Becoming a better me ... I do write about this a great deal because it’s so important… at least this is what I believe. I have made some discoveries regarding this subject. The first one is desire. You have to want to become your best because no one is going to do this for you! No magic wand. No words spoken over you. Just you determining, purposing in your heart to learn, to do, to become YOUR BEST! Just remember you do have a great deal of help such as study, prayer, and the work of the Holy Spirit. He's with you and He's there to do all He's supposed to do.
Read again what Jesus tells His disciples, and by extension - us:
"And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter,
Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you
forever—the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to
its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him
because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in
you." (John 14:16-17, AMP)
Read, until it gets down into your spirit, the truth that... "you know Him
because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually". Knowing that as you go through the process (and it's never completed which should be of comfort - no deadlines) that the Holy Spirit in all His roles as helper, comforter, advocate, intercessor, counselor, strengthener, standby is continually with you to supply what you don't have at that moment.!
Becoming your best you starts with your desire to renew your mind. You really can't continue to become your best apart from that. There's a scripture that gives us one clue:
"Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and
worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word,
whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace,
whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence,
if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things
[center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. The things
which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice
these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and
well-being will be with you." (Philippians 4: 8-9, AMP)
Another component is:
"regarding your previous way of life, you put off your old self [completely
discard your former nature], which is being corrupted through deceitful
desires, and be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a
fresh, untarnished mental and spiritual attitude], and put on the new self
[the regenerated and renewed nature], created in God’s image, [godlike]
in the righteousness and holiness of the truth [living in a way that
expresses to God your gratitude for your salvation]."
(Ephesians 4: 22-24, AMP)
See why I consider becoming our best is a lifelong process? It can't be done overnight, but it can be begun overnight. As new challenges to your mindset arise, you meet them and overcome them because you are purposed, you become experienced, and you have a Helper! The delightful surprise is that with every victory you experience on your way increases your desire. A great way to live.
Monday, November 30, 2020
Friday, November 27, 2020
Abide
"Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear
fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit,
producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me. I am the
Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him
bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from
vital union with Me] you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in
Me, he is thrown out like a [broken off] branch, and withers and dies;
and they gather such branches and throw them into the fire, and they
are burned." (John 15:4-6, AMP)
Do you know what 'abide' means (some translations begin this verse with 'Abide' and some with 'Remain')? To me, remain signifies a condition/state that has already been attained. So we already are in position to experience the intent of these verses - being fruitful. However, the caution is to remain/abide in this. We have to do the act consciously, intentionally.
Also, consider the condition of those who do NOT remain. 1. we can do nothing and 2. we are thrown out where we wither and die. The end result is that we are thrown in to fire and burned. Obviously, we should not want this result. AND... we choose. The verse clearly state that WE are to remain. We choose. We can either bear fruit ... or not.
Though the word may seemingly to imply a passive state... it is not! Abiding, in my world of definitions, is very active. It is a defensive word implying protection. And it is a proactive word implying growth, activity, equipping, enhancing, etc. You don't just sit there... you act. There's another verse that springs to mind too.
"You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed
and placed and purposefully planted you, so that you would go and
bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit will remain and
be lasting, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name [as
My representative] He may give to you." (John 15:16, AMP)
Appointed, Placed, Planted SO that your fruit will remain... You choose: remain/abide = fruitful, don't remain/abide = thrown out, burned. Just make certain you make the decision for the right reason. The final phrase in this scripture can be a promise or seductive. Never both. Never the same reason.
fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit,
producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me. I am the
Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him
bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from
vital union with Me] you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in
Me, he is thrown out like a [broken off] branch, and withers and dies;
and they gather such branches and throw them into the fire, and they
are burned." (John 15:4-6, AMP)
Do you know what 'abide' means (some translations begin this verse with 'Abide' and some with 'Remain')? To me, remain signifies a condition/state that has already been attained. So we already are in position to experience the intent of these verses - being fruitful. However, the caution is to remain/abide in this. We have to do the act consciously, intentionally.
Also, consider the condition of those who do NOT remain. 1. we can do nothing and 2. we are thrown out where we wither and die. The end result is that we are thrown in to fire and burned. Obviously, we should not want this result. AND... we choose. The verse clearly state that WE are to remain. We choose. We can either bear fruit ... or not.
Though the word may seemingly to imply a passive state... it is not! Abiding, in my world of definitions, is very active. It is a defensive word implying protection. And it is a proactive word implying growth, activity, equipping, enhancing, etc. You don't just sit there... you act. There's another verse that springs to mind too.
"You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed
and placed and purposefully planted you, so that you would go and
bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit will remain and
be lasting, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name [as
My representative] He may give to you." (John 15:16, AMP)
Appointed, Placed, Planted SO that your fruit will remain... You choose: remain/abide = fruitful, don't remain/abide = thrown out, burned. Just make certain you make the decision for the right reason. The final phrase in this scripture can be a promise or seductive. Never both. Never the same reason.
Tuesday, November 24, 2020
You can't move in cement
While I realize that the title sounds like a 'duh'... we often don't apply that thinking. Once we, because it is we that do this, put any one or any thing in cement - they're (we're) stuck, nothing can move. Cement is not designed to be flexible, it's design so that whatever is in it won't move. Why would we ever do this to ourselves, to others, to life , let alone want to!? We have been designed to grow, to seek maturity, to become. Why wouldn't we allow this same mindset to be associated with people and with ideas and understandings. I'm not certain that we ever get to the end of understanding (fill in the blank) because there always seems to be another layer, a greater appreciation.
