The church world today is in a battle with the enemy. The devil is sending out the evil spirit of slothfulness and laziness to everyone throughout society, both young and old alike.
You can definitely see it in the workplace. Companies and corporations can't seem to keep employees, no matter the benefits, no matter the pay. The world in general, especially America has forgotten the importance of being committed and dedicated. Most individuals find it easier to relocate. A hard days work is just too much to bear in the modern day job environment. All the new technologies and modern conveniences have made it easier to put in less effort. There is a decline in the pride of a job well done. The time of a good days work for a good days pay are slipping away. We want to do less for more money in most cases. People want to be pacified more than ever before.
Slothfulness has creeped in to the Christian community as well. It seems that the church is held in as low regards as the work place. More and more people seem to be "too tired" to be about the Father's business. It has become easier to just say, "I am tired", or "I am too tired to go to church today". That is telling God that we don't have enough time or energy left for the one who placed breath in our lungs and gave us another day of life. We have become too tired to put forth an effort for ministry, for witnessing of the love and greatness of our Lord. Of course no one ever actually comes out and says, "I am too tired to work for the Lord today". It is easier on our conscience to just tell ourselves, I am just soo tired. Not just one or two individuals are feeling this way, now-a-days it is an entire country of people who are feeling this way. Christian church attendance is at an all time low throughout the country. More and more churches are going to one service on Sundays due to such low attendances. Churches are closing their doors because no support from the Christian in their communities. Although, the Muslim churches are growing on a daily basis. We have become so lazy and selfish as a whole.
Romans 12:11 (NLT) states Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
We want more and more benefits of God, the blessings, the praise of those around us, the "titles", but we want them with less effort. Ephesians 6:6-8 (NLT) states, Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. Unfortunately, we want to do the things that please us and are self-gratifying.
The opposite also is occurring. Some people are exhausted because they are busy doing so many other activities, taking care of other areas of their lives that the commitment and dedication to God and the church are placed on the back burner.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NLT), This should be your ambition: to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we commanded you before. As a result, people who are not Christians will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others to meet your financial needs. Minding your own business means to worry about the job you are doing, focusing on your own walk with God.
More and more people are finding it easier to say no to commitment to God and the church. The feeling of being held accountable is practically unheard of. There is no fear of God anymore. Christians seem to forget that God is all knowing and all seeing. He knows when we can and can't physically or mentally work. He knows the extent of our capabilities. Every Christian will be accountable on Judgment Day for our individual walks with God.
2nd Timothy 2:5-7 (NLT), Follow the Lord's rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rules or is disqualified and wins no prize. Hardworking farmers are the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. Think about what I am saying. The Lord will give you understanding in all these things.
Most Christians are following the commandments and are aware of the sins they are committing but don't seem to realize there are many sins of omission.
Sins of omission are the things of which we are supposed to be doing as children of our Almighty God. Witnessing, feeding the hungry, showing love to one another, encouraging one another, lending a helping hand, testifying of the greatness of God, reading God's word, fasting, praying, praising God, and faithful attending in church are just some of the responsibilities of a Christian. These and many others are expected of a true Christian. These are things that we should be doing continuously. Unfortunately, these are the areas we as a church are lacking in. These areas seem to be of less importance to the modern day church and Christian.
Colossians 3:23-25 (NLT), Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and the Master you are serving is Christ. But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites who can get away with evil. Again, God will hold you accountable for your Christian walk and the work you do for Him and others.
Christ has commissioned us to go forth and work diligently. Besides forgiveness of sins, our Christian works also set us apart from the world. 2nd Timothy 2:15 (NLT) Work hard so God can approve you. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.
1 Timothy 4:8-10 (NLT), Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next. This is true, and everyone should accept it. We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and particularly of those who believe.
We must evaluate our current walk with Christ. Are we doing the things, which are pleasing to God?
Ephesians 5:16 (NLT), Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. How true this statement really is.
In 2nd Thessalonians 3:6, Paul actually commands by the authority of Jesus Christ to stay away from any Christian who lives in idleness and doesn't follow the tradition of hard work. Think about that...
Procrastination is a major problem in the church world. We think we have all the time in the world to work, witness, help, learn and grow. We forget people, our loved ones, are dying and going to hell every day. People are starving to death daily all over the world. People are committing suicide and on all forms of drugs because they think there is nothing better out there. Christians are becoming less and less involved daily and we think we have all the time in the world. Shame on us!!
