This morning I am reminded of the importance of always running every thought through God's filter. Integrity is a process that requires every thought (thus every action) to be brought before God's throne for His approval. Anything unworthy for His children will be discarded at once.
To be discarded does not mean to put that thought 'back on the shelf' as it were to be brought out later. As 'far as the east is from the west' is how far God has removed my sins. I too, should separate from my mind 'as far as the east is from the west' any thought that may hinder me in any way.
God expects no less and He gives us the strength to do just that with the empowerment of the Holy Spirit within us.
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Marriage Should Exhibit Mutual Support and Encouragement
This weekend, I was reminded of the beauty of God's gift of marriage to us.
It rained on the farm... No, you don't understand. When I say rain I REALLY MEAN RAIN! We received just over 12 inches of rain over the past weekend. Last week our little farm looked like paradise on earth. Sheep lazily grazing, chickens chasing bugs and laying copious eggs, vegetables growing all over the place ... beautiful!
Then it rained, and rained, and rained, and rained. The winds gusted to 50 miles per hour and a leak developed in my office. Vegetables were tattered and torn and now are disease-prone. Our barn floor looks like a lake. Animals had to be moved to higher ground.
I was discouraged, downtrodden and depressed. Yet, in the midst of it all, Kay takes my hand and says "Let's pray". She prays for our farm but also fills me with encouragement and hope by reminding me that God is ultimately in control. We've been through the valley before and we can make it yet once again if we set our sights on the mountaintop.
Later in the day, I had the opportunity to give her some support as she was looking over the deluge of water. I was reminded of God's strength because she reminded me earlier. I was able to wrap my arms around her and tell her that it will be OK.
Isn't that what marriage is all about? Having a life-long friend and companion to walk hand-in-hand through the trials and the successes of life. When was the last time you took time to really bless your best friend... your spouse? Do it today!
It rained on the farm... No, you don't understand. When I say rain I REALLY MEAN RAIN! We received just over 12 inches of rain over the past weekend. Last week our little farm looked like paradise on earth. Sheep lazily grazing, chickens chasing bugs and laying copious eggs, vegetables growing all over the place ... beautiful!
Then it rained, and rained, and rained, and rained. The winds gusted to 50 miles per hour and a leak developed in my office. Vegetables were tattered and torn and now are disease-prone. Our barn floor looks like a lake. Animals had to be moved to higher ground.
I was discouraged, downtrodden and depressed. Yet, in the midst of it all, Kay takes my hand and says "Let's pray". She prays for our farm but also fills me with encouragement and hope by reminding me that God is ultimately in control. We've been through the valley before and we can make it yet once again if we set our sights on the mountaintop.
Later in the day, I had the opportunity to give her some support as she was looking over the deluge of water. I was reminded of God's strength because she reminded me earlier. I was able to wrap my arms around her and tell her that it will be OK.
Isn't that what marriage is all about? Having a life-long friend and companion to walk hand-in-hand through the trials and the successes of life. When was the last time you took time to really bless your best friend... your spouse? Do it today!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Timing... Our's or God's!
Have you ever noticed how our timing is rarely the same as God's? Kay and I are slowly creating a farm environment that will have produce available in the fall, winter, and spring. Kay will also be offering farm tours and lesson plans that comply with the Sunshine State Standards. What an awesome way to show children about where their food comes from and the importance of viable and sustainable agriculture.
We want to 'go.. go.. go..' to get things up and going and yet God has us going along at a deliberate slow pace, paying for things in cash instead of going into debt. I certainly see His reasoning with the economy in the tank and so many monetary systems on the brink of collapse, still it's hard to move so slow sometimes.
We have these hopes and dreams for this farm and I wonder what God has in store for our farm that we haven't even considered yet. It is up to us to either stay under the protection of our Lord, moving onward when He says or going out there and winging it on our own. As hard as it is, I choose to go God's speed and pray that those around me will hold me accountable in this regard.
We want to 'go.. go.. go..' to get things up and going and yet God has us going along at a deliberate slow pace, paying for things in cash instead of going into debt. I certainly see His reasoning with the economy in the tank and so many monetary systems on the brink of collapse, still it's hard to move so slow sometimes.
We have these hopes and dreams for this farm and I wonder what God has in store for our farm that we haven't even considered yet. It is up to us to either stay under the protection of our Lord, moving onward when He says or going out there and winging it on our own. As hard as it is, I choose to go God's speed and pray that those around me will hold me accountable in this regard.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Seeds
I came home from work last night to a box a seeds that were just delivered for our farm (Google 'Abundant Blessings Farm, LLC' for more farm info). The seeds are all packaged by variety and stacked neatly for our use.
Have you put much thought into a seed? Inside each of every seed in that box is the genetic code of the parent from which they were derived. These days the wonder of this has been removed by the scientific minds of our day and we toss around terms like 'DNA' without giving it much further thought. But really, have you ever considered the miracle that awaits in each and every seed?
As a farmer, my wife will lovingly place each seed in the soil (or growing media because we grow hydroponics as well). She will make sure that each gets the correct amount of water and nutrients (i.e. food) do develop into a mature plant. She will carefully train the branches (pruning where necessary) so that they will be fruitful and multiply. She will protect the plants from pests and diseases that seek to harm and destroy.
