First, before I begin, I would like to apologize for the few days of missing blogs. You see, I went out of town this weekend and FORGOT my computer. But, never fear... we are up and running now. So, please continue to come and drink!
Yesterday a great tragedy occurred in the life of me - I lost one of my favorite earrings. They are silver hoops about the size of a half dollar. My husband gave them to me for Christmas and I love the fact that they go with anything. And, sometime between 5:45 AM when they went in my ears and 7:00 PM, one escaped my ear. Somewhere between my house, school, the gas station, my dad's office, graduate school and between two cars, some lucky person will find my left earring - and they too will experience the same problem I am - what do you do with just one hoop earring?
Losing my earring made me think - God desires to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10), just as I desire to seek and save my lost earring. Its a stretch, I know, but really think about it. When we lose something, we are often determined to find it. We look everywhere, retrace our steps, ask around. And, well, do we act like that when we are seeking lost people? No, probably not. Most of us don't go out of our way to seek and save the lost - we just go on with our lives thinking the lost might fall in our lap or we'll witness to them... if we must.
So, I began to think about it - I never noticed my missing earring and the ironic thing about my earring is - no one even noticed or mentioned it was missing. I discovered the missing earring all on my own and by then, it was too late - it was long gone. Many lost people don't know what they are missing. No one tells them about Jesus; they don't now Jesus - so, how do they know Jesus is missing in their lives? And, unfortunately, the lost don't know what they are missing until its too late and the chance of salvation is long gone.
Think about it -in Romans 10:14, we learn of the desperation of the lost - "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" How can we expect the lost people to come to know Jesus unless we tell them? How will we know if someone is lost unless we ask them? And, sometimes, sadly, the question is - how will someone know they are lost unless they are told?
It is our job to seek the lost. To deliberately go through every step of our lives searching for someone, for something, for a way we can make an impact in God's kingdom. It is our job to seek and to find. To follow God's commands and to not stop until we locate and tell every lost person about Him. Jesus didn't stop - we shouldn't either.
So, for me - that means to stop dwelling on a lost earring and to start dwelling on the lost people... find them first. After all, their salvation depends upon it.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Your Breath Stinks Like Your Feet
Everybody gets morning breath - at least I hope they do. Otherwise, I have a serious problem. Morning breath is not delightful to say the least. Its unappealing, turns others away, and simply tastes disgusting. There is nothing like brushing your teeth in the morning - everything goes from stinky to fresh in a mere instance!
And, feet - don't get me started on feet. Some people have cute feet, others have weird feet. But regardless the kind, a sweaty foot in a tennis shoe without socks allows for a delightful, stinky mess. You know the smell. We've all smelled it - the locker room after a big game... stinky feet.
And, in all this stinky turmoil, did it ever occur to you that we are the equivalent of morning breath and stinky feet? We speak harsh, ugly things sometimes and delightful sweet things in a mere matter of seconds. We travel to church and we travel to places we shouldn't go. We carry the gospel and we carry the gossip. We are a living contradiction. A living representation of stinky feet and morning breath - a mere forgiveness and God's word away from experiencing yet another aroma disaster everyday.
In Isaiah 52:7, we read, "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" You see, our feet don't have to be stinky - they can be used to promote and proclaim God! We need to watch our words and watch our deeds so that we too can hear that our words and deeds are "a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (Phil. 4:13b).
So, next time you get up - use that morning breath as motivation. Get up and get in the word. Ask God to forgive you and to guard your speech - after all, our speech makes a lasting impact for or against Christ to those we daily encounter. And, after that big run... or simply after that stint in your leather sock-less shoes, remember the importance of your actions. Ask God to place you in situations where His word and His name will be glorified. After all, our purpose isn't to display the stench, but to provide a fragrant offering to Him.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
And, feet - don't get me started on feet. Some people have cute feet, others have weird feet. But regardless the kind, a sweaty foot in a tennis shoe without socks allows for a delightful, stinky mess. You know the smell. We've all smelled it - the locker room after a big game... stinky feet.
And, in all this stinky turmoil, did it ever occur to you that we are the equivalent of morning breath and stinky feet? We speak harsh, ugly things sometimes and delightful sweet things in a mere matter of seconds. We travel to church and we travel to places we shouldn't go. We carry the gospel and we carry the gossip. We are a living contradiction. A living representation of stinky feet and morning breath - a mere forgiveness and God's word away from experiencing yet another aroma disaster everyday.
In Isaiah 52:7, we read, "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" You see, our feet don't have to be stinky - they can be used to promote and proclaim God! We need to watch our words and watch our deeds so that we too can hear that our words and deeds are "a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (Phil. 4:13b).
So, next time you get up - use that morning breath as motivation. Get up and get in the word. Ask God to forgive you and to guard your speech - after all, our speech makes a lasting impact for or against Christ to those we daily encounter. And, after that big run... or simply after that stint in your leather sock-less shoes, remember the importance of your actions. Ask God to place you in situations where His word and His name will be glorified. After all, our purpose isn't to display the stench, but to provide a fragrant offering to Him.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
TIRED
Do you ever have those days where you just want to rest?
You are tired... you don't really want to start anything new. The laundry can wait... dinner can wait... you are even too tired to turn on the TV because the remote is just out of reach... maybe someone will turn it on for you... if you look pathetic enough, OR maybe you'll just sit in the silence, after all - it takes less energy. You are tired... in fact, you are so tired you simply cannot sleep... TIRED.
I think everyone has these days -whether we are tired of work, tired of the routine, or just tired... we all get TIRED every now and then.
For those of you who are tired - these words are for you:
Isaiah 30:15 - This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength...
Jeremiah 6:16- This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls....
Psalm 37:7 - Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him...
Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Why spend time and energy that you simply do not have worrying about what's to come, thinking about tomorrow... God has a plan and He will provide it for you. Take a second and REST. You are tired... and you need to REST in the LORD!
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
You are tired... you don't really want to start anything new. The laundry can wait... dinner can wait... you are even too tired to turn on the TV because the remote is just out of reach... maybe someone will turn it on for you... if you look pathetic enough, OR maybe you'll just sit in the silence, after all - it takes less energy. You are tired... in fact, you are so tired you simply cannot sleep... TIRED.
I think everyone has these days -whether we are tired of work, tired of the routine, or just tired... we all get TIRED every now and then.
For those of you who are tired - these words are for you:
Isaiah 30:15 - This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength...
Jeremiah 6:16- This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls....
Psalm 37:7 - Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him...
Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Why spend time and energy that you simply do not have worrying about what's to come, thinking about tomorrow... God has a plan and He will provide it for you. Take a second and REST. You are tired... and you need to REST in the LORD!
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Monday, August 23, 2010
Mrs. A - Are you Married?
Conversation of the day -
G: Mrs. A - you married?
Me: Yes, why?
G: Well, you don't act like no married lady.
Me: (hesitantly) I don't... why is that?
G: Well, you happy - always happy... and married people - they ain't happy.
Don't you just love ninth graders?
This conversation from my classroom earlier today got me thinking - we often skew our thoughts on a subject due to one example. Let me explain - poor G believes all married people are unhappy, probably because the examples he sees on a daily basis are actually unhappy. He simply cannot understand how anyone could be different from his already formed perception.
Now, let's apply this to the Christian life. What if people make judgments about Christians based on a few bad apples? What if people fail to see Christianity as a relationship and simply catch a glimpse at someone who fails to walk the walk, who fails to talk the talk, or who fails to illustrate that Christlike joy we find only in Him?! What if our message is crowded by the message of others? Or, worse - what if we are hindering the message of others? What if the message of Christianity isn't one of a fulfilling relationship with Jesus, but one of a hindering religion... one with rules, regulations and heartache?! What if we aren't sending the right message?
