From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Ephesians 5:15 "Be careful, therefore, how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time..."
Do you ever struggle with making the most of your time? Feeling like there's just not enough time in each day? Well, we have to remember we all have the same amount of time: one hundred sixty-eight hours a week, twenty-four hours a day. The key is making the most of our time. This is a spiritual, as well as practical, issue.
Scripture says, "Be careful, then, how you live, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time." So how do you do that?
List the top three to five priorities of your life. This list will help you prioritize how you spend your time.
Concentrate on what's most important, and major on the majors. As you approach each day, write down the most important thing you need to do, commit to do it, then go to the second most important thing and do it.
Effective time management is an important discipline to have, in order to live the successful life. So get with it before your time runs out.
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Guard Your Thoughts
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
1 Peter 5:8 “Stay sober and alert! Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Satan’s predictable! All his temptations follow this familiar 4-step pattern:
(1) Desire! First he identifies a desire within you, like the desire for revenge, or the legitimate desire to be loved and feel pleasure. Then he suggests you fulfill that legitimate desire in a wrong way. The truth is, if you didn’t have desires, temptation couldn’t attract you. The Bible says there’s: “A whole army of evil desires within you” (Jas 4:1).
(2) Doubt! Satan tries to get you to doubt what God has said about sin. Is it really wrong? How come others do it? Doesn’t God want me to be happy? The Book of Hebrews warns: “Watch out! Don’t let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn away from the living God” (Heb 3:12).
(3) Deception! Satan’s incapable of telling the truth. He’s “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Anything he tells you will either be untrue or half-true. He whispers, “Nobody will ever know. It’ll solve your problem. It’s only a little sin.” But a little sin is like being a little pregnant; it’ll eventually show itself.
(4) Disobedience! If you conceive and carry a thought long enough, you’ll birth a behavior. Every addict starts with one fix and every alcoholic with one drink. Shattered marriages begin with seemingly innocent flirtations. James warns, “We are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires…do not be deceived” (Jas 1:14-16). “What’s the solution?” you ask. Live closer to God and you’ll be less vulnerable to temptation!
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
1 Peter 5:8 “Stay sober and alert! Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Satan’s predictable! All his temptations follow this familiar 4-step pattern:
(1) Desire! First he identifies a desire within you, like the desire for revenge, or the legitimate desire to be loved and feel pleasure. Then he suggests you fulfill that legitimate desire in a wrong way. The truth is, if you didn’t have desires, temptation couldn’t attract you. The Bible says there’s: “A whole army of evil desires within you” (Jas 4:1).
(2) Doubt! Satan tries to get you to doubt what God has said about sin. Is it really wrong? How come others do it? Doesn’t God want me to be happy? The Book of Hebrews warns: “Watch out! Don’t let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn away from the living God” (Heb 3:12).
(3) Deception! Satan’s incapable of telling the truth. He’s “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Anything he tells you will either be untrue or half-true. He whispers, “Nobody will ever know. It’ll solve your problem. It’s only a little sin.” But a little sin is like being a little pregnant; it’ll eventually show itself.
(4) Disobedience! If you conceive and carry a thought long enough, you’ll birth a behavior. Every addict starts with one fix and every alcoholic with one drink. Shattered marriages begin with seemingly innocent flirtations. James warns, “We are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires…do not be deceived” (Jas 1:14-16). “What’s the solution?” you ask. Live closer to God and you’ll be less vulnerable to temptation!
Thank you for visiting Christians in Agreement.
Monday, October 29, 2007
The Shadow You Cast
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Isaiah 51:16 "I have put My words in your mouth and have covered you with the shadow of My hand...you are My people."
In the early days of the church, the Bible tells us that the apostle, Peter, had become such an influential, powerful man of God, that people would bring the sick on pallets and cots in the streets where he might pass by, hoping his shadow would fall over them and, hopefully, they would be healed. Such was the aura of greatness around that man.
What kind of shadow do you cast?
Our shadow goes with us wherever we go, never falling on us, but on someone else. We're rarely aware of where it falls. We all influence someone--parents influence kids, coaches influence players, teachers influence students.
What kind of shadow do you cast? Is it for good, or for evil? To build up, or tear down? To encourage, or discourage? To help, or to hurt? Does it point people to God, or just to yourself?
As you think about the life that you live, think about the legacy you want to leave. What kind of shadow do you cast?
Isaiah 51:16 "I have put My words in your mouth and have covered you with the shadow of My hand...you are My people."
In the early days of the church, the Bible tells us that the apostle, Peter, had become such an influential, powerful man of God, that people would bring the sick on pallets and cots in the streets where he might pass by, hoping his shadow would fall over them and, hopefully, they would be healed. Such was the aura of greatness around that man.
What kind of shadow do you cast?
Our shadow goes with us wherever we go, never falling on us, but on someone else. We're rarely aware of where it falls. We all influence someone--parents influence kids, coaches influence players, teachers influence students.
What kind of shadow do you cast? Is it for good, or for evil? To build up, or tear down? To encourage, or discourage? To help, or to hurt? Does it point people to God, or just to yourself?
