Monday, October 30, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Knowing Your Speed Limit!
It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor be hasty and miss the way.
Proverbs 19:2
A lot of us drive like the speed limits are just suggestions! No, they're there for a reason - our protection.
Ignore them and you crash! The same is true about your life. Do you take work home, stay up late after the children go to bed and your mate's asleep? Are you skipping meals to catch up on paper work that keeps replenishing itself like weeds along a hillside? Do you drive to meetings checking your electronicdiary, drinking coffee and talking on your cell phone? Isn't it crazy to run a portable office while driving at 100 k.p.h. down the highway?
Some seasons are busier than others. Occasionally opportunities come along that require extra time and attention - but you can't expect yourself to always travel at warp speed. You're mortal and fragile with physical, emotional and spiritual needs. You aren't a robot, a computer or an engine that can be operated at the flip of a switch. Even these mechanical devices, if you don't keep them fueled and maintained,eventually fail.
So, how do you discover and maintain your speed limit?
By knowing yourself inside out. Pay attention to your body's signals - to your responses to the demands that you (and others) place on you. When your body is tired to the point of distraction, rest.
That's what God did!
And don't forget your soul - you'll gain more strength, wisdom and perspective by spending time each day with God than by all your rushing and pushing.
The Bible says: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength" (Isaiah 40:31).
Try it; it works!
Proverbs 19:2
A lot of us drive like the speed limits are just suggestions! No, they're there for a reason - our protection.
Ignore them and you crash! The same is true about your life. Do you take work home, stay up late after the children go to bed and your mate's asleep? Are you skipping meals to catch up on paper work that keeps replenishing itself like weeds along a hillside? Do you drive to meetings checking your electronicdiary, drinking coffee and talking on your cell phone? Isn't it crazy to run a portable office while driving at 100 k.p.h. down the highway?
Some seasons are busier than others. Occasionally opportunities come along that require extra time and attention - but you can't expect yourself to always travel at warp speed. You're mortal and fragile with physical, emotional and spiritual needs. You aren't a robot, a computer or an engine that can be operated at the flip of a switch. Even these mechanical devices, if you don't keep them fueled and maintained,eventually fail.
So, how do you discover and maintain your speed limit?
By knowing yourself inside out. Pay attention to your body's signals - to your responses to the demands that you (and others) place on you. When your body is tired to the point of distraction, rest.
That's what God did!
And don't forget your soul - you'll gain more strength, wisdom and perspective by spending time each day with God than by all your rushing and pushing.
The Bible says: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength" (Isaiah 40:31).
Try it; it works!
Sunday, October 22, 2006
The Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation!
Ephesians 1:16-17
I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him.
The Catholic Faith, rooted as it is in Jesus Christ who is both fully God and fully man, is the only thing that can answer the hunger for a fully human as well as a fully divine life. However, this can have unforeseen consequences. Because the Faith is fully human, it can be fully sensible and sane, even while it is also fully mysterious and enigmatic. Many Catholics, raised in the Faith, can and do assume (because it is so sensible and sane) that those who react with confusion or anger to its enigmatic aspects are simply being obtuse fools, when in reality, such critics are honestly confused or mystified by the Faith. Catholics can, at such times, forget that they are the beneficiaries of a gift, not the rightful proud possessors of anything. At such moments, Paul shows the way here: don't leap to chew people out for not understanding the Faith, much less to accuse them of ill will. Pray for them that God give them (and, we might add, us) a spirit of wisdom and revelation. The Faith is not easy or obvious for many people. And for all people, including you and me, it is a purely a gift of grace from God who alone knows what's going on. We are all fools without him.
I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him.
The Catholic Faith, rooted as it is in Jesus Christ who is both fully God and fully man, is the only thing that can answer the hunger for a fully human as well as a fully divine life. However, this can have unforeseen consequences. Because the Faith is fully human, it can be fully sensible and sane, even while it is also fully mysterious and enigmatic. Many Catholics, raised in the Faith, can and do assume (because it is so sensible and sane) that those who react with confusion or anger to its enigmatic aspects are simply being obtuse fools, when in reality, such critics are honestly confused or mystified by the Faith. Catholics can, at such times, forget that they are the beneficiaries of a gift, not the rightful proud possessors of anything. At such moments, Paul shows the way here: don't leap to chew people out for not understanding the Faith, much less to accuse them of ill will. Pray for them that God give them (and, we might add, us) a spirit of wisdom and revelation. The Faith is not easy or obvious for many people. And for all people, including you and me, it is a purely a gift of grace from God who alone knows what's going on. We are all fools without him.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Learn To Be Content (2)
The abundance of a rich man permits him no sleep.