What an incredible miracle... each and every seed!
In the same manner, we are God's seed. He places us here and wants to tend, nurture, prune when necessary so that will be fruitful by telling others about Him and leading them to Christ. That is how we multiply.
We get caught up in labels of who we are by what we do (Mom, Dad, Fireman, Farmer, Banker, Lobbyist, etc.) yet that is just what we do part of our life. We came from a seed that was planted by God. Our purpose... our true purpose in life is to do just as those seeds in the box in our kitchen. Our true purpose is to grow in Christ and bring others to the understanding of His redeeming and saving grace that is available to all who choose to believe.
I can't wait to plant those seeds!
Have you put much thought into a seed? Inside each of every seed in that box is the genetic code of the parent from which they were derived. These days the wonder of this has been removed by the scientific minds of our day and we toss around terms like 'DNA' without giving it much further thought. But really, have you ever considered the miracle that awaits in each and every seed?
As a farmer, my wife will lovingly place each seed in the soil (or growing media because we grow hydroponics as well). She will make sure that each gets the correct amount of water and nutrients (i.e. food) do develop into a mature plant. She will carefully train the branches (pruning where necessary) so that they will be fruitful and multiply. She will protect the plants from pests and diseases that seek to harm and destroy.
What an incredible miracle... each and every seed!
In the same manner, we are God's seed. He places us here and wants to tend, nurture, prune when necessary so that will be fruitful by telling others about Him and leading them to Christ. That is how we multiply.
We get caught up in labels of who we are by what we do (Mom, Dad, Fireman, Farmer, Banker, Lobbyist, etc.) yet that is just what we do part of our life. We came from a seed that was planted by God. Our purpose... our true purpose in life is to do just as those seeds in the box in our kitchen. Our true purpose is to grow in Christ and bring others to the understanding of His redeeming and saving grace that is available to all who choose to believe.
I can't wait to plant those seeds!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Do You Hear What I Hear???
Christmas Tunes flood the airwaves. What a wonderful time of year. Even the most secular places have music wafting through the air telling of Christ's coming to earth to save all who call on Him to be their Savior.
I hear so many passages in the Bible ringing in my ears this morning. Certainly the accounts in the Gospels of Mary, Joseph and Bethlehem. But also verse after verse after verse throughout the Old Testament fortelling the coming of Christ.
I also hear the verses that speak of Christ's second coming and the events that surround them. Looking back at this past year, it has been an incredible one for natural disasters around the world. The earth is rumbling more than ever in modern times. Earthquakes, floods, fire, extreme drought, extreme cold and blizzards, extreme heat... the list goes on and on.
The rumors of war are increasing daily with a furvor that I don't believe has been felt since the 1940's. The difference today though is the number of countries that have nuclear capabilites. North Korea is a hot bed right now and they are itching to prove their 'superiority' to the world. The UN doesn't believe that Iran has nuclear weapons. I disagree and am afraid that Iran not only has nuclear weapons but is preparing for a battle with Israel to bring forth the 12th Iman as noted in their koran.
Even Joel's prophecies in the Old Testament brought forth some foretelling news as a good portion of the modern world saw the moon turn blood red last night in a spectacular eclipse.
I will show wonders in the heavens
and on the earth,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.
And everyone who calls
on the name of the LORD will be saved. (Joel 2:30-32)
Do any of these things say "yep, yep, yep it's going to happen soon"? No, not particularly but we are given a blueprint of end times throughout the Bible. The blueprint DOES resemble the events of 2010.
Do you hear what I hear?
Said the night wind to the little lamb
Do you see what I see
Way up in the sky little lamb
Do you see what I see
A star, a star
Dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite
Said the little lamb to the shepard boy
Do you hear what I hear
Ringing through the sky shepard boy
Do you hear what I hear
A song, a song
High above the tree
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea
Said the shepard boy to the mighty king
Do you know what I know
In your palace wall mighty king
Do you know what I know
A child, a child
Shivers in the cold
Let us bring him silver and gold
Let us bring him silver and gold
Said the king to the people everywhere
Listen to what I say
Pray for peace people everywhere
Listen to what I say
The child, the child
Sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light
The child, the child
Sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
("Do You Hear What I Hear?" is a Christmas song written in October 1962 with lyrics by Noël Regney and music by Gloria Shayne Baker. The pair were married at the time, and wrote it as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis.)
I hear so many passages in the Bible ringing in my ears this morning. Certainly the accounts in the Gospels of Mary, Joseph and Bethlehem. But also verse after verse after verse throughout the Old Testament fortelling the coming of Christ.
I also hear the verses that speak of Christ's second coming and the events that surround them. Looking back at this past year, it has been an incredible one for natural disasters around the world. The earth is rumbling more than ever in modern times. Earthquakes, floods, fire, extreme drought, extreme cold and blizzards, extreme heat... the list goes on and on.
The rumors of war are increasing daily with a furvor that I don't believe has been felt since the 1940's. The difference today though is the number of countries that have nuclear capabilites. North Korea is a hot bed right now and they are itching to prove their 'superiority' to the world. The UN doesn't believe that Iran has nuclear weapons. I disagree and am afraid that Iran not only has nuclear weapons but is preparing for a battle with Israel to bring forth the 12th Iman as noted in their koran.
