From the Experiencing God Day by Day devotionals:
"Meditation means 'to think deeply and continuously about something.' For a Christian, this means remaining in the presence of God and pondering each truth He reveals about Himself until it becomes real and personal in your life. This takes time.
When you meditate on Scriptures, the truth moves from your head to your heart and results in obedience. When you know God's Word in your mind but not in your heart, it means that you have learned the principles and concepts and doctrines of God, but you have not come to know Jesus personally.
When God's truth is allowed to touch the deepest corner of your soul, the Holy Spirit will transform you into the image of Jesus Christ. Don't just read your Bible; meditate on God's Word and ask Him to change your heart."
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Getting Refueled
From the Today God Is First devotionals:
"How do you get refueled? When our cars run low on fuel, we simply drop by the local filling station to get more fuel. When our bodies are hungry, we feed them. How do we refuel our spiritual lives? We can learn from the example Jesus modeled in His life.
Jesus had a full day of ministry healing the sick, delivering people from demons and walking to different cities (Mark 1:29-37). The following day it says Jesus got up before the sun rose and went to pray. The disciples were wondering where He was.
When Jesus was on earth, He was fully man. Everything He did was based upon receiving specific directions and power from His father to do them. He was not operating as God, but as a human being with the same limitations you and I have. So, Jesus knew one of the key ways to refuel His mind, body and spirit was by spending time in prayer to His Heavenly Father.
This is a critical discipline for every follower of Jesus if you expect to have power and victory in your Christian walk. We each need to find a solitary place to focus upon the Lord, His Word and His input for our lives.
If this is not a part of your daily experience, why not start tomorrow with a few minutes of focused time of reading and prayer. You will be encouraged with the new spiritual focus you will have by making this a priority."
Friday, July 29, 2011
More Jesus Calling
"When you criticize or complain, you are acting as if you think you could run the world better than I do. From your limited human perspective, it may look as if I'm mismanaging things. But you don't know what I know or see what I see. If I pulled back the curtain to allow you to view the heavenly realms, you would understand much more. However, I have designed you to live by faith, not by sight. I lovingly shield you from knowing the future or seeing into the spirit world. Acknowledge My sovereignty by giving thanks in all circumstances."
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Things That Cannot Be Shaken
From the In Touch devotionals of Dr. Charles Stanley:
"As a rule, people like security. We seek what is comfortable. Yet the reality of our world is that much instability exists. For example, finances, health, and even a country's ability to survive are not guaranteed.
When our foundation is shaken, we often feel overwhelmed. Sometimes Satan causes the difficulty—with God's permission, of course. At other times, challenging circumstances are brought about by the Lord's hand. Regardless of the source, we have the promise in Romans 8:28 that "God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." And in either case, the Almighty's purpose remains: to glorify Himself in our world and in our lives.
There are different reasons the Lord permits turmoil, but for now, let's focus on one: He won't allow anything that enables man to seem self-sufficient in his own eyes. Therefore, God may lovingly allow enough trouble for us to realize our need of Him. Consider the trials the Israelites faced each time they turned away from Jehovah to worship other gods. In many ways, we do the same thing today. Individually, in our churches, and as a nation, we often glorify "gods" like money or status. But the One who created us will not tolerate this.
In our pride, we tend to think we're able to manage without God. But out of love, He may stir up our lives to reveal our dependence upon Him. If you are basing your security on anything except Jesus Christ—even something as seemingly innocent as comfort—it will prove to be sinking sand."
"As a rule, people like security. We seek what is comfortable. Yet the reality of our world is that much instability exists. For example, finances, health, and even a country's ability to survive are not guaranteed.
When our foundation is shaken, we often feel overwhelmed. Sometimes Satan causes the difficulty—with God's permission, of course. At other times, challenging circumstances are brought about by the Lord's hand. Regardless of the source, we have the promise in Romans 8:28 that "God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." And in either case, the Almighty's purpose remains: to glorify Himself in our world and in our lives.
There are different reasons the Lord permits turmoil, but for now, let's focus on one: He won't allow anything that enables man to seem self-sufficient in his own eyes. Therefore, God may lovingly allow enough trouble for us to realize our need of Him. Consider the trials the Israelites faced each time they turned away from Jehovah to worship other gods. In many ways, we do the same thing today. Individually, in our churches, and as a nation, we often glorify "gods" like money or status. But the One who created us will not tolerate this.
In our pride, we tend to think we're able to manage without God. But out of love, He may stir up our lives to reveal our dependence upon Him. If you are basing your security on anything except Jesus Christ—even something as seemingly innocent as comfort—it will prove to be sinking sand."