Ecclesiastes 5:12
In a recent magazine article Jane Hammerslough tells how her family moved into a sparsely furnished rental house while their home was being renovated. Instead of missing what they'd left behind, surprisingly,they were liberated! Upon returning home they were overwhelmed by the utter excess of stuff, and gave much of it away. She concludes, "When enough's always just a little more... you don't have room for the truly great things in life."
The message isn't new; Solomon said, "The abundance of a rich man permits him no sleep."
But freedom from anxiety is more than just uncluttered closets. It's afirm conviction that what you do have is a gift from God (Ecclesiastes5:19), and that it's meant to be shared with others. Contentment simply frees you to enjoy what He's provided. So with that in mind keep the following principles before you: buy things for their usefulness, not their status. Beware of anything that produces an addiction in you. Make a habit of giving things away. Don't be lured by advertising and glitz.
Learn to enjoy things without having to own them, or be owned by them.
Be wary of "Buy now, pay later" schemes.
Steer clear of anything that prevents you from putting God first in your life.
He says He'll "give you all you need... if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern" (Matthew 6:33 ).
When your contentment is based on status or possessions, it can be taken away in an instant. But when it's based on your relationship with Jesus, nothing, absolutely nothing can rob you of it!
Ecclesiastes 5:12
In a recent magazine article Jane Hammerslough tells how her family moved into a sparsely furnished rental house while their home was being renovated. Instead of missing what they'd left behind, surprisingly,they were liberated! Upon returning home they were overwhelmed by the utter excess of stuff, and gave much of it away. She concludes, "When enough's always just a little more... you don't have room for the truly great things in life."
The message isn't new; Solomon said, "The abundance of a rich man permits him no sleep."
But freedom from anxiety is more than just uncluttered closets. It's afirm conviction that what you do have is a gift from God (Ecclesiastes5:19), and that it's meant to be shared with others. Contentment simply frees you to enjoy what He's provided. So with that in mind keep the following principles before you: buy things for their usefulness, not their status. Beware of anything that produces an addiction in you. Make a habit of giving things away. Don't be lured by advertising and glitz.
Learn to enjoy things without having to own them, or be owned by them.
Be wary of "Buy now, pay later" schemes.
Steer clear of anything that prevents you from putting God first in your life.
He says He'll "give you all you need... if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern" (Matthew 6:33 ).
When your contentment is based on status or possessions, it can be taken away in an instant. But when it's based on your relationship with Jesus, nothing, absolutely nothing can rob you of it!
Learn To Be Content (1)
I have learned to be content.
Philippians 4:11
The average person is bombarded with about 300 advertisements a day, promising everything from whiter teeth to faster cars. It's a mega-billion-dollar industry designed to make us want what they'reselling. But there's a subtle message being conveyed. In a word, it's discontent, and it eats away at us by creating a desire for bigger, better, more. The Bible says, "We... brought nothing into the world, sowe cannot take anything out... If we have food and covering... be content" (1 Timothy 6:7-8 ).
Sounds simple enough: food to eat,clothes to wear, a place to sleep. But how we live doesn't bear it out. When Rockefeller was asked, "How much does it take to satisfy a man? "with rare insight he replied, "A little more than he has now."
So does contentment mean not setting goals or aiming higher? Does it mean not enjoying nice things? No, it just means not letting all those nice things "own" you. Learning to be satisfied is a process.
That's why Paul said, "I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am... to get along with humble means... to live in prosperity... I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry... of having abundance and suffering need."
Paul mastered the art of enjoying whatever came along by learning to say, "That's not essential. I can live without it."
Paul, who told Timothy to follow his example, enjoyed hot dogs or filet mignon, a holiday on the Riviera or under a bridge, a gold-covered, diamond-studded, velvet-cushioned chariot, or a dirty donkey with a limp. His focus was right on target. He held every earthly 'thing' loosely. So should you!
Philippians 4:11
The average person is bombarded with about 300 advertisements a day, promising everything from whiter teeth to faster cars. It's a mega-billion-dollar industry designed to make us want what they'reselling. But there's a subtle message being conveyed. In a word, it's discontent, and it eats away at us by creating a desire for bigger, better, more. The Bible says, "We... brought nothing into the world, sowe cannot take anything out... If we have food and covering... be content" (1 Timothy 6:7-8 ).
Sounds simple enough: food to eat,clothes to wear, a place to sleep. But how we live doesn't bear it out. When Rockefeller was asked, "How much does it take to satisfy a man? "with rare insight he replied, "A little more than he has now."
So does contentment mean not setting goals or aiming higher? Does it mean not enjoying nice things? No, it just means not letting all those nice things "own" you. Learning to be satisfied is a process.
That's why Paul said, "I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am... to get along with humble means... to live in prosperity... I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry... of having abundance and suffering need."
