of Him? What difference does He make in your life? Your initial decision and the choice is simple: accept Him and all this means for your life or reject Him. If you choose to accept Jesus and His Lordship over your life you enter into a never ending adventure. Truly, when you meet the Lord for this first time you discover that nothing will ever be the same again.

  That being said, what you do next is entirely your decision too. Do you want to discover all that is contained in accepting Jesus' Lordship? Do you really want to become the best you that's possible? You really can't do it alone... you need the Lord's assistance to grow into that beautiful person you really are. And it is never instantaneous - it takes time and it takes commitment to make whatever changes you decide you will undertake. I believe we all are involved in an ongoing activity of personal growth, which is no little thing.

  Make up your mind that you will still make mistakes, still say and do what you wished you hadn't. However, now you have assistance (scripture, prayer, the Holy Spirit, fellow Christians) to accomplish the goal of being all you're meant to be. When you do those things you wished you hadn't, you have greater assurance about righting your wrong. And while you do reap what you sow, you do have the ability to be fruitful with a good crop.

 Unfortunately, many people who do accept Jesus as Lord seem to stop at the point of salvation and never continue their journey into the fullness, the abundance that comes with accepting Jesus. I suspect many are unaware but there are also those who, while they acknowledge who Jesus is and did all that He said He would do, they don't move on because...??? concern that their old ways will have to change? That they don't have the strength or will to grow? There can be multiple reasons for stopping. The interesting point is that whether or not we grow and become all that He has for us is really our choice. We are the decision maker and our decision is no little thing. 
  

And then there's the rest of you...

  While salvation is instantaneous, spiritually, when you ask Jesus into your life and to be your Lord, that's not the end. He does ask you to come... just as you are, but He has no intention of leaving you in that condition - there IS the rest of you. What do I mean? Simply. Your spirit was immediately cleansed and accepted at that moment but there's also your soul and body to consider (and contend for). And now the rest of the story is told by you.

  Body: it really is your decision as to how you treat your body. It's yours and it's your responsibility. Feed it with non-nourishing foods and you will balloon out or you will be sluggish. If all you do is to sit around, this sedentary lifestyle will not be healthy. Healthy - that's the goal. There are so many good and healthy foods available to us but when we choose, because it always is a choice, to eat those foods that cause us to be ill then we are reaping what we sow. Sadly it appears that it's those foods that we crave but we can curb this and in the process reduce our risk for cancer or diabetes or any of the other life-threatening diseases. 

  Soul: mind, will, emotions - at least that's the definition I've been taught. This is where the longest, hardest battles are fought. This is where you make decisions about who and what and your how of Christianity. And this is always growing and refining and becoming. You are now in the developmental stages of who you are as a Christian. If this wasn't true then why are we told in many places to renew our mind? And it doesn't stop with the mind. We are emotional creatures. We express the vast array in the panorama of feelings. And when it comes to will... just watch a very young child sometime and you see the effect and influence of the will. As for the will... only you can choose to control.

  One could argue that splitting ourselves up into 3 components, especially since they interrelate as much as they do, is unnecessary. I would argue that this gives us a greater understanding of not only who we are but how we are put together. In this life, a great deal of our growing effort is spent in the soul area and yes the spirit and body relate highly since the soul does as much directing as it does. It is our spirit, the most eternal aspect of who we are, which should be in the 'driver's seat' but it is our will and mind and emotions that far too often dictate. However, as we renew our mind, as we bring our emotions into focus that the spirit can make itself known. 
  

What is YOUR story?

     "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine; Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
     Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood."
     
  Is this you? Do you have the blessed assurance? Do you see yourself as an heir of salvation? Do you realize that accepting Jesus as Lord you have been born of His Spirit? Do you praise Him all the day long? Is this your story, your song? Perhaps a great number of questions, but this can be... the decision is yours.

  If you don't have the assurance, then what is your story? Because every story is important and bears witness of who we are and how we became to be who and what we are. Growth and continuing to become all we're destined to be is available as we take hold of this. But right now, right here - can you 'sing' your story? More important - are you adding verses to your song? 

  One of the first things I learned in my walk with the Lord is that I can't deny who I've become. That only cheapens who the Lord is and what He has purchased for me. Denying that I am an heir, born of His Spirit would be denigrating all He went through so that I could become all He has for me. Admittedly, I really hadn't looked at it in this way - it's called false modesty. Truly we are to proclaim loudly who we now are because of who and what the Lord did for man, even if (you) I was the only one.

     "This is my story, this is my song. Praising my Savior all the day long.
     This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long."

  Praising is more than we tend to think it is. Most people consider praise as singing songs to the Lord. True. But praising can come from how you live your life - what your story becomes. So... again, is this your story, your song? Your words, your behavior, who you are always becomes your testimony and can become your song of praise. What kind of song are you? 

