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Will I judge you or ….
We have a choice. We live in a culture where we are all critics. It is an easy trap to fall into to judge people. We don’t like to use the word “judge” but that is what it is all about. Jesus is clear that we shouldn’t live that way.
The choice to make is love. We must love and not judge.
“If you judge people, you have no time to love them.”~~ Mother Teresa
Not caring …
It is easier to deal with someone who clearly hates you than someone who just doesn’t care. We have an enemy who hates us and yet we go through most days ignoring that. We have a Father who loves like there is no tomorrow. Humans seem to have the unique capacity for apathy.
May I love like my Father.
“The opposite of love is not hate, its indifference.” ~~C.S. Lewis
A lot of small things
We are called to love by our Master Jesus. That is an every moment kind of calling. It is a lot of little things. Of course, in God’s world, that adds up to a lot.
In this life we cannot always do great things. But we can do small things with great love. -Mother Teresa
Part of the greatest generation ever
My dad was a part of the greatest generation ever. World War 2 veteran who served his country with honor.
I will never forget the sacrifices he made for me. He didn’t talk about it a lot. You could tell, when he did, there was a lot pain associated with what he saw and did.
My dad fought for my liberty
I learned so much from my Dad. He was in the artillery in WWII. What an amazing man.
He fought for my liberty. He paid a price for his service but he was proud he served. He knew the very real danger and disaster that would occur if he didn’t.
My dad made a difference in the world.
“This will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.” Elmer Davis
“It is easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you.” Dick Cheney
The flag drapped on his coffin
My father (Everett Wiley Wilson) served in WWII. This is the flag that was draped on his coffin. God bless men and women like my dad who serve our country with honor.
We miss you.
Memorial Day
These heroes are dead. They died for liberty – they died for us. They are at rest. They sleep in the land they made free, under the flag they rendered stainless, under the solemn pines, the sad hemlocks, the tearful willows, and the embracing vines. They sleep beneath the shadows of the clouds, careless alike of sunshine or of storm, each in the windowless Place of Rest.
Earth may run red with other wars – they are at peace. In the midst of battle, in the roar of conflict, they found the serenity of death.
I have one sentiment for soldiers living and dead: cheers for the living; tears for the dead. ~Robert G. Ingersoll
Do we trust God as much as He trusts us?
You know you feel this way some days. But, God does trust us. Think about it. Everything that is happening in our life is for our good.
Do we trust Him as much as He trusts us?
“I know God will not give me anything I can’t handle. I just wish that He didn’t trust me so much.” ~~Mother Teresa
Where does joy come from?
We want joy in our life. We want peace.
Do we long for God? Does our heart yearn to know what God wants us to do today?
Then we will know joy and peace.
“God can not give us joy and peace apart from Himself cause there is no such thing.” -C.S. Lewis
How can you do anything other than obey?
God doesn’t make us do anything. It is all voluntary. It is our choice.
Have you seen Him? How can you do anything other than obey?
“Jesus never insists on obedience, but when we truly see Him we will instantly obey Him.” ~~ Oswald Chambers
What should I worry about as a parent?
As parents, we worry about all kinds of things. We fret. We get angry.
Here is something to think (worry … ) about. Our children are watching us. The examples we set or don’t tell the story.
May our children see loving parents, grounded in God.
“Don’t worry that your children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.” ~Robert Fulghum
“The person who obeys God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” ~~Jesus
Jesus is clear. When his earthly family showed up one day and wanted to see him, he looked at everyone around him and let them know how important they were to him.
We are a part of the family of God. We have been adopted in to the family. We have everything that goes with that.
The only condition is that we obey God. That is all. We are a part of the family because of our obedience, not because of our birthright.
“The person who obeys God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” ~~Jesus (Mark 3:35 The Message)
Our mission is love
Jesus challenges us to love everyone, all the time.
Jesus challenges us to love God, with a passion that can’t be replicated.
“Because we love something else more than this world, we love even this world more than those who know no other.” ~~C. S. Lewis
Can I win two games at one time?
I can’t win two games at one time. I am going to focus on the one I am in right now. I will not start another one.
Love must …
“Love must be as much a light, as it is a flame.” ~ Henry David Thoreau
Have I mastered the basics as a disciple of Jesus? Am I ready to move on?
There are basics in being a disciple of Jesus. Are the following in place in my life?
