Over the years we've come to see that the only thing more tragic than the things that have happened to us is what we have done with them.
Words were said, painful words. Things were done, awful things. And they shaped us. Something inside us shifted. We embraced the messages of our wounds. We accepted a twisted view of ourselves. And from that we chose a way of relating to our world. We made a vow never to be in that place again. We adopted strategies to protect ourselves from being hurt again. A woman that is living out of a broken, wounded heart is a woman who is living a self-protective life. She may not be aware of it, but it is true. It's our way of trying to "save ourselves."
We also developed ways of trying to get something of the love our hearts cried out for. The ache is there. Our desperate need for love and affirmation, our thirst for some taste of romance and adventure and beauty is there. So we turned to boys or to food or to romance novels; we lost ourselves in our work or at church or in some sort of service. All this adds up to the woman we are today. Much of what we call our "personalities" is actually the mosaic of our choices for self-protection plus our plan to get something of the love we were created for.
The problem is, our plan has nothing to do with God.
The wounds we received and the messages they brought formed a sort of unholy alliance with our fallen nature as women. From Eve we received a deep mistrust in the heart of God toward us. Clearly, he's holding out on us. We'll just have to arrange for the life we want. We will control our world. But there is also an ache deep within, an ache for intimacy and for life. We'll have to find a way to fill it. A way that does not require us to trust anyone, especially God. A way that will not require vulnerability.
(Captivating , 74-75)
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
12.30.2010
12.27.2010
John Eldredge: Walking with God
Psalm 23, He leads us away, to a quiet place, to restore the soul. Our first choice is to go with him there-to slow down, unplug, accept the invitation to come aside. You won't find healing in the midst of the Matrix. We need time in the presence of God. This often comes on the heels of God's raising some issue in our hearts or after we've just relived an event that takes us straight to that broken place, or waking as I did to a raw emotion.
Teach me your way, O LORD,
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify your name forever. (Ps. 86:11-12)
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
Teach me your way, O LORD,
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify your name forever. (Ps. 86:11-12)
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
12.20.2010
Expecting A Baby
“He [Joseph] went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:5-7
An expecting wife needs extra sensitivity, and a strong supportive husband. She is emotionally vulnerable, and physically overwhelmed at times. As with Mary, there may be some uncertainty of the ultimate outcome, but she trusts the Lord to care for her and her baby. The circumstances are challenging when you are away from the comforts of home and its familiar feel. Pregnancy is a transition that requires trust in the Lord.
Husbands, your expecting wife needs you to step up like Joseph and provide leadership. This is not the time to lose faith, or become frightened. Perfect love casts out fear, so overcome any apprehensions with the Christ-like love that dwells in your mind and heart. See pregnancy as a prayerful process to accomplish the plan of Almighty God, as expecting moms and dads can expect great things from Him. Hannah and her husband Elkanah gave God the glory for the blessing of their son Samuel:
“Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the LORD and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah made love to his wife Hannah, and the LORD remembered her. So in the course of time Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the LORD for him” (1 Samuel 1:19-20).
Furthermore, a husband’s leadership needs to provide protection for his wife. Accompany her, as Joseph did, to new places and people who might take advantage of your sweet spirited spouse. It makes your woman feel safe and secure when you buffer her from bad people, or strangers with unseemly motives. Stay with her, and see her through stressful situations, like family members who can be awkward and insensitive toward your bride.
Intervene and defend your wife if your children, parents or siblings show disrespect, ever how subtle it might be. God in marriage made you one flesh, so if she is offended, you are offended. Of course prayerfully confront all parties in a spirit of grace and humility, but with clarity. An expecting wife is beautiful to behold, as she brings forth an innocent infant woven in her womb by God. Be there for her labor of love for the Lord, and for His gift of a precious little one to love. Mary gave God the glory for her baby Jesus!
“The LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23).
Who can I support and pray for who is expecting a baby? How can I thank my heavenly Father for His gift of baby Jesus to me and to mankind?
Related Readings: Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2; John 16:21; I John 4:18
An expecting wife needs extra sensitivity, and a strong supportive husband. She is emotionally vulnerable, and physically overwhelmed at times. As with Mary, there may be some uncertainty of the ultimate outcome, but she trusts the Lord to care for her and her baby. The circumstances are challenging when you are away from the comforts of home and its familiar feel. Pregnancy is a transition that requires trust in the Lord.
Husbands, your expecting wife needs you to step up like Joseph and provide leadership. This is not the time to lose faith, or become frightened. Perfect love casts out fear, so overcome any apprehensions with the Christ-like love that dwells in your mind and heart. See pregnancy as a prayerful process to accomplish the plan of Almighty God, as expecting moms and dads can expect great things from Him. Hannah and her husband Elkanah gave God the glory for the blessing of their son Samuel:
“Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the LORD and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah made love to his wife Hannah, and the LORD remembered her. So in the course of time Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the LORD for him” (1 Samuel 1:19-20).
Furthermore, a husband’s leadership needs to provide protection for his wife. Accompany her, as Joseph did, to new places and people who might take advantage of your sweet spirited spouse. It makes your woman feel safe and secure when you buffer her from bad people, or strangers with unseemly motives. Stay with her, and see her through stressful situations, like family members who can be awkward and insensitive toward your bride.
Intervene and defend your wife if your children, parents or siblings show disrespect, ever how subtle it might be. God in marriage made you one flesh, so if she is offended, you are offended. Of course prayerfully confront all parties in a spirit of grace and humility, but with clarity. An expecting wife is beautiful to behold, as she brings forth an innocent infant woven in her womb by God. Be there for her labor of love for the Lord, and for His gift of a precious little one to love. Mary gave God the glory for her baby Jesus!
“The LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23).
Who can I support and pray for who is expecting a baby? How can I thank my heavenly Father for His gift of baby Jesus to me and to mankind?
Related Readings: Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2; John 16:21; I John 4:18
11.03.2010
It Will Be Messy
The family is like a little kingdom, and, like most other little kingdoms, is generally in a state of something resembling anarchy.
Chesterton could have been talking about a little fellowship (our true family, because it is the Family of God). It is a royal mess. I will not whitewash this. It is disruptive. Going to church with hundreds of other people to sit and hear a sermon doesn't ask much of you. It certainly will never expose you. That's why most folks prefer it. Because community will. It will reveal where you have yet to become holy, right at the very moment you are so keenly aware of how they have yet to become holy. It will bring you close and you will be seen and you will be known and therein lies the power and therein lies the danger. Aren't there moments when all those little companies, in all those stories, hang by a thread? Galadriel says to Frodo, "Your quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail, to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while the Company is true."
We've experienced incredible disappointments in our fellowship. We have, every last one of us, hurt one another. Sometimes deeply. Last year there was a night when Stasi and I laid out a vision for where we thought things should be going - our life-long dream for redemptive community. We hoped the Company would leap to it with loud "Hurrahs! Hurrah for John and Stasi!" Far from it. Their response was more on the level of blank stares. Our dream was mishandled - badly. Stasi was sick to her stomach; she wanted to leave the room and throw up. I was stunned. Disappointed. I felt the dive towards a total loss of heart. The following day I could feel my heart being pulled towards resentment. It's moments like that which usually toll the beginning of the end for most attempts at community.
(Waking The Dead, 197 )
Chesterton could have been talking about a little fellowship (our true family, because it is the Family of God). It is a royal mess. I will not whitewash this. It is disruptive. Going to church with hundreds of other people to sit and hear a sermon doesn't ask much of you. It certainly will never expose you. That's why most folks prefer it. Because community will. It will reveal where you have yet to become holy, right at the very moment you are so keenly aware of how they have yet to become holy. It will bring you close and you will be seen and you will be known and therein lies the power and therein lies the danger. Aren't there moments when all those little companies, in all those stories, hang by a thread? Galadriel says to Frodo, "Your quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail, to the ruin of all. Yet hope remains while the Company is true."
We've experienced incredible disappointments in our fellowship. We have, every last one of us, hurt one another. Sometimes deeply. Last year there was a night when Stasi and I laid out a vision for where we thought things should be going - our life-long dream for redemptive community. We hoped the Company would leap to it with loud "Hurrahs! Hurrah for John and Stasi!" Far from it. Their response was more on the level of blank stares. Our dream was mishandled - badly. Stasi was sick to her stomach; she wanted to leave the room and throw up. I was stunned. Disappointed. I felt the dive towards a total loss of heart. The following day I could feel my heart being pulled towards resentment. It's moments like that which usually toll the beginning of the end for most attempts at community.
(Waking The Dead, 197 )
9.21.2010
John Eldredge: Fight For It
Be kind, for everyone you know is facing a great battle.
A true community is something you will have to fight for. You'll have to fight to get one, and you'll have to fight to keep it afloat. But you fight for it like you bail out a life raft during a storm at sea. You want this thing to work. You need this thing to work. You can't ditch it and jump back on the cruise ship. This is the church; this is all you have. Without it, you'll go down. Or back to prison.
Suddenly all those "one another's" in Scripture make sense. Love one another. Bear one another's burdens. Forgive one another. Acts of kindness become deeply meaningful because we know we are at war. Knowing full well that we are all facing battles of our own, we give one another the benefit of the doubt. Leigh isn't intentionally being distant from me - she's probably under an assault. That's why you must know each other's stories, know how to "read" one another. A word of encouragement can heal a wound; a choice to forgive can destroy a stronghold. You never knew your simple acts were so weighty. Its what we've come to call "lifestyle warfare."
We check in regularly with one another, not out of paranoia ("Do you still like me?"), but in order to watch over each other's hearts. "How are you doing?" But be careful about what you are looking for from community. For if you bring your every need to it, it will collapse. Community is no substitute for God. I left our annual camping trip absolutely exhausted and disappointed. As we drove home, I realized it was because I was looking to them to validate me, appreciate me, fill this aching void in my heart. Only once in ten days did I take time to be away with God, alone. I was too busy trying to get my needs met through them. Which is why community cannot live without solitude.
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
A true community is something you will have to fight for. You'll have to fight to get one, and you'll have to fight to keep it afloat. But you fight for it like you bail out a life raft during a storm at sea. You want this thing to work. You need this thing to work. You can't ditch it and jump back on the cruise ship. This is the church; this is all you have. Without it, you'll go down. Or back to prison.
Suddenly all those "one another's" in Scripture make sense. Love one another. Bear one another's burdens. Forgive one another. Acts of kindness become deeply meaningful because we know we are at war. Knowing full well that we are all facing battles of our own, we give one another the benefit of the doubt. Leigh isn't intentionally being distant from me - she's probably under an assault. That's why you must know each other's stories, know how to "read" one another. A word of encouragement can heal a wound; a choice to forgive can destroy a stronghold. You never knew your simple acts were so weighty. Its what we've come to call "lifestyle warfare."
We check in regularly with one another, not out of paranoia ("Do you still like me?"), but in order to watch over each other's hearts. "How are you doing?" But be careful about what you are looking for from community. For if you bring your every need to it, it will collapse. Community is no substitute for God. I left our annual camping trip absolutely exhausted and disappointed. As we drove home, I realized it was because I was looking to them to validate me, appreciate me, fill this aching void in my heart. Only once in ten days did I take time to be away with God, alone. I was too busy trying to get my needs met through them. Which is why community cannot live without solitude.
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
Boyd Bailey: A Fruitful Family
“Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. Thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord.” Psalm 128:1-4
The fruit from a family who fears the Lord is tasty and delicious. However, this type of fruit does not happen immediately, but is cultivated over time. A fruitful wife sets the tone for the home. By God’s grace she weeds out criticism and replaces it with creativity. The home is her “pride and joy”. It is a reflection of her, as it is her nest.
A home to the wife is like an office to the husband. Things need to be just right or she feels violated. Indeed, be grateful for a conscientious wife who wants to express herself through the home. The fruit of a clean, decorated and ordered home is calming. It provides an environment of stability and frees family members to focus on each other and other people. A husband is free to do what he does best at work with a supportive wife at home.
A mother’s influence spreads like a lovely vine throughout the house. No area is left untouched. The children are nurtured and encouraged by her sensitivity. When instilled from birth, the fruit from children become obedience to God and love for the Lord. Their heart for God grows when parents read Bible stories to them as they wait in the womb.
The warm embrace of their little arms around your neck is the fruit of trust. The look of their kind and trusting eyes is the fruit of consistent love from mom and dad. Their bent toward love for God and people is fruit from their parent’s example of following Jesus.
Furthermore, family fruit flourishes when the man of the house models faithfulness. A husband’s intentional effort to follow the Lord ignites faith at home. A fruitful wife has no problem submitting to a husband—who submits to God. A God fearing man is quick to confess sin to his Heavenly father and to his family. It is not uncommon for him to say, “I am sorry” or “I was wrong”. Authentic confession encourages confession in others.
Confessed up hearts are family fruit. It is probable the family will pray, read their Bible and go to church, if the leader of the home does the same. Family fruit has a direct correlation to the faithfulness of the family head. Family fruit flourishes when the man fears God. Regardless of the circumstances he is committed to doing what God expects.
Therefore, your home becomes a hot house of character. The fruit threatens to bust through the glass panels for all to see. People are encouraged when they visit your hospitable home. Sinners need a safe environment, as acceptance comes from the fruit of Christ’s acceptance. Heavens dew and rainfall keep the fruit coming to a home submitted to Christ. Jesus says, “This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8). Fruit is proof of faithful families.
Does my character cultivate fruit that glorifies God in my family?
Related Readings: Genesis 7:1; Proverbs 31:15; Mark 5:19; Acts 10:2
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
The fruit from a family who fears the Lord is tasty and delicious. However, this type of fruit does not happen immediately, but is cultivated over time. A fruitful wife sets the tone for the home. By God’s grace she weeds out criticism and replaces it with creativity. The home is her “pride and joy”. It is a reflection of her, as it is her nest.
