Christmas

My family has always enjoyed the Christmas season, baking goodies, family time, presents, etc. My father would, as we became older, had us read scripture and pray before diving into the presents. Having a daughter has allowed me the opportunity to continue with the heart of a child at Christmas. While I have played up the "fun" of what can be had at this time of year, I've tried to instill within my daughter the heart of Jesus Christ. Not just during this time of year should she only see or hear about our Blessed Redeemer and Savior. Yes, we have all heard it and probably said it,'Jesus Christ is the reason for the season'. While this is very true, my paradigm has changed to Jesus Christ is the reason period! For all occasions/life, this should be my thought process. It is a lifestyle we should aspire to live daily-the example of Jesus Christ. Our lives really should not change during a particular day, week or month-ever how one would define the Christmas Season. I believe Christians can enjoy Christmas and should celebrate our Lord's birth, life, death and resurrection. The challenge, at least for me, is to keep the commercialization into perspective and live obediently and enjoy the reason daily.
C-Christ, the reason, period!
H-Holy
R-Risen Lord
I-Immanuel, God with us
S-Savior
T-The King of Kings
M-Messiah
A-Almighty God
S-Sacrificial Lamb.....................Merry Christmas, Blessings in your pursuit.......TO

Patience

What a challenging little word for most of us. I saw a simple, yet profound definition of patience today-the ability to endure graciously! The Bible is filled with passages regarding being patient, trusting in our Lord, yet it is a daily struggle. Is it solely due to the instant gratification society we have succumb to, or too much of self interference. Read Eph 4:1-3, Col 1:11, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Rom 15:5, or Proverbs 25:15. God is so amazing in His love and patience with us. Why cannot I, be more trusting and patient in Him as I deal with the daily issues that cross my path. One goal in the Christian walk is to love as God loves-that requires patience. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit, if the Spirit dwells in us as a gift from our God, where then is my patience-something perhaps we all can improve upon. Blessings in you pursuit…….TO

What is your 'results' attitude?

We’ve all heard the phrase, ‘what have you done for me lately?’ We live in not only a results driven society, but one where efforts quickly can become obsolete, overlooked, and forgotten as we move forward to more progress. We want results, society demands them and in the now-the present and future. God shows us that while He has given us the abilities to accomplish great results, He demands we have compassion, patience, forgiveness towards one another. A powerful conflict oftentimes in our jobs and even our daily lives. Above all, we must recognize to be obedient and willing to just say ‘yes’. God uses ordinary people for extraordinary results. May we never take credit for the results that God produces through His servants. I wonder how many times in discourse with others that I say phrases like; "I did this, we done that," etc. Yes, I may have been the instrument/vessel for a particular purpose, however, God is the planner and Creator. When I say ‘yes’ to God, He will produce the results that is best. Do I truly believe and live that obedient life? Or, is my attitude- MY efforts and MY results? Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

A Precious Gift

Look at the following two passages: John 14:16-17, "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. Romans 8:26-28, In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
As Christians, God has given us a precious gift-His spirit-the Holy Spirit to dwell within us and provide life and help. We are in a society that suggests ‘we’ are in control and ‘our’ efforts will get us what we want. I don’t know about you, but the more I study God’s word, the more I realize that I am not in control (thankfully) and just how much I need God. I do struggle with how to fully use this gift from God-How do I/we tap into this power? I know for certain that by trusting, seeking and obeying-God will provide. I’m thankful He dwells within me through His Spirit-something I can depend on for comfort, guidance and help with LIFE. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO.

Who is your 'C.O.B'?

I have heard that each one of us is president/owner of our own ‘company’……YOU/ME! While there may be some truth and/or benefit in that thinking, we need to remember that it is not all about us, nor are we in control. Yes, God allows us to make free-will decisions-we can and do make choices. That provokes two questions- who are the board of directors and more importantly, the chairman of the board(COB) in your life/’company’? What voices are influential in your decisions/choices? It can be a vast and diverse committee of influences. Friends, family, co-workers and fellow believers can be great sources. However, the Great(I AM) should be the valued and desired head(COB) of us. Be still, listen to the wisdom of our glorious God, trusting and believing. Deuteronomy 13:4 says, "You shall follow the Lord your God and fear Him; and you shall keep His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him." A Chairman of the Board is usually one of vast knowledge, experience and wisdom-I’m trying to consistently maintain God as my C.O.B- to guide my ‘company/life’. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Listening.......an endearing yet lost trait!

