A Brand New Nature

Father in Heaven, I understand that while I was given a brand new nature at the moment of my conversion, I still have old habits, patterns, and practices that need to be removed and replaced. Sometimes I am afraid to humbly face the truth about myself. My habits define my character and there is only one way to develop the habits of Christlike character: I must practice them-and that takes time! There are no instant habits. I am what I repeatedly do. Motivation is what gets me started. Habit is what keeps me going. I want to be more Like Jesus, but it is so hard sometimes to get rid of "Me" and "Be-Him." Help me to practice new disciplines so I will build new habits that please You. Change me enough so that all others witness the change in me. Shine through me, in Jesus Name and Power. Amen.

Making It Through The Storm

"My Most Significant Opportunities Will Be Found In My Times Of Greatest Difficulty."

- Raymond Bechard

No one escapes trials in life. When pursuing your God-given dreams, you are on a collision course with challenges and disappointments. But, these don't have to derail your destiny! Please remember that God is in control. So don't demand to understand all the challenges in life. Just trust in God's specific, glorious plan for you. Take a deep breath (or two, or twenty) and remain faithful no matter what. Don't give up and quit on your dream no matter what you face. Boldly ask God to give you the strength to stay faithful to what He's called you to do.

Today's Prayer

Father in Heaven, Thank-You for reminding me today, that once the storm is over, I may not remember how I made it through, how I managed to survive. I won't even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When I come out of the storm, I won't be the same person who walked in. That's what this storm's all about. In Jesus name. Amen....

Sleep Well . . .

Never alone! NEVER ALONE! What a promise. God will go with us through all the seasons of life, through all our ups and downs, through trials, temptations and triumphs, even through death (Psalm 139). So we can take courage and feel His strength. We are not alone!

Father in heaven, who is and was and is to come, thank You for being there and staying there when all others forsake and leave. You are the one constant in my life so full of change. Help me become more steadfast and faithful in my commitments and relationships to honor You and to learn more about You. 

Through Jesus I pray. Amen.

Sleep Tight…

IT'S UP TO YOU

“Jesus entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him. She had a sister named Mary who sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.” The Lord said to her in reply, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.”

Luke 10:38-42

Have you ever felt like Martha? We all have. But, it’s important to take a close look at what she is really worried about. Martha is telling Jesus that she is not being treated fairly. She wants others to start acting differently so that she will feel better. Sound familiar?

Poor Martha wants everyone around her to change, but she is not willing to change at all.

That can be a familiar feeling. When things aren’t going our way, sometimes our first reaction is to think that we are being ignored or taken advantage of. “Why is everyone doing this to me?”

This is when you can turn to the Holy Spirit for wisdom and freedom. If you do you will find an opportunity for real peace in any tense situation. But, you must take responsibility for changing yourself before trying to change anyone else, especially if you are asking for divine grace to help you. You see, while the Lord will help you deal with you, He alone will deal with everyone else.

And when you allow the presence of Jesus to have absolute first place in your heart, I guarantee amazing things will happen in your life! That is because God is so creative He can lead you to life-changing thoughts, decisions, and actions. This will do far more than just resolve a particular situation; it will bring healing, freedom, and even deliverance.

Be assured that your love and compassion for others will always replace your fuming over be slighted by them. Yes, if you call upon Him, God’s own divine wisdom will lead you to make changes in you and how you deal with everyone else in your life. He may even reveal how you played a key role in creating whatever problems you face . . . along with a way out of the mess!

But, no matter what the Spirit reveals to you, you will find your faith and trust in Jesus deepening. And as you experience His power to change your heart, His grace will flow out of you, helping everyone around you to experience that very same healing, freedom, and lasting joy.   

Today’s Prayer

“Jesus, I  need you! I bring every troubled relationship and situation to you. I know if I don’t place these things  in your hands, they will spiral out of control until I give them to you. Please pour your peace and patience upon each person involved. Let your mercy triumph over every division. Holy Spirit, allow your grace to fill me right now. I want to turn from my anger. Show me how I can respond differently here. Amen.”

WHO'S PACKING YOUR PARACHUTE?

"Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil.

Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

Romans 12:16-18

Charles Plumb flew 74 successful combat missions over North Vietnam. On his 75th mission, with only five days before he was to return home, Plumb was shot down, captured, tortured, and imprisoned in an 8 foot x 8 foot cell for the next six years.

Eventually, Charles Plumb made it home. One day, he was sitting in a restaurant in Kansas City. “A man about two tables away kept looking at me,” he explains. “I didn't recognize him. But, a few minutes into our meal he stood up and walked over to my table, looked down at me, pointed his finger in my face and said, ‘You're Captain Plumb.’ I looked up and I said, ‘Yes sir, I'm Captain Plumb.’"