A home to the wife is like an office to the husband. Things need to be just right or she feels violated. Indeed, be grateful for a conscientious wife who wants to express herself through the home. The fruit of a clean, decorated and ordered home is calming. It provides an environment of stability and frees family members to focus on each other and other people. A husband is free to do what he does best at work with a supportive wife at home.
A mother’s influence spreads like a lovely vine throughout the house. No area is left untouched. The children are nurtured and encouraged by her sensitivity. When instilled from birth, the fruit from children become obedience to God and love for the Lord. Their heart for God grows when parents read Bible stories to them as they wait in the womb.
The warm embrace of their little arms around your neck is the fruit of trust. The look of their kind and trusting eyes is the fruit of consistent love from mom and dad. Their bent toward love for God and people is fruit from their parent’s example of following Jesus.
Furthermore, family fruit flourishes when the man of the house models faithfulness. A husband’s intentional effort to follow the Lord ignites faith at home. A fruitful wife has no problem submitting to a husband—who submits to God. A God fearing man is quick to confess sin to his Heavenly father and to his family. It is not uncommon for him to say, “I am sorry” or “I was wrong”. Authentic confession encourages confession in others.
Confessed up hearts are family fruit. It is probable the family will pray, read their Bible and go to church, if the leader of the home does the same. Family fruit has a direct correlation to the faithfulness of the family head. Family fruit flourishes when the man fears God. Regardless of the circumstances he is committed to doing what God expects.
Therefore, your home becomes a hot house of character. The fruit threatens to bust through the glass panels for all to see. People are encouraged when they visit your hospitable home. Sinners need a safe environment, as acceptance comes from the fruit of Christ’s acceptance. Heavens dew and rainfall keep the fruit coming to a home submitted to Christ. Jesus says, “This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8). Fruit is proof of faithful families.
Does my character cultivate fruit that glorifies God in my family?
Related Readings: Genesis 7:1; Proverbs 31:15; Mark 5:19; Acts 10:2
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
9.13.2010
The Daily Verse: Prayer
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. James 5:16
Do not underestimate the power of your prayers. If there is a situation you're aware of that needs prayer, be intentional to take it to the Father. The situation will be impacted by your intercession, and you will be impacted by spending time in communion with God.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Do not underestimate the power of your prayers. If there is a situation you're aware of that needs prayer, be intentional to take it to the Father. The situation will be impacted by your intercession, and you will be impacted by spending time in communion with God.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
9.03.2010
Holy Spirit Compelled
“For I am full of words, and the spirit within me compels me…” Job 32:18
God wants us to live a life compelled by His Spirit. When the Spirit within us says yes, we are obliged to follow His lead. It may interfere with our comfort. It may cause us to say no to other good opportunities and it may require us to sacrifice. But because Christ compels us, we come alive to live for Him and to unselfishly serve others.
If it is to speak, then speak with grace and boldness. If it is to teach, then teach with accuracy and relevance. If it is to make deals, then make deals with those you trust and within your area of expertise. If it is to share the gospel, then share the gospel with love and acceptance. If it is to mentor others, then mentor others with humility and wisdom.
If it is to invest in your family, then invest in your family with energy and abandonment. Time is short—so do not waste it on projects and people that are not compelling to you. It may compel others, but not you. Go after those things that motivate you to excellence. You are compelled by the Spirit of God inside you to influence the world outside you.
“These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke” (Acts 6:9b-10).
A compelling life compels others. Your compelling life lifts others out of their apathy and hesitation. You are a force field of hope and courage. Your life becomes more compelling the deeper you go with God. Your character overflows with the fruit of the spirit. People can taste the fruit of the Spirit through your life and it tastes delicious.
So, what does it look like to be compelled by the Holy Spirit? Certainly you are comfortable with God’s purpose for your life. Maybe you broker people for Kingdom purposes. You may be a homemaker, a lawyer, a secretary, a salesman, a software developer, a banker, a mechanic, a teacher or a politician. Your vocation is not ministry, but your ministry is your vocation. Wherever God has called you—do it in a compelling fashion, or don’t do it at all. A Spirit compelled life compels others to follow Jesus.
Barnabas was a Spirit-led man of God, “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord” (Acts 11:24).
Where is the Spirit leading me to serve the Lord? Does my life compel others to Christ?
Related Readings: Acts 16:6-7; Romans 5:5; 15:13-30; 1 Corinthians 2:4-15
God wants us to live a life compelled by His Spirit. When the Spirit within us says yes, we are obliged to follow His lead. It may interfere with our comfort. It may cause us to say no to other good opportunities and it may require us to sacrifice. But because Christ compels us, we come alive to live for Him and to unselfishly serve others.
If it is to speak, then speak with grace and boldness. If it is to teach, then teach with accuracy and relevance. If it is to make deals, then make deals with those you trust and within your area of expertise. If it is to share the gospel, then share the gospel with love and acceptance. If it is to mentor others, then mentor others with humility and wisdom.
If it is to invest in your family, then invest in your family with energy and abandonment. Time is short—so do not waste it on projects and people that are not compelling to you. It may compel others, but not you. Go after those things that motivate you to excellence. You are compelled by the Spirit of God inside you to influence the world outside you.
“These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke” (Acts 6:9b-10).
A compelling life compels others. Your compelling life lifts others out of their apathy and hesitation. You are a force field of hope and courage. Your life becomes more compelling the deeper you go with God. Your character overflows with the fruit of the spirit. People can taste the fruit of the Spirit through your life and it tastes delicious.
So, what does it look like to be compelled by the Holy Spirit? Certainly you are comfortable with God’s purpose for your life. Maybe you broker people for Kingdom purposes. You may be a homemaker, a lawyer, a secretary, a salesman, a software developer, a banker, a mechanic, a teacher or a politician. Your vocation is not ministry, but your ministry is your vocation. Wherever God has called you—do it in a compelling fashion, or don’t do it at all. A Spirit compelled life compels others to follow Jesus.
Barnabas was a Spirit-led man of God, “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord” (Acts 11:24).
Where is the Spirit leading me to serve the Lord? Does my life compel others to Christ?
Related Readings: Acts 16:6-7; Romans 5:5; 15:13-30; 1 Corinthians 2:4-15
John Eldredge: Passivity
One of the saddest of all the sad stories in the history of the people of God comes shortly after the dramatic Exodus from Egypt, as they stand on the brink of a whole new life in the land God had promised:
But you were unwilling to go up; you rebelled against the command of the LORD your God. You grumbled in your tents and said, "The LORD hates us; so he brought us out of Egypt to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites to destroy us. Where can we go? Our brothers have made us lose heart. They say, 'The people are stronger and taller than we are; the cities are large, with walls up to the sky. We even saw the Anakites there.'" Then I said to you, "Do not be terrified; do not be afraid of them. The LORD your God, who is going before you, will fight for you [Not "comfort you." Not "be with you in your distress, defeated by your enemies." Fight for you], as he did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes, and in the desert. There you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place." In spite of this, you did not trust in the LORD your God . . . Then you replied, "We have sinned against the LORD. We will go up and fight, as the LORD our God commanded us." (Deut. 1:26-41 NIV)
But it was too late. Their decision not to fight is what led to their wandering in the wilderness for forty years. We often cite that part of the story, talking about our own wilderness experiences, embracing the wilderness saga as if it were inevitable. No, that is not the lesson at all. We have forgotten it was avoidable. The reason they took the lamentable detour into the wilderness was because they would not fight. To be more precise, the wilderness was a punishment, the consequence of refusing to trust God, and fight.
(Fathered by God )
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
But you were unwilling to go up; you rebelled against the command of the LORD your God. You grumbled in your tents and said, "The LORD hates us; so he brought us out of Egypt to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites to destroy us. Where can we go? Our brothers have made us lose heart. They say, 'The people are stronger and taller than we are; the cities are large, with walls up to the sky. We even saw the Anakites there.'" Then I said to you, "Do not be terrified; do not be afraid of them. The LORD your God, who is going before you, will fight for you [Not "comfort you." Not "be with you in your distress, defeated by your enemies." Fight for you], as he did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes, and in the desert. There you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place." In spite of this, you did not trust in the LORD your God . . . Then you replied, "We have sinned against the LORD. We will go up and fight, as the LORD our God commanded us." (Deut. 1:26-41 NIV)
But it was too late. Their decision not to fight is what led to their wandering in the wilderness for forty years. We often cite that part of the story, talking about our own wilderness experiences, embracing the wilderness saga as if it were inevitable. No, that is not the lesson at all. We have forgotten it was avoidable. The reason they took the lamentable detour into the wilderness was because they would not fight. To be more precise, the wilderness was a punishment, the consequence of refusing to trust God, and fight.
(Fathered by God )
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
The Daily Verse: Truth
He answered, "Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see." John 9:25
The truth speaks for itself. Don't over-complicate it.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
The truth speaks for itself. Don't over-complicate it.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
9.02.2010
John Eldredge: We Need a Guide
Whatever the details might be, when a man speaks of the greatest gift his father gave him-if his father gave him anything at all worth remembering-it is always the passing on of masculinity.
This is essential, for life will test you. Like a ship at sea, you will be tested, and the storms will reveal the weak places in you as a man. They already have. How else do you account for the anger you feel, the fear, the vulnerability to certain temptations? You know what I speak of. And so our basic approach to life comes down to this: we stay in what we can handle, and steer clear of everything else. We engage where we feel we can or we must-as at work-and we hold back where we feel sure to fail, as in the deep waters of relating to our wife or our children, and in our spirituality.
Masculine initiation is a journey, a process, a quest really, a story that unfolds over time. It can be a very beautiful and powerful event to experience a blessing or a ritual, to hear words spoken to us in a ceremony of some sort. Those moments can be turning points in our lives. But they are only moments, and moments, as you well know, pass quickly and are swallowed in the river of time. We need more than a moment, an event. We need a process, a journey, an epic story of many experiences woven together, building upon one another in a progression. We need initiation. And, we need a Guide.
(Fathered by God , 6-8 )
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
This is essential, for life will test you. Like a ship at sea, you will be tested, and the storms will reveal the weak places in you as a man. They already have. How else do you account for the anger you feel, the fear, the vulnerability to certain temptations? You know what I speak of. And so our basic approach to life comes down to this: we stay in what we can handle, and steer clear of everything else. We engage where we feel we can or we must-as at work-and we hold back where we feel sure to fail, as in the deep waters of relating to our wife or our children, and in our spirituality.
Masculine initiation is a journey, a process, a quest really, a story that unfolds over time. It can be a very beautiful and powerful event to experience a blessing or a ritual, to hear words spoken to us in a ceremony of some sort. Those moments can be turning points in our lives. But they are only moments, and moments, as you well know, pass quickly and are swallowed in the river of time. We need more than a moment, an event. We need a process, a journey, an epic story of many experiences woven together, building upon one another in a progression. We need initiation. And, we need a Guide.
(Fathered by God , 6-8 )
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
9.01.2010
John Eldredge: A True Father
Jesus kept coming back to this central issue, over and over, driving at it in his teachings, his parables, his penetrating questions. If you look again, through the lens that most of us feel fundamentally fatherless, I think you'll find it very close indeed to the center of Jesus' mission. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?" (Matt. 7:9-10 NIV). Well? We rush ahead to the rest of the passage, but I think Jesus is asking us a real question and he wants a real answer. I expect he paused here, his penetrating, compassionate eyes scanning the listeners before him. Well? I hesitate. I guess you're right. I wouldn't, and apart from the exceptionally wicked man, I can't think of any decent father-even if he is self absorbed-who would do such a thing. Jesus continues, "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (v. 11 NIV).
He is trying to speak to our deepest doubt about the universe.
Look at the birds of the air. Consider the lilies in the field. Are you not much more valuable to your true Father than they? (Matt 6:26, 28). Hmmm. I'm not sure how to answer. I mean, of course, there's the "right" answer. And then there is the wound in our hearts toward fatherhood, and there is also the way our lives have gone. "What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?" (Matt. 18:12 NIV). Yet another question, pressing into the submerged fears in our hearts, another question wanting another answer. Well? Wouldn't he? "And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost" (vv. 13-14 NIV).
Wherever you are in your ability to believe it at this moment in your life, at least you can see what Jesus is driving at. You have a good Father. He is better than you thought. He cares. He really does. He's kind and generous. He's out for your best.
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
He is trying to speak to our deepest doubt about the universe.
Look at the birds of the air. Consider the lilies in the field. Are you not much more valuable to your true Father than they? (Matt 6:26, 28). Hmmm. I'm not sure how to answer. I mean, of course, there's the "right" answer. And then there is the wound in our hearts toward fatherhood, and there is also the way our lives have gone. "What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?" (Matt. 18:12 NIV). Yet another question, pressing into the submerged fears in our hearts, another question wanting another answer. Well? Wouldn't he? "And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost" (vv. 13-14 NIV).
Wherever you are in your ability to believe it at this moment in your life, at least you can see what Jesus is driving at. You have a good Father. He is better than you thought. He cares. He really does. He's kind and generous. He's out for your best.
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
Boyd Bailey: Forgetful Friends
“The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.” Genesis 40:23
Sometimes friends forget. They forget birthdays, anniversaries, commitments and what’s important to their friends. The forgetfulness of friends facilitates frustration and disappointment. After all, some of these friends have been past recipients of your help and encouragement. You have been there for them during their days of discouragement. Now when the tables have turned and you are in need, but they don’t seem to be near.
Maybe they are too busy with life, maybe they are buried in their own troubles, or maybe they have simply forgotten you. Unfortunately, some friendships are tentative and unpredictable. When adversity strikes you are able to filter out false friends from forever friends. Fair weather friends will fly in and out of your life. Some friendships are expedient for the moment, while others compound in loyalty and love as the years pass.
