A lesser life

Is that how you would describe your life ... lesser? Why? Why would you choose lesser? And, like it or not, it is You who is doing the choosing. It's because (you don't have or you do have...fill in the blank) that stops you. So, to make certain I am understanding you correctly, it's other people or bad choices or lack of what you consider 'sufficient... that is what's stopping you? Or are these only excuses or self-justifications?!

Those with this mindset are easy to spot. They make a goal statement and then follow it quickly with... but. The 'but' is the reason(s) why this will never be. IF it can never be then why even talk about it in the first place?! Why make a goal that is either impossible or highly unlikely to ever be a reality? Are you trying to placate someone so are only going through the motions? Is 'failure' a state that you are comfortable in because it gives you an excuse to not try or not try to the fullness of your ability? I realize that this all sounds harsh, but sometimes we need to be real in order to honestly face what we are saying and doing. 

So are you satisfied with less? And if so - WHY? Why would you accept less that the absolute best for you? The Lord has told us:

   "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful 
    are your works; my soul knows it very well." (Psalm 139:14, ESV)

God don't make trash... nor does He make a mistake. He breathed life into us (Genesis 2:7) and gave man charge over all His creation (Genesis 1:26-28) - this is definitely NOT less. And remember Jesus' words about why He came:

   "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they 
    may have life and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)

We are to live an abundant life. If you aren't then you are buying into a lie, being lazy, accepting less than your inheritance in the Lord. And, I suspect that there are a whole lot of other reasons, reactions, 'excuses'. You can't always look at what is, because this life and world is transient. Our abundant life here is meant to fruitful and fulfilling - and we play a crucial role in this because the Father chose to work through us - we can be His Ambassadors (2Corinthians 5:17-21)

It is time to stop denying our heritage and our responsibility (regardless of our circumstances and feelings) and to stand with our brothers and sisters in the Lord to become all we are intended to be in the world in which we live! We have not been created to be and live a lesser life... NEVER forget the words in John 10:10

   "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

BUT... you have to choose this!

And after...

Christmas was yesterday (or a few days ago), so it's all over with? You survived THE major holiday of the year. Relieved? A little let down after all the festivities? So now you can put aside all the 'details' of this holiday and not think about it for at least 360 days? Is that all that Christmas is? 

I believe that the sad response is... yes. Though we are admonished in many ways to 'keep Christmas the whole year' - we don't... or don't know how. What does keeping Christmas the whole year mean? What is at the core of this counsel? If we strip away the presents, the tinsel and glitter, the food and jollity, etc. what are we left with? Energy. Happiness. Hope. Love extended. Well wishes. And none of those cost a single cent. They do require a mindset of rejoicing and focus, however. Will this describe you... in the middle of July?

Rejoicing and focus? How can we ever live a Christmas the whole year in our hearts without focusing? This behavior must be intentional because typically everything around us is telling us the opposite story and thinking. Rejoicing? Now this can be or become the reason. What do you have to rejoice about? If you think about 'Who', then the answer is clear. So what will you do, even if you are the only one, to express the attitude of keeping Christmas year round? How will you rejoice?

And focus? Does this become the foundation of a year round attitude of Christmas? 

   "For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the 
    government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called
    Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of 
    Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be 
    no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order 
    it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, 
    even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this."
    (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Look at when these words were written - Old Testament! This was a prophecy that would be fulfilled in the New Testament. Galatians 4:4-7, ESV

   "But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, 
    born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem 
    those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption 
    as sons. Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of 
    His Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” Therefore you are 
    no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God."

Look at those words. The promise was given in Isaiah and fulfilled and reported in the Gospels. The words in Galatians should cause us all to be in a state of continual rejoicing and focus. These words are worth keeping in our hearts and minds and expressing in our actions. We can live Christmas 365 days a year!

PRESENTS!!!

Doncha just love getting presents? And, at least for me, Christmas presents are THE best. The gifts are wrapped and placed under the tree (even when the only gifts are from you to you). If you don’t know what’s in them, then you can speculate on what might be in those brightly decorated boxes. But, in the back of our minds isn’t the nicest gift that we were remembered… regardless of what’s inside? Do you feel the same way about giving gifts? I always try and get the giftee something I hope they will like. And watching their faces as they open it is so … lovely.

Can you apply that thinking to the greatest gift we received one morning in Bethlehem? A child was born, destined to be the Savior of the world. Can you imagine the wonder in the eyes and hearts of those shepherds when the angels appeared announcing the birth? Wonder… Awe… Questions… Hope… They had to be amazed and excited about what this gift might portend. 

When you remember your pleasure when someone opened your gift, imagine the Father’s joy at seeing our reaction to His gift to us? He has just given us a way back into relationship with Him and all we need do is to accept and unwrap the wonderful gift. Indescribable joy! After the immediate reaction is over…what do we do with this unbelievable gift? Do we let it pervade all we do and say? Or… do we put the gift on the shelf and only bring it out occasionally? Let it Be all that’s intended for your life.