As you think about the life that you live, think about the legacy you want to leave. What kind of shadow do you cast?
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Learn To Really Listen
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Proverbs 12:15 "The wise listen to others."
We live in the era of 'the talking head,' with reality TV, 24-hour news programs and talk radio. And while that's not all bad, we've learned to 'broadcast' when we should be 'tuning in.' Solomon says, "Don't talk so much… Be sensible and turn off the flow" (Proverbs 10:19). In other words, when you have nothing to say - say nothing! Why? Because the more you talk at that point, the less people remember (or respect you).
It's been said that God designed your ears to stay open and your mouth to close because listening rarely gets you into trouble! Solomon writes: "The man of few words… is wise… even a fool is thought… wise when he is silent" (Proverbs 17:27-28). So when you can't improve on silence - be quiet!
Proverbs 1:22-23 mentions people who are foolish and simple. The original term means, "thick… dull… sluggish." It describes those who are insensitive to the thoughts and feelings of others. We've all been at the mercy of the doctor who treated us with cold detachment, the teacher who put us to sleep with his lecture, and the salesperson that focused only on his commission.
William C. Tacey writes, "Poor listeners range from the impatient type, (That's nothing! Wait until you hear what I've done), to the person who's so absorbed in his own thoughts that they're not even aware somebody has spoken. Learning to listen actively and constructively is as important as learning to speak, if your communication is to be effective."
Remember, a gossip talks about others, a bore talks about himself, but a wise man talks to you, about you - then listens to what you have to say! When you're a good listener not only will people seek you out, you'll grow wiser - and win friends too!
Proverbs 12:15 "The wise listen to others."
We live in the era of 'the talking head,' with reality TV, 24-hour news programs and talk radio. And while that's not all bad, we've learned to 'broadcast' when we should be 'tuning in.' Solomon says, "Don't talk so much… Be sensible and turn off the flow" (Proverbs 10:19). In other words, when you have nothing to say - say nothing! Why? Because the more you talk at that point, the less people remember (or respect you).
It's been said that God designed your ears to stay open and your mouth to close because listening rarely gets you into trouble! Solomon writes: "The man of few words… is wise… even a fool is thought… wise when he is silent" (Proverbs 17:27-28). So when you can't improve on silence - be quiet!
Proverbs 1:22-23 mentions people who are foolish and simple. The original term means, "thick… dull… sluggish." It describes those who are insensitive to the thoughts and feelings of others. We've all been at the mercy of the doctor who treated us with cold detachment, the teacher who put us to sleep with his lecture, and the salesperson that focused only on his commission.
William C. Tacey writes, "Poor listeners range from the impatient type, (That's nothing! Wait until you hear what I've done), to the person who's so absorbed in his own thoughts that they're not even aware somebody has spoken. Learning to listen actively and constructively is as important as learning to speak, if your communication is to be effective."
Remember, a gossip talks about others, a bore talks about himself, but a wise man talks to you, about you - then listens to what you have to say! When you're a good listener not only will people seek you out, you'll grow wiser - and win friends too!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
You've Got To Be Willing To Go!
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Isaiah 42:16 "I will lead the blind on their journey; by paths unknown I will guide them. I will turn darkness into light before them and make crooked ways straight."
Are you facing a situation that feels overwhelming and you're afraid to make a wrong move? Or maybe you're saying no to something in your life that you'd really like to say yes to.
A well-known counselor says, "For years I heard about hiking. It sounded elusive, difficult… and mysterious. When a friend asked me to go hiking… I began thinking… what if I couldn't do it well enough? Or I didn't know how to do it at all? 'Don't be ridiculous,' I scolded myself. 'You're making this more complicated than it is… it's just walking, and you've been doing that since you were a baby!' We left… and I followed… as he started up a steep incline. 'Just walk,' I told myself… 'Put one foot in front of another… like you've done all your life.' I didn't make it to the top of the mountain that day, but I made it halfway…
Start where you are. Start poorly. Just start… if you already knew how to do it well, it wouldn't be a lesson… and you'd never have the thrill of victory, years from now looking back."
God has promised to "take the hand of those who don't know the way… to show them what roads to take." You say, "But what if I get into difficulty?" You probably will! But God says: "When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you." (Isaiah 43:2). But you've got to be willing to 'go' in order for God to bring you 'through!' In other words - you have to be willing to get your feet wet. The thing to keep in mind is: "God… goes ahead of you." (Deuteronomy 1:30).
Isaiah 42:16 "I will lead the blind on their journey; by paths unknown I will guide them. I will turn darkness into light before them and make crooked ways straight."
Are you facing a situation that feels overwhelming and you're afraid to make a wrong move? Or maybe you're saying no to something in your life that you'd really like to say yes to.
A well-known counselor says, "For years I heard about hiking. It sounded elusive, difficult… and mysterious. When a friend asked me to go hiking… I began thinking… what if I couldn't do it well enough? Or I didn't know how to do it at all? 'Don't be ridiculous,' I scolded myself. 'You're making this more complicated than it is… it's just walking, and you've been doing that since you were a baby!' We left… and I followed… as he started up a steep incline. 'Just walk,' I told myself… 'Put one foot in front of another… like you've done all your life.' I didn't make it to the top of the mountain that day, but I made it halfway…
Start where you are. Start poorly. Just start… if you already knew how to do it well, it wouldn't be a lesson… and you'd never have the thrill of victory, years from now looking back."
