Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Prayer guidelines
Do we really believe that prayer works? I mean, even non-religious people throw out occasional prayers, right? You're familiar with the, "Oh God, please help me to find a parking space close to the front" or the one to keep your family safe when there's a loud noise in the middle of the night. In contrast to the occasional prayer blurb, some of us have flourishing prayer lives. But sometimes we can feel like it's not really making a difference. And I'm wondering, if prayer isn't effective, why do we do it at all?
As a Christian for the past twenty-six years, I've concluded that prayer makes a huge difference in my own life and for the world at large. That said, I think we should take it a little bit more seriously than we sometimes do. We pray for thing-A then thing-B, and our mind races off to thing-C. Before long, we're confused about what we even asked for because we are babbling while cycling at the gym. And I'm not the type who says prayer has to be done in a cathedral with a head covering either. But I think we make it a little bit too lackadaisical at times. We fit it in like it's a chore, rather than slowing down to sit with the Lord.
Here are three guidelines to pump up your prayer-life:
First, keep it simple. Rather than rambling on and on about every single person you've ever met or about every worry that fills your mind multiple times, ask the Lord to meet those needs, and then move on. This shows that you trust Him. It's not to say that He doesn't appreciate the squeaky wheel, asking again and again non-stop. But don't you think He heard you the first ten times? Instead of lingering on the never-ending requests, move on to praising God and thanking Him for His limitless provisions over the years.
Second, keep it real. Most of us realize that God knows our thoughts and concerns before we even think them. But still, we hold back during our prayer time because we think we can hide from His presence. As a Christian, you know He resides in your heart so wherever you go, He's right there with you. Plus, He does want to hear from you, all that's on your mind. And btw, in the first point, I never meant that we shouldn't bring all of our concerns to the King of Kings. I simply meant we should pray them to Him and then wait on His timing for their fruition. So go ahead and tell the Lord that you're stressed about your job or about your kids' future. Share your own health concerns with Him too. This honesty evidences a relationship between the two of you. And it shows that prayer is personal!
Third, keep it spirit guided. Sometimes I don't even know what to pray for so I'll just ask the Lord to press His thoughts and concerns onto my heart. I ask for guidance if there's someone I should be praying for in my extended family or amongst my circle of friends. I'll ask for wisdom to know His plan for me and for my family so I can pray according to His will for us. I even let my mind soar over the globe seeking how I can pray for those in other countries because I believe God cares for all of creation not just for those in America. The Lord will give you the words to pray.
So, get praying and keep us posted on how it goes. We'd love to hear from you. Matthew 7:7 says, "Ask and you will receive. Seek and you will find. Knock and it will be opened for you." Pray and then trust!
As a Christian for the past twenty-six years, I've concluded that prayer makes a huge difference in my own life and for the world at large. That said, I think we should take it a little bit more seriously than we sometimes do. We pray for thing-A then thing-B, and our mind races off to thing-C. Before long, we're confused about what we even asked for because we are babbling while cycling at the gym. And I'm not the type who says prayer has to be done in a cathedral with a head covering either. But I think we make it a little bit too lackadaisical at times. We fit it in like it's a chore, rather than slowing down to sit with the Lord.
Here are three guidelines to pump up your prayer-life:
First, keep it simple. Rather than rambling on and on about every single person you've ever met or about every worry that fills your mind multiple times, ask the Lord to meet those needs, and then move on. This shows that you trust Him. It's not to say that He doesn't appreciate the squeaky wheel, asking again and again non-stop. But don't you think He heard you the first ten times? Instead of lingering on the never-ending requests, move on to praising God and thanking Him for His limitless provisions over the years.
Second, keep it real. Most of us realize that God knows our thoughts and concerns before we even think them. But still, we hold back during our prayer time because we think we can hide from His presence. As a Christian, you know He resides in your heart so wherever you go, He's right there with you. Plus, He does want to hear from you, all that's on your mind. And btw, in the first point, I never meant that we shouldn't bring all of our concerns to the King of Kings. I simply meant we should pray them to Him and then wait on His timing for their fruition. So go ahead and tell the Lord that you're stressed about your job or about your kids' future. Share your own health concerns with Him too. This honesty evidences a relationship between the two of you. And it shows that prayer is personal!
Third, keep it spirit guided. Sometimes I don't even know what to pray for so I'll just ask the Lord to press His thoughts and concerns onto my heart. I ask for guidance if there's someone I should be praying for in my extended family or amongst my circle of friends. I'll ask for wisdom to know His plan for me and for my family so I can pray according to His will for us. I even let my mind soar over the globe seeking how I can pray for those in other countries because I believe God cares for all of creation not just for those in America. The Lord will give you the words to pray.
So, get praying and keep us posted on how it goes. We'd love to hear from you. Matthew 7:7 says, "Ask and you will receive. Seek and you will find. Knock and it will be opened for you." Pray and then trust!