Even Joel's prophecies in the Old Testament brought forth some foretelling news as a good portion of the modern world saw the moon turn blood red last night in a spectacular eclipse.
I will show wonders in the heavens
and on the earth,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.
And everyone who calls
on the name of the LORD will be saved. (Joel 2:30-32)
Do any of these things say "yep, yep, yep it's going to happen soon"? No, not particularly but we are given a blueprint of end times throughout the Bible. The blueprint DOES resemble the events of 2010.
Do you hear what I hear?
Said the night wind to the little lamb
Do you see what I see
Way up in the sky little lamb
Do you see what I see
A star, a star
Dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite
Said the little lamb to the shepard boy
Do you hear what I hear
Ringing through the sky shepard boy
Do you hear what I hear
A song, a song
High above the tree
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea
Said the shepard boy to the mighty king
Do you know what I know
In your palace wall mighty king
Do you know what I know
A child, a child
Shivers in the cold
Let us bring him silver and gold
Let us bring him silver and gold
Said the king to the people everywhere
Listen to what I say
Pray for peace people everywhere
Listen to what I say
The child, the child
Sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light
The child, the child
Sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
("Do You Hear What I Hear?" is a Christmas song written in October 1962 with lyrics by Noël Regney and music by Gloria Shayne Baker. The pair were married at the time, and wrote it as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis.)
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Why is Grandparenting so much different than Parenting?
I became a Grandfather ("Papa") this past week for the first time. What an incredible experience! The feelings in my heart are useless to try to put into words. It just won't do them justice. Suffice it to say, I am awestruck to see my daughter bring a new little life into this world. A little bundle of joy that is totally dependent on my daughter and her husband.
I am also brought to the realization of the importance of having a firm foundation on the Rock of Salvation, Jesus Christ. My daughter and her husband will depend on that and this precious little granddaughter will also depend on it. More than ever before, I must be the Man of Integrity that God has called me to be.
Reading in Habakkuk 3 and Revelation 3 this morning and I am reminded of what mankind looks like when they are lukewarm in their Christian walk. It's ugly to say the least. You wander aimlessly for the most part trying to do life on your own only to mess up time and time again.
Yet God wants to fight our battles for us. He wants us to put our full trust in Him as we walk through each day. How will that look for this new Grandfather? I am determined to start each day with prayer for each member of my family. I will be silent enough in my prayers to listen to what God has to say to me. Whatever battles they may have before them, I will ask God to intercede.
I am more determined than ever to be the Man of Integrity that God has called me to be. My wife depends on it. Both of my daughters depend on it. Both of my sons-in-law depend on it. Now a beautiful newborn granddaughter depends on it. AND, a granddaughter that is due in February will also depend on it some day.
Only with God's strength can I accomplish this task. If I try to do it in my on flesh, I will be only lukewarm at best. I must depend on God wholly and completely.
I am also brought to the realization of the importance of having a firm foundation on the Rock of Salvation, Jesus Christ. My daughter and her husband will depend on that and this precious little granddaughter will also depend on it. More than ever before, I must be the Man of Integrity that God has called me to be.
Reading in Habakkuk 3 and Revelation 3 this morning and I am reminded of what mankind looks like when they are lukewarm in their Christian walk. It's ugly to say the least. You wander aimlessly for the most part trying to do life on your own only to mess up time and time again.
Yet God wants to fight our battles for us. He wants us to put our full trust in Him as we walk through each day. How will that look for this new Grandfather? I am determined to start each day with prayer for each member of my family. I will be silent enough in my prayers to listen to what God has to say to me. Whatever battles they may have before them, I will ask God to intercede.
I am more determined than ever to be the Man of Integrity that God has called me to be. My wife depends on it. Both of my daughters depend on it. Both of my sons-in-law depend on it. Now a beautiful newborn granddaughter depends on it. AND, a granddaughter that is due in February will also depend on it some day.
Only with God's strength can I accomplish this task. If I try to do it in my on flesh, I will be only lukewarm at best. I must depend on God wholly and completely.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Are you limiting God?
I came across a Bible verse this morning that I didn't understand at first.
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. (Hebrews 4:1 KJV)
My first thought was "huh?" and I started to skip over the verse but was drawn back to it. After further study I found that Paul is simply saying that if I should fear anything as a follower of Christ, it should simply be that I place limits in my mind of what God can do!
I find that I tend to place God in a small box. This box has sides and a top that are all within my scope of reality and understanding. Do you do the same? Why is it that we do that and say at the same time that God is Omnipresent, Omnipotent, and without bounds?
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us... (Eph 3:20 NIV)
My prayer this morning was that I come to know the Father for who He really is. One without bounds and limits.
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. (Hebrews 4:1 KJV)
My first thought was "huh?" and I started to skip over the verse but was drawn back to it. After further study I found that Paul is simply saying that if I should fear anything as a follower of Christ, it should simply be that I place limits in my mind of what God can do!
I find that I tend to place God in a small box. This box has sides and a top that are all within my scope of reality and understanding. Do you do the same? Why is it that we do that and say at the same time that God is Omnipresent, Omnipotent, and without bounds?
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us... (Eph 3:20 NIV)
My prayer this morning was that I come to know the Father for who He really is. One without bounds and limits.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Tilling my Mind
Reading Titus 2 today, I am reminded of the following...
