“Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.” Proverbs 2:11
Discretion arms us against evil, and all matters of temptation. It is a God inspired ability to wisely choose between good and bad, and between better and best. Leaders may recognize this trait in you as they did Joseph, “Since God has informed you of all this, there is no one so discerning and wise as you are” (Genesis 41:39). So stay humble if heaven has graced you with insight in what needs to be done. Others are more apt to receive your instructions if it is delivered in a trustworthy tone, and with a teachable spirit. Don’t allow your overconfidence to forget Christ and fuel jealousy in the insecure. Use your discretion for the good of the entire enterprise. It is meant to be a protector, not a pass for pride to wreak havoc. Discretion is a sentinel for your soul’s care and welfare.
Furthermore, use discretion with sensitive information, as your position of influence is to protect innocent parties, and not cause unnecessary chaos. For example, instead of embarrassing someone in front of the group for their incompetency, talk with them alone in a spirit of collaborative correction. You can protect the reputation of a team member, and still experience excellent outcomes within the organization. Make sure to move discretion from your head to your heart, so insights are communicated with grace and clarity. Ultimately it is at God’s discretion, as it relates to opportunities and results. So seek His face by faith to learn how to protect and progress in His will. The Bible says, “For his God instructs and teaches him properly” (Isaiah 28:26, NASB).
Related Readings: Nehemiah 8:12; Ecclesiastes 9:15-18; Ephesians 5:15
Transformational Living
What pressing family issue needs my discretion and protection from foolishness?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
As a recent recipient of a spirit of collaborative correction talk... I am great full! And it was delivered in a trustworthy tone, and with a teachable spirit.
11.18.2008
11.17.2008
Boyd Bailey: Knowledge of God…
“If you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God”. Proverbs 2:4-5
The knowledge of God is obtained by the wisdom of God, and the wisdom of God is found in the word of God. Jesus is the “Word”, so when we see Him, we not only see our Savior, but our God. Jesus became flesh and walked among us so He could, among other things, teach us the knowledge of God. So read the ‘red letters’ in the gospel’s of Christ, and you will observe the knowledge of God lived out in your Lord, and you will learn obedience by understanding and applying His teachings. Obtaining and integrating the knowledge of God into life transformation is not a passive exercise. It comes from passionate prayer, and earnestly seeking to understand the words written in red. Knowledge of God is food that satisfies the soul. It is a divine diet of grace and truth.
“Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (I Peter 2:2). You read and receive the ‘Word of God’, so you can be transformed by the knowledge of God. Wisdom is a way to knowing God. It is discovered through toil and trust, industry and intimacy, and hard work and heaven’s illumination. Like the precious metals of silver and gold, the knowledge of God is found by the discipline and determination of digging out truth that may be covered over by the dirt of unbelief. You rise up early so you can meditate in the ‘mine shaft’ with your master Jesus, and He shows you the way. As you humbly receive the knowledge of God, make known to others the richness of your discovery. Wisdom is to be invested, by faith, in others for the sake of God’s Kingdom. Therefore, start by being the spiritual leader of your family, the Bible says, “Then on the second day the heads of fathers’ households of all the people, the priests, and the Levites were gathered to Ezra the scribe that they might gain insight into the words of the law” (Nehemiah 8:13, NASB).
Related Readings: Job 28: 12, 20, 23; John 1:1-14; 2 Peter 1:5
Transformational Living
How can I use my knowledge of God to bless and encourage others?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is all I have to point out today!!! Obtaining and integrating the knowledge of God into life transformation is not a passive exercise.
The knowledge of God is obtained by the wisdom of God, and the wisdom of God is found in the word of God. Jesus is the “Word”, so when we see Him, we not only see our Savior, but our God. Jesus became flesh and walked among us so He could, among other things, teach us the knowledge of God. So read the ‘red letters’ in the gospel’s of Christ, and you will observe the knowledge of God lived out in your Lord, and you will learn obedience by understanding and applying His teachings. Obtaining and integrating the knowledge of God into life transformation is not a passive exercise. It comes from passionate prayer, and earnestly seeking to understand the words written in red. Knowledge of God is food that satisfies the soul. It is a divine diet of grace and truth.
“Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (I Peter 2:2). You read and receive the ‘Word of God’, so you can be transformed by the knowledge of God. Wisdom is a way to knowing God. It is discovered through toil and trust, industry and intimacy, and hard work and heaven’s illumination. Like the precious metals of silver and gold, the knowledge of God is found by the discipline and determination of digging out truth that may be covered over by the dirt of unbelief. You rise up early so you can meditate in the ‘mine shaft’ with your master Jesus, and He shows you the way. As you humbly receive the knowledge of God, make known to others the richness of your discovery. Wisdom is to be invested, by faith, in others for the sake of God’s Kingdom. Therefore, start by being the spiritual leader of your family, the Bible says, “Then on the second day the heads of fathers’ households of all the people, the priests, and the Levites were gathered to Ezra the scribe that they might gain insight into the words of the law” (Nehemiah 8:13, NASB).