Going it alone...

  Are you? Do you enjoy solitariness? Are you truly so self-sufficient that you don't need (or want?) to partner in order to accomplish (fill in the blank)? Why do it alone? Do you know? Is it lack of trust that someone else would want or have the ability to become involved? Is it you are concerned that you'll lose the 'control' to someone else?  Or... do you think that no one will care as much as you? Another factor is that perhaps it's a feeling of why would anyone want to be involved in what I'm doing... and if I don't ask I won't be rejected, or worse - ridiculed. Apply to you? 

  I do believe that other people's commitment has to be a strong rationale as to why we don't always involved others - but I think the loss of control would probably be the strongest reason. If you are the one with the vision, if it's your 'baby' then perhaps it could be your inability to articulate it so that others could or would want to become involved? If you are the 'designated' leader, do you doubt your abilities to lead others? There are a host of questions that can be asked, but the basic one is - do you want to go it alone?

 Trust, self-sufficiency, opinions all play a role in our willingness to seek others to be involved. Perhaps previous experience of involving others has verged on disastrous. Regardless, each new venture, each new 'project' is opportunity to go it alone or partner with others. If you are doing the 'inviting' then you have to face those questions and issues that support, or not, providing the invitation. If you are the one being invited, then these same questions and issues exist but from a different perspective. Point in all this - whether to partner or not.

  Going it alone does have advantages, basically those of control. But you do miss another's viewpoint or suggestions. None of us has all the answers, even when we think we do. Sharing really underscores the notion of inclusion and of teamwork to accomplish (fill in the blank). It really isn't a challenge to your ability to 'do' it by yourself, rather a question of - why?   

  

Sacrifice not Suffering

  We really do often get things the wrong way round. First we don't define spiritual words according to scripture but use worldly definitions which often are completely contrary to scripture, which should be our basis if we are defining spiritual words. And we often attribute negative or painful definitions rather than looking at the word from God's perspective. My case in point... sacrifice.

  Sacrifice, according to Webster, is: "the act of giving up something that you want to keep especially in order to get or do something else or to help someone." Another definition from Webster states, "...to suffer loss of, give up, renounce, injure, or destroy especially for an ideal, belief, or end." Now.. doesn't that just make you want to sacrifice? I think not. Look at the definition - give up something you want. The reason - to get something else. It is only belatedly stated as: to help someone. Really! Makes sacrifice to be a self-serving act, doesn't it? 

  However, when you look at the scriptural definition we find a different approach and definition. God speaking in Hosea 6:6 "For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, And the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings." Matthew 9:13 Jesus tells us, "But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but the sinner to repentance." This is an entirely different mindset. The world definition is deprivation but the spiritual is focused on inclusion and gain.

  I won't argue that, at times, sacrifice does include 'giving up' something you consider of value. But... for what reason? To suffer? Suffer what? Scripture is clear in that the Lord desires mercy and not sacrifice. I am not disparaging sacrifice, but I would suggest putting it in the proper context and definition... and this cannot be done outside of knowing what the Father's word says. Somehow I've never read that 'suffering' is part of the definition. 

Curious

  Is 'curious' a word that defines who you are? Do you look for discoveries and adventures? And... if not, why not? Being curious can be strictly an intellectual adventure. It can be a wondering about (fill in the blank). It can also be an actual hands on, outside the box action, which typically can be great fun. If you are the curious type then you tend to look at life and everything that is involved in that word slightly differently than the norm. But is this all bad?

  'What if' and 'I wonder...' characterize the curious. If it's always been done in a particular way, the curious types would wonder if there isn't an even better way to (fill in the blank). The word 'adventure' is closely aligned with curious. But most important is how you react - do you seek or run from the way of interacting with your world? Are you concerned that the adventure will shatter, or at least question your status quo? It will. Do you embrace 'curious' for you, share it with others or tightly hold it? 

  Our attitudes about these words will indicate how (if) we approach them. Do remember that none of this means walking into places that even angels won't tread. For me these words introduce me to something I didn't know before, or remind me of previous learnings that I had merely filed away. Curious and adventures can be solo or can be with others. As for control - you are in the unknown which gives you the option to enter in to the adventure or not, but forget about control.

  Adventures can relate to anything, and everything. A quiet walk in the woods can turn into an adventure... as can a walk on city streets. Adventures can be 'planned' or spontaneous and both have the same result: something new, something different. Whether the adventure is quiet, noisy, peaceful, energetic, with others, alone it will be full of wonder, of remembering. The life of an adventurer is truly bursting with discovery. And... presupposing you can laugh at yourself, quite a lot of chuckles.