Sunday, April 27, 2014
Stop, Pray, and Trust God
Isaiah 55:8-9 (KJV) Says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV) Says, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."
Romans 8:28 (KJV) Says, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose."
The above verses of scripture taken from the book of Isaiah tell us that God's thoughts are not our thoughts and that He doesn't do things in the same way that we would do them. He makes it clear that His ways and his thoughts are higher than ours as He is above us in all things just as the heavens are above the earth. It is for certain that He knows far better than we do what is best for us. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Jeremiah makes it clear that the Lord wants us to live in peace, and that he doesn't sit around thinking about various evil He can bring upon us. He wants us to have divine peace and joy, and to live joy filled lives here on earth. The final verse of scripture listed above is taken from the book of Romans, and it makes clear that all things come together for good to those who love God, and are following him.
At one time or another, most if not all of us, have found ourselves in situations that are difficult and that we can't understand the reason for. When we do, we don't need to begin whining and complaining. When we are in a tough situation, facing difficulties and hardships, or we are unhappy with where we are in life, we need to stop, pray, and trust God. If we are living our lives in a manner that is pleasing to God and are following Him, then we need to pause long enough to remember that He has a purpose for us to be going through whatever it is we are facing, and that it will all work together for good in the end.
A great example of this can be found in Philippians 1:12-14 (KJV) where Paul says, "But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear."
In this passage of scripture taken from the book of Romans Paul is in prison. Now take a moment to consider that the prison was cave like with dirt floors, and was far from comfortable. Many people in prison are quite unhappy and find nothing positive about it. Paul, however, makes it clear that he sees the purpose for which God has placed him where he is, and the good that has come out of it. He tells us that the things that have happened to him including landing in prison have served to further the gospel of Jesus Christ. He goes on to tell us that his imprisonment has afforded him the opportunity to spread the gospel in Caesar's palace, and that many Roman Christians were stirred to preach the gospel during his bondage. He states that they became able to do so more boldly, and without fear. So Paul having a close personal relationship with God saw the good in his situation, and the purpose behind him being in it. Paul didn't see the negative and begin whining and complaining about prison conditions or his plight, but rather he trusted God, and continued to spread the gospel from within those prison walls seeing the positive results that were coming from him doing so.
What a great example Paul set here for us to follow, when we find ourselves in situations that we don't understand or see a purpose for. If Paul had adopted a poor, pitiful me attitude the moment he was incarcerated and focused solely on his own discomfort, then he would have missed the opportunity afforded him to spread the gospel throughout the palace, and the opportunity to stir up many of the Roman Christians to be bold in preaching the gospel without fear. Paul knew and trusted that God had a plan, that God knows best, and that the end result would be good.
When you find yourself faced with a difficult situation, I encourage you to trust God. I urge you to remember that his thoughts and ways are not ours, and that he knows what is best for us. We have two choices we can make difficult situations about us, see the negative in them, whine, complain, and miss the good that God intended to come from them; or we can do as Paul did and trust God acknowledging that he knows what is best for us, and that whatever we're facing or going through He will work out for our good.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
God Never Changes
Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) Says, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever."
As we see from the above verse of scripture, God never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We all face changes in our lives which require that we go through periods of adjustment as we grow accustom to where these changes land us.
Some of the changes we face come suddenly, and have a major impact on our everyday life. A few examples of change that can make a major impact on our life are the death of a loved one, losing a job, starting a new job, getting a divorce, getting married, the birth of a child, children growing up and moving out, and as we all know there are many more that can and do occur. All major changes that come along in our lives require that we go through a period of adjustment. As Christians, we can find comfort in the fact that God will be with us during the adjustment periods that come along in our lives. God loves us and he will never leave us or forsake us.
Unlike God, people do change as does the world that we live in. As soon as we are born we begin to age, and as we age and go through various stages in our lives, we face multiple changes. With new inventions and growth in technology being a constant, the world we live in is also constantly changing. Some of the changes we face can be very difficult on us. We can experience sadness and great pain as we work to adapt, and move forward with our lives. God understands that these periods of emotional adjustment are necessary before we can move forward, but it is important to note that he does want us to move forward. One example of this can be found in the Word of God when we read about the death of Moses. Deuteronomy 34:8-9 tells us that the people mourned the loss of Moses for 30 days before moving forward following Joshua as God directed them to.