Labels: Christian, guide-line, prayer
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Body Image
Summer is upon us. The fabulous aromas entice our senses: neighborhood barbecues, gently warmed sunscreen, freshly chopped veggies and herbs, and dripping watermelon from our kids' faces. We all look forward to Fourth of July parties, summer vacations, and a plethora of picnics and outdoor family events. The MLB season gets exciting as well with those unexpected trades and a number of surprising upsets (GO PADRES!!!).
But there are some things we dread, like getting into a bathing suit so we can splash around in the pool to avoid the oppressive heat. Or putting on that tight pair of shorts that seemed to be a lot looser last summer. But maybe you're not one of those insecure types; in contrast, you feel incredibly comfortable in your silky smooth skin, which means that your struggle is a bit different. You long for people to notice your sculpted legs and your toned abs. You crave the attention and dress accordingly to show off that new tattoo that decorates your lower back. Or maybe it's that new skin-tight tank that you bought to show off what you've got???
As Christians, we walk a fine line, a tightrope really. Or you could call it a double edged sword. On the one hand, we should be confident in ourselves, certain of who we are in Christ, not caving in to low self esteem. Yet on the other side, we need to be very careful how we express that satisfaction, by representing Christ at all times. If you feel offended so far, please keep reading because God truly does care about the issue of body image in our culture and in our church. So stick with me!
For those who feel depressed because they aren't pretty enough, tall enough, tan enough or whatever else "enough" comes to your mind, you need to rest in your true identity in Christ! You must surrender your heart, body, and mind over to the Lord in order to find immeasurable value from His perfect love. The truth is that Satan wants you to feel like you're a loser. If he can keep you trapped in that lie, then he knows you'll never win. You'll even avoid certain ministry opportunities because you'll think you're inadequate for the job. But remember, you were bought with a price, the one that cost Jesus His life. So don't let the enemy claim that victory. Instead, attack Satan with this Biblical truth:
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made... My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be" (Psalm 139:14-16).
If that passage isn't enough to get you back on track, start right at the beginning of the Bible and read from Genesis:
"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air...' So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them... God saw all that he had made, and it was very good..." (from Genesis 1:26, 27, 31).
You are incredibly valuable. You matter to God and you also matter to me and to a ton of other people here at Sandals Church. We care about your heart and not so much about what you look like. You aren't too ugly, too fat, too skinny, or too different looking to worship here with us. We welcome you! We want you here with us!
And for those who feel a bit too confident, you have a job to do as well. Go to the Lord for your sense of self worth as well! Let it be from HIM and not from the attention you receive from others for being physically beautiful. Don't pile on another plastic surgery to your summer's to-do-list. Why not donate vanity's fund to an amazing ministry opportunity instead? I mean seriously, think of the people you could feed in a third world country instead of using it towards another Botox injection or another laser surgery for this or that.
Also, be modest with your attire. You might look like a runway model, but you don't have to dress like one, especially when you're at church. Let your witness draw others to Christ by how you act and ALSO by what you wear. If your "short" shorts don't actually cover your behind, then they're too short. And if your bathing suit covers less than your undies do, then it's too small. Certainly, it's one thing if you're in a friend's backyard with the gals working on a tan, but not if you're at a group event with the guys who WILL struggle with lust because of it.
Keep it practical and decide what your goal is before you even get dressed; if you don't pre-think it, then your human longings will dictate your outfit for you. Temptation will step in like a crisp piece of forbidden fruit and before you know it, you're dressed to flaunt it. Are you wearing that low-cut shirt so that so-and-so will notice you? Or are you choosing to wear the extra tank under that low-cut one so he will have an easier time sitting next to you as he listens to Pastor Matt's sermon?
Make sure you take this challenge seriously because it's a relevant issue in our culture today. And it's one where Christians tend to blend in with the world, especially during the long and hot summer months. Of course we all fall short in this area, whether we're single, engaged, or married. The truth is, we all like to turn a few heads because it makes us feel cool, accepted, and attractive. But when we become deceived by Satan's lies, we need to rethink our mindset.
Our value shouldn't come from other people's accolades of our physical beauty. We should long for spiritual affirmation instead that is based upon our spiritual maturity, our growth in the Lord, and our faithfulness to God's eternal agenda for our lives. By choosing to dress modestly and by getting our acceptance from God instead of from the world, we honor Him and we also protect our fellow believers from stumbling.
Imagine in both cases, how our world would be different if physical beauty wasn't the primary goal in most people's lives. Gals and guys often feel downcast because they don't look good enough on the outside. Ironically, even the "perfectly" figured lucky-ducks often feel like they're STILL inadequate. In both situations, people just want to be loved and accepted for who they are on the inside. I mean, it's pretty messed up when neither group is happy. The truth is that no-one's really content without the Lord in the center of their life. And that means obedience to GOD alone and to HIS agenda for how we live.