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
More Winning Quotes
"The metaphysic of Leadership...consists in the passion for purpose, the craving for a goal which characterizes the whole universe in its totality and in its parts, and reaches its highest level in man."
- Charles Henry Brent
"All problems become smaller if you don't dodge them but confront them. Touch a thistle timidly, and it pricks you; grasp it boldly, and its spines crumble."
- William F. Halsey
"In every field of endeavor those who put their hearts in their work are the real leaders."
- Frat
- Charles Henry Brent
"All problems become smaller if you don't dodge them but confront them. Touch a thistle timidly, and it pricks you; grasp it boldly, and its spines crumble."
- William F. Halsey
"In every field of endeavor those who put their hearts in their work are the real leaders."
- Frat
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
More Jesus Calling
"When I give you no special guidance, stay where you are. Concentrate on doing your everyday tasks in awareness of My Presence with you.
This is the secret not only of joyful living but also of victorious living. I designed you to depend on Me moment by moment, recognizing that apart from Me you can do nothing.
Be thankful for quiet days, when nothing special seems to be happening. Instead of being bored by the lack of action, use times of routine to seek My Face."
This is the secret not only of joyful living but also of victorious living. I designed you to depend on Me moment by moment, recognizing that apart from Me you can do nothing.
Be thankful for quiet days, when nothing special seems to be happening. Instead of being bored by the lack of action, use times of routine to seek My Face."
Monday, July 25, 2011
The Power of Patience
From the In Touch devotionals:
"Picture yourself waiting in a checkout line that hasn't moved for ten minutes. Many of us would feel frustrated. We live in a generation that expects instant results.
Everyone struggles with some degree of impatience. We're born with this trait—think about a three-month-old who wants milk in the middle of the night. The inborn reaction is to fuss at the first hint of discomfort and to keep at it until the need is met. Patterns from our old "flesh" nature make this a continual battle for most people, but one that is very worthwhile to fight.
Let's consider the biblical definition of patience. It can mean both longsuffering and perseverance, or not giving up and yielding under pressure. In either case, it reveals itself when we are willing to wait without frustration while suffering or experiencing some strong desire. In other words, we accept difficult situations without giving God deadlines. What's more, patience means accepting what the Lord gives, on His timetable—or what He chooses not to give. This quality results in inner peace and lack of stress. Meanwhile, we should pray, obey, and persist as we seek God's direction.
The danger of impatience is that we might miss the Lord's perfect plan and His blessing. Only when we trust our Father's will and timing can we rest peacefully.
What causes you stress? Carefully examine whether you are taking matters into your own hands or releasing the circumstance to almighty God. Listen to Psalm 37:7, which says, "Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him." Seek His way and His timing. Anything else can be destructive."
"Picture yourself waiting in a checkout line that hasn't moved for ten minutes. Many of us would feel frustrated. We live in a generation that expects instant results.
Everyone struggles with some degree of impatience. We're born with this trait—think about a three-month-old who wants milk in the middle of the night. The inborn reaction is to fuss at the first hint of discomfort and to keep at it until the need is met. Patterns from our old "flesh" nature make this a continual battle for most people, but one that is very worthwhile to fight.
Let's consider the biblical definition of patience. It can mean both longsuffering and perseverance, or not giving up and yielding under pressure. In either case, it reveals itself when we are willing to wait without frustration while suffering or experiencing some strong desire. In other words, we accept difficult situations without giving God deadlines. What's more, patience means accepting what the Lord gives, on His timetable—or what He chooses not to give. This quality results in inner peace and lack of stress. Meanwhile, we should pray, obey, and persist as we seek God's direction.
The danger of impatience is that we might miss the Lord's perfect plan and His blessing. Only when we trust our Father's will and timing can we rest peacefully.
What causes you stress? Carefully examine whether you are taking matters into your own hands or releasing the circumstance to almighty God. Listen to Psalm 37:7, which says, "Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him." Seek His way and His timing. Anything else can be destructive."
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Raising Our Expectations
From Experiencing God Day by Day:
"Too often we settle for much less than what God wants to do through us...when we face difficult situations we begin to qualify our belief in God and lower our expectations of what God will do. It is one thing to believe God could perform a miracle in the Bible, or a thousand years ago, or even in the life of a friend; it is quite another matter to wholeheartedly believe God can do anything He chooses to do in our lives!
When almighty God speaks to us, what we do next proves what we believe about Him, regardless of what we say.
Do you sense there may be far more that God wants to do through your life than what you have been experiencing? Ask God to show you what it is. Then be prepared to respond in faith and obedience to what He tells you."