The man then said, "You flew jet fighters in Vietnam. You were on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down. You parachuted into enemy hands and spent six years as a prisoner of war." Charles Plumb was stunned. He asked the stranger how he knew so much about him.

The man simply replied, "Because, I packed your parachute."

Mr. Plumb says, “I was speechless. I staggered to my feet and held out a very grateful hand of thanks.” He then told his new friend, “I must tell you I've said a lot of prayers of thanks for your nimble fingers, but I never thought I'd have the opportunity to express my gratitude in person."

Charles Plumb was overjoyed, but he didn’t get much sleep that night. “I kept thinking about that man. I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform - a Dixie cup hat, a bib in the back and bell bottom trousers. I wondered how many times I might have passed him on board the Kitty Hawk. I wondered how many times I might have seen him and not even said ‘good morning’, ‘how are you?’ or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor. How many hours did he spend on that long wooden table in the bowels of that ship weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of those chutes? I could have cared less...until one day my parachute came along and he packed it for me.”

Right now, this very moment, ask yourself this one simple question, “Who’s packing my parachute?”

This one question gives you an incredible opportunity to see the unseen, to know the unknown and to appreciate the overlooked. But, you must be honest with yourself. Who are the special – and maybe not so special - people in your life who provide you with strength, support, encouragement – or just a smile, the brakes fixed on your car, your bags packed at the grocery store – who make your days better and brighter?

The Lord sends a lot of people to pack our parachutes everyday. We may not know exactly who they are, but it could be anyone. That’s why we must appreciate and show God’s love to everyone we meet.

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, You have saved me every way a person can be saved. You have saved my life, my soul and my place in heaven. I know you send people to save me every day. Thank you for them. I ask that you bless their lives and their work. Please allow me to show them the appreciation and gratitude they deserve. And show me the many opportunities I will have to pack the parachutes of those around me. Amen.

WANTED: EVERY DAY HEROES

He saved them from the hand of the foe;

from the hand of the enemy he redeemed them.

Psalm 106:10

Irena Sendler

In 1939 the Nazis invaded Poland and began their war against the Jewish people there. They began by establishing ghettos into which all Jews were forced to relocate. Food was scarce. The housing was filthy and crowded. The guards were brutal....and the days to come would only get worse.

Yet, there were heroes.

One woman, a woman whose name you may have never known, took action. Irena Sendler, a Catholic woman in her thirties, decided to join an underground movement against the Germans. In the beginning she helped Jews by providing food, shelter and over 3,000 false documents which allowed some to flee the coming Holocaust. The punishment for these “crimes” was death, but Irena continued her heroic work. Later, God would call upon her in even greater ways.

Because she worked for the Social Welfare Department, Irena was given a special permit to enter the Warsaw Ghetto to check for signs of disease among the Jews trapped there. But that’s not all Irena was doing.

Irena realized she had a unique opportunity to help the Jewish children held captive by the extraordinary evil of the Nazis. With total access to the ghetto, she organized the smuggling of children out of the Ghetto, carrying them in boxes, suitcases and hand trolleys.  She even smuggled out babies and small children in by disguising them as packages.

The children were placed with non-Jewish Polish families, in convents, or in church rectories where they could be further hidden. In order to keep track of their original and new identities, Irena She hid lists of the children’s names in jars. She assured the children that when the war was over they would be returned to their families.

In 1943, Irena was arrested by the Gestapo, severely tortured, and sentenced to death.

In total, Irena Sendler saved at least 2500 children from of the ghettos and away from certain death. Her story is a reminder that there are always opportunities for you to become a hero for those in need. It only takes the mind of Christ, thinking as Christ would think in any given situation, to provide you with the wisdom and courage to do what He needs done.

No, you may not be called upon to smuggle children out of danger. But, you may be asked to help a friend at work, to assist a single mother, to change a tire, to serve a meal, or if it is God’s will, give your life to save others as Jesus did.

Fortunately, this was not Irena’s calling. You see, on the way to her execution in 1943, the German guards, having been bribed by Irena’s colleagues in the underground, left her for dead in the woods. She was rescued and lived out the rest of her life in Poland. After the war, she dug up the jars with the children's identities. For years, she tried to return the children to their families. However, almost all the parents died in the Holocaust.

Having been honored by several international organizations, she passed away in 2008.

The message of Irena Sendler’s life is that all of us have a job to do. Because the Lord needs each of us to help one another in times of danger, pain, suffering and grief. Right now, He needs you to rescue his children from whatever ghettos they face – large or small. Yes, He needs YOU to be his Hero today.