Luke 14:16-24 explains of an important feast where several invitations were given out. Of course those with invitations were too wrapped up in their own lives and materialism to attend the dinner. What happened is others were invited who were actually willing to attend and they were the ones who reaped the benefits. It is a sad thought that Christ is preparing a supper for us in Heaven as we speak and the invitations have been sent to each Christian, some are going to be too busy, too wrapped up in self and miss out the ultimate blessing of the Lord, eternity in Heaven? We really need to get our priorities in order.
We need to identify that there are demonic forces set in place and working constantly to keep us from doing the work of the Lord. The devil is unleashing every stronghold possible in these last days to take our focus off of the work of the Lord. The devil doesn't want any Christian to make a difference to someone in need. He will try to hinder any thing that we may do to lead someone to the Lord. The enemy is attacking our minds and bodies. Until we take notice, stand firm against the tricks of the enemy, renounce and rebuke these evil spirits, we will be held prisoner to the devil and his slick devices. Now is the time to WAKE UP! I hate the devil and every one of the evil forces associated with the devil. I sure don't want to fall in to any trap that he has set before us.
Now more than ever, we need to be aware of the devils devices. We need to recognize what the devil is trying to accomplish. We cannot just sit idly by and allow the devil to rob us of our Christian responsibilities. This usually happens one step at a time so it is not as easy to recognize. First we may not be reading the Bible as much, not praying as much, more tired around church time, soon we are missing service after service. Excuses won't stand forever. When we start slacking in one area, it seems to spread to other areas of our Christian life.
These demonic forces are deceiving many with lies. The devil tries to make us believe that someone else can do this job or that job. We must remember no one can do our jobs like we can. The devil has many blinded to the lie that we are not wise enough, not worthy enough, not spiritual enough, not talented enough to do the work of God. The devil loves to trick people into believing we are nothing, unimportant, or useless. He tells us that we have nothing to give, nothing to offer, that we won't make a difference. ALL of these are BIG, FAT, UGLY LIES.
Satan is the father of all lies. It is what he does best. Don't believe him. There is no truth in him.
We all have something to offer. God gives everyone a talent. He equips each of us with the ability to work for Him and others. John chapter 3:27, reminds us that God in heaven appoints each person's work.
Romans 6:6-8 (NLT), God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out when you have faith that God is speaking through you. If your gift is that of serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, do a good job of teaching. If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to other, do it gladly.
1 Timothy 4:14-15 (NLT), Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecies spoken to you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you. Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.
Lets start with a new attitude. Step out of the old man and in to the new man. Lay down the past and press to the future. We must press in and be dedicated to our responsibilities of the Lord. We must evaluate where we stand with God.
*Ask God to remove any slothful spirit, any laziness, selfishness, or procrastination spirit from your life.
*Ask God to give a renewed strength, revived spirit, and a new zeal to serve God and others.
*Ask God for awareness of any spirit that may be trying to disrupt the work of God or interrupt the flow of the Spirit.
These are the last days. Be about the Father's business!!!
I have been a Christian for 18 years. I am one of the Sunday School teachers at our local church. I enjoy Bible study and growing in the knowledge of God's word. My Christian friends and I enjoy writing Bible studies for one another and I would like to share them with others.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Living the Kingdom Life. Caters for all the aspects of human life: - Spiritual Growth and Development,- Health and Fitness, - Financial Freedom, - Marital Bliss, - Youth Development and Empowerment, - How to Discover And Run Your Personal Ministry as A Christian, - etc.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Leafcutter Ant and Destiny
On the way to work, I found, by chance, an ant. It was not an ordinary ant, it was the kind which manages to load much weight; a leafcutter ant. I passed very quickly by her. I think that the creature did not even realize my glance, since it was walking at quick steps. The insect was loading an enormous leaf when compared to her small size. Great strength was being invested in that leaf, since the leafcutter ant cuts pieces of leaves and loads them to the nests. Those pieces feed the funguses that constitute her exclusive food.
There was only a problem: she was out of the track to the ants' nest. Normally, these ants walk on tracks that drive to their houses, but this one was lost in the middle of the sidewalk. Her destiny was practically drawn. I may have seen and removed my feet, but who guarantees that all the other people will see her and have enough compassion to keep her live?
