Please Pass the Bread!

It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4)

I love bread.

Bread and butter, garlic bread, breadsticks, bagels, cheese bread, soft pretzels, banana bread... if bread is attached, this girl is in.

Growing up I heard my share of the famous words used by many parents: "You're not leaving this table until you finish everything on your plate".

That "everything" could include anything from a pile of lima beans, a chicken leg with that jiggly fatty skin attached, brussel sprouts, overcooked squash, gristley beef pieces... all of which I despised as a kid... but oh my, that warm fresh from the oven bread topped with butter that accompanied the meal always trumped everything else as far as I was concerned.

As a parent, I now understand the importance of vegetables and meat, the substance of a meal, and I've taught my children that balance at mealtime over the years.

Ironically though, we Christians need to learn the same lesson when it comes to the substance God's word makes available to us.

First there's the bread...

That warm, feel good comfort that comes from hearing how much we're loved and all that Christ has done for us through the cross.

Obviously no dinner is quite right without fresh warm bread... just as such, it's often the reminders of God's love, peace, faithfulness, and goodness that help get us through the hard times we endure.

Unfortunately, many Christians get full on that bread, and forget that there's more, so much more, on the plate set before us.

Enjoy the bread!

But what about the vegetables? We tell our children that the vegetables they're pushing around on their plate will make them healthy and strong. God's word offers the same for us!

Guidance, instruction, and a foundation of morals are provided. When we abide by these, we become closer to and stronger in our walk with the Lord. When we neglect the veggies of the word, we are neglecting the opportunities to grow in our walk with Him and the blessings He wishes to bestow upon us!

Then there's the meat. Sometimes it's tender and easy to chew, other times it's tough and hard to swallow... but it, too, is on our plate to consume.

God's word has its share of meat. There are many topics beyond the "love thy neighbor" and "do unto others" that are either put under fire again and again between fellow Christians, or just out on the back burner altogether, as though they're not clearly written in God's word at all. Just because it's harder to chew doesn't mean we should just spit it out and forget it's there.

Every. Single. Word. written between the covers of the Bible is there for a reason. The purpose? We can't LIVE without it! Sure, it may seem easier to neglect the touchy subjects so we don't ruffle any feathers, but that certainly doesn't lead to the healthy full life of strength, boldness, faithfulness, and endurance that the Lord intends for us to live.

"EVERY word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" does not mean:

...just the parts that make you feel warm and cozy inside.

...just the parts that we feel comfortable saying "amen" to in church.

...just the parts that make us the cool parent.

...just the parts that keep us active with the "in" crowd.

...just the parts that line up with the worldly things we want to participate in that really aren't that bad or even seem justifiable.

...just the parts that make us look like "good" Christians without having to step out of our comfort zones.

...just the parts that will "win" a debate with another believer (or non-believer!).

God's word isn't meant to be broken apart into pieces for our own conveniences. It's the all in one warm and loving feel good scripture, the instruction and guidance that strengthens scripture, and even the hard to chew (and sometimes hard to understand) scripture.

This is where the importance of balance comes in. Just as we need a balanced diet to keep our bodies healthy, we also need a balanced reverence and application of God's word in our lives to keep our spirits healthy.

Reading His word is knowing His word. Knowing His word brings understanding of His word. Understanding of His word then allows a proper application of His word to our lives. If you're not reading it regularly, you're not applying it regularly.

God wants us to know we're loved and sheltered by His peace... WHILE we submit to his guidance and virtues in our daily living and treatment of others... WHILE also standing boldly in the gap when the world tries to slip in the compromise and rebellion to all that He stands for.

Will we prefer the warm soft bread over the veggies and meat? You betcha! Will we have a hard time trying something new? Of course! Will we gag on the things that are difficult for us to swallow? Absolutely. But... just as we grew up from being a child pushing our food around on our plates, we will mature in Christ through the perseverance, and will be further strengthened by Him!

God is the Father, sitting by us at the table, desiring for us to acknowledge everything on our plate. Since we can't live on bread alone... then it's the eternal life we're cheating ourselves out of when the rest is scraped to the side.

The Whatsoevers On Our Minds

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

Our minds never stop working... but what are they working on?

While we may think we are in constant control of our thoughts, there is more going on subconsciously than we realize. Whether it be humming a song stuck in our heads, getting up to get a snack during a commercial because a food ad made you hungry, or getting sleepy when you hear it raining outside. These are simple examples of how our subconscious leads us to do and act on what our minds are hearing, even if all else seems quiet and normal.

How many times have you gotten to work still fuming about the way some guy you don't even know cut you off in traffic? Or perhaps you got into it with one of your children and caught yourself snapping at your spouse for no reason. Although you continued on with your day, your mind was still churning thoughts on morning traffic or a dispute with your kids. You have allowed that one moment to consume your day. You weren't controlling your thoughts, you were just reacting to them.

Knowing this, we have to learn to be aware of our thoughts, our minds can be our worst enemy otherwise.

If you were to go swimming out in the ocean, you're controlling your position against the current with your arm and leg movements. When you wear out, you may allow yourself to float. If you get too relaxed floating, you may look up and realized how far the current has taken you and how far away you've floated from the shore. Just because you stopped swimming, doesn't mean the current stopped... it's still moving you while you've been at rest.

Our spiritual walk isn't any different. There's no such thing as a stationary Christian. If you're not working to move toward Christ, you're floating away from Him. The currents in life will sweep you away if your not constantly aware of your thoughts and surroundings. It must be a constant process, consciously and subconsciously. We have to train ourselves to be continuously aware of and in control of our thoughts.

In Philippians chapter 4, Paul reminds us that the "whatsoevers" our minds dwell on should be true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good nature. One's natural way of thinking would be to focus on the negative in a situation... how much we despise our job, a family feud that may have surfaced, the daunting housework before us, the traffic we're sitting in, the bills stacking up on our desk, and so on. Are we just allowing ourselves to get swept up in the current of things, forcing ourselves through the day so we can call it over and hope to start fresh the next day... only to find ourselves further from the shore and stuck in the same current?

We have to choose how we react and respond to things going on around us. We can dwell on our inabilities, challenges, and life drama... or we can focus on our strengths, opportunities, and God's provision in our lives. This goes the same for how we respond to people. Are we allowing ourselves to focus so hard on their weaknesses and mistakes, or are we uplifting them in their accomplishments and strengths?

Spend a day or two noting down your thoughts. Summarize the amount of time spent thinking about the challenges in your life verses the opportunities. How about the amount of time dissecting the mistakes of others in your life verses the accomplishments and good things. My estimate is that the negative will far outweigh the positive. This is natural thought!