However, be careful to not place expectations on your friends. Expectations increase the chances for disappointment. A friend will let you down if you hold over them lofty expectations. If your friend feels the pressure to perform a certain way they will push back in fear or resentment. Friendships are meant for release—not control.
Companions are a gift from Christ. Steward them well, so you can be trusted with more. It is tempting to take our friends for granted. Especially long term friendships, because they are low maintenance and they tend to get the least attention. But, in reality even old friends need nurturing. They need a phone call, a visit or written correspondence. They need time. Friendships grow or atrophy, but care and attention fertilize a friendship.
Moreover, make it a goal for your spouse to become your best friend. You and your spouse sleep and eat together. You raise children together. You manage the home together. You budget money together. You hurt together. You laugh together. You vacation together. You are growing old together. Since you spend so much time together “doing life” it is imperative you fortify your friendship. You are not just tolerating each other for the children’s sake. Your goal is to become best friends, so when the children move out, you are not bored and relationally bankrupt. Fun friendships are intentional.
The marriage relationship is a friendship not to forget. If you ignore this friend you will wake up one day with regrets. Remember their birthday, your anniversary, and all those little things that make them feel special. When you remember a friend, you honor a friend. When you remember a friend, you feed a friendship. Friendships fatigue for lack of attention. Remember a friend today. Remind them of how special they are to you and to God. Love on them and expect nothing in return. Be a friend and you will have friends.
“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24, NKJV).
Am I a friend worthy of friendship? What friend do I need to love on and encourage?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 20:42; Job 16:20-21; Proverbs 27:10; John 15:13-15
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Sometimes friends forget. They forget birthdays, anniversaries, commitments and what’s important to their friends. The forgetfulness of friends facilitates frustration and disappointment. After all, some of these friends have been past recipients of your help and encouragement. You have been there for them during their days of discouragement. Now when the tables have turned and you are in need, but they don’t seem to be near.
Maybe they are too busy with life, maybe they are buried in their own troubles, or maybe they have simply forgotten you. Unfortunately, some friendships are tentative and unpredictable. When adversity strikes you are able to filter out false friends from forever friends. Fair weather friends will fly in and out of your life. Some friendships are expedient for the moment, while others compound in loyalty and love as the years pass.
However, be careful to not place expectations on your friends. Expectations increase the chances for disappointment. A friend will let you down if you hold over them lofty expectations. If your friend feels the pressure to perform a certain way they will push back in fear or resentment. Friendships are meant for release—not control.
Companions are a gift from Christ. Steward them well, so you can be trusted with more. It is tempting to take our friends for granted. Especially long term friendships, because they are low maintenance and they tend to get the least attention. But, in reality even old friends need nurturing. They need a phone call, a visit or written correspondence. They need time. Friendships grow or atrophy, but care and attention fertilize a friendship.
Moreover, make it a goal for your spouse to become your best friend. You and your spouse sleep and eat together. You raise children together. You manage the home together. You budget money together. You hurt together. You laugh together. You vacation together. You are growing old together. Since you spend so much time together “doing life” it is imperative you fortify your friendship. You are not just tolerating each other for the children’s sake. Your goal is to become best friends, so when the children move out, you are not bored and relationally bankrupt. Fun friendships are intentional.
The marriage relationship is a friendship not to forget. If you ignore this friend you will wake up one day with regrets. Remember their birthday, your anniversary, and all those little things that make them feel special. When you remember a friend, you honor a friend. When you remember a friend, you feed a friendship. Friendships fatigue for lack of attention. Remember a friend today. Remind them of how special they are to you and to God. Love on them and expect nothing in return. Be a friend and you will have friends.
“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24, NKJV).
Am I a friend worthy of friendship? What friend do I need to love on and encourage?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 20:42; Job 16:20-21; Proverbs 27:10; John 15:13-15
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Boyd Bailey: Rock Of God
“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the LORD ? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.” Psalm 18:30-32
God is rock solid—always dependable—every present. There are no storms of life or surges from sin that dislodge the Lord’s foundation of faithfulness. Christ is a cleft in the rock and the Rock of ages. He protects, provides and perseveres. Skeptics cannot shove Him aside or ignore His works of salvation. He is a righteous Rock for all who believe.
“When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by” (Exodus 33:22).
Some days our weary souls feel like giving up and giving in to the enemy’s enticements. But we have One greater, who goes with us the extra mile and fights our battles for us. The rock of God cannot be penetrated with arrows of apathy or bullets of unbelief. He stands strong, ready to defend His children and give them victory in His son Jesus.
“With bitterness archers attacked him; they shot at him with hostility. But his bow remained steady, his strong arms stayed limber, because of the hand of the Mighty One of Jacob, because of the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel, because of your father's God, who helps you, because of the Almighty, who blesses you with blessings of the heavens above, blessings of the deep that lies below” (Genesis 49:23-25).
How is your foundation of faith? Is it built on the solid rock of Jesus Christ, or on the shifting sand of circumstances? Circumstantial belief depends on outside forces, while true faith relies on the unchanging inner peace of God. Choices based on obedience to Christ result in outcomes that honor Him and others. Because you have confidence in the foundational principles found in God’s flawless word, you find His perfect way by faith.
So, praise the Lord your everlasting and unchanging Rock of righteousness. He is worthy to receive all glory and gratitude you offer Him. There is none other like your lofty and lifted up Lord of glory. Exalt His holy name and rest in the cleft of your reassuring Rock. As a follower of Jesus: build on His reliable rock of character—faith, hope and love.
"The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior” (2 Samuel 22:47).
Does my faith rest on the unchanging Rock of God or on my ever-changing circumstances?
Related Readings: Psalm 19:14; 40:2; Isaiah 26:4; Matthew 7:24; 1 Corinthians 10:4
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
God is rock solid—always dependable—every present. There are no storms of life or surges from sin that dislodge the Lord’s foundation of faithfulness. Christ is a cleft in the rock and the Rock of ages. He protects, provides and perseveres. Skeptics cannot shove Him aside or ignore His works of salvation. He is a righteous Rock for all who believe.
“When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by” (Exodus 33:22).
Some days our weary souls feel like giving up and giving in to the enemy’s enticements. But we have One greater, who goes with us the extra mile and fights our battles for us. The rock of God cannot be penetrated with arrows of apathy or bullets of unbelief. He stands strong, ready to defend His children and give them victory in His son Jesus.
“With bitterness archers attacked him; they shot at him with hostility. But his bow remained steady, his strong arms stayed limber, because of the hand of the Mighty One of Jacob, because of the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel, because of your father's God, who helps you, because of the Almighty, who blesses you with blessings of the heavens above, blessings of the deep that lies below” (Genesis 49:23-25).
How is your foundation of faith? Is it built on the solid rock of Jesus Christ, or on the shifting sand of circumstances? Circumstantial belief depends on outside forces, while true faith relies on the unchanging inner peace of God. Choices based on obedience to Christ result in outcomes that honor Him and others. Because you have confidence in the foundational principles found in God’s flawless word, you find His perfect way by faith.
So, praise the Lord your everlasting and unchanging Rock of righteousness. He is worthy to receive all glory and gratitude you offer Him. There is none other like your lofty and lifted up Lord of glory. Exalt His holy name and rest in the cleft of your reassuring Rock. As a follower of Jesus: build on His reliable rock of character—faith, hope and love.
"The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God, the Rock, my Savior” (2 Samuel 22:47).
Does my faith rest on the unchanging Rock of God or on my ever-changing circumstances?
Related Readings: Psalm 19:14; 40:2; Isaiah 26:4; Matthew 7:24; 1 Corinthians 10:4
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
8.31.2010
John Eldredge: The Stream of Healing
For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them. (Matt. 13:15)
"And I would heal them." That's a different offer from: "And I would forgive them." It's a different offer from: "And I will give them a place in heaven." No, Jesus is offering healing to us. Look at what he does to people who are broken. How does he handle them? The blind are able to see like a hawk. The deaf are able to hear a pin drop. The lame do hurdles. The corroding skin of the leper is cleansed and made new. The woman with the issue of blood stops hemorrhaging. The paralyzed servant hops out of bed. They are, every last one of them, healed. Now follow this closely: everything Jesus did was to illustrate what he was trying to say. Here-look at this-this is what I'm offering to do for you. Not just for your body, but more important, for your soul. I can heal your heart. I can restore your soul.
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
"And I would heal them." That's a different offer from: "And I would forgive them." It's a different offer from: "And I will give them a place in heaven." No, Jesus is offering healing to us. Look at what he does to people who are broken. How does he handle them? The blind are able to see like a hawk. The deaf are able to hear a pin drop. The lame do hurdles. The corroding skin of the leper is cleansed and made new. The woman with the issue of blood stops hemorrhaging. The paralyzed servant hops out of bed. They are, every last one of them, healed. Now follow this closely: everything Jesus did was to illustrate what he was trying to say. Here-look at this-this is what I'm offering to do for you. Not just for your body, but more important, for your soul. I can heal your heart. I can restore your soul.
Source: Ransomed Heart Ministries by John Eldredge
8.24.2010
Boyd Bailey: Benefits of Brokenness
“My spirit is broken, my days are cut short, the grave awaits me.” Job 17:1
Brokenness is a prerequisite to God’s thorough usefulness. Before brokenness we were still self-sufficient and self-dependent. There was no authentic humility. It was either false or non-existence. Before brokenness anger lurked behind the corner of every situation that did not go our way. Then it pounced on our unsuspecting victims.
Before brokenness prayer was a routine rather than a necessity. Our fellowship was not sweet and refreshing. Before brokenness our life could be explained by our own efforts. There was no resurrection power harvesting results. Rather, results were rooted in our limited strength. Before brokenness there was a subtle spiritual pride that intimidated or impressed others by our “wisdom”, instead of pointing them to the Author of wisdom.
Brokenness is the rite of passage to blessings. It is a bridge across into the depths of God’s love and intimacy, but it is not without discomfort, even pain. Brokenness seems on the surface failure, but on the contrary, it positions us for success. A sleek, stubborn and strong willed stallion must be broken before it can benefit its riders. Otherwise, its unfocused energy ravages its environment and terrorizes those with whom it comes in contact. Our full potential can’t be unleashed without heaven’s taming. The “choking point” in spiritual maturity isn’t from outside forces. Let God break your will, before it breaks you.
There is an important distinction between a broken will and a broken spirit. God’s desire is not to chronically crush your spirit, but to break your will. His goal is to tame your stubbornness. Do not buck God. He will eventually have His way, one way or another. We can work with Him or we can work against Him. A bridle is not comfortable, but it is necessary to get the required results. God’s bridle will lead you into His eternal benefits.
We miss the Lord’s best without brokenness. In some ways it is a life long process of ‘three steps forward and two steps backward’. We make progress, but not without still messing up. We will repeat some mistakes and sometimes it takes a protracted time for us to ‘get it’. However, for some of us we need brokenness to come upon us with God’s loving intensity. Without Him arresting our attention we tend to move nonchalantly through our Christian life. Our bad habits never change and we settle for behavioral modification, instead of Christ living His life through us with His resurrection power.
Your life should be markedly different from the world. People should question the peace, power, grace, mercy and love that consistently flows from your life. If there is no fruit of the Holy Spirit, there is no brokenness. Pray for God to break your will, not your spirit. Your spirit is where hope resides. Your spirit communes with God. Your tamed spirit trusts in Him. Let go and let God break you and make you into the image of His son Jesus Christ. What he breaks He makes. And what God makes is beautiful!
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3).
Have I experienced true brokenness? Have I allowed the Lord to heal my heart?
Related Readings: Psalm 34:18; 51:17; Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18
Brokenness is a prerequisite to God’s thorough usefulness. Before brokenness we were still self-sufficient and self-dependent. There was no authentic humility. It was either false or non-existence. Before brokenness anger lurked behind the corner of every situation that did not go our way. Then it pounced on our unsuspecting victims.
Before brokenness prayer was a routine rather than a necessity. Our fellowship was not sweet and refreshing. Before brokenness our life could be explained by our own efforts. There was no resurrection power harvesting results. Rather, results were rooted in our limited strength. Before brokenness there was a subtle spiritual pride that intimidated or impressed others by our “wisdom”, instead of pointing them to the Author of wisdom.
Brokenness is the rite of passage to blessings. It is a bridge across into the depths of God’s love and intimacy, but it is not without discomfort, even pain. Brokenness seems on the surface failure, but on the contrary, it positions us for success. A sleek, stubborn and strong willed stallion must be broken before it can benefit its riders. Otherwise, its unfocused energy ravages its environment and terrorizes those with whom it comes in contact. Our full potential can’t be unleashed without heaven’s taming. The “choking point” in spiritual maturity isn’t from outside forces. Let God break your will, before it breaks you.
There is an important distinction between a broken will and a broken spirit. God’s desire is not to chronically crush your spirit, but to break your will. His goal is to tame your stubbornness. Do not buck God. He will eventually have His way, one way or another. We can work with Him or we can work against Him. A bridle is not comfortable, but it is necessary to get the required results. God’s bridle will lead you into His eternal benefits.
We miss the Lord’s best without brokenness. In some ways it is a life long process of ‘three steps forward and two steps backward’. We make progress, but not without still messing up. We will repeat some mistakes and sometimes it takes a protracted time for us to ‘get it’. However, for some of us we need brokenness to come upon us with God’s loving intensity. Without Him arresting our attention we tend to move nonchalantly through our Christian life. Our bad habits never change and we settle for behavioral modification, instead of Christ living His life through us with His resurrection power.
Your life should be markedly different from the world. People should question the peace, power, grace, mercy and love that consistently flows from your life. If there is no fruit of the Holy Spirit, there is no brokenness. Pray for God to break your will, not your spirit. Your spirit is where hope resides. Your spirit communes with God. Your tamed spirit trusts in Him. Let go and let God break you and make you into the image of His son Jesus Christ. What he breaks He makes. And what God makes is beautiful!
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3).
