Lighthouse Network's Stepping Stones Community

Stepping Stones: Wound Salve: Forgiveness

2012-02-13T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 13, 2012

Transformational Thought

We all experience setbacks and disappointments in life. Sometimes they are small ones that we shrug off or learn from. And then we move on. But sometimes disappointments have a much bigger impact. These past disappointments stay with us, causing the past to haunt our present … then bleed into our future and disrupt it.

These setbacks could be anything: bankruptcy … a failed marriage … termination from a job … a poor decision … a friendship gone sour. It might be losing a parent at a young age or the death of a spouse or someone else we cared for deeply. It could be being a victim of various kinds of abuse. Rejection, whether small or large, from parents, teachers, peers, the popular group, a crush, or an employer, inflicts wounds. Unless really processed (and who can truly do that as a young kid?) these wounds will periodically open and ooze when we experience present day hurts. Theses hurts could be in our own lives, noticed in others, or even seen in the media.

A natural tendency when we have suffered a wound is to try to place blame on someone. Perhaps we hold another person responsible. Sometimes we blame ourselves. We might even get angry with God. Anger is OK, but bitterness, revenge, or helplessness is not. These are a few signs that real forgiveness hasn’t taken place yet.

God has promised us a future and a hope. But not forgiving the offender who hurt us can block our ability to experience all the freedom and healing that He has planned for us – healing for our past wounds, and worse yet, their insidious ripples in our lives. As long as we are unwilling to forgive, the hurt of the past has control over our lives, and we cannot move forward. You see, forgiveness is the salve that soothes every wound and makes them ready for the powerful healing that the death of Christ and the grace of God will ultimately bring.

Today, for some of you, it’s time to focus on forgiving those who have hurt you. For others, it's probably time to forgive yourself. God has, so don’t be so prideful as to think you could never forgive yourself. It's time to open your heart to the love and forgiveness of our heavenly Father. And then you will be set free from some of your past and it will be time to move on to the wonderful plans He has for you. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Father, help me to truly put the past behind and look forward to what lies ahead. Some days the bitterness of past hurts cloud my true calling. Those are such tough days, but now I see it is a choice. Thank You for forgiving my sins. Help me to walk in the gift of forgiveness … for others and myself. Help me search those past wounds with different lenses, those of an adult, growing in the knowledge and skills of Christ. Guide my learning and help me to apply what I learn so I can produce the good works, inside and outside, that you have prepared me for, even through those past wounds. I pray this through the One who gave His life to forgive my sins, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14

To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
Acts 26:18

Stepping Stones: Do You Have Friends or Fools?

2012-02-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 11-12, 2012

Transformational Thought

As I look back over my childhood, I recall my mother paying close attention to those I selected as friends. If she saw me making friends with someone she thought was not a healthy relationship, she would clearly warn me that a bad apple spoils the whole batch, and we are who we hang out with. She told me that God would always provide two new, great friends for every not-so-good-friend that I lost. I’m not sure where to find that verse in the Bible.

Today's scripture makes it clear that our choice of friends plays a vital role in our lives. This is especially true for teenagers. They are no longer children, but they are not yet adults in judgment either. To fit in, feel valued, develop their “own” identity separate from their parents, or to figure out who they are, teens tend to pick up or adopt many of the behaviors, values, and characteristics of the people they are observing and hanging around.

This is a difficult age for teens. They don't understand their limitations, and underestimate or fail to recognize many dangers. Parents will allow them to make many more independent decisions than in the past, but must still enforce some boundaries when there are activities or relationships that could cause their teens harm.

We often think peer pressure is silly and cowardly. But just think how many times you let other’s opinions or fear of rejection influence your thoughts or actions. Please recognize the peer pressure impacting your teen, and offer alternative answers. Do not "put down" your child's friends, but rather encourage godly relationships.

Church attendance is very important and should not be optional. Church youth groups can be invaluable sources of godly friends and activities. Encourage your teen to take part in these. Strongly encourage involvement in extra-curricular activities. Sports, band, specialty clubs, dance or music lessons are all possibilities for healthy involvement.

If you are having a hard time wrapping your mind around why our kids crumble and do such stupid things, and are easily influenced by their peers, just look at how many adults act. Trying to keep up with the Joneses, playing games and politics in the workplace, gossiping, influencing others to engage in inappropriate work practices, having affairs at work. We adults struggle to discern friends from fools and we often don’t model what we preach.

Today, focus on being involved as a family in godly activities with godly people who have kids the same age as your teenager. Examine the friendships and the relationships that influence your behavior. Are you proud of what you are doing? Don't have ungodly relationships … your teen will notice the hypocrisy. Life is your decision, so choose well because your kids are watching.

Prayer
My dear heavenly Father, parenting is so hard. Such a rollercoaster of emotions! Such pain when they are in pain or on a dangerous road. Please lead my children, regardless of their ages, into relationships that will influence them in a positive way. Give me wisdom to guide them and courage to protect them. Help me love the friends whom I do not approve, and remember to pray for them also. I pray this in the name our perfect friend, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.
Proverbs 13:20

Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble.
1 John 2:9,10

Stepping Stones: Loss Is Your Door to His Stability

2012-02-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 10, 2012

Transformational Thought

As young children, one thing we learn quickly is the reality of loss. Missing a meal, seeing others whose needs do get met, losing a mother’s attention to a newborn sibling, losing a beloved toy, losing at games, loss through divorce or job relocation. Loss of innocence through abuse or extreme life circumstances.

Life is filled with many kinds of losses. But despite the cause, one thing is certain: all loss hurts, regardless of its size. We recover quickly from some losses … but others take months or even years to absorb and process. Certain losses are temporary while others are permanent.

In today's economic environment in which businesses are closing and downsizing, many are facing the loss of their jobs. This kind of loss can be devastating to anyone, but especially to the breadwinner of a family. Even if it is a second job, it may represent a threat to survival, credibility, and stability for our spouse or kids.

Job loss can produce many emotions, but fear is usually at the root of any uncomfortable response. Will I lose my home? My child is leaving for college this fall—will I have to break the news that it will be impossible? We have built up credit card debt trying to keep our heads above water … what now? Who will respect me? Will our marriage survive this pressure?

These and many other concerns are very real and can seem extremely threatening. If we keep our eyes on the waves of hardship, we will sink into despair and hopelessness. This is a time when it is difficult … but imperative … to focus on Jesus, not on the problems. This is a time to remember that He, not our job, is our source of value, peace, security, comfort, redemption, and abundance.

We may go through some real challenges. We may have to tighten our belts and make some sacrifices. These struggles are not easy, but with Jesus we have hope and a powerful peace. Our job may be gone and the economy may be falling apart, but God has not changed. Step back from the hardship and see your life from God’s perspective. It is because of his mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed.

Today, dig into the areas where you struggle or have experienced some recent hardship. What is the fear at the bottom of the issue? Infuse Jesus’ teachings into your fear, let Him bring healing and comfort to your pain. Then re-evaluate your struggle through these new lenses. Remember, great and abundant is His stability and faithfulness in all things. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
My Father and Lord, This economy and my finances have left me feeling angry and fearful. Help me to regroup … to remember that You are here, that You love me and my family, and that You have a plan. Help me remember that this economy and my recent loss have not taken You by surprise … and that You have already made a way for me. Thank You that Your compassion never fails and that Your stability and faithfulness are abundant. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who provides my stability, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
It is because of the Lord's mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

Stepping Stones: Are You Carsick on Your Spiritual Journey?

2012-02-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 9, 2012

Transformational Thought

My father-in-law emigrated here from Scotland, so most of Martine’s family still lives there. We have been blessed to go to Scotland twice. On one of those trips, we were driving from the Isle of Skye to the Mull of Kintyre. As we drove through the Highlands we saw beautiful views … waterfalls and lush green landscapes with some Highland Coos alongside the windy, scenic roads. We stopped for fish and chips at a small, quaint fishing village. Everything on this 7-hour trip was going great until we added a PB&J snack. At that point nine-year-old Dominique got carsick and vomited all over the back seat and on Nicole. It was the first time she ever threw up.

Have you ever been carsick? It’s a weird feeling. The primary reason for carsickness is that as the car races along, passengers are not able to focus on a solid object. But who is the one person in a car that never gets carsick? The driver. So why are drivers protected? They are focused on the road ahead, looking intently at the solid objects outside the car that aren't bouncing and turning. They have a good sense of where the horizon is. Their vision, perspective, and worldview are grounded in something unchanging – fixed objects and the horizon.

In carsickness, the main problem is the conflicting data between our eyes, our inner ear motion receptors, and the motion receptors in the tissues below our skin. When we intentionally walk, all 3 of these areas are in sync and focused on a common motion task, therefore, motion sickness doesn’t exist. When we are a passenger in a car, these sensory tools get out of sync and confusion leads to sickness.

The key is in the word focus. When we are focused … intentionally walking forward, not distracted in several different directions and confusing our inner systems, no motion sickness occurs.

Obviously, the same phenomenon happens to us spiritually. Are we focusing on Christ … who never changes … or are we focusing on the circumstances that keep turning and swirling … changing as the wind blows? The merry-go-round of life keeps spinning and our focus is on temporary, amorphous, fleeting, slip-through-your-fingers answers. Then we wonder why we feel lonely, overwhelmed, frustrated, purposeless, devalued. These are all symptoms of Spiritual Carsickness. Focusing on Jesus will bring much-needed direction and get rid of some of the motion sickness we experience on our spiritual journey.

Today, when you face adversity, on what truths or principles will you focus? Are they from the grounded, tested truths of the Bible? Or are they flimsy, vacillating, imitations from this world? Are you focusing too much on external circumstances instead of your inner relationship with God? Feeling carsick on your spiritual journey is a warning sign that you aren’t focused on the absolute truth. Re-orient and focus back on the cross and God’s promises, and bring this focus to those trouble areas. WITHIN REACH will teach you skills and self-assessment tools to keep you focused on God in all your everyday activities and decisions. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
My Father and Lord, I know I have been focusing too much on problems instead of on Jesus. And as the circumstances around me change, I have become confused and discouraged … I am almost constanly “car sick.” I am bouncing from one crutch to another, looking for answers in so many wrong places. Help me fix my eyes on Jesus. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who focused only on You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2

Stepping Stones: Don’t Let Mutant Easter Bunnies Scare You

2012-02-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 8, 2012

Transformational Thought

When our oldest daughter, Dominique, was about four years old, we took her to Dairy Queen to see the Easter Bunny. While driving there, she became more excited and I was pumped to see her smiling with joy. We walked in and saw what I expected, a 6-foot tall Easter Bunny. But poor Dominique was scared and terrified, because she was expecting a little six-inch Easter Bunny. She was afraid the oversized bunny was going to attack her. She cried and didn’t take her eyes off him for one second … and never even touched her beloved ice cream. Needless to say, after seeing her so scared and unable to warm up to the mutant Easter Bunny, we left pretty quickly.

We have all experienced fear and discouragement at times. In today’s scripture, God is speaking to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous. “Do not be afraid or discouraged.” How is this possible?

You see, Joshua was faced with the tremendous responsibility of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering the land, and setting up residence. There would be times of defeat … great challenges … biting criticism … and immense frustration. And yet God told him not to be fearful or discouraged … “because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

What a wonderful promise! As we submit to God, making Jesus Lord of our lives, we, too, can be assured that He will be with us wherever we go. He will protect us, comfort us, defend us, teach us, guide us, and love us unconditionally. No matter how bleak things may look, or what challenges or sorrows we may face, we can know that our heavenly Father is with us. And as we trust Him and walk in obedience, He will work all things together for our good and growth.

Are you feeling afraid or discouraged right now? Perhaps you don’t feel as though God is with you. The good news is that feelings can lie … but God’s promises are always true.

Today, no matter what your circumstances, you can be strong and courageous. Think about where you get your confidence from as you engage in your everyday activities … or when the pressure is on. Does your confidence come from you? If so, your confidence reserve is pretty shallow and will soon run out. Your confidence needs to come from God … from His promises, teachings, and character. WITHIN REACH will help you see the source of your confidence and learn how to tap into God and the Holy Spirit for true confidence and empowerment. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
My Father and my Lord, Thank You that I can always count on You. Even though I don’t always sense Your presence, help me to remember Your Word - that You are always with me. Help me to focus on You, not on the circumstances. Help me to be strong and courageous. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who teaches us how to be strong and courageous, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

Stepping Stones: Are You Looking in the Right Places?

2012-02-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 7, 2012

Transformational Thought

God never promised us days without pain, laughter without sorrow, or sun without rain … but He did promise strength to get through each day, comfort for the tears, and a lighthouse to guide the way. As you provide care, comfort, energy, finances or support for an aging parent, or a disabled family member, a young child, or a friend in need, God is the only place to turn to for lasting strength and hope.

While at times you might not understand the reasons that you and your family are facing these challenges, if you seek God, you will definitely find Him. He promises to hear your prayers and meet your needs. He is your source. He is the one who will make the impossible, possible. He has so much for us, but we have to look in the right places. His peace won’t be found in a bar, in food, an affair, money, pornography, or anything on this earth. Too often we look in the wrong places and wonder why we don’t find His love, comfort, peace, grace, forgiveness, or instruction.

I mistakenly look at myself for answers, rather than all His provisions. Oftentimes, my initial reaction is to do as much as I can. God did give me the gift of problem solving, so I get after the problem. Then when I reach the end of my resources and skills, I call on God. I have that in the wrong order and need to turn it around so I am seeking God first, then being a good steward of my skills and attacking the problem.

Too often, we exhaust ourselves with our own efforts before we ask God for His help and provision. We focus on the need and become overwhelmed by it. But He will help us. He wants us to pray to Him for the strength, wisdom, and resources to accomplish His will.

Today, when you have difficult circumstances, notice whether you feel His peace and comfort. If so, that’s awesome. If not, then examine where you look or what you turn to for God’s support in times of stress. Take time to meditate on God's Word. The Bible has a great deal to say about aging and care giving concerns. You will find guidance, strength and hope. Open your Bible and spend quiet time with God every day. No matter how busy you are, determine to set aside that special time with Him. And remember that He is with you every moment of the day. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, at times I get so weary, physically and emotionally. And sometimes I find myself turning everywhere else for help before coming to You. Help me remember to always come to You first. I know that You are truly my source of strength. You have so many promises and are faithful to them. Help me remember that when my lenses get stressed and fuzzy. I want to look to You, and not to cheap imitations for peace and comfort. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who is my ultimate caregiver, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31

Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:31-34

Stepping Stones: Are You Listening?

2012-02-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 6, 2012

Transformational Thought

By now, you should know I’m big on decision-making. I have 3 great daughters, 19, 17, and 11 years old … really great kids, and most of the time I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world. But all parents wonder at times about the decisions our children make. When mine choose impulsive, shortsighted, me-centered, immediate gratification, or flat out “what were you thinking” wrong decisions, they certainly weren’t listening to the advice I gave them.

Then to whom were they listening if it wasn’t me? And why were they listening to that advice? That “advisor” doesn’t love them as much as I do … doesn’t know them as well as I do … doesn’t want the best for them as much as I do … won’t risk it all for their safety and survival like I will. How dumb can my kids be, accepting advice from people or media that function like a random decision-spewing slot machine that isn’t invested in them?

WOW, glad I finally fixed them! Now, what about you? When you make decisions, whose instructions are you following? You will make between 5,000 and 10,000 decisions per day … seriously. And that is actually a conservative estimate. When you make some of your decisions, to which voice do you listen? The crazy world’s message and mantra about where happiness comes from … or Satan’s prodding … your flesh and it’s ‘MY kingdom come’ agenda? Or do you seek to hear the Holy Spirit’s still, small voice and God’s instruction manual, The Holy Bible?

In today's passage, God is lamenting the fact that no one is listening. You can feel the sadness in His heart as He speaks these words. He pleads with His people: Please listen to Me!

He is speaking to you too! Why? Because He loves you and wants to save you from so much hardship and its consequences ... just as we give our kids instruction and pointers for long term fulfillment and satisfaction. God actually knows more than any parent. He sees and knows the future. He created you, so He knows exactly what you need and the way you need it.

Jesus said, "My sheep, listen to My voice." These words were directed toward Israel, but God wants all of His children to listen.

Today, listen to God during your prayer time ... and throughout the day. The Holy Spirit is constantly teaching, guiding, coaching, and warning us. God wants us to talk to Him, then listen to His response. Practice being still. Clear the clutter Satan throws at you to muffle God’s voice. Open The Holy Bible and “read” His voice. It’s all about choices. Whose voice will you listen to?
Your decision, one of 10,000 today, so choose well.

Prayer
My Father and my Lord, I am guilty of listening to some other voice and giving it, not You, lordship over my life. Please forgive me. I know You have so much You are telling me through Your Holy Spirit in me, through Your word, The Holy Bible, and through my circumstances. Please help me open my heart, and tune my mind to Your frequency. I know Your plans for me are way better than the ones I have for myself. So in that moment of temptation, please give me eyes that see and follow You. I pray this in the name of the Your perfect listener, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Listen to me, O my people, while I give you stern warnings. O Israel, if you would only listen to me! … But no, my people wouldn’t listen … Oh, that my people would listen to me!
Psalm 81:8, 11, 13

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
John 10:27

He has never wandered off to do his own thing; he has been right there, listening.
Psalm 22:24

Stepping Stones: Mixed Super Bowl Memories

2012-02-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 4-5, 2012

Transformational Thought

I’m a Steelers’ fan … born in the Pittsburgh area … so Super Bowls in the 70’s, my teen years, were unbelievable events as my beloved Steel Curtain smashed their way to an unprecedented 4 championships in 6 years. Teamwork, sacrifice, perseverance, commitment, intentionality, practice, heroes, legends, invincibility, power, role models. I learned so much through those fun Super Bowl Sundays.

For a while though, Super Bowl Sunday also conjured up some terrible memories. You see, from late high school through college and into medical school, I made a lot of poor choices leading to many issues including a significant alcohol addiction. My worst memory ever: January 25, 1987, Super Bowl Sunday … middle of medical school, an awesome future ahead of me. It started off at a party with a bunch of med school friends. Through a series of progressively stupider decisions … consuming lots of alcohol, winning $600, more “celebrating” at a strip bar, driving drunk (after a severe snow and ice storm), 6 counts of aggravated assault, a cut, bruised and battered body … I ended up in a Newark jail. Could’ve gotten killed, or worse, killed others, several times that evening.

Jail … it was what I needed at that time to protect me from myself, Satan, and the world … it was the best place to think. And God really spoke to me. I finally listened and decided that life according to my instruction book … my kingdom come, my will be done mentality … wasn’t working. My hole kept getting deeper and deeper over a 10-year stretch. I finally understood what Jesus did for me, and what God wanted to do in my life … transform me and bless me with an abundant life by fulfilling all my needs. I started to really know, love, and delight in my Lord. I finally decided to make Him not just Savior, but also Lord of my life.

Well, it took me several years to sort it out and really appreciate that day, and now I look back and thank God so much for what He has done for and through me. My terrible memories of that one Super Bowl Sunday have been wiped clean with the blood of Christ. What He has blessed me with since then … spiritual growth, a loving wife, my girls, friends, profession, ministry, coworkers, experiences, has been beyond my wildest dreams, especially compared to being in jail facing felony charges. (Not wanting to test God, I always make sure I am in a safe place Super Sunday.)

Today, realize that each decision, regardless of how big or small it is, has definite ripples. Are you measuring the ripple effect? Second, if you are experiencing difficulties, hope is in the Lord, not in your efforts or abilities. Third, if you have done some terrible things in the past, God will forgive and help you move forward, using even those events in powerful ways to impact you, others, and His kingdom. Lastly, after accepting Christ as your personal Savior, make the defining decision of your life on Earth to let Him be the Lord of your life. That’s when life really comes alive and makes sense as it pushes you to connect fully with Him. Life is your decision, so choose well. And enjoy the game.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You, Your love, and grace are truly amazing. I thank You for not leaving me even though I left You many times. Thanks for landing me in jail, so I finally could block out all the distractions of life and meet You and listen to what You had been trying to tell me for many years. Thanks for the tremendous opportunity to serve You and for Your willingness to use me in Your service … it is truly humbling. I pray this in the name of the One I delight in, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.
Psalm 37:4

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2

Stepping Stones: Are You” Super Bowling” Everyday Life?

2012-02-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 3, 2012

Transformational Thought

Super Bowl Sunday has almost become a national holiday. It’s the most-watched TV show with 111 million viewers, taking in $2.8 million for a 30 second commercial, and it’s the biggest betting day of the year. On this day more employees “call-out-sick”, 1 billion wings are eaten, the most pizzas are ordered, and unfortunately, it’s the worst day for domestic violence.

The Super Bowl is an unbelievable event … so much emotion, buildup, and expectations. The winner is remembered and worshipped forever, and the loser is branded a choker… forever, or until they get back again and win. The commercials, halftime mega-shows, plays, players, and personalities are seared in our minds or become societal icons.

One Super Bowl a year is enough, just ask my wife. Can you imagine 2 a year, or one per month, or heaven forbid, weekly Super Bowls? We would be overwhelmed, on edge, emotionally spent, fed up, bankrupt, hung-over, and paralyzed.

But you see, life is the same way. We have “Super Bowl” events … meeting God, getting married, birthing a child, losing a loved one, starting day-1 on the dream job, having an affair, taking grand vacations, learning a child has a disability, starting school, helping a child leave for college, experiencing divorce, getting fired, coping with a natural disaster, 9/11. You get the idea … they don’t happen every week. Then we have some “playoff game” events whose immediate and long term impact are important but smaller. And some other life events rank on the very-important-regular-season-game level.

The reality: 99% of life is either a regular season game or even a preseason game in level of importance and impact. The problem: we react to many of our daily events as if they had the importance and impact of a Super Bowl or playoff game. To prove it to you, we forget these same events within 1-15 days. We can’t handle the emotional rollercoaster of 6 Super Bowls a year, let alone 3 Super Bowls a day. While only few people are “drama queens”, most people fall into the Super Bowl mentality trap. We erroneously feel many things in life are all-important and life-changing.

Patients, both male and female, tell me they have been impacted by one question I’ve asked, namely, “Does that event really rate the ‘Super Bowl‘ level of importance you are giving it?” The question really helps people gain a more eternal, realistic, and Godly perspective about everyday events.

Today, remember Super Bowl-magnitude events usually occur once or twice a year. Look at how you react to minor disruptions and ask yourself, “Is this situation really a Super Bowl event in magnitude and long term impact, or am I having an exaggerated response?” If you are inappropriately “Super Bowling” it, ask yourself “Why?” and “How often do I do this?” Parents, you’ll probably be amazed as you contemplate your reactions to your kid’s behavior. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, thanks for being sovereign over all things … this truth, and my faith in Your sovereignty gives me such peace in most situations. I confess though, that sometimes I over-react to the spiritual warfare and minutiae of the day and blow it into a Super Bowl level of importance. Give me discernment and the Mind of Christ to realize what really is important and what isn’t. I pray this in the name of the greatest ‘Super Bowl’ event of all time, Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?
Luke 12:25,26

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:15-17

Stepping Stones: Are You Taking Inventory, or Just Winging It?

2012-02-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 2, 2012

Transformational Thought

Business is often complicated and messy. Always in a rush … scurrying around … solving problems … putting out fires … personnel issues … contracts and deals. Good business owners slow life down, sort the pieces, and then count them. They take regular inventory of their stock. These inventories are a useful business-planning tool that can reveal growth, decline in productivity, or show possible obstacles to growth. Most importantly, inventories guide and assist business owners in making changes for a better future.

The merry-go-round of life is constantly accelerating, ‘til we hit the retirement home. Just as business owners do, taking a regular inventory of our lives is mandatory. It helps us answer questions about the direction our lives take. Are we growing or declining in character development … in spiritual maturity? Are we moving toward our goals, or do obstacles hinder our progress? Are we growing in our relationship with God? What changes do we need to make to move ahead more effectively? What strategies, if any, have we been using, and more importantly, are they working?

You see, when we look in the mirror and get honest with ourselves, we see that we are lazy and don’t want to look back at our mistakes. Our strategy for growth is to randomly “wing it today to get by, and deal with the ramifications tomorrow.” Satan obviously wants to distract you from applying any of God’s teaching into a strategy for growth. When I sat and took a serious and brutally honest inventory of my life, I realized the Instruction Book of Life according to Karl really wasn’t working. Worse yet, instead of being the biggest asset to my pursuit of happiness, I was my biggest obstacle. I then made a decision to follow God’s instruction book … and WOW!

Know that God loves you and wants to help you eliminate the things in your life that may be hurting you and others. But before He can help you, you must face up to the fact that these problems exist. Remember … Jesus is with you. He will not disappoint you in your time of personal searching. Open your heart and challenge Him; He will reveal and give you the desires of your heart.

Today, decide to take inventory of your life. Consider your relationships with God, self, family, church, and friends. Be honest. Ask God to help you see things as they really are … not as you intellectually think they are. Face any obstacles, either within you or outside of you … without making excuses. In WITHIN REACH, we call this step Summary Thought. It is a powerful step in transformation.

