From the In Touch devotional magazine (http://www.intouch.org/):
'Doctors recommend regular checkups to make sure that our bodies are functioning properly. Though we might not even realize something is wrong, an undetected problem could potentially cause other health issues. The same is true of our relationship with the heavenly Father. He desires that we seek His truth daily, allowing Him to shed light on anything that hinders our walk.
And, just as some people are nervous about seeing their physician, we might feel fearful of inviting the Holy Spirit to examine our lives. It can be frightening to realize the truth about our sin and see ourselves as we actually are. And furthermore, knowing that God will require our repentance and obedience may also cause discomfort in our lives.
But the rewards are great. First, our Father removes any spiritual "blockages" that impede a close walk with Him. Second, we gain greater intimacy with the Lord and with others. Third, our energy is renewed as resentment, fear, and other ungodly attitudes stop draining us; serving God becomes a joy instead of a duty. Fourth, regardless of circumstance, we experience spiritual freedom through forgiveness. All of these benefits lead to deeper fulfillment, peace, and joy.
Maturity is a lifelong process. The Father will continue to grow His children until He brings them home. Seek God's wisdom and truth, and ask Him to reveal anything holding you back from a beautiful friendship with Him. He wants to walk closely with you all your days—and eternally.'
The start of the new year is a great time to resolve to have frequent spiritual check-ups with God throughout the year. Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Goals
From the book The Best of Success, compiled by Wynn Davis:
Goals - The purpose of goals is to focus our attention. The mind will not reach toward achievement until it has clear objectives. The magic begins wen we set goals. It is then that the switch is turned on, the current begins to flow, and the power to accomplish becomes a reality.
"People with goals succeed because they know where they're going."
- Earl Nightingale
"The indespensable first step to getting things you want out of life is this: decide what you want."
- Ben Stein
"The world has the habit of making room for the man whose words and actions show that he knows where he is going."
- Napoleon Hill
Goals - The purpose of goals is to focus our attention. The mind will not reach toward achievement until it has clear objectives. The magic begins wen we set goals. It is then that the switch is turned on, the current begins to flow, and the power to accomplish becomes a reality.
"People with goals succeed because they know where they're going."
- Earl Nightingale
"The indespensable first step to getting things you want out of life is this: decide what you want."
- Ben Stein
"The world has the habit of making room for the man whose words and actions show that he knows where he is going."
- Napoleon Hill
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
An Inner Strength
From the devotional book God's Way Day by Day, by Charles Stanley:
"Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles."
- Isaiah 40:31
'Our definition for character and all matters pertaining to the human heart are to be derived from looking at Jesus and seeking to become like Him.
God's desire is that we have inner strength based upon our faith and our relationship with Him. Then when storms strike, everything around us and even our own health and well-being may take a hit, but our spirits remain vibrant, hopeful, and strong.'
Winners have tremendous inner strength.
"Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles."
- Isaiah 40:31
'Our definition for character and all matters pertaining to the human heart are to be derived from looking at Jesus and seeking to become like Him.
God's desire is that we have inner strength based upon our faith and our relationship with Him. Then when storms strike, everything around us and even our own health and well-being may take a hit, but our spirits remain vibrant, hopeful, and strong.'
Winners have tremendous inner strength.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Charity
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
'Little people carry grudges. Great people forgive and forget. Little people hold on to insults. Great people let them go. Little people nurture thoughts of revenge. Great people move on. Leaders are big people. They're tolerant, indulgent, forgiving. Leaders are charitable....
The way a leader reacts means the difference between leadership greatness and mediocrity. Reacting with revenge is self-defeating. It only enhances the conflict and leaves the defender with inner turmoil - and fewer friends. Reacting with charity is influential....
Great leaders refuse to allow personal insults to distract them. They've abandoned themselves in pursuit of a greater good - the enrichment and welfare of others.
Ask any leader why he or she is willing to forgive and forget, and you'll hear, "I don't have time to be bitter. I only have time to be better."
Winners forgive quickly.
'Little people carry grudges. Great people forgive and forget. Little people hold on to insults. Great people let them go. Little people nurture thoughts of revenge. Great people move on. Leaders are big people. They're tolerant, indulgent, forgiving. Leaders are charitable....
The way a leader reacts means the difference between leadership greatness and mediocrity. Reacting with revenge is self-defeating. It only enhances the conflict and leaves the defender with inner turmoil - and fewer friends. Reacting with charity is influential....
Great leaders refuse to allow personal insults to distract them. They've abandoned themselves in pursuit of a greater good - the enrichment and welfare of others.
Ask any leader why he or she is willing to forgive and forget, and you'll hear, "I don't have time to be bitter. I only have time to be better."
Winners forgive quickly.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Running the Race of Faith
From the November issue of In Touch magazine (http://www.intouch.org/):
Hebrews 12:1-3
'The runners in a marathon must all follow a clearly marked course. Suppose one of the athletes decides to pick his own path. He keeps to the 26-mile race standard and sets his finish line in the same spot as the official one, but he runs through neighborhoods with fewer hills and across less crowded parks. His plan seems excellent to him, but when he crosses the finish line, there will be no medal or ribbon waiting.
What a silly thing for a person to do! Yet, believers fall into this very trap when they decide the course for their life instead of running the race God sets. By submitting to His will - doing what He says and going where He leads - we remain on the right path. But the moment we revert to our old habits and start making decisions based on our own wisdom, we go far afield.
For believers, the finish line is the same whether they run the race God's way or their own way - namely, heaven. However, the difference is what we have to show for all the energy expended getting there. No one wants to look back and say, "I didn't really accomplish anything of value." Regardless of how grand a legacy someone leaves, the only truly lasting and worthwhile deeds are those done for the Lord and in the power of His Spirit.
Thankfully, no matter how far off course we veer, the Holy Spirit is still present. He reminds us of the right path - as well as the power available to get back on it and persevere. Your route is set; your choice clear.'
Winners run the race set before them and finish well.
Hebrews 12:1-3
'The runners in a marathon must all follow a clearly marked course. Suppose one of the athletes decides to pick his own path. He keeps to the 26-mile race standard and sets his finish line in the same spot as the official one, but he runs through neighborhoods with fewer hills and across less crowded parks. His plan seems excellent to him, but when he crosses the finish line, there will be no medal or ribbon waiting.