Have I experienced true brokenness? Have I allowed the Lord to heal my heart?
Related Readings: Psalm 34:18; 51:17; Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18
8.17.2010
The Daily Verse: Truth
Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. Philippians 3:19
Too often, we've got our mind set on earthly things, and not on the big picture of what God is, who He is, and what He's doing in and around us. If you find yourself consumed with life and all of its nuances, pull back a bit and set your mind on what He is doing around you. Allow that to realign the priorities of your thought processes and your heart.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Too often, we've got our mind set on earthly things, and not on the big picture of what God is, who He is, and what He's doing in and around us. If you find yourself consumed with life and all of its nuances, pull back a bit and set your mind on what He is doing around you. Allow that to realign the priorities of your thought processes and your heart.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
8.16.2010
Boyd Bailey: Prayerful Planning
“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” Psalm 20:4
Planning is a prerequisite for anyone who desires to get results. But, prayerful planning is essential to experience God’s best. After all, His best is the goal for the follower of Jesus Christ. Otherwise, we are limited to what only our efforts can produce. This self-imposed limitation is misery compared to partnering with the Almighty.
We can work hard to plan—and sincerely produce a best-laid plan—but make the mistake of asking God to bless the plan after the fact. This presumes on God. He is not thrilled with the presumption of His blessing. Presumption communicates distrust and disrespect. He may choose to bless the unprayed plan, but why take the chance? And why take the credit? He will share His glory with no one.
So, a prayerless plan will leave you in a perilous position. This is an easy step to forget or to assume. You are so excited about the possibilities before you that you rush ahead without checking in with the originator of the plan. He already has the blueprints sketched out. He is a generous giver, waiting to validate your plan and even disclose part of His plan you have yet to discover. It is a beautiful process of discovery and learning.
In the nighttime, as your head ponders on your pillow, He will speak to you. Through other people and circumstances, He will speak to you. Your wife or financial constraints will be accurate indicators. And obviously, His Word is a great check-and-balance for your planning process. Prayerful planning keeps you married to Christ and not to the plan. Your plans will change, but He will not. What reassurance and peace our unchanging God gives.
So, involve Him in the beginning and throughout the process, not just with the final draft. Like a good earthly father your heavenly Father will be engaging and helpful. He will affirm you and challenge your thinking. He will give you a perspective that may be out of the box and a little scary. God’s plans are not always safe and secure from our vantage point. Sometimes His plans are risky and riling.
If you are not planning prayerfully, you may miss His unconventional thinking. His way of doing something may be the very opposite of what you were originally thinking. Do not be afraid of conflicting opinions. God will use this to sharpen your thinking. It is much better to have a scrubbed over plan than one that is soiled with wrong assumptions and fat with lazy thinking. Engage others to pray with you through the planning process.
Especially involve those who have been where you are trying to go. Their prayers are informed and productive. They will pray from an understanding and empathetic heart. These praying saints will not throw toward heaven some half-hearted, wimpy softball. Rather, their passionate prayer will storm the throne of grace on your behalf with boldness and conviction. Look for those whose only agenda is God’s best for your life and invite them in the process of prayerful planning.
Prayerful planning may slow down the process or accelerate it. Either way, it will require trust in the master planner. His overall plan is what is best. Trust Him with the results. Prayerful planning produces powerful performance!
Source: Wisdom Hunters by
Planning is a prerequisite for anyone who desires to get results. But, prayerful planning is essential to experience God’s best. After all, His best is the goal for the follower of Jesus Christ. Otherwise, we are limited to what only our efforts can produce. This self-imposed limitation is misery compared to partnering with the Almighty.
We can work hard to plan—and sincerely produce a best-laid plan—but make the mistake of asking God to bless the plan after the fact. This presumes on God. He is not thrilled with the presumption of His blessing. Presumption communicates distrust and disrespect. He may choose to bless the unprayed plan, but why take the chance? And why take the credit? He will share His glory with no one.
So, a prayerless plan will leave you in a perilous position. This is an easy step to forget or to assume. You are so excited about the possibilities before you that you rush ahead without checking in with the originator of the plan. He already has the blueprints sketched out. He is a generous giver, waiting to validate your plan and even disclose part of His plan you have yet to discover. It is a beautiful process of discovery and learning.
In the nighttime, as your head ponders on your pillow, He will speak to you. Through other people and circumstances, He will speak to you. Your wife or financial constraints will be accurate indicators. And obviously, His Word is a great check-and-balance for your planning process. Prayerful planning keeps you married to Christ and not to the plan. Your plans will change, but He will not. What reassurance and peace our unchanging God gives.
So, involve Him in the beginning and throughout the process, not just with the final draft. Like a good earthly father your heavenly Father will be engaging and helpful. He will affirm you and challenge your thinking. He will give you a perspective that may be out of the box and a little scary. God’s plans are not always safe and secure from our vantage point. Sometimes His plans are risky and riling.
If you are not planning prayerfully, you may miss His unconventional thinking. His way of doing something may be the very opposite of what you were originally thinking. Do not be afraid of conflicting opinions. God will use this to sharpen your thinking. It is much better to have a scrubbed over plan than one that is soiled with wrong assumptions and fat with lazy thinking. Engage others to pray with you through the planning process.
Especially involve those who have been where you are trying to go. Their prayers are informed and productive. They will pray from an understanding and empathetic heart. These praying saints will not throw toward heaven some half-hearted, wimpy softball. Rather, their passionate prayer will storm the throne of grace on your behalf with boldness and conviction. Look for those whose only agenda is God’s best for your life and invite them in the process of prayerful planning.
Prayerful planning may slow down the process or accelerate it. Either way, it will require trust in the master planner. His overall plan is what is best. Trust Him with the results. Prayerful planning produces powerful performance!
Source: Wisdom Hunters by
8.13.2010
The Daily Verse: Obedience
Jesus gave them this answer: "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. John 5:19
Re-read this passage and consider what things would look like if we prioritized our activities with the same attitude.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Re-read this passage and consider what things would look like if we prioritized our activities with the same attitude.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
8.09.2010
Boyd Bailey: Divine Defense
“You have upheld my right and my cause; you have sat on your throne, judging righteously.” Psalm 9:4
God is our ultimate defense. This does not mean we are not involved in defending worthy causes. It is good to defend nation and family. Effective leaders defend their mission and their business model. Excellent athletic teams defend their goal from the opponent. An explosive offense will strategize in vain without the support of an aggressive defense.
Successful defense attorneys are paid a lot of money because they keep their clients from serving time in prison. They are the experts that understand the law and its implications. Orphans and widows need defending. The helpless are vulnerable in need of defense. Those of us who are followers of Jesus Christ are called not to stand idle but to stand in the gap for those who cannot defend themselves. We are advocates for the poor and needy.
Your friends who have been mistreated, misunderstood or maligned behind their backs need you to step up on their behalf. You are their defender because you know their character. You know the facts of the situation and that the accusation does not line up with reality. So, it is appropriate for you to risk your safe position and to defend your friends in the face of their accusers.
Do not back down from defending truth. God’s Word is truth and, yes, it can stand on its own. But we are called to be educated—not ignorant—defenders of His Word. Be so familiar with God’s Word that in the face of heresy you can confidently say, “Here I stand, I can do no other.” But, after all is said and done, God is our ultimate defender.
There are some situations where our defense is woefully lacking, but He more than fills in the gaps. You cannot defend your reputation, but God can. People, because of misinformation or malice, may misdiagnose who you are and what you stand for. This is out of your control. You can go through a very professional and prayerful process of letting an employee go, and that employee may still erupt in disappointment and lash back at you. Even with generous severance terms, they may gossip about you and spread rumors. It is futile to chase down a rumor.
You must maintain your trust in God and do not lower yourself to attack this individual. They are in God’s hands, which is exactly where you want them. Don’t take matters into your own hands. You cannot handle that type of pressure and responsibility. God is your defense. Since He manages the universe, He can handle this situation. He will defend you in ways you could never conceive. The truth will persevere and, left unattended, lies will slowly die off. Like ignoring a child’s temper tantrum they will eventually stop from lack of attention.
You cannot defend your motives, but God can. Over time God will use your generosity, humility and consistency to validate your motives. There will be those who question your motives because of their own struggle with impure motives. But there is no need to default to insecurity; trust God to defend you.
Cynics and naysayers have a skewed perspective. It is hard for them to accept authentic motives because they have been burned in the past. Do not debate your motives with them; let God defend you. A prayerful, patient and personal process eventually will answer many of the questions. God is our advocate. Let go of those things beyond your control, and trust Him with the results. He is the righteous judge!
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
God is our ultimate defense. This does not mean we are not involved in defending worthy causes. It is good to defend nation and family. Effective leaders defend their mission and their business model. Excellent athletic teams defend their goal from the opponent. An explosive offense will strategize in vain without the support of an aggressive defense.
Successful defense attorneys are paid a lot of money because they keep their clients from serving time in prison. They are the experts that understand the law and its implications. Orphans and widows need defending. The helpless are vulnerable in need of defense. Those of us who are followers of Jesus Christ are called not to stand idle but to stand in the gap for those who cannot defend themselves. We are advocates for the poor and needy.
Your friends who have been mistreated, misunderstood or maligned behind their backs need you to step up on their behalf. You are their defender because you know their character. You know the facts of the situation and that the accusation does not line up with reality. So, it is appropriate for you to risk your safe position and to defend your friends in the face of their accusers.
Do not back down from defending truth. God’s Word is truth and, yes, it can stand on its own. But we are called to be educated—not ignorant—defenders of His Word. Be so familiar with God’s Word that in the face of heresy you can confidently say, “Here I stand, I can do no other.” But, after all is said and done, God is our ultimate defender.
There are some situations where our defense is woefully lacking, but He more than fills in the gaps. You cannot defend your reputation, but God can. People, because of misinformation or malice, may misdiagnose who you are and what you stand for. This is out of your control. You can go through a very professional and prayerful process of letting an employee go, and that employee may still erupt in disappointment and lash back at you. Even with generous severance terms, they may gossip about you and spread rumors. It is futile to chase down a rumor.
You must maintain your trust in God and do not lower yourself to attack this individual. They are in God’s hands, which is exactly where you want them. Don’t take matters into your own hands. You cannot handle that type of pressure and responsibility. God is your defense. Since He manages the universe, He can handle this situation. He will defend you in ways you could never conceive. The truth will persevere and, left unattended, lies will slowly die off. Like ignoring a child’s temper tantrum they will eventually stop from lack of attention.
You cannot defend your motives, but God can. Over time God will use your generosity, humility and consistency to validate your motives. There will be those who question your motives because of their own struggle with impure motives. But there is no need to default to insecurity; trust God to defend you.
Cynics and naysayers have a skewed perspective. It is hard for them to accept authentic motives because they have been burned in the past. Do not debate your motives with them; let God defend you. A prayerful, patient and personal process eventually will answer many of the questions. God is our advocate. Let go of those things beyond your control, and trust Him with the results. He is the righteous judge!
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
8.06.2010
The Daily Verse: Worry
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? Matthew 6:27
This passage contains simple words with great depth. If you think about it, being anxious actually robs you of time and joy, so stop doing it.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
This passage contains simple words with great depth. If you think about it, being anxious actually robs you of time and joy, so stop doing it.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
8.04.2010
The Daily Verse: Freedom
When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, Do you want to be healed? John 5:6
You are offered freedom from what holds you back - are you willing to accept it?
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
You are offered freedom from what holds you back - are you willing to accept it?
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
8.03.2010
The Daily Verse: Progress
But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead… Philippians 3:13b
Learn from the past, but don't live in it. There's not one thing you can do to change what has already happened, so start putting your energies toward something you can influence instead of something you can't.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Learn from the past, but don't live in it. There's not one thing you can do to change what has already happened, so start putting your energies toward something you can influence instead of something you can't.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
The Daily Verse: Worry
Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. Proverbs 12:25
Be intentional to look for and offer a good word amidst the influx of someone's daily worries today. It may also benefit you by changing your outlook on your own concerns.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Be intentional to look for and offer a good word amidst the influx of someone's daily worries today. It may also benefit you by changing your outlook on your own concerns.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
7.22.2010
Run with endurance: Hebrews 12:1-2
"Let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish." Hebrews 12 verses 1 & 2.
7.07.2010
The Daily Verse: Influence
Thus says the Lord of hosts, 'Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another,' Zechariah 7:9
Be reminded that showing kindness and mercy is not only vital, but it is a command.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Be reminded that showing kindness and mercy is not only vital, but it is a command.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Boyd Bailey: Who is Jesus?
“But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Matthew 16:15-16
There will always be those who deny the deity of Christ. They try to dilute His status as Savior by relegating Him as just a healer—like a medical practitioner of today, with no supernatural intervention. Or, other skeptics seek to coral Christ into a group of good moral teachers who had good things to say, but certainly He was not the Son of God.
However, God reveals to those who believe that the Son of man was also the Son of God. John the Baptist was humble and bold, but only a man. Elijah was a prophet called by the Lord, but a man nonetheless. Jeremiah was full of passion and love for his people, but he was a man and not the Messiah Christ, who was to come. Jesus is the Son of the living God. When ask if He was the One: Jesus did not stutter, He offered evidence for this fact:
“The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly." Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me” (John 10:24-25).
Faith is the first step to accepting the fact of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, who died on the cross for your sins and rose from the dead to give you life eternal. Because you base your belief on the historical knowledge of Christ’s claim to be God, you are in good company with the thousands of His contemporaries, who also believed based on His words and deeds. Facts become understanding when you apply faith and trust in Jesus.
Therefore, do not allow the diversity of opinions to cause you to doubt Christ’s claims. He is either Lord of your life—or not. He is either the Savior of your soul—or not. He is Creator of all celestial beauty, planet earth’s: mountains, oceans, animals, plants and your body, mind and soul—or not. Settle today who Jesus is and do not sway from your belief.
