I Timothy 1:1-2 (KJV) Says "Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity."
There are many verses in the Bible that instruct us to respect our elders, and one another. When we show disrespect toward another person, we are doing so to someones Father, Mother, Sister, Brother, Son, Daughter, Grandmother, or Grandfather. We should consider that the next time we are tempted to be disrespectful. We want our family members and friends treated with kindness and respect, and we want to be respected as well. Therefore, we should be mindful of how we treat people.
I grew up in an era where tremendous importance was placed upon respecting one's elders, and failing to do so resulted in disciplinary action by one's parents. In today's world, however, if respect were a wild animal, it would be placed on the endangered species list. In the public arena I've seen children disrespect their parents, and grandparents while they sit quietly stunned, never attempting to correct the child. I've witnessed adults disrespecting there elders, and scoffing at any piece of advice they attempt to give them. They fail to consider that someone who has lived longer than they have may be able to offer advice gained from experience, which could prevent them from making a huge mistake.
I've seen parents disrespecting their children by speaking to them in a manner that is horrendous, and then expect the child to have respect for them. Children are human beings, and therefore, they have feelings just as adults do. I've seen young adults disrespect their own parents in front of their children, and then insist that their children respect them. If you honestly believe that the old adage "do as I say and not as I do" is effective, I believe you are sadly mistaken, and are kidding yourself for convenience. When you behave in a manner that sets a bad example for your children, how do you think that appears to them? To instruct them to do one thing, and show them another via your own behavior is hypocrisy. Where do we think they get the idea it is acceptable to behave in a disrespectful manner? We should set examples for the children in our lives to follow, and if we are not doing that we need to correct our own behavior before we attempt to correct our children.
It is not uncommon to hear cursing or distasteful jokes come out of people's mouths no matter who is in their midst, and their words seem to flow as easy as if they were saying good morning. It is not uncommon to see someone race past an elder to enter a store, and then allow the door to close directly in the elders face in lieu of holding it open for them. I've seen people speed past an elder attempting to make it across a parking lot nearly striking them with their vehicle instead of stopping, and allowing them to cross. The displays of disrespect I have witnessed in the public are far to numerous to mention here. The important point is that disrespect is running rampant, and it is disheartening.
Respect your elders, hold a door open for them, allow them to cross the parking lot at the pace in which they are able, and be patient about it. If you are blessed with long life, one day you will be an elder, and hopefully others will wait patiently while you cross the parking lot. Respect your children, and teach them to be respectful by example. Respect your friends, co-workers, and peers. When we fail to be respectful, it makes one individual appear to be of bad character, and that individual is the person showing the disrespect. If we want to be respected, we must conduct ourselves in a manner that warrants it; by behaving in a respectful manner ourselves. Respect is earned.
There is no doubt that the world could use more respect, love, and kindness. I would like to encourage you to be polite and respectful to others, it's painless, it is of good character, and it is pleasing to our Father in Heaven.
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, May 16, 2012
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Honor Thy Mother
Exodus 20:12 (KJV) Says, "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." This is one of the ten commandments.
I want to take the opportunity to point out the importance of honoring our Mother's. As you can see from the above scripture, it is important enough for God to have made it a commandment. If we have been blessed with a Mother that has loved and nurtured us into adulthood, we should desire to honor them, and it should come from our hearts. I don't think we take the time to consider all they have done for us in our lifetime, and to tell them how grateful we are and how much they are appreciated.
Our Mothers carry us for nine months, during which time they experience nausea and vomiting, swelling, discomfort, lack of sleep, and many other issues. It is also necessary that they go to the doctor multiple times, and we all know what fun that is. Next they give birth to us, and although I have not experienced childbirth personally I have witnessed it, and it does not in any way resemble a picnic. They go through all of this just to get us here.
After we arrive into the world, sleep as our Mother's knew it is over. If we are not waking them up crying because we are hungry, then they are sleeping lightly in order to listen for any move we may make. They diaper us, feed us, bath us, dress us, and take us to the doctor for our check-ups. They are there for us day and night nursing us when we are sick, monitoring our fevers, giving us medication, holding us, singing us to sleep, telling us bedtime stories, and helping us say our prayers as they tuck us into bed at night, all the while having no regard whatsoever for their own well-being.