What a silly thing for a person to do! Yet, believers fall into this very trap when they decide the course for their life instead of running the race God sets. By submitting to His will - doing what He says and going where He leads - we remain on the right path. But the moment we revert to our old habits and start making decisions based on our own wisdom, we go far afield.
For believers, the finish line is the same whether they run the race God's way or their own way - namely, heaven. However, the difference is what we have to show for all the energy expended getting there. No one wants to look back and say, "I didn't really accomplish anything of value." Regardless of how grand a legacy someone leaves, the only truly lasting and worthwhile deeds are those done for the Lord and in the power of His Spirit.
Thankfully, no matter how far off course we veer, the Holy Spirit is still present. He reminds us of the right path - as well as the power available to get back on it and persevere. Your route is set; your choice clear.'
Winners run the race set before them and finish well.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Business As Usual
From the online devotional Today God Is First (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'Imagine if the God of the universe decided to visit planet earth as a new baby and you were given the opportunity to host His first night-in your hotel! Think of the future promotional possibilities..."God stayed here His first night!" You could sell tickets to see the room where He was born. What an opportunity to make history as a small-business owner!
God had need of a business owner's establishment one night 2,000 years ago. But there was no room for God in this business that night. There was no room for the unexpected miracle; no awareness of what was taking place in the heavenlies, no sign that God might be reaching out to this workplace believer to be used like no other in all of history.
Every day God has need of some man or woman's job. He wants to demonstrate miracles in their work. But there is no room in their work for Jesus. He is not asked to participate.
That night God slept in a stable. That night a business opportunity from Heaven was missed. It was business as usual.
May we all have spiritual eyes and ears to know when our Master needs what He has entrusted to us for His purposes.'
Winners don't forget the true meaning of Christmas the day after....
'Imagine if the God of the universe decided to visit planet earth as a new baby and you were given the opportunity to host His first night-in your hotel! Think of the future promotional possibilities..."God stayed here His first night!" You could sell tickets to see the room where He was born. What an opportunity to make history as a small-business owner!
God had need of a business owner's establishment one night 2,000 years ago. But there was no room for God in this business that night. There was no room for the unexpected miracle; no awareness of what was taking place in the heavenlies, no sign that God might be reaching out to this workplace believer to be used like no other in all of history.
Every day God has need of some man or woman's job. He wants to demonstrate miracles in their work. But there is no room in their work for Jesus. He is not asked to participate.
That night God slept in a stable. That night a business opportunity from Heaven was missed. It was business as usual.
May we all have spiritual eyes and ears to know when our Master needs what He has entrusted to us for His purposes.'
Winners don't forget the true meaning of Christmas the day after....
Thursday, December 24, 2009
The Hope of the World
From the classic bestseller devotional God's Best for My Life, by Lloyd John Ogilvie:
'Christmas is a festival of hope. And there is nothing our world needs more desperately than authentic hope. We have placed our hope in all the wrong things. The false gods of human progress, inventive genius, the future, armed power, financial security, governmental effectiveness, movements, great leaders, political parties, negotiation - all have fallen from their thrones. They have been exposed as unreliable sources of hope. We have discovered that to hope in any of them is to know eventual disappointment and to ultimately experience despair.
But hopelessness is also profoundly personal. People disappoint us when we place our hope in them. It's heartbreaking when they fail us or are unable to be our source of happiness. We place hope in our careers, our financial planning, and our abilities. Life's reversals shock us with the realization that our hope has been misplaced. Our plans for the future may pull us on to tomorrow with the longing that things will happen as we've dreamed. But things seldom work out as we've planned. Circumstances, people, ourselves, and our talents are not reliable sources of hope.
What we need is a hope that's more than wishful thinking or blind expectation that everything will work out smoothly.
We need a hope that is vibrant in pain, consistent in grief, indefatigable when people break our hearts, unassailable in disappointment, and unflagging in life's pressure. Do you have a hope like that? Is your hope ultimately reliable?
True hope is inadvertant. It does not come from searching for hope. It grows out of two basic convictions: that God is in charge and that He intervenes. This is why a true experience of Christmas gives us lasting hope.'
"The ground of our hope is Christ in the world, but the evidence of our hope is Christ in the heart." - Matthew Henry
'Christmas is a festival of hope. And there is nothing our world needs more desperately than authentic hope. We have placed our hope in all the wrong things. The false gods of human progress, inventive genius, the future, armed power, financial security, governmental effectiveness, movements, great leaders, political parties, negotiation - all have fallen from their thrones. They have been exposed as unreliable sources of hope. We have discovered that to hope in any of them is to know eventual disappointment and to ultimately experience despair.
But hopelessness is also profoundly personal. People disappoint us when we place our hope in them. It's heartbreaking when they fail us or are unable to be our source of happiness. We place hope in our careers, our financial planning, and our abilities. Life's reversals shock us with the realization that our hope has been misplaced. Our plans for the future may pull us on to tomorrow with the longing that things will happen as we've dreamed. But things seldom work out as we've planned. Circumstances, people, ourselves, and our talents are not reliable sources of hope.
What we need is a hope that's more than wishful thinking or blind expectation that everything will work out smoothly.
We need a hope that is vibrant in pain, consistent in grief, indefatigable when people break our hearts, unassailable in disappointment, and unflagging in life's pressure. Do you have a hope like that? Is your hope ultimately reliable?
True hope is inadvertant. It does not come from searching for hope. It grows out of two basic convictions: that God is in charge and that He intervenes. This is why a true experience of Christmas gives us lasting hope.'
"The ground of our hope is Christ in the world, but the evidence of our hope is Christ in the heart." - Matthew Henry
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
'Twas the Night JESUS Came
I'm not quite sure whom the author is of this, but this is one of my most favorite Christmas devotionals:
‘Twas the night JESUS came, and all through the house
not a person was praying, not one in the house.
The Bibles were left on the shelf without care,
for no one thought that JESUS would come there.
The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
not once ever kneeling or bowing a head;
and Mom in her rocker with baby in her lap
was watching the late show while I took a nap.
When out of the east there rose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
tore open the shutters and lifted the sash!