In Ephesians 4, Paul urges us to live a life worthy of the calling we received.... to disregard the old way of life... and to put on a new self, one created to be like God. Once we receive Christ, we are supposed to allow Him to shine through us. Against all odds, stereotypes and preconceived notions, people should be able to look at us, to talk to us, and to be with us and know we are Christians.
In fact, our conversations should go something like this -
G: Mrs. A - you a Christian?
Me: Yes, how did you know
G: Well, I could tell - you act like a Christian - Christians show Jesus.
No one should have to question our loyalty. Everyone should see Christ in us. And, we should help form the norm - let's live up the reputation Christ set forth for us many years ago. Let's show Jesus to everyone... and, if we do it right - they won't even have to ask - they will just know.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
G: Mrs. A - you married?
Me: Yes, why?
G: Well, you don't act like no married lady.
Me: (hesitantly) I don't... why is that?
G: Well, you happy - always happy... and married people - they ain't happy.
Don't you just love ninth graders?
This conversation from my classroom earlier today got me thinking - we often skew our thoughts on a subject due to one example. Let me explain - poor G believes all married people are unhappy, probably because the examples he sees on a daily basis are actually unhappy. He simply cannot understand how anyone could be different from his already formed perception.
Now, let's apply this to the Christian life. What if people make judgments about Christians based on a few bad apples? What if people fail to see Christianity as a relationship and simply catch a glimpse at someone who fails to walk the walk, who fails to talk the talk, or who fails to illustrate that Christlike joy we find only in Him?! What if our message is crowded by the message of others? Or, worse - what if we are hindering the message of others? What if the message of Christianity isn't one of a fulfilling relationship with Jesus, but one of a hindering religion... one with rules, regulations and heartache?! What if we aren't sending the right message?
In Ephesians 4, Paul urges us to live a life worthy of the calling we received.... to disregard the old way of life... and to put on a new self, one created to be like God. Once we receive Christ, we are supposed to allow Him to shine through us. Against all odds, stereotypes and preconceived notions, people should be able to look at us, to talk to us, and to be with us and know we are Christians.
In fact, our conversations should go something like this -
G: Mrs. A - you a Christian?
Me: Yes, how did you know
G: Well, I could tell - you act like a Christian - Christians show Jesus.
No one should have to question our loyalty. Everyone should see Christ in us. And, we should help form the norm - let's live up the reputation Christ set forth for us many years ago. Let's show Jesus to everyone... and, if we do it right - they won't even have to ask - they will just know.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Have it Your Way...
Do you recall the Burger King commercial that stated, "Have it Your Way." You could, after all, create any burger combination you wanted and your burger would be as unique to you as your sense of style, your name, and your tastebuds. You had to consult with noone regarding this fantastic feast - it was all about you!
Well, here's some tough news - its never really all about you. And, its never all about me. The world tries to convince us otherwise, but we know better. Even the personalized Burger had its limitations - after all, Burger King didn't carry everything. Our personalized pizza is limited on toppings, our special Ipod playlist is limited by the tunes we purchase, and our favorite Saturday afternoon activity is limited by time, money, and availability.
We can trick ourselves all we want, but our way is really dependent upon everyone else's way. And, those all about me moments are really not all about us at all. Try as we might, its never about us.... at least life isn't designed to be about us.
In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us to Seek first the Kingdom of God. Not, to think about our schedule, our hopes, our desires, and then, perhaps, add God last. Jesus says God is first and all others are second. Its not about what we want. Its about what God wants. Its not about me - its about Him. He has the unlimited menu; He has the unlimited playlist; and He has the unlimited resources. I need to look to Him, not others and certainly not myself. And, once I make it all about Jesus - miraculously, I don't have to worry about me anymore.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Well, here's some tough news - its never really all about you. And, its never all about me. The world tries to convince us otherwise, but we know better. Even the personalized Burger had its limitations - after all, Burger King didn't carry everything. Our personalized pizza is limited on toppings, our special Ipod playlist is limited by the tunes we purchase, and our favorite Saturday afternoon activity is limited by time, money, and availability.
We can trick ourselves all we want, but our way is really dependent upon everyone else's way. And, those all about me moments are really not all about us at all. Try as we might, its never about us.... at least life isn't designed to be about us.
In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us to Seek first the Kingdom of God. Not, to think about our schedule, our hopes, our desires, and then, perhaps, add God last. Jesus says God is first and all others are second. Its not about what we want. Its about what God wants. Its not about me - its about Him. He has the unlimited menu; He has the unlimited playlist; and He has the unlimited resources. I need to look to Him, not others and certainly not myself. And, once I make it all about Jesus - miraculously, I don't have to worry about me anymore.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Thursday, August 19, 2010
WHATEVER!
I never understood why some people don't give life their all. Why is it that people give only 45% or 90% when they can certainly afford more? Why not put forth 100% effort and leave your job, your family, your evening, knowing that you simply could not do anymore.
My parents always told me to do my best. I remember as a child, my brother Joseph was not always the scholarly one. He came home one day with a failing grade. Instead of the anticipated reaction, my daddy sat Joseph down and simply asked, "did you do your best?" To which my brother boldly answered, "nope." You see it wasn't the grade that mattered to my folks - it was the effort behind it. It wasn't the A they desired, it was the motivation, the determination, and the drive to succeed that they hoped to instill in their children. For that, I am thankful.
If you know me (and my husband), you know we are go-getters. We strive to do the best we can whenever we can. And, if we commit to something, we are in it 450%, if that's possible. For us, it isn't about the A, its about the effort - and the effort better be the best!
In Colossians 3:17, it states, "whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Then again, in Colossians 3:23 we learn, "whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." God commands our best. He asks us to do few things, but to do them well. Everywhere we go we are ambassadors for God. And, everything we do is a reflection of Him. So, if we half do our job, or act mediocre to our friends, we aren't presenting the best picture of our Lord. You've heard it before - CARPE DIEM - seize the day - seize the opportunity to show God your best. He doesn't require you to be the best, to win the gold, to maintain employee of the month status or win a best parent or best spouse award, He simply requires YOUR best. He wants all your motivation, all your dedication, all your dependability and all your work to be dedicated to Him. If for no other reason - do the best you can for God. After all, its reason enough.
And, if by chance you don't choose to do your best, be prepared to answer "nope" when Jesus asks you, "Did you, my dear child, do your best for me?"
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
My parents always told me to do my best. I remember as a child, my brother Joseph was not always the scholarly one. He came home one day with a failing grade. Instead of the anticipated reaction, my daddy sat Joseph down and simply asked, "did you do your best?" To which my brother boldly answered, "nope." You see it wasn't the grade that mattered to my folks - it was the effort behind it. It wasn't the A they desired, it was the motivation, the determination, and the drive to succeed that they hoped to instill in their children. For that, I am thankful.
If you know me (and my husband), you know we are go-getters. We strive to do the best we can whenever we can. And, if we commit to something, we are in it 450%, if that's possible. For us, it isn't about the A, its about the effort - and the effort better be the best!
In Colossians 3:17, it states, "whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Then again, in Colossians 3:23 we learn, "whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." God commands our best. He asks us to do few things, but to do them well. Everywhere we go we are ambassadors for God. And, everything we do is a reflection of Him. So, if we half do our job, or act mediocre to our friends, we aren't presenting the best picture of our Lord. You've heard it before - CARPE DIEM - seize the day - seize the opportunity to show God your best. He doesn't require you to be the best, to win the gold, to maintain employee of the month status or win a best parent or best spouse award, He simply requires YOUR best. He wants all your motivation, all your dedication, all your dependability and all your work to be dedicated to Him. If for no other reason - do the best you can for God. After all, its reason enough.
And, if by chance you don't choose to do your best, be prepared to answer "nope" when Jesus asks you, "Did you, my dear child, do your best for me?"
