“Their possessions were so great that they were not able to stay together. And quarreling arose…” Genesis 13:6 b, 7 a
Abram and Lot had a lot of stuff. They were blessed with family, friends and finances. However, things became complicated and they were unable to coexist with each another. Though they needed one another, they could not stay with one another. The fear of losing their possessions superseded the joy of growing their relationship. So they divided, and as a result of their vulnerability, Lot lost everything. Jesus said, “A household divided against itself will not stand…”(Matthew 12:25).
Possessions are not wrong in and of themselves. However, when the management of your wealth compromises your loyalty to people, there is a problem. Possessions should be subservient to people, otherwise things get out of kilter. People know if you value your net worth over them. So how do we keep this balance between possessions and people?
Begin with an inventory of your time. How do you spend your time? Do you spend more time in managing your stuff, or loving on people? You may need to sell some of your property, or better yet give it away. If your possessions have priority over people, there is a problem. Ask yourself, “Does my stuff compete with my relationship with God?” Perhaps you downsize your stuff, so you can upsize your focus on your Heavenly Father.
By God’s grace, use the material fortune he has entrusted to you as a magnet that draws you closer to God and people. Use your blessing of discretionary time to bless others. The Bible says, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6:17-19).
Related Readings: Genesis 36:6-7; Ecclesiastes 5:10-11; Luke 3:11; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Transformational Living
How can I position my possessions, so the Lord possesses more of me, and my family?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Jesus said, “A household divided against itself will not stand…”(Matthew 12:25). This is something that is playing out before my eyes and is so true! God, Please extend your hand of peace and understanding over my family.
2.06.2009
Boyd Bailey: Righteous Resolve…
“The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land.” Proverbs 10:30
Resolve is the result of righteous living. There is a determination deep within a soul dependent on God. When you are established in the faith, no one can remove you away from Christ’s call. He has appointed you to this post of service. Do not leave until the Lord reassigns you. Righteous resolve decides to stay put, so by faith, keep on for Christ.
It probably means you disappoint some, and invigorate others. However, if your goal is to first trust and obey the Lord, you will be misunderstood by some and rejected by others. Friends may even urge you to move on, but you cannot because Christ has not released you. Your resolve is His resolve. Therefore, you persevere through pain, suffering and uncertainty. Righteous resolve remains, regardless of the consequences, good or bad.
Moreover, there is a righteous resolve to remain in Christ (see John 15:5). Your conversion to Christianity was a resolution to abide under the influence of Almighty God. You stay true to your commitment to Christ, because of the joy that comes from following Jesus. The ‘meek inherit the earth’ (Matthew 5:5), while the wicked don’t.
Lastly, you cannot lose what you give away, and you cannot keep what you will not release. Indeed, a righteous resolve has a relentless trust in the Lord. Obedience, generosity and contentment all require tenacious trust. Therefore, resolve in your heart to go hard after God. Release your relentless pursuits, only after he has released you. Perhaps you ask, ‘Is my resolve righteous, or is it contingent on circumstances?’ The Bible says, “Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 20:3).
Related Readings: Psalm 15:5; Daniel 1:8; Romans 8:35-39; 1 Corinthians 2:2
Transformational Living
Where do I need a righteous resolve, and remain true to my commitment and calling?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I have to admit I love the word "TENACIOUS" so here's what caught my eye today! Obedience, generosity and contentment all require tenacious trust.
Resolve is the result of righteous living. There is a determination deep within a soul dependent on God. When you are established in the faith, no one can remove you away from Christ’s call. He has appointed you to this post of service. Do not leave until the Lord reassigns you. Righteous resolve decides to stay put, so by faith, keep on for Christ.
It probably means you disappoint some, and invigorate others. However, if your goal is to first trust and obey the Lord, you will be misunderstood by some and rejected by others. Friends may even urge you to move on, but you cannot because Christ has not released you. Your resolve is His resolve. Therefore, you persevere through pain, suffering and uncertainty. Righteous resolve remains, regardless of the consequences, good or bad.
Moreover, there is a righteous resolve to remain in Christ (see John 15:5). Your conversion to Christianity was a resolution to abide under the influence of Almighty God. You stay true to your commitment to Christ, because of the joy that comes from following Jesus. The ‘meek inherit the earth’ (Matthew 5:5), while the wicked don’t.