When you seriously consider this... the ONLY person/thing that doesn't change is God. He said He didn't change - end of discussion.
"Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday
and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8, AMP)
"For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My
covenant with you];" (Malachi 3:8, AMP)
Actually, what would we want to not change... and for what reason? However, our understanding does grow, does expand as we interact and develop our relationship with the Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Relationships, human and spiritual, are designed to continue to develop. When they don't, they tend to atrophy because we don't engage with whom or what - ever. I don't think we ever learn everything about everything... which is why we need to be involved and engaged... expectant. Besides, this is the best method I've discovered to become who I can be. In cement - it's static.
Part of (my) the thinking is that when I do have something that I can count on, be assured of - like the changelessness of my foundation - then I can be bold, confident when I try to grow, to understand something I previously didn't fully grasp (even when I thought I had). But if I allow me to grow, to change, I have to accord the same option for others. I do try and not let my predispositions control and meet each interactions with openness. And yes... my preconceived ideas do get in the way at times.
I do appreciate that 'cement' gives us a way/method to order our lives and what populates and/or emerges into it. At some level we all need a way to order so that we can respond appropriately and understandably. But cement is so ... predictable and, let's be honest, boringly. What do you gain with cement? Other than a hoped for predictability... nothing! No spontaneity, no excitement, no discovering or adventure.
There's so much to learn, to discover, to share, to enjoy to allow cement to dictate. If you must have order then allow the order to shift and move. Being excited about life and those that populate yours is really much preferable. Cement blocks this. Risk living rather than only existing. Meet the 'new' with openness and anticipation. Throw open your windows!
When you seriously consider this... the ONLY person/thing that doesn't change is God. He said He didn't change - end of discussion.
"Jesus Christ is [eternally changeless, always] the same yesterday
and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8, AMP)
"For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My
covenant with you];" (Malachi 3:8, AMP)
Actually, what would we want to not change... and for what reason? However, our understanding does grow, does expand as we interact and develop our relationship with the Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Relationships, human and spiritual, are designed to continue to develop. When they don't, they tend to atrophy because we don't engage with whom or what - ever. I don't think we ever learn everything about everything... which is why we need to be involved and engaged... expectant. Besides, this is the best method I've discovered to become who I can be. In cement - it's static.
Part of (my) the thinking is that when I do have something that I can count on, be assured of - like the changelessness of my foundation - then I can be bold, confident when I try to grow, to understand something I previously didn't fully grasp (even when I thought I had). But if I allow me to grow, to change, I have to accord the same option for others. I do try and not let my predispositions control and meet each interactions with openness. And yes... my preconceived ideas do get in the way at times.
I do appreciate that 'cement' gives us a way/method to order our lives and what populates and/or emerges into it. At some level we all need a way to order so that we can respond appropriately and understandably. But cement is so ... predictable and, let's be honest, boringly. What do you gain with cement? Other than a hoped for predictability... nothing! No spontaneity, no excitement, no discovering or adventure.
There's so much to learn, to discover, to share, to enjoy to allow cement to dictate. If you must have order then allow the order to shift and move. Being excited about life and those that populate yours is really much preferable. Cement blocks this. Risk living rather than only existing. Meet the 'new' with openness and anticipation. Throw open your windows!
Saturday, November 21, 2020
Character
One of the very first posts I wrote (3/4/10**) was on Character... and it typically is implied in all my posts. Remember, we all are in a continuous process of developing our character. Yes, we slip, sin, err but we also discover, confirm and grow. Some of the thoughts from 2010 were:
**If there is one word that defines your 'who' it's character. There are
a number of attributes that describe/define character such as integrity,
honesty, reliability, etc. However, in my world of definitions, bottom
line, when everything is stripped away, you are your character. ...
** I believe that it is best displayed and seen in crisis situations. So
what does that look like for you? How does this define and describe
you?
**My questions are: If you were to meet you, would you like you? Do
you think you'd trust you? If you were in a place where you needed
assistance, would you ask you for help? If you were going to celebrate
something special or significant in your life, would you ask you to
participate? The answers to those questions disclose your character. ...
It takes courage to face who you are - both the positive as well as the
negative - not just one.
Your character can always be improved... if you are willing. But somehow, character is never stagnant. Every moment in your day you display who you are and what you think and believe and every moment is bombarded with new information that gives you options for change or confirmation.
"And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and
rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure,
trouble) produces patient endurance;and endurance, proven
character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and
confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. Such hope [in God’s
promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been
abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit
who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5, AMP)
In some translations, character is described as 'virtue'. Webster has some very interesting definitions related to this word:
"a quality that gives something special worth;conduct that conforms
to an accepted standard of right and wrong; strength of mind to carry
on in spite of danger..."
The (some) synonyms: grace, merit, value; character, decency, honesty, integrity; bravery, courageousness. As you can see, character/virtue is to be prized, is to be a standard by which we think and speak and act.
Do you think very often about your character? Can you describe, define yours? A different perspective is, if you were standing before the Lord, how would He describe you? (You do remember that that particular time will occur.)