They cry as we enter the doors of school for the first time, and they are eagerly waiting to hear how our day went each afternoon. They listen to ever detail as we speak, because as loving Mother's they truly want to hear every word we have to say. They share comforting words when our feelings are hurt, and bandage the boo-boo's we sustain.
Whatever sport or other activities we choose to engage in our Mother's give us a tremendous amount of support. They attend each event where they smile, applaud, and tell us how very proud they are, and what a great job we did. Our Mother's are our number one fan.
They wait up on us at night when we become teenagers, because they can't sleep until they know we're at home safe and sound. They're emotional when we graduate high school and college, as they realize their baby is growing up. It breaks their heart when we move out, yet they understand we are now young adults with life plans of our own. They are filled with mixed emotions on our wedding day because in their eyes we will always be their baby. They expand their love to include our spouse, and they love and treasure the grandchildren they're blessed with.
I would like to encourage you to take the time to HONESTLY consider all your Mother has done, and does do for you. God blessed me with a wonderful Mother, and I am so very grateful for her. I am an identical twin, and I have three other siblings so my Mother raised five children in all. She worked so hard, only stopping for a little sleep. She took us to Sunday School, Church, and Vacation Bible School, where we each grew to love the Lord. She made certain we had clean clothes, homemade dinners complete with homemade dessert, a clean house to live in, she was our number one fan present at every event we participated in, and the list goes on and on. She has made certain we know that she is there for us always, that she will stand up for us when we are right, and correct us when we are wrong. She recognized our different personalities, and our different needs, and she met them all on an individual basis with tremendous love and understanding.
I merely scratched the surface when it comes to listing all of the things our Mother's do for us. Words cannot possibly convey how much I love my Mother, and how much I respect and appreciate her. I am so grateful to have been blessed with such a beautiful gift. I am not surprised that God chose to make honoring our Mother's a commandment. It is crystal clear to me that they are more than deserving of our honor and respect.
God bless my Mother, all of the wonderful Mother's in my family, among my friends, and in the world. I personally have a tremendous amount of honor and respect for each one of you.
For those of you whose Mother's have gone home to be with the Lord, may you reflect on and find comfort in the cherished memories that remain in your hearts. I have since writing this blog lost my Mama, and therefore I know the pain. She went home to be with the Lord on January 10, 2022. I love and miss her more than words could ever possibly convey.
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.
I want to take the opportunity to point out the importance of honoring our Mother's. As you can see from the above scripture, it is important enough for God to have made it a commandment. If we have been blessed with a Mother that has loved and nurtured us into adulthood, we should desire to honor them, and it should come from our hearts. I don't think we take the time to consider all they have done for us in our lifetime, and to tell them how grateful we are and how much they are appreciated.
Our Mothers carry us for nine months, during which time they experience nausea and vomiting, swelling, discomfort, lack of sleep, and many other issues. It is also necessary that they go to the doctor multiple times, and we all know what fun that is. Next they give birth to us, and although I have not experienced childbirth personally I have witnessed it, and it does not in any way resemble a picnic. They go through all of this just to get us here.
After we arrive into the world, sleep as our Mother's knew it is over. If we are not waking them up crying because we are hungry, then they are sleeping lightly in order to listen for any move we may make. They diaper us, feed us, bath us, dress us, and take us to the doctor for our check-ups. They are there for us day and night nursing us when we are sick, monitoring our fevers, giving us medication, holding us, singing us to sleep, telling us bedtime stories, and helping us say our prayers as they tuck us into bed at night, all the while having no regard whatsoever for their own well-being.
They cry as we enter the doors of school for the first time, and they are eagerly waiting to hear how our day went each afternoon. They listen to ever detail as we speak, because as loving Mother's they truly want to hear every word we have to say. They share comforting words when our feelings are hurt, and bandage the boo-boo's we sustain.