God knows we are only human and he understands our emotions completely because he experienced all of them firsthand, when he came to earth in the flesh. He has compassion and sympathy for us, and he loves us tremendously.
When you go through changes that have a major impact on your life, I encourage you to remember that you are not going through them alone. I encourage you to remember that God promises he will never leave nor forsake you, and that he has not, nor will he ever break a promise. I urge you to remember that God is right there holding your hand, and that he loves you tremendously. I urge you to allow God to be your anchor. He never changes, and he is steadfast, and immovable. I urge you to rely on God not only as you walk through periods of adjustment in your life, but throughout each and every second of every day.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
As we see from the above verse of scripture, God never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. We all face changes in our lives which require that we go through periods of adjustment as we grow accustom to where these changes land us.
Some of the changes we face come suddenly, and have a major impact on our everyday life. A few examples of change that can make a major impact on our life are the death of a loved one, losing a job, starting a new job, getting a divorce, getting married, the birth of a child, children growing up and moving out, and as we all know there are many more that can and do occur. All major changes that come along in our lives require that we go through a period of adjustment. As Christians, we can find comfort in the fact that God will be with us during the adjustment periods that come along in our lives. God loves us and he will never leave us or forsake us.
Unlike God, people do change as does the world that we live in. As soon as we are born we begin to age, and as we age and go through various stages in our lives, we face multiple changes. With new inventions and growth in technology being a constant, the world we live in is also constantly changing. Some of the changes we face can be very difficult on us. We can experience sadness and great pain as we work to adapt, and move forward with our lives. God understands that these periods of emotional adjustment are necessary before we can move forward, but it is important to note that he does want us to move forward. One example of this can be found in the Word of God when we read about the death of Moses. Deuteronomy 34:8-9 tells us that the people mourned the loss of Moses for 30 days before moving forward following Joshua as God directed them to.
God knows we are only human and he understands our emotions completely because he experienced all of them firsthand, when he came to earth in the flesh. He has compassion and sympathy for us, and he loves us tremendously.
When you go through changes that have a major impact on your life, I encourage you to remember that you are not going through them alone. I encourage you to remember that God promises he will never leave nor forsake you, and that he has not, nor will he ever break a promise. I urge you to remember that God is right there holding your hand, and that he loves you tremendously. I urge you to allow God to be your anchor. He never changes, and he is steadfast, and immovable. I urge you to rely on God not only as you walk through periods of adjustment in your life, but throughout each and every second of every day.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Questions
Leviticus 19:31 (KJV) Says, "Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God." Leviticus 20:6 (KJV) Says, "And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people." Deuteronomy 18:10-12 (KJV) Says, "There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the Lord: and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee." Isaiah 8:19 (KJV) Says, "And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: Should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?
In the above verses of scripture taken from the book of Leviticus we are instructed not to consult mediums or sorcerers. The above passage taken from Deuteronomy instructs us that we are not to use divination. An example of divination can be found in Ezekiel 21:21(KJV) where arrows where whirled around in a quiver and the answer to a question was decided by the first arrow thrown out. We are also advised to avoid astrology, an observer of times such as one that reads the clouds, and not to seek after an enchanter, a witch, or a wizard. We are further instructed not to seek after a necromancer. The Hebrew term for necromancer is "one who asks of the dead." All these practices are clearly condemned in the word of God. These practices are considered abominations. In the verse of scripture taken from the book of Isaiah, the prophet warns the people about seeking witches, wizards, and soothsayers in lieu of taking their questions and issues to God in prayer.
We all have questions that we would like answered, and each of us desire advice, when faced with important decisions that occur periodically throughout our lives. There are several worldly avenues made available to us in which to seek answers. We can draw straws, flip a coin, seek a medium, go to a psychic, read our horoscope, seek a witch, wizard, palm reader, or take some other worldly route in search of guidance. As Christians, however, why in the world would we do any of these things which God's word makes clear are abominations? Why in the world would we do any of these things, when we have the privilege to go to God in prayer, and talk to him day or night about anything and everything?
You might say well I go to a palm reader, but I don't believe anything they tell me, or I read my horoscope daily, but I don't put any faith in what it says. You might say I go to a psychic, but only about twice a year more or less just for fun. The truth is seeking answers or help with decisions from any of these sources or by any of these means is an abomination in the eyes of God. It matters not the frequency of use or how much faith you put into any of these sources. What is important is the fact that you go to them instead of taking your problems and questions to God in prayer.