Prayer
Dear Father, I confess I make mistakes. Instead of trying to sweep them under the carpet, help me take a good, honest look at myself. Help me see what is pleasing to You … and what is disappointing to You. Help me understand a concrete plan to begin moving forward in areas of my life in which I am struggling. Help me to reorder my life under You and according to Your will. I want to develop a disciplined strategy and not just wing it everyday. I pray this in the name of Your Son who always searched Himself well, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD
Lamentations 3:40

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
Romans 12:3

Stepping Stones: Enabling: Good Intentions Gone Wrong

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

February 1, 2012

Transformational Thought

We have all seen a loved one make some destructive decisions. When someone we love is in the grip of a harmful pattern, we naturally want to help. In spite of our best intentions though, our efforts are sometimes actually more harmful than helpful. The psychobabble term for this is “enabling,” otherwise known as “good intentions gone wrong.”

Enabling means providing someone with the power or means to continue the very dysfunctional behavior that your action is actually trying to stop or prevent. In essence, enabling makes it a lot easier for those who are struggling to continue in their self-destructive behaviors.

A major component of our enabling behaviors is that they keep our struggling loved one from feeling the painful consequences that are important and could significantly influence them to stop their dysfunctional decisions before their problems spiral out of control. Today's Scripture cautions us that if we rescue people from the consequences of their choices, we'll just have to do it again … and again. We are then called a “nag” or a “martyr” when we try to “undo” the enabling and hound intrude on them about the behavior.

Here are common examples of enabling. Do you find yourself covering up or “living with” the behavior of a friend, child, or loved one, or bailing them out of trouble? You might make excuses for them or even blame yourself for their problem. Are you reminding them to do certain chores or tasks so that they don’t get the consequences they deserve? Do you find yourself giving them "one more chance"… over and over again? Do you care more than they do about the consequences they might get? Do you feel you are being held hostage by their behaviors?

A big component of our enabling behavior is our inability to tolerate negative feelings in others or ourselves. These feelings are generated when someone struggles and faces potential consequences. We feel very uncomfortable when they feel sad, hurt, or have to endure a consequence, or when we anticipate their sadness or enduring consequences. So we keep nagging, threatening, or pushing them to accomplish their task, and sometimes we even do the task for them. Perhaps we do their homework or project, drive them to school after missing the bus, give them one last chance – for the third time.

Today, be mindful that your responsibility to your troubled loved one is to be supportive and to facilitate their growth, not to inhibit it in their particular area of struggle. You need to empathize and pray for, but not fix it, because they need to learn how to fix it. You aren’t going to be around all the time. You need to encourage them when they have made an error, but not protect them from the necessary consequences. You must allow them to learn from the natural consequences of their actions and not rescue them. All of us need to look at whether we are helping or harming the struggling people in our lives. And then we can begin the process of being a supporter instead of an enabler. Let God, not you, determine the consequences that will open their eyes, change their behavior, and hopefully, transform their heart. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, not trying to fix my loved one’s problems is so hard. My urge is to come to the rescue instead of letting her suffer the consequences. I realize now, that when I rescue her, I am actually crippling her from learning skills to rescue herself. Then I have to come to the rescue again and again … and nothing really gets fixed. Teach me to be a supporter instead of an enabler. Help me guide them to You … help me to trust You more. Give me the peace to tolerate my uneasiness and the discomfort of others. Help me to allow Your consequences and lessons for them to play out. I pray this in the name of the One who gives me strength in all circumstances, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.
Proverbs 19:19

And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Luke 15:16-18

Stepping Stones: When Life “Just Ain’t Fair”

2012-01-31T05:00:00.001-05:00

January 31, 2012

Transformational Thought

Life isn’t fair. You aren’t being fair. I just want what’s fair. That is such a double standard. If you have lived with a teenager, you’ve definitely heard these battle cries. If we haven’t yelled these ourselves, we have at least thought these statements at various times, right?

There are two primary perspectives regarding fairness. First, on a human level, we are often out for “number one.” One mindset says, “Don’t get mad, get even.” But this approach never really leads to peace or contentment. In fact, the outcome is that we become covetous, cynical, bitter, and even hostile. The second perspective is the divine level. God misses absolutely nothing (1 Peter 3: 12). He is completely aware of what we think, say, and do before it ever takes place. “But,” we ask, “what about all the evil in the world?” Interestingly, God doesn’t operate in time as we do, but we can be assured that justice will be served (Rom. 8:28).

1 Peter 3:13 tells us that honest people usually don’t suffer harm. For example, we pay our debts, and usually we don’t suffer financial trouble. If we lead a healthy lifestyle we usually live longer, and even better. This verse shows us that when we seek to do good, no one can effectively harm us. Basically, you live the right way and the odds are in your favor.

There are times when we do suffer and life is not fair even though our conduct is good and our decisions are right. The very next verse (14) promises that we can consider ourselves “blessed” if we suffer for righteous reasons. Obviously, we can experience unpleasant consequences when we make decisions that violate God’s principles. But the Phillips translation of James 1:2 gives us comfort: “When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your life, don’t resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!”

Today, several insightful techniques can help us as we deal with suffering and life’s unfairness. First, we are called to patiently endure unfairness, so that we can know we are fulfilling God’s plan for us. Second, one day we’ll be rewarded for enduring these undeserved trials (James 1:12). Third, don’t panic and don’t worry (1 Peter 3:14). Fear comes from the Greek word “phobos” which means being seized with terror and running to take flight. But God wants to give us calmness in our spirit. Fourth, acknowledge Christ as Lord over this event. In the book of Acts Stephen forgives his attackers, giving us an example of not reflecting back hatred and bitterness. Fifth, be ready to give a good witness (v. 15). We must know what we believe, and be able to be reasonable, intelligent, and gentle in giving our defense. And, sixth, keep a good conscience (v. 16). Integrity will silence and shame your slanderers. Job’s example shows that unjust suffering is always better than deserved punishment. These are all decision-making skills you can learn, practice, and excel in. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Father God, thank You that You are full of compassion and are fully in control of all that You created. When we are allowed to suffer, let us not feel agitated and worried, but count it all joy, knowing that endurance will result in a crown of life. When we are slandered, let us not be crushed by others’ opinions, but help us live in such a way that no one would believe it! Help us to remember who we are and Whose we are. We ask this in the soothing name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
“When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to live at peace with him.”
Proverbs 16:7

“Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
James 5:11

Stepping Stones: Untie from Your Addiction, Be Tied Together to God

2012-01-29T16:14:00.000-05:00

January 30, 2012

Transformational Thought

According to the latest statistics, tens of millions of people in the U.S. are tormented by compulsive addictions. An addict’s primary relationship is with a drug or a behavior, not with himself or anyone else. That drug or behavior is their path to the supposed relief they so desire. Our society, in large part, denies the addiction problem as treatment centers and state hospitals close, program funding is cut, and insurance reimbursement for treatment decreases. The walking wounded are therefore usually on their own to get help for themselves and their families.

Physical, spiritual, emotional, and psychological disabilities brought on by addictions are rampant. The drug environment and the impurities associated with it, namely secondary infections, also cause major damage - especially with illegal drugs. Regardless of the type of addiction, this lifestyle causes a person to be only a shadow of what God intended.
There. That’s the bad news. Now the good news. Have you ever noticed what a bad rap the word ”religion” has gotten? It’s no longer regarded as the original word suggests. The Latin root of the word is “ligio,” meaning to tie or bind together. An example is a woman having her tubes tied, or a tubal ligation. To “re-ligio” means that something that was once tied became untied, and it is now re-tied or bound together again. There is no better example than the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve disobeyed God, causing the tie of perfect fellowship with God to become untied. God’s plan of salvation, through Christ’s sacrifice once and for all, re-tied us back together into relationship with God for eternity, by His grace alone. He does the work. We just need to accept His payment for our debt.

Addiction is synonymous with idolatry. When we strongly desire something as much as or more than we desire God, we have given ourselves to a false god, a weak imitation. We have become unbound from God because of our addiction. What we give our time, money, and energy to does become our god. We then become like our object of worship, a cheap imitation of what we were really meant to be. I am always amazed at what I used to pursue, and sometimes even now pursue, to soothe my discomfort. I have endured dire spiritual consequences for the sake of momentary thrills or escapes.
Today, God stands ready and willing to forgive and restore those who have been carried away by addictions. If you have an overt addiction let Him in and trust His ways, not yours. Becoming untied causes us to disintegrate, but receiving God’s gift of healing allows us to re-integrate, restoring us to what God intended us to be in the first place! If you don’t have an overt addiction, examine what you go to when you are uncomfortable. If it is God’s word and prayer, awesome. If it is anything else, then you have an addiction and need to wrestle with that. Start to look at why you turn to those other items before God. Don’t be embarrassed, just be honest. Your journey closer to God and the Mind of Christ depends on it. Life is your decision, so choose well!

Prayer

Father God, You are our source and our strength, and a very present help in time of trouble. Deliver us out of the claws of addictions and addictive behaviors. We need Your supernatural strength to overcome the self-destructive effects of mood-altering chemicals and mind injuring behaviors. Heal and restore us in body, mind, and spirit to what You intended us to be. We ask this in the powerful, comforting, and re-tying name of Jesus; and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
“Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”
2 Corinthians 7:1

“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of a sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature.”
Galatians 5:16-17

Stepping Stones: Check Up from the Neck Up. Do You Have Spiritual Schizophrenia?

2012-01-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 28-29, 2012

Transformational Thought

What’s the one major problem that gives believers in Christ the most trouble, today, in the twenty-first century? Probably the same problem that dates back thousands of years: being double-minded. James 1:8 tells us that a “double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” But what does it really mean to be double-minded? At times I know what I should do, but later that day, I may find myself doing the exact opposite, making a poor decision. Does that ever happen to you? Do you suffer from Spiritual Schizophrenia?

The Bible is filled with many examples of Biblical studs being double-minded. Adam and Eve when they ate the apple. Abraham when he lied that Sarah was his sister and when he slept with Hagar. David, when he took Bathsheba, then killed off Uriah. Jonah when he went the opposite direction of Nineveh. Peter when he denied Christ even after being forewarned!

As believers, we are instructed by Paul, in Philippians, to have the mind of Christ. Our love, affection, and devotion are to be for our Lord first and foremost. Whenever we are Christ-centered in our beliefs, thoughts, and actions, living for Him is our single purpose. James 1:14 tells us that we are tempted when we are drawn away, or carried away by our own lust. The word lust is the strongest word we have for desire, and James warns this desire blinds us to be enticed to pursue the object of our lust to relieve or fill an emotional, psychological, and ultimately, a spiritual, need. Our minds and hearts become divided in directions other than Christ, creating a schism or split within us. Thinking we are serving God, but really serving ourselves.

Often, we find ourselves immersed in behaviors we really know are wrong. Some refer to this as cognitive dissonance, or a disharmony within that feels like a splitting or tearing inside. We develop physical or emotional symptoms of agitation, anxiety, panic, and depression. We can become derailed in our thinking and motivation. Ultimately, as James reminds us, when sin is finished, it brings forth death and separation … from God, others, and ourselves. So much for the advantages of being double-minded.

You see, double-mindedness comes from the brainwashing and deception of Satan. He wants to distort your lenses, as perception is the most important of the 6 components in every decision you make, everyday. We have to be diligent in all our decisions, slowing our mind down, taking every thought captive, and maintaining focus on reality and the truth. Then single-mindedness becomes rather simple, I am serious.

Today, submit to a checkup. Examine whether you are trying to serve 2 masters, God and yourself. Thankfully, God has provided the remedy through his Son, Jesus. As Oswald Chambers frequently taught, God has done for us what we could not do for ourselves. He saves, justifies, sanctifies, and empowers us with His Spirit to live for Him. But God will never do for us what we can do for ourselves, namely, build our character by making our choices for us. In choosing to live Godly, we must have Christ’s mind and purpose. Life is your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH is a workshop to help you apply the power of the Holy Spirit as you exercise your free will in making these daily decisions.

Prayer
Father God, thank You that you voluntarily assumed human nature and took on the limitations as a man; yet, You remained one hundred percent Divine. You lived a sinless life knowing that we could not, but counted us as righteous if we would trust and believe You died and rose again for us. Help us to live today for You, so we prevent the condition of being double-minded. We ask this in the strong name of Jesus. And all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
“Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
Psalm 42:5

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
I Peter 1:3

Stepping Stones: Oh How Long, Lord?

2012-01-27T05:00:00.001-05:00

January 27, 2012

Oh How Long, Lord?

Transformational Thought
I am so impatient when I watch TV. Can’t stand to watch commercials, not even Super Bowl commercials. How long ‘til the game starts again? Have you ever said those words, “How long?,” as in, “How long, Lord, until my prayer is answered? How long until life gets better? How long do You want me to do this without seeing results? How long do You want me to suffer? How long do I have to “just hang in there?” How long ‘til my kids get along? How long ‘til my loved one stops drinking?”

When Joseph was sold into slavery and later spent years in prison, he must have asked, "How long, Lord?" When Moses led the Israelites around and around in the wilderness, he surely thought, "How long, Lord?" When Noah was ridiculed for 100 years while he built an ark on dry land, he must have wondered, "How long, Lord?" Simeon and Anna had been waiting for decades, “How long until the Messiah comes?” But each one of these trusted God. They respected Him enough to continue obeying Him even when hope was almost snuffed out from a worldly perspective.

Perhaps you are involved in a ministry that seems to go nowhere. Yet, you know the Lord wants you there. Maybe you have been praying for an unsaved loved one for many years. Or perhaps you have a business that just isn't coming together, but the Lord has led you to continue. Be encouraged to revere God by continuing to obey him, even though you wonder, "How long, Lord?"

Our nature is to want our own agenda to be in place now. No waiting. We don’t want others calling the shots. To avoid discomfort, we demand what we want when we want it. My kingdom come, my will be done. But waiting and patience are powerful teachers of many truths. This is how character and many psychological skills are developed. God knows the right timing. Bend to His timeline and your peace and growth will be unbelievable.

Today, be confident that God loves you. Examine your life to see what situation or area makes you impatient … frustrated … irritable. Make sure you are doing a good job with your part of the issue. Then accept that God has a different timeline. Learn the lesson He is teaching. The timing glitch is in your life to grow you … and often to protect you. That is God’s purpose for all that comes into your life. He has a perfect plan for you. We all just keep messing it up. His timing is always perfect because it is His timing. Follow Noah’s example and keep on "doing all that God commands." Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Oh Father, Lord, help me honor You by trusting You and waiting on You. Even though I get discouraged at times, help me remember that You are in control and that Your way is the best way. Your timing is the best timing. Help me be patient so I can show the world I am willing to wait on You, Lord. Thy kingdom come, not my kingdom come. I really don’t want to take over responsibility for the whole world, even though sometimes I act like it. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who demonstrated perfect timing, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I patiently waited, LORD, for you to hear my prayer. You listened and pulled me from a lonely pit full of mud and mire. You let me stand on a rock with my feet firm, and you gave me a new song, a song of praise to you. Many will see this, and they will honor and trust you, the LORD God.
Psalm 40:1-3

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5:1-5

Stepping Stones: How Much Will You Take For God?

2012-01-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 26, 2012

Transformational Thought

Respect and reverence have become negative and, at times, distasteful words in today's world, especially regarding Christianity. In some places around the world, Christians receive disgust, animosity, and on occasion, hate and disdain while undergoing significant persecution. In the United States Christians are increasingly viewed as opinionated bigots and narrow-minded people and about the only group in our society that isn’t tolerated.

Thousands of years ago, God told Noah to build an ark to save his family because He was sending a flood to destroy all the people on earth. Up to this time, people had not experienced rain … only a light mist that watered the earth. And here was Noah, building a humongous ship on dry land.

Nobody understood what crazy, wacky, God-freak Noah was doing or why … and actually they never did until the rain started to fall. Noah, sadly, had zero converts. Noah took their questions, laughter, abuse and ridicule … day after day, year after year, decade after decade … for 100 years. Can you believe it … abuse for 100 years! How long would you have lasted?

Did they have respect for him and his faith? Not at all. In fact, the people were so evil that God was going to destroy all of them. We can only imagine how evil their ridicule was. or what physical persecution they carried out on Noah, his family, and his ark as Satan undoubtedly tried to sabotage God’s plan. Hiding Noah’s hammer, vandalizing the ark, stealing supplies for their own use, throwing rocks at him while he worked. Think of violent labor disputes and picket lines.

But did Noah continue to respect and reverence God by obeying him? Absolutely. Day after day Noah plugged and chugged … yes, for 100 years of building. Sometimes we get “vindication” and get to see the rain fall, and sometimes we don’t. But we shouldn’t need to, so let’s get over it. Knowing that we are honoring and glorifying God in the face of adversity is an incredible reward if our relationship with Him is healthy.

Today, think about how people view you. Do you reverence God enough to honor Him even in the face of ridicule? Are you willing to do what is right … instead of falling into the trap of doing what is popular or politically correct, just to be accepted or to avoid rejection? Do you love God enough to share your faith when God gives you an opportunity? Some Christians even risk their lives by obeying God. How far are you willing to go to maintain your stand and to honor God? What will you do today to prove it? Your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you follow through in practical ways and be a modern day (before the flood) Noah.

Prayer
O Heavenly Father, forgive me for my decisions that dishonor You … not speaking up when I knew I should … or joining in conversations and actions that were displeasing to You. Help me to always honor You by making obedient decisions to follow You … no matter what the circumstances or consequences. Thanks for the examples of Noah, Joseph, Daniel, Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego, and ultimately, Jesus. Give me not only the ability to love those who dishonor You, but also the courage to stand up for You, and the discernment to know how, so I honor You and respect others. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who showed us the definition of obedience and respect by embodying it, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Noah did everything just as God commanded him.
Genesis 6:22

Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, "You also were with Jesus the Galilean." But he denied it before them all, saying, "I do not know what you mean." And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth." And again he denied it with an oath: "I do not know the man." After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, "Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you." Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately the rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.
Matthew 26:69-75

Stepping Stones: We Say…, But He Says…

2012-01-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 25, 2011

Transformational Thought

What words come to mind when asked to describe yourself? Funny, cute, talkative, hardworking? Sometimes we define ourselves by listing our failures and our negative traits. Shy, can’t catch a break, short, bald, never have enough money, not so smart, average. But God has a different perspective! If we are followers of Christ, here is the contrast between our view and God’s.

We say: I'm a failure. I can't do anything right.
God says: You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

We say: I still feel guilty about things I've done in the past, even though I've confessed it all as sin and don't do those things anymore.
God says: If you confess your sins, I am faithful and just and will forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness.

We say: Sometimes I feel so unlovable. How can God possibly keep on loving me?
God says: Nothing can separate you from My love.

We say: I seem to always be worrying or fearful of losing my health, money, security, control.
God says: The righteous are as bold as a lion.

Satan prowls like a lion, and his aim is to steal, kill, and destroy. No, it’s not physical danger. It’s much worse … a psychological assault to brainwash you so he can win the spiritual war. And you will lose, be devoured. Don’t let him in. Don’t take part in his activities; you know what is sinful most of the time. And don’t buy into his lies. Only God’s truth will set you free.

God sees us as righteous and forgiven. He sees us as His treasures, His children, the heirs to His kingdom. We have the mind of Christ and the Holy Spirit in us, but we have to learn to submit to and use them, not squander them and use cheap, ineffective imitations. Christ bought all this for you through his death and resurrection.

Today, stop a couple times, especially when you are struggling during the day (little struggles or big ones – makes no difference), and assess how you are viewing yourself, what steps you would have taken next on that old path to self-destruction, and why. Now contrast that with God’s bigger picture of you and the actual reality of your circumstances. Often there’s a big difference. Search the scriptures to learn more about how God sees you … ask Him to help you see yourself through His eyes. Only then will you understand your true identity. Then you can really be all you are made to be. We want to help you live the abundant life. But, Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Thank You for clothing me in the righteousness of Christ. Help me not to think too lowly … or too highly of myself, but to see myself as You do ... and for the reasons You do … and to be grateful everyday for all the blessings of amazing grace You extend to me. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who teaches me how to see myself, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels.
Isaiah 61:19

But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3

Stepping Stones: Who Are You?

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 24, 2012

Transformational Thought

When someone asks, “Who are you?,” what do you reply? Most say things like, I am a housewife … a psychiatrist (fill in your profession) … a father, soccer mom, or volunteer. Sometimes a role we play in life can become our main identity. Our world then actually revolves around that part of our life ... and it can make us feel pretty good about ourselves. Super mom ... world's best dad ... successful career person ... accomplished musician ... popular pastor ... well-known writer ... politician ... beloved teacher ... computer whiz ... helper of others - like doctor, nurse, volunteer for a non-profit, feeder of the homeless. These can all be good roles to play. But, if we aren’t careful, they can hinder our growth and even lead to our downfall.

When we start thinking the role we play is our main identity in life, our focus on Jesus and His plan for us will certainly diminish. Then pride can set in as we think this great accomplishment is our own doing. On the opposite end, fear can set in. We have so much invested in that persona, and now others’ expectations are so high, we have to keep up that persona so people will know us and care about us … otherwise we wouldn’t know what else to do.

Watching the Super Bowl and its amazing athletes, you see that some of them get defined by their skill and then even develop a persona around that. Unfortunately, this posing leads them down some terrible paths. Mike Vick, Ben Roethlisberger, Tiger Woods, OJ Simpson, Rush Limbaugh, Bill Clinton, Charlie Sheen, and Lindsay Lohan are examples of what happens when what we do (and excel at) becomes our identity and it spirals out of control.

As Christians, we all have the same innate identity … we are children of God and followers of Christ. He will give us a different combination of gifts, have us grow through diverse experiences and situations, lead us into distinct roles, and give us opportunities to represent Him wherever we are and whatever we do. But the bottom line is this: We are his children. That's our main identity. It's who we are … and nothing could be better.

We need to keep that mindset and focus at all times, because this dramatically affects how we view the circumstances we experience and the people we interact with … every single day. This powerful identity should strongly influence our decision making, because this is where true peace, confidence, and self-control begins.

Today, think about how you view and identify yourself. How has this affected your course in life? If you answer the question, “follower of and ambassador for Christ”, ask if this is an intellectual answer only, or one that truly determines your daily thoughts, feelings, and actions. Make it your identity and attitude today! Journal about some of your wrong decisions, your mistakes. Who were you in that moment? The answer, if you are honest, will be very revealing and a great place for you to work. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Father, thank You for the gifts and opportunities You've given me. Help me to always remember that I am first and foremost Your child. Help me to use these gifts and opportunities to honor You. May I never become proud of myself for anything I do. Help me to always remember that all good and perfect gifts come from You. Encourage and equip me to see myself through Your lenses only. I pray this and all prayers through the One who gives us our identity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
So I have reason to be enthusiastic about all Christ Jesus has done through me in my service to God. Yet I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me.
Romans 15:17-18

Stepping Stones: Divorce: Despair or Trust?

2012-01-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 21-22, 2012

Transformational Thought

Divorce is the ultimate relationship wound and loss. When marriage problems end in separation and then divorce, the loss is deeply experienced not only by the couple, but also by the entire family. It even impacts friends and often the coworkers of that family. Divorce can leave the family in suspended animation as battles usually rage for many years after.

Recovering from divorce involves working through a grieving process, much like when a spouse has died. It also involves making decisions. You might not have had a choice in getting a divorce, but you do have choices in your response. Will you hold on to bitterness and anger … or will you forgive? Will you give up and give in to despair …or will you trust Jesus to help you rebuild your life on Him and not on your marriage or your spouse? Will you walk in fear … or will you be courageous to face the future God has for you? Do you trust you, marriage, your ex-, or God?

Satan and your flesh, filled with insecurities and hurt, will try to influence your me-centered focus to give up, to feel like a failure, to feel no hope is possible, and that you’ve lost everything. You have to resist these lies and distortions. Remember, Satan is the Great Deceiver. This is the only character trait he has to present and relate to the truth.

Divorce can bring one of the most intense pains possible into a person's life. But you don't have to go through it alone. Jesus loves you and wants to help you. If you will commit your ways to Him, the Holy Spirit will guide you in making those hard decisions … He will give you the courage and peace you need to be clear-minded … and He will restore your hope. With God, all things are possible.

Today, if you are thinking about divorce, STOP! Get some wise counsel as this is not God’s plan, (but sometimes acceptable) and therefore will be a nightmare for you and a lot of loss for many. If you are divorced, dive into the Bible and get to a church based Divorce Recovery group so you can process and heal using Biblical truths and lenses. If you are a child from divorced parents, really examine the lies that divorce embeds in your mind about you, your parents, and relationships. If you know people in these situations, be there to help them genuinely heal and see God and life more clearly, because Satan really uses divorce to suck the soul out of people and make them his puppets. If you are married, commit to grow your marriage and express your love to your spouse. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, forgive me for the poor decisions I have made in the past. I know divorce saddens You. My hurt and loss seem unbearable at times. Please help me access the strength, power, peace, and comfort You provide to overcome. I know that through You, I will not just overcome, but even thrive as a result of learning through these experiences to put all my eggs in Your basket alone. Right now I have to make so many decisions. I need your help. Help me to choose the right path … the one that is right for my family and for me, and most of all the path that pleases You. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who shows us what step to take next, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way chosen for him.
Psalm 25:12

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3

So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.
Matthew 19:6

Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24

Stepping Stones: Eat To Live or Live to Eat?

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 20, 2012

Transformational Thought

We need God. We won’t enjoy life, be fulfilled in life, or attain our God-given potential without closeness to Him. God desires it as well. Unfortunately, so many factors and forces keep us from this closeness to God. Eating disorders, unfortunately, are one of those forces. 30-35% of our society struggle with significant eating issues that disrupt their lives. Coming from a long line of Italian women, this really hits home with me.