Whatever sport or other activities we choose to engage in our Mother's give us a tremendous amount of support. They attend each event where they smile, applaud, and tell us how very proud they are, and what a great job we did. Our Mother's are our number one fan.
They wait up on us at night when we become teenagers, because they can't sleep until they know we're at home safe and sound. They're emotional when we graduate high school and college, as they realize their baby is growing up. It breaks their heart when we move out, yet they understand we are now young adults with life plans of our own. They are filled with mixed emotions on our wedding day because in their eyes we will always be their baby. They expand their love to include our spouse, and they love and treasure the grandchildren they're blessed with.
I would like to encourage you to take the time to HONESTLY consider all your Mother has done, and does do for you. God blessed me with a wonderful Mother, and I am so very grateful for her. I am an identical twin, and I have three other siblings so my Mother raised five children in all. She worked so hard, only stopping for a little sleep. She took us to Sunday School, Church, and Vacation Bible School, where we each grew to love the Lord. She made certain we had clean clothes, homemade dinners complete with homemade dessert, a clean house to live in, she was our number one fan present at every event we participated in, and the list goes on and on. She has made certain we know that she is there for us always, that she will stand up for us when we are right, and correct us when we are wrong. She recognized our different personalities, and our different needs, and she met them all on an individual basis with tremendous love and understanding.
I merely scratched the surface when it comes to listing all of the things our Mother's do for us. Words cannot possibly convey how much I love my Mother, and how much I respect and appreciate her. I am so grateful to have been blessed with such a beautiful gift. I am not surprised that God chose to make honoring our Mother's a commandment. It is crystal clear to me that they are more than deserving of our honor and respect.
God bless my Mother, all of the wonderful Mother's in my family, among my friends, and in the world. I personally have a tremendous amount of honor and respect for each one of you.
For those of you whose Mother's have gone home to be with the Lord, may you reflect on and find comfort in the cherished memories that remain in your hearts. I have since writing this blog lost my Mama, and therefore I know the pain. She went home to be with the Lord on January 10, 2022. I love and miss her more than words could ever possibly convey.
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, May 9, 2012
A Helping Hand
In Luke 14:13-14 (KJV) Jesus says "But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just."
We should help one another in whatever ways possible, when it is within our power to do so. We should be willing to offer assistance to others based on the desire to fulfill the need of our fellow man, not for our potential gain. Jesus tells us in the above scripture to help those who can offer us absolutely nothing in exchange. In the world today we frequently see or hear stories about people helping only those who can do something for them in return. This is becoming all to common, and that is made obvious by the expressions on the faces of those we do offer to help, wanting nothing in return.
The next time you volunteer to help someone, notice the look on their face. It is most often one of skepticism, doubt, and disbelief. Their demeanor goes from friendly to leery, and in their mind they immediately begin running through the benefits you might be hoping to gain from doing so. They begin thinking things like Why would you want to help me? What do you want from me? What is your motive? The world is in a sad state of affairs when we offer someone a helping hand and they get a look on their face that suggests they don't know whether to accept our offer or call 911.
The point is that we should help people for the sole purpose of helping them, simply because we have it in our heart to do so. Jesus tells us in the above scripture that if we do something for someone who cannot return the favor, we will be blessed, and recompensed for it at the resurrection of the just. I would like to encourage you to help someone who has a need, and can offer you absolutely nothing in return. It will be pleasing to God, It will bring you and the person you help tremendous joy. Helping others is a wonderful experience.
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.
We should help one another in whatever ways possible, when it is within our power to do so. We should be willing to offer assistance to others based on the desire to fulfill the need of our fellow man, not for our potential gain. Jesus tells us in the above scripture to help those who can offer us absolutely nothing in exchange. In the world today we frequently see or hear stories about people helping only those who can do something for them in return. This is becoming all to common, and that is made obvious by the expressions on the faces of those we do offer to help, wanting nothing in return.
The next time you volunteer to help someone, notice the look on their face. It is most often one of skepticism, doubt, and disbelief. Their demeanor goes from friendly to leery, and in their mind they immediately begin running through the benefits you might be hoping to gain from doing so. They begin thinking things like Why would you want to help me? What do you want from me? What is your motive? The world is in a sad state of affairs when we offer someone a helping hand and they get a look on their face that suggests they don't know whether to accept our offer or call 911.