"For we [believers will be called to account and] must all appear before
the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be repaid for what
has been done in the body, whether good or [b]bad [that is, each will
be held responsible for his actions, purposes, goals, motives—the use
or misuse of his time, opportunities and abilities]. (2 Corinthians 5: 10, AMP)
We should never consider our character as unimportant. Who we are is displayed by our character and is visible to all.
**If you've never thought about yourself in terms of your character - you
should. Your character will be evident to others - partially from your
words but mostly from your behavior, it states very clearly who you are.
Since character is visible through your actions, your words either confirm
or deny what you do, who you are. People, however, are more prone to
believe what they see, what they experience over just what you say.
**You always are in a position of consciously, or not, refining your character.
Every experience impacts on who you are.
**Are you stuck with your character? Yes, unless you consciously decide
to change it and are willing to honestly look at who you are, determine
who you want to be, and work on making the changes necessary to
become who you will be.
Your character is yours... all yours. You can do with it whatever you want
**If there is one word that defines your 'who' it's character. There are
a number of attributes that describe/define character such as integrity,
honesty, reliability, etc. However, in my world of definitions, bottom
line, when everything is stripped away, you are your character. ...
** I believe that it is best displayed and seen in crisis situations. So
what does that look like for you? How does this define and describe
you?
**My questions are: If you were to meet you, would you like you? Do
you think you'd trust you? If you were in a place where you needed
assistance, would you ask you for help? If you were going to celebrate
something special or significant in your life, would you ask you to
participate? The answers to those questions disclose your character. ...
It takes courage to face who you are - both the positive as well as the
negative - not just one.
Your character can always be improved... if you are willing. But somehow, character is never stagnant. Every moment in your day you display who you are and what you think and believe and every moment is bombarded with new information that gives you options for change or confirmation.
"And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and
rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure,
trouble) produces patient endurance;and endurance, proven
character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and
confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. Such hope [in God’s
promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been
abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit
who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5, AMP)
In some translations, character is described as 'virtue'. Webster has some very interesting definitions related to this word:
"a quality that gives something special worth;conduct that conforms
to an accepted standard of right and wrong; strength of mind to carry
on in spite of danger..."
The (some) synonyms: grace, merit, value; character, decency, honesty, integrity; bravery, courageousness. As you can see, character/virtue is to be prized, is to be a standard by which we think and speak and act.
Do you think very often about your character? Can you describe, define yours? A different perspective is, if you were standing before the Lord, how would He describe you? (You do remember that that particular time will occur.)
"For we [believers will be called to account and] must all appear before
the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be repaid for what
has been done in the body, whether good or [b]bad [that is, each will
be held responsible for his actions, purposes, goals, motives—the use
or misuse of his time, opportunities and abilities]. (2 Corinthians 5: 10, AMP)
We should never consider our character as unimportant. Who we are is displayed by our character and is visible to all.
**If you've never thought about yourself in terms of your character - you
should. Your character will be evident to others - partially from your
words but mostly from your behavior, it states very clearly who you are.
Since character is visible through your actions, your words either confirm
or deny what you do, who you are. People, however, are more prone to
believe what they see, what they experience over just what you say.
**You always are in a position of consciously, or not, refining your character.
Every experience impacts on who you are.
**Are you stuck with your character? Yes, unless you consciously decide
to change it and are willing to honestly look at who you are, determine
who you want to be, and work on making the changes necessary to
become who you will be.
Your character is yours... all yours. You can do with it whatever you want
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
On Fire
Soooo... are you? Are you still on fire for the things of the Lord like you were when you were first saved? If not - why? The Lord hasn't lost or misplaced His passion for you, why has yours grown cold... or only lukewarm? Most important... are you concerned? Do you want your embers fanned into a fire? Are you still hungry and thirsty for the things of God?
Passion :
"intense, driving, or overmastering feeling or conviction, a strong liking
or desire for or devotion to some activity, object, or concept..." (Webster). Scripture expands our understanding:
"...for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires;
that on which your life centers] will be also." Matthew 6:21, AMP)
Considering both definitions we see that passion is a driving force based on a strong foundation and that it affects our wishes, desires. One of Webster's synonyms is - love. Which leads to the question... has your love for the things of the Lord grown cold? Are you doing anything to change this condition... do you want to? Do you think you even need to?
Psalms 69:9, AMP says: "For zeal for Your house has consumed me," - is this your 'condition'? How do you know? When you consider that we are supposed to be salt and light... not sure how we can do this apart from passion. Our message to the world is powerful, life changing, so how can we present this if our passion isn't engaged?
Are you on the sidelines because you believe the lie that you can never be of use for the Lord? And goodness, you sinned after you were saved! Granted, and your point? You do remember that when you err and sin, you have a way back into relationship (1 John 1:9). We should be mature enough to know, not just realize, know that the Lord isn't surprised when this happens. Obviously, not pleased... just not surprised. And wouldn't He have considered this in advance and prepared a way to restoration? Of course. If He gave His life for us, wouldn't He want us to continue? AND, do you realize just how powerful this revelation can be for those who aren't saved? If that isn't 'shoutin' time', what is?
I realize it may be difficult to comprehend a love that deep, that pervasive... but this is truth. Remember, He wants the best for you and He knows that He is the one that can help you to this. Maybe your issue is what to do with your passion, being on fire for the Lord? Simple. What's at your hand, or more precisely - who? You can share and display your passion about the Lord with... whoever is at hand.