“Eating Disorder” basically means unhealthy habits of restricting nutritional intake, overeating (yes, this is a large part of our American society), or being obsessed with or spending too much time focusing on or actually worshipping elements, rituals, or the results of eating. It really becomes an addiction. People tend to get so preoccupied with body image, and what others think, that they develop a distorted view of themselves. Their concerns, or lack of concerns, about food, diet, body, and weight even begin to affect their health, relationships, and their ability to function in day-to-day life.

Like almost everything in life, God gave us food to use in moderation. Too much isn’t good, but not enough isn’t good either. Our body is a temple for the Holy Spirit to reside in and God wants us to be good stewards of our body and health. But more importantly, we need to look at the psychological and spiritual aspects of our eating habits. If you are struggling with food or weight, determine not to let your focus on your body or food keeps you from closeness with God and with others. Decide how you wish to spend your energy: pursuing the "perfect" image or the comfort that food brings, or focusing on your spiritual growth and your real personal and interpersonal needs.

The outside, what man sees, or the inside, what God sees? Society changes its view of what is beautiful ... styles come and go. But God's view of beauty never changes. Identifying and challenging your distorted thoughts and feelings about your body and food, and keeping God's view in mind is essential to accepting yourself and your body. We all have feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Don’t let food or your body image be your soothing mechanism. Let God and His grace and love bring you the peace you really are hungry for and crave. He is one buffet where you may eat all you can without consequences! Indulge to your true heart’s content!

Today, as you approach food and eat meals, examine the importance you put on these elements. What do you get out of it? Are food and your eating habits a coping mechanism for you? Are you getting healthier, or are you harming your health? Remember, your value as a person is not based on how you look or what you do. Your value is based on the unchangeable fact that God loves you so much that He gave His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for you. Eating issues are about believing lies. Seek the truth. Your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH can help you access soothing and value God’s way.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I've been pretty confused lately. I've been so concerned about food or used it to comfort me that I've ignored You … and relationships with others I care about have suffered as well. Please help me begin thinking more clearly ... to see things from Your point of view. I know I need to eat to live, but I don’t want to live to eat. Help me turn control over to you, and not be controlled by the next meal I think about. I pray this in the name of the One who loves me as I am, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2

But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."
1 Samuel 16:7

Stepping Stones: The Depression Epidemic

2012-01-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 19, 2012

Transformational Thought

25% of the US population … 75 million people … will suffer from clinical depression in their lifetime. Most of those who suffer from chronic depression feel so utterly unlovable, that they cannot bear the pain of even trying to experience love in a relationship with God, with themselves, or with others. They feel like a failure and think that those who disagree with that assessment just don't understand. Even if you are not suffering from chronic depression, you may experience feelings like this from time to time … almost every person does.

If you are feeling this way, think about this good news: God knows you better than you know yourself, and He still loves you. He knows you are not perfect, but He loves you anyway … unconditionally. He loves you so much that He sent His only son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sins because He wanted to provide a way for you to be with Him … forever … no matter how sinful or worthless you think you are.

God loves you so much, He has even promised never to leave you. The Bible tells us that He is full of compassion for you … takes pleasure in you ... loves you and gives you honor … you are precious in his sight. He promises He will love you forever.

If you suffer from depression, seek professional help. Even though they don’t cure depression, medications are often incredibly helpful for the symptoms of depression. This will allow you to work on some of the underlying elements and issues that are fueling your depression.

If you aren’t depressed, then work on developing a solid spiritual and psychological foundation of understanding who God is, who you are, and how to be a Godly decision-maker in all you do. This will renew your mind, the actual biology of your brain chemistry, and be the most preventative and protective strategy for warding off depression and other mental health and addiction struggles.

Today, help yourself by reading the short bible passages below. Let His message sink deeply into you. The Bible says Jesus loves you so much that He seeks after you. You are never alone. Right this very moment you may feel alone, but you are not. Jesus is there with you, seeking to help you. Say yes. Yes to his love. Yes to his help. Yes to Jesus. The Holy Bible is true. You can believe it. He is the Word and the great healer, so His word does heal. Pass this Stepping Stones onto someone you know who is struggling. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for loving me no matter what. Thank You for promising to be with me … always … and for honoring that promise, even though I don’t sense it sometimes. Help my radar tune in strongly to know You are always there. Thank You for showing me daily reminders of Your presence, and help me not to overlook them. When I start to feel alone, help me rely on Your instruction book and not my own. I pray this and all prayers in the name of the One who bled every drop of His blood for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?'
Hebrews 13:5-6

The LORD is gracious and compassionate; slow to anger and rich in love.
Psalm 145:8

For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.
Psalm 149:4

Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you, and people in exchange for your life.
Isaiah 43:4

The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.”
Jeremiah 31:3

Stepping Stones: What Do I Do? Try “Care-Fronting”

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 18, 2012

Transformational Thought

Every month, our incredibly compassionate and expert Care Guides take 600 calls on our National Addiction and Mental Health Helpline. We guide callers through the complex healthcare system and connect them to the best treatment options that will address all 3 spheres for their situations. Half of our calls are from the patients themselves, but the other half are from loved ones, mainly parents or spouses of the struggling individual. The loved ones need help knowing what to do. Do they walk on eggshells, try to make nicey-nice to minimize the stress and hopefully lessen dysfunction, or do they confront and risk a blow out and more dysfunction?

Issues that strongly impact life often turn into to life-taking addictions … to a substance, or a certain feeling or thinking pattern. Callers are trying to avoid the guilt they will feel from making the wrong choice if their loved one dies from suicide, overdose, or an accident from their disorder. Talking with a friend or loved one with a life-impacting problem can be like talking to a brick wall. But that wall can be broken down … brick by brick.

Does someone you love struggle with a life-interfering mindset, emotion, or behavior? When you try to talk to them about it, do your words seem to bounce back at you, as though they've hit a brick wall? Try this: picture a man behind a brick wall, becoming trapped as he continues to lay brick, building the wall higher and higher. In his mind, each brick is a way to defend himself … but in reality the wall is trapping him, not defending him. Denial has blinded this loved one to his real condition.

In his book Caring Enough to Confront, David Augsburger uses the term "care-fronting." This is a communication technique that combines love and caring with confrontation. Caring confrontation can chip away bit by bit at the wall of delusion that hides reality from your loved ones … the reality of the reason they are spiraling, and the reality that an answer does exist to turn the spiral in the other direction. When you are able to get rid of anger and replace it with caring, confronting your loved one with the truth can actually be the most loving thing you can do directly to them.

A dear friend, Connie, told me how she "care-fronted." Early in her marriage she was experiencing a marital situation that she knew could become volatile if she confronted her husband. She devised a technique that always worked. She would craft a loving letter, detailing the issue and its effect on her and the marriage, and leave it on the pillow. When he came home from the office, it was his custom to go upstairs to change his clothes. He would see it and read it in private and take it all in. He always thanked her "for the very good letter" and then worked on solutions for the situation.

The bridges through the wall are made of care and are really derived from a growing relationship with God first. From there we can shine His love and care onto our struggling loved one. As God grows in us, His forgiveness of us will melt the hurt we feel from our loved one and allow us to see that loved one through Godly lenses so that real care and real love can flow from us to them.

Today, make a commitment to confront your loved ones, to speak the truth in love … not in anger or condemnation … in order to help them tear down their walls of defense, brick by brick, until they are able to see themselves as they really are … someone made in God’s image, someone God loves and sent His son to die for. God wants to use us to deliver that message, first modeling it, and then saying it. God doesn’t give up on you … don’t give up on others. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, Lord, help me be more honest with myself and with those I care about so much. Help me look beyond their faults to their needs … and then to express the reality of the situation to them … in love. Tune me into Your Holy Spirit’s guidance so that I may speak as Christ would speak. I pray that love for You and them will make me tell the truth. I pray this in the name of the One who crushed my wall so I could be freed, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.
Ephesians 4:15

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.
Proverbs 12:16

Stepping Stones: The Antidote for Deceit: The Ultimate Instruction Book

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 17, 2012

Transformational Thought

We have talked many times about PAIN and discomfort. Whether physical or especially spiritual, emotional, psychological, or relational, pain and discomfort really motivate and determine many of our decisions in life. Unfortunately, this is where most of our knee-jerk, “help me now and I’ll deal with the consequences later” decisions and actions originate from.

The last 2 days we looked at the first 2 desert temptations of Christ, so today we will look at the third temptation: Satan using Scripture to tempt Jesus to leap from the top of the temple and land safely. Remember, Jesus is fully human and would have been seriously injured by such a fall.

Jesus could have jumped, and it would have been the job of the angels to protect him. It was not a temptation to commit an overt sin, but it was putting His Father's care to the test ... asking Father God to prove his care for Jesus. Jesus responded to Satan by quoting more Scriptures, the truth, and putting into context what Satan, the master of deceit, had quoted out of context.

We learn from Jesus' response that we should trust God and His promises, and not test His reliability for the wrong reasons. He promises to take care of us, but we shouldn't step in front of a speeding car to see what He will do. He has promised to meet our needs, but we shouldn't spend money recklessly.

In all three temptations, Jesus relied on the Scriptures for a proper understanding of what He was to do, and He quoted it in times of temptation. He did not take isolated verses out of context but balanced Scripture with an understanding of the true meaning of the verses and God’s overall plan and character. We find this to be part of the Armor of God that Paul exhorts us to use in the spiritual war we are in. Having experienced temptation, Jesus understands our condition. He is sympathetic, and He is also the perfect standard and role model.

Today, yield to the will of God. Memorize Scripture. And get a good study Bible that explains the context of these verses. Live it. Make a specific plan of how to do this more consistently as the Lord enables and pushes you. Life according to your flawed instruction book is limited and will lead you astray; so choose to use the perfect instruction book. WITHIN REACH will help you wring out all the power of God’s word to apply practically in your life.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You know I am so weak. Please help me to prepare to resist temptation by spending more time in Your Word. Teach me not just to read, but rather to live the Scripture. Please bring the right Scripture to my mind when I am facing a temptation … and also teach me to understand the whole story of Your word. I pray this in the name of the One who would never deceive me and who is the living word, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, 'If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, He will order his angels to protect and guard you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.' Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, You must not test the Lord your God.”
Luke 4:9-12

Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right, for there is a time and a way for everything. . .”
Ecclesiastes 8:5, 6a

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Stepping Stones: Who Do You Bow To? Check Again!

2012-01-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 16, 2012

Transformational Thought

How often have you wished for just a little more power at some time in your life … a little more authority or control in a situation … or relationship? Isn’t this what childhood, and especially teenagerdom, is all about? The “I can’t wait till I’m in charge” mentality. We all have great ideas and plans for a world in which we would have the final say. What we wouldn’t give for that gift, to be the ruler and final authority of our world.

Well, yesterday we looked at Jesus being tempted during His time of fasting in the desert. The second temptation He faced consisted of Satan promising Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. Just what we all wish for, right? Well, to receive this kingship, Jesus would have to momentarily worship Satan.

Both Jesus and his tempter knew that Jesus would eventually gain these kingdoms anyway. So Satan was tempting Jesus to take hold of something that was rightfully His, but by the wrong means … taking it sooner … avoiding imminent pain and suffering … avoiding the cross. And in the process, Jesus would have to bow down and worship the devil … to call Satan lord of His life … blow off God’s timeline, authority, and plan in favor of Satan’s plan. Do you really believe Satan would, or even could have honored his part of the agreement anyway? Well, that’s another devotional.

Once more, Jesus refused to give in to the temptation. Again, he quoted the truth of the Scriptures, revealing the root of the temptation by showing the right form of worship. His Father has the perfect agenda and timeline, and is the only One worthy of His and our worship.

We live in a time of instant gratification. Our fast-paced world and never-ending flow of instant responses via cell phones, internet, texting, and QVC have molded us to want and expect instant gratification. We want it NOW, if not sooner.

Sometimes, we may know in our hearts that God has a plan to take care of a situation, but we don't want to wait. We want the solution now. So, instead of waiting for God's plan to unfold, we manipulate things to make our plan happen now. My will vs. Thy will. Satan tempts us with so many shortcuts. And be very clear about this: in rejecting God's plan, we are bowing down to Satan. So whom do you want to bow to?

Today, let us learn from the example Jesus has set for us. Let us choose God's way, God's timing—always the best way and the best timing. Learn patience and perseverance. They come from trusting God’s love and provision for you. That’s better than what your feeble mind can come up with or what Satan will flash to grab and distract you from God’s will. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I bow to You, Father. All glory to You, my Lord. Forgive me for the times I have not been willing to wait and do things the right way … Your way, the best way for me, but have taken a shortcut. Help me to be willing to wait. Teach me to trust You more and to choose Your way and Your timing, I know Your timing is perfect. I pray this in the name of the One who teaches us how to worship You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The devil led Him up to a high place and showed Him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to Him, 'I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be Yours.' Jesus answered, “It is written: Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.”
Luke 4:5-8

If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.
He said, "Look! I see four men loosed and walking about in the midst of the fire without harm, and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods!"
Nebuchadnezzar responded and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, who has sent His angel and delivered His servants who put their trust in Him, violating the king's command, and yielded up their bodies so as not to serve or worship any god except their own God.
Daniel 3:17,18,25,28

Stepping Stones: Do You Have a Strategy to Resist Satan’s Sweets?

2012-01-14T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 14-15, 2012

Transformational Thought

Wow, the holiday season and my birthday are over and I’m finally at the end of the delectable, but deadly, gauntlet of tasty sweets and special holiday food. I won’t tell you how much weight I gained, but I am on my annual diet to get back to a reasonable weight.

The Holy Spirit led Jesus to the desert, where he fasted for 40 days and the Bible says Satan tempted Him for the duration of that time. But towards the end, Jesus faced a significant temptation of hunger, a very realistic human physical need.

Is eating to satisfy our hunger wrong? Of course not. But Jesus had been led by the Spirit and had made a commitment to God to fast during this time period. Breaking the fast by putting His desire for food above His commitment to the Father would have been sin.

There are many desires we experience throughout each day that are normal and good: to succeed in a job, to dress nicely, to make or listen to music, to prosper financially and provide for our family, to enjoy shopping, to commit to a relationship, to participate in a ministry, to see someone we miss, to enjoy a skill or hobby we have. And the list could go on. These things are not wrong in themselves, but they are wrong if they take priority over our relationship with the Lord. God's plan and God's leading must always come first.

Jesus responded to the temptation by quoting Scripture. "Man shall not live and be sustained by bread alone, but by every word and expression of God." In other words, spiritual matters and faithfulness to God are life-sustaining and more important than physical resources could ever be, especially when it comes to meeting our basic needs.

Today, take a moment to think about your life. Is there an area that is taking priority that should not be … that takes up mind space or emotional energy and is pushing God and other important Earthly responsibilities out? Is it causing you to slide backwards in your relationship with God? Is it tempting you to make wrong choices? If so, now is the time to get back on track. As Jesus taught us, turn to God's Word. Say “no” to the temptation. That choice honors God and is the best thing for you anyway. Develop a concrete strategy to break that hold on your heart. WITHIN REACH and Edging Forward are designed to equip you to successfully resist Satan’s temptations. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I confess there are areas in my life that are causing me to slide in my relationship with You. Fill me with Your Spirit so that I seek and better understand your Holy Bible and allow it to guide me as it guided Jesus. Please help me put your word into action for practical living, and not just a part of my rarely visited spiritual-intellectual library. I pray this in the name of the One who always honored His ultimate priority, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Then the devil said to Him, If You are the Son of God, order this stone to turn into a loaf of bread. And Jesus replied to him, “It is written, Man shall not live and be sustained by (on) bread alone but by every word and expression of God."
Luke 4:3-4

No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
1 Corinthians 10:13,14

Stepping Stones: Single: Joy or Rejection?

2012-01-13T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 13, 2012

Transformational Thought

According to the 2010 census, more than 96 million people in the United States are single. That’s 43% of adults. 59 million never married, 23 million are divorced, and another 14 million are widowed.

Many singles feel that singleness equals rejection. Even if they don't feel that way themselves, if they are over 23 and not in a serious relationship, society often looks on them as rejects. “I am single because nobody wants me,” or “Even that person has someone, why don’t I?” are tapes that play over and over.

If you are single, sometimes the natural tendency is to choose to make excuses: “I don’t care because I don’t need anyone anyway,” or to blame someone else: “He isn’t smart enough to know what he is missing.” These choices view singleness as a problem and attempt to blame something or someone for it. A more realistic, positive, and productive approach is to accept your singleness and make choices that will point you toward the goals God has for your life right now. With this attitude, you will be able to move forward with your life by embracing God and your present circumstance of singleness.

Being single is not last place in God’s eyes. Actually, He sees it as having more time and mind space available to pursue Him. Some people find great fulfillment in being married, but others can find the same fulfillment and sense of purpose being single. But your singleness must be managed based on God’s will and plan for moral and healthy relational conduct, especially relationship with yourself. When we are in a rejection pattern, others rejecting us or others being rejected by us, it is hard not to reject ourselves … and sometimes we even reject God.

Today, if you know some singles, examine how you view them. Are you judging them or are you helping them manage some of the stressors and temptations of their singleness? Forward this to them. If you are single, focus on the fact of how very special you are to God. You are His workmanship, and His workmanship is marvelous! God has a plan for your life, and it is best to focus on seeking His will and becoming all that He has designed you to be. Growing in Him will allow you to become more Christ-like in all areas of life, whether you are meant to be single or married. Life is your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for where I am. Help me always remember that success in my life's journey does not depend on whether I am married or single. My success in life can be measured only by how well I understand and steward Your plan and purpose for me. I know I have made many mistakes in past relationships and dishonored You and others when I was single. Help me focus on You and accomplish Your purpose for my journey, whether You intend singleness or marriage. I pray this in the name of Your Son, the groom to the church, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.
Psalm 139:13-17

But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and his interests are divided.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34a

Stepping Stones: Bad News/Good News

2012-01-12T05:00:00.001-05:00

January 12, 2012

Transformational Thought

Do you sometimes find it difficult to manage your thoughts, attitudes, behaviors, or emotions? Do you persist in a destructive habit even though you know you are hurting yourself or those you love? Do you have patterns or defects you want to correct, but find it too difficult? On New Year’s or your birthday, did you think of some areas of your life that you want to improve or remove over the next year?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you are not alone. In fact, if you answered no to all of them, you are lying or in denial, as none of us are perfect in any, let alone all areas of life. Whether we know it or not, we all have operated in a self-destruct mode at some time in our lives … for some of us it’s been this way most of our adult lives. Perhaps you have tried to do right … to change. For a while, things might get better, and then you find yourself pretty close to where you started.

Well, what do you want first, the bad news orthe good news?Myself, I like the bad news first, so … The bad news: you can't make these kinds of changes by yourself. The good news: that's OK because you don't have to do it by yourself. God is standing by to help you. He is inviting you to turn your problem over to Him. He wants you to know these are not person-sized problems … they are God-sized problems. He loves you, wants to save and sanctify you. He has the power to overcome anything you are or can imagine struggling with. And he has the ultimate strategy and power to make it all happen.

Satan wants to trick us into thinking we don’t need God, that the world can do it for us. Our own natural nature, our selfish me-centered nature, leans toward trusting only myself and doing it all under my own power. Both of these strategies leave out God and only lead to a slow and tortuous inner death.

Today, take the beginning steps to overcoming any destructive pattern in your life: admit you have the problem; admit you cannot correct the problem by yourself; tell God you are sorry for what you have been doing and that you truly want to change. Then trust Him to help you. Seek guidance about how to incorporate Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Bible into your everyday decision-making. WITHIN REACH has accomplished this miracle for me, and it can for you too. You didn’t get this way overnight, so things may not change overnight. But you will be developing the skills and disciplines to start moving in the right direction. God will be with you throughout the process. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father and Ultimate Healer, Sometimes I feel so alone and helpless. Please bring Your Holy Word to my mind at those times. Help me remember that You are always with me, and that with You, all things are possible. Your instruction in the Holy Bible is so powerful … it can actually renew my mind and set me free. Help me to apply Your teachings and trust Your promises, instead of trusting my understanding and self-made instruction book. I pray this in the name of the One You sent who is the Good News, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
Psalm 16:8

With Him, all things are possible
Philippians 4:13

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding
Proverbs 3:5

Stepping Stones: From Cover-Up to Recovery

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 11, 2012

Transformational Thought

Defenses are behaviors we use to cover up or avoid uncomfortable feelings; hiding them from others, and worse yet…from ourselves. Common defenses include suppressing, blaming, rationalizing, or even just hiding behind a smile.

Denial is one of our most common defenses. In the case of a loved one struggling with a life controlling addiction problem, we demonstrate denial when we feel the need to protect or cover up their behavior. Sometimes we struggle with our own problems but deny them even to ourselves…or we underestimate their gravity and the damage they cause to others and ourselves. A big cause for denial is the belief that our denial will keep our loved ones or ourselves “safe.” In reality, denial shuts down problem-recognition, assessment, and the identification and implementation of the necessary solutions. You see, denial only leads to more problems because it is distorted thinking that leads only to destruction and helplessness.

One of the main reasons we develop dysfunctional defenses is our lack of confidence in, and our inability to handle discomfort. Some of the most common negative feelings you may experience include anger, anxiety, jealousy, sadness, fear, guilt, feeling overwhelmed, lonely, and shame. Are you struggling with any of these feelings or similar ones? Are you smiling your way through each day while the struggle inside you rages? These negative feelings aren’t sins, but they are uncomfortable. Even God and Jesus experienced many of these feelings.

Amazingly, The Holy Bible is THE book about why we are in pain and what God has provided to ease and melt away our pain. Ever since Genesis 3 and Eve biting the apple, man has suffered the ultimate pain of spiritual separation from God. Add to that the physical pain of working the land and childbirth, then the trials and tribulations of this world. God’s Word frequently promises and instructs that He and His peace are always available as shown in the many biographies revealed to us in scripture.

Today, return to the place of honestly acknowledging your true feelings and dealing with them like an adult should. Your first step out of the struggle is to admit the feelings to yourself, to God, and to others you know you can trust. No Pain, No Gain. God will provide and equip. Act as if these 2 statements are true…and see miraculous growth happen for you…and for your relationship with God. Only then can you begin the road out of the cover-up and into recovery. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I have tried to convince myself that if I don't admit to these problems, that if I deny them, then I'll be safe from them. I realize now I've been deceiving myself. I am struggling and I need your help. Help me, Father, to move from cover-up to recovery. I know You’ll provide peace and comfort. Help me stop looking in the wrong places and show me the right places to look for Your abundant peace and grace. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to remove the cover-up by covering me with His blood, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
You boast, "We have entered into a covenant with death, with the grave we have made an agreement. When an overwhelming scourge sweeps by, it cannot touch us, for we have made a lie our refuge and falsehood our hiding place."
Isaiah 28:15

And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6

Stepping Stones: Does Controlling My Life Really Protect Me?

2012-01-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 10, 2012

Transformational Thought

The Great American Way…Capitalism…the Land of Independence...Self-Sufficiency…Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. We are raised and taught, “take care of yourself, don’t be a burden on others,” “It’s the weak who are dependent on something or somebody else,” and “I want to do life on my own terms in my own way!”

If you were ever a victim of abuse of any kind, you certainly felt you had no control in the situation…whether it was mild, like ridicule or harshness from your parents, or ranged to any other form of mistreatment like neglect in a dating relationship, or misuse of power by someone in authority. Unfortunately, for some, the abuse might have been extreme or even violent…bullying, sexual coercion while dating, mugging or physical assault, sexual molestation, or even rape. Unfortunately, none of us escape all mistreatment.

We associate the abuse with losing control, so we make a subliminal promise to ourselves never to be in that dependent position again. We then try to control most situations…including every relationship in our lives...to make sure our vulnerability never answers the door when potential abuse knocks. An important downside of this self-protective strategy is we now have a hard time being vulnerable to, and dependent on God and His loving but controlling hand in our lives.

So, we rebel against His instruction and control. I know. I was hardheaded about turning control of my life over to Him, letting myself be vulnerable to someone…and although I am much better, I still struggle with it. But in the past, I tried being independent, controlling all areas of my life. It landed me in jail, with alcohol and a fear of other’s opinions and feelings as my masters.

None of us can be free to become all we were meant to be until we recognize that God is in control…that He loves us and wants to care for us. We are fooling ourselves when we think we can successfully make it through this life on our own. In reality, we need to lean on Him…on His wisdom, strength, love, character, promises…and especially, on His son, Jesus Christ.

Today, assess whether you are in control of your life, or whether God is. Remember, this man you read about, Jesus, loves you. He is inviting you to put your hands in His and let Him guide you and help you through all circumstances of life…regardless of what ever has happened in the past. Stop trying to figure out everything on your own. Stop trying to forge through life depending upon your own strength and understanding. Let Jesus love you. Let Him help you reach your full potential and accomplish all the good things He has called you to do. He actually died for you…for the simple reason that He loved His Father…AND YOU! Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father, forgive me for thinking I could make it through life on my own. I need Your help and Your guidance in everything I do. Help me to stop trying to control everything…help me to listen to Your voice…to obey You…to trust You. I have been leaning on myself and what the world offers, and my hole only gets deeper. Thanks for loving me more than I love me, and for showing me how much You really love me by taking my penalty and place on the cross. I pray this in the name of the One who was sent to take my place, and who teaches and guides me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.
Proverbs 3:5-7

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Colossians 1:15-17

Stepping Stones: Where Do You Turn For Real Security?

