“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.” Proverbs 17:14
Messy arguments are the result of fighting in the flesh. It is relational suicide and can cause wounds that won’t easily be forgotten. Anger is the primary driver behind messy arguments. Hard feelings are unable to get past not being heard, or not getting its way. For productive discussions over disagreements, level heads must prevail.
Spirit-filled followers of Jesus have the capacity to not only fight fair, but disagree respectfully while seeking to understand the others’ point of view. If your mind is already made up, then there is little possibility for positive relational results. Your friendship does not have to be sacrificed to make a point. In fact, people grow deeper in love and respect when they first bring their disagreements to the Lord, and let Him lead their lives.
Ask, ‘What does God think?’ Because you do not argue with the Almighty, “Woe to him who quarrels with his Maker…” (Isaiah 45:9). Bickering is marginalized when two people review God’s game plan for disagreements (Matthew 18:15-17). It may require involving an experienced, objective and godly third party. “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom…” (Acts 6:3).
Lastly, once you make your point clearly, concisely and maturely you can trust the Lord and the responsible parties to do the right thing. Everyone is accountable, so the actions sown will reap consequences, good or bad. Therefore prayerfully ask, ‘Am I full of grace and truth in my communications?’ ‘Do I honor others, especially those with whom I disagree?’ A pure heart prevents messy arguments. “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?” (James 4:1)
Related Readings: Proverbs 13:10; Isaiah 58:4; 1 Corinthians 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:23-24
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Okay God! I get it!
4.30.2009
4.29.2009
Boyd Bailey: Gift of Grandchildren…
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” Proverbs 17:6
There are privileges to maturing in age, and one of them is the gift of grandchildren. Like a king and queen’s crown, they are exceptionally valuable and are to be displayed proudly. You look at their hands and feet, and you pray for them to handle life prayerfully and to walk wisely with the Lord. You gaze into their innocent eyes and see glimpses of God’s glory, and you pray for them to look often to the face of Jesus and be loved by Him.
Grandchildren are a gift from God that invites love and unifies families. They are a reminder that the Lord is at work to extend His legacy. So as you love on these little ones, make sure to sow into them the Word of God, and model for them grace, love, forgiveness, and fear of the Lord. Teach them to keep their eyes on Jesus for He will never let them down. Godly grandparents invite gullible grandchildren into their life.
Invite them to your work, so they can see how you relate to people with patience, encouragement and accountability. Invite them into your home, so they soak in how you unconditionally love and respect their grandmother or grandfather. Make sure they catch you laughing out loud every time they visit with you. Call them on the phone; send them emails and birthday cards; take them on trips; buy them ice cream, clothes and their first Bible. Make their memories with you bring a smile to their face.
Lastly, if you are a parent, honor your parents by allowing them to be in the presence of your children. Take a break from parenting and let your mom and dad spoil them. If you are a grandparent be extremely grateful to your children for the opportunity to invest in their children. Honor your children by respecting their way of parenting. Work with them and not against them. Indeed, your children still need your time, money and wisdom. “But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children-- with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.” (Psalm 107:17-18)
Related Readings: Psalm 78:4-6; 128:6; Proverbs 13:22; Joel 1:2-4
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Okay God! We get it!
There are privileges to maturing in age, and one of them is the gift of grandchildren. Like a king and queen’s crown, they are exceptionally valuable and are to be displayed proudly. You look at their hands and feet, and you pray for them to handle life prayerfully and to walk wisely with the Lord. You gaze into their innocent eyes and see glimpses of God’s glory, and you pray for them to look often to the face of Jesus and be loved by Him.
Grandchildren are a gift from God that invites love and unifies families. They are a reminder that the Lord is at work to extend His legacy. So as you love on these little ones, make sure to sow into them the Word of God, and model for them grace, love, forgiveness, and fear of the Lord. Teach them to keep their eyes on Jesus for He will never let them down. Godly grandparents invite gullible grandchildren into their life.
Invite them to your work, so they can see how you relate to people with patience, encouragement and accountability. Invite them into your home, so they soak in how you unconditionally love and respect their grandmother or grandfather. Make sure they catch you laughing out loud every time they visit with you. Call them on the phone; send them emails and birthday cards; take them on trips; buy them ice cream, clothes and their first Bible. Make their memories with you bring a smile to their face.
Lastly, if you are a parent, honor your parents by allowing them to be in the presence of your children. Take a break from parenting and let your mom and dad spoil them. If you are a grandparent be extremely grateful to your children for the opportunity to invest in their children. Honor your children by respecting their way of parenting. Work with them and not against them. Indeed, your children still need your time, money and wisdom. “But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children-- with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.” (Psalm 107:17-18)
Related Readings: Psalm 78:4-6; 128:6; Proverbs 13:22; Joel 1:2-4
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Okay God! We get it!