Related Readings: Job 28: 12, 20, 23; John 1:1-14; 2 Peter 1:5
Transformational Living
How can I use my knowledge of God to bless and encourage others?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is all I have to point out today!!! Obtaining and integrating the knowledge of God into life transformation is not a passive exercise.
11.13.2008
Boyd Bailey: Attention To Details…
“Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him.” Acts 12:8
Almighty God is in the details, because He knows the details define a clear path for His will. Like Peter His angel has to sometimes shake us up out of the slumber of our sleepy self. We can nap in our pitiful prison of fear and forget God is still at work. He wants us to welcome His sudden shake up, so we can see Christ’s course for our life more clearly. Perhaps the Holy Spirit is shifting us so we will see the details of what He is doing. When Christ crashes into our circumstances it is certainly wise to wake up and wonder what He is doing. Pay attention to the His work around you, and listen to the Lord’s leading. The smile of an infant may be just the small sign you need that shows He is pleased with you.
Jesus gives attention to details in your life because He cares. He cares if you have a career you are passionate about. He cares if your son or daughter gets into the school of their first choice. He cares if you make it through financial chaos to a cash position that is calm and predictable. So look for the Lord in the details of your everyday life, and thank Him for His great love. Praise Him when He gives you perception into solving problems and understanding people. Furthermore, slow down and take the time to engage in the details of the people’s passions around you. It honors them when you can ask intelligent questions that communicate you care and understand. God’s got the details covered, so seek Him first for His discernment and He will lead you through every important step along the way. However, don’t drown in the details, but stay moving behind Him for the results. The Bible says, “In the eleventh year in the month of Bul, the eighth month, the temple was finished in all its details according to its specifications. He had spent seven years building it” (I Kings 6:38).
Related Readings: Matthew 6:25-34, I Chronicles 28:19
Transformational Living
What area of my life am I responsible to give more attention to detail as God’s steward?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
One of the most heart warming events during my day are the little smiles on the boys faces when they see Mel and I! I need to work on the slowing down aspect of being a Christian. Slow Down and take the time to look around at this awesome world God has provided for us imperfect beings!
Almighty God is in the details, because He knows the details define a clear path for His will. Like Peter His angel has to sometimes shake us up out of the slumber of our sleepy self. We can nap in our pitiful prison of fear and forget God is still at work. He wants us to welcome His sudden shake up, so we can see Christ’s course for our life more clearly. Perhaps the Holy Spirit is shifting us so we will see the details of what He is doing. When Christ crashes into our circumstances it is certainly wise to wake up and wonder what He is doing. Pay attention to the His work around you, and listen to the Lord’s leading. The smile of an infant may be just the small sign you need that shows He is pleased with you.
Jesus gives attention to details in your life because He cares. He cares if you have a career you are passionate about. He cares if your son or daughter gets into the school of their first choice. He cares if you make it through financial chaos to a cash position that is calm and predictable. So look for the Lord in the details of your everyday life, and thank Him for His great love. Praise Him when He gives you perception into solving problems and understanding people. Furthermore, slow down and take the time to engage in the details of the people’s passions around you. It honors them when you can ask intelligent questions that communicate you care and understand. God’s got the details covered, so seek Him first for His discernment and He will lead you through every important step along the way. However, don’t drown in the details, but stay moving behind Him for the results. The Bible says, “In the eleventh year in the month of Bul, the eighth month, the temple was finished in all its details according to its specifications. He had spent seven years building it” (I Kings 6:38).
Related Readings: Matthew 6:25-34, I Chronicles 28:19
Transformational Living
What area of my life am I responsible to give more attention to detail as God’s steward?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
One of the most heart warming events during my day are the little smiles on the boys faces when they see Mel and I! I need to work on the slowing down aspect of being a Christian. Slow Down and take the time to look around at this awesome world God has provided for us imperfect beings!
11.12.2008
Boyd Bailey: Complacency Kills…
For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them, but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” Proverbs 1:32
Complacency is a killer because it doesn’t care. It kills outcomes, because it doesn’t care about excellent execution. It kills relationships, because it doesn’t care about investing in the good of another. It kills finances, because it doesn’t care if spending drifts into irresponsible expenditures. It kills life, because it doesn’t care if lethargic living leads to premature death. However, Christ-centered living kills complacency, because Jesus is full of life, opportunity and possibilities. Christians are called to initiate and engage in intimacy with the Almighty. There is a divine drive and determination to do good for God. Complacency kills, but Christ gives life and safety, without fear of harm.