God listens which shows His care and love. Psalm 17:6 says, I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O bend down and listen as I pray. Jesus at a young age gives an example of listening in Luke 2:46- ‘After three days they found him(Jesus ) in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions’. Why do we/I often shut people out when they are speaking …..because of our own self interests? (whether we are on the phone, internet, working, or other distractions). We/I need to show the compassion of Jesus and put God and others before myself (deny thyself)…….and listen with considerate ears and hearts. We often fret on what to say to someone facing a difficult trial, thus we attempt to avoid spending precious time with them-doing nothing will cause us to miss out on enriching experiences. Sometimes it is perhaps best not to say anything-a hug or holding a hand can mean more. Show someone courtesy, love and kindness each day by lending an attentive, comforting ear…..and just listen. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

‘D’efense!!! How about these D’s of life

We hear this phrase frequently during the football season….’DEFENSE’. I was going through some old notes today from a friend of mine that so happens to be a minister too. Steve-you inspired this post. Look at the insight and wisdom found in these words that begin with the letter ‘D’

If you want to be:
Distressed-look within
Defeated-look back
Distracted-look around
Dismayed-look ahead
Delivered-look above

What is my defensive format towards daily life issues? Where am I looking/focused as I go through trials/temptations? Peace will only be found in the comforting inspired words of our God and through our living Savior, Jesus Christ-why do we often make this so compelling and difficult. I need to ascribe to the ‘kiss’ principle……Keep It Simple Stupid. God’s plan for salvation is indeed simple-however it is a constant daily grind/battle with worldliness and Satan’s subtle pull. Look above to find peace, joy and deliverance. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Thievery- guilty by omission!

A thief, surely not I! Usually, we relate sin by something we do/have done(often times this is accurate). Can we sin by something we 'do not do'? We certainly can. Malachi 3:6-18 addresses a sin of omission. By financial unfaithfulness in tithes and offerings, we(I) rob God and in this passage, the Israelites were cursed. Unfaithful giving has a severe domino effect. Ministries are not adequately funded-outreach and missionary efforts diminished-those to receive aid are reduced, some perhaps denied being shared the Gospel. My hope and prayer is that this economic downturn will allow all of us to reevaluate how we handle our finances-be more prudent, the stewards God calls us to be with the things He has entrusted us with. Where on the list is my giving? How does it compare to vacations, new ‘things’? Luke 12:24 is a very humbling passage. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will also be.” Another suggested passage is 1 Tim.6:17-19. I challenge myself and all to take a financial self inventory regularly to see where your(my) heart is. I have failed especially during my extended unemployment. I need to be bold, trusting-He has provided as He promises. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Responding to trials

When faced with trials there are two basic choices…..a Godly response or a self/worldly one. We try to blame others and/or circumstances, but the truth of the matter is, WE control our reactions-it is our responsibility-WE are held accountable for ourselves. Look at the example in Job 1:20. A response of WORSHIP in times of despair/struggles! That is not natural to me, I tend to complain or throw a pity party with myself as the center of attention. This is a great example of needing God’s word on our hearts, studying and being steeped in the WORD (2 Timothy 2:15). How else can we have the faith and trust we need to face trials. They are going to happen. They prepare us to become more like Christ, a life-long pursuit/molding by our Heavenly Father who loves us so much to discipline His children-just as we do our earthly children. Our response needs to become so we react to God and His love, character, compassion and not a rejoinder of the circumstances. Do I really believe that what matters most is what happens ‘in’ me' rather than ‘to’ me? Wow! What constant work my heart and attitude needs-a daily supply of God’s word. Check out the following examples from God’s word: James 1:2-4 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete. 1 Peter 4:1-2. Since Jesus went through everything you're going through and more, learn to think like Him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you'll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want. Romans 5:3-5, Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Hebrews 12:11, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." 1 Peter 4:12-13, Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. An attitude/response of Worship & Rejoicing during trials!!! I have a long way to go! Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Pride check!