"Too often we settle for much less than what God wants to do through us...when we face difficult situations we begin to qualify our belief in God and lower our expectations of what God will do. It is one thing to believe God could perform a miracle in the Bible, or a thousand years ago, or even in the life of a friend; it is quite another matter to wholeheartedly believe God can do anything He chooses to do in our lives!
When almighty God speaks to us, what we do next proves what we believe about Him, regardless of what we say.
Do you sense there may be far more that God wants to do through your life than what you have been experiencing? Ask God to show you what it is. Then be prepared to respond in faith and obedience to what He tells you."
Saturday, July 23, 2011
More Winning Quotes
"It is not the ship so much as the skillful sailing that assures the prosperous voyage."
- George William Curtis
"Success is the person who year after year reaches the highest limits in his field."
- Sparky Anderson
"One essential to success is that your desire be an all-obsessing one, your thoughts and aims be coordinated, and your energy be concentrated and applied without letup."
- Claude M. Bristol
- George William Curtis
"Success is the person who year after year reaches the highest limits in his field."
- Sparky Anderson
"One essential to success is that your desire be an all-obsessing one, your thoughts and aims be coordinated, and your energy be concentrated and applied without letup."
- Claude M. Bristol
Friday, July 22, 2011
More Jesus Calling
"People search for life in many wrong ways: chasing after fleeting pleasures, accumulating possessions and wealth, trying to deny the inevitable effects of aging. Meanwhile, I freely offer abundant Life to everyone who turns toward Me.
Learn to take minibreaks from the world, finding a place to be still in My Presence and listen to My voice. Though I pour out blessings upon you always, some of My richest blessings have to be actively sought."
Learn to take minibreaks from the world, finding a place to be still in My Presence and listen to My voice. Though I pour out blessings upon you always, some of My richest blessings have to be actively sought."
Thursday, July 21, 2011
A Balanced Schedule
From the In Touch devotionals (the teaching ministry of Dr. Charles Stanley):
"The Lord wants us to reach our full potential—to become the people He's designed us to be and achieve the tasks He's planned for us to do. In our pressurized society, we need to have balanced schedules if we're going to live according to God's purposes. When any area is out of balance, our relationship with the Lord and others will be affected, diminishing our effectiveness as servants of Christ.
1. Our top priority is spending private time with the Lord each day to develop our relationship with Him and receive guidance.
2. Time with family and friends is also essential because relationships are such an important part of God's plans for our lives.
3. The area in which we are most likely to become imbalanced is our work. Although the Lord doesn't approve of laziness, He doesn't want us to be overly consumed with our careers either.
4. If we are to accomplish the Lord's purposes in our lives, we need to take care of our bodies, allocating adequate time for exercise, rest, and recreation.
5. The Scriptures also clearly command meeting together regularly with other believers for worship (Heb. 10:24-25). While some people have limitations that hinder doing this, most of us have no excuse for being too busy for church.
These general areas all need space in your life, but I cannot tell you how to allocate time for them. The Lord has specific plans for each person, and He is the only one who can accurately direct your schedule. Seek His guidance, listen for His voice, and make the changes He brings to mind."
"The Lord wants us to reach our full potential—to become the people He's designed us to be and achieve the tasks He's planned for us to do. In our pressurized society, we need to have balanced schedules if we're going to live according to God's purposes. When any area is out of balance, our relationship with the Lord and others will be affected, diminishing our effectiveness as servants of Christ.
1. Our top priority is spending private time with the Lord each day to develop our relationship with Him and receive guidance.
2. Time with family and friends is also essential because relationships are such an important part of God's plans for our lives.
3. The area in which we are most likely to become imbalanced is our work. Although the Lord doesn't approve of laziness, He doesn't want us to be overly consumed with our careers either.
4. If we are to accomplish the Lord's purposes in our lives, we need to take care of our bodies, allocating adequate time for exercise, rest, and recreation.
5. The Scriptures also clearly command meeting together regularly with other believers for worship (Heb. 10:24-25). While some people have limitations that hinder doing this, most of us have no excuse for being too busy for church.
These general areas all need space in your life, but I cannot tell you how to allocate time for them. The Lord has specific plans for each person, and He is the only one who can accurately direct your schedule. Seek His guidance, listen for His voice, and make the changes He brings to mind."
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
More Winning Quotes
"Recognition for a job well done is high on the list of motivating influences for all people."
- John M. Wilson
"It is the man who carefully advances step by step, with his mind becoming wider and wider - and progressively better able to grasp any theme or situation - persevering in what he knows to be practical, and concentrating his thoughts upon it, who is bound to succeed in the greatest degree."
- Alexander Graham Bell
"Success doesn't mean the absence of failure; it means the attainment of ultimate objectives. It means winning the war, not every battle."