With natural thought we push people away from us, form a critical spirit towards others, tie God's hands in doing a work through us, and lead a very poor example for the body of Christ. It's a thought process that lacks the love of the Lord that the Holy Spirit yearns to develop within us! This natural thought allows the current to pull us away from Christ.

However, when we take control over our thoughts and allow ourselves to be led by the spirit, we receive a peace over conflicting situations, we develop a teachable spirit for the Lord to guide, we build wisdom for circumstances, and an example of Christ's love is consistently visible in us. Controlled thoughts keep us focused on the Lord, allowing us draw closer to Him.

It's okay to be aware of weaknesses... but only so we know what areas to strengthen. Life is full of surprises, drama, and unexpected situations, but when we keep our thoughts in check, we have the say on whether or not the automatic nature of negativity will be allowed to consume our minds.

What are the whatsoevers you're concentrating on? Are you at peace over a scenario, or churning a bad conversation in your head over and over? When you're on a break are you laughing at a dumb joke you were told earlier, or refreshing your mind with a scripture that will strengthen you for the remainder of the day? Are you building others up in your conversations, or tearing them down with reminders of their mistakes? Is a lack of sleep the night before giving you an excuse to be snappy and rude, or are you pushing through with a smile despite the weariness so the best can still be made of your day?

We all need improvements in our thinking... so make the whatsoevers that your mind dwells on bring glory to God and positivity to your day, regardless of your surrounding circumstances! Remember, garbage in, creates garbage out... but goodness and Godliness in, reveals the same in return!

Building a True Legacy

If your life ended today, how would you be remembered by those who know you?

Close family and friends may have a few nice things to say about you, but have you built a legacy to be remembered and cherished... something for others to grow and continue to build on?

Worldly legacy building is all about achieving bigger and better, leaving behind inheritances, trust funds, and materialistic goods. The tangible. Once the money is gone and the stuff is worn out, what's left that you will be remembered by?

If you look closely (and honestly) at the desires of your heart, it may reveal a bit about how you will be remembered and whether or not it's an example that would be pleasing to the Lord for others. If the desires of your heart look selfish and are more about yourself than others, your legacy may not be so great either.

What we stand for and represent through our lives and relationships can (and will) speak volumes about our relationship with the Lord. Our legacy should speak "faithful servant", revealing the fruits of the spirit... not a selfish drone that has a hand out, but nothing to give.

Do your coworkers know you are a respectable and honorable person that refuses to alter from your beliefs, regardless of how juicy the gossip is at the water cooler? Does your spouse know without a shadow of a doubt that you are faithful and true to every vow spoken on your wedding day, or do lustful eyes wander and friends hear about every mistake he or she makes? Do your children know that you are a praying, encouraging, responsible, planning, loving, teaching parent that seeks the Lord for guidance in raising them, or do you take each day on a whim and just hope they turn out okay with the casual effort you've put in? Do your friends truly trust in you because of your honesty and integrity, or are you just a convenient hang out person with the latest news? Do acquaintances and even strangers see you from afar as cold, distant, and stingy, or are you loving, hard working, and giving without a selfish motive?

Obviously there will be some in our lives that know us better than others, but as a whole, how we are known now is our opportunity to set an example for the love we are given through Christ. Newsflash... It's never too late to start over or build on what we're already doing! It doesn't have to involve shoving a preaching finger in someone's face. Rather, through your words, actions, and daily life, you can be a positive example, building a legacy that gives God glory for what He has revealed of Himself through you.

With your Spouse:
Pray with and for your spouse. Listen more than you speak. Support openly. Encourage often. Edify, uplift, and honor through your words and actions. Communicate. Be honest. Be as sensitive to minor needs as you are to major needs. Keep private and sacred what should be private and sacred. Show I love you as often as you speak it. Give affection and hold hands. Little gestures make large strides in a marriage. Be the wife or husband (in all aspects) that you want your child to marry.

With your Children (while they're young):
Pray with and for your children. Teach them the ways of the Lord before someone else teaches them the ways of the world. Practice what you preach. Speak and show I love you often. Use scripture whenever possible to plant seeds in their lives. Teach through positivity, encouragement and uplifting rather than negativity, shouting and ridicule. Spend time with them often. Do it with them, not for them. Make them a part of your agenda rather than looking at them as an inconvenience for your agenda. Learn together. Play together.

With your Children (when they've grown):
Continue to pray for them. Be involved with their children. Stand your moral ground with them when the world tries to lead them astray. Show love and offer guidance through example, but allow the Lord to do the intervening. Forgiveness, even if not requested, is a must as God does His own building in their lives.

With Co-Workers:
Let your light shine! Smile. Encourage. Walk away from gossip. Positive words make a week more enjoyable where begrudging Mondays and wishing for Fridays used to exist. Uplifting good qualities gives drive to improve lacking ones. Forgiving errors and initiating success builds moral. Positivity drives away negativity.

With your Friends:
Standing firm in your morals without compromise builds honor and respect. Encourage their strengths and pray for their weaknesses. Be honest, but with love. Remind them of your appreciation for them. Pray for and encourage their children, as it could be watering a seed already planted.

With Acquaintances and Strangers:
Let your light shine! They don't know your burdens, so don't let your burdens be your first impression. Smile often. Reach out. Say God bless you. Offer assistance following the example of the Good Samaritan. Keep your speech positive, you never know who's listening.


A legacy is anything passed along, from one person to another. We are each a living example that someone will carry with them. Let's make sure what we're passing along reflects a true devotion to all Christ represents.

Genuine Happiness

Have you ever heard the saying "money can't buy happiness"? Perhaps you have said, or even overheard someone else say, "If only I (fill in the blank), then I could die a happy person".

I'm a happy person!

Things don't always go my way; obstacles come up; there are schedules to work around that can sometimes be frustrating; children present challenges; traffic piles up when I'm most in a hurry; the sink stops up...... but I'm HAPPY.

Many people will unsuccessfully spend their entire lives attempting to find happiness. Sadly, these attempts are so far from THE way to find happiness, that the lifetime flies by, and so much time is wasted on materialistic items, void relationships, and much heartache along the way. It's important to understand the difference between a happy moment, and genuine happiness.

Did you have an unusually good week at work while the norm consists of simple putting up and avoiding co-workers? Did you fit in a date night with your spouse? Did you find a great sale and finally get the shoes you've been eyeballing for months? Did you take a trip to Disneyland? Did the children bring home a decent report card? Did you enjoy a phone call catching up with a friend that you haven't heard from in ages?

Those are happy moments.

Are you aware that you have the ability to live a life of genuine happiness without giving up happy moments that may come day by day? I say ability, because it's a choice. It's a lifestyle. It's a trust in the One and only One that is the source for genuine happiness.

