Moral Character/Integrity

Integrity has been defined as a steadfast or firm adherence to a strict moral or ethical code. Also, the state of being unimpaired/ soundness. Thus, are my actions and words consistent with the way I live-especially when others are not around? Do I live/act according to the situation/setting, or am I firm/constant? We can fool humans, but will not dupe God. What do our children/family/friends see in us (when we think they are not or did not hear/see something)?  Trust and positive influences are hard to re-establish once lost. Jesus had both authority and influence because His character and actions completely matched His words-unflawed and perfect. Twelve disciples watched His every move. Because they found no inconsistencies, they quickly trusted Jesus. This gave Jesus a moral authority that superseded the authority of any other religious leader of the time. What an awesome example! I once heard a minister say that there are a lot of characters in this world, we should strive to be ‘of character’. We live in times of moral decay-qualitied such as: trust, honor, respect, compassion, kindness , are lacking.  I challenge myself and all to live consistent, godly lives so that others will notice the reliability of our character that portrays our Savior, Jesus Christ.   Isaiah 7:9, If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.   Psalm 139:23-24, Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Love & Mercy

Watched Love & Mercy a while back. It's about the complex, yet musically genius life of Beach Boy Brian Wilson. I got into their music in college and saw them in concert well past their peak. Also, big fan of John Cusack's work. An endearing story. Yet, it's sad to know there are those who are suppose to help someone, that you trust (his doctor) that look to their own interests and takes advantage/manipulates. What I did not know is that a special lady enters his life (I do not believe by coincidence) that challenges this doctor and the Wilson family to see this and get him the real help he needs. Flash forward, the two have been married since 1995 and Mr. Wilson continues to write music. I may have to crank up one of my favorite, 'God Only Knows', on my IPod today. Love & Mercy to all, blessings in your pursuits.......TO

'Living Room'

This post was inspired by a sermon from Randy Patterson-Antioch ,TN.  (2 Tim 3:14-17, 1 Tim 4:15-16)……..when we show someone our home for the first time, where do start-the living areas.  Perhaps, we do not even show anyone our attic and/or basement if we have one because that is typically where we put things that we don’t need/want/use any longer-a place to hide things.  The ‘Living Room’ is usually the heart and soul of a home(except maybe the kitchen for me!).  Our hearts are the spiritual 'living rooms' for us.  What do our daily actions proclaim.  What do our attitudes suggest?  Are we different or conforming? Am I growing, maturing and living a life reflecting Jesus-is it daily on my heart/life-my spiritual ‘living room’?  Or has the zeal of Christ been cast aside into my spiritual attic/basement-being hidden, seldomly used/shared?  When was the last time you opened your home and shared your 'living room' with others? Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

e5 Man

Living a godly life encompasses many facets, yet most can be centered to a few basic characteristics.  I ‘love’ (no pun intended) the Love Chapter-1 Corinthians 13, which epitomizes the essence of godliness. Some time ago, I came across an online group of men that has embraced a dedication/committed attitude of service—in a special way …….check out www.e5men.org .  This group uses Ephesians 5 , particularly verses 25-29, to demonstrate an act of self denial by fasting one 24 hour period/month.  Jesus often demonstrated self denial-for us/mankind.  He is who we as Christians are to imitate to become Christ-like.   One of my faith goals is to be an Ephesians chapter 5 man-always!  Still not there, God’s got more molding to do.  Blessings in your pursuit…….TO

Inviting

We can live our Christian walk in two basic ways:
     1)  As a list of do's/do not's-usually characterized with legalistic and judgmental attributes.
     2)  With joy-for what Christ has done for us through God's love and characterized by gentleness,
           meekness, kindness, compassion, warmth, love and generosity.  We can boldly and 
           confidently wear and share this gift-which is available to all.  Even during the trials we can
           embrace that peace that passes all understanding by trusting in God's promises.

Only by living the latter can we effectively let Jesus shine through our actions/lives.  This is the receptive, encouraging, and inviting model that Jesus demonstrated during his life on earth-an example for us to experience 'the life' He offers.  When Jesus walked the earth and taught, most folks responded to His inviting qualities.  We as humans are drawn to folks that show us kindness, love, sincerity, genuineness, authenticity, compassion, etc.  He often drew multitudes as scripture provides examples. 

We should strive to live so others are drawn.....not to us, but to the 'Light".  We all can be transformed as we focus on the benefits of following Christ and not the costs.  There are going to be costs in life, no matter how we choose to live.  Only by having the Biblical relationship with our Lord and Savior can we harvest the wonderful benefits.......both on earth and eternal.  That is not to suggest all will go our way during our time on earth-there will be troubles, persecution and hardships.  Our reward awaits us in Heaven-an eternity with our Creator.  Our decision to live a selfless serving life to God and others, should be driven by grace and love.......not of guilt/that we have to/as a set of rules.  Our actions will portray our faith (joyous or burdensome).  I  try to project Jesus example of being  inviting to those in my life....... to Him.......and without being judgmental. 

Are you an inviting example to others by your actions?  Blessings in your pursuit.......TO

All we need is Love.......

We live in trying times, of course each generation and periods of time have challenges.  We will have trials on earth.  The good news.......this is not our final home.  Politics are hot discussion and debate topics right now, and often times in 21st century America.  No matter your political views, what is more vital is do we exemplify love.  I am a conservative in every facet of life-that is my make-up. Is that the only way to live ones life, of course not.  I firmly believe the best medicine during hurting and divisive times is love.  I did not come up with that at all, it stems from our creator God.  One of my favorite passages is tabbed "the love chapter"-1 Corinthians 13.  I recommend checking it out if you never have, or it's been a while.  Verse 13 concludes by stating of faith, hope and love-the greatest of these is love.  Love is an action of course.  Also an attitude.  1 John 4:8 says he who does not love does not know God, because God is love.  Of course a huge hurdle is, sometimes this is challenging (love your enemies), yet I am convinced in order to truly experience joy, peace, and life itself.......love is a key component (love your neighbor as yourself-Mark 12:31).  It must be sincere (Romans 12:9). What a special blessing in the ability to love and be loved.  Perhaps the Beatles were on to something.......all you need is love!  Blessings in your pursuit.......TO

A 'Penciled' life

I once read of someone that would write notes with pencil in the margins of their Bible. Why pencil and not a pen which is more permanent for future reference?  Well, as this individual studied more, their thoughts and outlooks changed.  The question marks were replaced(erased) with notes of joy/encouragement.  Jesus has done the same with us.  He takes the temporary (pencil) lives on this earth and has etched a permanent home within us that, if obedient, He will one day exchange the temporary life for a glorious permanent one with Him in Heaven.   Blessings in your journey.......TO