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 9, 2012

Transformational Thought

I have been rich and I have been poor. I have been well fed and hungry. I have been happy and sad, surrounded by many and completely alone. I have lounged on the beach and sat on a cot in jail. The key is learning the secret of being content in any situation.

Many of my friends have experienced or continue to experience severe financial loss due to the current economic climate. Stock market woes…investment values plummeting…retirement funds disappearing. Even without job loss, this downhill slide and the ever-growing uncertainty and instability of our society can really be frightening. Add in job loss or a significant health issue (coincidental or a result of the stress) and this climate can be devastating…but it doesn't have to be.

In today's scripture, the apostle Paul tells us that he has experienced both riches and poverty, but that he has reached a point where his joy and his well-being don't depend on his job security, bank account, or any of his external circumstances. No matter what he is going through, he knows that God will give him the strength to make it through. His peace comes from his internal circumstances with God.

God has done and will continue to do the same for you.

As human beings, we all have a tendency to place our confidence in things we can see or control around us. Looking at a solid report on our investments…seeing kids doing well…enjoying our status at work, church or in our community can give us a feeling of security. But it’s based on circumstances around us. We are being reminded all too clearly that these things are not secure, that they can disappear in a heartbeat.

Today, when peace seems distant, stop and assess whether your search for peace is based on your external circumstances or on your internal relationship with God, and your faith in His promises, character, and instructions. No matter what your circumstances, remember that Jesus is with you and will give you the strength you need. As you lean on, trust in, and obey Him, He will make a way. Really, are there other options available with the power, character, and track record of the all powerful Creator of all things? WITHIN REACH is designed to help you get your confidence from God and not the external world. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, help me remember that even if all my financial situations fail, my marriage struggles, my health gives out, or my kids falter…You haven't changed. I know that Your love for me will never change, and that with You, I can make it…no matter what. Thank You, Father. All glory to You, my Lord. I pray this in the name of the One You sent to secure my place in eternity, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13

And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" And He awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?"
Mark 4:37-41

Stepping Stones: Peace, The Great Healing Elixir

2012-01-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

January 7-8, 2012

Transformational Thought

Last winter, Martine was out shoveling the driveway because I was working hard at the office and she has this obsessive belief that the snow on the driveway must be immediately removed or all our thousands of visitors would slip and fall, or think we weren’t very hospitable. She is a hard worker and she did do a great job, but unfortunately, she seriously injured her rotator cuff.

The pain didn’t go away and started to interfere with many of her activities. Using that arm for almost anything made the situation worse. She then tried rest, but that had minimal benefit. Of course, being a nurse and me being a doctor, she waited much too long before seeking real medical attention. The doc told her the tendons in her shoulder were swollen and inflamed. After some massage and a stimulator, she experience a lot more relief, her shoulder became stronger, and she was able to get back to most of her activities without limitation. You see, using her arm while the tendons were inflamed to engage in a “pleasurable activity” that she thought would help her feel better, just worsened the injury and added more pain. We do the same thing with our psychological injuries.

I think it’s safe to say that most people, actually, let me say it with more strength, ALL people, are “the walking wounded” in the spiritual sense. Of course, the wounds and injuries vary in severity. But we all carry wounds around with us, and those wounds bring some degree of pain. We try to escape the pain in some good ways, but also in some not-so-good ways, because we all are addicted to comfort and peace.

Unfortunately, our pain level often goes from bad to worse through the decisions and choices we make in our search for comfort. It’s the proverbial vicious downward cycle. We have a painful wound and want to relieve it. But we are impatient and don’t tolerate it well. The pain and impatience impair our assessment of effective options. Then we make a wrong decision by picking a poor option. When the consequence of that decision results in more discomfort, we try to relieve it impatiently, and the cycle repeats.

The injection we need to stop this hurtful cycle is God’s peace. The promise of peace is abundant throughout The Holy Bible. An antonym for peace is uproar, a highly emotional state. And while emotions are critical to us (they act as a very effective warning system), they don’t help us to make good choices. Making decisions during times of high emotion only increases the inflammation and pain.

Today, reflect back on some decisions that you regret … what kind of emotions pushed and prompted your decision-making? Do you think your decision-making would have been different if you had a powerful Peace in the midst of that stressful situation? How and why? In order to access His peace, you have to look in the right places. Seek and accept the peace promised by your Lord before you make any important decisions. The difference will determine the fulfillment in this life. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am so thankful for Your power. I know, Lord, that the very same power that controls creation and raised Your Son from the dead is available to me. Infuse me, Father, with Your Holy Spirit, the Spirit that Jesus called the Great Comforter, so that I may experience peace through good weather and especially during the storms of life. I pray this in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.
Psalm 29:11

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6,7

Stepping Stones: Are You Exhausted Or Just Empty?

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 6, 2012

Transformational Thought

WOW! I don’t know about you, but I am tired. Thanksgiving to Christmas to New Years, then a birthday. Our ministry is very busy this time of year with so many people struggling due to the increase in stress and family pressures. Travel, house guests, activities, kids off school and home from college and trying to spend time with all of them. So many exciting projects at Lighthouse Network needing special attention. What an exhausting 6 weeks. Oh yeah, did I mention I have a wife, too!

Maybe you are physically exhausted from “doing.” Going to work, cleaning the house, chauffeuring the kids, attending services, participating in small groups, volunteering on committees…doing stuff in the name of service. But a deeper and more dangerous form of exhaustion is the spiritual type. This type of exhaustion often comes from giving, especially giving time and effort.

Jesus said to Peter - "Feed My sheep," but He gave Peter nothing to feed them with. And we are all called to go feed His sheep. The process of being made “broken bread” and “poured out wine” means that you will be the nourishment for others’ souls until they learn to feed on God. Before they learn to draw on the life of the Lord Jesus directly, they have to draw on it through you. You are the bridge through which the real truth and healing message of Christ will travel. And this is how God uses us to minister to others. We are called to serve, and serving takes energy and effort. This process has the potential to deplete and exhaust us.

But here’s the important principle: we shouldn’t be exhausted, rather, we should feel emptied. But we need not remain emptied, for we can always return to the Source of all power to refuel. God’s Word promises you strength and power, and the Holy Spirit is the energy source that refuels us so we can continue to serve others. We get exhausted when we try to do all these activities on our own or for our gain. When we leave God out, (forgetting to be in prayer, focus on His will, or go to Him first), exhaustion becomes our companion.

Today, ask yourself the question, “Am I just on empty or am I exhausted?” Be emptied because you are giving, but do not be exhausted because you are forgetting to refuel through the Holy Spirit, His Word, and His Armor. Remember, your supply comes from Him and His fuel pump is endless, while your own supply is shallow and runs dry quickly. You know that because we have all “been there, done that.” So turn to Him for replenishment. Your decision…choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I am exhausted, because I am refueling from the wrong energy sources. I am spinning my wheels, turning in circles, making no headway. I want to experience a different form of exhaustion. I want to be emptied because I am privileged to be Your ambassador, ministering to others and furthering Your kingdom. Use me, Father, to save souls and to spiritually nourish the starving until they learn to feed directly from You. I pray this in the name of the One you sent to be our broken bread and poured out wine, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Isaiah 40:28-29

He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to Him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep."
John 21:17

Stepping Stones: Without Living Water, We Crack

2012-01-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 5, 2012

Transformational Thought

I am constantly amazed by the sheer number of TV channels available to us…you can find something playing on almost any topic. My youngest daughter loves the cello and plays quite well. Her favorite musician is the great cellist, Yo Yo Ma. My oldest daughter had the privilege of seeing him in concert a couple weeks ago. After the concert, he talked about his cello being a Stradivarius built in 1716! I was flipping channels the other day and stumbled on a program about vintage guitars and some principles intrigued me.

The narrator was explaining that the finest acoustic guitars are made from very thin layers of tone woods…and that the quality of sound is largely determined by their thinness. He went on to say how critical it is to keep a guitar at the wood’s natural moisture level, about 45% relative humidity. If not, the wood cracks and the once beautiful tone takes on a deadened sound. Of course, you can still play it, but it won’t make the beautiful sound it was built to produce.

He took a “broken guitar” and placed it in a room at 45% humidity. Three days later the wood expanded to it’s original size, the cracks closed, and the guitar played and sounded like new. The narrator continued talking about how we are made up primarily of water…how things start to go seriously wrong if we become dehydrated. That got me thinking.

We were created by God and designed in His image…finer than the finest instrument. We’re created by our Lord to make spiritual music…the fruit of our faith, to glorify His name. Just as the guitar needs moisture to keep from cracking…we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit and God’s Grace. We need it in and around us. In the absence Jesus Christ, the true living water and source for all spiritual healing and power in our lives, we crack. Like the cracked guitar, we will still make music…but ouch, the sound has deadness to it and so will our activities. Our heart will soon ache with the hardening that dead sound will produce.

Today, think about how well-hydrated your spirit and soul are. Does your sound replicate that of a fine instrument…or is it muted with an unwanted deadness? Soak in the living waters that flow from Jesus Christ…truly believe in and practice His teachings and watch those cracks close up before your eyes. If you choose to practice life according to your own rules, you will hear the deadened sounds of your life in your heart. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You, dry, parched, dehydrated and cracked. I know You created me to make spiritual music, but all that is coming from me lately are dead notes. Fill me, Father, with “streams of living water” so that my cracks heal and close, and that I make the beautiful music You intended for me. Thank You, Lord, for Your Son Jesus Christ, who gave us life and gave it so freely. I pray this in the name of the One who filled all my cracks in my heart; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
John 4:10

On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."
John 7:37

A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah.
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Psalm 63:1

Stepping Stones: Darkness - Not Always Bad

2012-01-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 4, 2012

Transformational Thought

Darkness is typically thought of as something negative, bad, and is oftentimes associated with evil. Nightfall, devoid of light, blackened, lost, secret, closed, blinded. The Bible often uses darkness to portray “not in God’s light”… a place we don’t want to be.

As a child, I was frightened of the dark. I saw so many westerns that I was afraid Indians might come in my room and burn me at the stake. Some people even carry these fears through their teens and into adulthood. But I have learned through personal experience that darkness is not all bad. And darkness does not have to be synonymous with the absence of God. Sometimes when darkness comes, it signifies that we are under the shelter and in the shadow of our Lord. (Psalm 91:1) Know that as children of God, nothing happens to you that He has not allowed.

During times of darkness, there are actually treasures to be found (Isaiah 45:3), along with learning and growth. When darkness comes, most people run from it and unfortunately don’t see God’s protection or the lessons God has for them. Others distract or soothe themselves from the uneasiness of the darkness by turning to food, fear, alcohol, porn, power, control, anger, or other patently knee jerk responses. Some simply sleep through it as if nothing is happening.

When events don’t go our way and we feel emotionally uncomfortable, our natural reaction is to assume the situation is against us. We then believe nothing positive can come from it, even though we know from experience with school, sports, or the arts that we have to practice to get good results. The “no pain, no gain” maxim is true for spiritual growth as well. When we are born again, we aren’t totally mature, fully-equipped believers. Spiritual transformation is a process involving work, effort, self-reflection, self-examination, learning from mistakes, and applying our new skills and relationship in times of adversity.

Today, when you find yourself in the midst of physical and spiritual darkness, turn to your God for strength. Don’t run. Rather, look for the treasures in those secret places. While in the dark, turn to His Presence…His Word…His Spirit. And you will soon see His Lighthouse guiding you step by step. Look for how He wants to grow or strengthen you, especially in the areas you need of your life that are holding you back. Always search for the positives in the storm, because they always are there. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God,I know that You are perfect in all Your ways…therefore it is impossible for You to be careless. Nothing happens to me that You have not allowed. When I experience times of darkness – times that You could have prevented – it sometimes feels as if You are being careless with me. Thanks for always having a plan for my growth and success, and giving me courage to follow Your perfect plan instead of my inadequate one. I pray, Father, that You equip me to navigate in the darkness…and that You will teach me how to use that equipment. I pray this in the name of the One You sent who experienced the darkest of times while paying for my sins, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
Isaiah 45:3

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Psalm 91:1

Stepping Stones: Eternity With One or One-Night Stands With Many?

2012-01-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 3, 2012

Transformational Thought

Once in a while I hear a question or a statement that makes God, Jesus, and Christianity so real, so concrete, so clear. An example is a question a patient asked me, “Who do you think Jesus Christ really was?” Based on what Jesus claimed, only 2 choices really exist, 1. He was honest and therefore is the Son of God and Savior of all mankind…or, 2. He was a liar or a madman and what He said isn’t true. In the Case for Christ, Lee Strobel does a great job examining this very question.

You see there really isn’t any in-between answer to this question. Based on who He said He was, either you believe Him or not. If you don’t believe He is the Son of God, then His claims are lunacy. In fact, as a psychiatrist, I have had to pursue or uphold an involuntary commitment to an in-patient psychiatric unit for some delusional or manic individuals who made claims and firmly believed themselves to be God, Jesus, the Antichrist, a select and powerful angel, or the Chosen One.

So, I will ask you a similar question. Do you believe in the eternity promised by God and delivered by Jesus Christ? If your answer is yes, then I say Halleluiah! If your answer is no…well then, life must feel like a continuous series of one-night stands. Essentially, you are running from person to person, object to object, and event to event, engaged in a mad quest to find happiness, value, and connection…the desires of your heart. But without God you are coming up empty, then eagerly going to the next hot prospect. Disappointment prevails. You know the frustration and letdown of one-night stands: momentary highs followed by heartache and rejection. On-going chasing and coming up short...just constant teases…never the deep, lasting romance we crave. How sad is that?

Even as Christians, we still fall prey to this courting merry-go-round. Why do we stray? We mistakenly believe we can find joy and fulfillment through material substitutes leaving God out of the equation.

Today, think of spending your days as a string of commitments that lead up to God’s promise of eternity. Make God your exclusive God by choosing a life-long commitment to Him and His truth. When you are all-in with Him, He delivers the desires of your heart and you won’t waste time on one-night stands. I lived that life of one-night stands and wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Most of my life has been a string of disjointed pursuits. I had no beliefs in fulfillment through anything outside myself, and never thought I would change. But today, Lord, by Your Grace, I’ll try and build each day upon the one before it, all with the expressed purpose of pleasing You…reveling in the peace and power of Your promises and Word…anticipating spending eternity with You. Help me keep this focus, Lord. I pray in the name of the One You sent to deliver eternity to me, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.
Psalm 119:89

Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 5:21

Stepping Stones: Wisdom, not Weakness

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

January 2, 2012

Transformational Thought

What a whirlwind the last 6 weeks from Thanksgiving week through New Year’s Day have been. Gifts were exchanged. Many traveled all over. Vacations from school and work were needed and enjoyed. The parties are over. Will Congress approve a holiday to get over the holidays?

Now that the buzz of the holidays is now behind us and the bills are coming in, some of the hurts and psychological wounds are oozing and affecting our functioning. For many, this is when reality sets back in. The issues and problems that we swept under the rug for the holiday season, maybe many seasons, start gnawing at us once again. So, this is the time for wisdom, not for weakness.

Even though we all struggle with insecurity and feeling incompetent in many areas of life, accepting the fact that we cannot live life successfully using only our own power does not come easily to most of us. Today's culture lifts up personal independence as such a desirable virtue, that we’ve developed a bloated "I can do it myself" mentality. We think asking for help is a sign of weakness…even if the one we are asking is God!

“I can deal with this situation myself…I don't need anyone's help. I don't have to visit those porno websites…I can stop whenever I want to. I can stop eating those doughnuts and lose weight anytime I choose. I don't need any help with my son…he’ll straighten up. I don't want your charity…I am getting along just fine. I can control my temper myself…I don’t need a therapist for that. Alcohol just helps me relax, I’m not addicted. These pain killers are prescribed, so they are good for me.”

Sound familiar?

It is OK to turn for help. In fact, according to the Bible, if we are wise, we will recognize our need for God's help. And sometimes He sends that help through other people and treatment options.

Unfortunately, being in the behavioral health field, there is no slow season. But the weeks between Halloween and the end of March are incredibly busy. This period right after New Year’s Day, is when many make a courageous life-changing decision to go to residential addiction treatment. This incredible and much needed New Year’s resolution needs help to make it happen. Be wise, ask for help.

Today, if you are struggling with a life-interfering behavior, now is the time to ask God for help, because you can’t grind it on your own. Call our helpline 877.562.2565. We will help you put together a plan to find the best Christian treatment option to help you stop that behavior and transform your life! If you know someone who is struggling, call us or give our number or website www.LighthouseNetwork.org to your loved one. After your friendship with them, this could be the most influential gift you can give. Remember, asking for God’s help is a sign of wisdom…not weakness. It will truly change your life, and I know because it changed mine and we get to help hundreds each month do the same! Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father, I have always wanted to feel that on my own I could handle whatever life brings me. I recognize now what a mistake that has been and I ask for Your help with my struggle. Please help me grow courage to seek You out more often, patience to wait for Your answer to be made known to me, and an ear to hear Your answer when You send it. If the answer involves me going away to treatment, please humble me to accept this gracious and powerful gift. I pray in the name of the One who sees my weakness and who is my strength, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Proverbs 26:12

Stepping Stones: Guarantee: Time Passes –So What Will You Do?

2012-01-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

January 1, 2012

Transformational Thought

Happy New Year! Seems like Y2K was just a couple years ago with all the commotion about streetlights going crazy…retirement funds being depleted…financial chaos emerging from Wall Street…water and food being unavailable…people reserving generators over one year in advance. Then came 9/11 and the crash of the economy. Wow! The first years of the new century have blown by so fast.

I’ve never met anyone who thinks time has passed slowly. Really, the only thing we are guaranteed in this world (assuming the Rapture doesn’t happen yet) is this…Time Passes! Unless you die, time methodically marches on. And as we’ve noted…time moves very quickly, stopping for no one.

So here’s my point…putting together the above observations: we are guaranteed that Jan. 1, 2013 will come, and actually be here very quickly. I’m just preparing you for the inevitable truth. Now comes the question you need to ask yourself, “Do I want to be in the same position, shoes, state of mind, level of psychological and spiritual maturity on Jan. 1, 2013 that I am in now? Do I want to have the same degree of impact on family, friends and society? Or do I want more from myself and life?” We all want to grow. In fact, God commands us to mature…to go from milk to solid food. Staying the same isn’t an option. If you aren’t going forward and growing, then you are going backward. Life is much easier and way more fulfilling when we are growing in God and life.

First, growth starts when you set a goal. Second, to get to your destination, you have to realize where you are starting from. And third, you need to develop a strategy that takes you from where you are now to your goal. To make growth happen, self-reflection and assessment are essential keys. New Year’s Eve is the time most of us look back and evaluate, but it really is hard to appraise one whole year in a just a few hours. That’s just a lazy and shortsighted shortcut. Think about it, you didn’t get this way overnight, so you can’t assess it and adequately troubleshoot it in just a few hours.

Today, most of you have a day off, so take time to invest in yourself. Write down who you want to be on 1/1/13. Be very descriptive about your spiritual, emotional, relational and thinking world. Then commit to 15-30 minutes per day for the next month for serious self-reflection/assessment and some concrete journaling. Your return on this small investment will be truly life changing. You see, this was one of the first steps of my life transformation. WITHIN REACH will give you a unique and powerful strategy to quickly, efficiently, and deeply assess yourself and bring dramatic, powerful growth to all areas of your life. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You are so Holy and amazing, and I am in awe. Thank You for not giving up on me, a sinner, and then actually coming alongside me, to bear my yoke, be my Counselor, and grow me to be more Christ-like. I know You want to finish the work You started and have promised You will. Show me how to use your Holy Spirit, your instruction, and the understanding of who You are to transform my mind and life. I pray in the name of the One who started this transformational revolution, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
Ephesians 4:1

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
James 1:23-25

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16,17

Stepping Stones: Only One Resolution Needed

2011-12-31T05:00:00.001-05:00

December 31, 2011

Transformational Thought

So many of us use New Year’s Eve and Day to make resolutions … to try and “fix” our shortcomings … to focus on our failures. So many resolutions are made … and within a few days or weeks, they are broken. To keep a resolution for a whole month is virtually unheard of in our society.

Remember, the world we live in is fallen and we are part of that brokenness. In this fallen world, all our default settings are tainted by sin. Trying to “fix” yourself, by yourself, is futile. It’s like trying to put all the pieces of a broken mirror back together to get a true reflection. Only one New Year’s resolution is needed … to develop the Mind of Christ. Growing closer to God, yearning for Him, then glorifying Him with your internal heart and external behavior.

Developing the Mind of Christ can’t happen without the Holy Spirit. If you aren’t saved, (often called born again), and haven’t received God’s gift of Jesus as your personal Savior to save you from the penalty for your sins, then click here to learn how to be saved to go to heaven for eternity. If you are saved, then learning how to access the power of the Holy Spirit is the way to achieve your resolution and grow the Mind of Christ – to glorify God, achieve your God-given potential and enjoy the peace and fulfillment only Jesus brings. WITHIN REACH: Disciplines for Real Life Changeis our decision-making and growth workshop that covers confession, the armor of God, biblical truths, and a strategy to understand and apply the Holy Spirit’s work in the everyday decisions of life.

To make a resolution is to make a decision with intention and determination … a decision with firmness of mind and purpose. When the Spirit is in you, and you are obeying and following Him, you will be transformed and renewed. The Holy Spirit will give you incredible motivation to follow through with your resolution.

Today, if you have not yet believed in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, that is the major way to transform your life right now. If you have accepted Christ as your Savior, the next step is to make the only resolution that can truly make a difference in your life. Decide to move closer to God and access the Holy Spirit to transform your mind and life ... now and for eternity. Tomorrow, we will look closer at transformation. But you need to be intentional now. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, on this New Year’s Eve, I make the only resolution that counts … to move closer to You by achieving the “Mind of Christ.” In New Year’s Eves of the past, I have defaulted to try and problem solve through resolutions, always trying to find out what was wrong … and then trying to “fix” things my way. I come to You, Father, and ask for Your grace and collaboration to set me free from all my hurtful, sinful ways. I will view each moment in this New Year and all the years to come as a fresh opportunity to draw ever closer to You. I pray in the name of the One you sent to transform me and give me new life, Jesus Christ; and all the children of the world say - AMEN!

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

to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:22-24

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10

Stepping Stones: The 60/60 Rule

2011-12-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 30, 2011

Transformational Thought

Yes, that big snowstorm did hit, 8-12 inches here, and we lost power for almost 48 hours, so the weathermen get some extra grace. As I was driving through our quaint little borough, everybody was hard at work clearing small branches that had broken off and whole trees that had collapsed under the weight of the snow, and so many people were out shoveling their own walks and driveways as well as the public sidewalks.

Watching this, I was reminded of the old rule I learned as a kid from my grandfather while mowing his lawn, the 60/60 rule. You might know it by a different name, but it goes something like this. When doing some work next to a property line, don’t just work up to the property line, work past the line and do some of your neighbor’s property. The other application is when you are working with someone in a project, don’t just complete 50% each, but try to do 60% each. When both parties have this mentality, the job or project is more enjoyable, and the relationship flourishes.

You see, while 60/60 has many advantages, our natural tendency is to just do our own and stop at 50/50. If you operate under the 50/50 rule, meaning, you do your part and I’ll do mine, not any more than you have to, many things fall between the cracks. When people shoot for the 50% mark they may cut a few corners and unintentionally fall short…or purposely act a little stingy. When I do 60%, I am ensuring an overlap so that nothing falls through the crack. If we both do 60%, we can guarantee nothing falls through the crack.

How thankful we should be that God doesn’t just give 50% or even 60%. He gave 100% for our salvation, and then continues giving and forgiving 100%…over and over…extending more and accepting the small percentage that we offer back.

I never see the Bible say, “Well, just meet them half way.” In fact, Jesus says we are to die to ourselves. That sounds like we need to be in 100%.

Today, think about the difference it would make in your life if you and those around you followed the 60/60 rule. Go ahead, give 60% today, and see what happens. Think about doing 60% instead of your half of the work…paying 60% of the dinner check…accepting 60% of the blame for that fractured relationship. Now, how about with God? Can you give more in gratitude for the 100% He sacrificed for you? Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I admit, Father, that I am often guilty of not doing my fair share, not taking my fair share of the blame…and letting things “fall through the cracks.” I pray, Lord, that you will fill me with Your Spirit so that I have the strength and mindset to always do more than my fair share. I pray this in the name of the One who always gave His 100%, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And all that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts 2:44-47

But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, 'Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.'
Luke 10:33-35

Stepping Stones: The Burning Question That Determines Your Life

2011-12-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 29, 2011

Transformational Thought

Yes, "Have you accepted Jesus as your savior?," is the biggest question you have to answer. But have you asked yourself the next burning question, “Will I make Him the Lord of my life?” The answer to this question will determine the Christian’s life here on Earth.

You see, I accepted Christ as my personal Savior as a small child, saying the sinner’s prayer with my mother. Being raised in a Baptist church as a kid, I responded to many altar calls with further acceptance of Christ as my Savior, because what kid would ever want to burn in Hell forever? Just wanted to make sure I was guaranteed that eternal destination of Heaven.

Well, I continued through my middle school and high school years with great blessing and accomplishment, but on the inside, I was really struggling. Sure, I knew all the memory verses and was a clean cut, well-behaved, bright, well-spoken teenager in front of the adults. But I put acceptance and the opinions of my peers on the top of my priority list. I wanted to be important, included, popular, special.