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
but angels proclaiming that JESUS was here!
The light of his face made me cover my head
–it was JESUS - returning just as he said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.
In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
when He said, - “It’s Not Here” - my head hung in shame.
The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without a sound
while all the rest were left standing around.
I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I’d known that THIS was the night.
In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of JESUS is now drawing near.
There’s only one life and when comes the last call
we’ll find that the Bible was true after all.
May you cherish the true meaning of Christmas this season.
‘Twas the night JESUS came, and all through the house
not a person was praying, not one in the house.
The Bibles were left on the shelf without care,
for no one thought that JESUS would come there.
The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
not once ever kneeling or bowing a head;
and Mom in her rocker with baby in her lap
was watching the late show while I took a nap.
When out of the east there rose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
tore open the shutters and lifted the sash!
When what to my wondering eyes should appear
but angels proclaiming that JESUS was here!
The light of his face made me cover my head
–it was JESUS - returning just as he said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.
In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
when He said, - “It’s Not Here” - my head hung in shame.
The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without a sound
while all the rest were left standing around.
I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I’d known that THIS was the night.
In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of JESUS is now drawing near.
There’s only one life and when comes the last call
we’ll find that the Bible was true after all.
May you cherish the true meaning of Christmas this season.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas Celebrated Around the World
Here are three fun and informative links that reveal how Christmas is celebrated around the world:
http://www.the-north-pole.com/around/
http://www.santas.net/aroundtheworld.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_worldwide
Merry Christmas!
http://www.the-north-pole.com/around/
http://www.santas.net/aroundtheworld.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_worldwide
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Top 10 Christmas Books
I happened to Google 'great Christmas stories' and one of the results was a link to an interesting listing of 'Top 10 Christmas Books.' According to that listing's author/compiler, they are:
10. The Greatest Story Ever Told, by Fulton Oursler
9. The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg
8. The Christmas Tree, by Judy Salamon
7. The Crippled Lamb, by Max Lucado
6. The Christmas Box, by Richard Paul Evans
5. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, by Barbara Robinson
4. One Wintry Night, by Ruth Bell Graham
3. Twas the Night Before Christmas, by Clement Moore
2. How The Grinch Stole Christmas, by Dr. Seuss
1. A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens
I have to admit that I haven't read many of these books, and personally know some of these more by their movie versions; of course this listing is subjective.
Maybe this winter is a good time to rediscover the wonder of Christmas with these and other quality Christmas stories.
10. The Greatest Story Ever Told, by Fulton Oursler
9. The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg
8. The Christmas Tree, by Judy Salamon
7. The Crippled Lamb, by Max Lucado
6. The Christmas Box, by Richard Paul Evans
5. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, by Barbara Robinson
4. One Wintry Night, by Ruth Bell Graham
3. Twas the Night Before Christmas, by Clement Moore
2. How The Grinch Stole Christmas, by Dr. Seuss
1. A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens
I have to admit that I haven't read many of these books, and personally know some of these more by their movie versions; of course this listing is subjective.
Maybe this winter is a good time to rediscover the wonder of Christmas with these and other quality Christmas stories.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Give and Take of Christmas
Excerpted from the same title article by Dan Schaeffer, in the December issue of In Touch magazine (http://www.intouch.org/):
'At Christmas, more opportunities to do good are made available to us than at any other time of the year. So each year, charities vie for ways to help us take pleasure in giving, hitting us early and often, as they know the generous feelings don’t always last beyond December 25. For eleven months out of the year, we may be fairly apathetic to the needs of others, but at Christmas we go out of our way to be generous—and if not to strangers, then at least to the people in our lives. Have you ever wondered why?
I believe that one of the reasons is because our modern culture has drilled into us the message that the true spirit of Christmas is about giving to others. It’s not only commercially successful; it seems to work on an emotional level as well. It’s personified in the spirit of Ebenezer Scrooge, who awakens to his miserly nature just in the nick of time,...is transformed when he ends his scrimy ways and embraces the true spirit of Christmas by becoming generous, and thus a better person.
Has the real Christmas story, the entrance of God into our world, prompted this spirit of giving? In many cases, yes. But in some cases, no. Giving is certainly a wonderful way to respond to Christ’s love at Christmas, but is it the true spirit of Christmas? It’s interesting to consider that Dickens’ tale of the crusty old Ebenezer Scrooge has possibly done more to form the collective notion of what the Christmas spirit is than the biblical account of Jesus’ birth in Luke.
A Christmas Carol vs. the Christmas Story
Christmas is the chance for many of us to rescue our self-esteem—to prove the goodness of our character to ourselves as well as others. All the gifts we give at Christmas (whether given freely or under compulsion) convince us that we really are good, and even wonderful, people. Just look at how generous we are!
Let me hasten to add here that these acts of kindness are truly wonderful and I don’t wish to undermine them in any way. But it’s worth asking ourselves why we often don’t feel the same about demonstrating kindness and helping others in need throughout the rest of the year. Is the real Christmas spirit about giving? Is that the primary message of the incarnation?
John 3:16 reminds us that the incarnation was about God’s giving: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son . . .” James reminds us that “every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights” (James 1:17). See, Christmas must be about giving.
But who is doing the giving, and who is doing the receiving? The biblical account of Jesus’ entrance into our world reveals that we are the recipients of an incomparable divine gift—and the giver in the story is God, who emptied Himself to come to us and save us. We are the receivers who did nothing to deserve this tremendous gift. It’s obviously a more powerful story than that of Ebenezer Scrooge, but alas, not as easily flattering.
Dickens’ tale simply makes us feel better about ourselves. We are encouraged by the message that we, too, can become better people through generosity. "A Christmas Carol" reminds us that even the worst among us (which Ebenezer Scrooge personifies) can ultimately redeem themselves through charitable action.
...The Christmas story is not about how blessed it is to be givers, but about how essential it is to see ourselves as receivers. This strange story . . . tells us of an unimaginable gift from a stranger, a God whom we hardly even knew.
Of course, Christmas is still an appropriate time to express the love of Christ through special giving and acts of compassion. It isn’t the act we must scrutinize, but the motivation and the goal behind it: is it self-esteem that we want to cultivate this time of year, or gratitude for the grace we’ve been shown?
