Daily Thoughts: Finding Me

Showing posts with label Finding Me. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Finding Me - Day 21

October 7, 2014

Well, another year has come and gone. Each one is filled with ups and downs, good and bad, and blessings that abound. As I take a moment to reflect on my last year upon this earth I can truly say that the Lord has provided and shown favor upon me. Sure there were hard times, things I said which I wish I could take back and days that didn’t go the way I wanted. But, putting all of those aside and moving forward, I think about the great things that have happened and about the possibilities that lie ahead.

We have a tendency to get wrapped up in the negatives of life. It’s human nature to dwell on the “could haves” and “should haves” rather than wonderful blessings that come our way. Each day we gather at the dinner table as a family and thank the Lord for the wonderful events of the day. We circle the table and point out the “highs” for the day (the best parts) and the “lows” for the day (areas that need prayer or help). Each person must have more highs than lows, which forces our reflection on the goodness that each day brings. It’s a little thing, but it truly helps us realize just how blessed we are each day.

Day 21: I Am Blessed
“Praise the Lord! How blessed is the man who fears the Lord, Who greatly delights in His commandments.” – Psalm 112:1

God intends for His children to prosper and be blessed. He is the provider of all that we have and in Him we must be thankful. For by His hand we are given eternal life and there is no greater blessing in all of life. By His hand we are given love to share with others, we are given peace each day to find rest in His presence. Find the way each day to reflect on all the goodness in your life, and do not dwell on the negative, for there is no value in that.

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
For additional Daily Thoughts, follow Rich’s blog at: http://sondove.blogspot.com
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Monday, October 6, 2014

Finding Me - Day 20

October 6, 2014

What is the most important thing in the world to you? If you had to choose one thing, therefore not a group of people, or all-encompassing object (water, air, world peace or happiness). What would you say? What do you think most people on the streets of America would say? Setting priorities in life is difficult. There are so many things we value and lift up in this world; including our family, friends, material objects and positions of status. I think we would all be surprised if we asked this question to the masses, that most of them would indicate some person of importance in their life (parent, spouse, child). Still others might indicate the most important thing to them is money or time. But, how many would say that the most important thing is Jesus Christ and their eternal salvation?

I would like to believe that is how I would answer that question. My wife knows I love her dearly, and would do anything in the world for her; so do my children, Grand-children and family. My friends know how much I care for them as well do the people at my work. But, they all know that Jesus Christ is the most important thing in my world. I often find myself guilty of elevating ‘things’ above Him and must remind myself that it is all His, and I am nothing but a steward.

Day 20: Prioritizing Life
“He who comes from above is above all, he who is of the earth is from the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.” – John 3:31

How could there be something more important in life, more valuable, more treasured than the love and acceptance of the Creator Himself? Tell me, who has done more for you than He? Who has given up more for you than He? Who else can give you eternal life, but He? For without God’s grace and promise for eternal life we have nothing to look forward to, we have no hope for a future, no reason for life. Take a moment today and carefully think through those things which stand between you and your relationship with God. Yes, it will include people, material things and desires or dreams. Now ask yourself one question; “Are you willing to walk away from all of those things to love and serve God?” Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, and the others did. When Jesus said “Follow Me” they left everything and followed him.

Prayer:
Father,
You alone are above all things. You are seated upon the throne and we all bow before Your glory. We are but servants to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Let us serve You unashamedly, without abandon and fear of rejection. Let us be stewards of all that You have given us, and use it for Your Kingdom. My hope is in You and Your promises for eternal life, which helps me overcome all fear from mankind. Strengthen me with courage to stand for what is right and pure in Your eyes. – Amen

Friday, October 3, 2014

Finding Me – Day 19

October 3, 2014

What if it’s all gone?
What are you going to do if it’s all taken away today? You’re life is a compilation of people, events, actions, words and things. If you step out your front door today and that all changes, what will you do? I often find myself a steward of this world and the “things” I have, rather than a steward of the One who gave them to me. I sit in my comfortable leather chair, head phones on, listening to Kari Jobe singing “Overcome” as I type this, and I try to take in all that He has given me. I’m amazed at every little thing as I look around; the piano, the guitars, the dining room set, the appliances, the TVs, the furniture, the computers, cell phones and tablets. The amazing thing is I act as if I am the provider, as if I am the reason we are blessed to have these things. What is it that I have done to deserve such things.