Well, my foul language, lying, alcohol and drug use, and many other sinful behaviors, escalated causing multiple consequences … compromised athletic accomplishments in my senior year of high school , losing out on a baseball scholarship, loss of an Air Force ROTC scholarship after 2 years, almost getting thrown out of college for cheating, almost flunking out of school, and almost not being accepted into medical school.

It all culminated halfway into medical school, on Super Bowl Sunday. I was arrested for 6 counts of aggravated assault and landed in jail. It was there that God asked me if I was ready to make Him the Lord of my life, or if I still wanted to be the Lord of my life. He told me I would never regret making Him Lord. He told me, “If you make me the Lord of your life, I will reveal incredible principles and help you bring your educational and spiritual backgrounds together for your life-fulfillment and to help others.”

You see, when we answer this question soundly and regularly stand by it, all the other questions become so clear. Questions like, “Should I pray for healing or God’s will?” “Is this the right house?” “Should we use in vitro to get pregnant?” “Should I get divorced?” “Should I call that person I am angry with?” “Should I speak up for what is right, do the right thing?” When He is our Lord, our authority, the Holy Spirit is on the throne of our heart, and the Bible becomes our powerful how-to manual for life. It was way better than what I was using, which landed me in jail.

Since that night at 3 AM in a cold prison cell, with a bloodied face, a bruised body, and tattered shirt, God has never broken His promise to me, and my life has turned around. God’s grace and blessing have been truly amazing, abundant, and overwhelming.

Today, ask yourself that burning question, “Have you given yourself totally to God?” If the answer is no, then ask yourself why not? What do you need to believe differently about God or yourself in order to give yourself to Him as He gave Himself for you? As long as you keep putting yourself in your own hands, life will be hard and your potential very limited. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, It is so beautiful and rewarding to see Your work even in difficult circumstances. Help me look to You, Father, during these difficult times, as there is so much to learn when life doesn’t meet my expectations. I want to live a life that is close to You. I ask You, Father, to remove every obstacle that prevents me from totally giving myself to You. I pray this in the name of the One who gave Himself totally for me, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;
Romans 8:26

Stepping Stones: Weathering a Spiritual Snowtorm? Go to God’s Supermarket!

2011-12-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 28, 2011

Transformational Thought

A big snowstorm was reportedly heading our way tonight – 12 to 20 inches! At least that’s what the weather experts said. (Boy, I would love to have a job where I could be wrong so often and still be loved, popular, and an expert in my field!) So, along with the masses, I went food shopping this morning. The grocery store and the shopping carts were chock-full. The longest we would be homebound by this storm…something like 12-24 hours. However, most shoppers were purchasing weeks’ worth of supplies…all based on the fear of being without what they need to nourish and sustain their bodies…for just one day.

This mob scene made me wonder why I don’t think more…no, actually worry more, about how well my spiritual cupboard is stocked; will I run out of blessing and grace? Will I have enough of God’s goodness within me to make it through my next spiritual snowstorm? Do I have enough Bible understanding and application nuggets ready to implement? Or is my cupboard empty, filled with stale or moldy bread that has been sitting unused for many months (except Sunday mornings or the obligatory devotional times)?

Just imagine for a minute walking into a spiritual gifts, nuggets, and blessings supermarket. Shelves stocked to the ceiling…and all you have to do is fill up your cart. No check-out lines, no credit or debit cards…no need for cash. It’s all free; already paid for. The reason that we don’t stock up for snowstorms is that it costs money and we have limited room. But God’s supplies are free, and He made our hearts to store as much as we want – no limit.

Well, it does take some time and effort, I’ll grant you that. But Satan tricks us into thinking that the other options are free and take no time…that they have no downside. Just think about all the effort you put into chasing empty options, worry, embarrassment, frustration, wrong choices, relational mistakes, and sin areas. Every option that exists requires time and effort. The options that cost the least, are the easiest to get, and have the biggest return on investment are at God’s supermarket of spiritual treasures.

Today, know that the door is right before you. All you have to do is believe and then open that door to receive. That door follows you wherever you go. His store is open 24/7. This superstore has everything you need to sustain you not only for days and weeks…but for the whole of this life and for eternity. What’s in your heart? Do you have enough to weather your next spiritual storm? Don’t cheat yourself. You can always shop for more, use it with abandon, then go back and restock because it’s free and your heart can hold it all. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I want to have my name in the book of life. I pray for Your strength so that I may “overcome”, so that I may stand firm to the end. I know, Lord, that just as sure as You saved me, You will mold me to Your likeness and finish the work You started. Thank You, Father. Help me, Lord, to focus on my spiritual cart instead of my physical shopping cart. Help me develop the wisdom to endlessly shop in Your store for free treasures…available just for the taking. Fill my basket, Father, with all Your blessings. I pray this in the name of the One whom You sent to save me, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Then He said to me, "It is done I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life without cost. He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son.”
Revelations 21:6,7

Stepping Stones: The Call of God

2011-12-27T05:00:00.001-05:00

December 27, 2011

Transformational Thought

God loves you more than anybody does. No one else comes close. And He has intentionally, specifically, and uniquely designed each and every one of us. Wanting us to be fulfilled, knowing what will fulfill us, and designing us specifically to do what will fulfill us, God “calls” us for several missions in life. And guess what? These missions will indeed fulfill us to the max.

One of the missions or calls each of us receives is to spread the message of God’s love, forgiveness, and many promises. In today’s scripture, Paul actually states the call of God is to preach the gospel. It is often called The Great Commission.

I don’t take this literally to mean we all need to become verbal preachers and teachers of the Holy Bible. What I believe Paul means by "preach," is connecting with people and living out the reality of salvation we have in our Lord Jesus Christ. To "preach" it through our actions, to speak our personal testimony, and then walk in easily and eagerly when an opening is presented to teach more of who God is.

We all get a bit nervous about "acting like a Christian" when everyone is doing something else, but we are especially nervous about speaking about Jesus. Just tell them about how your faith helps you. You don’t have to convert them. That is the job of the Holy Spirit. If you aren’t sure how the Gospel helps you, you have some work to do on yourself first!

The one passion of Paul's life was to proclaim the Gospel of God…the miraculous and awe-inspiring message of salvation. He welcomed heartbreak, disillusionment, and tribulation to show his need for the Gospel…because these adversities kept him in unshakeable devotion to the Gospel of God. They also provided ripe times for others to be exposed to the peace and freedom the Gospel brought to Paul enabling him not just to endure, but to live triumphantly. Paul keenly watched for these Gospel-revealing moments.

Today, think about one person whom you could tell about God’s promise of salvation and eternity. So many people desperately need of this life-changing, life-saving news. Act like the person has cancer and you have THE cure for them. Write their name down someplace. Pray for them and then tell a brother/sister to pray for them and you. Call that person and let them know they are important to you and you care about them. Behold what God can and will do in you, through you, and in them. God has designed, prepared, and called you to this very specific task. The peace and fulfillment you will experience when you step into His calling is UNBELIEVABLE! Don’t let Satan cheat you out of it.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You for the life I now live by faith in Your Son who loved me so much, He gave Himself up for me. Thank You, Lord. I pray Father that You fill me with the Holy Spirit who will give me the courage, strength, and wisdom to “preach the Gospel.” Thank You for leading me to those who need to hear the good news. I pray for discernment, wisdom, courage, and excitement to proclaim the great gift You have given me, the same gift You have for them. I pray this in the name of the One whom You sent to save me, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel
1 Corinthians 1:17

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:18-20

I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
John 12:32

Stepping Stones: You Can Shine, Called Alongside to Help Others

2011-12-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 26, 2011

Transformational Thought

The Christmas holidays are such a special time of the year. The anticipation, excitement, traditions, and activities powerfully impact children of all ages and become wonderfully etched in our minds for the rest of our lives. But, unfortunately, for many the Christmas season is also the most painful and lonely time of year. People stress about the lack of enough money for gifts, fear of the credit card bills to come, disappointment from not getting the gifts we expected or hoped for, multiple travel issues, or problems centered on whose side of the family to celebrate with.

Even worse is being estranged from someone we love - for trivial or serious reasons, or missing a loved one who will be absent from the celebration due to death, divorce, addiction, suicide, or incarceration. Most debilitating for me was my internal struggle, which was a huge roadblock to experiencing the power of love and forgiveness from God. So many factors have the potential to bring us down. These struggles are amplified just after Christmas, when Christmas expectations go unmet and the foreboding empty days of winter lie ahead. Many people really suffer during this next 3-month stretch.

But you can be a Lighthouse. This is the time of year when you can make an impact (more powerful than you could ever imagine) by taking the time to encourage those who are struggling. In the Hebrews passage below, the word “encourage” comes from the Greek word “parakletos,” which means “called alongside to help.” Encouragement can be offering an uplifting word, but it can also be so much more than that, such as an opportunity to come alongside and help in a more powerful way.

Showing someone they have value and dignity, offering respect by taking action … doing something for them … has an amazing influence on others’ thoughts and feelings. Show them they matter to you and to God by putting aside your needs in favor of theirs. The idea of being created in God’s image and having value, so much so that God sacrificed His Son for them, needs to be brought tangibly to them. You are the vehicle God will use to get them this life-saving, actually, life-transforming message.

Today, think of someone who needs you “alongside” them to help: your spouse, parent, child, neighbor, work colleague, or friend, or maybe someone you will meet today for the first time. When you stand alongside and offer help, you become a powerful vessel through which God channels courage, hope and happiness. You have the Holy Spirit within you, and you will bring Him directly to them. What better gift do you have to give than this? God will even bring people to you. So be alert and step up to the plate. Your decision, choose well.

Lighthouse Network’s free national helpline, 877.562.2565, can help find counseling or addiction treatment options for those caught in life’s storms. We actually save lives on a daily basis. Please feel free to call or give our number to those you know who need some options.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for sending Jesus to encourage me. I thank You for Your Holy Word that offers encouragement each time I open the Bible. I thank You for making it possible for me to encourage others. I pray, Lord, that You help me become courageous and to be a faithful servant who encourages others. I pray in the name of the one You sent to encourage me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
But encourage one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Hebrews 3:13

The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.
Acts 11:22-24

Stepping Stones: Where Will You Put Christmas Tomorrow?

2011-12-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 25, 2010

Transformational Thought
MERRY CHRISTMAS to all of you in our Stepping Stones Community! Our hope and prayer from Lighthouse Network for you is for a year spent growing closer to God, maturing in your Christian walk (not just knowledge), and further developing the mind of Christ. If you can do this short list, then peace, joy, fulfillment, purpose, passion, acceptance, safety, security, consistency, passion, and power will be yours to bask in everyday. This is the wonderful gift from the King of Kings, but today is only the starting point to enjoying and growing this gift.

But for many, a dangerous trap lies in our path, ready to devour us. It goes like this. Today is the day for great celebration, remembering the greatest gift ever given to us. Many went to church yesterday or will go today. We will celebrate with those we love, exchanging gifts as symbols of our love, laughing and hugging, and adding another chapter of Christmas memories. But to be honest with you, part of me gets angry about Christmas Day.

You see, we are truly blessed that Christmas is not just today, but is truly everyday, especially for Christians. All 365 days a year, God’s grace is abundantly given to us in extraordinary portions. Every day is Christmas! But Satan has put out a lie that no other days are special, that they are just ordinary at best, and are often terrible days. Unfortunately, we often fall into the trap of believing those lies. So we celebrate Christmas just one day a year. And I believe this boxes people into enjoying it for only one day each year. Then we carve it out of our life as we pack it back in the attic with the ornaments, lights, wreaths, wrapping paper, nativity set, tablecloth and placemats until December 25th comes around again, 364 days later.

Today, make a commitment to yourself and God not to put Christmas away in the attic of your heart … but to keep it in the kitchen of your heart … accessible daily with the rest of your staples for surviving and living. Each day will have new meaning. Your lenses will be more God-centered and the goal of the mind of Christ will be on your doorstep. Your decision, so choose well. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!

Prayer
Dear Father God, Christmas is beautiful and I am overwhelmed with Your love, gift, and death for me. Actually for me, a sinner like me. It is still so unbelievable that the King of Kings and Lord of Lords would actually die for me. I regret that I put Christmas away in the attic sometimes instead of living out of and in that joy daily. Help me see Your gift and presence daily, and to allow me to shine like a Lighthouse bringing Christmas to all those I contact, daily. I pray in the name of the star of Christmas, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:21-23

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
John 10:10

Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.
Hebrews 7:25

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:24-26

Stepping Stones: Proof: Jesus Will Hold Your Life Together!

2011-12-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 24, 2011

Transformational Thought

One of our Stepping Stones readers sent a video link to me. It is so awesome … so powerful, it brought tears to my eyes. I know you will love it, especially during this Christmas season when stress, loss, illness, hurt, depression, addictions, rejection, or abandonment get magnified. I know many who will be experiencing their first Christmas without their spouse, parent, child, sibling, best friend, or sanity, well-being, or sobriety. Know that Jesus will keep you from falling apart, now and forever.

This clip is 8 min and once you see it, you will be inspired to pass it on to your struggling friends.
Click here now (it is safe). Here is the link also http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e4zgJXPpI4

Today, after watching this video, stop and realize how Jesus and the cross, physically, psychologically, and spiritually hold you together. Also, pass the to someone who needs this reminder, proof of Jesus’ intimate involvement in his or her life. Tomorrow, be especially thankful for our spiritual laminin. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, thank You for sending Jesus to hold me together, everyday, forever. Some days, it feels like I will fall apart … but now You give me more evidence that You are always there, intimately in my life, pulling me together. I will wake up tomorrow in joyous celebration of Jesus’ birth. Without Jesus and the hope I get from my salvation, I would surely fall apart. Thank You, Jesus, for dying to be my spiritual glue. I pray in the name of our spiritual laminin, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
Colossians 1:11-17

Stepping Stones: Shopping For The Gift of the Year?

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 23, 2011

Transformational Tip

Well, Christmas is just a couple days away. How are you doing with your shopping list? Stores and shopping aren’t my thing … never were, never will be. Since I don’t like shopping, I procrastinate up to the last second. As a result, maybe you guessed it … I’ve become an incredibly efficient Christmas Eve shopper. It really is a lot of fun. People are in better moods, excitement is in the air, there are less than 24 hours till the magic of Christmas, and there’s a party atmosphere everywhere you go. Try it next year, or at least save some of your list for Christmas Eve.

But you see, shopping is about finding something to fill someone’s need. To me, shopping is for not just a want, but a need. As a psychiatrist, when I think about “shopping” for something to help fill someone’s need, the items can’t be found in any store. Value, purpose, connection, identity, security, consistency, meaning, competence, ability, and love aren’t for sale. But according to the world, and as a result of Satan’s trickery, after watching all the commercials and seeing so many ads on the computer or in the paper, you would swear these precious needs are in every store … and even on sale. But they’re not, not even close.

The most important gift, the foundation to all those gifts I listed earlier, is a relationship with our almighty Creator and Father, the one and only God. The most precious needs are what we all desire and thirst for …what we are all yearning for. We wish they could be easily bought on sale and given to us in a pretty package. But better yet, they came in a manger and they are FREE!!!!

This is the true and amazing story of Christmas. God gave us the most loving and unbelievable gift of all time to meet all our other needs completely. It cost Him and Jesus a lot … but it is truly free to us. Really, it is the grandest gift ever given. That is what we are blessed to celebrate on Christmas Day.

Today, think how you will receive God’s gift each day to affect the issues you struggle with … to address and meet all your real needs. God has given you what you need. Learn how to use it. WITHIN REACH can help you apply God’s gift to your areas of need. If you haven’t received this gift, go to our Spiritual Basics link and click salvation. If you have received this Ultimate Gift, consider who needs this gift and pray about giving it during this season. It’s more valuable than anything else you will consider buying, making, or giving from this world. Don’t be shy about sharing it, because you couldn’t give anything better. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You are so amazing and awesome. Thanks so much for loving me and caring about my well-being. Not only do You care for me, You even sacrificed Your only Son and sent Him to die for me … not because I did great things for You, but because I am a wretched sinner. I am so happy You are the perfect shopper who gave me the perfect gift. I pray in the name of the one You sent to die for me, save me, and heal me - Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:16,17

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?
Romans 8:31,32

Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.
Malachi 3:10

Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:4

Stepping Stones: Born To Die

2011-12-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

December 22, 2011

Transformational Thought

Our family was blessed with a new baby girl this year. As her grandmother, I began to dream (as we all do) about her life and the wonderful possibilities that would be available to her as she grows up through the different stages of life. Wow, I realized, she was born to live!

Then it made me think of the One whose purpose in life was being born to die! But as Eternal God, He could not die. So on that first Christmas over 2,000 years ago, He became the unique God-man when He entered human history as a babe in a manger. He knew when he left the splendors of Heaven to come down to earth, becoming once and forever a member of the human race, that He was born to die! Our Heavenly Father gives us a glimpse of that truth through Jesus’ physical birth in that humble stable in Bethlehem. This powerful reality was made so evident through the simple “swaddling clothes” in which He was wrapped - clothes set apart for burial of the dead!

The overwhelming truth of this is that He was willing to die. He was not forced or coerced. Scripture tells us that …”who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man.” (Philippians 2:6-7)

It’s Christmas again, and for me that means Jesus, simply Jesus! And despite man’s attempt to distort and destroy it in ever way possible, the old, old story has never changed. The simple truth is that man was lost in sin, separated from God, without hope … without eternal life, and then JESUS CAME! Imagine that! Into this troubled world came an event that changed everything! God entered human history. God became a man!

Jesus left heaven for one reason, to die on a cross at Calvary to reconcile to God everyone who would believe in Him. The sinless, spotless Lamb of God gave Himself so that we might have eternal life. Born to die! What love! What sacrifice! Darkness pierced with light! Never has there been a greater need for the Savior of the world! In this dark hour of history, Jesus shines more brightly than ever as the “Light of the World!” It was in the “fullness of time” that He came and when the time is right He will fulfill His promise to return and take us home. That is the Christmas message! That is our assured hope!

Today, think of your destiny. What would you die for? Would you have chosen to be born if your knew your main role was to die a violent, premature death? For the Christian, everyday is Christmas! But in this season that we set apart to commemorate the unique event of the Incarnation of our Lord, Satan will use everything he can to take our eyes off of Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas … that He was BORN TO DIE! FOR YOU! May you make your Christmas one that will fill your heart with this truth. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I can never begin to thank You enough for sending our Lord Jesus to die for my sins and every sin ever committed in the human race. Thank You for His willingness to fulfill Your plan to reconcile man back to You. I can never begin to understand such love. I am humbled and overwhelmed when I think that Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, left Heaven to identify himself with the filth of this world of sin. Oh Father, purify my life so that I may be obedient to You, live the life that is pleasing to You, and bring honor and glory to Him. I pray this in the name of the One who was born to die, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

Stepping Stones: On Your Life Journey, Unpacking is Necessary

2011-12-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

December 21, 2011

Transformational Tip

Well Christmas is rapidly approaching, and for many that means a road trip, congested airports, weather delays, holding patterns, sleeping in odd beds, and rushing between relatives. One part of travel that I enjoy is packing. Quick, efficient, taking only what I really need. I am good with wearing the same clothes several consecutive days without problem. My girls are really efficient as well. Some other people, I won’t mention who she is, really have trouble getting rid of the excess baggage, no matter how short and simple the trip!

Extra baggage on a trip weighs us down but at least it isn’t harmful. But when it comes to our minds and hearts, it’s amazing how much extra toxic baggage we voluntarily choose to keep jammed in our hidden compartments. Try as I may, I find that the brokenness and sin of my past is like huge stone hanging around my neck. Carrying that stone brings guilt, shame and weakness. I know and believe I have been forgiven, but I struggle with laying that stone down and walking away from it.

Our yesterdays hold broken and irreversible things for us. It is true that we have lost opportunities that will never return, but God can transform this destructive guilt and anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness and hope for a transforming future. Trusting God’s forgiveness is a big and difficult stretch for most, myself included. It takes time to receive God’s forgiveness … to absorb the full depth and power of it … allowing it to seep into those hidden compartments.

For me, I had to work up to this huge step of trust by practicing, implementing, and applying trust in much smaller areas of life and in my relationship with God. Trusting Him when … there is an illness … a flat tire … a change of plans … someone else is in charge … a deadline is moved … a random expense comes into the mix … protection for my children is needed … I don’t feel loved or valued. Like any skill, starting small, practicing, then stretching it, can lead to powerful skills. Trust is the same way. Trusting in His power of forgiveness is one of the richest skills you can develop. Unpack some baggage, but pull it out of your heart with the loving hand of Jesus Christ. This is why He came to earth, to set us free from our baggage and the stone of sin.

Today, leave the broken, irreversible past in His hands, and step out into your invincible future with Him. Start by trusting Him, His agenda, promises, character, and instruction in 5 separate situations today. You already do this at times, but learn that it is trusting in God so you can grow this skill and finally be free from your past. WITHIN REACH is designed to specifically help you properly unpack your toxic baggage. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I can easily become paralyzed with shame, guilt, and fear over my past. I have hurt You … and I know I have hurt others. I am so thankful for Your promise of forgiveness – Thank You, Lord. I ask You, Father, to help me lay down this heavy stone of my past that I have been carrying. Let me remember and be accountable for my past brokenness and sin … but let it not keep me from moving toward You with freedom. I pray in the name of the One whom You sent to remove my toxic baggage, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But you will not leave in haste or go in flight; for the LORD will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rear guard.
Isaiah 52:12

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

I will cleanse them from all the guilt of their sin against me, and I will forgive all the guilt of their sin and rebellion against me.
Jeremiah 33:8

Stepping Stones: Addictions - the Stone Gods

2011-12-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Yesterday we introduced our Lighthouse Network spiritual and Biblical definition for addiction. Our description then opened some eyes and caused some head scratching by showing how we all suffer from an addiction. If you missed yesterday’s devotional, click here to go to our blogsite and read it now. Today is an experiential description of addiction.

As kids, none of us set out with the goal of feeling trapped in an addiction. Sadly, after a slow and insidious beginning, that is the ultimate end for all addictive behaviors: enslavement. Addictions make us slaves to that object. Some people can feel the enslavement very specifically. Others are fooled into thinking they aren’t enslaved, because the takeover is so subtle and usually occurs over a big chunk of time. The reality is, we easily become slaves to the objects that soothe us. Being “trapped” is exactly where Satan wants us. He cleverly disguises our addiction objects. Because we aren’t stupid, and really don’t want to be slaves, Satan has to be subtle and crafty to help us progress down the enslavement pathway.

People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything. The object of desire for an addict is always staring them right in the face. For some it’s using food as a source of comfort. For others it can be substances, control, relationships, anger, spending, Facebook, the phone, sports, TV, anxiety, panic attacks, guilt, fear, hobbies, money, power (think parent tactics), a loud and intimidating voice, the silent treatment, avoidance … man, the list is endless. Just think of how many times these responses or objects got you into trouble, yet you still do them. That is enslavement.

People caught up in an addiction have replaced God with an idol. They have found something that promises a good time, makes things better or easier to deal with, or makes the pain or struggle go away. What entered life as an understanding resource, tool, friend, or savior quickly became a cruel master. The problem with idols is that they are chosen because we want what we think they can give us, not because of what they actually are. We believe that they will do something for us, so we give them our devotion. But they are actually stone gods … illusions and lies that give us a little, but then trap us by interfering with the full, long term relief that going to God will actually bring in-full.

Today, know and spread the news that for believers there is great hope. We are not alone in our addictions. No matter where we are, the Holy Spirit is within us and intercedes for us before God. When you are uncomfortable emotionally, notice what you turn to for soothing. Today’s scripture tells us that we are “crucified with Christ, therefore we no longer live, but it is Christ who lives within us.” This is the truth: we do not struggle alone. Christ is with us, and in Him we are free. When we are focused on Him, we can find the strength we need for freedom and victory over all our addictions. Your decision, so choose well. WITHIN REACH will help you break these patterns by applying the Bible in practical ways. Check it out for yourself or for those you know who need help breaking some patterns.

Prayer
Dear Father God, Today more than ever I need You to live up to that divine title of Savior. I need You to save me from myself, my addictions, my fear, my burdens. I am so tired of trying to do it on my own. I am weary and exhausted, stressed out and alone. Come to me and save me. Free me from my fears and help me to hold onto You, so that my life, dreams, and hopes can be renewed. I pray this in the name of the One whom You sent to set me free from all enslavement, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,
Isaiah 61:1

I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.
Galatians 2:20

Stepping Stones: Addictions – I Bet You Got One

2011-12-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

If you thought our liberal sprinkling of devotions about addictions wasn’t for you, I am glad you are reading today because … Newsflash: we are all addicts. Every one of us is addicted to comfort. We all struggle to deal with discomfort, especially emotional or psychological pain. Even though we say “no pain, no gain”, it’s amazing how quickly we run from discomfort and pain, or need to quickly soothe it. You see, we are all born separated from God … and that is the ultimate pain. A temporary separation on the cross is what prompted even Jesus to ask God to have this “cup” pass from Him.

As kids, we develop strategies to deal with pain. Unfortunately, we aren’t mature and our “teachers” aren’t perfect. So developing coping mechanisms for physical, psychological, relational, emotional, and spiritual pain is random, faulty, and very short-sighted … not very effective for the long haul.