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Speak Now... Or Forever Hold Your Peace
For those of you who know me, you know I love to talk. According to my husband, I could talk to a brick wall. I will talk to anyone, anytime, anywhere about anything. And, to my detriment, I often do not know when to shut up. Talky, talky, talky... yes, I know, I need to learn to quiet, quiet, quiet - but its not always that easy. Unfortunately for me (and for those listening) I often don't discuss things that matter - I will talk about anything from paint colors to TV shows to happenings at school or crazy jokes I've heard. And, despite the annoyance I cause with my constant talking, I think God could use it for the good, if I just let go and let Him.
You see, in Acts 4, we learn about Peter and John. Modern day apostles, they were convinced of God's great gift. And, so, they talked - even proclaimed their inability to shut-up. In Acts 4:20, we hear them say, "we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard." They were talkers and proud of it. For them, they used the gift of talking for God's glory and not for their own. Yes, they talky, talky, talkied..... ALL ABOUT GOD! Neither jail nor discomfort, neither peer pressure nor exhaustion could keep these men from sharing God's word.
Wouldn't it be great if we, both talkers and non-talkers alike, learned to communicate God's word effectively and passionately without holding back? Wouldn't it be great if we boldly proclaimed God's word from the roof-tops, from the front seat of our car, at our jobs and in line at the grocery store?!? Wouldn't it be great if we stopped talking about things of this world and started talking about the one thing that matters? And, wouldn't it be great if we let neither jail nor discomfort, neither peer pressure nor exhaustion keep us from sharing God's word?!?! I hope and I pray that I cannot stop speaking... about God and all He's done for me. And, I can, if I just shut up long enough for God to take control of my tongue.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
You see, in Acts 4, we learn about Peter and John. Modern day apostles, they were convinced of God's great gift. And, so, they talked - even proclaimed their inability to shut-up. In Acts 4:20, we hear them say, "we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard." They were talkers and proud of it. For them, they used the gift of talking for God's glory and not for their own. Yes, they talky, talky, talkied..... ALL ABOUT GOD! Neither jail nor discomfort, neither peer pressure nor exhaustion could keep these men from sharing God's word.
Wouldn't it be great if we, both talkers and non-talkers alike, learned to communicate God's word effectively and passionately without holding back? Wouldn't it be great if we boldly proclaimed God's word from the roof-tops, from the front seat of our car, at our jobs and in line at the grocery store?!? Wouldn't it be great if we stopped talking about things of this world and started talking about the one thing that matters? And, wouldn't it be great if we let neither jail nor discomfort, neither peer pressure nor exhaustion keep us from sharing God's word?!?! I hope and I pray that I cannot stop speaking... about God and all He's done for me. And, I can, if I just shut up long enough for God to take control of my tongue.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
My pocket book
My pocket book weighs about 7 pounds, literally. If you picked it up, you would understand. After carrying it for about 2-3 hours, your shoulder may start to hurt, your back may ache, and you would begin to ask things like, "what's in this thing?" "Is all this stuff really necessary?" And, of course, I would say, "Well, yes - everything is important. From the littlest band aid to the receipts from last week. From the bottle of water to the snack for later. Should we ever be held up, detained or stuck in an elevator, my pocket book would help us escape."
We all carry around burdens. Yes my physical burden is green, Bohemian, large and a gift from my husband, but there is another burden we need to discuss. Although my purse is heavy, my soul carries something much heavier. You may carry a variety of things - Sunday school director, mother, father, teacher, Deacon, associate, lawn maintenance man, and so on. Our lives are busy, our plates are full. And, we add thing after thing into our pocketbooks of life until we simply cannot lift them anymore. We burden ourselves with so much to do, we simply cannot do any more. And, then, we ask God - why? Why do I have so much to do? Why am I so tired? Why? Why? Why?
Guess what - God doesn't call us to fill our bags to the brim and add on extra luggage. God calls us to specific purposes. We are the ones that add on the extras and then complain about the fullness of our lives. Matthew 11:30 tells us, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light." Outright, from the get-go, we know that Jesus provides for us all the help we need. I love the NET version of this verse - for my yoke fits perfectly and the burden I give you is light. Jesus doesn't expect us to work ourselves into the ground. Instead, He asks us to give our heart and soul to Him, to dedicate our lives to whatever He calls us to and quite frankly to cut out the stuff we just want to do or we think we should do. After all, shouldn't we just be doing what God calls us to do? He will not steer us wrong.
Think about it this way - when we do something we are not called to do, we are stealing someone else's burden from God. We are taking their burden and piling it upon ours... causing us pain and them to miss out on an opportunity from the Savior. Carry what Jesus calls you to carry - it is light. Don't pile unnecessary baggage into your already full purse. Listen to Jesus. Do what He wants. And, then, your burden will be light. Perhaps you'll even move from a large Bohemian pocket book to an evening clutch.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
We all carry around burdens. Yes my physical burden is green, Bohemian, large and a gift from my husband, but there is another burden we need to discuss. Although my purse is heavy, my soul carries something much heavier. You may carry a variety of things - Sunday school director, mother, father, teacher, Deacon, associate, lawn maintenance man, and so on. Our lives are busy, our plates are full. And, we add thing after thing into our pocketbooks of life until we simply cannot lift them anymore. We burden ourselves with so much to do, we simply cannot do any more. And, then, we ask God - why? Why do I have so much to do? Why am I so tired? Why? Why? Why?
Guess what - God doesn't call us to fill our bags to the brim and add on extra luggage. God calls us to specific purposes. We are the ones that add on the extras and then complain about the fullness of our lives. Matthew 11:30 tells us, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light." Outright, from the get-go, we know that Jesus provides for us all the help we need. I love the NET version of this verse - for my yoke fits perfectly and the burden I give you is light. Jesus doesn't expect us to work ourselves into the ground. Instead, He asks us to give our heart and soul to Him, to dedicate our lives to whatever He calls us to and quite frankly to cut out the stuff we just want to do or we think we should do. After all, shouldn't we just be doing what God calls us to do? He will not steer us wrong.
Think about it this way - when we do something we are not called to do, we are stealing someone else's burden from God. We are taking their burden and piling it upon ours... causing us pain and them to miss out on an opportunity from the Savior. Carry what Jesus calls you to carry - it is light. Don't pile unnecessary baggage into your already full purse. Listen to Jesus. Do what He wants. And, then, your burden will be light. Perhaps you'll even move from a large Bohemian pocket book to an evening clutch.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Monday, August 16, 2010
Names -
So, as a teacher, I get the privilege and opportunity to learn around 150 new names each year - well, 138 to be exact. So, it is imperative for me to put the students in assigned seats, use their names continually, and require all names go on every paper. Sometimes, I even think of silly name games or mnemonic devices to help me remember the names. And, name plates are a must - so, if I walk past their desk and forget their name, there is a happy reminder on each desk. It takes me about 2-3 weeks to conquer every last name and first name. And, after much practice, I recognize every student in and outside of my classroom.
John 10:3 says, "He calls his own... by name..." Lucky for us, Jesus doesn't have to learn our names. He doesn't need alphabetical order, name plates, or tricky name games. He doesn't have to learn our first name, then our last name and pray he remembers both out in public - Jesus just knows us. In fact, Jesus not only knows our names, he knows everything about us. In fact, Luke 12:7 assures us God knows our names AND even the number of hairs on our head. Think about it - He knows our lives inside out. And, for a person who finds it difficult to even remember 5 names, I am thoroughly impressed.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
John 10:3 says, "He calls his own... by name..." Lucky for us, Jesus doesn't have to learn our names. He doesn't need alphabetical order, name plates, or tricky name games. He doesn't have to learn our first name, then our last name and pray he remembers both out in public - Jesus just knows us. In fact, Jesus not only knows our names, he knows everything about us. In fact, Luke 12:7 assures us God knows our names AND even the number of hairs on our head. Think about it - He knows our lives inside out. And, for a person who finds it difficult to even remember 5 names, I am thoroughly impressed.