A new friend opened my eyes this week to the possession syndrome we have in America. We are driven by our accomplishments, our possessions and our pride in being able to accumulate success. It has made me ask this one question, “If it’s all gone, who am I, then?” I found myself realizing that I am driven, I am dependent upon and I am addicted to the things and people around me. I cannot imagine if today I lost my home, my family, my job, my vehicles and possessions. I cannot fathom what this life would be like if it were all gone and I stood alone with absolutely nothing to my name, and that scares me.

It scares me because it makes me realize that I am bound by worldly things and less by heavenly things. Do I truly believe that God is all I need?

Day 19: I Am Bound
“Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshiped. He said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”” – Job 1:20-21

God is our provider and has given you and I the blessings we have around us. Everything you have is because He has given you the capability, the talent, the wisdom to achieve in life. Satan has made us arrogant, prideful and possessive. He uses our pride and our success to drive us to be satisfied and dependent on worldly possessions. We must all realize that we are only here as servants of the most High God Almighty. Being in His presence, enveloped in His Holy Spirit is sufficient and satisfying. Take it all away, and discover who and/or what you are addicted to. Will you fall to your knees and praise the Lord for all He is, despite all He has given you?

Evaluate where you are with the Lord. Right now, stop and lift your voice to God in thanksgiving for providing all that you have. He alone is your provider, your supplier, your source and strength. Do not take for granted all that He has given you including your very salvation.

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Finding Me – Day 17

October 1, 2014

I have never been a patient man. By my very nature I have a hard time watching as things develop, I would much rather jump to the end and skip the difficulty and pain along the way. Yes, I realize it is in these experiences and in these times that I am learning, growing and becoming stronger; but I really can’t stand to wait.

It’s like an Easy Bake Oven. You’re all excited for the fun to begin. You make the batter, plug the oven in (and of course the light bulb has burned out and needs to be replaced), you pour the batter into the little pan and slide it in. 10 minutes go by, you push it out the other end. Nope, not done yet – so back in it goes. 5 minutes go by, repeat the process – still not ready, back in it goes. 5 more minutes – repeat with the same result. By that time I have completely lost my patience and I’m ready to throw that little plastic oven out the window, and put the cake batter into a real oven. As I’m losing my temper, I see the joy, laughter and happiness in my 6 year olds eyes and realize she will wait all day long for her little oven to do it’s job, because she realizes that she’s going to put frosting and sprinkles on that cake. As the chef, she is capable of seeing the end result and realizing that it will be worth the wait. I’m still frustrated, but it helps me get through the process.

Day 17: In His Time
“Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” – 1 Timothy 1:16

It’s hard to view life in God’s perspective. We are here for 90, maybe 100 years, which is nothing but a small blip when compared to eternity with Him. I look at my life and struggle with waiting minutes, hours or in some cases days or weeks for something to come to fruition, when in the big scheme of time it is like seconds to God. This world has created us to want things now, instantaneous availability of information and products have reduced our ability to patiently wait for things. Yesterday, I learned that we all need to slow down and appreciate what we have, and what we are going through. Yes, we want to pass by the hardship, the heartache and the pain on life’s journey, but in doing so we will miss the opportunity to demonstrate, to others, the strength and courage of God Almighty to see us through it. Realize that it all belongs to Him, and that you are nothing but a vessel for His purpose. He doesn’t wear a watch and just like that little cake in the Easy Bake Oven, you might have to take another lap through the heat before God looks down and says, ‘Now, you are ready for the frosting and sprinkles.’

Prayer:
Father,
Give me patience to endure Lord. Help me to see life through Your eyes, through Your purpose and realize that You are in control. Your ways and Your timing are perfect for what I need to learn, help me to dwell within Your grace and wisdom to see it. Strengthen me for the trials ahead and give me courage to withstand the pressures I will face in this life. I trust in You and release my burdens to You, knowing that You are the source of all that I do. – Amen

Monday, September 29, 2014

Finding Me - Day 16

September 29, 2014

It used to be how much can you lift, what is your bench press or dead lift. Let me see your bicep and we’ll know how strong you are. It can be defined as the amount of physical strength one might possess. But I pose a different definition: the amount of courage one has to get back up when this life knocks you down. The ability to stand up when things are tough, when bills can’t be paid, when you lose your loved one, when your children tell you they hate you or when it seems that you just can’t go on. Something inside rises up, and it has nothing at all to do with your muscular structure.