So, this season, as you prepare your gift-giving, focus on what you have received. Let the grace and mercy that God has lavished on you first fill your heart, and then flow through you to others. In so doing, you invite those around you to join in your grateful celebration. Allow yourself to experience the wonder and joy of gratitude in this holy season. Feel what Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the magi, Simeon, and Anna must have felt. Remember that you can give only because you first received. Your gift of time or treasure is merely an extension of God’s gift of love to you.'
'At Christmas, more opportunities to do good are made available to us than at any other time of the year. So each year, charities vie for ways to help us take pleasure in giving, hitting us early and often, as they know the generous feelings don’t always last beyond December 25. For eleven months out of the year, we may be fairly apathetic to the needs of others, but at Christmas we go out of our way to be generous—and if not to strangers, then at least to the people in our lives. Have you ever wondered why?
I believe that one of the reasons is because our modern culture has drilled into us the message that the true spirit of Christmas is about giving to others. It’s not only commercially successful; it seems to work on an emotional level as well. It’s personified in the spirit of Ebenezer Scrooge, who awakens to his miserly nature just in the nick of time,...is transformed when he ends his scrimy ways and embraces the true spirit of Christmas by becoming generous, and thus a better person.
Has the real Christmas story, the entrance of God into our world, prompted this spirit of giving? In many cases, yes. But in some cases, no. Giving is certainly a wonderful way to respond to Christ’s love at Christmas, but is it the true spirit of Christmas? It’s interesting to consider that Dickens’ tale of the crusty old Ebenezer Scrooge has possibly done more to form the collective notion of what the Christmas spirit is than the biblical account of Jesus’ birth in Luke.
A Christmas Carol vs. the Christmas Story
Christmas is the chance for many of us to rescue our self-esteem—to prove the goodness of our character to ourselves as well as others. All the gifts we give at Christmas (whether given freely or under compulsion) convince us that we really are good, and even wonderful, people. Just look at how generous we are!
Let me hasten to add here that these acts of kindness are truly wonderful and I don’t wish to undermine them in any way. But it’s worth asking ourselves why we often don’t feel the same about demonstrating kindness and helping others in need throughout the rest of the year. Is the real Christmas spirit about giving? Is that the primary message of the incarnation?
John 3:16 reminds us that the incarnation was about God’s giving: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son . . .” James reminds us that “every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights” (James 1:17). See, Christmas must be about giving.
But who is doing the giving, and who is doing the receiving? The biblical account of Jesus’ entrance into our world reveals that we are the recipients of an incomparable divine gift—and the giver in the story is God, who emptied Himself to come to us and save us. We are the receivers who did nothing to deserve this tremendous gift. It’s obviously a more powerful story than that of Ebenezer Scrooge, but alas, not as easily flattering.
Dickens’ tale simply makes us feel better about ourselves. We are encouraged by the message that we, too, can become better people through generosity. "A Christmas Carol" reminds us that even the worst among us (which Ebenezer Scrooge personifies) can ultimately redeem themselves through charitable action.
...The Christmas story is not about how blessed it is to be givers, but about how essential it is to see ourselves as receivers. This strange story . . . tells us of an unimaginable gift from a stranger, a God whom we hardly even knew.
Of course, Christmas is still an appropriate time to express the love of Christ through special giving and acts of compassion. It isn’t the act we must scrutinize, but the motivation and the goal behind it: is it self-esteem that we want to cultivate this time of year, or gratitude for the grace we’ve been shown?
So, this season, as you prepare your gift-giving, focus on what you have received. Let the grace and mercy that God has lavished on you first fill your heart, and then flow through you to others. In so doing, you invite those around you to join in your grateful celebration. Allow yourself to experience the wonder and joy of gratitude in this holy season. Feel what Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the magi, Simeon, and Anna must have felt. Remember that you can give only because you first received. Your gift of time or treasure is merely an extension of God’s gift of love to you.'
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Knowledge
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
"As a rule, he or she who has the most information will have the greatest success in life." - Disraeli
'There was a farmer who posted this sign on the pasture fence: "Trespassers are welcome. Just be sure to cross the field in 9.9 seconds. The bull can make it in ten!" In this fast-moving age of information, it's easy to get left behind. Leaders try to stay ahead of charging bulls by staying alert and by staying informed.
They read constantly. They learn how to pick the meat off an article or a news item and leave the bones. They know what's in the news, and they keep up on trade journals. There's always a book on their nightstand.
They learn while they're on the move. They beg, borrow, or buy tapes of specialists in their area and play them when they're mobile.
They attend seminars and workshops and take every opportunity to learn from the best in their field. They take notes, file their notes, and then utilize them.
Leaders thirst for understanding and insight. But they understand that knowledge is not a pond; it's a river (that they do not hesitate to wade out into).'
Winners stay current.
"As a rule, he or she who has the most information will have the greatest success in life." - Disraeli
'There was a farmer who posted this sign on the pasture fence: "Trespassers are welcome. Just be sure to cross the field in 9.9 seconds. The bull can make it in ten!" In this fast-moving age of information, it's easy to get left behind. Leaders try to stay ahead of charging bulls by staying alert and by staying informed.
They read constantly. They learn how to pick the meat off an article or a news item and leave the bones. They know what's in the news, and they keep up on trade journals. There's always a book on their nightstand.
They learn while they're on the move. They beg, borrow, or buy tapes of specialists in their area and play them when they're mobile.
They attend seminars and workshops and take every opportunity to learn from the best in their field. They take notes, file their notes, and then utilize them.
Leaders thirst for understanding and insight. But they understand that knowledge is not a pond; it's a river (that they do not hesitate to wade out into).'
Winners stay current.
Friday, December 18, 2009
The Power of Serving Others
From the daily devotional Today God Is First (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'There is a Kingdom principle I find few really understand. The principle is this: When you focus on serving others, your need is often met through God's supernatural law of serving.
I've seen this happen so many times. The law of sowing and reaping comes into play in this Kingdom principle:
"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." (2 Cor 9:6-9)
Whenever God calls me to serve another person with my time and resources, I notice how God measures resources back to me from unrelated sources.