Paul mastered the art of enjoying whatever came along by learning to say, "That's not essential. I can live without it."
Paul, who told Timothy to follow his example, enjoyed hot dogs or filet mignon, a holiday on the Riviera or under a bridge, a gold-covered, diamond-studded, velvet-cushioned chariot, or a dirty donkey with a limp. His focus was right on target. He held every earthly 'thing' loosely. So should you!
What's Your Dream? (2)
And Joseph dreamed a dream.
Genesis 37:5
Pursue the dream God has given you no matter how far-fetched it may seem, for dreams are like your children; they're your off spring. They're the joy of your present and the hope of your future. Protect them. Feed them. Encourage them to grow, for as long as you have a dream you'll never be old. In spite of betrayal by his family, attempted seduction by Potiphar's wife and false imprisonment, Joseph's dream carried him all the way to his destiny as ruler of Egypt. Now, we're talking about God-given dreams that lead to God-honouring results, not selfish ambition. Paul writes, "Long before we first heard of Christ... He had... designs on us for glorious living" (Ephesians 1:11-12 ).
God has a dream for you and if you seek Him He'll reveal it to you.But when He does, remember three things:
(1) Dreams are specific, not general; personal, not public. God won't give somebody else your dream, He'll give it to you. He may confirm it through others, but He'll reveal it to you. When He does, don't share it with the wrong people or you'll get hurt. Like Joseph's brothers, they won't be able to handle it, especially if it doesn't include them.
(2) Dreams are usually outside the realm of the expected. Often your dream will cause rational people to say, "You've got to be kidding!" Remember, that's their opinion, not God's; with Him "all things are possible."
(3) Dreams separate winners from losers. Dreamers are always a minority. Those who walk by sight will always out number those who walk by faith. So today, follow your God-given dream.
Genesis 37:5
Pursue the dream God has given you no matter how far-fetched it may seem, for dreams are like your children; they're your off spring. They're the joy of your present and the hope of your future. Protect them. Feed them. Encourage them to grow, for as long as you have a dream you'll never be old. In spite of betrayal by his family, attempted seduction by Potiphar's wife and false imprisonment, Joseph's dream carried him all the way to his destiny as ruler of Egypt. Now, we're talking about God-given dreams that lead to God-honouring results, not selfish ambition. Paul writes, "Long before we first heard of Christ... He had... designs on us for glorious living" (Ephesians 1:11-12 ).
God has a dream for you and if you seek Him He'll reveal it to you.But when He does, remember three things:
(1) Dreams are specific, not general; personal, not public. God won't give somebody else your dream, He'll give it to you. He may confirm it through others, but He'll reveal it to you. When He does, don't share it with the wrong people or you'll get hurt. Like Joseph's brothers, they won't be able to handle it, especially if it doesn't include them.
(2) Dreams are usually outside the realm of the expected. Often your dream will cause rational people to say, "You've got to be kidding!" Remember, that's their opinion, not God's; with Him "all things are possible."
(3) Dreams separate winners from losers. Dreamers are always a minority. Those who walk by sight will always out number those who walk by faith. So today, follow your God-given dream.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
What's Your Dream? (1)
Faith without works is dead.
James 2:20
When you dream you move closer to the way God sees things; you see beyond your limitations; you move from where you are to where He wants you to be; you begin to see your goals in their completed state.
The question isn't can you dream, but do you have the courage to act on it?
If your dream doesn't stretch you to the point of discomfort it's probably not of God. Furthermore, God won't miraculously lift you out of your dream and set you down in the middle of its fulfillment.
The children of Israel dreamed of living in the Promised Land. But the only way to get there was through the wilderness.
That's where we learn to:
(a) trust God daily for the manna we need;
(b) discover His power in the Red Sea situations of our lives;
(c) be led by Him when there are no clear sign posts;
(d) get up every morning with our eyes on our destiny and move steadily toward it;
(e) refuse to become like those who complain and never make it out of the wilderness.
Now for a warning: someone will always try to steal your dream. Always! Often it'll be someone who never had a dream of their own, or if they did they abandoned it.
It could even be a family member who reminds you of what God couldn't or wouldn't do through someone like you.
What do you dream about?
What has God enabled you to see that doesn't yet exist?
You'll never out-dream God!
For: "God can do... far more than you can ever imagine" (Ephesians 3:20).
James 2:20
When you dream you move closer to the way God sees things; you see beyond your limitations; you move from where you are to where He wants you to be; you begin to see your goals in their completed state.
The question isn't can you dream, but do you have the courage to act on it?
If your dream doesn't stretch you to the point of discomfort it's probably not of God. Furthermore, God won't miraculously lift you out of your dream and set you down in the middle of its fulfillment.
The children of Israel dreamed of living in the Promised Land. But the only way to get there was through the wilderness.