God has promised to "take the hand of those who don't know the way… to show them what roads to take." You say, "But what if I get into difficulty?" You probably will! But God says: "When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you." (Isaiah 43:2). But you've got to be willing to 'go' in order for God to bring you 'through!' In other words - you have to be willing to get your feet wet. The thing to keep in mind is: "God… goes ahead of you." (Deuteronomy 1:30).
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Focus On Your Strengths
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Romans 12:6 "God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well."
Work where you're strongest 80% of the time. Work where you're learning 15% of the time. Work where you're weakest 5% of the time. Is that wise? Absolutely! "God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well."
What happens to a team when its members play 'out of position?' First, morale weakens because the team isn't playing up to its capacity. Those working in an area of weakness resent that their skills are untapped. Soon they become unwilling to work as a team, everyone's confidence erodes and the situation gets worse. Then the competition takes advantage of their weaknesses, and they never win. When people aren't doing what they're supposed to do, things don't run well.
Do you know what your greatest strengths are? If not, follow these guidelines:
(1) Be secure: If you allow your insecurities to get the better of you, you'll become inflexible and resistant to change. And if you don't change you won't grow!
(2) Get to know yourself: Spend time exploring your gifts. Ask for feedback. Acknowledge your blind spots.
(3) Trust your leader: If you can't, look for one you can trust, or get on another team.
(4) See the big picture: Your place on any team only makes sense in the context of the big picture. If your only reason for finding your niche is personal gain, your wrong motives will rob you of the very joy, fulfillment and success you desire.
(5) Rely on your experience: There's only one way to know you've discovered your niche. Try things. Take risks. Learn from your failures and your successes. Discover what God made you for!
Romans 12:6 "God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well."
Work where you're strongest 80% of the time. Work where you're learning 15% of the time. Work where you're weakest 5% of the time. Is that wise? Absolutely! "God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well."
What happens to a team when its members play 'out of position?' First, morale weakens because the team isn't playing up to its capacity. Those working in an area of weakness resent that their skills are untapped. Soon they become unwilling to work as a team, everyone's confidence erodes and the situation gets worse. Then the competition takes advantage of their weaknesses, and they never win. When people aren't doing what they're supposed to do, things don't run well.
Do you know what your greatest strengths are? If not, follow these guidelines:
(1) Be secure: If you allow your insecurities to get the better of you, you'll become inflexible and resistant to change. And if you don't change you won't grow!
(2) Get to know yourself: Spend time exploring your gifts. Ask for feedback. Acknowledge your blind spots.
(3) Trust your leader: If you can't, look for one you can trust, or get on another team.
(4) See the big picture: Your place on any team only makes sense in the context of the big picture. If your only reason for finding your niche is personal gain, your wrong motives will rob you of the very joy, fulfillment and success you desire.
(5) Rely on your experience: There's only one way to know you've discovered your niche. Try things. Take risks. Learn from your failures and your successes. Discover what God made you for!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Putting Others First
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Philippians 2:3 "Never act out of rivalry or conceit; rather be humble and look to others' interests rather than your own."
A man bought a new television and some of his neighbors were helping him install the antenna on the roof. They weren't making much headway until a new guy showed up with a big fancy toolbox and finished the job lickety-split. As they stood around congratulating themselves, they asked the new neighbor what he made with such elaborate tools. Grinning, he replied, "Friends, mostly!"
Unfortunately that kind of helpful behavior has ceased to be the norm in our world today: selfishness has become standard procedure. The Bible says: "As the end approaches, people are going to be self-absorbed… self-promoting… dog-eat-dog… the kind … who smooth-talk… and take advantage." (2 Timothy 3:1-6). Have you noticed any of that lately? Try sliding into a parking space another motorist wants, or watching shoppers in the checkout line elbowing one another to save 30 seconds! And while we're on the subject, how about 'your seat' in church; the one you've been warming for 30 years?
The principle of putting others first didn't originate as a public relations strategy, it came directly from the God who inspired Paul to write, "...be humble and look to others' interests rather than your own." Jesus Himself said, "Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb… Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them." (Matthew 7:12). So next time somebody cuts you off in traffic or treats you with less courtesy and consideration than you expect, instead of getting ticked off and retaliating, use it as an opportunity to practice putting the other guy first.
Philippians 2:3 "Never act out of rivalry or conceit; rather be humble and look to others' interests rather than your own."
A man bought a new television and some of his neighbors were helping him install the antenna on the roof. They weren't making much headway until a new guy showed up with a big fancy toolbox and finished the job lickety-split. As they stood around congratulating themselves, they asked the new neighbor what he made with such elaborate tools. Grinning, he replied, "Friends, mostly!"