Instead of trying to look amazing for the world's favor, let's focus on spiritual pursuits, like the one Paul challenges us with in Ephesians:
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand" (Ephesians 6:10-13).
So then Paul gives a ton of detail about the Believer's attire. He clues us in about the outfit that we all need to wear whether we're the ones who struggle with poor self esteem or those who battle with pride and arrogance. Check it out:
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (verses 14-17).
In closing, remember who you are! Whichever way you slice it, you will struggle. You'll think you're too lame or you'll focus on how you're too amazing. But don't despair! Grab your Bible and get on your knees. Pray!!! Ask the Lord to help you so that you can focus on His plans for your summer. Think about how you can honor the Lord with your time, money, and talents while dressing appropriately to all those barbecues, birthday parties, and baseball games. And just to challenge you with one more awesome passage of Scripture, check out Paul's sobering admonition in Romans:
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers (and sisters), in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-- this is your spiritual act of worship. 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" (12: 1+2, my parenthesis added).
But there are some things we dread, like getting into a bathing suit so we can splash around in the pool to avoid the oppressive heat. Or putting on that tight pair of shorts that seemed to be a lot looser last summer. But maybe you're not one of those insecure types; in contrast, you feel incredibly comfortable in your silky smooth skin, which means that your struggle is a bit different. You long for people to notice your sculpted legs and your toned abs. You crave the attention and dress accordingly to show off that new tattoo that decorates your lower back. Or maybe it's that new skin-tight tank that you bought to show off what you've got???
As Christians, we walk a fine line, a tightrope really. Or you could call it a double edged sword. On the one hand, we should be confident in ourselves, certain of who we are in Christ, not caving in to low self esteem. Yet on the other side, we need to be very careful how we express that satisfaction, by representing Christ at all times. If you feel offended so far, please keep reading because God truly does care about the issue of body image in our culture and in our church. So stick with me!
For those who feel depressed because they aren't pretty enough, tall enough, tan enough or whatever else "enough" comes to your mind, you need to rest in your true identity in Christ! You must surrender your heart, body, and mind over to the Lord in order to find immeasurable value from His perfect love. The truth is that Satan wants you to feel like you're a loser. If he can keep you trapped in that lie, then he knows you'll never win. You'll even avoid certain ministry opportunities because you'll think you're inadequate for the job. But remember, you were bought with a price, the one that cost Jesus His life. So don't let the enemy claim that victory. Instead, attack Satan with this Biblical truth:
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made... My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be" (Psalm 139:14-16).
If that passage isn't enough to get you back on track, start right at the beginning of the Bible and read from Genesis:
"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air...' So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them... God saw all that he had made, and it was very good..." (from Genesis 1:26, 27, 31).
You are incredibly valuable. You matter to God and you also matter to me and to a ton of other people here at Sandals Church. We care about your heart and not so much about what you look like. You aren't too ugly, too fat, too skinny, or too different looking to worship here with us. We welcome you! We want you here with us!
And for those who feel a bit too confident, you have a job to do as well. Go to the Lord for your sense of self worth as well! Let it be from HIM and not from the attention you receive from others for being physically beautiful. Don't pile on another plastic surgery to your summer's to-do-list. Why not donate vanity's fund to an amazing ministry opportunity instead? I mean seriously, think of the people you could feed in a third world country instead of using it towards another Botox injection or another laser surgery for this or that.
Also, be modest with your attire. You might look like a runway model, but you don't have to dress like one, especially when you're at church. Let your witness draw others to Christ by how you act and ALSO by what you wear. If your "short" shorts don't actually cover your behind, then they're too short. And if your bathing suit covers less than your undies do, then it's too small. Certainly, it's one thing if you're in a friend's backyard with the gals working on a tan, but not if you're at a group event with the guys who WILL struggle with lust because of it.
Keep it practical and decide what your goal is before you even get dressed; if you don't pre-think it, then your human longings will dictate your outfit for you. Temptation will step in like a crisp piece of forbidden fruit and before you know it, you're dressed to flaunt it. Are you wearing that low-cut shirt so that so-and-so will notice you? Or are you choosing to wear the extra tank under that low-cut one so he will have an easier time sitting next to you as he listens to Pastor Matt's sermon?
Make sure you take this challenge seriously because it's a relevant issue in our culture today. And it's one where Christians tend to blend in with the world, especially during the long and hot summer months. Of course we all fall short in this area, whether we're single, engaged, or married. The truth is, we all like to turn a few heads because it makes us feel cool, accepted, and attractive. But when we become deceived by Satan's lies, we need to rethink our mindset.