- Edwin C. Bliss
- John M. Wilson
"It is the man who carefully advances step by step, with his mind becoming wider and wider - and progressively better able to grasp any theme or situation - persevering in what he knows to be practical, and concentrating his thoughts upon it, who is bound to succeed in the greatest degree."
- Alexander Graham Bell
"Success doesn't mean the absence of failure; it means the attainment of ultimate objectives. It means winning the war, not every battle."
- Edwin C. Bliss
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Have a Positive Vision
If you focus on your problems, on what you can't do, or if you think you're already reached your limits, then that image of mediocrity will keep you stuck right where you are.
Adversity is another way to measure the greatness of individuals. A crisis always makes a person stronger.
We produce what we continually keep in front of us. If you keep an image of success in your mind, you're going to move toward success. If you see yourself as barely getting by, your marriage getting worse, your health going downhill, then most likely your life will gravitate toward those negative situations.
Half the things that people do not succeed in are through fear of making the attempt.
Adversity is another way to measure the greatness of individuals. A crisis always makes a person stronger.
We produce what we continually keep in front of us. If you keep an image of success in your mind, you're going to move toward success. If you see yourself as barely getting by, your marriage getting worse, your health going downhill, then most likely your life will gravitate toward those negative situations.
Half the things that people do not succeed in are through fear of making the attempt.
Monday, July 18, 2011
More Jesus Calling
"Make friends with the problems in your life. Though many things feel random and wrong, remember that I am sovereign over everything.
Every problem can teach you something, transforming you little by little into the masterpiece I created you to be. The very same problem can become a stumbling block over which you fall, if you react with distrust and defiance.
The best way to befriend your problems is to thank Me for them. This simple act opens your mind to the possibility of benefits flowing from your difficulties.
I will not necessarily remove your problems, but My wisdom is sufficient to bring good out of every one of them."
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Spiritual Markers
From 'Experiencing God Day by Day':
"Spiritual memory is crucial in the Christian life. Do you vividly recall times when you know God spoke to you? It would be tragic if, in your haste to advance in your Christian faith, you neglected to leave spiritual markers at the key crossroads of your life. Without the help of these markers, you will lose your spiritual bearings.
A spiritual marker identifies a time of decision when you clearly know that God guided you. Can you remember the moment you became a child of God? Were there specific times when He called you to His ways of living? Can you point to times when He clearly guided you in a decision? Were there times when He spoke powerfully to you about a commitment you should make? Keep track of these important moments! Regularly rehearse them and notice the steady progression in the way God has led you. This will help you understand God's activity in your life and give you a sense of direction as you face future decisions."
"Spiritual memory is crucial in the Christian life. Do you vividly recall times when you know God spoke to you? It would be tragic if, in your haste to advance in your Christian faith, you neglected to leave spiritual markers at the key crossroads of your life. Without the help of these markers, you will lose your spiritual bearings.
A spiritual marker identifies a time of decision when you clearly know that God guided you. Can you remember the moment you became a child of God? Were there specific times when He called you to His ways of living? Can you point to times when He clearly guided you in a decision? Were there times when He spoke powerfully to you about a commitment you should make? Keep track of these important moments! Regularly rehearse them and notice the steady progression in the way God has led you. This will help you understand God's activity in your life and give you a sense of direction as you face future decisions."
Saturday, July 16, 2011
More Winning Quotes
"The price of excellence is discipline. The cost of mediocrity is disappointment."
- William Ward
"If you wish others to believe in you, you must first convince them that you believe in them."
- Harvey Mackay
"The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then start on the first one."
- Mark Twain
- William Ward
"If you wish others to believe in you, you must first convince them that you believe in them."
- Harvey Mackay
"The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then start on the first one."
- Mark Twain
Friday, July 15, 2011
The Work-a-holic
From the 'Today God Is First' Devotionals by Os Hillman:
"Living a balanced life is evidence of a Spirit-led life. People work long hours for many reasons which can lead to significant problems in our lives.
One reason people over work is that they often think they must work longer hours to keep up with their workload. This is often the surface reason people give to the question of working long hours. Like any compulsive behavior, there is usually something beneath this behavior. As a former workaholic myself, I can tell you the root of overworking is often 1) a fear of loss, and 2) a need for self-acceptance created by performance.
The fear of loss issue can be a fear of what will happen if we don't work long hours. A fear that there may not be enough money if I don't work long hours can drive us to overwork. Often an inaccurate view of what is enough makes us drive ourselves to greater levels of achievement, believing a financial reward will insure us against potential financial disaster. This usually operates at a subconscious level. When one operates at this level you often find those around them will feel shamed if they do not work at the same level and can be intimidated by the unspoken or spoken directive that long hours are required. This leads to a whole new set of problems.