When you have a question or you're faced with a problem of some sort, where do you turn? When we honestly consider the power and knowledge of Almighty God, both of which are unlimited, I think we can agree that there is no go to source greater than Him for any and all questions, issues, problems, and worries we may have. The next time you have a need or want of any sort, and desire to seek an answer take your questions to God in prayer. You can go to God in prayer having faith in Him, knowing without a doubt that He understands you, that He has all the answers, He knows what is best for you, and that He loves you tremendously. I encourage you to remember that you can talk to God whenever you choose because He is always available to you. Seek God when you have a decision to make, a question you need answered or help with a problem you're faced with, and remember Psalm 46:1 (KJV) which tells us that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above verses of scripture taken from the book of Leviticus we are instructed not to consult mediums or sorcerers. The above passage taken from Deuteronomy instructs us that we are not to use divination. An example of divination can be found in Ezekiel 21:21(KJV) where arrows where whirled around in a quiver and the answer to a question was decided by the first arrow thrown out. We are also advised to avoid astrology, an observer of times such as one that reads the clouds, and not to seek after an enchanter, a witch, or a wizard. We are further instructed not to seek after a necromancer. The Hebrew term for necromancer is "one who asks of the dead." All these practices are clearly condemned in the word of God. These practices are considered abominations. In the verse of scripture taken from the book of Isaiah, the prophet warns the people about seeking witches, wizards, and soothsayers in lieu of taking their questions and issues to God in prayer.
We all have questions that we would like answered, and each of us desire advice, when faced with important decisions that occur periodically throughout our lives. There are several worldly avenues made available to us in which to seek answers. We can draw straws, flip a coin, seek a medium, go to a psychic, read our horoscope, seek a witch, wizard, palm reader, or take some other worldly route in search of guidance. As Christians, however, why in the world would we do any of these things which God's word makes clear are abominations? Why in the world would we do any of these things, when we have the privilege to go to God in prayer, and talk to him day or night about anything and everything?
You might say well I go to a palm reader, but I don't believe anything they tell me, or I read my horoscope daily, but I don't put any faith in what it says. You might say I go to a psychic, but only about twice a year more or less just for fun. The truth is seeking answers or help with decisions from any of these sources or by any of these means is an abomination in the eyes of God. It matters not the frequency of use or how much faith you put into any of these sources. What is important is the fact that you go to them instead of taking your problems and questions to God in prayer.
When you have a question or you're faced with a problem of some sort, where do you turn? When we honestly consider the power and knowledge of Almighty God, both of which are unlimited, I think we can agree that there is no go to source greater than Him for any and all questions, issues, problems, and worries we may have. The next time you have a need or want of any sort, and desire to seek an answer take your questions to God in prayer. You can go to God in prayer having faith in Him, knowing without a doubt that He understands you, that He has all the answers, He knows what is best for you, and that He loves you tremendously. I encourage you to remember that you can talk to God whenever you choose because He is always available to you. Seek God when you have a decision to make, a question you need answered or help with a problem you're faced with, and remember Psalm 46:1 (KJV) which tells us that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Worry
Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV) Says, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." I Peter 5:7 (KJV) Says, "Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you." Ephesians 3:20-21 (KJV) Says, "Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." Isaiah 26:3-4 (KJV) Says, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength:"
The above scripture taken from Philippians instructs us not to worry about anything, but rather to take all of our problems to God in prayer. It doesn't say that we are to split our problems with God leaving some for us to handle on our own; it says take EVERYTHING to God in prayer. We are to give God thanks and ask Him for whatever it is we need. We are to take our problems to God in prayer and leave them there. We are promised when we do that we will be given the peace of God which is a peace so great that it cannot be understood.
We are told in I Peter to cast our cares upon God and that He cares for us. Note we are instructed to cast ALL of our cares upon Him; not just a few of them holding back some for us to worry and panic about. As born again believers in Jesus Christ, we are all children of God and he cares for us tremendously. There is no reason whatsoever we should hesitate to take our problems to Him, put our trust in Him, and have faith in Him without doubt.
The above verse of scripture taken from Ephesians tells us that God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think so why in the world would we fail to go to Him in prayer with our troubles? We know that God created the world, and that His power is unlimited yet we often fail to go to Him in prayer when we face storms. I've heard people facing problems say that the only thing left to do is pray, when that should be the first thing any of us do everyday whether we are facing problems or not.