The point is that we should help people for the sole purpose of helping them, simply because we have it in our heart to do so. Jesus tells us in the above scripture that if we do something for someone who cannot return the favor, we will be blessed, and recompensed for it at the resurrection of the just. I would like to encourage you to help someone who has a need, and can offer you absolutely nothing in return. It will be pleasing to God, It will bring you and the person you help tremendous joy. Helping others is a wonderful experience.
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, May 6, 2012
Slow Down
In Exodus 18:13-27 (KJV) Moses sits and judges the issues, both great and small, of the people of Israel. They came to him in order to inquire as to God's statutes and laws regarding matters they needed settled between them. The line was so great that the people stood waiting their turn from morning until evening. Moses' father-n-law, Jethro, comes to visit him, and he asks Moses why he is doing all of the judging alone. Jethro advises Moses that the way he is handling this task is not good, and that if he continues to judge all the people alone, he will become weary and the people will also. Jethro suggests that Moses select God-fearing men of truth to assist him in this task. He advises Moses to allow the men he selects to handle the small issues the people bring before him, and for Moses himself to handle the large issues. Moses heeds his father-n-laws advice which benefits him, as well as the people, as they no longer had to endure those long lines in order to have there issues settled.
Like Moses so many of us have overloaded our plates, and often it takes someone bringing it to our attention before we are willing to consider a change. When we take on more than we can manage in an appropriate manner, it is a mistake. Squeezing to many things into our schedules has an adverse effect on many areas of our lives, and this is something we often fail to realize.
We have become such a busy society that we have chosen to opt out of important things like sitting down for dinner as a family, in order to get everything on our schedules accomplished. Many people spend a great deal of time running around in an agitated state because they are so overwhelmed. This is not good for our health, it is not good for our families or any of our other relationships for that matter including the most important relationship in our lives and that is the one we have with God. In the end maintaining these hectic schedules seems to be doing more harm than good.
If we are rushing through life doing fifty things a day, then how many of those things are truly getting the attention from us they deserve? How many of those things are we able to give quality time to? How much of our life are we slowing down enough to actually be present in? Does having our plates piled so high benefit us or those around us? Are we so busy that we fail to notice we are not taking time to enjoy our lives, but rather speeding through them in a hectic state?
Moses thought he was doing what was best for the people, but he never considered what he was doing to himself or what those who had come to inquire of him were having to endure. He may never have seen the negative aspects of trying to do everything himself had Jethro not pointed them out to him. When we try to accomplish to much in a short time, what effect is that having on us? On our disposition? On our attitudes, and on those around us?
I feel confident that we have busy schedules because we are trying to do what is best, and pleasing to those we love, but slowing down, taking the time to truly enjoy each others company, and listen to what those we love have going on in their lives is priceless. I encourage you to take the time to review your schedule, and evaluate how you are spending your time. How much of your time is spent in a quality manner vs. the amount spent on quantity? Most importantly how much of your time is being spent to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with God?
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!
Like Moses so many of us have overloaded our plates, and often it takes someone bringing it to our attention before we are willing to consider a change. When we take on more than we can manage in an appropriate manner, it is a mistake. Squeezing to many things into our schedules has an adverse effect on many areas of our lives, and this is something we often fail to realize.
We have become such a busy society that we have chosen to opt out of important things like sitting down for dinner as a family, in order to get everything on our schedules accomplished. Many people spend a great deal of time running around in an agitated state because they are so overwhelmed. This is not good for our health, it is not good for our families or any of our other relationships for that matter including the most important relationship in our lives and that is the one we have with God. In the end maintaining these hectic schedules seems to be doing more harm than good.
If we are rushing through life doing fifty things a day, then how many of those things are truly getting the attention from us they deserve? How many of those things are we able to give quality time to? How much of our life are we slowing down enough to actually be present in? Does having our plates piled so high benefit us or those around us? Are we so busy that we fail to notice we are not taking time to enjoy our lives, but rather speeding through them in a hectic state?