This Week's Prayer

Dear Lord, I am willing to go where You need me to go and do what You need me to do. I only need you to make me able. Give me the power of Your Holy Spirit and the courage to move ahead in helping others. You are my Hero for saving my soul and giving me eternal life. Now, I want to be Your hero by following Your will every day and in every way. Amen.

CROSSING THE LINE

As he came near and saw the city, he wept over it.

Luke 19:41

On March 3, 1836, only 183 men remained to defend The Alamo against a huge army led by Santa Anna. Two hours before dusk, the Mexican guns suddenly stopped firing. The end was near.

The Commander of The Alamo, William Travis quickly assembled his men. He told them that no reinforcements were coming. "Our doom is certain," Travis told the tired, beaten men. Then, Travis pulled his sword from its sheath and drew a line in the dirt. He asked every man who was committed to remain in the Alamo, fight and die to cross the line.

Topley Holland was the first man to cross the line. Others quickly followed including Davy Crockett. Another man was Colonel Jim Bowie. He was very sick and unable to cross the line on his own, so he called for help. Four men carried him from his cot and lifted him over the line. On March 6, the Alamo fell. Every man within her walls died.

But, as their lives ended a great new beginning sprang forth. Because of their choice to cross the line, the Republic of Texas was born from their sacrifice.

The moment Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, He had crossed the line. The end was near.

This should have been the happiest single day in Jesus' life. Yet, we read that “He wept over” the city. Why? After all, huge Passover crowds had come out to greet Him. So many people, in fact, that the Pharisees murmured, "Look! The whole world has gone after him!" On that first Palm Sunday began it appeared as though Jesus’ preaching ministry would be a huge success.

But Jesus knew better. He knew how disloyal the crowds would become. He knew that when He needed His people the most, they would all forsake Him and run away. This same welcoming crowd would escort Him to the Cross. Today, they were shouting, "Hosanna!" By Friday, they were shouting, "Crucify Him!" In just a few days, Jesus would be arrested, tried, whipped, humiliated, spat upon, cursed at, betrayed, crucified, dead, and buried.

It took less than a week for this Man to be destroyed by betrayal.

He had crossed the line. But, as His life ended a great new beginning sprang forth.

He shed His blood for us. And now He draws a line in the sand and asks you to cross over to His side. Make no mistake, if you choose Jesus, you will need to make a very special kind of commitment. Now is the time.

As we approach Easter, will you cross the line to the Cross of Christ?

This week’s prayer

Dear Lord, I offer my eternal thanks for your Son Jesus Christ. He died for me so that I may spend eternity in your glorious presence. Please guide me so that I will not take lightly my commitment to Jesus. Help me to live a Jesus kind of sacrifice. Amen.

IT'S NOT YOUR JOB

"Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts."

I Corinthians 4:5

Joel Hemphill, a great southern gospel songwriter, wrote a hit song in the 1970's called "He's Still Working On Me.” It went like this:

"There really ought to be a sign upon my heart,
'Don’t Judge Me Yet There's An Unfinished Part'.
But I’ll be perfect just according to his plan,
Fashioned by the Master's loving hand."

Some Christians spend a lot of time judging others. I find it ironic that while we are supposed to proclaim the “good news” of the gospel, we often turn unbelievers away by our own bad news in the form of harsh criticism and judgment. After looking at how judgmental we can be, they might say to themselves: "If that’s Christianity, then I don’t want any part of it." Why do we push others away from Christ instead of allowing them to see the Christian qualities in us that bring us true peace and joy?

I’m afraid when we get to heaven, some of us are going to have a lot of explaining to do. Yes, as saved sinners our sins are forgotten, but the Bible promises that we will stand before God to discuss the good and bad in our lives.

So what are we to do? Without exception, Jesus tells us that that we should not judge no matter what. He tells us, "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with measure you use, it will be measured you." You see, Jesus knew the dangers of one person judging another. He knew the damage we could do to His ministry if people saw Christians judging everyone. Maybe that’s why some of His strongest warnings concerned judgment. "Why," He said, "do you look at a speck of sawdust in your brothers eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?"

He is reminding us that we can’t look at others unless we look at them through our own mistakes, failures, and sins. By doing this, He knows that we will be less inclined to judge and more inclined to forgive and love.

You see, none of us is where we need to be in our relationship with Christ. Yet, the Lord does not judge us the same way we judge others. When God looks at your life, He looks first at your heart and not your mistakes!

This week, remember how Joel Hemphill finished his song:

"In the mirror of his word, reflections that I see.
Make me wonder why he never gave up on me.
But he loves me as I am and helps me when I pray.
Remember, He’s the potter, I’m the clay."