Psalm 119:35 says:
Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.

In my thesaurus, the first available word for delight is happiness. Keeping the Lord's commandments can bring us a happiness like no other. Embracing that happiness will bring you an inner joy that no shoe sale, ride in a fast car, promotion, or amusement park will touch. A genuine happiness overlooks an everyday life circumstance that could otherwise cause frustration, and instead brings forth a smile, keeps a joyful song on your lips, and pleasure in serving others.

The lifestyle change of following those commandments is a struggle, whether you're just recently born again, or have been saved for the last forty years.

1. Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Anything that comes before God in your life (your spouse, children, career, home, possessions, hobbies, etc) is being made a god in your life. If God isn't being put first, you've made that other person or thing the center of your life... the god you are living to serve.

2. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.
Is there an actor, singer, or even a neighbor you admire and wish to be like? Be careful you're not making that person your idol, when Jesus has set the example for anything and everything we could aspire to be. Just remember, a "graven image" (idol) doesn't necessarily mean a statue carved of stone, it's anything that impresses you deeply enough to follow it.

3. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
Keeping it put simply, if you're saying "oh my God", I surely hope you're in the middle of a prayer. According to the dictionary, when something is taken in vain,
it is done "without real significance, value, or importance, it is baseless or worthless". None of that describes God, especially the obvious no-no of giving God a last name. Use His name in utmost reverence.

4. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
We run our minds like crazy through the week attacking agendas, to-do lists, errands, meetings, and working to ensure our wants are covered. It's certainly not too much to ask to give a day to the Lord, honoring His day of rest. When something is kept "holy", it is recognized as sacred, and dedicated to the service of God.

5. Honour thy father and thy mother.
For some this is easy, because their parents were a genuine role model while growing up. For others, this may be harder... but we are to honour (respect, regard, and serve) our parents. There is a reason God chose them to be your parents, so it should be a privilege to serve them, regardless of past or present circumstances.

6. Thou shalt not kill.
Skipping past the obvious interpretation of this command not to blow away your neighbor with a shotgun, keep in mind there are other ways to kill than with a man-made weapon. There is more power in your words than there is gunpowder in a single shot. If your words to another person aren't uplifting, encouraging, and motivating them to be a stronger and better person... than your words are killing them in spirit. Many of us were taught this at a young age with the phrase "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all". The command and the phrase coincide greatly.

7. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Although divorce is running rapid in society, there are still many married couples that will go to their grave without cheating on their spouse by having sex with someone else during marriage. With that in mind, also remember that Matthew 5:28 tells us that "whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart". Make no mistake that this goes for ogling the big names in Hollywood just as much as it applies to your next door neighbor or co-worker. Keep your heart and mind pure!

8. Thou shalt not steal.
If you want something, find a way to pay for it or ask God to provide... don't take something that isn't rightfully yours. This includes time. Make sure God gets His share of your day, as well as His 10% of your pay.

9. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
If you don't know the facts, keep your mouth shut. Running your mouth, gossiping, and being a drama queen not only hurts those around you, but it's displeasing to the Lord.

10. Thou shalt not covet.
God made you a special, unique, and precious individual. Just because you don't have a trust fund, the hottest wife, the biggest house, or the best behaved children, doesn't mean it's ok to look longingly at the neighbor that does. Embrace the life you are in, because God has a purpose for you being right where you are, at this very moment.

Psalm 119, as I referenced to for happiness at the beginning, wasn't just stating that following these commandments was the source of happiness, but it guides us on how to obtain it! We're shown that we can ask the Lord to teach us His ways (Psalm 119:33), give understanding to make it possible to follow His ways (Psalm 119:34), to open our hearts to so we can accept His ways (Psalm 119:36), and to turn our eyes away from the things that will distract us from His ways (Psalm 119:37).

I'm not perfect, God still has a lot of work to do in me. However, the more I strive to keep His commandments, the lighter the spring in my step becomes, the louder the song in my heart sings, and greater the joy that comes my way in doing things with and for others. I encourage you to embrace His commands. Be a set apart Christian that is a doer of the Word, not just a hearer that still lacks the genuine happiness God has in store for you!

It's Time to Get Serious Folks

To many proclaiming Christians, getting into heaven seems as easy and thoughtless as making a quick stop at the store for a gallon of milk.

In fact, I would say many put more thought into what they're going to wear for the day, than they do on The One who woke them up that morning.

Romans 13:14 tells us to "put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ". If you spent hours each morning getting ready, it's all useless and in vain if you haven't put on and wrapped yourself up in the traits of Christ. When you "put on Christ", you're being mindful of the way He lived, the lessons He taught, and the life He sacrificed. You're opening your day to be an example of what He represented and gave His life for.

Consider this scenario:

Jesus wakes up in the morning, says a prayer to the Father in heaven, asking Him to bless His day. He grabs some breakfast, and heads to work as a carpenter. Once He gets to work, he sees John Doe working on a project out of earshot. He leans over to a friend working nearby to fill him in on what he saw John Doe doing the night before. He talks about how hot the woman at the well was. After His boss walks by to check on work progress, Jesus exclaims what a jerk he is and how much he'd like to slap the attitude right out of him. After lunch he's running late getting back to work, and he flips a bird at the guy causing traffic on the path, delaying him even more. Finally making it back to work, He's getting tired and irritated, wishing it were Friday, so he snaps at everyone that speaks to him for the rest of the day. On the way home after work he stops at a nearby pub to have a few drinks with some guys from work to trash talk the boss a bit more. When He gets home for the night, he sits alone, frustrated, trying to figure out why His life is so hard sometimes. Before going to bed for the night, He prays, asking God to make tomorrow a better day.

I don't know about you, but I am most certain this is NOT how a typical day in the life of Jesus went!! So, why is it so many "Christians" think that their typical day can be carried in such a way, yet wonder why their life isn't joy-filled, prosperous, stress free, financially secure, and with blessings overflowing with favor from their Father in heaven??

Look friends, if you want to claim the peace and blessings that come with being a child of God, then it's time to start living like a child of God. Gossip in the work place or at school, negativity and the sharing of unGodly things on social media, belittling your spouse, being two-faced and harsh to friends and/or co-workers, putting yourself before others... none of these are the traits of Christ.

Jesus will be coming back to claim a pure and holy people... not those who claim it and say an occasional "thank you Lord", yet live a life based on their own fleshly desires and fly by night thinking. I'm not pointing fingers, I am well aware of "he that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone" (John 8:7). However, having put on Christ, I am given the boldness to shush the nonsense and filth spoken in my presence. I am able to share compassion with others that He has shown to me. I am given the chance to be an example rather than one that ridicules out of frustration or hate. I have the opportunity to love those who are least lovable.