Unfortunately that kind of helpful behavior has ceased to be the norm in our world today: selfishness has become standard procedure. The Bible says: "As the end approaches, people are going to be self-absorbed… self-promoting… dog-eat-dog… the kind … who smooth-talk… and take advantage." (2 Timothy 3:1-6). Have you noticed any of that lately? Try sliding into a parking space another motorist wants, or watching shoppers in the checkout line elbowing one another to save 30 seconds! And while we're on the subject, how about 'your seat' in church; the one you've been warming for 30 years?
The principle of putting others first didn't originate as a public relations strategy, it came directly from the God who inspired Paul to write, "...be humble and look to others' interests rather than your own." Jesus Himself said, "Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb… Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them." (Matthew 7:12). So next time somebody cuts you off in traffic or treats you with less courtesy and consideration than you expect, instead of getting ticked off and retaliating, use it as an opportunity to practice putting the other guy first.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Life Is What You Make It
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Ephesians 5:20-21 "Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Defer to one another out of reverence for Christ."
Once there was an old and very wise man. Every day he and his granddaughter would sit outside a gas station in his rocking chair, waiting to greet tourists as they passed through his small town. One day a tall man, who surely had to be a tourist, began looking around as if he were checking out the area for a place to live. "So what kind of town is this?" he asked. The old man replied, "Well, what kind of town are you from?" The tourist said, "One where everyone is very critical of each other. It's a real negative place to live." The old man said "You know, that's just how this town is."
Later, a family passing through also stopped for gas. The father stepped out and asked the old man, "Is this town a good place to live?" "Well, what about the town you're from? The father said, "In the town I'm from everyone is very close and always willing to lend a helping hand. I really hate to leave it." The old man smiled and said, "You know, that's a lot like this small town."
After the family had left the granddaughter looked up and asked, "Grandpa, how come when the first man came you told him this was a terrible place to live, yet when that family came you told them it was a wonderful place to live?" The old man looked down into his granddaughter's wondering blue eyes and said, "No matter where you go, you take your attitude with you. And that's what makes it terrible or wonderful."
Yes, life is what you make it!
Ephesians 5:20-21 "Give thanks to God the Father always and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Defer to one another out of reverence for Christ."
Once there was an old and very wise man. Every day he and his granddaughter would sit outside a gas station in his rocking chair, waiting to greet tourists as they passed through his small town. One day a tall man, who surely had to be a tourist, began looking around as if he were checking out the area for a place to live. "So what kind of town is this?" he asked. The old man replied, "Well, what kind of town are you from?" The tourist said, "One where everyone is very critical of each other. It's a real negative place to live." The old man said "You know, that's just how this town is."
Later, a family passing through also stopped for gas. The father stepped out and asked the old man, "Is this town a good place to live?" "Well, what about the town you're from? The father said, "In the town I'm from everyone is very close and always willing to lend a helping hand. I really hate to leave it." The old man smiled and said, "You know, that's a lot like this small town."
After the family had left the granddaughter looked up and asked, "Grandpa, how come when the first man came you told him this was a terrible place to live, yet when that family came you told them it was a wonderful place to live?" The old man looked down into his granddaughter's wondering blue eyes and said, "No matter where you go, you take your attitude with you. And that's what makes it terrible or wonderful."
Yes, life is what you make it!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Warning And Behavior
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
1 Thessalonians 5:6 "Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober!"
When a dangerous blizzard hit Colorado Springs in late October 2006, residents had plenty of warning. Weather forecasters began predicting the storm 36 hours before it arrived. On a warm, sunny afternoon people swarmed into grocery stores to buy supplies, while tire shops worked overtime to meet the demand for winter treads. Everyone was talking about the coming storm. Even before the snow began, schools and businesses announced they would be closed for the day. When the storm hit with blowing snow and freezing temperatures, most people were safe at home, not trying to get to work or school.
When we believe a warning, it affects our behavior. It’s true in every area of life, including our walk of faith. Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica, reminding them that the day of the Lord would come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Thess. 5:2). His call to action urged them to avoid spiritual lethargy but remain alert and self-controlled (v.6).
Paul’s challenge echoed Jesus’ own words urging His followers to be watchful and ready, "for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Matt. 24:44). In fact, Jesus literally "comes back" every day to people when they die, often when they "least expect."
If we believe our Lord’s word about His coming, how will it affect our thoughts and actions today? - David C. McCasland
1 Thessalonians 5:6 "Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober!"
When a dangerous blizzard hit Colorado Springs in late October 2006, residents had plenty of warning. Weather forecasters began predicting the storm 36 hours before it arrived. On a warm, sunny afternoon people swarmed into grocery stores to buy supplies, while tire shops worked overtime to meet the demand for winter treads. Everyone was talking about the coming storm. Even before the snow began, schools and businesses announced they would be closed for the day. When the storm hit with blowing snow and freezing temperatures, most people were safe at home, not trying to get to work or school.
When we believe a warning, it affects our behavior. It’s true in every area of life, including our walk of faith. Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica, reminding them that the day of the Lord would come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Thess. 5:2). His call to action urged them to avoid spiritual lethargy but remain alert and self-controlled (v.6).