We are promised again in the above passage of scripture taken from Isaiah that we will be given perfect peace if we keep our mind on God, and put our trust in Him. We are also instructed that in the Lord Jehovah we will find everlasting strength. Note it doesn't say strength for the moment, but everlasting strength.
We have two choices when it comes to dealing with our problems. We can go through life having divine peace and joy by putting our trust in God, and taking all of our cares and concerns to him in prayer as the Bible instructs us to do; or we can live our life in a state of worry and panic. It is totally up to us as to which we choose. It is certain that God prefers and desires for us to be happy.
When we fail to trust God and cast our cares upon Him, what are we saying? Are we saying He doesn't know what to do? Are we saying He doesn't care about us or our problems? Are we saying we don't trust Him? Are we saying our problems are to big for Almighty God creator of the universe to handle?
We know that God is greater than any problem we have. We know that He is capable of helping us climb our highest mountains, and we know that if we trust Him having faith without doubt in our hearts we have no need to fear. We know these things because we are told so in His precious Word.
Friends I encourage you to take all of your problems to God in prayer. I urge you to trust Him, and have faith without a doubt in your heart that He will work things out for your good. I urge you to be patient and to wait on Him. I encourage you to do these things, and to live the life filled with divine peace and joy that God desires for you to live.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
The above scripture taken from Philippians instructs us not to worry about anything, but rather to take all of our problems to God in prayer. It doesn't say that we are to split our problems with God leaving some for us to handle on our own; it says take EVERYTHING to God in prayer. We are to give God thanks and ask Him for whatever it is we need. We are to take our problems to God in prayer and leave them there. We are promised when we do that we will be given the peace of God which is a peace so great that it cannot be understood.
We are told in I Peter to cast our cares upon God and that He cares for us. Note we are instructed to cast ALL of our cares upon Him; not just a few of them holding back some for us to worry and panic about. As born again believers in Jesus Christ, we are all children of God and he cares for us tremendously. There is no reason whatsoever we should hesitate to take our problems to Him, put our trust in Him, and have faith in Him without doubt.
The above verse of scripture taken from Ephesians tells us that God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think so why in the world would we fail to go to Him in prayer with our troubles? We know that God created the world, and that His power is unlimited yet we often fail to go to Him in prayer when we face storms. I've heard people facing problems say that the only thing left to do is pray, when that should be the first thing any of us do everyday whether we are facing problems or not.
We are promised again in the above passage of scripture taken from Isaiah that we will be given perfect peace if we keep our mind on God, and put our trust in Him. We are also instructed that in the Lord Jehovah we will find everlasting strength. Note it doesn't say strength for the moment, but everlasting strength.
We have two choices when it comes to dealing with our problems. We can go through life having divine peace and joy by putting our trust in God, and taking all of our cares and concerns to him in prayer as the Bible instructs us to do; or we can live our life in a state of worry and panic. It is totally up to us as to which we choose. It is certain that God prefers and desires for us to be happy.
When we fail to trust God and cast our cares upon Him, what are we saying? Are we saying He doesn't know what to do? Are we saying He doesn't care about us or our problems? Are we saying we don't trust Him? Are we saying our problems are to big for Almighty God creator of the universe to handle?
We know that God is greater than any problem we have. We know that He is capable of helping us climb our highest mountains, and we know that if we trust Him having faith without doubt in our hearts we have no need to fear. We know these things because we are told so in His precious Word.
Friends I encourage you to take all of your problems to God in prayer. I urge you to trust Him, and have faith without a doubt in your heart that He will work things out for your good. I urge you to be patient and to wait on Him. I encourage you to do these things, and to live the life filled with divine peace and joy that God desires for you to live.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
What Do You See?
Matthew 4:18-21 (KJV) Says, "And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And He saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed Him. And going from thence, He saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and He called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed Him." I Samuel 16:7 (KJV) Says, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."
The above passage of scripture taken from the book of Matthew plainly tells us that Peter, Andrew, James, and John were all fisherman. They make up four of the twelve original disciples. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Samuel makes it clear to us that God looks at the hearts of men while men look on their outward appearance.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus chose the men He chose to be the original disciples. One reason God chooses the people He chooses throughout the Bible to complete the tasks He does, is that in the eyes of man they are the least qualified for the job, and therefore people will be more likely to give God the credit for their accomplishments and recognize His existence. Had he looked at the four disciples I mentioned above, as men do on their outward appearance, He may not have chosen them. Had a human being been choosing the twelve they would have looked for men who were handsome, had careers ranking high in society, men with expensive modes of transportation, those with the best clothing, most expensive shoes, the best cologne, a great deal of money, and many other material possessions. Jesus, however, knowing that the greatest qualities in a human being are found within their heart chose fisherman among others.