I got thinking about that ant while continuing my way to the work. In her "head", she was doing the right thing (loading leaves), investing great strength in that (the leaf was bigger than the body of the ant) and looking for her final destiny (the ants' nest). But she was sincerely mistaken.
In spite of all her sincerity, determination and strength, all her investment was predestined to failure because she was out of her original track. Probably, she would never reach the ants' nest. All her pledge and investment would be wasted and death would be her end.
How many times are we like that ant? Aren't we, at this right moment, behaving like her? Aren't we sincerely mistaken, sincerely wrapped with something that is not going get us anywhere because we are out of the originally predicted way?
It is not worth to invest strength and to do the right thing if my final destiny will not be carried out. Any sincere effort will be useless. Where I am going to? In what am I investing my strength?
Although it may seem idiot, I pray so that that small creature in the sidewalk, that has made me wake up to some things, can meet again, finally, her original track, her final destiny. When she finally reaches the bottom of the ants' nest and deposit that piece of leaf in the funguses creation, her mates will hear her report:
"I was almost giving up, dying and abandoning myself to what they call a defeat. But, in some way that I do not understand, I realized that the way where I was following was wrong. It would not take me to my final destiny. At all of a sudden, I understood that I should stop some time at a safe place, far from the hurried feet in the sidewalk, rest a little and look with more perseverance for the original way. I knew that would not be an easy task. Suffering is not pleasant, but it shows itself the best teacher. I felt myself lost. It was at this moment that I realized that the sincerity is not everything. It is necessary to find the final purpose of the things and then to pursue it."
Angelo Faleiro writes for fun. He likes to think about christian life and our day-by-day, so he is always wrinting about matters people like to talk about. He graduatted in Psychology in 2005, is married and father of a boy.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
There was only a problem: she was out of the track to the ants' nest. Normally, these ants walk on tracks that drive to their houses, but this one was lost in the middle of the sidewalk. Her destiny was practically drawn. I may have seen and removed my feet, but who guarantees that all the other people will see her and have enough compassion to keep her live?
I got thinking about that ant while continuing my way to the work. In her "head", she was doing the right thing (loading leaves), investing great strength in that (the leaf was bigger than the body of the ant) and looking for her final destiny (the ants' nest). But she was sincerely mistaken.
In spite of all her sincerity, determination and strength, all her investment was predestined to failure because she was out of her original track. Probably, she would never reach the ants' nest. All her pledge and investment would be wasted and death would be her end.
How many times are we like that ant? Aren't we, at this right moment, behaving like her? Aren't we sincerely mistaken, sincerely wrapped with something that is not going get us anywhere because we are out of the originally predicted way?
It is not worth to invest strength and to do the right thing if my final destiny will not be carried out. Any sincere effort will be useless. Where I am going to? In what am I investing my strength?
Although it may seem idiot, I pray so that that small creature in the sidewalk, that has made me wake up to some things, can meet again, finally, her original track, her final destiny. When she finally reaches the bottom of the ants' nest and deposit that piece of leaf in the funguses creation, her mates will hear her report:
"I was almost giving up, dying and abandoning myself to what they call a defeat. But, in some way that I do not understand, I realized that the way where I was following was wrong. It would not take me to my final destiny. At all of a sudden, I understood that I should stop some time at a safe place, far from the hurried feet in the sidewalk, rest a little and look with more perseverance for the original way. I knew that would not be an easy task. Suffering is not pleasant, but it shows itself the best teacher. I felt myself lost. It was at this moment that I realized that the sincerity is not everything. It is necessary to find the final purpose of the things and then to pursue it."
Angelo Faleiro writes for fun. He likes to think about christian life and our day-by-day, so he is always wrinting about matters people like to talk about. He graduatted in Psychology in 2005, is married and father of a boy.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Stay Focused 5
'THAT SPECIAL GIFT...YOU WERE GIVEN...KEEP THAT DUSTED OFF AND IN USE.' 1TIMOTHY 4:14 TM
Paul told Timothy to focus on his strengths. 'That special gift...you were given...keep that dusted off and in use.'
Focused people don't hide their weaknesses or excuse them; instead they focus on their strengths!
There's a story about a couple who decided to build a farm.
Then they began to argue.
The wife wanted to build the house first.
The husband wanted to build the barn first to house the animals.