Moses thought he was doing what was best for the people, but he never considered what he was doing to himself or what those who had come to inquire of him were having to endure. He may never have seen the negative aspects of trying to do everything himself had Jethro not pointed them out to him. When we try to accomplish to much in a short time, what effect is that having on us? On our disposition? On our attitudes, and on those around us?
I feel confident that we have busy schedules because we are trying to do what is best, and pleasing to those we love, but slowing down, taking the time to truly enjoy each others company, and listen to what those we love have going on in their lives is priceless. I encourage you to take the time to review your schedule, and evaluate how you are spending your time. How much of your time is spent in a quality manner vs. the amount spent on quantity? Most importantly how much of your time is being spent to build and maintain a strong personal relationship with God?
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, May 2, 2012
The Company You Keep
Proverbs 13:20 (KJV) says "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools will be destroyed." This scripture is warning us to be careful who we associate with. The company we keep is very important for so many reasons.
I think most of us are warned about the type people we choose to surround ourselves with from the time we are old enough to understand our parents instructions. We are also born with an instinct that I believe God blesses us with in order to detect when something is unsafe, and when we meet someone who is walking down a path we should not venture down.
We cannot surround ourselves with people who choose to engage in partying, gossiping, making fun of people, judging others, telling dirty jokes, or cursing, just to name a few, and expect it not to have any bearing on our lives. It is one thing to witness to someone who is involved in this type behavior, and quite another to participate in the activity or stand idly by as if their behavior is something we agree with. We are only human, and are therefore, susceptible to temptation, and should not place ourselves in situations that perpetuate the possibility of us giving in to something that we are personally tempted by, knowing our Heavenly Father would not approve of it. For example, if we are surrounded by cursing constantly before long we may be cursing. If we are surrounded by those who love to make people laugh at another persons expense, we are erring by simply standing there and listening, in lieu of saying something or at least walking away. If we stand and listen to someone telling dirty jokes, and we don't politely say something or walk away we are silently condoning it, and are therefore participating in things we should not participate in as Christians. In those type situations, when we react in silence, what type witness are we being? Don't get caught up with others in their wrong doing, and find yourself guilty by association. We are not putting forth our best effort to live a Godly life, if we are surrounding ourselves with, and partaking in things that are ungodly.
First and foremost, when we live our lives in a righteous manner it pleases God. Secondly, when we do so, we can expect God to bless us. If we are not walking with God, and we are doing things that we know are not pleasing to Him, do we really think we deserve for God to reign blessings down on us? Or do we have the right to complain about what God is not doing for us that we feel He should be? We should desire to live our lives in a manner that makes us feel good about who we are as individuals as well. Does it really make anyone feel better to curse? Does it make anyone look good to make fun of another person for whatever reason? To put it in perspective, when you are making fun of, bullying or mistreating another individual in any way, you are doing so to one of God's children, and this is ill advised because God loves his children.
Live your life in a manner that is pleasing to God, in a manner that sets a good Christian example for others, and one that you yourself can feel good about. Our actions play a huge roll in our level of peace within ourselves, if we have a conscience. I know when I offend someone or do something that I regret I have an unrest that interferes with my eating, sleeping, concentration, and my ability to relax. I get no relief until I have apologized to the person I offended, and have ask forgiveness from God for my behavior, and wrong doing.
None of us are perfect, and we should love all mankind with brotherly love, but we are not to climb aboard a sinking ship with individuals who have no desire to stay a float, and go down with them. We should witness to them, and set examples for them, but we are not to put ourselves in a position to hinder our own walk with God. It is important that we fellowship with other Christians also as it enables us to be uplifting to one another, and encourage one another in Christ. The world is full of temptation, and those who will attempt to sway you in your beliefs. I encourage you to continue in brotherly love toward all mankind, continue to be a witness to others, and remember to be mindful of the company you keep.
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.
I think most of us are warned about the type people we choose to surround ourselves with from the time we are old enough to understand our parents instructions. We are also born with an instinct that I believe God blesses us with in order to detect when something is unsafe, and when we meet someone who is walking down a path we should not venture down.