Our solutions are usually flesh-driven options, knee-jerk reactions, or immediate relievers. These “solutions” are the Addiction Objects … things we go to and rely on in a repetitive way to fill needs instead of looking to God for His answers. Now God could directly soothe us or He might choose to provide appropriate objects to fill our needs. But each time we need to look to Him first, not the object.

Addiction objects can be drugs, alcohol, food, or pornography. But they can also be anger (or any emotion), work, productivity, security, our intellect, kids, money, spending, “martyr complex”, exercise, our looks/physique, sports, TV, hobbies, fighting, control, a relationship, sex, texting, Facebook, Twitter, etc. If it is something that comforts you or relieves some negative feeling, Satan will use it as an addiction object. People can find themselves obsessively and compulsively hooked on almost anything.

One of the great lies that Satan perpetrates on us is that addiction objects offer self-protection. The truth is they are really self-destructive. Just look at Solomon’s experiences in Ecclesiastes, as he pursues everything under the sun for comfort, while leaving out God. He becomes overwhelmed, lost, and depressed, hen finally declares all objects to be vanity or meaningless when God is not pursued first.

Today, let’s really do some honest reflection. When you are uneasy, lonely, stressed, etc, what do you go to first? Bingo! You found your addiction object. Next time, try to look to God first and see what He prescribes for your pain. He is the Ultimate Physician and Healer and is always available for drop-ins. Edging Forward is designed to help you identify your addiction objects and replace them with God! Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, for many years I struggled with the pain of needing to be needed, accepted, valued. I turned to my addictions for comfort, but they caused more pain. You have freed me from my bondage to all addictions, but I still struggle with a need for control. Help me tolerate discomfort, because your grace is sufficient. Help me to grow the Mind of Christ and to look to You as my ultimate Lighthouse of refuge and sanctuary. In Christ’s freeing name. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience-- among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Ephesians 2:1-3

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9,10

1 Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, "I have no pleasure in them";
8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity.
10 The Preacher sought to find words of delight, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.
13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:1,8,10,13

Stepping Stones: Failures: Let God In More

2011-12-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

The legendary basketball coach at UCLA and incredibly mature Christian, John Wooden, is known for his motivational quotes. One of my favorite Wooden quotes is, "Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be."

Failures in my life have led to long periods of paralysis … of doing nothing. I felt and acted as if I was defeated by my disasters. Obviously, failures can have consequences and make an adverse impact on our lives. But their biggest and most harmful aspect is their propensity to distort our lenses if we aren’t diligent to process failures properly and accurately.

But on the positive side, when I look back on most of those mistakes, I see that they created great opportunities for growth and led to positive change in my life. In fact, my life has really taken off since I learned how to view failures in a way that allows me to look deeper in my heart, to seek God and His instruction more, and to apply what He is teaching me.

Have you learned from your failures? Or have you let your failures defeat you? Since nobody is perfect, we all experience failure. But God wants you to trust, learn, and try again with more of His help and less of your understanding. When we fail, we often look at it as the last step in a situation. Instead, it is just one of many steps in a long process of growth. It is part of the refining process, letting us know where we need to work and especially where God wants us to invite Him in to help us.

Our need for immediate positive results and affirmation often prematurely push us to overly catastrophize a less-than-ideal outcome. Then our pride and lack of humility interfere with a willingness to seek help from a Higher Authority. Where has this gotten you? Don’t you think it is time to change this strategy?

Today, assess areas where feelings of failure leak into your heart. Ask God in, reflect about what you need to work on, seek God’s instruction, be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Most of all, don’t make that area of struggle more important than your relationship with God. See yourself through His lenses, as one of His very own children, covered with the blood of Christ. Don’t let failure continue to defeat you. As a Christian, your war is won, failure isn’t even a possibility. We do have daily battles and He will equip us for victory if we let Him. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You know, Father, I have a string of failures … and I continue to fail each time I sin against you. I thank You, Father, for sending other believers to me to serve as guides and teachers. Thank You especially for Your Holy Spirit that empowers and guides me. Help me, Father, to learn from each failure. I thank You for picking me up when I fall, and for sending Jesus Christ at my most fallen state, to forgive my sins. I pray this in the name of the One whom You sent to give me and all believers victory, Jesus Christ; And all God’s Children say - AMEN!

The Truth
but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:8,9

Stepping Stones: What Are You Looking At?

2011-12-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

When I was a kid, I remember seeing a cartoon where they sliced off the top of a character’s head and threw a bunch of stuff in … like his body were a container you could fill with ingredients. I used to wonder what the inside of a human body was like. Until you actually see it, it really is hard to imagine the amazing way God arranges all these components in our body, gets them to stay in the right places, then actually move us around and function. As a physician, I have been tremendously blessed by the opportunity to see inside and study the human body.

I’m still amazed at how cool, complex, unexplainable, and interwoven our systems and human body truly are. “Impossible” is what comes to mind when I hear of doctors, especially psychiatrists, who don’t believe in a divine creator after they have studied the human body, and especially the mind. Our mind and free will are 2 great gifts God gives us. So powerful and complex.

After the brain/mind, the coolest and arguably the most complex organ is the eye … the main gateway through which information enters our minds to be processed resulting in our growth. What our eyes see, our mind follows. The Holy Bible contains many messages (some obvious, some subtle, and others more intricate) teaching us about having eyes that see and ears that hear the truth. Then there are those passages that are so simple and yet so profound at the same time … truths that say it all in a few words. Today’s scripture reading is one such passage.

Notice God doesn’t say “look to me and you might be saved,” … He says you will be saved. Can it get any simpler? When you look at God, seeing Him for who He truly is and what He has done for us, you can’t stop the force of repentance … you can’t help but accept His gifts of love, forgiveness, and salvation.

Satan isn’t going to let it be that easy, so that is why we have all this brainwashing in the world and in our lives. We are so gullible as kids and Satan is relentless with deceptions that dirty and distort our lenses. His goal is that we won’t see ourselves for who we really are, and most importantly, that we won’t see Jesus for who HE really is and know what really happened on the cross and why.

Today, take time to examine what you are looking at. Then determine how clear your lenses really are. Wake up and look to God. Build your hope on Him. Even if there are a hundred-and-one things vying for your attention, push them aside and look to Him. Let Him be the filter you through which you see everything else. "Look unto Me," and salvation is there, the moment you look. Don’t just glance and turn away, but really look! Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I look to You, for You alone are my Lord and my God. There are so many forces trying to take my eyes off You. Please strengthen my resolve to keep You as my focal point and my guiding light. I know You will direct me and show me the path if I fix my gaze on You. Give me discernment to realize when Satan is mimicking You. I pray this in the name of the One whom You sent to be my lighthouse, Jesus Christ; And all the children of the world say - AMEN!

The Truth
Look to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.
Isaiah 45:22

And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell
Mark 9:47

Stepping Stones: Don’t Make God Look For You!

2011-12-15T05:00:00.001-05:00

Transformational Thought

I never cease to be amazed at how I can find time to fit something extra in my schedule … picking up one of my kids … taking a phone call from a pastor … talking to someone needing hep with an addiction … checking out a decent late night movie … even writing another devotional.

My friends all say their plates are full too, but they too often add in spur-of-the-moment activities. We all get so busy … planning … working … doing. As children of God and believers, of course, we want God in our lives. But do we make room for Him as easily as we make room for all those less-important endeavors?

You see, because we can’t see God concretely it’s tough for us to enjoy solid time with Him, because it isn’t the familiar, tangible, stimulating, immediately satisfying experience we crave or measure against. Making room for God translates into making time for God, and then expecting and actually knowing He will come. The dates you make with God will greatly benefit you, even though you’ll wonder how there will be time to do the other activities you put off to spend time with Him.

Need some motivation to make a regular date with God? If you don’t find time for God, He will definitely come looking for you, get your attention, and speak to you. From personal experience, I can say there is less discomfort and more peace and fulfillment when I plan regular time with Him. Ignoring time with God leads to being chased down, hit upside the head to get my attention, and having other activities knocked off my schedule (often in pretty abrupt ways) to dethrone the idols I prioritize over Him. You don’t want to go through that experience, believe me. Been there, done that, and it’s not pretty.

Today, focus on making some “elbow room” for God. Find a way to spend some time directly with Him, whether with others, or by yourself. Start to look at these experiences as investments that will bring a tremendous return as you grow in your appreciation of His reward. If you put Him off too long, He definitely comes looking for you because He loves you and wants to save you from the distress of living life without Him. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
O Heavenly God, My life is so filled with “stuff” that I often squeeze You out – please forgive me, Father. I want to make room for You. I know You pursue me and when I don’t pursue You, You come looking. I know You will dethrone my other idols, even if it hurts me, because it is for my growth and protection. Give me eyes to see Your care and instruction when it happens and not be hurt, resentful, and short-sighted about it. Guard me from Satan’s deception so I can see Your love clearly in these encounters. I pray this in the name of the One whom You sent to make room in me for You, Jesus Christ; And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;
Galatians 1:15,16

And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”
Luke 9:23-26

Stepping Stones: Don’t Wait…Do It Now!

2011-12-14T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

When faced with difficulties or discomfort, our natural reaction, or at least the ones that most people learn in our world today,usually falls into one of 2 categories. Either 1. ignore the problem and hope it goes away, or 2. react in a knee-jerk way to the problem to bring immediate relief, but usually guarantees more actual damage later on. Obviously, neither option works, but being addicted to comfort as we all are … yes, we all have idols of the heart that we turn to instead of God at times … like a gunslinger from the Old West,we continue to quickdrawout these “weapons” when we feel threatenedby the adversity God allows to enter our day.

I have learned…well no, I actually continue to learn, and sometimes the hard way, that failing to deal with adversity immediately compounds the pain and suffering. Waiting, ignoring, or hiding never makes it better. But I also am still in the process of learning that even though you shouldn’t put it off, you also can’t just immediately react with your not thought out knee-jerk response(unless you have been training well). We have to think first and then respond to have the best chance for success in a situation.

Using either the “ignore it” or “react without thinking” strategy really shows a “my kingdom come, my will be done mentality” and exposes my lack of faith in God’s promises, track record, character, sovereignty and plan for my life. We really need a “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done” mindset. That recognizes His majesty as well as our limitations, not to mention it really is the best for our well-being.

In the scripture reading for today, Jesus Christ lays down a very important principle: do what you must do now. Do it quickly. If you do not act immediately, if you do not pay the price to settle the adversity, an inevitable process begins…and that process will not stop until you have “paid the last penny.”

Today, think of an adversity that continues to drain you. Why are you not addressing it head on with Godly discernment? Settle that score today, at least to the best of what you can control. God has given you answers to deal with it externally (behaviorally), or internally (inside your head). Don’t procrastinate, act now moving toward the mind of Christ, as that is where you will find God’s peace. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I know I have stayed away from Your light for fear that my bad deeds, sins, and adversities will be exposed. I no longer want to live in darkness. I pray, Father, that You will help me live by Your Truth and in Your Light so that all can see what I do is done through You. Help me, Lord, to learn to deal with my adversities immediately so that they won’t fester and grow. But help me see life through Your eyes then respond with Your wisdom. I pray in the name of the One you sent to teach us truth, Jesus Christ, and all God’s children say – AMEN!

The Truth
Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth; you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Matthew 5:25,26

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God.
John 3:19-21

Stepping Stones: Let’s Play Some Monopoly

2011-12-13T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

I love games. Going all the way back to my childhood, I can’t remember any part of my life when I wasn’t engaged in some kind of competition. Sports that involve a ball, or put me in direct physical competition against someone else, really get my juices flowing. In that sane vein, ever since I was a kid, I always enjoyed playing cards and many different board games that involved strategy. Like most, I loved Monopoly. All that money! But it had one special card I’ll get to in a minute.

One of my struggles in life had to do with the idea of adversity. For a long time, I believed that when I became a believer in Christ, a follower of God, actually one of God’s own children, I would have special privileges. One of these perks was all-powerful protection. No harm would ever come to me because I have the special security or covering of the Ultimate King of the universe. An unconditional pardon. My own personal “Get out of Jail – Free” card. Boy, I wish those had worked when I did get arrested, but that is a whole other devotional!

This is a major lie Satan tricks most Christians into believing: that being a Christian or following God correctly will deliver you from all adversity. Consequently, when hardships occur in life, either 1. God doesn’t love you; 2. God really isn’t the all-powerful sovereign King of the Multiverse; 3. You really aren’t saved or a child of God; 4. You are defective and not leading a Godly life; 5. There are better ways to an adversity-free life, so dump God and jump on another faith system. Our me-centered, comfort driven heart easily buys into the misconception that life without adversity is possible. It’s important to remember that Jesus was perfect, yet endured extreme adversity.

You see, we are not delivered from adversity, in fact, we should expect adversity. But there is nothing to fear if you are a child of God. The strain of life draws us closer to Him, makes us more dependent on Him, and builds our strength as we access the power of the Holy Spirit. Facing the strain actually gives strength. God does not give us an overcoming life … He gives us life as we overcome. This is how we are refined, purified so that we see Him and ourselves way more clearly.

But through each tribulation, we need to focus on God and see our circumstances through His eyes. This brings a calm and peace that is simply beyond belief.

Today, give some thought to the adversity you are facing. Try to think if you ever got better or stronger at anything without putting in work and effort … or experiencing some pain or adversity. I know I haven’t. Read the scripture below and be mindful that Jesus told us that we would have trouble, but also to “take heart” for He has overcome the world. When you face adversity, look at it as opportunity. This Godly perspective will dramatically empower your next steps. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I know that Your Holy Spirit’s work in my life offers deep and lasting peace. Thank You, Lord. Unlike worldly peace, which is defined by lack of adversity, Your peace offers confident assurance in all situations. Fill me with more of Your Spirit, Father. Help me to restrain the hostile forces of sin, fear, doubt, and uncertainty. I pray in the name of the one You sent to deliver me IN my biggest and most dangerous adversity, eternal separation from You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
John 16:33

…to him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:7

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6

Stepping Stones: Are You Committed to the Right Cause?

2011-12-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

I know many people don’t like billboards. They often mess up the landscape and often have trashy or ridiculous messages … but I really enjoy some of them. Not all billboards, of course ... just the ones that make me laugh, or challenge me to think a bit more deeply or differently about something. I saw a billboard the other day with a message that was exciting to think about. It pictured a young Marine, standing at attention, in full dress, staring out into the future. The caption read:

“Are you ready to commit to something greater than yourself?”

I’m sure this advertising slogan has persuaded many young men and women to enlist. It’s a high-impact message. And while I’m decades beyond the age limit and to old to consider driving to the nearest recruiting station to enlist, I was energized and influenced to consider why I only joined Air Force ROTC and didn’t enlist fulltime.

The reason this slogan is so compelling is easy. There is no doubt we are created by God with a divinely implanted need … a longing to commit to something greater than ourselves … to God. We were born with an emptiness in our lives and a desire for what John Eldridge calls the Sacred Romance, (the title of one of his books).

Unfortunately, this desire-gone-bad is at the root of many sinful ways, behaviors, and addictions. In response to our desire to commit to something, something big, something that will elevate our power or status, Satan has sent us so many impostor suitors. These impostors look good on the outside, have a fast start, but fizzle when it really counts, then ultimately backfire, leaving us wounded and worse off than where we started.

The reality is, we all commit to something. Most of the time, it is something of ourselves (think feelings, agenda, control, comfort), or of the world (think power, attention, status, credentials, money, materialism, kids). None of those has our ultimate fulfillment in mind; none has power over everything else, loves us unconditionally, knows the future, or has the ultimate game plan for our lives. But God has all of these and more!

Today, ask yourself the question, “What have I committed to … really?” Look at your decisions. Every decision you make shows you what you were really committed to. You will be amazed at how many of your real commitments, I mean on-going commitments, are all about you. Are you ready to commit to something greater than yourself? With this true, intentional, lasting, and disciplined enlistment will come peace, purpose, power over the destruction of this world, and a divine appointment with the King of Kings. It is right at your fingertips, but you have to choose it many times a day instead of the fake impostors. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I commit myself to You, a power not only greater than myself, but greater than anything in the multi-verse. There are so many forces working against me. Thank You, Father, for Your Holy Words that promise Your peace and “rest on every side”. Give me vision, wisdom, and courage to see the impostors and turn away from them and commit to you early and often. I pray in the name of the one You sent to recruit and free me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
They took an oath to the LORD with loud acclamation, with shouting and with trumpets and horns. All Judah rejoiced about the oath because they had sworn it wholeheartedly. They sought God eagerly, and he was found by them. So the LORD gave them rest on every side.
2 Chronicles 15:14-15

Stepping Stones: Are You a Storm-Chaser?

2011-12-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Tornado chasing is a thrill-seeking activity made popular by the movie Twister. It depicted both professionals and amateurs, who literally chased life-endangering storms. Storm-chasers get so close that injuries do occur, and risking their lives is common. These types of people are actually drawn to storms. Most do it to take once-in-a-lifetime photos. Others, adrenaline junkies, do it for the thrill and the danger.

As writers for Stepping Stones Devotionals we often reference “storms” in our lives, times of turbulence, anxiety, darkness, and impending doom. The usual assumption is that storms come out of nowhere and hit us when we least expect them … that we have no early-warning system. And oftentimes this is true.

But there is a certain group of people (I have been one myself in the past) who actually create and chase life’s storms. Sometimes we aren’t aware we are stirring up a tempest, and we make mistakes and poor choices out of ignorance. But often times, we make conscious choices that lead us right into the eye of a storm … and we repeatedly make those same bad choices. Not only do we create a storm for ourselves, but that same problem also blasts others.

Various reasons exist for making these choices, but the bottom line is that we get some satisfaction or perceived benefit from our choice. The gain might not outweigh the downside of the decision, but in the moment we don’t care, and that little gain is all we focus on. We feel we are invincible … or that the storm will blow a different direction … or I have better protection to minimize the damage from this storm.

Some storms arrive without warning and we cannot avoid them: catastrophic sickness, a car accident, a fallen economy. There are also storms created by our poor decisions. Of course, we know that the enemy is constantly trying to influence us to make bad choices, ones that damage our lives and souls. However, we must also accept that we were created with this beautiful thing called free will. We always have choices to make: avoid the storm or stand in the middle of the tornado.

Today, examine yourself. Identify the areas of your life where you are a storm-chaser. Bad habits, a loose tongue, a caustic attitude, guilt, anger, anxiety issues, relationship problems with a spouse, kids, parents, or co-workers. These usually have some element of storm-chasing. Do you make choices that place you smack in the middle of a storm yet again? Consider choices you could make to avoid a storm … think how you might create your own great weather. Edging Forward will help you examine your decisions, helping you step away from storms and into clear sailing. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I humble myself under Your almighty hand. As I truthfully examine my past actions, I see I am guilty of creating and chasing storms. I no longer want to seek storms. I also know that You are my lighthouse in the storms I cannot avoid. Help me, Lord, to stop chasing storms and chase You instead. Help me run away from storms by constantly setting my compass toward You. I pray in the name of my early-warning system, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
“Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. For I command you this day to love the LORD your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the LORD your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.
But if your heart turns away and you refuse to listen, and if you are drawn away to serve and worship other gods, then I warn you now that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live a long, good life in the land you are crossing the Jordan to occupy.
Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the decision you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the LORD your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the LORD, you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”

Deuteronomy 30:15-20

Stepping Stones: Lean Away…Then Lean On

2011-12-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

The Music Man, a famous Broadway musical from the 50’s that was made into a fun movie, is one of my all-time favorites. The setting is River City, Iowa, perfect small town USA, a Garden of Eden. An infamous conman, Harold Hill, rolls into town and fabricates trouble with a capital T, singing a famous song Ya Got Trouble. Then he cons the residents into buying a pricey solution. It’s a great movie to watch with the kids, especially if you have one with a lisp as I did.

In reality, trouble is all around us, especially in today’s society. In most cases we are either running toward or away from trouble. In what direction are you headed … which way are you leaning? In today's scripture, Solomon gives us two options regarding what to trust: God or our own understanding. God is calling us to lean away from the conventional wisdom of self-reliance, and then to trust (or lean on) His wisdom. God wants us to acknowledge His wisdom and trust Him in every area of our lives.

What should I do about this relationship? Which job should I seek? How will I make the mortgage payment this month? How can I help my daughter? Should I confront that problem or wait? What do I do about this decision? No matter what problem, challenge or circumstance you are facing, God wants to help. But you have a choice to make. Are you going to lean on your own understanding … or are you going to trust God?

Satan is always playing with our heads. We also wrestle with our own litany of hurts, letdowns, and frustrations from times when we trusted others. All that scar tissue from the past interferes with our willingness to trust and be vulnerable again with someone else. The message society tries to drive home is, “You can only rely on and trust yourself.”

Leaning is all about trust. When you lean against a wall, you trust that the wall won’t collapse, that it will support your weight. If you are going to lean on God, you need to be ready to trust Him fully. Is He wise enough to help you? Is He interested in helping you? Does He understand the situation? Does He know what is really best for you and for everyone involved? Is His timing fast enough for your agenda to be met?

If you are willing to study the Scriptures with an open heart and mind, you will soon discover that the answer to all these questions is yes. God loves you with a love so great that you can't begin to fathom it. His wisdom knows no bounds. Lean away from self-reliance and trying to do it all yourself. Begin leaning on God today. If not God, who is worthy and capable of trust in these questions? Certainly not you!

Today, compare your track record to God’s. Then, look at an area where you struggle. Write down how you are leaning on your understanding, and then write down God’s instruction for that issue. Make an effort today to trust and follow God’s instruction and direction. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
O Almighty God, I do want to trust You so that I can truly lean on You. Help me to spend time with the Scriptures and understand how they apply to me. Help me understand how scars from my past still interfere with my willingness to be fully trusting and vulnerable to You and Your purpose, direction, and plan for my life. I ask for the courage to live with the uncertainty and concern that I feel when I am not in control. Am I ever really in control of my life anyway? Help me to trust You and lean on Your wisdom. I pray in the name of the One I lean toward, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6

Stepping Stones: Go Ahead, Drop Into the Doctor’s Office

2011-12-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

My main job is directing Lighthouse Network and consulting with some rehab facilities. I still have a psychiatry practice. Due to God’s blessing and my specialty as a Christian psychiatrist, my appointment schedule is packed and has a 2-3 month wait for an evaluation. Periodically, someone wanders into the office and wants a “drop-in” appointment. Big mistake. They usually understand, but some are amazed and say, if I went to my family doc, they would see me! You would have thought I committed some federal offense. Unfortunately, no appointment … no meeting.

Amazingly, you can “drop in” on Someone far more important and much busier than a psychiatrist during the high stress holiday … and you can be 100% confident that He will push all other business aside and focus completely on you. His undivided attention will be yours. Just imagine the Creator of heaven and earth yearning to have a personal appointment and relationship with you.

You see, when I was a kid, I believed God loved me. But by the time I experienced more of the world, I believed God was very busy with the Middle East, extreme diseases like cancer and HIV, and devastating abuses around the globe. I still knew He loved me, but somewhere deep, I thought my life was too trivial or not extreme enough for Him to allow me to drop into His office. Learning I had 24/7 access was incredibly empowering, affirming, and freeing for me.

Not only are you able to “drop in,” He actually knocks on the door of your heart … all the time. His Holy Spirit is talking to you in your spirit, and God the Father is talking to you in as He orchestrates and works on you through your circumstances. Because of His love for you, He wants to guide and protect you from life’s garbage and heartache. Unfortunately, we don’t listen to the doctor’s orders, and then wonder why the disease still impacts and hurts us.

Today, drop in to the Ultimate Healer … pray 3 extra times today. Have a conversation, not just a standard prayer you say out of habit. Actually talk to Him. Then really listen. It takes practice , so give it some time. He rejoices every time you “drop in” for a visit. The more you drop in, the better you will hear Him knocking on the door of your heart. But it’s up to you. If you don’t listen to the Great Doctor’s treatment plan, the disease will destroy you. Remember, no matter what, THE DOCTOR always has a special appointment time for you. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, that I can talk with You. I thank You for listening to my words, thoughts, and fears. I thank You, Father, for receiving even the longings in my heart, which at times I cannot put into words. Help me develop ears that hear and eyes that see the treatment plan You have prescribed for me. Give me the courage to follow Your treatment plan, which brings peace and fulfillment, and to turn away from my treatment plan, which leads to destruction. I pray in the name of the One who will always see me without an appointment, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice.
Psalm 55:17

A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." The Samaritan woman said to him, "How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, 'Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob? He gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock." Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water."
John 4:7-15

Stepping Stones: Go For Third Place!

2011-12-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

As a kid, reading was not a favorite pasttime, in fact, I avoided it at all costs. But being obsessed with all things sports, when the famous football player Gale Sayers wrote I Am Third … I couldn’t wait to read it. I was both disappointed and surprised … disappointed it hardly mentioned football, but surprised that it was still incredibly attention grabbing. Brian’s Song, the film made from the book, was the first movie that moved me to tears. Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family, often writes about the “I am Third” approach to life as well: God first, others second, myself third.

We live in a world where the “I Am Third” approach to life is in total misalignment with the flood of messages we hear in the media, in the news from Wall Street to government to the local nightly news, and through advertising. “Have it your way” … “Because I’m worth it” … ”You deserve a break today” … “I need it” … ”Me first” … ”My way or the highway” … ”It’s all about you”. In fact, the “Me Generation” describes anyone born in the 1970s through the 1990s.