4.28.2009
Boyd Bailey: Test of Trust…
“The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart.” Proverbs 17:3
The Lord tests the heart to build our trust. Resistance to our efforts creates a reason to reach out to our Creator. Your test of trust is not a trivial pursuit, but a process of purification. Like the cleansing crucible for precious metals, the Lord uses tests to extract the crude of our pride and replace it with the cream of His humility. Tests invite trust.
Indeed, faith is the fruit of being refined by trials. It may be a financial test you are facing. Will you spend less and give more, as you watch your net worth shrink? You may have failed the relational test in your marriage, with your children or a parent. Be hopeful, for you can find success in failure. Failure strips away the nonessentials, so all that’s left is raw faith. Failure is not final. It is a stepping-stone to see the Lord work.
A test is the Lord’s tool to teach you trust. “For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver” (Psalm 66:10). It may feel like the Holy Spirit has strip-searched your soul, because you feel humiliated and exposed. Refinement is not always friendly, but it is necessary to prepare you for success at work and at home. The building of your character is Christ’s way to prepare you for your next milestone of achievement. Fire fuels faith.
Lastly, affluence may be your greatest test of trust in God. The more you have, the less you feel you need the Lord. “You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth…” (Deuteronomy 8:16-17a). ‘Have I passed the test of prosperity?’ ‘Do I give Christ the credit for my accomplishments?’
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 32:21; Job 23:10; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 1 Peter 1:7
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Faith is the fruit of being refined by trials. Yup!
The Lord tests the heart to build our trust. Resistance to our efforts creates a reason to reach out to our Creator. Your test of trust is not a trivial pursuit, but a process of purification. Like the cleansing crucible for precious metals, the Lord uses tests to extract the crude of our pride and replace it with the cream of His humility. Tests invite trust.
Indeed, faith is the fruit of being refined by trials. It may be a financial test you are facing. Will you spend less and give more, as you watch your net worth shrink? You may have failed the relational test in your marriage, with your children or a parent. Be hopeful, for you can find success in failure. Failure strips away the nonessentials, so all that’s left is raw faith. Failure is not final. It is a stepping-stone to see the Lord work.
A test is the Lord’s tool to teach you trust. “For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver” (Psalm 66:10). It may feel like the Holy Spirit has strip-searched your soul, because you feel humiliated and exposed. Refinement is not always friendly, but it is necessary to prepare you for success at work and at home. The building of your character is Christ’s way to prepare you for your next milestone of achievement. Fire fuels faith.
Lastly, affluence may be your greatest test of trust in God. The more you have, the less you feel you need the Lord. “You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth…” (Deuteronomy 8:16-17a). ‘Have I passed the test of prosperity?’ ‘Do I give Christ the credit for my accomplishments?’
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 32:21; Job 23:10; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 1 Peter 1:7
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Faith is the fruit of being refined by trials. Yup!
4.27.2009
Boyd Bailey: Gossip Separates…
“A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.” Proverbs 16:28
A gossiper is a friend of the insecure and the unstable. It is easy for them to go there because it is comfortable and tantalizing. Gossiping makes the insecure feel superior. People with too much time on their hands are prime candidates for gossip, because they are bored. For them it is sport to speculate on another’s situation at their expense. They relish rumors.
However, gossips prey on God’s patience. He may give them over to their depraved minds and categorize them with severe sinners, “They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents…” (Romans 1:29b-30). Gossips grieve the heart of God. It is idle and cheap talk that fails to trust the Lord. They betray the Lord and His children. It is a serious offense.
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much” (Proverbs 20:19). Therefore, it is best to avoid a gossip and not give credence to their callous conversations. Indeed, we all have to watch our words, lest we drift into stirring up dissension. ‘Did you hear about…?’ is generally not a healthy phrase that produces productive outcomes. A friend talks to his friend, not about his friend. A brother does not gossip about a brother.
So the mature cease from speculating, and only draw conclusions after hearing the facts. It takes more time and prayer to honor someone with your speech, but this is the way of the wise. Spirit filled friends do not whisper behind another’s back, but speaks frankly to their face. ‘Do I use words to wound a friend’s reputation, or to help heal their heartache?’ ‘Do my conversations with Christ followers separate or unify friends?’ Apathy is not an option for caring Christians. “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2).
Related Readings: Proverbs 11:3; 26:20; James 3:5; 3 John 1:10
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This hits pretty close to home!