I don't know about you, but I am thankful that God knows me. I don't have to go through the awkward introduction times, the worrying about whether he knows who is calling (or praying)... I know right off that God knows me. And, for that - I am thankful!
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Grades for Christianity
As a teacher, I grade papers. Students are graded on effort, on completion, on knowledge, on neatness, and on participation. Some students master material quite easily; others need weeks, days, even years to begin to understand the smallest portion of mathematical material. And, some miss the boat completely. But, I grade, hoping to assess learning, hoping to motivate, hoping to grasp their complete knowledge of the material.
Similarly, I think we, as Christians, often try to grade one another. Is she trying hard enough? Did she complete that devotional book? Does he know where Ephesians is? Better yet, can she recite John 3:16 by heart? Did he come to church dressed well? Are they participating? Are they AWANA volunteers? helpers at the church picnic? greeters on Sunday morning? We grade people based upon their appearance - do they appear to be the Christian we think they should be? Are they presenting Christ in the appropriate manner? Are they baptized? Attending church every Sunday? Are they representing our Sunday school class well? Did they sign up for that Retreat next week? Yes, No, Yes, No - 5 points here, 10 points there... minus 30 for skipping church on vacation, another negative 5 for wearing jeans to church... before we know it - we've graded our fellow Christ followers off the chart and into the "heathen" zone.
And, what for? 1 Samuel 16:7 states, "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'" Thankfully, God doesn't sit up there on his throne with a checklist marking off how many times we attend church, how many times we choose to teach AWANA, memorize verses, play the piano, give a special offering, provide meals to the sick, etc. God doesn't take off points when we fail to perform correctly, forget to tithe on the first of the month, or skip church while on vacation. God doesn't want us to simply go through the motions of Christianity - God wants us to love Him, to want Him, to follow Him, and to seek Him. God looks at our heart... and if our heart is right, oddly enough, our actions will follow.
No, we don't have to be the super Christian according to the world's standards. We just need to be God's child according to the Lord's standards. We simply need to follow OUR convictions, attend to OUR personal relationship with Christ and pray He develops a change in US. Once we stop worrying about the grade, and seek the Savior, everything will fall into place.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Similarly, I think we, as Christians, often try to grade one another. Is she trying hard enough? Did she complete that devotional book? Does he know where Ephesians is? Better yet, can she recite John 3:16 by heart? Did he come to church dressed well? Are they participating? Are they AWANA volunteers? helpers at the church picnic? greeters on Sunday morning? We grade people based upon their appearance - do they appear to be the Christian we think they should be? Are they presenting Christ in the appropriate manner? Are they baptized? Attending church every Sunday? Are they representing our Sunday school class well? Did they sign up for that Retreat next week? Yes, No, Yes, No - 5 points here, 10 points there... minus 30 for skipping church on vacation, another negative 5 for wearing jeans to church... before we know it - we've graded our fellow Christ followers off the chart and into the "heathen" zone.
And, what for? 1 Samuel 16:7 states, "But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'" Thankfully, God doesn't sit up there on his throne with a checklist marking off how many times we attend church, how many times we choose to teach AWANA, memorize verses, play the piano, give a special offering, provide meals to the sick, etc. God doesn't take off points when we fail to perform correctly, forget to tithe on the first of the month, or skip church while on vacation. God doesn't want us to simply go through the motions of Christianity - God wants us to love Him, to want Him, to follow Him, and to seek Him. God looks at our heart... and if our heart is right, oddly enough, our actions will follow.
No, we don't have to be the super Christian according to the world's standards. We just need to be God's child according to the Lord's standards. We simply need to follow OUR convictions, attend to OUR personal relationship with Christ and pray He develops a change in US. Once we stop worrying about the grade, and seek the Savior, everything will fall into place.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Friday, August 13, 2010
Its Not What I Thought...
The hardest problem I have to handle as a Christian is what to do when God does not do what I have been taught to expect Him to do; when God gets out of line and does not act the way I think He ought. What do I do about that? - Pastor and Author Ray C. Stedman
God is unpredictable - when we think he should heal someone, he calls them home to glory. When we think he should provide us a job, he sends not a career, but helps to stretch our savings. When we think God should deliver us, he allows us to sit and remain - to learn. When we think he should go left, sometimes God goes straight or even side to side. But, whatever we think, whatever we predict, we can rest assured, God's ways are not always expected. God's ways are not always what we want at the time. God's ways are God's ways and not our ways. And, thank goodness!
We have an us sized picture of life - we are limited by our space, our time, our emotions, our dreams... But God has a God sized picture of life - He is limitless, dreams the impossible and makes the impossible come to light.
In Isaiah 55:8, we read a declaration from the Lord, "for your ways are not my ways and your thoughts are not my thoughts." God's ways are far from ordinary - they are extraordinary! His ways can calm a sea, resurrect a man, heal the blind, and die on a cross for our sins.
So, why is it that we often put God in a box, an us shaped box, and hope He sticks to our plans? We need to realize that God is God. We are not. God reigns - He knows. And, we don't. We need to expect God to intervene, but leave the interventions up to Him. After all, God has a view of whats to come and we can only see in the right now.
So next time God allows the unexplainable, the unpredictable, the unimaginable, just think - its not what I thought would happen - Thank goodness - its God!
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
God is unpredictable - when we think he should heal someone, he calls them home to glory. When we think he should provide us a job, he sends not a career, but helps to stretch our savings. When we think God should deliver us, he allows us to sit and remain - to learn. When we think he should go left, sometimes God goes straight or even side to side. But, whatever we think, whatever we predict, we can rest assured, God's ways are not always expected. God's ways are not always what we want at the time. God's ways are God's ways and not our ways. And, thank goodness!
We have an us sized picture of life - we are limited by our space, our time, our emotions, our dreams... But God has a God sized picture of life - He is limitless, dreams the impossible and makes the impossible come to light.
In Isaiah 55:8, we read a declaration from the Lord, "for your ways are not my ways and your thoughts are not my thoughts." God's ways are far from ordinary - they are extraordinary! His ways can calm a sea, resurrect a man, heal the blind, and die on a cross for our sins.
So, why is it that we often put God in a box, an us shaped box, and hope He sticks to our plans? We need to realize that God is God. We are not. God reigns - He knows. And, we don't. We need to expect God to intervene, but leave the interventions up to Him. After all, God has a view of whats to come and we can only see in the right now.
So next time God allows the unexplainable, the unpredictable, the unimaginable, just think - its not what I thought would happen - Thank goodness - its God!
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Do you Smell That?
Outside has a unique smell. I remember as a child, my brother and I would come in from playing outside and my mom would always exclaim, "Ugh - you smell like outside." I never truly knew what she meant until a few years ago. My husband, an avid outdoors-man, is permanently ingrained with this unique smell. I always know where he's been - he just simply smells like the outdoors.
If you think about it, a lot of things leave a lingering odor. If you work in a restaurant, you often leave smelling like food. There is no debating where you've been - your smell says it all. And, one hopes a trip to the shower leaves you smelling of soap - a clean smell which announces a bath.
Yes, your smell can indicate a lot about you - where you were, what you ate, even if you've bathed recently. We all exhibit various smells from time to time - from the pleasant ones to the stinky ones.
But, as a Christian, we are constantly called to have one smell above all smells. In 2 Corinthians 2:15, Paul writes, "for we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." Our job is simply to smell like Christ. People should know that we "have been with Jesus" (Referenced from Acts 4:13). Our quiet time should permeate our life. Our prayers should offer a sweet odor to those around us. And, people should simply know Jesus in our life, just by the smell.
Just like my mom could always tell when I'd been outside, our friends, family and even strangers should be able to tell when we've been with Jesus. So, do you smell that? How's your odor today?