Lastly, you cannot lose what you give away, and you cannot keep what you will not release. Indeed, a righteous resolve has a relentless trust in the Lord. Obedience, generosity and contentment all require tenacious trust. Therefore, resolve in your heart to go hard after God. Release your relentless pursuits, only after he has released you. Perhaps you ask, ‘Is my resolve righteous, or is it contingent on circumstances?’ The Bible says, “Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 20:3).
Related Readings: Psalm 15:5; Daniel 1:8; Romans 8:35-39; 1 Corinthians 2:2
Transformational Living
Where do I need a righteous resolve, and remain true to my commitment and calling?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I have to admit I love the word "TENACIOUS" so here's what caught my eye today! Obedience, generosity and contentment all require tenacious trust.
Boyd Bailey: Economic Storm…
“When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.” Proverbs 10:25
Economic storms expose evil. Like when the ocean tide goes out, you are able to see those in the water who are naked. Dead wood is swept away, no more to be seen. It may seem like the wicked are prospering, but eventually they will be found out. The Holy Spirit shakes out sin, so it can be seen and judged. As the Lord promised His children in the past, “I will shake the house of Israel” (Amos 9:9).
What used to make a lot of noise and draw the attention of the elite, has lost its creditability under scrutiny. Economic storms collapse businesses and ministries who are dependent on debt, and conversely they cause good churches to increase in attendance. There is a purging of pride, and all manner of excess is exposed. What really matters in life: faith, family, friends, food and shelter become priority. Storms reveal worth.
Moreover, those who cling to Christ are not shaken. He is our cornerstone that no degree of chaos can challenge. The Bible says, “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever” (Psalm 125:1). The righteous cannot be moved, because their Master is immovable. Therefore, stand firm in the Lord.
Furthermore, your stability in your Savior is security for your family, friends and work associates. Your unwavering faith during difficult days helps them replace panic with peace, fear with faith, and compromise with conviction. Indeed, if all you have left is a firm foundation of faith, begin building back God’s big vision. Are you a wise builder? Jesus said, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).
Related Readings: Job 20:5; Psalm 37:10; Acts 2:25; Hebrews 12:28
Transformational Living
How can I build my life, home and work on the solid rock of Jesus.
Economic storms expose evil. Like when the ocean tide goes out, you are able to see those in the water who are naked. Dead wood is swept away, no more to be seen. It may seem like the wicked are prospering, but eventually they will be found out. The Holy Spirit shakes out sin, so it can be seen and judged. As the Lord promised His children in the past, “I will shake the house of Israel” (Amos 9:9).
What used to make a lot of noise and draw the attention of the elite, has lost its creditability under scrutiny. Economic storms collapse businesses and ministries who are dependent on debt, and conversely they cause good churches to increase in attendance. There is a purging of pride, and all manner of excess is exposed. What really matters in life: faith, family, friends, food and shelter become priority. Storms reveal worth.
Moreover, those who cling to Christ are not shaken. He is our cornerstone that no degree of chaos can challenge. The Bible says, “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever” (Psalm 125:1). The righteous cannot be moved, because their Master is immovable. Therefore, stand firm in the Lord.
Furthermore, your stability in your Savior is security for your family, friends and work associates. Your unwavering faith during difficult days helps them replace panic with peace, fear with faith, and compromise with conviction. Indeed, if all you have left is a firm foundation of faith, begin building back God’s big vision. Are you a wise builder? Jesus said, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).
Related Readings: Job 20:5; Psalm 37:10; Acts 2:25; Hebrews 12:28
Transformational Living
How can I build my life, home and work on the solid rock of Jesus.
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I love this: Storms reveal worth.
My thoughts!
I love this: Storms reveal worth.
Boyd Bailey: Tempered Talk…
“When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.” Proverbs 10:19
Tempered talk is evidence of a wise conversationalist. It’s when our words are many that we run the risk of soliciting sin. Increase in the amount of words increases the probability of improper speech. For example, a respectful conversation does not repeat over and over again the same words and phrases in a confined period of time. This impatient cadence frustrates the listener.
Perhaps a look of misunderstanding requires questions for clarification, or definitions for comprehension. Proud conversationalists can highjack a hearer’s understanding with a hoard of meaningless words. If your goal is to communicate, then take the time to listen to the needs of your audience. People who feel cared for and understood have a keener sense of hearing and understanding. The Bible says, “Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue” (Proverbs 17:28).