God wants me to be of sound mind, controlled and alert. Tilling my mind should be like tilling the soil in the garden. Remove any weeds that have taken root. Don't let it go even for a while because it easily gets out of control. Be diligent, steadfast and prompt. Don’t just break off the top of the weeds but dig deeply and remove them by their roots. Sow the seeds of truth, righteousness and faith in straight rows. Fertilize them with daily time with God and His word.
God wants me to be of sound mind, controlled and alert. Tilling my mind should be like tilling the soil in the garden. Remove any weeds that have taken root. Don't let it go even for a while because it easily gets out of control. Be diligent, steadfast and prompt. Don’t just break off the top of the weeds but dig deeply and remove them by their roots. Sow the seeds of truth, righteousness and faith in straight rows. Fertilize them with daily time with God and His word.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Agriculture - Foundational to Society
My wife and I just returned from the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo in Moultrie, GA. It was a fun and enlightening two days as we wandered among the equipment and new and innovative ideas to make farming more productive and sustainable.
I can't help to think of the disconnect that our society in the United States has with where their food originates. As political pressure increases from groups that claim 'environmentalism' as the end all means of thought and purpose, I am saddened to see the vast valley between their views and the foundational environmental views of the farmer which he/she has had since God placed man on earth. The farmer understands the environment intimately as it is the basis for his production of food or fiber. He understands and respects the delicate balance that is needed to protect what God provided through nature because an imbalance will mean total failure.
I am proud to be a farmer and to support farmers through what I do in my waking hours. They are a group of people that have faith in measures that are incredible as they sow, till and harvest the 'fruit of the land'. They have no problem believing in God and place an untold amount of faith in Him.
Agriculture is foundational to any society. Review history and where you see agriculture fail due to weather or politics, the failure of the country is not far behind.
I can't help to think of the disconnect that our society in the United States has with where their food originates. As political pressure increases from groups that claim 'environmentalism' as the end all means of thought and purpose, I am saddened to see the vast valley between their views and the foundational environmental views of the farmer which he/she has had since God placed man on earth. The farmer understands the environment intimately as it is the basis for his production of food or fiber. He understands and respects the delicate balance that is needed to protect what God provided through nature because an imbalance will mean total failure.
I am proud to be a farmer and to support farmers through what I do in my waking hours. They are a group of people that have faith in measures that are incredible as they sow, till and harvest the 'fruit of the land'. They have no problem believing in God and place an untold amount of faith in Him.
Agriculture is foundational to any society. Review history and where you see agriculture fail due to weather or politics, the failure of the country is not far behind.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Seed
I spent most of yesterday in the garden (as my body can attest to today). We are blessed in Florida with growing conditions that almost encompass the entire year. In fact, the hardest time for me to grow anything is in the dead of summer when it is just too wet and hot.
The weather yesterday was perfect... mid 80's and sunny. I spent several hours behind a 'scuffle' hoe removing weeds and then a couple of hours putting new seeds in the ground.
As I dropped each seed into the soil after making the perfect hole (I like to use the eraser end of a pencil), I thought about all that is within that little seed. All of its DNA for life is in there, just waiting to come out and show itself to me. God designed and perfect! Each corn seed will become a corn plant, each lettuce seed will become a lettuce plant and so on.
I was thinking that indeed God designed us the same way... with HIS DNA! We are to grow in the likeness of God and He sent His Son, Jesus to give us an example.
I have two grandchildren on the way, each starting as a mere 'seed' and now growing into the likeness of Christ within my daughters. Amazing!
I look forward to seeing my corn "pop up in rows" and I look forward to beautiful little girls from my daughters and their husbands in the months to come. From God all blessings flow...
The weather yesterday was perfect... mid 80's and sunny. I spent several hours behind a 'scuffle' hoe removing weeds and then a couple of hours putting new seeds in the ground.
As I dropped each seed into the soil after making the perfect hole (I like to use the eraser end of a pencil), I thought about all that is within that little seed. All of its DNA for life is in there, just waiting to come out and show itself to me. God designed and perfect! Each corn seed will become a corn plant, each lettuce seed will become a lettuce plant and so on.
I was thinking that indeed God designed us the same way... with HIS DNA! We are to grow in the likeness of God and He sent His Son, Jesus to give us an example.
I have two grandchildren on the way, each starting as a mere 'seed' and now growing into the likeness of Christ within my daughters. Amazing!
I look forward to seeing my corn "pop up in rows" and I look forward to beautiful little girls from my daughters and their husbands in the months to come. From God all blessings flow...
Friday, October 1, 2010
God Ways are SO Much Better
I am reminded tonight of just how much God's ways are better than our ways. We think we have it all together and our lives are in control. Yet, how much control do we really have on our lives.
Lately, I just have not been consistently focusing on God. I go through the motions and I roll through the day. The sun sets... the sun rises and I do it all over again. My prayers have been only so-so and my Bible study has been more routine than really seeking and searching for God's direction.
It has been many, MANY months since I've posted here and it took a person that read one of my older posts to bring me back to reality, back to the drifting that I was doing. It is AMAZING that God loves me so much that he used a man in another part of the country to bring me back to my senses.