This Week’s Prayer

Oh Lord, I want to promise you that I will never judge again. I know your command is to love and forgive, never to judge. I know how painful it is when others judge me. Please give me the disciple to follow all your commands, but especially the command to never judge others. My heart’s desire is to bring others the good news of your Son Jesus. This is my passion and purpose. Set my eyes upon this one, singular goal, Lord. And allow me to see the things I must correct in myself and no one else. Amen.

ALL YOU CAN

“And He saw a certain poor widow putting in two mites.

So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all;

for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God,

but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had.”

Luke 21:2-4

Today, a widow is not destined to a life of poverty when her husband passes away. But in the days of the Bible, widows without families to provide for them were left to beg on the streets for a living. The widow Jesus observed was pennies away from being absolutely destitute. He knew she had given all that she had, reserving nothing for herself.

The mite was the lowest valued coin in the Hebrew culture of the day. It was worth less than a fraction of a penny. It was certainly no match for the large offerings given by the wealthy or even those who were struggling, but surviving.

That is an essential point. This woman had no way to survive; yet she gave.

That is why Jesus was so touched. He was not focused on the amount of money, but by the depth of her giving – from a place of poverty.

In his lifetime, the great theologian, John Wesley, traveled 250,000 miles on horseback, averaging twenty miles a day for forty years. He preached 4,000 sermons, produced 400 books, and learned ten languages. At 83 years old, he was annoyed that he could not write more than 15 hours a day without hurting his eyes. At 86, he was ashamed he could not preach more than twice a day. He complained in his diary that there was an increasing tendency to just lie in bed quite late – all the way until 5:30 in the morning!

Like the widow who gave only two mites, John Wesley gave everything of himself.

And that is the beauty of giving to God. It is not the amount of money we can afford to give. The Lord loves you. That is why He desires most for you to give of yourself, no matter who you are, what you do or how much you have.

This is what makes you so important to God’s Kingdom. You have something the Lord needs you – just you – to give. You have a unique and vital role to play in the story of the gospel. Now is the time for you to step up and give your best. Why? Because Jesus needs you . . . and so do all the people whose life your's will touch.

This Week’s Prayer

Lord Jesus, I want to give and do my best for You. Please show me the opportunities to do Your will every day. Do not hide my eyes from those in need. I know there is something I can do today to change someone’s life – even if it’s just a little. Guide me to those people, show me their wounds and worries. Give me the strength to encourage them and provide them with hope through Your Word and Your love. Amen.

LIVING THE DREAM

Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

Matthew 5:1-6

A man once stood as a brother and a preacher.

He stood high on the mountain like every great teacher.

He would not be moved from that peaceful place.

For his dream was love for every race.

His words brought hope to those without life.

And inspired a world cursed by its strife.

The sound of his voice rings down through the years,

Releasing the poor from generations of tears.

He marched through the streets calling people to rise,

And stormed the great cities chasing after the prize.

He dreamed of a world filled with love and light.

One far from the fear that was cursed by the night.

A man once stood as a brother and a preacher,

And was taken from us like every great teacher.

But his dream lives with us to remind us each day.

That we must keep marching ‘til we all find a way.

According to the US Justice Department, the number of incarcerated Americans exceeds 2 million people. Currently, Black men, who are roughly 6.5% of the nation’s total population, represented 37% of those behind bars. Further, 11% of all Black males between 25 and 34 are in prison.

If he were here today, how would Martin Luther King, Jr. address these horrible truths? I believe he would call all of us, ALL of us, no matter what our heritage or race, to go into the prisons. He would challenge us to start bringing hope to the hopeless, love to the love less and thoughts to the thoughtless.

He was a man of vision and inspiration. And those are the very things we all need. For weather or not we are behind bars, we are all trapped in the prison of ignorance and darkness. We are all living in a world held captive by hate and violence.

We are living in a world that does not know our Lord Jesus.

And if he were with us today, Dr. King would call ALL of us to go to the top of that mountain, get as much light, liberty and love as we can gather – and then bring it to the darkest nations, alleyways and prisons of the world.

And though he is not with us, his dream remains. So come. Let us begin. Let us ALL go as brothers and sisters to the mountain . . .

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, remind me again that love is the thing and that love is the message and hope that You bring. Send me now to spread Your great love, throughout all the world like the wings of a dove. Your Word is the only hope for mankind. It brings the true peace we all pray we find. So, today I begin to march up that hill. I pray you guide me and give me Your will. Amen.

TO DIE FOR

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

                                                                                    1 John 3:16

Decades ago the Soviet Union imposed atheism and forced Christians to renounce their faith or face terrible consequences. During this dark period in the history of Russian, many kept the faith by meeting secretly to pray, worship and teach the Gospel. 