When Jesus looked on the fisherman, He saw men willing to follow Him, and capable with Him working through them of accomplishing all He desired to accomplish. Had it been an ordinary man looking on the four fisherman he would more than likely have passed by them without consideration. If a man chose to look at them he would have seen them quite differently than Jesus did. A man would have seen fisherman that were not of high social standing, that were not necessarily the most handsome in the land, fishing from standard boats not yachts, without a great deal of money or material possessions, wearing clothes and shoes that were far from the best, and smelling like the fish and bait that they worked among.
Imagine the number of wonderful people who go unnoticed because they are judged on their outward appearance. Imagine the blessings those who judge them miss out on by not getting to know them. On the other hand, I would venture to say that most of us are acquainted with people who seem to have it all from good looks to money and material possessions yet they're lacking in the things that truly matter. They may be braggers, full of vanity, self-centered, and full of pride. These are character traits that frankly no one wants to be around. People who have a kind heart, are loving, forgiving, understanding, merciful, compassionate, and such are far more attractive to others, and in so many ways. This is true even though the things they possess are not visible when looking at their outward appearance.
How do you look at others? Do you look on their outward appearance or do you look at their heart? Do you give everyone a chance; or is there an outward appearance test they must first pass? What do you see when you look at others? How do you treat others? When people look at you, what do they see? Does the way you behave toward people reflect who you are as a follower of Jesus Christ? If it doesn't, I urge you to make some changes. I encourage you to look at others for who they are, and to change any negative behavior that doesn't fit who you are as a Christian. I encourage you to remember that judging individuals by their outward appearance is a sure way to miss out on great relationships with some of the best people in the world, and I urge you to remember as you interact with others; that as a born again believer you are a representative of Jesus Christ.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, send me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
The above passage of scripture taken from the book of Matthew plainly tells us that Peter, Andrew, James, and John were all fisherman. They make up four of the twelve original disciples. The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Samuel makes it clear to us that God looks at the hearts of men while men look on their outward appearance.
Have you ever wondered why Jesus chose the men He chose to be the original disciples. One reason God chooses the people He chooses throughout the Bible to complete the tasks He does, is that in the eyes of man they are the least qualified for the job, and therefore people will be more likely to give God the credit for their accomplishments and recognize His existence. Had he looked at the four disciples I mentioned above, as men do on their outward appearance, He may not have chosen them. Had a human being been choosing the twelve they would have looked for men who were handsome, had careers ranking high in society, men with expensive modes of transportation, those with the best clothing, most expensive shoes, the best cologne, a great deal of money, and many other material possessions. Jesus, however, knowing that the greatest qualities in a human being are found within their heart chose fisherman among others.
When Jesus looked on the fisherman, He saw men willing to follow Him, and capable with Him working through them of accomplishing all He desired to accomplish. Had it been an ordinary man looking on the four fisherman he would more than likely have passed by them without consideration. If a man chose to look at them he would have seen them quite differently than Jesus did. A man would have seen fisherman that were not of high social standing, that were not necessarily the most handsome in the land, fishing from standard boats not yachts, without a great deal of money or material possessions, wearing clothes and shoes that were far from the best, and smelling like the fish and bait that they worked among.
Imagine the number of wonderful people who go unnoticed because they are judged on their outward appearance. Imagine the blessings those who judge them miss out on by not getting to know them. On the other hand, I would venture to say that most of us are acquainted with people who seem to have it all from good looks to money and material possessions yet they're lacking in the things that truly matter. They may be braggers, full of vanity, self-centered, and full of pride. These are character traits that frankly no one wants to be around. People who have a kind heart, are loving, forgiving, understanding, merciful, compassionate, and such are far more attractive to others, and in so many ways. This is true even though the things they possess are not visible when looking at their outward appearance.