The messages are endless. We are bombarded from every direction, and most of all, from inside ourselves. Our flesh constantly demands “ME FIRST!” from the time we are babes crying for milk, to this morning when we whined in traffic. We want our agenda and needs met NOW! In today’s Scripture, Jesus clearly tells us what our first obligation is … to follow Him. And to do so we must deny ourselves.

Satan gets us to believe we will suffer when we follow Jesus. But I know from my past that my worst suffering occurred when I followed me and placed myself on top of the totem pole of worship. Insecurity, anxiety, neediness, impulsivity, procrastination, irritability, shortsightedness, rejection … the list of sufferings I endured when I was looking out for self first was endless. When we follow Christ, the fruit of the Spirit is our reward, and all suffering is healed and fades away.

Today, observe how many times you make yourself first instead of second or ideally third. Try to put into practice the concept of God first, others second, you third. When we talk about third, it’s a healthy third in which you care for yourself in a positive way, not as a “martyr.“ You will find much more satisfaction living this way instead of defaulting to your natural instincts to worship yourself and your own agenda. Your decision, so choose well.

Prayer
O Father, I hear You inviting me to follow You and live a life of self-denial. I want to make You the Lord of my life. Some days I get tired and lazy and just look out for my own comfort. Strengthen me to make better decisions, and to be a better steward of my activities so I can see Your will more clearly. I pray, Father, that You will fill me with Your Holy Spirit to help me live in obedience to You and in loving service to others. I pray in the name of the one who denied Himself for me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. "
Matthew 16:24-27

And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, "You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me."
Mark 10:21

One's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.
Proverbs 29:23

Stepping Stones: What Do You Anchor to During a Storm?

2011-12-06T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Have you ever noticed these natural human phenomena? The more behind we are, the more quickly we tend to go. When we get lost, we start driving faster. When we don’t know what we are talking about, we begin to talk faster and louder. Lewis Carroll of Alice in Wonderland fame captured this behavior saying, “The faster I go, the behinder I get.”

During severe storms, sometimes the best action we can take is to drop anchor. An anchor wedges itself deep into the rocks and sand and protects the vessel and crew from being set dangerously adrift, being tossed back and forth due to the winds and waves … and possibly crashing into the rocks. In our personal storms and most stressful moments, we need to be anchored securely … not in transient wishes and hopes … but securely in God’s rock-solid character and promises.

Satan wants us to run quickly and blindly toward false, hollow deathtraps masquerading as truth and refuge during the frequent storms that come our way. God’s promises, character, instruction, and Word anchor us to Him and equip us to be steady in every storm. We can be victorious in any challenge that Satan brings and God allows (yes, He does allow every trial) in our life for the purpose of growing the mind of Christ in us.

Our problem is the “My kingdom come, my will be done” mentality that says we should anchor to ourselves or to the world’s system that immediately gives me what I want. We often think we have more power than we really do. We think we know all the answers. Or we see something pretty and shiny that we want, believing it is the answer. So, we chase Starbuck’s, the latest self-help fad, nutritional supplements, more money, alcohol, a drug, a pain pill, more control, that significant other who is an answer-to-my-dreams, or even education, employment, or family. The only reliable place to drop anchor in a storm is in Him.

Having the ability to believe what the Bible says about pain is one of the most important set of instructions we can learn. God will provide a peace. He won’t give us more than we can endure. He will hook up to our yoke to lighten our burden. He will grow us through these trials, and He will provide the Great Comforter.

Today, take comfort in knowing that you have a secure place to drop anchor when storms threaten your peace and stability. When you face uncertainty, a storm, or discomfort … just STOP and THINK. What does God promise or say in these kinds of situations? We may not know what the future holds for us – but we can rest in the knowledge that we are the safest when anchored to God. Look at the optional anchors and be honest with yourself about the safety they offer. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I thank You, Father, for being the God of all hope. You know the desires and secret fears of my heart … You know when I am in the midst of a terrible storm. I thank You, Father, for all Your promises and Your steadfastness during my storms. Thank You for being my refuge, my rock, my anchor. Today I cast all my hopes and dreams onto You for safekeeping because I trust You. I pray in the name of the one You sent to be my anchor, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.
Hebrews 6:19

In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
Psalm 33:21

Stepping Stones: This is for me?

2011-12-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Hopefully everyone had a happy Thanksgiving holiday, feeling grateful for all the blessings and hardships this past year. Weirdly tucked into that long weekend is the phenomenon of Black Friday. Commercialism and shopping somehow get us into the mood for the season of giving. Like many others who follow this giving tradition, we get gifts, small tokens of appreciation, for those who have provided some service to us through the year ... teachers, kid’s bus drivers, the mailman and paperman, many different vendors for Lighthouse, as well as some neighbors. The gifts are always received with such happiness and delight.

But have you ever had the experience of carrying a gift to give to someone, but running into someone else who thinks the gift was for them? Mistakenly assuming the gift was for them, they reach for it and expectantly ask, “This is for me?” and then began thanking you profusely. Their face lights up, almost in shock, and they start searching for something to give you in return, all because of a miscommunication and unwritten rules of relational etiquette.

I was struck by how a simple act of (unintended) kindness brought such happiness to one person. For a few minutes, that gift transformed the man’s day. Based on his reaction it’s fair to say this man was in desperate need of some attention and kindness. I know I have been on the receiving end as well. Just yesterday, one of our vendors delivered an unexpected gift. Such a warm and loving feeling immediately ushered in hope and promise for the day and week.

We all are beaten down by this world at times. It’s hard to notice how God wants to work through us to touch others and address their needs. Then sometimes, God is reaching out to us through the actions of others. But if our head is down in self-pity, frustration, or resignation we won’t see who God brought into our lives to speak with or perhaps to hear God speaking to us.

Today, think of one or two people whose lives you might change, even for a few minutes, by delivering some unexpected kindness. There are so many people around us who live in quiet desperation. I doubt you will have to look far … maybe one of them lives in your own home. Be a Lighthouse and shine God’s love on others. If you are struggling, look up and pay attention. God is reaching out to you, but to receive His grace and comfort you have to be looking for them. Look for the Lighthouse He puts in your life. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
O God, I thank You, Father, for leading me to others who are in need of some kindness. I confess, Lord, that I am much too focused on myself … on my issues and needs. Sometimes I let the events that don’t go my way distract me from understanding and seeing Your love in my life. I pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and guide me to those in need of love and attention. Let them see Your radiant light shining through me and onto them. Help me also appreciate Your wonderful servants who bring Your love, compassion and grace to me. I pray in the name of the one You sent to transform me though forgiveness and love, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
"’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these."
Mark 12:30-31

"You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."
Matthew 5:13,14

Stepping Stones: His Head Wasn’t Where He Should Have Been

2011-12-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

I was driving during the recent holidays to visit family. With a wife and 3 girls in the car we had to do the unforgivable, take a bathroom break, and obviously upsetting my “set a travel time record” mentality. We took a break at one of the mega rest stops off the turnpike. The place was pretty crowded with holiday travelers, and I ended up sitting at a table just next to a family of 4.

Now that my children are older, I enjoy the voices of young children. I can still clearly hear my daughters’ childhood voices … so cute and innocent. One of the children at the table next to me was a talker who was about 10 years old. She tried hard to get her father’s attention. “Daddy, when we get home can I … Daddy, what do you want for Christmas … Daddy, Daddy...” As I was listening, I realized I wasn’t hearing any response from the dad, so I looked over and saw that he was looking completely the other way, not hearing a word his daughter was saying. He wasn’t even there mentally … wasn’t where he needed to be. More importantly, he wasn’t where she needed him to be. Eventually the little girl stopped trying … but she kept looking up at him with hopeful expectation that he was going to respond. But, you guessed it, he never did.

I, of course, have no way of knowing his circumstances or his thoughts. And I know that there were times as a young father that I was just as guilty of not engaging with my girls when they needed me. Oh, how I long for the opportunity to go back and do it differently, do many things differently. I certainly am not judging that father, but it brought to mind how easily the distractions of the day and of the world can take our focus off the attention needed by our children, or other people who are important in our lives.

Isn’t this the same way we respond to God’s voice and prompting, focusing instead on more trivial and transient distractions, thinking the guidance of these distractions is more important than God’s guidance? Distracted and tuned into harmful substitutions is a dangerous road to wander down. This is exactly where Satan wants you. Warning buzzers should be going off in your heart when your focus turns from God’s soothing and peace-bringing voice and guidance.

Today, and every day, really make an effort to connect with your children or loved ones. After Jesus, these people in your life are the greatest gifts God gives. They are also the most important mission field most of us are ever called to. The easiest way to start showing your love, respect, and honor for them is by giving them your full attention when they are talking to you. But more importantly, when God is talking to you, stop and listen to Him! Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Almighty God, I know that being faithful parents and guiding our children toward You is very important to You. Help me and all parents truly listen to our children, giving them the security, dignity, and love they need. Through us, they get to know the ultimate security and love You are excited to give them. Give all parents the wisdom and strength for this most important task of parenting. But please allow us to extend this attitude to all the precious people You put in our lives as our way of thanking You for these gifts. Most importantly, help me realize the dangerous game I play when I get distracted from hearing You. I pray in the name of the One who always listened to You, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."
Mark 10:14

But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder and stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint so that they could not hear the law and the words which the LORD of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets; therefore great wrath came from the LORD of hosts. And just as He called and they would not listen, so they called and I would not listen,” says the LORD of hosts;
Zechariah 7:11-13

Stepping Stones: We All Worship Something. What About You?

2011-12-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Worship? What is worship really? Let’s start with a definition from the New Oxford American Dictionary: Noun - the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for a deity. But, let’s focus not on the "feeling" but the "expression" of reverence and adoration for a deity, and not just any deity, but the one true God. Feelings come and go but expression is a decision. How do we express our reverence and adoration toward God?

Paul tells us in Romans 12:1 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

It's interesting that when we speak of worship in the church, we often mean the musical portion of the Sunday service. "Wow, worship was great today. I loved that song by Third Day." Worship can happen during "praise" or during the delivery of the message, but it's also possible that worship of God doesn't occur at either time. Worship doesn’t magically happen. You see, worship is a product of the decisions pouring from out of our heart. That’s why we focus so much on the importance of Decision-Making.

The direction of worship is also important. It's up, from us to HIM. It's not about how songs made us feel, which instruments were played, in fact, it’s not about music at all. It's about pouring out our love, appreciation, adoration, and hearts to God, really perceiving Him accurately.

Let me give an example. Imagine that your spouse, or child, or best friend has been shipped overseas and you haven't seen or heard from him (or her) in years. Out of the blue, a call comes in telling you to head to the airport because there is a surprise waiting. When you get to the airport, in the distance, an unmistakable smile reaches your eyes. Your heart pounds, and when the person is within your reach, you run and wrap your arms around him. You cry tears of joy and squeeze him, not wanting to let go ever again. You pour out words of love. "I love you so much! I missed you! You have no idea how much you mean to me!" You lavish them with your love.

We worship God when we pour our hearts out to him. The difference between pouring out to God and pouring out to a best friend is in the recognition of position, that God is high and lifted up. He is holy and awesome. With your friend or relative the position is theoretically equal. But worship acknowledges that our position is not equal with God. He is God and we are not. He does indeed love us but He will not bow down to us.

Worship is also about posture, not our physical posture (although it can certainly lead us to fall to our knees in prayer). It’s more of a reflection of our heart's posture. It comes out of a humble heart. It's impossible to be prideful and boastful before God and truly worship.

Today, you will worship something. Now, pay close attention to what the object of your worship is. Most of the time, our object is our self in some form or another … trying to meet our own needs or get the comfort we desire. Shift your focus of worship to God. He is the only one worthy of anyone’s worship. Your life will dramatically change if you can make this directional shift. Edging Forward is a great resource to examine and orient your worship. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, You are the only One worthy of my praise. Thank You for the privilege of worshipping You. Please help me to see You high and lifted up, but also accessible whenever and wherever I need You. Remind me daily that worship isn’t about how I feel but instead a decision and choice I make. I love You because You first loved me, and proved it by sending Your only son to die for me. Help me, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to offer myself as a living sacrifice to You – holy and pleasing. I pray in the name of the One who is worthy of my praise, Jesus Christ; and all God's children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
Luke 4:8

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
Romans 12:1

Stepping Stones: What is Your Instrument Panel?

2011-12-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

During the summer, we went on an exciting adventure in Scotland. Martine’s father emigrated from Scotland and many of her relatives still live there, spread around the country. On our transatlantic travel, we flew through a pretty rocky storm. Thankfully, it only lasted about an hour, although some people were getting a bit unnerved. The pilot told us passengers the storm was so large that there was no way to go around it. We would need to continue to fly through it. He encouraged us to hang in there and assured us we were in no danger.

I have a friend who is a pilot and I’ve flown with him on several occasions. I asked him if he felt flying through storms was dangerous. He said, “No, but as any pilot will tell you, the danger comes in giving into the temptation to fly by your instincts instead of using the instrument panel.” He went on to explain how easy it is to become disoriented if you rely on instincts - thinking the plane is going up when it’s actually going down. Thankfully, the instrument panel is set to magnetic north and can be trusted every time, no matter how bad the conditions might be. He said that letting the instruments guide you … even when it feels wrong … ensures safety in the storm.

We all face storms that not just threaten, but actually confuse and disorient us. Experiencing an ominous call from the doctor’s office, a significant conflict with a loved one or friend, a financial setback, an unexpected obstacle in your day, a shattered dream, or seeing a child struggle are times to be especially careful. When you are blinded by life’s disappointments, don’t trust your instincts. Flying by the seat of your pants during life’s storms can lead to despair, confusion, and vengeful responses that make matters worse … and this is exactly where Satan wants you to be.

God wants to guide you, and His Word is packed with wisdom and insights for living. No matter what, you have to trust in something to guide you. So, what will be your instrument panel? Go to your Bible and trust God. Trust His promises and character. Let His instructions guide you through the storms of life.

Storms are inevitable, but today, in your next storm, make the decision to use God as your instrument panel. If you are experiencing a conflict, examine what you are leaning on, what instrument panel are you reading to guide and interpret the situation. Then compare it to the power and track record of God and His word. You definitely want to follow where His instrument panel guides you. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I seem to spend most of my life in storms … worse yet, I get disoriented easily. Help me trust in Your sovereignty as these storms come my way. I turn now to You God, to help me know what is up and what is down. I want to rely on You as my instrument panel and my lighthouse … teach me how to develop antennae for Your signals, and how to follow Your tracking signal. I pray in the name of the ultimate instrument panel, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
Psalm 32:8

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105

Stepping Stones: Put God on Speed Dial…The World on Hold

2011-11-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

I remember a couple months ago, life got a bit ahead of me. Some situations came up and my actions were wrong. I needed to really take some time with God to reflect and figure out what happened, how to fix it, and how to avoid that trap again. But unfortunately, I actually made the decision to put God on hold until I took care of some other trivial things. I knew I needed to “get right with God” … but it seemed like such a big task that needed lots of time. Since I wanted to do it right not just rush through it, (or maybe those were excuses to avoid facing it), I decided to put it off for a bit and not get to it right away. I thought I had too many items on my “To Do” list that I was tricked into believing were more urgent.

Because of my incredible shortsightedness, I didn’t realize how much I needed Him in order to really understand how to complete those “to do’s” with joy and efficiency. Furthermore, I didn’t realize I risked more damage to myself and those around me as I bumbled forward, trying to manage alone. Unbeknownst to me, I was much more vulnerable … and actually naked and defenseless. Most of us live among people who glorify busyness … who have made time a tyrant that controls life. Even those who know Jesus as their savior, seem to continue to march to the tempo of the world, putting God on hold … putting Him in the background instead of the foreground of their lives. He is a leftover, not the main entrée.

The real distortion is our belief that we can conquer life on our own … that we are the king of our kingdom and don’t need to humble ourselves to any other authority. We believe we can generate all the power we need to overcome the struggles of this world. It’s easy to see how blatantly wrong these beliefs are. But when you actually break down some of your decisions, you will be amazed to see how often these beliefs insidiously creep in and determine your responses to what life brings your way.

Today, instead of making the choice (yes, it is always your decision and choice) to put God on hold, put the world on hold for just a few minutes. Spend some time with God. Have a conversation with Him. Bring Him your greatest concerns. Read a few pages of scripture. Pray prayers of simple thanksgiving. Then dig into a couple of your wrong decisions and be honest. See if some of the distortions we discussed are part of your lenses. You will be amazed at how the daily practice of taking all your thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ, will change your life. You will develop the Mind of Christ and maximally engage in the greatest spiritual discipline: Decision-making.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I believe that You are calling me to follow you along a solitary path. I want to make time alone with You, Lord, my highest priority so I can get the best directions for this journey, stepping stone by stepping stone … for I know it will be my deepest possible joy. Please give me eyes that see Your truth about what is really important in this world, and what is merely distraction from growing in YOU. I pray in the name of Your Son Jesus Christ who put everything on hold to serve You; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me.
Song of Solomon 2:13

And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:39-42

We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.
2 Corinthians 10:6

Stepping Stones: Think Twice – Speak Once

2011-11-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

I am a pretty physical guy who likes working outside (when I have to), especially when the weather is really hot and I can work up a good sweat. But even though I am an engineer by training, unfortunately, and to my wife’s dismay, I am a terrible handyman. I can use the basic tools, but anything more than a hammer or screwdriver vaults me way out of my comfort zone.

Now compound that with the fact that I am an obsessive perfectionist, and each minor job turns into a major project because all the details have to be just right. Pictures exactly centered and level, mulch spread exactly even, every edge in painting has to be a straight line … you get my drift. So few things irritate me more than when I make a measurement or assessment, then cut the wood, or hammer in the nail, and then realize it was a mistake. I did that a few times as a kid and learned my lesson.

Once you cut the wood you can never take the cut back, so always make sure you’re cutting in the right spot. Thus, the all-important adage “measure twice, cut once” or “measure twice, hammer once.” As you can imagine, I have found many applications for this particular proverb throughout my life.

The basic premise is “Think before you act.” One frequent application the Bible teaches is how we talk with each other … especially with those we love. How many times have you said something hurtful that you wish you hadn’t said? How many times do you even think about what you say before you say it? Once something is said, the words can never be taken back. Yes, we can apologize and ask forgiveness, then try and make up for it, but taking words back is like un-cutting wood, un-hammering a nail, or un-ringing a bell … you just can’t undo the damage.

We all have trouble reacting without think, especially when we feel hurt, sad, anxious, rejected, or have other uncomfortable emotions we are trying to avoid, soothe, or defend against. The ability to tolerate discomfort and identify a better way to respond or react to a situation is not naturally built into us. Nor does society teach us how to handle these uncomfortable but inevitable events of life. Yet thinking before we speak, examining our hearts and motives, are the Biblical principles James and Solomon exhort us to practice and perfect.

Today, develop the discipline of decision-making, in which thinking is a vital component. We all make comments we regret. We wish we could just rewind life … have a do-over. Try to “think twice and speak once.” A few moments invested in thought will save many hours of guilt, shame, and hustling to remedy the damage. Then dig deeper, try to identify the needs, fears, or emotions that push you to speak before you think. This is actually a great spiritual exercise in heart examination that will reap much treasure. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH guides this examination and helps you use your findings for lasting life change.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I confess, Father, that I have been guilty of using wrong, harsh words with others. I have misused the gift of a quick mind that You have given me. I pray, Lord, that You will fill me with your Holy Spirit … and that I give Your Spirit time to respond as I speak and write. Help me be quick to listen, disciplined to think, and slow to speak … and let me see Your message in everything. I pray in the name of the one You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Colossians 4:6

…be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
James 1:19

Stepping Stones: Trusting Moment to Moment

2011-11-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

A church bell in my neighborhood rings throughout the day, and if you’re attentive, you realize it rings not just on the hour, but every 15 minutes. Often, I’m not aware of the bells because they’ve become part of the on-going background noise of my life … a symphony of birds, jet engines, lawn equipment, road traffic, cell phone, television, and chatter in my head. It’s usually early morning or late evening, when my distractions are at their lowest, that I am able to tune in and hear those bells. This particular church tower crisply and beautifully sounds the Westminster chime, made famous by the Big Ben Tower in London. Words to accompany the melody were written by Handel: "Lord through this hour, be Thou our guide. So, by Thy power no foot shall slide."

When I was in parochial elementary school, we students were allowed to interrupt the teacher every hour, on the hour, in order to pray and “bless the hour”. To be totally frank, at the time, I didn’t “get it”. I didn’t see any value in asking God to be part of my day, let alone each hour. Instead, I welcomed it as a longed-for distraction from the daily grind. My spiritual default status was to operate like a solo pilot, relying on my own self-sufficiency and my can-do attitude. But, looking back at some of my choices, I can say there wasn’t much to be proud of.

So what has changed? As I said, I really had no sense of my need for God. But I also had no idea He actually and deeply cared about the details of my life. At a particularly low point, I cried out to God asking Him to show me who He is. When I finally understood He was always showing me who He is and I paid attention to how and what He was showing, my life changed and has never been the same. So now those chimes and that melody are a beautiful reminder of how much I need God throughout every day, and how faithfully God helps me.

How about you? Are you in tune with your need for God? Do you allow His Holy Spirit to direct your words as you interact with family, coworkers, cellmates, drivers, sales clerks, and pedestrians? Do you realize his holy word, the Bible, offers you great advice as you make decisions about your job, finances, relationships, emotions, and other details of daily life? Have you read any of His messages today? Have you shared your concerns about today’s problems with Him?

Today, in fact, right now, ask Him to be your guide for the next 60 minutes. You have a choice: You could go with the flow and not acknowledge His right to be sovereign in your life. Or you could admit that your own decisions leave something to be desired. Let the Lord of the universe take control for even a fraction of your day and see if He doesn’t prove Himself worthy of your trust. As you see God answering your prayer, your trust in Him and your relationship with Him will grow exponentially. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
O Loving God, For so long I have relied on my own thoughts and judgments, but life did not go as I planned and didn’t get any easier. I want so much to have joy and peace throughout every day. I’ve forgotten about You but I have a desire to turn that around. For these next 60 minutes, I am asking You to be my guide, to show me the way to handle the people and situations You put around me. This is a big step but I’m trusting You to guide me each step of the way. I trust You so much that I’m saying “Thank You” right now for what You are about to do for, through, and in me. I pray in the name of the One who trusted You to the very end, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
Proverbs 3:5

"Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine."
Luke 22:42

Stepping Stones: Just Say No! – But Why?

2011-11-26T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Yesterday’s devotional discussed what happens when someone approaches us and wants something. They have a request or a reasonable opportunity for us to be helpful. Instead of saying “yes” to avoid a conflict or the uneasiness of their disappointment, we sometimes need to say “no” for the right reason. One of the major obstacles we have to saying “no” rests in a major distortion embedded in our psyche. Drum roll please. The distortion: saying yes = the loving response; saying no = the mean response.

Someone asks for something, humbly admits they need your help. Agreeing with them by saying “yes” … being like-minded and avoiding conflict ... are considered to be the nice response. Answering in a way that allows the requester to leave feeling “good” is what most would stamp as the loving response. As a kid, we never picture a loving mom as the one who says “no”. We always picture the loving mom as affirming, positive, nurturing, saying “yes” to requests for more attention, hugs, kisses, toys, food, or one more story before bed.

NEWS FLASH: saying “yes” is not always a loving response. Example: Say your 12 y.o. son convinces you he has great driving skills, is responsible, awesome with bumper cars and go-carts, and now wants the keys to the car to go hang out with his friends. Your loving response, regardless of how hurt, angry, sad, or belittled he feels, needs to be “NO.” Same if my 9 y.o. wants to stay up ‘til midnight on a school night. My incredibly loving response is “NO.”

We know kids make dysfunctional, shortsighted, and potentially harmful requests as they seek immediate gratification, and that they are unable to foresee long-term consequences. Realizing “no” is in their best interest and is the most loving response (even when our kids cry) is pretty easy for most parents. The problem comes when adults make requests. We assume adults know what is good for them, have thought it through, and make only healthy responsible requests. We think saying “no” to a healthy, functional adult request would be unloving, or withholding love.

BIGGER NEWS FLASH: Adults don’t always make functional requests. You must have awareness, discernment, and a view of the bigger picture to know whether it is a healthy or dysfunctional request. The cool part … after you put some thought into deciding if it is a healthy request, saying “no” to adults becomes as easy as saying “no” to the 12 y.o. requesting car keys.

So today, start developing the discipline of discerning healthy requests from others. Also, practice saying “no” to requests. Or at least say, “Maybe … let me think about it.” When someone says “no” to you, stop and think whether your request was healthy. Don’t assume you are the perfect one who makes healthy requests all the time. Most importantly, dig and find why you feel pressured to say “yes” or why you are afraid to say “no.” Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear loving God, thank You for being an example to me as You answer “yes” to my requests at the right time and answer “no” to my other requests at the right time. I ask You to continue the work You started … growing in me the mind of Christ, so I can see others’ requests through Your lenses. Give me the courage to say “no” when that is the most loving thing, and not to fear sad or angry responses, or hurt feelings or negative opinions. I pray in the name of the One You sent to teach me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
And a ruler asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich.
Colossians 18:18,22,23

The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone.'"
Luke 4:3,4

Stepping Stones: Turn the Other Cheek…or NOT?!