One Sunday, in the early 1970's, a few believers quietly made their way to an "underground" church outside Moscow. They arrived in small groups throughout the day so as not to arouse the suspicion of the NKVD - the Soviet Secret Police.

When everyone gathered together they began singing a quiet hymn. Suddenly, they heard heavy steps approaching the front door. Without warning two uniformed officers, loaded weapons at the ready, burst into the house. One of them shouted, “If you wish to renounce your commitment to Jesus Christ, leave now!”

Three of the quiet Christians quickly left, then another. As the two secret police glared at the others, two more of the frightened believers fled. “This is your last chance,” the second officer commanded. “Either turn against your faith in Christ,” he ordered, “or stay and suffer the consequences.” Abruptly, two more slipped out into the night.

After that, the intimidation no longer worked. No one else moved a muscle. Parents tried to reassure their frightened children beside them, fully expecting to be gunned down or imprisoned in the Gulag. Then, one of the soldiers closed the door and locked it securely.

He turned to the few  remaining worshipers and spoke, “We raided another house church just like this several weeks ago to arrest a group of believers.” 

The other officer interrupted, “But, instead, we became Christians there. We apologize for chasing your friends away, but we have learned by experience that unless people are willing to die for their faith, they cannot be fully trusted.”

The two officers then joined the core group in worship.

How would you react to the decision to run or die for your faith? It is the ultimate measure of what your individual faith in Jesus means to you.

If only we could deepen our relationship with the Lord so that our minds are focused on heavenly things rather than being consumed with the worldly ones. Then, it would be easy to make the truest decision should that day ever come. After all, Jesus had the choice to live or die for us ... and He chose death, death so that we could live.

Would you make the same choice for Him?

This Week’s Prayer

Courage, Dear Lord. I only ask for the courage to do Your will, to choose You over all else, to make the most of the blessings You have given me, and to make every decision for Your sake alone. Amen.

PREPARE FOR ABUNDANCE

You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it. You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops. You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.

Psalm 65:9-11

 The weather today is pure February. Snow, rain, wind – all trying to bring our spirits down during these long, grey days of winter.

This does not seem like the kind of day, nor time of year,

when you can stand up and cheer.

These are the mornings when light will not enter your room, 

when the dark clouds spell doom.

Today you must find some new way to cope. 

There must be a new path to bright, shining hope.

Now is the time cast off your fears and stand up. 

Here is the moment to face God and hold out your cup!

Here is the answer to days like this. When you have moment to yourself, stand up and hold your hands in a “beggar’s bowl.” This means your hands are cupped and crossed slightly to make a bowl. Now, close your eyes and imagine a place where you would meet God. Have faith in the fact that Jesus is truly coming to see you right now. Then, while holding out your “bowl,” begin speaking to the Lord.

What happens? Before you utter one word, God starts filling your hands with blessings. At first, you will find grace, hope, love, the forgiveness of your friends and family right there in your hands. But then your hands will grow heavy as other gifts come your way:  relief from debt, health, a new job, etc.  At this point you’ll be struggling to hold on to the gifts God is pouring into your hands and your life.

Then the volume and frequency of God’s abundance will start pouring in. Soon there is an end to your loneliness, a renewed relationship with your spouse, a vacation, an uncontrollable laugh…and finally, a sunny day. The gifts are pouring out of your hands and onto the floor!

You see, to receive an Abundant Overflow from God, you have to be ready. You must believe in His abundance so deeply that you hold your hands out to Him and prepare to meet Jesus as He pours abundance into your life.

This is not an exercise or a drill of some kind. This is the real thing. Stand up and hold out your hands to God every day – and prepare for abundance!

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus, I am ready. Today, I hold my hands out to You in preparation for healing, forgiveness and Your overflowing abundance. You know what I need most. You know the deepest places of my heart Fill me with the things I need most to do your will today and every day of my life. Amen. 

WE’RE SURROUNDED!

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

                                                                        Philippians 4:8-9

“You are what you eat!” How many times have your heard that old cliché? Well, just because it gets said so often, doesn’t mean it isn’t true. But, here’s something you haven’t heard and it’s even more important, “You are what you think!”

That’s right. Everything you allow into your mind, positively or negatively, will eventually affect your actions, your decisions and your whole life. Your thoughts direct every aspect of living; your family, your job, your faith, and yes, what you eat! So, just like you have a choice every time you go to a restaurant or into your refrigerator, you must choose wisely when feeding your mind.

And if you take anything from this little lesson, remember this: people are to your mind what food is to your stomach.

People have a strong affect on our lives. I firmly believe that we become like the people with whom we spend the most time. The people you associate with from day to day have a major influence on how you think and make decisions. You can’t avoid the process, it’s just part of how God designed us. Haven’t you ever been around a wonderful, faith-filled, person who electrifies you? They’re wonderful. They make you believe anything is possible and they give you hope!