They went back and forth until finally the man said, 'Look, we have to build the barn first because the barn will enable us to build the house, the garage, the silo, the kid's swing set, and everything else!'
When you focus on putting first things first, everything else is more likely to fall into place.
Anthony Campolo says, 'What you commit yourself to, will change what you are and make you into a completely different person. The future conditions you, not the past. What you commit yourself to become, determines what you are more than anything that ever happened to you yesterday. Therefore, I ask you, "What are your commitments? Where are you going? What are you going to be? Show me somebody who hasn't decided, and I'll show you somebody who has no identity, no personality, no direction."
Focusing on weaknesses instead of strengths is like having a handful of coins, a few made of gold, the rest of tarnished copper, and setting aside the gold coins to spend your time shining the copper ones in hopes of making them more valuable.
No matter how long you spend, they'll never be worth the gold ones are.
So, stay focused on your God-given strengths!
adapted from The Word for Today
Paul told Timothy to focus on his strengths. 'That special gift...you were given...keep that dusted off and in use.'
Focused people don't hide their weaknesses or excuse them; instead they focus on their strengths!
There's a story about a couple who decided to build a farm.
Then they began to argue.
The wife wanted to build the house first.
The husband wanted to build the barn first to house the animals.
They went back and forth until finally the man said, 'Look, we have to build the barn first because the barn will enable us to build the house, the garage, the silo, the kid's swing set, and everything else!'
When you focus on putting first things first, everything else is more likely to fall into place.
Anthony Campolo says, 'What you commit yourself to, will change what you are and make you into a completely different person. The future conditions you, not the past. What you commit yourself to become, determines what you are more than anything that ever happened to you yesterday. Therefore, I ask you, "What are your commitments? Where are you going? What are you going to be? Show me somebody who hasn't decided, and I'll show you somebody who has no identity, no personality, no direction."
Focusing on weaknesses instead of strengths is like having a handful of coins, a few made of gold, the rest of tarnished copper, and setting aside the gold coins to spend your time shining the copper ones in hopes of making them more valuable.
No matter how long you spend, they'll never be worth the gold ones are.
So, stay focused on your God-given strengths!
adapted from The Word for Today
Stay Focused 4
'FORGETTING THE PAST.' PHILIPPIANS 3:13 NLT
Notice:
(1) Focused people don't live in the past. Too many of us yearn for the past and get stuck in it. Instead we should learn from the past and let go of it. Elbert Hubbard wrote, 'A retentive memory may be a good thing, but the ability to forget is a token of greatness. Successful people forget. They're running a race. They can't afford to look behind. Their eye is on the finish line. They are too big to let little things disturb them. If anyone does them wrong, they consider the source and keep cool. It's only the small people who cherish revenge. Be a good forgetter...success demands it.'
(2) Focused people don't think about the difficulties, but the rewards. If you dwell on the difficulties too long you'll start to develop self-pity instead of self-discipline. As a result you'll accomplish less and less. By focusing on results you'll stay encouraged.
Make Christ your example. 'He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy of the joy he knew would be his afterwards' (Hebrews 12:2 TLB)
(3) Focused people choose their friends carefully.
Here are five types of people you'll encounter:
(a) Refreshers; who strengthen your faith and energize you.
(b) Refiners; who sharpens you and clarify your vision.
(c) Reflectors; who mirror your energy, neither adding to nor subtracting from it.
(d) Reducers; who try to diminish your goals and efforts to their comfort level.
(e) Rejectors; who don't understand you or what God has called you to do.
So, remain focused and you'll stay grounded; the praise of others is less likely to go to your head, and the negative impact of your critics will be minimized.
adapted from The Word for Today.
Notice:
(1) Focused people don't live in the past. Too many of us yearn for the past and get stuck in it. Instead we should learn from the past and let go of it. Elbert Hubbard wrote, 'A retentive memory may be a good thing, but the ability to forget is a token of greatness. Successful people forget. They're running a race. They can't afford to look behind. Their eye is on the finish line. They are too big to let little things disturb them. If anyone does them wrong, they consider the source and keep cool. It's only the small people who cherish revenge. Be a good forgetter...success demands it.'
(2) Focused people don't think about the difficulties, but the rewards. If you dwell on the difficulties too long you'll start to develop self-pity instead of self-discipline. As a result you'll accomplish less and less. By focusing on results you'll stay encouraged.