Thank you to this person for jolting me back to what is really reality (a life walking hand in hand with God) and what isn't (the day-to-day of this world).
My life is but a weaving between my God and me...
Lately, I just have not been consistently focusing on God. I go through the motions and I roll through the day. The sun sets... the sun rises and I do it all over again. My prayers have been only so-so and my Bible study has been more routine than really seeking and searching for God's direction.
It has been many, MANY months since I've posted here and it took a person that read one of my older posts to bring me back to reality, back to the drifting that I was doing. It is AMAZING that God loves me so much that he used a man in another part of the country to bring me back to my senses.
Thank you to this person for jolting me back to what is really reality (a life walking hand in hand with God) and what isn't (the day-to-day of this world).
My life is but a weaving between my God and me...
Monday, January 11, 2010
Don't Trip on Today While Looking at the Horizon
The past few months can be summed up by one phrase --- "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth" (Psalms 46:10). I have spent a lot of time just thinking, just pondering, just being still. Last year I spent so much time looking to the horizons asking God where He wants Kay and I to be and what He wants us to be doing. I want to please Him more than anything. Should we be somewhere else serving You, God? How can You make that happen? Where will the resources come from? What do we need to do to prepare? The questions go on-and-on.
I have found that this process is equivalent to looking through binoculars at the horizon. Have you ever tried to go the daily things that today requires while holding the binoculars up to your eyes? Sooner or later your going to trip and probably hurt someone or something!
One verse keeps coming to mind, "For I know the plans that I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) With that in mind, I have come to realize that I my focus was in the wrong place. Certainly, I should not walk looking only at my feet either but God has given us an incredible ability to look ahead and see both what is ahead of us several steps away as well as well ahead of us. God has given me today, He has not promised tomorrow. What am I doing for Him today in the place that He has set me in history? How can I witness of God's saving grace in a loving way to those that I meet by chance today in an appointment or even at the gas station? How can I reach out to my wife, my daughters and their husbands today ... those that God has entrusted to my spiritual care?
I am learning how to 'refocus my focus'! Help me in this area, please God. I want to honor You in my thoughts, my words and my actions.
Where do you find your focus? I'd love to hear from you.
I have found that this process is equivalent to looking through binoculars at the horizon. Have you ever tried to go the daily things that today requires while holding the binoculars up to your eyes? Sooner or later your going to trip and probably hurt someone or something!
One verse keeps coming to mind, "For I know the plans that I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) With that in mind, I have come to realize that I my focus was in the wrong place. Certainly, I should not walk looking only at my feet either but God has given us an incredible ability to look ahead and see both what is ahead of us several steps away as well as well ahead of us. God has given me today, He has not promised tomorrow. What am I doing for Him today in the place that He has set me in history? How can I witness of God's saving grace in a loving way to those that I meet by chance today in an appointment or even at the gas station? How can I reach out to my wife, my daughters and their husbands today ... those that God has entrusted to my spiritual care?
I am learning how to 'refocus my focus'! Help me in this area, please God. I want to honor You in my thoughts, my words and my actions.
Where do you find your focus? I'd love to hear from you.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Turning Fear and Anxiety into Trust
I have been studying Learning to Pray by Billy Graham in my devotion time each day. The chapter that I'm in presently is 'Emotions that defeat us'. When he started talking about worry and fear, it started really hitting home. This is an area that I really struggle with. I know the promises that God has for me in the Bible yet I do not live them out. With that in mind and wishing to share my heart with you, what follows is an exerpt from my journal today:
Bible Study:
In speaking about emotions that defeat us, Billy Graham says that when our lives are "overrun by fear, we can easily become paralyzed. We also fail to trust God when we allow worry and fear to dominate us." This is one of the biggest things for me. Fear and doubt. Why?
Proverbs 22:3 "A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it." Have I done my part? If so, am I willing to allow God to protect and guide me?
Dangers can come from things seen and things unseen. 1 Peter 5:8 says to "be self-controlled and alert, you enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
When fear and worry are present, God's peace is absent. I must learn to trust God's promises. They are throughout the Bible. What do I fear the most? Believe it or not, I think I fear the lack of God's provision. How stupid of me. God has always come through, yet I fear … hmm, I fear that I will make a decision that is outside of His will that He will not provide for and I will jeopardize our finances.
Another area is direction in Kay's and my life. I am the spiritual leader yet I feel so inadequate.
Billy Graham speaks of Psalm 118:6 "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" I don't fear man but instead it looks like I fear myself! Can I rephrase this verse to read "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can I do to me"?
Fear and faith work against each other because they are mutually exclusive. Could it be that I cannot live in faith because I've never really had too? Or have I and yet I didn't recognize it as living in faith?
Steps to change:
1. Turn my anxiety and fear over to God
a. Psalm 55:22 "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall."
b. 1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
2. Stand on God's promises
a. Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.""
b. Psalm 23 "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
c. John 16:33 "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
3. Pray diligently
a. The end result of inviting God to live THROUGH me is found in Philippians 4:6 - 7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Prayer:
Dear God in heaven, creator of the heavens and the earth. King of kings and Lord of lords, you know everything and you know my heart, God. I love you so and want to be the absolute best servant that I can be for you. Yet, doubt in myself is holding me back from living in faith. I am grasping on to what is tangible and not reaching out to you like I should. If Peter did the same, he would have never taken a step outside of the boat.