On the other hand, we have the complainers. And they don’t want to go down and live in the pits alone. Oh no. They want company. And if you spend your time with them, they’ll get their way. Psychologists have proven that continued association with complainers can be enough to sabotage all your opportunities for success.

Let’s leave the complainers behind. Viktor Frankl reminds us that, “Just as a small fire is extinguished by the storm, whereas a large fire is enhanced by it, likewise a weak faith is weakened by predicament and catastrophes whereas a strong faith is strengthened by them.”

So, if you want to become the type of person who electrifies others, someone who brings strength and empowerment to those who need it, someone who motivates and brings more life to others, then surround yourself with people who are already doing it!

How? The solution is simple. Surround yourself with the One who is more positive, more full of joy, more capable of love and hope than anyone. Surround yourself with Jesus and you will become like Jesus! Your mind will work like His. Your heart will beat like His! Your soul will forgive like His!

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, allow me to let go of myself and to be more like Christ. Grant me the vision to imitate Him in all that I do. Clear my mind of negative thoughts. I know they are doing me no good, nor anyone I know. Renew my mind to the hope and wonder of your Kingdom and your Creation. Allow me to spread the truly Good News of Jesus all day, every day with an attitude that affirms Him and those He loves. Amen.

LIVE AND FORGIVE. FORGIVE AND LIVE.

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.

                                                Mark 11:25

Many years ago, a very wise Sunday School teacher invited some of her student’s parents to class. Thinking the teacher had come up with a small skit or a cute song for the children to perform, many of the parents were happy to attend.

When the students and teachers arrived they found a stack of clear plastic bags and a large bin of potatoes waiting for them. After welcoming everyone, she explained that the parents had been invited because, “We are all children in the eyes of God and we all have lessons to learn.” Smiling, the parents realized they might be in for something they didn’t expect. Continuing with the lesson, this great teacher explained, “For every person you have refused to forgive in your life, take a potato. Then, write their name on it and put it in the plastic bag. Don’t stop until you’ve written the name of every person you haven’t forgiven.” When all the children and parents had finished, the teacher explained the rest of the assignment. She told them simply to carry the bag full of potatoes with them everywhere for one week; putting it beside their beds at night, in the car with them, next to their desks at work and school – everywhere!

The parents, knowing the assignment was presented to them in front of their children and that they could not turn away from its challenge at the risk of being hypocritical, took up their filled sacks and began the week.

To say that bringing the sacks everywhere was an inconvenience is an understatement. The potatoes began to rot and the smell was awful. Lugging the heavy load made life impossible.

When everyone came back the following Sunday, one father explained it best, “The hassle of lugging this terrible thing around made it very clear what a foul and heavy weight I am carrying spiritually. I’ll gladly give up this sack. But, I’ll be even happier to forgive everyone whose hurts I have been carrying on my heart.”

If you had the same assignment, how heavy would your sack be right now?

Unforgiveness is like taking a poison and expecting the other person to die. When you won't forgive others, you are truly only hurting yourself. Roy Lessin, a Christian author wrote a wonderful reminder, “If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent us an educator. If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist. If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist. If our greatest need had been pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer. But our greatest need was forgiveness, so God sent us a Savior.”

God sent us a Savior that we might know His forgiveness. But, not only are we to know God’s forgiveness, we must share it with others by forgiving them. This week, let go of ALL your unforgiveness and release ALL your “potatoes” to the Lord. Remember, you need to get free so that you are able to do great things for Him!

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, Forgive me of my sins. You have done so much for me, but forgiving me for all my sins is the most powerful and has given me eternal life. Teach me how it is done. Teach me how to forgive so that I may let go of all those prisoners I have yet to release in my heart. Melt my heart to the pain I have caused by holding onto the grudges and the sins made against me. Amen.

LOOK AHEAD AND LEAD

I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.

Proverbs 4:12-13

A few years ago, I was advising a church undergoing the construction of a beautiful new building project. This ministry had prayerfully and carefully looked upon God to guide them in this extraordinary effort. The new facility was going to expand the work of the church and God’s Kingdom tremendously.

But for some people, that wasn’t enough.

By the time construction of the facility was at the halfway point, the project manager, an exceptionally talented and dedicated church member, was ready to quit. Between those who were coming to him with their personal “recommendations,” and others complaining about every new phase of construction this poor soul was beaten down. He felt he just couldn't win.

Privately, the man told me, “I’m going to quit. It’s just not worth it! It’s like fighting a war and I don’t even know what the war is about.” I knew this man was about to make a hasty decision; one made from exhaustion instead of encouragement, and from frustration instead of faith.