That's where we learn to:
(a) trust God daily for the manna we need;
(b) discover His power in the Red Sea situations of our lives;
(c) be led by Him when there are no clear sign posts;
(d) get up every morning with our eyes on our destiny and move steadily toward it;
(e) refuse to become like those who complain and never make it out of the wilderness.
Now for a warning: someone will always try to steal your dream. Always! Often it'll be someone who never had a dream of their own, or if they did they abandoned it.
It could even be a family member who reminds you of what God couldn't or wouldn't do through someone like you.
What do you dream about?
What has God enabled you to see that doesn't yet exist?
You'll never out-dream God!
For: "God can do... far more than you can ever imagine" (Ephesians 3:20).
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Some Observations On "Tact"
The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable.
Proverbs 15:2
Did you hear about the husband who was totally clueless? The day his wife left on a business trip their dog died. That night she called home and he blurted out, "Your dog's dead! " Scolding him for being insensitive she said, "You should've broken it to me gently. You could have said, 'The dog's on the roof.' Then next day added, 'He fell off. 'The following day you could've said, 'He's at the vet.' And the day after that you could have told me he died. " While her husband paused to consider this she asked, "By the way, how's my mother?" Cautiously he replied, "Well dear... she's on the roof!
One dictionary definition of tact is: skill in situations where people's feelings need to be considered... an intuitive sense of what's right or appropriate. Contrary to what you may have been led to believe, tact is not about being deceptive or insincere. It's about being considerate and not hurting others unnecessarily.
Chuck Swindoll writes: "I used to sell shoes years ago... [and] a seasoned employee told me never to say, 'Lady, your foot's too big for this shoe! ' Instead I should say, 'I'm sorry, ma'am, but this shoe's just a little too small for your foot.' Both expressed the facts, but one was an insult... the other a tactful compliment.
"So, in sensitive situations engage your brain before opening your mouth.
Remember, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing," and "makes knowledge acceptable."
Or as the advertising jingle for a popular antiseptic ointment goes, "Stop the hurting and start the healing."
Make that your goal today.
Proverbs 15:2
Did you hear about the husband who was totally clueless? The day his wife left on a business trip their dog died. That night she called home and he blurted out, "Your dog's dead! " Scolding him for being insensitive she said, "You should've broken it to me gently. You could have said, 'The dog's on the roof.' Then next day added, 'He fell off. 'The following day you could've said, 'He's at the vet.' And the day after that you could have told me he died. " While her husband paused to consider this she asked, "By the way, how's my mother?" Cautiously he replied, "Well dear... she's on the roof!
One dictionary definition of tact is: skill in situations where people's feelings need to be considered... an intuitive sense of what's right or appropriate. Contrary to what you may have been led to believe, tact is not about being deceptive or insincere. It's about being considerate and not hurting others unnecessarily.
Chuck Swindoll writes: "I used to sell shoes years ago... [and] a seasoned employee told me never to say, 'Lady, your foot's too big for this shoe! ' Instead I should say, 'I'm sorry, ma'am, but this shoe's just a little too small for your foot.' Both expressed the facts, but one was an insult... the other a tactful compliment.
"So, in sensitive situations engage your brain before opening your mouth.
Remember, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing," and "makes knowledge acceptable."
Or as the advertising jingle for a popular antiseptic ointment goes, "Stop the hurting and start the healing."
Make that your goal today.
Do You Want To Change?
As the spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him.
2 Corinthians 3:18
Did you hear about the frog that fell into a big hole and couldn't get out? Several of his friends tried to help but finally gave up.
"Since you're going to be in there for a while" they said, "we'll go and get some food."
But no sooner had they left than the frog came hopping up behind them.
"We thought you couldn't get out" they exclaimed. "Oh, I couldn't," he replied, "but suddenly there was a big truck coming right at me - and I discovered I could."
Usually it's only when we're forced to change that we discover we can. That's because we're more comfortable with old problems than new and untried solutions. If you believe nothing can ever be done for the first time, you'll never see anything done -and nothing will change.
There are three times in our lives when we're most receptive to change:
(1) When our pain levels get so high we're forced to.
(2) When we acceptthe fact that what we're doing no longer works.
(3) When we realise that by God's grace we can change.
Nothing sparks the fires of faith more than the sudden realisation that "I don't have to stay this way anymore."
And you don't Stand on these two Scriptures:
"God'[s]... gracious word can make you into what He wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need" (Acts 20:32 ).
"As the spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like Him" (2 Corinthians 3:18 ).
So, do you want to change?
2 Corinthians 3:18
Did you hear about the frog that fell into a big hole and couldn't get out? Several of his friends tried to help but finally gave up.
"Since you're going to be in there for a while" they said, "we'll go and get some food."