“We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them” (Acts 14:15b).
He is the living Lord who knows our every thought, action and motivation. God is nowhere close to being dead; He is only dead to those whose faith has died. We serve a living Savior who is on the move to expand His kingdom on earth. Jesus is alive!
When you walk closely with Christ, you confess with conviction that He is the Son of the living God. You are blessed when you are bold in your belief, because you bolster the faith of others in Jesus. Don’t be shy about your Savior, when people ask, “Who is Jesus?” tell them that He is the way to God, the truth of God and the life of God:
“Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Can Christ count on me to give a clear account of who He is and what He expects?
Related Readings: Isaiah 53:1-12; Jeremiah 10:10; John 1:29; Hebrews 3:12-13
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
There will always be those who deny the deity of Christ. They try to dilute His status as Savior by relegating Him as just a healer—like a medical practitioner of today, with no supernatural intervention. Or, other skeptics seek to coral Christ into a group of good moral teachers who had good things to say, but certainly He was not the Son of God.
However, God reveals to those who believe that the Son of man was also the Son of God. John the Baptist was humble and bold, but only a man. Elijah was a prophet called by the Lord, but a man nonetheless. Jeremiah was full of passion and love for his people, but he was a man and not the Messiah Christ, who was to come. Jesus is the Son of the living God. When ask if He was the One: Jesus did not stutter, He offered evidence for this fact:
“The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly." Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me” (John 10:24-25).
Faith is the first step to accepting the fact of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, who died on the cross for your sins and rose from the dead to give you life eternal. Because you base your belief on the historical knowledge of Christ’s claim to be God, you are in good company with the thousands of His contemporaries, who also believed based on His words and deeds. Facts become understanding when you apply faith and trust in Jesus.
Therefore, do not allow the diversity of opinions to cause you to doubt Christ’s claims. He is either Lord of your life—or not. He is either the Savior of your soul—or not. He is Creator of all celestial beauty, planet earth’s: mountains, oceans, animals, plants and your body, mind and soul—or not. Settle today who Jesus is and do not sway from your belief.
“We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them” (Acts 14:15b).
He is the living Lord who knows our every thought, action and motivation. God is nowhere close to being dead; He is only dead to those whose faith has died. We serve a living Savior who is on the move to expand His kingdom on earth. Jesus is alive!
When you walk closely with Christ, you confess with conviction that He is the Son of the living God. You are blessed when you are bold in your belief, because you bolster the faith of others in Jesus. Don’t be shy about your Savior, when people ask, “Who is Jesus?” tell them that He is the way to God, the truth of God and the life of God:
“Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Can Christ count on me to give a clear account of who He is and what He expects?
Related Readings: Isaiah 53:1-12; Jeremiah 10:10; John 1:29; Hebrews 3:12-13
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
The Daily Verse: Fullness
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith--that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:14,17-19
Let this be our heart and our prayer for one another.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Let this be our heart and our prayer for one another.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
6.25.2010
Boyd Bailey: Temporary Setbacks…
“They went immediately to the Jews in Jerusalem and compelled them by force to stop. Thus the work on the house of God in Jerusalem came to a standstill…” Ezra 4:23b-24a
Don’t give up. You may be facing a temporary setback, but God’s purposes will not be thwarted. It may seem like life is on hold and everything has come to a stand still. You have worked so hard to get to this point and it looks like the opportunity has vanished. Hold it with an open hand. It may have disappeared.
If so, God has something better. What the Lord initiates, He accomplishes. He hasn’t forgotten about you or your circumstances. This is a temporary setback. It is a good time for you to catch your breath and reflect on the great things He has done thus far. You have been running hard. Pause, rest and reflect. Prepare for the next stage of personal and professional growth. We do not need to venture into opportunities for which our character has not been prepared. Maybe this is God’s pause to prepare you for your next steps. The last thing you want is to move forward without the depth of wisdom, patience, relationships and finances needed to complete the project.
“Finish your outdoor work and get your fields ready; after that, build your house” (Proverbs 24:7).
The motive of your adversaries is to crush your project, but God is taking what was meant for evil and using it for good. The unfair criticism of others is a cheap way to distract you. Ignore their insults. Immature people act immature. Do not lower yourself to their level of behavior. Otherwise you may never get out. You may become stuck by spinning your wheels on being defensive. Focus on God, not your distracters.
“You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive” (Genesis 50:20).
He is the one who has led you this far, and He is the one who will lead you through to completion. If everything was easy we might take God’s blessings for granted. Or, we might forgo gratitude to God and begin to believe we are in control. However, in reality He knows what is best. He knows how to align everyone’s hearts around His will.
He may eventually use the endorsement, resources and relationships of your biggest critics. Obstacles become opportunities. Adversaries become advocates. Critics become cheerleaders. Enemies become emissaries. And setbacks become a tremendous springboard for God’s will. Take heart and keep your head up. It is the darkest before the dawn. God’s purposes will not be thwarted. Believe it and watch Him work.
“The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
What setback do I need to see as temporary and trust the Lord to see me through?
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 7:9; Isaiah 49:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Hebrews 3:6
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Don’t give up. You may be facing a temporary setback, but God’s purposes will not be thwarted. It may seem like life is on hold and everything has come to a stand still. You have worked so hard to get to this point and it looks like the opportunity has vanished. Hold it with an open hand. It may have disappeared.
If so, God has something better. What the Lord initiates, He accomplishes. He hasn’t forgotten about you or your circumstances. This is a temporary setback. It is a good time for you to catch your breath and reflect on the great things He has done thus far. You have been running hard. Pause, rest and reflect. Prepare for the next stage of personal and professional growth. We do not need to venture into opportunities for which our character has not been prepared. Maybe this is God’s pause to prepare you for your next steps. The last thing you want is to move forward without the depth of wisdom, patience, relationships and finances needed to complete the project.
“Finish your outdoor work and get your fields ready; after that, build your house” (Proverbs 24:7).
The motive of your adversaries is to crush your project, but God is taking what was meant for evil and using it for good. The unfair criticism of others is a cheap way to distract you. Ignore their insults. Immature people act immature. Do not lower yourself to their level of behavior. Otherwise you may never get out. You may become stuck by spinning your wheels on being defensive. Focus on God, not your distracters.
“You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive” (Genesis 50:20).
He is the one who has led you this far, and He is the one who will lead you through to completion. If everything was easy we might take God’s blessings for granted. Or, we might forgo gratitude to God and begin to believe we are in control. However, in reality He knows what is best. He knows how to align everyone’s hearts around His will.
He may eventually use the endorsement, resources and relationships of your biggest critics. Obstacles become opportunities. Adversaries become advocates. Critics become cheerleaders. Enemies become emissaries. And setbacks become a tremendous springboard for God’s will. Take heart and keep your head up. It is the darkest before the dawn. God’s purposes will not be thwarted. Believe it and watch Him work.
“The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
What setback do I need to see as temporary and trust the Lord to see me through?
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 7:9; Isaiah 49:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Hebrews 3:6
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
6.24.2010
Boyd Bailey: A Faithful Father
“An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient.” Titus 1:6
Second only to his faithfulness to God is a father’s faithfulness to his wife. His faithfulness to his children starts with faithfulness to his bride. The best gift he can give his children is fidelity in his marriage to their mom. A father’s example of faithfulness breeds faithfulness in his family. The generational flow of faithfulness has a higher probability of success, because good values tend to reproduce good values.
“The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation” (Numbers 14:18).
Your faithfulness to your wife sets off security in your son or daughter. Even if your wife has been unfaithful—you remain faithful—because your heavenly Father fuels your faithfulness. There is a higher call for a man whose heart has been captured by heaven. You do not lower your standards to what everyone else does on earth. Faithfulness remains faithful—even when a loved one is unfaithful—as this is the way of the Lord.
“The LORD said to me, "Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes” (Hosea 3:1).
What if I have been unfaithful? Return to God in confession and repentance. Take responsibility for your unwise decisions in the past and replace them with wise decisions in the present. Unfaithfulness from a wife or husband does reap a lifetime of consequences, however, in Christ there is healing, forgiveness and the faith to move forward. So, avoid the ugly outcomes of unfaithfulness and remain faithful by faith.
“Who is wise? He will realize these things. Who is discerning? He will understand them. The ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them” (Hosea 14:9).
Above all else, Almighty God is faithful to His children, even in their unfaithfulness. Therefore, fathers go often to your heaven Father for an infusion of integrity and perseverance. Your family, friends and community look to you as an example of what it means to surrender to your Master Jesus Christ. Be a faithful follower of the Lord and your circle of influence will follow you faithfully. A father’s faithfulness forges faith.
“For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100:5).
As a father how can I be a good model of faithfulness to the Lord and my family?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 12:24; Psalm 31:23; Proverbs 28:20; 1 Corinthians 4:17; 2 Timothy 2:13
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Second only to his faithfulness to God is a father’s faithfulness to his wife. His faithfulness to his children starts with faithfulness to his bride. The best gift he can give his children is fidelity in his marriage to their mom. A father’s example of faithfulness breeds faithfulness in his family. The generational flow of faithfulness has a higher probability of success, because good values tend to reproduce good values.
“The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation” (Numbers 14:18).
Your faithfulness to your wife sets off security in your son or daughter. Even if your wife has been unfaithful—you remain faithful—because your heavenly Father fuels your faithfulness. There is a higher call for a man whose heart has been captured by heaven. You do not lower your standards to what everyone else does on earth. Faithfulness remains faithful—even when a loved one is unfaithful—as this is the way of the Lord.
“The LORD said to me, "Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes” (Hosea 3:1).
What if I have been unfaithful? Return to God in confession and repentance. Take responsibility for your unwise decisions in the past and replace them with wise decisions in the present. Unfaithfulness from a wife or husband does reap a lifetime of consequences, however, in Christ there is healing, forgiveness and the faith to move forward. So, avoid the ugly outcomes of unfaithfulness and remain faithful by faith.
“Who is wise? He will realize these things. Who is discerning? He will understand them. The ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them” (Hosea 14:9).
Above all else, Almighty God is faithful to His children, even in their unfaithfulness. Therefore, fathers go often to your heaven Father for an infusion of integrity and perseverance. Your family, friends and community look to you as an example of what it means to surrender to your Master Jesus Christ. Be a faithful follower of the Lord and your circle of influence will follow you faithfully. A father’s faithfulness forges faith.
“For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100:5).
As a father how can I be a good model of faithfulness to the Lord and my family?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 12:24; Psalm 31:23; Proverbs 28:20; 1 Corinthians 4:17; 2 Timothy 2:13
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
6.21.2010
Boyd Bailey: Wife Support
“Surely all the wealth that God took away from our father belongs to us and our children. So do whatever God has told you.” Genesis 31:16
Husbands need the support of their wives. Of course, it works both ways, as the wife needs to feel the support of her husband; but for a man, support is huge. A God-fearing husband knows the Lord has placed him in a position of leadership. It is overwhelming sometimes because he can feel squeezed by the pressures of life. The last thing a husband needs to feel is distance or distrust from his wife.
Wives, your encouragement may be the only thing that is preventing him from giving up, so do not underestimate the strength of your support. Your affirmation is valuable and powerful for the ongoing success of your husband. Men are not as self-sufficient as they may seem. On the outside he may seem invincible, but on the inside he is needy and desperate for recognition and validation.
A man needs to know his wife trusts his decision-making and his ability to provide for his family. Her confidence in him propels his self-confidence to higher levels. Your belief in your husband builds him up to believe in himself. It is difficult for a man to rise any higher than the opinion of his helpmate. Men long to be built up by their brides, so brag on him in public and affirm him in private.
Look to your husband as the leader God has placed in your life. Pray for him to lead lovingly and wisely. Be patient, so as not to usurp his authority when things are not getting done. Trust him with God, for He can handle him. Give him over to God and trust in the accountability of the Almighty. Sometimes a man needs to fail before he can be successful.
As a husband, it is imperative in God’s sight that you lovingly lead your wife and children. You may feel your wife is more qualified, smarter, and more spiritual than you, and while these all may be very true, God’s plan is for you to take the position of leadership in the home. She is looking for you to do whatever God has told you.
Prayer is your mantle of responsibility. See it as a privilege to enjoy and not an obligation to tolerate. She will trust you more and more as you remain trustworthy. It takes time to overcome a track record of distrust. Remain in the process of listening to God, following His commands, and then leading your family to do the same.
There are days you don’t feel like leading or even listening to the Lord. Life can be overwhelming. It can get you down to the point of wanting to walk away from all your responsibilities. But by grace, you carry on in your commitment to Christ, your wife, and your children.
It is foolish to flee from your responsibilities as a husband and father. Fools give up, but God has you in this position so you can learn about Him and His plan for you and your family. Do what He says with passion and abandonment. It may mean moving to another country. It may mean downsizing for a season. It may be organizing a family vacation. It may mean planning the calendar and budget for the upcoming year.
Men, love leads. Love follows God and leads his family. Give your wife the assurance that you listen to and follow God. She will respect you and trust you for this. Wives, support your husbands in ways that make him feel supported. Wife support is life support.
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Husbands need the support of their wives. Of course, it works both ways, as the wife needs to feel the support of her husband; but for a man, support is huge. A God-fearing husband knows the Lord has placed him in a position of leadership. It is overwhelming sometimes because he can feel squeezed by the pressures of life. The last thing a husband needs to feel is distance or distrust from his wife.
Wives, your encouragement may be the only thing that is preventing him from giving up, so do not underestimate the strength of your support. Your affirmation is valuable and powerful for the ongoing success of your husband. Men are not as self-sufficient as they may seem. On the outside he may seem invincible, but on the inside he is needy and desperate for recognition and validation.