There have been times in my life when every fiber of my being felt weak and collapsed, when I couldn’t bare to take another breath and my heart was filled with bitterness, loss and despair. It was at these moments when I found it hardest to take another step, but it was also at these moments when I have felt closest to God Almighty. My desperation, my lack of confidence, my utter weakness brought me to the realization that I am incapable of pressing on. It was at these times in my life when I have fallen before the Lord, humble and reverent to His authority and His sovereignty, reaching for His help, His guidance and His strength.

Day 16: I Am Weak
“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6

The realization that He carries His children through the good and the bad has become a pillar in my life. I need His strength and courage each and every day to press on, to stand strong in the face of adversity. This world is full of evil, anger, hatred, self-righteousness, pain, pride and suffering. Where can we turn in this world to find peace, courage, compassion for others, purpose and reason for the fire that rages against His truth? He alone is the source of our abilities and willingness to defy the ways of this world and forge the paths of righteousness and purpose. When this life kicks you down and presses down upon you, reach deep into your heart, realize He alone is in control and will lift you back up.

Friday, September 26, 2014

Finding Me - Day 15

September 26, 2014

When the sun sets it creates an amazing portrait across the horizon. Delicate pinks and purples mesh with the blue, black, white and grey of the encroaching evening star filled sky. There is something about the beauty that is presented at sunset each day that has always been a big part of my persona. For some reason I am drawn to breathe in the collapse and disappearance of the largest star in the solar system each day. I look upon the symbolism with an understanding that God has created all of this for our enjoyment. The light, the gases that reflect the light, the clouds that absorb and create shadows against the reflecting light, the blend between light and darkness, where one begins and the other ends.

I find myself recognizing His presence in the beauty and colors. I often times find myself pulling over or just finding a place to sit and watch it as it descends and sinks beyond the horizon, and slowly watch as the colors begin to darken and fade. It happens in a matter of minutes and if you’re not purposefully looking for it, it can be missed. It happens every single day as a reminder to each of us that He is with us, and watching over us through our struggles, through our pain and suffering and through our joy.

Day 15: In His Glory
“Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?” – Psalm 139:7

God is omnipresent and with you everywhere you go. There is no separation that we can find for He is in you and around you. Do you not see this my friend? Do you not realize that where you walk, He walks with you; where you choose to socialize and spend your time, your Heavenly Father is right by your side. David recognized this in his life, and realized that God above knew all things about him, his thoughts and actions were not in secret but in the full visibility of the Almighty. Recognizing this, we ought to be more cautious of where we allow our feet to walk, and where we allow our mind to wander.

Prayer:
Father,
You alone are righteous and holy. All glory is given to You for the goodness in our lives. Press down upon us with Your grace, forgiveness and mercy. See through my eyes those who are hurting, those who are in need and use me to bring peace and comfort to them as You desire. I am in constant awe and wonder of Your amazing world, created for my comfort and enjoyment. Thank You Lord for all of the beauty You have given us. – Amen

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Finding Me - Day 14

September 25, 2014

What makes the mind see things that have yet to happen? Where does the imagery come from, the colors, the details, the words and actions are so vivid that it as if it is a re-run of the event. You’ve all been there. Some call it Deja-vu, others call it a premonition; either way it is beyond the explanation of the ordinary thought process. I’ve been told that it is nothing more than your mind being slightly behind your ability to process the visible and audible signals that enter into your everyday experience. It’s like your eyes see something, process it but the recognition is lagging by microseconds, thereby making it appear as if you are seeing it a second time. However logical one tries to make it, it is nothing short of a representation of how unbelievably complex the human brain is.

There are millions and millions of nerve endings in the human body, some even say billions. There are upwards of 75 organs in the human body that all interact with each other to provide healthy living. Arteries and veins carry blood throughout your entire body without an instruction manual, without you giving any direction or thought. As my fingers move over this keyboard and press down upon the keys, I am not consciously telling my right index finger to press down on the ‘n’ key, it just happens in milliseconds. The human body is amazing and incredibly complex, which makes me ask the question: “How can anyone believe that it simply evolved from a muddy slime, from a simple bolt of lightning?” Seriously, is it not so far from ones imagination to even try to comprehend the complexity and miraculous formation of this body, flesh, muscles and bones, to realize that it must have been created uniquely and divinely?