I looked at him and asked very softly. “Do you think you are doing the right thing with your decisions?”

“Yes, I do,” he replied. “I think we have made each decision carefully and with good reason.”

“And do you feel that the decisions are best for the church as a whole and for the Kingdom?”

“Yes.”

“And do you feel that you have served God in these decisions? Do you feel that you and the other true leaders of this project have followed God’s will?”

“Yes. I think we have planned well and the building will be awe inspiring!”

“Then there is no war. There are only some disgruntled people. They will stop their grumbling when God’s vision comes to fruition. Your task is only to be faithful; look ahead and lead.”

Remember Jacob? He physically wrestled with an angel of God. Later, the disciples argued among themselves about who among them was Number 1 . . . and about church policy details. 

So, if Saint Peter and Saint Paul argued over church politics and procedures, what makes us think WE can come through unscathed? It would be tremendous if doing service among God’s people was always easy. That just isn't the case. And the inevitable conflict can be a real test. In fact, entire churches - even denominations - have split because of conflict.

Yes, following God’s will is often difficult. But, we are not called to win every battle or be right in every decision. We are called to be faithful. Like the project manager I spoke to, who saw the building construction through to its completion, we are not called to please everyone, but to carry out the will of God as a leader in the church. God will take care of the rest.

Certainly, you are a leader. Whether it is in church, at home, at work, or in your community, you are in a position to lead. Just remember, never lead alone. Look to God’s will for your direction. Look to the incredible things He has in store. Ignore those who say your dreams can’t come true. Walk away from those who discourage you. Just look ahead and lead!

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, please stay by my side in the times ahead. Inspire my decisions and set my heart on fire with your will so that I will be faithful in all that I do in your name. Allow those I lead to see your wisdom and patience in the path you have placed before us. And let that path lead always to You. Amen.

GOING AGAINST THE TIDE

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. 

Romans 12:2

Nearly three decades ago a very brave man went against all he had been told . . . and saved the world from utter destruction.

On September 26, 1983, tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union were at a dangerous level. The Soviets had recently shot down a civilian airliner and the rest of the world demanded retaliation. Russian military believed an attack by America was imminent.

That night, Lieutenant Colonel Stanislav Yevgrafovich Petrov began his shift as the commander of Russia’s Strategic Rocket Forces. His job was to launch nuclear missiles at the US. Petrov’s standing orders were very simple and clear: If his computers detected missiles approaching Soviet airspace, then he was to immediately launch a counter-strike. No questions asked.

Just past midnight, Petrov received a computer report he'd dreaded: a nuclear missile had been launched from the US, destination Moscow. The bunker he commanded was in full alarm with red lights blazing and sirens blaring. But, Petrov thought the computer was making a mistake. “Why would America launch only one missile?” he thought. So, he didn’t respond.

But then, five more incoming missiles were detected and the officers under Petrov’s command in the secret bunker demanded his order to launch Russia’s missiles. They believed Russia was being attacked and their commander was not responding.

In fact, Petrov did responod. But, his response was not what anyone expected.  

At that moment, Petrov had two options. He could dismiss the missiles as computer errors, breaking military protocol and risk his career or take the responsive action he was expected to fulfill and commence a full-scale nuclear war against America, potentially killing millions.

Since you are reading this, you already know what he decided. Not knowing how or why, Petrov believed the computer’s report of incoming missiles was an error, knowing that if he was wrong, Moscow would be destroyed in minutes.

Later, it was determined that the computer had read a very rare sunlight alignment with satellites as an American missile launch. But, in those few incredibly tense and dangerous moments years ago in 1983, Stanislav Petrov made a decision that went against the tide of all those around him – and he saved the world.

Have you ever felt like Lieutenant Colonel Petrov? Maybe you feel like him every day! Sometimes as Christians in an unfriendly world, we are compelled to make decisions that go against the tide of the people around us. If that sounds familiar to you, then you are in very good company. Because 2000 years ago a very brave Man went against all He had been told, and saved the world from utter destruction.

Yes, Jesus went against the tide. He chose peace over fighting, hope over despair, faith over fear and love over hate. Then and now, these were not popular decisions in the world. But, He did not make decisions according this world. Rather, He made His decisions based on His Father’s will.

Today, you will have decisions to make. Which way will you go? Will you do what the world expects and go with the flow? Or, will you go against the tide? If you decide to follow the path that Petrov did, the way of courage and peace, then you will find Jesus ahead of you clearing the way; beside you guiding your steps, and behind you if you fall.

With our Lord and Savior, against the tide is the only way to go.