Paul’s challenge echoed Jesus’ own words urging His followers to be watchful and ready, "for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Matt. 24:44). In fact, Jesus literally "comes back" every day to people when they die, often when they "least expect."
If we believe our Lord’s word about His coming, how will it affect our thoughts and actions today? - David C. McCasland
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Extra Mile Service
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
Matthew 5:41 "Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two."
My wife and I were staying in a nice hotel for a special occasion. One day we went to the pool, and before we could get seated, attendants brought us towels and ice water. When I went jogging, as I re-entered the lobby, a bellman gave me a bottle of water. They kept surprising us with unexpected extra mile service.
I really believe that any corporation, organization, or ministry, where extra mile service is a part of the culture, will have a greater impact for good. Extra mile service goes beyond what is expected.
Do you know who originated the idea? Jesus Christ. He said, "Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two." Rome ruled their culture, and it was legal for any Roman soldier to ask a civilian to help them carry their armor for one mile at any time. The people greatly resented it. So what Jesus taught, shocked them. But following Jesus calls for extra mile service. Even if you don't follow Him, that service is always appreciated.
Matthew 5:41 "Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two."
My wife and I were staying in a nice hotel for a special occasion. One day we went to the pool, and before we could get seated, attendants brought us towels and ice water. When I went jogging, as I re-entered the lobby, a bellman gave me a bottle of water. They kept surprising us with unexpected extra mile service.
I really believe that any corporation, organization, or ministry, where extra mile service is a part of the culture, will have a greater impact for good. Extra mile service goes beyond what is expected.
Do you know who originated the idea? Jesus Christ. He said, "Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two." Rome ruled their culture, and it was legal for any Roman soldier to ask a civilian to help them carry their armor for one mile at any time. The people greatly resented it. So what Jesus taught, shocked them. But following Jesus calls for extra mile service. Even if you don't follow Him, that service is always appreciated.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Involved Vs. Committed
From: Bryant Wright Ministries
2 Corinthians 8:5 "They gave themselves first to the Lord, and then to us in keeping with God's will."
I love what Coach Lou Holtz, a former South Carolina football coach, has said about his team at the beginning of many seasons. He says they remind him of the Kamikaze pilot who flew fifty missions--involved, but not committed. He says a lot of players get involved, but time will tell if they're really committed to the cause for the good of the team, and if they're committed to helping the team be a success.
On a team, in the office or in the church, we have a lot of folks who are involved, but not enough are committed who will get the job done, no matter what it takes. How about you, when it comes to your life and your responsibilities? Are you just involved, or are you committed to do your best for the good of the team, the group, and all concerned?
Most of all, are you committed to do your best for the glory of God, to please Him before anyone else? That's always the key to ultimate success.
2 Corinthians 8:5 "They gave themselves first to the Lord, and then to us in keeping with God's will."
I love what Coach Lou Holtz, a former South Carolina football coach, has said about his team at the beginning of many seasons. He says they remind him of the Kamikaze pilot who flew fifty missions--involved, but not committed. He says a lot of players get involved, but time will tell if they're really committed to the cause for the good of the team, and if they're committed to helping the team be a success.
On a team, in the office or in the church, we have a lot of folks who are involved, but not enough are committed who will get the job done, no matter what it takes. How about you, when it comes to your life and your responsibilities? Are you just involved, or are you committed to do your best for the good of the team, the group, and all concerned?
Most of all, are you committed to do your best for the glory of God, to please Him before anyone else? That's always the key to ultimate success.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
God's Tests
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
1 Samuel 20:1 ..."What have I done? What is my crime? How have I wronged your father, that he is trying to take my life?"
The cost of being one of God's anointed can be great. Those whom God has anointed for service and influence in His Kingdom go through a special preparation. David was anointed to be the next king over Israel. Shortly after this, while still a young boy, he was brought into King Saul's service to play music in Saul's court. While there, the opportunity to stand up against Goliath elevated David for his next stage of development as future king. As his popularity grew so did Saul's jealousy. However, even Saul's jealousy was God's instrument for molding and shaping David.
Saul finally decided he could no longer tolerate David's success and popularity among the people, so he tried to kill David. The confused young shepherd boy spent many years hiding in wilderness caves before he was able to see the hand of God in all of this. No doubt David thought that when he was anointed by Samuel he would be conveniently raised up to be king with all the accompanying benefits of kingship. Not so. God's preparation of David involved much persecution, disloyalty, and hardship. These were the lessons necessary to be a godly king. God brought many tests in David's life, just as He did with Saul. David passed these tests. Saul did not.
When God anoints us, it often is accompanied by some severe tests. These tests are designed to prepare us for the calling God has on our life. Should we fail these tests God cannot elevate us to the next level. For a businessperson, these tests often involve money, relationships, and other issues of the heart.
What if God has chosen you for a specific purpose in His Kingdom? Are you passing the tests He is bringing about in your life? These tests are designed to bring about greater obedience. In most instances it will involve great adversity. The Bible tells us that the King of kings learned obedience through the things that He suffered (see Heb. 5:8). If this is true, why would it be any different for His children? Be aware of the tests God may be bringing before you in order to prepare you for His service.