A man needs to know his wife trusts his decision-making and his ability to provide for his family. Her confidence in him propels his self-confidence to higher levels. Your belief in your husband builds him up to believe in himself. It is difficult for a man to rise any higher than the opinion of his helpmate. Men long to be built up by their brides, so brag on him in public and affirm him in private.
Look to your husband as the leader God has placed in your life. Pray for him to lead lovingly and wisely. Be patient, so as not to usurp his authority when things are not getting done. Trust him with God, for He can handle him. Give him over to God and trust in the accountability of the Almighty. Sometimes a man needs to fail before he can be successful.
As a husband, it is imperative in God’s sight that you lovingly lead your wife and children. You may feel your wife is more qualified, smarter, and more spiritual than you, and while these all may be very true, God’s plan is for you to take the position of leadership in the home. She is looking for you to do whatever God has told you.
Prayer is your mantle of responsibility. See it as a privilege to enjoy and not an obligation to tolerate. She will trust you more and more as you remain trustworthy. It takes time to overcome a track record of distrust. Remain in the process of listening to God, following His commands, and then leading your family to do the same.
There are days you don’t feel like leading or even listening to the Lord. Life can be overwhelming. It can get you down to the point of wanting to walk away from all your responsibilities. But by grace, you carry on in your commitment to Christ, your wife, and your children.
It is foolish to flee from your responsibilities as a husband and father. Fools give up, but God has you in this position so you can learn about Him and His plan for you and your family. Do what He says with passion and abandonment. It may mean moving to another country. It may mean downsizing for a season. It may be organizing a family vacation. It may mean planning the calendar and budget for the upcoming year.
Men, love leads. Love follows God and leads his family. Give your wife the assurance that you listen to and follow God. She will respect you and trust you for this. Wives, support your husbands in ways that make him feel supported. Wife support is life support.
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
6.17.2010
The Daily Verse: Effort
For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Matthew 7:8
Perhaps we're in the habit of having everything handed to us, from information at our fingertips to convenience stores that sell everything from gas to coffee mugs. Consider not what you want, but what you actually need. Go to the Father and ask for it.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Perhaps we're in the habit of having everything handed to us, from information at our fingertips to convenience stores that sell everything from gas to coffee mugs. Consider not what you want, but what you actually need. Go to the Father and ask for it.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Boyd Bailey: Generous Dad
“Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" Luke 7:11-13
How much do I give to my children? I can give them too much money, but not too much time. I can give them too much stuff, but not too much love. I can give them too much responsibility, but not too much preparation. I can give them too much freedom, but not too much prayer. A generous dad is able to discern how much is enough for their child.
Each day a giving father prays about the needs of their son or daughter. What does my child need from me today? What are they asking of me with their words, body language, unspoken requests or bad behavior? Extroverted children are not shy to ask for too much, while introverted children need time and space to express their needs. Treat each one according to their unique requirements. A generous dad is able to give good gifts because he understands his child. Gifts are not to compensate for our guilt, but to express our love.
For example a good gift for a son may mean time away with dad at a sporting event, or a great adventure of hunting, fishing or hiking. However, your daughter’s gift motivation may revolve around time with her dad at daddy-daughter camp, a theatrical production or visiting the beach. Discerning dads structure good gifts around a block of quantity time.
Maybe you invest in your child with an every other week date night or father/son time. Ask them to pick the restaurant for dinner and/or the activity for entertainment. Your verbal and written words are a valuable gift at any age. Encourage their tender hearts, discipline their defiant hearts, affirm their humble hearts and chide their selfish hearts. Use birthdays, graduations, proms, ballgames, auditions and weddings to write them notes or letters of how proud you are to be their dad, and how much God loves them.
Lastly, give your offspring good gifts because of how your heavenly Father has lavished His good gifts on you. Pay forward God’s gifts to you of love, patient, holiness, humility, hope and faith. The greatest gift of salvation in Christ Jesus is meant for you to receive and give to your child. There is no greater joy than to see your flesh walking by faith.
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth” (3 John 1:4).
What good gift does my son or daughter need from me? How can I give them the free gift of grace?
Related Readings: Ezra 9:12; Jeremiah 32:39; Luke 10:21; Hebrews 12:7-9
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
How much do I give to my children? I can give them too much money, but not too much time. I can give them too much stuff, but not too much love. I can give them too much responsibility, but not too much preparation. I can give them too much freedom, but not too much prayer. A generous dad is able to discern how much is enough for their child.
Each day a giving father prays about the needs of their son or daughter. What does my child need from me today? What are they asking of me with their words, body language, unspoken requests or bad behavior? Extroverted children are not shy to ask for too much, while introverted children need time and space to express their needs. Treat each one according to their unique requirements. A generous dad is able to give good gifts because he understands his child. Gifts are not to compensate for our guilt, but to express our love.
For example a good gift for a son may mean time away with dad at a sporting event, or a great adventure of hunting, fishing or hiking. However, your daughter’s gift motivation may revolve around time with her dad at daddy-daughter camp, a theatrical production or visiting the beach. Discerning dads structure good gifts around a block of quantity time.
Maybe you invest in your child with an every other week date night or father/son time. Ask them to pick the restaurant for dinner and/or the activity for entertainment. Your verbal and written words are a valuable gift at any age. Encourage their tender hearts, discipline their defiant hearts, affirm their humble hearts and chide their selfish hearts. Use birthdays, graduations, proms, ballgames, auditions and weddings to write them notes or letters of how proud you are to be their dad, and how much God loves them.
Lastly, give your offspring good gifts because of how your heavenly Father has lavished His good gifts on you. Pay forward God’s gifts to you of love, patient, holiness, humility, hope and faith. The greatest gift of salvation in Christ Jesus is meant for you to receive and give to your child. There is no greater joy than to see your flesh walking by faith.
“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth” (3 John 1:4).
What good gift does my son or daughter need from me? How can I give them the free gift of grace?
Related Readings: Ezra 9:12; Jeremiah 32:39; Luke 10:21; Hebrews 12:7-9
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Boyd Bailey: Affectionate Father
“For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.” 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
Am I an affectionate father? Like the geyser “Old Faithful” do I spontaneously spew out love and affection over my children? Am I faithful to fill my daughter’s or son’s emotional tank with a warm embrace or a kiss on the head? Or, am I so caught up in my own career and needs that I have no emotional capacity to give them affection? Affection needs to be displayed.
A father with affection reflects his Heavenly Father’s affection for him. It is out of an overflow of being comforted and loved by Christ that redeemed fathers show affection to their children. When the Holy Spirit gives us a warm and secure hug, we can’t help but hug our children and grandchildren. Eternal affection translates into earthly affection.
“Yet the LORD set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today” (Deuteronomy 10:15).
Perhaps you have a routine of kissing and hugging your children each time you leave home and when you arrive home. There is no rushing out the door until you have made emotional deposits in your most valued relational account. Your child is your lock box of love waiting with a tender heart to be touched by their parents. Be the initiator of hugs and kisses.
When a child’s heart hurts from fear, rejection or physical harm, move closer with care and compassion. Listen with empathic ears and outstretched arms. Affectionate parents are up close and personal, while distant parents are unsympathetic and impersonal. Your seeds of affection reap a harvest of healthy adult children who want to come back home.
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (Luke 15:20b).
Since He sets His affections on you—you set your affections on Almighty God. A parent—who is first loved by his heavenly Father—then has the capacity to love his children appropriately and fully. Adult children, who have experienced their parent’s affection, more easily show affection. So, seek affection from above and then apply it here below.
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul” (Psalm 143:8).
Do I regularly receive affection from my heavenly Father? How can I intentionally be the most affectionate with my children?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 17:41; Psalm 103:13; Malachi 4:6; Luke 11:13
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Am I an affectionate father? Like the geyser “Old Faithful” do I spontaneously spew out love and affection over my children? Am I faithful to fill my daughter’s or son’s emotional tank with a warm embrace or a kiss on the head? Or, am I so caught up in my own career and needs that I have no emotional capacity to give them affection? Affection needs to be displayed.
A father with affection reflects his Heavenly Father’s affection for him. It is out of an overflow of being comforted and loved by Christ that redeemed fathers show affection to their children. When the Holy Spirit gives us a warm and secure hug, we can’t help but hug our children and grandchildren. Eternal affection translates into earthly affection.
“Yet the LORD set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today” (Deuteronomy 10:15).
Perhaps you have a routine of kissing and hugging your children each time you leave home and when you arrive home. There is no rushing out the door until you have made emotional deposits in your most valued relational account. Your child is your lock box of love waiting with a tender heart to be touched by their parents. Be the initiator of hugs and kisses.
When a child’s heart hurts from fear, rejection or physical harm, move closer with care and compassion. Listen with empathic ears and outstretched arms. Affectionate parents are up close and personal, while distant parents are unsympathetic and impersonal. Your seeds of affection reap a harvest of healthy adult children who want to come back home.
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” (Luke 15:20b).
Since He sets His affections on you—you set your affections on Almighty God. A parent—who is first loved by his heavenly Father—then has the capacity to love his children appropriately and fully. Adult children, who have experienced their parent’s affection, more easily show affection. So, seek affection from above and then apply it here below.
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul” (Psalm 143:8).
Do I regularly receive affection from my heavenly Father? How can I intentionally be the most affectionate with my children?
Related Readings: 2 Kings 17:41; Psalm 103:13; Malachi 4:6; Luke 11:13
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
6.15.2010
The Daily Verse: Trust
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12
Sometimes we're too hard on ourselves. Be reminded that amidst the pressure you put on yourself, there are plenty of other forces out there looking to give you a hard time. Instead of spending time on self-condemnation, spend that time putting on God's armor so that the true battles to be fought are being met with strategy and protection.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Sometimes we're too hard on ourselves. Be reminded that amidst the pressure you put on yourself, there are plenty of other forces out there looking to give you a hard time. Instead of spending time on self-condemnation, spend that time putting on God's armor so that the true battles to be fought are being met with strategy and protection.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
The Daily Verse: Sovereignty
I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. Revelation 3:8a
When God opens a door for you, walk though. When He shuts a door - take that as a shut door and move along. Trust in what He provides for you; He's not going to lead you astray.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
When God opens a door for you, walk though. When He shuts a door - take that as a shut door and move along. Trust in what He provides for you; He's not going to lead you astray.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Boyd Bailey: A Clean Heart
“But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'”. Matthew 15:18-20a
Maintaining a clean heart is a daily choice, and one that has a multitude of options. Intellectual images bombard our beliefs like England’s blitzkrieg. Good and bad thoughts compete for our heart’s affection. It is a haven for hellish or heavenly deliberation. If I give in to stinking thinking I soil my soul with unsavory influence and miss my sweet Savior’s soothing protection. A heart given to heaven keeps the hounds of hell away.
It is contemplation on Christ and His character that flushes out unseemly fantasy and fills my mind with the realities of His righteousness. Yes, there is a struggle to keep a clean heart until we see Jesus face to face, however, in the interim it is intimacy with our Lord that invites integrity of heart. “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you” (Psalm 25:1). Intimacy leads to integrity, which creates a clean heart.
One strategy of Satan’s is for Christians to compartmentalize their heart between good and bad, sacred and secular, clean and unclean. This is deceptive because clean and unclean do not mix any more than oil and water blend together. The black oil of an impure heart contaminates a heart cleansed by the saving grace of Christ. Only the power of Almighty God can cap the spewing influence of sin deep in the depths of our heart.
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith” (1 Peter 5:8-9a).
So—as a follower of Jesus—how do you keep the barnacles of bad behavior from the hull of your heart? Daily surrender and submission to God is an exceptional governor for good behavior. This allows you to harness humility, receive the grace of God and defeat the devil. Battle bad behavior alone and you are overwhelmed, but by grace you overcome.
“All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1 Peter 5:5-6).
Keeping a clean heart is everyone’s battle, so stay accountable to God and people. Perhaps you give permission to a small group that examines your heart with loving questions like, “Are you filling your mind with clean images?” “Are you harboring any anger in your heart?” “Is your heart hurting in need of healing?” A clean heart comes as we submit to Christ, invite accountability from others and confess our sins.
“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22).
Do I have a regular routine of allowing Christ to cleanse my heart? Am I being accountable?
Related Readings: Psalm 24:3-5; Proverbs 20:7-11; Matthew 22:16; Titus 2:6-8
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Maintaining a clean heart is a daily choice, and one that has a multitude of options. Intellectual images bombard our beliefs like England’s blitzkrieg. Good and bad thoughts compete for our heart’s affection. It is a haven for hellish or heavenly deliberation. If I give in to stinking thinking I soil my soul with unsavory influence and miss my sweet Savior’s soothing protection. A heart given to heaven keeps the hounds of hell away.
It is contemplation on Christ and His character that flushes out unseemly fantasy and fills my mind with the realities of His righteousness. Yes, there is a struggle to keep a clean heart until we see Jesus face to face, however, in the interim it is intimacy with our Lord that invites integrity of heart. “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you” (Psalm 25:1). Intimacy leads to integrity, which creates a clean heart.
One strategy of Satan’s is for Christians to compartmentalize their heart between good and bad, sacred and secular, clean and unclean. This is deceptive because clean and unclean do not mix any more than oil and water blend together. The black oil of an impure heart contaminates a heart cleansed by the saving grace of Christ. Only the power of Almighty God can cap the spewing influence of sin deep in the depths of our heart.
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith” (1 Peter 5:8-9a).
So—as a follower of Jesus—how do you keep the barnacles of bad behavior from the hull of your heart? Daily surrender and submission to God is an exceptional governor for good behavior. This allows you to harness humility, receive the grace of God and defeat the devil. Battle bad behavior alone and you are overwhelmed, but by grace you overcome.
“All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1 Peter 5:5-6).
Keeping a clean heart is everyone’s battle, so stay accountable to God and people. Perhaps you give permission to a small group that examines your heart with loving questions like, “Are you filling your mind with clean images?” “Are you harboring any anger in your heart?” “Is your heart hurting in need of healing?” A clean heart comes as we submit to Christ, invite accountability from others and confess our sins.