God, my Father, give me the faith of Peter. Give me the courage to step out. God, you have called me to lead my family. We have so much to do here on earth. The fields are abundantly white for harvest and you have given us the tools that we need to harvest the crop… Our farm, our work with the church body, Operation Christmas Child, Samaritan's Purse, Wycliffe Associates. Oh my… Lord God, please guide us… guide me as the spiritual leader. Help me to trust in you more daily. May I have a hunger for your word that passes all understanding. God I don't want to be anxious about anything but I want to present all my requests to you that I may have the peace that you are so willing to provide. God, guide me today. Amen.
Bible Study:
In speaking about emotions that defeat us, Billy Graham says that when our lives are "overrun by fear, we can easily become paralyzed. We also fail to trust God when we allow worry and fear to dominate us." This is one of the biggest things for me. Fear and doubt. Why?
Proverbs 22:3 "A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it." Have I done my part? If so, am I willing to allow God to protect and guide me?
Dangers can come from things seen and things unseen. 1 Peter 5:8 says to "be self-controlled and alert, you enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
When fear and worry are present, God's peace is absent. I must learn to trust God's promises. They are throughout the Bible. What do I fear the most? Believe it or not, I think I fear the lack of God's provision. How stupid of me. God has always come through, yet I fear … hmm, I fear that I will make a decision that is outside of His will that He will not provide for and I will jeopardize our finances.
Another area is direction in Kay's and my life. I am the spiritual leader yet I feel so inadequate.
Billy Graham speaks of Psalm 118:6 "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" I don't fear man but instead it looks like I fear myself! Can I rephrase this verse to read "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can I do to me"?
Fear and faith work against each other because they are mutually exclusive. Could it be that I cannot live in faith because I've never really had too? Or have I and yet I didn't recognize it as living in faith?
Steps to change:
1. Turn my anxiety and fear over to God
a. Psalm 55:22 "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall."
b. 1 Peter 5:7 "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
2. Stand on God's promises
a. Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.""
b. Psalm 23 "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
c. John 16:33 "I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
3. Pray diligently
a. The end result of inviting God to live THROUGH me is found in Philippians 4:6 - 7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Prayer:
Dear God in heaven, creator of the heavens and the earth. King of kings and Lord of lords, you know everything and you know my heart, God. I love you so and want to be the absolute best servant that I can be for you. Yet, doubt in myself is holding me back from living in faith. I am grasping on to what is tangible and not reaching out to you like I should. If Peter did the same, he would have never taken a step outside of the boat.
God, my Father, give me the faith of Peter. Give me the courage to step out. God, you have called me to lead my family. We have so much to do here on earth. The fields are abundantly white for harvest and you have given us the tools that we need to harvest the crop… Our farm, our work with the church body, Operation Christmas Child, Samaritan's Purse, Wycliffe Associates. Oh my… Lord God, please guide us… guide me as the spiritual leader. Help me to trust in you more daily. May I have a hunger for your word that passes all understanding. God I don't want to be anxious about anything but I want to present all my requests to you that I may have the peace that you are so willing to provide. God, guide me today. Amen.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Sheep
I sit here this morning looking out over our sheep thinking of how David did the same thing 3000 years ago. They depend on us for food, water, and safety. Alone, they are helpless and destined to die prematurely due to starvation, dehydration, disease, or predator. We are also the same in God's eyes. Yet, he does not fence us in but allows us to have free will to come and go from under his protection. It is amazing to watch these guys in this lush pasture reaching through the fence because I guess 'the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence'. Without fences, we as Christ Followers can do the same if we do not have our eyes on our Creator.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Gardening
I was reading Isaiah 5 - 8 this morning. What follows is an excerpt from what was written in my journal.
I pray that these words may encourage you. If they do, please take time to encourage me as we can both grow towards what God is calling us to do by supporting each other.
Blessings...
Bible Study:
God carefully tends us as a farmer lovingly tends his vineyard. He prunes us and cultivates the weeds away from our roots to allow us to grow to our fullest potential. How does my yield look for Him? Am I doing my best?
One of my very favorite verses in the Bible is found in Isaiah 6:8 “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said “Here am I. Send me!”
Wait upon the Lord, put my trust in Him. Isaiah was a great prophet that I can tell was in ‘tune’ with God and what He had to say. How can I emulate that in my life? Wait upon the Lord and put my trust in Him. Clear out anything that is a barrier between me and God. Develop my focus to be on Him as a farmer tends his crop.
This is making me think of our vegetable garden. We have had a hard time cultivating an abundant crop of vegetables. The lack of nutrients in the soil (Bible study/Prayer), weeds and pests (Sins of commission as well as sins of omission. Things in my life that certainly are not bad in themselves yet they consume my time and energy thus keeping me away from God’s plan for me to be abundant for Him). How do I change this in the garden. I must start with sterile soil (forgiveness of sins). Before planting my crop I need to test the soil and add the correct nutrients to promote seed germination and growth (consistent study and prayer). As my crop grows and develops, I must be diligent to check for pests everyday (sin). These pests (weeds, insects, whatever) must be removed… one by one if need be. If the crops grow tall, I need to support them with trellises or stakes (supporting those that are actively spreading the Gospel). Harvest comes with thanksgiving to the One that made it all possible (praise/worship).