Spend some time reviewing your last week. How much of your time was spent belittling, criticizing, complaining, lusting, being lazy, and thinking of yourself? Now compare that to how much time was spent showing compassion, forgiving, encouraging, saying I love you, uplifting those around you, putting others before self. After comparing the two, is it time to set some goals and pray for strength for making changes?

Only you can decide to follow through with those changes and make it happen! Put on Christ each morning and realize that being a Christian is being Christ-like. It's not just slapping a title on yourself with an accompanying free pass into heaven, despite how you live your life.

I urge you to take this seriously...
Your time here is precious, don't waste another minute of it!

The Personal Pity Party - Do Not RSVP!

Today it happened. I showed up to the biggest pity party I've seen in quite some time.

There weren't any balloons, streamers, snacks, or gifts at this party, but boy was I completely wrapped up in it anyway.

Pity parties are pathetic, and yet, there I was full-fledge, right in the middle of one... two of my children even took witness to some of it this afternoon. My 100% concentration was on everything I was either in the middle of doing or [thought I] needed to do before the sun set on my day.

Endless issues with the washer repairman. Hand washing certain items needed until my washer is back in order. Getting paperwork figured out for the building inspector. Following up with the bank over issues that are holding us up with progress on the house. Cleaning up actual messes made during progress that has been made on the house. Sorting and getting rid of an attic full of stuff that's in the way. Chickens sneaking on my porch pooping everywhere. Getting my son to concentrate on his math, science, and English homework. Permission slips needing signed. Picking up wind-blown items from all over the yard. Filing paperwork so it doesn't come up missing when I need it most. Phone calls. Dishes. Sweeping. Mopping. Dusting. Garbage overflowing. Scrub the toilets. Unclog the bathroom sink. Feed the dogs. Oh, did I mention I forgot to lay something out for dinner in the midst of all of the above... and I still haven't had my stinkin' shower yet?!

I fled upstairs to "take a breather away from it all", and yet the party followed right along, and I sat in a chair basking in it... tears and all.

I can't do it all, my plate is too full, I'm exhausted, my back hurts, my head is pounding, there's only one of me, why can't anything go right just once, I need 24 more hours in my 24 hour day, why me??

See, it was pathetic.

But then I felt a little tap on my shoulder. Not a physical tap, but more like one of those that very well could have been a great big slap in the face, but since it was done with such love it came across as a little tap just enough to get my attention. I picked up my bible and opened it up. I don't believe in coincidences, so I'm quite positive the Lord intended for it to open up to Hebrews chapter 12.

It started with this...
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(Hebrews 12:1-2)

Wouldn't you know it... I had allowed myself to get so flustered with all the "stuff" going on around me today, that I completely missed out on what the purpose of my day could have been all about. I wasted my energy and time, lashed out at my kids, and allowed it to be about me-me-me when that's not at all what my day should have been about.

Yes, I had stuff to do... but these are responsibilities that I have been given because the Lord knows I can handle it, especially with His help of peace and assurance. I allowed the enemy to take these responsibilities entrusted to me as a wife and mother, and turn them into a way to entangle me, hindering what could have been a wonderful day!

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 2:3-5)

Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.
(Philippians 2:14-15)

I wasn't having the heart of a servant, or focusing on the attitude I was reflecting. Hebrews 12:15 says Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled... meaning that it was my choice today to decide whether or not to allow a bitter root to grow up and devour me and those around me. Pity parties feed those bitter roots.

So, if you're having a similar day, or perhaps just get easily caught up in pity parties, let's determine how to avoid these moments shall we?

Think about the good, not the bad! Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things (Philippians 4:8).

Have an attitude adjustment! Pity parties are so damaging to our day. Within minutes they can turn what could have been a great day that ended with a smile, into a hair pulling, stress elevating mess... making us look like we walked through a tornado of crazy. Was is worth it? Nope. It didn't make it better, it just wasted time. The issues and "stuff" are all still there to be dealt with. Ask the Lord to open your eyes to those pity party fits before they set in, so they can be stopped in their tracks.

Take a break! It's okay to take a walk, pick up a book (extra Bible reading time!), or just sit and chill with a glass of iced tea! Walk away from what's causing the urge to yank your hair out and collect your thoughts. Decide that the moment or circumstances will not effect your day in a negative manner.

Follow the advice of Hebrews 12:2 that I quoted above... Look to Jesus! Think about all the awful moments He suffered for me and you! How pathetic does our situation truly look when compared to the life He lived here for us?

Write it down. Jot down every single thing that is creeping into your mind trying to snag your day away from you. Every circumstance that the enemy is trying to drag you down through. Then walk away from that piece of paper and attack your day with a shield of faith. It's quite possible you'll come across that note a few days later and have a giggle at how frazzled you almost allowed such petty situations get you.

Perhaps it really is something big going on in your life. Pray for wisdom over the situation(s) and leave it there. Deal with it as the Lord gives you insight on how to handle it... and don't touch it until then.

Bottom line my friends, when you get a personal invitation to a pity party... do not RSVP! Instead, embrace your day and be thankful for who you were made to be and what you are entrusted to accomplish in it.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm not going to take the time for a spell check or grammar review, I have a couple kiddos to apologize to...

Spiritual Pom-Poms

I read a short little story yesterday that I wanted to share and expand on a little bit...

A little second grader, who was already dealing with the struggles that school can sometimes lend, went to school excited to find out what part had been chosen for him by his teacher in the upcoming school play.

He had enthusiastically told his mother that everyone in the class would be chosen for a special part. She was well aware of his inability to read and memorize, figuring that would prevent him from a big part. She worried he may get discouraged if placed on stage as scenery while other children excitedly embraced and rehearsed their parts. Nonetheless, she kept her worried thoughts to herself.

After school she met his beaming face at the door as he raced in to tell his mother about the part chosen for him in the play. "You won't believe it mom!", he began with pure enthusiasm. "Well what part did you get?", she responded with an excited smile. "I've been chosen to cheer!" the boy beamed.


What pride in his chosen part! While I'm sure this isn't the reaction the mother awaited, surely a moment of humbleness overwhelmed her.

Now, how many of us could use an attitude like his more often? Imagine how different one's home life, workplace, or even the churches could become by truly embracing our individual roles with that much joy, enthusiasm, pride, and realization of importance.

The home front would have a peace and serenity among its inhabitants as each family member accepted their biblical role in the home and lived it with joy, humbleness, and appreciation, rather than murmurings and complaints.