Proverbs 11:2 states that with pride comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Do you have issues with pride? We can easily identify it in others, while being blind to our own. Pride can implicate the following: an overestimation of oneself, unreasonable self-esteem and undue confidence in one’s accomplishments/skills/possessions/position. Perhaps more than anything else, it is human pride that pits man against God. The result of this sin deceives us into thinking we are: self-sufficient, more special than others, deserving -due to what ‘we’ have done. God’s Holy Word urges us to humility-pride’s opposite. Proverbs 16:5 shows us God’s view on pride-The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. Pride causes us to take credit where it is not ours to receive. We forget that without God’s gifts and enabling(John 6:44 & 65), we can accomplish nothing. 1 Peter 5:5-6 says we are to clothe ourselves in humility as God opposes the proud. My goal- is to tightly knot the garment of humility on my character. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Sowing

I read a passage from Psalm (126:6) which says, ‘He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him. Some thoughts came to mind. When and why do I typically sow? It is much easier when things are going well to be more servant focused and joyfully sowing seeds for the Lord’s kingdom. What about during trials/difficulties? I don’t know about you, but for me it is very tempting to be self-centered at those times, looking inward causing deficiencies in serving and sowing- especially with joy! This passage reminds us that we can and should still sow with joy and reap a harvest of joy for our God and Savior, others and ourselves…….even when accompanied by weeping due to troubles/sorrow. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

If Only…….

These two words can be subtle poison in our lives. To focus on the past will lead us riddled with guilt and regret. A counselor in an article once stated; “If only you’d stop saying ‘if only’, maybe we can get somewhere.” He then suggests we substitute/strike out those two words and replace them with, ‘next time’. Can you imagine if Paul, David and Peter focused on their past mistakes? The good these men accomplished(through Jesus) perhaps would have never happened if they relished in their past sins. Paul persecuted Christians and struggled with pride early on. David was an adulterer and murderer(Uriah). Peter denied Jesus three times. Do you ever feel trapped in your past, or perhaps your present situations? Have you lived times of ‘if only’ causing hate, guilt or regret and thinking ‘I am no good’. In Phil 3:13-14, Paul says; Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. God promises to forgive a repenting heart. Take hold of this promise and embrace that comfort. Learn from our past ‘if only’s’ and make the ‘next time’ an example of growth, moving forward for God-forgetting the mistakes. Rom 3:23 tells us all have sinned, but there is peace and a beautiful promise of forgiveness(Psalm 103:12; 1 John 1:9; Jeremiah 31:34-are just a few of many examples). Be careful not to become a ‘guiltoholic’- addicted to past guilt. One cannot live an effective life to God without accepting His forgiveness. We cannot successfully attempt to carry our baggage of mistakes/sin throughout life-Jesus did that for us on the cross-the atonement for our transgressions…..believe and live it! To make the future worth living, the past must be left behind/yesterday is gone-we all need a good mental wastebasket. The question is do we have the faith which will empower us forward, or fear that paralyzes/hinders moving to the ‘next time’? 2 Cor. 5:17- Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Is Bible reading simply a checklist item?