Wise people weigh their words before they speak. They allow their mind to catch up with their heart. Furthermore, in the face of wrong behavior, emotions need to sometimes express themselves. Let the other person know if you feel mistreated or misinformed. Concealed anger leads to living a lie (see Proverbs 10:18), but tempered talk is truthful and to the point.
Lastly, reserve your words out of respect for the other person. If you do all the talking, you are the center of attention. It becomes condescending conversation, because the other individual does not feel important enough to speak up. So, you honor others when you speak less, and listen more intently on how you can love them. Wisdom can be found in the words of each person you meet. Therefore, intentionally talk less and be wise. The Bible says, “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…”(James 1:19).
Related Readings: Job 2:3; Amos 5:13; Titus 1:10; James 3:2
Transformational Living
With whom do I need to listen more, and talk less?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is great advise!!!
Tempered talk is evidence of a wise conversationalist. It’s when our words are many that we run the risk of soliciting sin. Increase in the amount of words increases the probability of improper speech. For example, a respectful conversation does not repeat over and over again the same words and phrases in a confined period of time. This impatient cadence frustrates the listener.
Perhaps a look of misunderstanding requires questions for clarification, or definitions for comprehension. Proud conversationalists can highjack a hearer’s understanding with a hoard of meaningless words. If your goal is to communicate, then take the time to listen to the needs of your audience. People who feel cared for and understood have a keener sense of hearing and understanding. The Bible says, “Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue” (Proverbs 17:28).
Wise people weigh their words before they speak. They allow their mind to catch up with their heart. Furthermore, in the face of wrong behavior, emotions need to sometimes express themselves. Let the other person know if you feel mistreated or misinformed. Concealed anger leads to living a lie (see Proverbs 10:18), but tempered talk is truthful and to the point.
Lastly, reserve your words out of respect for the other person. If you do all the talking, you are the center of attention. It becomes condescending conversation, because the other individual does not feel important enough to speak up. So, you honor others when you speak less, and listen more intently on how you can love them. Wisdom can be found in the words of each person you meet. Therefore, intentionally talk less and be wise. The Bible says, “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…”(James 1:19).
Related Readings: Job 2:3; Amos 5:13; Titus 1:10; James 3:2
Transformational Living
With whom do I need to listen more, and talk less?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
This is great advise!!!
2.02.2009
Boyd Bailey: Respectable Leaders…
“Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.” 1 Timothy 3:2-3
Respectability invites respect. You may say, “I can’t get any respect”. If so, what do you base your expectations? Is it your charm, charisma or ability to converse well? All of these do not mean you are respectable; in fact they can repel respect, and garner disrespect. Your skills and gifts require character to convene the admiration of others.
Respect is earned not demanded. It is sustained by influence and not position. Presidents, preachers and parents are given respect by their position, but, if they consistently underperform or lack integrity, they lose respect. It is not a right of the irresponsible, but a privilege of the dependable. Respectable leaders get right results in the right way.
Respectable leaders also rise to the occasion and do the right things. They persevere and provide stability instead of panicking and creating chaos. They take responsibility by espousing the values of the organization, by not gossiping and blaming others. There is a depth of character that runs deep within their soul, not to be stolen by sin.
Lastly, a respectable leader is well thought-of when their track record is one of trustworthiness, honesty, and follow through. However, the goal is not for people to like you. They may not like you when you lovingly hold them accountable, but they will respect you. They may not like your discipline, but they will respect your consistency. They may not embrace your beliefs, but, if expressed in humility, they will respect you. Perhaps you ask, “Am I respectable?” If so, you can expect respect. The Bible says, “A sensible person wins admiration, but a warped mind is despised” (Proverbs 12:8, NLT).
Related Readings: Exodus 18:21; Proverbs 15:27; John 10:12-13; Romans 16:18
Transformational Living
What area of my character needs growth and transformation, so to solicit respect?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
There is a really important lesson here! Presidents, preachers and parents are given respect by their position, but, if they consistently under preform or lack integrity, they lose respect. It is not a right of the irresponsible, but a privilege of the dependable. Respectable leaders get right results in the right way.
Respectability invites respect. You may say, “I can’t get any respect”. If so, what do you base your expectations? Is it your charm, charisma or ability to converse well? All of these do not mean you are respectable; in fact they can repel respect, and garner disrespect. Your skills and gifts require character to convene the admiration of others.