But no sooner had they left than the frog came hopping up behind them.
"We thought you couldn't get out" they exclaimed. "Oh, I couldn't," he replied, "but suddenly there was a big truck coming right at me - and I discovered I could."
Usually it's only when we're forced to change that we discover we can. That's because we're more comfortable with old problems than new and untried solutions. If you believe nothing can ever be done for the first time, you'll never see anything done -and nothing will change.
There are three times in our lives when we're most receptive to change:
(1) When our pain levels get so high we're forced to.
(2) When we acceptthe fact that what we're doing no longer works.
(3) When we realise that by God's grace we can change.
Nothing sparks the fires of faith more than the sudden realisation that "I don't have to stay this way anymore."
And you don't Stand on these two Scriptures:
"God'[s]... gracious word can make you into what He wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need" (Acts 20:32 ).
"As the spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like Him" (2 Corinthians 3:18 ).
So, do you want to change?
Marriage Myths (4)
May... God... give you a spirit of unity.
Romans 15:5
"Nothing can fix our relationship." A woman asked her girl friend,
"How come you're wearing your wedding ring on the wrong finger?"
She replied,
"Because I married the wrong man!"
Sound familiar?
The biggest mistake you can make is calling it quits because you think you married the wrong person, and that nothing short of a miracle can save your marriage.
The good news today is... God is still in the miracle business! With Him "nothing is impossible" (Luke 1:37 ).
It's when problems seem insurmountable that God comes through for you. Jeremiah said, "Lord, you... made the heavens and the earth by your great power... Nothing is too hard for you" (Jeremiah 32:17 ).
The trouble is, too many of us live in the realm of the probable, thinking things probably won't get better... that we'll probably always have money issues... or we'll probably get divorced. Instead, we should be living in the realm of the possible. Paul says, "Faith... is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen... the evidence of things we cannot yet see"(Hebrews 11:1 ).
The Bible says God's plans for you "are for good and not for disaster,to give you a future and a hope" (Jeremiah 29:11 ).
If you're feeling discouraged about your relationship, try fixing your thoughts on what God can do.
The Bible says that when you look earnestly for Him you'll find Him (2Chronicles 15:2) .
He's not some distant deity who's disconnected from the challenges of your everyday life. No, He wants to have an intimate relationship with you; to use His power to transform your marriage into something lasting and wonderful.
Romans 15:5
"Nothing can fix our relationship." A woman asked her girl friend,
"How come you're wearing your wedding ring on the wrong finger?"
She replied,
"Because I married the wrong man!"
Sound familiar?
The biggest mistake you can make is calling it quits because you think you married the wrong person, and that nothing short of a miracle can save your marriage.
The good news today is... God is still in the miracle business! With Him "nothing is impossible" (Luke 1:37 ).
It's when problems seem insurmountable that God comes through for you. Jeremiah said, "Lord, you... made the heavens and the earth by your great power... Nothing is too hard for you" (Jeremiah 32:17 ).
The trouble is, too many of us live in the realm of the probable, thinking things probably won't get better... that we'll probably always have money issues... or we'll probably get divorced. Instead, we should be living in the realm of the possible. Paul says, "Faith... is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen... the evidence of things we cannot yet see"(Hebrews 11:1 ).
The Bible says God's plans for you "are for good and not for disaster,to give you a future and a hope" (Jeremiah 29:11 ).
If you're feeling discouraged about your relationship, try fixing your thoughts on what God can do.
The Bible says that when you look earnestly for Him you'll find Him (2Chronicles 15:2) .
He's not some distant deity who's disconnected from the challenges of your everyday life. No, He wants to have an intimate relationship with you; to use His power to transform your marriage into something lasting and wonderful.
Marriage Myths (3)
May... God... give you a spirit of unity.
Romans 15:5
"We're not in love any more." Did you hear about the woman who ran a newspaper advert that said, "Husband wanted?" She got lots of responses, all saying the same thing:
"You can have mine!"
Seriously, if negativity and bitterness are eroding your marriage it's time to make some changes by:
(1) Remembering your history. Chances are you started out as good friends. So ask yourself how you'd treat your best friend if you were having relationship issues. Not by being critical and defensive, right? What initially attracted you to one another any how? When did you fall in love? How did you act when things were good? Recall and rehearse your best moments.
(2) Keeping your thoughts focused on what God can do. Zero in on your mate's best qualities, then start believing that God can turn your relationship around. Remember, you have more ability than you realise to change your perception of your partner. So concentrate on all the things in your marriage that are "of good report" (Philippians 4:8).
(3) Building thoughtful behaviour back into your relationship. List some of the things you know would make your spouse happy. Be specific. For example, hugging your husband when he comes home from work after a hard day, or helping your wife with the laundry. Show you care! Inject consideration back into your relationship.