We don't serve others to get. However, when you do serve others, there is a Kingdom principle that works on your behalf as fruit of your service. Is there someone you need to serve today?'
Winners serve others.
'There is a Kingdom principle I find few really understand. The principle is this: When you focus on serving others, your need is often met through God's supernatural law of serving.
I've seen this happen so many times. The law of sowing and reaping comes into play in this Kingdom principle:
"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." (2 Cor 9:6-9)
Whenever God calls me to serve another person with my time and resources, I notice how God measures resources back to me from unrelated sources.
We don't serve others to get. However, when you do serve others, there is a Kingdom principle that works on your behalf as fruit of your service. Is there someone you need to serve today?'
Winners serve others.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Go For It!
From the classic bestseller devotional God's Best for My Life, by Lloyd John Ogilvie:
'There are three ways to live. The first is to do our will on our power. That's humanism. The second is to do our will on Christ's power. That's religion. The third is to do Christ's will with Christ's power. That's the abundant life.
Ephesians 5:18 >> "...Be filled with the Spirit."
...launch out into the adventure of the abundant life...Each new possibility or problem presents us with an opportunity to be given fresh power for the immediate situation, circumstance, or relationship.
Today each of us faces tasks which are beyond us. We wonder how we can take what will be thrown to or at us. Don't worry! The Lord never gives us more than He can handle. Our only concern is to find out what He guides and then to step out daringly, knowing that we will have the power we need. He will give us intellectual insight, the right words to say, and the will to do His will. We need not be afraid.
Our confidence is not that the Lord has joined our team, but that we have joined His.' [reflect upon this subtle but critical point!]
Winners are filled with the Spirit!
'There are three ways to live. The first is to do our will on our power. That's humanism. The second is to do our will on Christ's power. That's religion. The third is to do Christ's will with Christ's power. That's the abundant life.
Ephesians 5:18 >> "...Be filled with the Spirit."
...launch out into the adventure of the abundant life...Each new possibility or problem presents us with an opportunity to be given fresh power for the immediate situation, circumstance, or relationship.
Today each of us faces tasks which are beyond us. We wonder how we can take what will be thrown to or at us. Don't worry! The Lord never gives us more than He can handle. Our only concern is to find out what He guides and then to step out daringly, knowing that we will have the power we need. He will give us intellectual insight, the right words to say, and the will to do His will. We need not be afraid.
Our confidence is not that the Lord has joined our team, but that we have joined His.' [reflect upon this subtle but critical point!]
Winners are filled with the Spirit!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Recognizing a Stroke
The following was sent to me from a friend. Since it only takes a moment to read, yet can be so pivotal for saving lives, I share it with you all:
If a stroke victim is treated within the first 3 hours, the effects of the stroke may be totally reversed.
There are 3 simple questions to ask someone who has concerns about maybe having a stroke (the first three letters of the word):
S - Ask the individual to SMILE
T - Ask the individual to TALK - coherently
R - Ask the individual to RAISE BOTH ARMS
If the person cannot do any one of these, stroke is possible and immediately call for medical help.
Also, ask the individual to Stick Out their tongue. If the tongue is crooked, goes to one side or the other, a stroke having occurred is also possible.
Remember, the first 3 hours are critical!
Winners know how to recognize a stroke!
If a stroke victim is treated within the first 3 hours, the effects of the stroke may be totally reversed.
There are 3 simple questions to ask someone who has concerns about maybe having a stroke (the first three letters of the word):
S - Ask the individual to SMILE
T - Ask the individual to TALK - coherently
R - Ask the individual to RAISE BOTH ARMS
If the person cannot do any one of these, stroke is possible and immediately call for medical help.
Also, ask the individual to Stick Out their tongue. If the tongue is crooked, goes to one side or the other, a stroke having occurred is also possible.
Remember, the first 3 hours are critical!
Winners know how to recognize a stroke!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Talents Used for God
From the daily devotional God's Way Day by Day, by Charles F. Stanley:
'God desires for us to become all that He created us to be. He expects us to develop and then to use all of the talents, abilities, and gifts that He has placed within us. He intends for us to maximize our potential - to become the man or woman He created us to be.
God's plan is for us to accomplish all of the work that He sets before us. He does not call us to unfinished tasks or halfhearted ventures. When God places a challenge, opportunity, or goal in front of us, He expects us to pursue it with our whole heart, mind, and soul and to experience a measure of success in accomplishing what He has called us to do.'
Winners maximize their potential.
'God desires for us to become all that He created us to be. He expects us to develop and then to use all of the talents, abilities, and gifts that He has placed within us. He intends for us to maximize our potential - to become the man or woman He created us to be.
God's plan is for us to accomplish all of the work that He sets before us. He does not call us to unfinished tasks or halfhearted ventures. When God places a challenge, opportunity, or goal in front of us, He expects us to pursue it with our whole heart, mind, and soul and to experience a measure of success in accomplishing what He has called us to do.'
Winners maximize their potential.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Transparency
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
'Good leaders are not afraid to admit weakness. In fact, they honestly examine themselves in order to identify areas of need. In being transparent about themselves, they can focus on turning their weaknesses into strengths.
Effective leaders don't have to be right all the time. They're not control freaks. They're humble enough to acknowledge their achievements and to admit when they've been a part of the problem rather than the solution.
Effective leaders are willing to acknowledge the things they don't know. In today's highly evolving society, precepts and methods change almost daily. Leaders try to swim in the currents of that ever-changing technology.
Also, effective leaders are willing to acknowledge the things they can't do. They don't fear incompetence; they just fight it. They are constantly developing their skills and creating new solutions to old problems.
Effective leaders aren't afraid to ask for help. By doing so, they not only open the door to self-improvement, but they also gain personal strength.
Leaders live in the construction zone.'
'Good leaders are not afraid to admit weakness. In fact, they honestly examine themselves in order to identify areas of need. In being transparent about themselves, they can focus on turning their weaknesses into strengths.
Effective leaders don't have to be right all the time. They're not control freaks. They're humble enough to acknowledge their achievements and to admit when they've been a part of the problem rather than the solution.
Effective leaders are willing to acknowledge the things they don't know. In today's highly evolving society, precepts and methods change almost daily. Leaders try to swim in the currents of that ever-changing technology.