I’m trying to not just read the Bible but LIVE it. Reading with great expectations of connecting more deeply and living more authentically with God. Psalm 119: 15-16 reads, I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways, I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word. “Meditate, consider, not neglect”- I simply cannot just read God’s word and check off my time with Him. I must(and should desire to) meditate/apply; trust/consider God’s ways; delight that He loves/cares for me and that is why He gave us His word; I cannot neglect the word-I must not only read, but study/apply/LIVE it. I believe I must start with the simple question. Is God truly first in my life? Sounds simple/easy enough, right? It did not take me long to realize when I looked at how I spend my time each day to see that while God was high on my list, He was not at the top. What has perplexed me so often is that I want to see a clear, defined list such as 1) God, 2) Family, 3) Job/career………..and so on. In actuality, life’s activities are usually all intertwined together causing a futile attempt to place our individual actions into certain categories of our priorities-thus causing doubt and confusion with our priorities. The Christian life is not a simple checklist of good actions, it’s about allowing God to mold us into His image and to be the example of Jesus to those He puts in our life. I’ll finish with a couple passages; James 3:13, Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds, done in the humility that comes from wisdom. Matthew 7:7 Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. Colossians 4:2 Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Friends and Enemies

"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you" Luke 6:27-28. We tell our children to choose friends carefully-true friendships are not in abundance. While most of us have many friends-we do not nurture them into trusting relationships. We must be vigilant of those who outwardly express sincerity, yet have other deceptive motives. I've heard the term “frenemies” to describe such people. While our friendship choices are critical, Satan is the ultimate deceiver/enemy. He comes masked as a friend, however, he seeks to steal, kill and destroy our Spirit. Beware! "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour"- I Peter 5:8. I wonder, is it easier to discern a ‘friends’ sinful influence or the enticement from Satan himself? We have all probably heard the phrase,'keep your friends close, your enemies closer'. We read in Proverbs 27:6, "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But deceitful are the kisses of an enemy." Also in Proverbs 27:17, "Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." I must ask myself, Am I faithful, accountable, and encouraging to my friends? May God help me to become the kind of friend to others..... that I long to have. May I allow Jesus to mold and equip me to be a true friend to others while glorifying God. We could all probably admit that we often times take our friends(and family) for granted! Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Spiritual Checkup/Surgery!

Mark 9:42-48 reads-And if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone tied around his neck. If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, where 'their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.' God is telling me here that whatever causes sin in my life, drastic and urgent action is needed-perhaps, a spiritual surgery(allowing God to mold and purify our hearts and live by the Spirit). Of course we should not literally harm our bodies as they are God’s temple. Our eyes, hands and feet are simply the agents used by Satan for our fall into sin. The issue at hand is our HEART. Gal. 5:16-17 tells us to live by the spirit-that which is contrary to the sinful nature. Also, Romans 8:6 "The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace." Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Watching the 'flapper', A reflection of the heart!

I often remember something a special friend/brother in Christ (Ed) would remind his class/audience. He brought out the warning from God regarding our words via the tongue. As my friend Ed would say, ‘the thing that flaps between our gums’. From it can come beautiful tones of kindness, love, encouragement, respect, praise, etc. Unfortunately, much harm, negativity, disrespect, and abomination too. Look at these passages; Proverbs 15:4, "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit." Proverbs12:18, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." James 3:5b-6a, "Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body." Even when ‘joking around’(my struggle), I must be careful/vigilant. Remember what it says in Matthew 6:21, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." My friends, our words and thoughts are reflective of our hearts. Yes, even unspoken thoughts must be dealt with. I may not say something that is in my mind, but it’s in my heart. I may spare someone of hearing these thoughts, but God knows. I need the Spirit of Christ in my mind/thoughts/speech. I must flee Satan’s constant pull. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Value Added

Several years ago while working in Corporate America, we had a national meeting with the focus on a typical business buzz-word for that particular time. This theme was centered around ‘Value Added’. What were we as employees adding to the company, the mission, goals, to our customers, etc. This is an excellent evaluations tool to assist in one's focus, eagerness, learning, improving ourselves/company in order to develop/maintain positive attitudes and add value. As scripture says about our work in Colossians 3:23: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men..."
My challenge is this, what am I adding spiritually to others I come in contact, towards the relationships I have with friends, family or co-workers, and yes, even my own personal salvation-how are my actions influencing these special lives? Is it a positive value by letting my light shine, showing authentic love and compassion? Or, a negative affect through self indulgence, pride, hypocritical deeds. I/we must be mindful of what value we project. What is watched/said (tv, movies, gossip, certain jokes, pride, etc ) and how I conduct myself every step as I never know who may be watching at those moments. Someone may fool humans, but God knows each of our hearts. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 says, "And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right." Also, Galatians 6:9, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." I don’t know about you, but I want to exemplify positive Christ-like value to my life, family, friends, co-workers, strangers………….everyone! Look to scriptures as we inwardly search/take self-inventory of our daily walk and keep guard of what we are sowing- 1 Peter 4:1-2, Since Jesus went through everything you're going through and more, learn to think like Him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you'll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want. Jesus’ life is our example to show love-what a responsibility-yet joy- to have ETERNAL VALUE to share with others. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Time----Precious