Our value shouldn't come from other people's accolades of our physical beauty. We should long for spiritual affirmation instead that is based upon our spiritual maturity, our growth in the Lord, and our faithfulness to God's eternal agenda for our lives. By choosing to dress modestly and by getting our acceptance from God instead of from the world, we honor Him and we also protect our fellow believers from stumbling.
Imagine in both cases, how our world would be different if physical beauty wasn't the primary goal in most people's lives. Gals and guys often feel downcast because they don't look good enough on the outside. Ironically, even the "perfectly" figured lucky-ducks often feel like they're STILL inadequate. In both situations, people just want to be loved and accepted for who they are on the inside. I mean, it's pretty messed up when neither group is happy. The truth is that no-one's really content without the Lord in the center of their life. And that means obedience to GOD alone and to HIS agenda for how we live.
Instead of trying to look amazing for the world's favor, let's focus on spiritual pursuits, like the one Paul challenges us with in Ephesians:
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand" (Ephesians 6:10-13).
So then Paul gives a ton of detail about the Believer's attire. He clues us in about the outfit that we all need to wear whether we're the ones who struggle with poor self esteem or those who battle with pride and arrogance. Check it out:
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (verses 14-17).
In closing, remember who you are! Whichever way you slice it, you will struggle. You'll think you're too lame or you'll focus on how you're too amazing. But don't despair! Grab your Bible and get on your knees. Pray!!! Ask the Lord to help you so that you can focus on His plans for your summer. Think about how you can honor the Lord with your time, money, and talents while dressing appropriately to all those barbecues, birthday parties, and baseball games. And just to challenge you with one more awesome passage of Scripture, check out Paul's sobering admonition in Romans:
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers (and sisters), in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-- this is your spiritual act of worship. 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" (12: 1+2, my parenthesis added).
Labels: Bible, body image, Christian
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Linear perfection
I recently constructed an art piece for a church art show. It consists of nine 8x10 prints of various words written in the sand. The calligraphy flows with the curve of the earth with tremendous beauty. Each print is a Biblical word, except for the middle picture, which is a heart made out of beach rocks.
It looks pretty great, but the prints did not line up into perfect ninety degree angles as I'd hoped. And by the time the hot glue dried, it became almost impossible to rotate them even a tenth of one degree. So, I had to accept it the way it was.
After the show, I returned home and hung the canvas frame up on my kitchen wall. As I transfixed my gaze upon its imperfections, I tried to be at peace with what I'd made. I stared. I wrestled. I prayed. I wanted God to reveal something to me about the piece that He'd allowed me to construct for His glory.
And then it hit me. My life is like this oceanic artwork. Even though I want all of life's details to line up to linear perfection here on earth, they simply can NOT. And this really comes down to an issue of control. I want what I want and I want it now.
I want healing for past hurts TODAY! I want a perfect marriage TODAY! I want my kids' hearts to be shaped into God's image and His obedience TODAY! I desire success for my artistic dreams TODAY! I want patience and love and hope and peace TODAY!
And yet, God has something else. He longs for us to "Be still and know that (He) is God" (Psalm 46:10). The words that I wrote in the sand come to fruition when and only when they are centered around God's heart: hope, love, kindness, peace, gentleness, patience, joy, and self control.
Similarly, our own pursuits and goals manifest harmony when anchored to His heart as well. Maybe your career oscillates between success and failure. Or perhaps you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel through a particular emotional issue.
It could be that your marriage is about to tank and you're terrified about the unknown. Maybe you face a problematic health issue or a devastating financial dilemma. Perhaps you've just lost your faith in God and in people. You want to believe, but you simply can not.
As Christians, we must sprint into God's heart. He wants us to launch in with everything we've got. And He will be there to catch us, with His open arms of love. When we submit it all to Him, we will find the answers. And when we surrender completely to His will, we will be transformed along the way.
But IT DOESN'T MEAN that everything will line up perfectly as a result. God is not a genie in a bottle. He does not answer to our beck and call. He gives us His good gifts based on His omniscient time-line. And while we wait, He always hears, always loves, and patiently guides us along the journey.
So if your pictures don't line up to linear perfection, that's okay. None of ours do. But there's a Plan B scenario on the way. Or there's a lemon just waiting to be turned into the Lord's lemonade. Just stay on the course and try to see the big picture. God is the Master Artist and He's got your life designed with a purpose.
Keeping it real! Share your thoughts here. We'd love to hear from you!
It looks pretty great, but the prints did not line up into perfect ninety degree angles as I'd hoped. And by the time the hot glue dried, it became almost impossible to rotate them even a tenth of one degree. So, I had to accept it the way it was.
After the show, I returned home and hung the canvas frame up on my kitchen wall. As I transfixed my gaze upon its imperfections, I tried to be at peace with what I'd made. I stared. I wrestled. I prayed. I wanted God to reveal something to me about the piece that He'd allowed me to construct for His glory.