How do you look at others? Do you look on their outward appearance or do you look at their heart? Do you give everyone a chance; or is there an outward appearance test they must first pass? What do you see when you look at others? How do you treat others? When people look at you, what do they see? Does the way you behave toward people reflect who you are as a follower of Jesus Christ? If it doesn't, I urge you to make some changes. I encourage you to look at others for who they are, and to change any negative behavior that doesn't fit who you are as a Christian. I encourage you to remember that judging individuals by their outward appearance is a sure way to miss out on great relationships with some of the best people in the world, and I urge you to remember as you interact with others; that as a born again believer you are a representative of Jesus Christ.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, send me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Blurting
Proverbs 15:28 (KJV) Says, "The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things."
The above verse of scripture makes it clear that as Christians who desire to live our lives in a righteous manner we should think before we speak. It tells us that the wicked blurt out whatever they have on their minds; failing to take time to ponder the appropriate way in which they should respond.
There are several pros to practicing the art of thinking before we speak. One of those is of course that we choose words that are more pleasing to God. Another is we are less likely to blurt out statements that are apt to fuel a disagreement or insight an argument. We are also less likely to say something that will hurt another person's feelings, and more likely to remain on topic in lieu of blurting out a bunch of nonsense just because we're angry. Responding to any situation in a negative manner with out of control dialogue never results in a positive outcome. We all know a few hot heads who do not pause before responding, and the results are never good. Responding without taking time to think can, and often does result in the person who blurted looking ridiculous, and having regrets about much of what they said. I know because I use to have a real problem with blurting out whatever came to mind, and it is something that I continue to work on.
Another form of blurting that results from not taking time to think about what one is about to say is committing to something prior to giving all that goes into it proper consideration, and before checking your schedule. I've done this too. I failed to check my calendar and double booked myself scheduling an appointment one hour prior to performing a wedding ceremony that was being held about two hours away from my appointment. This is all because I blurted out sure I'll perform the wedding ceremony without ever checking my calendar. I felt terrible about the mix up, and it taught me to always check my calendar before I blurt out that I'm available. If I'm not near my calendar, I tell the caller I will have to get back with them. The bottom line is blurting can cause a number of issues, and it is never a good idea.
Another form of blurting is often done by parents who don't think about how they should respond to a child they are correcting. Parents may blurt out things they regret, if they fail to calm down before addressing their child. They may blurt out some ridiculous punishment that they realize they cannot carry out after they have calmed down and become rational with their vocabulary again.
This can result in the child coming to believe that their parent is not going to do what they say, and this causes a lack of respect in some cases.
Most people have experienced situations where their boss has said or done something that prompted them to become angry. When things like this happen we must take time to think about how we should respond. We should never go into the bosses office, and blurt out exactly what we are thinking or behave in an even more drastic fashion by storming into the bosses office and quitting. If we fail to take time to think before we speak in situations like these, we can wind up jobless via getting fired or quitting; because we reacted in a manner that simply wasn't rational.
There are many scenarios where taking time out to contemplate the most appropriate way to respond to a situation, issue, or individual is warranted in lieu of blurting that results in negative consequences. In short, there are only a few times in which it is a good idea to blurt. For example, if someone is in danger of being struck by a vehicle, and you blurt "watch out for that car" that would be considered appropriate blurting. If someone was about to step on a snake, and you blurted "stop" that would be considered appropriate blurting.
There are a few instances where blurting is necessary and appropriate, but for the most part it is a bad idea. We as Christians who are attempting to live our lives in a righteous manner setting a good example for others, need to think before we speak. We need to make certain that we are calm and that our responses are those that reflect who we are as followers of Jesus Christ. When we practice the art of thinking before we speak we will be more likely to respond in an appropriate manner, we will be more likely to stay on topic and not waste words, we will be more likely to come across calm and rational, and we will have far fewer regrets about the things we've said.
Remember that the Bible tells us that righteous people think before they speak, and that wicked people just blurt out whatever they're thinking. Remind yourself that blurting doesn't fit who you are as a follower of Jesus Christ, and practice thinking before you respond to people, issues, problems, and situations of any sort. Thinking before we speak goes a long way in reflecting that we are born again Christians, and that we respond as such.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
The above verse of scripture makes it clear that as Christians who desire to live our lives in a righteous manner we should think before we speak. It tells us that the wicked blurt out whatever they have on their minds; failing to take time to ponder the appropriate way in which they should respond.
There are several pros to practicing the art of thinking before we speak. One of those is of course that we choose words that are more pleasing to God. Another is we are less likely to blurt out statements that are apt to fuel a disagreement or insight an argument. We are also less likely to say something that will hurt another person's feelings, and more likely to remain on topic in lieu of blurting out a bunch of nonsense just because we're angry. Responding to any situation in a negative manner with out of control dialogue never results in a positive outcome. We all know a few hot heads who do not pause before responding, and the results are never good. Responding without taking time to think can, and often does result in the person who blurted looking ridiculous, and having regrets about much of what they said. I know because I use to have a real problem with blurting out whatever came to mind, and it is something that I continue to work on.