Respect is earned not demanded. It is sustained by influence and not position. Presidents, preachers and parents are given respect by their position, but, if they consistently underperform or lack integrity, they lose respect. It is not a right of the irresponsible, but a privilege of the dependable. Respectable leaders get right results in the right way.
Respectable leaders also rise to the occasion and do the right things. They persevere and provide stability instead of panicking and creating chaos. They take responsibility by espousing the values of the organization, by not gossiping and blaming others. There is a depth of character that runs deep within their soul, not to be stolen by sin.
Lastly, a respectable leader is well thought-of when their track record is one of trustworthiness, honesty, and follow through. However, the goal is not for people to like you. They may not like you when you lovingly hold them accountable, but they will respect you. They may not like your discipline, but they will respect your consistency. They may not embrace your beliefs, but, if expressed in humility, they will respect you. Perhaps you ask, “Am I respectable?” If so, you can expect respect. The Bible says, “A sensible person wins admiration, but a warped mind is despised” (Proverbs 12:8, NLT).
Related Readings: Exodus 18:21; Proverbs 15:27; John 10:12-13; Romans 16:18
Transformational Living
What area of my character needs growth and transformation, so to solicit respect?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
There is a really important lesson here! Presidents, preachers and parents are given respect by their position, but, if they consistently under preform or lack integrity, they lose respect. It is not a right of the irresponsible, but a privilege of the dependable. Respectable leaders get right results in the right way.
Boyd Bailey: Love Forgives…
“Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.”
Proverbs 10:12
True love forgives regardless of the infraction, because it transcends mistreatment. So, what is your process for forgiveness? Is it conditional, based on the way you are treated, or is it unconditional? Hatred has no hope but to stir up dissension and rally a defense. However, love looks at being wronged as an opportunity to replace insult with encouragement. Love seeks to lead all parties into a better place of health and happiness.
Indeed, hatred is not at home in a heart of love. It sows discord, while love plants peace. It embraces enmity, while love cuddles compassion. Hate stirs up, but love calms down. How do you handle those who are hard to be around? Perhaps out of love you serve them. Seek to serve, rather than be served. The Bible says, “…through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13b, NASB).
Furthermore, love forgives because you have been forgiven by the matchless love of God. It is the Lord’s love toward you that empowers you to lovingly forgive another. Human love alone is unable to love without boundaries. Left to our own limited love, we only love those who love us. Jesus says, “If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much” (Matthew 5:46, NLT).
Therefore, look at love as an opportunity to give others what they don’t deserve. Lean on the Lord as your source of unconditional love. Christ’s love is all inclusive and all forgiving. In the same way, love those in your life actively and appropriately. Maybe a kind word, a nice note of appreciation, a thoughtful gift or a listening ear? How do you harness love into a habit of forgiveness? The Bible says, “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8, NLT).
Related Readings: Leviticus 19:17; Proverbs 17:9; Philippians 1:9; 1 John 4:20-21
Transformational Living
Who do I need to love, forgive and serve in honor of God’s great love?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Another one that hits very close to home!
It is the Lord’s love toward you that empowers you to lovingly forgive another. Human love alone is unable to love without boundaries. Left to our own limited love, we only love those who love us. WOW! I've never thought of love in this way!
True love forgives regardless of the infraction, because it transcends mistreatment. So, what is your process for forgiveness? Is it conditional, based on the way you are treated, or is it unconditional? Hatred has no hope but to stir up dissension and rally a defense. However, love looks at being wronged as an opportunity to replace insult with encouragement. Love seeks to lead all parties into a better place of health and happiness.
Indeed, hatred is not at home in a heart of love. It sows discord, while love plants peace. It embraces enmity, while love cuddles compassion. Hate stirs up, but love calms down. How do you handle those who are hard to be around? Perhaps out of love you serve them. Seek to serve, rather than be served. The Bible says, “…through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13b, NASB).
Furthermore, love forgives because you have been forgiven by the matchless love of God. It is the Lord’s love toward you that empowers you to lovingly forgive another. Human love alone is unable to love without boundaries. Left to our own limited love, we only love those who love us. Jesus says, “If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much” (Matthew 5:46, NLT).
Therefore, look at love as an opportunity to give others what they don’t deserve. Lean on the Lord as your source of unconditional love. Christ’s love is all inclusive and all forgiving. In the same way, love those in your life actively and appropriately. Maybe a kind word, a nice note of appreciation, a thoughtful gift or a listening ear? How do you harness love into a habit of forgiveness? The Bible says, “Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8, NLT).