The workplace would become an environment to look forward to, setting an example for others to follow with more witnessing possibilities, rather than a dreaded place to suffer as money is earned to pay the bills.

The church! My oh my, what it would be like if the people of the congregation entered into God's house with that little boy's attitude about cheering others on! Instead of whining about our own trials and frustrations, or boasting about our own endeavors and success... to instead be listeners for others, encouraging them and cheering them through their circumstance!

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
(Hebrews 10:24-25)

The word used for exhorting in that verse is parakaleo, which is defined as "to put courage into another, or to cheer on another". The young boy in the story embraced that role... how well are we embracing it with those in our own lives? Is it easier to use our loved ones, friends, fellow church goers, and coworkers as an escape goat for our frustrations and fulfillment of pity parties?

We have all been called for an individual, and very specific purpose according to God's plan (2 Timothy 1:9). However, let us not neglect the sideline role we should automatically assume as a follower of Christ, spreading joy as we cheer on those around us.

It's time we pick up our spiritual pompoms and step into a united role that has been chosen for us all by the Almighty. Leave your personal circumstances at His feet, and jump into your part of cheering others on through this race for the Kingdom!

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
(1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Follow the Leader

In observation, I'm noticing there are a lot of titles when it comes to people claiming to be saved, born again, heaven bound, or however else it can be put. For the most part, those that are claiming Christ as their source of faith, the term "Christian" is pretty wide-spread. Please note, I am aware there is a list of different denominations, but to stick with my point I'm summing it up here as Christianity.

With most social media websites, there is usually some sort of blank to fill in when it comes to "religious views". I'm trying to figure out why these spaces are filled out with "Christian", yet posts to the same profile are giving God a last name, among other things that likely make the Lord weep.

Claiming Christianity used to mean something. But frankly, it's a term now. A title. A word used to throw it out there that hey, I go to church, I own a Bible, I say "Thank you God", I bow my head and say grace over my food when I remember to.

You may sense a frustration in my writing, but quite frankly, if you truly serve the same living God I do... the one who was crucified for our sins before we even existed, buried in a tomb, walked through hell, rose from His grave three days later, and ascended back into Heaven, all for the forgiveness of our selfish iniquities... then it should frustrate you too, that "Christian" has just become another word thrown around.

Bear with me for a moment while I break down this term to clarify a few things that I'll be coming back to...

Christianity   [kris-chee-an-i-tee]
noun
- the state of being a Christian

Christian   [kris-chuhn]
adjective
- of, pertaining to, or derived from Jesus Christ and His teachings; a faith.
- exhibiting a spirit proper to a follower of Jesus Christ; Christlike

Christlike   [krahyst-lahyk]
adjective
- like Christ; showing the spirit of Christ.

Believe   [bih-leev]
verb
- to have confidence in the truth, the existence, or the reliability of something, although without absolute proof that one is right in doing so

Follow   [fol-oh]
verb
- to go or come after; move behind in the same direction
- to accept as a guide or leader; accept the authority of or give allegiance to
- to conform to, comply with, or act in accordance with; obey
- to follow orders; to follow advice
- to imitate or copy; use as an exemplar

Now, I'm well aware of sin. I know we all have, we all do, and we all will sin again. But how many claiming this term on Sunday mornings or even on a Facebook profile "religious view", are truly striving to live up to its basic dictionary definition? Christian... follower of Christ... deriving from His teachings... showing the spirit of Christ...

A follower of Christ should be one who is compelled and in an intense pursuit of the God's will throughout ALL they do. Not just when it's convenient, fits the schedule or event, and seems like the thing to do because of present company. Failing at the attempt will happen... I'll be the first to admit I fall short... but the constant pursuit must remain.

Notice the difference between the definitions for "believe" and "follow". So which definition most accurately describes your "religious views"? Do you believe in Christ, or do you follow Him? Believing is a one time thought... just like some used to believe in Santa, the tooth fairy, and the Easter bunny... a belief can come and go.

Ah, but when you allow yourself to trust, when the YOU is humbled down before the Almighty, when you set out on a journey to put your feet into the footsteps led before you... that my friends, is a follower.

Just as basic definition a follower obeys, and conforms to whatever it is being followed. So as a Christian, one who is claiming to follow Christ, shouldn't our actions, words, and habits attempt to conform to the footsteps we're following? There should be obedience to ALL God's Word has laid out for us.

If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
(John 14:23)

Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.
(Mark 8:34-35)

So there are only two choices, just as there are only two sides to a fence... we're either followers of Christ (Christians), or we're not.

He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
(Matthew 12:30)

It's so easy to say "I believe"... but to say "I will follow" is a life long commitment of the heart. If Christ were standing before you looking you eye to eye, asking you, a believer, if you would follow. How would you answer? He did that with some, and He got the "I will, but..." response:

And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
(Luke 9:59-62)

The "buts" didn't follow Him. Would you have given the "but Lord" excuses? A faithful follower doesn't look at how hard the path is. Regardless of storm or sunshine, the steps are sought out. The end reward is so much sweeter with an eternity of life everlasting to look forward to.

Will you follow the Leader to eternity? All we have to do is follow the path He led.

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
(Matthew 6:24)

Cheese and Crackers

In a devotion this morning I read a short story about a man who struggled and penny-pinched to saved his money, until he was finally able to travel on a beautiful cruise ship as he had dreamed for so many years. It was all he could do just to scrape together enough to buy his ticket.

Figuring he was lucky enough for the cruise ticket itself, and wouldn't have enough money to buy the meals in the ship's fine dining room, he decided to take along some cheese and crackers for food.

For several days during mealtime he sat in his cabin eating his cheese and crackers, as the stewards passed by with carts full of fresh lobster, warm baked bread, juicy prime rib, decedent desserts, fresh fruits and vegetables.

He just couldn't stand it any longer. He reached out, grabbing one of the stewards and begged for a plate of food. "Please, help me. I'll go to work, I'll scrub the deck. I'll do anything to get something to eat. My cheese and crackers are turning stale, and I'm starving to death."

"But, sir," the steward replied, "don't you know? Your food comes with your ticket for the duration of the cruise!"

Oh my! How many Christians live out their lives the way this man did on his dream cruise. They settle for being "cheese and crackers" believers, living off the basic rations available, when they could be dining on the steak and potatoes! By allowing the Holy Spirit to open their eyes to everything life could have in store for them, they could be enjoying the savory fruits of the Spirit... love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23).

Why choose a life of spiritual poverty allowing ourselves to get stale? I have had my share of being a "cheese and crackers" Christian. I allowed myself to settle for the bare bones of salvation. At times I convinced myself that's all there was for me, so it became all I really expected. I was okay with what the world thought being a Christian was. Thankfully though, my spiritual hunger got the best of me, stirred up my senses, and I surrendered my life to Christ as He intended!