We cannot surround ourselves with people who choose to engage in partying, gossiping, making fun of people, judging others, telling dirty jokes, or cursing, just to name a few, and expect it not to have any bearing on our lives. It is one thing to witness to someone who is involved in this type behavior, and quite another to participate in the activity or stand idly by as if their behavior is something we agree with. We are only human, and are therefore, susceptible to temptation, and should not place ourselves in situations that perpetuate the possibility of us giving in to something that we are personally tempted by, knowing our Heavenly Father would not approve of it. For example, if we are surrounded by cursing constantly before long we may be cursing. If we are surrounded by those who love to make people laugh at another persons expense, we are erring by simply standing there and listening, in lieu of saying something or at least walking away. If we stand and listen to someone telling dirty jokes, and we don't politely say something or walk away we are silently condoning it, and are therefore participating in things we should not participate in as Christians. In those type situations, when we react in silence, what type witness are we being? Don't get caught up with others in their wrong doing, and find yourself guilty by association. We are not putting forth our best effort to live a Godly life, if we are surrounding ourselves with, and partaking in things that are ungodly.
First and foremost, when we live our lives in a righteous manner it pleases God. Secondly, when we do so, we can expect God to bless us. If we are not walking with God, and we are doing things that we know are not pleasing to Him, do we really think we deserve for God to reign blessings down on us? Or do we have the right to complain about what God is not doing for us that we feel He should be? We should desire to live our lives in a manner that makes us feel good about who we are as individuals as well. Does it really make anyone feel better to curse? Does it make anyone look good to make fun of another person for whatever reason? To put it in perspective, when you are making fun of, bullying or mistreating another individual in any way, you are doing so to one of God's children, and this is ill advised because God loves his children.
Live your life in a manner that is pleasing to God, in a manner that sets a good Christian example for others, and one that you yourself can feel good about. Our actions play a huge roll in our level of peace within ourselves, if we have a conscience. I know when I offend someone or do something that I regret I have an unrest that interferes with my eating, sleeping, concentration, and my ability to relax. I get no relief until I have apologized to the person I offended, and have ask forgiveness from God for my behavior, and wrong doing.
None of us are perfect, and we should love all mankind with brotherly love, but we are not to climb aboard a sinking ship with individuals who have no desire to stay a float, and go down with them. We should witness to them, and set examples for them, but we are not to put ourselves in a position to hinder our own walk with God. It is important that we fellowship with other Christians also as it enables us to be uplifting to one another, and encourage one another in Christ. The world is full of temptation, and those who will attempt to sway you in your beliefs. I encourage you to continue in brotherly love toward all mankind, continue to be a witness to others, and remember to be mindful of the company you keep.
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 29, 2012
Change
Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." (KJV). In this third chapter Solomon is reflecting on life, and the fact that it has seasons. For instance in verse four he writes "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;" (KJV). Solomon notes in this chapter that we face changes, and that God has a design for them all.
Each of us go through changes in our lives, and some are not ones we would have chosen for ourselves. Nevertheless, they occur, and we have no control over them. For instance, maybe you have been fired, or lost your job in a mass lay off, and you had planned on retiring from the position you held. Maybe you applied for a position that you were totally qualified for, but did not get the job. Maybe your place of employment is forcing you to relocate, and you are upset because you are happy where you are now. Maybe your spouse decided they wanted a divorce, maybe your fiance called off your wedding, or your boyfriend/girlfriend decided to end your relationship. There are many changes that occur in our lives that we have no power over, but we do have the ability to determine how we are going to view, respond, and react to these changes.
The first thing we need to do is remember that God has a plan for our lives, he is all knowing, he wants what is best for us, and that he loves us very much. We don't always know the reasons for the changes brought about in our lives, nor do we understand them, but often they are for the best, and we just don't realize it at the time. For example, let's say you applied for a job that can be potentially dangerous, and you didn't get it, ever thought it possible that you didn't get it because God stepped in and saved your life? Let's say you are a good Christian who lives a Godly life, and for no apparent reason you are laid off from a job you loved where you worked among others just like yourself. Has it ever occurred to you that maybe God wants to relocate you in order for you and your Godly manner of living to serve as a witness to others? If your spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, or fiance left you, keep your chin up, God will bring the right person into your life at the right time, and when he does it will be someone that will treat you with the love and respect that you deserve. Remember only God knows what the future holds. These are just a few examples of change that can occur in our lives, but whatever the change for whatever the reason it is important for us to trust God, and keep a good attitude as we go through it.