1 Samuel 20:1 ..."What have I done? What is my crime? How have I wronged your father, that he is trying to take my life?"
The cost of being one of God's anointed can be great. Those whom God has anointed for service and influence in His Kingdom go through a special preparation. David was anointed to be the next king over Israel. Shortly after this, while still a young boy, he was brought into King Saul's service to play music in Saul's court. While there, the opportunity to stand up against Goliath elevated David for his next stage of development as future king. As his popularity grew so did Saul's jealousy. However, even Saul's jealousy was God's instrument for molding and shaping David.
Saul finally decided he could no longer tolerate David's success and popularity among the people, so he tried to kill David. The confused young shepherd boy spent many years hiding in wilderness caves before he was able to see the hand of God in all of this. No doubt David thought that when he was anointed by Samuel he would be conveniently raised up to be king with all the accompanying benefits of kingship. Not so. God's preparation of David involved much persecution, disloyalty, and hardship. These were the lessons necessary to be a godly king. God brought many tests in David's life, just as He did with Saul. David passed these tests. Saul did not.
When God anoints us, it often is accompanied by some severe tests. These tests are designed to prepare us for the calling God has on our life. Should we fail these tests God cannot elevate us to the next level. For a businessperson, these tests often involve money, relationships, and other issues of the heart.
What if God has chosen you for a specific purpose in His Kingdom? Are you passing the tests He is bringing about in your life? These tests are designed to bring about greater obedience. In most instances it will involve great adversity. The Bible tells us that the King of kings learned obedience through the things that He suffered (see Heb. 5:8). If this is true, why would it be any different for His children? Be aware of the tests God may be bringing before you in order to prepare you for His service.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Become An Early Riser
From: The Word For Today - Bob Gass Ministries
Psalm 63:1 "O God you are my God, early will I seek you."
How's your schedule these days? Do you crawl out of bed, shower, dress, gulp down your coffee, and dash out the door? At the end of the day are you drained and exhausted?
Want a suggestion that's guaranteed to make things better? Become an early riser! That's right; spending time with God before your day starts, is an incredible way to energize yourself. Some of the world's most successful people have done it.
Isaiah writes, :"my soul wants to be with you at night, and my spirit… at the dawn of every day" (Isaiah 26:9). David said, "… early will I seek you… (Psalm 63:1). Look at the life of Christ: "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up… and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed" (Mark 1:35).
If you want to enjoy that kind of communion, you'll have to exercise that kind of control. That means you'll have to turn off the TV, get to bed earlier, and rise earlier. But if you do, it'll be one of the most rewarding changes you'll ever make.
Here are three things that will happen: (a) You'll experience a greater sense of peace, because now you're no longer relying solely on your own resources. (b) Because you've opened yourself to God at the beginning of the day, you'll sense His guidance through it. And (c) as you communicate with Him, you'll be instructed, empowered, refreshed and more successful at whatever you do!
Psalm 63:1 "O God you are my God, early will I seek you."
How's your schedule these days? Do you crawl out of bed, shower, dress, gulp down your coffee, and dash out the door? At the end of the day are you drained and exhausted?
Want a suggestion that's guaranteed to make things better? Become an early riser! That's right; spending time with God before your day starts, is an incredible way to energize yourself. Some of the world's most successful people have done it.
Isaiah writes, :"my soul wants to be with you at night, and my spirit… at the dawn of every day" (Isaiah 26:9). David said, "… early will I seek you… (Psalm 63:1). Look at the life of Christ: "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up… and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed" (Mark 1:35).
If you want to enjoy that kind of communion, you'll have to exercise that kind of control. That means you'll have to turn off the TV, get to bed earlier, and rise earlier. But if you do, it'll be one of the most rewarding changes you'll ever make.
Here are three things that will happen: (a) You'll experience a greater sense of peace, because now you're no longer relying solely on your own resources. (b) Because you've opened yourself to God at the beginning of the day, you'll sense His guidance through it. And (c) as you communicate with Him, you'll be instructed, empowered, refreshed and more successful at whatever you do!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
No Excuses
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
John 14:21 "He who obeys the commandments he has from Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father. I too will love him and reveal Myself to him."
People have many different reasons for rejecting the gospel. A common one is to blame Christians for something they did or did not do. These critics say, "I know a Christian who treated me poorly." Or, "I went to church, and no one talked to me."
Indeed, Christians aren’t perfect, and many can be bad examples. But blaming others doesn’t remove one’s accountability to God.
Some people may use Christians as an excuse to reject the gospel. But they certainly can’t point a finger of blame at Jesus. He is sinless and perfect in every way. Pilate said of Him, "I have found no fault in this Man" (Luke 23:14). And Jesus did what no one else could do—He suffered death on a cross to provide salvation for all who believe in Him. That makes it tough for someone to say, "I’m not going to become a Christian because I don’t like what Jesus did."
Mahatma Gandhi is said to have studied Christianity intensely but declined to become a follower of Christ because he, "knew so many Christians who were so unlike Christ."
Don’t get sidetracked like Gandhi did by looking at the faults of others. Look to Jesus. He alone is the way to heaven.