Trust me friends, nothing can satisfy like Him, certainly not the cheese and crackers we too often settle for. Feast on the abundant life Christ provided for you!

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
(John 10:10)

Living What We Learn

Picture this scenario for a moment:

The owner of a company that employs a few hundred workers was preparing himself for an extended business trip out of town. Before he left, he sat down and wrote a lengthy letter of guidance and instruction, including detailed projects he wanted accomplished while we was away, clients he wanted contacted, and tasks he expected his all his employees to do while he was away. He finished his letter and put copies of the letter in each employees inbox to ensure they all had a copy to be read.

Satisfied that all loose ends were tied so they could be successful while he was away, he headed to the airport, and boarded his plane.

Several months later, he returned. Upon his arrival he immediately noticed the grounds hadn't been maintained. The grass had obviously not been cut in weeks, the lawn was littered with trash and debris, the shrubs and trees needed trimming, and the doors were marked with hand-prints and scuffs.

He parked his car and hurried inside. Employees were lounging in their chairs, drinking coffee and talking, feet propped on desks, and most weren't even dressed in appropriate office attire. A ping-pong table had been set up, and an array of video games littered the flat surfaces. His arrival went completely unnoticed.

Angry, he called a meeting of the entire management staff. When they all had gathered, he began his tirade.

"I can't believe what I'm seeing! Everything is completely different from what I expected it would be. What has been going here? Didn't you get my letter of guidance and instruction?"

Their faces brightened, and someone replied, "Yes sir, we did. We love that letter. We read it almost every day."

"In fact," said one man, "I've even memorized several paragraphs from your letter."

"It's terrific reading," others chimed in.

Another spoke up saying, "Sir, we've organized some study groups. We gather at least once a week and re-read portions of your letter to make sure we understand it all, and even debate on what we do and don't agree on. That's usually when we take a break, before things get heated. We've figured out if we don't discuss it much then there won't be any arguments here in the office."

Dumbfounded, he asked his employees, "But did you finish the projects? Did you call the clients? Did you do the things I asked you to do?" At that, everyone looked down. One man finally spoke on behalf of the group, saying, "No sir... you see, we're still studying your letter."



You see my friends, our problem isn't whether or not we fail to understand certain biblical truths or concepts. Our problem is actually living out the truths and concepts that we do understand. Each and every one of us have all been trusted with a letter from God. A letter from the boss Himself, our King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Are you content to simply read the letter He left for you? Perhaps study it, maybe memorizing pieces of it here and there so you know all the right quotes and things to say when questioned?

When are you going to put it into practice?

It's one thing for Christians to say, "We believe the Bible!" However, it's quite another to behave as though we believe. Not just the part of His Word that we decide to make time for, not simply the parts that are convenient or easy to accomplish, and not just portions that already line up with how we feel or what we've been programmed to think all our lives...

Rather, all that we know and have learned through our own reading and studies should be applied. You see, once we know what the scriptures say, we are accountable for applying those instructions and teachings!

Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
(James 4:17)

You see, failing to do what God wants us to do is just as much a sin just as doing what God has told us not to do.

Daily reading, doing bible studies, and memorization of God's Word, are all wonderful ways to grow closer to the Father and build up our relationship with Him... and we should be seeking out more of what the Word of God has for us! However, the goal of reading and bible study is not simply to determine what it says and what it means, but to apply what we read and study. It's not just there for information, it's there for transformation! His word should be boiling over into our hearts, not just stacked up in our heads.

All scripture is inspired by God, useful for teaching, reproof, correction, training.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Teaching shows us what is right. Just like a compass, the Bible always points us in the right direction.

And the Lord shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the Lord thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them.
(Deuteronomy 28:13)

Reproof shows us when and where we are wrong. When we look into God's Word, we can see ourselves more clearly, and where changes need to be made when we're truly honest with ourselves.

For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
(James 1:23-25)

Correction shows us how to make things right and get on track so we're making a difference for God's kingdom, and being more of a Christ-like example for others to follow. Just as we correct our own children when they lie, throw tantrums, or slack in studies, scriptures correct us in the faults we make daily.

Training in righteousness develops discipline to live right, even when it's not easy to do. This training comes through practice. Putting God's Word into place within our lives. We're not perfect, we will make mistakes, that's why it's called practice. But as the saying goes, practice makes perfect.

Application then begins to take place as we are confronted with the truth we read/hear/study, and we respond to that truth with faithful obedience. If we don't apply the scriptures we read, study, and memorize, we're only cutting short the entire process, and haven't finished what God wants us to do!

Let's make our beliefs and our behaviors one and the same, all for the glory of God. Then may we find rest in knowing there will be no shame when He unexpectedly returns!

Living With Purpose

How many times have you pondered on your reason for living? What you should be doing with your life, who you have in your life, what job to take, and which decision is best on the road you're on... all these are questions many people spend so much time deliberating on.

We each have a purpose. One single specific purpose. But what priority does that one purpose have in our life? No, it's not the job we work so hard through college to obtain. It's not the choices we make in rearing our children. It has nothing to do with the neighborhood we pick to live in to establish our social status within a community. Our specific purpose is our high calling... our individual assignment to build God's Kingdom here on earth.

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 3:14)

Paul knew his calling. He knew his purpose. Not only did he press toward it, but achieving that purpose was his ultimate blessing... it, in itself, was his PRIZE. It wasn't about the blessings he received in return for being obedient to his calling, instead he found honor in being chosen for the purpose God had for him, and he worked specifically to fulfill that position.

Are you a greeter at your church because it allows you to catch up on what everyone is doing as you greet them as though it's just a social function, or because God has you in a place to reach out and make others in your life feel welcomed despite their circumstance? Are you collecting canned food out of your pantry because there's a local food drive and you don't want to be the only heel in the community that forgot to contribute, or has God given you a passion for those in need? Are you tending the nursery during service because your name appears in the bulletin for helping out, or because there's a young mother in the congregation that needs spiritually fed during the sermon and cannot be with a crying toddler by her side in the pew? Are you writing a blog for the comments and website traffic it's bringing you, or because you know God has someone out there, somewhere, that needs to hear exactly what you're typing for them to read?

There are MANY purposes, those above don't even touch the surface and may just be something extra you do just because you want to do more for God in addition to the sole purpose He has you here for... but there is one specific purpose set aside just for you. The object is to discover which one was designed with your name on it. If we live our lives like Paul did, and press toward the prize, which is, in itself, our calling... our lives can then be lived abundantly. We will no longer be going through the motions of life, but living it the way we were designed to!