Another form of blurting that results from not taking time to think about what one is about to say is committing to something prior to giving all that goes into it proper consideration, and before checking your schedule. I've done this too. I failed to check my calendar and double booked myself scheduling an appointment one hour prior to performing a wedding ceremony that was being held about two hours away from my appointment. This is all because I blurted out sure I'll perform the wedding ceremony without ever checking my calendar. I felt terrible about the mix up, and it taught me to always check my calendar before I blurt out that I'm available. If I'm not near my calendar, I tell the caller I will have to get back with them. The bottom line is blurting can cause a number of issues, and it is never a good idea.
Another form of blurting is often done by parents who don't think about how they should respond to a child they are correcting. Parents may blurt out things they regret, if they fail to calm down before addressing their child. They may blurt out some ridiculous punishment that they realize they cannot carry out after they have calmed down and become rational with their vocabulary again.
This can result in the child coming to believe that their parent is not going to do what they say, and this causes a lack of respect in some cases.
Most people have experienced situations where their boss has said or done something that prompted them to become angry. When things like this happen we must take time to think about how we should respond. We should never go into the bosses office, and blurt out exactly what we are thinking or behave in an even more drastic fashion by storming into the bosses office and quitting. If we fail to take time to think before we speak in situations like these, we can wind up jobless via getting fired or quitting; because we reacted in a manner that simply wasn't rational.
There are many scenarios where taking time out to contemplate the most appropriate way to respond to a situation, issue, or individual is warranted in lieu of blurting that results in negative consequences. In short, there are only a few times in which it is a good idea to blurt. For example, if someone is in danger of being struck by a vehicle, and you blurt "watch out for that car" that would be considered appropriate blurting. If someone was about to step on a snake, and you blurted "stop" that would be considered appropriate blurting.
There are a few instances where blurting is necessary and appropriate, but for the most part it is a bad idea. We as Christians who are attempting to live our lives in a righteous manner setting a good example for others, need to think before we speak. We need to make certain that we are calm and that our responses are those that reflect who we are as followers of Jesus Christ. When we practice the art of thinking before we speak we will be more likely to respond in an appropriate manner, we will be more likely to stay on topic and not waste words, we will be more likely to come across calm and rational, and we will have far fewer regrets about the things we've said.
Remember that the Bible tells us that righteous people think before they speak, and that wicked people just blurt out whatever they're thinking. Remind yourself that blurting doesn't fit who you are as a follower of Jesus Christ, and practice thinking before you respond to people, issues, problems, and situations of any sort. Thinking before we speak goes a long way in reflecting that we are born again Christians, and that we respond as such.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
A True Friend
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (KJV) Says, "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken."
In the above passage of scripture we are told that the work of a greedy person especially when working for his own personal gain is futile. On the other hand, we are instructed that two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. They can help each other, they can provide mutual warmth, and they double their strength or triple it as in the case of three friends. In short, each of us need true friends in our lives, and we should be a true friend to others.
Let's take a look at what it means to be a true friend, and some of the characteristics required to fill those shoes. A true friend is dependable, and will be there for you when you call, no matter what time it is day or night. They won't consider the time and refuse to put themselves out claiming it's too early or too late. Without hesitation, a true friend will be at your side the moment they know you need them. Another trait possessed by a true friend is honesty. They will be honest with you no matter what because they love you enough to tell you the truth. A true friend is one who comes to the hospital to visit you when you're ill. A true friend notices when you are in pain, lonely, depressed, or hurting. A true friend loves you unconditionally, keeps you in their prayers, and is always there for you.
Now let's look at some sure signs that indicate someone is not a true friend. If someone is around only when you have money, they are not a true friend. If someone is eager to go to dinner, the movies, parties and social events, but can't be found when you're ill and/or hospitalized they are not a true friend. If you call someone and tell them you need them, asking them to come over because you are depressed, sad, lonely, or hurting, and they dance around your request making lame excuses as to why that's not possible, they are not a true friend. If you call someone and ask them to come over and pray with you, and they hesitate as they mull over a list of bogus reasons as to why they cannot do so, they are not a true friend. If you call a friend on the telephone with a heavy heart and needing someone to talk to, and they say they're busy knowing you need someone to listen, they are not a true friend.