Day 14: Miraculously Made
“For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” – Psalm 139:13-14

God is the Creator of heaven and earth and all things present there in. in the depth of your mother’s womb, He alone formed you through the replication of cells and the development of your arterial system, pulmonary system, cardiovascular system, digestive system, reproductive system, nervous system, muscular and skeletal structure and so much more. You are a work of art created by a Master who knows you intimately from the day of your conception. There is nothing He doesn’t know about you, and nothing you can do that He is not aware of. Accept that you are miracle from God Almighty and then choose to live with the confidence instilled by His finger on your life.

Sondove Enterprises ©, 2014
For additional Daily Thoughts, follow Rich’s blog at: http://sondove.blogspot.com
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Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Finding Me – Day 12

September 23, 2014

They look upon the man walking past and think he is self-centered, disinterested and conceited. As he focuses on doing his job they whisper about the callousness and abruptness in his communication. The walls close in as the day draws on and the lights dim at night. The pile of actions are overwhelming, the bills won’t stop and the emails continue to deliver the news of his failures and shortcomings. If they knew what was on his mind, if they knew the amount of worry, fear and concern for them he carried with him through-out the day, would they think the same things?

Windows to the heart and soul would be such an incredible revelation to those he passes by each day. His general nature is to serve others, to help them, to make their life easier and to lift them up. His thoughts bounce from person to person, from topic to topic as he grapples with prioritizing the demands throughout the day. His introvert personality prevents his comfort from approaching others easily, but his spirit longs to share the good news, to help others come to know the Jesus that he knows.

I’ve stood in front of audiences of thousands at one time and presented with deep confidence and understanding. I’ve had the opportunity to travel the globe and meet with people of diverse ethnic background and cultures, and share the good news. I’ve recorded video and audio of seminars on loving God, on Grace, and on Finding Peace. But I can’t walk up to my next door neighbor and talk about my faith. People look at me as if I’m conceited, stuck up or self-centered; when in all honesty I’m an incredibly shy, introverted, Christ following man seeking opportunities to share the love that is inside amidst the unbelievably fast paced world in which I live.

Day 12: Let them See Me
“The good man brings out of his good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of his evil treasure what is evil” - Matthew 12:35

God has placed within each of us the words, the wisdom and the passion to do His bidding. We have to choose to share it with the rest of the world. Only you can make the choice to overcome your fears, your reservations and reach out to others. As an extreme introvert, if I am able to reach others, you can too. Choose to do something this day that may be outside of your comfort zone. Simply ask your neighbor what they think when they hear the word Jesus Christ. Let this lead you into a conversation of your faith and testimony. Seek the strength of the Holy Spirit to guide your words.

Prayer:
Father,
You have given me a spirit of strength and courage, not one of timidity. I am a servant of the Most High God, and I believe there is nothing in this world that can harm me or prevent me from bringing You glory. You alone are worthy of our praise, our love and our worship. Let Your love shine through me and be upon my lips today, so that others might come to know You with a deeper understanding. – Amen

Monday, September 22, 2014

Finding Me – Day 11

September 22, 2014

What a blessing it is to be a father. There is nothing that can come close to the joy of seeing your children grow, mature and experience life to it’s fullest. When they are born, you realize just how little you know about being a Dad. The fears, the commitment and the protector in you is developed quickly. It’s amazing how much you realize the selfishness that is within as you begin to whittle away at your own desires and begin to take on theirs. The life mission of a parent shifts from dreams of personal gain and success, to supporting and fulfilling the dreams and desires of others.

Small things in their life began to take on huge meaning. With each passing moment, they become more distant and self-sufficient. Within a very short time, you realize they do not need you as much as you need them. They try your patience as they make mistakes, but they love you more than you deserve or could ever imagine. As a parent you also will make mistakes in life, and the ones most impacted will be the ones you are trying the most to protect. But, this is also the same group that will be the most forgiving and accepting of your faults and failures.

Day 11: Learning from the Best
“But Jesus called for them, saying, “Permit the children to come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” – Luke 18:16-17

Realize you are their role model, you alone will determine who they become in life and what they will aspire too. Jesus came to the earth as our role model. He lived a life perfect from sin, loving others and speaking the truth and righteousness of the Father. His war was with Satan, not mankind. He brought a message to the masses that we are to love one another, and forgive one another. He is our guide, our safe place and our example to live by, so that our children might one day claim Him as their own.