Make Christ your example. 'He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy of the joy he knew would be his afterwards' (Hebrews 12:2 TLB)
(3) Focused people choose their friends carefully.
Here are five types of people you'll encounter:
(a) Refreshers; who strengthen your faith and energize you.
(b) Refiners; who sharpens you and clarify your vision.
(c) Reflectors; who mirror your energy, neither adding to nor subtracting from it.
(d) Reducers; who try to diminish your goals and efforts to their comfort level.
(e) Rejectors; who don't understand you or what God has called you to do.
So, remain focused and you'll stay grounded; the praise of others is less likely to go to your head, and the negative impact of your critics will be minimized.
adapted from The Word for Today.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Stay Focused 3
'ACKNOWLEDGE HIM, AND HE SHALL DIRECT THY PATHS.' PROVERBS 3:6
When it comes to staying focused, keep in mind:
(1) Focused people always look for a better way. What got you where you are won't necessarily get you where you need to be. A family who moved into a new neighbourhood got a late start oen morning. As a result their six year old missed her school bus. Though it would make him late for work her father agreed to take her to school if she gave him directions. After 20 minutes of going round in circles they finally arrived at the school, which turned out to be only few blocks away from where they lived. Steaming , her dad asked why she drove him all over the place when the school was so close to home. 'We went the the way the school bus does,' she said. 'That's the way I know.'
(2) Focused people concentrate a little harder and a little longer. Hall of Fame baseball player Hank Aaron says, 'What separates a superstar from the average ballplayer is that he concentrates just a little bit longer.' Focused thinking is the ability to remove distractions and mental clutter so that you can concentrate with clarity.
(3) Focused people make commitments, not excuses. A sign on the desk of an officer at the Pentagon read: 'The secrecyn of my job does not permit me to know what I'm doing.' It's a cute joke, but not so cute whne it's true. When you don't know what you're doing, you become frustrated and end up failing. That is why praying and getting direction fro God is critical for your life. 'In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy path.'
When it comes to staying focused, keep in mind:
(1) Focused people always look for a better way. What got you where you are won't necessarily get you where you need to be. A family who moved into a new neighbourhood got a late start oen morning. As a result their six year old missed her school bus. Though it would make him late for work her father agreed to take her to school if she gave him directions. After 20 minutes of going round in circles they finally arrived at the school, which turned out to be only few blocks away from where they lived. Steaming , her dad asked why she drove him all over the place when the school was so close to home. 'We went the the way the school bus does,' she said. 'That's the way I know.'
(2) Focused people concentrate a little harder and a little longer. Hall of Fame baseball player Hank Aaron says, 'What separates a superstar from the average ballplayer is that he concentrates just a little bit longer.' Focused thinking is the ability to remove distractions and mental clutter so that you can concentrate with clarity.
(3) Focused people make commitments, not excuses. A sign on the desk of an officer at the Pentagon read: 'The secrecyn of my job does not permit me to know what I'm doing.' It's a cute joke, but not so cute whne it's true. When you don't know what you're doing, you become frustrated and end up failing. That is why praying and getting direction fro God is critical for your life. 'In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy path.'
Friday, August 15, 2008
Stay Focused 2
'DO NOT SWERVE TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT.' PROVERBS 4:27 NIV
Focus does three things for you:
1) It keeps you on target.
We find ourselves pulled in a dozen different directions, spending much of our time and energy on things we don't really care about. Author Don Marquis put it this way: 'Ours is world where people don't know what they want, and are willing to go through hell to get it.' The Bible says: 'Let your eyes look straight ahead...Do not swerve to the right or the left' (Proverbs 4:25-27 NIV).
2) It increases your energy.
Attempting everything, like attempting nothing, will suck the life out of you. Focus gives you energy. Admiral Richard Byrd, the Polar explorer, said, 'Few men coem anywhere near exhausting the resources dwelling within them. There are deep wells of strength that are never used.' One of the reasons those wells go untapped is lack of focus. The mind doesn't reach toward achievement until it has clear objectives.
3) It lifts you.