One of the most precious gifts from God is TODAY. Time is more valuable than money. We cannot retrieve time once it passes, however, we can make more money. In Titus 2:12 we read:
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world. What are we here for? Where does the time go? How am I using the time God has given? There is a song I like by REO Speedwagon called ‘Live Every Moment’. The chorus goes like this-Live every moment, Love every day, 'cause before you know it your precious time slips away. I want to honor God by being more prudent and serving with the time I'm given by our Almighty God. Take a regular self inventory test of how you spend your TIME. It is too precious/priceless to be taken for granted and/or wasted! Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Who is my neighbor?

Galatians 5:14, The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Wow! Easy? Perhaps-sometimes. Whom do you think of when you think your neighbor? That is the compelling question. I will suggest that it should not be just those that are close to us, but all we come in contact with-especially the poor/needy. Matt. 10:42 says, "And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward." Deut. 15:11 says, "There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore, I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land." Why does my heart harden for those in need as geographic distance increases-the temptation of situations and needs becoming impersonal/indifferent can arise. That is not the love that God demonstrates. If all people are important to God-why should I act any differently. “Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God”-World Vision founder, Bob Pierce. Does this change the paradigm of ‘your neighbor’? It has mine-now I am challenged to live it. Blessing in your pursuit…….TO

Playing it Safe?

In the parable on the talents(Matt. 25:14-30), we see what God expects from our attitudes and effort in life. Two of the servants put forth effort and took chances to produce for their master-lived by faith/trust. The other one played it safe, cautious….thus lacked the faith/trust that God expects. These results demonstrate each one’s effort/attitude. For two of them, their talents increased/doubled. The other still had just the one talent given as he hid it in the ground. Further in the same chapter(Matt 25:35-46) we learn that unless we actively serve(the hungry, thirsty, naked, imprisoned, etc.) in a selfless way and not expecting rewards/pats on back/being seen by others, we are playing it safe and not being bold.
The question that is pulling at my heart is, ‘How am I playing in my faith/Christian walk?’ I have to admit for most of my life I have let my introverted/reserved/quiet demeanor control my life. I have not been bold for my Almighty God. Instead, trying to get by and being content going to church and being a good person. I ask God to forgive me when I cowardly and passively shy away from sharing the most precious gift-Jesus Christ. So, ‘How are you playing?’ Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Cut

There is a song from Christian artist ‘Plumb’(her band/stage name) called ‘Cut’. It is a beautiful song melodically-I know nothing about music-but it really sounds good. As far as the lyrics-I’m not certain what the exact meaning she had in mind. However, the title and a certain part of the chorus has brought me to make an observation. The line goes, 'I’m tired of feeling so numb, relief exists I find when I’ve been cut’. Life's trials(those valleys )can bring on feelings of lost, doubt, or as the song says-numb. The past two years, I have felt the pain/hurt of being deeply ‘cut’ in multiple events that have occurred. I have asked God where is He?, What have I done? Am I not living right in His sight? Natural questions, yet ones that show I need molding from God due to my lack of faith and trust (read James 1:2-5, 1 Peter 4:1-2 and 12-13). These ‘cuts/trials’ will cause us to react in one of two ways-either to humble ourselves and draw closer to God, or give up and let Satan rule our reactions. In Hebrews 12:11, we read- "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." While this period has provided much spiritual awakening and growth, it does not come without pain/sufferings-being ‘cut’. I do not always have the faith, trust, submissive/surrendering heart that I should. Hence this is God’s way of getting our attention, not being complacent-something so easily done in 21st century America. The good news-God will not leave us hanging, He loves and cares for each person. He will provide and comfort (Isaiah 41:10, Matt 11:28-30, Rom. 5:3-5, Psalm 46:1, Philip. 4:19). I’ll finish with a comforting passage from Psalm (34:18)- "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Let’s place our ‘cuts’ in God’s loving hands and trust Him-not easy-but the all knowing God wants us there. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Jordan River Moments