Our garden this fall will be different. It will not be choked with weeds and pests. We will be diligent on a daily basis. I pray for my life to be likewise.
Prayer:
My precious Father, my Redeemer, you are too glorious to fathom. You see all, you know all, you are everywhere and yet you know my heart, my thoughts and you wish to commune with me. My King, I worship you. I deserve death and you give me life, I am nothing and yet you scoop me into your arms with a love that is beyond comprehension.
Forgive me, Lord for not tending the garden of my life. Help me to start again even today to carefully cultivate, test and plant with loving care. Help me to see the pests and to not ignore but to take action immediately to remove the pests from my garden. I ask all of this that I may produce an abundant crop of souls for your kingdom. Help me to be ever-learning and ever-seeking your direction for my life. Amen.
I pray that these words may encourage you. If they do, please take time to encourage me as we can both grow towards what God is calling us to do by supporting each other.
Blessings...
Friday, June 19, 2009
Time - 24 Hours
Time...
We are all given 24 hours of it each day. How we use this time determines what we will look back on as accomplishments after the day ends.
I wrestle with this because I always doubt myself when it comes to time management. I want to be doing the things that God wants me to do, yet so often I look back and wonder if I have wasted yet another day.
Should I outline my day to be efficient? Should I set one or two priorities each day? Should I just "let it flow"?
'There is a time for everything...' (Ecc 3:1) This verse speaks about time and how precious it is to each of us. This chapter though seems to speak of the key pinnacles of time where big decisions are made. OK, but what about today? It is just a normal day... hey wait, doesn't most EVERYDAY start as just a normal day?
Two passages in the Bible are really speaking to me this morning though as they reference this 'normal' day ahead of me.
The first one is Romans 13:11-12 which says "...understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." I am to be alert to God's guidance and not dragging around half alert. I can plan my day but I need to be aware of the times that God REdirects me during the day. This passage also tells me to pay attention to what is happening in the world today. "Understanding the present time" to me doesn't mean to worry about the politics around the world but I should pay attention as it will help me to prioritize my tasks.
The second passage about time that is Hosea 10:12. "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers righteousness on you." Sow, reap, and break up unplowed ground. In relationships, always be tending the garden as you would your flower garden. Is it full of weeds and pests or beautiful flowers? In my daily walk... my 24 hours, tend my time with care as to make the most of today. I need to take time to aim for the completion of tasks that God has laid on my heart as important to Him. It could be reaching out to another as I am seeking to do in this post. It could be as 'mundane' as mowing the yard or doing the laundry.
How am I doing? How are you doing? Do you have some weeding to do in your plans today? I pray that you do. May we all be alert to the gift of TODAY. God has given us 24 hours. How will you use this precious gift?
We are all given 24 hours of it each day. How we use this time determines what we will look back on as accomplishments after the day ends.
I wrestle with this because I always doubt myself when it comes to time management. I want to be doing the things that God wants me to do, yet so often I look back and wonder if I have wasted yet another day.
Should I outline my day to be efficient? Should I set one or two priorities each day? Should I just "let it flow"?
'There is a time for everything...' (Ecc 3:1) This verse speaks about time and how precious it is to each of us. This chapter though seems to speak of the key pinnacles of time where big decisions are made. OK, but what about today? It is just a normal day... hey wait, doesn't most EVERYDAY start as just a normal day?
Two passages in the Bible are really speaking to me this morning though as they reference this 'normal' day ahead of me.
The first one is Romans 13:11-12 which says "...understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." I am to be alert to God's guidance and not dragging around half alert. I can plan my day but I need to be aware of the times that God REdirects me during the day. This passage also tells me to pay attention to what is happening in the world today. "Understanding the present time" to me doesn't mean to worry about the politics around the world but I should pay attention as it will help me to prioritize my tasks.
The second passage about time that is Hosea 10:12. "Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers righteousness on you." Sow, reap, and break up unplowed ground. In relationships, always be tending the garden as you would your flower garden. Is it full of weeds and pests or beautiful flowers? In my daily walk... my 24 hours, tend my time with care as to make the most of today. I need to take time to aim for the completion of tasks that God has laid on my heart as important to Him. It could be reaching out to another as I am seeking to do in this post. It could be as 'mundane' as mowing the yard or doing the laundry.
How am I doing? How are you doing? Do you have some weeding to do in your plans today? I pray that you do. May we all be alert to the gift of TODAY. God has given us 24 hours. How will you use this precious gift?
Monday, May 25, 2009
Grand Canyon
Kay and I are on our way back from an incredible trip to Arizona and the Grand Canyon. We saw sights that cannot be put into words. We learned about many of the Native American people that have inhabited this area for thousands of years.
I look forward to taking time to study more about this land and its peoples. I look forward coming back and hiking some of the canyon as well as going into the canyon on a mule.
It is a trip that I will cherish always.
I look forward to taking time to study more about this land and its peoples. I look forward coming back and hiking some of the canyon as well as going into the canyon on a mule.
It is a trip that I will cherish always.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Green - The New Religion
Religion (a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects).
I watch each day as the 'green' environmental movement gains steam in the United States and elsewhere and have determined that this is the religion that is gaining steam the fastest.