It's been said that 'the world stands aside to let anyone pass, who knows where he or she is going.' In a sea of mediocrity, just knowing what you want to do and making an effort to pursue it, distinguishes you from almost everybody else. Henry David Thoreau asked, 'Do you ever hear of a man who had striven all his life faithfully and singly toward an object, and in no measure obtain it? If a man constantly aspires, is he not elevated?' Just by striving to become better than you are, you become elevated even if you don't accomplish what you desire, and even if others don't step aside for you.
By trusting God and aiming higher, you move to a higher level.
adapted from The Word For Today.
Focus does three things for you:
1) It keeps you on target.
We find ourselves pulled in a dozen different directions, spending much of our time and energy on things we don't really care about. Author Don Marquis put it this way: 'Ours is world where people don't know what they want, and are willing to go through hell to get it.' The Bible says: 'Let your eyes look straight ahead...Do not swerve to the right or the left' (Proverbs 4:25-27 NIV).
2) It increases your energy.
Attempting everything, like attempting nothing, will suck the life out of you. Focus gives you energy. Admiral Richard Byrd, the Polar explorer, said, 'Few men coem anywhere near exhausting the resources dwelling within them. There are deep wells of strength that are never used.' One of the reasons those wells go untapped is lack of focus. The mind doesn't reach toward achievement until it has clear objectives.
3) It lifts you.
It's been said that 'the world stands aside to let anyone pass, who knows where he or she is going.' In a sea of mediocrity, just knowing what you want to do and making an effort to pursue it, distinguishes you from almost everybody else. Henry David Thoreau asked, 'Do you ever hear of a man who had striven all his life faithfully and singly toward an object, and in no measure obtain it? If a man constantly aspires, is he not elevated?' Just by striving to become better than you are, you become elevated even if you don't accomplish what you desire, and even if others don't step aside for you.
By trusting God and aiming higher, you move to a higher level.
adapted from The Word For Today.
Stay Focused 1
LET'S KEEP FOCUSED...THOSE OF US WHO WANT EVERYTHING GOD HAS FOR US.' PHILIPPIANS 3:15 TM
You become effective by being selective. It's human nature to get distracted. We're like gyroscopes, spinning around at frantic pace but not getting anywhere. Without a clear purpose you keep changing directions, jobs, relationships, churches, etc., hoping each change will settle the confusion or fill the emptiness in your heart. You think, 'This time it will be different,' but it doesn't solve your real problem; lack of focus.
The power of focusing can be seen in light. With a magnifying glass the rays of the the sun can set paper on fire. But when light is focused even more as a laser beam, it can cut through steel. Nothing is as potent as a focused life. The men and women who make the greatest difference in life are the most focused. For instance, the Apostle Paul said, 'I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing' (Philippians 3:13 TLB). Paul's obsession was to make Christ known.
So if you want your life to have impact, focus it!
Stop dabbling.
Stop trying to do it all.
Do less.
Turn away from even good activities and do only that which matters most. Never confuse activity with productivity.
Poet William Matthews wrote, 'One well-cultivated talent, deepened and enlarged, is worth a hundred shallow faculties. The first law of success in this day when so many things are clamouring for attention is concentration to bend our energies to one point, and to go directly to that point, looking neither to the right nor to the left.'
Does focus come easily or naturally?
No, it's a discipline that must be practiced every day.
adapted from The Word For Today.
You become effective by being selective. It's human nature to get distracted. We're like gyroscopes, spinning around at frantic pace but not getting anywhere. Without a clear purpose you keep changing directions, jobs, relationships, churches, etc., hoping each change will settle the confusion or fill the emptiness in your heart. You think, 'This time it will be different,' but it doesn't solve your real problem; lack of focus.
The power of focusing can be seen in light. With a magnifying glass the rays of the the sun can set paper on fire. But when light is focused even more as a laser beam, it can cut through steel. Nothing is as potent as a focused life. The men and women who make the greatest difference in life are the most focused. For instance, the Apostle Paul said, 'I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing' (Philippians 3:13 TLB). Paul's obsession was to make Christ known.
So if you want your life to have impact, focus it!
Stop dabbling.
Stop trying to do it all.
Do less.
Turn away from even good activities and do only that which matters most. Never confuse activity with productivity.
Poet William Matthews wrote, 'One well-cultivated talent, deepened and enlarged, is worth a hundred shallow faculties. The first law of success in this day when so many things are clamouring for attention is concentration to bend our energies to one point, and to go directly to that point, looking neither to the right nor to the left.'
Does focus come easily or naturally?