And then it hit me. My life is like this oceanic artwork. Even though I want all of life's details to line up to linear perfection here on earth, they simply can NOT. And this really comes down to an issue of control. I want what I want and I want it now.
I want healing for past hurts TODAY! I want a perfect marriage TODAY! I want my kids' hearts to be shaped into God's image and His obedience TODAY! I desire success for my artistic dreams TODAY! I want patience and love and hope and peace TODAY!
And yet, God has something else. He longs for us to "Be still and know that (He) is God" (Psalm 46:10). The words that I wrote in the sand come to fruition when and only when they are centered around God's heart: hope, love, kindness, peace, gentleness, patience, joy, and self control.
Similarly, our own pursuits and goals manifest harmony when anchored to His heart as well. Maybe your career oscillates between success and failure. Or perhaps you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel through a particular emotional issue.
It could be that your marriage is about to tank and you're terrified about the unknown. Maybe you face a problematic health issue or a devastating financial dilemma. Perhaps you've just lost your faith in God and in people. You want to believe, but you simply can not.
As Christians, we must sprint into God's heart. He wants us to launch in with everything we've got. And He will be there to catch us, with His open arms of love. When we submit it all to Him, we will find the answers. And when we surrender completely to His will, we will be transformed along the way.
But IT DOESN'T MEAN that everything will line up perfectly as a result. God is not a genie in a bottle. He does not answer to our beck and call. He gives us His good gifts based on His omniscient time-line. And while we wait, He always hears, always loves, and patiently guides us along the journey.
So if your pictures don't line up to linear perfection, that's okay. None of ours do. But there's a Plan B scenario on the way. Or there's a lemon just waiting to be turned into the Lord's lemonade. Just stay on the course and try to see the big picture. God is the Master Artist and He's got your life designed with a purpose.
Keeping it real! Share your thoughts here. We'd love to hear from you!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
God's goodness
God's goodness is all around us. But, do we choose to see it? Sometimes, we focus on our problems and our insecurities, instead of delving into His ever-present promises.
This morning, I was driving our older Toyota sedan as I bumped into a few "friends" who made me feel less than totally acceptable. Maybe it was mostly my perception and not their actual thoughts. But, you know those people who look at you in a certain way, that makes you feel smaller than you really are?
When we feel less significant because our car isn't as nice as hers... or our outfit isn't as new or as cool as theirs, then it's time to rest in what we know to be true, deep down.
The fact is, that this life is short. At the speed at which we race towards death, we must live for bigger things than fashion and money. My spirit resonated with our pastor's recent challenge to, "... invest in things of true worth" (Pastor Matt from Sandals Church in October).
The simple truth about giving financially to our church means we may live with less material abundance than those who do not. If you give to your church as well, or to other charity organizations, then you can probably relate.
After writing that check out every month, you hit those final days before getting paid, and your mind can play tricks on you. You might think, "But, if I didn't give that much this month, then we could have gone out to dinner this week."
You might think of the money you've given over the years and wish you'd bought that new gaming system for the kids that everyone else already owns. Or your heart might pine for a new piece of jewelry or some shinier shoes. You might even dream bigger and wish you had bought that newer house instead of the one you currently reside in.
Perhaps you're dying to purchase some new flooring for your downstairs living space; or it could be that you long to landscape that dirt rectangle out in the backyard. Unfortunately, it seems like that extra check or bonus will never arrive.
When you feel this way, don't fret. That's what I did this morning with some silly tears during my prayer-time. While it wasn't a waste because our kind Father hears all of our complaints, the minutes were less wisely spent than they could have been.
Instead of moping over things that I "needed," I could have spent the time asking our King to powerfully move hearts in the African village where a missionary friend lives.
This morning, my thoughts got overcome by the temporary lies of the enemy, telling me that this world is all there is. But, we as Christians know this to be false. There's so much more that awaits us! Eternal hope and glory lie beyond this fleeting life.
So, let's invest in the things that concern our Lord. Let's not get stuck in the petty traps vying for our attention and money; these things only promise value and significance but tarnish and decay instead.
Remember these words from King David and find peace today: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..." (Psalm 139:13+14a).
You are good enough as you are, fellow Believer. You don't need a nicer wardrobe, a fancier car, or a palace to be more worthy. You are perfectly significant because God values you just as you are.
And remember too that He gives you everything that you truly need for today. Take heart from Jesus' words, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matthew 6:34).
Don't stress about the things that don't matter. Instead, pay attention to the issues that count for eternity, like who is going to ascend into heaven after they die. Instead of inconsequential concerns, try to focus on people's deeper needs due to an illness or an immense loss.
Make it your goal to value what God cares about and you'll find peace in the process! Share how God has helped your eyes to see things with an eternal perspective. We'd love to hear from you! :)
This morning, I was driving our older Toyota sedan as I bumped into a few "friends" who made me feel less than totally acceptable. Maybe it was mostly my perception and not their actual thoughts. But, you know those people who look at you in a certain way, that makes you feel smaller than you really are?