Friday, September 19, 2014

Finding Me - Day 10

September 19, 2014

I must learn to love others. When I watch the news or open up Explorer or Chrome and the news comes up, it’s always the ugliness of the world. So and so killed family and then themselves, beheadings, baby mutilation, people beating innocent people because of skin color, politicians demeaning and demoralizing our value system. I am saddened that this has become the norm in the world and almost to the point of being expected. How do I love these people? How do I find from deep within my soul the ability to love those that hurt, those that hate and those that choose to destroy that which I believe?

It’s easy to say the words: Love God and Love others; now try to live it. Too many times I allow my self interest and emotion to get in the way and I think too much about the circumstance. The depth of love I should have for others is above the circumstance that is evidenced before me. Love should be for the person not their action, and their equality in the eyes of the Lord. For each of us are born with the same equal opportunity to achieve righteousness and experience the eternal presence of the Lord. Loving others is beyond the emotional feelings I have for another, but rather it’s about the state of their eternal soul and sharing in the Lord’s desire that not one shall perish, but all might enter into His Kingdom on that day of judgment. (2 Peter 3:9) So therefore, I call upon the Lord to work in me and through me to love them in a manner that their soul might also come to know Him.

Day 10: Learning to Love
Jesus answered, “The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” – Mark 12:29-31

We have all heard John 3:16 and can likely quote it right now in our mind. “….that whosoever believe in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” How did God love others? He gave them a way to receive eternal peace, joy and happiness rather than the pit of Hell; and He did it by providing a sacrificial lamb, His only Son. You and I will never experience the pain and the anguish of giving the life of our child so that billions of others might be saved. When God calls us to love our neighbor as yourself, this means put their needs above yours, focus on their salvation and help them find His eternal peace. Forgetting about your own desires and needs, but lift them up. For this is what He did by giving His Son for our salvation.

Prayer:
Father,
There is violence, anger, debauchery and unrighteousness rampant throughout the earth. You see this and are not surprised, for in Your word you right of the last days. Help me Lord to see through the pain, the anger and violence to see the person You have created and to love them the way You do, with an eternal perspective. Guide my tongue to say the right things to help restore them to Your flock, and Your ways of righteousness. Let me love them in the manner You wish them to be loved. In Your name I pray. – Amen

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Finding Me - Day 9

September 18, 2014

The heart is a small organ actually. It has such an immense purpose though. Pumping blood through the veins and arteries of one’s body, without being told to do so. You and I are not consciously telling our heart to expand or contract or to open blood vessels and close them. Likewise, we inhale, we exhale without an intellectual choice, but rather because it is the necessity for our life to exist. Inherent function of the human body continues with or without the mental capacity to execute. It just is, for if it does not than the body begins to shut down.

I have a purpose. I was conceived, created, formed in my mother’s womb and birthed into this world for a God given purpose in His body. I wasn’t an accident that just happened. I was designed with a specific God given talent, a gift that was provided to lift up His Kingdom. Like you though, we all must choose to use our gifts for Him or for ourselves. It is no more complicated than that, unless we choose to complicate with the world’s influence.

Inherent in my DNA is a uniqueness, a fingerprint of who I am, and who I shall be during this life. My mind often times attempts to convince my soul to be this or to be that, but by design I am to be a child of God. It’s when I try to control the circumstances and the outcomes of my own knowledge that things go awry. When I go to the Lord and choose to let Him lead, to listen and to follow that things work in my life.

Day 9: Living the Purpose
“Therefore, my brethren, you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, so that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.” - Romans 7:4

God is sovereign. This means He alone is the supreme authority over all things. He created the universe, the stars, the earth, the moon and the sun. He tells the ocean where to stop, so land may be formed for the existence of His creation – mankind. He put in each of us the knowledge and wisdom to do amazing things. He gave each of us free will to choose the direction of our life. In doing so, He also gave us the free will to choose to follow Him, or deny Him. In His supreme position of authority, He will not force mankind to love Him. This day, you will be faced with heartache, fear, pain and struggles. You can choose to go it alone or you can choose to reach out to the One who oversees all things and ask for help. Choose wisely.