We are not here on earth to get the best possible job, obtain the house that everyone else we know envies, have the nicest wardrobe, or brag on the stuff we've collected. We're here to deliver God's word and establish ourselves for Him... not self. It's when we forget about our circumstances and concentrate on our Kingdom Assignment that we have begun to fully live. Many are still seeking God for His purpose in their lives. We each have, and should be embracing, a relationship assignment, a prophetic assignment, and a Kingdom assignment.

Your relationship assignment is your daily, weekly, and yearly role of drawing closer to God your Father, Jesus your Lord, and the Holy Spirit your friend. Your prophetic assignment is allowing God to touch your mouth so that through your voice His will can be manifested in the earth. Unless you declare, proclaim, and prophesy, what’s in heaven will remain in heaven, and what hell has loosed in the earth and in the lives of people will stay loosed. Your Kingdom assignment is your active part in the advancement of God's Kingdom right here on the earth while we are here on it.

The part God has called you to play was determined before you were born, just as your eyes were determined by God to be the organs that were chosen to see. Life is to be lived in the hot pursuit of that assignment. The Holy Spirit knows your assignment, and praying in the Spirit stirs your assignment. When you lose sight of your assignment, your spiritual life WILL slide.

Your assignment can be found in His presence, not from the conveniences of your circumstances. You are either advancing towards the fulfillment of your assignment or you are sliding back into your circumstances. When your Kingdom assignment becomes subject to your circumstances, your circumstances are strengthened and the Kingdom of God is weakened. When you make your circumstances subject to your Kingdom assignment there will be breakthrough and the Kingdom is propelled forward. Your assignment has a bulls eye on it that can be seen by the enemy. He may not know what it is, but he is more committed to you not knowing than you are to knowing.

There are six general questions you can ask yourself to help determine your calling... or "Kingdom Assignment". The answers to these six questions are clues to aid you in figuring out what your Kingdom Assignment is, based on how God has designed YOU, as an individual. Ultimately the Holy Spirit is our guide in confirming our assignment within our heart, but these six questions can assist in getting us started on the quest. When the desire to discover your purpose is in place, these can help you see exactly who God has created you to be for HIS purpose!

1) Who or what touches your heart, unlocking a compassion that overwhelms you beyond all else?
This will be something that moves you like nothing else. It stirs you up, motivates you, and melts your heart. Some people have a passion for children, the elderly, the homeless, the incarcerated, the disabled, the lost, the abandoned... the list is endless and these only name a few, and every heart is, and will be different. So what stirs your heart may not stir mine. This doesn't mean I lack compassion, it just means God designed you to reach out within an area different from what He designed me for.

2) What do you hate?
Often times, if you hate it, then it’s likely that whatever touches your heart is the opposite! Yes, hate is a strong word... but we all hate something! Do you hate clutter? Than you more than likely have a very organized home. Do you hate peas? Then you probably don't cook them very often for dinner. When you hate something, your instincts direct you to do something about it to change it. If you hate it, what are you doing to change it? And if it isn't motivating you enough to make a change, then maybe the hatred of it isn't installing a burning desire deep enough for it to be something you're meant to help change.

3) What do you see as the biggest problem within the church (as a whole)?
I'm not asking you to sit around and pick apart the church you specifically attend. I'm speaking about the church, the body of Christ, in general. It’s likely the ministry you see as lacking, as the very one that is relevant to what you hate, or what touches your heart. Should there be a larger emphasis on seniors, for children, for funding buildings, for the prison ministry, for mission trips, for keeping the church clean, stocking the food pantry, home visits, tent revivals... what YOU see as a general problem in the church and what it should be doing more of could very well be the area that the Lord is telling you to make a difference in! We can't all work with kids, we don't all feel led to witness within prison walls, we don't all have the personality it takes to run fund raisers for a building fund, and we're not all neat and organized being able to polish and dust every corner of the church... but there ARE people out there with those capabilities... and guess what... they ALL make up the body of Christ!

4) At the fullest potential of the church, what does that church look like to you?
What you see the most of in that vision is likely to be something relevant to your calling. Are there more people getting saved? Is the church bigger? Are there more mission trips going on? Are there community outreaches? Is it filled with more youth? Are there more couples attending? Perhaps senior citizens or homeless people are being bused in to attend. When YOU close YOUR eyes, what "improvements" are made when YOU step back and see the church doing more for the Lord?

5) What has God always blessed in your life?
If there is a certain something you find yourself doing when finding favor with the Lord, do more of it!! He’s blessing it because it pleases Him! When things stop going smoothly for you in your walk with God and in your life in general... it's time to evaluate what you changed in your life. If you feel closer to God while doing something specific, doesn't it make sense to surround yourself in those actions?

6) If you could not fail, what would you want to do to build the Kingdom?
With no lack of funds, without pressure for time, if you had all the volunteers in the world to lend a hand, and no limit on space, if there was no possible chance of failure whatsoever, no limits to the possibilities... what would you choose to do for God? You see, with God, ALL things are possible (Matthew 19:26), so what's the issue? If you would be willing to do it under the circumstances of no limit to money, space, help, or chance of failure... then why not embrace it now? God will see it through when your heart is in it for Him! You will be provided for. God always supplies that which He has ordained. If you are outside of His purpose, you have to take care of yourself. But if you are walking in His purpose, He will meet all your needs without failure.

I encourage you to find your purpose! No Kingdom assignment is too big or too small or out of reach when it's done with the sole purpose of pressing toward what God has for YOU to do! The greeter at the church door is just as precious to God as the evangelist that is holding crusades with thousands kneeling at an alter. The person playing the piano for the church can hold more anointing than the most current Christian music artist on the charts. The dinner you made for the family that just moved in down the street may be the first real meal they've had in weeks, and that outreach is no different than the truckloads of food missionaries are delivering to countries going without.

It's your calling, your Kingdom assignment... your PURPOSE. Make it count, make it an honor, and press toward it... your creator is depending on you.

Function Vs. Perform

Often times the word "function" is confused with the word "perform". I've heard it said "I can't function without first having my coffee in the morning", or "I can't function without a full night of sleep"... Although both of those may have something to do with how well we perform, neither of those things determine whether or not we function.

So what's the difference? Is there anything that we simply cannot do without, that will allow or prevent us from functioning? Before we just declare that our ability to function can be altered without something like coffee and sleep, among other things people think they just can not "function" without, first we need to determine the difference between function and perform. As professed Christians, the difference really does matter.

func·tion

  [fuhngk-shuhn] 
the purpose for which something is designed or exists

per·form

  [per-fawrm]
to go through or execute in a customary or established manner

Obviously, we each have a predestined function established by God when we were lovingly and skillfully created. It's what God wants of us, out of the individual creation He designed for us to be, bringing Him glory. How we perform is just our own day to day interpretation of how we think things are supposed to go. It's a habit, a customary way we get used to doing things, usually based on self wants and pleasures and what we feel needs to be done.