Also, effective leaders are willing to acknowledge the things they can't do. They don't fear incompetence; they just fight it. They are constantly developing their skills and creating new solutions to old problems.
Effective leaders aren't afraid to ask for help. By doing so, they not only open the door to self-improvement, but they also gain personal strength.
Leaders live in the construction zone.'
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Know Your God
From the In Touch devotionals (http://www.intouch.org/):
'Throughout the world, and even within the church, one can find a wide variety of beliefs about God. To avoid confusion and deception, we need to know a few essential truths about the Lord.
The inerrancy of the Bible. Unless a person has a firm belief in this doctrine, all of his ideas about the Lord will be subjective. Scripture is God's thoughts written without error by men who were governed by the Holy Spirit. Fulfilled prophecy is proof that this book is never wrong (Isaiah 48:3).
An accurate understanding of God. The Lord is one divine Being expressed in three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are equal in every way, but their jobs differ. Think of the Father as the initiator, the Son as the implementer, and the Spirit as the energizer. All three were involved in creation as well as the plan of salvation.
The Son, who existed in eternity past, came to earth by being born of a virgin. He is the God-man, having added humanity to His deity. He lived a perfect life, died a sacrificial death for our sins, rose bodily from the grave, and ascended to the Father in heaven.
The Holy Spirit is our power source. He indwells every believer in Christ, transforming character, revealing truth, and enabling obedience to God.
Our Creator wants us to know Him. Isn't that amazing?
He shares His thoughts with us and invites us to enjoy an intimate relationship with Him.
What all of us need to realize is that humans are a lot more like sheep than we care to admit. In this life, we don't really know where we're going, even when the landscape looks familiar. But the Shepherd has our journey perfectly planned.'
Winners keep within the range of His voice instead of straying into pastures that 'look' green and tasty.
'Every day we have the privilege of opening His Word and having a heart-to-heart conversation with our loving God. He's waiting for you. Join Him today.'
'Throughout the world, and even within the church, one can find a wide variety of beliefs about God. To avoid confusion and deception, we need to know a few essential truths about the Lord.
The inerrancy of the Bible. Unless a person has a firm belief in this doctrine, all of his ideas about the Lord will be subjective. Scripture is God's thoughts written without error by men who were governed by the Holy Spirit. Fulfilled prophecy is proof that this book is never wrong (Isaiah 48:3).
An accurate understanding of God. The Lord is one divine Being expressed in three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are equal in every way, but their jobs differ. Think of the Father as the initiator, the Son as the implementer, and the Spirit as the energizer. All three were involved in creation as well as the plan of salvation.
The Son, who existed in eternity past, came to earth by being born of a virgin. He is the God-man, having added humanity to His deity. He lived a perfect life, died a sacrificial death for our sins, rose bodily from the grave, and ascended to the Father in heaven.
The Holy Spirit is our power source. He indwells every believer in Christ, transforming character, revealing truth, and enabling obedience to God.
Our Creator wants us to know Him. Isn't that amazing?
He shares His thoughts with us and invites us to enjoy an intimate relationship with Him.
What all of us need to realize is that humans are a lot more like sheep than we care to admit. In this life, we don't really know where we're going, even when the landscape looks familiar. But the Shepherd has our journey perfectly planned.'
Winners keep within the range of His voice instead of straying into pastures that 'look' green and tasty.
'Every day we have the privilege of opening His Word and having a heart-to-heart conversation with our loving God. He's waiting for you. Join Him today.'
Friday, December 11, 2009
No Manna Stores
From the daily devotional Today God Is First (http://www.todaygodisfirst.com/):
'When God took the nation of Israel through the desert, there was one thing the people simply could not do outside of God alone: They could not provide for themselves. They could not plant. They could not harvest. They could not manufacture. It was a place and time where nothing but complete dependence was the rule.
God gave manna one day at a time. The manna spoiled the day after, so they could never store it. They could not go to the manna store to get more. They couldn't start a manna business to capitalize on all the free manna....when God takes you to the desert, there is nothing you can do to change it until He wants to change it, so do not strive against God in the desert place.
Has God taken you into the desert? Is He forcing you to depend wholly on His provision?
Pray that you will learn the lessons God desires you to learn in the desert place. He will bring you out when He has accomplished all He wants to build in your life. Remember that it is a season; you will not be there forever. He understands that no one can stay in a desolate place forever.'
'When God took the nation of Israel through the desert, there was one thing the people simply could not do outside of God alone: They could not provide for themselves. They could not plant. They could not harvest. They could not manufacture. It was a place and time where nothing but complete dependence was the rule.
God gave manna one day at a time. The manna spoiled the day after, so they could never store it. They could not go to the manna store to get more. They couldn't start a manna business to capitalize on all the free manna....when God takes you to the desert, there is nothing you can do to change it until He wants to change it, so do not strive against God in the desert place.
Has God taken you into the desert? Is He forcing you to depend wholly on His provision?
Pray that you will learn the lessons God desires you to learn in the desert place. He will bring you out when He has accomplished all He wants to build in your life. Remember that it is a season; you will not be there forever. He understands that no one can stay in a desolate place forever.'
Thursday, December 10, 2009
The First Step Is the Hardest
From the bestseller devotional classic God's Best For My Life, by Lloyd John Ogilvie:
'...The Lord wants to do tremendous things in our lives, but He graciously gives us the opportunity of participating. He wants to know how serious we are about crossing our Jordan River and claiming the promised land He has prepared.
There is no limit to what He can do if we will dare to get the soles of our feet wet.
Often the first step to realizing a miracle of God in our lives is to ask for guidance, receive a promise, and then act as if it were ours...There will be no miracle until we get the soles of our feet wet.
Do it today!'
'...The Lord wants to do tremendous things in our lives, but He graciously gives us the opportunity of participating. He wants to know how serious we are about crossing our Jordan River and claiming the promised land He has prepared.
There is no limit to what He can do if we will dare to get the soles of our feet wet.
Often the first step to realizing a miracle of God in our lives is to ask for guidance, receive a promise, and then act as if it were ours...There will be no miracle until we get the soles of our feet wet.
Do it today!'