No, it's a discipline that must be practiced every day.
adapted from The Word For Today.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Your Spiritual Compass (part 1)
'ABRAHAM SAW THE PLACE AFAR OFF.' Gen. 22:4
Imagine God sending Abraham to a place 'which I will tell thee of' (Gen. 22:2). Women tend to understand this better than men. When I ask my wife what she's shoping for, she'll sometimes say, 'I'm not sure, but I'll know when I see it!'
There are things you know, that you can't explain.
Listen: 'We have an unction [insight] from God and we know things'(1John 2:20 paraphrase). Look what happened: 'On the third day Abraham...saw the place...'(Gen. 22:4). Eureka! There's nothing like the moment you see what you've been looking for, the bell rings, and the spiritual compass within you registers, 'This is it!'
When you're at sea, all waters look alike. That's when you need a compass. Either you have one or you don't. When you see somebody who gets excited about things that aren't there, watch them!
Either they didn't take their medication that morning, or they see what you don't!
Because they get excited about the invisible, these people usually end up doing the impossible.
Why?
Because they've learned to follow their spiritual compass!
David defeated Goliath because he was the only man who had the faith to do it.
He knew this was a life-changing moment. If he missed it, he'd go abck to tending sheep!
When your moment comes, rise up and say, 'This giant is mine,' no matter how many others are running away from him.
God has given you a spiritual compass - learn to use it!
(adapted from THE WORD FOR TODAY)
Imagine God sending Abraham to a place 'which I will tell thee of' (Gen. 22:2). Women tend to understand this better than men. When I ask my wife what she's shoping for, she'll sometimes say, 'I'm not sure, but I'll know when I see it!'
There are things you know, that you can't explain.
Listen: 'We have an unction [insight] from God and we know things'(1John 2:20 paraphrase). Look what happened: 'On the third day Abraham...saw the place...'(Gen. 22:4). Eureka! There's nothing like the moment you see what you've been looking for, the bell rings, and the spiritual compass within you registers, 'This is it!'
When you're at sea, all waters look alike. That's when you need a compass. Either you have one or you don't. When you see somebody who gets excited about things that aren't there, watch them!
Either they didn't take their medication that morning, or they see what you don't!
Because they get excited about the invisible, these people usually end up doing the impossible.
Why?
Because they've learned to follow their spiritual compass!
David defeated Goliath because he was the only man who had the faith to do it.
He knew this was a life-changing moment. If he missed it, he'd go abck to tending sheep!
When your moment comes, rise up and say, 'This giant is mine,' no matter how many others are running away from him.
God has given you a spiritual compass - learn to use it!
(adapted from THE WORD FOR TODAY)
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Prevailing Prayer
It was September 1957, four young men began to pray regularly in a little school near Kells, Ireland. They persevered and prevailed in prayer, so someone was converted in January the next year. Following that, there was about one conversion every week. Twelve months later they had a weekly gathering of around fifty people at their meeting, and around a hundred other small prayer groups had sprung up in the area!
They held a service the next year, which attracted a huge crowd, so they poured out onto the street. People were convicted by the Holy Spirit, so much that some of them could not stand. Revival broke out, and every night there were gatherings. They prayed, praised, read the bible, and encouraged each other. They held meetings in everyday situations: kitchens, little barns, schools, fields, and even on sidewalks. They would pray and weep all night, and neglected their farm work so they could work for souls. How did it all start? God used four young Irish lads who prevailed in prayer.
"The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16
To promote a revival, we can use two things. One moves people, we can use the other to move God. We use truth to move men, and prayer to move God.
We obviously can't tell God to do something, but we are changed in prayer, so God can move in us. It's a lot like how God always wants to forgive a sinner, but He can't forgive until the sinner's heart meets God's conditions. So when we pray, the change in us allows for God to answer.
This is why we can't have a revival without prayer. The most exciting messages and truths alone will do nothing. Remember, words will never have any effect without the Holy Spirit. We must spend time in prayer, asking for Him to speak through the words and work in people's hearts. Without it, hearts harden, because they have "heard it all before."
Prevail means to triumph, win through, succeed or overcome. So prevailing prayer is prayer that persists and wins! This is one of the most important keys to a revival. We can't have a revival without prevailing prayer. Prevailing prayer isn't just a desire for something. It's prayer that gets what is seeks, it moves God and has impact.