A gossiper is a friend of the insecure and the unstable. It is easy for them to go there because it is comfortable and tantalizing. Gossiping makes the insecure feel superior. People with too much time on their hands are prime candidates for gossip, because they are bored. For them it is sport to speculate on another’s situation at their expense. They relish rumors.
However, gossips prey on God’s patience. He may give them over to their depraved minds and categorize them with severe sinners, “They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents…” (Romans 1:29b-30). Gossips grieve the heart of God. It is idle and cheap talk that fails to trust the Lord. They betray the Lord and His children. It is a serious offense.
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much” (Proverbs 20:19). Therefore, it is best to avoid a gossip and not give credence to their callous conversations. Indeed, we all have to watch our words, lest we drift into stirring up dissension. ‘Did you hear about…?’ is generally not a healthy phrase that produces productive outcomes. A friend talks to his friend, not about his friend. A brother does not gossip about a brother.
So the mature cease from speculating, and only draw conclusions after hearing the facts. It takes more time and prayer to honor someone with your speech, but this is the way of the wise. Spirit filled friends do not whisper behind another’s back, but speaks frankly to their face. ‘Do I use words to wound a friend’s reputation, or to help heal their heartache?’ ‘Do my conversations with Christ followers separate or unify friends?’ Apathy is not an option for caring Christians. “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2).
Related Readings: Proverbs 11:3; 26:20; James 3:5; 3 John 1:10
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This hits pretty close to home!
4.23.2009
Boyd Bailey: Doubt Paralyzes…
“Moses answered, ‘What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, ‘The Lord did not appear to you’?” Exodus 4:1
Moses experienced the “what if” trap. “What if” they do not believe me; and “what if” they do not listen to me? And several thousand years later we struggle with the same doubts. “What if” they reject me; “what if” they say no; “what if” they say yes; “what if” I fail; “what if” I am hurt; and “what if” they don’t understand? If God has led us thus far, and if His track record is one of faithfulness, aren’t we really saying, “what if God does not do what He said He will do?” Doubt detaches us from trust in the character of Christ.
If we are not careful, our beliefs and behavior can reflect this kind of irrational thinking about God. We really struggle at times (right before we take that step of faith), if God is really true to His word, and if He will really come through. Yet we know that God has never failed us. His timing may have been different that we expected, but He has not and He will not fail us. Knowing this, we still struggle with doubt. Why is this?
Doubt is a normal part of the trust process. We go through doubt on the way to trusting in the Lord. Even the most faithful followers of Jesus deal with doubt (Matthew 11:2). However, the danger of doubt is to remain in doubt. Extended striving over doubt can paralyze you. It can paralyze your relationships, your finances, your career advancement and, worst of all, your obedience to God. He is either trustworthy or He is not.
Lastly, it is the most difficult when we are in the middle of tremendous adversity or uncertainty, but God’s posture is one of continual compassion and sincere love. He is there to walk with you. He is leading you and He will provide for you the needed skills, finances, health, and relationships to accomplish His will. Let Him use these times of trials to once again show you that He is God. Ask in prayer, “Empower me Lord to face my doubts and fears by focused faith in You?” “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…”(Ephesians 3:20).
Related Readings: Jeremiah 1:6; Mark 11:23; James 1:6; Jude 1:22
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
He is there to walk with you. This is such a comforting thought! Thank you God! I need this today...
Moses experienced the “what if” trap. “What if” they do not believe me; and “what if” they do not listen to me? And several thousand years later we struggle with the same doubts. “What if” they reject me; “what if” they say no; “what if” they say yes; “what if” I fail; “what if” I am hurt; and “what if” they don’t understand? If God has led us thus far, and if His track record is one of faithfulness, aren’t we really saying, “what if God does not do what He said He will do?” Doubt detaches us from trust in the character of Christ.
If we are not careful, our beliefs and behavior can reflect this kind of irrational thinking about God. We really struggle at times (right before we take that step of faith), if God is really true to His word, and if He will really come through. Yet we know that God has never failed us. His timing may have been different that we expected, but He has not and He will not fail us. Knowing this, we still struggle with doubt. Why is this?
Doubt is a normal part of the trust process. We go through doubt on the way to trusting in the Lord. Even the most faithful followers of Jesus deal with doubt (Matthew 11:2). However, the danger of doubt is to remain in doubt. Extended striving over doubt can paralyze you. It can paralyze your relationships, your finances, your career advancement and, worst of all, your obedience to God. He is either trustworthy or He is not.