- Do I trust in God for everything and reject “self-help”?
- Have I been properly baptized?
- Have the leaders of the church layed hands on me and have I received the Holy Spirit?
- Do I believe in the resurrection of the dead?
- Do I live like there is an eternal judgement?
We can’t go on to maturity without having mastered the basics. If we haven’t mastered Jesus 101, we can’t take the advanced courses. God doesn’t work that way.
“The basic foundational truths are in place: turning your back on “salvation by self-help” and turning in trust toward God; baptismal instructions; laying on of hands; resurrection of the dead; eternal judgment.” (Hebrews 6:2 The Message)
How should we use our time?
There are many ways to use our time. Does our calendar devote enough attention to the creative?
“We must use time creatively.” ~~Martin Luther King, Jr.
I believe …
“I believe in Christianity as I believe in the sun: not only because I see it, but by it I see everything else” ~~C.S.Lewis
“Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm.” -Winston Churchill
A bad attitude is like a flat tire, you won’t get very far unless you change it!
What is my job?
My job is to be sympathetic. No doubt about it. That leads to me being a blessing. It is way to easy to judge. That doesn’t help people at all. That is the way of the world.
God’s new plan is different. Be a blessing to others. That is my job to reach God’s goal.
May I be sympathetic.
Summing up: …be sympathetic …. bless—that’s your job, to bless. You’ll be a blessing and also get a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-12
Gideon is God’s man
You have to love Gideon. Israel is in bad shape. They have abandoned God. Not just a little but completely. Absolutely, positively left Him for good. They Midianites have devastated them and humiliate them for sport. It is embarrassing.
Gideon carries out his daily work in a pit so the Midianites won’t harass him. It works but God knows where he is. So … God shows up on the scene one day. Just like God when you think He can’t find you. The angel of God appeared to him and said, “God is with you, O mighty warrior!” Really? Seriously? He is hiding in a pit. You just have a sense this is going to be rich.
So how would you respond to this? How would I? Probably like Gideon. Skeptical is an understatement. Gideon replied, “With me, my master? If God is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all the miracle-wonders our parents and grandparents told us about, telling us, ‘Didn’t God deliver us from Egypt?’ The fact is, God has nothing to do with us—he has turned us over to Midian.”
That is a pretty honest and direct way to reply to God. Interesting in that it didn’t bother God. Not in the least. God had a plan. It involved Gideon. God was going to win. So God faced him directly: “Go in this strength that is yours. Save Israel from Midian. Haven’t I just sent you?”
At this point you would think Gideon would get it. I mean really. What is it going to take. This is God. But no. Gideon said to him, “Me, my master? How and with what could I ever save Israel? Look at me. My clan’s the weakest in Manasseh and I’m the runt of the litter.” Ha. The runt of the litter. That is good. But God doesn’t laugh. And … he said it to God. Now I’m thinking lightening is about to strike. But it didn’t bother God. Not in the least. God had a plan. It involved Gideon. God was going to win. He is so patient.
God said to him, “I’ll be with you. Believe me, you’ll defeat Midian as one man.”
And that was that.
How does change begin?
The family is the core of values and all teaching. If you spend time together as family, the truth comes through. This is real and it is not to be ignored.
“All great change in America begins at the dinner table.” ~~Ronald Reagan
How will others come to know God?
This is an amazing truth. God wants us to love everyone we know or come in contact with.
How will they come to know God? Through our love of them.
“To love another person is to help them love God.” ~~Soren Kierkegaard
“We have guided missiles and misguided men.” ~~Martin Luther King, Jr.
So sad but true.
May God guide is in His path of love.
“We have guided missiles and misguided men.” ~~Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Christ the Lord is risen today, Sons of men and angels say. Raise your joys and triumphs high; Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply.” ~~Charles Wesley
“Christ the Lord is risen today, Sons of men and angels say. Raise your joys and triumphs high; Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply.” ~~Charles Wesley
“Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song.” ~~Pope John Paul II
“Easter says you can put truth in the grave but it won’t stay there.” ~~Clarence W. Hall
Some great Easter quotes: He Is RISEN! He is Risen indeed!
He Is RISEN! He is Risen indeed!
Christ the Lord is risen today, Sons of men and angels say. Raise your joys and triumphs high; Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply.