True friends are rare, and they are blessings from God. We should be grateful to Him for those we have in our lives, and we should strive to be a true friend to others. What kind of friend are you? Are you a true friend to the people in your life? If a friend calls you needing someone to simply listen, are you willing to listen to them or do you make excuses as to why you don't have time, and then proceed to get off the phone as quick as you possibly can? When a friend calls you and requests that you come to their side because they are feeling depressed, lonely, sad or hurt, do you go or do you make a lame excuse as to why there is no way you can make it? Do you stand by your friends when they are ill, or having problems or are you only around when they are well and things in their life are running smoothly? Do you pray for your friends? If a friend were to ask you to come and pray with them, would you go? Would you go without hesitation?
The last thing someone needs when they are facing a trial in their life is to feel as though their friends have abandoned them, when they needed them most. The question is not if we will need friends in our lives as we face trials, and walk through storms. The question is when, because in life we all have difficulties. It is certain we can count on friends as we experience peaks in our lives, but it is in the valleys that we discover who our true friends are. The valleys have a way of exposing true friends in an instant, while those who miss the mark disappear just as fast. What kind of friend are you? Are you the kind of friend to others that you want them to be to you? Are you a true friend or do you disappear in the valleys? I encourage you to remember that we all need true friends, and I urge you to be the kind of friend to others that you want and need in your own life.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
In the above passage of scripture we are told that the work of a greedy person especially when working for his own personal gain is futile. On the other hand, we are instructed that two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. They can help each other, they can provide mutual warmth, and they double their strength or triple it as in the case of three friends. In short, each of us need true friends in our lives, and we should be a true friend to others.
Let's take a look at what it means to be a true friend, and some of the characteristics required to fill those shoes. A true friend is dependable, and will be there for you when you call, no matter what time it is day or night. They won't consider the time and refuse to put themselves out claiming it's too early or too late. Without hesitation, a true friend will be at your side the moment they know you need them. Another trait possessed by a true friend is honesty. They will be honest with you no matter what because they love you enough to tell you the truth. A true friend is one who comes to the hospital to visit you when you're ill. A true friend notices when you are in pain, lonely, depressed, or hurting. A true friend loves you unconditionally, keeps you in their prayers, and is always there for you.
Now let's look at some sure signs that indicate someone is not a true friend. If someone is around only when you have money, they are not a true friend. If someone is eager to go to dinner, the movies, parties and social events, but can't be found when you're ill and/or hospitalized they are not a true friend. If you call someone and tell them you need them, asking them to come over because you are depressed, sad, lonely, or hurting, and they dance around your request making lame excuses as to why that's not possible, they are not a true friend. If you call someone and ask them to come over and pray with you, and they hesitate as they mull over a list of bogus reasons as to why they cannot do so, they are not a true friend. If you call a friend on the telephone with a heavy heart and needing someone to talk to, and they say they're busy knowing you need someone to listen, they are not a true friend.
True friends are rare, and they are blessings from God. We should be grateful to Him for those we have in our lives, and we should strive to be a true friend to others. What kind of friend are you? Are you a true friend to the people in your life? If a friend calls you needing someone to simply listen, are you willing to listen to them or do you make excuses as to why you don't have time, and then proceed to get off the phone as quick as you possibly can? When a friend calls you and requests that you come to their side because they are feeling depressed, lonely, sad or hurt, do you go or do you make a lame excuse as to why there is no way you can make it? Do you stand by your friends when they are ill, or having problems or are you only around when they are well and things in their life are running smoothly? Do you pray for your friends? If a friend were to ask you to come and pray with them, would you go? Would you go without hesitation?
The last thing someone needs when they are facing a trial in their life is to feel as though their friends have abandoned them, when they needed them most. The question is not if we will need friends in our lives as we face trials, and walk through storms. The question is when, because in life we all have difficulties. It is certain we can count on friends as we experience peaks in our lives, but it is in the valleys that we discover who our true friends are. The valleys have a way of exposing true friends in an instant, while those who miss the mark disappear just as fast. What kind of friend are you? Are you the kind of friend to others that you want them to be to you? Are you a true friend or do you disappear in the valleys? I encourage you to remember that we all need true friends, and I urge you to be the kind of friend to others that you want and need in your own life.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you.
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