Passion :
"intense, driving, or overmastering feeling or conviction, a strong liking
or desire for or devotion to some activity, object, or concept..." (Webster). Scripture expands our understanding:
"...for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires;
that on which your life centers] will be also." Matthew 6:21, AMP)
Considering both definitions we see that passion is a driving force based on a strong foundation and that it affects our wishes, desires. One of Webster's synonyms is - love. Which leads to the question... has your love for the things of the Lord grown cold? Are you doing anything to change this condition... do you want to? Do you think you even need to?
Psalms 69:9, AMP says: "For zeal for Your house has consumed me," - is this your 'condition'? How do you know? When you consider that we are supposed to be salt and light... not sure how we can do this apart from passion. Our message to the world is powerful, life changing, so how can we present this if our passion isn't engaged?
Are you on the sidelines because you believe the lie that you can never be of use for the Lord? And goodness, you sinned after you were saved! Granted, and your point? You do remember that when you err and sin, you have a way back into relationship (1 John 1:9). We should be mature enough to know, not just realize, know that the Lord isn't surprised when this happens. Obviously, not pleased... just not surprised. And wouldn't He have considered this in advance and prepared a way to restoration? Of course. If He gave His life for us, wouldn't He want us to continue? AND, do you realize just how powerful this revelation can be for those who aren't saved? If that isn't 'shoutin' time', what is?
I realize it may be difficult to comprehend a love that deep, that pervasive... but this is truth. Remember, He wants the best for you and He knows that He is the one that can help you to this. Maybe your issue is what to do with your passion, being on fire for the Lord? Simple. What's at your hand, or more precisely - who? You can share and display your passion about the Lord with... whoever is at hand.
Sunday, November 15, 2020
Message of Grace
A recent message by Pastor Shane was incredibly powerful. One of the insights I learned is that when we share Jesus, we are sharing a message of Grace. I hadn't thought of witnessing in this context. Everything is accomplished in Him. All we need do is believe. Believe in who Jesus was, what He did, and what He continues to do. No additions. Simply our faith. Isn't that incredible?! To become a child of God... all we need do is - believe.
"Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from
God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself [as a
sacrifice to atone] for our sins [to save and sanctify us] so that He
might rescue us from this present evil age, in accordance with the
will and purpose and plan of our God and Father—to Him be
[ascribed all] the glory through the ages of the ages. Amen."
(Galatians 1: 3-5, AMP)
You did see the word 'rescue'? Our faith rescues us when our faith rests in Him. He is always the source of rescue. Rescue us from???? "... from this present evil age". But also note that this rescue is 'in accordance with the will and purpose and plan of our God and Father'. From the very beginning, there was a will/purpose/plan to rescue us.
So what's the problem? There are a variety of reasons but I would be tempted to believe that it is because man somehow has trouble accepting that man did nothing to achieve the condition of salvation. This is what gets in the way - what man 'adds'. Remember the song... "I did it my way"? That sums up our attitude. The irony is that man does add, and it's critical. What man adds is the his faith. Knowing salvation was beyond the ability to achieve alone because of our sin nature, we seemingly have nothing to bring. But we do. It's our total reliance on Jesus as our only way. This is always our choice. But it makes ALL the difference.
Another point to remember are the words, God and Father. Too often all we see is the word 'God' and feel somewhat intimidated. We shouldn't because we have been adopted into His family... and this was not of our doing, through Jesus we become adopted into God's family. When it comes to considering the God of the universe as our Father... now other issues emerge. Seeing God as Father is typically based in our own relationship with our earthly father. Shouldn't do this. Many of us experience a wonderful relationship with our fathers and for others, it is definitely not positive, not loving. If we apply our earthly examples, we are doing an injustice to both our earthly and, especially, our heavenly Father.
Grace to you and peace, inner calm and spiritual well-being from God is the message we bring to a hurting and lost world. As we bring this message of good news and bless others with this understanding, we are providing a path to a life filled and fruitful. Our message of Grace to others begins the process.
"Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from
God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself [as a
sacrifice to atone] for our sins [to save and sanctify us] so that He
might rescue us from this present evil age, in accordance with the
will and purpose and plan of our God and Father—to Him be
[ascribed all] the glory through the ages of the ages. Amen."
(Galatians 1: 3-5, AMP)
You did see the word 'rescue'? Our faith rescues us when our faith rests in Him. He is always the source of rescue. Rescue us from???? "... from this present evil age". But also note that this rescue is 'in accordance with the will and purpose and plan of our God and Father'. From the very beginning, there was a will/purpose/plan to rescue us.
So what's the problem? There are a variety of reasons but I would be tempted to believe that it is because man somehow has trouble accepting that man did nothing to achieve the condition of salvation. This is what gets in the way - what man 'adds'. Remember the song... "I did it my way"? That sums up our attitude. The irony is that man does add, and it's critical. What man adds is the his faith. Knowing salvation was beyond the ability to achieve alone because of our sin nature, we seemingly have nothing to bring. But we do. It's our total reliance on Jesus as our only way. This is always our choice. But it makes ALL the difference.