The second reason people work long hours is their need to gain self-acceptance and esteem from their jobs. It is rewarding to see something come from our efforts. However, when we begin to be driven to work, it becomes an unhealthy condition. We are looking to gain self-esteem needs from our performance instead of being secure in our position in Christ.
So, in order to avoid work becoming an idol and a compulsive behavior, we must maintain a balance that provides time to spend quality time with the Lord, our families and fellow believers. Sometimes the greatest exercise of faith is to work only forty hours a week. This insures that the outcome of our work is dependent upon God, nor our self-effort. "
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Your Lord Precedes You
From 'Experiencing God Day by Day':
"God never sends you into a situation alone. He always goes before His children...He always precedes you in any situation you encounter. God is never caught by surprise by your experience; He has already been there. He is prepared to meet every need because He has gone before you and knows exactly what you will need for your pilgrimage.
Not only does God go before you, but He also stands beside you and behind you, to provide protection and comfort...
God is fully aware of what you are facing, and He is actively responding to your need...."
"God never sends you into a situation alone. He always goes before His children...He always precedes you in any situation you encounter. God is never caught by surprise by your experience; He has already been there. He is prepared to meet every need because He has gone before you and knows exactly what you will need for your pilgrimage.
Not only does God go before you, but He also stands beside you and behind you, to provide protection and comfort...
God is fully aware of what you are facing, and He is actively responding to your need...."
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Effective Time Management
From 'The Effective Executive' by Peter Drucker:
Peter Drucker was a renown management consultant to major corporations and authored many bestselling business books. He suggested three activities that might help busy executives better manage their time.
"First, do not start with the task. Start with your time. Determine where your time is going. Then, attempt to manage that time and cut back unproductive demands on your time. Consolidate your 'discretionary' time into the largest possible continuing time units.
Drucker refers to the second step as time management. After listing the activities to which we devote our time, he suggests that we ask three questions about each of these activities to help us minimize the amount of time we waste: "What would happen if this were not done at all?" And if the answer is, 'Nothing would happen,' then obviously the conclusion is to stop doing it. Next, which of the activities on my time log could be done by somebody else just as well, if not better? What do I do that wastes my time without contributing to my effectiveness?*
Drucker closes by saying 'Know Thyself,' this old prescription for wisdom is impossibly difficult for mortal men. But everyone can follow the injunction 'Know Thy Time' if you want to, and be well on the road toward contribution and effectiveness."Why not evaluate how you are spending your time and ask God how to better use your time.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
More Jesus Calling
From the devotional 'Jesus Calling' by Sarah Young:
"You are on the right path. Listen more to Me, and less to your doubts. I am leading you along the way I designed just for you. Therefore, it is a lonely way, humanly speaking. But I go before you as well as alongside you, so you are never alone. Do not expect anyone to understand fully My ways with you, any more than you can comprehend My dealings with others. I am revealing to you the path of Life day by day, and moment by moment. As I said to My disciple Peter, so I repeat to you: Follow Me."
"You are on the right path. Listen more to Me, and less to your doubts. I am leading you along the way I designed just for you. Therefore, it is a lonely way, humanly speaking. But I go before you as well as alongside you, so you are never alone. Do not expect anyone to understand fully My ways with you, any more than you can comprehend My dealings with others. I am revealing to you the path of Life day by day, and moment by moment. As I said to My disciple Peter, so I repeat to you: Follow Me."
Monday, July 11, 2011
More Winning Quotes
"Organize, agitate, educate, must be our war cry."
- Susan B. Anthony
"Character development is the great, if not the sole, aim of education."
- William O'Shea
"Relationships of trust depend on our willingness to look not only to our own interests, but also the interests of others."
- Peter Farquharson
- Susan B. Anthony
"Character development is the great, if not the sole, aim of education."
- William O'Shea
"Relationships of trust depend on our willingness to look not only to our own interests, but also the interests of others."
- Peter Farquharson
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Encounters with God
More from 'Experiencing God Day by Day' by Henry & Richard Blackaby:
"...Our Lord does not come to us to discover what we would like to accomplish for Him. He encounters us in order to reveal His activity and invite us to become involved in His work. An encounter with God requires us to adjust ourselves to the activity of God that has been revealed. God never communicates with us merely to give us a warm devotional thought for that day. He never speaks to us simply to increase our biblical knowledge. Our Lord has far more significant things to reveal to us than that! When God shows us what He is doing, He invites us to join Him in the work He is doing."