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, I want Your will and Your will alone to be mine. Grant me the strength and courage to go against the tide of popular trends and pressures. I need Your guiding light to show me the way to Your Kingdom in this world. Allow me greater wisdom to know what decision to make in every part of my life this day and through all the days of my life. Amen.

HOW TO FIND UNFADING BEAUTY

THE UNFADING BEAUTY OF A GENTLE AND QUIET SPIRIT

“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”

Proverbs 18:22

I am amazed at the number of women who actually think their husbands DO NOT need anything from them. Yes, it’s true; many husbands try to act cool and calm, like they have it all figured out. As men we even try to give our wives the impression that we don't need anything beyond intimacy and a good meal.

We are very good at exhibiting disdain, disinterest, isolation and stoicism.

Wives, I want to tell you a secret: it is all a facade. Inside, most of us are confused about who we are as men and trembling under a deep sense of failure and inadequacy. We've learned a few tricks to keep those things well hidden and we invest a lot of energy in keeping up the act.

But, your husband does need you. He needs you terribly. In fact, he will probably look to you to determine how he feels about himself.

Your husband needs your respect because he is constantly struggling with feelings of self-doubt and failure. As men, we've been designed for achievement and enterprise, but are frustrated by a world that does not cooperate with us. Your husband needs to know that he is enough; that he has what it takes!

He needs you to encourage him, affirm him, and even admire him. Your husband is longing to know that he is competent and desirable in your eyes. A truly successful marrieage is a testimony to the awesome power of a wife's loving embrace and her words of esteem.

Your husband also needs you to have a tranquil, contented spirit. The Bible calls upon you, as a woman of God, to develop “the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.”

Another part of the secret I am telling you is that men find a woman who is at peace within herself, one who is confident and happy, to be irresistibly attractive. Your husband needs a wife who loves life and accepts the person God has made her to be. A man's world is filled with competition, injustice, stress, and responsibility. His wife has the incredible power to calm his heart simply by her own God-given tranquility.

If you have developed the habit of being demanding and demeaning toward your husband, this will turn him into a hollow shell of a man. It will kill his heart. It is exactly the opposite of what he needs from you because just when he needs you to affirm him, you kick him when he's down. Just when he needs you to calm him by your tranquil spirit, you heap on the anxiety and bring tension to an already troubled home. You may think that by “keeping after him” your husband will eventually get the message and give you what you want. It won’t. You will only push him farther away.

This Week's Prayer

Lord, please save the marriages that need saving. Save them all through Your undying love and grace. Give husbands the courage to Love as you did Your Church - with their very lives. Give wives the grace to love their husbands with patience and kindness. Amen.

A NEW YEAR. A CLEAN SLATE.

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

Acts 13:2

Have you ever been to an ice show with children? If you have you know their favorite part of the show is often not the characters skating around on the ice and all the special effects. No. Their favorite part of the ice show is usually the Zamboni.

That’s right, the big machine invented by Frank Zamboni back in the early 1940’s, often captures the imagination and wonder of children – and adults – like nothing else on ice. I believe it is because it makes everything like new again! If you don’t know, the Zamboni is a big truck with warm water inside. It drives over the rough surface of skating rinks during hockey games, figure skating competitions … and ice shows. It spreads a perfectly even coat of warm water which flows smoothly over the existing ice and freezes instantly. Like magic the ice behind the truck is flawless and ready to be used again by the skaters.

Why am I telling you this? Because Jesus knows that our souls and our bodies need an occasional Zamboni!.Except, He calls it Fasting.

Why is fasting so important? Because it puts us in harmony with His Father. Along with prayer, fasting demands humility from those who wish to be close to Him. Fasting humbles and cleanses the flesh. And we cannot enter the presence of God unless we are pure in all ways. That is why we count on Jesus and obey His commands.

We also do as He did. Jesus went into the desert to pray and fast for forty days. He did this in preparation for His ministry. And this we do, as Christians and as a church, in preparation for the year ahead.

Yes, you can go a certain distance in God, experiencing many things, without fasting. But the greatest and most powerful blessings come to those who together with other disciplines, fast in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Fasting is not magic. It works because God has a plan for your life and He looks for those who urgently want to make the corrections necessary to follow Him. Fasting simply gives you a clean slate – a clean mind, body, soul and heart – onto which you can more effectively place God's focus for your life.

If you’re up to it, there is no better time than right now to fast and pray. What a great way to start the new year! For more information, here is a link to help you begin.

This Week’s Prayer

Dear Lord, this time is for You. Please make of me what You will. Strengthen me as I fast and pray. Give me a pure heart and mind. Cleanse my body and prepare me for the days ahead. I want to hear every word the Holy Spirit has for me so that I may follow the beautiful plan You have made for my life. Lead on, dear Jesus, lean on. Amen.