Related Readings: Leviticus 19:17; Proverbs 17:9; Philippians 1:9; 1 John 4:20-21
Transformational Living
Who do I need to love, forgive and serve in honor of God’s great love?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
Another one that hits very close to home!
It is the Lord’s love toward you that empowers you to lovingly forgive another. Human love alone is unable to love without boundaries. Left to our own limited love, we only love those who love us. WOW! I've never thought of love in this way!
Boyd Bailey: Hurt Hurts…
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3
Hurting people hurt people. They have been wounded in the past, so they have not been healed in the present. It is very difficult for everyone, because the wounded one simmers in silent suffering, until they lash out at a loved one. Unless they are made whole by the grace of God, there will be no relational restoration with the Lord and others.
Do you or someone you love walk around with a wounded heart? Your hurt may be the result of an extreme let down from someone you trusted and admired: a parent, or an abusive authority figure. This may explain your resistance to accountability and unwillingness to submit to authority. However, the gospel of Jesus Christ is all about binding up the broken hearted. He came with healing in His wings for hurting hearts (see Malachi 4:2).
Jesus says, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, He has sent me to heal the broken hearted” (Luke 4:18, NKJV). Hurt is healed when we let go of anger and allow the grace of God to replace it with forgiveness and peace. If we remain immature and insist on our way, we will stay stuck in our childish cycle. But Jesus is calling us beyond our adolescent attitudes. Paul struggled with this when he confessed, “I put childish things behind me” (1 Corinthians 13:11).
Lastly, when we cry out to Christ, He heals. Humility is an invitation to intimacy and healing. You can love with a whole heart when the love of the Lord has mended your heart. Perhaps, you seek out a Biblically based Christian counselor, and trust them to lead you into God’s grace and healing. Then, in humility, reach out to those you have wronged and watch relational healing take place. Honestly ask, ‘Has my heart been healed by heaven?’ The Bible says, “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned from them” (Hosea 14:4).
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 7:14; Malachi 4:2; James 5:16; 1 Peter 2:24
Transformational Living
Is my heart healthy and whole? Whom can I ask to validate my diagnosis?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I'm trying to do some quick catching up! Last week was crazy! This email sat in my box for a few days last week and I didn't have it in me to open it when I saw the title.
We (my wife and I) have a relationship in our lives that directly relates to the above message. So this is so timely and relevant, but hard because HURT HURTS!
Hurting people hurt people. They have been wounded in the past, so they have not been healed in the present. It is very difficult for everyone, because the wounded one simmers in silent suffering, until they lash out at a loved one. Unless they are made whole by the grace of God, there will be no relational restoration with the Lord and others.
Do you or someone you love walk around with a wounded heart? Your hurt may be the result of an extreme let down from someone you trusted and admired: a parent, or an abusive authority figure. This may explain your resistance to accountability and unwillingness to submit to authority. However, the gospel of Jesus Christ is all about binding up the broken hearted. He came with healing in His wings for hurting hearts (see Malachi 4:2).
Jesus says, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, He has sent me to heal the broken hearted” (Luke 4:18, NKJV). Hurt is healed when we let go of anger and allow the grace of God to replace it with forgiveness and peace. If we remain immature and insist on our way, we will stay stuck in our childish cycle. But Jesus is calling us beyond our adolescent attitudes. Paul struggled with this when he confessed, “I put childish things behind me” (1 Corinthians 13:11).
Lastly, when we cry out to Christ, He heals. Humility is an invitation to intimacy and healing. You can love with a whole heart when the love of the Lord has mended your heart. Perhaps, you seek out a Biblically based Christian counselor, and trust them to lead you into God’s grace and healing. Then, in humility, reach out to those you have wronged and watch relational healing take place. Honestly ask, ‘Has my heart been healed by heaven?’ The Bible says, “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned from them” (Hosea 14:4).
Related Readings: 2 Chronicles 7:14; Malachi 4:2; James 5:16; 1 Peter 2:24
Transformational Living
Is my heart healthy and whole? Whom can I ask to validate my diagnosis?
++++++++++++++++
My thoughts!
I'm trying to do some quick catching up! Last week was crazy! This email sat in my box for a few days last week and I didn't have it in me to open it when I saw the title.
We (my wife and I) have a relationship in our lives that directly relates to the above message. So this is so timely and relevant, but hard because HURT HURTS!
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