– Charles Wesley
God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung, and bled, and died, it was God saying to the world, ‘I love you.’
– Billy GrahamJesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
– John 11:25-26If Jesus rose from the dead, then you have to accept all that he said; if he didn’t rise from the dead, then why worry about any of what he said? The issue on which everything hangs is not whether or not you like his teaching but whether or not he rose from the dead.
– Timothy KellerEaster says you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.
– Clarence W. HallI believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.
– C.S. LewisThe devil, darkness, and death may swagger and boast, the pangs of life will sting for a while longer, but don’t worry; the forces of evil are breathing their last. Not to worry…He’s risen!
– Charles R. SwindollThe resurrection completes the inauguration of God’s kingdom. . . . It is the decisive event demonstrating thet God’s kingdom really has been launched on earth as it is in heaven. The message of Easter is that God’s new world has been unveiled in Jesus Christ and that you’re now invited to belong to it.”
– N.T. WrightA man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.
– Mahatma GandhiThe great gift of Easter is hope – Christian hope which makes us have that confidence in God, in his ultimate triumph, and in his goodness and love, which nothing can shake.
– Basil Humebecause, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
– Romans 10:9Immanuel, God with us in our nature, in our sorrow, in our lifework, in our punishment, in our grave, and now with us, or rather we with Him, in resurrection, ascension, triumph, and Second Advent splendor.
– Charles H. SpurgeonOur Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf of springtime.
– Martin LutherSalvation is the root–the resurrection is the fruit.
– T.D. JakesFor what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.
– 1 Corinthians 15:3-6We are adopted into God’s family through the resurrection of Christ from the dead in which he paid all our obligations to sin, the law, and the devil, in whose family we once lived. Our old status lies in his tomb. A new status is ours through his resurrection.
– Sinclair B. FergusonNow if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
– Romans 6:8-11Before the Resurrection of Christ, the Holy Spirit came upon individuals only on certain occasions for special tasks. But now, after the Resurrection, Christ through the Holy Spirit dwells in the heart of every believer to give us supernatural power in living our daily lives.
– Billy GrahamIn short, I didn’t become a Christian because God promised I would have an even happier life than I had as an atheist. He never promised any such thing. Indeed, following him would inevitably bring divine demotions in the eyes of the world. Rather, I became a Christian because the evidence was so compelling that Jesus really is the one-and-only Son of God who proved his divinity by rising from the dead. That meant following him was the most rational and logical step I could possibly take.
– Lee StrobelTwo thousand years ago, in the Middle East, an event occurred that permanently changed the world. Because of that event, history was split. Every time you write a date, you’re using the Resurrection of Jesus Christ as the focal point.
– Rick WarrenTomb, thou shalt not hold Him longer; Death is strong, but Life is stronger; Stronger than the dark, the light; Stronger than the wrong, the right; Faith and Hope triumphant say Christ will rise on Easter Day.
– Phillips BrooksIt was inevitable that Jesus Christ should be crucified. It was also inevitable that He should rise again.
– H.R.L. SheppardWe live and die; Christ died and lived!
– John StottWe know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him.
– Romans 6:9Because of the empty tomb, we have peace. Because of His resurrection, we can have peace during even the most troubling of times because we know He is in control of all that happens in the world.
– Paul ChappellThe truth of the resurrection gives life to every other area of gospel truth. The resurrection is the pivot on which all of Christianity turns and without which none of the other truths would much matter. Without the resurrection, Christianity would be so much wishful thinking, taking its place alongside all other human philosophy and religious speculation.
– John MacArthurLet us consider this settled, that no one has made progress in the school of Christ who does not joyfully await the day of death and final resurrection.
– John CalvinThe resurrection is not merely important to the historic Christian faith; without it, there would be no Christianity. It is the singular doctrine that elevates Christianity above all other world religions.
– Pastor Adrian RogersWhoever reads the New Testament seriously, or gives thought to the impact which the apostles made upon their generation, must acknowledge that one outstanding historic event alone spurred that small band of 11 ordinary men to an amazing task of evangelization in their generation. Defying every obstacle, loss of home, persecution, even death itself, they evidenced the supreme relevance in their ministry of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
– Erling C. Olsen:The atonement, or forgiveness of sin once and for all achieved on the cross, weighs in, and heavily. But the atonement is onfirmed, ratified, sealed, and made enduringly good by virtue of Christ’s rising from death. Our justification hinges on a risen life, present in us now because Christ is present with us now.