Lastly, it is the most difficult when we are in the middle of tremendous adversity or uncertainty, but God’s posture is one of continual compassion and sincere love. He is there to walk with you. He is leading you and He will provide for you the needed skills, finances, health, and relationships to accomplish His will. Let Him use these times of trials to once again show you that He is God. Ask in prayer, “Empower me Lord to face my doubts and fears by focused faith in You?” “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…”(Ephesians 3:20).
Related Readings: Jeremiah 1:6; Mark 11:23; James 1:6; Jude 1:22
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
He is there to walk with you. This is such a comforting thought! Thank you God! I need this today...
4.21.2009
Boyd Bailey: Moral Authority…
“Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.” Proverbs 16:12
Moral authority gives leaders the creditability to lead the most effectively. Presidents, judges, congressmen, governors, mayors, businessmen, teachers, preachers and parents all require moral authority to be a leader worth following. It is the fabric of faith in God’s standards that bolsters respect from followers. So, what is your standard for conduct? Is your conscience governed by Christ’s character? Is He your baseline of behavior?
If everyone “does what is right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25, KJV), there is cultural chaos and moral confusion. It may be a work culture that is inconsistent in its accountability, or a home environment where the parents do not model the behavior they expect from their children. Rules are only followed consistently if righteousness rules.
Your Creator has given you rights based on His righteous standard of behavior. If however, we ignore the implementation of integrity, we forfeit our rights. God’s gift of freedom is fragile and only flourishes in a faith based society. Those who are ungrateful to God travel down a path of pride to their peril. “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 16:25, NKJV). Moral authority is accountable to Almighty God.
Therefore, I have to ask myself, “Do I detest wrongdoing?” “Do I engage injustice with Christ-like character? “Do I compromise God’s standards, or do I walk away from unseemly situations and shady deals?” The conscience of culture changes one heart at a time. Moral authority is the master of a leaders fate. With it comes creditability and the Lord’s blessing. Without it is a shell of service at best, and corruption at worst. ‘Do I lead with the moral authority of my master Jesus?’ “Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 3:13).
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 23:3-4; 2 Chronicles 19:5-7; Luke 12:48; Revelation 19:11
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Moral authority is the master of a leaders fate. WOW!
Moral authority gives leaders the creditability to lead the most effectively. Presidents, judges, congressmen, governors, mayors, businessmen, teachers, preachers and parents all require moral authority to be a leader worth following. It is the fabric of faith in God’s standards that bolsters respect from followers. So, what is your standard for conduct? Is your conscience governed by Christ’s character? Is He your baseline of behavior?
If everyone “does what is right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25, KJV), there is cultural chaos and moral confusion. It may be a work culture that is inconsistent in its accountability, or a home environment where the parents do not model the behavior they expect from their children. Rules are only followed consistently if righteousness rules.
Your Creator has given you rights based on His righteous standard of behavior. If however, we ignore the implementation of integrity, we forfeit our rights. God’s gift of freedom is fragile and only flourishes in a faith based society. Those who are ungrateful to God travel down a path of pride to their peril. “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 16:25, NKJV). Moral authority is accountable to Almighty God.
Therefore, I have to ask myself, “Do I detest wrongdoing?” “Do I engage injustice with Christ-like character? “Do I compromise God’s standards, or do I walk away from unseemly situations and shady deals?” The conscience of culture changes one heart at a time. Moral authority is the master of a leaders fate. With it comes creditability and the Lord’s blessing. Without it is a shell of service at best, and corruption at worst. ‘Do I lead with the moral authority of my master Jesus?’ “Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 3:13).
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 23:3-4; 2 Chronicles 19:5-7; Luke 12:48; Revelation 19:11
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Moral authority is the master of a leaders fate. WOW!
Boyd Bailey: Holy Spirit Motivated…
“All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighted by the Lord.” Proverbs 16:2
Why do you do what you do? Is it for the glory of God, or for the satisfaction of self? There is a subtle difference in serving with the Lord for His glory, and doing our own thing and only mentioning Him as an afterthought. We cannot impartially judge our hearts, but Christ can. We are too close, to be totally objective in our assessment of our actions and motives. However, the Holy Spirit has an effective way to weigh what we do.
Sometimes His way doesn’t make sense. He has you in a fruitful situation and then the Holy Spirit leads you to an overwhelming need with discouraged disciples. Like Philip, “The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it."… “Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:29, 39). Are you willing to leave a place where you are loved for an unknown initiative? Is your heart in it for Him and what’s best for the Kingdom, or is it about making known your name?
Jesus experienced this before His intense temptation with the devil, “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil” (Luke 4:1-2). Sometimes He leads us through the desert of temptation to purify our motives. Adversity prepares us to offer up the praise of people as a praise offering to the Lord. Indeed, gratitude to God gives Him the glory.