That was an article I wrote for my church's newsletter that I wanted to share. We all love to receive gifts even when we aren't certain what to do with them. But my question remains... what do we do with the gift of life, the gift of restoration, the gift of family, the gift of life's purpose, the gift of... and I could go on. The point is - if you count yourself as a Christian, then you've received multiple gifts in our one act of accepting Jesus as Lord. How we share and express those gifts is our determination. But simply putting your salvation on the back burner or shelf should never be an option. 

Begin to see that YOU are your gift, your present to the world. What you are and do isn't insignificant or unwanted. Be your gift with joy, love, and wonder.

Holidays = Home

I love the (seasonal) winter holidays! Thanksgiving... Christmas... and to a lesser extent - New Years. These were and continue to be very special days which, for me, meant home and family. I do appreciate that my experiences aren't mirrored in everyone's lives but mine are so blessed. Which means that I get incredibly nostalgic... this year seems to be more so.

Why? The song, "There's no place like home for the holidays ..." keeps playing over and over in my mind, partially because happiness and joy seemed to blanket us all at this time of year. There seemed to be a gentleness, an attempt for understanding to permeate relationship and interactions. It always was true ... and I miss this! And at the center was - Home. Again, not everyone's experiences of this time of year at home, are positive and uplifting. If yours are, then you too are incredibly blessed. 

What's different in the now from the then? People. Family members who have gone home to be with the Lord aren't present to gift us with their particular touches. Yes, there are new members... just wish I could blend the then and now people. (Never said I wasn't a cake and eat it too type.) And as nostalgic as I am and can become, the point is to live in this particular moment. If I don't, then I will miss making new memories. Even worse, I won't honor those earlier memories and that I don't want to do.

So, 2019 - making new memories with those who populate my life. It won't change the emphasis of Holidays = Home, only the participants. Making my world famous (in my mind) fudge, thinking about doing some cookies..., decorations up, Christmas letter sent. Not a bad start. 

There is also a major consideration - not to lose the reason for the season. It's all about the Lord... or it should be. He is our reason for joy and peace, happiness and wonder, and should be the basis about how we interact with the time and each other. Father God gave us a wonderful gift of salvation. How are we handling it? Are we spreading its message of life? Regardless of anything, we have a great deal to celebrate and should demonstrate this! May you be touched by the love...wherever you call Home. 

It depends on your view...

What do you want for YOU in this holiday season? Are you experiencing stress? Stress should never be part of the Christmas holiday... regardless of the source of the stress. Is joy present? Warm fuzzies? Is fun bringing a sparkle to your eyes? Do you look forward to this time of year with anticipation... or dread? Ultimately it's up to you because it's YOUR attitude and you do control this.

I tend to be a glass half full type (quite irritating to many) which means I am willing to take responsibility for who I am and what I do and say, but that I view this in a positive (silver lining) not negative light. Again - our view, our attitude is always ours and this we can control. Perhaps we can't control the conditions we are experiencing but we always can control how we respond to them.

Soooo... do you want to be in control? (Not a silly question.) Our ability to complain is well entrenched and we do employ it often... typically with a bit of soulful spin. People around us can typically identify our 'suffering in silence' behavior. But is this the atmosphere you want to flavor your interactions? How do YOU want this particular season to be remembered? What are you willing to do to enhance the season?

And... where is the Lord in all this? Is He even allowed to participate in His own birth celebration? And if He does... in what capacity? How is He honored? Do we even take the time to acknowledge that His birth marked the beginning of our salvation? Do we share this...? Easter can't occur without Christmas. Then again, it can be argued that Christmas has little purpose without Easter. The point in all this is YOU - your view, your understanding, your behavior. Bottom line is that Christmas came bringing us hope which Easter accomplished with the Lord's sacrifice for us. We truly are blessed... but it depends on your view.

Didya know...

that there are promises and gifts galore just waiting for you? There are!!! The truly sad reality is that many Christians, people who have accepted Jesus as their Lord, are unaware. Either they've not learned or been taught Who they now are and Whose they are. These gifts and promises are not just idle words - they are given to us in our journey in this life. We are never left to our own devices... we are equipped and enabled to live and make a difference in our world!

Sometimes they seem to be there for the taking, other times there are 'conditions' and or 'requirements' to attain them. Quick example - did you know that you are blessed coming in and going out? Always. You are.

   "Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be 
    when you go out." (Deuteronomy 28:6, NKJV)

Ours. And yes, there is a 'condition/requirement'  

   "if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe 
    carefully all His commandments which I command you today..." (v 1)

Take the time and read the entire chapter. It lays out our blessings, but it also informs us of the curses of NOT following His requirements. Ultimately, it is always our decision as to what to do, how to act. 