The next time you face a major change in your life, that you have no control over, let me encourage you to view it in a positive light. Change is inevitable, we cannot always control it, we don't always like it, but we should not let it steal our peace and joy. Most often fear of the unknown is what causes us to dread change, so as you face it remember God tells us in Isaiah 41:10 not to fear, and that he is with us. Don't cling to the past fearing, and dreading the change that is in front of you, move on with an open heart and an open mind, excited about the wonderful things God has in store for you. Who knows, you may find that a change you feared, and dreaded so desperately turns out to be one of the best things that has ever happened to you.
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!
Each of us go through changes in our lives, and some are not ones we would have chosen for ourselves. Nevertheless, they occur, and we have no control over them. For instance, maybe you have been fired, or lost your job in a mass lay off, and you had planned on retiring from the position you held. Maybe you applied for a position that you were totally qualified for, but did not get the job. Maybe your place of employment is forcing you to relocate, and you are upset because you are happy where you are now. Maybe your spouse decided they wanted a divorce, maybe your fiance called off your wedding, or your boyfriend/girlfriend decided to end your relationship. There are many changes that occur in our lives that we have no power over, but we do have the ability to determine how we are going to view, respond, and react to these changes.
The first thing we need to do is remember that God has a plan for our lives, he is all knowing, he wants what is best for us, and that he loves us very much. We don't always know the reasons for the changes brought about in our lives, nor do we understand them, but often they are for the best, and we just don't realize it at the time. For example, let's say you applied for a job that can be potentially dangerous, and you didn't get it, ever thought it possible that you didn't get it because God stepped in and saved your life? Let's say you are a good Christian who lives a Godly life, and for no apparent reason you are laid off from a job you loved where you worked among others just like yourself. Has it ever occurred to you that maybe God wants to relocate you in order for you and your Godly manner of living to serve as a witness to others? If your spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, or fiance left you, keep your chin up, God will bring the right person into your life at the right time, and when he does it will be someone that will treat you with the love and respect that you deserve. Remember only God knows what the future holds. These are just a few examples of change that can occur in our lives, but whatever the change for whatever the reason it is important for us to trust God, and keep a good attitude as we go through it.
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 25, 2012
A Strong Foundation
In Luke 6:46-49 (KJV) Jesus says "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Whosoever cometh to Me, and heareth My sayings, and doeth them, I will show you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built a house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built a house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great."
In the above scripture Jesus is asking if you call Me Lord, and know who I am, why do you not follow Me, and obey My Word? He is pointing out that there are many that know Him, and are familiar with His word yet they opt not to live righteously.
Jesus goes on to explain that for those who hear His Word, and choose to live by it, He will be their rock, and a firm foundation for them to stand on. He used the word rock in order to convey the message of how solid, strong, and firm He will be for us if we choose to walk with Him. He uses the stream beating vehemently on the house to symbolize the trials, tribulations, and temptations we face in our earthly lives. He assures us in this scripture that if we will put our faith and trust in Him, and choose to live by His word, He will be with us when we face difficulties, and He will sustain us.
Jesus goes on to explain that those who are familiar with His Word, and know who He is, but opt not to live by His Word have a foundation compatible with soil. We know that soil is subject to erosion, meaning it washes away, and is not at all sturdy. Jesus advises that the trials, tribulations, and temptations these individuals face will be their ruin.
There are many people who believe in God, His awesome power, and the truth of His Word, who do not live their life in a manner that reflects their beliefs. Many fear that living the lifestyle of a Christian would be boring, but I assure you nothing could be further from the truth. If you opt to live a Godly life, you will be amazed at the change in your outlook on everything. You will be setting an excellent example for your children to follow and pass on to their children, and so forth and so on, from generation to generation.