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
If you think about it, a lot of things leave a lingering odor. If you work in a restaurant, you often leave smelling like food. There is no debating where you've been - your smell says it all. And, one hopes a trip to the shower leaves you smelling of soap - a clean smell which announces a bath.
Yes, your smell can indicate a lot about you - where you were, what you ate, even if you've bathed recently. We all exhibit various smells from time to time - from the pleasant ones to the stinky ones.
But, as a Christian, we are constantly called to have one smell above all smells. In 2 Corinthians 2:15, Paul writes, "for we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." Our job is simply to smell like Christ. People should know that we "have been with Jesus" (Referenced from Acts 4:13). Our quiet time should permeate our life. Our prayers should offer a sweet odor to those around us. And, people should simply know Jesus in our life, just by the smell.
Just like my mom could always tell when I'd been outside, our friends, family and even strangers should be able to tell when we've been with Jesus. So, do you smell that? How's your odor today?
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Practice Makes Perfect...
When you are learning piano - practice makes perfect. Usually, you cannot sit down and pound out the correct notes right away. You need time with the piano to learn its rhythms, to learn its sounds and feel. Or, when you join the football team, together, you must practice. If you don't, your communication will fail in times of need. You need time to learn one another's methods, to hear your coaches voice and to recognize the sound of the quarterback. And, a band must practice to insure harmony exists between its members. The band needs time to hear the correct music, understand what the scores are saying, to work together for the greater good. For without practice, we are often off-key, off-beat, playing the wrong notes, or simply missing our part. Without practice, we do not know what the correct sound or correct voice sounds like... we are unprepared for the real test - the game, the concert, etc.
In Psalm 5:2, David writes, "in the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice, in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation." And, in Mark 1:35, we discover, "very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left his house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." Every morning, David... requested from God, conversed with God, spent time with God. He had hours of meaningful practice, if you will, so that His relationship with God could grow. Jesus, the King of the universe, also spent meaningful mornings with His Father in prayer. He to put into place the practice of worshiping His Father.
The scripture specifically mentions how these two men arose in the morning to hear God's voice, to converse with him... to wait in expectation. Because Jesus and David were in a continual practice of hearing from God, they were able to recognize His tone and understand His commands when they were given both during the allotted time and throughout the day. If we fail to practice a daily quiet time, how can we discern Christ's voice from all the day-to-day noise? If we fail to practice a daily quiet time, how will we understand the Word when its read? If we fail to practice a daily quiet time our lives will be off-key, off-beat, playing the wrong notes, or simply playing the wrong part. A quiet time is key to a successful relationship with God and a successful life.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
In Psalm 5:2, David writes, "in the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice, in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation." And, in Mark 1:35, we discover, "very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left his house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." Every morning, David... requested from God, conversed with God, spent time with God. He had hours of meaningful practice, if you will, so that His relationship with God could grow. Jesus, the King of the universe, also spent meaningful mornings with His Father in prayer. He to put into place the practice of worshiping His Father.
The scripture specifically mentions how these two men arose in the morning to hear God's voice, to converse with him... to wait in expectation. Because Jesus and David were in a continual practice of hearing from God, they were able to recognize His tone and understand His commands when they were given both during the allotted time and throughout the day. If we fail to practice a daily quiet time, how can we discern Christ's voice from all the day-to-day noise? If we fail to practice a daily quiet time, how will we understand the Word when its read? If we fail to practice a daily quiet time our lives will be off-key, off-beat, playing the wrong notes, or simply playing the wrong part. A quiet time is key to a successful relationship with God and a successful life.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Monday, August 9, 2010
Do you Love Me More?
Today was my first day back at school with students. We did the usual - go over the rules, hand out books, etc. And, to my surprise, at the end of the day, when everyone else was headed home, one precious little boy came by my room to ask what we were studying first. He wanted to study ahead and be prepared for class! He hoped to become my favorite student by performing well. He even said, "I think I'll be your favorite student because I care about my work." And, of course, I assured him that I try not to show favoritism - everyone has something special to offer.
How often do we think the same thing about God? How often do we try to be His top student, His favorite Christian by doing good deeds? How often do we strive to make the top of Jesus' list by doing spiritual things? God - I think you'll love me more if... if I share with one person. God, I think you'll love me more if... I attend Sunday school every Sunday. God, I think you'll love me more if... I learn 25 Bible verses. God, I think you'll love me more if... I help out at the church picnic. God will love me more if... I am the star student, the one that cares... the one that works... the one who follows all the rules. I am going to become your favorite, God, because I care about my work.
In reality, that's not how things work with God. Although God asks us to do "whatever we do, whether in word or in deed, [to] do it all to the glory of God" (Colossians 3:17), he does not ask us to do things to win His favor. God loves us regardless. In fact, "while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Christ died for us and would do so again... even if we didn't attend church on Sunday... even if we gossip... even if we know no Bible verses.
The Lord doesn't ask us to continually check things off a list so we can rise to the top of His. No, the Lord desires we come to know Him intimately. He asks us to do two things - in Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus asks us to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And, the second is like it: love your neighbor as yourself." God wants us simply to Love Him and Love Them. He loves us regardless, even when we don't reciprocate. We are His favorites, even when we don't do the right thing. And, its His desire we pick Him as our favorite. Does Jesus love me more? Yes, He loves me more than I could ever love Him. Does He love me more when I accomplish more? No - He loves me unconditionally. And, I should serve Him out of love, not out of obligation or a desire to reach the top of his favorites list. The good news is - God plays a different game of favorites and we are all at the top of His list already.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
How often do we think the same thing about God? How often do we try to be His top student, His favorite Christian by doing good deeds? How often do we strive to make the top of Jesus' list by doing spiritual things? God - I think you'll love me more if... if I share with one person. God, I think you'll love me more if... I attend Sunday school every Sunday. God, I think you'll love me more if... I learn 25 Bible verses. God, I think you'll love me more if... I help out at the church picnic. God will love me more if... I am the star student, the one that cares... the one that works... the one who follows all the rules. I am going to become your favorite, God, because I care about my work.
In reality, that's not how things work with God. Although God asks us to do "whatever we do, whether in word or in deed, [to] do it all to the glory of God" (Colossians 3:17), he does not ask us to do things to win His favor. God loves us regardless. In fact, "while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Christ died for us and would do so again... even if we didn't attend church on Sunday... even if we gossip... even if we know no Bible verses.
The Lord doesn't ask us to continually check things off a list so we can rise to the top of His. No, the Lord desires we come to know Him intimately. He asks us to do two things - in Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus asks us to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And, the second is like it: love your neighbor as yourself." God wants us simply to Love Him and Love Them. He loves us regardless, even when we don't reciprocate. We are His favorites, even when we don't do the right thing. And, its His desire we pick Him as our favorite. Does Jesus love me more? Yes, He loves me more than I could ever love Him. Does He love me more when I accomplish more? No - He loves me unconditionally. And, I should serve Him out of love, not out of obligation or a desire to reach the top of his favorites list. The good news is - God plays a different game of favorites and we are all at the top of His list already.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Side Effects - Are they Worth it?
All prescriptions come with side effects. With some, you experience drowsiness, constipation or dry mouth. Others, allow for extreme tiredness or awake, weight gain or weight loss. Whatever the effect, you must decide - is it worth it? Is it worth the side effects to save myself from this disease or ailment? Is it worth the risk? Usually, the side effects are small in comparison to the rewards. Usually, we sacrifice the little things (dry mouth, drowsiness) for the greater good (cure of a disease).
Side effects aren't solely limited to prescription drugs. No, side effects follow us in daily life. To me, side effects are simply the "what ifs" the side possibilities that stem from a greater choice.