Prayer:
Father,
You alone are worthy. You alone are in control. I come before Your throne, broken, desperate and longing for Your love. I lay down my burdens and I embrace Your love, Your strength and Your word. I trust in Your promise that You will set me free from the bondage of this world and set my feet on the path of righteousness. I have faith that You will provide for all of my needs and fill my heart and soul with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to see You when I fall, so that I may rise again to walk in Your light. In Your name I pray – Amen

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Finding Me - Day 8

September 17, 2014

There is a battle in every soul, one that will overtake the emotional balance of one’s life if and when you allow it to. Thoughts and memories flood from the farthest regions of the mind. Elevating the original feelings and capturing the newness of wisdom and knowledge gained in life, to relive, albeit` only in the sense of imagination, but oh so powerful. Hollowing the perspective of reality that we live in to become encompassed by the life we have put behind us. Scars are etched once again upon the heart and the pain becomes oh so real again. Where, oh where is our mind taking us, and why will this journey not succumb to the joy and happiness that life has laid out before us?

This morning, my mind is filled with the pains of the past. Not by choice. No, for who would want to relive the hurt and suffering. This is the result of a refusal to forgive. The tears are no less real today than they were then, and despite the realization that it is long past and dealt with, there is a strong sense of guilt, shame and desperation. Pressing down upon my feelings once again though I rise and wipe my tears, stiffen my lip and draw upon the strength that has endured. This will not defeat me, for I am a child of God, born to praise Him, born to serve Him and to rest in His love and peace.

My mind will not control my destiny and direction, for that belongs to the Creator and the One who has provided the ultimate sacrifice. He who has forgiven me requires nothing more from me than the love He so richly deserves. The pains and the struggles I face are nothing more than the futile attempts of the evil in this world to dissuade me from following the One True God, by convincing me that I am not worthy of His love. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Day 8: Overcoming the Pain
“No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you.” – Joshua 1:5

God loves me right where I am. God has forgiven all of my sins. I walk upright and am filled with conviction and purpose because He has restored my soul. I will find rest in His redemption and grace, for this world will not control me.

Prayer:
Father,
Your word tells us that You will not leave nor forsake us. You are there at all times to guide our footsteps and fill us with Your love. Thank You for Your grace, Your peace and Your forgiveness. Bring comfort to those who are weary Lord, bring strength to those who struggle with demons and fear. Let Your love reign down upon us Lord that we might be renewed in Your spirit to take on the challenges of the day. – Amen

Friday, September 12, 2014

Finding Me - Day 5

September 12, 2014

Every single one of us will leave a legacy. You are influencing people each and every moment in either a constructive manner or in a destructive manner. Those around you are watching and learning from your actions, your words and your mannerisms, and long after you have passed away they will be carrying on what they have learned. This I’ve learned over time as I watch my children, my grandchildren and my friends and see small characteristics show up in their lives that remind me very much of myself.

I’ve come to face it there are truly only two major decisions in life: “Will I follow Christ?” and “Will I live for His purpose or mine?” The decision on marriage is a really close third, but falls short of deciding your eternal fate and serving the Lord. As I near another pinnacle in my life I ask myself, have I truly lived for God or has my life been focused on obtaining my goals, my dreams and my comfort. I look at those around me and ask if I have had an influence on them and helping them draw closer to God. For you see, when it all comes down to it, I don’t want my children to be like me; I want them to be like Jesus. If indeed it is my desire that they grow up and serve Him in a manner that He deserves, then I ought to demonstrate that for them.

Day 5: Choose to Serve
“Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:14-15

God has placed within each of us a purpose on this earth that can only be fulfilled by exercising the gifts and talents He alone has placed within us. We must choose to be faithful and serve Him by using these gifts for His purpose. In doing so, He will take the little bit we bring to the table and use it in mighty ways to influence those around us to do even greater things long after we’re gone. To our children’s children and their children the influences of our life will have lasting effects. Leave them something worth holding onto.