So what is our function? Solomon spoke in God's word about honoring God through all aspects of our thoughts and lives by fearing God and obeying Him. He summarized it himself at the end of Ecclesiastes.

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
(Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)

We should also be keeping things in a Godly perspective. For David, his ultimate satisfaction would come to him when this life on Earth is done, and we embark on all heaven has to offer. Like Asaph in Psalm 73, our relationship with God should be the most important thing to us... because without that relationship, we ultimately let go of our purpose... our function. Even Paul, in Philippians chapter three, compares everything else to the equivalent of dung.

As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
(Psalm 17:15)

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
(I John 3:2)

Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
(Psalm 73:25)

Now that we know what our function should be, what is our performance? What is the customary way we go through our life on a day to day basis? It's so easy to get things off track through the simple "little things" in life that we think is important for us in the now. Then we assume God has left us, or doesn't care enough about us to see us through our circumstance... when all along it was simply our own selfish and rebellious ways that fell short of the glory of God.

Think about your daily routine. Do you set specific time aside for just you and God? Do you include Him throughout your day, every day? Not just Sundays, or when there's a church event or fellowship activity, and certainly not just when you're in the company of fellow "Christian" friends.

What music do you listen to, and is it glorifying to God? Or maybe it's just a "good" song that gets your toe tapping, yet has nothing to do with the Lord. What words do you speak to others, and do they reflect God's goodness in your life? Or maybe they are full of negativity, condemnation, judgement, ridicule, gossip, and worldly things (whether you realize it or not). Do you seek Him in His word? Or perhaps the latest book on vampires or romance is more interesting to your fleshly desires, that time in the word of God is put on the back burner to catch up on later. What shows are you recording on your DVR? Do they minister to your soul, teaching and guiding you in a way that will reflect the Lord in your life? Perhaps it's more entertaining to see who has slept with who in your favorite soap, who's chosen who in the current reality show, or laughing at the way a wife trashes her husband's character in a liberal sitcom as she insists on wearing the pants in the family. Is your household run on God's terms? Or maybe it's easier to just let the kids do what they're going to do to avoid conflict.

Everything we do, watch, say, listen to, and allow to happen in our lives should glorify God... no if's, and's or but's. If it does not glorify God, you are hindering your walk with Him, and retracting yourself from the many blessings He has available to you! Those "small things" that seem so harmless provide a way for the enemy to step in and conquer your spirit, a little at a time, until he is sitting back in comfort watching your life twist itself right out of God's will. Before you know it, you've conformed yourself to the world, rather than the will of God.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
(Romans 12:2)

So how do we get back to our function instead of being stuck in a poor performance that lacks the will of God, the teachings of the Lord, and the fruits of the Spirit? Being a Christian is more than just a title. It's a lifestyle. It's a way of reflecting Christ to others, strangers and loved ones alike, in everything about us... not just the things we decide to reflect because it's comfortable or convenient. Being a Christian should set us apart from the world, not just blend us in with it as a "good guy" among the rest. Yes, we all do fall short of the glory of God, we do sin, we make mistakes. However, the blood Christ shed on Calvary covers a manifest of sin!

Repentance is the first step. Confess the errors in your life to the Lord, give those errors to Him, and ask Him to guide you, helping you to avoid the same mistakes again. Confessing Jesus as your Lord and Savior goes beyond just words. It should mean a lifestyle change... and we can't do that on our own! Although God's will may be sought, and the teaching of Jesus are an example of how we are to live, we are also given a Comforter through the Holy Spirit that can intercede for us, to direct and guide us through our walk with the Lord. In fact, in Acts chapter one, Jesus commanded them to wait, because there was more for them beyond just salvation and baptism of water that was used as a sign of the new covenant with God, and to be baptized in the Holy Ghost. Power is given to us through this baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), and that power makes intercession for us (Romans 8:26)!

We have been given everything we could possibly need to function! It's up to us to make our performance a reflection of the Lord rather than a reflection of the flesh... it's literally a matter of eternal life and eternal condemnation!

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
(Mark 16:15-18)

Everyday Joy

The kids are arguing. It's time to pay the bills. You woke up feeling physically horrible. A workload was dumped on you at your job. Everyone around you is complaining and miserable. You got a flat tire. Dinner burned in the oven. A loved one is in the hospital. Your roof is leaking.

So, everyday joy: is it possible? You betcha! Joy... YOUR joy... is a choice... it's YOUR choice. We are provided with the joy of the Lord, but it's up to us to open our hearts to it, accept it and apply it! There is so much negativity in this world, and it's so often dwelt upon when the choice to do so is avoidable!!

The joy of the LORD is your strength.
(Nehemiah 8:10)

Joy... genuine, whole-hearted, soul satisfying joy... isn't just missing within the world, it's missing in the body of Christ! In everyday conversations with people, messages I receive, even my Facebook news feed, is overwhelmed with complaints, heartache, disgust, and negativity. Where is the joy of the Lord in that?!

It shouldn't just be saved for Sunday mornings when attending church or during a get together with a fellow Christian! Joy is to dwell within you always, whether you're alone at home, with your family, at a gathering, in the workplace, or just out grocery shopping... the joy of the Lord should be reflected, causing a prism effect everywhere around you!

How is this joy possible? It's supplied to us in God's word! Only the joy of the Lord can provide strength through any and every moment in our everyday life!

The bottom line is, if you're not allowing the Holy Spirit to continuously stir up joy within your heart, causing a craving for more of the Lord in your life, then you my friend are choosing to let your joy sit on the shelf rather than being used for God's glory! Your fire, your Holy Ghost fire, is being extinguished.

A true love for the Lord creates a hunger for more of Him through His word! Follow through with what you are taught through your readings with a humble repenting heart! Those renewing and life changing choices should then separate you and your life from the influences of the world... automatically providing a joy that no circumstance will be able to steal away from you! That's displaying true faith in your Creator and Savior.

You will develop a new set of eyes that find good in ALL things that come your way! What a witness to those that surround you, lost without Jesus... someone full of joy that has good news to share despite a circumstance that could be dwelt upon, but was chosen not to be!!

Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
(Psalm 32:11)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
(Galatians 5:22-23)

Rejoice evermore.
(1 Thessalonians 5:16)

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
(Psalm 16:11)

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
(Philippians 4:4)