In the Christian life, we are often faced with choices; and unfortunately, given the side effects we choose not to obey. Let me explain. In Matthew 19:19-20, Jesus commands us to Go. He boldly proclaims, "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And, surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Jesus doesn't say, GO, if you want. Go, if you are comfortable. Teach if you know the right things to say. Jesus just says, GO, BAPTIZE, TEACH!
Yet, we, as Christians often fail to heed His call - the call to witness. We are too busy, too scared, too confused, too new at Christianity. We don't know the right things to say, we are afraid of being made fun of.... To us, the side effects seem great and the reward seems slim. The what ifs begin to overtake our brain - What if he makes fun of me? What if others hear about this? What if they say no? What if she thinks differently of me? What if this takes too long? This is definitely going to turn out to embarrass me? Our side effects are - embarrassment, time wasted, someone saying no... the list continues. The side effects to witnessing are great, but are they worth the reward?
But, if you think about it - why do we let the side effects take control? The side effects aren't so bad. And, whatever the effect - whatever we can think of - we must ask ourselves - is it worth it? Does the reward outweigh the risk?
And, upon close examination, we can honestly say - no risk outweighs the reward of Christ. Is it worth it? Yes, our witness can save someone. A simple what if should not stop us from sharing.
So, ask yourself - Side effects - Are they worth it? When faced with a witnessing situation, does the risk outweigh the reward? Or, does the reward outweigh the risk? Should I share or should I hold it in? Should I take a chance on the side effects? Its up to you... what is more important - salvation or the side effects? You choose.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Side effects aren't solely limited to prescription drugs. No, side effects follow us in daily life. To me, side effects are simply the "what ifs" the side possibilities that stem from a greater choice.
In the Christian life, we are often faced with choices; and unfortunately, given the side effects we choose not to obey. Let me explain. In Matthew 19:19-20, Jesus commands us to Go. He boldly proclaims, "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And, surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Jesus doesn't say, GO, if you want. Go, if you are comfortable. Teach if you know the right things to say. Jesus just says, GO, BAPTIZE, TEACH!
Yet, we, as Christians often fail to heed His call - the call to witness. We are too busy, too scared, too confused, too new at Christianity. We don't know the right things to say, we are afraid of being made fun of.... To us, the side effects seem great and the reward seems slim. The what ifs begin to overtake our brain - What if he makes fun of me? What if others hear about this? What if they say no? What if she thinks differently of me? What if this takes too long? This is definitely going to turn out to embarrass me? Our side effects are - embarrassment, time wasted, someone saying no... the list continues. The side effects to witnessing are great, but are they worth the reward?
But, if you think about it - why do we let the side effects take control? The side effects aren't so bad. And, whatever the effect - whatever we can think of - we must ask ourselves - is it worth it? Does the reward outweigh the risk?
And, upon close examination, we can honestly say - no risk outweighs the reward of Christ. Is it worth it? Yes, our witness can save someone. A simple what if should not stop us from sharing.
So, ask yourself - Side effects - Are they worth it? When faced with a witnessing situation, does the risk outweigh the reward? Or, does the reward outweigh the risk? Should I share or should I hold it in? Should I take a chance on the side effects? Its up to you... what is more important - salvation or the side effects? You choose.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Friday, August 6, 2010
What is on top of your list?
Haggai 1:5 - Now this is what the LORD ALMIGHTY says, "Give careful thought to your ways."
We are planners. There is a calendar in our kitchen which tells you everything that is occurring in the Albertson household during the upcoming month. During long car rides (and even short ones), we make lists - things to accomplish, things to buy, things to be done, people to call, etc. We plan ahead, plan beside, plan before, and plan behind... if that is even possible. And, of course, sometimes we plan to plan again... in other words, we plan flexibility.
Despite the event or reason, we are careful with our time, careful to plan our ways as God instructs in Haggai 1:5. You see, in the game of life, there is always something headed your way - whether it be work, friends, family, or simply something that makes your "to do" list. Some things make the list on purpose, others by chance. But, the list is always growing, never ending... so it seems. We must plan, otherwise, our careful time becomes haphazard and our ways become disheveled.
Then, of course, there is over-planning. There are people who pack their schedule too full, fill their plate too much, and wind up giving everything 30% because that's all that is left. These people are like Martha when Jesus came to visit - "worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed" (Luke 10:41-42). People, like Martha, focus on the plans so intently, they forget the main event, the main purpose of life. They are so busy planning, they have yet to learn the key - P.R.I.O.R.I.T.I.E.S!!!!! To effectively plan, you must accomplish the important things first and sometimes, yes, you do have to eliminate the unnecessary. By ridding yourself of unimportant things, you can focus upon God-centered things - you can follow Ecclesiastes 9:10 - whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.
You see, although planning does make life easier, one cannot forget to prioritize. And, God has clear instructions about what should be first. In Matthew 6:33, we learn to "seek first the kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you." The first priority is Jesus. No if, ands, buts about it - Jesus comes first. Period.
So, what is on top of your list? If its not Jesus, you'd better plan again.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
We are planners. There is a calendar in our kitchen which tells you everything that is occurring in the Albertson household during the upcoming month. During long car rides (and even short ones), we make lists - things to accomplish, things to buy, things to be done, people to call, etc. We plan ahead, plan beside, plan before, and plan behind... if that is even possible. And, of course, sometimes we plan to plan again... in other words, we plan flexibility.
Despite the event or reason, we are careful with our time, careful to plan our ways as God instructs in Haggai 1:5. You see, in the game of life, there is always something headed your way - whether it be work, friends, family, or simply something that makes your "to do" list. Some things make the list on purpose, others by chance. But, the list is always growing, never ending... so it seems. We must plan, otherwise, our careful time becomes haphazard and our ways become disheveled.
Then, of course, there is over-planning. There are people who pack their schedule too full, fill their plate too much, and wind up giving everything 30% because that's all that is left. These people are like Martha when Jesus came to visit - "worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed" (Luke 10:41-42). People, like Martha, focus on the plans so intently, they forget the main event, the main purpose of life. They are so busy planning, they have yet to learn the key - P.R.I.O.R.I.T.I.E.S!!!!! To effectively plan, you must accomplish the important things first and sometimes, yes, you do have to eliminate the unnecessary. By ridding yourself of unimportant things, you can focus upon God-centered things - you can follow Ecclesiastes 9:10 - whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.
You see, although planning does make life easier, one cannot forget to prioritize. And, God has clear instructions about what should be first. In Matthew 6:33, we learn to "seek first the kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you." The first priority is Jesus. No if, ands, buts about it - Jesus comes first. Period.
So, what is on top of your list? If its not Jesus, you'd better plan again.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Friends...
How do you choose your friends?
Sometimes, you are forced into friendship - like when you were little and forced to play with the annoying little girl down the street. Your mom was friends with her mom, so you constantly found yourself on play dates. Of course, the lack of friend potential led you to spend more time staring at one another and less time playing nice.
Other times, you fall into friendship. You meet someone and everything just clicks - before you know it y'all shared your life story. This is the kind of friend you can ignore for years, but upon reuniting its like time had never passed at all.
Then, there are those friends that you choose. You know someone from afar and upon your choice, you develop an acquaintance into a friendship and a friendship into a close relationship.
Of course, there are also those friends that you must work to establish. Maybe there isn't an immediate click, but upon continual dinner dates, several phone calls, and a few awkward conversations, you develop a nice relationship. So, maybe you aren't soul mates, but dinner companions...
There are those friends you do not befriend. There is that girl that could be your friend except [insert annoying habit here]. Or, that guy whose[insert annoying vice here] you just can't overcome. Those friends are more like frenemies... there, but not because you really want them to be.