– Paul F.M. Zahl
“A baby is God’s opinion that life should go on.” ~~Carl Sandburg
God has many ways to speak to us. This is one of the perfect ways He does every day. We must celebrate life. It is God’s gift.
“A baby is God’s opinion that life should go on.” ~~Carl Sandburg
“You’re never as good as everyone tells you when you win, and you’re never as bad as they say when you lose.” ~~Lou Holtz
What is your God-created identity?
Jesus had a great way to simplify what He was saying. He was very direct and didn’t beat around the bush.
So, He challenges us to grow up. We know we are children of God and live in His World (Kingdom). We know He is in charge of our lives when we let Him be. So what is holding us back? Actually doing what we know to do. Jesus challenges us to live out our God created identity. We are His children. Are we living like it?
“In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.” Matthew 5:48
May we grow up and live our God created identity every day.
Why worry?
God lights my path. God saves me. Simple but straightforward truths about our amazing heavenly Father. I am participating in His new plan for my life. I am hearing great news today. God is smiling. He shows me his grin.
Why should I be worried? Why should I be afraid? If nothing is impossible with God, why would anything seem like a big deal?
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
May I rely on the stronghold of my life. May I have no fear.
Are we focused on Jesus?
Are we focused on Jesus?
When Peter was, walking on the water, all was fine. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus, he started to sink.
Are we focused on Jesus?
“When you are brought face to face with a difficult situation and nothing happens externally, you can still know that freedom and release will be given because of your continued concentration on Jesus Christ.”
–Oswald Chambers
“Only one who devotes himself to a cause with his whole strength and soul can be a true master. For this reason mastery demands all of a person.” ~~Albert Einstein
How do you stop God?
How do you stop God?
You don’t. When He wants to do something, He will.
“You might as well try and dam Niagara Falls with toothpicks as to stop the reform wave sweeping our land.”
—– Billy Sunday
Can we really out imagine God?
We think we know it all. We are very confident about what the future holds for us. Can we really out imagine God?
No, we can’t out imagine the creator of the universe. We can’t out imagine the inventor of love. We can’t out imagine the author of faithfulness.
God loves us and we can’t imagine what He has in store for us. So let’s just fasten our seat belts and enjoy the ride.
“That’s why we have this Scripture text: No one’s ever seen or heard anything like this, Never so much as imagined anything quite like it— What God has arranged for those who love him.” ~~ Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 2:9 The Message)
What about that pat on the back?
It is so very true that the things that irritate us the most about others are the very things that challenge us. You would think we would get it but some days, even looking in the mirror, we miss it.
We all love for people to notice how good we are. It makes us feel better. The pat on the back is nice. It is, however, pride if we let getting kudos drive our behavior. Our motivation must be to please God not to get compliments from others. That is all there is to it.
“The more pride we have, the more other people’s pride irritates us” – C. S. Lewis
What will others decide?
Others get to decide how we will come to them. It is their actions that determine that. Will we come as disciplinarian? Friend?
It is their choice. May they make the right ones. May we respond in love.
So how should I prepare to come to you? As a severe disciplinarian who makes you toe the mark? Or as a good friend and counselor who wants to share heart-to-heart with you? You decide. 1 Corinthians 4:21
“The time is always right to do what’s right.” ~~Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Life is just a mirror, and what you see out there, you must first see inside of you.” ~~Wally “Famous” Amos
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” ~~C. S. Lewis
Computers are magnificent tools but …
“Computers are magnificent tools for the realization of our dreams, but no machine can replace the human spark of spirit, compassion, love, and understanding.” – Louis Gerstner
Do you want more courage?
We all need more courage. We should pray to be bolder.
What does it take for more courage in our lives? Faith!
We must believe our Father has great things in mind for us.
“A man of courage is also full of faith.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero.
“Do not trust all men, but trust men of worth; the former course is silly, the latter a mark of prudence.” ~~Democritus
What is the opposite of love?
Is the opposite of love hate? Anger? Cruelty?
Not hardly. It is not caring. It is ignoring. It is indifference.
“The opposite of love is not hate, its indifference.” ~~Elie Wiesel
“Money just draws flies.” ~~ Mahalia Jackson
Will I stop now?