Grace to you and peace, inner calm and spiritual well-being from God is the message we bring to a hurting and lost world. As we bring this message of good news and bless others with this understanding, we are providing a path to a life filled and fruitful. Our message of Grace to others begins the process.
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Adjustment???!
Have you even been in the situation in which you discovered you just might need an attitude adjustment... but in an area that you felt you had already reach an understanding about who you were and how you should act in (fill in the blank) situations? How did this make you feel? Slightly embarrassed? Irritated? Surprised? Actually, if you are the 'nothing is in cement' type, surprise should never be the reaction/response since change is not just a way of life... it is what identifies life. And from that basis, adjustment is a way of life.
Adjustments aren't always or necessarily negatives because we don't know what the results of the new impacts will be. It really is alright. However, we do have a standard and probably a method to handle any 'new' that enters our non-cement, yet understood foundation pillars. So why get rattled when this happens? Can't speak for you, but it does happen for me. Sometimes it's a head slap kind of realization. Other times it comes as a quiet question that leads to a different thinking, mode of responding. Rarely, though occasionally, it is a back against the wall situation. Regardless... adjustment is the order of the day.
While it may be tempting to 'throw the baby out with the bathwater', don't. And you don't have to recreate the wheel either. Adjustments aren't major changes, they are tweaks. Except for your foundation, we find ourselves tweaking many areas that we thought we had the answer. And... you probably did for that moment. Things change and adapting or adopting will always be part of growth. Adjustments are our way of understanding the new that is always entering our lives. If the new doesn't require an adjustment, then it may turn into a confirmation related to (fill in the blank).
I realize that adjustment is typically preceded by the word, 'attitude'. And is typically a warning or command from someone else. Adjustments, like most of the major building blocks of our lives, are ours to determine the response. You always have the choice, decision. I quote Romans 12:2, AMP often... but it does speak to the issue:
"And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial
values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed
[as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on
godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves]
what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in
His plan and purpose for you]."
If you take nothing else away from this discussion, focus on: "...be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind..." Renewing one's mind is a process, a never ending process - it's not one and done. And it is critical to who we are and who we become. Without renewal we live in yesteryear. 'Adjustment' is part of the renewal process. Adjustments are refinements. And, as you can see... it is we who do the doing.
Adjustments aren't always or necessarily negatives because we don't know what the results of the new impacts will be. It really is alright. However, we do have a standard and probably a method to handle any 'new' that enters our non-cement, yet understood foundation pillars. So why get rattled when this happens? Can't speak for you, but it does happen for me. Sometimes it's a head slap kind of realization. Other times it comes as a quiet question that leads to a different thinking, mode of responding. Rarely, though occasionally, it is a back against the wall situation. Regardless... adjustment is the order of the day.
While it may be tempting to 'throw the baby out with the bathwater', don't. And you don't have to recreate the wheel either. Adjustments aren't major changes, they are tweaks. Except for your foundation, we find ourselves tweaking many areas that we thought we had the answer. And... you probably did for that moment. Things change and adapting or adopting will always be part of growth. Adjustments are our way of understanding the new that is always entering our lives. If the new doesn't require an adjustment, then it may turn into a confirmation related to (fill in the blank).
I realize that adjustment is typically preceded by the word, 'attitude'. And is typically a warning or command from someone else. Adjustments, like most of the major building blocks of our lives, are ours to determine the response. You always have the choice, decision. I quote Romans 12:2, AMP often... but it does speak to the issue:
"And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial
values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed
[as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on
godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves]
what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in
His plan and purpose for you]."
If you take nothing else away from this discussion, focus on: "...be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind..." Renewing one's mind is a process, a never ending process - it's not one and done. And it is critical to who we are and who we become. Without renewal we live in yesteryear. 'Adjustment' is part of the renewal process. Adjustments are refinements. And, as you can see... it is we who do the doing.
Monday, November 9, 2020
One day at a time
Remember this song? The chorus gives us one lifestyle option to consider. Do you try and practice the thought?
"One day at a time sweet Jesus that's all I'm asking from you
Give me the strength to do everyday what I have to do
Yesterday's gone sweet Jesus and tomorrow may never be mine
So for my sake teach me to take one day at a time"
(Kris Kristofferson, Marijohn Wilkin)
I've tried this... multiple times. It's not easy. I'm the organizer/planner type so while I am spontaneous, I also have some sort of sketchy plan in the back of my mind. Ergo - I do plan for tomorrow on some level. And yet, I don't think this song dis's this, but it does focus our attention on our now. Do we? Are we engaged in the moments of our day... or... does the day slip away from us and at its end, if we look back, are we pleased about how we spent our moments?
It's the second line that I tend to focus on... "give me the strength to do everyday what I have to do" - strength, everyday, have to do. I suspect we all need this. But while on the surface this may appear to be a negative, that we don't have the strength, not necessarily. Equipping may be an adding, or a backup to what we already have. A new learning. We've been given so much... do we use everything that's provided?
'Everyday'... I need to be certain not to miss my day and also not to miss what's in my day. For me this means to look at what I 'want' as much as what I /have to' do. Personally, the 'have to's' are rarely a negative (even the tasks that I don't want to do) since, at days end, I have accomplished at least some of my goals (have to's) - and that, for me, is a plus. However, there is always a list of 'wanna's'. And they are equally important. They are the spice and flavoring to our day. I believe it's important to be able to look at my wanna's and see that this was also part of my day's accomplishments.