And, lastly, there is friendship; true friendship - no strings attached, no requirements - the friend that is there for you regardless - even if you mess up constantly, ignore him and run the other way - the friend that comforts you when you are sad and rejoices with you (without jealousy) when you are happy. This friend is Jesus. Everyday God chooses people to follow him, just as he CHOSE the disciples. WOW! Jesus chooses us to be his friend. And, friendship with God is no normal friendship -
A few verses mentioned:
Colossians 3:12 - Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, holiness, gentleness and patience.
Job 29:4 - Oh for the days when I was in my prime, when God's intimate friendship blessed my house.
Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and courageous - do not be terrified because of them for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Sometimes, you are forced into friendship - like when you were little and forced to play with the annoying little girl down the street. Your mom was friends with her mom, so you constantly found yourself on play dates. Of course, the lack of friend potential led you to spend more time staring at one another and less time playing nice.
Other times, you fall into friendship. You meet someone and everything just clicks - before you know it y'all shared your life story. This is the kind of friend you can ignore for years, but upon reuniting its like time had never passed at all.
Then, there are those friends that you choose. You know someone from afar and upon your choice, you develop an acquaintance into a friendship and a friendship into a close relationship.
Of course, there are also those friends that you must work to establish. Maybe there isn't an immediate click, but upon continual dinner dates, several phone calls, and a few awkward conversations, you develop a nice relationship. So, maybe you aren't soul mates, but dinner companions...
There are those friends you do not befriend. There is that girl that could be your friend except [insert annoying habit here]. Or, that guy whose[insert annoying vice here] you just can't overcome. Those friends are more like frenemies... there, but not because you really want them to be.
And, lastly, there is friendship; true friendship - no strings attached, no requirements - the friend that is there for you regardless - even if you mess up constantly, ignore him and run the other way - the friend that comforts you when you are sad and rejoices with you (without jealousy) when you are happy. This friend is Jesus. Everyday God chooses people to follow him, just as he CHOSE the disciples. WOW! Jesus chooses us to be his friend. And, friendship with God is no normal friendship -
- In Colossians 3:12, we learn, a friend of Christ is a chosen person.
- Job 29:4 tells us friendship with God is intimate - just between you and him. Job had this friendship, an intimate friendship with God.
- James 2:23 lets us know that friendship with God develops from belief in Him and from that belief, we develop righteousness. Abraham too experienced this friendship - "and the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God's friend."
- And, lastly Deuteronomy 31:6 tells us friendship with God is eternal. He doesn't ditch you because someone better comes along or because you are no longer fun to be around. Friendship with God is everlasting. God promises to never leave you or forsake you.
A few verses mentioned:
Colossians 3:12 - Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, holiness, gentleness and patience.
Job 29:4 - Oh for the days when I was in my prime, when God's intimate friendship blessed my house.
Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and courageous - do not be terrified because of them for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Don't Yell!
Every year, before school starts, we, the faculty, attend a meeting. We go over the normal - school calendar, schedules, the duty list, etc. And, then, we are reminded to treat our students well. In the words of our principal, "don't yell! Be positive - be consistent." As teachers, we are reminded to be fair and positive influences to our students. As children, we were reminded "if you can't say anything nice; don't say anything at all." And, as parents, we strive to model positive speech for our children. But, its not always that easy - is it? Oftentimes, we get caught up in the moment, get aggravated, or flat out don't care... and we blurt out things we don't mean.
Back in 7th grade, I learned Ephesians 4:29 (Thanks Coach Turner!) We recited it everyday before class, during class, and sometimes after class. Coach T even created some strange dance and chant to correlate with the verse. Apparently, it worked, I have yet to forget what is says. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Eph. 4:29). Wow! Don't yell (or say terrible things without thinking ahead... (guilty!)). Be positive (encouragement is the key) and be consistent (benefit those around you by constantly presenting God's word).
As people, we are quick to judge, quick to speak, and slow to change our ways. The Bible requires just the opposite. Jesus asks us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry (James 1:19). We are to think through our words, deciding whether or not they are beneficial to ALL who hear (not just those they are intended for), and then, present our words to one another. If what we are going to say is negative, why say it? If what we are going to say harms someone else, its not beneficial. If what we plan to say is unwholesome (as in, you wouldn't want your grandmother to hear it) - filter! If what we plan to say is unnecessary, make it relevant or don't say it.
God requires we watch our words. We aren't just to speak for speaking's sake, we are speak with a purpose. The purpose - the build up others. And, if our words don't have a purpose - we don't need to say them. Enough said.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Back in 7th grade, I learned Ephesians 4:29 (Thanks Coach Turner!) We recited it everyday before class, during class, and sometimes after class. Coach T even created some strange dance and chant to correlate with the verse. Apparently, it worked, I have yet to forget what is says. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Eph. 4:29). Wow! Don't yell (or say terrible things without thinking ahead... (guilty!)). Be positive (encouragement is the key) and be consistent (benefit those around you by constantly presenting God's word).
As people, we are quick to judge, quick to speak, and slow to change our ways. The Bible requires just the opposite. Jesus asks us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry (James 1:19). We are to think through our words, deciding whether or not they are beneficial to ALL who hear (not just those they are intended for), and then, present our words to one another. If what we are going to say is negative, why say it? If what we are going to say harms someone else, its not beneficial. If what we plan to say is unwholesome (as in, you wouldn't want your grandmother to hear it) - filter! If what we plan to say is unnecessary, make it relevant or don't say it.
God requires we watch our words. We aren't just to speak for speaking's sake, we are speak with a purpose. The purpose - the build up others. And, if our words don't have a purpose - we don't need to say them. Enough said.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Got Plans?
As a teacher it is imperative to plan - plan your lesson, plan your timing, plan your behavior management strategy, plan your grading system - everything revolves around planning. And, regardless of how great a planner you are, everything comes to fruition the moment you are faced with students. And, the key to success is acting upon your plans. You see, classroom procedures are set in place to eliminate wasted time and undesirable behavior. You can plan procedures all day long, but unless they are implemented, they are no good. You may sound like you know all the answers - but one glimpse into your chaotic classroom and anyone would your words and actions do not match.
The same goes for God's word - you can read it all day long, but unless you implement its teachings - its doing you no good. Sure, knowing verses may make you sound cool. Knowing all the answers may make you popular in Sunday School. But, one glimpse into your chaotic lifestyle, and anyone would know your life does not align with God's standards. Your life fails to implement God's word. Your words speak God's language, but your lifestyle speaks another. You are like the people of Jerusalem; the people Ezekiel describes when he says, "my people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you to listen to your words, but they do not put them into practice. With their mouths they express devotion, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain.... for they hear your words but do not put them into practice." (Ezekiel 33:31, 32b). These people, like us, are greedy - they want to sound the part but they don't want to act it. These people talk God's talk, but walk the world's walk.
As exciting as the world's view sounds, it simply clashes with God's view. In John 15, we learn that Christians are separate from the world, hated by the world. And, if it is any other way - there is something awry. In life we must make decisions; we must plan to speak AND to live God's word. Because one simply cannot be without the other. In Philippians 4:9, Paul urges us to take, "whatever you've learned or received or heard from [him], or seen in [him] - [to] put it into practice." If we choose to speak and live and live God's language, "the God of peace will be with [us]." Following God's plans = peace. What more could we want?
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
The same goes for God's word - you can read it all day long, but unless you implement its teachings - its doing you no good. Sure, knowing verses may make you sound cool. Knowing all the answers may make you popular in Sunday School. But, one glimpse into your chaotic lifestyle, and anyone would know your life does not align with God's standards. Your life fails to implement God's word. Your words speak God's language, but your lifestyle speaks another. You are like the people of Jerusalem; the people Ezekiel describes when he says, "my people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you to listen to your words, but they do not put them into practice. With their mouths they express devotion, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain.... for they hear your words but do not put them into practice." (Ezekiel 33:31, 32b). These people, like us, are greedy - they want to sound the part but they don't want to act it. These people talk God's talk, but walk the world's walk.