John 14:21 "He who obeys the commandments he has from Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father. I too will love him and reveal Myself to him."
People have many different reasons for rejecting the gospel. A common one is to blame Christians for something they did or did not do. These critics say, "I know a Christian who treated me poorly." Or, "I went to church, and no one talked to me."
Indeed, Christians aren’t perfect, and many can be bad examples. But blaming others doesn’t remove one’s accountability to God.
Some people may use Christians as an excuse to reject the gospel. But they certainly can’t point a finger of blame at Jesus. He is sinless and perfect in every way. Pilate said of Him, "I have found no fault in this Man" (Luke 23:14). And Jesus did what no one else could do—He suffered death on a cross to provide salvation for all who believe in Him. That makes it tough for someone to say, "I’m not going to become a Christian because I don’t like what Jesus did."
Mahatma Gandhi is said to have studied Christianity intensely but declined to become a follower of Christ because he, "knew so many Christians who were so unlike Christ."
Don’t get sidetracked like Gandhi did by looking at the faults of others. Look to Jesus. He alone is the way to heaven.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
God-Inspired Delays
From: Today God Is First - Os Hillman Ministries
John 11:6 "Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was two more days."
Delays in our life are not always easy to handle or to reconcile in our minds. Often, when God does not answer our prayers in the time that we feel He should, we appoint all sorts of characteristics to God's nature that imply He does not care. Such was the case with Lazarus' sisters when Lazarus became ill and died. Jesus was a close friend to Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha. (Mary, you may recall, was the woman who came and poured perfume on Jesus' feet.) When Jesus arrived two days later, Martha shamed Him by saying, "If You had come he would not have died." She implied that He didn't care enough to come when sent for. It was a matter of priorities for Jesus, not lack of love.
God often has to delay His work in us in order to accomplish something for His purposes that can be achieved only in the delay. Jesus had to let Lazarus die in order for the miracle that was about to take place to have its full effect. If Jesus had simply healed a sick man, the impact of the miracle would not have been as newsworthy as resurrecting a man who had been dead for four days.
Many people, because they had heard that He had given this miraculous sign, went out to meet Him. So the Pharisees said to one another, "See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after Him!" (John 12:18-19)
If Jesus had not raised Lazarus from the dead, there would have been no crowds to cheer the Lord when He came into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.
God often sets the stage so that His glory is revealed through the events that He orchestrates. He did this with Moses and Pharaoh, allowing delay after delay for release of the Israelites from Egypt. He did this with Abraham and Sarah for the promised child, Isaac. God granted Sarah a baby past the age of childbearing in order to demonstrate His power.
My friend, don't take the delays lightly. Do not faint as God places you in what seems to be a holding pattern. God is at work. God knows the purposes for His delays. Don't give up, for they are for His greater glory; so we need to remain faithful.
John 11:6 "Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was two more days."
Delays in our life are not always easy to handle or to reconcile in our minds. Often, when God does not answer our prayers in the time that we feel He should, we appoint all sorts of characteristics to God's nature that imply He does not care. Such was the case with Lazarus' sisters when Lazarus became ill and died. Jesus was a close friend to Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha. (Mary, you may recall, was the woman who came and poured perfume on Jesus' feet.) When Jesus arrived two days later, Martha shamed Him by saying, "If You had come he would not have died." She implied that He didn't care enough to come when sent for. It was a matter of priorities for Jesus, not lack of love.
God often has to delay His work in us in order to accomplish something for His purposes that can be achieved only in the delay. Jesus had to let Lazarus die in order for the miracle that was about to take place to have its full effect. If Jesus had simply healed a sick man, the impact of the miracle would not have been as newsworthy as resurrecting a man who had been dead for four days.
Many people, because they had heard that He had given this miraculous sign, went out to meet Him. So the Pharisees said to one another, "See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after Him!" (John 12:18-19)
If Jesus had not raised Lazarus from the dead, there would have been no crowds to cheer the Lord when He came into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.
God often sets the stage so that His glory is revealed through the events that He orchestrates. He did this with Moses and Pharaoh, allowing delay after delay for release of the Israelites from Egypt. He did this with Abraham and Sarah for the promised child, Isaac. God granted Sarah a baby past the age of childbearing in order to demonstrate His power.
My friend, don't take the delays lightly. Do not faint as God places you in what seems to be a holding pattern. God is at work. God knows the purposes for His delays. Don't give up, for they are for His greater glory; so we need to remain faithful.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Why Memorize Scripture?
From: Crosswalk.Com Ministries
Joshua 1:8 "Keep this book of the law on your lips. Recite it by day and by night, that you may observe carefully all that is written in it; then you will successfully attain your goal."
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, “Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization”
Chuck Swindoll wrote, “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified”
The one piece of armor used to kill is the “sword of the Spirit,” which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
Joshua 1:8 "Keep this book of the law on your lips. Recite it by day and by night, that you may observe carefully all that is written in it; then you will successfully attain your goal."
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, “Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization”
Chuck Swindoll wrote, “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified”
The one piece of armor used to kill is the “sword of the Spirit,” which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Be Coachable!
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Philippians 4:11 "I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content."