We have “to do” lists but when God talks, we need “to stop” lists.
What does God causing a doubt mean? How does He do that? It is the difference between my doing something absent hearing from God versus have heard from God, I am doing something. We must admit that many times we just move ahead without having heard from God. God can and will cause doubt about that at some point. When that happens, the best thing is to stop immediately.
“Whenever God causes a doubt about something, stop it immediately, no matter what it may be. Nothing in our lives is a mere insignificant detail to God.” ~~Oswald Chambers
“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” ~~Steve Jobs
“A Diplomat is a Man who Always Remembers a Woman’s Birthday but Never Remembers her Age” ~Robert Frost
“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak. Courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen” – Winston Churchill
What makes the man?
We sometimes make the mistake that the circumstances we go through, the trials of life so to speak, give us character. That circumstances make us who we are.
That is a false way of seeing life. It is who we are, in God and through His grace, that defines us. It is our character, not circumstances, that makes us who we are.
“Character, not circumstances, makes the man.” ~~Booker T. Washington
Related articles
- Booker T. Washington (mustardseedbudget.wordpress.com)
- A Moment’s Reflection (2voices1song.com)
- His Excellency (dtobooks.wordpress.com)
What are we looking for? Problems?
If we look for problems, we will find them. There are problems at every turn. In fact, if we look to see what God isn’t doing, we’ll see all the evidence we need that God has abandoned us.
That is not God’s way. He wants us to see what He is doing right now. And that perspective is an amazing thing.
May I see God right now!!
“All things work in our favor when we serve God, no matter what the circumstances look like. This core value trains us to look for and focus on God’s redemptive purposes more the problems.”
–Kris Vallotton “Developing a Supernatural Lifestyle
It’s just a fact
One of my favorite stories is told in a book called “Believe in the God who Believes in You.” Robert Schuller tells about spending the week with a guide in Russia. The lady was an atheist. Bob prayed “What can I say to her?” Here’s what he said happened:
“My words came out without a forethought… I said “I have good news for you.” “Well?” She looked at me; she waited.
“God loves you,” I said. “even if you don’t believe it. And God believes in you even if you don’t believe in Him.”
Wow! That’s so powerful. Even when we don’t believe in Him. Even when we don’t know about Him. Even if we are being just plain stubborn… God believes in us.
It’s just a fact. Because our God is Good.
What if there is no plan B in God’s mind?
It is so very easy to fall into the trap that someone else will change what we so love to complain about. Surely they will.
Or will they?
What if they don’t?
What if God is depending on me to be the one to start the change?
What if there is no plan B in God’s mind?
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” ~~ Gandhi
“Neither he (the Son) nor the Father shuts anyone out.” ~~Jesus
Jesus demands radical obedience from us but also brings good news. No one is shut out from God. All are welcome.
No one is shut out, ever.
“Neither he (the Son) nor the Father shuts anyone out.” ~~Jesus
“Legislation cannot make you love me, but legislation can restrain you from lynching me, and I think that is kind of important.“ ~~Martin Luther King, Jr.
“It is true that behavior cannot be legislated, and legislation cannot make you love me, but legislation can restrain you from lynching me, and I think that is kind of important. “ ~~Martin Luther King, Jr. (Speech at Oberlin College (1964)
“Whatever your life’s work is, do it well. A man should do his job so well that the living, the dead, and the unborn could do it no better.” ~~Martin Luther King, Jr.
I have a dream speech
This says it all.
I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.
Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.
But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. And so we’ve come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.
“Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.” – Albert Einstein.
What can go wrong?
What can go wrong? Our fear is that anything and everything will go wrong. That is an enemy whispering in our ear. It isn’t true.
We serve a loving savior, Jesus. The plans He has for us are good ones. May we focus on what He is doing and not listen to the enemy whispering in our ear.
“If you continue to love Jesus, nothing much can go wrong with you, and I hope you will always do so.” ~~C.S.Lewis
Related articles
- Lessons Learned Through Forgiving My Dad’s Murderer (lauriecoombs.org)
- Faith Child – Serving Him? – He is best (ptl2010.com)
- Your Choice (shelleywilliamsblog.com)
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions. Imagination is more important than knowledge.” ~~Albert Einstein
A complete benefits package
Who doesn’t want to work for someone where there is an absolutely complete benefits package? We all do of course.