In reality, only God really knows the authenticity of your motivations. Furthermore, Holy Spirit motivated work will sustain you to serve. Like the captain of a ship, you serve for the sake of the crew to keep the pirates at bay. Ponder, ‘Am I willing to do what I do without pay, or lesser pay for a period of time, or is money my true motive?’ ‘Can I be content with only the consolation of Christ for my efforts?’ Therefore, start with pure prayers inspired by the Holy Spirit, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (James 4:3).
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 9:4; 1 Samuel 16:7; Luke 16:15; 2 Corinthians 10:12
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I need to do a better job of understanding and being in tuned to the Holy Spirit.
Why do you do what you do? Is it for the glory of God, or for the satisfaction of self? There is a subtle difference in serving with the Lord for His glory, and doing our own thing and only mentioning Him as an afterthought. We cannot impartially judge our hearts, but Christ can. We are too close, to be totally objective in our assessment of our actions and motives. However, the Holy Spirit has an effective way to weigh what we do.
Sometimes His way doesn’t make sense. He has you in a fruitful situation and then the Holy Spirit leads you to an overwhelming need with discouraged disciples. Like Philip, “The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it."… “Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:29, 39). Are you willing to leave a place where you are loved for an unknown initiative? Is your heart in it for Him and what’s best for the Kingdom, or is it about making known your name?
Jesus experienced this before His intense temptation with the devil, “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil” (Luke 4:1-2). Sometimes He leads us through the desert of temptation to purify our motives. Adversity prepares us to offer up the praise of people as a praise offering to the Lord. Indeed, gratitude to God gives Him the glory.
In reality, only God really knows the authenticity of your motivations. Furthermore, Holy Spirit motivated work will sustain you to serve. Like the captain of a ship, you serve for the sake of the crew to keep the pirates at bay. Ponder, ‘Am I willing to do what I do without pay, or lesser pay for a period of time, or is money my true motive?’ ‘Can I be content with only the consolation of Christ for my efforts?’ Therefore, start with pure prayers inspired by the Holy Spirit, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (James 4:3).
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 9:4; 1 Samuel 16:7; Luke 16:15; 2 Corinthians 10:12
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I need to do a better job of understanding and being in tuned to the Holy Spirit.
4.15.2009
Boyd Bailey: Wise Planning…
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed”. Proverbs 15:23
Wise planning is collaborative in nature, as it understands the wisdom found in diverse perspectives. It is not intimidated by input, but invites it. Otherwise, we are limited by our own ideas, experience and intellect. Wise planning is a way to assure success and minimize risk. We are presumptuous and irresponsible to not pay the price of planning. Even King David validated the plan with the people, “The plan seemed right both to the king and to the whole assembly” (2 Chronicles 30:4).
First of all prayerfully seek God’s plan. “All this," David said, "I have in writing from the hand of the LORD upon me, and he gave me understanding in all the details of the plan” (1 Chronicles 28:19). Prayerful planning produces the best results. Schedule time with your team for prayer and then get up off your knees to plan. Plans marinated in prayer are seasoned with success. Seek the Lord and He will show you the wisest way.
The Lord has the best plan, so prayerfully understand His ways and you will save time, money and avoid mistakes. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Your primary counselor is Christ, so go to him often for insight. Do not be dismayed if your plan is delayed. God’s timing reaps radical results that last.
Lastly, look for validation from godly advisors beginning with your spouse and those who know you well. Also, listen to the advice you would give someone in a similar situation. You won’t regret following the same planning process you prescribe for others. ‘Do I practice what I preach, or do I make an exception and seek shortcuts?’ “Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21).
Related Readings: Psalm 33:11; Isaiah 25:1; Romans 1:13; Hebrews 11:40
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This devotion is straight from God for what I was thinking about yesterday with my work review! Thank you God for this little blessing.
Wise planning is collaborative in nature, as it understands the wisdom found in diverse perspectives. It is not intimidated by input, but invites it. Otherwise, we are limited by our own ideas, experience and intellect. Wise planning is a way to assure success and minimize risk. We are presumptuous and irresponsible to not pay the price of planning. Even King David validated the plan with the people, “The plan seemed right both to the king and to the whole assembly” (2 Chronicles 30:4).
First of all prayerfully seek God’s plan. “All this," David said, "I have in writing from the hand of the LORD upon me, and he gave me understanding in all the details of the plan” (1 Chronicles 28:19). Prayerful planning produces the best results. Schedule time with your team for prayer and then get up off your knees to plan. Plans marinated in prayer are seasoned with success. Seek the Lord and He will show you the wisest way.