“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22).
Do I have a regular routine of allowing Christ to cleanse my heart? Am I being accountable?
Related Readings: Psalm 24:3-5; Proverbs 20:7-11; Matthew 22:16; Titus 2:6-8
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
The Daily Verse: Reassurance
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Psalm 23:1-3
This passage mentions the Lord "...restores my soul." Our God can comprehend everything, so find comfort in knowing that He is aware when you get weary. Take a deep breath - be reminded of the reassurance that this passage provides.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
This passage mentions the Lord "...restores my soul." Our God can comprehend everything, so find comfort in knowing that He is aware when you get weary. Take a deep breath - be reminded of the reassurance that this passage provides.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Boyd Bailey: The Spiritual Leader
“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15
What does it mean to be the spiritual leader of my home? Do I have to reach a level of spiritual maturity before I qualify? If my wife is more spiritual than me, shouldn’t she be the spiritual leader? Spiritual leadership is determined by position, not knowledge. God places a man in the role of spiritual leader to lead his wife and children in faith.
Our wife and children may know more of the Bible, but the Lord still holds us responsible for their spiritual well being. So as a husband and a father we have to ask ourselves, “What are we doing to lead our family spiritually?” This non-optional assignment from Almighty God forces us into faith-based behavior. We want to model daily time in Bible reading and prayer. Spiritual leaders show the way in knowing God.
“The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole family” (Acts 16:34).
Spiritual leadership does not require a graduate degree in theology, but it does require a degree of planning and preparation. Spiritual leaders create a prayerful plan of intentional actions that expose their family to faith opportunities. You spend time looking for houses of worship that meet the needs of your wife and child, much like you would want them to live in the right home or attend the right school. Spiritual leadership seeks out a church.
"Let us go to his dwelling place; let us worship at his footstool“ (Psalm 132:7).
Men who make it a big deal to lead their family spiritually make the most difference at home and in the community. Your investment in family Bible study, your example of faith under fire, and your Christ-like character are living testaments to the truth of God.
Talk about the Lord when you linger in traffic with your children, pray with them when they are fearful and upset, hold your wife’s hand and listen to her heart, sign up for the next marriage retreat and serve others unselfishly. You can’t control the culture, but you and your house you can serve the Lord. Spiritual leaders lead their family to love God.
“For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything” (Ephesians 5:23-24).
How can I take responsibility to lead my family spiritually? How can I leave a legacy for the Lord?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 12:20; Psalm 100:4; Acts 18:7; 2 Timothy 1:16
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
What does it mean to be the spiritual leader of my home? Do I have to reach a level of spiritual maturity before I qualify? If my wife is more spiritual than me, shouldn’t she be the spiritual leader? Spiritual leadership is determined by position, not knowledge. God places a man in the role of spiritual leader to lead his wife and children in faith.
Our wife and children may know more of the Bible, but the Lord still holds us responsible for their spiritual well being. So as a husband and a father we have to ask ourselves, “What are we doing to lead our family spiritually?” This non-optional assignment from Almighty God forces us into faith-based behavior. We want to model daily time in Bible reading and prayer. Spiritual leaders show the way in knowing God.
“The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole family” (Acts 16:34).
Spiritual leadership does not require a graduate degree in theology, but it does require a degree of planning and preparation. Spiritual leaders create a prayerful plan of intentional actions that expose their family to faith opportunities. You spend time looking for houses of worship that meet the needs of your wife and child, much like you would want them to live in the right home or attend the right school. Spiritual leadership seeks out a church.
"Let us go to his dwelling place; let us worship at his footstool“ (Psalm 132:7).
Men who make it a big deal to lead their family spiritually make the most difference at home and in the community. Your investment in family Bible study, your example of faith under fire, and your Christ-like character are living testaments to the truth of God.
Talk about the Lord when you linger in traffic with your children, pray with them when they are fearful and upset, hold your wife’s hand and listen to her heart, sign up for the next marriage retreat and serve others unselfishly. You can’t control the culture, but you and your house you can serve the Lord. Spiritual leaders lead their family to love God.
“For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything” (Ephesians 5:23-24).
How can I take responsibility to lead my family spiritually? How can I leave a legacy for the Lord?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 12:20; Psalm 100:4; Acts 18:7; 2 Timothy 1:16
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
6.14.2010
The Daily Verse: Effectiveness
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:5-8
Most of us want to make a difference, whether it be on a global scale, or simply in our one-on-one relationships. Re-read this passage - it describes the tools that continually need sharpening in order to be effective. Get them out, sharpen them and live life in such a way that these qualities continually increase in measure. Don't hold yourself to perfection, but insist on forward motion.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Most of us want to make a difference, whether it be on a global scale, or simply in our one-on-one relationships. Re-read this passage - it describes the tools that continually need sharpening in order to be effective. Get them out, sharpen them and live life in such a way that these qualities continually increase in measure. Don't hold yourself to perfection, but insist on forward motion.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
6.01.2010
The Daily Verse: Perspective
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. Isaiah 55:8
Consider that you and God process very differently. Step outside of your own ways of thinking, and attempt to see things in the way He sees them. You will be amazed at what different perspective you will stumble upon.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Consider that you and God process very differently. Step outside of your own ways of thinking, and attempt to see things in the way He sees them. You will be amazed at what different perspective you will stumble upon.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
5.27.2010
The Daily Verse: Proverbs 24:19, 20
Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked, for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out. Proverbs 24:19, 20
Being calm amidst pressure is so much easier said than done. As easy as it may be to let the ways of the wicked get under our skin, be reminded that in the end, the evil man has no future. Don't hold a grudge. Let it go and watch God do His thing.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
Being calm amidst pressure is so much easier said than done. As easy as it may be to let the ways of the wicked get under our skin, be reminded that in the end, the evil man has no future. Don't hold a grudge. Let it go and watch God do His thing.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
5.26.2010
Boyd Bailey: Disconnect To Reconnect
“When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. Matthew 14:13
There are times that the crowds crowd in on me. I need relief. Relief from the routine. Relief from responsibilities. Relief from relationships. Or, the relief from the raw pain of losing a loved one. Jesus felt this intense emotion, as John the Baptist—His friend and spiritual confidant, was brutally beheaded. The pain of severe loss led Him to be alone.
Are you on the edge of complete exhaustion? Is your tolerance for any more trouble at the tipping point of chronic fatigue? If so, it is time to disconnect from distractions, so you can reconnect to your relationship with the Lord. You preclude coming apart emotionally and physically when you come apart relationally with your Savior Jesus.
Our private investment in solitude gives our public service sustainability. If we are always available to everyone, then we are not effective with any one. A soul that is always exposed to the light of life is unable to discern the desperate state of hurting humanity. So, we schedule time on the calendar with Christ in seclusion and He empowers us.
Your responsibilities will not rest while you rest, but trust the Lord to take care of any crisis that may arise. For you to disconnect from your duties means you prepare ahead of time to transition from your tasks while you are away. Do not be snared by your ego that always wants to be wanted. Let others learn what you know, so you can go away and grow. We grow stale if we reject retreats, but we are energized when we engage them.
When we disconnect, we trust God to get things done through others in spite of our absence. Your break from work and home is an opportunity for a colleague to step up and be blessed with a new opportunity to be stretched. Why keep all the challenging circumstances to yourself? Let go, so others can gain invaluable experience. Once you have truly disconnected from your phone, enjoy your soul reconnecting with Christ!
“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17).
What relationship or responsibility do I need to disconnect from for a season? When and where is the best place for me to reconnect with Christ?
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 15:4; Daniel 9:3; Acts 17:27; Hebrews 11:6
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
There are times that the crowds crowd in on me. I need relief. Relief from the routine. Relief from responsibilities. Relief from relationships. Or, the relief from the raw pain of losing a loved one. Jesus felt this intense emotion, as John the Baptist—His friend and spiritual confidant, was brutally beheaded. The pain of severe loss led Him to be alone.
Are you on the edge of complete exhaustion? Is your tolerance for any more trouble at the tipping point of chronic fatigue? If so, it is time to disconnect from distractions, so you can reconnect to your relationship with the Lord. You preclude coming apart emotionally and physically when you come apart relationally with your Savior Jesus.
Our private investment in solitude gives our public service sustainability. If we are always available to everyone, then we are not effective with any one. A soul that is always exposed to the light of life is unable to discern the desperate state of hurting humanity. So, we schedule time on the calendar with Christ in seclusion and He empowers us.
Your responsibilities will not rest while you rest, but trust the Lord to take care of any crisis that may arise. For you to disconnect from your duties means you prepare ahead of time to transition from your tasks while you are away. Do not be snared by your ego that always wants to be wanted. Let others learn what you know, so you can go away and grow. We grow stale if we reject retreats, but we are energized when we engage them.
When we disconnect, we trust God to get things done through others in spite of our absence. Your break from work and home is an opportunity for a colleague to step up and be blessed with a new opportunity to be stretched. Why keep all the challenging circumstances to yourself? Let go, so others can gain invaluable experience. Once you have truly disconnected from your phone, enjoy your soul reconnecting with Christ!
“The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17).
What relationship or responsibility do I need to disconnect from for a season? When and where is the best place for me to reconnect with Christ?
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 15:4; Daniel 9:3; Acts 17:27; Hebrews 11:6
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
5.24.2010
Boyd Bailey: Timely Transitions
“The rest of their brothers (the priests and the Levites and all who had returned from the captivity to Jerusalem) began the work, appointing Levites twenty years of age and older to supervise the building of the house of the Lord.” Ezra 3:8b
Transitions are hard, even good ones. But sometimes it is time to move out and to move on. God may be calling you back to a particular city or town for you to influence old and new friends for Christ. Or, he may be calling you to a brand new endeavor full of wonder and risk. Either way your transition is what is best for His kingdom and for your spiritual growth. Transitions are a time to trust totally and to live boldly.
The goal is to position yourself—with career and family—for the most impact on God’s Kingdom. And to place you and your family in an environment that will challenge and nurture your spiritual growth. Yes, pray much and seek godly counsel, but do not let fear of the unknown stifle you. This life is your one opportunity to follow hard after God.
“Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6).
Do not let the things of this world paralyze you, or cause you to pause. Hesitation can hurt. However—in your zeal—do be sensitive to your spouse. Make sure to nurture him or her through the process. Retain Christ as your compass through the transition. He will keep you honest and soften the hearts of those most affected by the move. Do not let the fear of man get you off mission. Rather let the fear of God lead you to follow His call.
Transitions can be exciting. They can keep us young. They move our faith to a whole new level. You could have stayed in your comfort zone with a minimum felt need for God. But now your dependence on Him is daily, even real time. You feel and know He is your loving heavenly father. Your circumstances may or may not get better, but you will.
“Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. The LORD was with Joseph and he prospered” (Genesis 39:1a, 2a).
Is He is leading you to a new city? Hire a realtor. Does He want you to downsize so you can simplify your life? Put up a for sale sign. Does He want you to cap your lifestyle so you can give away more money? Tell your financial advisor. Does He want you to move overseas and train national leaders? Buy a passport. Does He want you to reach out to your neighbor? Invite them to dinner. If He wants you, trust Him and wholeheartedly give yourself God.
Divinely orchestrated transitions are like a loyal friend, whom you totally trust. See this shift as an asset on heaven’s balance sheet of your life. Ride change like the ocean waves. It may be a little scary—maybe a lot scary—but He is with you. You will crash occasionally—but He will buffer your fall—like resting on a soft sandy sea bottom. Let this transition lead you closer to God and His will. You will never know exactly what you would have missed if you don’t, and you will have few regrets if you do.
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me” (Hebrews 13:5-6)?
What transition do I need to embrace, celebrate and trust the Lord is with me?
Related Readings: Psalm 66:6; Isaiah 43:2; Acts 12:10; Hebrews 11:29
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
Transitions are hard, even good ones. But sometimes it is time to move out and to move on. God may be calling you back to a particular city or town for you to influence old and new friends for Christ. Or, he may be calling you to a brand new endeavor full of wonder and risk. Either way your transition is what is best for His kingdom and for your spiritual growth. Transitions are a time to trust totally and to live boldly.
The goal is to position yourself—with career and family—for the most impact on God’s Kingdom. And to place you and your family in an environment that will challenge and nurture your spiritual growth. Yes, pray much and seek godly counsel, but do not let fear of the unknown stifle you. This life is your one opportunity to follow hard after God.
“Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6).
Do not let the things of this world paralyze you, or cause you to pause. Hesitation can hurt. However—in your zeal—do be sensitive to your spouse. Make sure to nurture him or her through the process. Retain Christ as your compass through the transition. He will keep you honest and soften the hearts of those most affected by the move. Do not let the fear of man get you off mission. Rather let the fear of God lead you to follow His call.
Transitions can be exciting. They can keep us young. They move our faith to a whole new level. You could have stayed in your comfort zone with a minimum felt need for God. But now your dependence on Him is daily, even real time. You feel and know He is your loving heavenly father. Your circumstances may or may not get better, but you will.
“Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. The LORD was with Joseph and he prospered” (Genesis 39:1a, 2a).
Is He is leading you to a new city? Hire a realtor. Does He want you to downsize so you can simplify your life? Put up a for sale sign. Does He want you to cap your lifestyle so you can give away more money? Tell your financial advisor. Does He want you to move overseas and train national leaders? Buy a passport. Does He want you to reach out to your neighbor? Invite them to dinner. If He wants you, trust Him and wholeheartedly give yourself God.
Divinely orchestrated transitions are like a loyal friend, whom you totally trust. See this shift as an asset on heaven’s balance sheet of your life. Ride change like the ocean waves. It may be a little scary—maybe a lot scary—but He is with you. You will crash occasionally—but He will buffer your fall—like resting on a soft sandy sea bottom. Let this transition lead you closer to God and His will. You will never know exactly what you would have missed if you don’t, and you will have few regrets if you do.