2011-11-25T05:00:00.001-05:00

Transformational Thought

A couple weeks ago, I was asked to speak on very short notice to a Sunday School class at a neighboring church. Bubbling up in my lungs was the sound of my knee-jerk people-pleaser “yes.” But luckily, before it crossed my lips, I was able to edit it into “’Yes’ is what I want to say, but I need to look at another date a little further into the future.”

In the past, it was difficult for me to say “no”. Saying “no” to a request from somebody else rarely makes that person feel good; more often, they feel hurt or let down. Our natural tendency is to “go with the flow” or “don’t make waves.” So we become conflict avoiders … some of us a little, but some of us a lot. You see, one of the things that contributes to our feeling of discomfort is when other people feel bad as a result of our actions or behaviors.

As Christians, this usually gets amplified because we are called to be “peacekeepers” or “peacemakers.” Forgiveness is a fundamental concept and action of our faith. Jesus teaches us to turn the other cheek, love our enemies, and give our clothes to a thief. Saying “no” seems like a very un-Christian response to someone in need. However, Jesus also said “no” many times … to the Pharisees, to Satan, to the demon possessed man whom he healed, to the rich young ruler who wanted to follow him but wouldn’t give up his possessions, to the moneychangers in the temple, and to the thief on the cross.

As a psychiatrist and former church elder I have seen many burnt out Christians, both leaders and church members, who seem to think that more is better … who actually believe it is un-Christian to say “no.” Their efforts become scattered and they always seem to be out of steam. But, like that Energizer bunny, they just keep on doing.

Today, before you jump into or continue “doing” the Christian thing … by blindly saying “yes” and adding more to your plate … spend time with God. Pray that you receive both direction and empowerment consistent with His will. In order to know His will … you gotta spend time in His presence. He has a specific plan and purpose for you. You need to be more purposeful in seeking it with Him and from Him. This is not a job or a task, but rather a beautiful and peaceful privilege. Also, dig and decipher why you say “yes” when you know you should be saying “no”. Why are you afraid to say “no”? Learning this answer and correcting it will bring an amazing freedom to your interactions and life! Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Gracious and Holy God, I know that You designed a path for my life. I pray, Father, that You reveal this pathway to me … and that You give me the strength and courage to follow it. Help me seek Your approval, not the approval of those who make requests of me. Empower me, Father, and let me see that I am powered by You. Let me not focus my efforts on simply doing more, but let me focus on doing what You want and need of me. Help me today, Lord, to do what is within my ability to further Your Kingdom. I pray in the name of the One You sent to forgive, refresh, and empower me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11

And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.
Mark 6:31

Stepping Stones: The Dark Dungeon of Ungratefulness

2011-11-24T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Thanksgiving Day is a great holiday and the four-day weekend ushers in a break we all appreciate. Thanksgiving seems like the eye of the storm, the calm nestled between the crazy pace of autumn, when work and school are in high gear, and the impending mad rush of the Christmas and New Year season.

It’s great to have our family all together again for the first time in over 3 months as our oldest just got home from college, like many others who journey home to be with those they love. Thanksgiving Day is filled with parades, football, family traditions, memories, and great food. Above all else … and even if none of these other things existed in our lives … Thanksgiving is a time that provides the opportunity for us to be simply thankful, a time to lift ourselves and others out of the dark dungeon of ungratefulness.

You see, we live in an age of entitlement … and it’s often difficult to be thankful when we feel “entitled” to so many things. We often focus on what we want or don’t have instead of all the blessings we do have and should be so thankful for. We need to work hard to counteract the glut of propaganda proclaiming the mantra, “We deserve more.”

Every Christmas commercial, ad, self-help book, well-meaning friend, and small voice from your flesh will scream that you deserve everything that is good or valuable. Really, we are all sinners and, news flash … the wages for sin is death. Everything we have is a tremendous gift of powerful grace that is granted to us by the one we offend, disappoint, reject, deny, and grieve … very regularly.

I hate to be a holiday downer, but you see, unless you know what you really and truly deserve, it is impossible to see how many gifts and how much unbelievable grace you actually have been granted and blessed with … every single day.

Today, when you aren’t full of thanks, ask God to open your eyes and release you from the dark dungeon of ungratefulness. Before you eat, go around the table, holding hands, and tell each other what you are thankful for. Remember, the secret of being thankful is learning to see everything from God’s perspective. Then you will truly thank Him for loving, pursuing, and giving you so much, instead of giving you what you deserve. Your decision, choose well.

The staff at Lighthouse Network wishes the Stepping Stones community a blessed Thanksgiving Day and future. We are thankful for you and your encouragement to us.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I come to You, Father, in prayer. I ask, Father, that You set me free from the prison of ingratitude. Release me, Lord, to enjoy the pleasures of having a thankful heart. It’s easy for me, Father, to be grateful when I wake up on the right side of the bed and encounter no major problems. At other times, thankfulness feels totally unreachable. I need a perspective-lift Father; help me see things from Your viewpoint. I pray in the name of the One who is the source and reason for my thankfulness, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
To open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the prison, those who sit in darkness from the prison house.
Isaiah 42:7

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Thessalonians 5:18

Stepping Stones: Do You Have All You Need For the Afterlife?

2011-11-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Last month, I visited a museum whose premier exhibit featured mummies from around the world. I wasn’t surprised to see teeth, but didn’t expect to see that some still had eyelashes, braided hair and fingernails. I learned about the mummification process and its effects on skin. There were even some natural mummies, people whose bodies were preserved due to the climate at the burial site. Each specimen had a story to tell, but we, the observers, could only know a fraction of the tale.

It was fascinating to see those ancient people who had been preserved for “eternity.” Some bore imprints from the weaves and dyes of fabrics that had been part of the wrapping process. Many bodies were buried along with other objects. There were amulets (small good luck charms) to help protect them from danger. Copies of The Book of the Dead were tucked in to give the person spells, hymns, and instructions to reach the ‘afterlife.’ Mummified fish, cats, and dogs had been placed alongside the bodies to be used by the dead as offerings to the gods.

What struck me as I wound my way through the displays was that there was a universal concern for what comes after this life. But the time to consider that part of our future is right now. Sure, we can live to the fullest, enjoying all the world has to offer but that is no guarantee of happiness now and it certainly doesn’t ensure happiness after death. People turn to all kinds of “truth” only to find that nothing offers lasting satisfaction. King Solomon knew this oh so well and wrote a book about it called Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament.

Only the God of the Bible offers lasting truth. Only He loves us so much that He provides a way for our sin to be forgiven and forgotten. Only the Lord God sends His Son to take the punishment we deserve, and offers it to us as a free gift so that we can live forever with Him in heaven when this life is over. No good luck charms, no more sacrifices in the afterlife to woo the gods. No need to wonder if you’ll find heaven. Just accepting God’s gift of eternal life. Just believing that God will be true to his word. This promise and glorious assurance brings so much peace.

Today, ask God to show Himself to you. Then, open up his instruction book, the Bible, and read for a few minutes. (It will be easier if you read from one book of the Bible instead of jumping around.) Start in Ecclesiastes as Solomon, who had everything, tells us it is all worthless if we don’t have God. If you don’t have one at home, look for one on the web. You may think this is an exercise with no benefit. But I believe you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear King of Kings, You are the God who forgives me and who loves me. You’ve been waiting for me to turn my attention towards You and now You have it. Lord, thank You for loving me and making a way for me to be with You in heaven forever. Please help me to read and understand Your word each day. I can be forgetful and easily distracted, but I want to do this, and with Your help, I can do it. I long to know You better and I am thankful that I am learning more about You every day. I pray in the name of Your son, Jesus, who took my punishment, so I could be with You forever. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole [duty] of man.
Ecclesiastes 12:11-12

Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever!
Psalm 111:10

What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
Ecclesiastes 3:9-11

Stepping Stones: The Internet: Good or Evil

2011-11-22T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Computers and the World Wide Web provide phenomenal opportunities. Connecting with long lost friends, childhood bosom buddies, old teammates, family on the other side of the country or across the ocean, people from church and friends from mission trips is now incredibly fast, easy, and cheap. So many hearts have been warmed and so much relational, missional, and transformational good has resulted.

But like dynamite, computers and the web can be used for tremendous good or … tremendous evil. As a psychiatrist, whether in the ER, in my outpatient office, or running a rehab program, I frequently see and hear how the internet (email, chat rooms, Facebook, Classmates, texting, etc.) has contributed to hurtful communication. Cyberbullying, sexting, pornography, and especially infidelity have led to devastating destruction in relationships and families.

Inappropriate communication with the opposite sex via the internet happens so easily because of our fast pace. You see, most people have minimal time to calmly and deeply share with our partners on a daily basis. But internet communication gives us unparalleled confidence to speak freely to others because there is no real contact with the other person. We can experiment, re-create ourselves, mislead, and avoid dealing with the hard elements of real relationships.

Before you know it, you are writing things you should never write … with a false sense of privacy as you incorrectly assume that what you write will stay a secret between you and the receiver. You have probably heard the advice that you should not type anything, anywhere that you wouldn’t want published in your church bulletin … that you shouldn’t say anything to anyone of the opposite sex that you would not want your spouse to hear you say.

Unfortunately, even though internet affairs have exploded in number, other secret, old-fashioned inappropriate communication falls into the same danger zone. Real relationships are great, but they do take time and work. Taking shortcuts will not only cheat you out of the rewards of relationship, but will also lead to painful consequences.

Today, give some thought to your use of the internet and other perceived “secret” forms of communication you have with people, especially the opposite sex. Some are having communications with real people, and some with fantasy people or pornographic sites. Being secretive or sly is a warning bell that these writings or actions should stop. If you have been writing things you should not, then step back and say, “hold the press.” This isn’t just about writing, this is a real heart issue with a sure path to destruction for you and those around you. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Oh my personal God, I ask and pray that You fill me with Your Holy Spirit to strengthen me. Teach me, Father, to remain faithful and true to those I love. Let not the fear of being caught be the deterrent. Rather let it be the pain and suffering my indiscretions create for You, for my partner … and my own heart and brain. Above all, let it be the fear of separation from You, and my spiritual harm that direct me to the right path. I pray in the name of the one You sent to dwell in my heart, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
I pray that out of his glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love
Ephesians 3:16-17

Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103:2,5

Stepping Stones: What Activity Motivates You?

2011-11-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Think back to your childhood. Remember some of the activities you were involved in, like athletics, band, music or voice lessons, a play, gymnastics, dance, 4-H, or horseback riding. Maybe for you it was an academic team, cheerleading, scouts, or a church youth group or activity.

I remember how much I looked forward to my sports practices and games. As scenarios played out in my head, I would try to forecast what I would do, or what the opponents would do, and imagine the possible outcomes. I would circle dates and times, and as I imagined these events they would fill my mind and push everything else out. I had to be on my deathbed to miss a practice, let alone a game. In fact, I even missed some summer vacations to play more ball.

Part of my full commitment to athletic activities came from my love of sports, but also I showed up because my coach expected me to. He could tell within 3 minutes if I had kept my commitment to practice since last time. In a way, he held me accountable for what I committed to do and was responsible for. But the main reason I showed up was that my teacher gave me the impression that I had the ability to play with greater skill than I believed I could, and he would get me to that level. This is an incredibly powerful tool and it was always quite motivating to me.

What if you could have a daily or hourly appointment with someone who loves you … someone who accepts you just as you are, while seeing in you far more than you see in yourself? What if this ultimate teacher, coach, or parent could relieve your stress, forgive all your transgressions, and eliminate your guilt, insecurity, and especially your world-weariness? In addition, HE could equip you to lead a fulfilled, successful, and abundant life. Wouldn’t you be wildly excited to get to those appointments, practices and games? What could ever hold you back?

If such a place and person did exist, and I hope you know He does, you could be confident that your greatest enemy would not want you going to these appointments, and that he would try to talk you out of it, or hide it from you. Well, God is waiting … for you to come to Him. And your enemy is always trying to get in your way, getting in your head, steering you away from the perfect teacher, or trying to steer you to an impostor coach (or activity) that will lead you astray.

Today, identify one activity that is keeping you from life-giving practice sessions with God. Why do you let them interfere? How are you de-valuing God’s impact in these coaching sessions? Why do you place so much value on the impostor’s coaching? Instead
, allow His love and acceptance, as well as His expectation of who He is helping you to become, to motivate you. Don’t let anything interfere with your sessions, because nothing will give you more than that session with Him. Identify one activity you can shorten to go to a Place and to Someone for all you desire. Find practical ways to begin laying a path to Him. Make dates with Him and then keep those dates. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Perfect Coach and God, I know deep in my heart that spending time with You is the most important and rewarding investment of time I can make … yet, it is also the most difficult part of my daily behavior to master. I pray, Father, that You quiet the evil spirits who work so tirelessly to deceive me with intrusive thoughts and distractions. Help me submit to the Holy Spirit to master my flesh’s impulses and knee-jerk desires. I pray in the name of Your Son and my ultimate teacher, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Philippians 4:8

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
Psalm 139:1-2

Stepping Stones: Time Embezzles Purpose and Peace

2011-11-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

When I was directing a psychiatric unit in our community hospital, one of my responsibilities was to perform psychiatric consultations to other areas of the hospital. One time I was called to the ICU to help determine whether an older man was competent. He wanted to stop all treatment, and it seemed death would be only days away if treatment were stopped.

He was hooked up to so many machines, some keeping him alive … others taking measurements. There was one machine he watched frequently. After asking him why, he told me that it was the machine that monitored his heartbeat. I asked innocently what would happen if his heart stopped. The answer I expected was “An electrical shock triggers my heart to start beating again,” or “Nurses and doctors come running.” Instead, he said, “There’s a little speaker on the back of the machine and it will say ‘Good-bye.’”

While he was just trying to be funny, his comment affected me. It jolted me into the reality that his life was almost over … and that before I knew it, a speaker on the back of some machine would be telling me it’s time to say “Good-bye.”

In Psalm 90:12 Moses prayed, “Teach us to number our days right, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Thinking and knowing that our days are truly numbered should help us keep an eternal perspective, which in turn should help us make decisions and choices ranked by eternal values.

Unfortunately, I am often surprised by how much time I invest in the minutiae of this life. I act as if the hours in a week are endless when I engage in some of these activities. Now, please hear me say, we all need some pursuits that are just in-the-moment, not necessarily of eternal impact, activities that refresh and entertain us. But, really look at the number of these activities compared to the most important ones, those that build our relationship with God and each other.

Satan certainly throws many distractions our way and the world system gets us thinking these distractions are more life-sustaining and fulfilling than the activities God wants us to pursue. Once in this trap, you might have to chew off a big part of yourself to save your soul. Our identity, purpose, peace, and joy get sucked out of us while we’re trapped.

Today, start keeping a journal or daytimer to document the activities of your day. Put a (+) next to activities that help you engage God or others in a positive way. Put a (–) if they keep you from engaging with God or others. Begin thinking about time as an embezzler, covertly sneaking in to steal days, weeks, and even years from you. Try to remember to use each day for your God as if it were your last … for all too soon the little speaker will say, “Good-bye.” Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I thank You, Father, for this day and every day of life You give me. I know that each day is a gift from You. Help me, Lord, to live with eternity always in view. I know sometimes the activities you have in my schedule seem burdensome or tiring to me. But strengthen me to see them as You do and to take part in them. By following Your will, I will be lifted up, and enjoy peace and fulfillment that are indescribable in a devotional. I pray in the name of the One who gave His every minute for mankind and me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
James 4:14

Stepping Stones: What Controls Your Attitude?

2011-11-18T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Do you ever have one of those weeks? You know, where life seems to always be one step ahead of you. You can never catch your breath and feel like you are constantly choking. No break in sight. Just when it seems like life can’t get any worse … it does.

I recently had one of those weeks. My wife and I weren’t connecting and tension was in the air. Discussions about the upcoming holidays were pending. The kids’ attitudes were affected by household chores and difficulties at school and with peers. At work there was one curveball after another. Accounts weren’t paid on time, some contractors gave us some bad news, others weren’t producing, friends were really struggling, plans for a mission trip were not going smoothly. Then, with so much work to catch up on, a storm blew in and we lost power for 48 hours.

In the past, these kinds of weeks would have caused so much distress, prompting poor decisions that would have led to even worse circumstances and consequences. This vicious cycle would spiral so quickly and last longer because of the poor way I handled a set of circumstances.

My life took a dramatic turn when I learned that no matter what you do, you will never stop life’s bad turns. We are all going to be tested, to be sifted, purified, and refined. Traffic jams will cause you to miss that important appointment. You’ll lose a job or promotion. Someone will be rude or hurtful, or cheat on you. Regardless of the situation, remember, God is the one who allows all things to happen. We don’t know why, but He does, and He has a plan.

You can live happily each day despite life’s ups and downs, but it can only be done through daily dependence on Jesus Christ and trust in God’s sovereignty and plan. The Apostle Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation: that he could do everything through Him that gives me strength.

Today, remember it’s not what happens to you that counts. How you choose to react to each situation reflects your attitude, your heart, and is the fruit of your life. It just comes down to who’s in control of your attitude. When you feel uncomfortable today, stop and assess your reaction to the day’s events. What kind of lenses are you using, your me-centered ones, or your God-centered ones? Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I invite You to be in me and at work with me. Help me grow, Father, so that I may have the same attitude and mind as Jesus Christ. I know peace doesn’t come from the outside, but comes only from You inside me. Help me look inward for peace and not wait for my circumstances to settle down for me to be at peace. I do not want to be ruled by the circumstances around me … I want to be ruled and guided by Your Holy Spirit. I pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus; and all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:12-13

Stepping Stones: Don’t Leave At Intermission!

2011-11-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

Some children take off sooner and faster than others. My little (6’ 6”) brother is 13 years younger than me. One of the bigger regrets I have is not playing a larger role during his young years. I was a teenager, totally focused on my own struggles, issues, and needs, and saw him as a toy or a mascot to use as needed. My brother had many ups and downs, almost from the get-go as he got kicked out of Catholic school in kindergarten on Ash Wednesday because he didn’t want dirt on his head. My parents tried to raise him to greater heights, but nothing seemed to work. If the race had ended in his mid twenties, in jail and on his way to rehab, he would have been judged a loser … a failure.

Are you a parent of a low-flying child? Let me pass on a word of encouragement. That brother made a shift in his late twenties and is now, by anyone’s standards, a high-flying success. Husband in a healthy marriage, father of a great family, master’s degree, teacher and mentor to disadvantaged teens, successful high school football coach, and get this, an inner-city high school disciplinarian. Yes, God has a great sense of humor. Most importantly, he is a man of deep faith who always finds time to let the Lord’s light shine onto those around him. At 36 years of age, he holds the admiration and praise of all those who know him.

Too often, we put premature finish lines on situations … judging them before all the data is in. God isn’t bound by time; He is incredibly patient and all-powerful, and has a flair for the dramatic, especially where timing is concerned. Our nature is one of impatience, impulsivity, and I need to know now. We don’t tolerate the uncomfortable feelings and want solutions and pain-free living now. We reach for quick but destructive solutions. Don’t fall into Satan’s trap of judging yourself, others, circumstances, or especially God, prematurely. You will be disappointed and lose out on many “miracles” of life.

Today, if you feel like a failure, or are disappointed, anxious, sad or fearful, examine whether you are imposing a premature finish line on a situation. This puts God in a box and closes the curtain on the play at intermission. Realize there is more of the show, game, path, or race left and seek God’s guidance for the next phase of the situation. If you follow Him, trust Him, and practice patience, He will reveal a glorious second act in the drama you were ready to leave prematurely. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear Father God, I pray that all parents reading this devotional receive from You wisdom and patience as they raise their children. Help them to trust Your providence and grace, and to let go of their timelines for their children’s lives. Help us all use Your Son as an example as You patiently waited for His time to come. Father, help us listen to You and obey You in this great calling of being a parent. Then in all areas, help us grow in patience. Help us to see Your big picture, not to prematurely judge the small picture of our life and bail on You and Your plan for us. I pray in the name of the most patient One, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
“My time has not yet come."
John 2:4

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:30,31

Stepping Stones: Think You Don’t Need A Counselor? Think Again!

2011-11-15T16:42:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought

The other day, I got into an argument with my wife. As usual, it was a pretty trivial spark that started a much bigger fire. If someone had run that same situation by me in the morning, I could have easily described the ideal solution to manage the situation. My theoretical solution would have been beneficial to my wife and me, and God-honoring. But in the moment, I was governed by my insecurities, so I blew it.

We all have so many unanswered questions about ourselves. Am I really a good person? Am I truly lovable? Why do I do the things I do? Why do I feel the way I feel? Why do I make the same mistakes as I used to? Can I ever change? Will I ever be fully in control of all areas of my life? We struggle to answer these questions for and by ourselves, and it’s difficult to get to the core answers without a true counselor.

The combination of our arrogance and pride—I don’t need any therapy, thank you very much—and the fact that it’s become a profession with a stigma attached—mental illness, Freud, Prozac and all that—has kept most of us from realizing that we do need counseling. All of us. What athlete thinks they don’t need a coach anymore? What student ever really knows it all? Your doctor continues to study and get more education ‘till he retires. In the most complicated activity, life, we never know it all. As Christians, thankfully, we have the best counselor living right inside us.

The Bible tells us Jesus sends us his Spirit as a Counselor … that ought to make it clear. And apparently, we need quite a lot of counsel—the Spirit isn’t just stopping in to give us a tune-up; not even an annual checkup. He has come to stay and give us a complete makeover … from the inside out. Now we just need to figure out how to “hear” His counsel and quit sabotaging His efforts in our lives. This might sound blasphemous, but unfortunately, we need more than the Holy Spirit, which is why we listen to sermons and need to study the Bible.

Today, confess your sins, then talk to God about a struggle in your life. Open His word, read the Christmas and Easter story, and then listen for His counsel. If you have trouble following the counsel, or continue to sabotage His efforts, consider getting someone to help show you how to listen and follow His counsel. WITHIN REACH is a great resource we developed for the purpose of helping you hear God, follow His direction in your every day life situations, and be a Godly decision-maker in all you do. Your decision, choose well.

Prayer
Dear God, I thank You for sending me the ultimate Counselor, Your Holy Spirit. Help me recognize the daily need for guiding advice and for the Spirit of truth. Help me listen and heed Your advice. Help me gain wisdom and courage to follow Your guidance, and humility to set aside my agenda. Thy kingdom, not my kingdom come. Give me humility to seek out and listen to Godly advisors so I can overcome my areas of struggle. I pray in the name of the One who asked You to send another Counselor, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth”
John 14:16–17

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
Hebrews 4:12-14

Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices. For the simple are killed by their turning away, and the complacency of fools destroys them; but whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster."
Proverbs 1:29-33

Stepping Stones: The Cost of Free Money

2011-11-15T05:00:00.000-05:00

Transformational Thought
If you found $5 on a deserted street, no one to give it back to, I bet you would pocket it. I know I would. But if you saw that money falling from someone’s pocket, would you respond the same way? Here’s another scenario. I had a phone call from my credit card company this week. A large purchase I made wasn’t processed correctly. I was told to return to the store, present my receipt, and pay for the items “again”.

I did just that and the sales clerks started thanking me profusely. They were amazed and said they had never experienced anything like this – ever. The store had no idea the problem had occurred. They wondered why anyone would come back and pay for items that they could vae kept for free. Good question.

Please know I’m not sharing this to blow my own horn. I share it as a reminder that situations like this are opportunities to impact the world, and more specifically to be salt and light in other people’s everyday lives. Since they asked me, instead of giving the “aw shucks, anybody would have done it, it’s just the right thing to do” line, I had a chance to tell them the reasons for my choice: the Bible says don’t steal, and I want to follow God’s commandments. I trust God to take care of all my needs, and that includes financial ones. If I steal, I’m telling God He’s not very good at His job, and I know how to do His job better than He does.

Satan will sabotage us at every opportunity if we let him. He’ll tell us we don’t need to take responsibility for a mistake, that we deserve a free ride, that no one will ever know, that this makes up for the times we got ‘cheated,’ or even that God has forgotten about us and our needs. We get to choose whether to take home stationery supplies from work, to copy music and movies illegally, to use pirated software, to pocket a pack of gum, or to keep library books. The heart of each decision we make is to worship and bring glory to God - or not.

Today, take a look at the little things that are part of your life. Do areas exist where you are trusting in yourself and not God to meet your needs? You know, cheating? Hopefully, you’ve learned to make better choices, walking what you’re preaching and expecting from others. But if not, are you willing to admit to making a poor choice? Will you confess, and un-do some choices? Remember that the God who loves you is the God who forgives you. He promises to supply all your needs. His promises are good and trustworthy; they never fail. Your decision, choose well. WITHIN REACH is a great resource to help you apply God’s promises to your daily decisions.

Prayer
Dear God, You know me well. You know it’s sometimes hard for me to talk about you to others. Any boldness I have really does come from the Holy Spirit. Without Your Spirit in me, I would be unable to share who You are and what You’ve done for me. With Your help I’m learning. So I thank You for teaching and encouraging me. Please give me more opportunities to talk about You. I want to make You the biggest and best thing in my life. I pray in the name of Jesus, who was all about bringing glory to You. And all God’s children say - AMEN!

The Truth
Give glory to the LORD. In the lands beyond the sea, praise the name of the LORD, the God of Israel.
Isaiah 24:15

Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness!
Psalm 150: 2

I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O Lord, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds.
Psalm 26:6-7