Throughout scripture there are verses that give us the information about what the promises and gifts that are available for us. And yes, some come with definite instructions (still ours to accept or not) about what we need to do. There are over 50 verses that clearly state what our promises are. Examples:

   "The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those 
     who trust in Him." (Nahum 1:7)

   "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."
    (1 Chronicles 16:34) 

   "For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness
    continues through all generations." (Psalm 100:5)

   "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)

   "The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will 
    never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be 
    discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8)

   "So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we 
    drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these 
    things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But 
    seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things 
    will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:31-33)


   "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own 
    understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make 
    your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Were you familiar with all of these verses? If so, excellent. And... are you standing on those verses for your life? However, remember that these are only 7 of the over 50 verses that are ours! Never let anyone tell you that you aren't 'eligible'! Of course you are. And yes, you do still sin. But you have a way to redeem and become part of the family again - 1John 1:9-2:1. If nothing else, remember that you have one who sticks closer than a brother who is cheering you on and helping you to grow in understanding and stand on the Word.

EXPECTATIONS

Do you have any expectations from God? Do we even have the 'right' to expect anything from Him? Hasn't He already done everything (and more) He needs to do? Regardless, of what has been done, do we still harbor that first He has to (fill in the blank)? My response is - of course we do. Shouldn't has nothing to do with our feelings. Rationale, logical, justified or not ... we do! Though many times we can't seem to be specific. Is it something we think we need before we do what we need to do or ... 

Isn't this where faith and confidence step in? Isn't this where we remember all the times and ways He has met our need? How He has always provided what is needed to do what we are asked by Him to do. Isn't this where we remember His word? Yes. Yes. Yes. And... still... When we limit what we know God is expecting from us, we really deny who He is in our lives. Yes? 

Acknowledging that we do EXPECT God to (fill in the blank), oddly enough, will be the best starting point to take a step in faith. When we remember all the times that He did provide what we felt we needed can become that foundation of confidence. When we remember what His word says (about our situation) then we can act knowing that we are doing what is required and expected of us. 

Again, it may sound counter intuitive but it is our faith that can activate His hand on our behalf the fastest. Remember what God says about Himself, there are over 35 verses that are specific:

   “Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! 
    I am God, and there is none like me.” (Isaiah 46:9)

   "so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not 
    return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, 
    and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55:11, ESV)

   "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for 
    I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold 
    you up with my victorious right hand." (Isaiah 41:10) 

    "God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He
     loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive 
    together with Christ—by grace you have been saved" 
    (Ephesians 2:4-5, ESV)

   “I am the light of the world. The person who follows me will never 
    live in darkness but will have the light that gives life.” (John 8:12)

IF we believe that we are supposed to be doing or saying (fill in the blank) and expecting God to do (fill in the blank) first - not. We begin the process by our act of faith (confident trust) and take that step because we know that the basis is His unmerited favor and mercy. And, what if we are wrong... have acted precipitously... or... Then we accept our error, apologize/redeem. and move on. 

Boo hooooooo

In the context I'm saying this, it really means a pity party - legitimate or not. To be honest, we all engage in this activity ... occasionally. Occasionally needs to be the operative word and the duration needs to be minimal. The, 'Why' do we go through these time are as varied as the cause(s). Not completely the point - if we do experience them then we should control them. 

Silly perhaps, but when I was at university I always gave myself a good 3 hour pity party when that's what I was feeling. 3 hours was long enough to merge into that emotion but not long enough to be trapped in it. Typically I found myself laughing at me and this always push me forward and out of the pity party. I don't believe that pity parties are inherently 'bad' but they can be when you just give in to them.

So what do pity parties do for us? Legitimize pouting? My argument would be that in order to 'control' them, we need to know why we engage in them and what we receive from them. It would also be helpful to understand (analyze) what causes them. However, the most important is moving beyond them.

Is fear your why? Or is it frustration? There is always a cause for the pity party. Your 'why' may be simply a response to what you are experiencing and/or you haven't identified the cause. Is it a time to give in to the emotion before finding the cause? While logic and analysis may not be the next steps you want to take, let them be present and active as soon as possible so you don't compound your situation.

   Isaiah 41:13
   "For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and 
    says to you, Do not fear; I will help you."

   James 1:19-21
   "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be 
    quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because 
    human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 
    Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent 
    and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you."

What is received through a pity party is typically very individualized. It never excuses the pity party but it may explain your why to you. However, never let the supposed positive aspects provide the rationale. If you must engage then control you.

Underscoring the moving on is:

   Psalm 46:1-3
   "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. ..."
   
   Proverbs 18:10 
   "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and 
    are safe."

   Nehemiah 8:10 
   "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Obviously there are other verses that can help us but these three really are a strong defense and foundation to moving beyond.

Self-fulfilling prophecy

True for you? _Are You a victim? You do realize that if this is true for you, then you are the perpetrator! Think about it ... what are the words that come forth from your mouth! Are they words of worry, doubt, fear? Do words about you to you uplift or tear down? confident or can't? 