(4) Seeing your partner through God's eyes. Trying to love others like God loves you is a good rule for all your relationships, not just marriage. And if you don't love yourself, start by remembering what God says about you: that you're blessed... loved... valued... and wonderfully made.
Romans 15:5
"We're not in love any more." Did you hear about the woman who ran a newspaper advert that said, "Husband wanted?" She got lots of responses, all saying the same thing:
"You can have mine!"
Seriously, if negativity and bitterness are eroding your marriage it's time to make some changes by:
(1) Remembering your history. Chances are you started out as good friends. So ask yourself how you'd treat your best friend if you were having relationship issues. Not by being critical and defensive, right? What initially attracted you to one another any how? When did you fall in love? How did you act when things were good? Recall and rehearse your best moments.
(2) Keeping your thoughts focused on what God can do. Zero in on your mate's best qualities, then start believing that God can turn your relationship around. Remember, you have more ability than you realise to change your perception of your partner. So concentrate on all the things in your marriage that are "of good report" (Philippians 4:8).
(3) Building thoughtful behaviour back into your relationship. List some of the things you know would make your spouse happy. Be specific. For example, hugging your husband when he comes home from work after a hard day, or helping your wife with the laundry. Show you care! Inject consideration back into your relationship.
(4) Seeing your partner through God's eyes. Trying to love others like God loves you is a good rule for all your relationships, not just marriage. And if you don't love yourself, start by remembering what God says about you: that you're blessed... loved... valued... and wonderfully made.
Marriage Myths (2)
May... God... give you a spirit of unity.
Romans 15:5
"We're just not compatible."
Marital disagreements fall into five categories: money, sex, in-laws, children, and household responsibilities.
Too many couples think if they argue about these things they're automatically headed for divorce. Conflict doesn't kill relationships. What's important is how you deal with it, not the fact that it exists. One woman said, "My husband hates confrontation so when problems arose in our marriage he just walked away. I went ballistic and nothing got settled. Eventually we learned to talk about handling our disagreements; he can't walk away and I can't get hysterical. It works... now we work together to resolve problems.
" Anger is just part of your emotional make-up; God didn't make a mistake when He included it. But He wants you to handle it right (Ephesians 4:26). Being upset doesn't give you license to yell and slam doors.
Solomon said, "A fool gives full vent to his anger... a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11 ).
Hasty words hurt, and they can't be taken back. David said, "In your anger do not sin... search your hearts... be silent" (Psalm 4:4 ).
In other words, think, listen, and calm down before you react. And never resort to name-calling (Matthew 5:22); it serves no purpose but to intentionally hurt the other person.
We live in a culture of lawsuits and revenge, but a marriage built on retaliation is headed for trouble.
God said "Don't insist on getting even ... I'll take care of it" (Romans 12:19).
You can become physically and emotionally sick by hanging on to bitterness. So release it and ask God to fill your heart with His love.
He'll do it!
Romans 15:5
"We're just not compatible."
Marital disagreements fall into five categories: money, sex, in-laws, children, and household responsibilities.
Too many couples think if they argue about these things they're automatically headed for divorce. Conflict doesn't kill relationships. What's important is how you deal with it, not the fact that it exists. One woman said, "My husband hates confrontation so when problems arose in our marriage he just walked away. I went ballistic and nothing got settled. Eventually we learned to talk about handling our disagreements; he can't walk away and I can't get hysterical. It works... now we work together to resolve problems.
" Anger is just part of your emotional make-up; God didn't make a mistake when He included it. But He wants you to handle it right (Ephesians 4:26). Being upset doesn't give you license to yell and slam doors.
Solomon said, "A fool gives full vent to his anger... a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11 ).
Hasty words hurt, and they can't be taken back. David said, "In your anger do not sin... search your hearts... be silent" (Psalm 4:4 ).
In other words, think, listen, and calm down before you react. And never resort to name-calling (Matthew 5:22); it serves no purpose but to intentionally hurt the other person.
We live in a culture of lawsuits and revenge, but a marriage built on retaliation is headed for trouble.
God said "Don't insist on getting even ... I'll take care of it" (Romans 12:19).
You can become physically and emotionally sick by hanging on to bitterness. So release it and ask God to fill your heart with His love.
He'll do it!
Marriage Myths (1)
May... God... give you a spirit of unity.
Romans 15:5
Too many couples struggling with issues have bought into four common marriage myths.
For the next few days let's look at each of them:
"If I try, I can change my partner." Give it up! If you think following the "right" plan, struggling harder and refusing to give up will do it,think again.
The Bible says, "Do not think you are better than you are"(Romans 12:3 ).
The truth is, you can only work on yourself.