When we feel less significant because our car isn't as nice as hers... or our outfit isn't as new or as cool as theirs, then it's time to rest in what we know to be true, deep down.
The fact is, that this life is short. At the speed at which we race towards death, we must live for bigger things than fashion and money. My spirit resonated with our pastor's recent challenge to, "... invest in things of true worth" (Pastor Matt from Sandals Church in October).
The simple truth about giving financially to our church means we may live with less material abundance than those who do not. If you give to your church as well, or to other charity organizations, then you can probably relate.
After writing that check out every month, you hit those final days before getting paid, and your mind can play tricks on you. You might think, "But, if I didn't give that much this month, then we could have gone out to dinner this week."
You might think of the money you've given over the years and wish you'd bought that new gaming system for the kids that everyone else already owns. Or your heart might pine for a new piece of jewelry or some shinier shoes. You might even dream bigger and wish you had bought that newer house instead of the one you currently reside in.
Perhaps you're dying to purchase some new flooring for your downstairs living space; or it could be that you long to landscape that dirt rectangle out in the backyard. Unfortunately, it seems like that extra check or bonus will never arrive.
When you feel this way, don't fret. That's what I did this morning with some silly tears during my prayer-time. While it wasn't a waste because our kind Father hears all of our complaints, the minutes were less wisely spent than they could have been.
Instead of moping over things that I "needed," I could have spent the time asking our King to powerfully move hearts in the African village where a missionary friend lives.
This morning, my thoughts got overcome by the temporary lies of the enemy, telling me that this world is all there is. But, we as Christians know this to be false. There's so much more that awaits us! Eternal hope and glory lie beyond this fleeting life.
So, let's invest in the things that concern our Lord. Let's not get stuck in the petty traps vying for our attention and money; these things only promise value and significance but tarnish and decay instead.
Remember these words from King David and find peace today: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..." (Psalm 139:13+14a).
You are good enough as you are, fellow Believer. You don't need a nicer wardrobe, a fancier car, or a palace to be more worthy. You are perfectly significant because God values you just as you are.
And remember too that He gives you everything that you truly need for today. Take heart from Jesus' words, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own" (Matthew 6:34).
Don't stress about the things that don't matter. Instead, pay attention to the issues that count for eternity, like who is going to ascend into heaven after they die. Instead of inconsequential concerns, try to focus on people's deeper needs due to an illness or an immense loss.
Make it your goal to value what God cares about and you'll find peace in the process! Share how God has helped your eyes to see things with an eternal perspective. We'd love to hear from you! :)
Labels: Believer, Christian, faith, women
Monday, August 30, 2010
Beauty all around us...
There's so much beauty all around us. As I write this post, I'm staring at some picturesque white lilies and some velvety red roses. And as I bite into varying shades of green broccoli, I'm blown away by the limitless detail found in such seemingly unimportant florets.
I sip from my glass of Merlot and observe purples mixed with burgundies and again, I am flabbergasted. I glance to my right to watch my tan Labrador, who accompanies me downstairs while the rest of my family is upstairs (Praise the Lord, I get a few minutes to myself); I can't help but observe her noteworthy traits as well. Her fur changes tones from her ears to the top of her head and then from her back to her neck. The tans darken and lighten to bring forth a palette of richness and depth.
It might sound like I'm overdoing it to be awed by flowers, broccoli, a common glass of Merlot, and my seven-year-old Labrador, named Nugget. But, the truth is, that if we don't stop to be moved by some of the simple things around us, we must question when we will pause to notice the bigger things in life. Will we ever quit moving between the maddening cycle of waking, eating, working, running errands, eating, and sleeping only to awake again and start all over?
Every single night, there is a host of starry wonderment above us, but we rarely step outside to gaze upon its majesty. Even recently when Mars lined up into visual perfection with our moon, how many people stopped what they were doing to notice its glory? It won't happen again for tens of thousands of years and even then, many people continued on with their movie rental and their dessert.
How often do we really stop to evaluate the miracle of the human body? Of our very own heart beat? Of the blood that flows and of the cells that divide? Of the brain waves that glide effortlessly along, doing their own thing so involuntarily? Do we credit each breath as a miracle, one given to us from God above?
Though these simplistic thoughts might seem irrelevant to our daily lives, they actually serve an important function towards drawing us into the holy realm of the Almighty. When we observe His creation around us and see that it is good, we are drawn closer to Him. When we gaze upon His beautiful works, we are drawn a little bit closer to the One who allows us to make these observations in the first place.
What we usually do is speed past the goodness and the beauty around us; we miss the artfulness of the colorful flowers, the varied vegetables, a beautiful glass of liquid standing still, or a dog lying at rest with the light hitting its fur like a choreographed dance. We miss the Creator who created it all. We deny the Creator the glory due His name when we speed past the awesomeness staring us in the face.