The Lord has the best plan, so prayerfully understand His ways and you will save time, money and avoid mistakes. “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Your primary counselor is Christ, so go to him often for insight. Do not be dismayed if your plan is delayed. God’s timing reaps radical results that last.
Lastly, look for validation from godly advisors beginning with your spouse and those who know you well. Also, listen to the advice you would give someone in a similar situation. You won’t regret following the same planning process you prescribe for others. ‘Do I practice what I preach, or do I make an exception and seek shortcuts?’ “Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21).
Related Readings: Psalm 33:11; Isaiah 25:1; Romans 1:13; Hebrews 11:40
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This devotion is straight from God for what I was thinking about yesterday with my work review! Thank you God for this little blessing.
Boyd Bailey: Patience Calms Down…
“A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.” Proverbs 15:18
Anger stirs up; patience calms down. Anger has an axe to grind; patience smoothes over offences. Anger reacts in the moment; patience refrains to process. Anger rejects; patience accepts. Anger gets revenge; patience forgives. The goal of anger is to win the quarrel. The goal of patience is to win the relationship. “Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses” (Proverbs 25:15, TM).
My anger sometimes gets the best of me and I say things I later regret. This is when I can choose to humble myself and ask for forgiveness from my offenders, or I can ignore its injury and risk lingering hurts. Over time unresolved anger compounds into a crisis of trust, as anger invites insecurity. People avoid fools who are “an argument” waiting to happen. “It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel” (Proverbs 20:3).
Patience is a peacemaker. It carries buckets of words and, like water, douses the flames of fury and rage. Patience is a prince of peace, and a convener of calm conversations. Patience perceives the bigger picture of the Lord’s work and is not caught up in petty emotional outbursts. Because “love is patient” (1 Corinthians 13:4), it is a matter of loving people through their misfortune or misunderstanding. Love conquers, then calms.
Also, the Lord provides patience in prayer. When you silently wait before Him, He waits with you. It is a lesson in lingering before the Lord and listening to His intimate instructions. Prayer leads me to ponder, “Will I trust God and wait patiently, or will I, in pride, prove my point?” Christ calms me down so that I can patiently create a calm culture. “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes” (Psalm 37:7, NLT).
Related Readings: Psalm 140:2; Ecclesiastes 10:4; Matthew 5:9; 1 Timothy 1:16
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Heavenly Father please lay these words on my earthly fathers heart!
Anger stirs up; patience calms down. Anger has an axe to grind; patience smoothes over offences. Anger reacts in the moment; patience refrains to process. Anger rejects; patience accepts. Anger gets revenge; patience forgives. The goal of anger is to win the quarrel. The goal of patience is to win the relationship. “Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses” (Proverbs 25:15, TM).
My anger sometimes gets the best of me and I say things I later regret. This is when I can choose to humble myself and ask for forgiveness from my offenders, or I can ignore its injury and risk lingering hurts. Over time unresolved anger compounds into a crisis of trust, as anger invites insecurity. People avoid fools who are “an argument” waiting to happen. “It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel” (Proverbs 20:3).
Patience is a peacemaker. It carries buckets of words and, like water, douses the flames of fury and rage. Patience is a prince of peace, and a convener of calm conversations. Patience perceives the bigger picture of the Lord’s work and is not caught up in petty emotional outbursts. Because “love is patient” (1 Corinthians 13:4), it is a matter of loving people through their misfortune or misunderstanding. Love conquers, then calms.
Also, the Lord provides patience in prayer. When you silently wait before Him, He waits with you. It is a lesson in lingering before the Lord and listening to His intimate instructions. Prayer leads me to ponder, “Will I trust God and wait patiently, or will I, in pride, prove my point?” Christ calms me down so that I can patiently create a calm culture. “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes” (Psalm 37:7, NLT).
Related Readings: Psalm 140:2; Ecclesiastes 10:4; Matthew 5:9; 1 Timothy 1:16
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Heavenly Father please lay these words on my earthly fathers heart!
4.08.2009
Boyd Bailey: A Happy Heart…
“A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:13
A happy heart aligns with heaven’s perspective. It is committed to something much broader and nobler than current circumstances. A heart of delight is not in denial about difficulties, nor is it irresponsible about raw reality, but it does take its cheer from Christ. People can encourage us, but it is Jesus that provides eternal encouragement, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me” (John 14:1).
A cheerful face does not mean a heart is not hurting. “Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief” (Proverbs 14:13). You can very well be suffering painful rejection from divorce, job loss or a missed opportunity. However, the aching of a hopeful heart is accompanied by assurance anchored in Almighty God. Hurt need not exclude happiness. Go to Jesus for affirmation and He will make your heart whole and happy.