"...Our Lord does not come to us to discover what we would like to accomplish for Him. He encounters us in order to reveal His activity and invite us to become involved in His work. An encounter with God requires us to adjust ourselves to the activity of God that has been revealed. God never communicates with us merely to give us a warm devotional thought for that day. He never speaks to us simply to increase our biblical knowledge. Our Lord has far more significant things to reveal to us than that! When God shows us what He is doing, He invites us to join Him in the work He is doing."
Saturday, July 9, 2011
The Trap of Discouragement
From In Touch, the teaching ministry of Dr. Charles Stanley:
"Do you feel stuck in discouragement? If so, you are not alone.
At some point everyone experiences dashed hopes. Disappointment—an emotional response to a failed expectation—is the normal initial reaction. But allowed to linger, it can turn into discouragement, which hovers like a dense cloud. When that's the case, there is no sense of joy or contentment, no matter what you do.
The circumstances that trigger these emotions may be unavoidable, but the way we respond is a choice. We can either let sadness overwhelm our souls or face the situation with courage and bring it before the One who can help us.
Living in discouragement will divide the mind, making it hard to focus on anything besides our pain. Then as anger becomes habitual, we'll look for someone to blame—whether God, people around us, or ourself.
Frustration that isn't handled well may develop into depression, which in turn can estrange us from others—people do not enjoy the company of someone who's bitter and defeated. This isolation leads to a low self-esteem. Finally, in a fog of discouragement, we can make poor decisions based on crushed emotions instead of truth. Obviously, choosing this self-destructive path is not God's best for our lives.
Though we'll all face disappointment from time to time, believers are not to wallow in it. Instead, God wants us to trust Him with everything—even our unmet expectations and deepest sadnesses. Remember, there is divine purpose for everything He allows to touch His children's lives (Rom. 8:28)."
"Do you feel stuck in discouragement? If so, you are not alone.
At some point everyone experiences dashed hopes. Disappointment—an emotional response to a failed expectation—is the normal initial reaction. But allowed to linger, it can turn into discouragement, which hovers like a dense cloud. When that's the case, there is no sense of joy or contentment, no matter what you do.
The circumstances that trigger these emotions may be unavoidable, but the way we respond is a choice. We can either let sadness overwhelm our souls or face the situation with courage and bring it before the One who can help us.
Living in discouragement will divide the mind, making it hard to focus on anything besides our pain. Then as anger becomes habitual, we'll look for someone to blame—whether God, people around us, or ourself.
Frustration that isn't handled well may develop into depression, which in turn can estrange us from others—people do not enjoy the company of someone who's bitter and defeated. This isolation leads to a low self-esteem. Finally, in a fog of discouragement, we can make poor decisions based on crushed emotions instead of truth. Obviously, choosing this self-destructive path is not God's best for our lives.
Though we'll all face disappointment from time to time, believers are not to wallow in it. Instead, God wants us to trust Him with everything—even our unmet expectations and deepest sadnesses. Remember, there is divine purpose for everything He allows to touch His children's lives (Rom. 8:28)."
Friday, July 8, 2011
More Jesus Calling
From the devotional 'Jesus Calling' by Sarah Young:
"I am able to do far beyond all that you ask or imagine. Come to Me with positive expectations, knowing that there is no limit to what I can accomplish. Ask My Spirit to control your mind, so that you can think great thoughts of Me. Do not be discouraged by the fact that many of your prayers are yet unanswered. Time is a trainer, teaching you to wait upon Me, to trust Me in the dark. The more extreme your circumstances, the more likely you are to see My Power and Glory at work in the situation. Instead of letting difficulties draw you into worrying, try to view them as setting the scene for My glorious intervention. Keep your eyes and your mind wide open to all that I am doing in your life."
"I am able to do far beyond all that you ask or imagine. Come to Me with positive expectations, knowing that there is no limit to what I can accomplish. Ask My Spirit to control your mind, so that you can think great thoughts of Me. Do not be discouraged by the fact that many of your prayers are yet unanswered. Time is a trainer, teaching you to wait upon Me, to trust Me in the dark. The more extreme your circumstances, the more likely you are to see My Power and Glory at work in the situation. Instead of letting difficulties draw you into worrying, try to view them as setting the scene for My glorious intervention. Keep your eyes and your mind wide open to all that I am doing in your life."
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Words of Wisdom
"There are no little events in life, those we think of no consequence may be full of fate, and it is at our risk if we neglect the acquaintances and opportunities that seem to be casually offered, and of small importance."
"Everybody fails. It's part of the process that leads us to maturity and success. Most successful entrepreneurs have been through a number of failures in life, but they usually don't think of their failures as defeats. They think of them as lessons."
"If you've ever been through a major crisis, you probably know what a communications 'black hole' feels like. While you are in the pit of adversity, you feel that your world is collapsing, that your life is out of control - and that God is silent. The silence of a black hole is deafening. You feel isolated and alone. You question God's love, His care for you, and even His existence. But even when it seems that God is distant and silent, He is still there, firm & reliable. GO DEEPER INTO YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AT THIS TIME! You may think that your life is out of control, but in reality God is in control. He has a plan!"
"Everybody fails. It's part of the process that leads us to maturity and success. Most successful entrepreneurs have been through a number of failures in life, but they usually don't think of their failures as defeats. They think of them as lessons."
"If you've ever been through a major crisis, you probably know what a communications 'black hole' feels like. While you are in the pit of adversity, you feel that your world is collapsing, that your life is out of control - and that God is silent. The silence of a black hole is deafening. You feel isolated and alone. You question God's love, His care for you, and even His existence. But even when it seems that God is distant and silent, He is still there, firm & reliable. GO DEEPER INTO YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AT THIS TIME! You may think that your life is out of control, but in reality God is in control. He has a plan!"
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Perseverance for Success
From the 'Today God Is First' devotionals:
"Perseverance is the key to every great accomplishment because nothing of lasting value has ever been achieved without it. Industrialist Henry Ford is one of the great success stories of American history, but he failed in business five times before he succeeded. A Ford Motor Company employee once asked his boss the secret of success, and Henry Ford replied, "When you start a thing, don't quit until you finish it."
The path ahead of you is strewn with obstacles. People will oppose you. There will be financial setbacks, time pressures, illnesses and misfortunes. Some of the biggest obstacles will be inside of you: self-doubt, insecurity, procrastination, and worry. You must give yourself permission to succeed.
When we persevere through adversity, we win the approval of our Lord Jesus Christ, who told the suffering church at Ephesus, "I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. . . . You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary" (Rev. 2:2-3). That, I'm sure, is the same commendation Joseph received from God when he passed the perseverance test.
Perseverance is a refusal to quit. It's falling down 100 times and getting back up 101 times. We need to remember that perseverance is not a matter of forcing doors to open; it's standing in front of the doors as long as it takes before God chooses to open them.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. The race doesn't go to the swiftest, but to those who don't give up. We need endurance in order to deal with the stress of adversity. We must maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. People give up or give out when they feel depleted - when they physically, emotionally and spiritually run out of gas.
When going through adversity, watch out for pessimists, blamers and toxic personalities. Beware of people who try to talk you out of your dreams and goals. Spend time with optimists and encouragers. Seek out people of faith.
Persevere to the end."
"Perseverance is the key to every great accomplishment because nothing of lasting value has ever been achieved without it. Industrialist Henry Ford is one of the great success stories of American history, but he failed in business five times before he succeeded. A Ford Motor Company employee once asked his boss the secret of success, and Henry Ford replied, "When you start a thing, don't quit until you finish it."
The path ahead of you is strewn with obstacles. People will oppose you. There will be financial setbacks, time pressures, illnesses and misfortunes. Some of the biggest obstacles will be inside of you: self-doubt, insecurity, procrastination, and worry. You must give yourself permission to succeed.
When we persevere through adversity, we win the approval of our Lord Jesus Christ, who told the suffering church at Ephesus, "I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. . . . You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary" (Rev. 2:2-3). That, I'm sure, is the same commendation Joseph received from God when he passed the perseverance test.
Perseverance is a refusal to quit. It's falling down 100 times and getting back up 101 times. We need to remember that perseverance is not a matter of forcing doors to open; it's standing in front of the doors as long as it takes before God chooses to open them.
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. The race doesn't go to the swiftest, but to those who don't give up. We need endurance in order to deal with the stress of adversity. We must maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. People give up or give out when they feel depleted - when they physically, emotionally and spiritually run out of gas.
When going through adversity, watch out for pessimists, blamers and toxic personalities. Beware of people who try to talk you out of your dreams and goals. Spend time with optimists and encouragers. Seek out people of faith.
Persevere to the end."
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Anxious for Nothing
From 'Experiencing God Day by Day' by Henry & Richard Blackaby:
Philippians 4:6 >> Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
"Don't be anxious! Paul said there is nothing that should cause a child of God to worry.
God will not necessarily take your problems away, but He will carry the load for you. He wants you to experience His peace, which is beyond human comprehension...This peace is not just for those who "handle stress well"; it is for everyone!
God's Word clearly indicates that there is nothing you can face that is too difficult, too troubling, or too fearful for God. No matter what your circumstances are, turn your anxiety over to God and let His perfect peace guard your heart."
Philippians 4:6 >> Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
"Don't be anxious! Paul said there is nothing that should cause a child of God to worry.
God will not necessarily take your problems away, but He will carry the load for you. He wants you to experience His peace, which is beyond human comprehension...This peace is not just for those who "handle stress well"; it is for everyone!
God's Word clearly indicates that there is nothing you can face that is too difficult, too troubling, or too fearful for God. No matter what your circumstances are, turn your anxiety over to God and let His perfect peace guard your heart."
Monday, July 4, 2011
The Principle of the Path
One of my favorite authors is Andy Stanley - he's a great communicator. From his book 'The Principle of the Path':
"Direction - not intention - determines our destination.
The direction you are currently traveling - relationally, financially, spiritually, and the list goes on and on - will determine where you end up in each of those respective arenas. This is true regardless of your goals, your dreams, your wishes, or your wants. The principle of the path trumps all those things. Your current direction will determine your destination. And like every principle, you can leverage this one to your advantage or ignore it to your disadvantage.
...the principle of the path governs all aspects of life; including dating, marriage, child-raising, career, finances, health - you name it. Direction - not intentions, hopes, dreams, prayers, beliefs, intellect, or education - determines destination."
I'll share more from this insightful book in the future.
Happy 4th of July!
"Direction - not intention - determines our destination.
The direction you are currently traveling - relationally, financially, spiritually, and the list goes on and on - will determine where you end up in each of those respective arenas. This is true regardless of your goals, your dreams, your wishes, or your wants. The principle of the path trumps all those things. Your current direction will determine your destination. And like every principle, you can leverage this one to your advantage or ignore it to your disadvantage.
...the principle of the path governs all aspects of life; including dating, marriage, child-raising, career, finances, health - you name it. Direction - not intentions, hopes, dreams, prayers, beliefs, intellect, or education - determines destination."
I'll share more from this insightful book in the future.
Happy 4th of July!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Jesus Calling
From the great devotional book 'Jesus Calling' by Sarah Young (purposely written from the 'Jesus speaking' perspective) >>
"Come to Me with a teachable spirit, eager to be changed. A close walk with Me is a life of continual newness. Do not cling to old ways...your journey with Me involves being transformed by the renewing of your mind...be aware that I am fully attentive to you. I see you with a steady eye, because My attention span is infinite. I know and understand you completely; My thoughts embrace you in everlasting Love. I also know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Give yourself fully to this adventure of increasing attentiveness to My Presence."
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Great Quotes
"If there is no struggle there is no progress. Those who profess to favor freedom and yet deprecate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground, they want rain without thunder and lightning."
- Frederick Douglass
"Often greater risk is involved in postponement than in making a wrong decision."
- Harry Hopf
"Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun."
- Mary Lou Cook
- Frederick Douglass
"Often greater risk is involved in postponement than in making a wrong decision."
- Harry Hopf
"Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun."
- Mary Lou Cook
Friday, July 1, 2011
The Return of The Winning Wei
Greetings everyone! After spending extended time overseas - where there was no access to this blog - I am back in the USA and overjoyed to be able to add new daily entries to this inspirational blog. I hope you find real motivational value in what you read here. So let's get started:
From 'Experiencing God Day By Day' by Henry Blackaby & Richard Blackaby:
Firmly Planted
"How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path of sinners, or join a group of mockers!
Instead, his delight is in the Lord's instruction,
and he meditates on it day and night.
He is like a tree planted beside streams of water
that bears it fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers." -- Psalm 1:1-3
Simply knowing about the truths of God does not mean that they have become a part of your life. Here is the important question: What are you doing with the word of God?
If you seek your counsel from ungodly persons, you will find yourself moving away from the direction God's Word commands. If you intentionally seek out sinners as your companions, they will lead you down paths that take you far from God. If you choose to join those who are scornful, you will eventually become cynical.
If you allow God to implement His Word in your life, others will draw encouragement from you.
From 'Experiencing God Day By Day' by Henry Blackaby & Richard Blackaby:
Firmly Planted
"How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path of sinners, or join a group of mockers!
Instead, his delight is in the Lord's instruction,
and he meditates on it day and night.
He is like a tree planted beside streams of water
that bears it fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers." -- Psalm 1:1-3
Simply knowing about the truths of God does not mean that they have become a part of your life. Here is the important question: What are you doing with the word of God?
If you seek your counsel from ungodly persons, you will find yourself moving away from the direction God's Word commands. If you intentionally seek out sinners as your companions, they will lead you down paths that take you far from God. If you choose to join those who are scornful, you will eventually become cynical.
If you allow God to implement His Word in your life, others will draw encouragement from you.
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