Once you change your steps in the marriage dance, your mate will begin to adjust theirs. Plus, by identifying and working on your own shortcomings you'll gain credibility with your mate, and create an environment that's conducive to change.
Now, here are some things you can do:
(a) Praise the qualities you admire most (remember when you were dating?) and build on them. Anytime you see positive change, recognise and encourage it.
(b) Don't letthings escalate. Make a habit of asking, "Is there anything on your mind we haven't talked about lately? " The Bible says don't go to bed angry(Ephesians 4:26), so deal with things before they lead to hard feelings and cause strife.
(c) Try to be more understanding. When people don't feel understood, they dig in their heels and resist change.
(d) Lessen your dependence on your mate. Remember, no one can meet all your needs all the time. You need friends to talk to and share activities with.
(e)Above all, be patient; neither of you is perfect.
Ask God to "give you a spirit of unity." And bear in mind that self-control is the result of God's in dwelling Spirit, not human effort (Galatians 5:23 ).
Romans 15:5
Too many couples struggling with issues have bought into four common marriage myths.
For the next few days let's look at each of them:
"If I try, I can change my partner." Give it up! If you think following the "right" plan, struggling harder and refusing to give up will do it,think again.
The Bible says, "Do not think you are better than you are"(Romans 12:3 ).
The truth is, you can only work on yourself.
Once you change your steps in the marriage dance, your mate will begin to adjust theirs. Plus, by identifying and working on your own shortcomings you'll gain credibility with your mate, and create an environment that's conducive to change.
Now, here are some things you can do:
(a) Praise the qualities you admire most (remember when you were dating?) and build on them. Anytime you see positive change, recognise and encourage it.
(b) Don't letthings escalate. Make a habit of asking, "Is there anything on your mind we haven't talked about lately? " The Bible says don't go to bed angry(Ephesians 4:26), so deal with things before they lead to hard feelings and cause strife.
(c) Try to be more understanding. When people don't feel understood, they dig in their heels and resist change.
(d) Lessen your dependence on your mate. Remember, no one can meet all your needs all the time. You need friends to talk to and share activities with.
(e)Above all, be patient; neither of you is perfect.
Ask God to "give you a spirit of unity." And bear in mind that self-control is the result of God's in dwelling Spirit, not human effort (Galatians 5:23 ).
Do It "As To The Lord!"
Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.
Colossians 3:23
When Nicholas Herman entered the Carmelite monastery in Paris in 1666, he expected to live a life of penance because of his wild and sinful past. But instead Herman, who was given the name Brother Lawrence, found God's forgiveness and peace, plus a joy he could never have imagined. But his faith was sorely tried in the process. Clumsy by nature, he was very upset at being assigned to the monastery kitchen. Then something happened. There in his kitchen he found that even the humblest, most mundane tasks become significant - when they're done out of love for God!
In his classic little book, The Practice of the Presence of God, he wrote:
"The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer... in the noise and clatter of my kitchen while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees... We ought not to be weary of doing little things, for God regards not the greatness of the work but the love with which it is performed." Talk about adding dignity to your job!
So, what's the job you hate most?
Cutting the grass?
Doing laundry?
Putting out the garbage?
Walking the dog?
Coming home from work tired and having to cook dinner?
Care-giving?
Paul said, "Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men" (Colossians 3:23).
The truth is, there's no difference between the secular and the sacred when it's done "as to the Lord and not to men."
Colossians 3:23
When Nicholas Herman entered the Carmelite monastery in Paris in 1666, he expected to live a life of penance because of his wild and sinful past. But instead Herman, who was given the name Brother Lawrence, found God's forgiveness and peace, plus a joy he could never have imagined. But his faith was sorely tried in the process. Clumsy by nature, he was very upset at being assigned to the monastery kitchen. Then something happened. There in his kitchen he found that even the humblest, most mundane tasks become significant - when they're done out of love for God!
In his classic little book, The Practice of the Presence of God, he wrote:
"The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer... in the noise and clatter of my kitchen while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees... We ought not to be weary of doing little things, for God regards not the greatness of the work but the love with which it is performed." Talk about adding dignity to your job!
So, what's the job you hate most?
Cutting the grass?
Doing laundry?
Putting out the garbage?
Walking the dog?
Coming home from work tired and having to cook dinner?
Care-giving?
Paul said, "Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men" (Colossians 3:23).
The truth is, there's no difference between the secular and the sacred when it's done "as to the Lord and not to men."
Saturday, October 07, 2006
The Need For God-Given Goals
We should make plans - counting on God to direct us.
Proverbs 16:9
There are several reasons why we fail to set goals for our lives:
(1) We haven't been taught the blessing or joy of such an action.
(2) We don'tknow how to go about it.