Our Father is so amazing. He has gifts in mind for us that we don’t know anything about. The benefits of His new plan are astounding. They are ours when we follow our Master Jesus. He is in control!!
They are all ours. Not a few but all of them. We get the full benefits package as citizens of his government.
How amazing is that?
“It’s not that I’m so smart; it’s just that I stay with problems longer.” ~~Albert Einstein
There may be people that have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do. – Derek Jeter
Should we do it?
Because of what Jesus did, we can walk right up to God. We don’t even have to hesitate. We can just go right in to His presence and the place where His absolute perfection radiates completely. Jesus made the way clear. It was by His blood and His sacrifice. Nothing I could do to make it happen. This is His new plan for us. He has a whole new strategy for how we can be with Him and His awesome love.
So … let’s do it. Let us believe and be confident that we are in fact presentable. We don’t have to be ashamed at all. We are clean inside and out. Let’s get a firm grip on the promises that keep us moving in to His way. Has He ever not kept His word?
In fact, let’s get creative in how we can encourage love and helping each other out. Let’s be really inventive coming up with entirely new ways to show it. The Big Day is coming. Let’s get ready for it.
May we spur each other on. May we help each other out every time we get a chance.
On the Plains of Hesitation bleach the bones of countless millions, who, at the Dawn of Victory, sat down to wait, and waiting–died -George W. Cecil
This is so powerful. May I go in and take, with God’s help, the promised land.
On the Plains of Hesitation bleach the bones of countless millions, who, at the Dawn of Victory, sat down to wait, and waiting–died -George W. Cecil
“Any man who can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves.” ~~Albert Einstein
Are we missing the forest for the trees?
Jesus had a lot to say to the Religious Scholars of His day. He still does. Do we really think reading the Bible constantly saves us? Is that where our life comes from? Are we missing the forest for the trees?
Jesus is standing right in front of us. He is giving us life right now.
You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren’t willing to receive from me the life you say you want. John 5:39-40 (The Message)
“Communism doesn’t work because people like to own stuff.” ~Frank Zappa
What if Jesus walked in right now?
What Jesus would say to me if he just walked into my room right now?
I think he would look right at me and smile. He would sit down right beside me and he would put his arm around my shoulder to talk. I think on most days he would say “Why do you worry so much, child? You belong to me. Your family belongs to me. I want you to count on Me. Know that I love you. Your worry smothers your awareness of how my Love for you constantly fills your life.”
And then, I would look right back at Him and say “You’re right!” And then I would smile too.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Matthew 6:25-26
How many hairs do you have on your head?
“We cannot but admit that not even the least thing takes place unless it is ordered by God. For who have ever been so concerned and curious as to find out how much hair he has on his head? There is no one. God, however, knows the number. Indeed, nothing is too small in us or in any other creature, not to be ordered by the all-knowing and all-powerful providence of God.”
“Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.” – Pericles
“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” ~~Dr. Seuss
What should we name Him wasn’t his biggest problem
Joseph had a lot to deal with. What to name the Son of God wasn’t one of them. God’s angel made that clear to him. His name is Jesus, “God Saves”.
His bigger problem was what to do about his fiance who was pregnant but claimed the Holy Spirit got her pregnant. He trusted Mary but only up to a point. He was going to call the whole thing off. The angel solved that for him as well.
So … the Son of God is named Jesus. And, most importantly, He saves us.
While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God’s angel spoke in the dream: “Joseph, son of David, don’t hesitate to get married. Mary’s pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God’s Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—’God saves’—because he will save his people from missing God’s goal (sin) for their lives.” Matthew 1:20-23
What is more important? What you know or what you can imagine?
Love is about action
“Love is not about concepts; love is about action. The only way to master love is to practice love.” – Don Miguel Ruiz
“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.” ~~Albert Einstein
We have all been in situations where fear took over. Fear of making a mistake. Fear of being found out we are a fraud.
We couldn’t move forward.
We have also experienced freedom from fear. Working in an environment where we know it is ok to try something new. Knowing we will learn something valuable if it doesn’t work.
“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.” ~~Albert Einstein
Related articles
- Einstein said …. (fernexpressblog.fernmitchell.com)
- Sixty years ago, Albert Einstein was offered the presidency of Israel (newstatesman.com)
- Albert Einstein… (dadoffourgirls.wordpress.com)
“My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into trouble.” ~~Jesus
Jesus challenges us to be radically different from most Christians and religious types of people. It will get us in trouble. In fact, it is a promise. 