Sometimes, in the moment, your spirit is crushed, as you receive information you don’t completely understand. Someone may treat you disrespectfully, and you later learn of the deep wounds they are carrying without Christ. Maybe a team member is moving on that is a loyal friend and confidant. You feel betrayed and alone. Use this loss to lead you toward the Lord’s love and healing. Our loss is God’s gain in governing our heart.
The disciples felt loss and sorrow before the cross. Jesus discerned this and said, “Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief. But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:6-7). ‘Is my heart full of the Holy Spirit’s control?’ He is the emissary of eternal happiness. A happy heart is full of faith in the Lord. Peer into the face of Christ and you will go away with a cheerful countenance.
Related Readings: Nehemiah 2:2; Proverbs 12:25; Acts 27:25-36; 2 Corinthians 2:7
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I love it when God is referenced to as the Counselor! It makes me feel so good inside to hear that and that I can go to him with my problems and He will not judge me!!! I also love this line: ‘Is my heart full of the Holy Spirit’s control?’ We have to allow the Holy Spirit to guide us.
A happy heart aligns with heaven’s perspective. It is committed to something much broader and nobler than current circumstances. A heart of delight is not in denial about difficulties, nor is it irresponsible about raw reality, but it does take its cheer from Christ. People can encourage us, but it is Jesus that provides eternal encouragement, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me” (John 14:1).
A cheerful face does not mean a heart is not hurting. “Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief” (Proverbs 14:13). You can very well be suffering painful rejection from divorce, job loss or a missed opportunity. However, the aching of a hopeful heart is accompanied by assurance anchored in Almighty God. Hurt need not exclude happiness. Go to Jesus for affirmation and He will make your heart whole and happy.
Sometimes, in the moment, your spirit is crushed, as you receive information you don’t completely understand. Someone may treat you disrespectfully, and you later learn of the deep wounds they are carrying without Christ. Maybe a team member is moving on that is a loyal friend and confidant. You feel betrayed and alone. Use this loss to lead you toward the Lord’s love and healing. Our loss is God’s gain in governing our heart.
The disciples felt loss and sorrow before the cross. Jesus discerned this and said, “Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief. But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:6-7). ‘Is my heart full of the Holy Spirit’s control?’ He is the emissary of eternal happiness. A happy heart is full of faith in the Lord. Peer into the face of Christ and you will go away with a cheerful countenance.
Related Readings: Nehemiah 2:2; Proverbs 12:25; Acts 27:25-36; 2 Corinthians 2:7
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I love it when God is referenced to as the Counselor! It makes me feel so good inside to hear that and that I can go to him with my problems and He will not judge me!!! I also love this line: ‘Is my heart full of the Holy Spirit’s control?’ We have to allow the Holy Spirit to guide us.
4.07.2009
Boyd Bailey: A Gentle Answer…
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer is not easy to come by in stressful situations. Financial pressures tend to push buttons that arouse my flesh, and in my own strength I say things I later regret. It is hard to not be harsh when the weight of the world weighs us down, or when we feel misunderstood or under appreciated. Indeed, this is when the gentleness of Jesus can replace our juvenile gestures. “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29).
Harshness seems to hibernate in a heavy heart, waiting to awaken when it feels violated or disturbed. However, by God’s grace a soft reply allows reason to run its course, rather than passionate words provoking insult. Emotions are kept in check by calm communication that promotes peace and understanding. Consider patiently reaching out, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up” (Proverbs 12:9).
If you find yourself in a heated argument, perhaps you both take a deep breath and pray together. It’s hard to remain angry when you are on your knees confessing sin and sorrow to your Savior Jesus. Take the lead to apologize and ask forgiveness. Humility disarms explosive conversations, and brings back the calm of Christ. Remind each other of Jesus’ words, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you...” (Matthew 7:12a).
Lastly, it is a gentle word from God that lowers your blood pressure and gives you a peaceful perspective. Listen to the Lord before you lash out, and His Spirit will refrain you from stupid stunts. The work of the Holy Spirit in your heart moves you from harshness to holiness. Pray, ‘Lord forgive me and fill me.’ It is the fullness of the Spirit that frees you from the foul flesh. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).
Related Readings: 1 Kings 9:11-13; Proverbs 25:15; Matthew 12:36-37; Colossians 3:12
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
A very wise person shared this with Mel and Me last night! I feel it's so fitting.