Remember what scripture says about the tongue:

   "And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue 
    is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on 
    fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell." (James 3:6, ESV)

   "Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and a deceitful tongue."
    (Psalm 120:2)

   "But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment 
    for every careless word they have spoken." (Matthew 12:36)

   "A man is not defiled by what enters his mouth, but by what comes 
    out of it." (Matthew 15:11)

True. But this isn't a life sentence! It's your tongue you can change your perspective and then change your words. I believe that words can bring hope and comfort, truth, build confidence, etc. And it's you that controls what comes out of your mouth... And it's what's in your heart and mind that controls what you say. Negative or positive - that's down to you.

   "But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, 
    and these things defile a man." (Matthew 15:18)

How and with what you 'feed' your spirit determines how healthy your heart is. Stop for a moment and look at your life. Never forget that your life directed by what you see. We have morphed into a society that is directed by the visual. Decades ago it would, probably, been directed by what you heard and/or read. Today we primarily feed our eyes through television or movies and especially our phones/tablets/computers.

Self-fulfilling prophecy is based on when we see, hear, or both a particular perspective, then we tend to follow this - especially if the message is repeated ad nausea. If it 'makes sense' (whether or not we test it)... it becomes our standard. This does not need to become our MO. We can take control and determine based on..... If scripture isn't your foundation then you are severely hampered. When it is your foundation then it is like the house ...  

   "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus 
    himself being the cornerstone," (Ephesians 2:20)

NO weapon

   "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue 
    which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is 
    the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness 
    is from Me, Says the Lord.” (Isaiah 54:17, NKJV)

Yes, you did read that correctly. NO weapon will succeed against us... ever! Too often we stop after the first 7 words. But there are words of direction, identification, etc. that we miss by not reading the entire verse.

As wonderful as the first 7 words are, especially when we feel we are or are on the verge of being defeated, the scripture goes far deeper. The rest of the verse tells us that we shall condemn tongues that rise against us. It gives us our foundation when we see that our heritage is based in our standing as the Lord's servants. We also are affirmed in righteousness when the Lord states that it comes from Him. Those are strong words on our behalf. Do we stand on them?

However, no matter what the gifts and promises from the Lord are - we have to appropriate them. If all they are is available but we don't act, then we waste our inheritance as well as our equipping. I believe that we are defeated far too often from a lack of action than from the wrong action. Remember the first verse of this old hymn? If we 'trust and obey' ...

   "When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
    What a glory He sheds on our way!
    While we do His good will, He abides with us still,
    And with all who will trust and obey.
    Trust and obey, for there's no other way
    To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey."

Trust and obey are action words. They don't just sit in our minds, they are to be activated ... especially when we are under attack. You say you don't know what you should do? Look at this verse again - 'while we do His good will'. If you feel you don't know what this is then go to His word - there are examples of what we can do. Sometimes this is trusting ourselves, that we will walk with the Lord and He will show us. And if we do the wrong thing? He will still be with us and show us how to redeem the situation.

When we start from the understanding that no weapon will succeed against us... then we can stand. We have to activate, through trust and obedience, what is already prepared for us to overcome and prosper. 

It sometimes isn't easy...

Standing on what's right according to the Lord's principles isn't always easy. It isn't always popular... but that doesn't make it wrong. Simplistic perhaps, but truth is truth and doesn't suddenly become 'relative' when truth doesn't mesh with popular thought (or our 'comfort level'). Whoever said that being a Christian is a walk in the park didn't realize just how many of those principles in high places are aimed at us. However, we are protected and armed, equipped to be in a battle (Ephesians 6:12). 

Standing includes more than just standing... we are told to study so that we handle the word of truth correctly... which, when we do, increases our confidence. Our role is to fulfill the requirements  first: 

     "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker 
    who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."
    (2Timothy 2:15, ESV)

The problem is our attitude toward 'study'. For many, this is an obstacle to 'get on' with what is wanted, needed. However, unless we do what's required we may stub our toe... or worse. Studying is not an option, especially if we want to be of use.

Our focus shouldn't be on the difficulty or ease of being a Christian. (However... if it is ease, we should probably double check what we are doing and saying.) We should be focusing on what our message to those in our world says. Do we act as conquerors or the vanquished? Do we speak truth in love or bang other's over the head, or worse - try not to be so 'religious'? What are our words and actions, and do they boldly proclaim? 

You will never read in scripture that being a Christian is the easiest path - we are to take up our crosses daily! But... we are always equipped and enabled to be who we are in our world. We are not alone - we have One who sticks closer than a brother. We truly do have all we need. And no, that does not make our daily paths easier. But it confirms who we are becoming and whose we are. And when we are fruitful then we are blessed. 
    

Whatcha see is whatcha get...?

True for you? Personally... I think I'm lazy because I don't want to try and remember if I give different persona's and words to person A when I am with person B. Do not like these kinds of games and don't want to waste my time, energy, and thought life remembering who I am with one person versa another. I remember being accused, years ago, that I wasn't 'transparent' (the current buzz word then). Not true. I just was who I was at that moment rather than being something 'expected'. But I wasn't consciously trying to be difficult.

What about you though? What do you do? If you look in a mirror do you see you? Probably more important though is if you can suspend 'reality' for a minute and try and see you as others would. Is the you they see the same across people? Is the you they see who you see? No value comments on whether or not you want to be viewed differently - that's question 2. First though is congruence and consistent. Are you... you? 

Do remember you can't change into something 'new' if you don't know who you are at this moment. And accept the fact that you are always changing and evolving... as are those around you. I think our problem, many times, is when we do change we don't always communicate this which can be confusing for others. 

Back to the initial question - are you consistent, are you ... you? Why would you want to be other than you? You say you don't like you? Or maybe there are parts of you that you need improving or want to keep private. Notta problem - is others breach those areas, simply say you don't want to discuss (fill in the blank). If they drop you for your honesty then you really didn't need the relationship in the first place.

Scripture does give us information on this issue:

   "“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, ... (Jeremiah 1:5)

Psalms 139:15-16 and Isaiah 49:1 also speak to this. Remember... God doesn't make junk, so you can never view yourself in that light. If you are know by God from before your beginning then you have a place, a home in Him, a purpose. You are able to grow, to become your best. And being who you aren't to please (fill in the blank) is not the way.

My question 2 is also important because when we do change we need to let those in our world know. Sometimes people are aware of a change but not understand. You always choose what and how much you share... but this is important to those populating your world. Why would you not want them to know that you have grown?

   "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will 
    bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6)

See! A good work... completion. Let this be what motivates you to be confident in letting others (and yourself) see that... whatcha see is whatcha get.

Evidence

Now that you are saved, are you 'doing' anything with your new state? Do you see evidences in your life of a changed life? Do you see evidences that you are growing in the things of the Lord?  Is it important to you? And please don't read this as accusatory - I'm speaking as much to me as to you. We need to be acutely aware that we do model what we believe. We need to know the message we are providing.

Paul speaking in Philippians 2:12, the ending exhortation:

   "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,"                                            
Do we really understand what 'working out your salvation' means? We aren't our (or anyone else's savior) so what are we suppose to be doing? Looking at the Amplified Bible will give us some important clues:

   "...continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring
    it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired 
    fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation 
    to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of 
    Christ]."

The Message Bible states:

   "...redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, 
    reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God’s energy, 
    an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at 
    what will give him the most pleasure."

Does this give an better perspective? I've underlined what I consider to be the significant words: cultivate, pursue, self-evaluation, redouble, energetic, reverent, sensitive. Are these the words that describe and define what we do about our salvation? Do we continue to become what the Lord purchased for us? Are we 'working out' our salvation? Is it in evidence?

Salvation is not a 'condition' to simply put on the shelf. My understanding is that it is to be active in our lives which, I suggest, does give the evidences. Who we are, what we do... does demonstrate that we are not only born again but continuing to mature as Christians and to act in the world we live in. I have trouble imagining that we should simply be grateful that our name is written in the Book of Life, but that we should be engaged with our living. 

Actually... there will always be evidences. What is in evidence is our decision.

Can We (I) really change?

Do you wonder, question yourself about your ability to change? Not willingness, nor even knowing what will happen with a change, simply - ability. Do you feel so involved with your life that imagining a change is not acceptable... or maybe not feasible or even desirable? 

Perhaps we should begin with your attitude about change. Some people fear change. Some, meet it with distaste based on previous experience. Others simply dislike the disruption in their lives. However, there are those who quickly abandon what is and wholeheartedly accept change. And there are a host of other reactions. You? Most important though is do you know 'why' you react, respond to change the way you do?

For me, change is typically characterized by and involved with growth; and though sometimes the 'lessons' are difficult, I really wouldn't change... change. Though, if I am honest, there is always a part of me that wants to direct the change. I don't think I avoid or deny it or try and change the change. I may not always be overly delighted that change has invaded my life but if I don't look at what the change is telling me about my now then I may miss what I can become with the change.

Scripture also talks about change... and changeless:

   "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter 
    under heaven:" (Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV)

This verse acknowledges the existence of change and also a word of comfort in that everything has a 'time'. And, by implication, that what was will not necessarily stay the same.

   "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer 
    and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made 
    known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all 
    understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ 
    Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)

This verse tells us that we don't need to be anxious... which includes 'change'. It also tells us how not be anxious. 

On the other end of the continuum, changelessness is identified:

    "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." 
    (Hebrews 13:8 ESV)

   "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming 
    down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation 
    or shadow due to change." (James 1:17 ESV)

What a relief! There is something, Someone that we can rely on to not change, to always be as He says He is.

My point is that change is an 'is'. It occurs and there is nothing we can do to stop it. This is also true of us - we don't remain exactly how and who we were. Therefore, our focus should be on how we respond to changes. We should also rest in the assurance that what doesn't change is the Lord. He is Who and what He says He is so we can always rely on Him and His Word. This assurance is our strength to face any change that we encounter with the knowledge that whatever we need to do or be, is already prepared for us. Actually... we can enjoy change. 

To return to the initial question - our ability to change. Stop just a moment and look back. See all the changes that have already occurred in your life and that you were able to meet them and adopt and adapt them to who you are and who you are becoming. You can change. The added evidence is always available when you look at where you are right now and where you want to be. When you commit to personal growth (change) you will ...

Something's ... missing

Ever feel that way? Something's missing or just not... 'right'. You really don't know what it is or what you can do, but that sense of unease is very present. So, what do you do? Do you take the time to discover the 'source' of your discontent? Do you try and 'ride it out'? And do you remember that even though you may get some relief, the discontent returns?

I wrote about 'the hole' in all of us some months ago. This is a variation on that theme. Whether you identify your feelings as discontent, something's missing, a lack of completeness or (fill in the blank)... Until you do face the issue, it will always remain. Point is... the Lord is always wooing us, trying to help us realize that the 'missing' or lack or discontent is related to our state. This state is referred to as unsaved, not born again, not complete. For you, I pray it is never rejection of His outstretched hand.

Perhaps the issue is that you don't see your need? Do you? Or do you think that you are 'good enough' and there's really no need to be 'saved'? Perhaps you don't believe that God would condemn you to hell... if there actually is such a place. Perhaps you are the independent type and want to do ' it your way'. Again, this still speaks to your status as unsaved. What actually is stopping you from becoming part of the family of God? Is it pride? 

Is there ever, in the back of your mind, the wonder if I could be right? That all the people over the centuries who have believed and become Christians and believed in the future of eternal life could have it 'right'? Granted, many of those professing to be Christians didn't always act correctly, didn't always act according to the principles and standards... but that doesn't make them (both the people and the principles) 'wrong'. If others' behaviors are the basis of your lack of acceptance, then you don't understand the principles. It is true that even if you were the only person, Jesus would have done all He did... for You. 

What will take away your feelings of 'missing'? Accepting Jesus' gift of life. Why is your only path Jesus, why do you need salvation? Simple. Without it you are not saved and without Jesus you have no atonement or redemption. There is never anything you can do to 'save yourself'. And yes, this does mean that you have to view scripture as the manual, the basis for life. Even if you don't understand, it doesn't mean it isn't truth. 

Salvation is the first step. And nothing can happen apart from this beginning. The next steps are growing in understanding, becoming, and acting as the person that you can be. This will always take away the feelings of 'missing'. Then again... perhaps the problem, issue, concern is... changed...?

Principles & Standards

As a Christian we have principles and standards that are found in scripture. These are strong statement that the Lord gave... not ones that can be misunderstood or changed. Do you know, or only think you do, what they are? Can you substantiate what are the Christian's principles and standards with scripture? And then, do you know what they are operationally? Are they defined in terms of observable behavior? I sometime wonder if we really do or only think we do. And if we are confident in what they are and how they 'look', is there evidence in our lives?

Perhaps part of the reason I am emphasizing this is that I do believe Christians are often misunderstood in the minds of so many - Christian and not. Many times we are judged on the basis of how we express understanding and love and the mindset is typically 'turn the other cheek'. But the idea of expressing judging and standing is never, or rarely, accepted even though Jesus threw the money changers out of the temple.

One aspect that you should realize is that the scriptural principles and standards are there to help us make good decisions. Some examples:

   "Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and do not lean on your 
    own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He 
    will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

   "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone 
    who is hasty comes surely to poverty." (Proverbs 21:5)

   "Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in an abundance 
    of counselors there is victory." (Proverbs 11:14)

You should know that you are not spineless, a doormat, nor a robot, you have not given away your rights... or your responsibilities. Always remember that the hand extended in love, in caring is never a weak one. Someone (?) said or wrote: "Love is an act of courage." I think the reason is that love makes us totally vulnerable. 

There is a time and place for gentleness but this is never at the expense of ignoring truth. Yes we are to speak the truth in love, but we are never told to ignore or deny truth. Truth needs as strong a mindset as love. The principles and standards indicated in scripture so that we can 'stand' as indicated in Ephesians 6. Unless and until we are certain of what these are then we are like those on shifting sands. Principles and Standards are our foundation and confidence.

And now a word about ... Righteousness

Did that sound disrespectful? It wasn't meant to be! Righteousness tends to be one of those 'major, big concepts' that many people choose to ignore rather than to understand. There was a wonderful exchange that occurred when Jesus willingly took on the sins of the whole world.

   "He made Christ who knew no sin to [judicially] be sin on our behalf, 
    so that in Him we would become the righteousness of God [that is, 
    we would be made acceptable to Him and placed in a right relationship 
    with Him by His gracious lovingkindness]." (2Corinthians 5:21, AMP)

Read that again. First though, do you understand what 'righteousness' is and means? If you don't then how can you ever understand and appreciate what God and Jesus did for us in making the exchange, transfer.

    Webster: acting in accord with divine or moral law: free from guilt
    or sin - morally right or justifiable; conforming to a standard of what 
    is right and good; conformity to established sanctioned codes or 
    accepted notions of right and wrong; involvement of more difficult 
    or subtle questions of rightness, fairness, or equity.  committed to 
    the highest ethical principles; moral excellence in character; 
    guiltlessness or blamelessness; to be righteous before God and the 
    world; moral eminence and freedom from anything petty, mean, or 
    dubious in conduct and character.   

Does this describe our condition? Is this who we are, how we act? Prior to this time and this act we weren't, righteous and we never could on our own. There was no way we could be in relationship with the Father apart from being righteous - we were completely stranded. 

    Scriptural definition (according to Google):Righteousness is defined as 
    "the quality of being morally correct and justifiable." It can also be 
    considered synonymous with "rightness" or being "upright". 

https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/righteousness/ gives an excellent discussion on righteousness. To pare it down, it basically is telling us that God, the Father is righteous, as is His Son, Jesus. we betrayed our relationship with God so we lost our standing. However, He knew what was necessary to re-establish the relationship - the gift given by Jesus. All we need do is to acknowledge and recognize what Jesus did to provide that atonement.

I've talked about righteousness so many times, and this is to reaffirm the importance of righteousness and how it provides the foundation for all we can become. Our sense of confidence, of strength should increase as we know that the Lord has provided our way to fruitfulness and fulfillment. As we stand on this understanding and act on it we increase our expression of faith.

Gift

Have you ever considered that... You are a gift? I believe you are. Read again what Paul talks about in Ephesians 4:15-16. NASB

   "...but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into 
    Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being 
    fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the 
    proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body
    for the building up of itself in love."

That's you! That's your part... And if part, then you also are a recipient of others' gifts. As hard as it may be to get our heads around this, we all are gifts to each other. Before you dis yourself, also read 1 Corinthians 12 NASB 

   "But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common 
    good." (v. 7)
   
   "For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews 
    or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of 
    one Spirit." (v. 13)
   
   "For the body is not one member, but many." (v.14)

And this only begins the conversation. You are a special gift, one to be honored as is the sister or brother in the Lord standing next to you.

So... is the question now one of - how to share your gift? There shouldn't be stress associated with determining your how and where. 

   "A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great. 
    (Proverbs 18:15, ESV)

Admittedly, waiting on the timing is a lesson in patience. Though sometimes it's a question of seeing ... what's at your hand? This can be the beginning of your sharing. However, it should never be a question of your value. You are a gift. You are special to the Gift Giver and never diminish who you are because... when you do, you diminish the One who created you and placed you right where you are. 

Practicing Christian

What does that even mean? Do you have any understanding? OK... admittedly, this is undoubtedly an individual definition, but the concept - Practicing Christian - do you have your definition? Let me provide mine so you have a context.

   Being a Christian is meant to permeate all of who we are, everything 
   and everyone we touch in the course of our day. It is not, never, a
   separate 'part' of you that you bring out and dust off... 'when company
   comes'. Christianity isn't just for Sunday morning.

This is my definition... but most important, what's yours? How do you define and confirm who you are as a Christian? Do you even see it's importance?

Christianity is not meant to be only a philosophy, an intellectual 'exercise'. When you look at the life of Jesus, you begin to catch a glimpse of who He is and what He considers important. How He lived and what He did gives us examples and understandings of how we should live. His was a life lived with His 'boots on'. Plus I also believe that we all seek an example, a model to adapt in our lives to underscore how we should be. 

When we accept Jesus as our Lord, become saved, we have just signed up to be part of the army of God. He doesn't take this lightly and neither should we. He tells us what we need to do, equips and trains us to do this... but... this is OUR choice, a decision we choose. However, never forget the sobering admonition given in Revelations to the church at Laodica (3:16). Our lives are to be full, fruitful and meaningful. 

Honestly, I think that this forms the basis for my third book in this third series,  'The Search'. I believe we all need to define how we apply and become Practicing Christian, how this  looks in our lives. How we demonstrate, automatically, how we apply Christianity to life. And, as is true with most of the important issues of our lives, this is a process. As we take the necessary steps to activate our own definition of  being a Practicing Christian, then we grow and confirm who we are.

Which you...?

Do you have many you's? Not unusual... many people do. However, it will entail a bit of a juggling act and knowing which you to present to which 'group' when you are with the world. Quite honestly........ is it worth it? And what do you gain when you do this? Isn't it tiring?