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me” (Hebrews 13:5-6)?
What transition do I need to embrace, celebrate and trust the Lord is with me?
Related Readings: Psalm 66:6; Isaiah 43:2; Acts 12:10; Hebrews 11:29
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
5.21.2010
Boyd Bailey: Passionate Work
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work…” Exodus 20:8-9
Work loses its luster when it becomes a 24 hours a day, seven days a week focus. Passion flies out the window of work when it consumes my thinking, with no break to refresh. Labor is laborious without a Sabbath to see how God’s calling is much greater than a career. If money is my motivation there is no rest, but Christ’s call brings contentment.
How can passion and enthusiasm sustain us to serve at work? It’s when the joy of the Lord is our strength that we work with unrelenting focus and follow through. Joy comes from doing our job for Jesus. Then we love what we do, and we do what we love. His calling causes us to rise above our daily frustrations and focus on His faithfulness.
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-25).
Do you see your work as a part of the Lord’s greater calling on your life? Do you take time weekly to refresh and remember how He has used you in the marketplace and at home to be a mirror of His character? Passion is a product of a perspective that rises above transactional results to relational investments. People at work and family at home are not a means to an end; they are individuals who need the grace and love of God.
Indeed, productivity flows out of a passionate love for people—but it happens as you view work as an opportunity to reflect Christ in your contacts and in your contracts. Perhaps it starts by not working on the Sabbath. Give yourself and your team permission to recharge and reflect on the Lord’s greater purposes. Celebration of Christ’s calling is reason enough to rest your mind, body and emotions, so that the other six days are fulfilling.
A weekly 24-hour fast from our phone and computer contributes to passion at work. Instead of being drained with the dread of what needs to get done, we turn off man’s machines and trust the Lord to take care of business in His timing. Passionate work is a product of a peace that comes from being with Christ daily and weekly in Sabbath rest.
“Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).
What do I need to trust the Lord with, so I can truly rest on the Sabbath? Is my passion for work sustained by my Savior Jesus’ greater call on my life?
Related Readings: Genesis 3:17-19; Deuteronomy 28:46-48; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Hebrews 4:1-11
Work loses its luster when it becomes a 24 hours a day, seven days a week focus. Passion flies out the window of work when it consumes my thinking, with no break to refresh. Labor is laborious without a Sabbath to see how God’s calling is much greater than a career. If money is my motivation there is no rest, but Christ’s call brings contentment.
How can passion and enthusiasm sustain us to serve at work? It’s when the joy of the Lord is our strength that we work with unrelenting focus and follow through. Joy comes from doing our job for Jesus. Then we love what we do, and we do what we love. His calling causes us to rise above our daily frustrations and focus on His faithfulness.
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-25).
Do you see your work as a part of the Lord’s greater calling on your life? Do you take time weekly to refresh and remember how He has used you in the marketplace and at home to be a mirror of His character? Passion is a product of a perspective that rises above transactional results to relational investments. People at work and family at home are not a means to an end; they are individuals who need the grace and love of God.
Indeed, productivity flows out of a passionate love for people—but it happens as you view work as an opportunity to reflect Christ in your contacts and in your contracts. Perhaps it starts by not working on the Sabbath. Give yourself and your team permission to recharge and reflect on the Lord’s greater purposes. Celebration of Christ’s calling is reason enough to rest your mind, body and emotions, so that the other six days are fulfilling.
A weekly 24-hour fast from our phone and computer contributes to passion at work. Instead of being drained with the dread of what needs to get done, we turn off man’s machines and trust the Lord to take care of business in His timing. Passionate work is a product of a peace that comes from being with Christ daily and weekly in Sabbath rest.
“Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).
What do I need to trust the Lord with, so I can truly rest on the Sabbath? Is my passion for work sustained by my Savior Jesus’ greater call on my life?
Related Readings: Genesis 3:17-19; Deuteronomy 28:46-48; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Hebrews 4:1-11
5.20.2010
Boyd Bailey: Battlefield Praying
“They were helped in fighting them, and God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in him.” 1 Chronicles 5:20
Battlefield praying is intense, because your attention is divided between the battle you are waging and your dependence on God. This can be difficult, because the urgency of the battle compels you to engage, while you feel the tension to depend on God. You can have the best training in the world, but without God you can lose the battle. It is a trust issue. Prayer is a reflection of my trust in God. It incubates trust with acceptance and intimacy.
We cannot allow the pressure of the battle to shift our focus from God to the enemy. This is fear. So, we guard against taking matters into our own hands during the heat of the battle. It is pride when we default to using the weapons of manipulation and a demanding spirit. Instead, prayer cuts through all these human short cuts and reactions. It is patient.
Prayer keeps us focused on the winner of the war, Jesus. You may need a retreat from the battle to regroup and refresh. Rest is required, as it is a time for God’s healing and for you to replenish your physical, emotional and spiritual resources. If you fight the battle in your own strength you will lose, but if you fight the battle in the Lord’s strength you will win. Adversity and uncertainty is your passport to prayerful intimacy with Almighty God.
Your battle may be health related. It may be emotional lust or finances. It may be a relational conflict or the consequences of a bad decision. Wherever you find yourself, you can rest assured this is everyone’s battle. You are not unique or different in this regard. You are not battling alone. Look around you and pray for the walking wounded. They desperately need your prayers. They may be bleeding and don't even realize it.
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality”(Romans 12:11-13).
God is looking for someone who will lead His people with a humble cry that moves them forward on our knees. You may have been given a battlefield promotion for “such a time as this”. Do not squander this opportunity and the influence God has given you. Engage in this prayer initiative for Kingdom purposes. When you trust God, He trusts you.
It is His wisdom and the force of His character that ultimately wins the war. So stay focused on your leader Jesus. Do not be enamored or distracted by the battle that is raging around you. Prayer keeps your perspective pure and focused on God’s agenda. Stay engaged in prayer. There will be set backs along the way, but do not lose heart. We know who wins the war!
“With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith” (2 Thessalonians 1:11).
In what battle do I need to prayerfully engage, with the Lord’s help? Who can I support in prayer as they are engaged in a spiritual battle?
Related Readings: Ezra 10:1; Nehemiah 6:9; Hebrews 5:7; Jude 1:20
Battlefield praying is intense, because your attention is divided between the battle you are waging and your dependence on God. This can be difficult, because the urgency of the battle compels you to engage, while you feel the tension to depend on God. You can have the best training in the world, but without God you can lose the battle. It is a trust issue. Prayer is a reflection of my trust in God. It incubates trust with acceptance and intimacy.
We cannot allow the pressure of the battle to shift our focus from God to the enemy. This is fear. So, we guard against taking matters into our own hands during the heat of the battle. It is pride when we default to using the weapons of manipulation and a demanding spirit. Instead, prayer cuts through all these human short cuts and reactions. It is patient.
Prayer keeps us focused on the winner of the war, Jesus. You may need a retreat from the battle to regroup and refresh. Rest is required, as it is a time for God’s healing and for you to replenish your physical, emotional and spiritual resources. If you fight the battle in your own strength you will lose, but if you fight the battle in the Lord’s strength you will win. Adversity and uncertainty is your passport to prayerful intimacy with Almighty God.
Your battle may be health related. It may be emotional lust or finances. It may be a relational conflict or the consequences of a bad decision. Wherever you find yourself, you can rest assured this is everyone’s battle. You are not unique or different in this regard. You are not battling alone. Look around you and pray for the walking wounded. They desperately need your prayers. They may be bleeding and don't even realize it.
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality”(Romans 12:11-13).
God is looking for someone who will lead His people with a humble cry that moves them forward on our knees. You may have been given a battlefield promotion for “such a time as this”. Do not squander this opportunity and the influence God has given you. Engage in this prayer initiative for Kingdom purposes. When you trust God, He trusts you.
It is His wisdom and the force of His character that ultimately wins the war. So stay focused on your leader Jesus. Do not be enamored or distracted by the battle that is raging around you. Prayer keeps your perspective pure and focused on God’s agenda. Stay engaged in prayer. There will be set backs along the way, but do not lose heart. We know who wins the war!
“With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith” (2 Thessalonians 1:11).
In what battle do I need to prayerfully engage, with the Lord’s help? Who can I support in prayer as they are engaged in a spiritual battle?
Related Readings: Ezra 10:1; Nehemiah 6:9; Hebrews 5:7; Jude 1:20
5.14.2010
The Daily Verse: Matthew 6:22
The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light... Matthew 6:22
It is easy to allow the majority of your intake to be what is naturally around you. Be intentional about ingesting things that are Godly and pure; His Word, sound teaching and sound wisdom.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
It is easy to allow the majority of your intake to be what is naturally around you. Be intentional about ingesting things that are Godly and pure; His Word, sound teaching and sound wisdom.
Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis
5.13.2010
Boyd Bailey: Wait In Expectation
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:3
After we pray, we wait in expectation. That means we don’t fret or wait fearfully. We wait, expecting God to engage in our world while faith fills our soul with expectation. However, be careful with flippant prayers that are shot off randomly with no recognition of royalty in the room. Christ’s kingship is marginalized when men or women pray aimlessly, without expectations. Prayer becomes just another commodity when its compelling nature ceases to exist, so be sure to pray in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18).
Do not grow weary of waking up each day in prayer. You shouldn’t neglect the cleansing of your soul anymore than you would the bathing of your body. It is when you are the freshest and fatigue is the weakest that you engage best in prayer. One hour of prayer in the morning is worth two hours at night because your mind has yet to be soiled with the complexities of the day.
In other words, people have not yet become a problem. When you send up your prayers at sunrise, you can expect peace of mind at sunset, giving you piece of mind in between. Morning prayers sow seeds of selflessness that bear fruit during the day in patience, peace, and productivity.
Indeed, you wait, expecting God to answer in His timing and in His way but your waiting is not without doing. As you pray and wait for the Lord to send out workers into His ripe harvest (Matthew 9:37-38), you venture into the world yourself and learn to love people. As you pray and wait to be healed from a dreaded disease or aggravating ailment, you go to a well-trained doctor to administer the latest medicines and treatments to help remedy your illness.
As you pray and wait for a job, you go out and enlist in projects or labor that exposes you to new opportunities which may provide for your family in the interim. As you pray and wait for a relationship to be repaired, you reach out and seek to love them along the way with encouraging words and acts of kindness. You do your part as you wait expectantly on God to do His part. Waiting involves listening to the Almighty and then acting.
Expectations of God are good. Just be sure to align your expectations with His, in prayer. Prayer without expectations would be cruel and unusual punishment. Yes, no expectations may mean no disappointments, but this is where prayer and faith fill in the gaps. Having no expectations may mean you have no hope, no motivation to move forward, and no opportunity to trust God with outrageous possibilities. But you can expect good things from God.
Therefore, do not confuse having no expectations of God with having no expectations of people. God is trustworthy 100% of the time. He can be trusted regardless, so expect this of Him. He loves to see His children wait expectantly on Him. This trusting posture invites Him to answer prayers you never dreamed possible. You trust Him exclusively as you wait expectantly. And oh, He knows how to exceed your expectations. Wait and see.
“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).
Am I actively working as I am prayerfully waiting? What can I expect from God as I wait?
Related Readings: Psalm 38:15; Micah 7:7; Matthew 9:37-38; Ephesians 6:18
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
After we pray, we wait in expectation. That means we don’t fret or wait fearfully. We wait, expecting God to engage in our world while faith fills our soul with expectation. However, be careful with flippant prayers that are shot off randomly with no recognition of royalty in the room. Christ’s kingship is marginalized when men or women pray aimlessly, without expectations. Prayer becomes just another commodity when its compelling nature ceases to exist, so be sure to pray in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18).
Do not grow weary of waking up each day in prayer. You shouldn’t neglect the cleansing of your soul anymore than you would the bathing of your body. It is when you are the freshest and fatigue is the weakest that you engage best in prayer. One hour of prayer in the morning is worth two hours at night because your mind has yet to be soiled with the complexities of the day.
In other words, people have not yet become a problem. When you send up your prayers at sunrise, you can expect peace of mind at sunset, giving you piece of mind in between. Morning prayers sow seeds of selflessness that bear fruit during the day in patience, peace, and productivity.
Indeed, you wait, expecting God to answer in His timing and in His way but your waiting is not without doing. As you pray and wait for the Lord to send out workers into His ripe harvest (Matthew 9:37-38), you venture into the world yourself and learn to love people. As you pray and wait to be healed from a dreaded disease or aggravating ailment, you go to a well-trained doctor to administer the latest medicines and treatments to help remedy your illness.
As you pray and wait for a job, you go out and enlist in projects or labor that exposes you to new opportunities which may provide for your family in the interim. As you pray and wait for a relationship to be repaired, you reach out and seek to love them along the way with encouraging words and acts of kindness. You do your part as you wait expectantly on God to do His part. Waiting involves listening to the Almighty and then acting.
Expectations of God are good. Just be sure to align your expectations with His, in prayer. Prayer without expectations would be cruel and unusual punishment. Yes, no expectations may mean no disappointments, but this is where prayer and faith fill in the gaps. Having no expectations may mean you have no hope, no motivation to move forward, and no opportunity to trust God with outrageous possibilities. But you can expect good things from God.
Therefore, do not confuse having no expectations of God with having no expectations of people. God is trustworthy 100% of the time. He can be trusted regardless, so expect this of Him. He loves to see His children wait expectantly on Him. This trusting posture invites Him to answer prayers you never dreamed possible. You trust Him exclusively as you wait expectantly. And oh, He knows how to exceed your expectations. Wait and see.
“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).
Am I actively working as I am prayerfully waiting? What can I expect from God as I wait?
Related Readings: Psalm 38:15; Micah 7:7; Matthew 9:37-38; Ephesians 6:18
Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey
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