My 'every days', like yours, are precisely what I make them. They can be positives and negatives and I don't cares, and new thoughts for the future... etc. Days can be full and fruitful as well as frustrating and futile. Don't preordain your days so tightly that the unexpected doesn't have room to be present. Unexpected's can be fun, can be a warning... they are never boring - but also, never ignore them.
The lifestyle of 'one day at a time' may not be yours. However, it can be when you decide this is what you want and you define the words. You've been given life... how you spend your time really is your choice. But never just throw it away - be engaged!
"One day at a time sweet Jesus that's all I'm asking from you
Give me the strength to do everyday what I have to do
Yesterday's gone sweet Jesus and tomorrow may never be mine
So for my sake teach me to take one day at a time"
(Kris Kristofferson, Marijohn Wilkin)
I've tried this... multiple times. It's not easy. I'm the organizer/planner type so while I am spontaneous, I also have some sort of sketchy plan in the back of my mind. Ergo - I do plan for tomorrow on some level. And yet, I don't think this song dis's this, but it does focus our attention on our now. Do we? Are we engaged in the moments of our day... or... does the day slip away from us and at its end, if we look back, are we pleased about how we spent our moments?
It's the second line that I tend to focus on... "give me the strength to do everyday what I have to do" - strength, everyday, have to do. I suspect we all need this. But while on the surface this may appear to be a negative, that we don't have the strength, not necessarily. Equipping may be an adding, or a backup to what we already have. A new learning. We've been given so much... do we use everything that's provided?
'Everyday'... I need to be certain not to miss my day and also not to miss what's in my day. For me this means to look at what I 'want' as much as what I /have to' do. Personally, the 'have to's' are rarely a negative (even the tasks that I don't want to do) since, at days end, I have accomplished at least some of my goals (have to's) - and that, for me, is a plus. However, there is always a list of 'wanna's'. And they are equally important. They are the spice and flavoring to our day. I believe it's important to be able to look at my wanna's and see that this was also part of my day's accomplishments.
My 'every days', like yours, are precisely what I make them. They can be positives and negatives and I don't cares, and new thoughts for the future... etc. Days can be full and fruitful as well as frustrating and futile. Don't preordain your days so tightly that the unexpected doesn't have room to be present. Unexpected's can be fun, can be a warning... they are never boring - but also, never ignore them.
The lifestyle of 'one day at a time' may not be yours. However, it can be when you decide this is what you want and you define the words. You've been given life... how you spend your time really is your choice. But never just throw it away - be engaged!
Friday, November 6, 2020
While we wait...
In April, 2020 a Grace Covenant Church's article stated:
"Biblical waiting is not a passive activity, but is demonstrated by active
dependence upon and obedience to God."
I'm sure others have also come to this realization. Too often we do think that if we wait, that's what we do... wait (think - twiddle thumbs). I don't think this is the case. If you look at God's nature, He doesn't waste anything - including time we are waiting, so why should we. The other part to this is our definitions of 'dependence' and 'obedience'. Neither of those two words are passive and inactive. We grow our understanding about both words as they come under attack.
This article by David Giarrizzo* lists 9 things we can do as we wait:
1. ACKNOWLEDGING GOD’S SOVEREIGN CONTROL OF ALL THINGS
2. COMING TO TERMS WITH OUR DEPENDENCE UPON GOD
3. SEEKING SPIRITUAL STRENGTH FROM THE LORD
4. BEING PATIENT AND QUIET
5. REFRAINING FROM NEEDLESS FEAR AND WORRY
6. CONTINUING TO LEARN AND OBEY GOD’S COMMANDS
7. EXPECTING THE LORD TO SAVE
8. SEEKING THE LORD THROUGH CONSTANT PRAYER
9. LONGING FOR CHRIST’S FINAL RETURN
If you are anything like me you can quickly identify the number 1 issue you would have - #4 for me. Regardless, these nine points are worth considering because our lives do encompass times of waiting. And as much as I typically deplore waiting on anything or anyone, this is rarely a position that is faced at different times. Waiting can really be a great ally for us as we interact with our lives. It can help us focus on whether our next step is what we need to do... or are able to do.
Since waiting IS a fact of life, how we choose to spend that time is important. How we define and act on waiting can speak volumes. When you look at these 9 points, something should become apparently clear: acknowledging, coming, seeking, being, refraining, continuing, expecting, seeking, longing are all action works. They are words that require our active involvement. They are anything but simply 'waiting' words and behaviors.
Never waste your waiting times. To be honest, one of my favorite Bible verses talks about waiting:
"But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in
Him] will gain new strength and renew their power;
They will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles
[rising toward the sun];
They will run and not become weary, They will walk and not grow
tired." (Isaiah 40:31, AMP)
This becomes the issue... what or who are we waiting on. If we wait for the Lord's timing, how He would have us act, then in the process we WILL gain new strength and power... we WILL run and not become weary... and walk and not grow tired. How's that for a promise. If this isn't happening, then who has stopped you and made you wait?
How we spend our waiting time really speaks more about who we are...
*To read this article, go to: https://www.gccgilbert.org/blog/2020/
4/23/9-ways-we-wait-upon-the-lord
"Biblical waiting is not a passive activity, but is demonstrated by active
dependence upon and obedience to God."