I really don't think I've ever done this though I have watched others do it. I've always believed in the - what you see is what you get - approach to presenting myself. Not belligerent, arrogant, nor aggressive, simply being myself seemed to be the best approach and definitely the easiest. That way - if you choose not to associate with me, at least you know why. Plus, you don't have to wonder what I'm actually saying or meaning.

I would like to think that part of the reason I'm this way is an adherence and application of the scripture: 
  
   "Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this 
    comes from evil." (Matthew 5:37, ESV)

Additionally, you don't have to wonder what you said to person A that might vary with person B. However, if you do a 180 change in your beliefs. actions, thinking, etc. then I do believe you need to let those in your world know that you've made a change.

There's another scripture that I believe also speaks to this mindset. 

   "But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the 
    eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from 
    faith is sin." (Romans 14:23, ESV)

Before you point out the obvious, that I am not putting the scripture in context, granted. But look at the principle. Both these scriptures reveal a foundational point - that our words and actions shouldn't be a mixed message, and that faith should be the basis for our words and actions. If we don't have peace about (fill in the blank) then we should simply say we aren't ready to commit because we have not arrived at a decision.

You may choose to reject this approach to your interactions and reactions, your thoughts and beliefs, but if so... what is your basis for a 'which you' that is presented?

Potential, Passion... and Validation

Have you ever asked yourself if you’ve done anything to 'validate' your birth and potential? I will always argue that I believe we all are born with potential. Do you believe this? The next question is - do you know what your potential is related to? Are you fulfilling it? One of the first pieces of evidences to your answer to those 2 questions are: does being you make you feel pleased with you? If not, then your potential is not being actualized.

Passion. Whatever your passion is will be highly related to your potential. There are those who believe that if it is something that is meaningful to us that this would not be God’s will for our life. The argument is that if we are able to accomplish (fill in the blank) then the Lord doesn’t get the glory because it is in our own effort then ….

One: do you really believe the Lord is that vain? Answer - no. Two: would the Lord waste what He’s already placed in us. Answer- no.Third: wherever in scripture is there evidence supporting that view. Answer - none. I would argue that the Lord is honored when we deflect our praise to Him. When we are doing what's in our hearts to the best of our ability, then we are validating who we are and why we are where are. I believe the Lord is honored when we act as His representatives and make that a known part of who we are. In other words, when we witness to the world we live in, Whose we are and why.

Passion, Potential, and Validation occur as we express and grow in Him to become all we can be. But I don't believe validation occurs apart from our passion and potential. When we submit to the potter all we are then He can make us vessels that has His imprint in our lives. He tells us that apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15;5)... but why would we want to? He equips and enables us to be our best, we are always a work in progress, and as we bring to Him all that we have and are - our lives are enhanced and enriched because we can be fruitful - which is fulfilling.

The goal for this mindset is found in Colossians 1:19, AMP

   "...so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord [displaying 
    admirable character, moral courage, and personal integrity], to [fully] 
    please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily 
    growing in the knowledge of God [with deeper faith, clearer insight and 
    fervent love for His precepts];"

With is as a foundation then passion and potential have their expression and we are validated.

Zeal

Is the same passion,the same zeal that marked you when you were saved still expressed in who you are and what you do? If the passion isn’t still marking your life...what is? And what happened to that passion???  Do you miss it? (Not a silly question.) Passion is really a necessary ‘ingredient’ in how we live in our days. Without the passion, everything is a bit... drudgy. Passion provides the foundation to meet the day.

How do you define 'zeal'? I tend to describe it as the expressive part of passion. Webster says: "...eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something ..." However, the following definition expands the understanding:

   "PASSION, FERVOR, ARDOR, ENTHUSIASM, ZEAL mean intense 
    emotion compelling action. 
    PASSION applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or
    ungovernable.  (was a slave to his passions,)   ...  
    ZEAL implies energetic and unflagging pursuit of an aim or 
    devotion to a cause.  (preaches with fanatical zeal) 

Granted there is a strong relationship between these two words, however there are also subtle differences.

Scripture indicates over 40 verses related to zeal:

   "For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not in
    accordance with knowledge. For not knowing about God's 
    righteousness and seeking to establish their own, they did not
    subject themselves to the righteousness of God." (Romans 10:2-4)

   "For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of 
    salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance 
    [for] clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak." (Isaiah 59:17)

   "For zeal for your house has consumed me..." (Psalm 69:9)

   "...who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every 
    lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous 
    for good works." (Titus 2:14)

From these scriptures we can begin to understand more about zeal and the power and strength of zeal. But how do we display it? How would others (and ourselves) recognize the expression of zeal? 

To be honest, I think we instinctively know our own level of zeal. Because I also believe that zeal can grow. It's when we are 'in our element' that we sense the expansion of zeal and that gives us a stronger basis to express. But I also believe that it is passion that begins this journey. Passion underscores our zeal.