I was reminded this week that we all need to grasp onto moments in our lives where God was faithful in order to help us through the trials/struggles we will face in life. In Joshua ch. 4 there is a story about memorials/reminders. Just after crossing the Jordan river the Lord instructs Joshua to select 12 men-one from each tribe to gather a stone from the middle of the parted river and take these 12 stones and to place them where they stayed that night on the other side. It was to remind future generations of God's faithfulness to Israel during the journey to the Promised Land.

When have you last thought of your Jordan River moments in life? Those events/circumstances that occurred that demonstrate God's faithfulness personally. These are part of our blessings. Things we can reflect upon during our doubts, trials, temptations and fears. We can use these to help us endure, strengthen and look to the future with joy. I tend to live too much in the past sometimes, when the issues I now face did not exist in my life-this is a joy robber for now and the future. One passage that has helped me tremendously is from Romans 5:3-5; "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." The scriptures are filled with comfort from our Heavenly Father( James 1:2-5, 1 Peter 4:1-2 are a couple more that have helped me).

What are your Jordan River moments? Blessings in your pursuit.......TO

Letting Go/Reconciling Wrongs

Have you been wronged by someone? Or, have you hurt another? Most of us probably have had the misfortune of this experience. If left unresolved, it can devastate us emotionally, physically and spiritually. God instructs us to reconcile-even if we have been the victim. It is called humility/humbling ourselves towards our adversary and our God. In Matt. 5:23-24 we read of the importance/urgency God places on reconciliation. It reads, ”If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, First, go and be reconciled with your brother, then come and offer your gift”. This is serious business! This demonstrates that we cannot worship God effectively as He desires until we have mended any unresolved issues with another-WOW! You may say, “but the other person was in the wrong”. God says to humble ourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up(James 4:10) . Matt 6:14-15 states that unless we forgive others, we will not be forgiven by our Heavenly Father. Only when we have at least attempted to reconcile can we maintain true fellowship with God. How can we effectively accept God’s reconciliation towards us/mankind through His only begotten Son-Jesus Christ, if we are not ministers of reconciliation ourselves towards one another? Our unwillingness to restore broken relationships can and probably will negatively affect our relationship with our God. Blessings in your reconciliations/pursuit…….TO.

Spiritual Cleanse

We have all probably by now become familiar with the process of a total body cleanse. I’ll avoid the details and simply say, it is a process to remove build up and toxins from our bodies-nuff said. Is this helpful? Necessary? How frequent? I’ll leave those questions to the health professionals. One thing I do know is that we need to be concerned with a regular spiritual cleansing. It is not only helpful and necessary, but commanded by our God. There are several actions to a healthy spiritual body. We can meditate as referenced in 1 Timothy 4:15, Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 2 Timothy 2:15 tells us to study to show thyself approved unto God. Self examination/Attitude adjustment as Romans 12:2 says, Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Pray-the Bible is filled with examples regarding the power of prayer. Matt 26:41, Watch and pray so you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, the body is weak. We have a precious gift(prayer) with a direct 24/7 line to our Heavenly Father-1 Thes.5:17, Pray without ceasing. Fasting is yet another way to help us focus/renew/cleanse. Matt.6:18 says, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Worship is another as Psalm 100:2 says, Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Finally, I’ll suggest that sharing our burdens/confessing our struggles with one another will be therapeutic/cleansing. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO