Confession: I am a self-proclaimed news junkie (Fox news, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Mark Levin). I don't watch any sitcoms on a regular basis and game shows do absolutely nothing for me, but I am hooked on news. I watch Fox and Friends in the morning, listen to Rush from 12 to 3 (best 3 hours on the radio, just ask him) and follow it up with Sean Hannity on the radio. My evening ritual is O'Reiley and Hannity again, this time in living color! What can I say? I'm hooked.
My online reading is news centered, too. American Thinker and the Daily Caller are my primary sources when searching the web but I like to jump around to all sorts of outlets to see opposing viewpoints. I used to buy the USA today but why waste the money? They never covered true news and they charged for it to boot. No thanks. I'll search the web instead.
But web searcher beware. And cell phone user, too, for that matter. If you have been following the news, or simply flipping through channels on the TV, then you are probably aware of the fact that you are being watched by the government.
This isn't really all that shocking. Google knows how to target its users for advertising. Facebook does the same. AT&T can pull up your call records. So can Verizon, TMobile, and Sprint. Why should we believe that the government couldn't get their hands on all that information? Couple that breaking news with the ongoing scandal of the IRS targeting certain political groups because of their beliefs and you have a government on an out of control power spree. Again, are we surprised?
Many Americans are acting like this is a new revelation and they now "fear" their government. Since September 11, 2001 Americans have feared terrorism. It had existed before that fateful day but we hadn't been met with its evil in such a public and devastating way. Ever since that day our country has lived in the shadow of the possibility of another attack. We take our shoes off at airports, put our liquids in little ziplock bags and endure harmful X-rays all in the name of "security." We have let our fear scare us into altering our way of living and viewing the world.
Now we have another fear to add to the list: fear of our government. The news of our computers and phones being watched has cut to the core of American life: our privacy. This is something so fundamental. We would like to believe that what we do in the comfort of our own homes is only ours to know. But that is not so.
How will we respond to this news? Will we cower in fear? Limit our cell phone use? Clear our internet history at the end of each search? Avoid searching for conservative rallies and pro-life groups? Will we allow fear to control us and limit us?
We should never let fear drive our actions or cause us to live with anxiety and stress. God sent his son Jesus Christ to take away this fear. He is the King of this world, he always has been and always will be. He rules on his thrown for all eternity. The nations of this world are fleeting and temporary, but God's Kingdom is eternal. It is never ending. Our home is not here, on this earth, it is in the eternal Kingdom. We are aliens in this world, just strangers passing through. So, why fear what this world can do to us? If God is for us, who can be against us?
If you watch the news and get a queazy stomach and become filled with worry, lift your head, take heart, you have an eternal home ahead! To let fear of this world rule your thoughts and emotions is short sighted. Have you forgotten that this life is only a blink of an eye? Just think of where you will spend eternity. Think of who you will spend eternity with: the great and mighty King, the creator of the heavens and the earth, your perfect Savior.
Our government is certainly out of control. Terrorists really do exist and want to bring harm to Americans and all those who hold religious beliefs different from their own. These are true threats but they are not to be feared. Instead, God is to be trusted. God is to be praised. Our eyes need not be focused on the evil of this world and what it can do to us, but instead, we should focus on hearts and minds on the true ruler of this world. He is almighty in power, saving us for eternity and providing security for our souls here on earth.
Who then shall we fear?
Monday, June 10, 2013
Jesus behind the wheel
Have you ever known someone who is quite simply a terrible driver? Now I know what any red blooded male would say: "Yes, every woman I've ever seen behind the wheel of a vehicle." But I'm not talking about the mythical gender gap in driving ability; I'm talking about individuals who are oblivious and reckless without even knowing it. These are the kinds of drivers that scare their passengers into silence and cause them to grasp with all their might the safety bar over head or the grip next to the door handle. Their knuckles go white and all the color drains from their cheeks, yet the driver is clueless. Does anyone in particular come to mind?
I know a few of these terrible drivers who are completely ignorant of the danger they pose to themselves and every other person on the road. I won't name names. That would be gossipy. But I know the feeling of riding shotgun next to them and it isn't a peaceful experience. It is stressful and anxiety producing. If you try to comment on maybe taking the next bend a bit slower or looking up from the map to pay attention to the road, this kind of driver blows off your suggestion as pure silliness. They know what they're doing! They have been driving for years, longer then you've been alive. Sound familiar? On one hand you want them to learn the error of their ways and become a more prudent driver; but on the other hand you don't want any harm to come on them, so you just silently pray that no small children are playing anywhere near the street.
Today I was driving along listening to the radio when the song "Jesus Take the Wheel" came on the station. I love this song and preceded to belt it out with Carrie Underwood. It was our own private duet and I must say I wasn't sounding too shabby! While I was emoting with each stanza I was struck by the words I was singing. I know practically every word by heart and have even sang this song in church, so the lyrics are nothing new to me. Still, I was struck by the cry of the heart to have Jesus truly take over.
You and I often go through life like that crazy driver, not knowing that we are terribly out of control and in need of guidance. We think we have our lives under control. But we aren't the one's who are supposed to be in control. Jesus is supposed to be behind the wheel. We are foolish and misguided if we believe we are the best masters of our fate and the most qualified to be driving the car that is going to get us there.
You and I are terrible drivers of our lives. We gossip, criticize, hurt people's feeling, lie and make a host of other sins. Our hearts our prone to wonder and our actions are prone to evil. And we think we should be running our own show?
We have a Savior in Heaven who is free of all our faults. He doesn't sin. He doesn't hurt people or forget things or make mistakes. Period, end of story. He is perfection. And guess what... HE wants to run our lives! Isn't that an awesome proposition? The perfect Savior, who loves without conditions and has never committed a single sin wants to be the driver of our car. This is an unbelievable offer. All he asks is that we hand over the keys. How can we expect the perfection he can deliver if we are still grasping the steering wheel? He wants us to get in the back; release control of the wheel, the pedals, the locks and settings. He wants us to sit back and enjoy the ride without having to grip the safety bar or close our eyes our of fear for the next bend. He wants us to relax in the safety only he can provide.
You may be a great driver, with a clean history record and not a single accident in your past, but if you are still behind the wheel of your own life then you are missing a great ride. Jesus has offered to take the wheel and steer. He has promised you an incredible journey if only you will step aside. Release the grip you have on your own life, admit to your sinful ways and flawed nature. Let him get in the drivers seat. He will get you to your destination safely and along the winding road will be an incredible journey you won't want to miss!
I know a few of these terrible drivers who are completely ignorant of the danger they pose to themselves and every other person on the road. I won't name names. That would be gossipy. But I know the feeling of riding shotgun next to them and it isn't a peaceful experience. It is stressful and anxiety producing. If you try to comment on maybe taking the next bend a bit slower or looking up from the map to pay attention to the road, this kind of driver blows off your suggestion as pure silliness. They know what they're doing! They have been driving for years, longer then you've been alive. Sound familiar? On one hand you want them to learn the error of their ways and become a more prudent driver; but on the other hand you don't want any harm to come on them, so you just silently pray that no small children are playing anywhere near the street.
Today I was driving along listening to the radio when the song "Jesus Take the Wheel" came on the station. I love this song and preceded to belt it out with Carrie Underwood. It was our own private duet and I must say I wasn't sounding too shabby! While I was emoting with each stanza I was struck by the words I was singing. I know practically every word by heart and have even sang this song in church, so the lyrics are nothing new to me. Still, I was struck by the cry of the heart to have Jesus truly take over.
You and I often go through life like that crazy driver, not knowing that we are terribly out of control and in need of guidance. We think we have our lives under control. But we aren't the one's who are supposed to be in control. Jesus is supposed to be behind the wheel. We are foolish and misguided if we believe we are the best masters of our fate and the most qualified to be driving the car that is going to get us there.
You and I are terrible drivers of our lives. We gossip, criticize, hurt people's feeling, lie and make a host of other sins. Our hearts our prone to wonder and our actions are prone to evil. And we think we should be running our own show?
We have a Savior in Heaven who is free of all our faults. He doesn't sin. He doesn't hurt people or forget things or make mistakes. Period, end of story. He is perfection. And guess what... HE wants to run our lives! Isn't that an awesome proposition? The perfect Savior, who loves without conditions and has never committed a single sin wants to be the driver of our car. This is an unbelievable offer. All he asks is that we hand over the keys. How can we expect the perfection he can deliver if we are still grasping the steering wheel? He wants us to get in the back; release control of the wheel, the pedals, the locks and settings. He wants us to sit back and enjoy the ride without having to grip the safety bar or close our eyes our of fear for the next bend. He wants us to relax in the safety only he can provide.
You may be a great driver, with a clean history record and not a single accident in your past, but if you are still behind the wheel of your own life then you are missing a great ride. Jesus has offered to take the wheel and steer. He has promised you an incredible journey if only you will step aside. Release the grip you have on your own life, admit to your sinful ways and flawed nature. Let him get in the drivers seat. He will get you to your destination safely and along the winding road will be an incredible journey you won't want to miss!
Sunday, June 9, 2013
A deer encounter
Tonight I encountered a deer. No big deal you say? Read on.
I was walking Pippy along the Chagrin River for our nightly stroll through the village. Vendors were embarking on the cumbersome task of breaking down tents and displays that had taken up residency in the park next to the river for the past two days to celebrate Art By the Falls, an annual craft fair that draws massive crowds and rows upon rows of vendors. Tonight the event came to a close and all that was left were workers and their unsold goods, vans parked in the muddy used-to-be grass and the lingering scents of Carmel Corn and Funnel Cakes. It doesn't sound all that appealing when laid out in words, but there is something sweetly evocative about the closing moments of a summer fair.
During the excitement of the actual event, the work and labor that took place to get there, and the impending labor to get it all back home, are far from the minds of visitors. All they see are beautiful pieces of art work, jewelry crafted by talented hands and breathtaking photography. The air is filled with laughter and crowds meeting friends and enjoying the company of family. At the end of it all, as the crowds fade away, a calm and stillness settles over those that are left behind. It comes on quietly. It comes rolling in like a thick fog.
It is in this setting that my amazing encounter took place. Pippy and I had finished the walk through the park and started to climb the brick stairs that lead to the Chagrin Falls Public Library on Orange Street. As we reached the top of the stairs I looked straight across the street to the big, beautiful white church and there she was: a gorgeous deer standing in front of the church, practically on the sidewalk, and slowly moving in my direction. My walk came to an abrupt stop and so did hers. For a moment it was as if time stood still. We both just gazed at each other. I wonder what was crossing her mind. She didn't bolt and she didn't appear to be startled. For all the commotion that had only just ended, with the vendor's trucks and out of town visitors making their way through town, in those moments, not a car or person came by.
In those moments a distinct and clear thought came to the front of my mind like a message in a bottle on the shores of a great ocean. That deer was placed there for me. She was sent to tell me something: you are okay alone. I have never before seen a deer in Chagrin Falls, and certainly not on the side of one of the busiest streets in town, on one of the busiest weekends in town. When I saw her I immediately looked around her to see if she was traveling with a group or at least a friend. But she was all alone, sort of like me - although not even I was as alone as she was because I had Pippy. In those brief moments it seemed as if the whole world stopped turning so God could send me a message through his creation....
....."Don't worry when the world leaves you, when you feel like an island. You are not alone. I am here. I am always with you. You are just like the deer. She doesn't need the company of others like her to be content and complete. She is beautiful and majestic and yet, all alone. Don't you believe I care for you in the same way? ".....
It must have been 20 or 30 seconds before she began to walk again. She started towards the street, crossing on an angle to go up the hill on my side of the street. As she began to move I saw out of the corner of my eye a bright blue Prius heading up the hill at a quick clip. My eyes darted to the car and then back to the deer. My heart sank in my chest as an impending disaster seemed inevitable. The two would meet the same place in the road at the same moment unless divine intervention stepped in. The deer continued on her path and the car continued barreling towards her, apparently oblivious to the dangers that lay ahead.
I wanted to close my eyes but it all happened so fast. The car came speeding toward the deer and a split second before the two collided the car slammed on its brakes, as the deer narrowly escaped being struck head on. The deer's pace quickened and she made it across the road, darted down a small hill and away into a forest of trees. My eyes must have been bugging out of my head and my jaw must have been on the ground - or at least that is how it felt.
My deer! Me! That deer was a picture of me and she was almost killed (or badly hurt) in front of my very eyes.
Oh, how God knows how to teach his children. He told me he would take care of me, just like he takes care of the deer. That deer came so close to the edge of existence, so close to a fate that could have ended it all in the matter of seconds, yet God delivered her from evil and death. I wanted her to get across safely, with no threat of cars and no near death experience, but God had a different plan in store. The journey ended up being an eventful one, but he still protected her. It was a close call, but God got her across the street in the end without even a scratch.
...."Don't you believe I care for you in the same way?", he asked.
Yes. Yes, God cares for me even when I am alone, even when I endure hardship and even when it feels like danger and peril surround me. He is there. He is faithful. And he will get me to the other side.
All he asks of me is that I trust him.
I was walking Pippy along the Chagrin River for our nightly stroll through the village. Vendors were embarking on the cumbersome task of breaking down tents and displays that had taken up residency in the park next to the river for the past two days to celebrate Art By the Falls, an annual craft fair that draws massive crowds and rows upon rows of vendors. Tonight the event came to a close and all that was left were workers and their unsold goods, vans parked in the muddy used-to-be grass and the lingering scents of Carmel Corn and Funnel Cakes. It doesn't sound all that appealing when laid out in words, but there is something sweetly evocative about the closing moments of a summer fair.
During the excitement of the actual event, the work and labor that took place to get there, and the impending labor to get it all back home, are far from the minds of visitors. All they see are beautiful pieces of art work, jewelry crafted by talented hands and breathtaking photography. The air is filled with laughter and crowds meeting friends and enjoying the company of family. At the end of it all, as the crowds fade away, a calm and stillness settles over those that are left behind. It comes on quietly. It comes rolling in like a thick fog.
It is in this setting that my amazing encounter took place. Pippy and I had finished the walk through the park and started to climb the brick stairs that lead to the Chagrin Falls Public Library on Orange Street. As we reached the top of the stairs I looked straight across the street to the big, beautiful white church and there she was: a gorgeous deer standing in front of the church, practically on the sidewalk, and slowly moving in my direction. My walk came to an abrupt stop and so did hers. For a moment it was as if time stood still. We both just gazed at each other. I wonder what was crossing her mind. She didn't bolt and she didn't appear to be startled. For all the commotion that had only just ended, with the vendor's trucks and out of town visitors making their way through town, in those moments, not a car or person came by.
In those moments a distinct and clear thought came to the front of my mind like a message in a bottle on the shores of a great ocean. That deer was placed there for me. She was sent to tell me something: you are okay alone. I have never before seen a deer in Chagrin Falls, and certainly not on the side of one of the busiest streets in town, on one of the busiest weekends in town. When I saw her I immediately looked around her to see if she was traveling with a group or at least a friend. But she was all alone, sort of like me - although not even I was as alone as she was because I had Pippy. In those brief moments it seemed as if the whole world stopped turning so God could send me a message through his creation....
....."Don't worry when the world leaves you, when you feel like an island. You are not alone. I am here. I am always with you. You are just like the deer. She doesn't need the company of others like her to be content and complete. She is beautiful and majestic and yet, all alone. Don't you believe I care for you in the same way? ".....
It must have been 20 or 30 seconds before she began to walk again. She started towards the street, crossing on an angle to go up the hill on my side of the street. As she began to move I saw out of the corner of my eye a bright blue Prius heading up the hill at a quick clip. My eyes darted to the car and then back to the deer. My heart sank in my chest as an impending disaster seemed inevitable. The two would meet the same place in the road at the same moment unless divine intervention stepped in. The deer continued on her path and the car continued barreling towards her, apparently oblivious to the dangers that lay ahead.
I wanted to close my eyes but it all happened so fast. The car came speeding toward the deer and a split second before the two collided the car slammed on its brakes, as the deer narrowly escaped being struck head on. The deer's pace quickened and she made it across the road, darted down a small hill and away into a forest of trees. My eyes must have been bugging out of my head and my jaw must have been on the ground - or at least that is how it felt.
My deer! Me! That deer was a picture of me and she was almost killed (or badly hurt) in front of my very eyes.
Oh, how God knows how to teach his children. He told me he would take care of me, just like he takes care of the deer. That deer came so close to the edge of existence, so close to a fate that could have ended it all in the matter of seconds, yet God delivered her from evil and death. I wanted her to get across safely, with no threat of cars and no near death experience, but God had a different plan in store. The journey ended up being an eventful one, but he still protected her. It was a close call, but God got her across the street in the end without even a scratch.
...."Don't you believe I care for you in the same way?", he asked.
Yes. Yes, God cares for me even when I am alone, even when I endure hardship and even when it feels like danger and peril surround me. He is there. He is faithful. And he will get me to the other side.
All he asks of me is that I trust him.
Input VS Output
After hearing a sermon or Bible study lesson I am often left with one major take away. The sermon can be filled to the brim with noteworthy life application, but I am usually struck between the eyes by one thing in particular. I believe that is God using the pastor or teacher's words to convict and change a behavior or flaw in me that is not honoring to him. This morning was no exception.
As the pastor spoke my mind kept wandering. My mind wasn't landing on any one thing in particular but it was having trouble focusing in during the first few minutes of the sermon. I kept calling my mind back, reminding myself to stay engaged in the moment and to stop scurrying down every little rabbit hole. No sooner had I silently spoken those words to myself did I hear words from the pulpit that God desperately wanted me to hear.
The sermon series we are studying is on the book of Esther, a book I admittedly haven't spent much time reading and even less time learning from. So, this study is very new to me. The plot, names of characters and story line are like reading a new book that just hit the shelves. The only difference is this book isn't at all new and has been on my shelf my entire life. I am convicted of my lack of Bible knowledge when I open to its pages because I am reminded that I am terribly ignorant on so much of the Bible and yet have it so easily accessible. But this wasn't even the main point that God wanted me to see today, that is more of an "added bonus"... added to the list of areas where I need to be more obedient and grow as a child of God.
But back to this morning... The message was clear, short and concise - at least the message God was waving in front of my face: "input influences output."
As is often the case, this has been a principle that has been weighing on my mind. It seems that God often preps me for hearing from him by stirring my heart on a particular matter before having the sit down talk with me. This morning was my sit down talk.
I am guilty of rationalizing what input I allow to penetrate into my every day routine. It is so easy to say, "Going there won't influence me" or "watching that isn't a big deal" or "listening to that music has no impact on me!" Lets face it, it's easier to underestimate the impact of negative influences then to be an outspoken opponent of the world's practices. The world sees nothing wrong with these influences and doesn't appreciate hearing otherwise.
As Christians, we shouldn't take the easy way out. We shouldn't rationalize negative, or even "neutral" influences because they are the way of the world. We shouldn't make excuses as to why we can be in the presence of sin or wrong headed thinking and not have it negatively influence on our own thinking, and ultimately our behavior.
The things that we fill ourselves with have a direct correlation to the things that flow out of us. If we want to become more Godly, more Christ-like, then we must abandon the ways of this world and fill ourselves with things of God. It may seem "extreme" and "radical" to abandon the things of this world but radical obedience is what God demands. In Luke 18:22, Jesus tells one particular follower to take drastic measures to follow him. He told him to "sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Wow! Can you imagine Jesus looking you straight in the eye and telling you that this is what you must do to truly, sincerely be a sold out follower of his? And here we are, as Christians in the 21st century America, holding tight to our music and mindless TV. This man in the New Testament wasn't asking to be able to listen to read the latest book to hit the shelves that used corse language or watch the Long Island Medium. He was already what you and I might call a "good Christian." But that wasn't enough. God demanded more.
It is the same with you and I today. From the perspective of the world we may be "good." We may obey the law, volunteer at a soup kitchen, give generously when the offering plate is passed our way and treat our neighbors with respect. But if we are still allowing worldly influences into our day to day living then we are tainting our ultimate output.
We must throw off the things of this world. We can only fill ourselves with so many influences. Which influences will you choose? Will you choose the things of this world, tuning the dial to secular music and TV, choosing trashy books or pure "fluff", wander at the mall instead of attending a Bible study? Or will you trade in the practices and habits that are hallmarks of this world so you can fill yourself with hallmarks of God's eternal kingdom? The world might look at you funny or might call you a loon, but God will be smiling in Heaven. He wants you to get to know him with a deeper intimacy so that, out of you, can flow more of his character. This can only happen when you fill yourself with what he is offering.
And trust me, he isn't the one offering you 50 Shades of Grey.
As the pastor spoke my mind kept wandering. My mind wasn't landing on any one thing in particular but it was having trouble focusing in during the first few minutes of the sermon. I kept calling my mind back, reminding myself to stay engaged in the moment and to stop scurrying down every little rabbit hole. No sooner had I silently spoken those words to myself did I hear words from the pulpit that God desperately wanted me to hear.
The sermon series we are studying is on the book of Esther, a book I admittedly haven't spent much time reading and even less time learning from. So, this study is very new to me. The plot, names of characters and story line are like reading a new book that just hit the shelves. The only difference is this book isn't at all new and has been on my shelf my entire life. I am convicted of my lack of Bible knowledge when I open to its pages because I am reminded that I am terribly ignorant on so much of the Bible and yet have it so easily accessible. But this wasn't even the main point that God wanted me to see today, that is more of an "added bonus"... added to the list of areas where I need to be more obedient and grow as a child of God.
But back to this morning... The message was clear, short and concise - at least the message God was waving in front of my face: "input influences output."
As is often the case, this has been a principle that has been weighing on my mind. It seems that God often preps me for hearing from him by stirring my heart on a particular matter before having the sit down talk with me. This morning was my sit down talk.
I am guilty of rationalizing what input I allow to penetrate into my every day routine. It is so easy to say, "Going there won't influence me" or "watching that isn't a big deal" or "listening to that music has no impact on me!" Lets face it, it's easier to underestimate the impact of negative influences then to be an outspoken opponent of the world's practices. The world sees nothing wrong with these influences and doesn't appreciate hearing otherwise.
As Christians, we shouldn't take the easy way out. We shouldn't rationalize negative, or even "neutral" influences because they are the way of the world. We shouldn't make excuses as to why we can be in the presence of sin or wrong headed thinking and not have it negatively influence on our own thinking, and ultimately our behavior.
The things that we fill ourselves with have a direct correlation to the things that flow out of us. If we want to become more Godly, more Christ-like, then we must abandon the ways of this world and fill ourselves with things of God. It may seem "extreme" and "radical" to abandon the things of this world but radical obedience is what God demands. In Luke 18:22, Jesus tells one particular follower to take drastic measures to follow him. He told him to "sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Wow! Can you imagine Jesus looking you straight in the eye and telling you that this is what you must do to truly, sincerely be a sold out follower of his? And here we are, as Christians in the 21st century America, holding tight to our music and mindless TV. This man in the New Testament wasn't asking to be able to listen to read the latest book to hit the shelves that used corse language or watch the Long Island Medium. He was already what you and I might call a "good Christian." But that wasn't enough. God demanded more.
It is the same with you and I today. From the perspective of the world we may be "good." We may obey the law, volunteer at a soup kitchen, give generously when the offering plate is passed our way and treat our neighbors with respect. But if we are still allowing worldly influences into our day to day living then we are tainting our ultimate output.
We must throw off the things of this world. We can only fill ourselves with so many influences. Which influences will you choose? Will you choose the things of this world, tuning the dial to secular music and TV, choosing trashy books or pure "fluff", wander at the mall instead of attending a Bible study? Or will you trade in the practices and habits that are hallmarks of this world so you can fill yourself with hallmarks of God's eternal kingdom? The world might look at you funny or might call you a loon, but God will be smiling in Heaven. He wants you to get to know him with a deeper intimacy so that, out of you, can flow more of his character. This can only happen when you fill yourself with what he is offering.
And trust me, he isn't the one offering you 50 Shades of Grey.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Psalm 37:4
Psalm 37:4
Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Who hasn't been comforted by this simple scripture? It is a favorite among most everyone, those who are suffering and those who are in a season of calm. This scripture puts the believers mind at ease, reminding them that their God knows their heart and will satisfy its longings in his time... IF we delight in him.
The delighting in the Lord part of this scripture is the tough part. Receiving the blessing in the second part is easy. Who wouldn't like to be given what they desire? But the scripture clearly qualifies this outpouring of blessing by first telling us that we must delight in the Lord before we ever see the desires fulfilled.
This is the true test of faith. Will we find joy and peace in God, taking pleasure in his presence, when we aren't receiving a "benefit" from doing so? When we are suffering, in pain or enduring loss will we still be able to boldly proclaim that our help comes from the Lord and we are delighting in his holiness?
When we quote this scripture we often rush to the second half of the sentence, finding comfort in the promises to come but we are missing the true greatness of this scripture: delight is found in the Lord. Delight isn't found in blessings or circumstances or answered prayer, even though all of those things can be cause for celebration. Our true joy and our true contentment comes from delighting in the Lord, no matter what we may be enduring, be it difficulty or abundant blessing.
If we are waiting to receive the blessing so that we can then delight in the Lord we will spend the rest of our days in a constant state of expectation. But what do we have to wait for? The true blessing has already been bestowed on us with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When we come to the realization that we have nothing to wait for, nothing more that we must be expecting to reach a state of fulfillment, God can fill us with the desires of his heart. The desires that he places in us will not be fleeting or temporary. They will not be dependent on our circumstances or what the world deems as desirable. They will be for the furthering of his kingdom and the magnificent plan he has for you and I to be a part of spreading that message.
First, we must set our heart on the ultimate blessing and sacrificial lamb. We must find true delight in the Lord. Without this critical act of obedience we miss out on receiving God's desires in our hearts. Ultimately, we'll miss out on the extraordinary plan God has in store.
Don't make the mistake of focusing on what your heart desires. Focus on your heart's delight - our savior and Lord, Jesus Christ - and he will take care of the desires of your heart.
Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Who hasn't been comforted by this simple scripture? It is a favorite among most everyone, those who are suffering and those who are in a season of calm. This scripture puts the believers mind at ease, reminding them that their God knows their heart and will satisfy its longings in his time... IF we delight in him.
The delighting in the Lord part of this scripture is the tough part. Receiving the blessing in the second part is easy. Who wouldn't like to be given what they desire? But the scripture clearly qualifies this outpouring of blessing by first telling us that we must delight in the Lord before we ever see the desires fulfilled.
This is the true test of faith. Will we find joy and peace in God, taking pleasure in his presence, when we aren't receiving a "benefit" from doing so? When we are suffering, in pain or enduring loss will we still be able to boldly proclaim that our help comes from the Lord and we are delighting in his holiness?
When we quote this scripture we often rush to the second half of the sentence, finding comfort in the promises to come but we are missing the true greatness of this scripture: delight is found in the Lord. Delight isn't found in blessings or circumstances or answered prayer, even though all of those things can be cause for celebration. Our true joy and our true contentment comes from delighting in the Lord, no matter what we may be enduring, be it difficulty or abundant blessing.
If we are waiting to receive the blessing so that we can then delight in the Lord we will spend the rest of our days in a constant state of expectation. But what do we have to wait for? The true blessing has already been bestowed on us with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When we come to the realization that we have nothing to wait for, nothing more that we must be expecting to reach a state of fulfillment, God can fill us with the desires of his heart. The desires that he places in us will not be fleeting or temporary. They will not be dependent on our circumstances or what the world deems as desirable. They will be for the furthering of his kingdom and the magnificent plan he has for you and I to be a part of spreading that message.
First, we must set our heart on the ultimate blessing and sacrificial lamb. We must find true delight in the Lord. Without this critical act of obedience we miss out on receiving God's desires in our hearts. Ultimately, we'll miss out on the extraordinary plan God has in store.
Don't make the mistake of focusing on what your heart desires. Focus on your heart's delight - our savior and Lord, Jesus Christ - and he will take care of the desires of your heart.
Show the plan
I have recently embarked on a business venture as a consultant for Ambit Energy. I was quick to become part of this company and saw the possibilities for success immediately. To me, the whole concept is a no brainer: switch your supply side of energy in a deregulated state, save money. Hmm... seems pretty straight forward. It is like that commercial with Jimmy Fallon for Capital One, who wouldn't like to save more money?
Well, apparently a lot of people. Getting people to sign up as a customer has been like getting a 3 year old to sit still in a dentist chair. If you have had kids, or were ever a kid yourself (everyone raise their hand), you know this is never a fun task. When I was a kid they had to break out the self-restraining jacket to keep me secured. I wanted to run out of the office as fast as my little legs would carry me. But who could blame me? The tools on the dentist's little cart always screamed "pain". Some were pointy, others were scratchy and not one of them resembled an ice cream cone so, seriously, why would I want it in my mouth?
I didn't think every money earning (and enjoying), home owner who ever paid a bill would have the same response to saving money on one of their most basic utilities: energy. I figured if I could help them save money on a service they are already paying for and are going to continue to pay for so the answer would be simple, they wouldn't have to think twice. Why not? Switch to Ambit, right?
I was terribly mistaken. People hate change. They hate being "sold" on something, even though they are already being sold on the exact same product for more money.
I've researched and googled, how do I make this work? How do I show people that this isn't a scheme or a scam, it is a valid opportunity to save money. How do I get people to listen long enough to hear the positives? How do I stop people from pre-judging based on their knowledge of Amway and other MLM businesses? I'm not trying to sell supplements or magazine subscriptions, I'm offering a way to pay less for gas and electric! But yet, I am looked at like an annoyance.
What is the answer to this dilemma? How do I get people to pause and take a look? Ambit leaders and successes just keep saying: show the plan. If someone slams a door in your face, turn to the next door and show it again. Another slammed door? Move on; show it again. Don't give up. Don't get discouraged. Just because one person blows you off doesn't mean everyone will. So, just keep showing it!
I get this principle and am determined to put it into practice. I'll keep talking about Ambit, telling people about the savings and attempting to get new customers and consultants. Nothing worth doing is going to be easy, so why should I expect overnight success? This is an uphill climb, but it could be worth it if I stick with it.
This has sparked in me a thought that I have been foolish to ignore: show the plan. But what plan am I focused on showing? Sure, Ambit could be a great financial option for me if I can make it work and it could save other people money in the process: a win-win. But there is a bigger plan out there that I should be showing far more often and with much greater passion then I will ever show with Ambit: God's plan for salvation through his son Jesus Christ.
As Christians, we often shy away from using the name of Jesus Christ. We hold our beliefs close to our chest. Yes, we believe we are sinners and yes, we believe Jesus was sent to die for our sins but we don't feel the urgency to tell everyone. With Ambit, the leaders tell new consultants to talk up their business, share it with the people in their lives and the people they meet. As tough as it is to talk about Ambit, it seems to be even tougher to talk about Christ. But it shouldn't be! As Christ followers, saved by grace, living in sold out obedience to the word of God, we should be bursting at the seams to tell people about the amazing gift that God has given each and every one of us. The name of Jesus should be on our lips at work, in a coffee shop, at the grocery store, at the gym.... anywhere we frequent we should be vessels for Christ, spreading his message.
If I want to make Ambit a success I will have to follow the formula: show the plan. If I want to see other souls saved by Jesus Christ I will need to show the plan. God will do the work in their heart but I must present the opportunity, the gift, the plan that could save them something so much greater then dollars and cents: their soul for eternity.
Here is the plan: http://viewthestory.com/1475
And here is another plan...not as important but it could save you some money:
www.littleismuchenergy.joinambit.com
Well, apparently a lot of people. Getting people to sign up as a customer has been like getting a 3 year old to sit still in a dentist chair. If you have had kids, or were ever a kid yourself (everyone raise their hand), you know this is never a fun task. When I was a kid they had to break out the self-restraining jacket to keep me secured. I wanted to run out of the office as fast as my little legs would carry me. But who could blame me? The tools on the dentist's little cart always screamed "pain". Some were pointy, others were scratchy and not one of them resembled an ice cream cone so, seriously, why would I want it in my mouth?
I didn't think every money earning (and enjoying), home owner who ever paid a bill would have the same response to saving money on one of their most basic utilities: energy. I figured if I could help them save money on a service they are already paying for and are going to continue to pay for so the answer would be simple, they wouldn't have to think twice. Why not? Switch to Ambit, right?
I was terribly mistaken. People hate change. They hate being "sold" on something, even though they are already being sold on the exact same product for more money.
I've researched and googled, how do I make this work? How do I show people that this isn't a scheme or a scam, it is a valid opportunity to save money. How do I get people to listen long enough to hear the positives? How do I stop people from pre-judging based on their knowledge of Amway and other MLM businesses? I'm not trying to sell supplements or magazine subscriptions, I'm offering a way to pay less for gas and electric! But yet, I am looked at like an annoyance.
What is the answer to this dilemma? How do I get people to pause and take a look? Ambit leaders and successes just keep saying: show the plan. If someone slams a door in your face, turn to the next door and show it again. Another slammed door? Move on; show it again. Don't give up. Don't get discouraged. Just because one person blows you off doesn't mean everyone will. So, just keep showing it!
I get this principle and am determined to put it into practice. I'll keep talking about Ambit, telling people about the savings and attempting to get new customers and consultants. Nothing worth doing is going to be easy, so why should I expect overnight success? This is an uphill climb, but it could be worth it if I stick with it.
This has sparked in me a thought that I have been foolish to ignore: show the plan. But what plan am I focused on showing? Sure, Ambit could be a great financial option for me if I can make it work and it could save other people money in the process: a win-win. But there is a bigger plan out there that I should be showing far more often and with much greater passion then I will ever show with Ambit: God's plan for salvation through his son Jesus Christ.
As Christians, we often shy away from using the name of Jesus Christ. We hold our beliefs close to our chest. Yes, we believe we are sinners and yes, we believe Jesus was sent to die for our sins but we don't feel the urgency to tell everyone. With Ambit, the leaders tell new consultants to talk up their business, share it with the people in their lives and the people they meet. As tough as it is to talk about Ambit, it seems to be even tougher to talk about Christ. But it shouldn't be! As Christ followers, saved by grace, living in sold out obedience to the word of God, we should be bursting at the seams to tell people about the amazing gift that God has given each and every one of us. The name of Jesus should be on our lips at work, in a coffee shop, at the grocery store, at the gym.... anywhere we frequent we should be vessels for Christ, spreading his message.
If I want to make Ambit a success I will have to follow the formula: show the plan. If I want to see other souls saved by Jesus Christ I will need to show the plan. God will do the work in their heart but I must present the opportunity, the gift, the plan that could save them something so much greater then dollars and cents: their soul for eternity.
Here is the plan: http://viewthestory.com/1475
And here is another plan...not as important but it could save you some money:
www.littleismuchenergy.joinambit.com
Friday, June 7, 2013
Curb appeal
I have a home fetish - especially a Chagrin Falls home fetish. Each is so unique. My attention is grabbed by the special touches that set one apart from another. This is the town of wonderful homes. There is one house in particular that I have loved from the moment I saw it. I called it my "dream listing" before I ever walked inside. The outside sold me - hook, line and sinker. The home sits up a small hill and is set behind large pine trees. Around ever side of the house is a porch with rocking chairs and even an outdoor kitchen with a restaurant style pizza oven. Although the home was built in the late 1800's it was completely remodeled in 2005. The pizza oven was part of the addition, as I'm sure you could have guessed.
I have admired this home every time I've walked by. I always slow down my pace and take in the view from the street. The outside is a feast for the eyes. It has everything I love in a home. Beige siding with big white trim, stone patios and lush green landscaping. My dream exterior.
As you can imagine, I was pretty excited when I saw that this house was coming on the market. Yes, it has been MY dream listing but I am a little ways away from getting the 1.3 million dollar listings in Chagrin Falls. For now I'm just excited to be able to tour the homes on broker's opens. So, this Tuesday I had the opportunity to finally see the inside of this home that I have drooled over from afar.
And guess what.... I don't like it. The inside was a massive let down. Instead of feeling homey and welcoming, the entrance is cold and much too grand for my taste. The bedrooms were small but the master bedroom's closet was the size of my living room and kitchen combined. The great room was massive but instead of it being open to the kitchen it was open to a wine bar. There was no family room, just a room with a billiard table. The dining room was cramped and awkwardly placed. The garage on the other hand was enormous with a vaulted ceiling that was more of a work of art then a covering for a car.
But the biggest disappointment was the kitchen. You would think, when looking at the outside, that the owner would have designed a luxurious, grand kitchen with ample counter space and an open concept - isn't that what every buyer and owner longs for in a kitchen? Well, apparently that was not the wishes of the 2005 remodeler. The kitchen was tiny (relative to the grand scale of the rest of the home). Counter space in the kitchen was at a minimum and cabinet space wasn't much better. The disappointing kitchen was just the cherry on top of a disappointing house.
Isn't this just a perfect metaphor for so many situations in life? Aren't we easily deceived by the outward appearance, only to be let down by what is truly behind the front door?
...A great pair of jeans on a mannequin are really stiff, scratchy and uncomfortable when you put them on.
...The stylish and new restaurant downtown ends up serving an overcooked chicken breast that is short of flavor and big on price.
...That new car you have been eyeing up is your dream car until you actually drive it and find out that it has sluggish acceleration and squeaky windshield wipers.
...That guy you see in the coffee shop - the one with a great smile and breathtaking eyes - ends up being impatient and rude when he opens his mouth to order his drink...
Lots of things look great from the outside and aren't so great underneath.
But one thing only gets better when further understood, explored and investigated: a relationship with Jesus Christ. The more you get to know Christ the better he gets. A closer relationship with God only reveals more of his goodness and love. Actually you can't truly know, or even imagine, how good God truly is until you actually do get to know him. Sure, he looks good from the outside, but that is nothing compared to how good he is once you get to truly know him.
If you are looking to find something amazing in the things of this world you will often be disappointed. The exterior will look great. Curb appeal will deceive you and draw you in. But far too often you will be left desiring more. But seek out God, his son and Holy Spirit and your greatest expectations for what you will find won't even begin to describe the wonderful interior you will experience.
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