Looking at the story above is just a glimpse of the impact that prevailing prayer has. Whether we are commuting, working, or at home relaxing, we all have opportunities to pray. This is one of the best ways to use your life for God's glory: asking Him to move. Will you commit to learning to prevail in prayer?
David Cooper writes about being a missionary in your day-to-day life, no matter what your situation is. You can read more about lifestyle evangelism, prayer, and Christian ministry at http://www.EverydayChaplain.com.
They held a service the next year, which attracted a huge crowd, so they poured out onto the street. People were convicted by the Holy Spirit, so much that some of them could not stand. Revival broke out, and every night there were gatherings. They prayed, praised, read the bible, and encouraged each other. They held meetings in everyday situations: kitchens, little barns, schools, fields, and even on sidewalks. They would pray and weep all night, and neglected their farm work so they could work for souls. How did it all start? God used four young Irish lads who prevailed in prayer.
"The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16
To promote a revival, we can use two things. One moves people, we can use the other to move God. We use truth to move men, and prayer to move God.
We obviously can't tell God to do something, but we are changed in prayer, so God can move in us. It's a lot like how God always wants to forgive a sinner, but He can't forgive until the sinner's heart meets God's conditions. So when we pray, the change in us allows for God to answer.
This is why we can't have a revival without prayer. The most exciting messages and truths alone will do nothing. Remember, words will never have any effect without the Holy Spirit. We must spend time in prayer, asking for Him to speak through the words and work in people's hearts. Without it, hearts harden, because they have "heard it all before."
Prevail means to triumph, win through, succeed or overcome. So prevailing prayer is prayer that persists and wins! This is one of the most important keys to a revival. We can't have a revival without prevailing prayer. Prevailing prayer isn't just a desire for something. It's prayer that gets what is seeks, it moves God and has impact.
Looking at the story above is just a glimpse of the impact that prevailing prayer has. Whether we are commuting, working, or at home relaxing, we all have opportunities to pray. This is one of the best ways to use your life for God's glory: asking Him to move. Will you commit to learning to prevail in prayer?
David Cooper writes about being a missionary in your day-to-day life, no matter what your situation is. You can read more about lifestyle evangelism, prayer, and Christian ministry at http://www.EverydayChaplain.com.
Monday, May 5, 2008
How to stay healthy over 40
At 46, it is very hard to have the same muscular body as those 20 year olds we see in the gym. After all, we have a family, a wife that's a good cook and most importantly no time.
So, how do we stay healthy at the age of 40? Let me tell you, browsing every night looking for the answer does not help. I have done it, every night trying to figure out if there is some magic book, potion, even some magic pills that will help me stay healthy at the age of 40.
Until one of the products I tried worked. It is all about going back to the basics. What do we have to eat, what should we not eat, how much exercise do we need to stay healthy at our age. No more secrets, no potions, pills, fancy training machines, just basic stuff that your doctor would most probably tell you too.
Christian Finn basically helped me drop 25 pounds by applying a few simple methods, such as working out at the right time, the right amount, in order to lose weight even when I sleep. I even ended up going to the gym less, having more time with my family and feeling healthier.
I recommend anyone who wants to stay healthy over 40 to apply these simple techniques and see for themselves. There's no need to buy expensive products, buy special pills or follow specific fitness programs at your local gym. You can learn more here : http://bonyayad1.cfinn.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=HEALTH2
So, how do we stay healthy at the age of 40? Let me tell you, browsing every night looking for the answer does not help. I have done it, every night trying to figure out if there is some magic book, potion, even some magic pills that will help me stay healthy at the age of 40.
Until one of the products I tried worked. It is all about going back to the basics. What do we have to eat, what should we not eat, how much exercise do we need to stay healthy at our age. No more secrets, no potions, pills, fancy training machines, just basic stuff that your doctor would most probably tell you too.
Christian Finn basically helped me drop 25 pounds by applying a few simple methods, such as working out at the right time, the right amount, in order to lose weight even when I sleep. I even ended up going to the gym less, having more time with my family and feeling healthier.
I recommend anyone who wants to stay healthy over 40 to apply these simple techniques and see for themselves. There's no need to buy expensive products, buy special pills or follow specific fitness programs at your local gym. You can learn more here : http://bonyayad1.cfinn.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=HEALTH2
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