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Persistence
From the book The Best of Success, compiled by Wynn Davis:
Persistence - The power to hold on in spite of everything, the power to endure - this is the winner's quality. Persistence is the ability to face defeat again and again without giving up -- to push on in the face of great difficulty, knowing that victory can be yours. Persistence means taking pains to overcome every obstacle, and to do what's necessary to reach your goals.
"I do not think there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature."
- John D. Rockefeller
"History has demonstrated that the most notable winners usually encountered heartbreaking obstacles before they triumphed. They won because they refused to become discouraged by their defeats."
- B.C. Forbes
"Most people give up just when they're about to achieve success. They quit on the one yard line. They give up at the last minute of the game one foot from a winning touchdown."
- H. Ross Perot
"Success is failure turned inside out,
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far.
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit,
It's when things seem worse,
That you must not quit."
- Unknown
"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
- Calvin Coolidge
Winners master persistence.
Persistence - The power to hold on in spite of everything, the power to endure - this is the winner's quality. Persistence is the ability to face defeat again and again without giving up -- to push on in the face of great difficulty, knowing that victory can be yours. Persistence means taking pains to overcome every obstacle, and to do what's necessary to reach your goals.
"I do not think there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature."
- John D. Rockefeller
"History has demonstrated that the most notable winners usually encountered heartbreaking obstacles before they triumphed. They won because they refused to become discouraged by their defeats."
- B.C. Forbes
"Most people give up just when they're about to achieve success. They quit on the one yard line. They give up at the last minute of the game one foot from a winning touchdown."
- H. Ross Perot
"Success is failure turned inside out,
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far.
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit,
It's when things seem worse,
That you must not quit."
- Unknown
"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
- Calvin Coolidge
Winners master persistence.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
The Impact of a Good Friend
From the devotional book God's Way Day by Day, by Charles Stanley:
'A good friend builds us up so that we want to become and to accomplish all that our friend believes we can be and do....
A good friend can help you become more productive, have a higher energy level, and have more enthusiasm for life. A good friend gives you the confidence to take godly risks, embrace new challenges, and move to the next level in your work or hobby.
When you know that someone loves you and is standing with you and believes in you...you are far more willing to step out in faith and develop your full potential physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. A good friend gives you an abiding confidence.'
Winners work at cultivating good friends.
'A good friend builds us up so that we want to become and to accomplish all that our friend believes we can be and do....
A good friend can help you become more productive, have a higher energy level, and have more enthusiasm for life. A good friend gives you the confidence to take godly risks, embrace new challenges, and move to the next level in your work or hobby.
When you know that someone loves you and is standing with you and believes in you...you are far more willing to step out in faith and develop your full potential physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. A good friend gives you an abiding confidence.'
Winners work at cultivating good friends.
Monday, December 7, 2009
More Winning Quotes
"Next to knowing when to seize an opportunity, the most important thing in life is to know when to forego an advantage."
- Benjamn Disraeli
"Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get - only with what you are expecting to give - which is everything."
- Katharine Hepburn
"The thing you really believe in always happens...and the belief in a thing makes it happen."
- Frank Lloyd Wright
- Benjamn Disraeli
"Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get - only with what you are expecting to give - which is everything."
- Katharine Hepburn
"The thing you really believe in always happens...and the belief in a thing makes it happen."
- Frank Lloyd Wright
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Using Time Well
From the In Touch devotionals (http://www.intouch.org/):
'...the Lord gives us resources and abilities, and He desires that we use them well. One such gift is time.
In order to manage our days effectively, we should continually review them: What activities did we choose? How long did each one take? What were the results? This discipline will reveal what is most important to us.
In looking closely at our assessments, we can determine what drives our decisions about how to use time. Some people merely respond to circumstances for a majority of their day. They jump from one thing to the next, answering phone calls, reorganizing shelves, or doing anything that appears in their world at the moment. But this style of living misses the mark.
Other people spend their time according to their desires. They want to relax, so they get home and watch television for the evening. Or they love to hunt, so they use their time to research equipment and locate wildlife in the forest. Desires are not bad, but they should not drive the bulk of our actions.
Thankfully, there are also people who live according to what they deem important. Loving God and serving others, for instance, are two biblical values that should, ideally, determine what we do with our time.
If you itemize your activities and their time consumption over the course of a week, you might be surprised at the dominating events. Each moment is a gift, so set aside a few minutes each evening to plan. Then revisit the way you spent the last 24 hours.'
Winners live purposefully.
'...the Lord gives us resources and abilities, and He desires that we use them well. One such gift is time.
In order to manage our days effectively, we should continually review them: What activities did we choose? How long did each one take? What were the results? This discipline will reveal what is most important to us.
In looking closely at our assessments, we can determine what drives our decisions about how to use time. Some people merely respond to circumstances for a majority of their day. They jump from one thing to the next, answering phone calls, reorganizing shelves, or doing anything that appears in their world at the moment. But this style of living misses the mark.
Other people spend their time according to their desires. They want to relax, so they get home and watch television for the evening. Or they love to hunt, so they use their time to research equipment and locate wildlife in the forest. Desires are not bad, but they should not drive the bulk of our actions.
Thankfully, there are also people who live according to what they deem important. Loving God and serving others, for instance, are two biblical values that should, ideally, determine what we do with our time.
If you itemize your activities and their time consumption over the course of a week, you might be surprised at the dominating events. Each moment is a gift, so set aside a few minutes each evening to plan. Then revisit the way you spent the last 24 hours.'
Winners live purposefully.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Caring
From the book Minute Motivators for Leaders, by Stan Toler:
'Leaders take a genuine interest in their followers. For a good leader, building up the team is high on the agenda. Next to spiritual commitments, a commitment to others is a primary leadership quality. Wisdom and skill are necessary, but without an ability to relate to others in a caring way, the leader's impact will be insignificant. Leaders care about the concerns of others.
They care about the personal welfare of their associates and relate to them on a personal level. They not only know their names, they know their likes and dislikes. They know their hobbies. They know where they came from and where they're going; they know their background; and they know as much about their future plans as they possibly can.
They realize that each of their associates has an extended family. And that extended family has achievements or setbacks that will directly affect the attitude of the associate. By expressing an interest in the extended family, the leader expresses a personal concern that ties him or her to the team member.