I'm sure others have also come to this realization. Too often we do think that if we wait, that's what we do... wait (think - twiddle thumbs). I don't think this is the case. If you look at God's nature, He doesn't waste anything - including time we are waiting, so why should we. The other part to this is our definitions of 'dependence' and 'obedience'. Neither of those two words are passive and inactive. We grow our understanding about both words as they come under attack.
This article by David Giarrizzo* lists 9 things we can do as we wait:
1. ACKNOWLEDGING GOD’S SOVEREIGN CONTROL OF ALL THINGS
2. COMING TO TERMS WITH OUR DEPENDENCE UPON GOD
3. SEEKING SPIRITUAL STRENGTH FROM THE LORD
4. BEING PATIENT AND QUIET
5. REFRAINING FROM NEEDLESS FEAR AND WORRY
6. CONTINUING TO LEARN AND OBEY GOD’S COMMANDS
7. EXPECTING THE LORD TO SAVE
8. SEEKING THE LORD THROUGH CONSTANT PRAYER
9. LONGING FOR CHRIST’S FINAL RETURN
If you are anything like me you can quickly identify the number 1 issue you would have - #4 for me. Regardless, these nine points are worth considering because our lives do encompass times of waiting. And as much as I typically deplore waiting on anything or anyone, this is rarely a position that is faced at different times. Waiting can really be a great ally for us as we interact with our lives. It can help us focus on whether our next step is what we need to do... or are able to do.
Since waiting IS a fact of life, how we choose to spend that time is important. How we define and act on waiting can speak volumes. When you look at these 9 points, something should become apparently clear: acknowledging, coming, seeking, being, refraining, continuing, expecting, seeking, longing are all action works. They are words that require our active involvement. They are anything but simply 'waiting' words and behaviors.
Never waste your waiting times. To be honest, one of my favorite Bible verses talks about waiting:
"But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in
Him] will gain new strength and renew their power;
They will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles
[rising toward the sun];
They will run and not become weary, They will walk and not grow
tired." (Isaiah 40:31, AMP)
This becomes the issue... what or who are we waiting on. If we wait for the Lord's timing, how He would have us act, then in the process we WILL gain new strength and power... we WILL run and not become weary... and walk and not grow tired. How's that for a promise. If this isn't happening, then who has stopped you and made you wait?
How we spend our waiting time really speaks more about who we are...
*To read this article, go to: https://www.gccgilbert.org/blog/2020/
4/23/9-ways-we-wait-upon-the-lord
Tuesday, November 3, 2020
The Start... The Beginning
The Beginning in any writing is always critical because it sets the 'mood, flavor' for what's coming next - the main message. It may be a teaser, a question, a declaration, etc. but it does have to capture the reader's attention or they may not get to the crux of what the writer wants to say. With that thought in mind, the Gospels are absolutely critical for the Christian. We all need to know. I had never taken the time to compare the 4 Gospels though I read them many times. For some reason I got to wondering about how the 4 Gospels began and ended their books.
The focus for all four books is Jesus: who He was, what He did, how He did what He did, and what happened to Him.That thought got me to thinking about how each of the gospels shared what they thought was important and how they would speak to a specific audience. (Understand that this is my understanding, my lessons and interpretations.)
"The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son (descendant)
of David, the son (descendant) of Abraham:" (Matthew 1:1, AMP)
"The beginning of the [facts regarding the] good news of [a]Jesus Christ,
the Son of God." (Mark 1:1, AMP)
"Since [as is well known] many have undertaken to compile an orderly
account of the things which have been fulfilled among us [by God],."
(Luke 1:1, AMP)
"In the beginning [before all time] was the Word Christ), and the Word
was with God, and the Word was God Himself." (John 1:1, AMP)
Matthew was speaking to his fellow Jews and knowing their concern about lineage, started with what would be most important to them. He recounted the lineage of both Jesus' Father and Mother. This would provide what Matthew ultimately would emphasize and share, a strong foundation of understanding and acceptance.
Mark was more of the firebrand. He started with the 'facts' and aimed this, I think, at the generation that was frustrated by the Roman occupation. His words throughout his book are action oriented and shared a Jesus would was involved, uncompromising, and strong.
Luke's account came much later and his audience was the Gentiles. So he would be concerned about helping them understand that they are also part of the ministry of Jesus.
John spoke to the hearts of his readers. He wanted them to understand the essence of who Jesus was and why He did what He did. I believe his focus was to help us understand the fullness of Jesus, who and how He acted, and what this meant.
All four focus on the person of Jesus but they each present the information slightly differently depending on the audience they are writing to. Matthew is talking to his fellow Jews and provides justification by showing Jesus' lineage. Luke is talking to the Gentiles. I might argue that Mark is talking to our heads and emotions and John to our heart. Regardless, in the end they all state the same belief: Jesus came to bring us Life and life abundantly, He taught, He healed, He lived, He was crucified, AND He rose from the dead. That being said, it all only touches the surface... but it is a start.
Equally important as the beginning is the ending, In my writing, I spend as much time on the ending as I do the beginning. Yes, the end is sometimes a summation, sometimes a call to action, a directive and sometimes a confirmation... and sometimes 'all the above'.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to
learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching
them to observe everything that I have commanded you; and lo, I am
with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circum-
stance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.”