As exciting as the world's view sounds, it simply clashes with God's view. In John 15, we learn that Christians are separate from the world, hated by the world. And, if it is any other way - there is something awry. In life we must make decisions; we must plan to speak AND to live God's word. Because one simply cannot be without the other. In Philippians 4:9, Paul urges us to take, "whatever you've learned or received or heard from [him], or seen in [him] - [to] put it into practice." If we choose to speak and live and live God's language, "the God of peace will be with [us]." Following God's plans = peace. What more could we want?
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Monday, August 2, 2010
What Am I Doing?
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good.... For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do - this I keep on doing. Romans 7:15, 18b-19
Paul struggled. Paul wanted so badly to follow Jesus, yet he simply could not quit sinning. Paul, of all people, struggled with sin. I look at Paul's life; I see his dramatic transformation. I mean, for Pete's sake, he SAW Jesus, literally. And, Jesus spoke to him loud and clear - "I am Jesus!" I mean, it just can't get any better than that. Jesus called Paul his "chosen instrument to carry [his] name." Paul was chosen! (Acts 9). Paul had a dramatic transformation, left a life of sin, and personally was dubbed a chosen missionary by God. And, yet, he struggled with sin. Paul knew what was right. Paul understood the words and commands of God; yet, he continued to sin and could not stop. I love the verse, "I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." For some reason, Paul just kept doing what was wrong, even though he wanted to stop. Sound familiar?
Look at your life. Maybe it doesn't seem as glamorous as Paul's. Maybe you haven't written numerous books read by millions of Christ followers everywhere. Maybe you didn't literally see Jesus and audibly hear His voice. Maybe you aren't a missionary. Maybe you don't feel chosen by God. But, you are God's child. And, you also struggle - you attempt to do God's will, yet fall flat on your face every time.
Romans 7 provides encouragement. Even those who daily seek God's will struggle. We are constantly battling our sin nature. And, although it often feels like we never win, the Bible tells us otherwise. We are not alone. We struggle; Paul struggled. But, we need to remember You, however, are controlled not by the sin nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you... But, if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your Spirit is alive because of righteousness. (Romans 8:9, 11). We have an opportunity to serve God. And, if we fail, the Spirit is there and the Spirit helps us in our weakness (Romans 8:26b).
Think about it. If we and Paul were able to simply do good, to do God's will and no struggle was involved. We might just get a little boastful, forget about God and start believing in ourselves. But, the constant battle with sin sends me back on my knees time and time again. The constant battle between right and wrong sent Paul back on his knees again and again. Although we struggle, the battle is won when we continually seek God. In a way, we could say our sin nature pushes us to seek God. We may do what we do not want to do - but at least it sends us to our knees.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Paul struggled. Paul wanted so badly to follow Jesus, yet he simply could not quit sinning. Paul, of all people, struggled with sin. I look at Paul's life; I see his dramatic transformation. I mean, for Pete's sake, he SAW Jesus, literally. And, Jesus spoke to him loud and clear - "I am Jesus!" I mean, it just can't get any better than that. Jesus called Paul his "chosen instrument to carry [his] name." Paul was chosen! (Acts 9). Paul had a dramatic transformation, left a life of sin, and personally was dubbed a chosen missionary by God. And, yet, he struggled with sin. Paul knew what was right. Paul understood the words and commands of God; yet, he continued to sin and could not stop. I love the verse, "I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." For some reason, Paul just kept doing what was wrong, even though he wanted to stop. Sound familiar?
Look at your life. Maybe it doesn't seem as glamorous as Paul's. Maybe you haven't written numerous books read by millions of Christ followers everywhere. Maybe you didn't literally see Jesus and audibly hear His voice. Maybe you aren't a missionary. Maybe you don't feel chosen by God. But, you are God's child. And, you also struggle - you attempt to do God's will, yet fall flat on your face every time.
Romans 7 provides encouragement. Even those who daily seek God's will struggle. We are constantly battling our sin nature. And, although it often feels like we never win, the Bible tells us otherwise. We are not alone. We struggle; Paul struggled. But, we need to remember You, however, are controlled not by the sin nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you... But, if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your Spirit is alive because of righteousness. (Romans 8:9, 11). We have an opportunity to serve God. And, if we fail, the Spirit is there and the Spirit helps us in our weakness (Romans 8:26b).
Think about it. If we and Paul were able to simply do good, to do God's will and no struggle was involved. We might just get a little boastful, forget about God and start believing in ourselves. But, the constant battle with sin sends me back on my knees time and time again. The constant battle between right and wrong sent Paul back on his knees again and again. Although we struggle, the battle is won when we continually seek God. In a way, we could say our sin nature pushes us to seek God. We may do what we do not want to do - but at least it sends us to our knees.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
Sunday, August 1, 2010
1 Negative + 1 Positive Does Not Equal 1 Neutral
Negativity is a cancer. One negative person can bring down an entire room. One negative comment can ruin an entire meal. One negative word can make a big difference. One negative comment can ruin an entire day. Negativity - what a lonely, sad, word. No body wants to be around it, but everybody carries it with them.
I once read it takes ten positive comments to cancel one negative word. Ten to one! That means our quick judgments, our nonchalantly spoken negative words all affect someone far greater than we realize. That means our one compliment means nothing in comparison to the four hateful words we shared. You see, words are powerful. And, negative words hurt far more than we realize. In James 3, the tongue is compared to a spark, quickly setting fire to those around it - damaging, hurting, tearing apart... all with one quickly spoken negative word (James 3:5-6)
On the flip side, although it may take longer, positive words also make an impact. One positive person can directly affect the happiness of 25% of her friends, 12% of her friends' friends, and 5% of her friends of friends' friends. One positive person can make a big difference. One positive person can change a bad day from a good one. You see just one positive person can make a difference- everybody wants to be around them, but not everybody knows how to be them. (But, we know the key - the key to positivity is Jesus!)
In Ecclesiastes 3:12 it states, "I know that there is nothing better than for men to be happy and do good while they live." Notice - being happy and doing good coincide. For as a positive person, one can do great good!
So, next time you go speak negatively - think about it. That one negative comment is difficult to erase. But, that positive comment is reversing someone's negativity, slowly eliminating those degrading comments he or she heard. Your positive comment is showing someone happiness and allowing you a change to do good as God commands.
So, whats it gonna be - the cancer of negativity or the life of positivity - the choice is yours. Just realize, your choice affects those around you.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
I once read it takes ten positive comments to cancel one negative word. Ten to one! That means our quick judgments, our nonchalantly spoken negative words all affect someone far greater than we realize. That means our one compliment means nothing in comparison to the four hateful words we shared. You see, words are powerful. And, negative words hurt far more than we realize. In James 3, the tongue is compared to a spark, quickly setting fire to those around it - damaging, hurting, tearing apart... all with one quickly spoken negative word (James 3:5-6)
On the flip side, although it may take longer, positive words also make an impact. One positive person can directly affect the happiness of 25% of her friends, 12% of her friends' friends, and 5% of her friends of friends' friends. One positive person can make a big difference. One positive person can change a bad day from a good one. You see just one positive person can make a difference- everybody wants to be around them, but not everybody knows how to be them. (But, we know the key - the key to positivity is Jesus!)
In Ecclesiastes 3:12 it states, "I know that there is nothing better than for men to be happy and do good while they live." Notice - being happy and doing good coincide. For as a positive person, one can do great good!
So, next time you go speak negatively - think about it. That one negative comment is difficult to erase. But, that positive comment is reversing someone's negativity, slowly eliminating those degrading comments he or she heard. Your positive comment is showing someone happiness and allowing you a change to do good as God commands.
So, whats it gonna be - the cancer of negativity or the life of positivity - the choice is yours. Just realize, your choice affects those around you.
"Come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." Isaiah 55:1
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