You may find yourself in a funk, captured by frail faith and unable to move forward even moderately. You may be asking, ‘Is it even worth another try?’ And the answer is yes, so get up and get going with God! Kill complacency by courting Christ and His agenda for your life. The Lord cares about where you are going and how you will get there. Don’t be overwhelmed by a mountain of unanswered questions. Just take the first step of faith with your Heavenly Father. Complacency cannot co-exist with Christ. Your Savior will safely guide you to your next goal. Pity parties are for the complacent, however celebratory parties are for those compelled by Christ. The wise run to serve the Lord, while fools rush in to sit and soak. Through trust in Jesus become a complacent killer, as hope takes no prisoners of pity. The Bible says, “At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish those who are complacent, who are like wine left on its dregs, who think, 'The LORD will do nothing, either good or bad’ (Zephaniah 1:12).
Transformational Living
Where do I need to remove complacency in my life and replace it with faith in Christ?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Wow! This just hit me straight between the eyes!
Complacency is a killer because it doesn’t care. It kills outcomes, because it doesn’t care about excellent execution. It kills relationships, because it doesn’t care about investing in the good of another. It kills finances, because it doesn’t care if spending drifts into irresponsible expenditures. It kills life, because it doesn’t care if lethargic living leads to premature death. However, Christ-centered living kills complacency, because Jesus is full of life, opportunity and possibilities. Christians are called to initiate and engage in intimacy with the Almighty. There is a divine drive and determination to do good for God. Complacency kills, but Christ gives life and safety, without fear of harm.
You may find yourself in a funk, captured by frail faith and unable to move forward even moderately. You may be asking, ‘Is it even worth another try?’ And the answer is yes, so get up and get going with God! Kill complacency by courting Christ and His agenda for your life. The Lord cares about where you are going and how you will get there. Don’t be overwhelmed by a mountain of unanswered questions. Just take the first step of faith with your Heavenly Father. Complacency cannot co-exist with Christ. Your Savior will safely guide you to your next goal. Pity parties are for the complacent, however celebratory parties are for those compelled by Christ. The wise run to serve the Lord, while fools rush in to sit and soak. Through trust in Jesus become a complacent killer, as hope takes no prisoners of pity. The Bible says, “At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish those who are complacent, who are like wine left on its dregs, who think, 'The LORD will do nothing, either good or bad’ (Zephaniah 1:12).
Transformational Living
Where do I need to remove complacency in my life and replace it with faith in Christ?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Wow! This just hit me straight between the eyes!
11.10.2008
Boyd Bailey: Benefits Of Repentance…
“If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.” Proverbs 1:23
There are benefits that belong to real repentance. When you and I respond to correction in humility and teachability, we are in a position to be blessed by wisdom. Another’s rebuke causes our pride to bristle, but defensiveness is not where wisdom resides. Wisdom is attracted to the man or woman who comes clean with their sins and shortcomings. It is when our spouse or supervisor uncovers inconsistencies in our words and actions that we are wise to listen and learn. Even when someone rebukes us with raw emotion, we are to receive it and repent of our wrong. Moreover, pray for messengers with mixed motives, and the Almighty with give them the necessary attitude adjustment. Your part is to repent and trust Him with the rest. Indeed, God’s reveals His heart to those responsive to rebuke.
Lastly, repentance is a racetrack for wisdom, as it traffics on the streets of a soul who continually turns to Christ, and turns away from man-centered methods. The world’s standards may allow you to attack an antagonist, but not Jesus. The confrontation of a friend or enemy is a crossroad for Christ’s wisdom. Instruction is an ally that grows your understanding of, and intimacy with Almighty God. So seek out the mature of faith, and give them permission to encounter any erroneous actions in your life. For example, once you are aware of a dishonorable or disrespectful attitude, by God’s grace replace it with honor and respect. Perhaps you invite a money management expert to provide you wisdom and accountability in financial stewardship, or ask a seasoned couple to mentor you and your spouse in marriage. God trusts the teachable with His thoughts. Therefore, listen and learn from the Lord and others, ask them to guide you in wisdom. The Bible says, “Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble” (Proverbs 4:10-12).
Transformational Living
What actions and attitudes do I need to repent of, and ask for wisdom on what to do next?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
The 2 thoughts below are completely profound and I pray that I can made strides to make this happen in my life!
There are benefits that belong to real repentance. When you and I respond to correction in humility and teachability, we are in a position to be blessed by wisdom. Another’s rebuke causes our pride to bristle, but defensiveness is not where wisdom resides. Wisdom is attracted to the man or woman who comes clean with their sins and shortcomings. It is when our spouse or supervisor uncovers inconsistencies in our words and actions that we are wise to listen and learn. Even when someone rebukes us with raw emotion, we are to receive it and repent of our wrong. Moreover, pray for messengers with mixed motives, and the Almighty with give them the necessary attitude adjustment. Your part is to repent and trust Him with the rest. Indeed, God’s reveals His heart to those responsive to rebuke.