Prayer:
Father,
You have given me grace and mercy, that I may one day be with You in heaven. I pray today that Your words are upon my lips and that my actions represent Your love for mankind. Help me to overcome the selfishness, conceit and ego that stand between me and the purpose You have called me into. I want serve You and bring You glory through my actions. – Amen

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Finding Me - Day 4

September 11, 2014

Worshiping God brings me joy. I realize that it’s not “cool” to like Christian music, but I always have. From the days of my youth I’ve always been drawn to the art of singing out praises to Jesus Christ and my Father in Heaven. I was 16 years old and listening to David Meece, Glad, Michael W. Smith and Sandi Patty when most of my friends were into Metallica, 38 Special, Van Halen and AC/DC. Over the years, my taste in music has expanded, but I’m still drawn to the Christian Music artists of today’s generation including – Casting Crowns, David Crowder, Matthew West and Chris Tomlin (just to name a few).

What is it though that draws me to enjoy praise and worship? Emotions, I suppose. The words feel like a prayer when lifted up and as I reflect on their meaning in my life, I often find myself connecting with God on a more intimate level. For the brief moment of lifting my worship to my King, I escape from the problems and struggles of the day and focus on how much He loves me. In a simple manner I am trying to express to the Lord my absolute love for Him through the words that come from heart to a melody that bring Him joy. So when you see me lifting my hands in church, or singing in my truck on the way to work, just realize it is my love for the Lord that moves me in such ways.

Day 4: I will Praise Him
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father” – Ephesians 5:18-20

Throughout his life David found joy, pleasure and strength in singing praises to the Lord. Praises of thanksgiving, praises of triumph, praises of sorrow, praises of forgiveness and praises of celebration. Though he often times failed to live up to the expectations of a “Man of God” he never lost the direction of his purpose, and drew upon the grace, mercy and love of God the Father through his worship. Psalms is filled with examples of David’s pleading heart in worship and praise to the Father for peace, purpose and passion to lead the children of Israel. He knew exactly where his strength came from and Who was in control of his life from the moment He stood before the giant to the moment He passed away, David looked to God and God alone for acceptance. We should all take note that we are only here to serve God, and in doing so love those around us. As such, we ought to spend a little more time praising Him for His goodness and sovereignty.

Prayer:
Jehovah,
My God – you alone are worthy of my praise. I fall down before You and lift my words to Your ears, that they might bring You joy and pleasure. You are my King, I live to serve You and fulfill Your purpose in my life. Center my heart, my mind and my actions toward You calling and let my feet fall upon Your path. Bless me oh Lord that I my bring You glory through my actions and my life. – Amen

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Finding Me - Day 3

September 10, 2014

I am a work in progress. The simple truth of the matter is that I have many weaknesses that overwhelm me at times. Through the day small things pile up and are stored in a virtual to-do list. I have an extremely hard time accepting when things aren’t completed by the end of any given day. The list will continue to get longer the next day and within a very short time I am feeling behind on everything I try to accomplish. This leads to the fear of failure, and a shortened temper when someone asks for help, regardless of how simple the task may be.

I’m not seeking perfection, I’m simply seeking completion. It provides a sense of accomplishment, small wins in life. The problem is that as the list, in my mind, of unaccomplished tasks grows longer, many things become overlooked or forgotten. Now comes the guilt, the disappointment and wallowing in the reality of failure. Often times others are impacted, thereby increasing, even more so, the feelings of inadequacy and failure. This is a highly destructive cycle, that destroys a man’s confidence and self image over time.

Day 3: Trust In Him
“And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life’s span? If then you cannot do even a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters?” – Luke 12:25-26

The reality that I must remind myself of every single day is that I am God’s child, made in His image and formed by His perfect hands. My life is not purposed to please others, but to please the Creator alone. He calls us to rest on His promise that He is Sovereign and will provide for all that we need each day. It’s when I take my list of problems to the Lord that I find peace, direction and clarity on how to focus. I know it seems like a simple answer, because it is. He has a deep desire to help you overcome this world and bring joy into your life. Accepting that is step 1, then trust in it and act upon it. Join me today in coming before your Father in Heaven and laying your burdens down before Him. Breathe and trust that He will help you take on the days challenges. If, by the end of the day you’re list is not completed, it’s okay because He’s still in control; and that’s all that really matters.

Prayer:
Father,
You have provided for all of my needs. You have given me a mind of wisdom, a heart of love and a peace to take on the challenges before me each day. I ask for Your grace and mercies to be with me throughout this day, so that I may accomplish all the You have for me today. Help me to shift my focus away from myself and onto You, so that I may serve You more completely. – Amen