A gentle answer is not easy to come by in stressful situations. Financial pressures tend to push buttons that arouse my flesh, and in my own strength I say things I later regret. It is hard to not be harsh when the weight of the world weighs us down, or when we feel misunderstood or under appreciated. Indeed, this is when the gentleness of Jesus can replace our juvenile gestures. “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29).
Harshness seems to hibernate in a heavy heart, waiting to awaken when it feels violated or disturbed. However, by God’s grace a soft reply allows reason to run its course, rather than passionate words provoking insult. Emotions are kept in check by calm communication that promotes peace and understanding. Consider patiently reaching out, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up” (Proverbs 12:9).
If you find yourself in a heated argument, perhaps you both take a deep breath and pray together. It’s hard to remain angry when you are on your knees confessing sin and sorrow to your Savior Jesus. Take the lead to apologize and ask forgiveness. Humility disarms explosive conversations, and brings back the calm of Christ. Remind each other of Jesus’ words, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you...” (Matthew 7:12a).
Lastly, it is a gentle word from God that lowers your blood pressure and gives you a peaceful perspective. Listen to the Lord before you lash out, and His Spirit will refrain you from stupid stunts. The work of the Holy Spirit in your heart moves you from harshness to holiness. Pray, ‘Lord forgive me and fill me.’ It is the fullness of the Spirit that frees you from the foul flesh. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).
Related Readings: 1 Kings 9:11-13; Proverbs 25:15; Matthew 12:36-37; Colossians 3:12
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
A very wise person shared this with Mel and Me last night! I feel it's so fitting.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 (NIV)
4.01.2009
Boyd Bailey: Focused Leadership…
“Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead…” Philippians 3:13
Paul understood and applied focused leadership. Under extreme conditions he remained vigilant to plant churches and preach the gospel, even in the face of hostile resistance. So, in uncertain times, I have to look into the mirror and ask, ‘Am I focused on the task at hand, or am I distracted by critics and circumstances?’ Focused leadership finds a way.
Perhaps you take a more direct leadership role, so the team can draft off your intensity. For example, consider attending or even leading the sales meetings for a season. Help the team discover creative ways to retain current customers and attract new ones. Be available to serve in ways and at times that strategically creates momentum and excels execution. Focused leadership strips back to the essentials of getting the right results.
Focused leadership also applies at home. If finances have spiraled out of control, the husband is to take responsibility and loving lead his wife and children to wise and frugal expenditures. Everyone sacrifices something during tight economic times. You may need to sell a car, or explain to your teenager the only affordable option is in-state tuition.
Until you change, the organization or your family won’t. Apathy and inertia are not options; the focused leader allows only intense interest and forward motion. Draw a circle around your feet, kneel down and ask God for wisdom and discernment, starting with your own leadership transformation. Focus on your Heavenly Father and He will lead you to successfully lead. Prayerfully ask, ‘Is my heart on Him?’ “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…” (Philippians 3:8a).
Related Readings:Joshua 1:7; 1 Kings 8:61; Luke 10:42; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is some of the best advice I've had in quite some time!
Paul understood and applied focused leadership. Under extreme conditions he remained vigilant to plant churches and preach the gospel, even in the face of hostile resistance. So, in uncertain times, I have to look into the mirror and ask, ‘Am I focused on the task at hand, or am I distracted by critics and circumstances?’ Focused leadership finds a way.
Perhaps you take a more direct leadership role, so the team can draft off your intensity. For example, consider attending or even leading the sales meetings for a season. Help the team discover creative ways to retain current customers and attract new ones. Be available to serve in ways and at times that strategically creates momentum and excels execution. Focused leadership strips back to the essentials of getting the right results.
Focused leadership also applies at home. If finances have spiraled out of control, the husband is to take responsibility and loving lead his wife and children to wise and frugal expenditures. Everyone sacrifices something during tight economic times. You may need to sell a car, or explain to your teenager the only affordable option is in-state tuition.
Until you change, the organization or your family won’t. Apathy and inertia are not options; the focused leader allows only intense interest and forward motion. Draw a circle around your feet, kneel down and ask God for wisdom and discernment, starting with your own leadership transformation. Focus on your Heavenly Father and He will lead you to successfully lead. Prayerfully ask, ‘Is my heart on Him?’ “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…” (Philippians 3:8a).
Related Readings:Joshua 1:7; 1 Kings 8:61; Luke 10:42; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is some of the best advice I've had in quite some time!
Until you change, the organization or your family won’t. Apathy and inertia are not options; the focused leader allows only intense interest and forward motion. Draw a circle around your feet, kneel down and ask God for wisdom and discernment, starting with your own leadership transformation. Focus on your Heavenly Father and He will lead you to successfully lead.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)