What's so difficult, harsh, or painstaking about any of the instructions that God gives us in His Word? Is it loving one another, being kind, helping our neighbors, forgiving one another as God forgives us, loving and taking care of our family members, praying, obeying the ten commandments, saying grace, not cursing, knowing we can count on God to stand by us and hold our hand through good times and bad, walking in step with God who promises never to leave or forsake us, receiving blessings, having respect for one another, the promise of eternal life? What are we afraid of? The number of excuses people give are limitless, but none are valid.
We all have things to forfeit, and changes to make in our lives when we opt to live righteously, myself included. The good news is that if we go to God in pray each morning He will renew our strength, and spirit everyday, and assist us in making these changes. He is forgiving, merciful, understanding, loving, kind, and so much more.
If you have built your house on a weak foundation, I urge you to tear it down, and re-build. Do it today. Build a new house whose foundation is the rock, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Start living your life in a manner that is pleasing to God, and sets a good example for those you come in contact with to follow. Handle issues that arise in your life in a Godly manner, and people will take notice, because different stands out. Live your life in a manner that causes others to desire what you have. When you do this you're witnessing by example, and as a result others may come to know our Heavenly Father and form a personal relationship with Him. You will experience a happiness, divine peace, and a contentment in your life like you've never known, and most importantly living righteously is pleasing to God.
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 scripture Jesus is asking if you call Me Lord, and know who I am, why do you not follow Me, and obey My Word? He is pointing out that there are many that know Him, and are familiar with His word yet they opt not to live righteously.
Jesus goes on to explain that for those who hear His Word, and choose to live by it, He will be their rock, and a firm foundation for them to stand on. He used the word rock in order to convey the message of how solid, strong, and firm He will be for us if we choose to walk with Him. He uses the stream beating vehemently on the house to symbolize the trials, tribulations, and temptations we face in our earthly lives. He assures us in this scripture that if we will put our faith and trust in Him, and choose to live by His word, He will be with us when we face difficulties, and He will sustain us.
Jesus goes on to explain that those who are familiar with His Word, and know who He is, but opt not to live by His Word have a foundation compatible with soil. We know that soil is subject to erosion, meaning it washes away, and is not at all sturdy. Jesus advises that the trials, tribulations, and temptations these individuals face will be their ruin.
There are many people who believe in God, His awesome power, and the truth of His Word, who do not live their life in a manner that reflects their beliefs. Many fear that living the lifestyle of a Christian would be boring, but I assure you nothing could be further from the truth. If you opt to live a Godly life, you will be amazed at the change in your outlook on everything. You will be setting an excellent example for your children to follow and pass on to their children, and so forth and so on, from generation to generation.
What's so difficult, harsh, or painstaking about any of the instructions that God gives us in His Word? Is it loving one another, being kind, helping our neighbors, forgiving one another as God forgives us, loving and taking care of our family members, praying, obeying the ten commandments, saying grace, not cursing, knowing we can count on God to stand by us and hold our hand through good times and bad, walking in step with God who promises never to leave or forsake us, receiving blessings, having respect for one another, the promise of eternal life? What are we afraid of? The number of excuses people give are limitless, but none are valid.
We all have things to forfeit, and changes to make in our lives when we opt to live righteously, myself included. The good news is that if we go to God in pray each morning He will renew our strength, and spirit everyday, and assist us in making these changes. He is forgiving, merciful, understanding, loving, kind, and so much more.
If you have built your house on a weak foundation, I urge you to tear it down, and re-build. Do it today. Build a new house whose foundation is the rock, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Start living your life in a manner that is pleasing to God, and sets a good example for those you come in contact with to follow. Handle issues that arise in your life in a Godly manner, and people will take notice, because different stands out. Live your life in a manner that causes others to desire what you have. When you do this you're witnessing by example, and as a result others may come to know our Heavenly Father and form a personal relationship with Him. You will experience a happiness, divine peace, and a contentment in your life like you've never known, and most importantly living righteously is pleasing to God.
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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