(Matthew 28:19-20, AMP)
"So then, when the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was taken up
into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went
out and preached everywhere, while the Lord was working with them
and confirming the word by the signs that followed.]" (Mark 16:19-20, AMP)
"While He was blessing them, He left them and was taken up into
heaven. And they worshiped Him and returned to Jerusalem with
great joy [fully understanding that He lives and that He is the Son
of God]; and they were continually in the temple blessing and prais-
ing God." (Luke 24:51-53, AMP)
"This is the same disciple who is testifying to these things and has
recorded them; and we know [without any doubt] that his testimony is
true. And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if
they were recorded one by one, I suppose that even the world itself
could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:24-25, AMP)
Matthew states Jesus command, Mark relates the actions by the Apostles, Luke tells us about the impact that was the result of the understanding that Jesus went to heaven, and John affirms who he is and his veracity. Personally, it is John's final two sentences that have always intrigued me: not everything is recorded and even the world could not contain. I believe the one point that can be gleaned from all four accounts is that though this is the start of the the beginning... there's much more to come.
The Start may be only the Beginning. It does lead to an eventual End? Actually the start may herald a beginning, a new. And in the case of Jesus... this is still going on. The impact of who He was and what He did still echos and affects our now and future. It is a beginning... it is not an end. Perhaps the only question is... what will you do with this understanding, how will it impact your life?
Bottom line truly is: what difference do these words mean to you and the world you live in? If they aren't life to you, if they don't bring you understanding an d joy... what do they say, how do they speak to you?
The focus for all four books is Jesus: who He was, what He did, how He did what He did, and what happened to Him.That thought got me to thinking about how each of the gospels shared what they thought was important and how they would speak to a specific audience. (Understand that this is my understanding, my lessons and interpretations.)
"The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son (descendant)
of David, the son (descendant) of Abraham:" (Matthew 1:1, AMP)
"The beginning of the [facts regarding the] good news of [a]Jesus Christ,
the Son of God." (Mark 1:1, AMP)
"Since [as is well known] many have undertaken to compile an orderly
account of the things which have been fulfilled among us [by God],."
(Luke 1:1, AMP)
"In the beginning [before all time] was the Word Christ), and the Word
was with God, and the Word was God Himself." (John 1:1, AMP)
Matthew was speaking to his fellow Jews and knowing their concern about lineage, started with what would be most important to them. He recounted the lineage of both Jesus' Father and Mother. This would provide what Matthew ultimately would emphasize and share, a strong foundation of understanding and acceptance.
Mark was more of the firebrand. He started with the 'facts' and aimed this, I think, at the generation that was frustrated by the Roman occupation. His words throughout his book are action oriented and shared a Jesus would was involved, uncompromising, and strong.
Luke's account came much later and his audience was the Gentiles. So he would be concerned about helping them understand that they are also part of the ministry of Jesus.
John spoke to the hearts of his readers. He wanted them to understand the essence of who Jesus was and why He did what He did. I believe his focus was to help us understand the fullness of Jesus, who and how He acted, and what this meant.
All four focus on the person of Jesus but they each present the information slightly differently depending on the audience they are writing to. Matthew is talking to his fellow Jews and provides justification by showing Jesus' lineage. Luke is talking to the Gentiles. I might argue that Mark is talking to our heads and emotions and John to our heart. Regardless, in the end they all state the same belief: Jesus came to bring us Life and life abundantly, He taught, He healed, He lived, He was crucified, AND He rose from the dead. That being said, it all only touches the surface... but it is a start.
Equally important as the beginning is the ending, In my writing, I spend as much time on the ending as I do the beginning. Yes, the end is sometimes a summation, sometimes a call to action, a directive and sometimes a confirmation... and sometimes 'all the above'.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to
learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching
them to observe everything that I have commanded you; and lo, I am
with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circum-
stance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.”
(Matthew 28:19-20, AMP)
"So then, when the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was taken up
into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went
out and preached everywhere, while the Lord was working with them
and confirming the word by the signs that followed.]" (Mark 16:19-20, AMP)
"While He was blessing them, He left them and was taken up into
heaven. And they worshiped Him and returned to Jerusalem with
great joy [fully understanding that He lives and that He is the Son
of God]; and they were continually in the temple blessing and prais-
ing God." (Luke 24:51-53, AMP)
"This is the same disciple who is testifying to these things and has
recorded them; and we know [without any doubt] that his testimony is
true. And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if
they were recorded one by one, I suppose that even the world itself
could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:24-25, AMP)
Matthew states Jesus command, Mark relates the actions by the Apostles, Luke tells us about the impact that was the result of the understanding that Jesus went to heaven, and John affirms who he is and his veracity. Personally, it is John's final two sentences that have always intrigued me: not everything is recorded and even the world could not contain. I believe the one point that can be gleaned from all four accounts is that though this is the start of the the beginning... there's much more to come.
The Start may be only the Beginning. It does lead to an eventual End? Actually the start may herald a beginning, a new. And in the case of Jesus... this is still going on. The impact of who He was and what He did still echos and affects our now and future. It is a beginning... it is not an end. Perhaps the only question is... what will you do with this understanding, how will it impact your life?
Bottom line truly is: what difference do these words mean to you and the world you live in? If they aren't life to you, if they don't bring you understanding an d joy... what do they say, how do they speak to you?
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