Casey Seymour, a successful soccer player and coach, notes that everyone on his team hates the 10-by-100 drill that ends practice. Before the men can leave the field, they must run 100 yards 10 times at full speed with minimal rest. If they don’t beat a prescribed time, they have to do it again.
The players hate it—until the day of the game. Then they find that they can play at full capacity for the entire match. Their effort has been rewarded with a championship!
The apostle Paul used metaphors of training and competition in his letters. While he was a missionary to the Gentiles, he submitted to the instructions and drills of God amid great suffering and hardship. Twice in Philippians 4, he said, "I have learned" (11-12). For him, and for each of us, following Jesus is a lifelong learning process. We are not spiritually mature the day we are saved, any more than a schoolboy athlete is ready for professional soccer. We grow in faith as we allow God through His Word and the Holy Spirit to empower us to serve Him.
Through hardship, Paul learned to serve God well—and so can we. It’s not pleasant, but it is rewarding! The more teachable we are, the more mature we will become. As members of Christ’s team, let’s be coachable - David C. Egner
Philippians 4:11 "I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content."
Casey Seymour, a successful soccer player and coach, notes that everyone on his team hates the 10-by-100 drill that ends practice. Before the men can leave the field, they must run 100 yards 10 times at full speed with minimal rest. If they don’t beat a prescribed time, they have to do it again.
The players hate it—until the day of the game. Then they find that they can play at full capacity for the entire match. Their effort has been rewarded with a championship!
The apostle Paul used metaphors of training and competition in his letters. While he was a missionary to the Gentiles, he submitted to the instructions and drills of God amid great suffering and hardship. Twice in Philippians 4, he said, "I have learned" (11-12). For him, and for each of us, following Jesus is a lifelong learning process. We are not spiritually mature the day we are saved, any more than a schoolboy athlete is ready for professional soccer. We grow in faith as we allow God through His Word and the Holy Spirit to empower us to serve Him.
Through hardship, Paul learned to serve God well—and so can we. It’s not pleasant, but it is rewarding! The more teachable we are, the more mature we will become. As members of Christ’s team, let’s be coachable - David C. Egner
Monday, October 1, 2007
Looking Out For Others
From: Our Daily Bread Ministries
Philippians 2:4 "Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."
In giving of ourselves, we manifest the essence of Jesus’ character, for it has always been His nature to think more about others than He thinks of Himself. Why else would He humble Himself and become “obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” (Phil. 2:8).
Our natural tendency is to consider our own interests first—to look at everything from the perspective of our own needs and wants. But with Jesus’ help we can unlearn that habit. We can begin to think of the best interests of others—their wants, their concerns, their needs.
And so we must ask ourselves: Do we consider others’ interests more important than our own? Do we get as excited about what God is doing in and through them as we do about what He is doing in and through us? Do we long to see others grow in grace and gain recognition, though it may have been our efforts that made them successful? Do we find satisfaction in seeing our spiritual children surpass us in the work they are called to do? If so, such is the measurement of greatness.
We are most like our Lord when our thoughts for ourselves are lost in our thoughts for others. There is no greater love than that (John 15:13). - David H. Roper
This message brought to mind something we were required to learn in my college fraternity many years ago. Only in my aging have I come to fully appreciate its meaning and true value for my life.
The True Gentleman
"The true gentleman is a man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies;
Who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity; or any man of his inferiority or deformity;
Who is himself humbled, if necessity compels him to humble another;
Who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power or boast of his own possessions or achievements;
Philippians 2:4 "Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."
In giving of ourselves, we manifest the essence of Jesus’ character, for it has always been His nature to think more about others than He thinks of Himself. Why else would He humble Himself and become “obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” (Phil. 2:8).
Our natural tendency is to consider our own interests first—to look at everything from the perspective of our own needs and wants. But with Jesus’ help we can unlearn that habit. We can begin to think of the best interests of others—their wants, their concerns, their needs.
And so we must ask ourselves: Do we consider others’ interests more important than our own? Do we get as excited about what God is doing in and through them as we do about what He is doing in and through us? Do we long to see others grow in grace and gain recognition, though it may have been our efforts that made them successful? Do we find satisfaction in seeing our spiritual children surpass us in the work they are called to do? If so, such is the measurement of greatness.
We are most like our Lord when our thoughts for ourselves are lost in our thoughts for others. There is no greater love than that (John 15:13). - David H. Roper
This message brought to mind something we were required to learn in my college fraternity many years ago. Only in my aging have I come to fully appreciate its meaning and true value for my life.
The True Gentleman
"The true gentleman is a man whose conduct proceeds from good will and an acute sense of propriety, and whose self-control is equal to all emergencies;
Who does not make the poor man conscious of his poverty, the obscure man of his obscurity; or any man of his inferiority or deformity;
Who is himself humbled, if necessity compels him to humble another;
Who does not flatter wealth, cringe before power or boast of his own possessions or achievements;
Who speaks with frankness, but always with sincerity and sympathy;
Whose deed follows his word;
Who thinks of the rights and feelings of others rather than his own, and who appears well in any company;
A man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