(3) We are afraid of failing. If we don't have a goal there's no guilt or embarrassment over not reaching it.
(4) We feel intimidated by previous failures. Solomon wrote: "We should make plans - counting on God to direct us.
"Jesus said: "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it?" (Luke 14:28 ).
Goal setting takes time, discipline,courage and perseverance.
Between you and your goal there'll be road blocks, enemy attacks and temptations designed to derail you.
"So, what should I do?"
(a) Talk to God. Get into agreement with His will for you.
(b) Write your goals down. The shortest pencil is better than the longest memory. God told the prophet, "Write the vision, and make it plain" (Habakkuk 2:2). Without written goals you have no compassand you can get swept off course.
(c) Focus on your top goals. If you attempt everything you'll accomplish nothing. Remember, a big success is simply several little successes strung together.
(d) Be alert to those God sends into your life to help you fulfill His purposes. Draw on the wisdom of experienced people; stand on their shoulders. Even your critics can sharpen you.
God has a plan for your life - seek Him and He'll reveal it to you!
Proverbs 16:9
There are several reasons why we fail to set goals for our lives:
(1) We haven't been taught the blessing or joy of such an action.
(2) We don'tknow how to go about it.
(3) We are afraid of failing. If we don't have a goal there's no guilt or embarrassment over not reaching it.
(4) We feel intimidated by previous failures. Solomon wrote: "We should make plans - counting on God to direct us.
"Jesus said: "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it?" (Luke 14:28 ).
Goal setting takes time, discipline,courage and perseverance.
Between you and your goal there'll be road blocks, enemy attacks and temptations designed to derail you.
"So, what should I do?"
(a) Talk to God. Get into agreement with His will for you.
(b) Write your goals down. The shortest pencil is better than the longest memory. God told the prophet, "Write the vision, and make it plain" (Habakkuk 2:2). Without written goals you have no compassand you can get swept off course.
(c) Focus on your top goals. If you attempt everything you'll accomplish nothing. Remember, a big success is simply several little successes strung together.
(d) Be alert to those God sends into your life to help you fulfill His purposes. Draw on the wisdom of experienced people; stand on their shoulders. Even your critics can sharpen you.
God has a plan for your life - seek Him and He'll reveal it to you!
Learn To Rest In God!
My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.
Exodus 33:14
Has success brought pressures you can't cope with?
Has the thing you celebrated yesterday got you all stressed out today?
We think we know what we want - usually because we see it in somebody else's life.
But God knows what we need - what we can live with and not fall apart. WhenGod says, "No" it's because He sees down the road. Children don't know what they don't know. Their favourite word is "gimme."
When we're tiny and don't get it, we stomp our feet and throw a fit.
When we're in our teens and don't get it, we rebel and think, "You're ruining my life.
"When we're older and wiser we say, "Thank God Mum and Dad said no."
Be careful what you pray for, you just might get it.
Here are some sobering words for fast trackers: "Then believed they His words; they sang His praise [but] they soon forgot His works; they waited not for His counsel: but lusted exceedingly in the wilderness...and He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul"(Psalm 106:12-15).
Wow! Materially enriched, but spiritually impoverished. That's a battle you'll fight too! Are you experiencing lean times in your soul?
If you are and you know it, you're blessed. You can still do something about it. It's when you don't know it that you'rein trouble. You say, "Is God asking me to leave my job or sell my big house?
" No, He's telling you you're out of balance.
"Where do I find the answer?"
God whispers, "My Presence will go with you and I will give yourest."
Learn to rest in God!
Exodus 33:14
Has success brought pressures you can't cope with?
Has the thing you celebrated yesterday got you all stressed out today?
We think we know what we want - usually because we see it in somebody else's life.
But God knows what we need - what we can live with and not fall apart. WhenGod says, "No" it's because He sees down the road. Children don't know what they don't know. Their favourite word is "gimme."
When we're tiny and don't get it, we stomp our feet and throw a fit.
When we're in our teens and don't get it, we rebel and think, "You're ruining my life.
"When we're older and wiser we say, "Thank God Mum and Dad said no."
Be careful what you pray for, you just might get it.
Here are some sobering words for fast trackers: "Then believed they His words; they sang His praise [but] they soon forgot His works; they waited not for His counsel: but lusted exceedingly in the wilderness...and He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul"(Psalm 106:12-15).
Wow! Materially enriched, but spiritually impoverished. That's a battle you'll fight too! Are you experiencing lean times in your soul?
If you are and you know it, you're blessed. You can still do something about it. It's when you don't know it that you'rein trouble. You say, "Is God asking me to leave my job or sell my big house?
" No, He's telling you you're out of balance.
"Where do I find the answer?"
God whispers, "My Presence will go with you and I will give yourest."
Learn to rest in God!
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