Leaders like people.
"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
- Howard Hendricks
Winners really care about people.
'Leaders take a genuine interest in their followers. For a good leader, building up the team is high on the agenda. Next to spiritual commitments, a commitment to others is a primary leadership quality. Wisdom and skill are necessary, but without an ability to relate to others in a caring way, the leader's impact will be insignificant. Leaders care about the concerns of others.
They care about the personal welfare of their associates and relate to them on a personal level. They not only know their names, they know their likes and dislikes. They know their hobbies. They know where they came from and where they're going; they know their background; and they know as much about their future plans as they possibly can.
They realize that each of their associates has an extended family. And that extended family has achievements or setbacks that will directly affect the attitude of the associate. By expressing an interest in the extended family, the leader expresses a personal concern that ties him or her to the team member.
Leaders like people.
"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
- Howard Hendricks
Winners really care about people.
Friday, December 4, 2009
More Winning Quotes
"The human contribution is the essential ingredient. It is only in the giving of oneself to others that we truly live."
- Ethel Percy Andrus
"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat."
- Theodore Roosevelt
"The secret of a leader lies in the tests he has faced over the whole course of his life and the habit of action he develops in meeting those tests."
- Gail Sheehy
- Ethel Percy Andrus
"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat."
- Theodore Roosevelt
"The secret of a leader lies in the tests he has faced over the whole course of his life and the habit of action he develops in meeting those tests."
- Gail Sheehy
Thursday, December 3, 2009
God's Best Enables Our Best
From the bestseller devotional classic God's Best for My Life, by Lloyd John Ogilvie:
'There is a powerful story told of Leonardo da Vinci. One day in his studio he started work on a large canvas. He labored on it, choosing the subject carefully, arranging the perspective, sketching the outline, applying the colors, and developing the background. Then for some unknown reason he stopped, with the painting still unfinished. He called one of his students and asked him to finish it. The student was flabbergasted. How could he finish a painting by one of the world's truly great masters?
He protested his inadequacy and insufficiency for so challenging a task. But the great artist silenced him: "Will not what I have done inspire you to do your best?" he asked.
That's really Jesus' question, isn't it? He began it all 2000 years ago. His life, message, death, resurrection, and living presence started the great painting of the redemption of the world. He has given us the task to finish the painting. But there's a difference. Da Vinci left his student alone; Jesus never does that. He has given us the color palette, and He whispers his guiding insight to us at each uncertain stroke.'
'There is a powerful story told of Leonardo da Vinci. One day in his studio he started work on a large canvas. He labored on it, choosing the subject carefully, arranging the perspective, sketching the outline, applying the colors, and developing the background. Then for some unknown reason he stopped, with the painting still unfinished. He called one of his students and asked him to finish it. The student was flabbergasted. How could he finish a painting by one of the world's truly great masters?
He protested his inadequacy and insufficiency for so challenging a task. But the great artist silenced him: "Will not what I have done inspire you to do your best?" he asked.
That's really Jesus' question, isn't it? He began it all 2000 years ago. His life, message, death, resurrection, and living presence started the great painting of the redemption of the world. He has given us the task to finish the painting. But there's a difference. Da Vinci left his student alone; Jesus never does that. He has given us the color palette, and He whispers his guiding insight to us at each uncertain stroke.'
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Imagination
From the book The Best of Success, compiled by Wynn Davis:
Imagination - Seeing all possibilities, seeing all that can be done, and how it can be done, marks the power of imagination. Your imagination stands as your own personal laboratory. Here you can rehearse the possibilities, map out plans, and visualize overcoming obstacles. Imagination turns possibilities into reality.
"The great successful men of the world have used their imagination...they think ahead and create their mental picture, and then go to work materializing that picture in all its details, filling in here, adding a little there, altering this a bit and that a bit, but steadily building - steadily building."
- Robert Collier
"For imagination sets the goal 'picture' which our automatic mechanism works on. We act, or fail to act, not because of 'will', as is so commonly believed, but because of imagination."
- Maxwell Maltz
"The entrepreneur is essentially a visualizer and an actualizer...He can visualize something, and when he visualizes it he sees exactly how to make it happen."
- Robert L. Schwartz
Winners become as great as their dominant aspiration.
Imagination - Seeing all possibilities, seeing all that can be done, and how it can be done, marks the power of imagination. Your imagination stands as your own personal laboratory. Here you can rehearse the possibilities, map out plans, and visualize overcoming obstacles. Imagination turns possibilities into reality.
"The great successful men of the world have used their imagination...they think ahead and create their mental picture, and then go to work materializing that picture in all its details, filling in here, adding a little there, altering this a bit and that a bit, but steadily building - steadily building."
- Robert Collier
"For imagination sets the goal 'picture' which our automatic mechanism works on. We act, or fail to act, not because of 'will', as is so commonly believed, but because of imagination."
- Maxwell Maltz
"The entrepreneur is essentially a visualizer and an actualizer...He can visualize something, and when he visualizes it he sees exactly how to make it happen."
- Robert L. Schwartz
Winners become as great as their dominant aspiration.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Willing to Change
From the God's Way Day by Day devotional, by Charles Stanley:
'God moves us from place to place, from situation to situation, from experience to experience, to "grow us up" so He can use us more.
As long as we are willing to yield to His methods and are willing to grow and change, He will find greater and greater ways to use the talents and abilities that He gave us at our birth, as well as the spiritual gifts and potential in Christ that He gave us at our spiritual birth.
God is working and waiting and watching, always in the process of wooing His children to Himself and of preparing us to receive what He has already prepared for us.'
Isn't it great to know that God has plans for you?! What would you be willing to do to have those plans revealed? What's stopping you?
'God moves us from place to place, from situation to situation, from experience to experience, to "grow us up" so He can use us more.
As long as we are willing to yield to His methods and are willing to grow and change, He will find greater and greater ways to use the talents and abilities that He gave us at our birth, as well as the spiritual gifts and potential in Christ that He gave us at our spiritual birth.
God is working and waiting and watching, always in the process of wooing His children to Himself and of preparing us to receive what He has already prepared for us.'
Isn't it great to know that God has plans for you?! What would you be willing to do to have those plans revealed? What's stopping you?
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