Lastly, repentance is a racetrack for wisdom, as it traffics on the streets of a soul who continually turns to Christ, and turns away from man-centered methods. The world’s standards may allow you to attack an antagonist, but not Jesus. The confrontation of a friend or enemy is a crossroad for Christ’s wisdom. Instruction is an ally that grows your understanding of, and intimacy with Almighty God. So seek out the mature of faith, and give them permission to encounter any erroneous actions in your life. For example, once you are aware of a dishonorable or disrespectful attitude, by God’s grace replace it with honor and respect. Perhaps you invite a money management expert to provide you wisdom and accountability in financial stewardship, or ask a seasoned couple to mentor you and your spouse in marriage. God trusts the teachable with His thoughts. Therefore, listen and learn from the Lord and others, ask them to guide you in wisdom. The Bible says, “Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble” (Proverbs 4:10-12).
Transformational Living
What actions and attitudes do I need to repent of, and ask for wisdom on what to do next?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
The 2 thoughts below are completely profound and I pray that I can made strides to make this happen in my life!
- When you and I respond to correction in humility and teachability, we are in a position to be blessed by wisdom.
- Wisdom is attracted to the man or woman who comes clean with their sins and shortcomings.
11.04.2008
Boyd Bailey: Leaders of Integrity…
“But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.” Exodus 18:21
Leaders of integrity are a rare breed within a group of citizens whose utmost concern is, “What is in it for me?” A selfish society does not always select a leader for their integrity, but for their ability to manipulate a quick fix for chronic problems. It is this short sightedness that can set back a generation, because of their leaders' greed and corruption. However, men and women of integrity understand the big picture of principled leadership, and they value a fear of God, trustworthiness and honest economics. A leader of integrity looks out over the long term, and discovers what is best for the culture, its citizens, churches and families. There is a resolve to do the right things, with the right people, for the right reasons. Leaders of integrity integrate integrity by their influence.
Therefore, select capable men and women who hold Christ and His commands in high esteem, who you can trust to do and say the right things, implemented in the right way. Leaders of integrity surround themselves with other leaders of integrity. There is a high standard in their selection of leaders, because they want to represent the people extremely well. Competence and character is valued over loyal but incompetent friends with suspicious standards of behavior. A leader of integrity does delegate, but only to those who are unquestionably capable. So, select your leaders in government and church, prayerfully, and only after extensive due diligence of their policies, integrity and track record. Blindly betting on one person is a bad process. Instead, select statesmen who will serve the people in the best interests of the country, who will surround themselves with the best and the brightest, full of character, and most importantly, choose those who will submit to the accountability of God and man. The early church experienced a similar selection process of leaders, “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:3-4)”.
Transformational Living
Who will I prayerfully select as a leader that is best for my country, my family and my God?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is such an appropriate post for the day we elect our new president. Not that either candidates is all that Christian at first glance, but going forward it is amazing that God has spelled this out for us to use as a guide for finding leaders.
Leaders of integrity are a rare breed within a group of citizens whose utmost concern is, “What is in it for me?” A selfish society does not always select a leader for their integrity, but for their ability to manipulate a quick fix for chronic problems. It is this short sightedness that can set back a generation, because of their leaders' greed and corruption. However, men and women of integrity understand the big picture of principled leadership, and they value a fear of God, trustworthiness and honest economics. A leader of integrity looks out over the long term, and discovers what is best for the culture, its citizens, churches and families. There is a resolve to do the right things, with the right people, for the right reasons. Leaders of integrity integrate integrity by their influence.
Therefore, select capable men and women who hold Christ and His commands in high esteem, who you can trust to do and say the right things, implemented in the right way. Leaders of integrity surround themselves with other leaders of integrity. There is a high standard in their selection of leaders, because they want to represent the people extremely well. Competence and character is valued over loyal but incompetent friends with suspicious standards of behavior. A leader of integrity does delegate, but only to those who are unquestionably capable. So, select your leaders in government and church, prayerfully, and only after extensive due diligence of their policies, integrity and track record. Blindly betting on one person is a bad process. Instead, select statesmen who will serve the people in the best interests of the country, who will surround themselves with the best and the brightest, full of character, and most importantly, choose those who will submit to the accountability of God and man. The early church experienced a similar selection process of leaders, “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:3-4)”.
Transformational Living
Who will I prayerfully select as a leader that is best for my country, my family and my God?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is such an appropriate post for the day we elect our new president. Not that either candidates is all that Christian at first glance, but going forward it is amazing that God has spelled this out for us to use as a guide for finding leaders.
11.01.2008
Me: Proverbs 27:17
17 As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is awesome.
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