It is being taught... albeit indoctrinated in our preschools, kindergardens, elementary, middle and high schools. Many pastors are preaching green from the pulpits. We are spending billions in the government and public sectors to be 'green'... while at the same time, billions are starving around the world due to hunger.
Where is our balance? Where is our reasoning? Do we now care more about some microbe that scientists have determined is nearing extinction than humankind?
I care plenty about this beautiful globe that God has placed us on. In Genesis, God tells us that we are to care for the earth and the creatures under our care. I don't see anywhere where we are to elevate their status above mankind.
Pull back and think, please! Sure, we need to do all we can to preserve what God has given us but within reason.
As Earth Day (yep... green) approaches, think about the 6.7 Billion people that are on the earth and how we can help them. God will take care of the rest... yes, he is able.
I watch each day as the 'green' environmental movement gains steam in the United States and elsewhere and have determined that this is the religion that is gaining steam the fastest.
It is being taught... albeit indoctrinated in our preschools, kindergardens, elementary, middle and high schools. Many pastors are preaching green from the pulpits. We are spending billions in the government and public sectors to be 'green'... while at the same time, billions are starving around the world due to hunger.
Where is our balance? Where is our reasoning? Do we now care more about some microbe that scientists have determined is nearing extinction than humankind?
I care plenty about this beautiful globe that God has placed us on. In Genesis, God tells us that we are to care for the earth and the creatures under our care. I don't see anywhere where we are to elevate their status above mankind.
Pull back and think, please! Sure, we need to do all we can to preserve what God has given us but within reason.
As Earth Day (yep... green) approaches, think about the 6.7 Billion people that are on the earth and how we can help them. God will take care of the rest... yes, he is able.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Coyotes
Last night on the farm was somewhat busy and restless as we have our closest encounter with coyotes since we have been here. I didn't hear them but Gustav (our nighttime guard dog) and Kay heard what sounded like plenty of them. I'm used to hearing them yelp in the distance but Kay said they were close and were not only yelping but howling.
Kay woke me as I had already gone to bed and I went out into the pasture at midnight to check on the animals (all of which were fine). I listened for about twenty minutes and then fired off a couple of warning shots with my shotgun to scare them away if they were still around. The rest of the night was filled with light sleeping but it was quiet.
It makes me think about the spiritual battlefield that where we are all presently standing. Just like a sheep in our pasture with coyotes stalking around in the dark; we are sheep in a pasture with satan's demonic forces stalking about.
There is one vital difference though. As Christ Followers, we are protected from the stalking forces by the Holy Spirit. We must be on our guard with the armor of God on our bodies and realize that we are indeed on a battlefield but the battle is not ours to fight, it is God's and he will fight for us. We must just be prepared.
I am so thankful that I have a God that cares enough about me to be my Shepherd and my defender.
Kay woke me as I had already gone to bed and I went out into the pasture at midnight to check on the animals (all of which were fine). I listened for about twenty minutes and then fired off a couple of warning shots with my shotgun to scare them away if they were still around. The rest of the night was filled with light sleeping but it was quiet.
It makes me think about the spiritual battlefield that where we are all presently standing. Just like a sheep in our pasture with coyotes stalking around in the dark; we are sheep in a pasture with satan's demonic forces stalking about.
There is one vital difference though. As Christ Followers, we are protected from the stalking forces by the Holy Spirit. We must be on our guard with the armor of God on our bodies and realize that we are indeed on a battlefield but the battle is not ours to fight, it is God's and he will fight for us. We must just be prepared.
I am so thankful that I have a God that cares enough about me to be my Shepherd and my defender.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
In God We Trust
As I read news of 300 people being laid off from Piper Aircraft in my little town of Vero Beach, Florida, I am reminded of the motto that is on the coins and paper money in the United States of America.
"In God We Trust" is something that our eyes probably glance on every day. Do we REALLY trust God though. Sure, it is easy to say that I trust God during the good times when money is in our bank accounts and we are healthy. But what about when the money is short and there is no job available? Do we continue to trust God in the same way?
The Israelites HAD to trust God for their daily provisions when they were in the desert for forty years, they had no other choice. Can I do the same? Am I called to do the same EVEN when I do have a good job, bills are being paid and my family is healthy and happy? I believe that we are indeed called to trust the same way.
I have to admit that it is difficult though and as we read Exodus, it was hard for the Israelites then also. That does not diminish what I SHOULD be doing. God, help us in our unbelief that you will provide... that you will sustain... that you will provide a way. God, please come to the point of our need.
"In God We Trust" is something that our eyes probably glance on every day. Do we REALLY trust God though. Sure, it is easy to say that I trust God during the good times when money is in our bank accounts and we are healthy. But what about when the money is short and there is no job available? Do we continue to trust God in the same way?
The Israelites HAD to trust God for their daily provisions when they were in the desert for forty years, they had no other choice. Can I do the same? Am I called to do the same EVEN when I do have a good job, bills are being paid and my family is healthy and happy? I believe that we are indeed called to trust the same way.
I have to admit that it is difficult though and as we read Exodus, it was hard for the Israelites then also. That does not diminish what I SHOULD be doing. God, help us in our unbelief that you will provide... that you will sustain... that you will provide a way. God, please come to the point of our need.
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