Though this idea still puzzles some readers, I want to challenge some of you to hang on for a moment longer. Think about what happens when you sit outside under the stars, when you stare upon their intensity and their massivity. If you believe in God, they make you think upon Him. Even if you don't credit a Creator, you think about what's beyond our world. It leads you to something bigger, to something beyond yourself. And that is a good thing.
The result of our slowing down which leads to deeper reflections is the very reason that we must slow down. We must rest our glance upon the simple things touching our path on a daily basis. We must revel in the delicate fragrance of the roses around us. We should enjoy the multifaceted flavors in the foods we eat.
Let's enjoy the soft touch of our pet as we embrace her soothing fur. Let's take time to adore the Creator of that beautiful sunrise and the sunset as well. Let's take a few moments to set our eyes upon the starry sky, held together by the Master Artist.
When these experiences draw us closer to the one who is THE ONE, we are transformed more closely into His image. We begin to look like Him and ultimately, we are changed. Let's slow down fellow believers. Let's observe His creation all around us. Let's worship the King together.
Often times, as I hum praise songs during the day, I invite my kids to sing with me. I remind them about the Scripture in the Psalms that talks about how if we do not praise the Lord, then the rocks will cry out to Him in our stead. We worship by singing and we are called into that place by thanking Him for His awesomeness all around us throughout the day.
I sip from my glass of Merlot and observe purples mixed with burgundies and again, I am flabbergasted. I glance to my right to watch my tan Labrador, who accompanies me downstairs while the rest of my family is upstairs (Praise the Lord, I get a few minutes to myself); I can't help but observe her noteworthy traits as well. Her fur changes tones from her ears to the top of her head and then from her back to her neck. The tans darken and lighten to bring forth a palette of richness and depth.
It might sound like I'm overdoing it to be awed by flowers, broccoli, a common glass of Merlot, and my seven-year-old Labrador, named Nugget. But, the truth is, that if we don't stop to be moved by some of the simple things around us, we must question when we will pause to notice the bigger things in life. Will we ever quit moving between the maddening cycle of waking, eating, working, running errands, eating, and sleeping only to awake again and start all over?
Every single night, there is a host of starry wonderment above us, but we rarely step outside to gaze upon its majesty. Even recently when Mars lined up into visual perfection with our moon, how many people stopped what they were doing to notice its glory? It won't happen again for tens of thousands of years and even then, many people continued on with their movie rental and their dessert.
How often do we really stop to evaluate the miracle of the human body? Of our very own heart beat? Of the blood that flows and of the cells that divide? Of the brain waves that glide effortlessly along, doing their own thing so involuntarily? Do we credit each breath as a miracle, one given to us from God above?
Though these simplistic thoughts might seem irrelevant to our daily lives, they actually serve an important function towards drawing us into the holy realm of the Almighty. When we observe His creation around us and see that it is good, we are drawn closer to Him. When we gaze upon His beautiful works, we are drawn a little bit closer to the One who allows us to make these observations in the first place.
What we usually do is speed past the goodness and the beauty around us; we miss the artfulness of the colorful flowers, the varied vegetables, a beautiful glass of liquid standing still, or a dog lying at rest with the light hitting its fur like a choreographed dance. We miss the Creator who created it all. We deny the Creator the glory due His name when we speed past the awesomeness staring us in the face.
Though this idea still puzzles some readers, I want to challenge some of you to hang on for a moment longer. Think about what happens when you sit outside under the stars, when you stare upon their intensity and their massivity. If you believe in God, they make you think upon Him. Even if you don't credit a Creator, you think about what's beyond our world. It leads you to something bigger, to something beyond yourself. And that is a good thing.
The result of our slowing down which leads to deeper reflections is the very reason that we must slow down. We must rest our glance upon the simple things touching our path on a daily basis. We must revel in the delicate fragrance of the roses around us. We should enjoy the multifaceted flavors in the foods we eat.
Let's enjoy the soft touch of our pet as we embrace her soothing fur. Let's take time to adore the Creator of that beautiful sunrise and the sunset as well. Let's take a few moments to set our eyes upon the starry sky, held together by the Master Artist.
When these experiences draw us closer to the one who is THE ONE, we are transformed more closely into His image. We begin to look like Him and ultimately, we are changed. Let's slow down fellow believers. Let's observe His creation all around us. Let's worship the King together.
Often times, as I hum praise songs during the day, I invite my kids to sing with me. I remind them about the Scripture in the Psalms that talks about how if we do not praise the Lord, then the rocks will cry out to Him in our stead. We worship by singing and we are called into that place by thanking Him for His awesomeness all around us throughout the day.