That is nothing new. You can go back and read almost any account of men and women of God. Being on God’s side will get you in trouble with people of this world. Just look at Jesus.
Getting in trouble for Jesus puts us in good company.
“My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into trouble.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:11-12 The Message)
Related articles
- Tuesday (December 4): “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.” (shechina.wordpress.com)
- I Had A Vision of Jesus, Horses & Chariots Yesterday! It Is Closer Than We Think! (lynleahz.com)
Did you do your best? Then you can forget the rest.
One of mentors always had a great question. I can still hear it. “Is this your best work?”
Did you do your best? Then you can forget the rest.
I have a choice. Will I be sad or will I be glad?
God challenges us to see what He is doing. It is a choice. If I look around I can see plenty of evidence to depress me.
But that is not all. God is in a good mood. He is faithful. A miracle is waiting to happen.
I have a choice. Will I be sad or will I be glad?
In honor of Dale Carnegie’s birthday (Nov 24th) – “People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.”
Fun is important. Happiness is worth it’s weight in gold.
“People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” ~~Dale Carnegie
His love endures forever
Give thanks to the Lord, Our God and King
His love endures forever
For He is good, He is above all things
His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
With a mighty hand and outstretched arm
His love endures forever
For the life that’s been reborn
His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, sing praise
CHORUS:
Forever God is faithful
Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us
Forever and ever, forever (2X)
From the rising to the setting sun
His love endures forever
And by the grace of God we will carry on
His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, sing praise
(CHORUS)
His love endures forever (8X)
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, sing praise
(CHORUS)
“Conscience is the inner voice that warns us somebody may be looking.” H. L. Mencken
H. L. Mencken, satirist, social critic, cynic, freethinker (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Chipper Jones on his last game
Chipper Jones of the Atlanta Braves (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
This was not the way it was supposed to end for Chipper Jones. Those who had seen him homer twice in his first career postseason game and again on his 40th birthday certainly had reason to expect a grand finale.
A sure-fire Hall of Famer and one of the greatest switch-hitters the game has known, Jones seemed destined to limp off into the sunset after drilling a walk-off homer in Game 7 of the World Series.
Instead, Jones exited the Braves‘ clubhouse on Friday night seemingly shell-shocked by what had transpired in a 6-3 loss to the Cardinals in the National League’s one-game Wild Card playoff. He committed a costly throwing error in St. Louis‘ three-run third inning and was limited to a broken-bat infield single in five at-bats.
“I wanted to come out here and play well,” Jones said. “Today, my heart is broken not for me, my heart is broken for my teammates and my coaching staff, and all these fans that have been so great to us this year.
“But I’ll be OK. It’s just one of those things. You come to the park, and I walk out of here knowing that I brought it every single day. I think when you walk out of here knowing that you brought it every day, it makes walking away on the final day a little bit easier.”
Related articles
- Chipper throws one away in finale (nypost.com)
- Chipper: Not way I thought career would end (espn.go.com)
- Disputed call overshadows Cardinals wild-card playoff win (triblive.com)
“The test of love is in how one relates not to saints and scholars but to rascals.” ~~ Abraham Joshua Heschel
A few good men in NYC 2001
“A Few Good Men” By Woody Wright, Wesley Pritchard, Guy Penrod, Reggie Smith (NYC 2001)
I will NEVER forget
I will never forget that day. Originally I was scheduled to fly out on a flight out of Boston that morning. I had changed my plans to fly from Syracuse, NY. We had a large meeting going on in our office. There was a TV in the meeting room. We saw the second plane hit. We saw both towers go down. We saw the devastation to the Pentagon. We heard of the flight going down in Pennsylvania. 
All in real time as it happened. Each event a blow to our gut. Who could do this to us? Why were we being attacked and Americans dying? What was happening and what would be next?
It was horrible. We couldn’t make it stop. This was real and not a nightmare.
We sent everyone home to be with their families. I just wanted to be close to my son and he came home from school early. I hugged him. We sat and watched TV for days until I just couldn’t stand it any more.
I will NEVER forget that day. It was September 11, 2001.
Michael Wilson's Blog 