Labels: beauty, Christian, family, God, worship
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Trust
Sometimes, you just have to trust God, even when it feels like you can't. There will even be times when religious leaders let you down. You will think you have their confidence and they will come up short in spite of your elevated faith in them. This is because the church is imperfect; it is a place full of grace, but simultaneously a station full of sinful human beings.
So, what do we do when we've been wronged? The simple answer is this: we follow Christ's example. We forgive, of course. Remember what Jesus said as He was being crucified up on the cross, "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they are doing."
I mean, if He could extend mercy while people were in the process of murdering Him, we can do it in the midst of our less excruciating circumstances, right? Easier said than done, that's for sure. But, I'm so glad that my ultimate spiritual authority will never let me down. Jesus is always a sure thing; He's consistently the real deal.
So, when we tell Jesus that we're going to take up our cross and follow Him, we have to wrestle over some really hard issues about what that means. Are we going to remain faithful even when we feel let down, unprotected, and seriously challenged? What about when finances get tough or when a parent becomes ill? What about when a marriage gets messy? Or, when the relationship with your own kid becomes one of despair?
What about when people in your own church treat you like you did something against God's will even when you heard it from the Lord Himself? What happens when you're really real with someone and then she judges you for it? Have you ever felt like someone liked you more before you spilled the beans? It's like, they'd rather hear the answer, "I'm fine" to everything because it makes their life easier. Will you forgive and love during those times?
Even though these are hard questions, the answers are pretty simple. In 1 Corinthians, God tells us that we won't be tempted beyond what we can bear and that He will provide a way out from that temptation. Are you tempted to sin: to cheat, to cave into fear, to be anxious, to crouch up in anger, or to stew in jealousy? Turn it to Jesus, right away... so He can help you in the midst of your struggle. You can always be REAL with Him.
Jesus also tells us in Philippians that we "...CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens (us)" (4:13). So, even when it's hard to do the right thing amidst difficult circumstances, it's not impossible. Think about it...we can actually grow during the tough times if we choose to lean on God.
John 15:5+6 say, "I am the vine and you are the branches; if a man remains in me and I in Him, he will bear much fruit. Apart from me you can do nothing." So, the key is to remain in Christ...at all times, but especially during the crazy times. If you feel tempted to give up because someone has given up on you or because you can't find your way in the midst of the darkness, well...don't! Don't despair! Don't give in! Keep the faith because you can be victorious with God's help!
Share how the Lord has gotten you through a tough time. Has your faith grown as a result of the challenge? Keep trusting and praying. Share your heart and I will pray for you as well! :)
So, what do we do when we've been wronged? The simple answer is this: we follow Christ's example. We forgive, of course. Remember what Jesus said as He was being crucified up on the cross, "Forgive them Father, for they know not what they are doing."
I mean, if He could extend mercy while people were in the process of murdering Him, we can do it in the midst of our less excruciating circumstances, right? Easier said than done, that's for sure. But, I'm so glad that my ultimate spiritual authority will never let me down. Jesus is always a sure thing; He's consistently the real deal.
So, when we tell Jesus that we're going to take up our cross and follow Him, we have to wrestle over some really hard issues about what that means. Are we going to remain faithful even when we feel let down, unprotected, and seriously challenged? What about when finances get tough or when a parent becomes ill? What about when a marriage gets messy? Or, when the relationship with your own kid becomes one of despair?
What about when people in your own church treat you like you did something against God's will even when you heard it from the Lord Himself? What happens when you're really real with someone and then she judges you for it? Have you ever felt like someone liked you more before you spilled the beans? It's like, they'd rather hear the answer, "I'm fine" to everything because it makes their life easier. Will you forgive and love during those times?
Even though these are hard questions, the answers are pretty simple. In 1 Corinthians, God tells us that we won't be tempted beyond what we can bear and that He will provide a way out from that temptation. Are you tempted to sin: to cheat, to cave into fear, to be anxious, to crouch up in anger, or to stew in jealousy? Turn it to Jesus, right away... so He can help you in the midst of your struggle. You can always be REAL with Him.
Jesus also tells us in Philippians that we "...CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens (us)" (4:13). So, even when it's hard to do the right thing amidst difficult circumstances, it's not impossible. Think about it...we can actually grow during the tough times if we choose to lean on God.
John 15:5+6 say, "I am the vine and you are the branches; if a man remains in me and I in Him, he will bear much fruit. Apart from me you can do nothing." So, the key is to remain in Christ...at all times, but especially during the crazy times. If you feel tempted to give up because someone has given up on you or because you can't find your way in the midst of the darkness, well...don't! Don't despair! Don't give in! Keep the faith because you can be victorious with God's help!
Share how the Lord has gotten you through a tough time. Has your faith grown as a result of the challenge? Keep trusting and praying. Share your heart and I will pray for you as well! :)
Labels: belief, Christian, faith
